A Combat Controller with the 24th Special Tactics Squadron during the Battle of Mogadishu, SSgt Schilling served as a ground-air communicator and key figure in the rescue convoy. He is the co-author of "The Battle of Mogadishu" and was "Last Out" during the withdrawal. During the intense urban combat of Operation Gothic Serpent, SSgt Schilling operated out of the Humvee convoy, braving a gauntlet of RPGs and machine-gun fire. He directed crucial Little Bird gunship runs that carved a path through the hostile streets of Mogadishu. Beyond his incredible combat actions, he later served as an unofficial medic and provided critical situational awareness. His later literary contributions have helped preserve the history of that harrowing battle, ensuring the sacrifices of Task Force Ranger are never forgotten.