This Military Service Page was created/owned by
Kent Weekly (SS/DSV) (DBF), EMCS
to remember
Benitez, Rafael Celestino, RADM USN(Ret).
If you knew or served with this Sailor and have additional information or photos to support this Page, please leave a message for the Page Administrator(s) HERE.
Contact Info
Last Address 520 S Aurora St Easton MD 21601-3419
Date of Passing Mar 06, 1999
Location of Interment Oxford Cemetery - Oxford, Maryland
Rear Admiral Rafael Celestino Benitez (March 9, 1917-March 6, 1999) born in Juncos, Puerto Rico was a highly decorated submarine commander who led the rescue effort of the crew members of the USS Cochino during the Cold War. After retiring from the Navy, he was Pan American World Airways' vice president for Latin America. He was associate dean at the University of Miami Law School and Dean of the university's Graduate School of International Studies.
Other Comments:
Was the Commanding Officer of the USS Cochino (SS-345) during what is considered the first special operation of the "COLD WAR" While operating in stormy seas off northern Norway she suffered a series of serious battery explosions that resulted in her loss on 26 August 1949.
