Retired Master Sgt. Rodney Buentello didn’t have to prove his bravery to anyone. He had made his country proud by serving one tour in Afghanistan and two tours in Iraq, where he earned two Purple Hearts. But Master Sgt. Rodney Buentello was a hero, no matter in war or at home.
Recent rain has caused flooding in Texas. On Wednesday, a teenage female inexplicably attempted to walk across the damn, which is illegal. She was washed away into raging waters at Bandera City Park. She was caught in the undertow, so her male friend jumped in the water to save her, but he too would get caught by the undertow.
Buentello was in the park with his family when he saw the two teenagers struggling to stay afloat. The Good Samaritan instinctively and selflessly dove into the flood water to rescue the teens. The veteran saved the two teens, but was then swept under the water by the currents. Buentello drown to death before rescuers could save him.
Police said hat the first teen will be charged for walking across the dam.
Master Sgt. Rodney Buentello was only 42-years-old and is survived by his wife and two kids, ages eight and nine.
A GoFundMe has been set up by Rodney’s high school reunion committee’s chairperson to help the family during their time of need.
He was our fellow classmate and our friend so we are raising money to help his wife cover unexpected costs and the immediate care of his young children, as Rodney was the primary breadwinner for the family. Anything you can contribute will be greatly appreciated and will go straight to his wife, who I am in direct contact with. Please help us honor this brave hero by assisting his family through this extremely difficult time.
It has received nearly $40,000 in donations.
Semper Fidelis
Huge turnout for Rodney Buentello vigil. A marine & John Jay HS employee who died to save 2 teens from drowning. pic.twitter.com/iXTF0MlN90
— Sharon Ko (@Sharon_K0) June 10, 2016
[Fox29]
Navy Dad Surprises Son