| When the time comes to honor another
of our fallen warrior it is never any easier and never will be. The one we honor
today had his sites set on a career in the military. One can easily discern this
when noting the rank and age at the time of his demise. Robert was a SSGT E-6
when he entered Vietnam. He as most career soldiers was aware he may one day face
war. At the age 27 years old he entered the Vietnam war, his age and time of service
was an asset to the younger soldiers, who's average age was 20-22 years old. The
majority were not career soldiers, but rather had answered the call to duty. They
wanted to do their duty and get home. Rightfully so! Robert was different in that
respect but, like all men, he had a natural fear of the unknown. He, however,
would display the will to control and overcome fear as a deterrent to do what
he was called to do. God ordained him for such a day and he answered. Why he died
so young, is for God to explain His was to serve in a most dangerous unit, a unit
that was and is "ELITE", standing out among others. Robert could have opted to
serve with a rifle company, but instead volunteered for one of the most dangerous
units to serve in in Vietnam. "The Long Range Patrol Rangers". Why? The competitive
spirit that had enabled him to obtain the rank of SSgt E-6, was alive and active.
He wanted to walk with extra ordinary men, those that chose to live on the edge.
Living on the edge for personal reasons, as well to fulfill a definite need. Commanders
of the larger combat units needed information, information that only could begotten
by use of small patrol ( 4 men ) inserted deep in the enemy's back yard. Information
that would enable the commanders to plan and execute successful operations against
the enemy. The LRP/Rangers teams, who at great personal risk to their own lives,
did make a difference in the outcome of many battles fought by larger units. They
were the eyes and ears for unit commanders. It was during such action that Robert,
while leading his team did receive the mortal wounds that would take him from
the realm in which we live. I as well as all who have served in such units am
proud to call him brother.
We, brother warriors salute and remember our brother
Robert, not only as a Ranger but for being who he was, one that enables us to
fly our "FLAG" high, representing a free Nation and a reminder that many gave
their life blood for all freedom loving people. We have heard it before and will
continue as long as we live, to hear" All gave some, Some gave all!" Robert gave
all and will only be forgotten when no one takes the time to remember. Give a
moment and tell someone about his sacrifice. Hope remains alive when we see warriors
such as him, willing to take the stand for liberty and justice for all!
If
anyone has contact with the loved ones, please take a moment to let them know
we honor Him for his contribution to the life we enjoy, a life he too cherished,
but was willing to lay it down for what he believed. Please feel free to share
with us and the world at large, any memories you have of your time with him. It
will truly be welcomed and appreciated.
To the family that has had to bear
the loss of Robert, we offers our heart-felt thanks for your standing so strong
Many that enjoy real freedom have been affected by the great contribution he gave
towards our freedom. He is still dearly loved and missed, even to this day.
Bob Smyers |
