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Steve Hook was the "Charles Kelly of Dustoff
medics". He put every life entrusted to his care above his own. He
routinely risked his life for the wounded. He walked in minefields
for wounded where no other soldier would move. He crossed
battlefields under enemy fire for the wounded. He volunteered for
missions in weather conditions such that no other aircraft would
fly. By his demeanor and example he contributed immeasurably to a
unit that suffered 50% casualties and evacuated up to 4,000 patients
in a month. He was absolutely fearless, models for all that the
combat medic has been or could ever aspire to be. Medals can never
measure his contributions to the DUSTOFF mission, the lives he
saved, and the inspiration he provided. He was a hero-maker. Others
who got more medals stood on the shoulders of men like Steve Hook.
He represents all those who made so many heroes and got so little
recognition, who saved countless lives but are seldom counted. He is
not famous and he did not die in a blaze of glory, but he left his
blood and sweat on many battlefields setting an example for all who
care for others. Steve Hook was inducted into the DUSTOFF Hall of
Fame on 24 February 2002. |
