Capt. Bennett was deployed to Iraq in August 2005 to help train and support Iraqi soldiers. On Sept. 14, 2005, Bennett and his team were traveling on the main supply route from Baghdad when his convoy was ambushed.

Bennett quickly directed his team to counter the enemy's attack as he laid down suppressive fire. Because of his actions, there were no Coalition casualties. During his year-long tour, Bennett managed a 10-man training team and 220 Iraqi soldiers.

For his leadership in developing and sustaining the Iraqi Security Forces, Bennett was awarded the Bronze Star on Sept. 14, 2006.