| Willard Langdon |
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Willard J. Langdon was born Sept. 16, 1936, to the late Vadie Adams Langdon and Willard Vance Langdon. He was known for his storytelling, unmistakable laugh, and generous spirit. He took any opportunity to brag on those he loved, especially his grandkids. He loved being called Papa. Willard was proud to have served as an Army Ranger and Pathfinder, retiring as a master sergeant, and was a Distinguished Member of the Ranger Training Brigade. Throughout his life, he was a conscious, motivated, and devoted leader. In peacetime, his career took him to Germany and Korea, where he gained professional experience; he was a Platoon Sergeant in the initial forced entry unit into the Dominican Republic, leading an inexperienced platoon into harms way. As Senior Enlisted Advisor to the 37th Vietnamese Ranger Battalion during the siege of Khe Sanh, he set the standard for self-discipline and courage under fire. Later, while serving as Platoon and First Sergeant with the 3rd Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile), he led his troops into combat around Fire Base Veghel. In every assignment, his professional competency came to the forefront. At Mountain Ranger Camp, he served two tours as a member of the Patrolling Committee followed by his selection of NCOIC of the Mountaineering Committee. Six months later, he became the initial Ranger-qualified First Sergeant of 2nd Ranger Company. Following his retirement from active duty, he embarked on a new career in law enforcement, serving as Deputy Sheriff and State Probation Officer. He is a founding member of the US Mountain Ranger Association and served as its chaplain. He loved God. He loved his family. He loved his country. He was a give. He was a good provider. |
