Posted: | March 2, 2021 04:08 PM |
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From: | Representative Stephanie Borowicz |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Bridge Naming -- Petty Officer Stephen "Turbo" Toboz, Jr., Bridge |
It is my intention to introduce legislation to honor Stephen "Turbo" Toboz, Jr. This bill will designate a bridge in Clinton County as the Stephen "Turbo" Toboz, Jr., Bridge. Stephen "Turbo" Toboz, Jr., is a veteran of the United States Navy who served his country for 20 years as a Navy SEAL. On March 3 and 4, of 2002, SEAL Team DEVGRU was inserted in support of operation Anaconda in the Shahi-Kot Valley at Takur Ghar. As the team was being inserted, its MH-47 Chinook helicopter was hit by multiple rocket propelled grenades, forcing the helicopter to make evasive moves in which SEAL Neil “Fifi” Roberts fell off the rear deck of the MH-47 onto the ground. The helicopter was able to control crash land several clicks away. Immediate reports indicated that SEAL Roberts was alive, so another MH-47 was dispatched to pick up the downed team and form a rescue of its team member Roberts. The team quickly reinserted on Takur Ghar where it immediately came under enemy fire. The SEALS fought up the mountain, with total disregard for their own safety, to several bunker locations near where SEAL Roberts was last reported to be. During this fight, three team members were wounded, including Petty Officer Stephen “Turbo” Toboz, Jr., who was shot in the leg. Battling for their lives in three feet of snow in temperatures that were 20 degrees below zero, the team was forced down over the cliffs to a safer location. The battle continued for 18 hours and “Turbo” lost three liters of blood. The battle will forever be known as the “Battle of Roberts Ridge” where this six-man team received multiple awards for their courage and valor. Petty Officer Toboz’s actions during this battle reflect the highest traditions of the Naval Special Warfare Development Group upon himself and his true courage under overwhelming fire and are in keeping with the nation’s highest honors. It is my intention to honor this brave veteran for his service and sacrifice to his country. Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation. |
Introduced as HB925