The Stayskal Family

U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Richard Stayskal

U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Richard Stayskal’s service began in 2001 with the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served as a machine gunner and scout sniper for four years. While deployed to Iraq, Stayskal was critically wounded by heavy sniper fire, sustaining a gunshot wound striking his left lung and exiting his back. The severe injuries resulted in an honorable discharge from the Marines in 2005. 

Still drawn to serve his country, Stayskal re-enlisted in the U.S. Army one year later. Following four months serving as an Infantryman, Stayskal was selected to attend the Special Forces Qualification Course, where he was awarded the Green Beret and became a Weapons Sergeant in the Army Special Forces. During his service in the Army, Stayskal was deployed multiple times during the Global War on Terrorism.

He has received numerous awards for his service, including the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation and more.

In 2017, Stayskal was diagnosed with Stage 3a lung cancer and underwent chemotherapy, radiation and surgery to remove his tumor. Stayskal believed he was cancer-free, but in January of 2018, it was discovered his cancer had spread to his neck, spine, spleen, liver, hip joint and ilium crest. He received a terminal diagnosis of stage 4 cancer. He also suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and residual injuries sustained from his gunshot wound.

Stayskal, his wife, Megan and their two daughters enjoy spending time together as a family. In their free time, the family educates others about cancer and promotes legislation to support those injured in military service. Thanks to Operation FINALLY HOME, Cushman & Wakefield and Daniel Adams Construction, the Stayskal family will