KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, NM. -- Staff Sergeant Robert Benson’s journey into the U.S. Air Force was inspired by legacy, fueled by passion, and defined by resilience. Born in Tacoma, Washington, Benson grew up in a family deeply rooted in military service. With a grandfather in the Army, uncles across the branches, and a father who served as an Air Force maintainer, it was clear early on that he would follow a similar path, and he knew he wanted to be in aviation.
From a young age, Benson set his sights on aviation, specifically the role of a Special Missions Aviator (SMA). However, his path wasn’t without obstacles. During the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) screening, a medical issue requiring surgery delayed his enlistment by a year and a half. For many, this might have been a deterrent. For Benson, it only reinforced his determination. He stayed the course and ultimately earned his place in the U.S. Air Force.
During Basic Military Training, Benson faced a different kind of mission: planning a wedding. Despite the demanding environment of BMT, he coordinated everything with his high school sweetheart, and the two were married during town pass—a testament to his commitment both to country and family.
After graduation, Benson began the rigorous training pipeline to become a Special Missions Aviator, starting at Lackland Air Force Base, followed by more training at Fairchild and Kirtland. He was then stationed at Minot Air Force Base, where he supported the nuclear security mission flying UH-1N Hueys. His responsibilities included aerial sweeps and escorting nuclear warheads—missions that required precision, discipline, and trust.
Benson’s career next brought him full circle to Kirtland Air Force Base, where he became a SMA instructor at Detachment 2 of the 58th Special Operations Wing. In this role, he not only shares his technical knowledge, but mentors the next generation of aviators. At Det 2, seeing his students grow into great SMAs is one of the most rewarding parts of his job.
Among his many experiences, Benson has taken part in two real-world rescue missions that stand out as defining moments. The first occurred while his crew was in Durango, Colorado. They were urgently tasked with rescuing a woman suffering from heart failure in Las Vegas, New Mexico. The mission quickly became complex, as the patient required oxygen and a nurse onboard. The flight was tense and critical, with the woman’s life hanging in the balance. Thanks to the crew’s quick thinking and skill, she survived the journey.
The second mission involved extracting an injured hiker stranded on a precarious mountainside near a steep drop. Navigating the Huey in such a dangerous and tight zone pushed Benson and his crew to their limits. This rescue mission became one of the highlights of his career and a defining moment as a SMA.
For Benson, flying on the Huey is a great honor. He loves being able to work on an iconic aircraft with so much history and is proud he gets to be part of that legacy. Outside of work, Benson and his family enjoy the outdoors whether that be hiking or rafting.
Staff Sergeant Robert Benson represents the best of the Air Force—dedicated, skilled, and driven by a desire to serve others, whether that’s through training students, flying missions, or saving lives. His story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can make when they pursue their calling with unwavering perseverance. Thank you, SSgt Benson, for your service and sharing your story!