Army Sergeant - Ryan Sudbeck

Army Sergeant Ryan Sudbeck received a Dove of Peace quilt, on Thursday, December 7, 2013, at the Omaha VFW Post 2503. Recognized for his outstanding service to the United States during a foreign war, he remains a leader, and he continues to honor the United States by keeping it safe from hostile entities. His service found him in dangerous situations, but a commitment to getting the job done right brought about the successful completion of his assignments.

Although his service to our country was sidelined due to an injury, Ryan's time in the Army proved to be one of significant contribution. His military career included and assignment to Ft. Richardson, Alaska from 2008-2011, with the 425 Brigades Special Troops Battalion Airborne Unit (BSTB). As part of the Charlie Unit, he served the country with his extensive knowledge of communications. His time in Communications included, but was not limited to, working on the Help Desk for all military personnel and computers, as well as servicing retrends, which means he went into remote locations and set up antennas for better reception.

With an in-depth knowledge of Fiber Optics, Sergeant Sudbeck found himself stationed in Afghanistan from 2009-2010. As a part of Operation Enduring Freedom, (OEF), not only did he provide his expertise to his station, but Sergeant Sudbeck also found himself on call to other brigades in need of his assistance.

One of his memorable moments includes an Apache gunship escort to an remote base during a no-flight zone period. This means he was in one of two helicopters forced into a hostile situation due to the urgency and critical nature of the communication systems.

 Another moment that Sergeant Sudbeck will never forget came during the first six months of service in Afghanistan. During this time, while outside the Post Office, he was under attack from small arms fire. Moments later, a rocket exploded approximately twenty-five feet from where he stood. Fortunately, he did not sustain any injuries as the building shielded his body.

The years he spent in the Army were not without recognition. His honors included the following:
⦁    Meritorious Unit Commendation for the outstanding service and valor provided by both Sergeant Sudbeck and his unit
⦁    Battalion Soldier of the Year in Afghanistan
⦁    Company Soldier of the Month, twice
⦁    Combat Action Badge
⦁    Good Conduct Award
⦁    2 Army Achievement Awards
⦁    2 Army Accommodations
⦁    Platoon Sergeant of Retransmission Unit

During his time in the Army, Sergeant Sudbeck was in charge of his troops, not only making certain that communications ran smoothly, but for their well-being, too.

While living in Omaha, Nebraska, Ryan is actively involved in the VFW Post 2503 daily operations, as well as additional assignments. One of the first to greet those arriving at the VFW, Ryan is also responsible for the rental of the VFW Hall, the annual Fireworks setup and sales, and making certain everyone feels at home.

Although he is still sidelined, Sergeant Ryan Sudbeck dreams, and actively seeks, an opportunity to serve the United States, once more, as an active member of the Army.

The signature blocks, in this patriotic quilt, came from the Lancaster County Fair  and the Quilted Kitty in Lincoln, Nebraska, and the Nebraska Humane Society, McDonald's, SAC Federal Credit Union, and Hancock Fabrics in Omaha, Nebraska. Thanks to all of those that shared their thoughts and well wishes!