The RAMS Forum

I saw this post this morning and had to post here. Seriously one of the greatest post I have ever read in regards of today...just wonderfully written and thought out... Take some time on Memorial Day to remember the fallen. It's the least we can do to repay them for their sacrifice.

The former Tier One operator, Chris Fettes wrote the following:

"As the years turn I am grateful for the day dedicated to remembering our fallen. Our small communities of special forces operators, families, and veterans get a lot of public attention because the lifestyle is profoundly interesting to people. What’s not so visible are the moments of fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, sons and daughters doing their best to live a fulfilling life after such profound loss. The faces of overwhelming grief were some of the most difficult moments to witness. Regardless of the agendas, politics, and corruption in the business of wars, the special thing we have in the soldiers of this Country, is knowing the reasons we fight. For each other, for every citizen regardless of their beliefs, or entitlement to protection- therefore Country, and God. To block out the noise and do the job. Duty is a purpose. Freedom is paid for by our fallen and we should collectivity stop taking it for granted. Many understand, but many more just don’t. In our small communities Memorial Day is every day."

I wanted to acknowledge (if that is the right word) Johnny Micheal Spann. He was the first American killed in action during war on terror. I don't know why I remember him, but I do remember the chaos he was involved in after the Americans which there were few captured 100s of Taliban and were trying to disarm them. One of the Taliban had a grenade and killed himself and Spann. These American were so brave and courageous. Just wanted to add one more name that has always been with me.

The first American killed in the War in Afghanistan was Johnny Micheal Spann, a 32-year-old CIA paramilitary officer. He died on November 25, 2001, during a prisoner uprising at Qala-i-Jangi, a fort near Mazar-e Sharif, according to multiple news sources. He was part of Team Alpha, one of the first US groups to operate behind enemy lines in Afghanistan.

I want correct one thing Spann died in hand to hand combat as he was overwhelmed by Taliban.

I haven't been online this week but great posts you guys. Memorial day is one of our most important holidays. In my opinion, if anybody has a month dedicated to them it should be military veterans and their families.