https://i.pinimg.com/originals/9b/b6/23/9bb62394c5333be9e82b0283a83d9199.jpg

I was nominated by @basicstoliving to complete his #steemitnamechallenge. In his challenge, he asks 5 people to explain why they chose their username and to tell a little bit about it. He also asks to share your first name.

I chose the name "Rakkasan" because that is the name of my first unit and deployed to Iraq with. The 187th Infantry Regiment "Rakkasans" are a regiment of the 101st Airborne Division of Ft. Campbell, Kentucky. The nickname "Rakkasans" is derived from the Japanese word for parachute, or falling umbrella. The name was given to the 187th during its tour in occupied Japan following World War II. The Rakkasans have been in existence since 1943 and have engaged in World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam war, 1958 Lebanon Crisis, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Desert Focus, Afghanistan, and Iraq. I have a great amount of pride for my time with the Rakkasans which is why I chose it as my username.

![PA300045.jpg](https://steemitimages.com/DQmScJBP5rUd5WHeHisCGejoS3j3cw9kgQhPMNjGPs4fjCp/PA300045.jpg)

We trained very hard physically and mentally before deployment. For someone who wasn't very good at running and road marching, it was a tough time at first. Even though I wasn't the fastest or strongest, my platoon respected me for my medical skills. I was a combat medic which is a very important role to play in the platoon. You are responsible not only for first aid and trauma on mission, but also evaluating hygiene and other basic sick call needs. Once you gain the respect of your infantry guys, life can be good. 

I wouldn't change my username if I could. I've been able to use it on many different platforms and even some video games without any problems. My first name is Alex.

Please visit @basicstoliving's post with the official rules to this challenge. 
https://steemit.com/life/@basicstoliving/why-did-you-choose-the-name-you-did-steemitnamechallenge

I nominate: 
@guiltyparties
@derangedvisions
@bembelmaniac
@inthenow
@torquewrench1969

![Rakkasan.jpg](https://steemitimages.com/DQmNmfGA29Q76SxnQEXpvfSXhPRyYvNZEd9G9stum1PHU3h/Rakkasan.jpg)![vet tag.png](https://steemitimages.com/DQmSP4pz4X6pALaZg8EvdTwFTWQyUFLYV9R8J15tNvLzk4M/vet%20tag.png)