You wont find it in the papers and there wont be public notices of it but I found out today a buddy of mine has returned home from Afghanistan will no longer have to defend our nation. He has gone on to watch over everyone from above with the great Ranger in the sky. His unit was returning from their last operation over there, on their way back to HQ to prepare to come home stateside. Their tour of duty over there was finally over and he would be home in time for Christmas. Two tours in Iraq, three tours in Aghanistan. All combat tours. Multiple undisclosed missions. He served his country well with commendations and awards but the greatest thing he earned was the nations respect for doing what many will not do. He volunteered and did what he could to help make us and others safe.
He served with me as my spotter for Sniper team #2 with Long Range Surveillance Detachment 311th Military Intelligence 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). I gave him the recommendation to Colonel William J. Leszczynski, Commander at the time of the 75th Ranger Regiment when I left the Regiment.
His name is left undisclosed for security reasons. He leaves behind a wife and his parents
"We must remember that one man is much the same as another, that he is best who is trained in the severest school" ...Thucydidies
Ranger Creed
Recognizing that I volunteered as a ranger, fully knowing the hazards of my chosen profession, I will always endeavor to uphold the prestige, honor, and high esprit de corps of my ranger regiment.
Acknowledging the fact that a ranger is a more elite soldier, who arrives at the cutting edge of battle by land, sea, or air, I accept the fact that as a ranger, my country expects me to move further, faster, and fight harder than any other soldier.
Never shall I fail my comrades. I will always keep myself mentally alert, physically strong, and morally straight, and I will shoulder more than my share of the task, whatever it may be, one hundred percent and then some.
Gallantly will I show the world that I am a specially selected and well trained soldier. My courtesy to superior officers, neatness of dress, and care of equipment shall set the example for others to follow.
Energetically will I meet the enemies of my country. I shall defeat them on the field of battle for I am better trained and will fight with all my might. Surrender is not a ranger word. I will never leave a fallen comrade to fall into the hands of the enemy and under no circumstances will I ever embarrass my country.
Readily will I display the intestinal fortitude required to fight on to the ranger objective and complete the mission, though I be the lone survivor.
RANGERS LEAD THE WAY!
HOOAH!!
Raz
