Darrik Carlyle Benson

Darrik Carlyle Benson  

 Special Warfare Operator 1st Class, United States Navy

Petty Officer 1st Class Benson, 28, was a native of Angwin, California. He enlisted in the United States Navy in September, 2001.

After graduating from Recruit Training Command at Great Lakes, Illinois in November, 2001, he reported to his initial service school training at Pensacola, Florida. After completing his service school in February, 2002, he reported to Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training at Coronado, California. In January 2003, he checked into Naval Special Warfare Advanced Training Command at Coronado, California. He then transferred to a West Coast based SEAL Team in June, 2003. In September of 2009, he checked into his East Coast based SEAL Team.

Petty Officer Benson’s awards include Bronze Star Medal with “V” device for valor, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (2) one with “V” device for valor, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Rifleman Marksmanship Medal, and Pistol Marksmanship Medal.