(Youngsville, LA) November 2, 2025 – The City of Youngsville came together to honor one of its most distinguished sons, Steven L. Bennett, the city’s only Medal of Honor recipient. The solemn yet inspiring ceremony marked the dedication of a new monument in his honor, a lasting tribute to Bennett’s bravery, sacrifice, and enduring legacy.
Bennett’s daughter, along with family members and friends, attended the ceremony, joining community members, veterans, and guests in paying tribute to his life and service. Mayor Ken Ritter, Councilman Lindy Bolgiano, Councilwoman Simone Champagne, and Councilman Nick Niland were also in attendance, representing the city in honoring Bennett’s legacy.
The monument, now standing proudly in front of the Youngsville Sports Complex Recreation Center, serves as a permanent reminder of Bennett’s heroism and the values he embodied – courage, duty, and love of country.
The dedication featured a moving Vietnam era flyover and a 21-gun salute, each moment filled with emotion as the crowd honored Youngsville’s hometown hero.
Following the ceremony, guests gathered for the VFW Post’s annual Gumbo and Chili Cookoff, celebrating community and camaraderie.
To learn more about Steven L. Bennett’s extraordinary life and Medal of Honor story, read our previous BLYN feature here.
BYLN Media extends heartfelt thanks to the Bennett family, the City of Youngsville, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and all who helped make this meaningful tribute possible.
