In honor of yesterday’s graduation ceremony, we’d like to recognize recent Operation Recognition recipient, Clyde D. “Pete” Benton—a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II and lifelong supporter of Circle Schools.
This spring, Circle Public Schools was proud to posthumously award Mr. Benton an honorary high school diploma through Operation Recognition, a state program that acknowledges veterans who left high school to serve their country. While Pete’s journey began long before the Class of 2025 crossed the stage, his story of service, resilience, and community spirit remains timeless.
Born in Thomasville, Georgia, Pete enlisted in the Navy on his 18th birthday. He served in the Pacific, survived a life-saving medical emergency that removed him from a ship later bombed, and eventually made his way to Kansas—chasing opportunity and the cowboy lifestyle he’d always admired.
Pete settled in Oil Hill, worked in the oil industry, and raised his family alongside his wife, Joy. Although he never earned a diploma himself, he strongly believed in the power of education and proudly served on the Board of Education when USD 375 unified. He was instrumental in the founding of Circle High School and never missed a chance to support a bond issue that would help kids thrive. 💙💛
Pete’s children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren—and now great-great-grandchildren—have continued his legacy in the halls of Circle Schools. His belief that hard work and a strong education could lift children out of poverty still guides us today.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Kansas Office of Veterans Services for helping make this recognition possible.
