SGT Zach Pierce, U.S. Army (2002-2008)

Sgt Forrest Dane Cauthorn: 2/27 Wolfhounds, 25th Infantry; 2004-2007. KIA Iraq 4 Apr 2007. Dane was a lovable teddy bear whose enthusiasm for life was betrayed by his stoic nature. He never yelled; he always related to his soldiers. He was an awesome infantryman but never tried to be a hero or be the most tactically sound person. But he was so good at his job. Dane was never willfully the center of attention, but his presence was always top of mind, and he was always heard. Dane was generally quiet but always had some relatable insight or zinger to send home. He was what kept his father sane and grounded and will be sorely missed until the end of time.

Ssg Shawn Raymond: 2-27 Wolfhounds 2005-2008. Raymond was a punk. He was a fighter, a prankster, and a lover. He was a tough guy who took his leadership seriously and his friendship more so. He led us into harrowing ambushes without batting an eye and instilled confidence in his team. We were the most storied squad in the battalion because of Raymond’s knowledge and willingness. He annoyed me by incessantly playing The Transplants and DragonForce in the gym, but he made up for it with my combat tattoos. Raymond said he was from the streets of Boston, but also New York. Somehow, also SoCal? His story does not end as happily as anyone would have wished. He will be dearly missed, but his insight will always be in my mind.

Sgt Bryan Green: 2-5 Bobcats 2001-2006. KIA Iraq 2006. Sgt Green was such a goofball. He was a sensitive, humble guy who won everyone’s hearts. He didn’t take anyone too seriously but performed like a true NCO with one mission – his soldiers. Green hardly complained; he just made awkward jokes no matter the situation. He always rallied – in the field, in the barracks, but in his own, slight way. I imagine in his head; he heard the steady beat of some EDM song to which he pumped his mental fist. His clothes were the envy of all Joe’s, but extravagant isn’t how I’d describe him. Green just wanted to get along and didn’t make a fuss when things didn’t go right. He was known for doing what he could, right down to his last breath. He is missed.

SSG Daniel Ishaak: 2-27 Wolfhounds 2004-2007, KIA. Ishaak was arguably the most well-liked soldier in our battalion. And for good reason. Ishaak was a communications NCO who was hardcore enough to complete Ranger and Sniper School. He never bragged about it, but he wore it with the same honor and prestige of the very first Rangers. His Tab took a backseat to his infectious, almost obnoxious laugh. Ishaak’s laugh would shake the room, a boisterous bellow from the depths of his gut. He loved his friends and wanted them to laugh with him. Ishaak, despite not being an infantryman, lived the spirit of the Infantry and honed the leadership qualities of a true combat veteran. His death was untimely, but he was in the right place – right on the front lines where he knew he wanted to be.

SPC Jessie Hickmon: 2-27 Wolfhounds 2004-2011: Hickmon was an idiot. He knew it; we all knew it. But it was an act. He knew it; we all knew it. Hickmon came to the Wolfhounds as a typical FNG – over-eager, tried too hard to be funny and latched onto NCOs immediately. He had a lot to learn but made up for it with his affectionate nature and willingness to serve. Hickmon was naturally put on the SAW and later the 240B, which he took to right away. Hickmon was a bit careless, and often, this naivety obscured his judgment, but he was sharp on the gun. He had this goofy waddle and this lisp that was disarming but enough to make you wonder if he understood the Op order he’d just received. You never quite knew with him. Jessie survived combat only because of that lovable nature, which got the best of him. He didn’t deserve his fate, and I will always miss him. 

Read the Military Memories of our Runner-Ups.