Amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) hosted a dedication ceremony in honor of Alcide "Bull" Benini, a World War II combat veteran and Bataan Death March survivor, May 20.

Benini was honored for his distinguished military service to the United States.

Bataan Commanding Officer Capt. John "J.C." Carter officially dedicated Bataan's 844-foot long flight deck in Benini's honor during the ceremony, christening it as Bull Benini field.
Carter shared Benini's experiences through World War II and what came after.

"I would like to tell you a story about survival, resilience and redemption," Carter began when speaking to Benini's family, friends and Bataan's crew about the "Bull's" life.

Benini was born Oct. 15, 1921, in Cologna, Italy. He proudly served in the U.S. Military during World War II, the Korean War, and also completed two tours of duty to Vietnam. He served in both the Army and the Air Force, achieving the rank of chief master sergeant.

He went on to become the founder of the Air Force Pathfinders -- later renamed Combat Controllers -- which are ground combat forces who specialize in traditional pathfinding with simultaneous abilities for air traffic control, fire support command, control and communications in covert operations environments. He retired in 1976 after serving for more than 30 years.

Ten of Benini's family and friends attended the ceremony, including his daughter Jane Ables.

"Just like many of his comrades in arms, he did not ever think of himself as a hero," said Ables. "It was his duty to his country, and he did it well, without faltering like those before him, those after, and those who serve today. Service before self is not just saying, it's a reality."

Nicknamed "Bull" from his experience, Benini was a World War II prisoner of war who was captured in Bataan, Philippines, in 1942. He was forced to endure the infamous Bataan Death March, and then rode one of the notorious 'Hell Ships' to mainland Japan where he was brutally forced to do rigorous labor in Japanese mines.

"Benini literally lived through hell," said Carter. "If he were alive today, he would tell stories of the hard work in the lead and zinc mines of Japan."

After his release, he served with the 82nd Airborne Division, Pathfinder Platoon while serving in the Army. During his assignment to Pathfinder Platoon, Benini became a fully-trained master parachutist. In January 1953, he left the Army and enlisted in the United States Air Force. "Bull" past away April 16, 2015, and was laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery.

"I know dad is in a much better place now, and I imagine he is smiling down on us as this flight deck is dedicated in his honor," said Ables.

In closing, Capt. Carter spoke of how it was an honor and an inspiration to have met Benini.

"Bull, you have given the men and women on the USS Bataan inspiration, and in exchange, we give you the recognition of Bataan's flight deck -- forever being called Bull Benini Field in your honor."

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