November 2010 has been a pretty darn good month.
The 173rd ABCT all redployed from Afghanistan to their respective basis in Italy and German. That's pretty darn awesome. Will will never forget their fallen brothers from this deployment. Rest in peace men.
SSG Giunta received the Medal of Honor. He and his platoon who were in that fateful ambush on 25 October 2007 were all able to reunite in DC/VA along with many other members of Battle Company from OEF VI and OEF VIII. They were joined by a contingent of "B" (Bravo) Company men from the 2-503 who parachuted into Vietnam and fought there. It was inspiring and heartwarming to see all of these Paratroopers together. The families of SPC Hugo "Doc" Mendoza and SGT Josh Brennan were also in attendance. Very touching to see the men surround those families with love and respect. From all accounts it was not only an incredibly honorable time but a huge healing process for many. SSG Giunta and his wife, Jenny, are incredible Ambassadors for the United States, the Army and the 173rd, 2-503rd. They both exude such dignity, grace and poise.
Thanksgiving was a peaceful and restful day around my house, No big meal. No shower. In pjs all day. Wonderful! And, it was my birthday. I am grateful for the multitude of birthday wishes I received from around the world. I am also thankful to those who donated over $600.00 to Defenders of Freedom for my birthday wish. THANK YOU ALL! But I must say the greatest "gift" of the day was when 15 or so of the 2-503 CHOSEN FEW, who have only been back in Italy for a few day,s sang "Happy Birthday" to me via phone. They sang so loud I almost didn't need the phone to hear them. THANK YOU guys!
So one holiday is practically in the books. Christmas is around the corner. Then we begin a new year. We continue to have so many men and women in harms way. Parents, spouses, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, etc who are separated from their families. Oh how I yearn for a holiday season and a new year when we are not at war. Keep them all in your prayers and thoughts each day. And never forget those who have given all of their tomorrows while serving our nation.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
In The Company Of Heroes
Many have been calling, emailing and texting asking when I will post about being in Washington, DC for the Medal of Honor events. This is about the best I will be able to offer you and it isn't much.
I was privileged to be in DC and Virginia during the time of SSG Giunta's Medal of Honor presentation and other events. I wasn't invited to the White House and there was no reason for me to be included in that ceremony. I was, however, invited to other events associated with the Medal of Honor and the awesome men, wives, parents and girl friends of The Rock.
The Medal of Honor ceremony and all of the events tied to it were for and about SSG Giunta, his platoon members, Battle Co and the ROCK – not about having the privilege of sharing in the events. I will say that I have NEVER been more proud of or to know these men (and their lovely wives and girlfriends). And I have never felt so loved in my life. Beyond that it's impossible to put the experience and the emotions into words so I won't even try.
SSG Giunta, his wife Jenny and the men of Battle Co., 1st Platoon made this nation proud. Not just in the actions they all took that fateful day on October 2007 but during all of the days they were in the Korengal Valley and all the days they were in DC. They were all professional and humble. They represented this nation, the Army and The ROCK with such dignity.
If you haven't watched at least one video or interview with SSG Giunta then you've missed out on hearing one of the greatest friends the men of 1st Platoon could ever have. He has been emphatic about sharing his Medal of Honor with all of those men who were there that day and any man or woman who has ever served in our nation's military. A true American. A true Paratrooper. A true Warrior. An incredible role model. The real deal.
It was beyond a privilege and an honor to be in Washington, DC last week.
A MUST READ LINK
My Wife is my Rock
THE MEDAL OF HONOR CEREMONY AT THE WHITE HOUSE
THE HALL OF HEROES CEREMONY
I was privileged to be in DC and Virginia during the time of SSG Giunta's Medal of Honor presentation and other events. I wasn't invited to the White House and there was no reason for me to be included in that ceremony. I was, however, invited to other events associated with the Medal of Honor and the awesome men, wives, parents and girl friends of The Rock.
The Medal of Honor ceremony and all of the events tied to it were for and about SSG Giunta, his platoon members, Battle Co and the ROCK – not about having the privilege of sharing in the events. I will say that I have NEVER been more proud of or to know these men (and their lovely wives and girlfriends). And I have never felt so loved in my life. Beyond that it's impossible to put the experience and the emotions into words so I won't even try.
SSG Giunta, his wife Jenny and the men of Battle Co., 1st Platoon made this nation proud. Not just in the actions they all took that fateful day on October 2007 but during all of the days they were in the Korengal Valley and all the days they were in DC. They were all professional and humble. They represented this nation, the Army and The ROCK with such dignity.
If you haven't watched at least one video or interview with SSG Giunta then you've missed out on hearing one of the greatest friends the men of 1st Platoon could ever have. He has been emphatic about sharing his Medal of Honor with all of those men who were there that day and any man or woman who has ever served in our nation's military. A true American. A true Paratrooper. A true Warrior. An incredible role model. The real deal.
It was beyond a privilege and an honor to be in Washington, DC last week.
A MUST READ LINK
My Wife is my Rock
THE MEDAL OF HONOR CEREMONY AT THE WHITE HOUSE
THE HALL OF HEROES CEREMONY
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
SSG Sal Giunta Will Receive The Medal Of Honor Today
Most of America will go through their "normal" daily routines today oblivious to what is happening at the White House at 2:00 :PM eastern time when the ceremony begins for SSG Giunta to receive the Medal of Honor. Most of America has no idea what the Medal of Honor is and the circumstances under which it is presented.
The Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States. Generally presented to its recipient by the President of the United States of America in the name of Congress. It is not "won" as many often say. It is EARNED. My friend Jo wrote the following today. She is spot on, "The Medal of Honor is NOT awarded, it is EARNED. Earned by spilling blood, sweat & tears on the battlefield; for VALOR, for conspicuous GALLANTRY, for service above and BEYOND the call of DUTY. The Medal of Honor is PRESENTED to its recipient by the President IN THE NAME of Congress. And i would bet that most recipient...s of any Medal for VALOR would gladly trade it for the lives of their fallen brothers."
One of the Soldiers who served in the ROCK (173rd, 2-503) with SSG Giunta posted this on facebook:
"Giunta you may never be comfortable with the path that has been given to you. But know that you have given a voice to all of us who were there in those damn valleys who thought no one would ever know what sacrifices we made and the ultimate sacrifice that some of our brothers made. Carry the torch brother. The Rock is proud of you." David Camarillo
There have been many interviews aired and published with SSG Giunta.
Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington, who spent months in eastern Afghanistan with Battle Company during OEF VIII traveled to Italy for the following interview with SSG Giunta. Of all of the interviews I have watched this was the most difficult one due to SSG Giunta learning new things about that day that he had never heard before. Understandably so since there was so much going on in such a short amount of time. Also understandable so since men who are entrenched in battles such as the ambush on 25 October 2007 don't often talk about the most horrific parts.
The Sal Giunta Story from Sebastian Junger on Vimeo.
Interview after interview SSG Giunta has repeatedly said that he feels uncomfortable accepting this award for himself - that he is accepting it for all who were with him that day; those who survived and those who gave their lives for this nation, SGT Josh Brennan and SPC Hugo "Doc" Mendoza". He speaks about the fact that he has never gone into battle alone; that he always has his buddies on his right and on his left. I whole heartedly respect SSG Giunta for choosing to accept the Medal of Honor on behalf of all of those men. It is yet another testament to the Soldier and man that he is.
It seems apparent to me, from the interviews, that SSG Giunta and his wife, Jenny, would much rather not have the spotlight on them yet through this entire process they have both risen above the accolades, media attention, people coming out of nowhere claiming to be their "best friends" and a plethora of other demands on their time and lives. They are two great Americans that make me proud and to whom I look up to. I am grateful that our nation has them as an example of humility, dignity and grace under immense pressure. I pray that one day soon they will find peace and normalcy in their lives. They more than deserve that.
The official narrative for SSG Giunta's Medal of Honor reads:
On Oct. 25, 2007, Spc. Giunta’s platoon was conducting a movement to contact to interdict enemy forces on the Gatigal Spur, in order to provide over watch for 2nd and 3rd platoon’s exfil back to Combat Outpost Vimot, and the Korengal Outpost. While conducting their exfil from the platoon’s blocking position, Spc. Giunta’s platoon was ambushed by 10 to 15 enemy personnel who utilized an “L” shaped, near ambush that was within 10 meters of the platoon’s main body. The enemy fired 10 Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs) and three PKMs (machine guns) from the apex of the ambush and additional AK-47s from throughout the ambush line.
The enemy initiated the contact with an RPG and a burst of PKM (fire), which immediately hit and wounded two members of the lead team, Sgt. Brennan and Spc. Eckrode. Another RPG in the initial volley hit extremely close to Spc. Giunta’s position. While Staff Sgt. Gallardo moved back to his Bravo Team to get situation reports, Spc. Giunta provided covering fire by leading his team in suppressing enemy positions, assigning sectors of fire and commanding his M-203 gunner to engage close targets. While advancing toward Spc. Giunta’s team, Staff Sgt. Gallardo was struck in the helmet by an AK-47 round, which caused him to fall to the ground. Despite being under heavy fire by PKM, RPG, and small arms, Spc. Giunta immediately left his covered position in order to render aid to his squad leader. As he moved to provide assistance, Spc. Giunta was struck by two bullets; one of which impacted his chest area but was stopped by his Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert (E-SAPI) plate, and one round which impacted the Shoulder-Launched Multipurpose Assault Weapon-D (SMAW-D) rocket he was carrying across his back. Without hesitation, Spc. Giunta recovered from the impacts and ensured his squad leader was not injured. He then began bounding his team forward in an attempt to maneuver on the enemy.
Spc. Giunta and his fire team were quickly pinned down by effective enemy machine gun and small arms fire from multiple positions at close range. Spc. Giunta, along with Pfc. Clary and Staff Sgt. Gallardo, quickly prepared fragmentation grenades and continued the assault by throwing two volleys of them at enemy positions that were approximately 15 meters to their west. They then assaulted forward through those positions, secured Spc. Eckrode, and began treating his wounds. Realizing that Sgt. Brennan was missing, Pfc. Clary and Spc. Giunta continued to push forward along the enemy’s ex-filtration route, despite taking small arms fire from enemy personnel who were attempting to cover their withdrawal. Moving in the lead and rapidly closing with the enemy, despite receiving effective fire, Spc. Giunta overtook two enemy combatants attempting to drag off Sgt. Brennan, who had been incapacitated by his wounds. Spc. Giunta engaged one enemy combatant at close range and killed him, which cause the other enemy combatant to drop Sgt. Brennan and flee. Spc. Giunta then began immediate first aid on Sgt. Brennan, and also helped his squad leader to adjust security, further consolidate casualties, and prepare for Medical Evacuation operations.
Spc. Giunta’s selfless actions and personal courage were the decisive factors in changing the tide of the battle, ensuring that Sgt. Brennan was not captured by the enemy, and preventing the lead fire team from being destroyed by the enemy’s near ambush. Despite bullets impacting on and around himself, Spc. Giunta fearlessly advanced on the enemy and provided aid to his fallen comrades. His actions saved the lives of multiple paratroopers and changed the course of the battle in his platoon’s favor.
For exceptionally valorous actions during Operation Enduring Freedom VIII while assigned as a rifle team leader in Battle Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry. Spc. Giunta’s unwavering courage, aggressiveness, selfless service, and leadership while under extreme enemy fire were decisive in his platoon achieving fire superiority, defeating an enemy near ambush, and preventing the capture of a fellow paratrooper by the enemy. His actions reflect great credit upon himself, the Rock Battalion, the Bayonet Brigade Combat Team, Combined Joint Task Force-82, and the United States Army.
CBS 60 Minutes has an interview here with additional links to footage that didn't make the show.
USA Today has an article at this link with stories of people from SSG Giunta's hometown.
CNN has an interview here that also includes interviews in Afghanistan with SGT Frank Eckrode, Jr and SSG Erick Gallardo
There are many more interviews both in print and video. MANY MORE. Please take the time to find them via google or your preferred method. The men of Battle Company deserve for you to know who they are.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
The Combat Studies Institute at Fort Leavenworth Has Published Their Final Report on Wanat
I found the follow quote on line regarding the release of the report:
"In July 2008, a contractor at Fort Leavenworth, KS disseminated an inaccurate draft accounting of the Battle of Wanat. A select group of agenda driven individuals pointed to the draft that disparaged the ROCK and the Chain of Command as a “leaked official Army history” – the only correct word there was “leaked”. The Combat Studies Institute (CSI) has diligently researched, cross-referenced, written, and through rigorous official protocols posted “Wanat: Combat Action in Afghanistan, 2008” Those closest to this battle were not allowed to review this work prior to publishing/posting – no doubt discrepancies remain but I trust the effort through release was done with rigor and integrity."
The document can be found here. It is over 250 pages. The conclusions begin on page 195. If you read the "leaked draft" I imagine you will find more than a few discrpancies between it and this one.
I hope and pray this nightmare is over and that the men who gave their lives that day can finally rest in peace. Shame on those who allowed this circus to play out in the media for no good reason.
"In July 2008, a contractor at Fort Leavenworth, KS disseminated an inaccurate draft accounting of the Battle of Wanat. A select group of agenda driven individuals pointed to the draft that disparaged the ROCK and the Chain of Command as a “leaked official Army history” – the only correct word there was “leaked”. The Combat Studies Institute (CSI) has diligently researched, cross-referenced, written, and through rigorous official protocols posted “Wanat: Combat Action in Afghanistan, 2008” Those closest to this battle were not allowed to review this work prior to publishing/posting – no doubt discrepancies remain but I trust the effort through release was done with rigor and integrity."
The document can be found here. It is over 250 pages. The conclusions begin on page 195. If you read the "leaked draft" I imagine you will find more than a few discrpancies between it and this one.
I hope and pray this nightmare is over and that the men who gave their lives that day can finally rest in peace. Shame on those who allowed this circus to play out in the media for no good reason.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Remembering The Five Fallen Sky Soldiers & One Marine Who Died 9 November 2007 near Aranus,Afghanistan
The dsys and years may pass in a "normal" fashion for the majority of us but to those families and friends of the fallen each day can bring back a flood of memories, anguish, pain and sorrow. Please take a few minutes and remember these men who gave their lives on 9 November 2007. Say a prayer for them, their families and their friends left behind who miss them every moment of every day.
Rest in peace brave warriors. We will never forget you.
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 submitted for 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
Rest in peace brave warriors. We will never forget you.
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 submitted for 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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