Born on March 1, 1964, in Waterbury, New Haven County, Connecticut, Ronald Jay Spino grew up in a community that would later remember him not just as a son, brother, and husband, but as an American hero. Ronald’s life was defined by a commitment to service, a dedication that ultimately led him to the U.S. Army, where he served with distinction as a medic, nurse, and paratrooper.
Ronald attended Holy Cross High School and later pursued studies at Teikyo Post University, now known as Post University. Before enlisting in the Army, he worked in the records room of Waterbury Hospital, where coworkers recognized his kindness and tireless efforts to help others. It was in the military, however, that Ronald truly found his calling. Joining the Army at 29, he quickly adapted to the demands of service, earning the respect of his peers and superiors.
By 2009, Ronald was serving with the 274th Forward Surgical Team, 44th Medical Command at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He had previously deployed to Iraq and returned to the U.S. in February, only to be deployed again in November to Afghanistan. Assigned to an international base in Badghis province, Ronald was leading his team with dedication and bravery. Tragically, on December 29, 2009, while unloading medical supplies in Bala Morghab, Afghanistan, Ronald was fatally shot during an insurgent attack. He was 45 years old.
Friends and colleagues fondly remembered Ronald as a quiet, hardworking soldier with an unexpected sense of humor that brightened the most difficult moments. Col. Scott Putzier, one of Ronald’s superiors, described him as someone who spoke with purpose and brought laughter when it was least expected. “For those who knew and worked with him, we will remember him as a dedicated non-commissioned officer,” Putzier said.
Ronald’s bravery and devotion were reflected in his impressive service record. His decorations included the Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with Valor, Army Commendation Medal, and numerous campaign medals for both Iraq and Afghanistan. His awards also included the Combat Action Badge and a Parachutist Badge, testaments to his role as an airborne medic who parachuted into conflict zones to treat the wounded.
Survived by his wife Betty, whom he met during his military service, a stepdaughter, and his parents, Rita and James Spino, Ronald’s legacy endures. He is also remembered by his siblings, James Jr., Glen, and Marianne. His family, deeply grieving the loss of their beloved soldier, chose to honor his memory by directing donations to the Loveland Center, an organization dedicated to supporting developmentally disabled children.
Ronald Spino’s passing brought the reality of war home, reminding all who knew him of the profound sacrifices made by service members and their families. His story, marked by courage, compassion, and a relentless commitment to duty, stands as a testament to the finest qualities of service and sacrifice. As we remember Ronald Jay Spino, we honor a life devoted to helping others, a life that continues to inspire gratitude and admiration.
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