American Military Chaplain Jeff Strueker served as a Sergeant in the US Army, in the 75th Ranger Regiment. He was involved in significant military operations, including the Battle of Mogadishu and Operation Desert Storm. Strueker was recognized for his bravery and leadership and was portrayed by Brian Van Holt in the 2001 film Black Hawk Down.

In the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu, Struecker was a 24-year-old sergeant and squad leader assigned to Task Force Ranger as a part of the 75th Ranger Regiment. He led the 3-vehicle convoy that returned, through intense fire, wounded Ranger Private Todd Blackburn to base. Struecker was awarded the Silver Star for his actions in Mogadishu.

After retiring from active military service in January 2011, Struecker graduated from seminary and became a commissioned chaplain. He served multiple tours in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq, providing spiritual support to soldiers. His final military assignment was as a chaplain with the Regimental Special Troops Battalion of the 75th Ranger Regiment.

In 2017, he was inducted into the Army Ranger Hall of Fame. He retired from active military service in 2011 and has since become a prominent pastor and author, sharing his experiences and faith with others.

Struecker served ten years in the 75th Ranger Regiment in positions ranging from Ranger Reconnaissance specialist to platoon sergeant. He would go on to win the Best Ranger Competition in 1996 with partner SPC Isaac Gmazel.

Struecker was also recognized in 1998 with the United States Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.