Congratulations to the 2023 Ranger Hall of Fame inductees:
General (Ret.) Raymond A. Thomas III
General (Ret.) Raymond A. Thomas III is inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for distinguished and valorous service to our country, and for dedicating his life and career to the values set forth in the Ranger Creed. His military career spanned almost 38 years and included multiple combat deployments around the globe. His leadership at the highest levels of military command left a lasting impact on the entire United States Army. Gen. Thomas’ distinguished Ranger career started as a Company Platoon Leader, Executive Officer, and Company A Commander, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment during Operation Urgent Fury. He also served as the Assistant Operations Officer, Plans Officer, and Liaison Officer at the Regimental Headquarters. He commanded Company A, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment during Operation Just Cause. He was the Executive Officer, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment and Commander, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment during Operation Enduring Freedom. His joint assignments include Director of Operations, Joint Special Operations Command and Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Freedom; Chief of Staff, Joint Special Operations Command; Deputy Commander Operations Joint Special Operations Command, USSOCOM, Operation Enduring Freedom-Afghanistan, and Operation Iraqi Freedom-Iraq. He also served as the Deputy Director for Special Operations, J-37, the Joint Staff, Washington, D.C. Gen. Thomas’ long and distinguished career is the embodiment of the Ranger Creed and reflects great credit on himself, the 75th Ranger Regiment and the United States Army.
General (Ret.) Joseph L. Votel
General (Ret.) Joseph L. Votel is inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for distinguished and continued service to our country, and for dedicating his life and career to the values set forth in the Ranger Creed. His military career spanned almost 40 years and included multiple combat deployments to Panama, Afghanistan, and Iraq and other places around the globe. Gen. Votel commanded 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment and was in command of the 75th Ranger Regiment during Operation Enduring Freedom. On October 19, 2001, Votel led 200 Rangers from 3rd Battalion, who parachuted towards an airfield south of Kandahar into Operation Rhino attacking several Taliban targets. He was the Commanding General of the Joint Special Operations Command during ongoing operations in Afghanistan, Commander Joint Special Operations Command Forward for U.S. Special Operations Command, Operation Enduring Freedom; followed by Commander, U.S. Special Operations Command. Gen. Votel completed his U.S. Army career as the Commander, United States Central Command. For exceptionally meritorious service, Gen. Votel's contributions to the Nation are extraordinary and lasting. His exceptional leadership and service are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Ranger Creed, and reflect great credit upon himself, the United States Army Rangers, and the United States Army.
LTG (Ret.) Bernard S. Champoux
LTG (R) Bernard S. (Bernie) Champoux has been inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for his distinguished service as an Army Ranger who upheld the highest standards of the Ranger Creed throughout a nearly four-decade military career, twelve and a half years as a General Officer, and eleven years in Ranger assignments. He led and commanded Ranger and Infantry units from Platoon to Division and Field Army Levels. A 1977 OCS Graduate, Colonel Champoux was inducted into the OCS Hall of Fame in 2001. In his early years, he competitively completed the 1984 Best Ranger Competition and later coached multiple teams, including the winning 2nd Ranger Battalion Team in 1987. His Ranger assignments included duty as a Ranger Instructor and Chief of the Darby and Morgan Teams, Command of the 3rd Ranger Company, assignments in two of the three Operational Ranger Battalions, and three assignments to the 75th Ranger Regimental Headquarters. Between assignments to the Ranger Regiment, he served a tour of duty as Executive Officer of the Ranger Training Brigade, making major contributions coordinating and implementing significant projects that included the establishment of the Ranger Hall of Fame Bylaws, designing and furnishing the Initial Ranger Hall of Fame Display, coordinating the design and production of the HOF Medallions and Programs, and overseeing the preparations for the Inaugural HOF Inductions at Malvesti Field in 1992. All of this required his respected leadership not only within the Ranger Community but also within the Columbus, Georgia civilian sponsor organizations that supported the RTB and the Ranger Store, which were essential to enabling this major project. He also coordinated the rewriting and standardization of the Ranger Handbook, renaming and dedication of Ranger Training Facilities to Honor Fallen Comrades, and restructuring the Ranger Course after the elimination of the Desert Phase. He helped honor fallen Rangers by coordinating the commemoration and dedication of Malvesti Field Obstacle and Confidence Course, as well as the dedication of Hurley Hill (Victory Pond) at the Rangers in Action Demonstration and Training Site. His leadership of Soldiers, senior staffs, and organizations at all levels, including command of the 25th Infantry Division as well as command of the Eighth US Army, epitomize the Ranger Creed. Ranger Champoux Led the Way!
COL Douglas Lonn Flohr
Colonel Douglas Lonn Flohr is inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for his service and embodiment of the Ranger Creed throughout his military and professional career. Colonel Flohr was commissioned in the Infantry upon graduation from West Virginia University in 1985. He served over 28 years in various Airborne, Light, Mechanized, and Ranger assignments throughout his career in the United States Army and held officer leadership positions from platoon leader to brigade commander. Ranger Flohr served multiple tours within the Ranger Training Brigade successfully serving as the S3 Operations Officer for the 4th Ranger Training Battalion and the Ranger Training Brigade. He also commanded both the 5th Ranger Training Battalion (Mountain Phase), Camp Frank D. Merrill, and the Ranger Training Brigade. Within the 75th Ranger Regiment, Ranger Flohr served on the Regimental staff, executing three deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom collecting and analyzing essential lessons learned from on-going combat operations. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, with only minimal guidance and organic resources, Ranger Flohr skillfully planned, established, and commanded a Forward Operating Base for a 6000-person Joint Special Operations Task Force. The culminating assignment of his Ranger career was as the military advisor to the Commander of the Iraqi Ground Force Command (IGFC). Ranger Flohr's insightful advice, combined with his constant but unobtrusive presence at critical Iraqi military and tribal meetings, garnered a rare of level of respect and influence within the Iraqi headquarters. He was the only American officer in Iraq permitted to routinely travel without a personal security detachment - completely embedded within the Iraqi Security Forces. The trusted relationship that he successfully developed with the Iraqi leadership facilitated vital communications between senior leaders, enhanced insurgent Iraqi leadership, facilitated vital communications between senior leaders, enhanced insurgent targeting efforts, and greatly assisted the conduct of vital Iraqi military training. Ranger Flohr’s willingness to Lead the Way and live the Ranger Creed reflects upon himself, The Ranger Community, and the United States.
LTC Richard D. James
LTC Richard D. James has been inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for serving with incredible "grit" and distinction, starting as a reconnaissance PLT Leader and later becoming an LRP Company Commander (RVN), Ranger Company Commander (RVN), and holding senior staff positions in the 101st Airborne Division. He also served as a Ministry of Defense Senior Military Advisor in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and concluded his career by planning the invasion of Grenada as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff while working with special operations elements. He is remembered by our Vietnam 74th LRPs and November Company Ranger brotherhood as a leader and pioneer in deep penetration reconnaissance and Hunter-Killer teams against superior NVA forces. LTC(R) James has been at the forefront of military operations, from the central highlands of South Vietnam to the Allied Nations of the Middle East, dedicating nearly three decades to growing and strengthening America's combat deployable forces. His special operations expertise and record of mission success earned him great respect as a member of the Joint Services Chief of Staff. Beyond his military service, he extended his compassion for wounded soldiers, disrupted families, and veterans with PTSD through volunteer work in civilian life. The improved health and capabilities of our fighting forces and their families can be attributed to this humble Ranger leader and his selfless service in making America better. Ranger Dick James remains an integral part of the Ranger Community to this day, exemplifying the motto "Rangers Led the Way" throughout his life.
MAJ (Ret.) James M. Grimshaw
This is MAJ (R) James M. Grimshaw.
Major (Ret) James M. Grimshaw is inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for his exemplary valor and leadership, his military and civilian achievements, and his selfless contribution to the Ranger community. As a Special Forces advisor in Vietnam on May 22, 1966, Ranger Grimshaw neutralized an enemy 12.7 mm heavy machine gun that had pinned down his CIDG force. His actions inspired the CIDG to overrun the enemy force. Despite being wounded by an enemy hand grenade, he continued to lead the attack. For this valorous action, he was awarded the Bronze Star with a V device for valor and the Purple Heart. Ranger Grimshaw was selected by the 5th SFG commander as one of the original MACV Recondo School instructors. He was then assigned as a Ranger Instructor and Commander of the 1st Ranger Co., Florida Ranger Camp, where he created a realistic Vietnam FTX scenario for Ranger students. He deployed back to Vietnam and commanded Co D, 2/503rd Infantry, earning another Bronze Star with a V. For his service as Commander of the Joint Casualty Resolution Center (JCRC) Field Elements and the Cambodian and Vietnamese Refugee Camp in Thailand, he received a Letter of Commendation from President Gerald R. Ford. His service as S3 of the 7th SFG led to his selection as Special Operations Staff Officer, USCINCPAC, where he played a key role in upgrading U.S. special operations capability in the Pacific Theater. He was awarded the Legion of Merit. Upon retirement, he pursued a career as a film and TV actor. He continued to serve the Ranger Community as President of the U.S. Army Ranger Association, 1999-2004. Ranger Grimshaw's courageous leadership, incredible accomplishments, and service to the Ranger Community epitomize the Ranger Creed and merit his induction into the Ranger Hall of Fame.
CSM Charles Donald Baldridge
CSM Charles Donald "Donny" Baldridge has been inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for his exemplary service to the Ranger community. Ranger Baldridge began his journey by volunteering for the newly formed 1st Battalion (Ranger), 75th Infantry, where he served as a machine gunner and team leader. Following this assignment, he adhered to the Abrams Charter and was subsequently assigned to the 25th Infantry Division in Hawaii. In 1979, Ranger Baldridge was stationed at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, assuming the role of a Drill Sergeant. In 1981, he joined the 1st Ranger Company at the Florida Ranger Camp, where he held positions as a Senior Ranger Instructor and Platoon Sergeant of the Ranger Support Element. Notably, he achieved second place in the very first Best Ranger Competition held in 1982. Continuing his dedication to the Rangers, Ranger Baldridge volunteered for and was chosen to serve in the newly established Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, initially as Platoon Sergeant and later as First Sergeant. From 1987 to 1989, he served as the Battalion Command Sergeant Major for Task Force Desert at the Ranger Training Brigade in Dugway, Utah. Returning to the 75th Ranger Regiment in 1990, he assumed the role of Regimental Operations Sergeant Major until 1993. Following this, he served as the Command Sergeant Major for the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment until March 1995. In March 1995, Ranger Baldridge was appointed as the Command Sergeant Major of the 1st Brigade, 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, New York, where he remained until March 1997. After his distinguished military career, Ranger Baldridge retired in March 1997 and returned to his hometown in Pryor, Oklahoma, where he established a successful welding business and cattle ranch. He remains an active member of various organizations, including the American Legion and the Disabled American Veterans Association. Additionally, he holds lifetime membership in the 75th Ranger Regiment Association and is honored as a Distinguished Member of the Army Ranger Training Brigade. Each year, Baldridge hosts the Ranger Ranch Gathering, a three-day event held on Armed Forces Day, featuring pistol and rifle shooting competitions for Ranger veterans and veterans from other branches. Throughout his service, Ranger Baldridge has consistently demonstrated the highest standards upheld by the U.S. Army Rangers, the U.S. Army, and the United States of America.
CSM (Ret.) Ralph R. Beam
CSM (R) Ralph Beam has been inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for his remarkable 37-year military career, serving in various leadership roles ranging from Team Leader to Corps Command Sergeant Major. Ranger Beam holds the esteemed title of being the longest-serving Command Sergeant Major in Ranger history. His combat experience spans multiple deployments, including Panama in 1989, Kuwait from 1999 to 2001, Kosovo in 2002, Bosnia & Herzegovina in 2005, Kuwait-Iraq from 2005 to 2006, and Afghanistan in 2010-2011. Ranger Beam's reputation as an exceptional leader and trainer is evident through the numerous valorous and meritorious unit citations his units were awarded. He consistently demonstrated unparalleled professionalism and always lead from the front. Whether during times of war or peace, his performance of duties remained consistently outstanding. Following his retirement, Ranger Beam founded the Purple Heart Ranch in Yuma, Arizona, dedicated to providing support to Ranger veterans and active-duty personnel from all branches stationed at the Yuma Proving Grounds and Marine Corps Air Station.
CSM Darrin J. Bohn
CSM Darrin J. Bohn served 35 years of active service and truly embodies the Ranger Creed and Abrams' Charter. Ranger Bohn began his service in the 75th Ranger Regiment after serving for three years as a Rifle Squad Leader in the 101st Airborne. As a Rifle Squad Leader in 2nd Platoon, A Company, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, he participated in the night parachute assault on Torrijos Tocumen Airfield, Panama, as part of Operation Just Cause. He later served as the Platoon Sergeant for 2nd Platoon for over five years. During that time, he deployed in support of Operation Iris Gold in Kuwait, Operation Uphold Democracy in Haiti, and numerous OCONUS training deployments. Darrin was then assigned to Italy and served as a Rifle Platoon Sergeant, deploying to Bosnia in support of IFOR. He was promoted while serving as the 1SG for three Companies over a four-year period. He was selected as the 1SG for A Company, 1st Ranger Battalion. His Company deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, where they truly exemplified the Ranger Creed in operations on Roberts Ridge. CSM Bohn was promoted to SGM and served as the Operations SGM for 2-2 IN, 1st Infantry Division in Vilseck, Germany. He deployed to Kosovo in support of KFOR and to Operation Iraqi Freedom III. 2-2 IN was attached to 1 MEF to conduct operations to clear Fallujah in the second battle of Fallujah in 2004. Darrin assumed duties as the Battalion CSM when his predecessor was KIA. Ranger Bohn was then assigned to Fort Benning, GA, where he served as a Battalion and Brigade CSM, training Infantry Soldiers and Leaders who would shortly deploy to combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2009, Ranger Bohn was selected to serve as the first CSM for International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) - Joint Command, Kabul, Afghanistan. He served in that capacity for two years before being selected to serve as the CSM for U.S. Army Forces Command, FORSCOM, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He served as the FORSCOM CSM until October 2011 when he was selected as the Command Senior Enlisted Leader for AFRICOM. He served as the CSEL for AFRICOM for four years prior to his retirement from the Army in April 2017, completing 35 dedicated years of active service.
CSM Jay Brimstin
Ranger Brimstin has been inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for his exemplary service to the Ranger community. Ranger Brimstin entered the Army in August 1978 and attended basic training at Fort Dix, followed by Infantry AIT at Fort Benning, Georgia. His first assignment after Airborne School was the 2nd Ranger Battalion at Fort Lewis, where he served as a machine gunner, fire team leader, and rifle squad leader. In 1983, Ranger Brimstin was assigned as a Ranger Instructor at Camp Merrill in Dahlonega. In 1985, Jay returned to the 2nd Ranger Battalion and served as a weapons squad leader and platoon sergeant. Ranger Brimstin then returned to be a Ranger instructor at the Mountain Ranger camp from 1989 to 1993. He competed in the 1993 Best Ranger Competition a few months prior to moving to the 1st Ranger Battalion, where he served as a Platoon Sergeant and participated in contingency operations in Haiti. Ranger Brimstin also served as the Battalion Intel Sergeant, Operations Sergeant, and later as a company 1SG. In 1999, Ranger Brimstin moved again to Fort Lewis to take on the role of HHC 1SG in 2/75. Ranger Brimstin was promoted to SGM in June 2000 and assigned to the 19th Theater Support Command Korea as G3 Operation SGM. He was then selected and assumed duties as CSM of 3/75 in 2001. He prepared and deployed his Battalion to Afghanistan, executing a combat jump into Rhino DZ near Kandahar. Jay returned with his Battalion and was subsequently assigned as part of TRADOC in 2/19th Infantry Bn of the 198th, Brigade CSM of the 199th, and culminated his career as the Henry Caro NCO Academy CSM. After 30 years of service, Ranger Brimstin took on the job as Deputy Director of Doctrine and Training at Benning, continuing to support Soldiers. Ranger Brimstin has spent four decades setting a superb example and defining the standard of a quiet professional, mentoring leaders and Soldiers in the values embodied in the Ranger Creed.
CSM (Ret.) Ray Devens
Known as a "Soldier's Soldier," CSM (Ret) Ray Devens is being inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame Class of 2023 for his extraordinary contributions to our nation, our Army, and the Rangers. Ranger Devens has led the way on the battlefield and during peacetime for over 34 years of active service. He always found a way to stay close to the action, accepting the most challenging assignments. Combat duty in Grenada, Somalia, Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan highlights a career served in the most demanding assignments our Army has to offer. His numerous assignments in the 75th Ranger Regiment and beyond highlight a career dedicated to living the Abrams Charter, even while occupying the highest positions our Army has to offer. For over a decade, he could be found throughout Iraq and Afghanistan, wherever the fight was most intense, as he sought out soldiers, tactical units, and commands that needed his keen insights and Ranger leadership. His dedication to the ideals of the Ranger Creed and his unwavering commitment to the mission at hand make him the ideal Ranger leader. Whether as a junior enlisted 90mm recoilless rifle gunner in Grenada or as the most senior enlisted leader in Iraq, he has always made an impact, reaching far beyond his imposing physical presence. Ranger Devens has set a lofty example and established a sterling legacy of unwavering commitment and dedication to our nation, the mission, and all Rangers.
CSM (Ret.) Rick Merritt
Command Sergeant Major (Retired) Rick Merritt has been inducted into the US Army Ranger Hall of Fame for his extremely distinguished legacy of service to America. Ranger Rick Merritt’s enduring and unquestioned devotion to the values captured in the Ranger Creed has resulted in an extraordinary 35-year career, with 25 years served in the Ranger Regiment. Ranger Rick Merritt is widely recognized for his exceptional service across the entire Army. He has been awarded the highest level of the Order of Saint Maurice, the Primicerius, and has been inducted as a Distinguished Member of the 75th Ranger Regiment and the 10th Mountain Division "Warrior Legends" Hall of Fame. Even three years after his retirement, his devotion to this nation remains evident as he continues to teach and train young Rangers by example. Ranger Rick Merritt’s contributions to the nation, the United States Army, and the 75th Ranger Regiment are without peer. Therefore, Ranger Rick Merritt has been inducted into the ranks of the US Army Ranger Hall of Fame.
CSM Jan Schalavin
CSM Jan Schalavin has been inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for 35 years of dedicated service to the Ranger Community and our nation. His Ranger assignments highlight a career that saw him excel in both combat and peacetime, as he relentlessly prepared for the next fight. His three tours in the Republic of Vietnam were legendary, and he has received numerous individual Valor awards, including the Silver Star. His actions on June 17, 1968, credit his "complete disregard for his own safety being responsible for saving many lives and to the success of the entire mission". Additionally the citation states, "When confronted with an enemy Sniper who was hiding in a forward foxhole, Sergeant Schalavin made his way to an advantageous position where he personally killed the sniper who was shooting his men.” His service in the 1st and 2nd Battalion of the 75th Infantry before the formation of the 75th Ranger Regiment is equally remarkable. He was the first-ever First Sergeant of C Company, 2nd Ranger Battalion, and while serving as the CSM of the 1st Ranger Battalion, he was involved in the attempt to rescue American hostages inside Iran in 1980. Additionally, Ranger Schalavin served as the CSM of the Infantry School, the 173rd Light Infantry Brigade, and the 25th Infantry Division. Ranger Schalavin’s unwavering dedication to the mission and the exceptional care he provided to his Rangers showcased his steadfast commitment to upholding the Ranger Creed, thus reflecting immense credit upon himself, the U.S. Army, and the Rangers.
CSM William “Bill” Thetford
CSM(Ret) William "Bill" Thetford has been inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for his over 35 years of exemplary service. Ranger Thetford served with both the 2nd and 1st Ranger Battalions, as well as the 5th Ranger Training Battalion. Ranger Thetford has participated in the Best Ranger Competition three times, achieving 4th, 5th, and 2nd place respectively from 1987 to 1989. He then served for 20 years in a SMU at Ft. Bragg before progressing to the nominative level. In this capacity, he served as the Command Senior Enlisted Leader for the Joint Special Operations Command at Ft. Bragg, NC, the U.S. Special Operations Command at MacDill AFB, FL, and, in his final military assignment, as the Command Senior Enlisted Leader of U.S. Central Command, also at MacDill. Currently, Ranger Thetford continues his service to veterans as a mentor and guest speaker for the SOF Team Room program, Project Transition USA, and various Veteran workshops on Ft. Bragg. Throughout his career, Ranger Thetford has gained extensive combat experience and has been deployed numerous times. He participated in Operations Urgent Fury in Grenada, Gothic Serpent-Task Force Ranger in Mogadishu, Somalia, as well as Operations Iraqi Freedom, New Dawn, and Enduring Freedom in the Middle East. He has also supported peacekeeping operations in Bosnia. During his career, Ranger Thetford attended and successfully completed numerous military and civilian schools, including the Sergeants Major Academy, the Ranger School, and the Special Forces Qualification Course. Furthermore, he holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Science from Campbell University, a Master’s Degree in Business and Organizational Security Management from Webster University, and he has earned his Project Management Professional (PMP) Certificate from the Project Management Institute. Ranger Thetford's accolades and decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, and Bronze Star Medal with V-Device. In 2018, he was honored with the VFW’s prestigious Armed Forces Award, in recognition of his significant contributions to the nation. After retiring with over 35 years of service, Ranger Thetford joined the CACI - Wexford team in July 2019, where he currently serves as the Operations Manager for CACI's service and support program to USASOC.
1SG Marshall Huckaby
1SG Marshall Huckaby has been inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for his heroism, dedication, and distinguished, continued service to his country and the Ranger Community. During his first tour, he volunteered and served in the newly formed Long-Range Reconnaissance Patrol Company of the 25th Infantry Division. Ranger Huckaby became one of the first graduates of the Military Assistance Command Vietnam (MACV) 'Recondo' School in Nha Trang. Ranger Huckaby returned to the United States, where he continued his military career, serving in many Senior NCO Leadership positions until his retirement in October 1981. Most importantly, his service to the greater Ranger Community has never ceased. As a lifetime member of the 75th Ranger Regiment Association, he has served in multiple positions as Unit director of Company F 25th ID LRRPS. He has also volunteered to assist the 1st Ranger Battalion in their fundraising programs that benefit Rangers and their families. Furthermore, he has donated his time and culinary expertise during the annual "Critter Cookout" at the Mountain Ranger Camp in Dahlonega, GA. Marshall Huckaby established and was the first President of the Long-Range Reconnaissance Association, an association that honors and preserves the "Lost Brotherhood" of Long-Range Reconnaissance Warriors. He led the fundraising efforts to secure and place Stone Memorial Benches at the National Ranger Memorial, the National Infantry Museum, and the National Museum of the United States Army. Ranger Huckaby exemplifies the Ranger Creed as he lives it each day. He was inducted into the GEORGIA MILITARY VETERANS HALL OF FAME Class of 2018 and currently serves on their Board. Ranger Huckaby has distinguished himself through his countless contributions, dedicated loyal support to the 75th Ranger Regiment, and his selfless service to the Ranger community. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of the U.S. Army Rangers, the U.S. Army, and the United States of America.
HON: Mr. David H. Ermer
Mr. David H. Ermer has been inducted as an Honorary Member of the Ranger Hall of Fame for his philanthropic and compassionate endeavors with 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. A United States Army Veteran, Mr. Ermer has encouraged, supported, and befriended Rangers for over twenty years. Drawing from his extensive experience in the largest financial institutions and Wall Street, he has mentored countless Rangers in building financial security. Mr. Ermer has actively participated in morale-building activities, frequently engaging in conversations and mentoring sessions to uplift spirits. Throughout the past two decades, Dave Ermer has been present at most services honoring our Fallen Heroes, often traveling out of state to pay his respects. He has also attended various social and sporting events, gaining a reputation for hosting single Rangers on holidays when they were away from their families. Through these encounters, he earned the nickname "Super Dave," a title that still stands today, more than two decades later. It is through his contacts and unwavering determination in fundraising that the 1/75 Memorial became a reality. Mr. Ermer was a founding Board Member of the Ranger Memorial Board, which has since evolved into the 1/75 Sua Sponte Foundation, dedicated to supporting Rangers, their families, and Gold Star Families through morale and welfare events. He is an exceptionally caring and generous individual who deeply loves his Rangers, deserving recognition and remembrance for his numerous contributions. Mr. Ermer is truly deserving of the honor and distinction of being inducted as an Honorary Member in the Ranger Hall of Fame.
HON: CW4 Jose “Joe” Ibarra
CW4 (Ret.) Jose C. Ibarra is hereby inducted as an Honorary Member into the Ranger Hall of Fame for his superb leadership and accomplishments as the original Property Book Officer for 1st Bn (Ranger) 75th Infantry. Because of his stellar service to the U.S. Army and his dedication to promoting the Ranger Ethos, he was hand selected by Major General Kenneth C. Leuer to be the Property Book Officer for the 1st Bn (Ranger) 75th Infantry. Due to his extensive technical knowledge of Property Management, CW4 (Ret.) Ibarra had the responsibility for the development of all property records and training of the logistics personnel assigned to the Ranger Battalion. He was instrumental in developing the standards for property accountability under the manual property book system and transitioning to the automated Property Book System. He assisted the Bn S4 officer in developing the Military Table of Organization and Equipment for each company so they can perform each and every assigned mission. CW4 (Ret.) Ibarra served in 1st Bn (Ranger), 75th Infantry from 1974 until his retirement in 1978 and was always willing to support the Ranger community to the best of his abilities as the Property Book Officer and Chief Logistics Subject Matter Expert no matter the mission. He was a true example of the Ranger Motto "Rangers Lead The Way!". Ranger Ibarra distinguished himself by his dedication and loyal support of the 75th Infantry Regiment, and by his devotion of selfless service embodied to the Ranger community. Ranger lbarra's actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of the U.S. Army Rangers, the U.S. Army, and the United States of America. CW4 (Ret.) Jose C. Ibarra demonstrated the exemplary nature of the true professional and what Rangers need to emulate as he "Led The Way" each and every day of his professional life and even after retirement. After retirement, Chief Ibarra continued his commitment by becoming active in the following associations: Treasurer, Isaac Camacho Chapter IX of the Special Forces Association and Treasurer of the Benavidez-Patterson All Airborne Chapter of the 82nd Airborne Division Association in El Paso Texas. Chief Ibarra was the epitome of a Ranger and lived the Ranger Creed every day.