Hero: CPL Conor “Dougie” Masterson

Today I thank CPL Conor “Dougie” Masterson, my platoon medic (Doc) in Afghanistan in 2007, for his heroism and sacrifice for our Country.
 
I remember that Easter, I remember that IED. But far more important than that single day I remember how Dougie lived and served with fearlessness and honor.
 
I remember you teaching me how to stick an IV properly, Brother. No one else could ever teach me how to do it properly but you. I remember you teaching me how to properly apply a tourniquet to a bleed when other methods wouldn’t stop it. The former skill I never used in combat. The latter I did, effectively, because of you.
You treated us when we needed you.
 
You taught us so we could help others.
 
You were a healer, a leader, and the greatest honor of all of these, a Doc in the United States Army Infantry.
You were the example. And I am honored that you were my friend.
 
I also remember in the darkest depths of my personal grief, after I left the Army, I imagined what you would say to me when I apologized for letting you down. Your spirit did not chastise me and my erroneous beliefs. Without needing words you made me understand that I should honor your courageous sacrifice by having a good life and helping others.
 
Once again, as always, you worked to heal your fellow soldier.
 
You were a healer then when you physically here in this world, and you are a healer now in a different way.
 
You are still healing me when I need you.
 
You are still teaching me so I can help others.
 
Thanks, Doc.
 
In a strange way, it is appropriate that your heroic sacrifice for our Country happened on Easter. That seems to be a time when great healers go to a different place.
 
I will see you again one day. But until that day I will work to make you proud.
 
I salute you, Brother.

Bravo Company “Blackfoot” 1-4 Infantry Regiment Forever.