USARA News

In Memory of USARA Life Member and WWII Ranger Roger Neighborgall, Sr.

September 13, 1923 - September 13, 2016

Roger B. Neighborgall, Sr. On his 93rd birthday, September 13, 2016, after a brief illness, Roger B. Neighborgall, Sr. of Falls Church VA died with his family by his side. A graduate of Duke University, Roger was a member of the greatest generation, a US Army Ranger who fought in Europe including the Normandy invasion and Battle of the Bulge. At the end of the war in Europe he applied his munitions expertise to help recover stolen Jewish treasure stored in German bank vaults. His military awards include the Silver and Bronze Stars and a Presidential Unit Citation. He was recalled to service during the Korean War and spent his...

On his 93rd birthday, September 13, 2016, after a brief illness, Roger B. Neighborgall, Sr. of Falls Church VA died with his family by his side.

A graduate of Duke University, Roger was a member of the greatest generation, a US Army Ranger who fought in Europe including the Normandy invasion and Battle of the Bulge. At the end of the war in Europe he applied his munitions expertise to help recover stolen Jewish treasure stored in German bank vaults. His military awards include the Silver and Bronze Stars and a Presidential Unit Citation. He was recalled to service during the Korean War and spent his civilian career as an executive in the defense industry.

Roger's war experience imparted a profound love of life and a can-do determination to give back to his family, community and country. A community activist and perennial volunteer, he was active in the Lions Club, the American Legion and various city government organizations. He spoke extensively about his experiences to community and school groups, and particularly enjoyed teaching middle schoolers about the War, life, and the qualities of leadership. He was founder and President of the N. VA Tennis League and President of the Friends of the W&OD Trail. He was active in veterans' organizations and was a USO volunteer and a greeter of Honor Flights bringing his fellow vets to visit the WWII Monument.

Roger is survived by his wife of 38 years, Linda; children, Roger Jr., Lisa Mathieu (Stephen), Christa Hyland and daughter-in-law, Rebecca Neighborgall; 8 beloved grandchildren and one glorious great-granddaughter.

The family will receive friends at the National Funeral Home, 7482 Lee Hwy., Falls Church, VA 22042 from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Friday, September 23, 2016. A funeral mass will be held at Holy Comforter Episcopal Church, 543 Beulah Rd., Vienna, VA 22180 on Saturday, September 24 at 1:00 p.m. Private interment at Arlington National Cemetery.

Roger was a LIFE MEMBER of USARA – he requested that in lieu of flowers, donations in his memory be directed to the US Army Ranger Association, Ranger Assistance Fund, PO Box 52126, Ft Benning, GA 31995, note as Roger Neighborgall memorial donation, the USO, PO Box 96860, Washington, DC 20077-7677 or Capital Caring, 2900 Telestar Ct., Falls Church, VA 22042.

Peter William Stevens Jr.‎
‎1936 - 2016

We tragically lost an amazing man who led a most amazing life. There are no words to describe how ‎extraordinary a life as well lived as Peter's was. Only those who were lucky enough to have known Peter ‎could understand the vigor, courage, energy and humor he put into absolutely everything he did.‎

Peter was a beloved husband, an incredible father, a steadfast friend and truly one-of-a-kind. His life ‎achievements included, rising to the top of his profession as a CPA and a CIA, and a merger and acquisitions ‎specialist in the oil and gas industries. He was a private pilot who built four beautiful airplanes, and had a ‎passion for flying that few could match. He was on the volunteer Park City Ski Patrol for many years. He ‎was a proud Dutchman, a gourmet cook, a fly fisherman, a scuba diver, a Republican and a conservative, a ‎skilled mechanic, a traveler of the world, and a U.S. Army Ranger. At a very young age this defined the rest ‎of his life, and no man could be more proud to be a tabbed Airborne Ranger serving in the 11th and 82nd ‎Airborne Divisions.

He volunteered for SCORE for over 20 years and helped people too numerous to count. He was on the ‎boards of the Utah Symphony, Holy Cross Hospital Foundation, the U.S. Ski Team, the Salt Lake Housing ‎Authority, and Salvation Army. He was so proud to be a Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, and to be ‎elected to the Parish Council of St. Ambrose Catholic Church. He was a member of the EAA, Quiet Birdmen ‎and Plane Obsession. And, oh how he loved his Monday lunch with his hangar buddies-"my people!"‎

Peter had a special place in his heart for his dogs. As a child, dogs were a part of his life and everyone was ‎called, "Dutch". His golden retrievers, Duchess and Toro, his "grand puppy", Dougie, and his little buddy and ‎right hand man, Spike, were huge parts of Peter's life and he always considered them family.

He was a man of integrity, honesty, and the courage of his convictions. You had to earn his respect, but his ‎loyalty was fierce. He was an inspiration, a hero, and our "rock". He never stopped moving, and constantly ‎took care of his family, friends, and those he loved. This was a very large circle, as Peter touched lives ‎almost everywhere he went. His life was an extraordinary adventure and how lucky we were to share it.‎

Those left to love and cherish his memory include his wife; Lou Ann, who was the love of his life, and with ‎whom he traveled the world and shared a beautiful marriage of 30 years. Together they had a daughter, ‎Amy, who was his pride and joy-he was so proud of her. His two girls were Peter's everything. He is also ‎survived by his brother; Ed, and sister; Norma. Preceded in death by his Papa, Mighty Minnie, and his ‎beloved sister; Ruby.‎
We would like to thank Chris and Katie Jolles for all their love, strength and support.‎

We will celebrate his life in the Spring with stories, love and laughter. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to ‎the Utah Humane Society in his memory.‎

P.W.: We will make sure it is always, "A Ranger Operation!" You will never be forgotten, and always loved. ‎Online condolences may be shared at www.evans-earlymortuary.com

Published in Salt Lake Tribune from Aug. 19 to Aug. 21, 2016

Gerry Rush, age 85, of Converse, Texas passed away on Wednesday, August 3, 2016.  He was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on August 5, 1930 to Alta Billig and Michael Vollenweider. At the age of 12 he was adopted by Elmer Rush who had married Alta and became Gerald Elmer Rush. Later on he changed it to Gerry Rush.

Gerry is survived by his wife Beverly, sons Gerry Rush, Jr., David Rush, daughters Heidi Rush and Dihann Lehmann, stepchildren Jackie Beady and Adam Lisinski, and many grandchildren. Previously married to Audrey Rush Gamble who raised their children while Ranger Rush was serving his country. She did an awesome job.

Gerry graduated from Hammond High then went on to go to Western Michigan University where he was in ROTC. In 1952 they asked for volunteers to go to Korea and were promised they would graduate with their class. After getting back he joined the Navy where unfortunately he broke both arms. He then joined the Army and made it his career. Was a Green Beret, graduated from Ranger School Class 10, June, 1956. Went to Viet Nam for 4 tours and decided to retire before a fifth tour.

He then moved his family to California where he worked on game shows, also worked on the Dean Martin Show for many years. Played Gabby Hayes in a German TV series. Dressed as Gabby, Elvis and even a hobo in parades for the Converse Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association of which both he and his wife Bev graduated from in 2007. He and his wife did a lot for wounded warriors at Fort Sam, have made some great lifetime friends.  Other accomplishments are too numerous to mention. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. He gave us all a lot of laughs and joy. RLTW

Family will receive friends from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 9, 2016, at Porter Loring Mortuary North.

GRAVESIDE SERVICE
WEDNESDAY
AUGUST 10, 2016
10:00 A.M.
FT. SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL CEMETERY

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Gary Sinise Foundation.  You are invited to sign the Guestbook at www.porterloring.com

In our most successful electronic vote to date, all candidates were confirmed and two proposed Bylaw changes were approved.
By Rick Yost, Secretary

The USARA Election committee is proud to announce the results of USARA Election 2016.  We would like to thank everyone who participated and voted.  Your participation is key to the success of the association and you help the association meet its State and Federal requirements as a non-profit membership association.

Of the 1,613 eligible voters, 1,414 were eligible for electronic voting (meaning that they had a valid email address on file with the association).  After the initial invitation to vote, three reminder emails, and a paper ballot sent via snail mail, the association received 664 valid responses.  This represents an all-time high response for USARA and represents a significantly higher response than is typical of non-profit associations.  Rangers Leading the Way!   

All Candidates were confirmed with a majority of the vote.  Ranger Travis West was re-elected for a second term as President with 633 of the 664 votes.  Ranger Bob Kvederas was re-elected for the 5^th time as Treasurer with 637 of the 664 votes.  Ranger Brian Ganhs was elected to the position of Midwest Regional Director with 72 of the 76 votes.  Ranger Taft Yates was elected to the position of South-Central Regional Director with 107 of the 113 votes.  Ranger David Maestas was elected to the position of Northwest Regional Director with 48 of the 51 votes.  Full voting numbers are displayed below.

The Bylaw changes were approved with the majority of the vote.  The Bylaw Change of Vice President Personnel and Vice President Logistics from Elected Positions to Appointed Positions passed with 88.8% of the 658 responses. The Bylaw Establishment of the Executive Committee passed with 95.1% of the 650 responses.  Full voting numbers are displayed below.

Once again, thank you for supporting your United States Army Ranger Association!

Columbus, GA- Master Sergeant Aubrey M. Batts, (United States Army, Retired) of Columbus passed away Monday at Columbus Hospice. He was 77 years of age and resided at 134 Playa Delray Drive.

MSG Batts was born in Washington, D.C. and was the son of the late William Henry and Nannie Hines Batts. He was a member of Pinehurst Baptist Church and obtained an Associate degree at Troy State University. He was a proud U. S. Army Ranger who retired following 22 years of dedicated service to his country. He was also retired from Civil Services, Ft. Benning, GA after 20+ years with the Range Control Operations. He was a member of the WWII Rangers Association, Triple Nickels Association, Airborne Association, American Legion Post #267, DAV Chapter #56, the U.S. Army Ranger Association and the National Infantry Association. MSG Batts was inducted into the U. S. Army Ranger Hall of Fame in 1995 and was a member of the Distinguished Rangers Jr. Training Brigade.

Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, William E. Batts, and three sisters, Garney Batts Jackson, Shirley Batts and Henrietta Batts Greene.

Survivors include: his wife of 52 years, Mrs. Gracie Guest Batts; two daughters, LTC Rena M. Batts-Elmore (LTC Ret. Hugh) and Audrey Batts Watson (Tim); two beloved granddaughters, Aubrey Grace and Bella Marie Watson; two sisters, Delores Batts Butler and Margaret Batts Todd; a brother-in-law, Isaac Guest; a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.

The Homegoing Celebration for MSG (Ret) Batts will be held Monday, May 2, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the Main Post Chapel on Ingersoll Street, Fort Benning, GA with interment in Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery. Full Military Honors will be accorded. Visitation is Today, 2 until 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home. The cortege will depart from the residence at 10:30 the morning of the service. Condolences may be expressed at progressivefuneralhome.com. Progressive Funeral Home, Inc. "A Touch of Dignity for Those Who Care."

Thomas S. Gener age 94, U.S. Army Ranger WWII Purple Heart Veteran. Beloved husband of the late Barbara Rae nee: Culver. Dear brother of John Gener, Sr. Fond uncle of Peggy (Chris) Pesavento, the late Patricia Mayo, the late John Gener, Jr. and the late Mary Fawcett; great uncle of many. Dear friend of Joan Werges and family.

Family and friends will gather Wednesday, February 3, 2016 from 10:00 am to time of Mass 11:00 am at St. Terrence Catholic Church 119th and Kostner Ave., Alsip, IL. Interment St. Mary Cemetery, Evergreen Park, IL.

In lieu of flowers donations to the Wounded Warrior Project 4899 Belfort Rd. Suite 300 Jacksonville, Florida 32256 appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Schmaedeke Funeral Home. Service information 708-448-7000 or www.schmaedekefuneralhome.com

Ranger Gener a life member of USARA served with Company B, 4^th Ranger Battalion during World War II.

BG HEBERT JACK LLOYD

I am writing my own obituary because I am quite simply the last authority on my own death - having given more than a half-century of service to my God, my family and my country, most of it abroad in foreign lands in high risk areas.  

As I recall the events of service, it is only fitting that I should die in service to our cause. We all have but one death to spend, and for it to have deep meaning, death should be with others who are prepare to give their lives to the cause of Christian Civilization and Liberty.  

And yet, I deny I died for anything. I lived for the Christian values and beliefs that had been imbued in me by a strong sainted Christian mother and the example of my very own son. The manner in which I chose to live my life involved the very real chance I would die in the execution of those duties that help make the world a better and more generous place. If there is nothing worth dying for - in this sense - there is nothing worth living for.  

I have had the privilege and was humbled to serve with and command American fighting men at every level, from squad to Asst. Division Commander, in savage, intense, sustained combat, from a minute to several days and nights - to see America's very finest young men and women willingly give their lives to the cause that was greater than themselves. My life was spared on numerous occasions and my country was generous enough to award twelve awards for valor. God Almighty allowed me to survive being wounded twice in Vietnam and once in Afghanistan.  

I had the privilege to serve with different armies around the world and make many close and cherished friends who shared our American Christian values and beliefs. The service arranged for nine years of university level education to include the Royal College of Defense Studies in London and a BA and MA from Auburn University in preparation to serve on the staff and faculty of the United States Military Academy at West Point and later to serve with heads of state in the sub-continent.  

The last eighteen years of civilian service were in the Muslim world of the Middle East and Africa, where I served in the corporate world - the last several years as a partner in sensitive government agencies with extremely courageous and dedicated Americans - caused me to appreciate the complexities of the tribal cultures that caused it to be so difficult to bring democracy and a better way of life to the poor wretched lands. Always it was the suffering little children who could not help themselves that was the most heartbreaking and changed one's views of one's life and the world.  

Service to the cause has been my life and has been full and rewarding and it has exacted its price. It is only just. Born: November 27, 1936 Death: December 10, 2015  

I was a member of the Unity Baptist Church in Hope, Arkansas, and am survived by my son, Mark, and his wonderful family, his wife, Beth, and children; Hannah and Matthew, and other family members who reside in the region.  

It is requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The Gideons International on their website, www.gideons.org, or Unity Baptist Church at 402 South Hervey Street, Hope, Arkansas, 71801.  

Visitation is 6:00-8:00pm, Monday, December 14, 2015 at Brazzel/Oakcrest Funeral Home in Hope, Arkansas.  

Funeral Service is 2:00pm, Tuesday, December 15, 2015 at Unity Baptist Church in Hope with Dr. Glen Tropp and Bro. John Nations officiating. Burial to follow at Rose Hill Cemetery in Hope. Arrangements by Brazzel/Oakcrest The Funeral Home of Hope, Eddie Brazzel, Director. Online guestbook: www.brazzelfuneralhomes.com

Herb was a member of the U.S Army Ranger Association; he was inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame in 2014.

U.S. Army Ranger Association
Position on Female Graduates from Ranger School

The question has arisen as to whether the U.S. Army Ranger Association (USARA) will take a position with respect to the integration of women into Ranger School, what impact the potential graduation of female students may have upon the Association, and whether USARA will present an award, gift, or special recognition to any of the female students at graduation, if they ultimately graduate.  This statement responds to each of those three questions.

Rangers have historically been strong-willed and self-reliant individuals. One might also add that we also tend to be very opinionated when it comes to personal, religious, and political view – which run gamut of the spectrum.  Despite these differences, Rangers and Ranger units have succeeded because of our common belief in the nation and our dedication to supporting the mission.  USARA’s mission, as outlined in its Constitution, is to support the Ranger community as that community is defined by the U.S. Army.  The Association takes no position on the integration of women into Ranger School, and leaves matters regarding the structure and composition of US forces – including at both the tactical and training levels – to those who are responsible for making such decisions. Notwithstanding the same, we are impressed with the efforts of ARTB’s leadership and cadre in carrying out the task they have been assigned, and remain available to assist in any way we can.

This past spring the US Army implemented a program to assess the integration of women into Ranger School.  Of the nineteen women who qualified to enter the course, three remain and two have reached the final Florida phase. Article III, Section 1 of the USARA Constitution provides that “[m]embership in this Association shall be open to all who have earned the title US. Army Ranger…” Further, as provided in Article III, Section 1.A.1. of the bylaws, “[t]hose who have been awarded the Ranger Tab, on order of the Department of Army” are entitled to regular membership in the Association. Accordingly, if any of the three female students who remain in Ranger School graduate, including either of the two currently in the Florida phase scheduled to graduate on August 21, then she will not only be entitled to wear the Ranger Tab but will also qualify for membership in USARA. If she chooses to apply for membership, her application will be accepted, processed, and granted in the same fashion as any other qualified Ranger.

Finally, USARA will not present an award, gift, or special recognition to any of the female students at graduation, if they ultimately graduate.  Communications with Airborne and Ranger Training Brigade (ARTB) leadership throughout this time period have made clear that the unit has taken every reasonable step to ensure that integration of women into Ranger School has been as gender-less an experience as possible.  USARA will not undermine those efforts by injecting gender into the equation at graduation by providing a special recognition, award, or gift on the basis of a student’s gender.  Doing so would not only undermine the efforts of ARTB’s leadership and cadre, but also undermine the experience for the female graduate(s), who by-and-large have indicated that they want to be held to the same standards as their male classmates, and not treated differently.

Direct all questions or comments to Travis West by email at travis.west@ranger.org or by telephone at (608) 561-1779.

USARA Executive Committee (August 5, 2015) :

Travis James West            Mike Ranger
President                         Executive Vice President

Rick Yost                         Bob Kvederas
Secretary                         Treasurer

USPT Gear a.k.a Ranger Store Ceasing operations

USARA has recently been informed that USPT Gear, its vendor for sales and distribution through its online Ranger Store, is ceasing operations due to economic reasons.  We are grateful for the work that USPT Gear has performed on behalf of the Association over the past several years and wish its employees and executives continued success in their future endeavors.

We have been informed that USPT Gear is working to process all outstanding orders as it wraps up store operations.  If you have concerns regarding an order you placed please feel free to contact Manny Carreras of USPT Gear at manny@usptgear.com or (703) 532-1000 extension 4.

We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience as USARA’s executive committee examines alternative options for replacing the Ranger Store.

We will keep you informed as we move forward.

Travis James West, President
US Army Ranger Association, Inc.