Posted on 01/07/2008 8:00:32 AM PST by neverdem
William Rigby and his identical twin brother John were in 4 Rifles. On their 23rd birthday, John was up in the hatch of a Bulldog when a bomb detonated and a piece of shrapnel struck his head, mortally wounding him. William was by Johns side when he passed, and accompanied his brother home. The Regiment gave William the choice to stay home or return to Basra. When he elected to return to see the mission through, Williams personal strength added fiber to the Battle Group. Id heard soldiersincluding senior officersmention his name with admiration.
On October 8, I was eating lunch with some British soldiers in Basra. I didnt know any of them, but could tell they were veterans by their eyes and the way they talked. They were quiet, professional, and exceptionally polite. Sitting in front of me was one young soldier who in particular radiated a special kind of character. I didnt know his name at the time, but later learned he was William Rigby. When I asked William how his parents were, he said, simply, fine. But when he learned I am a writer, he began talking. He said he wanted to make sure that I took the time to report what was happening in Basra...
(Excerpt) Read more at michaelyon-online.com ...
Fascinating photo-article. Thanks for posting.
Another OUSTANDING report from Michael Yon. Thanks for posting.
Excellent. BTTT.
The dedication, loyalty, and indeed valor as exemplified by William are something the Left can never understand. God bless William! God rest John in peace.
Thanks for the serial links!
You’re welcome ... as long as it doesn’t qualify me for treatment on Criminal Minds :) I’ll wait for the knock on the door from Dr. Phil.
bookmark Yon
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.