Ronald R. BenoitRonald R. Benoit passed away December 17, 2016 at the McClure Miller VNA Respite House in Colchester,Vermont. He was born on March 9, 1930 in Brunswick, Maine, the son of the late Arthur and Rosa Benoit. Ron joined the Navy from 1947-1952 and the Marine Corps from 1953-1969 serving in both Korea and Vietnam. He came up through the ranks from enlisted to drill sergeant, and was selected as one of the original members of Force Recon in 1957. Ron then had the privilege of teaching NROTC at Brown University from 1962-1965 where he helped shape the lives of future Marine officers. He received his own commission upon deployment to Vietnam where he served from 1966-1967. Ron led a recon platoon where he received our nation's second highest honor, the Navy Cross. He also received the Bronze Star, two Purple Hearts, and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry among other combat honors. Ron retired from the Marine Corps with the rank of Captain in 1969.Ron worked for the Vermont Department of Employment and Training in Newport until 1987 and was then appointed as the Vermont State Director, Veterans Employment and Training (VETS) - US Department of Labor until his retirement in 1997. While Director, in 1996, he led the effort to recognize Vermont veterans with the authorization of the license plate for Purple Heart Medal recipients.On June 12,1954 he married the love of his life, Barbara, who predeceased him in 2015. They were inseparable. Together they raised two sons, Stephen and Keith. Ron enjoyed reading, golf, vacationing with Barbara, his beloved Patriots and Bruins but mostly attending his children's and grandchildren's athletic events. He never missed a game. Ron was active in the community coaching Little League baseball and youth football, the NCUHS boosters, and was the Newport area coordinator for Vermont's first Green Up Day in 1970. Ron was known for his kindness, generosity, and sense of humor. He was devoted to his family and a true role model. Ron is survived by his sons: Stephen and wife Jayne of Essex, Vermont and Keith and wife Rachel of Naples, Florida. Three grandchildren: Jason, Michael, and Jessica and four great-grandchildren: Lia, Hannah, Joshua and Anberlin. He was predeceased by his two sisters, Loraine and Priscilla.Ron influenced many along the way, from his family, his service to the State of Vermont, his mentorship at Brown, and his love for his fellow Marines. Semper Fi!The family would like to thank the McClure Miller VNA Respite House for the loving care given to Ron as well as the Oncology staff at the University of Vermont Medical Center. Also, his friends and neighbors from Montpelier and the many Marines that kept in close contact with him throughout the years.A full military honors burial will take place in the spring at the Vermont Veterans Cemetery in Randolph, Vermont followed by a celebration of Ron's life with family and friends.Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Ready Funeral Home, 261 Shelburne Rd. Burlington VT. Visit burlingtonfreepress.com/obituaries to Express condolences and sign the guest book.