4     November 1, 2007 - 8:25am | rgrunder

I have been privileged....

I had the privilege to meet and know Jacob through my involvement the the Gracie Barra Alaska Jiu Jitsu Academy where Jacob and many of his fellow soldiers trained Brazilian jiu jitsu and other martial arts.

Jacob was a member of a competition team of six soldiers from Ft. Rich that were selected to compete in the All Army Combatives Tournament which was held at Ft. Benning, Georgia two years ago. These boys were trained by my instructer, Ted Stickel, and I assisted. (I can call these men 'boys' since they are less than half my age and younger than my youngest child, but men they are for sure.)

We traveled to Ft. Benning and competed in team competition against teams from all over the country. Our boys, with a team of only six, placed third in total team points against teams with three times the number of competitors. All of our team members were fantastic, including Jacob, who was the strong, quiet, tough-as-nails leader of the group.

I am very proud to have known Jacob and cannot think of him or look at his picture without tears coming to my eyes.

Many of the other soldiers that have trained at Gracie Barra are returning this month. We are awaiting their return so that we can receive them as the brave men and women they are and embrace them with love and gratitude.

And Jacob McMillan will not be forgotten.

Robert Grunder
Gracie Barra Alaska

  3     May 18, 2007 - 4:54am | scotty6909

A TRUE WARRIOR

Jacob McMillan was a true warrior. He cared for his soldiers and he believed in what he was doing for his country. He was a good friend, and soldier. He loved his job! This unit has lost a great Paratrooper, one that will never be forgotten.

  1     February 28, 2007 - 2:38pm | ddkeen

America is the "Home of the

America is the "Home of the Free", because of the Brave.