| Glenn Harris |
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1SG Glenn Harris served 16 years, from 1978 to 1994, concluding his career as First Sergeant of Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. A 1979 Ranger School graduate with 2nd Ranger Battalion, he went on to serve in Alpha Company, 2/75; the 47th USAAD; Charlie Company, 6/327 Infantry; and Headquarters Company, 3/75. He also helped train future Rangers with the 3rd Ranger Company, Student Brigade, 4th Ranger Training Battalion. He was a master of his craft as a Ranger and light infantryman, completing Airborne, Jumpmaster, Air Assault, Jungle Warfare, Arctic Paratrooper, and Close Quarters Battle. He completed all levels of NCO professional development, including Battle Staff, and earned an Associate’s Degree in General Education. As First Sergeant, he led from the front, ensuring his soldiers were always combat-ready. During Operation Gothic Serpent in Mogadishu, Somalia, on October 3-4, 1993, now widely known as Black Hawk Down, he distinguished himself under fire, earning the Purple Heart and Bronze Star Medal for his actions and leadership. His awards also include the Expert Infantryman Badge, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster. On his final NCO evaluation report as first sergeant, he earned a perfect 300 on the APFT using the youngest soldiers' standard & was regarded as the most physically fit in the company. He installed a pull-up bar in his office doorway as a form of “re-training” that reflected his belief in constant fitness. It also became a way to connect with his Rangers, one recalled “enjoyed being told to 'mount the bar', he’d joke with us while we hung.” On December 4, 1994, 1SG Glenn Harris tragically lost his life during an airborne training exercise at Fort Benning, GA. After being one of three to land in the Chattahoochee River, a safety boat reached him first. In his final moments, he directed rescuers to assist the other Rangers before him. He drowned shortly thereafter. 1SG Harris is survived by his wife, Sandy, and daughters, Tara & Heather. He is remembered as a devoted husband, father, & leader who put his Rangers first and lived a life defined by character, unwavering leadership & sacrifice. |
