LCDR Mark W. Benson

Born February 13, 1961, Norfolk, MA. Graduated from University of Rhode Island with a Bachelor's Degree in 1983. A member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. Earned Wings of Gold in 1986. Flew A-7E Corsair with VA-72 Bluehawks as part of Carrier Airwing Seven embarked aboard the USS Eisenhower. In addition to flying, duties included Assistant Operations Officer, Flight Scheduling Officer, Legal Officer and Landing Signal Officer. Upon completion of the A-7 tour, in 1990 reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 Gladiators, at Cecil Field, as Military Flight Instructor in the F/A-18 Hornet. Was specially qualified as an LSO in training carrier aviators. Was released from Active Duty in 1993 and continued to serve in the Naval Reserves. Remained an LSO and flew F-18's for VFA-204 River Rattlers, NAS New Orleans. Has accumulated 320 carrier landings and 2,170 hours total time. In 1994, was hired by Southwest Airlines and is currently a Captain flying the Boeing 737. When not flying, enjoys sailing, hunting, fishing, carpentry and spending time with wife, Mary Beth and their three sons, Coleman, William and Nicholas.