Thursday, August 25, 2011

Army Sgt. Colby L. Richmond

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Colby L. Richmond, 28, of Providence, N.C.

Sgt Richmond was assigned to 546th Transportation Company, 82nd Sustainment Brigade, XVIII Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died Aug. 25, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his vehicle using an improvised explosive device.

Mother, Cynthia, said her only son Colby was a hard worker "who loved people" and had "the biggest smile."

While Sgt Richmond did not have any siblings, his mother said that he had an extended "family" of close friends.

"He really embraced people," his mother said. "He loved meeting people. Everyone became family."

Sgt. Colby's unit was scheduled to return home in mid-October.

His mother said news of her only son's death came as a shock. "I was devastated. Just very devastated," she said. "It's like I'm numb. I can't believe it."

She was angry about her son's death at first. "We all make choices, and we know the risks," she said. "He wanted to serve his country, and he wanted to make a difference. I want people to remember him as my hero and their hero. He was doing what he loved to do. He was trying to help his country."

Sgt Richmond's awards and decorations include:

Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Noncommissioned Professional Development Ribbon
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Action Badge
Drivers Badge

Army Sgt. Colby L. Richmond was killed in action on 8/25/11.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Served with "rich" fort hood TX before he pcs'ď to bragg. Always positive attitude, always brought a smile to your face, knew when to clown around to lighten the mood and knew when to be the professional he was. Skilled soldier, loyal battle, a true american gone too soon. Broke many hearts in 418th the day we learned our brother died just a few miles away in helmond province. Thinking of him this memorial day. Lost sheep no more, brother.

Deadline said...

Not forgotten this Memorial Day by a grateful and admiring battle. True soldier and example of the best in all of us. Couldn't be more honored to serve with you, Rich. I pray your family and son are well, and know the honorable man you became. Dirty Third will always remember. Lost sheep no more.