friday night lights
Friday, October 21, 2011 at 3:15PM 
Last Friday night was the 2011 football homecoming for Green Forest Schools. I went back this year because we just finished their new athletic complex, and I was excited to see how the new stadium was being received. It was a great night for the school and the community. As I arrived, the smells of popcorn, nachos, and hot dogs led the crowd to the plaza and concession stand that is tucked underneath the grandstand. The band was playing and students were beaming with the excitement of Homecoming. Not only were they celebrating Homecoming and a new stadium, but they were also honoring a friend and hero, Staff Sargent Tommy Ratzlaff of the US NAVY SEALs, Team 6.
Tommy passed away on August 6th when his team's helicopter was shot down in Afghanistan. Tommy played on the Green Forest field like many others. His tenacity and drive on the field was an example by which to live. I had the pleasure of attending school with Tommy, and we shared many memories throughout high school, both on and off the field. Tommy’s influence was apparent through his selfless actions; the way in which he led his life, his family, his friendships. The lasting impact of his memory was most heavily felt at his funeral where there was an awesome showing of friends and loved ones.
So, I would like to thank you, Tommy, for the sacrifices you made in order that we may enjoy the freedoms for which you stood. I am able to live my dream because of the thousands like you. I am honored to have called you my friend. And so, in his spirit, Go Tigers!
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