Admiral William S. Benson (1855-1932)

Today marks the death of Admiral William Shepherd Benson (1855-1932). Born on a Georgia plantation, he graduated from the Naval Academy in 1877. He served on various naval missions and taught at his alma mater during the early 1890’s. In 1907, he commanded the midshipmen there and was promoted to Captain. From 1913 to 1915 he commanded the Philadelphia Naval Yard. He later became the first chief of naval operations and a rear admiral. In 1916 he was promoted to rear admiral. A convert and a devout Catholic, Benson was awarded the Laetare Medal in 1917. On his retirement Benson became very active in Catholic causes. From 1921 to 1925 he served as President of the National Council of Catholic Men. He died in Washington, D.C.