Article 1 of the Code of Conduct states: “I am an American, fighting in the forces which guard my country and our way of life. I am prepared to give my life in their defense.” Since I first took the Oath of Enlistment in 1987 and subsequently the Oath of Office, I have never doubted my willingness or preparedness to live up to that statement. I have fought in Iraq during three deployments, have been wounded in combat, decorated for valor, and am heading to Afghanistan later this year. What I had never adequately prepared myself for however, was the death of my best friend, CPT Travis Patriquin.
 

There is no event in my life that affected me on such a personal, visceral level than the day I received the phone call telling me that Travis was killed in Iraq. I was a 36 year old man, former Infantryman and current Special Forces soldier -- I cried like a child for the first time in as long as I could remember. I struggled with the idea and reality that he was actually dead. He was a great friend, a great father, and an amazing leader. He left behind his beautiful wife and three children, one of them my Godson.
 

Although he was killed in December, 2006, this is the first time I have ever discussed his death outside the comfort zone of my wife, his wife, and our closest friends. I am truly thankful that I had the trust and confidence of family and friends to work through my feelings and mourn his loss. In retrospect, I am extremely lucky that I did. Despite the fact that we are a warrior culture that prides ourselves on values such as strength and courage, we are also human and experience feelings and emotions just as anyone else does. It is important that we properly mourn the loss of our friends and comrades and are not afraid to express those feelings, and if necessary, seek outside assistance from the many agencies available through the military. I encourage anyone who may be dealing with such issues to do just that. Show that you have the courage and character to address the issue head on. It will ultimately make you stronger and make our Army stronger.
 

Today, Travis’ Harley Davidson sits next to mine in my garage. When I fire it up, I am reminded of the great times we shared. I now celebrate his life rather than mourn his death. He was an American that served in the forces which guarded our country and our way of life. He gave his life in our defense. There is no greater gift.
 

Major G. Thomas Olsowy
Student, Command and General Staff College, Fort Lee, VA
 

The views expressed in this BLOG are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Army, Department of Defense, or the United States Government.