A Lion in Afghanistan
 

The Times obituary: Staff-Sergeant Olaf Schmid | Times Online Obituary

He was not a military aviator, but I couldn't help posting the touching times obituary for Staff Sgt Olaf Schmid.

In a campaign where the word hero is so widely used, what word can we use to describe someone who's individual courage is so far beyond even our current understanding of the activities in the Afghan theatre.

I would use the title the Afghans themselves award and salute a Lion of a man.

I'd agree with you rmac, all the obituaries of all our fatalities are moving and humbling, but even amongst them, his obituary stood out as somebody who was clearly outstanding in his continual courage.

See also the report by Michael Yon. Great Britain Loses One Of It's Finest.

Might I plea that people fund Michael, we need his kind of reporter.

His wife has also shown unbelievable strength and dignity...

anotherthing:Absolutely agreed. The eulogy to her husband on College Green is one of the bravest, most loving and heartfelt speeches it is my privilege to have ever heard, let alone from a grieving widow. Staff Sergeant Schmid was undoubtedly a Lion, but one who was married to Lioness. The Beeb should present her with a copy of her piece, it might help sustain her in her grief.

A lesson to us all - from both SSgt Schmid and his incredibly dignified wife.

I am guessing Schmid was not the sort to carry out his duties for honours or awards, but if there isn't a write up for a posthumous award of some description winging its way to the relevant committee, then there is absolutely no justice in the world.

Awesome guys - I thoroughly recommend reading "Eight Lives Down" by Maj Chris Hunter about his tour in Iraq.

RIP

sw

+1 for Yons tribute to Oz
 

I had a look through Michael Yon's blog the other day; seems that he and Oz Schmid had crossed paths on a few occasions and his peice was very well written, as usual and was fulsome in its tribute.

I also read through the tributes and messages of condolence left by other readers, and found them profoundly moving... from other serving or retired UK and US military personnel and from other readers who just follow and take a keen interest in what Michael reports on.

I fully echo Melchett's sentiments for Oz to recieve a posthumous decoration. Fitting recognition for a true pro who'se ability and bravery were held in such high regard by all who came to know him.

Also ORAC - Yon's contribution in Afghanistan has been an incredible eye opener and is essential reading. He's worth every single cent.

I was utterly humbled by the dignity and respect that his wife demonstrated at this terrible time, and the way she has taken the undoubtedly crushing news, and chosen to focus on the good things about this good man's life.

There is a precedent for the honouring of an individual with either the VC or I suspect in this case a GC, by the fact that the person had carried out hazardous operations over a period of time. The VC was awarded to Gp Cpt Leonard Cheshire following his service with 617 Squadron and was recommended by his group commander and the OC Bomber Command.

Air pig

Lt Cdr John Bridge GC GM* was awarded the George Cross for his clearance of enemy munitions in Messina harbour, Sicily, over a ten-day period.

Telegraph obituary.

Totally agree with this statement. Such dignity shown at such a terrible time.