Raymond R. Hamilton

Raymond R. Hamilton, joined the Michigan Army National Guard in August of 1986, graduated High School in 1987. I completed basic training and advanced individual training in October of 1987 and decided to go active duty. I reported to the 101st ABN (Air Assault) Div in April of 1988. I had numerous reasons for joining the active military, but my main reason was to finish off my National Guard commitment as rapidly as possible. 23 years, 6 months and 12 days later, I completed my active duty commitment.

During that time frame I served with the 82nd Airborne Division (ABN Div); 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment (ACR); 3rd Infantry (INF) Div; 1st INF Div; 18th ABN Brigade (BDE) Artillery; 18th ABN Corps; US Army Safety Center; 173rd ABN BDE; 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team (ABCT). I deployed in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm; Bosnia SFOR; Hurricane Andrew Relief; Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

I performed in every key leadership position in the Field Artillery career field up too First Sergeant. In my opinion my highest decoration is the Master Parachutist Badge. Every other piece of medal and ribbon I received for getting on the bus and getting back off the bus. I am happy to have served and honored to have been allowed to lead Paratroopers in training and in combat.