Reporter

Benjamin Mack-Jackson

Benjamin Mack-Jackson is an Orlando, Florida-based journalist for the Click and a master’s student in journalism at NYU. He has interviewed nearly 400 WWII veterans, reported from Ukraine, and founded the WWII Veterans History Project, producing a documentary, a book, and museum exhibitions.

U.S. Army Captain John Raaen wearing a helmet and field jacket stands in front of tanks, resting one arm on a tank, circa 1944.

October 2, 2025

Winter Park Resident Awarded Congressional Gold Medal for WWII Service

John Raaen, an 103-year-old Winter Park resident, was honored with the Congressional Gold Medal for his distinguished service as an Army Ranger during World War II.

By Benjamin Mack-Jackson