Really Rude Rudy's Blog of the Week
. . . no chop goes unbusted
Introduction
Semper Rudis!
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IN MEMORIAM
SGT. JOSHUA M. BOYD
A TRUE AMERICAN HERO
On 5 March 2007, a vehicle on patrol from C Co, 2/505th Parachute Infantry Regiment struck an improvised explosive device in the city of Samarra, Iraq. Several of the vehicle's occupants died on the scene. Others suffered grievous wounds and needed immediate assistance. Joshua M. Boyd dismounted his vehicle, along with others in his unit, and ran forward to aid the wounded without regard to his own safety. While he sought to save others' lives, a secondary explosive devise detonated via pressure plate, severely wounding Boyd and injuring or killing most of the others with him. Sgt. Boyd knew this was a real risk, but he just wanted to save the lives of his brothers in arms.
Medical personnel at FOB Olson stabilized him then sent him on to COB Anaconda, where he underwent multiple amputations. He then moved to Lahndstuhl, Germany and, subsequently, to Brooke Army Medical Center where his mother joined him. Despite the valiant efforts of the medical personnel, Sgt. Boyd died on 15 March 2007 from his injuries. We want to thank all who did their best to save this fine young American.
Though many will never hear of Sgt. Boyd's bravery, those who knew him will forever remember him as a decent and strong man, a brave soldier, and a beloved son and friend. His fellow soldiers called him a great guy. He was always willing to help out his fellow paratroopers. A former infantryman, he took great pride in being a "tactically able medic." He was also an unusually gifted fix-it and handy man, and he always seemed to be helping with multiple construction projects and helping out the local SF ODA team. And though he took some ribbing for his thick glasses, he always did so with a smile and good grace.
Joshua Boyd was a medic who devoted his life to saving lives. In the end, at the age of 30, he made the ultimate sacrifice while trying to save the lives of others. He was posthumously promoted to the rank of SGT and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his actions. We would like to extend to the friends and family of Joshua M. Boyd our humblest and most sincere condolences on the loss of this fine young man and hero. He will be missed. Rest in Peace, Joshua.
The Cat’s Creed
This is my ribbon.
There are many like it, but this one is MINE.
Well, actually, those other ones are mine too,
but right now I’m focused on this one.
Where was I? Oh yeah.
My ribbon is my best friend.
It is my life, except for when my toy mouse is my life.
I really love mouse.
He’s so furry, and when my mom throws him for me — oh, uh.
My ribbon without me is useless.
Without my ribbon, I am useless . . .
unless I have my mouse . . .
or unless I have one of those other ribbons.
Actually, my mom says I’m pretty useless.
Hmm. Wonder if that includes when I have my ribbon?
I must chew my ribbon before it strangles me.
I will learn its weaknesses, its strengths.
I will ever guard it against the ravages of teeth and claws.
What? You think I can’t see those other cats lusting after MY ribbon?
I see them.
They’re there every day.
But this is MY ribbon.
My ribbon is my life.
I am my ribbon’s life.
We are one.
In honor of our outstanding Marines,
MGen William H. Rupertus, USMC,
and in recognition of the essential truths
contained in the Rifleman’s Creed
and in the glorious RIBBON.
Semper Rudis
