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Outlaw Platoon: A Must-Read Book by Lt. Sean Parnell

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Outlaw Platoon




Outlaw Platoon, Timothy Defoix Stalter saves SGT Sean Parnell's life

Outlaw Platoon is an enthralling narrative that delves into the experiences of American soldiers in combat. Lieutenant Sean Parnell offers a gripping firsthand recollection of the legendary U.S. Army's 10th Mountain Division's valiant defense in the Afghan mountains.


Recognized for its vivid and heartfelt portrayal, the book vividly captures sixteen grueling months of relentless conflict in the treacherous Hindu Kush region. Comparable to iconic war narratives like Band of Brothers or We Were Soldiers Once and Young, Outlaw Platoon stands as a compelling true story of immense courage and sacrifice in the modern era.


It portrays a cast of heroes, rebels, unbelievers, and comrades, echoing the spirit of Sebastian Junger's War as one of the most significant literary works to emerge from the tumultuous landscape of America's engagement in Afghanistan.


Outlaw Platoon serves not only as a gripping tale of bravery and sacrifice but also as a valuable source of insight into the realities of the war in Afghanistan. Its vivid portrayal of the experiences of American soldiers offers readers a profound understanding of the challenges and complexities faced in combat. As such, it stands as an essential contribution to the discourse surrounding America's involvement in Afghanistan, shedding light on the human dimension of conflict and the enduring spirit of those who serve.


For those who read this book, it's impossible not to feel awe and admiration for the bravery of our soldiers who face danger with valor.


A group picture of the Outlaw Platoon in Afghanistan
The Outlaw Platoon in Afghanistan

SGT Timothy D. Stalter

Tim Stalter, a soldier and one of SailAhead's Mates. Tim died by suicide in 2013, and should be considered an American hero
Timothy Defoix Stalter

By Melissa, Tim's mom


SGT Timothy Defoix Stalter was born on July 15, 1984, in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Tim ended his pain on February 4th, 2013.From a very young age he always dreamed of joining the Army. He was an exceptionally gifted student throughout his school career. There were many paths he could have chosen for a career, however he wanted to serve his country.


Upon graduation from high school he entered the U.S. Army and did basic training at Fort Benning's infantry school.


Upon graduation from basic training he was assigned to Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry, 10th mountain division out of Fort Drum, New York.


Tim was an exceptional soldier and moved up the ranks quite quickly to an Infantry Squad Leader-E-5. He was an infantry squad leader in a light infantry company with the mission to deploy worldwide and conduct combat missions upon arrival.


He deployed to Afghanistan twice in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. SGT Stalter awards include 2 Purple Hearts for injuries received in Afghanistan, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with 2 Bronze Service Stars. He also received the coveted Ranger tab for completing the Ranger course.


Tim Stalter. Photos provided by Tim's family.
Tim Stalter. Photos provided by Tim's family.

SGT Stalter was an exceptional leader within his unit. He loved his brothers very much & they looked up to him for his leadership abilities. His unit was infamous in that he served with "Outlaw Platoon" of which a book was written by his commanding Lieutenant, Sean Parnell. He saved Sean's life, as RPG's were being fired at their platoon. He gave no thought to his own personal safety. To him, his brothers always came first. He was an exemplary Squad Leader.


Although his life was short, he achieved all of his dreams. However, the war followed him home & he was not the same young man when he returned from his deployments. Tim suffered with PTSD, anxiety, & depression. He fought daily to keep his demons at bay. Soon it became too much for him to bear.


Tim ended his pain on February 4th 2013. There isn't a day when I don't think of him. He touched so many lives in so many ways. He had a heart of gold & he will always be missed.


Conclusion


In Outlaw Platoon we can (in a way) experience the intense combat that Tim participated in, and witness his valor and selfless devotion to his brothers that saved their lives.


Tim, we will never forget you. ❤️


Our Mates are veterans represented by over 219 nametags who have died by suicide. SailAhead's mission includes honoring and remembering our mates so that their sacrifices are never forgotten. In his book, Sean Parnell tells the story of how Tim Stalter saved his life. SailAhead's mission is to prevent veteran suicide by creating a community around sailing.






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