Meet Jeffrey

This story was told by Jeffrey's mother

Dear Ms. Guerin,

I regret to inform you that your son, SPC Jeffrey Guerin, was wounded during a combat patrol in Uruzgan Province, Afghanistan October 14, 2004. As you already know from coordination with the battalion Rear Detachment Commander and various FRG members, SPC Guerin is in stable condition and will be further evacuated as his condition dictates in the near future.

SPC Guerin's patrol was ambushed and his vehicle was destroyed by an IED while conducting a security patrol. Fellow members of the small patrol aggressively fought the Taliban attackers, secured the area and began medical treatment for those injured. SPC Guerin was quickly treated, stabilized, and evacuated by Medevac Helicopter to Kandahar Air Field (KAF) where he received more extensive treatment. In the period of time that he had been in Afghanistan, SPC Guerin was making an impact on the local tactical and stability situation. As an invaluable member of the Medical Platoon, Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, SPC Guerin was highly regarded by all of the Soldiers and the unit leadership. Jeffrey was eagerly anticipating Soldiering with the Medical Platoon in Operation Enduring Freedom-Afghanistan. He lead by example in all that he did, always performing each task to the highest standard. His dedication to duty and genuine concern for his fellow Soldiers made him an exceptional friend, medical professional and Soldier.

Even after sustaining injuries to himself, he continually asked about the welfare of the other Soldiers and leaders in his vehicle as well as the remainder of the patrol. He will be missed here but certainly not forgotten. My sincere sympathy, and the sympathy of the Soldiers of Task Force Bobcat, is extended to you in this tragic incident. Please know that I am extremely proud of your son and his contributions to the Bobcats and the United States Army.

Sincerely,

Terry L.Sellers-Lieutenant Colonel, United States Army Commanding

Additional information: Staff Sgt. Brian Hobbs, 28 of Mesa, Arizona and SPC. Kyle Ka Eo Fernandez, 26 of Waipahu, Hawaii lost their lives in this incident. SPC. Joey Banegas lost his right leg. SPC Jeffrey Guerin was blinded in both eyes and received numerous fractures in both legs. After many surgeries and only with glasses he has regained some sight, more surgeries still to come. Sgt.1st Class Helbert Izquierdo broke his femur.

This story was told by Jeffrey's mother