Dr. Benham is one of our outstanding physicians in our St. George office! Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, he graduated from Camelback High School and served an LDS mission to Quetzaltenango, Guatemala. After graduating in 1994 from the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Kansas City, he completed a preliminary year in Internal Medicine, and then completed a four-year residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Allentown, Pennsylvania. After completing residency in 1999, he entered active duty with the United States Air Force and recently retired after 21 years of service as a Lieutenant Colonel. We hope you enjoy getting to know more about Dr. Benham—his career, his family and his favorite things!

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I am a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force Reserves after 21 years. I entered medical school at age 32 with 4 children, had 2 more children in medical school and 2 more during residency. I was second generation Air Force of a WWII and Vietnam veteran. My son is now an F-35 pilot, which is something I’m very proud of.

Who has shaped the person you have become?

My mother about the importance of family. My father on the importance of principle, integrity, responsibility.  My wife on sacrifice and selflessness.

What is your favorite treat?

Chips and salsa.

Where did you grow up?

All over. I grew up in the Air Force—started in Germany and ended high school in Phoenix. My father was a WWII and Vietnam veteran.  My mother was part owner of a motel.

Do you have any hidden talents?

Possibly, but haven’t been found as of yet.  My partners would say I have a talent for knowing and recognizing many tunes, but also knowing who sang them and what year they became popular.  I call it trivia, but also reminders of my life.

What song can always put you in a good mood?

“My Girl” by the Temptations

What story does your family always tell about you?

I grew up in the day of black and white television, watching cartoons on Saturday. I especially Micky Mouse.  To me he was real. When my mother killed a mouse in the laundry room, I wanted it because it could have been Micky.  I cried out over and over, “My Mouse!”

What is your favorite thing about your career?

The trust my patients put in me and their gratitude.

What is your favorite family recipe?

My mother’s strawberry cake that she made me each year for my birthday, and the exact recipe my wife continues to make each year on my birthday.

Do you have a daily routine?

6 days per week I exercise and stretch for 30 minutes first thing in the morning, and most weeks I reach my goal of running over 30 miles.

What is your personal motto?

I strive to follow the Air Force Motto: Integrity First, Service Before Self, Excellence In All We Do.

Do you play a musical instrument?

A long time ago I had training in the piano, trombone, and percussion. But life and continually moving around the country due to my dad’s career made it impossible to sustain.

Learn more about Dr. Benham