On this Memorial Day: 1LT. Roslyn L. Schulte

1st Lt. Roslyn L. Schulte, 25, of St. Louis, Mo., died May 20 near Kabul, Afghanistan of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. She was assigned to the Headquarters, Pacific Air Forces Command, Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.

Lt. Schulte is the first female graduate of the Air Force Academy ever to die from enemy fire.

Robert Schulte remembers asking his 2-year-old daughter what she wanted to be when she grew up. "Chairman of the board," she replied.

Robert Schulte recalled the moment through tears Wednesday, just hours after Air Force representatives informed him that his only daughter, 1st Lt. Roslyn Schulte, 25, had been killed by a roadside bomb in Kabul, Afghanistan. The Department of Defense had no further details on the attack.

"Even at that age, she didn't say she wanted to be president, she wanted to be the leader," Schulte said of his daughter, whom most knew as Roz. "She wanted to be in charge. And she was."

She was named after her maternal grandmother, Roslyn Littman, who along with her husband, Ellis, was killed in a fire in 1980 at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas. Like the grandmother she never met, Lt. Schulte showed signs of being a natural leader early in life.

Robert Schulte remembers how his daughter as a young girl organized a group of her peers on the first day of summer camp to perform a play.
At John Burroughs School, she captained the lacrosse team and became an all-American lacrosse player.

Her parents said that while on the field, any time one of Boeing's F-15s flew overhead, she paused in admiration and spoke of how one day she would be a fighter pilot.

Family friends who gathered at the Schultes' home Wednesday remembered how some had questioned Roslyn Schulte about the idea of working in a group made up mostly of men.

"Do you think they are going to bully me?" she would defiantly respond.

She went to the Air Force Academy after graduating from high school in 2002. It was the perfect move to keep up with her only sibling, brother Todd Schulte, 28, who graduated from Harvard University and is now chief of staff to Rep. Scott Murphy, D-N.Y.

At the Air Force Academy, Roslyn Schulte majored in political science, interned for former Sen. Alan Allard, R-Colo., became a group commander — one of the academy's highest positions — and captained the lacrosse team, said her mother, Suzie Schulte.

Robert Schulte said: "She would call me and say, 'Dad, all these guys might fly the planes, but they follow me.' She was a leader."

Lt. Schulte graduated in 2006 and went into military intelligence instead of aviation. She went to Afghanistan in February.

Her parents said she worked with Afghan military officials teaching them how to gather and interpret intelligence.

"She knew how to talk to chiefs of staff, to generals, to privates, and they listened," Robert Schulte said. "And that's what we needed, a great leader of people." She was to return to the United States in August.

Robert Schulte said he had talked to his daughter less than 24 hours before learning of her death, updating her on the progress of the Burroughs' lacrosse team. Lately, she frequently spoke of her boyfriend — an Air Force pilot whom the Schultes had yet to meet.

He called and spoke to the Schultes Wednesday. "My little girl is gone," Robert Schulte told him.

The Schultes said funeral arrangements were pending.

COMMENTS ABOUT ROSLYN-

Lt. Schulte was the classiest young officer and young lady I had the privilege and great joy to work with in my 23 years in the Air Force. We fed off her energy, and she became a "go-to" type immediately upon her arrival at her first unit here in Hawaii. I could write a book full of nothing but great things to say about her. She was special. I pray God will comfort her family and loved ones through this tragedy.With utmost respect and love, MSgt Scotty Corwin, USAF, Retired
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The United States Air Force lost one of their most talented and respected officers. I have worked under Lieutenant Schulte several times while stationed in Hawaii, and I can honestly say that she was the best. Many young Lieutenants, like Schulte, are in a learning phase within their career - learning how to lead, and how to handle the pressures of the military.However, from the first time I met Schulte, I was amazed. While working with her, I can speak for several Airmen by saying that we all respected her, and would follow her anywhere. She commanded respect: although she was young, she was a brilliant leader - she handled pressure better than any other officer that I've worked with - and yet she was humble, and listened to those who she led.I hope that her family, friends, and loved ones can find comfort in knowing that Lieutenant Schulte was truly the best. Her passing is not only a loss to the Air Force, but to this country - a country that she so gallantly served for, and sacrificed her life for. I will never forget her - her leadership will live on forever.With my deepest sympathy, SrA Andrew Norton, USAF, Hawaii
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I met Roz on the first day she showed up to work in Hawaii. I was immediately impressed by her permanent smile and her positive attitude. This beautiful woman was taken too early and she will be missed always by all of us who had the pleasure of knowing her. She was one of the Air Force's finest and her loss is devastating. To the Schulte family, may you find comfort in knowing how adored and revered your daughter truly was. She was indeed a true leader and warrior. May God be with you all. My deepest heartfelt sympathy. Capt Alicia Meighan, USAF, Ft. Gordon, GA
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I just returned from Kabul, Afghanistan 2 weeks ago and had the privilege of working with Roz Shulte on a daily basis. She was a true professional that enjoyed the mission given to her, mentoring the Afghan National Army Intelligence personnel. Her enthusiastic, passionate and energetic attitude was contagious and she was always able to bring a smile to the faces of all her co-workers, even in the worst of times. She was a dynamic leader, outstanding role model, highly respected and also a friend. It was an honor to know her and my family's thoughts and prayers are with her family in this very difficult time. With my deepest sympathy and highest regards. William Briese, Hillsboro, Mo.

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[the above courtesy of the Living Legend Team, Soldiers' Angels]

And from CJ at YouServed:

God Speed 1LT. Roslyn L. Schulte

May 21, 2009 By CJ
Posted in Military News

I’m posting with permission from the author. This story was on her Facebook page and I wanted to share it with all of you:

From my friend~a Navy Lt serving in Afghanistan:

Yesterday, my closest friend for the last couple months, Roslyn Schulte, was killed in a roadside bombing halfway between here and Bagram. She is one of the most incredible people I have ever known, and I want to tell you about her. I had only known her about three months, but she was assigned to my unit, and so, she and I being the only two junior officers in the group, she had the unfortunate pleasure of having to hangout with me. I can probably count on one hand the number of times we did not eat at least one meal of the day together since she arrived here in early March.

Ros was truly an exceptional person. Usually when you hear that about someone who just died, it’s almost always exaggeration, if not pure BS. With Ros, it’s not. She passed up on the Ivy leagues to go to the Air Force Academy...

Go over to YouServed here, and spend some time learning about another exceptional American.

Today, on this Memorial Day, and EVERY day, let us give thanks - and honour - that such heroes serve their country.

Admiral Mullens' Memorial Day Message

Chairman Notes Fallen Airman’s Sacrifice in Memorial Day Message American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 22, 2009 – In his annual Memorial Day message to servicemembers worldwide, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff evoked the sacrifice of an airman who died in Afghanistan last month. Here is Navy Adm. Mike Mullen’s message: “On Memorial Day, and every day, we honor Americans who volunteer to serve a cause greater than themselves – Americans just like Phillip Myers. “Growing up in Hopewell, Virginia, Phillip was, some say, just ‘like any other teenager.’ He went to school, loved cars and music, and for a few years after high school, he held a job near home. Phillip joined the Air Force in 1999 as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician because, as he once half-joked, “it paid more.” But everyone around him knew differently – he was merely following his dreams. “Spending all ten years of his service overseas, including tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, his father said Phillip always looked out for the people serving under him, and that ‘if he thought a job was too dangerous, he’d get out and check it himself.’ He had previously received both the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star for valor, but Phillip wasn’t motivated by accolades. He knew he was just looking out for his people, and trying to get the job done. “On April 4th, 2009, near Helmand Province in Afghanistan, Technical Sergeant Phillip Myers died doing what he loved to do – protecting the lives of others – while disarming an improvised explosive device. “It was nearly 65 years ago when Ernie Pyle, the famous wartime reporter, captured a similar spirit of seemingly ordinary young men, extraordinarily fighting and dying on the beaches of Normandy: they were ‘fighting for each other.’ We are reminded that the story of Phillip Myers is a special but timeless one – the story of Americans simply doing what they love, on behalf of those they care for most. “Memorial Day is about families and friends, bound by service, commitment, and sacrifice. As you gather this holiday weekend with those you love, please remember Phillip’s family, his wife, daughter, and son, and thousands of other families of the fallen, just like them – for whom this day will be forever sacred. “On behalf of the more than two million soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, Coastguardsmen, and their families, the Joint Chiefs of Staff and I wish you a very enjoyable and safe Memorial Day.” Sincerely, M.G. MULLEN Admiral, U.S. Navy (source)

Every Day Heroes

Army Spc. Allen Heredia, left, and his son, Army Pfc. Steven Heredia, share a moment together on Camp Liberty, Iraq. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Carlos Valdez

Face of Defense: Soldiers Keep Up Family Tradition

By Army Sgt. Carlos Valdez
Special to American Forces Press Service

BAGHDAD, May 18, 2009 - A father and son serving together in Multinational Division Baghdad on Camp Liberty, Iraq, epitomize their family's tradition of service.

Army Spc. Allen Heredia is a military police soldier with the 810th Military Police Company, Task Force 91 Military Police, 8th Military Police Brigade. His son, Army Pfc. Steven Allen Heredia, is a supply specialist assigned to the MP brigade's Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 93rd Military Police Battalion.

Both father and son feel strongly about their family's military history; five generations of Heredia men have served in the military since the Spanish-American War.

Steven Heredia said he's always known he would follow the family tradition.

"Joining the military is something that I always wanted to do," he said. "Since I was a child, I have never thought about doing anything else. My father was never overbearing about my decision to join the Army; he always told me it was my decision to do whatever I wanted to do in life."

The elder Heredia was born in Bronx, N.Y., and joined the Army in 1977, as an infantryman so he could stay off the streets at a time when gangs, drugs and organized crime were at their peak. He was hanging out with the wrong crowd, he said, and could see that if he continued on that path it would lead him nowhere. He served six years in the military and received an honorable discharge in July 1983.

"I regret ever getting out of the Army," he said. "It was one of the best things I have ever done and enjoyed doing. So when terrorists attacked the Twin Towers on Sept. 11, 2001, I felt compelled to do what was right and rejoin the U.S. Army."

But it wasn't that simple; he was too old at the time to join the military. After waiting for four years, he was able to join an Army Reserve unit in Tampa, Fla., in July 2005.

The Heredias both said that being stationed at the same installation in Iraq is one of the best things that could have happened, since they live in different parts of the country back home.

"We see each other at least twice a week and speak to each other every other day on the phone," the father said. When they have time, they enjoy having lunch together.

Also, Allen Heredia said, he doesn't worry about his son much now, because he is able to see him every week.

"I am proud of both of my kids; they are the pride of my life," said the elder Heredia, whose daughter also serves in the Army. "The only thing I would do to change this whole situation would be that I would have loved to work with my son and go on missions together."

(Army Sgt. Carlos Valdez serves in Multinational Division Baghdad with the 93rd Military Police Battalion, 8th Military Police Brigade.)

Thank you both for your service.

B*N*S*N1

Afghan Commandos Kill 18 Enemy Fighters in Helmand Province
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 20, 2009 – Afghan army commandos, assisted by coalition forces, have killed 18 enemy fighters and confiscated significant arms and drug caches in the city of Marjeh in the Nad Ali district of Afghanistan’s Helmand province yesterday and today, military officials reported.

Heavy fighting ensued when the combined elements launched a multi-day operation to secure the city’s Loy Cherah Bazaar yesterday. The bazaar is a militant stronghold and narcotics processing hub for southern Afghanistan, officials said.

After ensuring there were no civilians in the area, the combined force called for air strikes against known enemy fighting positions, killing a number of militants. Another three enemy fighters were killed when the combined elements observed them planting a bomb in a nearby road. Finally, two suicide bombers exploded as they tried to infiltrate the security perimeter. No one else was harmed.

During the operation, the combined force discovered several rifles, more than 2 pounds each of processed heroin and morphine, and more than 10 tons of black tar opium. The estimated value of the confiscated drugs is $750 million.

More than 90 percent of Afghanistan's opium crop is harvested in Helmand province, officials said. The majority of the drug crop is processed into black tar opium in Marjeh, then is smuggled out of the country for further refinement to the finished heroin product.

Half of militant funding comes from drug trafficking, officials added, noting that the seizure of the illicit drugs will greatly hinder the militants' ability to finance their activities.

The operation continues, as intelligence revealed that senior militant leaders have directed neighboring commanders to assemble fighters and reinforce the fighting in an effort to recapture the drug safe haven. Additional enemy forces from Pakistan also have been called upon to reinforce the ongoing battle, officials said. Helmand’s governor broadcast a radio message today warning people to avoid going to the bazaar, stating that the militants care only for drugs, money and power, and that they would think nothing of harming innocent Afghans.

No Afghan commando, coalition force or civilian casualties have been reported.

In other news from Afghanistan, Afghan and coalition forces detained nine suspects in two separate operations in Afghanistan today, in addition to six detained yesterday.

In the Tere Zayi district of eastern Afghanistan’s Khost province, Afghan and coalition forces detained five suspects early this morning during an operation designed to capture the leader of a bomb-making cell responsible for conducting attacks in the province.

In a separate operation in Helmand province’s Nad Ali district, combined forces took fire from militants as they approached a village where four suspects were thought to be hiding. Coalition forces returned fire and called for air support to suppress the attack, which ended the engagement. Officials said it’s too early to know how many militants may have been injured or killed during the encounter.

The forces questioned the men at the targeted compound, subsequently detaining four suspected militants without incident. They also removed two AK-47 assault rifles, two grenades and two chest racks.

In operations yesterday:

-- In Khost province, Afghan army commandos, assisted by coalition forces, were searching the home of a suspected militant when they received credible information from a local resident about a nearby roadside bomb. The commandos located and safely removed the bomb, then detained six men suspected of planting it.

-- Militants continued to attack NATO International Security Assistance Force personnel using white phosphorus munitions. In the Gayan district of Paktika province, insurgents conducted a mortar attack against an ISAF combat outpost with white phosphorus and high-explosive rounds. No injuries or damage were reported. Officials said two other cases of enemy white phosphorus use have been recorded in Regional Command East in the past week, following the May 11 declassification of 38 other instances of insurgent use of white phosphorus.

In May 16 operations:

-- ISAF troops in Bamiyan discovered a large cache that included nine 82 mm white phosphorus mortar rounds. The rounds were collected for destruction.

-- An ISAF unit located a white phosphorus 107 mm rocket near an ISAF forward operating base in Nangahar province’s Kama district. The rocket, which had been aimed in the direction of the base, was safely disarmed.

(Compiled from U.S. Forces Afghanistan news releases.)[source]

B*N*S*N2

Corps of Engineers Opens Three More Schools in Iraq By Mike Scheck Special to American Forces Press Service IRBIL, Iraq, May 20, 2009 – Three new schools that provide new classroom space for nearly 2,500 children in northern Iraq were completed here recently, thanks to the efforts of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gulf Region Division.

Ribbon-cutting ceremonies celebrating the opening of the new schools were held at the Bin Beriz and Hassarok schools in Irbil and the Saraway Khwarw Secondary School in rural Sulaimaniyah.

“These schools are serving multiple villages in the area and stand as cornerstones of the residents’ commitment to education in their communities,” said Gary York, resident engineer for the Gulf Region Division’s Irbil Resident Office. “These projects are yet another successful partnership between the [local government] and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and one that makes us both extremely proud.” The U.S. government’s Economic Support Fund provided funding for all three school projects.

Amenities for the Bin Beriz School include classroom space for 600 students, an administrative area, staff housing for teachers, a deep fresh-water well, a backup generator and school furnishings. The $975,000 project, constructed by the AKO Co., also included money for desks, library tables and some of the office furniture.

Gary York, the Irbil resident engineer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gulf Region Division, center left, and Gov. Naqzad Hadi of Irbil province, center right, help to cut the ribbon on the new Hassarok School in Irbil, Iraq. Also pictured is. U.S. Army photo by Hassan Mohammad

Read more here

B*N*S*N3

05/13/2009 - A U.S. Sailor attached to the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) checks a child’s vision during a medical community service project May 13, 2009, at the Barbuda Multi-Cultural Center in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda. Comfort is deployed in support of Continuing Promise 2009, a four-month humanitarian and civic assistance mission throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. (DoD photo by Senior Airman Jessica Snow, U.S. Air Force/Released)

B*N*S*N4

05/15/2009 - U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael Merideth, from Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa, interacts with a Tanzanian child during the dedication ceremony for the Pongwe Clinic in Tanga, Tanzania, May 15, 2009. The clinic was renovated using funds from CJTF-HOA in partnership with U.S. Africa Command. (DoD photo by Tech. Sgt. Dawn M. Price, U.S. Air Force/Released)