This featured Gladiator is known for his bravery around the world. Major Douglas A Zembiec made his presence know in the State of New Mexico as a junior in 1991 winning his first state title for the La Cueva Bears. Winning his first state title also cemented Doug in La Cueva Bears' history as the first athlete to win a state title in any sport male or female. In 1992 Doug repeated with back to back titles as a senior where he went undefeated. Not finishing his senior season there Doug also placed 4th at NHSCA Nationals earning All-American honors.
While attending the United States Naval Academy Doug continued his wrestling career at the college level. According to his teammates and head wrestling coach Reginald Wicks, he was the hardest working wrestler in the room. Struggling his first couple of seasons his determination and work ethic earned him an 8th place finish at the NCAA Division 1 National tournament his senior year in 1995. Compiling a record of 95-21-1 throughout his college career. Head Coach Reginald Wicks referred to him as "the best-conditioned athlete I've ever been around." With a long and lanky body frame according to his teammates, Doug set no limitations in the room often referred to as "The Snake" for his Anaconda like grip.
After graduating from the United States Naval Academy Doug was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corp. In lead command during Operation Vigilant Resolve one of many battles Doug earned the nickname "The Lion of Fallujah" for his heroic actions. That battle earned Doug a Silver Star, Bronze Star, and a Purple Heart from a wound he acquired during. Doug is known world wide for his bravery in a battle under the CIA Special Activities division. Leading a mission into Baghdad Iraq Doug put himself in harms way to protect the men he was leading while small arms fire was directed towards them, earning another Purple Heart for his valor. In exchange for 25 men, Major Douglas A Zembiec did not survive the battle. However, his bravery in action and accomplishment will live on throughout history.
Major Douglas A Zembiec lives on through his daughter Fallyn, parents and other family members who supported a man that became a hero. Wife Pamela Zembiec also wrote a book titled "Selfless Beyond Service." La Cueva High school also named their wrestling room in Doug's memory. Words delivered by one of Doug's companions have turned into a credo at large for USMC soldiers. Which is summarized by some writings Doug left behind.
"Principles my father taught me"
Be a man of principle. Fight for what you believe in. Keep your word. Live with integrity. Be brave. Believe in something bigger than yourself. Serve your country. Teach. Mentor. Give something back to society. Lead from the front. Conquer your fears. Be a good friend. Be humble and be self-confident. Appreciate your friends and family. Be a leader and not a follower. Be valorous on the field of battle. And take responsibility for your actions. Never forget those that were killed. And never let rest those that killed them.
Article By: Anonymous
Date: 10/11/2019