SFC. Derek Duplisea

Hi, I'm Sergeant First Class Derek Duplisea, a 19D Cavalry Scout platoon sergeant. I've been in the Army for 11 years. I was the platoon sergeant for 2nd Platoon, Able Troop, 1-32 CAV 101st ABN DIV (AASLT). My platoon was hit while I was leading a joint US-Iraqi patrol about 60 miles north east of Baghdad, August 16, 2006. A suicide bomber blew herself up about 5 feet from our position, severly injuring 5 of my men, including me. We all survived and are doing great in our recovery phase.

I'm married to a great woman, Valerie and we have 3 wonderful daughters, Lillie, Mackenzie and Gracie. I plan on sticking it out in the Army for another 8 years, then call it a career at 20.

I personally thank Cindy and all her crew for making my life a lot easier while I'm recovering at Walter Reed.

Sergeant First Class Derek L Duplisea