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Cpl. Benjamin S. Kopp
United States Army Ranger Ben started his Army Ranger training one month after graduating from high school. He had a great respect for his great grandfather's service to our country in WW11, and was also very affected by the events of 9/11. At the age of 13 he made a vow to serve his country - and serve he did! After two tours in Iraq he was deployed to Afghanistan in May of 2009. During a firefight with the Taliban on July 10th, he saved the lives of six of his fellow Rangers before being shot in the leg. The injury caused such trauma to his body that he was not able to recover. He died on July 18th at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington DC. Known for his fearless attitude, a most charming smile, and his infectious personality, Ben was best friend to many. He remained close to his home-town friends in Rosemount, MN and also established a wonderful camaraderie with his brothers-in-arms in the 75th Ranger Regiment where he served as a rifleman. Typical of his generous spirit Ben chose to be an organ donor. His heart still beats in a woman in Illinois. His liver and kidneys went to a gentleman in the Washington DC area. With the additional gifts of bone, skin, and tissue it is estimated that Ben has saved or enhanced the lives of at least 60 people. Ben is laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery. He was 21 years old. Note: Ben's mother Jill Stephenson, who travels extensively in this country and beyond, is an Inspirational Speaker on the subjects of organ donation and honoring our veterans. (iambenkoppsmother@gmail.com.)
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