US Mountain Ranger Association

SGT Justin Hyatt enlisted into the Army on 13 August 2003. He attended the US Army Infantry Basic Training Course and Airborne School in FT Benning, GA. Upon completion, he received orders to the elite 82 Airborne Division in FT Bragg, NC. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment C Company 2nd Platoon. Justin served as a rifleman, grenadier, automatic rifleman, machine gunner, and team leader. As a junior enlisted soldier Justin accomplished more in 3 years than an average senior noncommissioned officer would have accomplished in a career. His dedication to the Army is evident by his successful completion of the Javelin Course, Combat Life Saver Course, and the US Army's most rigorous leadership development course: Ranger School.

SGT Hyatt deployed with the 82nd Airborne Division in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom to provide security for the democratic elections in Baghdad. Shortly after his deployment, Justin re-enlisted for 3 additional years, and was assigned to the 5th Ranger Training Battalion, Dahlonega, GA.

During his enlistment he has been awarded:
Combat Infantryman Badge, 82nd ABN DIV Combat Patch, Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Ranger Tab, Expert Infantryman Badge, Expert Marksmanship Badge, Airborne Wings (US and Chile), Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Medal.

SGT Hyatt was recently selected to attend the US Army Special Forces Assessment and Selection Course in the fall of 2006. Justin planned on serving 3 years as an 18B Weapons Sergeant. After a few years wearing the Green Beret his goal was to try out for Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta.

SGT Justin Hyatt was a quiet professional, an epitome of an Airborne Ranger, a leader who stood above his peers, and a friend to those he served with. Ranger Hyatt was fatally injured in a traffic accident August 5, 2006. He will be greatly missed.