Episode 86 – In Memory of Sgt Littlewind

by Travis Partington | Mar 30, 2018 | Podcast

In Memory of Sgt. Rocky Littlewind USMC – May 12, 1989 – Oct. 23, 2016

This was a different kind of podcast. I got a message asking to talk to me about the organization America’s Run for the Fallen – Run for the Fallen. Jody Ranisate is the Lead Run Captain for Iowa. Her brother Rocky served in the Marine Corps. Rocky was deployed to Afghanistan and Okinawa. Jody loved her brother and was proud that he was a Marine. Rocky came home and had a long battle with PTSD.

Unfortunately, Rocky lost his battle with PTSD in 2016. This podcast is dedicated to his service and memory.

I have no idea what it would be like to lose a sibling or someone I know this way. When Jody and I started talking, I wanted to let her tell her story and talk about her outreach through America’s Run for the Fallen, but I wanted to be respectful. I had never done a podcast like this that was as personal and hurtful at the same time.

Jody and I got connected over Skype and once I had the sound right we just started talking. Sometimes people want to go right to their organization they represent and use the time to tell me what they do and how everyone can help. She took a different path for our conversation.
Jody talked about Rocky from a sister’s perspective. Many times you hear from the wife, mother or father about their loss, but not necessarily the siblings. As she talked to me, I got to know Rocky, not as a Sgt of Marines, but as a person, a brother who made people laugh and loved serving his country.

America’s Run for the Fallen was a way that Jody could give back and advocate for other people who have lost loved ones.

America’s Run for the Fallen Information

You can find out more by going to the America’s Run for the Fallen Facebook Page

Podcast: Play in new window | Download