(wickedlocal)
The newly erected sign at the corner of Gay Street and Joy Street in Norwood is the latest Corner Memorial, dedicated to Army Spc. Keith David "Doc" Benson, who lost his life in Patika Providence, Afghanistan, on January 18.
During the Corner Memorial ceremony on Monday, May 28, American Legion Chaplain James D'Espinoza led a prayer, expressing the hope that the memorial would bring joy, pride, and enduring remembrance of Keith's service during wartime and his profound loyalty and love for family.
Over 150 friends and family members gathered on Memorial Day to honor Benson, a fallen combat medic. The memorial plaque was unveiled, commemorating US Army Specialist Keith Benson's sacrifice at the corner of Joy and Gay streets.
"We gather to honor a lost son, a lost grandson, a lost loving person so loved by his peers, they gave him the nickname 'Doc,'" remarked Selectman Helen Abdallah-Donohue. Selectman Paul Bishop emphasized that Benson was an American hero, recounting his heroic efforts to save Staff Sgt. Daniel Quintana during a Taliban attack in September 2011.
Benson, who revived Quintana three times in the field, received numerous medals for his service, including the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Overseas Medal, NATO Medal, Expert Rifle Badge, and Good Conduct Medal. Veterans Agent Ted Mulvehill highlighted Benson's embodiment of sacrifice and soldierly virtues like fidelity, loyalty, and courage.
The ceremony also saw the presentation of colors to Benson's parents, David and Kathleen Benson, recognizing their son's sacrifice for the country. Mulvehill expressed gratitude to the Benson family, acknowledging their irreplaceable sacrifice.
Benson's Corner Memorial marks the 56th in Norwood, honoring residents who gave their lives in service. Mulvehill envisions dedicating corners for all 103 sons of Norwood lost in battle, with each corner placed near the fallen soldier's home. True to tradition, the Keith Benson Corner Memorial stands across the street from his Gay Street home. Benson, a Norwood High School Class of 2002 graduate, served as a combat medic in the Army and was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 172nd Infantry Brigade before his untimely death at the age of 27.
(George Curtis, Norwood Historical Society)
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