George Collin Bennett
George C. Bennett was a Marine Corps fighter pilot who flew with VMF-213.
He was last seen in his damaged Corsair heading for Vella Lavella, Solomon Islands, on 9 September 1943.
Branch
Marine Corps Reserve
Service Number O-18299
Current Status
Remains not recovered.
Pursuit Category
The DPAA has not publicized this information.
History
George Bennett was born in Marquette, Michigan on 15 July 1920. His parents were Dr. Arthur “A.K.” and Mrs. Margaret Bennett. At the time of his entry into the service, he was living in Marquette.
George’s family included older siblings Matthew and Ruth, and younger brothers Arthur and David.
He was a high school graduate and attended a few years of college before joining the service.
George Bennett enlisted in 1942 with the intent to become a pilot. He received his wings and commission as a Marine Corps second lieutenant in Jacksonville, Florida on 15 January 1943.
Lieutenant Bennett deployed to the Pacific with Marine Air Group 11, and was assigned for duty as a fighter pilot with VMF-213 (the “Hell Hawks”).
Lieutenant Bennett flew combat missions out of Henderson Field, Guadalcanal while a member of VMF-213.
On 9 September 1943, Bennett took part in a mission to escort bombers in a strike against Kahili on the island of Bougainville. The strike itself went off without incident. On the return trip, while flying between Choiseul and Vella Lavella, a single Japanese fighter appeared and got on Bennett’s tail.
Bennett’s Corsair (F4U-1 Bureau Number 02552) was hit and started smoking. He dropped out of the formation and was last seen heading for the eastern coast of Vella Lavella, apparently under control. The Japanese plane was shot down by two other Marine pilots.
Lieutenant Bennett was never seen alive again, and was officially declared dead on 10 January 1946.
News of the incident was sent to the primary next of kin, his father Dr. Arthur Bennett, at the family home at 425 East Arch Street, Marquette, MI.
Next Of Kin Address
Address of father, Mr. Arthur K. Bennett.
Location Of Loss
Lieutenant Bennett was last seen flying his damaged Corsair towards the eastern coast of Vella Lavella.
