Forged for Service: Kevin Benitez ’14, From San Miguel to the U.S. Marine Corps

“No matter where you are in life, you always have a supportive network at San Miguel.”

Discipline, adaptability, and a relentless work ethic define Kevin Benitez ’14, qualities shaped early at San Miguel and strengthened through years in construction and service in the United States Marine Corps. 

After graduating from San Miguel in 2014, Kevin attended Don Bosco Cristo Rey High School, where his first work-study placement was in the school’s IT department. He quickly discovered an aptitude for technology, which carried into his later work-study years at Gilbane. There, Kevin created 3D architectural models in the preconstruction department and impressed supervisors enough to continue as a construction intern outside of Don Bosco’s work study program into his college years.

Initially, Kevin planned to pursue petroleum engineering in college, later shifting to mechanical and electrical engineering at Loyola University. But after his first year, financial constraints brought him home. “It wasn’t my proudest moment,” he reflected, “but everything happens for a reason.” Kevin returned to construction work alongside his father, gaining hands-on experience while reassessing his future.

That turning point came unexpectedly…when Kevin walked into a recruiter’s office. Drawn to the mission, structure, and opportunities of military service, he enlisted in the Marine Corps, signing an electronics maintenance contract. After boot camp and combat training in the Carolinas, he attended formal job training in Twentynine Palms, California.

Kevin began his military career as a Tactical Data Systems Technician (Network administration for both physical and virtual machines). Today, he has expanded his skills and proficiencies into radio frequencies, including radio systems, satellite communications, and related technologies. Due to the nature of his role, much of his work is controlled information, but its importance is clear.

Now on his second reenlistment, Sergeant Benitez has deployed across Europe and Africa and participated in major multinational training exercises, including operations above the Arctic Circle in Norway. His technical expertise and professionalism continue to open doors worldwide.

Kevin credits much of his persistence and advancement to the continued support of San Miguel—especially Alfonso Motta, who stayed in close contact with him through high school, college, and into military service. When asked about San Miguel’s lasting impact, Kevin pointed first to his faith. His Catholic identity, formed at San Miguel, remains central no matter where he is deployed.

He also speaks fondly of Brother Joseph Mahon, calling him his favorite staff member, and reflects with pride on San Miguel’s mission: creating real pathways for young men from under-resourced communities to realize their full potential.

“San Miguel is a community you can always come back to,” Kevin said. “No matter where you are in life, you always have a supportive network at San Miguel.”