PFC James W. Markwell Ranger Scholarship
James William “Jim” Markwell was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on 29 May 1968. At Princeton High School he balanced academics with service—working in the school office, leading Junior Achievement, performing with the Thespian Society, and helping the football team as an athletic-trainer assistant. After two years in the pre-veterinary program at the University of Findlay, his calling to treat soldiers in the field proved stronger than veterinary school: in November 1988 he enlisted under an Option 40 contract, completed medic training and Airborne School, and earned his place in “Hardrock” Charlie Company, 1-75th Ranger Regiment, in October 1989.
In garrison and on ranges, “Doc Markwell” quickly became the platoon’s quiet professional—once stabilizing wounded teammates during a live-fire exercise at Fort Stewart and reinforcing the ethos that every Ranger is a medical asset.
Operation Just Cause and a Timeless Letter
On 18 December 1989, two nights before the invasion of Panama, Markwell penned a “death letter” that has inspired generations of Rangers and was later quoted by President George H. W. Bush in the 1990 State of the Union Address:
“I do not know what lies beyond the fog… Do not mourn for me. Revel in the life I have died to give you. Everyone, have a beer with me and for me.”
During the opening minutes of Operation Just Cause on 20 December 1989, PFC Markwell was killed while treating casualties amid fierce small-arms fire at Omar Torrijos International Airport and Tocumen Airfield. He was 21. His daughter, Brittany, was born exactly two months later.
How to Get Involved
- Donate – Tax-deductible contributions can be made at hardrockcharliefoundation.org
- Apply – The 2026 application window opens on 1 January 2026
- Share the story – Re-post Jim’s letter, tell future Rangers about his sacrifice, and keep the toast alive each 20 December.
Through this scholarship, HCF turns an irreplaceable loss into lasting opportunity, echoing PFC Markwell’s final wish that we celebrate the life he fought to give us and continue to care for each other, Ranger Medic-style.