Remembering the Fallen of COP Keating/Kamdesh October 3, 2009

Three years ago today eight American Heroes gave their lives and 22 more were wounded when OP Fritsche and COP Keating were attacked by the enemy in Kamdesh, Afghanistan.

Today the pain is still so fresh for the families and the survivors. 

Please take some time to read about the Fallen Heroes of COP Keating. Click on each link below to read more about what their families, friends, Brothers-in-Arms and community members have said about these men. It is the VERY least we can do to REMEMBER them and HONOR their sacrifice.

May God rest the souls of these men and continue to provide comfort to their families and friends.

SSG Vernon Martin was known as a giving husband and a loving father to his three children ages 2, 4 and 6 at the time of his death. He was also known as a great brother. SSG Martin married his high school sweetheart and aspired to work with children in a youth development program when he left the Army.

SSG Martin was known for his laugh, his loving and giving spirit and his love of children and their causes.

He was a native of Savannah, GA. He entered the Army in August 2004 and had served one tour in Iraq prior to his deployment to Afghanistan. You can read more about the man and and Soldier he was in this article from KKTV. There are so me very touching comments at the end of the article.

SSG Justin T. Gallegos, a native of Tuscon, Arizona, was on his third deployment. He had previously served two deployments to Iraq and had been awarded, among other awards, three Purple Hearts.


SSG Gallegos was the father of a five year old son.

Retired Army CSM Don Becker told a story about one of the times when SSG Gallegos was wounded in Iraq and earned his first Purple Heart. Becker says Gallegos' vehicle was in a convoy when it was bombarded with grenades and machine gun fire and Gallegos took a chunk of shrapnel in his arm. "But he continued to fight," Becker says, until one final grenade was thrown. Becker says Gallegos told him, "I saw the guy that threw it. But I didn't shoot at him. So I started to open my mouth of course to ask why. He looked at me and said he was standing behind a bunch of kids."

You can read more about this SSG Gallegos in this article from KKTV.




SGT Joshua J Kirk was a husband and father of a three year old daughter.

At the Memorial service at Fort Carson in October 2009 it is reported by Military Times that chuckles rippled through the nearly full chapel as letters were read from soldiers still in Afghanistan recounting the fallen troops’ lives and praising their bravery and friendship. “I would have followed that man straight to hell if he thought it was a good idea,” one letter said of Sgt. Joshua T. Kirk, 30, of South Portland, Maine.

In this article from the Portland Press Herald Sgt Kirk's cousin, Ben Dinsmore of Killeen, Texas, said "Kirk had dreams of joining the Army when he was a kid. He said they played Army when they were growing up.

''We were thick and thin,'' Dinsmore said. ''We would grab any stick that looked like a gun and run around in the woods playing Army. I joined the Coast Guard and he joined the Army right around the same time.''

There's much more about SGT Kirk at this link

SGT Joshua M Hardt entered the Army in June 2006. This was his second deployment. His first was to Iraq. A Soldier who served with SGT Hardt said, "He was an amazing person and a great teacher." Another commented that he always knew how to light up a room with his smile.

In an article in the LA times I found this about SGT Hardt:

"While he was still in high school, Joshua Hardt took one look at his future wife, Olivia, and told friends that some day he would be with her. That first date was low-key: a movie and Chinese food. He gave Olivia a piggyback ride into the cafe. Later that night, he asked if he could give her a good-night kiss. She declined, but he touched his lips to her forehead. She reciprocated with a kiss on the cheek. He ran down the driveway, kicked his heels in the air and exclaimed "Yes!" his wife remembers. "He was animated like that," she said.

You can learn more about SGT Hardt from this article and the touching comments published by KKTV





SGT Michael Scusa left behind his wife, Alyssa, and their 1 year old son Connor who was named for one of SGT Scusa's fallen comrades. He joined the Army in 2005 and had served one tour in Iraq. He re-enlisted in the Army not long before deploying to Afghanistan.

The Press of Atlantic City notes that "As a teenager, Michael Scusa used to jog down Kentucky Avenue in the Villas with a backpack filled with bricks to simulate Army training."

The article also states, "Scusa left an impression on his Lower Cape May Regional High School teachers, who remembered him fondly as a sometimes-quiet student who blossomed over the years. He was enthusiastic about joining the military, they said. He enlisted while still in high school and shipped out shortly after graduation. He visited his (high school) alma mater several times, but the first time he walked the halls in uniform and chatted with teachers was the most memorable. He had changed, said his freshman English teacher Chris Rosenberg, who became friends with Scusa. "He was a man," Rosenberg said.

From KKTV: "Alyssa says she will remember her husband Michael as a goofy, fun loving person, who made everyone smile." And "Michael's father-in-law tells 11 News that Michael was proud to be a soldier. He believed in his mission and his family."




SPC Stephan Mace joined the Army in early 2008 and was on his first deployment. He was from Lovettsville, VA, the second eldest of four brothers. SPC Mace was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. He is survived by his mother, father, three brothers and grandparents.

There is a moving video here of SPC Mace's final journey home.

SPC Mace is described as a Moto Cross champion, football player, hunter and all around fun-loving, loyal friend. I urge you to take some time to read this story published by CNN of an interview done with SPC Mace's mother Vanessa Adelson. I was moved to tears on more than one occassion.

In this article from the Colorado Springs Gazette his mother said, “There was a peace about him,” she said. “He told me many times: ‘I trust everybody in my unit to cover my back.’ He loved those boys he fought with like brothers.”

She said he showed no fear as he returned to the remote outpost where he later died

KKTV has more about SPC Mace.

SGT Christopher T Griffin of Kincheloe, MI was 24 and known for his infectious smile.

From the Colorado Springs Gazette:

Tom McKee, a classmate who is now a student teacher at Rudyard High, said the whole town knew that Griffin would someday don his nation’s uniform.

“He always wanted to join the service,” McKee said. “Any time we played, we were Army men.”

At Rudyard, Griffin played football and wrestled. He was known as a generous kid with an easy laugh.

“He was a quiet person who had a great sense of humor and always smiled,” McKee said. “In the 15 years I knew him, I never heard him say a negative word.”

An avid Green Bay Packers fan, he showed versatility on the high school gridiron. “If he had to learn a new position in a day, he would do it,” McKee said.

Griffin visited his home town after he’d joined the Army. McKee said he appeared content with the decision.

“He said he was doing what he loved to do.”

PFC Kevin C Thomson was born in California but raised in Reno, NV by his mother. He enlisted in the Army in 2008. This was his first deployment.

From Freedom Remembered - PFC Thomson was known as a young man full of spirit and was very close to his mother - it was just the two of them. He was also known as a consumate prankster and for embracing his love of country. Kevin lost 100 pounds so that he could join the Army. He was always known for being there for anyone who needed him.

KKTV has more about PFC Thomson at their link.

REMEMBER THEM ALWAYS!  And remember those who miss them everyday and continue to deal with the pain of their deaths.

Former Army SGT Daniel Rodriguez Triumphs Against All Odds

Daniel Rodriguez didn't grow up yearning to be in the military. As a matter of fact, despite his small stature, he set his goals on playing Division I college football.  In his senior year of high school he was captain of the football team.  The team had a 6-4 record and won a share of the district championship.  It was the first time in a decade that his school's football team went to a state playoff game. 

However, not unlike many youth in our nation, during his teens his parents split. In his junior year of high school his mother had left the family and moved from Virginia to Texas.  A year later his father died unexpectedly from a heart attack. Within three weeks of his father's death Dan was at a recruiter's office signing up to join the Army.  Any plans he had to play college football were put on hold if not forgotten.

SGT Rodriguez had previously served a year long tour in Iraq during the surge of 2007. In that deployment he lost twenty of his friends to war. Dan returned from his tour in Iraq with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) caused by being in the vicinity of a plethora of roadside bombs/IEDs.

Thirteen months after returning from his deployment in Iraq, SGT Rodriguez was deployed to Afghanistan with 4th BDE, 4th ID, 3-61 CAV - the Black Knights.  In the early morning hours of October 3, 2009 Soldiers from his unit were, mostly, asleep when all hell broke loose on OP Fritsche and COP Keating (Kamdesh) in Nuristan province of eastern Afghanistan along the Pakistani border.  Twenty one year old SGT (at the time PVT) Daniel Rodriguez was awake and was checking his email when the first rockets hit COP Keating where he was.   

The Battle of COP Keating raged for 24 hours.  During the battle, SGT Rodriguez saw one of his best friends, PVT Kevin Thomson, killed.  SGT Rodriguez was able to recover his body as the battle raged.  SGT Rodriguez, himself, was hit in the shoulder by a bullet and was in close enough proximity of several RPG rounds hitting.  He sustained shrapnel in both of his legs and his neck from the blasts of the rockets hitting the combat outpost.

When the battle was finally over COP Keating was little more than a smoldering heap.  The majority of the COP had burned during the battle.  All 45 of the survivors lost everything except what was on their backs.  Many had fought for two days in t shirts, boxer shorts and body armor.  Eight American Soldiers died in the battle.  Twenty two were wounded.  For his efforts that day, SGT Rodriguez was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor.  He was also awarded the Purple Heart for his wounds.  Many others of his comrades were decorated for their valor that day.  There are still at least two awards (neither for SGT Rodriguez) working through the process.

Many of you who read this blog as well as hundred, if not thousands, of Americans joined together to replace the non military person items the survivors lost.  You can read about that effort here.  Additionally, Mark Seavey spearheaded a drive by the American Legion to aid in assisting the survivors to get back on their feet.  Their amazing efforts can be read about here.

It wasn't until October 6th (three days after the battle began) that the survivors were airlifted out to FOB Bostick.  Once there they were met by CPT Katie Kopp, the brigade psychologist.  I've spoken with some of the men who survived COP Keating and they all credit CPT Kopp with, not only being a huge source of support and comfort for them in the days after the battle but for her continued support even to this day.  CPT Kopp has since returned to Afghanistan.  From all that the men have spoken about her I can never thank her enough for what she does.  I hope to have the privilege of meeting her one day to thank her.

Upon his return from Afghanistan he was diagnosed with both TBI and Post Traumatic Stress (PTS).  The demons were constant and fierce.  SGT Rodriquez's sister worried about him and what his future would be.  SGT Rodriguez left the Army when his enlistment was up.  He remembered his dream of playing Division I football and began to work out like a beast.  He was doing this for himself and for his fallen brothers.

I urge all of you to watch this video of Dan.  He more than inspires me.



I also urge you to read this article (where I grabbed the video). 

This past Friday, Dan was given permission to walk on to play college football at Clemson University.  He will us his GI Bill to pay for his college.  Dan may only stand 5 feet 8 inches tall and weight 175 pounds but to me he is a giant among men.  I'm not sure how his heart fits inside his chest.

Here is the original video that was made in Dan's efforts to play college football:



You can read more about Dan here, here and here.

I'm not a football fan but I assure you I will be rooting for Dan and for the Clemson Tigers.  GO DAN GO!!!  I wish you all the best and cannot wait to read that you have made the team.  Regardless of where this goes from here you inspire me.  You inspire all those who know you.  There is no better role model for anyone in this nation.

One last note for those who follow this blog.  Please go to this link to read about and remember the eight Heroes who died at COP Keating on October 3, 2009.  Dan, we will NEVER forget your fallen brothers.

COP Keating - Remembering the Fallen One Year After They Gave Their Lives For Our Nation

One year ago today eight American Heroes gave their lives and 22 more were wounded when OP Fritsche and COP Keating were attacked by the enemy in Kamdesh, Afghanistan.

Many of you came together here on this blog and at The Burn Pit (blog of the American Legion).  The American Legion Burn Pit Blog has updates here and here telling about what so many great Americans stepped up to do for the survivors and their families in an unprecedented short amount of time.

Today is an incredibly gorgeous day across our land.  Football season is in full swing. The season is changing from Summer to Fall.   But I ask that you please take some time to read about the Fallen Heroes of COP Keating.  Click on each link below to read more about what their families, friends, Brothers-in-Arms and community members have said about these men.  It is the VERY least we can do to REMEMBER them and HONOR their sacrifice.

Last night I was chatting with one of the survivors who told me that those who are still at Fort Carson will gather at the Post Memorial today to pay their respects to these eight Heroes.  While I'm not at Fort Carson I will continue today, and every day, to keep these men, their Brothers-In-Arms and their Commanders in my thoughts and prayers.

May God rest the souls of these men and continue to providew comfort to their families and friends.

SSG Vernon Martin was known as a giving husband and a loving father to his three children ages 2, 4 and 6 at the time of his death.  He was also known as a great brother. SSG Martin married his high school sweetheart and aspired to work with children in a youth development program when he left the Army.

SSG Martin was known for his laugh, his loving and giving spirit and his love of children and their causes.

He was a native of Savannah, GA.  He entered the Army in August 2004 and had served one tour in Iraq prior to his deployment to Afghanistan.  You can read more about the man and and Soldier he was in this article from KKTV.  There are so me very touching comments at the end of the article.

SSG Justin T. Gallegos, a native of Tuscon, Arizona, was on his third deployment.  He had previously served two deployments to Iraq and had been awarded, among other awards, three Purple Hearts.

SSG Gallegos was the father of a five year old son. 

Retired Army CSM Don Becker told a story about one of the times when SSG Gallegos was wounded in Iraq and earned his first Purple Heart.  Becker says Gallegos' vehicle was in a convoy when it was bombarded with grenades and machine gun fire and Gallegos took a chunk of shrapnel in his arm.  "But he continued to fight," Becker says, until one final grenade was thrown.  Becker says Gallegos told him, "I saw the guy that threw it. But I didn't shoot at him. So I started to open my mouth of course to ask why. He looked at me and said he was standing behind a bunch of kids."


You can read more about this SSG Gallegos in this article from KKTV.

SGT Joshua J Kirk was a husband and father of a three year old daughter

At the Memorial service at Fort Carson in October 2009 it is reported by Military Times that chuckles rippled through the nearly full chapel as letters were read from soldiers still in Afghanistan recounting the fallen troops’ lives and praising their bravery and friendship.  “I would have followed that man straight to hell if he thought it was a good idea,” one letter said of Sgt. Joshua T. Kirk, 30, of South Portland, Maine.

In this article from the Portland Press Herald Sgt Kirk's cousin, Ben Dinsmore of Killeen, Texas, said "Kirk had dreams of joining the Army when he was a kid. He said they played Army when they were growing up.

''We were thick and thin,'' Dinsmore said. ''We would grab any stick that looked like a gun and run around in the woods playing Army. I joined the Coast Guard and he joined the Army right around the same time.''

There's much more about SGT Kirk at this link

SGT Joshua M Hardt entered the Army in June 2006.  This was his second deployment.  His first was to Iraq.  A Soldier who served with SGT Hardt said, "He was an amazing person and a great teacher."  Another commented that he always knew how to light up a room with his smile.

In an article in the LA times I found this about SGT Hardt:

"While he was still in high school, Joshua Hardt took one look at his future wife, Olivia, and told friends that some day he would be with her. That first date was low-key: a movie and Chinese food. He gave Olivia a piggyback ride into the cafe.  Later that night, he asked if he could give her a good-night kiss. She declined, but he touched his lips to her forehead. She reciprocated with a kiss on the cheek.  He ran down the driveway, kicked his heels in the air and exclaimed "Yes!" his wife remembers. "He was animated like that," she said"

You can learn more about SGT Hardt from this article and the touching comments published by KKTV

SGT Michael Scusa left behind his wife, Alyssa, and their 1 year old son Connor who was named for one of SGT Scusa's fallen comrades. He joined the Army in 2005 and had served one tour in Iraq.  He re-enlisted in the Army not long before deploying to Afghanistan.

 The Press of Atlantic City notes that "As a teenager, Michael Scusa used to jog down Kentucky Avenue in the Villas with a backpack filled with bricks to simulate Army training." 

The article also states, "Scusa left an impression on his Lower Cape May Regional High School teachers, who remembered him fondly as a sometimes-quiet student who blossomed over the years. He was enthusiastic about joining the military, they said. He enlisted while still in high school and shipped out shortly after graduation.  He visited his (high school) alma mater several times, but the first time he walked the halls in uniform and chatted with teachers was the most memorable.  He had changed, said his freshman English teacher Chris Rosenberg, who became friends with Scusa.  "He was a man," Rosenberg said.

From KKTV:  "Alyssa says she will remember her husband Michael as a goofy, fun loving person, who made everyone smile."  And  "Michael's father-in-law tells 11 News that Michael was proud to be a soldier. He believed in his mission and his family."

SPC Stephan Mace joined the Army in early 2008 and was on his first deployment.  He was from Lovettsville, VA, the second eldest of four brothers.  SPC Mace was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery.  He is survived by his mother, father, three brothers and grandparents.

There is a moving video here of SPC Mace's final journey home.

SPC Mace is described as a Moto Cross champion, football player, hunter and all around fun-loving, loyal friend.  I urge you to take some time to read this story published by CNN of an interview done with SPC Mace's mother Vanessa Adelson.  I was moved to tears on more than one occassion.

In this article from the Colorado Springs Gazette his mother said, “There was a peace about him,” she said. “He told me many times: ‘I trust everybody in my unit to cover my back.’ He loved those boys he fought with like brothers.”

She said he showed no fear as he returned to the remote outpost where he later died

KKTV has more about SPC Mace.
 

SGT Christopher T Griffin of Kincheloe, MI was 24 and known for his infectious smile.

From the Colorado Springs Gazette:

Tom McKee, a classmate who is now a student teacher at Rudyard High, said the whole town knew that Griffin would someday don his nation’s uniform.

“He always wanted to join the service,” McKee said. “Any time we played, we were Army men.”

At Rudyard, Griffin played football and wrestled. He was known as a generous kid with an easy laugh.

“He was a quiet person who had a great sense of humor and always smiled,” McKee said. “In the 15 years I knew him, I never heard him say a negative word.”

A rabid Green Bay Packers fan, he showed versatility on the high school gridiron. “If he had to learn a new position in a day, he would do it,” McKee said.

Griffin visited his home town after he’d joined the Army. McKee said he appeared content with the decision.

“He said he was doing what he loved to do.”

PFC Kevin C Thomson was born in California but raised in Reno, NV by his mother.  He enlisted in the Army in 2008.  This was his first deployment. 

From Freedom Remembered - PFC Thomson was known as a young man full of spirit and was very close to his mother - it was just the two of them.  He was also known as a consumate prankster and for embracing his love of country.  Kevin lost 100 pounds so that he could join the Army.  He was always known for being there for anyone who needed him.

KKTV has more about PFC Thomson at their link.






REMEMBER THEM ALWAYS!

4th BCT, 4th ID Uncasing and Memorial Ceremony

4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division held their uncasing Ceremony and Memorial Ceremony on 6 August 2010 at Kit Carson Park.  It was a picture perfect day at Fort Carson, Colorado.

The ceremonies were held in view of the majestic Colorado Rockies

Kit Carson Park

Preparing for the uncasing of the Brigade and Battalion/Squadron colors

COL George and CSM Sasser uncase the 4-4 Brigade colors

4-4 Brigade Colors uncased

Battalions and Squadrons uncasing

Battalions and Squadrons uncased

After the uncasing was completed we moved solemnly into the Memorial Ceremony for the 40 Fallen Heroes.

Brigade Commander, COL George and CSM Sasser laid a wreath at the Fallen Soldiers Memorial

CSM Sasser and COL George place the wreath

CSM Sasser and COL George saluting the Fallen

COL George made some incredibly heartfelt remarks to the Gold Star families, friends and members of the community who had gathered along with hundreds of the Mountain Warrior Soldiers in attendance.  Then a bag piper began to play

The Honor Guard began to move forward.  One by one the names of each of the 40 Fallen Heroes was called.  As each name was called one of the members of the Honor Guard moved forward to the wreath and gave a slow salute to honor their fallen comrade as the bag piper continued to play

The Honor Guard

The Memorial stone engraved with the names of the 40 Fallen Heroes from 4-4's recent deployment

After each of the fallen had been remembered the three volleys were fired and TAPS was played.

I have never attended a Memorial Ceremony as well done as this one was.  It was honorable, moving and meaningful with just the right "touch" of military tradition.

After the ceremonies were concluded the families of the Fallen were given time to spend at the wall where their loved ones names are etched.  A luncheon was then held for the Gold Star family members.

I was invited to attend the luncheon.  I met several of the 3-61 CAV survivors of COP Keating who were escorts to the Gold Star families.  One of the men I met was "DOC" Cordova.  While there are numerous stories of Valor from that day I had remembered reading one about "DOC" Cordova directly transfusing his own blood into a Wounded Soldier in an attempt to keep him alive until the Wounded Soldier could be medevaced.  Honor doesn't begin to describe how I felt meeting "DOC" Cordova. Very humble, very well spoken, very self effacing.

I'm not sure about the other units but the Gold Star family members of 3-61 CAV were invited back to the unit.  Four of the families of their Fallen were presented with valor awards  they had not yet received for their Soldiers.  Quite an emotional time.  All of the family members were invited to spend as much time as they needed/wanted talking with the Soldiers who served with their loved ones and the officers, too. 

4th BCT, 4th ID OEF IX Welcome Home Picnic

4th BCT, 4th ID recently redeployed from a 12 month deployment to Afghanistan.  Last Thursday, August 5th, they held their welcome home picnic at Iron Horse park at Fort Carson.  I was privileged to be invited to the event.

LTC Brown (3-61 CAV Commander) and I walked over to the park just in time to watch the final pull (best of three) in the Warrior Games Tug of War.  3-61 CAV yanked the "competition" like yard dogs. 

3-61 CAV preparing for the final pull in the 4-4 Warrior Games Tug of War

PULL!  PULL! PULL!

Getting encouragement from LTC Brown, 1SG Burton and 3-61 CAV members

And in only a matter of seconds the red flag was totally out of site of the midpoint where it began.

The "competition"

After the tug of war victory LTC Brown and I moved to the basketball court for the finals in that event. 

3-61 CAV perhaps discussing competitive "strategy"? with COL George (4-4 Commander)

Rodriguez at the line - look at that form!

3-61 CAV won the game by a huge margin and ended up VICTORS of the Warrior Games!!!

See more photos from the picnic after the jump - click on "read more" below

KUDOS and a Big Thank You to Delta Air Lines & TSA Personnel

If you've read my blog post Honor and Emotion you know about an incredibly special framed flag and certificate presentation I was given at Fort Carson this week.  I chose to hand carry it home.

As I was boarding my first flight on a commuter jet the flight attendant immediately noticed I was caring something that might not fit in the overhead.  I had the front turned in towards me to protect the glass.  She asked what I had and I turned it around to show her.  She instructed me to take my seat and that she would come and help me find a safe place for it.  After everyone had boarded she came back and said she had talked to the pilot and he wanted to know if it would be ok to place it in the cockpit for the flight.  I was grateful and touched.

When we landed I waited until last to deplane knowing that, often, the flight deck crew is busy wrapping up the flight and don't come out of the cockpit right away.  As I approached the front of the aircraft the Captain was holding precious cargo.  They had read the certificate.  He thanked me and I, briefly, told him the story about so many wonderful Americans coming together for the Soldiers.

In Minneapolis I entered the airport via the security check point between concourses F and G.  When I got to the check point I started putting tubs on the conveyor.  I very carefully placed the framed presentation in one of the tubs as I had at security for the first flight.  One of the TSA representatives saw the presentation and came over.  He told me I didn't have to put it through the belt and asked if I minded if he hand carried it around to the other side of the check point.  Again, I was grateful and touched.

When I got through to the other side several of the TSA representatives were looking at the presentation.  I loaded my laptop back in the bag, put my shoes on, got my cell phone and walked to the end of the belt.  One of the men approached me and asked if I minded if they "escorted" me to my gate and carried the flag presentation for me.  I certainly didn't need or deserve an escort but the precious cargo deserved it and I was touched by their offer and kindness.

As we walked to the gate I, once again, had the opportunity to share the story of all of the great Americans who came together so quickly and so selflessly.  And I was also able to remind him about the 8 Heroes who gave their lives that day and to talk about the valor of survivors.

When we got to the gate the TSA representative took me up to the podium and explained what I was carrying.  He asked them to assist me in making sure that the item was stored in a safe place.  I thanked him profusely and we parted ways.  I didn't even think to get his name and regret that tremendously.  I was just so surprised at the kindness being shown that I didn't stop to think.

When we boarded the flight home the flight crew approached me and asked if they could store the presentation for me.  I handed it off to them and watched as two flight attendants VERY carefully stowed it in a forward closet.  I slept most of the flight with no worry of it being safe and secure. 

Once again when we landed I waited for everyone to deplane.  I moved forward to exit the plane and one of the flight attendants came forward to carefully help me retrieve the presentation.  Once more I was able to share the stories behind it.

So now "we" are home.  Quite a journey.  I'm thankful for the opportunities to share the story that so many are a part of.  Not one day goes by that I don't think about the HEROES of COP Keating, the valor of the survivors and the love and kindness of America.

Honor and Emotion

Earlier today 4th BCT, 4th ID, 3-61 CAV, B Troop held a formation and invited me to attend.  I thought it was just an opportunity for me to get to meet many of the Soldiers I hadn't in the past 48 hours.  Very quickly I learned it was more than that.

CPT Stoney Portis and 1SG Ron Burton, along with the men of B Troop, presented me with a gift that is so incredible and touching words can't do it justice (photo below).  Being presented an American flag that has flown over our men and women on foreign soil who are there to protect our freedom is ALWAYS an emotional moment for me.  Today, I confess, I became so overwhelmed with emotion that I couldn't talk.  I had to take a minute to compose myself.  I think when you read the following excerpt from the certificate you will understand why.

The certificate reads, in part:

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

B TROOP, 3rd SQUADRON, 61st CAVALRY REGIMENT

4th BRIGADE COMBAT TEAM, 4th INFANTRY DIVISION

FORT CARSON, COLORADO  80913

Commander, B Troop, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment

This flag was carried by Cavalry Scounts of B Troop, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment during Operation Mountain Overwatch along the Saw River Valley in Kunar Province, Afghanistan from 18 to 19 April 2010.  This flag changed hands from dismounted cavalry scouts to infantrymen, traveled by way of CH-47 Chinook Helicopter over Jalalabad and in a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All Terrain Vehicle (MATV) through the Kunar River Valley.  It moved in formations alongside the Afghan National Army and the Afghan National Police, as well as with Soldiers from the Army of the Republic of Latvia.  The mission was accomplished and the operation was a success.

May we always remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, allowing us to continue to fly the Star Spangled Banner.  Killed in action on 03 October 2009 at Combat Outpost Keating:

Staff Sergeant Vernon W. Martin

Sergeant Justin T. Gallegos

Sergeant Joshua M. Hardt

Sergeant Joshua J. Kirk

Specialist Christopher T. Griffin

Specialist Stephan L. Mace

Specialist Michael P. Scusa

Private First Class Kevin C. Thomson

It is signed by:

Ronald T. Burton                                                      Stoney L. Portis
First Sergeant                                                          Captain, Armor
U. S. Army                                                              Commanding

The photo in the presentation was taken just after the men at COP Keating were evacuated back to FOB Bostick.  I was told that there are helicopter pilots in the photo as well - pilots whose ships were hit numerous times on their first endeavors into COP Keating.  But the pilots never gave up and finally made it in to both resupply and to evacuate.

The B Troop, 3-61 CAV scouts purposefully carried this flag and at least one other (which was presented to Bob Connolly) along with all of their regular gear throughout this incredible journey.  As CPT Portis read the certificate and I listened to him read where this flag had gone and how it got there I found myself leaning on 1SG Burton.  AND, I found myself remembering the hundreds of Americans who answered the call so quickly to resupply the survivors of COP Keating with personal gear.  I may have the privilege of being in possession of this incredible honor but it belongs to ALL of you who answered that call back in October 2009.  When I finally pulled myself together I told the Troops the story of how, in less than 2 days, all of you flooded my email box wanting to know how you could help.

I was proud to accept this on behalf of all of you who came together for the Black Kights and I have never been more proud to be an Americann and to have the privilege of supporting our troops and their families.  May we ALWAYS remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice!

CPT & Mrs. Portis ROCK! Or....I can be "bought" with Scotch

Having a great time in Colorado Springs with 4th BDE, 4th ID and 3-61 CAV.  Went to dinner tonight with 3-61 CAV Commander & his wife, LTC & Mrs. Brown as well as the CPT & Mrs. Portis.

CPT & Mrs. Portis

CPT Portis is officially in the running for my FAVORITE Soldier of the year cuz they brought me this:

Thank you SO much for your incredibly kind gesture.

Hey Bob Connolly - having a grand time.  Wish you were here!  :)

SGT Thomas C Rasmussen - Task Force Mountain Warrior's Warrior of the Day 21 April 2010

On 3 October 2009, Sergeant (SGT) Thomas C Rasmussen, from Bravo Troop, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, earned the Silver Star during a complex attack by an enemy force estimated at 400 fighters.  When the initial attack started, SGT Rasmussen volunteered to assault the ammunition supply point and establish a stronghold.  He was a critical member of the assault team that pushed to the LRAS 2 battle position and recovered two American Heroes while being knocked down by RPG blasts several times.  SGT Rasmussen then volunteered and took point man for the assault team that cleared the ASG's living quarters.  At one point, he was met by a wall of fire from an enemy fighter that had successfully breached the COP's perimeter, but SGT Rasmussen took him out with hand grenades and continued to engage multiple enemy fighters with his M4 and M203.  SGT Rasmussen then returned to the ECP to improve a defensive position while laying out concertina wire and claymore mines to hold and defend this position.

SFC Jonathan G Hill - Task Force Mountain Warrior's Warrior of the Day 20 April 2010

On 3 October 2009, Sergeant First Class (SFC) Jonathan G. Hill, from Bravo Troop, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, earned the Silver Star during a complex attack by an enemy force estimated at 400 fighters.  When the initial attack started, SFC Hill exemplified the skill and bravery of a Cavalry Scout while leading his platoon in the platoon leader's absense during the battle of Combat Outpost Keating.  SFC Hill led and directed his platoon while exposing himself to a heavy barrage of enemy fire.  With no regard to his personal safety, SFC Hill organized multiple efforts to recover fallen Soldiers under effective, accurate fire.  While directing his platoon, SFC Hill took multiple shrapnel wounds from an RPG blast.  These RPG blasts suppressed his position, but he still managed to maneuver his platoon through the enemy fire to reconsolidate at the barracks and continue the resupply mission they were conducting to the different guard positions.  When one of the fallen heroes was unaccounted for, he courageously maneuvered his team once again to find the body.  Additionally, SFC Hill led his men in clearing and securing the HLZ in order to evacuate all wounded Soldiers and ANA.

CPT Christopher B Cordova and 1LT Andrew L Bundermann are TF Mountain Warrior's Warriors of the Day for 19 April 2010

On 3 October 2009, Captain (CPT) Christopher B Cordova, from Headquarters Troop, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, earned the Silver Star during an attack when his COP came under a complex attack by an enemy force estimated at 400 fighters.  When the initial attack started, CPT Cordova displayed great mental endurance and technical competence in treating and evacuating 16 US and AfghanNational Security Forces casualties and an additional 27 walking wounded.  CPT Cordova's expert decision and successful execution of a field-executed blood transfusion dept a dying Soldier alive until he could be evacuated to the next higher level of care.  Because of his calm demeanor and thorough understanding of medicien, CPT Cordova enabled his Soldiers to (sorry, I cannot read the remainder and couldn't find it on the internet).

On 3 October 2009, First Lieutenant (1LT) Andrew L Bundermann, from Bravo Troop, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, earned the Silver Star during an attack when his COP came under a complex attack by an enemy force estimated at 400 fighters.  Throughout the attack, 1LT Bundermann was the acting Troop Commander.  1LT Bundermann orchestrated the defense of Combat Outpost Keating, preventing it from falling into the hands of the enemy.  His perseverance under heavy fire and ability to advance the troop's position enables him to lead Brave Troop Soldiers in a successful counter-attack to retake the COP.  1LT Bendermann's actions throughout the battle of COP Keating saved the lives of dozens of Soldiers.  He exhibited the Warrio Ethos and pushed the Soldiers of Bravo Troop to continue the fight.  Through his calm (sorry, I cannot read the remainder and couldn't find it on the internet).

Well done Warriors!  Well done!

1ST Burton Gets a Little Extra TLC on His Return to Afghanistan after R&R

A little birdie recently sent word that 1SG Burton, 4th BDE, 4th ID, 3-61 CAV B Troop would be returning to Afghanistan after R&R via DFW (Dallas-Forth Worth) airport.  You may remember 1SG Burton's name, sadly, because of what his men endured at the Battle of COP Keating.

Even before learning that he would be returning via DFW I had planned to travel to Dallas to volunteer with my buddies Caroline and Jamie aka The USO Girls.  Unfortunately it didn't work out for me to be in Dallas but Jamie and Linda (one of the huggin' and kissin' grannies) made sure 1SG Burton got a proper send off.

1SG Burton and USO Girl Jamie

Kissin' & Huggin' Grandma Linda and 1SG Burton

1SG Burton picked a great day to fly via DFW (well, if anything about going back to Afghanistan can be considered "good").  It was Jamie's 4th anniversary of volunteering at the USO.  HOOAH Jamie!

Huggin & Kissin grandmas Linda and Connie with attendee at WLF fund raiser

1SG you may not realize just HOW fortunate you where. I'm sure that hug from grandma Linda was awesome but thank goodness she wasn't dressed like she was in the photo above and selling kisses to raise money for a charity that supports a myriad of active duty personnel and Veteran's needs.

On the other hand ??????

We hope you had safe travels but MOST OF ALL that you and your men continue to stay safe for the remainder of your deployment.  We cannot wait to welcome you all HOME.

Many thank yous to Jamie and grandma Linda and to ALL of the incredible USO volunteers who do what they do for our military personnel and their families day in and day out.