First Lieutenant Welch served in the Texas Army National Guard from 2004-2008. He graduated from UTA and was commissioned into the United States Army in Dec. 2008. He served until his death on 3 April 2011 at FOB Salerno in Afghanistan. His MOS was Ordinance Officer serving in B Company, 201st BSB, 3rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division.

Rob was a great leader, had a great sense of humor, loved traveling and trying new things, had a lust for life, was a true fan of history and all things Texas, idolized Patton and John Wayne and had a huge heart for serving others. He loved God and his family, and he took a great pride in serving his country. Rob was one of those guys who everyone loved to be around, was easy to talk to, and was

always willing lend a helping hand. Rob was a brave soldier who died doing what he loved: serving the country he so desperately loved and believed in. His family wants others to know that he was a devoted husband and an amazing Daddy to his two beautiful sons, Aaden and Robby. He chose to serve, because he wanted to help defend the freedoms which provide a safe and happy world for his family.