Benish, Stephen Christopher
PFC Stephen Christopher Benish, aged 20, from Clark, NJ, died in hostile action in Ar Ramadi, Iraq, on November 28, 2004, during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Their Story
Stephen Christopher Benish, a Private First Class in the United States Army, was born and raised in Clark, New Jersey. At the age of 20, he was serving with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, stationed at Camp Howze, Korea. His deployment to Iraq was part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, a U.S.-led coalition operation that began in March 2003.
On November 28, 2004, PFC Benish's life was tragically cut short in Ar Ramadi, a city that became a focal point of insurgent activity during the conflict. His death was categorized as hostile, reflecting the ongoing dangers faced by military personnel in the region. Ar Ramadi, located in Iraq's volatile Anbar province, saw intense fighting as coalition forces sought to stabilize the area.
Benish's service and sacrifice are remembered by those who knew him and by a nation that continues to grapple with the costs of its military engagements. His name was entered into the Defense Casualty Analysis System following his death, marking his place among those who served.
Operation Iraqi Freedom, which saw its official conclusion in August 2010, was marked by both initial military success and subsequent challenges as coalition forces faced a persistent insurgency. The experiences of soldiers like PFC Benish underscore the complexities and human costs of modern warfare.
Explore Further
Operation Iraqi Freedom concluded in August 2010, marking the end of this extensive military engagement. See the full roster of those killed in this conflict.
Among those documented in the same conflict: Aubin, Jay Thomas, Beaupre, Ryan Anthony, Childers, Therrel Shane, Gutierrez, Jose.
