Heart of a Ranger: The True Story of Cpl. Ben Kopp, American Hero in Life and Death

by Bill Lunn

Ben's death had been recorded on paper more than twenty-four hours previously. But in the very late hours of July 19, 2009, Ben finally no longer had a pulse. The heart of a Ranger was still but alive and awaiting its next mission. When Jill Stephenson received the call that her twenty-one-year-old son, Cpl. Ben Kopp, had been shot in the leg while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom, her fear was that he would lose his leg. But soon her fears would be realized in more devastating ways than she ever expected. Due to complications, Ben went into a coma, and eight days later he was pronounced brain dead. Cpl. Ben Kopp, an American hero who was credited with saving the lives of six of his fellow soldiers on the battlefield, was struck down defending his country; he died a Ranger, a warrior, and a patriot. And his heroism would not stop at death. Through the donating of his organs, bone, skin, and tissue, the mischievous and fun-loving kid from Rosemount, Minnesota went on to save the lives of four Americans and benefited the lives of more than sixty. After reporting Cpl. Kopp's story, broadcast journalist Bill Lunn couldn't forget it, referring to it as the most compelling story of his career. In Heart of a Ranger , Lunn follows Ben's life from his childhood in the Midwest, to the battlefields of southern Afghanistan, to the chest of his heart donor recipient in Chicago. Through interviews with loved ones, service members, and Ben's heart recipient, Heart of a Ranger captures the true story of American bravery and sacrifice. In these pages and in reality, the impact of Ben's life beats on.

360 pages, Paperback

Published May 19, 2017

Reviews

[Courtney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ben Kopp's story is moving, especially that of his death and resulting gift of life. The ending sections of the book portray a moving picture of not only grief, but the resilience and support of military families and those who support those who have served and fallen.
My only qualm with this book is that the writing style, particularly the short syntax and straightforward diction, is not as engaging as other accounts, and at times can make the book read like a straightforward account. I felt that while Ben's story was important and needed to be told, some of the writing choices did not support the story as much as I would have liked.
I would recommend this to anyone who is interested in military writing, organ donation, or both.

[Esigs · Rating 4 out of 5]

My cousin, Taylor, gave me this book to read. It touched her deeply, because she had gone to school with Ben. Ben's life story was short, but fully of adventure. I enjoyed reading about his road to success. He had bumps and challenges of every teen. He made some great friends along the way and ended up making the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Thank you, Ben.

I enjoyed the story, I skimmed most of the war details due to a lack of interest and the last 2/3 of the book with the details of after Ben's death. Would be excellent if it was shortened. Still a good read of a true war hero.

[Jill Coventry · Rating 5 out of 5]

If there was ever a book which made me want to do better, this was the one! Beautiful story about how someone's life can have a lasting impact even long after their time here on Earth. It reminded me to strive for giving as much as I can to others, and to teach my own children to do the same. Living a life of service has rewards far greater than what we might even imagine.

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book. If you want to learn about the bond between mother and son, the brotherhood of Rangers, the battles our soldiers fight and the never ending faith in miracles, read this book.

[Daniel Reardon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely amazing book.

[Ariel Walkington · Rating 5 out of 5]

emotional and inspiring story based on all true events and stories.
LOVE.
RLTW