Northern Connection magazine is proud to salute the men and women from the North Hills area who are serving in the military.

May 2008: Ryan Hey, Calvary Scout US Army

By Paula Green

Cavalry Scout Ryan Hey is serving his country as a member of the U.S. Army. He is on active duty and is currently stationed in Iraq. His deployment began in October 2007; this is Hey’s second tour of duty in Iraq.

Hey began his military career with the Pennsylvania National Guard as a tank crew member. He then went on to active duty in 2001. At this time, he switched jobs and became a Cavalry Scout.

Hey was stationed at Ft. Hood, Texas, when he was deployed to Iraq. He was assigned to the 3-8CAV 1st CAV DIV. Shortly after his return from Iraq, he was re-assigned to Korea in 4-7CAV (GARRY OWEN) 2nd Infantry DIV. After he came home from Korea, he was sent back to Iraq where he is presently serving in the G Troop (GRIM), 2nd Squadron (SABRE) 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment (BRAVE RIFLES).

“Unfortunately, we lost one brave trooper on Feb. 10. He was a true hero, and it is a tragic loss to us and, more importantly, his family and wife,” Hey said.

During his military career, Hey has received numerous accommodations. He was awarded four Army Accommodation medals, one of which was with a V device. He was honored with this award for his actions on contact with enemy forces.

Hey has also been bestowed with three Army Achievement Awards, the National Defense Service medal, two Army Good Conduct medals, the Iraqi Campaign medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service and Expeditionary medal, the Military Outstanding Volunteer medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Army Overseas Service Ribbon, the Korean Defense medal, the Pennsylvania National Guard Achievement medal, the Gen. Wallace T. Stewart medal.

Additionally, Hey is a combat spur and Sabre holder, and he has been awarded the CAB, Combat Action Badge, for being in direct combat with the enemy on his first tour of duty.
Hey is originally from Shaler Twp. He is a graduate of North Catholic High School, and he attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

He is married and he speaks very fondly of his wife Holly. “She is my rock, my support and my strength, I love and miss her,” Hey said.

As far as his military service goes, Hey says he believes in a quote from Gen. George S. Patton, Jr., “Never tell people how to do things. Tell them what to do, and they will surprise you with their ingenuity.”

Northern Connection magazine would like to thank Cavalry Scout Ryan Hey for his dedication and commitment to serving our country.

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