Having just learned of Troy's death, I am so sorry for not being able to attending his service and express my gratitude for having known and shared time with him on this earth. Troy was the epitome of what is often referred to as a "Soldiers Soldier". I always had trouble performing evaluations of Troy, first as a platoon sergeant and again as a first sergeant. There are only so many words that you can find to express your trust, confidence, pride and reverence for a man of Troy's caliber. I never had a more reliable, self confident and honorable soldier under my supervision. One of the first memories to come to mind when I learned of his passing was of his fascination with John Wayne movies. I am a better person for having known Troy and I know that his death has left a tremendous void in his family, community, the WV National Guard and the many, many other lives that he has had an impact on. Troy is dearly missed!