TSgt Benjamin Lara, born May 30, 1949, gained his wings on March 15, 2024  after his battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife, Antonia Valencia Lara, his son Jesus Lara  & his wife Ida

Lara;  son David Lara and his daughter Joanna Lara (Quincy). Additionally, he is survived by three grandchildren: Jesus Lara Jr., Antonio Lara, and Megan Lara. He also leaves behind one sister Alicia Lara Hernandez (Roy), and a brother Joe Lara and his wife Gloria Lara. He had numerous nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marcelino and Corina Lara, as well as his granddaughter, Cianna Lara Yanez. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Edmundo Lara and Ralph Lara, and his sisters, Andrea Silva, Angie Guzman, and Helen Hernandez.

TSgt Benjamin Lara served in the Air Force as an Aerospace Ground Equipment Technician. During his service, he received several accolades, including the Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster, AF Outstanding Unit Award with one oak leaf cluster, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with six oak leaf clusters, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, AF Overseas Short Tour Ribbon, AF Overseas Long Tour Ribbon with three oak leaf clusters, Professional Military Graduate Ribbon, AF Training Ribbon, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with palm, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and AF Longevity Service Award

Ribbon with four oak leaf clusters.