Remembering SFC Matthew Kahler Killed In Action 26 January 2008 - Afghanistan

SFC Matthew Kahler

24 July 1978 – 26 January 2008

Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment

SFC Kahler was killed by small arms fire on Jan. 26, 2008 at Forward Operating Base Fenty in Waygul, Afghanistan.

SFC Kahler left behind a wife and daughter as well as legions of family members, fellow Soldiers and friends who miss him as much today as they did four years ago. His death left a huge hole in many hearts.

There is a slide show here with photos of SFC Kahler with his family and on deployment.  There is another photo gallery here of the day SFC Kahler was brought home to Granite Falls, MN, his final resting place.

 

Sergeant First Class Matthew R. Kahler was born on 24 July 1978 in Carroll, Iowa. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 5 June 1997.

After SFC Kahler completed Basic Infantry Training, Advanced Individual Training, and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia, he was assigned to A Company 2nd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, North Carolina on 17 November 1997. While assigned to the 504th PIR, he held the positions of Assistant Machine Gunner, Machine Gunner, and Fire Team Leader. He deployed to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1997 in support of OPERATION DESERT FOCUS and OPERATION DESERT THUNDER.

SFC Kahler was assigned to 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team in June 2001. While assigned to the 503rd, he held the positions of Fire Team Leader, Rifle Squad Leader, and Platoon Sergeant. He helped form and train Able Company during countless training deployments to Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels. SFC Kahler deployed and served in the Brigade as a Rifle Squad Leader during both OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM I and OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VI. SFC Kahler deployed with The ROCK to Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII as the Platoon Sergeant for 2nd Platoon, Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne) 503rd Infantry Regiment.

SFC Kahler’s awards include: Bronze Star (2, Posthumous), Purple Heart (2, Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal (2), Army Achievement Medal (4), Army Good Conduct Medal (3rd Award), National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Afghan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with numeral three, Army Service Ribbon, Over Seas Ribbon with numeral four, NATO Medal, Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Expert Infantryman’s Badge, and Senior Parachutists Badge with Combat Bronze Star Device. SFC Kahler was also recently inducted into the U.S. Army, Europe Sergeant Morales Club as a lifetime member.

SSG Tyler Schmidt (Former ROCK Paratrooper) Earns His Pathfinder Badge

Current Pathfinder Badge without enameling

The original Pathfinder badge was designed in 1944.  In 1964 the current badge design was adopted and made of felt.  In 1968 the current badge was approved and is made of metal with enameling.   The wings on the badge represent airborne capability and flight while the wings represent leadership and guidance.

I learned today that, in order to earn the Pathfinder Badge, the student navigates dismounted, establishes and operates a day/night helicopter landing zone, establishes and operates a day/night CARP, GMRS, and Army VIRS parachute DZ, conducts slingload operations, provides air traffic control and navigational assistance to RW and FW airborne operations. Students participate in a three day FTX (I think that means in the field) as a member of a Pathfinder Team.

Specifically Soldiers learn the following skills at Pathfinder School:

Navigate cross country on foot

Establish and operate a day/night helicopter landing zone

Establish and operate a day/night parachute drop zone

Conduct slingload operations

Aircraft rappelling

Provide air traffic control and navigational assistance to aircraft within an operational site control zone

It is my understanding that there is only one Pathfinder school within the Army.  It is located at Fort Benning, GA.   However, the Air Assault School at Ft. Campbell, KY is authorized for Pathfinder training and the Army National Guard Pathfinder Mobile Training Team (MTT) provides Pathfinder training to Army National Guard and Reserve Soldiers.
 
So today, in true Army fashion, the graduation was held OUTSIDE in a freezing rain only feet from a huge, warm, dry building.  But I wouldn't have missed it for anything!
 
Tyler, I could not be more proud of you for this accomplishment and so many others you have attained.   WELL DONE!  Congratulations to Misty, too, for her support of your Army career and those long and difficult deployments.  You two are an amazing couple and it is truly a privilege and honor to know you and call you friends.

Today's graduating class at Ft Campbell

SSG Schmidt, 1st row, 4th from right

The man of the hour!

It's Official!!!

Behind every successful Soldier is a supportive spouse! 

SSG Tyler and Misty Schmidt

Aww...come on, Misty.  Do it!  Do it!

Well, Misty, if you won't, I will!  Time to draw some blood and make sure that badge sticks!

Love you guys and thank you for introducing me to some of the men from your recent deployment.  Being at your graduation was one privilege.  Meeting those men was yet another.

Now get some rest before moving on to your next task.

One Last Gift

Grab your tissues, folks. 

From 9 News in Colorado - the story of how people around the nation came together to help honor the wish of a fallen Hero,  CPT Bruce Hayes from the Wyoming National Guard, deliver "one last gift" to his wife and daughters.



Remembering CPT Bruce Hayes - killed in action 17 September 2008 by a roadside bomb in eastern Afghanistan.

A Rare & Privileged Event - The 173rd ABCT St. Michael's Jump at Aviano, Italy

A prayer to Michael the Archangel, Patron Saint of Paratroopers by Lew Poorman:

Angelic Michael, hear my call
As through the sky I now will fall.
Satan you once cast from here.
Aid me now to conquer fear.
My static line have hooked to hold.
And then my chute it to make unfold.

Suspension lines untangled be
And open up my canopy.
From other jumpers float me clear
As safely down I persevere.
On angel wings I hit the ground.
My father's favor I have found.
In thanks, St Michael, I do pray
For God has helped me - all the way.
Amen

Last Monday, November 28, 2011, I had the privilege of witnessing the St. Michael's jump by the 173rd ABCT from Camp Ederle, Vicenza, Italy.  This was the first time in seven years that the 173rd has held the St. Michael's jump.  The event was coordinated by the 173rd Brigade Chaplain, MAJ Edward Cook. 

I rolled out of bed at 04:30 - a feat in itself for me but, as the day unfolded, a feat that was beyond worth it.  A couple of the men from the 2-503d (Steven Van Esch and Fabe Sesma) had made arrangements for me to join family members and attend the jump.  I will never be able to thank those men enough for arranging this.

I walked across post to the 2-503rd Battalion HQ where I had been told to be by 06:30 in order to board a bus for Aviano where the jump would take place.   There was a bit of confusion about where the buses were - they were not at the 2-503d HQ.  Around 06:20 I made my way into the building and inquired at the staff duty desk as to where I should be.  The Soldiers asked around and directed me to the soccer field.

As I walked from the 2-503d BN building to the soccer field (retracing my steps from the hotel) I ran into SGT Remmel who is a very cherished friend and who was participating in the jump that day.  SGT Remmel and I walked together to the soccer field where Soldiers from 2-503d, 1-503d and HHC were meeting to be taken to Aviano for the jump.

SGT Remmel went onto the field to join the 2-503d Soldiers while I waited on the edge of the field.  As I was waiting I met Jenn Cook, the Brigade Chaplain's wife, and their son Edward.  Jenn took me under her wing all day.  I am grateful to her for her guidance and support.  I am so thankful our paths crossed.

A little after 07:00 they called for the Soldiers and the few family members who were there to board the buses.  I had no idea where SGT Remmel was or what bus to board.  About that time CPT Andy Oliver came walking by and recognized me.  I was still half asleep so I was thrilled to see a familiar face.  CPT Oliver called out to someone to make sure I was on the bus with 2-503d Chosen Company.  The next thing I knew I was not only on the bus with SGT Remmel but we were seated next to each other.  PERFECT!

We arrived at Aviano around 09:30 and a bit of the "hurry up and wait" began.  The jump was scheduled for 15:00 (3:00 PM).  As we were waiting MAJ Cook gave a devotion to include the history of St. Michael and the St. Michael's jump.

MAJ Cook telling us about St. Michael then saying a prayer for a safe jump

After MAJ Cook finished each of the Battalion Chaplains presented the Soldiers who were jumping with a St. Michael medallion to commemorate the jump.

SGT Remmel receiving his St. Michael medallion

The three C-130s that would take the paratroopers up arrived.

The paratroopers were briefed on the LZ (Landing Zone).  It was a little unnerving for me to listen to the person conducting the briefing discus what to do if 1) you land in a tree or 2) you land on a power line, etc.  But good to know all bases are covered! 

Briefing on the LZ

Then the paratroopers, by Battalion, were called out to "rehearse" the elements of the jump.  Following are a few of the elements they rehearse:

Rehearsing #1

Rehearsing #2 (that's SGT Remmel 2nd in line)

Rehearsing #3 (I couldn't help but think of bunny hops.  LOL)

A little while later they lined up to get their chutes from the conex,

Getting their chutes

Then they completed some basic preparation before rigging up in the chutes.

Not long after that it was time to "buddy up" and "rig up" in the chutes.

Rigging up #1

Rigging up #2

Rigging up #3

Me and SGT Remmel

After they were all rigged up a Jump Master checked each paratrooper to make sure everything was in order and, I think, prepares the static line.  For once I didn't ask a million questions - I tried to stay out of the way since I knew it was essential that this all be done properly to ensure the safety of each paratrooper.

Jump Master checking SGT Remmel

Jump Master continuing to check everything on SGT Remmel

Uh oh, some one's really tall!

Jump Master had to get up on the bench to finish inspecting and preparing SGT Remmel for the jump

All rigged up and inspected.  Now time for a nap before the jump.

GO TIME!  Time to load up on the birds.

Heading out to the C-130s #1

Heading out to the C-130s #2

After we watched the paratroopers file out to the planes we hopped on a bus to go to the LZ (Landing Zone).  We weren't there too long before we saw the planes approaching.

C-130s carrying precious cargo - the Paratroopers

First chutes popped

As the first chutes popped it was both breathtaking and an emotional moment for me.  Not a "boo hoo" type of emotion but I couldn't stop the tears from streaming down my face.  Jenn Cook came over and saw my tears.  Before I even had the chance to explain myself she assured me she understood.  Then I told her about one of those men who was jumping out of the third aircraft. 

He was shot during an ambush back in OEF VIII.  He wasn't medevaced for about 3 hours due to the intensity of the fight and the helos not being able to land.  Once he got to Asadabad he "died" 2 or 3 times but the incredible medical staff kept reviving him.  By the time he got to Landstuhl he was on life support.  His family was called and told that they (Landstuhl) would try to keep him alive until the family got there.  Another miracle happened and he stabilized enough to be sent to WRAMC (Walter Reed Army Medical Center).

Once at WRAMC his was in a comma and declared brain dead.  As his family stood vigil for 10 days there was no change.  Then, one more miracle, on the 10th day he woke up.  He fought for 22 months at WRAMC to get healthy - to get well.  His only goal was to return to the 2-503d.  And he did.  He did so by determination.  He endured numerous surgeries and procedures; months of waiting; mountains of paperwork.  He could have been medically retired from the Army but not this Paratrooper.  It was all about getting back to his unit.

Not only did he return to the ROCK but he deployed with them in OEF X.  What a stud!

So there I was standing at the Landing Zone in Aviano, Italy knowing that one of those Paratroopers beneath one of those canopies was this young man.  Yep, I got emotional and I'll never apologize for that.

To be honest the emotion wasn't just about that one Paratrooper, though.  It was about how damn fortunate I am to be allowed to love and to be so loved by so many of the ROCK Paratroopers and their families.  Not one day passes in my life that I don't know how fortunate and blessed I am.

Just breathtaking!

Those are "my" guys!

Paratroopers against the back drop of the mountains near Aviano as the C-130 circles for another pass.

I hope you all had soft landings!

SGT Remmel tucked this away in one of the pockets of his ACUs and jumped with it.  Just minutes after his jump he handed it to me.  There are no words for how special this is.

As we were standing around waiting for all of the Paratroopers to make their way across the road from the LZ to where we were at the buses I noticed a gentleman with the name tape "Rohling".  What a bonus!  COL Andy Rohling who is now the 173rd ABCT Commander.  I introduced myself and thanked him for the opportunity to be at the jump.  COL Rohling was previously the S-3 and XO for 2-503d.  COL Rohling was kind enough to chat with me for a few minutes.  As we were chatting he handed me the St. Michael medallion that he had been given that day.  I was beyond honored.

Some Italian Jump Masters had participated in the jump.  After everyone was safely back on the ground, the chutes were stored away and everyone assembled near the buses both MAJ Cook and an Italian Commander had Soldiers from each country exchange jump wings.  Then each Commander said a few words about what a special day it was.  And it was SO special in every possible way.

When we boarded the buses to return to the airfield at Aviano MAJ Cook came to my seat.  He told me that Jenn had filled him in a little on why I was there.  Then he reached in his pocket and pulled out one of the St. Michael medallions and told me that he would like for me to have it.  I was honored and speechless.  I told him that COL Rohling had already given me his.  MAJ Cook asked that I accept the one from him, too.  Another blessing to my already more than perfect day.

The St. Michael medallions given to me by MAJ Cook and COL Rohling - showing the front and back.

Honored, humbled, privileged, grateful...there really just aren't words to fully describe my feelings for being allowed to experience the St. Michael jump.  I am forever thankful.  This day is absolutely one of the most cherished days of my life.

Jump week continued for the Paratroopers in Vicenza.  On Tuesday I know some of the ROCK Paratroopers were at Aviano for day jumps from Chinooks and night jumps from the C-130s.  Wednesday and Thursday there were more jumps.  I hope all of the jumps on Tuesday - Thursday were as safe as the ones on Monday.  I'm sure there were many pairs of wings buried on the landing zone last week.  I'm told that tradition is that when a Paratrooper makes his/her last jump on an LZ they bury a pair of their wings.  I know a couple of men who made their last jump as a member of the ROCK.  I wish them well as they move on with their military careers and lives.  They will always be ROCK Paratroopers to me.  Once ROCK, always ROCK.  Right?

Again, my thanks to Steven Van Esch, Fabe Sesma, Bob Remmel, Jenn Cook, MAJ Cook, COL Rohling, LTC Larsen and all of the ROCK Paratroopers for allowing me this once in a lifetime experience as well as for your support to me.

AIRBORNE!!!

Remembering 1LT Ferrara, SGT Mersman, CPL Langevin, CPL Roque, SPC Lancour and SGT Bocks, KIA, Afghanistan 9 November 2007

Four years ago tomorrow (9 November 2007) six American Warriors were killed in an ambush in eastern Afghanistan.  Six family's lives were changed forever.  Their battle buddies lives were changed forever.  Legions of friends learned the news that these men had become American Heroes - Heroes to whom we owe so much we can never repay them.

Please take a few minutes to read about these men.  Honor them.  Remember them.  Be grateful for them.  It is the very least we can do.
Rest in peace brave warriors.  We will never forget you.

Memorial Service in Afghanistan 2007

1st Lt. Matthew C. Ferrara, 24, of Torrance, Calif.

14 October 1983 – 9 November 2007

Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment

1LT Matthew C. Ferrara was born on 14 October 1983 in Torrance, California, and he graduated and was commissioned from the United States Military Academy at West Point on 28 May 2005 as an Infantry officer.

1LT Ferrara completed the Infantry Officer Basic Course, Airborne School, and Ranger School at Fort Benning, Georgia and reported to Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy for his first duty assignment. Matt was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry as the Platoon Leader of First Platoon.

In May 2007, 1LT Ferrara deployed with the company to Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII. On 22 August 2007, 1LT Ferrara led his men to thwart a deliberate enemy attack on the Aranas Combat Outpost (Ranch House) by a numerically superior force. For his valorous and heroic actions that day he was awarded the Silver Star.

1LT Ferrara’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Ranger Tab, and Basic Parachutist Badge.

Sgt. Jeffery S. Mersman, 23, of Parker, KS

11 May 1984 – 9 November 2007

Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment

SGT Jeffery S. Mersman was born on 11 May 1984 in Paola, Kansas. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 15 January 2002.

SGT Mersman served in C Company, 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division as a Grenadier and Rifle Team Leader. While in this unit, SGT Mersman deployed three times in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM before reporting for duty at Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy.

SGT Mersman was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team as a Rifle Team Leader in August 2006. He deployed to Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDUING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007. During this deployment, SGT Mersman participated in numerous combat patrols and manned a critical observation point at Bella Combat Outpost in Nuristan Province providing surveillance and early warning of enemy activity.

SGT Mersman’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal (3 Oak Leaf Clusters), Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Valorous Unit Award, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.

CPL Sean K.A. Langevin, 23, of Walnut Creek, CA

17 August 1984 – 9 November 2007

Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment

CPL Sean K. Langevin was born on 17 August 1984 in Walnut Creek, California. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 14 February 2006.

After completing Infantry One Station Unit Training (OSUT) and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georiga, CPL Langevin reported to his first duty station at Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy. He was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team as an Automatic Rifleman. CPL Langevin deployed to Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007.

During his time in Afghanistan, CPL Langevin went on numerous combat patrols. He was also involved in a violent firefight with enemy forces at the Aranas Combat Outpost (Ranch House) on 22 August 2007. For his heroic actions during the Ranch House attack, CPL Langevin was submitted for the Bronze Star Medal with Valor.

Cpl Langevin’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, Army Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Basic Parachutist Badge.

CPL Lester G. Roque, 23, of Torrance, CA

4 December 1983 – 9 November 2007

Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2dn Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment

CPL Lester G. Roque was born on 4 December 1983 in Obando, Bulacan, Philippines where he spent most of his childhood. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 2 February 2005.

During his time in service, CPL Roque completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, Medical Advanced Individual Training at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia. On 10 October 2005, CPL Roque reported to his first duty station at Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team. After his arrival, he immediately joined Headquarters and Headquarters Company in Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VI where he was assigned as a trauma medic. Due to his maturity and leadership, he was assigned as the Chosen Company Senior Medic where he served with distinction. During OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII, CPL Roque established two aid stations at Combat Outposts Bella and Aranas (Ranch House), conducted numerous combat patrols, and established a local national clinic to increase the healthcare for the surrounding populace.

CPL Roque’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Combat Medical Badge, Expert Field Medical Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.

SPC Joseph M. Lancour, 21, of Swartz Creek, MI

26 June 1986 – 9 November 2007

Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment

SPC Joseph M. Lancour was born on 26 June 1986 in Cadillac, Michigan. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 8 February 2006.

After completing Infantry One Station Unit Training (OSUT) and attending Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia, SPC Lancour arrived at Caserma, Ederle in Vicenza, Italy for his first duty assignment. SPC Lancour was immediately assigned as a Rifleman in Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team.

SPC Lancour conducted his first deployment to Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007. During his service, SPC Lancour participated in numerous combat patrols and manned a critical observation post at Bella Combat Outpost providing security and observation of the surrounding mountainous terrain.

SPC Lancour’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, Army Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Basic Parachutist Badge.

Marine Sgt. Phillip A. Bocks, 28, of Troy, Mich.

From Marines dot mil Bocks’ journey to MWTC began when he enlisted in the Marine Corps May 9, 2000. That same year, he graduated from basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C. He then reported to the School of Infantry East at Camp Lejeune, N.C., where he graduated and became a Marine Corps rifleman. He later served with Company A, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, where he deployed in support of Operation Southern Watch from Sept. 1, 2001 to Feb. 3, 2002. Sgt. Bocks then deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from May 5 to Aug. 15, 2003, according to his service record book.

In his short life, Sgt. Bocks contributed more to his fellow man, fellow comrades-at-arms, and to the units he served in, said Cooling. “He touched more people in more ways than many of us could in a lifetime,” he said. “The evidence of that is why we are all here today.”

Please go to the link above to read more about Sgt Bocks. 

NEVER FORGOTTEN

Honorary COL Evan Pertile Named One of The US Army Faces Of Strength 2011

If you've read this blog for the past couple of years you may remember Evan Pertile.  Evan was diagnosed with a rare childhood cancer just after Thanksgiving in 2008.  Depending on how you look at it that was three LONG or three short years ago.  I'm sure his parents would say it was three LONG years ago.  But the good news is that Evan is in remission and doing well thanks to the amazing care he received at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, TN.

Evan's mother announced on their caringbridge site that Evan has been selected as on the U S Army's 2011 Faces of Strength.  Evan is the only civilian to ever be selected for this honor.

From The United States Army Faces of Strength:

At the age of eight, Evan Pertile has achieved more than most men. He retains the honorary rank of colonel in the U.S. Army, has received multiple medals and survived a vicious battle. In 2008, Evan was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer. Shortly after his diagnosis, Evan was brought to St. Jude’s Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, for operations and radiation therapy. While treatment was tough, Evan was even tougher.

After spending many sleepless nights by Evan’s side at St. Jude’s, his mother, Rachel, was heading home to Columbia, South Carolina, when she met someone who would change the Pertiles’ lives. Brenda Bowen worked at Fort Leavenworth in Kansas, and when she learned of Evan’s affinity for “Army guys,” she knew she could help. Brenda used her network to rally support for Evan. A message board that Rachel had set up began to flood with words of encouragement from the Soldiers he admired so much.

That support came just in time. Evan had lost his appetite as a result of his rigorous chemotherapy treatment when he started receiving messages of support from all over the world. One after another, Soldiers told Evan that he had to eat to be Army Strong. These words of encouragement sparked an incredible willpower in Evan to eat again, allowing doctors to remove his feeding tube. Since then, Evan has proudly touted that he is Army Strong, someone who “can fight anything and win,” and he is now two years in remission.

Over the past three years, Evan has befriended many of the Soldiers who encouraged him throughout his recovery. By taking time to contact Evan, the Soldiers helped save a life off the battlefield. And while Evan’s story began as one of Soldiers inspiring a young boy, it has turned into a source of inspiration for other Soldiers. Now, instead of words of encouragement, Evan receives messages of thanks.

“The whole time Evan was a force within himself of strength, courage and perseverance,” says Rachel. But she recalls that Soldiers told her “as much as we help Evan, Evan helps us. Evan shows us what we fight for and what we believe in, and he gives meaning to what we do.”

Evan faced much adversity in his bout with brain cancer, but his drive to be Army Strong helped him win the battle. Evan defines strength as “courage” and the will to “keep fighting.” The Soldiers who know him define strength as “Evan Pertile.”

Matt Burden of Blackfive first introduced us to Evan in early May 2009.

Later that month SSG Ryan Pitts and I visited Evan at the Target House near St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

The night after SSG Pitts and I visited with Evan and his mother he became critically ill.  It was touch and go as to whether he would make it or not.  But he did.  Today he is thriving and enjoying being an 8 year old boy.  God answered so many prayers.  And, thanks to so many Soldiers, Marines, Airmen, Sailors and Coast Guardsmen around the world (literally), Evan drew strength to fight his toughest battles. 

It seems that now Evan is learning that he has given much back. 
In July 2009 Jim Hanson aka Uncle Jimbo and I visited Evan.

Evan has been an inspiration to so many.  He is an incredible young man.  Now that he is in remission he is swimming, playing soccer, doing well in school, playing with his older brothers and his new baby sister and conitnuing to raise money for St Jude so that other children can be treated for devastating childhood cancers.  It has been such a privilege getting to know Evan and his family. 

Congratulations Evan! 

More links:

Evan Pertile Follow Up posted on Blackfive July 2009 (excellent video)
Evan Pertile Update posted on Blackfive Sept 2009
Evan Pertile return to duty with a great video Uncle Jimbo filmed the day before Evan left for home.

Remembering SGT Joshua Brennan Four Years After He Gave His Life For This Nation

SGT Josh Brennan

30 May 1985 – 26 October 2007

SGT Josh Brennan succumbed to his wounds on October 26, 2007 after being shot multiple times during an ambush on October 25th, 2007.  Josh, a member of the 173rd ABCT, 2-503rd, Battle Company, was killed in action during Operation Rock Avalanche.  SSG Sal Giunta was awarded the Medal of Honor for his action that day when he, among other things, prevented the enemy from capturing one of his closests friends, Josh.

Rest in Peace Josh always knowing how much you are missed, loved and honored by your family, battle buddies and friends.

Last year, Josh's mother, Janice Gates, sang the following song at her church in memory and honor of Josh.



I wrote this post two years on the anniversary of Josh's death.  There are some wonderful photos of Josh over there along with a video tribute to him set to the same song as his mother sang in the video above.  The video at the link above was done for Josh's funeral service.  Please take the time to go to click on that link and read it.  Most of all please keep Josh, his family, battle buddies and friends in your prayers.

SGT Joshua Charles Brennan was born on 30 May 1985 in El Paso, Texas. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 25 September 2003.

During his time in service SGT Joshua Brennan completed Basic Infantry Training, Advanced Individual Training and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia. On 15 March 2004, he reported to Vicenza, Italy where he became a Paratrooper in the 173rd Airborne Brigade. Assigned to Battle Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry – The ROCK – SGT Brennan was first a rifleman and then an Assistant M240 Machine Gunner in 1st Platoon. Promoted to Team Leader, SGT Brennan deployed and served with distinction during bothVI and VIII. SGT Brennan was undoubtely one of the finest Noncommissioned Officers in Battle Company. He always led from the front.

SGT Brennan’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart(2), Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Basic Parachutist Badge, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. Prior to his death, SGT Brennan was submitted for the Bronze Star Medal for Valor for his actions on 07 August 2007. For his service during OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII, SGT Brennan was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Service.