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The Drew Ross Memorial Foundation is proud to announce Will Gibbs as the second recipient of the CPT Drew Ross Leadership Award at Rockbridge County High School (RCHS) in Lexington, VA. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding leadership, dedication, and excellence in both academics and extracurricular activities.

Will Gibbs’ journey through RCHS is a testament to his exceptional commitment and multifaceted talents. His impressive achievements span across various domains, showcasing his leadership qualities and relentless pursuit of excellence.

In the realm of athletics, Will has been an integral part of the swim team since the age of seven. His high school swimming career is highlighted by his recognition as the Male District Swimmer of the Year for 2022-23 and consistent placements in regional and state championships. Under his contribution, the RCHS boys’ swim team clinched the Districts title in 2022-23 and emerged as runner-up at the Regions in 2023-24. A standout moment includes his participation in the boys’ 200 freestyle relay, which secured second place at the state competition this year. Individually, Will excelled with a fifth-place finish in the 200 free and a seventh-place finish in the 500 free at the state meet in 2022-23. Notably, he holds the RCHS record for the 500 free.

Will’s athletic prowess extends beyond swimming. He has played golf for three years and has been a key member of the track team for four years, serving as team captain during his junior and senior years. His all-around excellence earned him the title of Male Top Cat, the student-scholar athlete of the year, for 2023-24.

Beyond sports, Will has demonstrated remarkable leadership in various extracurricular activities. As a member of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), he served as treasurer during his sophomore year and as president during his junior and senior years. Under his leadership, the FBLA chapter consistently excelled at regional and state conferences, and he personally won the state competition in spreadsheet applications in 2023. Additionally, Will played a crucial role in the RCHS Latin Club, where he served on the leadership team for the past two years. His efforts contributed to doubling the club’s membership and securing second place in the state at the Latin Quiz Bowl this year.

This fall, Will will begin a new chapter at Stanford University, where he plans to study economics and Classics. He looks forward to exploring the many opportunities Stanford offers, including participating in the marching band and the entrepreneurship club.

Will expressed his deep gratitude upon receiving the CPT Drew Ross Leadership Award, stating, “I am very honored to receive the Captain Andrew Ross Leadership Award and hope to inspire others through my leadership, just as Drew did.”

The Drew Ross Memorial Foundation congratulates Will Gibbs on his outstanding achievements and is confident that he will continue to inspire others with his leadership and dedication. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors at Stanford University and beyond.

Mission: To facilitate recovery, maximize function, and promote successful community reintegration, return to duty, or transition to employment.

Key Elements of the STAR Program

• The STAR Program, located at the Central Virginia VA Health Care System, is a residential program that offers an evaluation and treatment program specifically geared toward Special Operations Forces.
• Structured and therapeutic environment for respite and rehabilitation; away from optempo environment.
• Flexibility in treatment duration. Typical length of stay is 45-60 days; can be adjusted according to individual therapeutic goals.
• An interdisciplinary medical and rehabilitation team that provides high-quality, individualized care.
• Access to specialized medical treatment to facilitate recovery and maximize function.
• A unique emphasis on transition from military to civilian life including individualized employment, education and recreation planning, resource development, and support.
• Ability to meet interdisciplinary goals through completion of educational or professional certification courses.
• An extensive network of civilian professionals in numerous fields to provide education and mentorship.

Growing up Drew and Sarah both were asked to help when Stephen had home projects and in particular woodworking efforts! Later in life Drew also developed a passion for woodworking and he and his father shared many conversations on how to best complete a project ! They even had a few special opportunities to build together! One particular proud moment they shared was when Drew and his team mate completed the Special Forces Team table for ODA 3126, or for a 3rd Special Forces Team 3126 .

Drew also built his dad a flag that is currently displayed proudly in Stephen’s home.

The DRMF Flag Building began after Stephen was contacted by a member of the Poly-Trama Rehabilitation Program, also known as the STAR program located at the McGuire VA Center, located in Richmond VA. The STAR program is a residential program that offers an evaluation and treatment program specifically geared toward . supporting Service Members who have suffered injuries from Combat service.

This began a friendship and connection to other STAR members and staff. Andrea Cooper who was the Recreational therapist supporting the STAR program was the one that first asked Stephen about hosting STAR participants for woodworking as a way to get them away from the hospital and to help with their coping skills and recovery from PTSD. What better way to bond and heal for all involved than to combine a Gold Star father with STAR participants and to build American flags!

When asked about the impact of the DRMF Flag building Andrea shared the following:”I believe Drew lives on through you as you share fellowship with these guys and provide them friendship, guidance, and a unique connection that is bonded over shared experiences.”

If the DRMF logo looks somewhat familiar to you there may be a reason!

When Drew deployed the first time in 2013 his dad knew he might could use an occasional escape and shared a copy of Jimmy Buffet’s novel “A Salty Piece of Land.” Drew loved the story of Tully Mars and one particular scene became his inspiration for some shoulder ink and an emotional escape from soldier life.

When looking for inspiration for a logo for the foundation Mr. Buffet was again connected and the compass from the album cover of Changes in Latitudes Changes in Attitudes became the starting point for what is now the Drew Ross Memorial Foundation Logo! Not only does a compass represent direction but, in this case, it also represents a lifetime motto of staying the course and serving others!

Children across the country get excited as days grow warmer, the days are longer, and, best of all, pools prepare for their summer opening. The excitement of freedom from homework and assignments, and the joy of friends, baseball, tennis and swimming — that is what Memorial Day was for me growing up as a boy in the West End of Richmond. It was the complete freedom from school routines and more chances to come and go and do as I please.

Memorial Day meant the start of cutting grass for spending money, and it brought with it the smells and sounds of summer and great pleasure to me as a youth. Moving into my adult years, it was a long weekend and cookouts, maybe the first chance to get out on the lake and enjoy a boat ride and more daylight to enjoy friends and family.

The last Monday in May signaled a change, things I enjoyed and looked forward to after winter and being indoors so much.

Even while serving in the United States Air Force stationed in Little Rock, Ark., I really thought of Memorial Day more as a long weekend, a federal holiday and the launch of summer. I showed appreciation for those who had given their lives for our country, but I truly didn’t view and feel the day in my heart significantly different than I had as a youth.

My son Drew and daughter Sarah were raised to honor their flag and country the same way I was as a child. My family supported me as I coached men’s soccer at Virginia Military Institute for 18 years. 

One hard-and-fast rule was that you do not move a muscle during the national anthem — you stand tall and proud, and you honor the flag for all it represents. These things were important to me.

In December 2014, I moved back to Richmond after years working at VMI in beautiful Lexington, and I took on a new role working with students at Virginia Commonwealth University who had served their country and were using the GI Bill to attend VCU.

All this, and still yet Memorial Day never truly pulled at my heart. I 

never grasped the significance and the weight of the day, nor the reason it was celebrated. I look back at that now and I struggle to grasp how I could have possibly not realized what this day truly means for so many.

On Nov. 27, 2018, while working in my office at VCU, my cellphone rang. I was happy to see my daughter-in-law Felicia’s name come up on the screen. That changed immediately when I heard her voice.

Through her tears and sobs she shared with me that my son Drew was gone, killed in action by an improvised explosive device in Ghazni, Afghanistan.

Drew was a 2011 West Point graduate, part of the Special Forces teams out of Fort Bragg, N.C., a team leader, and had left in August for his second deployment to Afghanistan. Drew knew the risks and so did we, though it was an unwritten rule that the risks were never to be discussed in any detail. The news was devastating.

I had spoken to Drew three mornings prior. He was on a tough mission and believed strongly in the difference he and his men were making. He wished me a happy Thanksgiving, said “love ya, Pops.” And I smiled to myself and told him I loved him, too. These were the last words we shared.

The next few months were a blur. The aching and emptiness of knowing I would never get to hear my son’s laugh again, to see his contagious smile … it would hit me out of the blue with no warning.

The support and love shown by friends, family and the entire community was heartwarming and something I deeply cherish to this day. Hearing good things about the quality of man Drew was, so many he had helped and so many he had touched. The many men Drew served with sharing their respect for his leadership and his friendship.

I received phone calls and emails from people I had never met telling me how Drew had made a difference for them in their lives and how much he meant to them and their families. Drew apparently had many “best friends.” His personality made everyone close to him feel they were his best friend, and many called to share stories and tell me how much they would miss their best friend.

So many tears, so many grown men sharing their love for Drew with me, I was deeply touched and proud. I ached for Drew’s wife, Felicia, for his sister, Sarah, his mother, Beth. And I ached myself.

Drew was ultimately flown to Dover Air Force Base, escorted by one of his West Point classmates and a close friend who was not one second away from Drew’s side, something that meant so much to all of us. We were supported at Dover by amazing chaplains and a level of care, support and professionalism that would make every American proud. Top generals and their wives, along with the vice president and his wife, patiently spoke with us, answering questions and expressing their condolences and deep appreciation for Drew’s commitment to his country.

Military leaders in Drew’s chain of command spoke frankly with us, voicing their experiences and impressions of the man and leader Drew had become. They shared what a huge loss he was and what a bright future he had, how very much he would be missed. They spoke openly to our family, congratulating us on raising an amazing man, a leader, a strong American and an amazing soldier.

We held services at St. Michael’s in Glen Allen, not an empty seat nor standing room to be found. Police and firefighters were there in force. We could never thank them enough for the love they showed. Our family was so deeply moved by so many who took time to show their respects.

Drew was laid to rest with full military honors and now rests in Arlington — Section 60, Grave 11841.

I went to visit him today, on the second Memorial Day since his death, supported by one of his best friends. It is a tradition at Arlington to place flags at every stone on Memorial Day.

Memorial Day for our family will never again be only the pool opening or the start of summer fun. It will never again be only a day off from work and time for friends and family to barbecue.

We will never again think of Memorial Day as just the start of summer.

Drew would have been one of the first to grab a beer, crank up some Zac Brown and enjoy that start of summer with friends and family. If Drew were here today, he would be celebrating and wanting us all to enjoy the freedoms and lifestyles that this wonderful country brings.

Because of men and women like Drew, we will all get that chance.

And now for me, my family and thousands like us, Memorial Day means so much more.

 

• By Stephen Ross Special correspondent, Times Dispatch
• May 24, 2020 

We are thrilled to announce and celebrate the exceptional achievements of Miss Sofia Vargas, the proud recipient of the inaugural Captain Andrew Ross Leadership Award. Hailing from Lexington, VA, Sofia’s journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication, leadership, and outstanding contributions both on and off the golf course.

Sofia’s Golf Odyssey:

Sofia’s venture into the world of golf began as a freshman at Rockbridge County High School (RCHS). Despite being a newcomer to the sport, Sofia’s determination and commitment propelled her onto the golf team. In her first season, RCHS clinched the district title, setting the stage for Sofia’s individual success as she qualified for the Girls State Championship.

Undeterred by challenges, Sofia’s sophomore year saw the team securing a commendable second place in the district’s tournament, advancing to the regional level. Her junior year marked her inclusion in the Girls State Golf Championship, along with prestigious recognition on the All-District and All-Region teams. Displaying exemplary leadership, Sofia captained the golf team in both her 11th and 12th grades, guiding the team with passion and commitment.

The pinnacle of Sofia’s senior year came with a double qualification for the State Golf Championship and Girls State Golf Championship. As a fitting conclusion, she earned a coveted spot on the All-Region team, marking the end of an unforgettable chapter in her golfing journey.

Versatility Beyond Golf:

Sofia’s prowess extended beyond the golf course. A member of the varsity soccer team during her freshman and sophomore years, she earned a position on the first team all-area roster in her sophomore year. As a 4-year varsity swimmer, Sofia consistently qualified for state meets in relays and individual events, showcasing her versatility in sports.

Academic Excellence and Future Aspirations:

Graduating from RCHS in 2023, Sofia ventured to The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina, where she currently serves as a freshman, known as a “knob.” Majoring in computer science with a minor in cyber security, Sofia concluded her first semester with an outstanding 4.0 GPA, earning her a place on the dean’s list and Academic gold stars.

Sofia’s commitment to excellence extends to her involvement in The Citadel’s Division 1 women’s golf team, continuing her golf journey at the collegiate level. Considering commissioning into the Air Force, Sofia’s aspiration for a career in the armed forces was inspired by the esteemed Captain Andrew Ross, echoing her dedication to service and commitment to her country.

Join us in congratulating Sofia Vargas, a true embodiment of leadership, resilience, and excellence. The Captain Andrew Ross Leadership Award is a fitting recognition of Sofia’s outstanding contributions, and we look forward to witnessing her continued success in all her future endeavors.

 “I was honored to receive the Captain Andrew Ross Leadership Award. Learning about Captain Ross and his commitment to his country has motivated me to consider pursuing a career in the armed forces.” – Sofia Vargas