Who Is Roy Benavidez? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Born on August 5, 1935, Roy Benavidez not only served valiantly as a member of the U.S. Army Special Forces but also became an iconic figure in military history. Known for his extraordinary bravery during the Vietnam War, Benavidez received the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in 1968. Despite facing numerous challenges, including a life-threatening injury, his spirit and determination to serve his country never waned. After dedicating his life to the military, Benavidez passed away on November 29, 1998, but his legacy continues to inspire people around the world.
| Occupation | Service |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 5, 1935 |
| Age | 63 Years |
| Birth Place | Cuero, Texas, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Leo |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 29 November, 1998 |
| Died Place | San Antonio, Texas, U.S. |
Popularity
Roy Benavidez's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific details about Roy Benavidez's height and weight may vary, he was generally recognized for his athletic build, typical of an elite Special Forces operator. His dedication to physical fitness demonstrated through his resilience and strength during rigorous military operations is a testament to his character as a soldier.
He was wounded again in his thigh by small arms fire while administering first aid to a wounded team member just before another extraction helicopter was able to land. His indomitable spirit kept him going as he began to ferry his comrades to the craft. On his second trip with the wounded, he was clubbed from behind by an enemy soldier.
In the ensuing hand-to-hand combat, he sustained additional wounds to his head and arms before killing his adversary. He then continued under devastating fire to carry the wounded to the helicopter.
Upon reaching the aircraft, he spotted and killed two enemy soldiers who were rushing the craft from an angle that prevented the aircraft door gunner from firing upon them.
With little strength remaining, he made one last trip to the perimeter to ensure that all classified material had been collected or destroyed, and to bring in the remaining wounded.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Roy Benavidez was married to his wife, whom he cherished throughout his life. Together, they raised a family that included several children. Although details about his personal life are limited, it is clear that family played a significant role in his life. After his passing, his family has continued to honor his legacy and contribute to various veterans’ organizations.
Roy P. He is a descendant of the founders of Benavides, Texas, and was the son of a Mexican farmer, Salvador Benavidez, Jr. and a Yaqui mother, Teresa Perez.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing in 1998, specific figures regarding Roy Benavidez's net worth were not widely publicized. However, his lifetime of service in the military and later engagements in speaking arrangements and veteran support groups undoubtedly provided stable financial resources for him and his family. In 2025, discussions regarding his legacy continue to inspire future generations, enhancing the value placed on his contributions to American history.
Career, Business, and Investments
Benavidez had a distinguished military career, serving multiple tours in Vietnam and garnering extensive accolades for his actions in combat. Post-military, he remained active in supporting veteran causes, helping to establish programs that offer assistance to fellow veterans. His commitment to service extended beyond the battlefield, as he sought to share his experiences and advocate for those who served alongside him.
On 2 May 1968, Master Sergeant (then Staff Sergeant) Roy P. Benavidez distinguished himself by a series of daring and extremely valorous actions while assigned to Detachment B56, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces, Republic of Vietnam.
On the morning of 2 May 1968, a 12-man Special Forces Reconnaissance Team was inserted by helicopters of the 240th Assault Helicopter Company in a dense jungle area west of Loc Ninh, Vietnam to gather intelligence information about confirmed large-scale enemy activity. This area was controlled and routinely patrolled by the North Vietnamese Army.
After a short period of time on the ground, the team met heavy enemy resistance, and requested emergency extraction. Three helicopters attempted extraction, but were unable to land due to intense enemy small arms and anti-aircraft fire.
Social Networks
While Roy Benavidez did not engage with social media in the traditional sense during his lifetime, his legacy is celebrated across various platforms. In 2025, numerous veteran and military history pages share stories and memories of his heroics, becoming a vital part of his continued recognition.
On February 24, 1981, President Ronald Reagan presented Roy P. Benavidez with the Medal of Honor in the Pentagon. Reagan turned to the press and said, "If the story of his heroism were a movie script, you would not believe it." Reagan then read the official award citation:
Education
Before embarking on his military career, Roy Benavidez acquired education that prepared him for the challenges he would face. While specific details about his educational background remain sparse, his training in the Special Forces exemplifies his discipline, intelligence, and commitment to lifelong learning.
Master Sergeant Raul Perez "Roy" Benavidez (August 5, 1935 – November 29, 1998) was a United States Army soldier who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his valorous actions in combat near Lộc Ninh, South Vietnam on May 2, 1968, while serving as a member of the United States Army Special Forces during the Vietnam War.
