58 posts tagged “173rd airborne”
It seems impossible that it has been two years since SFC Matthew Blaskowski was killed by the enemy during a firefight. The emotion still runs so deep.
Last September 23rd (2008) I was walking across the US Army Post, Caserme Ederle, in Vicenza, Italy to the MP station to obtain my “permission slip” to be on post. I knew the significance of the date. I’d realized it from the moment I woke up – actually for many days prior – yet I was doing everything in could to distract myself. As I walked along I looked to my right and saw Terry and Cheryl Blaskowski at the Memorial for the Sky Soldiers who had been Killed in Action. I remember stopping in my tracks and watching them place a bouquet of red, white and blue flowers at the Memorial as Cheryl wiped tears from her eyes and Terry reach to touch the Memorial. Then they hugged.
I was finally able to move my feet again and continued on to the MP station so as not to be any more of an interloper than I already had been. My heart was physically aching and tears were streaming down my face. One year ago that day SFC Matthew Blaskowski was killed by a sniper’s bullet at Firebase Vegas, Afghanistan. Even though another year has passed it all still seems so fresh; so painful; so unbelievable that Matt is not on this earth with us.
In some ways it was “easier” last year. Cheryl and Terry were in Vicenza with Matt’s beloved widow, Daniela and all of his battle buddies. They spent time together every day and night. They were invited for dinners and lunches where they were continually regaled with stories about Matt from his fellow brothers in arms. Stories about his leadership, his actions under fire with the enemy, his integrity and fairness, his ability to party with the best and his never ending sense of humor and ability to pull off the best practical jokes. There was an abundance of laughter, tears and hugs. It often felt as if Matt was with them. And they remembered Matt with Daniela, the absolute love if his life, and her family.
This year it’s quieter. Terry and Cheryl find themselves in the house where Matt grew up. Every room full of memories of Matt. The quiet is deafening and painful. Even a walk out the back door is difficult because they see where, as a youngster, Matt played with his brother, cousins and friends. As he grew older Matt would set up targets to blow up with his dad’s guns, ride the 4 wheeler into the woods, sit around a fire with family and friends or be the life of the party at a cookout. The only connections with Daniela and Matt’s Battle Buddies this year are the phone and the internet. The weeks leading up to today for Terry and Cheryl and for Matt’s brother Stan and his wife Becky have not been easy. Parents aren’t supposed to bury their children.
Firebase Vegas high in the Hindu Kush Mountains in the Kunar Province of northeastern Afghanistan was a new firebase. It was actually still under construction. SFC Blaskowski had made many suggestions for the construction of the firebase and the Command was more than happy with his ideas. By all accounts the morning of 23 September 2007 began as any “normal” day at the firebase. Word came that COL Ostlund (then LTC Ostlund) was flying out to Vegas to promote then SSG Blaskowski to SFC. Battlefield promotions don’t happen every day. It was truly a special occasion. Everyone began to prepare for their Battalion Commander’s visit. Just after the helicopter landed LT Winn directed that a security sweep be conducted around the perimeter. SFC Blaskowski could have instructed any number of Soldiers in his Platoon to make that sweep but he did it himself.
A firefight broke out and within seconds the call for “MEDIC” rang through the air. SFC Blaskowski was down. He’d been hit by a sniper’s bullet. The Soldiers tried to get through the gun fire to SFC Blaskowski. When they did they attempted to give him CPR until the doctor who had accompanied COL Ostlund that day could attend to him. Nothing could be done to save Matt’s life. He was promoted to SFC posthumously.
At his memorial service in Afghanistan LT Brad Winn said, “It was hard to not get along with Sergeant Ski because his personality and humor were so infectious to so many people.” He went on to say, “He was the mentor and platoon sergeant that I had always dreamed of, leading from the front and being an everyday hero that all of the Soldiers, including myself, looked up to. Sergeant Ski was the epitome of a professional Soldier that will forever set the bar for Battle Company, Chosen Company and the whole Rock family.”
“Sergeant Ski passed away doing what he did best. Taking charge and being the great NCO that everyone knows him to be.”
SGT Brian Hissong shared these thoughts about SFC Blaskowski at the memorial, “He was always quick to greet you with a friendly insult and make you laugh. He would go out of his way to help Soldiers with any problem they might have, spending his entire day fixing someone else’s problem because that’s how much he cared about his Soldiers, He was the type of leader that elevated the Soldiers under him, and even the people around him to perform better. Not unlike a quarterback or great player in sports, he could help elevate his team to excellence. This was Sergeant Ski.”
SSG Jeremy Carey, one of Matt’s best friends and his grilling buddy added, ““He was the kind of man that would immediately light up a room with his presence and personality. He was never the center of attention, but it wasn’t the same without him around. He could bring something to a crowd that no one else could: a true, honest, take-me-as-I-am personality. Matt loved being a Soldier. His unmatched leadership and professionalism is what non-commissioned officers in the United States Army should strive to match. He was a Soldier’s Soldier. The magnitude of his life is a testament to the kind of man he was. He will be missed greatly.”
SFC Blaskowski enlisted as an infantryman Nov. 17, 1998. His first duty station was at Fort Drum, N.Y., with the 10th Mountain Division. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry, as a rifleman and a scout. He was later assigned as a team leader in 4th Bn., 31st Inf. in the same division.
After completing Airborne School in 2002, he reported to the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Vicenza, Italy, where he was assigned to the 2-503rd (Airborne).
SFC Blaskowski served in multiple leadership positions in “The Rock.” Those positions included team leader in Battle Company, Battalion assistant operations sergeant in Headquarter and Headquarters Co., 2-503rd, and rifle and weapons squad leader in Chosen Co. during Operation Enduring Freedom VI where he earned a Silver Star. His final leadership position was as platoon sergeant for 1st Platoon in Battle Co. He had earned a college degree in Wildlife Forestry Management and aspired to teach at the United States Military Academy at West Point.
Former Army Paratrooper Matt Burden of Blackfive published a two part story about SFC Blaskowski in his “Someone You Should Know” series. In Part 1 he writes about the events of May 3, 2005 when SFC Blaskowski’s actions under fire saved the life of a Soldier. SFC Blaskowski's platoon was ambushed and spent 5 hours in a firefight. One of Matt’s Soldiers was wounded. Matt ran through the bullets to pull his man to safety. Matt was shot in the leg. His actions earned him the Silver Star, American’s third highest military valor award. SSGs Choay and Brannan also received Silver Stars that day for their actions in the same firefight. They were the first Soldiers from “The Rock” (173rd, 2-503) to receive Silver Stars since Vietnam.
Matt was medevaced to Landstuhl Army Medical Center in Germany. While there he was presented a Purple Heart. Matt gave this interview from his hospital bed while at Landstuhl.
Just as he said he would Matt was back with his Soldiers three months after being wounded and completed the deployment with them.
In April 2007, before deploying to Afghanistan for the second time, Matt and his bride Daniela traveled to Michigan to spend time with his family. A few days before they returned to Italy Matt, Daniela and Matt’s parents went to one of his favorite spots, Tacquamenon Falls, in Upper Michigan. This photo is one of Cheryl’s favorites of Matt.
Matt loved to ride motorcycles with his parents. This photo was taken just hours before he and Daniela boarded a plane back to Italy. It was his last ride with his parents. As Terry, Cheryl, Stan and Becky drove away from the airport after seeing Matt and Daniela off on their flight back to Italy Stan told his parents that something just “didn’t feel right this time.” It was foreboding to say the least.
After Matt's and Daniela's visit his parents decided to have the bike to the left custom painted for Matt. They were going to give it to him after the deployment.
Stan rides the bike in honor of his brother. Every time he rides he goes by to visit Matt.
In Part 2 of his "Someone You Should Know series about SFC Blaskowski, Matt Burden tells one hilariously funny story about Sergeant Ski bear hunting with his father and uncles, his marriage to Daniela and his time in Afghanistan prior to and including his death. You really have to go read about the bear hunt.
Matt Blaskowski was taken from us way too soon. He has left a void in the lives of so many that seems impossible to fill.
Matt’s Aunt Andrea compiled this video of the day he returned to Michigan for the last time. Tissue Warning!
Matt was welcomed home by hundreds of family members, friends and Patriots. The route was lined for miles.
Matt’s funeral service was held at the high school gymnasium where over 3,000 people attended to say their final farewells to a man they loved and respected.
I wrote the following in a post at Tanker Brothers blog on October 4, 2007, the day Matt was laid to rest
“Our prayers along with our deepest and most sincere condolences go out to Matt’s wife, parents, brother, extended family and friends and to his comrades left behind. There is no way to adequately express our thoughts at this time. If one takes the time to read about SFC Blaskowski on the internet one finds story after story about the man he was. He lived his 27 years as a shining example of what humanity should be. It is apparent that Matt touched the lives of anyone who met and knew him in any capacity. He was the best of the best. He lived a selfless life in many ways – one of which was his choice to serve this nation as a member of the United States Army – to defend our freedom and continue to ensure our safety and security. Matt gave his all for us. This nation owes more to SFC Matthew Blaskowski than we could ever give. May his family know that we grieve with them in this time of sadness and loss and that we are thankful for the man he was. May they find comfort in remembering all that Matt was, all that he did and all that he gave throughout his life.
Rest in peace Matt. Our prayers are with you. I know the gates of heaven were standing wide open when you passed through and the angels were there to meet you.”
I’ve never visited Matt’s gravesite to say my farewell. I guess I keep trying to convince myself that one day he’s going to pop out from somewhere in true Sergeant Ski style and say, “Gotcha” with that ear to ear smile. His mom, Cheryl, laughed when I told her that. She said it sound like something he would do. But the reality is that Matt is in heaven and everyone who knew him misses him like hell.
Say a prayer for Matt today. And say a prayer for his family. Most of all take a minute to remember Matt.
UPDATED with video thanks to Yankeemom
Video added - "I'm leaving you but I died doing what I most wanted to do."
Note about a statement in the video - SGT Garcia had served with the 82nd Airborne prior to being assigned to the 173rd Airborne with whom he was serving at the time of his death.
SGT Israel Garcia was posthumously awarded the Silver Star, our nation's third highest award for valor, on 29 August 2009 at 11:00 at the Los Alamitos Joint Forces Training Base, California for "gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States." SGT Garcia was awarded the Silver Star for his heroic actions on 13 July 2008 at the Battle of Wanat, Afghanistan where he and eight of his Brothers in Arms were killed by the enemy.
A crowd of 200 including three of the men who served with SGT Garcia, SPC Kerns, SGT Deloria and Mike Santiago (rank unknown) were present for the ceremony despite the 100+ degree heat. The Patriot Guard Riders were present for the ceremony just as they had been for SGT Garcia's family when he returned home and for his funeral.
Myer also praised Garcia's widow, Lesly. "Her incredible strength in this process is humbling to me," he said.
Rep. Dana Rohrabacher, R-Huntington Beach/Long Beach, said Garcia gave his life as a hero. "I have three children," he said. "And they're all safe because of Sgt. Garcia."
Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster said the city is proud of its hero. "We're a grateful city," he said.
A Silver Star is the 3rd highest Military decoration that can be awarded to a soldier for his valor actions. It was established in 1918 as a citation Star.
For those of you that don't know why my husband is receiving a Silver Star today.... Let me explain it to you all briefly.
On July 8th, 2008, Chosen Company was sent to Wanat, Afghanistan. When they arrived they found themselves on a remote patrol base which they had to build from scratch. What little supplies they had they began to set up their perimeter with sandbags and c-wire. This base was build within feet of a village. Giving the Taliban's easy access to our soldiers.
On July 13th, 2008 at around 4:15am They were woken up by heavy fire coming from all directions. They had little time to prepare themselves for the attack that would eventually last 4 hours. About 30 minutes into the attack my husband's squad gets a radio call from the observation post stating multiple casualties and reinforcement needed. Israel along with 3 other soldiers without any hesitation ran up to the observation post where they assisted the injured soldiers to safety. While trying to get control of the post, 3 rocket propel grenades hit their location with one hitting my husband. By 5:30am, 9 American soldiers had been killed and 27 were wounded. This happen just 10 days before our soldiers were schedule to return home after a 14 month deployment. And this is why my husband is being honored with this Silver Star.
My Husband loved this country and devoted his life serving it. Israel was willing to not only reach across the aisle, but had this unique was to pull people together and get things done, with both substance and a great sense of humor. He was a compassionate, loving, hard-worker, unselfish, joyful, positive attitude, family man, caring ... And... I can stand here in front of you all and describe how great of a person he was, but we don't have all day. Israel will forever live in the hearts of his friends, family and mine.... thank you!
My buddy Jonn from This Ain't Hell posted this story with the comment, "Retention will probably drop among the Taliban over the next few weeks when they get the news that the paratroopers of the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team are headed back there this winter ..."
We'll be there for you!
From Stars and Stripes
‘Sky Soldiers’ to make third Afghan tour
No particulars in Pentagon announcement except that troops will deploy this winter
My heart still aches for these American Heroes, their families and friends and their comrades in arms.
I've been trying to write this post for at least a week. Nothing I write is enough but I want to remind anyone who reads here about these men and ask everyone to NEVER FORGET those who have died in service to this nation.
COL Bill Ostlund who was the 173rd, 2-503 Commander during their deployment in OEF VIII posted these comments on his Facebook page:
ROCK Paratroopers- July is an incredible month for our great nation. We have a great nation because of the tens of millions who have volunteered to protect our great nation and for the millions that have bled and “lived their lives” for our great nation. In The ROCK, in OEF VIII in July 2007 we lost:
Chris Honaker and Joe Miracle on 5 July; Juan Restrepo on 22 July, and Ben Hall on 31 July. A year later we lost Sergio Abad, John Ayers, Jason Bogar, John Brostrom, Israel Garcia, Jason Hovater, Matt Phillips, Pruitt Rainey, and Gunnar Zwilling on 13 July 2008.
Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
1LT Jonathan P. Brostrom was born on 22 August 1983 in Stuttgart, Germany. He was commissioned in the U.S. Army on 15 May 2006.
1LT Brostrom participated in the ROTC program at the University of Hawaii and while a cadet, he attended Airborne School, Air Assault School, and the U.S. Navy Scuba Divers Course. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Human Resources in 2006, he received his commission as a U.S. Army Infantry Second Lieutenant.
1LT Brostrom graduated from the Infantry Officer Basic Course and Ranger School prior to reporting to Vicenza, Italy on 26 June 2007. Shortly afterward, 1LT Brostrom deployed in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII and was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment as a Rifle Platoon Leader.
1LT Brostrom served for eight months in Afghanistan as Platoon Leader for 2nd Platoon. During his deployment, 1LT Brostrom led countless combat patrols and was responsible for the defense of Combat Outpost Bella – a remote, platoon-size, coalition outpost in northeastern Afghanistan.
1LT Brostrom’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Air Assault Badge, Basic Parachutist Badge, Scuba Diver Badge, and Ranger Tab.
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19 JANUARY 1984 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
SGT Israel Garcia was born on 19 January 1984 in Nayarit, Mexico. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 23 October 2002.
After completing One Station Unit Training and Airborne School, SGT Garcia was assigned to B Company, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 504th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division as a Rifleman and later as a Rifle Team Leader. SGT Garcia deployed in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM twice before PCSing to Vicenza, Italy.
In July 2006, SGT Garcia was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment as a Rifle Team Leader. He deployed in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007. During his deployment to Afghanistan, SGT Garcia participated in numerous combat patrols and helped defend Combat Outpost Bella – a remote, platoon-size, coalition outpost in northeastern Afghanistan.
SGT Garcia’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal (3), Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon (2), NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.
CPL Jonathan Ayers
4 MAY 1984 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company , 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
CPL Jonathan R. Ayers was born on 4 May 1984 in Atlanta, Georgia. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 26 April 2006.
After completing One Station Unit Training and graduating from Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia, CPL Ayers reported to Vicenza, Italy and was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment where he most recently served as an M249 Machine Gunner.
CPL Ayers deployed in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007. While serving in Afghanistan, CPL Ayers participated in numerous combat patrols and air assault operations. He also helped defend Combat Outpost Bella – a remote, platoon-size, coalition outpost in northeastern Afghanistan.
CPL Ayers’ awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.
CPL Jason Bogar
19 FEBRUARY 1983 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
CPL Jason M.C. Bogar was born on 19 February 1983 in Washington State. He enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard on 12 September 2001.
After completing One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Georgia, CPL Bogar was assigned to A Company, 1st Battalion, 161 Infantry Regiment (National Guard) as a Rifleman. CPL Bogar deployed in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM twice before transferring to Active Duty and PCSing to Vicenza, Italy.
CPL Bogar was assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team in November 2007 and joined Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment in Afghanistan. During OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII, CPL Bogar participated in numerous combat operations to include combat patrolling from Combat Outpost Bella – a remote, platoon-size, coalition outpost in northeastern Afghanistan.
CPL Bogar’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge.
CPL Jason Hovater
10 AUGUST 1983 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company , 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
CPL Jason D. Hovater was born on 10 August 1983 in Tennessee. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 9 February 2006.
After completing One Station Unit Training, CPL Hovater attended Airborne School and was subsequently assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment as an Automatic Rifleman. While serving with Chosen Company, CPL Hovater deployed to Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII.
In Afghanistan, CPL Hovater participated in numerous combat patrols as an M203 Grenadier. On one such patrol on 8 March 2008, CPL Hovater’s element came under heavy enemy fire from multiple locations. For his bravery that day CPL Hovater was awarded the Army Commendation Medal w/ Valor.
CPL Hovater’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal w/combat distinguishing device “V”, Army Good Conduct Medal (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.
CPL Matthew Phillips
13 APRIL 1981 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company , 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
CPL Matthew B. Phillips was born in 13 April 1981 in Florence, Alabama. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 22 November 2005.
After enlisting, CPL Phillips completed One Station Unit Training and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia. Upon completion of Airborne School he was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment where he most recently served as an M240B Machine Gunner.
CPL Phillips deployed in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007. During his time in Afghanistan, CPL Phillips participated in numerous combat patrols and helped defend Combat Outpost Bella – a remote, platoon-size, coalition outpost in northeastern Afghanistan. For his outstanding service throughout the deployment he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal.
CPL Phillips’ awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.
CPL Pruitt Rainey
21 FEBRUARY 1986 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company , 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
CPL Pruitt A. Rainey was born on 21 February 1986 in Rockingham, North Carolina. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 10 August 2005.
CPL Rainey graduated from One Station Unit Training and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia. He also attended the Ranger Indoctrination Program before being assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment on 28 February 2006. CPL Rainey most recently served as an M240B Machine Gunner in 2nd Platoon.
CPL Rainey deployed in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007. During his deployment, CPL Rainey participated in countless combat patrols and air assault operations. He also defended and conducted patrols from Combat Outpost Bella – a remote, platoon-size, coalition outpost in northeastern Afghanistan.
CPL Rainey’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (2), NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.
CPL Gunnar Zwilling
29 APRIL 1988 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company , 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
CPL Gunnar W. Zwilling was born on 29 April 1988 in Fountain Valley, California. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 15 February 2006.
CPL Zwilling attended One Station Unit Training and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia. After earning his Airborne Wings, he was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment as a Grenadier and later as an Assistant Machine Gunner.
While serving with Chosen Company, CPL Zwilling deployed to Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII. Throughout his deployment, CPL Zwilling participated in numerous combat patrols and air assaults that disrupted enemy operations. His actions brought security to the Afghan population in Kunar Province.
CPL Zwilling’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.
SPC Sergio Abad
15 MARCH 1987 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
SPC Sergio S. Abad was born on 15 March 1987 in Miami, Florida. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 17 January 2006.
SPC Abad completed training as an 11C Mortarman from One Station Unit Training and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia. He also attended the Ranger Indoctrination Program, 75th Ranger Regiment before being assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment in August 2006.
SPC Abad deployed in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007. He served with HHC for 10 months before being assigned to Chosen Company as a 120mm Mortar Gunner. During his time with Chosen, SPC Abad participated in countless fire missions in support of friendly troops on the ground.
SPC Abad’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal w/ combat distinguishing device “V”, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.
The Board of Directors
of the
173d Airborne Brigade
National Memorial Foundation
proudly announces that the
Dedication of the Memorial
will take place
at 10:00 A.M.
Tuesday, 1 June, 2010.
The Memorial is located at the
National Infantry Foundation
Museum and Soldier Center
(1775 Legacy Way, Columbus, Georgia).
For more information about the Dedication,
or to find out how to contact us, please visit the
173d Airborne Brigade National Memorial Foundation website at www.173dairbornememorial.org
To arrange for hotel accommodations, please go to www.visitcolumbusga.com and click on “Accommodations.”
The National Infantry Foundation and
The National Infantry Museum Staff
are extremely busy with their primary duties.
PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THEM
WITH QUESTIONS ABOUT THE DEDICATION!
Directions to the National Infantry Museum
National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center
1775 Legacy Way
Columbus, Georgia 31903
From the north:
From Interstate 85 South, take exit 21 to I-185 South to Columbus. Take exit 1B and merge onto US 431/US 280/Victory Drive. Turn left onto Fort Benning Road and continue to park entrance.
From the south:
From Interstate 85 North, take exit 62 for US 431/US 280. Continue right toward Columbus US 431/US 280. Turn right onto County Road 27. Turn right onto Fort Benning Road and continue to park entrance.
Note: If you are using a GPS use the address 3800 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus, Georgia 31903
Although the Foundation plans to start construction of the Monument in July 2009, additional donations are needed to reach our fundraising goal.
Checks should be made out to the 173d Memorial Foundation and mailed to the Memorial Foundation, 1160 Lake Royale, Louisburg, NC 27549. Alternatively, if you would like to use a credit card to make a donation, please visit our website at www.173dairbornememorial.org and follow the simple instructions using Paypal. The Foundation is a 501(C)(3) organization. All donations are tax deductible and will be acknowledged.
From Stars and Stripes
Vicenza NCO receives Silver Star for saving lives in Afghan ambush
Maj. Gen. William B. Garrett pins the Silver Star on Staff Sgt. Conrad Begaye during a ceremony Tuesday on Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy. Begaye was honored for his actions in a battle near Aranas, Afghanistan, in which five fellow soldiers and a Marine were killed VICENZA, Italy — Staff Sgt. Conrad Begaye knew he and his men were in trouble. Ambushed near Aranas, Afghanistan, on Nov. 9, 2007, the soldiers were caught in a well-planned crossfire and needed to find cover. Though he had been shot in the arm, Begaye took a minute to consider his options. "It was almost like time stood still," he said Tuesday after receiving the Silver Star for his efforts that day. "The only real option I had was over the cliff." So he started down into a steep ravine, telling his men to follow. "We were sliding down and the whole time we were still taking accurate fire," he said. Several soldiers were wounded on the way down and one was killed. But the rest survived to fight on. Once Begaye and his men found adequate cover, he treated the wounded, called in mortar support and rallied other soldiers who were farther back in the convoy to hold their positions. Mortar fire and reinforcements eventually drove the enemy from the field. Five soldiers and one Marine died in the battle. Begaye, the ranking soldier after his platoon leader was killed in the initial attack, said he’ll wear his medal in honor of those who didn’t make it. "I really don’t know how I feel about getting a medal for just doing my job," he said. "So this medal’s not for me, but for the guys who died that day." Maj. Gen. William B. Garrett, who presented Begaye with the medal, told those gathered on Hoekstra Field that the native of Black Canyon City, Ariz., deserved the recognition. "Outnumbered, wounded, initially pinned down in an enemy kill zone, he didn’t hesitate to jump forward," Garrett said. "Today, we honor an NCO whose bold action turned the tide of battle and saved the day." Garrett noted that the ceremony was just a few days before July 4, a day when Americans celebrate Independence Day. "Freedom isn’t free at all," he said. "Our freedom has been bought by the sacrifices of American soldiers." Begaye was a member of Company C, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment. Twenty-four soldiers from the battalion died during 14 months in Afghanistan. The battle near Aranas was one of the deadliest of the tour. He’s currently a member of Vicenza’s Warrior Transition Unit, though he has recently re-enlisted and hopes to join the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team’s headquarters before its next deployment. He’s married to Air Force Staff Sgt. Idellia Beletso, a flight medic stationed at nearby Aviano Air Base. She attended the ceremony along with hundreds of soldiers from his battalion. Several of those who offered him congratulations have also been honored for their actions. To date, soldiers from the battalion have received a Distinguished Service Cross and 25 Silver Stars. Four awards are still pending. These men gave their lives that day. May they Rest In Peace for eternity and may their families always know that their sacrifice is not and will never be unnoticed or forgotten. 1LT Matthew C. Ferrara SGT Jeffery S. Mersman CPL Sean K.A. Langevin CPL Lester G. Roque SPC Joseph M. Lancour Marine Sgt. Phillip A. Bocks
SSG Sean Samaroo served with the 173rd, 2-503 during their recent 15 month deployment to Afghanistan. He is now serving with the 4th Battalion, 10th Infantry Regiment at Fort Jackson, SC. SSG Samaroo was recently awarded the Silver Star for his actions at the Battle of Wanat. He also participated in the ceremony to rename one of the ranges at Fort Jackson to the Wanat Range.
After he was wounded, Samaroo said goodbye to his wife and son aloud, according to a first-person account read during the ceremony by Lt. Col. Richard McDermott, 4th Bn., 10th Inf. Reg., commander.
"That's when I said, 'Man, this is it. You're gone,'" Samaroo said. "I really thought I was, but I just clicked like that and started focusing back on what I had to do."
From www.army.mil
Fort Jackson Soldier earns Silver Star
Jun 18, 2009
By By SUSANNE KAPPLER, Fort Jackson Leader
FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- Staff Sgt. Sean Samaroo, 4th Battalion, 10th Infantry Regiment, was awarded the Silver Star for his actions in Afghanistan in a ceremony June 11.
The ceremony took place at the newly designated Wanat Range, formerly known as Camden Range.
Samaroo received the award, the nation's third highest military decoration, for his part in the Battle of Wanat, which took place 2008 in the eastern province of Nuristan, Afghanistan. Samaroo is also a Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient.
"There were a lot of heroes out there," Samaroo said. "Some maybe didn't get recognized as much as me. I'm pretty thankful and honored."
On the morning of July 13, 14 months into Samaroo's deployment, an estimated 200 enemy fighters launched a coordinated assault on a small vehicle patrol base manned by approximately 50 American and coalition troops.
As the battle began, Samaroo - then with Company C, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade - and his squad were manning a traffic control point near the base. Samaroo's squad successfully defended the traffic control point before reinforcing an observation point, which was under threat to be overrun by the attackers.
On his way to the observation point - an uphill climb through exposed terrain - Samaroo encountered three wounded Soldiers, whom he and his squad brought to safety.
Samaroo himself was wounded by shrapnel and was bleeding from the head and legs, but refused to leave his position until reinforcements arrived.
Nine American Soldiers were killed in the attack; 27 Americans and four Afghan soldiers were wounded.
Samaroo credited his training and instinct with helping him through the situation.
"There was a time that I did not want to go up that hill," he admitted. "I thought that it was too early. There's such a thing as tactical patience. You have to let the battle evolve.
Because of that, I believe we saved a (few) more lives that way."
After he was wounded, Samaroo said goodbye to his wife and son aloud, according to a first-person account read during the ceremony by Lt. Col. Richard McDermott, 4th Bn., 10th Inf. Reg., commander.
"That's when I said, 'Man, this is it. You're gone,'" Samaroo said. "I really thought I was, but I just clicked like that and started focusing back on what I had to do."
Samaroo admitted that the incident changed his life.
"Any time you have a near-death experience ... it changes you. It does. You think about the small things in life," he said.
Samaroo, who has been in the Army for nine years, came to Fort Jackson in January as a cadre instructor at Camden Range. The range, which has been undergoing extensive upgrades, was renamed "Wanat Mounted Convoy Live Fire Range" in honor of the Soldiers who died during the Battle of Wanat.
Brig. Gen. Bradley May, Fort Jackson commanding general, called the renaming a fitting tribute as the range will be used to train "skills that will allow (Soldiers) to thrive in combat, just as Staff Sgt. Samaroo did."
Samaroo said he hopes to pass on those skills and ultimately intends to become a drill sergeant."That's always been a dream of mine, being a drill sergeant," he said. "I want to be able to share what I learned as a combat Soldier."
I know I promised this post a few days ago but I've been so focused on COL Evan getting better that I just haven't wanted to post until today. I am so thankful Evan IS feeling better. I'm also thankful for all of the prayers that you all have been saying for him.
Now on to this post.
In October 2007 I wrote this post about Lakeland Elementary School donating socks for the Sky Soldiers of the 173rd, 2-503 who were deployed to northeastern Afghanistan. I urge you to take the time to read the post and to learn about the amazing students, faculty and staff at Lakeland Elementary School.
For several months we've been attempting to put together a weekend when several of the 173rd, 2-503 Soldiers could come to Memphis to visit Lakeland Elementary School to say "thank you." While I missed not getting to have a whole "Herd" of the guys here I was thrilled when SSG Ryan Pitts was able to come from Walter Reed Army Medical Center this past weekend.
Ryan arrived on Saturday. That afternoon Frank and Nancy Rouse came over to meet Ryan and visit with him. Frank is a Vietnam Veteran who served in the 173rd, 2-503. If you don't know the history of the 173rd you can get a "taste" of the Brigade's storied past here. Nancy is the principal of Lakeland Elementary School. I won't bore you with the details of how I came to know Nancy and Frank but this is one tiny little world my friends. Frank and Nancy are members of both the Patriot Guard Riders and Rolling Thunder. They are wonderful, wonderful people and great Americans.
After a few hours of visiting, eating and hoisting a few beers Frank received a call from a Veteran friend of his. Long story short it was soon after that call that Frank and Nancy loaded Ryan up in their truck for a quick 40 minute ride to Mississippi to "attend" a Hooters swimsuit competition. I was invited but scantily clad young ladies prancing about isn't my idea of a fun evening. I know, I'm old. Seems a fine time was had by all.
One Sunday Ryan and I went to visit St. Jude patient Evan Pertile, his mom, Nana and some of their family friends. We had such a wonderful visit with them.
Monday morning rolled around and we were off to Lakeland Elementary School. We arrived in time for the morning Pledge of Allegiance, thought for the day and announcements which are done via the PA system from the principal's office. Mrs. Rouse has students come to her office each morning to lead the pledge and to give the thought for the day.
The students did an EXCELLENT job!
After that was over Nancy escorted Ryan and me to the cafeteria where Ryan was scheduled to address and thank all of the fifth grade classes. The reason for selecting that group is that one of the fifth graders (fourth grade last school year) raised the most money and/or collected the most socks for the paratroopers. (More on that later in the post). As we walked into the cafeteria I immediately noticed this:
I got a big lump in my throat. Many thanks to the students and to the art department for such a wonderful "welcome" to Ryan. Made me damn proud to be from this area. There were other colorings and drawings on the walls surrounding the opening to the stage area:
After the students were settled in Mrs. Rouse introduced SSG Pitts
SSG Pitts spent a few minutes telling the students a little about himself.
Then he told them how much he and his paratroopers appreciated the socks. He explained about how they were in a location where they didn't have a way to wash their socks; how they hiked many days for miles at a time. He even told them about one day when they hiked 15 miles up and down the mountains of Afghanistan.
He told them the socks were a huge help to them when they were deployed and that all of the Soldiers with him were very grateful for the student's generous donation. He then asked for Harper Wagner to come forward.
SSG Pitts reminded the group that Harper had raised the most money/pairs of socks and had won a pizza party for his class by doing so. Then he gave Harper a 173rd Brigade coin
And a 173rd Brigade flag
After Harper sat down SSG Pitts asked the students if they had any questions. Boy did they have questions. GREAT questions. Question such as, "Did you get much sleep" Ryan's answer was something along the lines of "somedays yes, somedays not so much."
"Did you see any cool animals?" Ryan had to mention the Camel Spider. He explained that it's not really a spider and showed (with his hands) how big they can get. He also mentioned that he had seen a baby snow leopard. That brought ooohs and aaaaahs from the crowd
One student asked about whether Ryan and his buddies had survival training. The student used the proper terminology. I, of course, have no idea what that term is. I don't remember what Ryan's answer was because I was still processing that a fifth grader would know that terminology. Smart kids!
One question to SSG Pitts was if he had ever been shot. Ryan told them he hadn't but that he had been blown up by RPGs and hand grenades. Golly it seems so weird to type that. I'm just amazed at how far along Ryan has come in his recuperation.
The most poplular questions were about jumping. How high were you when you jumped? What do you do if the chute doesn't open? What happens if the reserve chute doesn't open? Were you afraid to jump? And there were questions about the food, why Ryan joined the Army, etc. Really, really good questions all around.
After about 20 or so minutes Mrs Rouse wrapped things up and thanked Ryan for coming. Ryan did an excellent job. There were still probably 20 hands in the air for questions. I'm sure they were good ones, too. Mrs. Rouse then gave Ryan a huge bag of letters that the students had written to him and his buddies.
I had to snag a photo of Nancy, Ryan and Frank. It was really nice of Frank to come out to support Ryan.
Frank and Ryan did some of that man/Warrior/Paratrooper/Herd/Sky Soldier talk for a few minutes before Frank had to leave
After Frank left Nancy, Ryan and I were standing near the stage chatting. The students were still in the cafeteria and were signing each others yearbooks. One of the students approached Ryan and asked if he would mind signing the yearbook. Ryan, of course, said he would
And then...............the line formed
Ryan signed and signed
And signed. The line was from the stage all the way to the back of the cafeteria. For the longest time it never seemed to get any shorter.
After 30 minutes or so I told Ryan I would go stand at the back of the line and not let anyone else get in the line. I tried. I REALLY, REALLY tried. But those kids are SO cute and I kept letting "just one more" get in line in front of me. At one point Ryan looked up and asked, "is the line getting shorter or longer?" So I only let two more in and then I finally said, "sorry, we have to go." As we were walking out a little girl came up to Ryan and asked him to sign her yearbook. Ryan looked at me and I grinned. Of course he signed it!
I couldn't help but think to myself that those kids have no idea about the Soldier who signed their books. I know that's just perfectly fine with Ryan.
So we left the school and went back to my house. Frank came over a couple of hours later and the two Sky Soldiers drank beer, told war stories and visited all afternoon. What an incredible treat for me to be able to listen in. Very few people can tell a story the way Frank Rouse can. At one point Frank asked if I didn't have something to do. I'm crazy about Frank so I took the hint and left "the boys" alone for a while. After school was out Nancy came over and had dinner with us then I took Ryan to the airport. I really appreciate Nancy and Frank spending so much time with Ryan during his visit. I had to giggle to myself when they exchanged phone numbers.
What a wonderful weekend. God has given me more blessings than any one human deserves. I am so thankful.
Uncle Jimbo at Blackfive has been at it again.
The war comes home: Utah 6-year-old accepts his late father's Silver Star
WEST HAVEN -- Often, when the skies above Kanesville Elementary School are clear, children on recess can look up and see a fighter jet from nearby Hill Air Force Base slicing a sharp white contrail into the blue.
Some of those jets have cut similar trails across Afghan skies. And that's as close as most of this suburban school's students will ever come to the ongoing battle in south Asia.
But the war flew much closer to home on Wednesday. In a morning assembly before hundreds of teary-eyed students, a stoic six-year-old named Jase Spargur accepted the Silver Star -- the U.S. military's third-highest medal for valor -- on behalf of his fallen father.
Jonathan Brostrom was one of nine soldiers killed when hundreds of Taliban guerillas armed with rifles, rocket-propelled grenades and mortars ambushed an Army outpost near the village of Wanat, near the Pakistani border, on July 13.
According to accounts from fellow soldiers, the 24-year-old Army first lieutenant was responding to enemy fire from a relatively safe location when he learned that soldiers in a nearby observation post were in trouble. He was killed while trying to ferry medical supplies and ammunition across a 100-yard stretch between the two positions.
Today, Jase's memories of his father are mostly just images. He recalls surfing together in Hawaii, where his father grew up. He remembers swimming together in the ocean. And he recollects playing video games together in the family's home.
"He used to throw me up into the air," Jase says. "We'd do all kinds of cool stuff like that."
Jase's mother, Lindsey Spargur, said her son has come to accept the death of his father, even if he still doesn't fully comprehend what happened. Wednesday's assembly, she said, gave her boy an opportunity to see their family isn't alone in the way they speak about his father -- or in the way they honor his sacrifice.
"Lieutenant Brostrom was a hero," said Maj. Gen. Brian Tarbet, commander of the Utah National Guard, who presented the medal to Jase in the school's gym. "And there are other heroes here with us today. Jase is one of them."
Principal Mel Hawkes said he didn't think twice when military officials approached him with an offer to present the award to Jase in front of the entire school. "We want our students to understand that this is not just something that happens on the news," he said. "This is something that affects us all."
Hawkes said all of the teachers in his school were asked to show their classes a video describing what had happened to Jase's father in preparation for the assembly. But as images of Jase and his father were projected onto a screen ahead of the presentation of the award, many of the students ---and their teachers -- broke into tears.
"That's good," Tarbet said. "I think it's good for them to understand."
For most, the assembly lasted a half-hour. For Jase, Tarbet noted, the loss will last his entire life.
That fact was not missed by 12-year-old Garrett Peterson.
Like most sixth graders, Peterson had never spent much time contemplating the nation's ongoing wars, let alone the cost. And he didn't know that a young boy from his own school had suffered the death of his father in battle.
"When I found out, I felt so bad for him, because I could understand how this would be so hard for me," Peterson said. "I couldn't live without my dad."
At least for a few moments, on Wednesday, the war had come home.
mlaplante@sltrib.com / blogs.sltrib.com/military
