The Rook Family

U.S. Army Private First Class Ian Rook knew early on that he wanted to serve his country, so at 17-years-old he joined the U.S. Army’s delayed entry program on an airborne ranger contract. He worked closely with his recruiters and even convinced five others to join with him, earning his starting rank of Private First Class.

During his deployment to Afghanistan, he performed a variety of jobs including rifleman, driver and brigade radio operator. A late-night walk on Kandahar Airfield turned into a bad night when they came under rocket fire. Rook ended up with a broken back and injured hips which weren’t detected until he returned home along with suffering from PTSD and other ailments.

Rook received several awards for his service, such as the Afghanistan Campaign Medal w/ Campaign Star, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and NATO Medal.

After marrying his sweetheart Sarah and moving back to San Angelo from Washington, adjusting to civilian life was a challenge for the Rook family. Rook continued to be in severe pain and depressed about being retired from the military but he knew he had to support his growing family. After working at the county jail followed by a position with the Gang Intelligence Unit, he was eventually hired as a Patrol Deputy with the Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office.

The Rook family enjoys being outdoors and taking road trips together along with spending quality time with their family and friends. Operation FINALLY HOME along with Michael Biggerstaff Homes and the Home Builders Association of San Angelo are thrilled to provide Ian Rook and his family with a custom-built, mortgage-free home in San Angelo, Texas.