Vincent Lombardi

Vincent John Lombardi Jr. was born in Lewiston, New York on May 2, 1962. His long and distinguished career in the Army began on March 5, 1980. He spent his first five years as an enlisted soldier in the 75th Ranger Regiment and earned the rank of Staff Sergeant. One of the events that demonstrated his service to his country was contributions in Operation Urgent Fury to liberate Grenada in 1983.

After completing his enlistment he entered the Reserve Officer's Training Corps. In 1988 he graduated from Niagara University and was commissioned into the Infantry. Lieutenant Lombardi served with the 1-503th Infantry Battalion in Korea and then 2-75th Ranger Battalion at Fort Lewis. As a Captain he commanded two companies in the 24th Infantry Division and was the Commanding Generals Aide De Camp. Major Lombardi's last assignment was at Fort Richardson, Alaska where he served as the Battalion Operations Officer and Executive Officer for 1-501st Infantry Battalion.

The many awards that he earned in his twenty-two year
career included three Meritorious Service Medals, six Army Commendation Medals, six Army Achievement Medals, the Valorous Unit Award, Army Superior Unit Award, Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, two National Defense Service Medals, Army Expeditionary Force Medal with Arrowhead Device, Southwest Asia Service Medal with Bronze Star, two Noncommissioned Officer Development Ribbons, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon. Major Lombardi was also earned the Combat Infantryman's Badge, Expert Infantryman's Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Pathfinder Badge, Air Assault Badge, and Ranger Tab.

The nickname "Coach" was given to Major Lombardi very early in his career and would always be used by the many soldiers who served with him. This signified the respect and admiration that everyone held for a great leader who fought for his country and could inspire all.

Maj. Lombardi was diagnosed with Carcinoid tumors in his pancreas and liver and was transferred to Washington, DC, for treatment at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He died unexpectedly as a result of liver failure on 18 February 2003.

He is survived by his wife, Sue, and two young children, Vince III and Teresa. He will be sorely missed.

Vince Lombardi carries the 90mm recoilless rifle flanked by assistant gunner Ray Devens as they move to the next mission during Operation Urgent Fury on the island of Grenada in 1983.