Ruslan Emelyanov with US troops in combat uniform providing instruction, Fort Benning, Georgia, reflecting his transition from Russian military service to becoming a US Army officer.
For Ruslan Emelyanov, the weight of a military uniform is a familiar sensation, but the fabric and flag on his shoulder have undergone a profound transformation. After nine years in the Russian army, a period marked by intense combat experiences, Emelyanov believed his days in uniform were over. A former Russian paratrooper with the 205th Infantry Brigade (Airborne), he served in the brutal conflict in Grozny, Chechnya for fifteen months. Witnessing heavy losses and the harsh realities of war at a young age left him deeply affected. Returning home, he declared to his family his intention to leave war behind and explore the world beyond the confines of military service and the Russian Soldier Uniform he had worn.
Emelyanov embarked on a journey across Europe and Asia, seeking a different perspective. In 2001, his travels led him to the Californian coast, where his uncle resided. The town of Carmel captivated him immediately. Beyond the scenic beauty, it was the atmosphere of mutual respect that resonated deeply with him. This sense of community and consideration for others stood in stark contrast to the conflict and hardship he had experienced in his past military service.
However, the tranquility of his new life in the US was shattered by the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001. The horrific events in New York triggered vivid memories of his time in Chechnya and his own encounters with terrorism as a platoon leader and scout company commander within the 205th. He watched as young Americans volunteered to join the US military, ready to defend their country. His own military background and combat experience suddenly took on a new significance. For Emelyanov, the decision to once again don a uniform, this time the US Army combat uniform, became clear and compelling.
Today, at 36 years old, Ruslan Emelyanov proudly wears the Army combat uniform as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He serves as the executive officer for F Company, 2nd Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment at Fort Benning, Georgia. His path to this point included enlisting in February 2002, completing training with the 2nd Battalion, 58th Infantry Regiment, and serving a year-long deployment in Zabul Province, Afghanistan with the 25th Infantry Division. During this period, Emelyanov also became a U.S. citizen and, in 2007, graduated from Officer Candidate School.
LTC David Tate, commander of 2nd Bn., 19th Inf. Regt., highlights Emelyanov’s inspiring journey, noting that his perseverance and hard work exemplify the American dream. 1SG Patrick Roberson, with 22 years of service, emphasizes the invaluable combat and life experience Emelyanov brings to new Infantry recruits. As the first sergeant of F Company, Roberson describes him as an exceptionally loyal officer and a significant asset to the unit. Despite the extraordinary nature of his journey from wearing a russian soldier uniform to becoming an officer in the US Army, Emelyanov himself remains humble. He views his service simply as fulfilling his duty as a soldier, part of the millions who serve.
