Sgt. First Class Ethan Carpenter, a reconnaissance specialist assigned to the Regimental Special Troops Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, died during routine military free-fall training at a facility in Arizona, March 15, 2019.

A native of Trumansburg, New York, Carpenter entered the Army, August 31, 2007. He completed One Station Unit Training, Basic Airborne Course, and the Ranger Indoctrination Program at Fort Benning, Georgia. He was then assigned to 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Hunter Army Airfield as an assistant machine gunner; he then progressed to team leader and squad leader.

Carpenter deployed to combat eight times, once to Iraq and seven to Afghanistan before he was assigned as a reconnaissance specialist with the Regimental Special Troops Battalion, June 5, 2017.

“Sgt. First Class Ethan Carpenter was an exemplary Soldier and Ranger Leader, and a dedicated husband and father. He did the toughest jobs well and was the consummate team member when it counted the most, both in garrison training and in deployed combat. He represented our Nation’s best, and we’ll miss him dearly,” said Colonel Joseph Ewers, commander, Regimental Special Troops Battalion.

Carpenter’s awards and decorations include the Purple Heart, Joint Service Commendation Medal with OLC, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Ranger Tab, Military Freefall Parachutist Badge, Senior Parachutists Badge, Expert Infantryman’s Badge, and Combat Infantryman’s Badge.

Ethan was affectionately referred to as the ‘moral compass’ for his men because of his strong faith in God and a fierce warrior who set the bar for all to achieve.

Carpenter is survived by his wife Chana, daughter Cecila; parents Charles and Kathleen Carpenter; two brothers and four sisters. Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund supported the Memorial Service for his Battalion as well as hotel and travel accommodations for family members to attend his funeral.

Sgt. Cameron A. Meddock, 26, of Spearman, Texas, died Jan. 17, 2019, in Landstuhl, Germany, as a result of wounds sustained from small arms fire on Jan. 12, 2019, in Badghis Province, Afghanistan while serving with Company A, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington.

“Sergeant Cameron Meddock is one of America’s precious Sons. The entire Nation should strive to emulate the Warrior, Patriot and Husband that Cameron was. The 75th Ranger Regiment will forever honor Sergeant Cameron Meddock and his family will forever be a member of our Ranger family,” said Colonel Brandon Tegtmeier, Commander of the 75th Ranger Regiment.

Meddock enlisted in the U.S. Army November 14, 2014. He completed One Station Unit Training as an Infantryman, the Basic Airborne Course and the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program 1 at Fort Benning, Georgia.

Following successful completion of Ranger Assessment and Selection Program Level 1, Meddock was assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment where he served as a machine gunner, automatic rifleman, gun team leader and most recently as a fire team leader.

His military education includes the U.S. Army Ranger Course, Basic Airborne Course, Basic Leader Course, and Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape Course. Meddock’s awards include a Purple Heart, a Joint-Service Commendation for Combat, the Army Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and the NATO Medal. He was on his second deployment in support of Operation Resolute Support.

Meddock’s decorations include the Ranger Tab, Parachutists Badge, Expert Infantryman’s Badge, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and the Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge for a Rifle.

Sadly, when Cameron was mortally wounded, his wife Stevie was 20 weeks pregnant with their first child. It took an almost herculean effort to fly his family, including mother, step father, father and brother to Germany in time to say their goodbyes. With no passports and all coming from remote areas, Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund worked day and night to make sure they made it in time. They did. Stevie has since given birth to their beautiful daughter Brinley and Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund continues to communicate with her regularly to make sure all of their needs are being met.

Sgt. Leandro Jasso, 25, was born June 19, 1993 in Washington and was assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington.

He was killed November 24, in Nimroz province, Afghanistan, while conducting combat operations in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel.

He was immediately treated and medically evacuated to the nearest medical treatment facility, where he died of his wounds.

A native of Leavenworth, Washington, Sgt. Jasso enlisted in the U.S. Army in August 2012. He completed One Station Unit Training as an Infantryman and the Basic Airborne Course at Fort Benning, Georgia. Following initial training, he successfully completed Ranger Assessment and Selection Program 1 and was assigned to 2nd Ranger Battalion, where he served as an Assistant Machine Gunner, Automatic Rifleman and Grenadier.

Sgt. Jasso’s military education includes the Basic Leader Course and U.S. Army Ranger Course. His awards and decorations include the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Expert Infantryman’s Badge and Expert Rifle Marksmanship Badge.

Sgt. Jasso deployed twice before in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

At the time of his death, Sgt. Jasso was serving as a team leader on his third deployment to Afghanistan.

FORT BENNING, GA — A U.S. Army Ranger assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, GA, was killed in a single tactical vehicle accident on 07 September 2018.

1LT Connor Bednarzyk, 25, was an Infantry Officer assigned as the Platoon Leader of the Distribution Platoon, Echo Company, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment.

Bednarzyk was born on 16 October 1992 in Virginia, and served three years in the Army, first as a Platoon Leader in 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, CO, and most recently as a Platoon Leader in 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment.

“First Lieutenant Connor Bednarzyk was an amazing Ranger, leader, and friend.” said Lieutenant Colonel Michael Klopper, Commander 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. “He was known throughout the Battalion for his caring and positive attitude. He will be missed by all.”

Bednarzyk completed Infantry Basic Officer Leader Course at Fort Benning, GA in 2015 before transferring to 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment in April 2016.

His military education includes the Infantry Basic Officer Leader Course, Basic Airborne School, U.S. Air Assault School, the U.S. Army Ranger School, and the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program 2 Course.

His awards and decorations include the coveted Ranger Tab, Air Assault Badge, the Army Parachutist Badge, and the Expert Infantryman’s Badge. He has also been awarded the Army Achievement Medal w/ 1 Oak Leaf Custer, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, and the NATO Medal.

Bednarzyk is survived by his parents and his siblings.

Sgt. 1st Class Christopher A. Celiz, 32, was killed on July 12, 2018 while conducting combat operations in Paktiya province, Afghanistan. Celiz was wounded by enemy small arms fire; he was treated immediately and medically evacuated to the nearest medical treatment facility where he died of his wounds.

He was assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia.

A native of Summerville, South Carolina, Celiz was born January 12, 1986 in South Carolina, enlisted in the U.S. Army in September 2007. He completed Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training as a combat engineer at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.

His first assignment was with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 7th Calvary Regiment at Fort Hood, Texas as a combat engineer and team leader. Following this assignment, Celiz was transferred to Company C, 4th Brigade Special Troops Battalion, also at Fort Hood, as a team leader.

A follow-on assignment was with the 530th Engineer Clearance Company, 92nd Engineer Battalion at Fort Stewart, Georgia, where he served as a Sapper squad leader and platoon sergeant.

In 2013, Celiz was selected to serve with the 75th Ranger Regiment as a combat engineer. He was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia where he served as the battalion master breacher and engineer. In March 2017, he was assigned to Company D where he served as the mortar platoon sergeant.

At the time of his death, Celiz was serving as the battalion mortar platoon sergeant and was in the process of reclassifying to the Infantry branch.

Celiz deployed from 2008 to 2009 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and from 2011 to 2012 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He was on his fifth deployment with 1st Bn., 75th Rgr. Rgt., when he was killed.

Celiz’s military education includes the Infantry Mortar Leader Course, Senior, Advanced and Basic Leader Courses, Jumpmaster Course, Sapper Leader Course, Ranger Assessment and Selection Program 2, Basic Airborne Course, U.S. Army Ranger Course, Route Reconnaissance Clearance Course-Sapper and the Combat Lifesaver Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, the Sapper Tab, Combat Action Badge, Parachutist Badge and the Marksmanship Qualification Badge Expert-Rifle.

Celiz has also been awarded the Joint Service Commendation Medal, three Army Commendation Medals, Navy Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, five Army Achievement Medals, two Meritorious Unit Citation Medals, three Afghanistan Campaign Medals with Campaign Star, two Iraq Campaign Medals with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and the NATO Medal. He is posthumously awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, and the Purple Heart.

 As a Ranger, Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Celiz selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier direction action raid force and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Celiz is survived by his spouse, Katie Celiz, and their daughter.

-Rangers Lead the Way!-

Spc. Devin James Kuhn of Philadelphia, Penn., died January 31, 2018 after sustaining wounds while conducting training at Camp Rilea, Oregon.

Kuhn was born Jan. 28, 1994, and raised in Philadelphia. He graduated from Archbishop Ryan High School in 2013. After enlisting in the U.S. Army in April 2015 and attending One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Georgia, he graduated from the Basic Airborne Course, the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program 1, and the U.S. Army Ranger Course.

He was assigned to Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington in December 2015 where he served as an automatic rifleman, deploying once in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel in Afghanistan.

During his deployment, Kuhn earned the Combat Infantryman’s Badge after participating in numerous special operations raids against multiple terrorist networks.
Kuhn also participated in multiple home station training events to include live fire training exercises and mountain warfare training among others.

His awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, the Expert Infantryman’s Badge, the Parachutist Badge and the Ranger Tab.

His Battalion Commander, Col. Ken Burgess, said of him, “Devin loved God, his wife, his family, and he loved being a Ranger. He was taken from us too early in a tragic accident, but we endeavor to honor his life and service to this nation.”

Kuhn was a devout Roman Catholic and is survived by his wife Brittany, his parents James and Lynn Kuhn and his sister Sara Kuhn, all of Philadelphia.

Pfc. Christopher P. Dona, 21, died during an airborne proficiency jump at Taylors Creek Drop Zone, Fort Stewart, Ga., June 13, 2013.

Dona was found on the drop zone unconscious and without a pulse. Ranger medics and Fort Stewart emergency medical response technicians were unable to revive him.

Dona was assigned to Company D, 1^st Battalion, 75^th Ranger Regiment, at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga., as an automatic rifleman.

A native of Dudley, Mass., Dona returned from his first deployment to Afghanistan in May.

Dona was born March 11, 1992, in Dudley, Mass. and graduated from Shepherd Hill Regional High School. After he enlisted in the U.S. Army in January 2012, Dona completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., as an infantryman.  After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program also at Fort Benning.

Dona graduated from the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program and was then assigned to Company D, 1^st Battalion, 75^th Ranger Regiment, in August 2012.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course and the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program.

His awards and decorations include the Expert Infantryman’s Badge, the Parachutist Badge, and the U.S. Army Expert Rifle Marksmanship Qualification Badge.

Dona has also been awarded the Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and the NATO Medal.

He was posthumously awarded the Army Commendation Medal.

Dona is survived by his parents, Paul and Maryann Dona, his sister, Melissa, and his brother, Brian, all from Dudley, Mass.

As a Ranger, Pfc. Christopher P. Dona selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier direct action raid force and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

– Rangers Lead The Way! – 

Staff Sgt. Christopher M. Roulund, 27, a Reconnaissance Specialist assigned to the Regimental Special Troops Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, died while participating in routine military free-fall training at the Parachute Testing and Training Facility operated by the U.S.  Special Operations Command near Marana, Ariz on August 13, 2008. 

A native of Jacksonville, N.C., Roulund entered the Army on Aug. 11, 1999, and completed One Station Unit Training, Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Indoctrination Program at Fort Benning, Ga.  He was then assigned to 1st Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield as a gun team leader.

Other assignments with the Regiment at Fort Benning include training non commissioned officer and assistant operations sergeant at Regimental Headquarters, fire team leader with 3rd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment, and his last assignment as a reconnaissance specialist with RSTB.

His awards and decorations include four Army Commendation Medals, five Army Achievement Medals, three Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal—Campaign Service, Iraqi Campaign Medal—Campaign Service, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Expert Infantryman Badge, Combat Infantryman Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Military Free Fall Parachutist Badge, Ranger Tab, and the Marksmanship Qualification Badge-Expert Rifle.

Staff Sgt. Avonye John Cavon Chisolm, 26, died as a result of injuries sustained during an airborne proficiency jump on August 24, 2016 at Galahad Drop Zone, Fort Stewart, Georgia.

Chisolm sustained serious injuries during the airborne operation; he was transported to the nearest military treatment facility; then air-lifted to Memorial Health University Medical Center, Savannah, Georgia and died August 25.

Chisolm was assigned to Company E, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia as a Culinary Specialist.

A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Chisolm deployed five times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Chisolm was born August 1, 1990 in Indianapolis, Indiana and earned his General Education Diploma from Fort Stewart Youth Challenge Academy 2007. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in July 2008, attended Basic Combat Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina and Advanced Individual Training as a Culinary Specialist at Fort Lee, Virginia. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course and the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program at Fort Benning, Georgia, he was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment March 2009.

Chisolm transferred to 1st Battalion in September 2013 and served as a Culinary Specialist Non-Commissioned Officer.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, Basic Leader Course, the Unit Prevention Leader Course, Lean Six Sigma Course-Black Belt, Lean Six Sigma Course-Green Belt, Demonstrated Logistics Course, the Advanced Leader Course and the Culinary Skills Advanced Course. He was a certified ServSafe Food Protection Manager.

His awards and decorations include the Combat Action Badge, the Parachutist Badge, U.S. Army Expert Rifle Marksmanship Qualification Badge-Carbine. Chisolm has also been awarded the Joint Services Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Army Achievement Medal with four oak leaf clusters, Presidential Unit Citation Award, Army Good

Conduct Medal 2nd Award, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon 2nd Award, Army Service Ribbon and the NATO Medal.

He will be posthumously awarded the Army Commendation Medal.

Chisolm is survived by his father Harrell Chisolm of Atlanta, Georgia and his grandmother Celestine Herbert of Charleston, South Carolina.

As a Ranger, Staff Sgt. Avonye John Cavon Chisolm selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier direct action raid force and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Cpl. Andrew A. Aimesbury, 21, died of wounds received while conducting a squad live fire exercise at Fort Stewart, Georgia December 9, 2015.

Aimesbury was seriously wounded during the exercise and medevaced to the nearest treatment facility where he died of his wounds.

Aimesbury was assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga., as a Ranger Team Leader

A native of Strafford, New Hampshire, Aimesbury served one tour in Afghanistan.

Aimesbury was born November 7, 1994, in Manchester, New Hampshire and graduated from Dover Senior High School. After he enlisted in the U.S. Army in January 2013, Aimesbury completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Georgia, as an infantryman.  After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program also at Fort Benning.

Aimesbury graduated from the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program and was then assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, in September 2013.

His military education includes the U.S. Army Ranger Course, Basic Airborne Course and the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, Expert Infantryman’s Badge, the Parachutist Badge, and the Marksmanship Qualification Badge Expert-Carbine.

Aimesbury has also been awarded the Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and the NATO Medal.

Aimesbury is survived by his parents, Carl and Karen Aimesbury, and his sister, Abigail, all from Somersworth, New Hampshire.

As a Ranger, Cpl. Andrew A. Aimesbury selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier direct action raid force and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Master Sgt. Joshua L. Wheeler, 39, assigned to Headquarters, U.S. Army Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, was killed in action Oct. 22, while deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve Wheeler died from enemy gunfire while in combat near Hawijah, Iraq. He was born Nov. 22, 1975, in Roland, Oklahoma, and graduated in 1994 from Muldrow High School in Muldrow, Oklahoma.

Wheeler entered the U.S. Army as an infantryman in May 1995, completing his initial entry training at Fort Benning, Ga. His first assignment was with Company C, 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, Fort Lewis, Washington.

In February 1997, he transitioned to Company B, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Lewis, Washington, where he served for over seven years as an infantryman, rifle team leader, squad leader, weapons squad leader, and anti-tank section leader, deploying five times in support of combat operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. Wheeler was assigned to U.S. Army Special Operations Command in 2004 and deployed 12 times in support of combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Wheeler’s military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger School, Warrior Leader Course, Static Line Jumpmaster, Military Mountaineering Course, Basic and Advanced Demolition Courses, Advanced Urban Combat Training, Advanced Marksmanship Techniques, Close Range Tactical M4 Training, Infantry Advanced Leader’s Course, the Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape (Level C) Course, Infantry Senior Leader’s, Military Free Fall Course, and the Military Free Fall Jumpmaster Course.

Wheeler’s awards and decorations include four Bronze Star Medals with Valor Device, seven Bronze Star Medals, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal, the Joint Service Commendation Medal with Valor Device, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, seven Army Commendation Medals, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, eight Army Achievement Medals, the Good Conduct Medal (6th Award), the National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars, the Iraq Campaign Medal with 6 Bronze Service Stars, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon (3rd Award), the Army Service Ribbon, the Presidential Unit Citation, the Valorous Unit Award (2nd Award), the Ranger Tab, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Master Parachutist Badge, and three Overseas Service Bars. Wheeler was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart.

Wheeler is survived by four sons, one with wife Ashley, and three from a previous marriage. Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund continues to keep in close contact with the family to ensure their needs are being met.

Army Ranger SGT Patrick Christopher Hawkins, 25, was killed October 6, 2013 by an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations against enemy forces in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan. SGT Hawkins was a Team Leader assigned to Company B, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. He was on his fourth deployment to Afghanistan in support of the War on Terror.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Parachutist Badge, the U.S. Army Expert Rifle Marksmanship Qualification Badge, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal, and the Presidential Unit Citation.

SGT Hawkins was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and Purple Heart.

As a Ranger, SGT Hawkins selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier direct action raid force, continuously deployed in support of the Global War on Terror, and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Patrick is survived by his wife, Brittanie M. Hawkins, and his parents, Roy, and Shelia Hawkins.

Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund honored his family at our annual Gold Star Memorial Event by presenting a hand painted portrait of Patrick commissioned by the American Fallen Soldier’s Project.  We continue to engage with Brittanie to ensure that all of her needs are being met and stand ready to support her as needed. 

Army Ranger SPC Cody James Patterson, 24, was killed October 6, 2013 by an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations against enemy forces in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan. SPC Patterson was a rifleman assigned to Company B, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. He was on his second deployment to Afghanistan in support of the War on Terror.

His awards and decorations include the Parachutist Badge, the U.S. Army Expert Rifle Marksmanship Qualification Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, and the Overseas Service Ribbon.

SPC Patterson was posthumously awarded the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Purple Heart and NATO Medal.

As a Ranger, SPC Patterson selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier direct action raid force, continuously deployed in support of the Global War on Terror, and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Cody is survived by his mother, Nancy R. Wilson; and his siblings, Taylor Patterson, Nicole Patterson, Letitia Williams, Elijah Williams, Kapriel Wilson, and Mara Wilson.

Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund honored his family at our annual Gold Star Memorial Event by presenting a hand painted portrait of Cody commissioned by the American Fallen Soldier’s Project. 

Sgt. Thomas R. MacPherson, 26, was killed by enemy forces during a heavy firefight while conducting combat operations in Ghazni Province, Afghanistan. He was leading an assault against an enemy position when he was mortally wounded by small arms fire. MacPherson was a team leader assigned to Company D, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. He previously served one deployment to Iraq and this was his fourth deployment to Afghanistan.

MacPherson was born July 20, 1986 in Long Beach, Calif. and graduated from Los Alamitos High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in May 2007 and completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program also at Fort Benning.

MacPherson graduated from the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program and was then assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment in December 2007, where he served as a mortarman. After three years, he was assigned to Company D where he served as a Fire Team Leader.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, U.S. Army Ranger School, Infantry Mortar Leader’s Course, Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape Course (SERE), and the Warrior Leader Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Expert Infantryman’s Badge, the Parachutist Badge, and the U.S. Army Expert Rifle Marksmanship Qualification Badge.

MacPherson has also been awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with three Campaign Stars, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and the NATO Medal. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service and Purple Heart.

MacPherson is survived by his wife, Claudia, and their son Brayden, now 8, and his parents Troy and Diona MacPherson.

Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund provided financial assistance to help Claudia send Brayden to a special school that would accommodate his needs and continue to stand ready to support Claudia and Brayden as needed. 

Sgt. Tanner Stone Higgins, 23, was killed by enemy forces during a heavy firefight while conducting combat operations in Logar Province, Afghanistan. He was leading an assault against an enemy compound when he was mortally wounded by small arms fire.

Tanner was a team leader assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. He was on his third deployment to Afghanistan in support of the War on Terror. He deployed to Iraq once.

Higgins was born Jan. 31, 1989. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in October 2007. Higgins completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program also at Fort Benning.

Higgins graduated from the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program and was then assigned to Company D, 1st Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment in July 2008, where he served as a rifleman, grenadier, automatic rifleman, gun team leader and a Ranger team leader.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, U.S. Army Ranger Course, Emergency Medical Technician Basic Course, U.S. Army Sniper School, and was the Warrior Leader Course Distinguished Leadership Awardee.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Parachutist Badge, and the U.S. Army Expert Rifle Marksmanship Qualification Badge.

Higgins has also been awarded the Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with three Campaign Stars, Iraq Campaign Medal with one Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon and the Overseas Service Ribbon.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and Purple Heart.

Higgins is survived by his wife Shelby Lynn Higgins of Savannah, Ga., his father Danny R. Higgins of Hurst, Texas, and his mother Patti D. Sells of Tybee Island, Ga.

As a Ranger, Higgins selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier direct action raid force and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Spc. Ricardo Cerros Jr., 24, was killed by enemy forces during a heavy firefight while conducting combat operations in Logar Province, Afghanistan. He was mortally wounded as he fought against enemy insurgents barricaded in a compound.

Cerros was a Ranger rifleman assigned to Company B, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. He was on his first deployment to Afghanistan in support of the War on Terror.

Cerros was born Nov. 2, 1986 in Fort Ord, Calif. After graduating from Everett Alarez High School and the University of California, Irvine, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in July 2010 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Cerros completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course, he was assigned to the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program at Fort Benning.

Following graduation from Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, Cerros was assigned to Company B, 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment in March 2011, where he served as a Ranger rifleman.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course and Ranger Assessment and Selection Program.

His awards and decorations include the Parachutist Badge and the U.S. Army Expert Rifle Marksmanship Qualification Badge.

Cerros has also been awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Army Service Ribbon.

He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal. Additional posthumous awards are pending.

Cerros is survived by his father Ricardo Cerros Sr. and stepmother Deborah A. Cerros of Salinas, Calif. and his mother Maqueirte D. Cuevas of Gary, Ind. He is also survived by his brothers Nicholas and Marko Cerros, and sister Theresa Cerros, all of Salinas, Calif.

As a Ranger, Cerros selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier direct action raid force. Cerros fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

SFC Kristoffer B. Domeij, 29, was killed during combat operations in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan when the assault force triggered an improvised explosive device. Domeij was a Ranger Joint Terminal Attack Controller assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Co., 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. He was on his 14th combat deployment to Afghanistan in support of the War on Terror.

He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with one oak leaf cluster, the Joint Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with four oak leaf clusters, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal with three loops, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, Iraq Campaign Medal with three campaign stars, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with numeral three, Army Service Ribbon, and the Overseas Ribbon with numeral four. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, and the Meritorious Service Medal.

As a Ranger, Domeij selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier direct-action raid force and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah, and daughters Mikajsa and Aaliyah of Lacey, Wash.; his mother Scoti Domeij of Colorado Springs, Colo., and his brother Kyle Domeij of San Diego, Calif.

In June 2019, during the 75^th Anniversary of D-Day, Domeij’s mother Scoti did a tandem jump into Normandy with several of Kristoffer’s Ranger brothers as a tribute to him.

Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund honored his family at our annual Gold Star Memorial Event by presenting a hand painted portrait of Kristoffer commissioned by the American Fallen Soldier’s Project.  

Pvt. 1st Class Christopher Alexander Horns, 20, was killed during combat operations in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan when the assault force triggered an improvised explosive device.

Horns was a Ranger automatic rifleman assigned to Co. C, 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. He was on his first deployment to Afghanistan in support of the War on Terror.

Horns was born Nov. 10, 1990 in Sumter, S.C. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in July, 2010 from his hometown of Colorado Springs, Colo.

Horns completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course, he was assigned to the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program also at Fort Benning. Following graduation from Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, Horns was assigned to Co. C, where he served as an assistant machine gunner and automatic rifleman.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course and the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program.

His awards and decorations include the Parachutist Badge and the U.S. Army Expert Rifle Marksmanship Qualification Badge. He has also been awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon. Horns will be posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal for Combat Service, the Army Commendation Medal for Peacetime Service, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal and the Combat Infantry Badge.

He is survived by his parents Larry and Tamara Horns, and his sister Tiffany of Colorado Springs, Colo.

As a Ranger, Horns selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier direct action raid force and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Sgt. Tyler Nicholas Holtz, 22, was killed by enemy forces during a heavy firefight while conducting combat operations in Wardak Province, Afghanistan. He was leading an assault against an enemy position when he was mortally wounded by small arms fire.

Holtz was a team leader assigned to Company B, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Joint Base Lewis McChord, Wash. He was on his fourth deployment to Afghanistan in support of the War on Terror.

Holtz was born Oct. 1, 1988 in Orange City, Calif. After graduating from Mater Dei High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in October 2007 from San Diego, Calif. Holtz completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program also at Fort Benning.

Holtz graduated from the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program and was then assigned to Company B, 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment in July 2008, where he served as a rifleman and a Ranger team leader.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, U.S. Army Ranger Course, and U.S. Army Jumpmaster Course.
His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, the Expert Infantryman’s Badge, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Parachutist Badge, and the U.S. Army Expert Rifle Marksmanship Qualification Badge.

Holtz has also been awarded the Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon and the Overseas Service Ribbon.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Purple Heart, and Joint Service Achievement Medal.

Holtz is survived by his father Andrew Holtz of Capistrano Beach, Calif., his mother Karen Holtz, and his three brothers Luke, Hayden, and Michael all of Dana Point, Calif.

As a Ranger, Holtz selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier direct action raid force and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Sgt. Alessandro Leonard Plutino “Sandrino”, 28, was killed by enemy forces during a heavy firefight while conducting combat operations in Paktiya Province, Afghanistan. Plutino was a Team Leader assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. He was on his sixth deployment in support of the War on Terror with three previous deployments to Iraq and two to Afghanistan.

He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon and the Overseas Service Ribbon with numeral two.

As a Ranger, Plutino selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier direct action raid force, continuously deployed in support of the Global War on Terror, and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Plutino is survived by his mother Dianne Hammond; Father Sandro Plutino; sister Brenna Rae Plutino Jensen, brother-in-law Bryan Jensen, niece Bella, nephew Brayden; and fiancé Natalie Layton.

Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund honored his family at our annual Gold Star Memorial Event by presenting a hand painted portrait of Sandrino commissioned by the American Fallen Soldier’s Project.  We continue to keep in regular contact with mom Dianne, who generously gives back to Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund through her own fundraising efforts to honor Sandrino. 

Staff Sgt. Jeremy Andrew Katzenberger, 26, was killed by enemy forces during a heavy firefight while conducting combat operations in Paktika Province, Afghanistan.

Staff Sgt. Katzenberger was a squad leader assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. He was on his eighth deployment in support of the War on Terror with four previous deployments to Iraq and three to Afghanistan.

He was born Nov. 2, 1984 in Kansas City, Mo. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in October 2004 from his hometown of Weatherby Lake, Mo. Staff Sgt. Katzenberger completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program also at Fort Benning.

Staff Sgt. Katzenberger graduated from the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program and was then assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment in April 2005, where he served as a rifleman, automatic rifleman, team leader and Ranger squad leader.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, U.S. Army Ranger Course, Warrior Leader Course, and Jumpmaster.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, Expert Infantryman Badge, Combat Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge. He has also been awarded the Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Army Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Army Good Conduct Medal with one loop, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, Iraq Campaign Medal with three Campaign Stars, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Non-commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon with numeral 2 and the Army Service Ribbon.

Staff Sgt. Katzenberger is survived by his wife Colleen A. (Montgomery) and his son Everett James, both of Richmond Hill, Ga., and his parents Robert and Peggy Katzenberger of Weatherby Lake, Mo.

As a Ranger, Staff Sgt. Jeremy Andrew Katzenberger selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier direct action raid force, continuously deployed in support of the War on Terror, and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

– RANGERS LEAD THE WAY! –

Kevin Matthew Pape was born February 5, 1980 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in September 2005 from his hometown of Fort Wayne, Indiana. After graduating Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, Pape was assigned to Co. C, 1st Battalion,75th Ranger Regiment in April 2006, where he served as a machine gunner, team leader and squad leader. SSG Pape was on his 6th deployment, 3rd Afghanistan tour, when he was killed on November 16, 2010 after he was wounded during a shootout with insurgents in Kunar province, Afghanistan. 

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, U.S. Army Ranger Course, Emergency Medical Technician Basic Course, Warrior Leader Course, and the Advanced Leader Course. His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Parachutist Badge. He has also been awarded the Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Arrowhead, Iraq Campaign Medal with Arrowhead, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, and the Meritorious Service Medal.

As a Ranger, Pape selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, continuously deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

SSG Pape is survived by his wife Amelia Rose Pape, his daughter Anneka Sue who currently live in Indiana.

Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund honored Amelia and Anneka at our annual Gold Star Memorial Event by presenting a hand painted portrait of Kevin commissioned by the American Fallen Soldier’s Project.

The organization continues to be in close contact with Amelia and Anneka and has provided financial support for needs such as a new washing machine and summer camp, to name a few. 

Cpl. William M. Amundson, 21, was a mortarman assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. He was born June 4, 1983 in Texas.

He was killed Oct. 18, 2004, during a ground assault force infiltration in eastern Afghanistan when the Ground Mobility Vehicle he was riding in rolled over.

A native of The Woodlands, Texas, Cpl. Amundson enlisted in the Army in May 2001 and completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning as an indirect fire infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Training Detachment, 75th Ranger Regt.

He graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in November 2001 and was then assigned to 3rd Bn., 75th Ranger Regt. He served there as a 60 mm mortar gunner.

Cpl. Amundson’s awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, two Army Achievement Medals, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Award, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge with combat jump device. He was also awarded the German Parachutist Badge.

Cpl. Amundson was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart and Meritorious Service Medal.

He is survived by his parents, Michele Sanderson of Montgomery, Texas, and William Amundson Sr. of Plano, Texas.

As a Ranger, Cpl. William Amundson distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor, and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

– RANGERS LEAD THE WAY! –

Sgt. 1st Class Lance Herman Vogeler, 29, was killed by enemy indirect fire during a heavy firefight while conducting combat operations in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Vogeler was a mortars section leader assigned to 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. He was on his 12th deployment in support of the War on Terror with four previous deployments to Iraq and seven to Afghanistan.

He was born on Aug. 9, 1981 in Manchester, Md and enlisted in the U.S. Army in May 2001 from his hometown of Frederick, Md. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., as an indirect fire infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program also at Fort Benning.

Vogeler graduated from the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program and was then assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment in December 2001, where he served as a gunner, fire direction chief, fire direction computer, squad leader and mortars section leader. His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, Emergency Room Medical Technician Basic Course, the U.S. Army Ranger Course, Infantry Mortar Platoon Course, Warrior Leader Course, Jumpmaster Course, Advanced Leader Course and the Senior Leader Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Expert Infantryman’s Badge, Senior Parachutist Badge, and the Parachutists Badge. He has also been awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Army Achievement Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Army Good Conduct Medal with two oak leaf clusters, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with combat star, Iraq Campaign Medal with combat star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with numeral one, Army Service Ribbon and the Overseas Service Ribbon with numeral one. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Meritorious Service Medal.

Vogeler is survived by his wife, Melissa, son Colin and daughter, Madison and parents, Timothy and Donna Vogeler. Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund has given a significant amount in financial aid to assist Melissa with support for son Colin, who has special needs, many of which are not covered by the VA. 

We also presented the family with a hand-painted portrait of Lance, commissioned by the American Fallen Soldiers Project, at our annual Gold Star Memorial event.

Spc. Christopher Shane Wright, 23, was a squad automatic weapon gunner assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. He was born on Jan. 31, 1987, and was a native of Tollesboro, Ky.

He was seriously wounded in a fire fight with the enemy during a combat operation in Konar Province, Afghanistan. Wright was treated immediately by unit medical personnel and quickly evacuated to the nearest treatment facility where he died of his wounds.

He was on his third deployment in support of the War on Terror. He had previously deployed once to Afghanistan and once to Iraq.

After graduating from high school in Tollesboro, Ky, Wright enlisted in the U.S. Army in June 2005. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., as an infantryman. Then after graduating from the Basic Airborne Course, he served as a rifleman assigned to Company A, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash., and later was assigned to Company A, 1st Battalion, 2nd Armor Calvary Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.

In 2009, Wright was assigned to the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program at Fort Benning, Ga. Following graduation from the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, he was assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment in June 2009 where he served as a rifleman and a squad automatic weapons gunner.

Wright’s military education included the Basic Airborne Course, the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, and the Sniper Course.

His awards and decorations include the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge. He was also awarded the Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with combat star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Purple Heart.
Wright is survived by his father, James Cochran and stepmother, Michele Cochran of Tollesboro, Ky., and his mother, Linda Dennis of Jeffersonville, Ind.

As a Ranger, Wright selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, continuously deployed in support of the War on Terror, and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and the Nation.

Pfc. Nathan E. Stahl, 20, was an infantryman assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Lewis, Wash.

He was killed in action while supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom on Sept. 21, 2004, during a combat patrol in central Iraq after an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle.

A native of Highland, Ind., Stahl enlisted in the Army in June 2003. After completing infantry, airborne and Ranger indoctrination training at Fort Benning, Ga., he was assigned to 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regt., in January 2004.

Stahl deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom earlier this year.

His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge.

He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Towina G. Nightingale and Rodney Nightingale, ofHighland, IN, and by his father and stepmother, Max E. Stahl and Virginia S. Stahl, of Clayton, NC.

As a Ranger, Pfc. Nathan Stahl distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor, and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Cpl. Timothy M. Shea, 22, was an infantryman assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga.

He was killed in action on Aug. 25, 2005, while conducting combat operations in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom after an Improvised Explosive Device detonated near his vehicle.

A native of Sonoma, Calif., Shea was born Sept. 13, 1982. He enlisted in the Army Jan. 28, 2003. After completing One Station Unit Training, Airborne School and Ranger Indoctrination Program at Fort Benning, Ga., he was assigned to 3rd Bn. on Aug. 21, 2003.

Shea deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in July 2005. He was a five-time veteran of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, where he served as a rifleman, automatic rifleman, grenadier and machine gun team leader.

His awards and decorations include the National Defense Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Basic Parachutist Badge and the Ranger Tab. He was posthumously promoted to the rank of corporal and awarded the Bronze Star Medal for valor, the Purple Heart, the Meritorious Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

Shea is survived by his parents, William and Mary Shea, also of Sonoma, Calif., and a sister, Sara Shea Frank, of Seattle, Wash.

As a Ranger, Shea distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor, and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Sgt. William P. Rudd was killed in action on Oct. 5, 2008, when he was hit by enemy fire during combat operations in northern Iraq while serving with Company B, 3 rd Battalion, 75 th Ranger Regiment based at Fort Benning, Ga. He was born Nov. 5, 1980, in Madisonville, Kentucky.

He was wounded in a ground assault raid targeting associates of senior Al Qaeda leader when enemy fighters, some armed with suicide vests, engaged the U.S. forces with small arms fire.

This was Rudd’s eighth deployment in support of the War on Terrorism with two previous deployments to Afghanistan and five to Iraq.

He volunteered and enlisted in the Army on Oct. 2, 2003. After completion of the one station unit training, he volunteered for service as an Army Ranger and completed the Ranger Indoctrination Program at Fort Benning. Rudd was assigned to Company B on Aug. 9, 2004, where he served as a rifleman, grenadier, and fire team leader.

Rudd completed numerous military courses while serving in the Army, including the Basic Airborne Course, the Ranger Indoctrination Program, the Warrior Leaders Course, the Jumpmaster Course, the Master Breacher Course, and the U.S. Army Ranger Course.

His awards and decorations include the Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge and the Ranger Tab.

Rudd is survived by his father, William E. and stepmother, Barbara Rudd, and step brother, Josh of Madisonville, Ky.; his mother, Pamela Lam and sister, Elizabeth of Nortonville, Ky.

As a Ranger, Rudd distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Captain Russell B. Rippetoe was born July 21, 1975. A native of Colorado he was commissioned into the Army as a Field Artillery officer on August 9, 1999. He died in combat after a civilian vehicle exploded at a Coalition checkpoint 18 km southwest of Hadithah Dam in Iraq.

In April 2002, he was assigned to Company A, 3d Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, Ga., where he served as a fire support officer. He was previously assigned to Battery C, 3rd Battalion, 319th Field Artillery Regiment at Fort Bragg, N. C., where he had served as both a fire direction officer and a fire support officer.

Rippetoe’s military education includes the Field Artillery Officer Basic Course, the Basic Airborne Course, and Ranger School.

From October 2001 until January 2002, Rippetoe deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

His awards and decorations include two Army Commendation Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Ranger Tab and the Parachutist Badge. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal for valor and the Purple Heart.

Rippetoe is survived by his parents, Joe and Rita Rippetoe of Gaithersburg, Maryland. Joe Rippetoe is a retired Army Colonel. He is also survived by his sister, Rebecca, her husband, Tom Kim and their daughter.

Staff Sgt. James R. Patton, 23, was a squad leader assigned to Company B, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. He was born on April 23, 1986 in Fort Bragg, N.C.

Patton died April 18, 2010 while conducting a combat operation in northern Iraq when the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter in which he was riding crashed.

He was on his seventh deployment in support of the War on Terror. He had previously deployed twice to Iraq and four times to Afghanistan.

After graduation from Spencer High School in Columbus, Ga., Staff Sgt. Patton enlisted in the U.S. Army in July 2004. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga. as an Infantryman. Then after graduating from the Basic Airborne Course, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

Following graduation from the Ranger Indoctrination Program Patton was assigned to Company B, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment in February 2005 where he served as a Grenadier, Fire Team Leader, Team Leader and Squad Leader.

His military education includes the Airborne Course, the Ranger Indoctrination Program, the U.S. Army Ranger Course, the Jumpmaster Course, the Master Breacher Course, the Mountain Warfare Course, the Warrior Leaders Course, and the Advanced Leaders Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Expert Infantryman’s Badge and the Senior Parachutist Badge. He has also been awarded the Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Meritorious Service Medal.

Patton is survived by his wife Beatriz and their daughter Cecilia of Columbus, Ga., and his parents Command Sgt.Maj. Gregory and Mrs. Sheila Patton of Indian Mound, Tenn.; brother Cliff Edward Patton and sister Megan Sue Marie.

Cpl. Ryan C. McGhee, 21, was an automatic rifleman assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. He was born on Nov. 4, 1987 in Pennsylvania.

He was killed by small arms fire while conducting combat operations in Central Iraq, when his unit came in contact with enemy forces. The unit was conducting operations to rid Iraq of a weapons facilitator and suicide vest cell known to be operating in the area.

McGhee was on his fourth deployment in support of the War on Terror with three previous deployments to Afghanistan.

After graduating from high school, McGhee enlisted in the U.S. Army from his hometown of Fredericksburg, Va., in August 1, 2006. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

He graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in February 2007 and was then assigned to Company B, 3rd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment March 1, 2007. McGhee served as a Rifleman and Grenadier in Company B before serving as a Weapons Squad Team Leader with Company D.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Indoctrination Program, and the U.S. Army Ranger Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Combat Star, Iraq Campaign Medal with Combat Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, the Army Service Ribbon, Expert Infantryman’s Badge, Combat Infantryman Badge and Parachutist Badge.

McGhee is survived by his father Steven McGhee of Myrtle Beach, S.C.; his mother Sherrie Battle McGhee, and maternal grandparents Dr. Williams C. and Joann Battle of Knoxville, Tenn.; paternal grandparents Mike and Roberta McGhee of Newsport News, Va., and his brother Zachary.

Specialist Ryan P. Long was born April 19, 1981 in the District of Columbia. He volunteered for and entered the Army in September 1999.

He completed basic training and advanced individual training in the military operational specialty of Infantryman at Fort Benning, Georgia. Specialist Long continued his military training at Fort Benning when he attended Airborne School and graduated in 2000. Following graduation from the Ranger Indoctrination Program, he was assigned to the 3d Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment in April 2000.

Specialist Long was a Rifleman with Company A, 3rd Battalion. He died in combat after a civilian vehicle exploded at a Coalition checkpoint 18 km southwest of Hadithah Dam in Iraq.

His awards and decorations include the Army Service Ribbon, the Parachutist Badge and the Ranger Tab. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge and the Purple Heart. From October 2001 until January 2002, Specialist Long deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

His parents, Rudy and Donna Long of Seaford, Del, survive him.

As a Ranger, Specialist Long distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism, and fought valiantly to uphold the prestige, honor, and high “esprit de corps” of my Ranger Regiment.

Staff Sergeant Nino D. Livaudais was born April 30, 1979 in Olongapo, Phillippines. He later moved to his hometown, Syracuse, Utah. He volunteered in the Delayed Entry Program and entered the Army in February 1998.

He completed basic training and advanced individual training in the military operational specialty of Infantryman at Fort Benning, Georgia. Staff Sergeant Livaudais continued his military training at Fort Benning when he attended Airborne School and graduated in June, 1998. On July 31, 1998, he was assigned to the 3d Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. He earned his Ranger Tab after graduating from the U.S. Army Ranger Course in 1999 at Fort Benning.

Staff Sergeant Livaudais was a Squad Leader with Company A, 3d Battalion. He died in combat after a civilian vehicle exploded at a Coalition checkpoint 18 km southwest of Hadithah Dam in Iraq.

His awards and decorations include a Good Conduct Medal, two National Defense Service Medals, three Armed Forces Expeditionary Medals, the Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, the Army Service Ribbon, three Army Achievement Medals, the Bronze Star, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Parachutist Badge and the Ranger Tab. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Valor and the Purple Heart. He was also awarded the German Parachutist Badge. From October 2001 until January 2002, Staff Sgt. Livaudais deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

He is survived by his wife, Jackie and two children, Destre and Carson, of Fort Mitchell, Alabama. He is also survived by his mother, Divina Livaudais of Utah.

As a Ranger, Staff Sergeant Livaudais distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism, and fought valiantly to uphold the prestige, honor, and high “esprit de corps” of my Ranger Regiment.

Cpl. Jason M. Kessler, 29, was an automatic rifleman assigned to 2 nd Battalion, 75 th Ranger Regiment at Fort Lewis, Wash. He was born on Oct. 21, 1977, in Long Beach, Calif.

He was killed on July 30, 2007, while engaged in combat operations in northern Iraq when the tactical vehicle he was riding in was struck by a rocketpropelled grenade. This was his third deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

After graduating high school in Mount Vernon, Wash., Kessler attended The Masters College, Santa Clarita, Calif., and earned a bachelor of arts in biblical studies. He was continuing his education at the University of Washington, Seattle Campus with emphasis on philosophy.

Kessler enlisted in the Army from his hometown of Mount Vernon in January 2005 and completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

He graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in June 2005 and was then assigned to 2 nd Bn., 75 th Ranger Regiment. He served there as an Automatic Rifleman.

Kessler’s awards and decorations include Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Parachutist Badge, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Ranger Tab.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and Meritorious Service Medal.

He is survived by his parents, C. Michael and Pamela K. Kessler and his brother Mark, sister Katelyn all of Mount Vernon, and longtime girl friend Erin Jacobson of Kirkland, Wash.

As a Ranger, Kessler distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor, and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Pfc. Dillon M. Jutras, 20, was a rifleman assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga.

He was killed in action on Oct. 28, 2005, while conducting combat operations in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq’s Al Anbar province.

Jutras, of Fairfax Station, Va., was born Oct. 2, 1985, in Fayetteville, N.C. He enlisted in the Army Jan. 31, 2005. After completing One Station Unit Training, Airborne School and Ranger Indoctrination Program at Fort Benning, Ga., he was assigned to 3rd Bn. in July 2005.

He deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in August 2005.

His awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon and the Parachutist Badge. Jutras was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal for valor, the Purple Heart and the Army Commendation Medal.

Jutras is survived by his parents, Pierre and Julia Jutras, of Fairfax Station, Va.

As a Ranger, Jutras distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit in support of the Global War on Terrorism and fought valiantly to uphold the prestige, honor and high “esprit de corps” of the Ranger Regiment.

Sgt. Steven C. Ganczewski, 22, was a fire team leader assigned to 3 rd Battalion, 75 th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. He was born on April 7, 1985.

He died Nov. 16, 2007, in northern Iraq of injuries sustained in a combat related incident.

After graduating from Niagara Falls High School in Niagara Falls, N.Y., Ganczewski enlisted in the Army from his hometown of Niagara Falls in July 2003 and completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

He graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in April 2004 and was then assigned to 3 rd Bn., 75 th Ranger Regiment in May 2004. He served there as a grenadier and fire team leader.

Ganczewski’s awards and decorations include four Army Achievement Medals, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge, Jumpmaster Badge, and the Ranger Tab.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Bronze Star Medal w/V and the Meritorious Service Medal.

He is survived by his wife Rachel and daughter Makayla, of Columbus, Ga., and his parents Mark and Maria Ganczewski of Niagara Falls, N.Y.

As a Ranger, Sgt. Ganczewski distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier lightinfantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism, and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor, and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Spc. Thomas F. Duncan III, age 21, was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Lewis, Wash. He was born on April 13, 1987. He died June 9, 2008 as a result of gunshot wounds received during combat operations in Iraq.

After graduating from high school, Duncan enlisted in the Army from his hometown of Rowlett, Texas in February 2006. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

He graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in August 2006.

He was assigned to 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment in September 2006.

He served as an assistant machine gunner, M240B machine gunner and as a grenadier.

Duncan’s awards and decorations include the Air Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Parachutist Badge and the Ranger Tab.

Duncan is survived by his wife Megan Duncan of Louisa, Ky., his mother Amanda Duncan of Bedias, Texas and his father Thomas F. Duncan II of Oakwood, Ga.

Ranger Duncan distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism, and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor, and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Cpl. Benjamin C. Dillon, 22, was a gun team leader assigned to 3 rd Battalion, 75 th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. He was born on Sept. 9, 1985, in Rootstown, Ohio.

He was killed on Oct. 7, 2007, while engaged in combat operations against known enemies of the United States of America in Northern Iraq. He was a veteran of operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom.

After graduating Southeast High School in Edinburg, Ohio, Dillon enlisted in the Army from his hometown of Rootstown, Ohio, in September 2004 and completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

He graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in March 2005 and was then assigned to 3 rd Bn., 75 th Ranger Regiment. He served there as a rifleman, grenadier, automatic rifleman, machine gunner and gun team leader. His last assignment was as a gun team leader.

Dillon’s awards and decorations include Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge and the Ranger Tab.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star with V Device, the Purple Heart and Meritorious Service Medal.

He is survived by his parents Terry and Linda Dillon, and brothers Nicholas and Steven all of Rootstown.

As a Ranger, Cpl Benjamin C. Dillon distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism, and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor, and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Staff Sgt. Anthony Dee Davis, 29, was a team leader assigned to 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield. He was born on Feb. 20, 1979, in Mainz, Germany.

He was killed during a direct fire engagement by a heavily armed enemy combatant in northern Iraq. The enemy combatant was subsequently killed when he engaged the assault force.

Davis was serving his sixth combat deployment. His previous deployments were to Afghanistan and Iraq.

After graduating from Seabreeze High School in his hometown of Daytona Beach, Fla., Davis enlisted in the Army in October 2000. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

He graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in June 2001 and was then assigned to Company C, 1st Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment in July 2001. He served there as a fire team leader and a team leader.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Indoctrination Program, Warrior Leader Course, Combat Life Savers Course and the U.S. Army Ranger Course where he earned his Ranger Tab in 2002.

Davis’ awards and decorations include the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Purple Heart, Joint Commendation Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, two Army Achievement Medals, two Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge and the Ranger Tab.

Davis is survived by his mother Ellen Davis, of Fayetteville, N.C.; and his stepfather, Nelson Buckwald of Daytona Beach; his sister, Staff Sgt. Nakischa Davis of Fayetteville, N.C.; and, his niece, Ariana, also of Fayetteville.

As a Ranger, Staff Sgt. Anthony D. Davis distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism, and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor, and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Sgt. Timothy M. Conneway was born Feb. 22, 1981, at Fort Lewis, Wash. He volunteered for the Army on June 15, 1999.

He completed basic training and advanced individual training in the military operational specialty of infantryman at Fort Benning, Ga. Conneway continued his military training at Fort Benning when he attended the Basic Airborne Course and then the Ranger Indoctrination Program. On Jan. 27, 2000, he was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. Conneway served as a rifleman, grenadier, machine gunner and team leader with the battalion’s Company B.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor device, the Purple Heart and the Meritorious Service Medal.

Conneway’s other awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, the Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Parachutist Badge, the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment Combat Shoulder Sleeve Insignia and the Ranger Tab. He earned the Combat Infantryman Badge and Parachutist Badge with combat jump device in Afghanistan.

In support of the nation’s Global War on Terrorism, Conneway deployed with his Ranger battalion and participated in combat operations in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

His wife, Catherine Fay Conneway, of Columbus, Ga., survives him. He is also survived by his parents, James Kenneth and Sally Ann Conneway of Enterprise, Ala., and one brother.

As a Ranger, Sgt. Timothy Conneway distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism, and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor, and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Cpl. Andrew F. Chris was born on Sept. 25, 1977, in Huntsville, Ala. He volunteered for Army service in San Diego, Calif., on Sept. 24, 2001.

Chris completed basic training and advanced individual training in the military operational specialty of Infantryman at Fort Benning, Ga. He continued his military training at Fort Benning, when he attended the Basic Airborne Course and then the Ranger Indoctrination Program. On May 22, 2002, he was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. He earned the Ranger Tab after graduating from the U.S. Army Ranger Course in 2003 at Fort Benning.

Chris was a rifleman, grenadier and machine gunner with Company B, 3rd Bn. He was posthumously appointed to the rank of corporal and awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor device, the Purple Heart and the Meritorious Service Medal.

His other awards and decorations include the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Parachutist Badge, the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment Shoulder Sleeve Insignia and the Ranger Tab. He earned the Combat Infantryman Badge in Afghanistan.

In support of the nation’s Global War on Terrorism, Chris deployed with his Ranger battalion and participated in combat operations in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

He is survived by his mother, Cheryl Ann Chris-Dawson of Baton Rouge, La., and his grandmother, Barbara Phillips of Huntsville, Ala. Two brothers, a stepbrother and a stepsister also survive him. His father, Thomas Anthony Chris, is deceased.

As a Ranger, Cpl. Andrew Chris distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism, and fought valiantly to uphold the prestige, honor, and high “esprit de corps” of the Ranger Regiment.

Sgt. Dale G. M. Brehm, 23, was a team leader assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash. He was wounded by enemy small arms fire while conducting combat operations in western Iraq on March 18 and died of those wounds on March 19, 2006. After graduating from Turlock High School in Turlock, Calif., Brehm volunteered for military service and entered the Army Feb. 15, 2001. He completed One Station Unit Training, airborne school and Ranger Indoctrination Program at Fort Benning, Ga.

Assigned to 2nd Ranger Bn. in October 2001, Brehm served as a rifleman and grenadier. Brehm was a six-time veteran of the Global War on Terrorism, deploying three times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, and three times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

His awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal for valor, the Army Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, the Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Parachutist Badge, the Jordanian Parachutist Wings and the Ranger Tab. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, Purple Heart and Army Commendation Medals with one Oak Leaf Cluster.

As a Ranger, Brehm selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier direct action raid force, continuously deployed in support of the Global War on Terror, and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Brehm is survived by his wife, Raini, his mother and stepfather Laura & Ed Vawter, his father and stepmother, William, and Linda Brehm and his two brothers, Scott Williams and SPC Chad Williams.

Army Ranger Lead the Way Fund presented Dale’s family with a hand painted portrait of him, commissioned by the American Fallen Soldiers Project, at our annual Gold Star Memorial event.

Staff Sgt. Ricardo Barraza, 24, was a squad leader assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash. He died of wounds sustained from enemy small arms fire while conducting combat operations in western Iraq on March 18, 2006.

After graduating from Shafter High School in Shafter, Calif., Barraza volunteered for military service and entered the Army Aug. 5, 1999. He completed One Station Unit Training, Airborne School and Ranger Indoctrination Program at Fort Benning, Ga.

Assigned to 2nd Ranger Bn. in March 2000, Barraza served in every position of a Ranger rifle squad.

Barraza was a six-time veteran of the Global War on Terrorism, deploying three times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan, and three times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

His awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Achievement Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Army Good Conduct Medal with a two-knot rope, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, the Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Senior Parachutist Badge, the Korean Parachutist Wings, the Jordanian Parachutist Wings and the Ranger Tab. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal for valor, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart and Meritorious Service Medal.

Barraza is survived by his parents, Francisco and Nina Barraza, and two sisters, Amanda and Rachel, of Shafter, Calif., and another sister, Jamie Barraza, and a brother, Frankie Barraza, of Sunnyside, Wash. His fiancé, Meghan K. Harrington, and her daughter, Kayla, of Lacey, Wash., also survive him.

As a Ranger, Barraza distinguished himself as a member to the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of Global War on Terrorism and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Kristophor Tif Stonesifer was born August 20, 1973 in Florida and volunteered for military service with the United States Army, August 7, 2000.

He completed basic training and advanced individual training in the military operational specialty of infantryman at Fort Benning, Georgia. He volunteered for the second time to attend Airborne School. In December 2000, he completed airborne training at Fort Benning, Ga.

A third-time volunteer by requesting to be assigned to the 75th Ranger Regiment, Pvt. 1st Class Stonesifer completed the Ranger Indoctrination Program in December 2000. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment on February 7, 2001. During his military service, he was awarded the Army Achievement Medal.

As a Ranger, Pvt. 1st Class Stonesifer distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit and was a highly trained and motivated soldier.

Spc. John J. Edmunds was born January 3, 1981 in Colorado and volunteered for military service with the United States Army, July 20, 1999.

He completed basic training and advanced individual training in the military operational specialty of infantryman at Fort Benning, Georgia. He volunteered for the second time to attend Airborne School. In November 1999, he completed airborne training at Fort Benning.

A third-time volunteer by requesting to be assigned to the 75th Ranger Regiment, Specialist Edmunds completed the Ranger Indoctrination Program and was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment on December 27, 1999. He continued his Ranger training by graduating from the Ranger School, making him a four-time volunteer.

As a Ranger, Specialist Edmunds distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit and was a highly trained and motivated soldier.

Cpl. Patrick D. Tillman was born in California on Nov. 6, 1976.

In the prime of a stellar football career, which included four years at Arizona State University on athletic scholarship and four years as a defensive back with the National Football League’s Arizona Cardinals, Pat Tillman walked away from a multiyear, multimillion dollar football contract to serve his country as a Soldier in the U.S. Army.

Tillman volunteered for duty with the Army in May 2002, requesting to serve as a member of the 75th Ranger Regiment — the U.S. military’s premier light infantry fighting force.

After entering the Army in July 2002, he completed One Station Unit Training in the military occupational specialty of infantryman at Fort Benning, Ga. Tillman continued his military training at Fort Benning when he attended the Basic Airborne Course in October 2002. After earning his jump wings, he then graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in December 2002.

On Jan. 14, 2003, he was assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Lewis, Wash. He went on to graduate from the U.S. Army Ranger Course in November 2003.

His brother, Spc. Kevin M. Tillman, who played professional baseball for a Cleveland Indians minor league team, also joined the Army on a Ranger contract in 2002. After completing the same training path as Pat, Kevin was also assigned to 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regt.

The Tillmans both deployed several times with their Ranger battalion in support of the Global War on Terrorism and participated in combat operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.

On April 22, 2004, Pat Tillman was fatally wounded when his Ranger unit came under fire during combat operations in southeastern Afghanistan. After he was medically evacuated from the scene, he was pronounced dead by U.S. officials at approximately 11:45 a.m. Eastern Standard Time.

He is survived by his wife, Marie, of San Jose, Calif.; his parents, Patrick K. and Mary L. Tillman, also of California; and his brothers, Kevin and Richard.

His awards and decorations include the Silver Star, the Purple Heart, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Parachutist Badge and the Ranger Tab.

As a Ranger, Cpl. Pat Tillman distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor, and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Pfc. Kristofer D. Thomas died Feb. 18, 2007 in southeastern Afghanistan when a MH-47E helicopter crashed while conducting operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He was assigned to Company B, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga.

He was born Oct. 6, 1988 and his home of record is listed as Roseville, Calif.

After graduating from high school in Roseville, Calif., Thomas volunteered for military service and entered the Army Feb. 9, 2006. By September 2006, he had completed One Station Unit Training, airborne school and Ranger Indoctrination Program at Fort Benning.

Assigned to 2nd Platoon, Company B, 3rd Bn., in September 2006, Thomas served as a rifleman. He was serving as a member of a Site Security Team when he was killed.

His awards and decorations include the Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, and Parachutist Badge. He was posthumously awarded the Good Conduct Medal.

Thomas is survived by his parents, Rodney Thomas of Lincoln, Calif., and Debby Getz of Roseville, Calif.

As a Ranger, Thomas distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Sergeant Jason Anthony Santora, 25, was a team leader assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. He was born on March 11, 1985 in Bethpage, N.Y.

Sgt. Santora was seriously wounded in an engagement with an enemy force in Logar Province, Afghanistan. He later succumbed to his wounds.

He was on his fourth deployment in support of the War on Terror with one previous deployment to Afghanistan and two deployments to Iraq.

After graduating from high school, Sgt. Santora enlisted in the U.S. Army from his hometown of Massapequa Park, N.Y. in March 2006. He completed Infantry One Station Unit Training, the Basic Airborne Course and the Ranger Indoctrination Program at Fort Benning, Ga.

After graduating from the Ranger Indoctrination Program he was then assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment in September 2006 where he served as a mortarman. In June 2008 he was assigned to Company D as a rifle team leader.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Indoctrination Program, and the U.S. Army Ranger Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and Parachutist Badge. He has also been awarded the Army Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Army Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with combat star, Iraq Campaign Medal with two combat stars, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.

He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star and the Meritorious Service Medal.

He is survived by his father Gary Santora of Medford, N.Y., his mother Theresa Santora of Massapequa, N.Y., his sister, Gina Santora of Medford, N.Y., and his uncle Ralph Fico, of Massapequa Park, N.Y.

As a Ranger, Sgt. Jason Santora selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, continuously deployed in support of the Global War on Terror, and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Sgt. Roberto Daniel Sanchez, 24, was a team leader assigned to 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. He was born on July 19, 1985, in Ocala, Fla.

Sanchez was killed during a combat operation in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan Oct.1, 2009. He was on his fifth deployment in support of the War on Terror with three previous deployments to Iraq and one to Afghanistan.

After graduating from Satellite Senior High School in Satellite Beach, Fla., Sanchez enlisted in the U.S. Army from his hometown of Patrick Air Force Base, Fla., July 2004. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

He graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program and was then assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment February 2005 where he served as an automatic rifleman and team leader.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Indoctrination Program, U.S. Army Ranger Course, Emergency Medic Technician Basic Course and Jumpmaster Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Expert Infantryman’s Badge, Parachutist Badge, Army Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with combat star, Iraq Campaign Medal with combat star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Army Service Ribbon.

He is survived by his parents 1st Sgt. Will and Wendy Holland and brothers Jacob Goldberg and Logan Holland of Hendersonville, Tenn., and maternal grandparents James and Mary Wilson of Ocala, Fla.

Spc. Bradley David Rappuhn was an anti-armor specialist assigned to Company B, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. He was born on April 24, 1986, in Lansing, Mich.

He was seriously wounded by an enemy improvised explosive device during a combat operation in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan. Rappuhn was treated immediately by unit medical personnel and quickly evacuated to the nearest treatment facility where he died of his wounds.

Rappuhn was on his first deployment in support of the Global War on Terror.

After graduating from Grand Ledge High School in Grand Ledge, Mich., Rappuhn enlisted in the U.S. Army in January 2009. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course, he was assigned to the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program also at Fort Benning.

Following graduation from the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program in August 2009, Rappuhn was assigned to Company B, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, where he served as an anti-armor specialist.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course and the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program.

Rappuhn’s awards and decorations include the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge. He was also awarded the Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Combat Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Army Service Ribbon.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and Purple Heart.

Rapphun is survived by his father, Cary Rappuhn, of Potterville, Mich., and his mother, Roxanne Rappuhn and his brother, Brent Rappuhn, both of Grand Ledge.

As a Ranger, Rappuhn selflessly lived his life for others while he distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, which remains continuously deployed in support of the War on Terrorism. In every instance he fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Sgt. Jonathan Kellylee Peney “Doc”, 22, was a combat medic assigned to 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. He was born on July 1, 1987, in Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, Florida.

Doc Peney was killed by enemy fire while moving under heavy fire to provide aid to a wounded Ranger in the Kandahar Province, Afghanistan.

He was on his fourth deployment in support of the War on Terror with three previous deployments to Afghanistan.

After graduating from high school, Peney enlisted, at the age of 18, in the U.S. Army from his hometown of Marietta, Ga., in November 2005.

He completed Basic Combat Training at Fort Benning and Combat Medic Training at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. He returned to Fort Benning in June 2006 and completed the Basic Airborne Course and the Ranger Indoctrination Program before attending the Special Operations Combat Medic Course at Fort Bragg, N.C. Peney was then assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment in November 2007.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Indoctrination Program, Special Operations Combat Medic Course and the U.S. Army Ranger Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, Expert Field Medical Badge, and the Parachutist Badge.

He has also been awarded the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with combat star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.

He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart and the Meritorious Service Medal.

Peney is survived by his wife Kristin E. Peney of Savannah, Ga., and his mother Sue L. Peney of LaGrange, Ga. There is a First Aid Station at Fort Benning named after him.

Sgt. Michael C. O’Neill, 22, was an infantryman assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga.

He died Nov. 21, 2004, at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany from non-combat related injuries suffered Nov. 17 in Afghanistan. He was medically evacuated to Germany on Nov. 18.

A native of Mansfield, Ohio, O’Neill deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom last month — his third OEF deployment since 2002. He had also deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003.

After graduating from Mansfield High School, O’Neill entered the Army in June 2001 and completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there in November, he was assigned to the Ranger Training Detachment, 75th Ranger Regt.

O’Neill graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in December 2001 and was then assigned to 3rd Bn., 75th Ranger Regt., where he served as an automatic rifleman.

His military education includes the U.S. Army Ranger Course, Basic Airborne Course, Team Leader Course and Primary Leadership Development Course.

O’Neill’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Expert Infantryman Badge, Combat Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge and Ranger Tab.

O’Neill is survived by his parents, George and Holly O’Neill, and his brother, George K. O’Neill, all of Mansfield, Ohio.

As a Ranger, Sgt. Michael O’Neill distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor, and high esprit de corps” of the 75th Ranger Regiment.

Sgt. Andrew Cote Nicol, 23, was a team leader assigned to Company B, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. He was born on Feb. 7, 1987 and was a native of Kensington, N.H.

Nicol was seriously wounded by an enemy improvised explosive device during a combat operation in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan. He was treated immediately by unit medical personnel and quickly evacuated to the nearest treatment facility where he died of his wounds.

He was on his fifth combat deployment. Nicol had previously deployed twice to Afghanistan and twice to Iraq.

After graduating from Exeter High School, Nicol enlisted in the U.S. Army in July 2006. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course, he was assigned to the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program also at Fort Benning.

Following graduation from the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program in March 2007, Nicol was assigned to Company B, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, where he served as a rifleman and a team leader.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, the U.S. Army Ranger Course and the Warrior Leader Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge, and the Parachutist Badge. Nicol was also awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Combat Star, Iraq Campaign Medal with Combat Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon and Overseas Service Ribbon.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and Purple Heart.

Nicol is survived by his parents Roland and Patricia Nicol of Kensington, N. H.

As a Ranger, Nicol selflessly lived his life for others while he distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, which remains continuously deployed in support of the War on Terrorism. In every instance he fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Sgt. 1st Class David L. McDowell, 30, was a platoon sergeant assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Lewis, Wash.He was born in Hawaii on Oct. 17, 1977.

He was wounded by enemy fire while conducting combat operations and later died on April 29, 2008 near Bastion, Afghanistan. McDowell was serving in his seventh combat deployment. His previous deployments were to Afghanistan and Iraq.

After graduating from Poway High School in Poway, Calif., McDowell enlisted in the Army from his hometown of Ramona in July 1996. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning,Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

He graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in November 1996 and was then assigned to 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment in December 1996. He served there as an automatic rifleman, machine gun team leader, fire team leader, rifle squad leader, and weapons squad leader. In 2005, he was assigned to the Regimental Training Detachment as a pre Ranger Course instructor at Fort Benning. Following that assignment, McDowell returned to    2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment as a platoon sergeant in 2006.

His military education includes Basic Airborne Course, Nuclear Hazards Course, Ranger Course,Warrior Leader Course, Jump master Course, Combat Lifesaver Course, Basic Non commissioned Officer Course, and the Advanced Non commissioned Officer Course.

McDowell’s awards and decorations include Bronze Star Medal with Valor device, Army Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Army Achievement Medal with three oak leaf clusters, three Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, three NCO Professional Development Ribbons, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, and the Ranger Tab.

He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal with Valor device and Meritorious Service Medal.

He is survived by his wife Joleen, son Joshua and daughter Erin of Lakewood, Wash., his mother Laurie Ann Wathen of Julian, Calif., and father Steven L. McDowell of Hope Mills, N.C.

As a Ranger, Sgt. 1 st Class David L. McDowell distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism, and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor, and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Sgt. Martin Anthony Lugo, 24, was a squad leader assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. He was born on April 22, 1986, and was a native of Tucson, Ariz.

Sgt. Lugo was seriously wounded in a fire fight with the enemy during a combat operation in Logar Province, Afghanistan. He was treated immediately by unit medical personnel and quickly evacuated to the nearest treatment facility where he died of his wounds.

He was on his sixth deployment in support of the War on Terror. He had previously deployed three times to Afghanistan and twice to Iraq.

After graduating from high school in Tucson, Lugo enlisted in the U.S. Army in September 2004. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., as an infantryman. Then after graduating from the Basic Airborne Course, he was assigned to the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program at Fort Benning, Ga. Following graduation from the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, Lugo was assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment in April 2005, where he served as an ammunition handler, automatic rifleman, team leader and squad leader.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, the U.S. Army Ranger Course, the Warrior Leader Course, and the Reconnaissance and Surveillance Leader Course.

Lugo’s awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge. He was also awarded the Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two combat stars, Iraq Campaign Medal with combat star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon and Overseas Service Ribbon.

He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and Purple Heart.

He is survived by his father, Martin Lugo; his mother Maria Marin and step-father Esteban Oropeza; and, his sister Leslie Bencic and his brother-in-law Christopher Bencic, all of Tucson, Ariz.

As a Ranger, Lugo selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, continuously deployed in support of the War on Terror, and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and the Nation.

Sgt. Ronald Alan Kubik, 21, was a rifle team leader assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga.. He was born on June 22, 1988 in Point Pleasant, N.J.

Sgt. Kubik was seriously wounded in an engagement with an enemy force in Logar Province, Afghanistan. He later succumbed to his wounds.

He was on his third deployment in support of the War on Terror with one previous deployment to Iraq and one to Afghanistan.

After graduating from high school, Sgt. Kubik enlisted in the U.S. Army from his hometown of Manchester, N.J. in March 2007. He completed Infantry One Station Unit Training, the Basic Airborne Course and the Ranger Indoctrination Program at Fort Benning, Ga.

After graduating from the Ranger Indoctrination Program, he was then assigned to Company D, 3rd Battalion, and 75th Ranger Regiment in October 2007 where he served as an assistant machine gunner and a team leader.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Indoctrination Program and the U.S. Army Ranger Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Parachutist Badge. He has also been awarded the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with combat star, Iraq Campaign Medal with combat star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Army Service Ribbon.

He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and the Meritorious Service Medal.

He is survived by his father Ronald A. Kubik of Hazlet, N.J., his mother Eileen M. Kubik of Point Pleasant, N.J., and his sisters Mary K and Amy L. Kubik of Manchester, N.J.

As a Ranger, Sgt. Ronald Kubik selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, continuously deployed in support of the Global War on Terror, and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Cpl. Benjamin S. Kopp, was a rifleman assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. He was born on Jan. 20, 1988, in Minneapolis, Minn.

Kopp was seriously wounded during a combat operation in southern Afghanistan, July 10. Kopp was medically evacuated through Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany to Walter Reed Medical Center,Washington, D.C., where he died as a result of his wounds July 18. His unit had attacked into a Taliban safe haven where they fought a determined enemy from multiple directions for several hours, resulting in the killing of more than 10 Taliban fighters.

Kopp was on his third deployment in support of the War on Terror with two previous deployments to Iraq.

After graduating from Rosemount High School, Kopp enlisted in the U.S. Army from his hometown of Rosemont, Minn., July 2006. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

He graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program and was then assigned to Company C, 3rd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment June 2007 where he served as a Rifleman.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Indoctrination Program, and the U.S.Army Ranger Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, Army Achievement Medal with two awards, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon and the Parachutist Badge. Kopp was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, Purple Heart and the Meritorious Service Medal.

Kopp is survived by his mother Jill Stephenson of Rosemont, Minn., and his father Duane Kopp of Minnetonka, Minn.

Cpl. Michael D. Jankiewicz was a machine gun team leader assigned to Company A, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. He was born on Jan. 23, 1987, in Ridgewood, N.J.

Jankiewicz was killed during a combat operation in Zabul Province, Afghanistan April 9, 2010, when the CV-22 Osprey aircraft in which he was riding crashed. He was rapidly pulled from the wreckage and treated by unit medical personal, but succumbed quickly to the injuries he had sustained.

Jankiewicz was on his fourth deployment in support of the War on Terror with one previous deployment to Afghanistan and two to Iraq.

After graduating from Ramsey High School in Ramsey, N.J., Jankiewicz enlisted in the U.S. Army in July 2006 in Philadelphia. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga. as an Infantryman. Then after graduating from the Basic Airborne Course, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

Following graduation from the Ranger Indoctrination Program, Jankiewicz was assigned to Company A, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment in May 2007 where he served as a Grenadier, Machine Gunner, and Machine Gun Team Leader.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Indoctrination Program, and the U.S. Army Ranger Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman’s Badge and the Parachutist Badge. He has also been awarded the Army Achievement Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Meritorious Service Medal.

Pvt. John M. Henderson, Jr. died during combat operations in Afghanistan Aug. 4, 2005, during a mounted combat patrol northeast of Jalalabad, Afghanistan.

He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga.

A 21-year-old native of Columbus, Ga., Henderson enlisted in the Army in December 2004 and completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning as a mortar man. He graduated from the Basic Airborne Course in April 2005 and was assigned to the Ranger Training Detachment, 75th Ranger Regt. Henderson graduated from Ranger Indoctrination Program in May and was assigned to 3rd Bn. in July 2005.

Henderson’s awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon and the Parachutist Badge. He was posthumously awarded the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal and the Combat Infantryman Badge.

Henderson is survived by his father John Henderson, his mother Susan Henderson and his sisters, Amy and Sarah.

As a Ranger, Henderson distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Pfc. Eric W. Hario, 19, was an infantryman assigned to 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. He was born Dec. 9, 1989, in Monroe, Mich.

Hario was wounded by enemy fire while conducting combat operations in the vicinity of Paktika Province, Afghanistan, on Aug. 29, 2009. He was medically evacuated to a combat support hospital where he died.

He was on his first deployment in support of the War on Terror.

After graduating from Monroe High School where he lettered in football and wrestling, Hario enlisted in the U.S. Army in June 2008.

He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

Upon graduation from the Ranger Indoctrination Program, he was assigned to Company A, 1st Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment in January 2009 where he served as a grenadier.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course and the Ranger Indoctrination Program.

His awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon and the Parachutist Badge.

Hario is survived by his parents Rebecca and James Hario, brother Mark of Monroe, Mich., and brother U.S. Army Spc. Robert Hario.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart.

Spc. Christopher Gathercole, age 21, was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. He was born on Oct. 16, 1986.

He was killed on May 26, 2008, near Ghazni, Afghanistan while conducting combat operations.

After graduating from Rincon High School in Carpinteria, Calif., Gathercole enlisted in the Army from his hometown of Santa Rosa, Calif., in October 2005 and completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

He graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in May 2006 and was then assigned to 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment in June 2006. He was a lightweight machine (MK46) gunner.

Gathercole’s awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, the National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge and Parachutist Badge.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star with Valor, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal and the Army Good Conduct Medal.

Gathercole is survived by his brother Edward F. Gathercole, sister Jennifer Daly and father Edward R. Gathercole both of Santa Rosa and his mother Catherine Ferrell of Fairfield, Calif.

Pfc. Damian J. Garza died during combat operations in Afghanistan Aug. 4, 2005, during a mounted combat patrol northeast of Jalalabad, Afghanistan.

Garza, 19, was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga.

A native of Midland, Texas, Garza deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in July 2005.

Garza enlisted in the Army in April 2004 and completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Training Detachment, 75th Ranger Regt.

He graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in November 2004 and was then assigned to 3rd Bn., where served as an ammunition bearer.

Garza’s awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Award, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge. He was posthumously awarded the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal.

As a Ranger, Garza distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of Global War on Terrorism and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Pfc. Ryan C. Garbs died Feb. 18, 2007 in southeastern Afghanistan, when a MH-47E helicopter crashed while conducting operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He was assigned to Company B, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga..

Garbs was born on Oct. 18, 1986, and his home of record is listed as Edwardsville, Ill.

After graduating from Edwardsville High School in 2005, Garbs volunteered for service in the U.S. Army. He completed basic training and advanced individual training in the military occupational specialty of Infantryman at Fort Benning, Ga. He continued his military training and graduated from the United States Army Airborne School in February 2006. Following graduation from the Ranger Indoctrination Program, he was assigned to 1st Platoon, B Company, 3d Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment in March 2006.

Garbs was a two-time veteran of the Global War on Terrorism, deploying in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom. While assigned to 3rd Bn., he served as a grenadier and riflemen.

His awards and decorations include the Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal.

Garbs is survived by his parents, Doug and Jill Garbs of Edwardsville, Ill. and his sister Melanie Neely of Fairfield, Calif.

As a Ranger, Garbs distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor and high ‘esprit de corps’” of the Ranger Regiment.

Staff Sgt. Jason Sean Dahlke, 29, was a squad leader assigned to 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. He was born Nov. 8, 1979, in Tampa, Fla.

He was killed by enemy fire while conducting combat operations August 29, 2009 in the vicinity of the Paktika Province, Afghanistan. Dahlke was on his sixth deployment in support of the War on Terror with three previous deployments to Iraq and two deployments to Afghanistan.

Dahlke enlisted in the U.S. Army from his hometown of Jacksonville, Fla., May 2004. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

He graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in December 2005 and was then assigned to Company A, 1st Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment in June 1, 2005. He served there as a rifleman, grenadier, machine gunner, fire-team leader, section leader and squad leader. He then moved to the battalion recon platoon serving for one deployment as an advisor to local, national forces. Dahlke returned to Co. A as a squad leader February 2009 and served in that position until his death.

His military education includes Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Course, Warrior Leader Course, and Jumpmaster Course.

Dahlke’s awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, the Purple Heart, two Army Commendation Medals, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart and Meritorious Service Medal.

He is survived by his wife Nikole M. Norvell Dahlke of Richmond Hill, Ga., father Roger Dahlke of Jacksonville, Fla., and his mother Deborah DeLaney of St. Augustine, Fla.

Bradley S. Crose, 22, was from Orange Park, Florida, and volunteered for military service with the United States Army, June 6, 1998.

He completed basic training and advanced individual training in the military operational specialty of infantryman at Fort Benning, Georgia. Sergeant Crose volunteered for the second time to attend Airborne School and completed his airborne training at Fort Benning, Georgia. On November 20, 1998, he was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia. He earned his Ranger Tab at Fort Benning. He was also a graduate of the Primary Leadership Development Course.

Sergeant Crose held many positions while assigned to 1st Battalion. He was killed while fighting the Taliban and Al-Qaeda during Operation Anaconda, the most intense fighting thus far in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. He died March 3 in combat after enemy gunfire forced down a MH-47 Chinook helicopter, in which he and his fellow Rangers were aboard.

As a Ranger, Sergeant Crose distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit and was a highly trained and motivated soldier.

He is survived by his father Mr. Ricky Crose, and his mother Ms. Sheila Maguhn, both of Orange Park, Florida.

Matthew A. Commons, 21, was from Boulder City, Nevada, and volunteered for military service with the United States Army, July 7, 2000.

He completed basic training and advanced individual training in the military operational specialty of infantryman at Fort Benning, Georgia. He volunteered for the second time to attend Airborne School and completed his airborne training at Fort Benning, Georgia. On April 4, 2001, he was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia.

Corporal Commons was a M203 Grenade Launcher Gunner while assigned to 1st Battalion. He was killed while fighting the Taliban and Al-Qaeda during Operation Anaconda, the most intense fighting thus far in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. He died March 3 in combat after enemy gunfire forced down a MH-47 Chinook helicopter, in which he and his fellow Rangers were aboard.

As a Ranger, Corporal Commons distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit and was a highly trained and motivated soldier. He was posthumously promoted to corporal from private first class.

His parents, Mr. Greg Commons and Ms. Patricia Marck, both of Alexandria, Virginia, survive him.

Sgt. Joel David Clarkson, 23, was a team leader assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. He was born on Oct. 8, 1986.

Clarkson was seriously wounded during a fierce direct-fire combat engagement against a heavily armed and determined enemy in Farah Province, Afghanistan, March 13. He was treated by unit medics, immediately evacuated to the nearest medical treatment facility, and subsequently transferred to Landstuhl Regional Hospital, Landstuhl, Germany where he died March 16. He was on his fifth deployment in support of the War on Terror with three previous deployments to Iraq and one to Afghanistan.

Clarkson enlisted in the U.S. Army from his hometown of Fairbanks, Alaska in February 2006. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Indoctrination Program also at Fort Benning.

Following graduation from the Ranger Indoctrination Program, Clarkson was assigned to Company A, 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment in September 2006 where he served as a grenadier, Squad Automatic Weapon gunner and a team leader. His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Ranger Indoctrination Program, U.S. Army Ranger Course, Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape Course, and the Warrior Leader Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, the Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with combat star, Iraq Campaign Medal with combat star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon and the Overseas Service Ribbon.

Clarkson was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Army Commendation Medal.

Clarkson is survived by his son Orion, now 11, who was one at the time of his passing; his parents, Karen and Steven Clarkson of Fairbanks, Alaska, and his older sister, Jessica who resides in Hong Kong. Tragically, in early 2019, his wife Kassandra died at the age of 29. Orion now resides with his grandmother Karen, who is his legal guardian. 

Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund has kept close contact with Orion and Grandma Karen. We provided them with financial assistance while she obtained custody and supported him as he attended a 3-month therapeutic camp during the summer of 2020. Now technically an orphan, Orion has a long road ahead of him due to the severity of his needs and his grief. We are committed to him for the long-term to ensure he has a happy and fruitful life.

Sgt. Jay A. Blessing was born Jan. 4, 1980, in Washington and claimed Tacoma as home.

He was killed Nov. 14, 2003, in eastern Afghanistan after an improvised explosive device detonated as his unit was conducting a combat patrol there.

Blessing volunteered for Army service in August 1998. He completed One Station Unit Training in the military operational specialty of infantryman at Fort Benning, Ga. Blessing continued his military training at Fort Benning when he attended the Basic Airborne Course in November 1998 and then graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in January 1999. On January 28, 1999, he was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Lewis, Wash. He went on to graduate from the U.S. Army Ranger Course and the Primary Leadership Development Course and was promoted to sergeant in June 2002.

His awards and decorations include the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, the Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Parachutist Badge and the Ranger Tab.

Blessing is survived by his father, James A. Blessing, of Tacoma, Wash., and his brother, Jason Blessing, also of Tacoma. His mother, Carol Lee M. Blessing, is deceased.

As a Ranger, Sgt. Jay Blessing distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, traveled to all corners of the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism, and fought valiantly to “uphold the prestige, honor, and high esprit de corps” of the 75th Ranger Regiment.

Marc A. Anderson, 30, was from Brandon, Florida, and volunteered for military service with the United States Army, July 15, 1998.

He completed basic training and advanced individual training in the military operational specialty of infantryman at Fort Benning, Georgia. Specialist Anderson volunteered for the second time to attend Airborne School and completed his airborne training at Fort Benning, Georgia. On March 18, 1999, he was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia. He earned his Ranger Tab at Fort Benning.

Specialist Anderson was a Machine Gunner while assigned to 1st Battalion. He was killed while fighting the Taliban and Al-Qaeda during Operation Anaconda, the most intense fighting thus far in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. He died March 3 in combat after enemy gunfire forced down a MH-47 Chinook helicopter, in which he and his fellow Rangers were aboard.

As a Ranger, Specialist Anderson distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit and was a highly trained and motivated soldier.

His parents, Mr. and Mrs. David L. Anderson, of Jacksonville, Florida, survive him.

Sgt. Justin Bradley Allen, 23, was a team leader assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. He was born on Aug. 7, 1986 in Ashland, Ky.

He was killed in a fire fight with enemy forces on July 18, 2010, while conducting a combat operation in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan. Allen was leading an assault on an enemy position when he was mortally wounded by enemy small arms fire.

He was on his fourth deployment. He had previously deployed twice to Iraq and once to Afghanistan.

After graduating from Dawson Bryant High School, Allen enlisted in the U.S. Army in May 2006. He completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga. as an Infantryman. Then after graduating from the Basic Airborne Course, he was assigned to the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program at Fort Benning.

Following graduation from the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, Allen was assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment in October 2007 where he served as a grenadier and automatic rifleman. He was later transferred to Company D where he served as a team leader.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, the U.S. Army Ranger Course, and Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge and the U.S. Army Basic Rifle Marksmanship Qualification Badge. He was also awarded the Joint Service Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with combat star, Iraq Campaign Medal with combat star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and Purple Heart.

He is survived by his parents Roger and Bonnie Sue Allen of Coal Grove, Ohio.

As a Ranger, Allen selflessly lived his life for others while he distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, which remains continuously deployed in support of the Global War on Terrorism. In every instance he fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Sgt. Anibal Santiago was born August 26th, 1972 in Puerto Rico.

Santiago entered the U. S. Navy in 1991 and served until 1995. Following his Naval service, he served as a policeman in Rockford, Ill., from 1999 to 2005 and also graduated from Elgin Community College with a Liberal Arts degree.

Following his service in the Navy, Santiago entered the U. S. Army on Oct. 1, 2007 and after completion of the One Station Unit Training and the Ranger Indoctrination Program, he was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment on Sept. 30, 2008. He served as a sniper and as a sniper team leader.

Santiago died from injuries sustained as a result of a high-altitude fall while conducting combat operations over mountainous terrain in Khowst Province, Afghanistan. Treated immediately by unit medical personnel, he was quickly evacuated to the nearest medical treatment facility where he died July 18.

Santiago completed numerous military courses while serving in the Army, including the Combat Life Savers Course, Combatives Level One, the Sniper Course, the Airborne Course, the Ranger Indoctrination Program, and the U.S. Army Ranger Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Parachutist Badge. He has also been awarded the Navy Unit Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Navy Good Conduct Medal, The Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, The South West Asia Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, the Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, and the Army Service Ribbon. Santiago was serving his third deployment having previously deployed once to Afghanistan and once to Iraq.

He was posthumously recommended for the Bronze Star Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal.

Santiago is survived by his wife, Mandy Santiago of Fort Benning, Ga.,, son Hannibal of Belvidere, Ill., stepsons Desmond and Darian, from Fort Benning, and his parents Anibal and Maria Santiago of Belvidere, Ill.

As a Ranger, Santiago selflessly lived his life for others while he distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, which remains continuously deployed in support of the Global War on Terrorism. In every instance he fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

Spc. Joseph Whiting Dimock, II, was a rifleman assigned to 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. He was born on May 25, 1989 in Libertyville, Ill.

Dimock died in Afghanistan, when an explosion occurred in an ammunition holding facility while conducting an inventory.

He was on his third deployment with one previous deployment to Afghanistan, and one to Iraq.

After graduating from Warren Township High School in Gurnee, Ill, Dimock enlisted in the U.S. Army from his hometown of Wildwood, Ill., in August 2007.

He completed both Basic Combat Training and the Basic Airborne Course at Fort Benning, Ga. In September 2008, he completed the Ranger Indoctrination Program and was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment in November 2007. In March 2009, he was assigned to A Company, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, and later was transferred to E Company, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment in August 2009.

His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course and the U.S. Army Ranger Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Parachutist Badge.

He has also been awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.

He was posthumously awarded with the Bronze Star Medal and Army Commendation Medal.

Dimock is survived by his parents Joseph and Ellen Dimock of Wildwood, Ill.

As a Ranger, Joseph Whiting Dimock, Ill, lived his life in service of others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army’s premier light-infantry unit, continuously deployed in support of the Global War on Terror, valiantly serving his fellow Rangers and our great nation.

CPT Kyle Aaron Comfort, 27, was a Fire Support Officer assigned to Company D, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. He was born on Oct. 17, 1982 in Alabama. He was killed in action on May 8, 2010 during a combat operation in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

After graduating from Jacksonville State University, Jacksonville, Ala., in 2006 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice, Comfort was commissioned as a Field Artillery Officer.

He initially served as a company Fire Support Officer and Platoon Leader with the 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment and 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, both 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky. He deployed to Iraq from October 2007 to November 2008 with the 101st.

He then completed assessment and selection for assignment into the 75th Ranger Regiment in February 2010 where he subsequently served as a Fire Support Officer for Company D, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment stationed at Fort Benning, Ga. He was on his first deployment to Afghanistan. Comfort‘s military education includes the Field Artillery Officer Basic Course, Air Assault Course, Basic Airborne Course and the U.S. Army Ranger Course.

His awards and decorations include the Ranger Tab, Parachutist Badge, and the Air Assault Badge. He has also been awarded the Bronze Star Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with combat star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and Combat Action Badge.

As a Ranger, Comfort selflessly lived his life for others and distinguished himself as a member of the Army‘s premier light-infantry unit, continuously deployed in support of the Global War on Terror, and fought valiantly as he served his fellow Rangers and our great Nation.

He is survived by his wife Brooke and their daughter Kinleigh of Jacksonville, AL; and his mother Ellen Comfort of Anniston, AL. Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund continues to engage with Brooke and Kinleigh to ensure there is no shortfall for their needs. We provided financial support for such things as summer camp and a new air conditioning compressor.  We also presented Brooke and Kinleigh with a hand-painted portrait of Kyle, commissioned by the American Fallen Soldier’s Project, at our annual Gold Star Memorial event.