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View a eulogy for James J. Walton, USMA '89, who passed away on June 21, 2008.

James J. Walton

West Point, 1989

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Frank Sturek on June 25, 2008:

We just lost a classmate who was truly a courageous American hero. As one who served in Afghanistan, let me give you some insight on what he was doing:

Jim Walton was performing duties that currently are having the most profound impact on the Counter-insurgency fight in Afghanistan. He was a Police Mentor Team (PMT) Leader for an Afghan District (like our counties) Police Force. Being a District Police Mentor is probably the most dangerous job in Afghanistan. As a LTC he could have stayed in the HQs on a FOB, but the PMTs are a critical shortage in Afghanistan and also where the most impact can be made. ....so he made himself available to be a District Police PMT. The PMTs operate in 10-12 Soldier teams in 3 HMMWVs....no security details, they are it....typically 2-3 hours drive by HMMWV from the nearest reinforcements, and in Kandahar Province they operate is real bad-guy country. When they get into a fight it is just them and the Afghan Police against the Taliban and Al Qaeda. They rely on Close Air Support to survive a heavy fight so the Tactical Sattellite (TACSAT) radio and organic heavy weapons better work..because an FM radio won't get the help needed!

PMTs have the highest casualty rate among tactical trainers in both Afghanistan and Iraq. Very much like the advisors in the Vietnam war...the role and importance of our PMTs in Afghanistan is an untold story, but one where the truly courageous, dedicated, and committed warriors of today's Army answer the call to duty.

Jim has my utmost respect. His nation and its citzens should be forever grateful!



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