From 1SG Joshua R. Guyse
Last year in this letter, I talked about the history and significance of Memorial Day. Today, I want to share the stories of some warriors who have had a profound impact on me over my two decades plus of military service.
Sergeant First Class Alwyn Cashe was a Platoon Sergeant when he deployed to Iraq with the 3rd Infantry Division in 2005. At the start of a patrol, SFC Cashe’s Bradely Fighting Vehicle was struck with an improvised explosive device. SFC Cashe was able to exit the burning BFV covered in fuel but relatively uninjured. However, SFC Cashe’s “boys” were stuck in the burning vehicle. SFC Cashe returned to the vehicle multiple times to pull his Soldiers from the vehicle despite being on fire himself. SFC Cashe had burns over 70% of his body and was the last to be evacuated. SFC Cashe was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his efforts. I learned what the responsibility for “the welfare of my Soldiers” means from the actions of SFC Cashe that day.
On July 2, 1863 at Gettysburg, the 1st Minnesota Infantry Regiment with 262 men was ordered forward to stop the advance of over 1,200 Confederates. Despite being outnumbered at nearly 5:1, the 1st Minnesota Infantry charged. The 1st Minnesota stopped the Confederate advancement and forced a withdrawal, saving the Union lines on Cemetery Ridge. Only 47 infantrymen of the 1st Minnesota reported for muster after the fight. It was said after that “not a man waivered.” To this day the motto of the unit, known today as 2nd Battalion, 135th Infantry regiment, is “To The Last Man.” The Soldiers of the 1st Minnesota are who I think about when I think of the Warrior Ethos of “never accept defeat, never quit.”
Today, while you spend time with loved ones, fire up the grill, and enjoy a cold drink, take some time to contemplate the meaning of Memorial Day. Take a moment to remember SFC Cashe and the men of the 1st Minnesota Infantry Regiment. Set aside a few quiet minutes to remember all those who gave their last full measure for the you and me.
