Fifty-five years later, John Bennett realized his dream of honoring his brother, Medal of Honor recipient Pfc Emory L. Bennett, with a bronze statue. Through the generosity of donors to the Emory L. Bennett Foundation and in conjunction with the generous support from the city of Cocoa, Florida, Tom created a monumental portrait bronze military sculpture to honor Emory's sacrifice was dedicated in Riverside Park, February 2007. According to the MOH citation:

"In the early hours of June 24, 1951, "two enemy battalions launched a ferocious banzai charge up the ridge line to dislodge the company.... The enemy pressed the assault with fanatical determination. Although wounded, Bennett maintained his I-man defense and, upon orders to move back, Pfc. Bennett voluntarily remained to provide covering fire for the withdrawing elements.... (He) continued to sweep the charging foe with devastating fire until mortally wounded. His willing self-sacrifice and intrepid actions saved the position from being overrun and enabled the company to effect an orderly withdrawal."

For these actions, Pfc Emory L. Bennett was posthumously presented the Medal of Honor on February 1, 1952. CLICK HERE to read the complete MOH citation.


"These memorials are dedicated in appreciation and
deep humility for the sacrifices borne by our military
and their families. They have our deepest love, respect and appreciation now and forever."
— Tom & Marcey White