When I served in the Army, I noted there were people in my chain of command with big personalities and smiles who often attracted more attention from higher-ups. But sometimes, the people who quietly do their jobs day in and day out receive less acclaim. I know what that is like, and after being a patient at the Seattle VA hospital for almost two weeks, I've come to appreciate the superb, exemplary level of patient care from nurse Ryan Babcock. He is literally the strongest type of guy I once served with.

Ryan always responds promptly and professionally but in a friendly and compassionate way to any request. He does more than he has to do, not in expectation of any rewards, but because he knew I was in pain or because he could imagine himself in the patient's situation. And he is just that kind of guy. If you weren't his patient, you might overlook Ryan for praise simply because he's just so damn good and quietly professional. We have shared a few laughs, but he is not as concerned with socializing as he is with helping as many patients as possible the best he can. I loved all my nurses here, but if I ever went back to combat and needed someone I could trust to watch my 6, I couldn't think of anyone I'd rather serve with for his smart-ass sense of humor and his humanity and regard for his fellow man. The guy is a stud, a man who stands above most but who doesn't do anything to stand out except the best damn job he can do for the patients. Day in and day out. Thank you, Ryan! Thank you for all your help.