by Idris Redding Ray

Benjamin Hatten born September 3, 1896 in Norfolk, Virginia to Edmond Hatten and Julia Anne Patterson.

Benjamin lived in Norfolk prior to enlisting in the Navy in 1917 and he served one year. After leaving the Navy he worked as a mess boy on a  steamer. His wife’s name was Evelyn and they had no children and lived in Talbot, Maryland until his death at the age of 44 on September 26,1942.
Benjamin was survived by his wife Evelyn, sister Minerva, her husband Charlie and his two parents. Benjamin was buried at Calvary Cemetery in Norfolk, Virginia where most African American veterans were laid to rest.