STATELINE, Nev. — At 97 years old, Benjamin B. Hagans has lived a life that spans war, captivity, public service, and adventures that most people wouldn’t attempt at half his age.
On Saturday, October 24, the Dayton, Nevada resident will be recognized during a special evening at the Tahoe Knight Monsters hockey game against the New Mexico Goatheads at the Tahoe Blue Event Center in Stateline, Nevada.
The evening will also raise funds for the Veterans Transition Resource Center (VTRC), with 25 percent of proceeds from tickets purchased through the organization’s designated fundraising link benefiting its work supporting veterans and their families.
To ensure your ticket purchase supports VTRC, use this special link:
https://www.gofevo.com/event/V
A Childhood Interrupted by War
Benjamin’s story began in the Philippines, where he was born in Cebu before his family relocated to Iligan on the island of Mindanao.
According to his son, Martin “Marty” Hagans, Benjamin was just 13 when he began working as a courier for the Philippine Scouts during World War II. Because he spoke English and several local languages, he helped carry messages across dangerous territory by horseback, bicycle, and whatever transportation was available.
His childhood was interrupted by the war. Marty recounts that Benjamin was captured and separated from his parents, spending three years and 18 days in captivity, enduring multiple prison camps and severe malnutrition.
Near the end of the war, Benjamin was finally reunited with his mother after hearing her call his childhood nickname. Approximately two weeks later, he was reunited with his father.
Among the family photographs accompanying this story is an image of Benjamin with his mother following their liberation. Marty recalls that his father weighed just 56 pounds after his ordeal.
A Lifetime of Service
Following World War II, Benjamin went on to serve during the Korean War.
He later dedicated 32 years to the California Division of Forestry, fighting wildfires throughout the western United States before retiring as a battalion chief.
Today, Benjamin has called Dayton, Nevada, home for approximately six years.
Even in his 90s, he hasn’t lost his adventurous spirit. He returned to parachuting, completing his most recent jump at age 96, and hopes to jump again on his 100th birthday.
But the people closest to him say his character is what truly stands out.
“He’s probably one of the neatest guys that I know,” Marty said. “He’d give you the shirt off his back. I’ve seen him do that many times.”
“Just Wanted to Say Hi to an Old Friend”
Despite his extraordinary experiences, Benjamin has never been comfortable being called a hero.
According to Marty, his father believes that title belongs to the men who never made it home.
One of the photographs provided by the family captures Benjamin during a quiet visit to a military memorial associated with General Douglas MacArthur.
Marty described the moment with a simple phrase:
“Just wanted to say hi to an old friend.”
It’s a glimpse into the life of a man who has never forgotten those who served alongside him or those who never returned.
A Special Evening for Benjamin and Local Veterans
On October 24, veterans, military families, hockey fans, and community members are invited to join Benjamin for an evening of recognition and remembrance.
A special surprise is being planned for Benjamin during the game, giving fellow veterans and the community an opportunity to honor him. The details will remain a surprise until game night.
Organizers hope to fill the stands with supporters who want to celebrate Benjamin’s remarkable life while helping veterans throughout Northern Nevada.
Help Fill the Stands — and Support Nevada Veterans
The October 24 game is also an opportunity to raise funds for Veterans Transition Resource Center.
VTRC will receive 25% of proceeds from tickets purchased through its designated fundraising link.
A reserved seating area will allow supporters to enjoy the game together.
IMPORTANT: Tickets must be purchased through VTRC’s special fundraising link for the purchase to benefit the organization. Purchases made through the general ticketing website or other outlets will not be credited to this fundraiser.
OFFICIAL VTRC FUNDRAISING TICKET LINK:
https://www.gofevo.com/event/V
Event Details
Tahoe Knight Monsters vs. New Mexico Goatheads
Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Time: 7:00 p.m. Pacific
Location: Tahoe Blue Event Center
75 Highway 50, Stateline, Nevada
Honoring: Benjamin B. Hagans, 97, of Dayton, Nevada
Benefiting: Veterans Transition Resource Center (VTRC)
Purchase fundraising tickets:
https://www.gofevo.com/event/V
About Veterans Transition Resource Center
Veterans Transition Resource Center is a Nevada organization dedicated to supporting veterans and their families through community outreach, advocacy, and assistance
