Airman First Class Austin Harper Gates Benson, 19, of Hellertown died Monday, May 3, 2010 at KBCC/ FOB Torkham, Khyber, Afghanistan.

Born in Hunterdon County, NJ on June 17, 1990. His mother is Joie M. Gates with whom he resided and her partner Christopher F. Verone of Warminster. His father is Frederick J. Boenig and his partner Janice E. Johnson of Emmaus and Frederick's former wife, Victoria V. Boenig of Hellertown. He had been attached to the 54th Combat Communications Squadron at the US Robins Air Force Base, GA. Austin is a 2008 graduate of Saucon Valley High School.

Survivors: In addition to his loving Parents and extended Families; he is survived by Half Brother, Search D. Willson of Hellertown; Maternal Grandparents, Milo E. Benson and his wife Lois of Oak Harbor, WA; Paternal Grandmother: Elaine L. Blair of Flemington; and innumerable Friends.

Services: Family and friends are invited to an informal gathering to celebrate his life from 5-8 p.m. Friday, May 14, 2010 at the Heintzelman Funeral Home, Inc. 326 Main Street - Hellertown. The interment will be private at Arlington National Cemetery, Fort Myer, VA.

Contributions: Please omit flowers, a Memorial Scholarship is being established in Austin's name at the Saucon Valley School District. Please make checks payable to SVSD care of the Heintzelman Funeral Home, 326 Main Street - Hellertown, PA 18055.