No One Left
Behind
March 11, 2002
In a fast-paced hard-driving TV commercial the
U.S. armed forces sends a clear message: “You do not leave a
fallen comrade on the field of battle.” The Ranger creed is
simple: You do not leave a fallen comrade on the field of
battle.”
That creed was tested last week when two huge
MH-47 Chinooks, double-headed flying beats chugged through the
freezing air. When they arrived at the battle front and prepared
to set down, they came under heavy fire from small arms and
rocket-propelled grenades. A hydraulic line in one of the birds
was cut so the choppers veered away to the north, climbing
steeply. When they finally set down they discovered Navy seal
Neil Roberts, the rear gunner, was missing. He had apparently
been jolted out when the chopper banked hard to the north.
The Rangers received permission to go after their
man and six commandos were dropped off to search for Roberts. It
was not until midnight that the last U.S. soldier was evacuated.
The choppers also carried 11 wounded and the bodies of seven
Americans—Roberts and six of his would-be rescuers. Those six
men died because they preferred to sacrifice their lives than
leave one behind.
As a mighty man, take a few minutes and think of
the men you’re closest to. How are they doing with the Lord?
Their family? At work? Do you know? As mighty men we’re
committed to the value of each man. If someone you’ve locked
arms with is down—then go to them. You’re presence, prayers and
words of encouragement may be what they need to keep going.
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