United States Army Staff Sgt. Ronald Jay Spino was born on March 1, 1964, in Waterbury, Connecticut. He grew up in Waterbury, where he was raised with a strong sense of duty, service, and compassion for others. Ronald attended Holy Cross High School in Waterbury, where his character, kindness, and quiet leadership were admired by classmates and teachers alike. After high school, he pursued further education at Teikyo Post University (now Post University), equipping himself for service and life beyond his hometown.

Before his enlistment, Ronald worked in the records room at Waterbury Hospital, where colleagues said he would consistently go out of his way to help others — a pattern of behavior that would define both his civilian and military lives. At age 29, he made the life‑changing decision to join the United States Army on October 5, 1993. Ronald’s entry into the Army marked the beginning of a long and distinguished career rooted in care for others.

During his military career, Ronald became not just a Soldier but a medic, licensed practical nurse, paratrooper, and airborne medical specialist. He trained rigorously and earned qualifications that enabled him to serve in challenging environments where medical support was urgently needed. As part of the 274th Forward Surgical Team (Airborne), 44th Medical Command — based out of Fort Bragg, North Carolina — he combined tactical skill with deep empathy, bringing critical care directly to deployed servicemembers in combat zones.

Staff Sgt. Spino’s service included deployments to Operation Iraqi Freedom and later to Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. In Afghanistan, he continued his vital work supporting fellow Soldiers — treating wounded troops, providing stabilization, and performing medical duties often under fire. His role as a combat medic placed him at the frontlines of battlefield care, where calm, precision, and compassion were essential.

On December 29, 2009, while serving in Bala Morghab, Afghanistan, Ronald was shot while unloading medical supplies, in an incident during which he lost his life while serving his country at 45 years old. His passing occurred during his second Afghan deployment and just weeks before he was expected to return home. Connecticut’s Governor ordered both United States and state flags to be flown at half‑staff in his honor, reflecting the respect and gratitude of his home state.

Staff Sgt. Spino was remembered by his fellow Soldiers and commanders as a quiet but immensely reliable noncommissioned officer whose sense of humor, professionalism, and sincerity left a lasting impression. Col. Scott Putzier, a senior officer, described him as a dedicated NCO who “blossomed” in the Army and whose leadership and care for others garnered deep respect.

His military awards reflect his courage and commitment and include the Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal for Valor, Meritorious Service Medal with Valor, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Action Badge, Parachutist Badge, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary and Service Medals, and campaign medals for both Iraq and Afghanistan.

Away from service, Ronald’s life was centered on family and personal connections. He is survived by his wife Betty, whom he met while serving, his stepdaughter Kandice, his parents, Rita and James Spino, and his siblings James Jr., Glen, and Marianne. His legacy of quiet leadership, deep compassion, and steadfast service continues to be honored by those who knew him best.

Dates:
• Birth: March 1, 1964 — Waterbury, Connecticut
• Angelversary: December 29, 2009 — Bala Morghab, Afghanistan

Service & Achievements:
• United States Army Staff Sergeant
• 274th Forward Surgical Team (Airborne), 44th Medical Command — Fort Bragg, North Carolina
• Served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom
• Bronze Star Medal for Valor, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal with Valor, Army Commendation Medal
• Combat Action Badge, Parachutist Badge, Global War on Terrorism Medals

United States Army Staff Sgt. Ronald J. Spino’s life was defined by unwavering service, compassionate care for others, and lasting devotion to his country, family, and comrades — a legacy that continues to be honored by his community and his nation.

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