Farewell My Brother...

Over 3 decades ago, I was assigned to the 7th Division (LightFighter) in Fort Ord, California. I had just graduated cross-training school as a combat medic, when I learned I was being reassigned to another unit to be deployed to Honduras. Like a good soldier, and the low man on the totem pole, I packed my gear and marched myself to the 571st MP Company, and prepared for deployment.

Upon arrival to this new Company, a big, baby-faced fella, by the name of Tommy Fritz was the first to make his introduction. I was the new guy, from an entirely different unit, and his gracious greeting and befriending was appreciated. Ultimately, we ended up in Hondo and began our work as one of "Uncle Ollie's" freedom fighters.

This morning, before I could even tell my wife "Happy Valentine's Day," I was texted by another Hondo commando, who informed me of Fritzy's passing. He was 52. Retired from the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections.

At the Ord, we were a rapid-deployment force, where - at a moments notice - we could be anywhere in the world in 18 hours, ready-for-the fight. Ord had a color-coding system for alert status: White Bayonet (call in) - Red Bayonet (report for mock dress out) and Blue Bayonet (Kiss your loved ones, cause you were flying off). Fritzy was called today on - his final - Blue Bayonet.

I will not forget my friend, colleague, and comrade-in-arms. Today, I, and the rest of his unit who survives him will stand vigil - if only virtually-until our friend lands on the other side to set up the LZ. So long, Fritzy! LightFighter!!