LOST

It’s been a long time since I submitted a new entry to the blog page, even though this aspect was one I excitedly looked forward to doing when I started the website.

Yesterday I lost a buddy. Russ Clagett was a Texas policeman and sniper. Years ago he shot and killed a suspect in a vehicle when that suspect turned to fire on his teammates who were approaching the car. His department vilified and abandoned him over it. The shooting didn't match the outcome that city government often envisions in their vacuum-filled glass tower and Russ was sacrificed for the optics of political pandering. Russ, like many of us, became disenfranchised with the whole operation. Russ was a veteran, a brother Marine then Army National Guard, and because of that he found himself in Afghanistan fighting for the citizens of the United States, now as an Army sniper. He was very successful and had the freedom to do his job only this time, he had the support of his chain of command. After his deployments he returned home to Texas where he continued to serve the Army, now as a full time soldier. While I did not know Russ on a deep level personally, he was a friend and brother. Our friendship and connection came 17 years ago, brought together by the unexpected compassion and unselfishness of a group of dudes, all police snipers, and all of whom were watching their coworkers answering the call from their respective reserve units.

Americansnipers.org was born in 2003 when many of us were getting called up to go to war. The founder of the outfit, Brian Sain (The Godfather) was a Texas cop who knew Russ was preparing to deploy. I met Brian through a protected online group dedicated to police snipers and they brought me down to FL to attend a police sniper conference. This is where I met the guys for the first time, including Russ. We talked and laughed and became comfortable with each other. Brian pulled me aside and after a brief talk, he handed me an envelope. Inside was a stack of personal checks, all made out to me, from places like “Bill’s Auto Shop” or “Mini’s Diner” or “John Smith.” He explained that his organization existed to help police snipers who were deploying to combat with the funds necessary to purchase the specialized equipment it takes to be successful and to make it home. It was an overwhelming moment, one of the greatest I’ve experienced. For once in my life I found myself speechless. Russ Clagett and I suddenly became the first police snipers supported by Americansnipers.org: from people I’d just met came a gift from people I’ll never meet in order to perform a function many would flee from but that most within our circle would jump at. The photo above is from the night I arrived at the hotel. It was close to midnight and was pouring outside. I was hungry and Russ and the boys hung out while I stuffed my little-boy face.

Russ died on Fri 2/18/22 at 11 AM in a hospital near home from complications associated with the fucking China virus. He is survived by his wife and child. Russ was a police sniper for Frisco PD (TX), a SGM in the US Army (B4), and 59 years old when he passed. FIFTY-NINE. This is not the way a man like that goes out.

I love you, brother Russ. Thank you for your friendship and leadership; your service as a policeman, Marine, and soldier, and your commitment to those around you. You touched many lives and we’re all better for it. You are an example of what a man should be and gave everything for your brothers. I will remember you every day and do my best to honor the path you walked. …Damned few left. -Jeff.