| Benjamin Kopp |
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Ben Kopp became an Army Ranger out of respect and admiration for his great-grandfather, who served in WWII. After 9/11, at the age of 13, Ben vowed to serve his country with determination and pride. Ben arrived at Ft. Benning, Georgia, exactly one month after his high school graduation. His tenacity made him an accomplished Army Ranger within eight months. The daily challenges of being an elite Army Ranger do not come easy, but quickly turn boys into men. Ben was no exception. On his first visit home, the change in him was noticeable, and it was apparent he was doing exactly what he was meant to do. Ben maintained his childhood friendships from his hometown of Rosemount, MN, but also established new friendships with his fellow brothers of the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. He became known for his fearless attitude, crooked grin, and charm with the ladies. Ben had an infectious personality, and all would agree he was a best friend to many. Ben served two tours in Iraq before his third tour in Afghanistan in May of 2009. On July 10th, during a firefight with the Taliban, he saved the lives of six of his fellow Rangers before being shot in the leg. Unfortunately, recovery from the trauma his body endured from the gunshot wound and surgery would prove to be too much. Ben Kopp died on July 18, 2009, at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC. Before his death, Ben ensured his living will stated that he would donate all of his organs, including bone, skin, and tissue. Ben's organ donations saved or enhanced the lives of 60 people. His heart continued to beat for fifteen years and seven months in a woman from Winnetka, Illinois, who passed away from health issues unrelated to her heart earlier this year. Ben’s strong Ranger heart stayed with her until the objective was complete. In life and in death, Corporal Benjamin S. Kopp was and still is a hero. He distinguished himself with the Army Achievement Medal with two awards, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, Parachutist Badge, and the Ranger Tab. Upon his death, Ben was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Purple Heart. He was also posthumously promoted to Corporal. Per his wishes, he is laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery, where he is surrounded by heroes from conflicts dating back more than two hundred years. He is sorely missed to this day by all who know and love him. |
