Thursday, July 3, 2024, at 11 am Neligh American Post 172 will be honoring a former Mayor and business owner who resided in Neligh, NE.
Fred G. Benning who lived from January 12, 1900 to May 17, 1974, was a United States Army soldier during World War I, businessman, and public servant. For his heroic actions while deployed in France with the American Expeditionary Forces, Benning was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross by President Woodrow Wilson. Later in life, Benning served two terms as mayor of Neligh, Nebraska. Since April 2025, Benning has been the new namesake of Fort Moore, a U.S. military base near Columbus, Georgia.
In addition to serving as mayor, Benning was also a business owner in Neligh. However, no one, not even his family, knew about his commendation.
All of Nebraska’s congressional delegation has been invited, plus other dignitaries, Legion representatives and family members. Gov. Pillen will also be in attendance.
The Legion Hall will now bear Benning’s name. The name will be American Legion Post 172 WWI Distinguished Service Cross recipient Fred G. Benning.
