Remembering SGT James J. Regan – June 27, 1980 – February 9, 2007

Thursday, February 9, 2017 marks the 10-year Anniversary since Sgt. James J. Regan, Fire Team Leader with the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, was killed by an IED in Northern Iraq. A beloved son, brother, grandson, fiancé and dear friend to so many, Jimmy’s loss was a devastating tragedy.

Jimmy was an exemplary scholar-athlete at Chaminade High School on Long Island. Recognized for his academic, sports and community achievements, he was then recruited by Duke University on a lacrosse scholarship where he helped lead the team to two ACC championships. In 2002, Jimmy graduated with a degree in economics and was poised on the brink of a happy and fulfilling life when he answered the call to defend his country.

Inspired to honor his character, courage and dedication to his Ranger Brothers, the Regan family and friends created Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund “LTWF.”  Through the work of LTWF’s Ranger Assistance Programs, the family found a way to keep Jimmy’s memory alive, and ensure that the vast needs of those who give of themselves so selflessly to protect our Nation were not going unmet.

“It’s hard to believe that it has been 10 years since we lost Jimmy. It doesn’t get easier, we miss him every single day,” stated James P. Regan, co-founder and CEO of Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund.

In the 10 years since Jimmy’s death, Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund has made a positive impact on the lives of thousands of Ranger families through our Ranger Support and Transition Programs. With over 23 consecutive deployments, per Battalion, in support of the Global War on Terrorism since 9/11, the needs continue to mount, and our men are still on the front lines.

Whether on the battlefield, going through rehabilitation and recovery, or making the transition to the next phase of their lives, the emotional and financial stress our Rangers face is daunting. LTWF continues to ensure that the assistance programs evolve as the ongoing needs of Rangers and their families do. Larger initiatives LTWF is currently focused on are building adaptive smart homes for the most severely wounded Rangers and expanding the Ranger Transition Program, helping Rangers interested in advanced education and careers navigate the tough terrain of transition from military back to civilian life.

“Knowing that Jimmy would be proud of how far we have come, and how many lives we have touched, gives us the comfort and the resolve to keep pushing forward with our mission. As long as our Rangers need us, we stand ready to support them.” Regan added.

For more information about Army Ranger Lead The Way Fund, please visit www.leadthewayfund.org.

# # #