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Decorated Soldier Trains Future Warriors

May-30-2009 » Filed Under: 4/2 SBCT

Via FOB Tacoma we found another article by the LA Times regarding former 4/2 SBCT soldier, Spc. Erik Oropeza, who was recently awarded the Distinguished Service Cross.

On his fifth Memorial Day holiday as a U.S. soldier, Spc. Erik Oropeza had much to reflect on.

Only 22, he has felt the earth shudder from mortar and bomb blasts, faced down enemies who outnumbered and outgunned him, and seen good friends die. While others took Monday off to enjoy picnics with their families, Oropeza's thoughts were with the men who stood with him through the test of combat.

"I don't celebrate Memorial Day like other people do," he said. "It's a sad day for me."

This year, Oropeza was awarded the Army's second-highest decoration for valor. And now the quiet young soldier has a new role: helping to train those headed for combat.

Related:

Distinguished Service Cross awarded for saving lives in Iraq - Stryker Brigade News


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