General Valelly's son was in the 18X program, a longshot program that takes kids right into the Army and through infantry training to Special Forces assessment & selection, qualification, and on to an A team.
A majority of these brave young men (it's quite a step to even try out) don't make it, but you have to applaud them for trying, and the ones that do complete training are coming through well-trained and terribly fit.
Young Vallely was in this program and doing well. He did not die while physically in training or as a result of training. That doesn't matter; he was still an American soldier serving his country to the best of his ability when he died and he deserves to be remembered with honor.
He was the general's and his wife's only son.
d.o.l.
Criminal Number 18F
I only heard he died "while in training" .. but I never heard the reason for his death. But .. I agree .. he was in military service nonetheless.
It was heartbreaking to watch the General almost lose it. I felt so sad for him .. such a great General.