SFC Antonio Rey Rodriguez, affectionately known as “ROD” by his comrades, was born on July 26, 1991, in Las Cruces, NM, and from the very beginning, his life was marked by a spirit of dedication, service, and unwavering commitment. Antonio’s early years were steeped in the rich traditions of his family. Growing up amidst the pecan tree orchards of his grandparents, Antonio learned the value of hard work and determination. He spent endless hours helping his grandparents during irrigation and harvesting seasons, and those who knew him can still picture him taking a refreshing dip in the irrigation canals on hot summer days.

After graduating from Mayfield High School in May 2009, Antonio joined the United States Army, beginning his career at Fort Benning, GA. Following the successful completion of his basic infantry training and Army Airborne School, Antonio volunteered to attend the Regimental Assessment and Selection Program (RASP). This selection program was the gateway to becoming a member of the elite 75th Ranger Regiment, a part of the United States Army Special Operations Command. Antonio excelled at RASP, earning his place in Delta Company, 3rd Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment.

Antonio deployed multiple times to combat as an assaulter supporting various task forces, first earning his way to a fire team leader position and later an assignment to the Battalion Reconnaissance Platoon. In 2017, Antonio took orders to the Regimental Military Intelligence Battalion and became a Cryptologic Linguist. He continued to adapt and excel in his new role, showcasing the same determination that had marked his entire career. Antonio’s dedication to service knew no bounds.

His journey then led him to the 3rd Battalion 7th Special Forces Group’s (ODA-7313) Military Intelligence Detachment, where he deployed to the Nangarhar province of Afghanistan. Nangarhar was a challenging and volatile region, and Antonio, as always, rose to the occasion, fulfilling his duties with unwavering commitment.

On that fateful day, February 8th, 2020, Antonio, along with his team, was assigned to help facilitate a meeting between Afghan officers, a crucial step in clearing the path for the peace accord that would be signed just three weeks later. ODA 7313 and Afghan forces returned from the meeting to a small military base, and despite their request for a U.S. helicopter evacuation, it was pushed back three times by higher command, a decision that remains unexplained.

Tragedy struck as the group of U.S. and Afghan soldiers relaxed after sunset prayers, shedding their bulletproof vests. An Afghan National Police Officer, with suspected ties to the Taliban, opened fire on the troops, taking the lives of Antonio and another soldier. SFC Antonio Rey “ROD” Rodriguez, at the age of 28, made the ultimate sacrifice while conducting combat operations in the Sherzad District of Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan. Antonio’s unwavering commitment to duty, his bravery, and his dedication to his fellow soldiers and Afghan partners are a testament to the very best of the American spirit.

Antonio leaves behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of those who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife Ronaleen Omega-Rodriguez of Southern Pines, NC, his mother Guadalupe Rodriguez-Jaramillo, brother Christopher James Rodriguez-Jaramillo, and step-father Javier D. Jaramillo of Raleigh, NC.

Beyond his dedication to service, Antonio enjoyed life to the fullest. He cherished moments spent with his beloved wife Ronaleen and friends, shared the passion of lifting weights, embraced grueling CrossFit workouts, delighted in playing with dogs, showcased his culinary talents in the kitchen, and honed his skills in competitive shooting.

Though we grieve the loss of this exceptional soldier, let us remember Antonio’s spirit, which will forever live on. He stood as a shining example of honor, courage, and commitment, and his memory will forever serve as a beacon of inspiration to us all.

Rest in peace, Sergeant First Class Antonio Rey “ROD” Rodriguez. Your legacy will endure, your sacrifice will never be forgotten, and your spirit will forever inspire us to be better, to be stronger, and to serve with the same unwavering dedication that you exemplified throughout your extraordinary life.

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