John Stibbard
Good Afternoon. My name is John Stibbard. Years back, I was known as the newly assigned green, young, and pushy Second Lieutenant Stibbard to the boys of Delta Company, 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry in the U.S. Army Reserves. That time was in 1992 and to Platoon Sergeant Requilman, the young officer he would have to put up with as I was assigned to his platoon, 1st Platoon. This proposition was one of course for most senior NCOs, another day. For me it was exciting, real, and daunting all in one. But, true to Sergeant Requilman, it was nothing special, just another day in the amazing ride of training infantry men. See, “Romeo” or “Tata” as he was respectfully known as was the mellow down to earth mentor I needed to bring be down to earth on how to deal with men. He was the mature older father figure we all needed, the young private to the young lieutenant. I hold no shame of this fact today. In fact, I deeply appreciated his leadership style. He let us all grow. And as my first partner in developing a group of infantrymen to fight, it was my most inspiring moment as a man, and as an officer. See, Romeo did exactly what was required: Lead, mentor, grow, listen, advise, and ensure the morale of the team. His approach was mature, calm, caring, and firm. To that end, we had a ‘father figure’ that lived life and understood the team was growing into men, into fighting men that had to train to live or die together. And he made sure we ate well. There is no doubt even in the Ko’olau Mountains we would be fed a warm meal. How he did it is still a mystery to me. But definitely memorable. I’m strongly assuming no different at home. For his four children, he tried to find the balance, live life raising children in Hawaii where it is challenging, and yet loving with family and culture in the center. I realize life was a little harder for him and his kids, especially experiencing loss of his wife too early for anyone to accept. In that we shared that common experience, grieving for each other. Yet, I know, as a strong spirited man, he pushed through for his family and found solace with knowing God has a plan for us all. Today, we cherish Romeo for all he accomplished, especially his sacrifices and love for his country and his family. He was a man I truly respected as one that set a standard of leadership I respect and appreciate. He will always be my first platoon sergeant that taught me about life, not just about the military. In sharing my sympathy for his family and especially his four children, Michelle, May, Ronald, and Melanie, know your father is at peace and with mom in heaven. In that I know they are together and loving you from above. God does have a plan. Looking forward, cherish the memories, and garnish the lessons he taught you. Romeo will always be in our hearts. He touched many people, especially the men of the 100th Battalion, 442d Infantry, and made a mark in this world, defending our country, shaping future leaders, and leaving an indelible mark on us. For myself, as I continue on God’s plan, he will be part of me and in that sense part of the continued influence over the many leaders I get to work with daily defending our country. God blessed us with Romeo and in turn he made the best to honor and serve his family, this country, the US Army, and the boys of the 100th Bn, 442d forever. Rest in peace brother & Go For Broke! God Bless, John Stibbard Colonel, Infantry, U.S. Army
