In memory of

Randalh J.
Ignacio

1983 to 2011

Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class, U.S. Navy

He helped me
find my footing.

Randalh could fix any car, and he led by example in how he carried himself at work.

Randalh Ignacio seated on the weather deck of USS Cowpens, painting a railing.
Aboard USS CowpensJune 28, 2004

How I remember him

Randalh in a red hhgregg shirt, holding a boxed TV on the sales floor.
Randalh at hhgregg, where we worked together.

I met Randalh not long after high school, when I felt like a fish out of water. I was working my first few jobs and learning to live on my own. Randalh and I worked together at the airport and at hhgregg. Seeing him in that red shirt brings me right back.

Honestly, when I think of Randalh, aka Iggy, I think of a man’s man. He was a cool dude who could dance, and all the women loved him. Everybody loved him. His personality was just magnetic. I don’t know too many people like him.

He taught me to hustle, to keep going, and to make time for fun. He loved to dance and work on his cars. People loved being around him, and I remember how much joy he brought to whatever he was doing.

Looking back, I realize how much a good friend can mean when you’re still finding your way. Randalh was one of those friends for me. His example stayed with me as I grew up, took on more responsibility, and began building a life of my own.

On Veterans Day, I think about his service in the Navy and how lucky I was to call him my friend.

Randalh, thank you for helping me find my footing and reminding me to enjoy the life I was working so hard to build. I miss you, my friend.

Alejandro

Your friend. Always grateful.

Thank you for helping me
become the man I am today.

I miss you, my friend.

Randalh J. Ignacio 1983–2011
Randalh was an elite dancer. He competed on television shows. Rest in peace, buddy. Watch the original video on YouTube