I am writing regarding Ryan Sabinish, who is running for 3rd Ward City Council. I had the privilege and honor of serving with Ryan on our tour of duty to Iraq, from September 2005 to July 2007. I must say that Ryan is an excellent soldier. He displayed courage, honor, integrity and leadership skills on a daily basis. Overseas, Ryan and I were in the same gun truck and were tasked with doing convoy security, combat patrols and civil affairs missions. I was with Ryan in our Humvee when we were struck by a roadside bomb. Ryan did receive significant injuries from the blast and was eventually evacuated to the base hospital to be treated. Throughout the entire time, Ryan stayed alert, kept a positive outlook and was genuinely concerned about the safety of the other soldiers around him, despite his own injuries. Ryan dealt with his injuries and the situation itself by continuing to stay positive and always putting the mission first, even returning to duty only a short time after being injured. Ryan is a great leader who has been tested in one of the toughest situations there is. He genuinely cares for everyone, including his family, friends and community. Having served with Ryan from 2005 to today, I strongly recommend him for 3rd Ward City Council. I know Ryan will do an outstanding job; he will be a great leader and rise to any challenges that he or the community may face.

Emily Schwalbach

Big Lake