Jersey Shore

Image courtesy: U.S. Army

Sgt. Ronald Kubik loved music. He played the electric guitar and was an enthusiastic member of a New Jersey metal band. He was also an American soldier making sure freedom's symphony was heard overseas.

Ever since childhood, Sgt. Kubik wanted to be involved in life's many activities. In addition to his musical talents, he played football, wrote, wrestled, acted, and skydived. After high school and a few months of college, he decided to become a highly skilled rifleman. Before he could legally buy a beer at home, Kubik deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan as an elite warrior with the 75th Ranger Regiment.

Kubik's third deployment in the war on terror ended in tragedy one week ago in Afghanistan's Logar province. Next to his brother in arms, Sgt. Jason Santora, the 21-year-old Ranger was killed supporting combat operations. Kubik hailed from the Jersey Shore community of Brielle, while Santora grew up in the Long Island suburb of Farmingville.

The Asbury Park Press spoke with several members of Kubik's grieving, yet very proud family.

"He was adventurous and very creative," Amy Kubik said. "In the short time God gave him to us, he made a difference and impacted so many lives."

The soldier's 25-year-old sister continued:

"His ranger battalion is so amazing," Amy Kubik said. "They stayed with us all day, walking us through the procedure. They sat with us for hours. We are all just like a giant family right now."

One week after the loss of an American hero, the communities of Brielle, Point Pleasant, and Farmingdale, where many of Kubik's relatives live, are filled with sadness and grief, but also pride and patriotism. Jim McConville's article shows us that family members, friends, former teachers, and fellow soldiers are all sharing fond memories of this fallen warrior, who always excelled whether holding a guitar, rifle, or football in his hands.

While many in our younger generation immediately think of MTV 'reality' characters when the Jersey Shore is mentioned, I think the region should be known because of people like Sgt. Ronald Kubik. He was a highly skilled young man who knew he could succeed in many fields at home, but believed there was a greater need for his talents on the battlefields of the 21st century.