Entering Into War
Enlistment
Bennett enlisted in the United States army from New Hampshire, most likely Coos County. His branch of service was the United States Army. At the time of his death, he was ranked as a Private First Class with the service number 31013927. A Private First Class ranks higher than Private Second Class but lower than a Specialist. A Private Second Class normally earns the title of Private First Class just by their continued service, but promotion can also happen if the soldier adequately shows the qualities of experience and leadership.
Army Private First Class
Service Group
Bennett served in Company H, 116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division. The 29th Infantry Division began operating on February 3, 1941 and entered into combat on June 6, 1944. Therefore, Bennett's first battle fought was likely on the the tragic and bloody D-Day. His division went on to fight in war for a total of 242 days, suffering 20,620 casualties. The commanding generals of this division were Major Generals Milton Reckford, Leonard Gerow, and Charles Gerhardt. The 29th Division campaigned in Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, and Central Europe.
29th Infantry Division