College honored alumnus killed in action in Afghanistan during special weekly service

GREENVILLE, Pa.-- Thiel College recognized the passing of alumnus Sergeant First Class Ryan Gloyer ’04 during its chapel service on Nov. 9.

Gloyer, of Zelienople, Pa., died as a result of injuries sustained in combat in Kunduz, Afghanistan. He was assigned to Company B, 2nd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Fort Carson, Colo. His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star with V device, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, two Meritorious Service Medals, two Army Commendation Medals, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Parachutist Badge, the Ranger tab and the Special Forces tab. He served the Army as a member of the elite Special Forces Green Berets. This was his third deployment to Afghanistan. Gloyer also served a tour in Africa in Chad.

“It is with the deepest respect that we mourn the loss of Sergeant Gloyer,” President Susan Traverso said. “His sacrifice for his country exemplifies what it means to live a life of meaning and purpose in service to society. The entire Thiel College community mourns his death and extends sympathy and condolences to his family and friends.”

Gloyer won the Thiel College Young Alumni Award in 2007 for his service and contributions to his community, country and alma mater.

Staff, faculty and friends of the College recognized Ryan’s sacrifice with a moment of silence before its Board of Trustees meeting on Friday and football game on Saturday.

Captain Andrew D. Byers, also of the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), passed away in the conflict.

“It is always hard to lose a part of our military family,” Fort Carson officials said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with family and friends of Captain Byers and Sergeant First Class Gloyer during this very difficult time.”