Remember Our Heroes
Army Sgt. 1st Class Kristopher D. Chapleau, 33, of La Grange, Ky.
SFC Chapleau was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 30, 2010 at Forward Operating Base Blessing, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained in a non-combat incident.
Sgt. 1st Class Kris Chapleau was a 13 year veteran infantryman and platoon leader from LaGrange, Kentucky who enlisted in the Army in 1997. Sgt. 1st Class Chapleau arrived at Fort Campbell in January 2009, and lived with his wife and family in Lexington.
Chapleau’s awards and decorations include: Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; Army Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Korean Defense Service Medal; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; Expert Infantry Badge; and Weapons Qualification, M16, expert.
Online, Kris's friend JM wrote:
I'm truly a better person for spending time with this man. He had a god given gift to brighten days and making nights unforgettable. Although his time on earth was too short, his memory will live on for a long time to come. God bless his kids and family.
Kris you will be missed!
From SFC Chapleau's obituary:
He is survived by his devoted wife, Terrence Chapleau, sons, Tyler (2) and Jacob (12) of Longs, SC; step-daughters, Angelica Vilanba (9), Kimberly Vilanba (12) of the Philippines; and parents, Bonnie Chapleau of Lexington and Walter and Margery Chapleau of Campbellsberg, KY; sisters, Nicole Mettling (Steve), Shauna Chapleau, and Kate Taylor; brothers, Jon Chapleau (Michelle) and Matthew Taylor; as well as nieces and nephews.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Kristopher D. Chapleau was killed in a non-combat related incident on 6/30/10.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Army Spc. David W. Thomas
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. David W. Thomas, 40, of St. Petersburg, Fla.
Spc. Thomas was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 27, 2010 in Konar, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with small-arms fire. Also killed was Staff Sgt. Eric B. Shaw.
Served in Navy, Marines before joining Army
The Associated Press
David Thomas quit the military after working for a time as a recruiter — he had a hard time whenever he found out a young man he’d recruited had been killed in action overseas.
“I think that bothered him a lot,” said his sister, Donna Butler. But after so many years in the armed forces, he got the itch again.
“He just loved military life. He tried civilian life, but it just wasn’t for him,” Butler said. Thomas was trying to hit the 20-year mark before he finally retired.
But the 40-year-old Army specialist from St. Petersburg, Fla., was killed June 27 when insurgents attacked his unit. He was assigned to Fort Campbell, Ky.
His mother, Mary Thomas, said the loving father loved to play with his children — two sons, two daughters and a stepson.
David Thomas had first served in the Navy for about three years, signing up a week after he graduated from high school. A few years later, he joined the Marines and served three tours in Iraq.
Thomas often called and e-mailed to check in on his family and always was careful about what he said so they wouldn’t worry. He asked his wife to wish his mother a happy birthday in case he couldn’t call.
He tried to assure his sister: “I’m OK, sis. I’m OK.”
Army Spc. David W. Thomas was killed in action on 6/27/10.
Army Spc. David W. Thomas, 40, of St. Petersburg, Fla.
Spc. Thomas was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 27, 2010 in Konar, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with small-arms fire. Also killed was Staff Sgt. Eric B. Shaw.
Served in Navy, Marines before joining Army
The Associated Press
David Thomas quit the military after working for a time as a recruiter — he had a hard time whenever he found out a young man he’d recruited had been killed in action overseas.
“I think that bothered him a lot,” said his sister, Donna Butler. But after so many years in the armed forces, he got the itch again.
“He just loved military life. He tried civilian life, but it just wasn’t for him,” Butler said. Thomas was trying to hit the 20-year mark before he finally retired.
But the 40-year-old Army specialist from St. Petersburg, Fla., was killed June 27 when insurgents attacked his unit. He was assigned to Fort Campbell, Ky.
His mother, Mary Thomas, said the loving father loved to play with his children — two sons, two daughters and a stepson.
David Thomas had first served in the Navy for about three years, signing up a week after he graduated from high school. A few years later, he joined the Marines and served three tours in Iraq.
Thomas often called and e-mailed to check in on his family and always was careful about what he said so they wouldn’t worry. He asked his wife to wish his mother a happy birthday in case he couldn’t call.
He tried to assure his sister: “I’m OK, sis. I’m OK.”
Army Spc. David W. Thomas was killed in action on 6/27/10.
Army Staff Sgt. Eric B. Shaw
Remember Our Heroes
Army Staff Sgt. Eric B. Shaw, 31, of Exeter, Maine
SSgt. Shaw was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 27, 2010 in Konar, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with small-arms fire. Also killed was Spc. David W. Thomas.
Left teaching career behind to serve in Army
The Associated Press
Eric Shaw was so passionate about history that he decided on a career as a history teacher.
He enrolled at the University of Southern Maine in Gorham, graduating in 2003 with a degree in history and education.
Then he changed his mind.
Shaw, who grew up in Exeter, Maine, decided to follow his late father’s footsteps into the military. He enlisted in the Army.
Shaw was in Konar, Afghanistan, on his third overseas deployment June 27 when his unit from Fort Campbell, Ky., was attacked. He died in combat.
Shaw put his teaching career on hold and left his young family behind to go to war because he loved his country, said Rick Whitney, his high school history teacher.
“He’d be the type of person who put himself out there to help someone else if they needed him. No matter what the cost to him would be. It’s just the way he was,” Whitney said.
Shaw listed his wife, Audrey, as his hero on his MySpace page because “it takes a tough person to say goodbye to their mate for a long extended period of time and take care of two children,” he wrote before his third child was born. “All you army wives are [heroes] too.”
Was serving on his 3rd combat tour
The Associated Press
AUGUSTA, Maine — Gov. John Baldacci says a soldier who was raised in Maine has died in combat in Afghanistan.
Baldacci says Staff Sgt. Eric Shaw, 31, was killed June 27 by enemy gunfire in Afghanistan on his third combat tour. His wife, Audrey, was notified while visiting her parents in Maine. The Shaws’ three children live in Tennessee.
Baldacci placed a call to the family on Tuesday.
Shaw served with the 327th Infantry, 1st Brigade Combat Team, Fort Campbell, Ky. He was born in Massachusetts and raised in Exeter, Maine, by his father and grandmother, both of whom are deceased. His mother lives in Rhode Island.
Details of Shaw’s death have not been released.
Laid to rest in state where he grew up
The Associated Press
AUGUSTA, Maine — A soldier from Maine who was killed in combat in Afghanistan has been laid to rest in a private service.
The July 8 funeral for Staff Sgt. Eric Shaw at Plummer Funeral Home in Augusta was followed by a graveside service at the Maine Veterans Cemetery.
Shaw, 31, was killed June 27 when his unit was attacked in Kunar, Afghanistan. He was serving with the 101st Airborne Division, out of Fort Campbell, Ky.
Army Staff Sgt. Eric B. Shaw was killed in action on 6/27/10.
Army Staff Sgt. Eric B. Shaw, 31, of Exeter, Maine
SSgt. Shaw was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 27, 2010 in Konar, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with small-arms fire. Also killed was Spc. David W. Thomas.
Left teaching career behind to serve in Army
The Associated Press
Eric Shaw was so passionate about history that he decided on a career as a history teacher.
He enrolled at the University of Southern Maine in Gorham, graduating in 2003 with a degree in history and education.
Then he changed his mind.
Shaw, who grew up in Exeter, Maine, decided to follow his late father’s footsteps into the military. He enlisted in the Army.
Shaw was in Konar, Afghanistan, on his third overseas deployment June 27 when his unit from Fort Campbell, Ky., was attacked. He died in combat.
Shaw put his teaching career on hold and left his young family behind to go to war because he loved his country, said Rick Whitney, his high school history teacher.
“He’d be the type of person who put himself out there to help someone else if they needed him. No matter what the cost to him would be. It’s just the way he was,” Whitney said.
Shaw listed his wife, Audrey, as his hero on his MySpace page because “it takes a tough person to say goodbye to their mate for a long extended period of time and take care of two children,” he wrote before his third child was born. “All you army wives are [heroes] too.”
Was serving on his 3rd combat tour
The Associated Press
AUGUSTA, Maine — Gov. John Baldacci says a soldier who was raised in Maine has died in combat in Afghanistan.
Baldacci says Staff Sgt. Eric Shaw, 31, was killed June 27 by enemy gunfire in Afghanistan on his third combat tour. His wife, Audrey, was notified while visiting her parents in Maine. The Shaws’ three children live in Tennessee.
Baldacci placed a call to the family on Tuesday.
Shaw served with the 327th Infantry, 1st Brigade Combat Team, Fort Campbell, Ky. He was born in Massachusetts and raised in Exeter, Maine, by his father and grandmother, both of whom are deceased. His mother lives in Rhode Island.
Details of Shaw’s death have not been released.
Laid to rest in state where he grew up
The Associated Press
AUGUSTA, Maine — A soldier from Maine who was killed in combat in Afghanistan has been laid to rest in a private service.
The July 8 funeral for Staff Sgt. Eric Shaw at Plummer Funeral Home in Augusta was followed by a graveside service at the Maine Veterans Cemetery.
Shaw, 31, was killed June 27 when his unit was attacked in Kunar, Afghanistan. He was serving with the 101st Airborne Division, out of Fort Campbell, Ky.
Army Staff Sgt. Eric B. Shaw was killed in action on 6/27/10.
Army Sgt. John M. Rogers
Remember Our Heroes
Army Sgt. John M. Rogers, 26, of Scottsdale, Ariz.
Sgt. Rogers was assigned to 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 27, 2010 at Forward Operating Base Blessing, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained in a non-combat-related incident.
Hoped to make a career out of military service
The Associated Press
John Rogers entered the military with his sights set on eventually becoming a police officer. But his plans soon changed.
The 26-year-old grew to see his fellow military members as his “brothers” and planned to make the military his career, said Rogers’ sister Kayla Reynolds, who also enlisted in the Army.
“Eventually he learned to really love it,” said his wife, Zuleika F. Rogers.
Rogers, of Scottsdale, Ariz., died June 27 in an incident not related to combat at Forward Operating Base Blessing, Afghanistan. He was assigned to Fort Campbell, Ky.
“He was very distinguished, very decorated,” Reynolds said. “He was really getting there. He loved what he did. He was the most amazing person I ever met. ... He had the ability to make anybody laugh, even when they were in the middle of crying.”
Rogers attended North Canyon High School in Phoenix and met his wife at a local Starbucks, where she worked.
Rogers enlisted in the Army in June 2004.
His survivors include his wife; his father, John H. Rogers of Kansas City; sisters Sally and Kayla; and brother Jimmy.
Army Sgt. John M. Rogers was killed in a non-combat related incident on 6/27/10.
Army Sgt. John M. Rogers, 26, of Scottsdale, Ariz.
Sgt. Rogers was assigned to 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 27, 2010 at Forward Operating Base Blessing, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained in a non-combat-related incident.
Hoped to make a career out of military service
The Associated Press
John Rogers entered the military with his sights set on eventually becoming a police officer. But his plans soon changed.
The 26-year-old grew to see his fellow military members as his “brothers” and planned to make the military his career, said Rogers’ sister Kayla Reynolds, who also enlisted in the Army.
“Eventually he learned to really love it,” said his wife, Zuleika F. Rogers.
Rogers, of Scottsdale, Ariz., died June 27 in an incident not related to combat at Forward Operating Base Blessing, Afghanistan. He was assigned to Fort Campbell, Ky.
“He was very distinguished, very decorated,” Reynolds said. “He was really getting there. He loved what he did. He was the most amazing person I ever met. ... He had the ability to make anybody laugh, even when they were in the middle of crying.”
Rogers attended North Canyon High School in Phoenix and met his wife at a local Starbucks, where she worked.
Rogers enlisted in the Army in June 2004.
His survivors include his wife; his father, John H. Rogers of Kansas City; sisters Sally and Kayla; and brother Jimmy.
Army Sgt. John M. Rogers was killed in a non-combat related incident on 6/27/10.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Army Spc. David A. Holmes
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. David A. Holmes, 34, of Tennille, Ga.
Spc. Holmes was assigned to 810th Engineer Company, Georgia National Guard, Swainsboro, Ga.; died June 26, 21010 at Sayed Abad, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
A soldier from Washington County died Saturday in Afghanistan, according to a news release from the Georgia Army National Guard.
They say 34-year-old Sgt. David Alexander Holmes of Tennille died after an improvised explosive device struck his vehicle during a routine patrol in Sayed Abad, Afghanistan.
He was a member of the 810th Engineering Company, based in Swainsboro. Last October, the unit left for a year-long deployment in Afghanistan.
The Guard says he leaves a wife, LaTonya, and three children.
His sister-in-law described David Holmes as outgoing, a people person and family oriented.
She said he is a former U.S. Marine who's worked for the past six years at the Washington State Prison.
Holmes youngest sister, Tina Holmes, says "he was just a sweet, caring, didn't hurt anyone, he was just a good person, just overall he was a wonderful person."
She says being in the military seemed to fit his personality, and he was proud to fight for his country and provide for his family.
She says, "he would always say 'you want me to do this? I bet you don't think I can do this.' He was a daring person, so I feel like that took a part in him joining the army, fighting for his country."
During this tough time, she says, the whole family came together, and it's no surprise many were gathered in the kitchen. She says David Holmes loved to eat and loved to cook.
The family gathered at the home Holmes shared with his wife, LaTonya, and their two young sons, one-year-old Davion and ten-year-old Tejuan in Washington County.
Tina Holmes says she's grateful their family got together last year just before her brother's deployment. That is the last time she saw him.
Governor Sonny Perdue issued the following statement upon word of the death of Sgt. Holmes: "The loss of Sgt. David Holmes is a stern reminder of the dangers our military men and women face each and every day. Our heartfelt prayers go out to David's wife, LaTonya, their 3 children, and the entire Holmes family.
“As America prepares to celebrate its independence this weekend, we must never lose sight of the fact that we, as one nation, stand on the shoulders of the young men and women who have lost their lives in the line of duty and of those who are on the front lines today. I ask that every Georgian take time this weekend to reflect and say a prayer for the thousands of Georgians fighting overseas so that we can be home with our families."
“The entire Georgia National Guard family grieves alongside the Holmes family on word of his tragic incident in Afghanistan,” said Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt, Georgia’s Adjutant General. “Like all Guardsmen, Sgt. Holmes was a true citizen-Soldier, one Georgia’s best, who knew his job and was willing to perform it without personal reservation. From his sacrifice, each of us who wear the uniform is clearly reminded that the values of liberty and freedom are often safeguarded only at an exceptionally heavy price.”
According to Spc. Holmes' younger sister Tina, the family would not be releasing any more statements and have asked to be able to grieve in private.
Army Spc. David A. Holmes was killed in action on 6/26/10.
Army Spc. David A. Holmes, 34, of Tennille, Ga.
Spc. Holmes was assigned to 810th Engineer Company, Georgia National Guard, Swainsboro, Ga.; died June 26, 21010 at Sayed Abad, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
A soldier from Washington County died Saturday in Afghanistan, according to a news release from the Georgia Army National Guard.
They say 34-year-old Sgt. David Alexander Holmes of Tennille died after an improvised explosive device struck his vehicle during a routine patrol in Sayed Abad, Afghanistan.
He was a member of the 810th Engineering Company, based in Swainsboro. Last October, the unit left for a year-long deployment in Afghanistan.
The Guard says he leaves a wife, LaTonya, and three children.
His sister-in-law described David Holmes as outgoing, a people person and family oriented.
She said he is a former U.S. Marine who's worked for the past six years at the Washington State Prison.
Holmes youngest sister, Tina Holmes, says "he was just a sweet, caring, didn't hurt anyone, he was just a good person, just overall he was a wonderful person."
She says being in the military seemed to fit his personality, and he was proud to fight for his country and provide for his family.
She says, "he would always say 'you want me to do this? I bet you don't think I can do this.' He was a daring person, so I feel like that took a part in him joining the army, fighting for his country."
During this tough time, she says, the whole family came together, and it's no surprise many were gathered in the kitchen. She says David Holmes loved to eat and loved to cook.
The family gathered at the home Holmes shared with his wife, LaTonya, and their two young sons, one-year-old Davion and ten-year-old Tejuan in Washington County.
Tina Holmes says she's grateful their family got together last year just before her brother's deployment. That is the last time she saw him.
Governor Sonny Perdue issued the following statement upon word of the death of Sgt. Holmes: "The loss of Sgt. David Holmes is a stern reminder of the dangers our military men and women face each and every day. Our heartfelt prayers go out to David's wife, LaTonya, their 3 children, and the entire Holmes family.
“As America prepares to celebrate its independence this weekend, we must never lose sight of the fact that we, as one nation, stand on the shoulders of the young men and women who have lost their lives in the line of duty and of those who are on the front lines today. I ask that every Georgian take time this weekend to reflect and say a prayer for the thousands of Georgians fighting overseas so that we can be home with our families."
“The entire Georgia National Guard family grieves alongside the Holmes family on word of his tragic incident in Afghanistan,” said Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt, Georgia’s Adjutant General. “Like all Guardsmen, Sgt. Holmes was a true citizen-Soldier, one Georgia’s best, who knew his job and was willing to perform it without personal reservation. From his sacrifice, each of us who wear the uniform is clearly reminded that the values of liberty and freedom are often safeguarded only at an exceptionally heavy price.”
According to Spc. Holmes' younger sister Tina, the family would not be releasing any more statements and have asked to be able to grieve in private.
Army Spc. David A. Holmes was killed in action on 6/26/10.
Army Pfc. Bryant J. Haynes
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pfc. Bryant J. Haynes, 21, of Epps, La.
Pfc. Haynes was assigned to the 199th Support Battalion, Louisiana National Guard, Alexandria, La.; died June 26, 2010 in Al Diwaniyah, Iraq, of injuries sustained during a vehicle rollover.
Pictures showed off interests
The Associated Press
Bryant “B.J.” Haynes didn’t write much on his MySpace profile. He let the pictures do the talking.
First on the list is his pit bull terrier, Flesh. Then come the photos of an athletic football player. In one, he’s nearly upside down as he takes a hard tackle “for the team,” as his caption puts it.
He’s among a sea of red jerseys walking out of a giant animal’s mouth onto the football field, “ready for whatever.”
“He was a very selfless player who loved his teammates and his school,” said John Carr, who coached Haynes at Ouachita Parish High School. Haynes had played for Carr as a wide receiver.
Haynes, 21, of Epps, La., was killed in a vehicle rollover June 26 in Al Diwaniyah, Iraq. He was based with the Army National Guard in Alexandria, La.
Haynes left his school and football team before graduating because he wanted to get his GED and serve in the military.
“He was a loving young man,” said his stepfather, Tony Collins. “He was caring and respectable.”
Haynes is survived by his mother and father, Linda Toney Collins and Fredrick Nichols; a fiancée, Lakeidra Taylor; and nine brothers and four sisters.
Army Pfc. Bryant J. Haynes was killed in action on 6/26/10.
Army Pfc. Bryant J. Haynes, 21, of Epps, La.
Pfc. Haynes was assigned to the 199th Support Battalion, Louisiana National Guard, Alexandria, La.; died June 26, 2010 in Al Diwaniyah, Iraq, of injuries sustained during a vehicle rollover.
Pictures showed off interests
The Associated Press
Bryant “B.J.” Haynes didn’t write much on his MySpace profile. He let the pictures do the talking.
First on the list is his pit bull terrier, Flesh. Then come the photos of an athletic football player. In one, he’s nearly upside down as he takes a hard tackle “for the team,” as his caption puts it.
He’s among a sea of red jerseys walking out of a giant animal’s mouth onto the football field, “ready for whatever.”
“He was a very selfless player who loved his teammates and his school,” said John Carr, who coached Haynes at Ouachita Parish High School. Haynes had played for Carr as a wide receiver.
Haynes, 21, of Epps, La., was killed in a vehicle rollover June 26 in Al Diwaniyah, Iraq. He was based with the Army National Guard in Alexandria, La.
Haynes left his school and football team before graduating because he wanted to get his GED and serve in the military.
“He was a loving young man,” said his stepfather, Tony Collins. “He was caring and respectable.”
Haynes is survived by his mother and father, Linda Toney Collins and Fredrick Nichols; a fiancée, Lakeidra Taylor; and nine brothers and four sisters.
Army Pfc. Bryant J. Haynes was killed in action on 6/26/10.
Marine Lance Cpl. William T. Richards
Remember Our Heroes
Marine Lance Cpl. William T. Richards, 20, of Trenton, Ga.
LCpl Richards was assigned to 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died June 26, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
Music, family were big parts of his life
The Associated Press
William Richards — who preferred his middle name, Taylor — was a long-haired kid who could pluck a mean banjo in high school.
“His music was just a big part of his life,” said Linda Wilson, who taught Richards in 10th grade. She said he had shoulder-length hair as a teen but shaved it during his senior year as he prepared to join the Marines.
Richards, 20, of Trenton, Ga., died June 26 in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to Camp Lejeune, N.C., and graduated from Dade County High School in 2008.
The Marine’s family said in a statement that Richards was a dedicated father to his 9-month-old daughter, Kayden Leigh. He was married to his high school sweetheart, Emily.
Chuck Carver, who ran a youth ministry that Richards was a part of in high school, said the teen had a clearer vision than most of what he wanted from life. He often asked Carver for advice about life and marriage, and knew the dangers of joining the Marines.
“I know Mr. Carver. That’s what I’m destined to be,” Carver recalled the teen telling him.
Richards also is survived by his mother and father.
remembering 20-year-old U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. William Taylor Richards as a “special” young man who had a passion for his country and music.
Cpl. Richards, a 2008 graduate of Dade County High School, died Saturday in the Helmand province of Afghanistan while supporting combat operations, according to the U.S. Department of Defense.
He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force out of Camp Lejeune, N.C., according to the DOD news release.
Linda Wilson, who taught Cpl. Richards in 10th grade, said her former student as a “special kid” and a great banjo player.
“His music was just a big part of his life,” said Ms. Wilson, who noted that Cpl. Richards talked about joining the military early in high school.
When she taught him, he had shoulder-length hair but shaved it during his senior year in preparation for enlisting in the armed services.
His death, she said, “is a huge loss.”
Bill Lockhart, acting commander of the local American Legion chapter, said Cpl. Richards was a mature teenager who was involved in last year’s Veterans Day parade.
“We are all-volunteer so that means he volunteered to serve his country. He gave it his all,” Mr. Lockhart said.
Marine Lance Cpl. William T. Richards was killed in action on 6/26/10.
Marine Lance Cpl. William T. Richards, 20, of Trenton, Ga.
LCpl Richards was assigned to 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died June 26, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
Music, family were big parts of his life
The Associated Press
William Richards — who preferred his middle name, Taylor — was a long-haired kid who could pluck a mean banjo in high school.
“His music was just a big part of his life,” said Linda Wilson, who taught Richards in 10th grade. She said he had shoulder-length hair as a teen but shaved it during his senior year as he prepared to join the Marines.
Richards, 20, of Trenton, Ga., died June 26 in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to Camp Lejeune, N.C., and graduated from Dade County High School in 2008.
The Marine’s family said in a statement that Richards was a dedicated father to his 9-month-old daughter, Kayden Leigh. He was married to his high school sweetheart, Emily.
Chuck Carver, who ran a youth ministry that Richards was a part of in high school, said the teen had a clearer vision than most of what he wanted from life. He often asked Carver for advice about life and marriage, and knew the dangers of joining the Marines.
“I know Mr. Carver. That’s what I’m destined to be,” Carver recalled the teen telling him.
Richards also is survived by his mother and father.
remembering 20-year-old U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. William Taylor Richards as a “special” young man who had a passion for his country and music.
Cpl. Richards, a 2008 graduate of Dade County High School, died Saturday in the Helmand province of Afghanistan while supporting combat operations, according to the U.S. Department of Defense.
He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force out of Camp Lejeune, N.C., according to the DOD news release.
Linda Wilson, who taught Cpl. Richards in 10th grade, said her former student as a “special kid” and a great banjo player.
“His music was just a big part of his life,” said Ms. Wilson, who noted that Cpl. Richards talked about joining the military early in high school.
When she taught him, he had shoulder-length hair but shaved it during his senior year in preparation for enlisting in the armed services.
His death, she said, “is a huge loss.”
Bill Lockhart, acting commander of the local American Legion chapter, said Cpl. Richards was a mature teenager who was involved in last year’s Veterans Day parade.
“We are all-volunteer so that means he volunteered to serve his country. He gave it his all,” Mr. Lockhart said.
Marine Lance Cpl. William T. Richards was killed in action on 6/26/10.
Marine Sgt. Joseph D. Caskey
Remember Our Heroes
Marine Sgt. Joseph D. Caskey, 24, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
Sgt. Caskey was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.; died June 26, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
West View Marine dies in Afghanistan
Joe Caskey followed his grandfather, father, mother and two older brothers into the military after graduating from North Hills High School in 2004.
"That's all we ever knew," said his brother, Jeremy Caskey, 32. "We always loved our country. It was a natural thing. It was almost the family business."
Marine Corps Sgt. Joseph Caskey, 24, of West View was killed Saturday when an improvised explosive device struck the vehicle in which he was riding in Afghanistan, his family said. It was his second tour of duty overseas.
"For him, there was never any other choice," Jeremy Caskey said. "It was a singular passion for him to be a Marine."
He is the third local serviceman to die in action this month. Bryan Hoover, 29, and Robert Fike, 38, both with the Pennsylvania National Guard's Company C, 1st Battalion, 110th Infantry, based in Connellsville, died June 11 in Afghanistan.
Twenty servicemen from Pennsylvania were killed in action since last June, according to the Department of Defense.
Joe Caskey's body was transferred to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware, according to the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operation Center. Jeremy Caskey said the family had not yet made funeral arrangements.
Joe Caskey was born in Germany when his father, Gerald Caskey, was stationed there, and he spent some of his elementary school years in Hawaii, said his mother, Debra Caskey.
"He just loved it there," said Debra Caskey, 54, who was an Army photographer. "He was always the athletic, outdoorsy type, and there you're outdoors all the time."
Debra Caskey's sons deployed overseas five times. Jeremy Caskey was in Iraq with the Air Force, and Joshua Caskey, the middle brother, was in Iraq twice with the Marines. Joe Caskey went to Iraq and then Afghanistan.
Joe Caskey enlisted in 2004 and re-enlisted in 2008. As a sergeant, he probably could have stayed closer to the base in Afghanistan, but that's not what he wanted, his brother said.
"He wanted to be in the thick of it," Jeremy Caskey said. "He took a position out there to fight. He wanted to be with his men, and he wanted to make a difference. He wanted to be there to lead his guys."
A Pittsburgh TV station quoted his father as saying his son had spoken of not making it home.
"He told us if he didn't make it back ---- he knew that possibility was real ---- to make sure we give him a really nice military funeral," the station quoted Jerry Caskey as saying. "He calculated the risk."
The father also said his son had the option of what he termed a safer assignment, but turned it down to stay with the troops he had trained with for a year.
The family moved around the world, but Pittsburgh was always the home base, Jeremy Caskey said. When Gerald Caskey retired after 22 years in the Army, the family settled in West View. Joe Caskey played baseball at North Hills, his mother said.
"I heard some rumblings, but I didn't want it to be true," North Hills Principal Patrick Mannarino said after hearing about Caskey's death. "He was a good kid. I knew he would be a great Marine when he decided to do that."
Christa Cardone, by virtue of her last name, had a locker next to Joe Caskey's in high school.
"We had homeroom together, so every morning I woke up to Joe," said Cardone, 23, of Squirrel Hill. "He was goofy and always just kind of fun. He was always really serious about being in the Marines. I always remember him talking about that, and he did it."
No matter his location, Joe Caskey took with him a love of Pittsburgh's sports teams, his mother said. "We've always supported the Penguins and the Steelers, everywhere we went."
Joe Caskey was home two months ago, when his girlfriend took him to see a Penguins game, his mother said.
She described her son as a good Christian man.
"He knows the Lord, and he'd want people to know that," she said. "He was a good patriot."
Sgt. Caskey is survived by his parents Gerald and Debra Caskey, brother Jeremy Caskey (Air Force) and Joshua Caskey (Marine) as well as numerous friends.
Marine Sgt. Joseph D. Caskey was killed in action on 6/26/10.
Marine Sgt. Joseph D. Caskey, 24, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
Sgt. Caskey was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.; died June 26, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
West View Marine dies in Afghanistan
Joe Caskey followed his grandfather, father, mother and two older brothers into the military after graduating from North Hills High School in 2004.
"That's all we ever knew," said his brother, Jeremy Caskey, 32. "We always loved our country. It was a natural thing. It was almost the family business."
Marine Corps Sgt. Joseph Caskey, 24, of West View was killed Saturday when an improvised explosive device struck the vehicle in which he was riding in Afghanistan, his family said. It was his second tour of duty overseas.
"For him, there was never any other choice," Jeremy Caskey said. "It was a singular passion for him to be a Marine."
He is the third local serviceman to die in action this month. Bryan Hoover, 29, and Robert Fike, 38, both with the Pennsylvania National Guard's Company C, 1st Battalion, 110th Infantry, based in Connellsville, died June 11 in Afghanistan.
Twenty servicemen from Pennsylvania were killed in action since last June, according to the Department of Defense.
Joe Caskey's body was transferred to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware, according to the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operation Center. Jeremy Caskey said the family had not yet made funeral arrangements.
Joe Caskey was born in Germany when his father, Gerald Caskey, was stationed there, and he spent some of his elementary school years in Hawaii, said his mother, Debra Caskey.
"He just loved it there," said Debra Caskey, 54, who was an Army photographer. "He was always the athletic, outdoorsy type, and there you're outdoors all the time."
Debra Caskey's sons deployed overseas five times. Jeremy Caskey was in Iraq with the Air Force, and Joshua Caskey, the middle brother, was in Iraq twice with the Marines. Joe Caskey went to Iraq and then Afghanistan.
Joe Caskey enlisted in 2004 and re-enlisted in 2008. As a sergeant, he probably could have stayed closer to the base in Afghanistan, but that's not what he wanted, his brother said.
"He wanted to be in the thick of it," Jeremy Caskey said. "He took a position out there to fight. He wanted to be with his men, and he wanted to make a difference. He wanted to be there to lead his guys."
A Pittsburgh TV station quoted his father as saying his son had spoken of not making it home.
"He told us if he didn't make it back ---- he knew that possibility was real ---- to make sure we give him a really nice military funeral," the station quoted Jerry Caskey as saying. "He calculated the risk."
The father also said his son had the option of what he termed a safer assignment, but turned it down to stay with the troops he had trained with for a year.
The family moved around the world, but Pittsburgh was always the home base, Jeremy Caskey said. When Gerald Caskey retired after 22 years in the Army, the family settled in West View. Joe Caskey played baseball at North Hills, his mother said.
"I heard some rumblings, but I didn't want it to be true," North Hills Principal Patrick Mannarino said after hearing about Caskey's death. "He was a good kid. I knew he would be a great Marine when he decided to do that."
Christa Cardone, by virtue of her last name, had a locker next to Joe Caskey's in high school.
"We had homeroom together, so every morning I woke up to Joe," said Cardone, 23, of Squirrel Hill. "He was goofy and always just kind of fun. He was always really serious about being in the Marines. I always remember him talking about that, and he did it."
No matter his location, Joe Caskey took with him a love of Pittsburgh's sports teams, his mother said. "We've always supported the Penguins and the Steelers, everywhere we went."
Joe Caskey was home two months ago, when his girlfriend took him to see a Penguins game, his mother said.
She described her son as a good Christian man.
"He knows the Lord, and he'd want people to know that," she said. "He was a good patriot."
Sgt. Caskey is survived by his parents Gerald and Debra Caskey, brother Jeremy Caskey (Air Force) and Joshua Caskey (Marine) as well as numerous friends.
Marine Sgt. Joseph D. Caskey was killed in action on 6/26/10.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Army Spc. Jared C. Plunk
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. Jared C. Plunk, 27, of Stillwater, Okla.
Spc Plunk was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 25, 2010 in Konar, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire. Also killed in the attack was Army Spc. Blair D. Thompson.
Family, friends say farewells on Independence Day
The Associated Press
TURPIN, Okla. — The auditorium at Turpin High School was packed on July 4 for Army Spc. Jared C. Plunk’s funeral.
Plunk, 27, was killed June 25 in Afghanistan. Some stood in the doorway paying their respects. Music filled the room as friends, family and military personnel filed to their seats.
Plunk’s casket sat in the band’s pit, an American flag draped over it. To the side was his Turpin High School football jersey, No. 71.
“As I think of Jared, some thoughts came to me,” the Rev. Stan Lehnart said. “He was not the valedictorian of Turpin. He was not the star of the football team. He was not the boy the girls ... wanted to sit next to at assemblies in this auditorium. He is the one who gave his life for us to sit here today. He is the one that served his country. He is a hero.”
Lehnart described Jared as a jokester, always with a smile, and a twinkle in his eye.
“Today, as we celebrate Independence Day, we are reminded the price we pay for our freedom. Thank you, Jared,” Lenhart said.
A slide show followed, accompanied by a medley of pop and country songs, then a member of Blue Star Mothers of America presented the family with a gold star banner.
Justin Plunk, Jared’s brother, recalled the times when he and Jared were bunkmates: Twice as children, once at college and in basic infantry training.
Justin paused to regain composure as he said his brother “was a brave man. We should all be honored. I am.
“Jared, I miss you. The family misses you. Despite your absence, you bring the family warmth. I am proud of you and it was an honor to serve with you.”
The Rev. Ronnie Hepperley referred to the fight in Afghanistan as a fight for religious freedom.
“Death can’t stop the love. It can’t stop the legacy of Jared. When you look at the blond-haired little boy, 9 months old, you will see Jared’s legacy,” Hepperley said of Plunk’s son.
Bagpipes played as the casket was rolled out, followed by the family members wearing yellow ribbons and Army camouflaged ribbons over their hearts.
About 130 Patriot Guard motorcycle riders lined the street leading to the high school auditorium.
Passion for shooting started when he was young
The Associated Press
Jared Plunk had a passion for shooting guns by the time he was elementary school-age, according to his grandmother, Nelmalee Plunk. As a young boy, he got his hands on her pellet gun and took aim, sending glass pellets flying toward a door with a whack.
“He came in the house and he said ‘Granny, I was shooting at the bricks, I wasn’t shooting at the door,’ ” she said.
She described him as “a pretty smart kid” who was hardworking, did some farming and enjoyed life.
Plunk, 27, of Stillwater, Okla., died June 25 in Konar, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire. He was assigned to Fort Campbell, Ky.
Plunk grew up in the Oklahoma Panhandle town of Turpin. He played football and graduated from high school there before taking classes at Oklahoma State University, although he left to join the military.
Survivors include his wife, Lindsay, and two sons, 5-year-old Noah and baby Kason.
He also is survived two brothers, two sisters and a stepfather.
He was to be buried next to his father in Liberal, Kan.
Army Spc. Jared C. Plunk was killed in action on 6/25/10.
Army Spc. Jared C. Plunk, 27, of Stillwater, Okla.
Spc Plunk was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 25, 2010 in Konar, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire. Also killed in the attack was Army Spc. Blair D. Thompson.
Family, friends say farewells on Independence Day
The Associated Press
TURPIN, Okla. — The auditorium at Turpin High School was packed on July 4 for Army Spc. Jared C. Plunk’s funeral.
Plunk, 27, was killed June 25 in Afghanistan. Some stood in the doorway paying their respects. Music filled the room as friends, family and military personnel filed to their seats.
Plunk’s casket sat in the band’s pit, an American flag draped over it. To the side was his Turpin High School football jersey, No. 71.
“As I think of Jared, some thoughts came to me,” the Rev. Stan Lehnart said. “He was not the valedictorian of Turpin. He was not the star of the football team. He was not the boy the girls ... wanted to sit next to at assemblies in this auditorium. He is the one who gave his life for us to sit here today. He is the one that served his country. He is a hero.”
Lehnart described Jared as a jokester, always with a smile, and a twinkle in his eye.
“Today, as we celebrate Independence Day, we are reminded the price we pay for our freedom. Thank you, Jared,” Lenhart said.
A slide show followed, accompanied by a medley of pop and country songs, then a member of Blue Star Mothers of America presented the family with a gold star banner.
Justin Plunk, Jared’s brother, recalled the times when he and Jared were bunkmates: Twice as children, once at college and in basic infantry training.
Justin paused to regain composure as he said his brother “was a brave man. We should all be honored. I am.
“Jared, I miss you. The family misses you. Despite your absence, you bring the family warmth. I am proud of you and it was an honor to serve with you.”
The Rev. Ronnie Hepperley referred to the fight in Afghanistan as a fight for religious freedom.
“Death can’t stop the love. It can’t stop the legacy of Jared. When you look at the blond-haired little boy, 9 months old, you will see Jared’s legacy,” Hepperley said of Plunk’s son.
Bagpipes played as the casket was rolled out, followed by the family members wearing yellow ribbons and Army camouflaged ribbons over their hearts.
About 130 Patriot Guard motorcycle riders lined the street leading to the high school auditorium.
Passion for shooting started when he was young
The Associated Press
Jared Plunk had a passion for shooting guns by the time he was elementary school-age, according to his grandmother, Nelmalee Plunk. As a young boy, he got his hands on her pellet gun and took aim, sending glass pellets flying toward a door with a whack.
“He came in the house and he said ‘Granny, I was shooting at the bricks, I wasn’t shooting at the door,’ ” she said.
She described him as “a pretty smart kid” who was hardworking, did some farming and enjoyed life.
Plunk, 27, of Stillwater, Okla., died June 25 in Konar, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire. He was assigned to Fort Campbell, Ky.
Plunk grew up in the Oklahoma Panhandle town of Turpin. He played football and graduated from high school there before taking classes at Oklahoma State University, although he left to join the military.
Survivors include his wife, Lindsay, and two sons, 5-year-old Noah and baby Kason.
He also is survived two brothers, two sisters and a stepfather.
He was to be buried next to his father in Liberal, Kan.
Army Spc. Jared C. Plunk was killed in action on 6/25/10.
Army Spc. Blair D. Thompson
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. Blair D. Thompson, 19, of Rome, N.Y.
Spc. Thompson was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 25, 2010 at Konar, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire. Also killed in the attack was Spc. Jared C. Plunk.
Upstate NY soldier killed in Afghanistan fighting
The Associated Press
ROME, N.Y. — The father of a soldier from central New York who was injured in an attack in Afghanistan last month says his son has been killed in another attack.
Vincent Thompson of Little Falls says his 19-year-old son, Army Spc. Blair Thompson of Vernon, was killed June 25 when his unit was ambushed by insurgents in Kunar Province.
Thompson deployed to Afghanistan in May. He was serving with the 101st Airborne Division 1st Brigade Combat Team.
The elder Thompson says his son was hit by shrapnel during an earlier attack soon after arriving in Afghanistan. Vincent Thompson says his son was offered a chance to heal but insisted on returning to his unit.
Blair Thompson joined the Army after graduating from Rome Free Academy in 2008.
Funeral services are pending.
‘All he wanted to do was protect you and me’
The Associated Press
Blair Thompson enjoyed paintball and loved hockey. His favorite team was the New Jersey Devils. Friends also say he was somewhat mischievous.
“He would do anything and everything to cause some innocent ruckus,” said former classmate Eric Benfrey. “He was always trying to make people laugh because he cared about them.”
Thompson, of Rome, N.Y., had wanted an Army career since childhood. He joined the Air Force Junior ROTC as a high school sophomore. He joined the Army after graduating from Rome Free Academy in 2008.
Thompson, 19, deployed to Afghanistan in May. On his Facebook page last month, he posted a photo showing shrapnel injuries he suffered in an insurgent attack.
His father, Vincent Thompson, said the Army offered his son a chance to rest and heal, but he wanted to be back in the fight. On June 25, insurgents again attacked Thompson’s unit. He did not survive.
“He went over there with a very open mind, with a true patriot’s heart,” his father said. “All he wanted to do was protect you and me.”
Thompson was assigned to Fort Campbell, Ky.
He also is survived by his mother, Arena Young, and three brothers.
Army Spc. Blair D. Thompson was killed in action on 6/25/10.
Army Spc. Blair D. Thompson, 19, of Rome, N.Y.
Spc. Thompson was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 25, 2010 at Konar, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire. Also killed in the attack was Spc. Jared C. Plunk.
Upstate NY soldier killed in Afghanistan fighting
The Associated Press
ROME, N.Y. — The father of a soldier from central New York who was injured in an attack in Afghanistan last month says his son has been killed in another attack.
Vincent Thompson of Little Falls says his 19-year-old son, Army Spc. Blair Thompson of Vernon, was killed June 25 when his unit was ambushed by insurgents in Kunar Province.
Thompson deployed to Afghanistan in May. He was serving with the 101st Airborne Division 1st Brigade Combat Team.
The elder Thompson says his son was hit by shrapnel during an earlier attack soon after arriving in Afghanistan. Vincent Thompson says his son was offered a chance to heal but insisted on returning to his unit.
Blair Thompson joined the Army after graduating from Rome Free Academy in 2008.
Funeral services are pending.
‘All he wanted to do was protect you and me’
The Associated Press
Blair Thompson enjoyed paintball and loved hockey. His favorite team was the New Jersey Devils. Friends also say he was somewhat mischievous.
“He would do anything and everything to cause some innocent ruckus,” said former classmate Eric Benfrey. “He was always trying to make people laugh because he cared about them.”
Thompson, of Rome, N.Y., had wanted an Army career since childhood. He joined the Air Force Junior ROTC as a high school sophomore. He joined the Army after graduating from Rome Free Academy in 2008.
Thompson, 19, deployed to Afghanistan in May. On his Facebook page last month, he posted a photo showing shrapnel injuries he suffered in an insurgent attack.
His father, Vincent Thompson, said the Army offered his son a chance to rest and heal, but he wanted to be back in the fight. On June 25, insurgents again attacked Thompson’s unit. He did not survive.
“He went over there with a very open mind, with a true patriot’s heart,” his father said. “All he wanted to do was protect you and me.”
Thompson was assigned to Fort Campbell, Ky.
He also is survived by his mother, Arena Young, and three brothers.
Army Spc. Blair D. Thompson was killed in action on 6/25/10.
Marine Cpl. Daane A. Deboer
Remember Our Heroes
Marine Cpl. Daane A. Deboer, 24, of Ludington, Mich.
Cpl. Deboer was assigned to 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.; died June 25, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
Marine who hiked Appalachian Trail dies in Afghanistan
The Associated Press
DETROIT — A Marine whose experience hiking the 2,175-mile Appalachian Trail while raising money for a charity helped lead him to enlist in the military has died while fighting in Afghanistan, his father said Monday.
Cpl. Daane Adam DeBoer, 24, was killed Friday by an improvised explosive device while on foot patrol, said his father, David DeBoer of Valparaiso, Ind. He said the military notified family in Indiana and Michigan of his son’s death the same day.
“He was an exceptionally phenomenal young man who loved the Lord,” said his mother Charlene Zerrenner of Ludington, Mich. “He loved his family and he loved his country. He died a hero.”
Daane DeBoer was born in Valparaiso and attended Immanuel Lutheran School through sixth grade before moving to the Grand Rapids area. He lived in Rockford until graduating from high school, his father said.
He lived in Colorado for about a year before joining the Marines in spring 2009, and was deployed to Afghanistan in March, David DeBoer said.
Daane DeBoer enjoyed extreme sports such as skiing and hiked the Appalachian Trail along the mountainous spine of the eastern U.S. while raising money for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, a nonprofit dedicated to the fight against breast cancer.
“The discipline of doing the trail and what he was doing it for, I think, had a huge impression on him,” David DeBoer said. “Doing something bigger than himself.”
As of Monday morning, the Department of Defense hadn’t released information about DeBoer.
The family has requested privacy. Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Service in Grand Rapids, which was contacted by the family and the military, was handling arrangements. A funeral was expected to be in the Grand Rapids area.
Daane DeBoer’s father and stepmother, Mary DeBoer, live in Valparaiso, Ind., while his mother and stepfather, Jim Zerrenner, live in Ludington, Mich. Other survivors include his sisters Aubrey, Ashley and Lindsey DeBoer.
In place of flowers, contributions may be made to Immanuel Lutheran School of Valparaiso, his father said.
Marine killed in Afghanistan honored in Mich.
The Associated Press
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Flags flew at half-staff around Michigan on Friday to mark the funeral of a Marine killed in Afghanistan who was inspired to join the military after hiking the Appalachian Trail to raise money for charity.
About 300 friends and relatives of Cpl. Daane A. DeBoer, 24, gathered for a private memorial at a church in Grand Rapids.
His friend, Lance Cpl. Ryan Innis, said he had been looking forward to going hunting with DeBoer when his tour in Afghanistan ended. Instead, Innis was assigned to escort DeBoer’s body on a plane from Dover Air Force Base in Delaware to Grand Rapids’ Gerald R. Ford Airport.
“That was definitely the most difficult thing I’ve ever had to do and probably will be for the rest of my life,” Innis told The Grand Rapids Press.
DeBoer was killed June 28 when an improvised explosive device exploded while he was on foot patrol in Helmand province.
During the funeral, Marines in dress uniform walked silently down the center of the Mayflower Congregational Church ahead of DeBoer’s casket. After the service, a Marine bagpiper played “Amazing Grace” before pallbearers loaded the flag-draped casket into a hearse.
DeBoer enjoyed extreme sports such as skiing, and he hiked the 2,175-mile Appalachian Trail while raising money for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, a nonprofit dedicated to the fight against breast cancer. The trail runs along the mountainous spine of the eastern U.S.
“The discipline of doing the trail and what he was doing it for, I think, had a huge impression on him,” his father, David DeBoer of Valparaiso, Ind., told The Associated Press this week. “Doing something bigger than himself.”
DeBoer was born in Valparaiso, about 15 miles south of Lake Michigan in northern Indiana, where he attended Immanuel Lutheran School through sixth grade before moving to the Grand Rapids area. DeBoer graduated from Northview High School in Kent County’s Plainfield Township, near Rockford, Mich.
He enlisted last year and was deployed to Afghanistan in March. DeBoer was part of the 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force from Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Along with his father, other survivors include his mother and stepfather, Charlene and Jim Zerrenner, of Ludington, Mich.; his stepmother, Mary DeBoer, of Valparaiso; sisters Aubrey, Ashley and Lindsey DeBoer; and grandmother Barbara Sturrus of Grand Rapids.
Marine Cpl. Daane A. Deboer was killed in action on 6/25/10.
Marine Cpl. Daane A. Deboer, 24, of Ludington, Mich.
Cpl. Deboer was assigned to 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.; died June 25, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
Marine who hiked Appalachian Trail dies in Afghanistan
The Associated Press
DETROIT — A Marine whose experience hiking the 2,175-mile Appalachian Trail while raising money for a charity helped lead him to enlist in the military has died while fighting in Afghanistan, his father said Monday.
Cpl. Daane Adam DeBoer, 24, was killed Friday by an improvised explosive device while on foot patrol, said his father, David DeBoer of Valparaiso, Ind. He said the military notified family in Indiana and Michigan of his son’s death the same day.
“He was an exceptionally phenomenal young man who loved the Lord,” said his mother Charlene Zerrenner of Ludington, Mich. “He loved his family and he loved his country. He died a hero.”
Daane DeBoer was born in Valparaiso and attended Immanuel Lutheran School through sixth grade before moving to the Grand Rapids area. He lived in Rockford until graduating from high school, his father said.
He lived in Colorado for about a year before joining the Marines in spring 2009, and was deployed to Afghanistan in March, David DeBoer said.
Daane DeBoer enjoyed extreme sports such as skiing and hiked the Appalachian Trail along the mountainous spine of the eastern U.S. while raising money for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, a nonprofit dedicated to the fight against breast cancer.
“The discipline of doing the trail and what he was doing it for, I think, had a huge impression on him,” David DeBoer said. “Doing something bigger than himself.”
As of Monday morning, the Department of Defense hadn’t released information about DeBoer.
The family has requested privacy. Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Service in Grand Rapids, which was contacted by the family and the military, was handling arrangements. A funeral was expected to be in the Grand Rapids area.
Daane DeBoer’s father and stepmother, Mary DeBoer, live in Valparaiso, Ind., while his mother and stepfather, Jim Zerrenner, live in Ludington, Mich. Other survivors include his sisters Aubrey, Ashley and Lindsey DeBoer.
In place of flowers, contributions may be made to Immanuel Lutheran School of Valparaiso, his father said.
Marine killed in Afghanistan honored in Mich.
The Associated Press
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Flags flew at half-staff around Michigan on Friday to mark the funeral of a Marine killed in Afghanistan who was inspired to join the military after hiking the Appalachian Trail to raise money for charity.
About 300 friends and relatives of Cpl. Daane A. DeBoer, 24, gathered for a private memorial at a church in Grand Rapids.
His friend, Lance Cpl. Ryan Innis, said he had been looking forward to going hunting with DeBoer when his tour in Afghanistan ended. Instead, Innis was assigned to escort DeBoer’s body on a plane from Dover Air Force Base in Delaware to Grand Rapids’ Gerald R. Ford Airport.
“That was definitely the most difficult thing I’ve ever had to do and probably will be for the rest of my life,” Innis told The Grand Rapids Press.
DeBoer was killed June 28 when an improvised explosive device exploded while he was on foot patrol in Helmand province.
During the funeral, Marines in dress uniform walked silently down the center of the Mayflower Congregational Church ahead of DeBoer’s casket. After the service, a Marine bagpiper played “Amazing Grace” before pallbearers loaded the flag-draped casket into a hearse.
DeBoer enjoyed extreme sports such as skiing, and he hiked the 2,175-mile Appalachian Trail while raising money for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, a nonprofit dedicated to the fight against breast cancer. The trail runs along the mountainous spine of the eastern U.S.
“The discipline of doing the trail and what he was doing it for, I think, had a huge impression on him,” his father, David DeBoer of Valparaiso, Ind., told The Associated Press this week. “Doing something bigger than himself.”
DeBoer was born in Valparaiso, about 15 miles south of Lake Michigan in northern Indiana, where he attended Immanuel Lutheran School through sixth grade before moving to the Grand Rapids area. DeBoer graduated from Northview High School in Kent County’s Plainfield Township, near Rockford, Mich.
He enlisted last year and was deployed to Afghanistan in March. DeBoer was part of the 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force from Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Along with his father, other survivors include his mother and stepfather, Charlene and Jim Zerrenner, of Ludington, Mich.; his stepmother, Mary DeBoer, of Valparaiso; sisters Aubrey, Ashley and Lindsey DeBoer; and grandmother Barbara Sturrus of Grand Rapids.
Marine Cpl. Daane A. Deboer was killed in action on 6/25/10.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Army Staff Sgt. Edwardo Loredo
Remember Our Heroes
Army Staff Sgt. Edwardo Loredo, 34, of Houston, Texas
SSgt. Loredo was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died June 24, 2010 in Jelewar, Afghanistan, when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.
Staff Sgt. Edwardo Loredo joined the Army on Oct. 5, 1999 and entered training at Fort Benning, Ga. After he completed his training, Loredo reported to Camp Ederle in Vicenza, Italy, where he joined the 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 173rd Brigade Combat Team, according to a news release from the 82nd Airborne Division.
In March 2003, Loredo deployed to Iraq for six months before returning to Italy and serving as traffic management coordinator with the 663rd Movement Control Team and finishing his enlistment in August 2004.
Loredo rejoined the Army on Sept. 29, 2004 and returned to duty as an infantryman with 1st Battalion, 508 Parachute Infantry Regiment, deploying to Afghanistan from February 2005 to February 2006.
"(He) had a presence that could brighten even the darkest rooms. With a smile that was overly contagious, he could instantly make a bad situation tolerable," said 1st Lt. Matt Jarmon, Loredo's company executive officer.
A memorial in his honor will be held in Afghanistan.
Loredo's awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal with three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Achievement Medal with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, three Army Good Conduct Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, the Iraq Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, the Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terror Service Medal, the Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with Numeral 2 device, four Overseas Service Ribbons, the Overseas Reserve Component Training Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Parachutist Badge.
Houston sergeant died just before 35th birthday
Edwardo Loredo didn't tell anyone when he joined the Army shortly after graduating from Sam Houston High School.
"He kept it a secret when he went to boot camp," said his cousin, Elizabeth Huff, of Humble. "Nobody knew. I think just because he wanted to do something on his own. He's an adventurer. He's a protector of all. He protected all of us."
On Thursday, Huff received word that the soldier she considered her little brother had died in Afghanistan. He would have celebrated his 35th birthday on Friday. His body arrived in a flag-draped coffin at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware on Saturday.
"It's a low, low blow," a tearful Huff said on Sunday.
Edwardo Loredo's death has yet to be officially announced by the Department of Defense, and no details were immediately available. The 34-year-old staff sergeant is the 20th Houston-area service member to be killed in Afghanistan, and the sixth so far this year.
Married to a sergeant
Staff Sgt. Loredo was born in Houston. He was married to Army 1st Sgt. Jennifer Laredo and had a 2-year-old son, Eddie, a 7-year-old daughter, Laura, and a stepdaughter, Alexis, 13.
He served combat tours in both Iraq and in Afghanistan, Huff said.
"He called me one time and said, 'Hey, I'm re-enlisted,' " she recalled. "I said 'Eddie, you did your time.' He goes, 'But I enjoy my family.' His Army family. That was his life. He loved it. He loved his career, he loved his friends. He met his wife there."
Most recently, Loredo was stationed at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. He deployed to Afghanistan in December, family members said.
His wife deployed there in May, they said.
"She was deployed in the northern part of Afghanistan and he was in the south," Huff said. "You wondered, 'Why did they have to deploy at the same time?' Then you just think, 'God put her there so he didn't have to come home by himself.'"
Jennifer Laredo accompanied her husband's body to the U.S. on Saturday. She is staying with relatives because she can't bring herself to return to the house she shared with her husband, Huff said.
"She told me that she can't go there right now," Huff said. "She can't go to their home. It's real hard for her. They just bought that house. While she was deployed (before), he moved for her. He picked the furniture out. He moved it all in the house. He set it up, everything."
Staff Sgt. Loredo was an adoring father and husband who loved spending time with his kids and cooking for his wife, said his aunt, Irma Rodriguez, of Houston.
Before he deployed, Rodriguez said, "he called me to ask how to make Spanish rice because he wanted to make a dinner for his wife. He was a romantic person."
Loredo's brother, Sylvester Loredo, of Moultrie, Ga., described him as "a hero, a fine soldier, a good man and a good father."
Decided to write a will
The last time he saw his brother was the day after Christmas.
"He told me to come out of the house, and he told me that him and his wife talked, and he said that where he's going it's going to be a very dangerous mission, that soldiers are dying every day, left and right, and that he's scared about it too," he said. "He told me he'd talked to his wife, and he told me that it's best if he go ahead and make a will."
Sylvester Loredo said he didn't even want to think about that.
"I told him I just want him to come back in one piece, keep his head up, and come back to visit me," he said.
Army Staff Sgt. Edwardo Loredo was killed in action on 6/24/10.
Army Staff Sgt. Edwardo Loredo, 34, of Houston, Texas
SSgt. Loredo was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died June 24, 2010 in Jelewar, Afghanistan, when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.
Staff Sgt. Edwardo Loredo joined the Army on Oct. 5, 1999 and entered training at Fort Benning, Ga. After he completed his training, Loredo reported to Camp Ederle in Vicenza, Italy, where he joined the 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 173rd Brigade Combat Team, according to a news release from the 82nd Airborne Division.
In March 2003, Loredo deployed to Iraq for six months before returning to Italy and serving as traffic management coordinator with the 663rd Movement Control Team and finishing his enlistment in August 2004.
Loredo rejoined the Army on Sept. 29, 2004 and returned to duty as an infantryman with 1st Battalion, 508 Parachute Infantry Regiment, deploying to Afghanistan from February 2005 to February 2006.
"(He) had a presence that could brighten even the darkest rooms. With a smile that was overly contagious, he could instantly make a bad situation tolerable," said 1st Lt. Matt Jarmon, Loredo's company executive officer.
A memorial in his honor will be held in Afghanistan.
Loredo's awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal with three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Achievement Medal with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, three Army Good Conduct Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, the Iraq Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, the Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terror Service Medal, the Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with Numeral 2 device, four Overseas Service Ribbons, the Overseas Reserve Component Training Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Parachutist Badge.
Houston sergeant died just before 35th birthday
Edwardo Loredo didn't tell anyone when he joined the Army shortly after graduating from Sam Houston High School.
"He kept it a secret when he went to boot camp," said his cousin, Elizabeth Huff, of Humble. "Nobody knew. I think just because he wanted to do something on his own. He's an adventurer. He's a protector of all. He protected all of us."
On Thursday, Huff received word that the soldier she considered her little brother had died in Afghanistan. He would have celebrated his 35th birthday on Friday. His body arrived in a flag-draped coffin at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware on Saturday.
"It's a low, low blow," a tearful Huff said on Sunday.
Edwardo Loredo's death has yet to be officially announced by the Department of Defense, and no details were immediately available. The 34-year-old staff sergeant is the 20th Houston-area service member to be killed in Afghanistan, and the sixth so far this year.
Married to a sergeant
Staff Sgt. Loredo was born in Houston. He was married to Army 1st Sgt. Jennifer Laredo and had a 2-year-old son, Eddie, a 7-year-old daughter, Laura, and a stepdaughter, Alexis, 13.
He served combat tours in both Iraq and in Afghanistan, Huff said.
"He called me one time and said, 'Hey, I'm re-enlisted,' " she recalled. "I said 'Eddie, you did your time.' He goes, 'But I enjoy my family.' His Army family. That was his life. He loved it. He loved his career, he loved his friends. He met his wife there."
Most recently, Loredo was stationed at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. He deployed to Afghanistan in December, family members said.
His wife deployed there in May, they said.
"She was deployed in the northern part of Afghanistan and he was in the south," Huff said. "You wondered, 'Why did they have to deploy at the same time?' Then you just think, 'God put her there so he didn't have to come home by himself.'"
Jennifer Laredo accompanied her husband's body to the U.S. on Saturday. She is staying with relatives because she can't bring herself to return to the house she shared with her husband, Huff said.
"She told me that she can't go there right now," Huff said. "She can't go to their home. It's real hard for her. They just bought that house. While she was deployed (before), he moved for her. He picked the furniture out. He moved it all in the house. He set it up, everything."
Staff Sgt. Loredo was an adoring father and husband who loved spending time with his kids and cooking for his wife, said his aunt, Irma Rodriguez, of Houston.
Before he deployed, Rodriguez said, "he called me to ask how to make Spanish rice because he wanted to make a dinner for his wife. He was a romantic person."
Loredo's brother, Sylvester Loredo, of Moultrie, Ga., described him as "a hero, a fine soldier, a good man and a good father."
Decided to write a will
The last time he saw his brother was the day after Christmas.
"He told me to come out of the house, and he told me that him and his wife talked, and he said that where he's going it's going to be a very dangerous mission, that soldiers are dying every day, left and right, and that he's scared about it too," he said. "He told me he'd talked to his wife, and he told me that it's best if he go ahead and make a will."
Sylvester Loredo said he didn't even want to think about that.
"I told him I just want him to come back in one piece, keep his head up, and come back to visit me," he said.
Army Staff Sgt. Edwardo Loredo was killed in action on 6/24/10.
Army Pfc. Robert K. L. Repkie
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pfc. Robert K. L. Repkie, 20, of Knoxville, Tenn.
Pfc. Repkie was assigned to the 782nd Brigade Support Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died June 24, 2010 at Forward Operating Base Farah, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained in a noncombat-related incident.
‘He made a difference in my life’
The Associated Press
Robert Repkie’s dad wanted him to get a college education before he joined the military. But the young man dreamed of leading and wanted to pay his dues.
“Dad, how can I command troops if I don’t know what they went through?” Repkie told his father, Russell Repkie.
Robert Repkie was remembered as a happy, intelligent and funny person who joined the Army to continue his family’s history of military service. He primarily worked as a cook while on his deployment to Afghanistan, but he also had been trained as a gunner and sometimes went out on missions in the turret.
The 20-year-old from Sweetwater, Tenn., died June 24 at Forward Operating Base Farah, Afghanistan, in an incident unrelated to combat. The military is investigating. Repkie was assigned to Fort Bragg, N.C.
The soldier’s stepsister, Letiscia Loepp, said the two were close and considered themselves biological siblings.
Repkie also made sure to keep in touch with teachers and counselors back at Sweetwater High School. Staff at the school said Repkie would send them Facebook messages and call them from Afghanistan before class started.
“It’s our job to make a difference in a child’s life,” principal David Watts said. “But he made a difference in my life.”
Robert Repkie’s mannerisms made it easy for people to decipher his personality.
His Facebook profile picture, showing his U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Delta Troop patch he so proudly wore, showed his dedication. His shy nature showed his quiet reserve.
His smile showed his heart.
Pfc. Robert “Kelsey” Repkie, a Sweetwater, Tenn., native, died in action Thursday in Afghanistan.
Repkie, who is survived by his parents Russell and Susan Repkie, will be laid to rest with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery.
Sweetwater High School Principal David Watts said today that Repkie redefined his role as a school administrator.
“It’s our job to make a difference in a child’s life,” Watts said, “but he made a difference in my life.
“I’ll never forget Robert Repkie.”
Repkie only spent two years at Sweetwater High School, but he built lasting relationships.
“He knew what time (Assistant Principal) Rex (Rhodes) came in, and he would call us before school started just to talk to us,” Watts said. “He would even call us from Afghanistan.”
His communication was not limited to telephone calls. His former science teacher, Kari Connaster, whom Repkie fondly called “Mrs. C,” spoke with him via Facebook last Wednesday. Connaster said it was not unusual to speak with him through the social networking site.
“He would always talk to me on Facebook when he could,” Connaster said. “He said it was hot, and that was working as a cook. He told me how he planned to try some online classes for college when he got back.”
Watts said the counseling he and other Sweetwater High staff members gave Repkie brought them all closer together. From their talks, Watts knew Repkie wanted to be a military man, regardless of the circumstances.
“We talked about his career, and he said. ‘I want to go into the military. I want to serve my country,’” Watts said. “We told him he would end up in a war zone, but he knew the danger, and he didn’t seem to mind.”
The military, Connaster said, gave Repkie an atmosphere he craved.
“He was very proud of what he was doing, and very proud of the men he served with,” she said. “He called them ‘brothers.’”
Watts said knowing what Repkie will miss is the hardest part of accepting his death.
“He was only 20 and he won’t have the opportunity to raise a family,” Watts said. “I’ll never have the opportunity to hear his voice again.”
But Watts knows exactly what Repkie would say.
“Robert would come in school and ask us how everything was, and I would say, ‘It’s all good, Robert.’ If he were here today, he would have one thing to say: ‘It’s all good.’ ”
Army Pfc. Robert K. L. Repkie was killed in a non-combat related incident on 6/24/10.
Army Pfc. Robert K. L. Repkie, 20, of Knoxville, Tenn.
Pfc. Repkie was assigned to the 782nd Brigade Support Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died June 24, 2010 at Forward Operating Base Farah, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained in a noncombat-related incident.
‘He made a difference in my life’
The Associated Press
Robert Repkie’s dad wanted him to get a college education before he joined the military. But the young man dreamed of leading and wanted to pay his dues.
“Dad, how can I command troops if I don’t know what they went through?” Repkie told his father, Russell Repkie.
Robert Repkie was remembered as a happy, intelligent and funny person who joined the Army to continue his family’s history of military service. He primarily worked as a cook while on his deployment to Afghanistan, but he also had been trained as a gunner and sometimes went out on missions in the turret.
The 20-year-old from Sweetwater, Tenn., died June 24 at Forward Operating Base Farah, Afghanistan, in an incident unrelated to combat. The military is investigating. Repkie was assigned to Fort Bragg, N.C.
The soldier’s stepsister, Letiscia Loepp, said the two were close and considered themselves biological siblings.
Repkie also made sure to keep in touch with teachers and counselors back at Sweetwater High School. Staff at the school said Repkie would send them Facebook messages and call them from Afghanistan before class started.
“It’s our job to make a difference in a child’s life,” principal David Watts said. “But he made a difference in my life.”
Robert Repkie’s mannerisms made it easy for people to decipher his personality.
His Facebook profile picture, showing his U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Delta Troop patch he so proudly wore, showed his dedication. His shy nature showed his quiet reserve.
His smile showed his heart.
Pfc. Robert “Kelsey” Repkie, a Sweetwater, Tenn., native, died in action Thursday in Afghanistan.
Repkie, who is survived by his parents Russell and Susan Repkie, will be laid to rest with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery.
Sweetwater High School Principal David Watts said today that Repkie redefined his role as a school administrator.
“It’s our job to make a difference in a child’s life,” Watts said, “but he made a difference in my life.
“I’ll never forget Robert Repkie.”
Repkie only spent two years at Sweetwater High School, but he built lasting relationships.
“He knew what time (Assistant Principal) Rex (Rhodes) came in, and he would call us before school started just to talk to us,” Watts said. “He would even call us from Afghanistan.”
His communication was not limited to telephone calls. His former science teacher, Kari Connaster, whom Repkie fondly called “Mrs. C,” spoke with him via Facebook last Wednesday. Connaster said it was not unusual to speak with him through the social networking site.
“He would always talk to me on Facebook when he could,” Connaster said. “He said it was hot, and that was working as a cook. He told me how he planned to try some online classes for college when he got back.”
Watts said the counseling he and other Sweetwater High staff members gave Repkie brought them all closer together. From their talks, Watts knew Repkie wanted to be a military man, regardless of the circumstances.
“We talked about his career, and he said. ‘I want to go into the military. I want to serve my country,’” Watts said. “We told him he would end up in a war zone, but he knew the danger, and he didn’t seem to mind.”
The military, Connaster said, gave Repkie an atmosphere he craved.
“He was very proud of what he was doing, and very proud of the men he served with,” she said. “He called them ‘brothers.’”
Watts said knowing what Repkie will miss is the hardest part of accepting his death.
“He was only 20 and he won’t have the opportunity to raise a family,” Watts said. “I’ll never have the opportunity to hear his voice again.”
But Watts knows exactly what Repkie would say.
“Robert would come in school and ask us how everything was, and I would say, ‘It’s all good, Robert.’ If he were here today, he would have one thing to say: ‘It’s all good.’ ”
Army Pfc. Robert K. L. Repkie was killed in a non-combat related incident on 6/24/10.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Army Pfc. Russell E. Madden
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pfc. Russell E. Madden, 29, of Dayton, Ky.
Pfc. Madden was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Conn Barracks, Germany; died June 23, 2010 at Charkh district, Konar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his vehicle with rocket fire.
The father of 29-year-old Private First Class Russell Madden's says his son was his hero.
Russell Madden's father says his son wanted to be on the frontline to help his fellow soldiers fight the war in Afghanistan.
He says his son was killed after his convoy was hit by a rocket Wednesday.
Russ, as many of his family and friends called him, was on his first tour of duty.
His father, Martin Madden says his son was assigned as the lead gunner for convoy escorts.
Mr. Madden says his son had sent him an Airborne flag for Father's Day.
He says he told his wife, Russ's mother, that he would only fly it on special occasions.
He didn't think he would need to fly it less than a week after Father's Day.
"He was committed to his friends. I told him even out there that the Army wasn't sending him over there to die and to follow his training. I told him that if someone did something stupid, don't run out there and try and make it right by yourself because two men down is not a good strategy for success. And, he told me, he said Pop, I'm never going to leave one of my buddies. So we're proud of him," Mr. Martin said.
Russ Madden leaves behind his wife, two sons, a 12-year-old and a 5-year-old, his mother, father and two siblings.
His family says he joined the Army to help offer his family stability.
One of his son's had been in and out of the hospital, so the medical benefits the Army offered was an attractive incentive for him to enlist.
Russ was a graduate of Bellevue High School in 2000. The school staff say Madden had been a standout football player.
"He was a young man who was focused on getting his life to be the best life that it could be. I know that he was a good father and a good husband, a good son and a good brother. And, obviously he was a good soldier," said David Eckstein, Bellevue High School Assistant Principal.
Army Pfc. Russell E. Madden was killed in action on 6/23/10.
Army Pfc. Russell E. Madden, 29, of Dayton, Ky.
Pfc. Madden was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Conn Barracks, Germany; died June 23, 2010 at Charkh district, Konar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his vehicle with rocket fire.
The father of 29-year-old Private First Class Russell Madden's says his son was his hero.
Russell Madden's father says his son wanted to be on the frontline to help his fellow soldiers fight the war in Afghanistan.
He says his son was killed after his convoy was hit by a rocket Wednesday.
Russ, as many of his family and friends called him, was on his first tour of duty.
His father, Martin Madden says his son was assigned as the lead gunner for convoy escorts.
Mr. Madden says his son had sent him an Airborne flag for Father's Day.
He says he told his wife, Russ's mother, that he would only fly it on special occasions.
He didn't think he would need to fly it less than a week after Father's Day.
"He was committed to his friends. I told him even out there that the Army wasn't sending him over there to die and to follow his training. I told him that if someone did something stupid, don't run out there and try and make it right by yourself because two men down is not a good strategy for success. And, he told me, he said Pop, I'm never going to leave one of my buddies. So we're proud of him," Mr. Martin said.
Russ Madden leaves behind his wife, two sons, a 12-year-old and a 5-year-old, his mother, father and two siblings.
His family says he joined the Army to help offer his family stability.
One of his son's had been in and out of the hospital, so the medical benefits the Army offered was an attractive incentive for him to enlist.
Russ was a graduate of Bellevue High School in 2000. The school staff say Madden had been a standout football player.
"He was a young man who was focused on getting his life to be the best life that it could be. I know that he was a good father and a good husband, a good son and a good brother. And, obviously he was a good soldier," said David Eckstein, Bellevue High School Assistant Principal.
Army Pfc. Russell E. Madden was killed in action on 6/23/10.
Army Pfc. Anthony T. Justesen
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pfc. Anthony T. Justesen, 22, of Wilsonville, Ore.
Pfc. Justesen was assigned to 4th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died June 23, 2010 at Ganjkin village, Pusht Rod district, Farah province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.
Asked why he wanted to join the Army, Anthony T. Justesen offered a simple answer. "I just want everyone to be proud of me," he confided to his mother, Shawna Rehder of Wilsonville.
That was two years ago.
On Wednesday, a month before his Afghanistan tour was to end, Pfc. Justesen, 22, was killed when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised bomb.
He is the 139th serviceman or woman with strong ties to Oregon or southwest Washington to die in the Mideast wars and the 23rd Oregonian killed in Afghanistan. Justesen served in the 82nd Airborne Division's 4th Brigade Combat Team.
After moving with his family from Aurora to Wilsonville, Justesen attended St. Luke School in Woodburn before leaving and earning his GED. He joined the Army after working at Jiffy Lube for about a year, according to his stepfather, Steven Rehder, eager for a more challenging profession with a better paycheck.
"He decided all on his own he wanted something bigger," Rehder said. "He wanted something better. He wanted to go do something for his country."
Steven Rehder, who raised Justesen from about age 6, said he will always remember his son's "heart of gold." During Steven Rehder's first visit to Justesen's elementary school, he glanced down and found an 8-year-old Anthony hugging the legs of a teacher. That unbridled affection followed Justesen to adulthood, he said.
"Every time he'd see me, he'd give me a hug," Rehder said. "Even though he was a full grown man with a 14-inch gun, he was still hugging his daddy."
The family – which includes sisters Teniele Justesen, 23, Samantha Justesen, 20, and brothers Jerome Rehder, 15, and Kimberley Rehder, 12 – continued to be close, even as some of the children started families of their own. He was also survived by his father, Robert Justesen.
During Anthony Justesen's short leaves from Afghanistan, Teniele's three children knew to expect a visit to the park with "Uncle Tony."
Teniele Justesen said her 5-year-old son Shawn is still eagerly awaiting his uncle's return, talking about a promised Chuck E. Cheese visit. "And Shawn learned how to ride his bike," Teniele Justesen said. "He just wanted to show Uncle Tony."
Jennifer Gentle, who grew up with Justesen, said she was surprised when he had joined the service but said the experience had given him a new confidence and sense of identity. "The Army turned him around. After the Army, he was a lot more outgoing and friendly. He became more appreciative and had a new kind of respect."
He also earned the respect and affection of his fellow soldiers.
"Justesen was a true warrior and was dedicated to his platoon and troop," said Staff Sgt. Keith Hambright, Justesen's platoon sergeant, in a statement. "Justesen was loved by every soldier in his platoon and always kept everyone full of joy and laughter."
His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, the Global War on Terror Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon and the Combat Action Badge.
Justesen kept in contact with family and friends through Facebook, Skype, and the occasional phone call.
"He didn't want me to worry," Shawna Rehder said. "He said it was really hot, that there was a lot of sand, and that he wanted to come home."
On Memorial Day, he posted a special message to his Facebook page:
"I truly thank you, all of those who have prayed for a soldier, through our prayers we are strong, through our faith we are unified, the representation of all that is right with the united states of America. we may be ignorant and lazy, wasteful or unappreciative at times, yet we are happy and free, through all our sacrifices."
More recent postings indicated he was counting the days until his return.
"I just wanna go home," he wrote on June 20. "Back in twelve or so days," he posted on Monday.
After the Army, he wanted to work in law enforcement and had asked his parents to research police academies and the requirements to join a SWAT team.
"When he went into the army, he found he had a knack for patrolling, for protecting people," Steven Rehder said.
The Rehders last spoke to Anthony Justesen on Monday, showing off the new Samsung Gravity 2 cellular phone that was waiting for him at home. They always tried to keep the conversation light -- Steven Rehder apologized for his bad spelling on Facebook -- but the family always signed off the same way.
"I told him I loved him and I missed him," Steven Rehder said. "And we told him we were proud of him."
Army Pfc. Anthony T. Justesen was killed in action on 6/23/10.
Army Pfc. Anthony T. Justesen, 22, of Wilsonville, Ore.
Pfc. Justesen was assigned to 4th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died June 23, 2010 at Ganjkin village, Pusht Rod district, Farah province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.
Asked why he wanted to join the Army, Anthony T. Justesen offered a simple answer. "I just want everyone to be proud of me," he confided to his mother, Shawna Rehder of Wilsonville.
That was two years ago.
On Wednesday, a month before his Afghanistan tour was to end, Pfc. Justesen, 22, was killed when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised bomb.
He is the 139th serviceman or woman with strong ties to Oregon or southwest Washington to die in the Mideast wars and the 23rd Oregonian killed in Afghanistan. Justesen served in the 82nd Airborne Division's 4th Brigade Combat Team.
After moving with his family from Aurora to Wilsonville, Justesen attended St. Luke School in Woodburn before leaving and earning his GED. He joined the Army after working at Jiffy Lube for about a year, according to his stepfather, Steven Rehder, eager for a more challenging profession with a better paycheck.
"He decided all on his own he wanted something bigger," Rehder said. "He wanted something better. He wanted to go do something for his country."
Steven Rehder, who raised Justesen from about age 6, said he will always remember his son's "heart of gold." During Steven Rehder's first visit to Justesen's elementary school, he glanced down and found an 8-year-old Anthony hugging the legs of a teacher. That unbridled affection followed Justesen to adulthood, he said.
"Every time he'd see me, he'd give me a hug," Rehder said. "Even though he was a full grown man with a 14-inch gun, he was still hugging his daddy."
The family – which includes sisters Teniele Justesen, 23, Samantha Justesen, 20, and brothers Jerome Rehder, 15, and Kimberley Rehder, 12 – continued to be close, even as some of the children started families of their own. He was also survived by his father, Robert Justesen.
During Anthony Justesen's short leaves from Afghanistan, Teniele's three children knew to expect a visit to the park with "Uncle Tony."
Teniele Justesen said her 5-year-old son Shawn is still eagerly awaiting his uncle's return, talking about a promised Chuck E. Cheese visit. "And Shawn learned how to ride his bike," Teniele Justesen said. "He just wanted to show Uncle Tony."
Jennifer Gentle, who grew up with Justesen, said she was surprised when he had joined the service but said the experience had given him a new confidence and sense of identity. "The Army turned him around. After the Army, he was a lot more outgoing and friendly. He became more appreciative and had a new kind of respect."
He also earned the respect and affection of his fellow soldiers.
"Justesen was a true warrior and was dedicated to his platoon and troop," said Staff Sgt. Keith Hambright, Justesen's platoon sergeant, in a statement. "Justesen was loved by every soldier in his platoon and always kept everyone full of joy and laughter."
His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, the Global War on Terror Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon and the Combat Action Badge.
Justesen kept in contact with family and friends through Facebook, Skype, and the occasional phone call.
"He didn't want me to worry," Shawna Rehder said. "He said it was really hot, that there was a lot of sand, and that he wanted to come home."
On Memorial Day, he posted a special message to his Facebook page:
"I truly thank you, all of those who have prayed for a soldier, through our prayers we are strong, through our faith we are unified, the representation of all that is right with the united states of America. we may be ignorant and lazy, wasteful or unappreciative at times, yet we are happy and free, through all our sacrifices."
More recent postings indicated he was counting the days until his return.
"I just wanna go home," he wrote on June 20. "Back in twelve or so days," he posted on Monday.
After the Army, he wanted to work in law enforcement and had asked his parents to research police academies and the requirements to join a SWAT team.
"When he went into the army, he found he had a knack for patrolling, for protecting people," Steven Rehder said.
The Rehders last spoke to Anthony Justesen on Monday, showing off the new Samsung Gravity 2 cellular phone that was waiting for him at home. They always tried to keep the conversation light -- Steven Rehder apologized for his bad spelling on Facebook -- but the family always signed off the same way.
"I told him I loved him and I missed him," Steven Rehder said. "And we told him we were proud of him."
Army Pfc. Anthony T. Justesen was killed in action on 6/23/10.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Marine Cpl. Claudio Patino IV
Remember Our Heroes
Marine Cpl. Claudio Patino IV, 22, of Yorba Linda, Calif.
Cpl. Patino was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, based at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif.; died June 22, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Also killed was Cpl. Kevin A. Cueto.
YORBA LINDA – Marine Cpl. Claudio Patiño IV, a 22-year-old from Yorba Linda, was killed in action in Afghanistan earlier this week, his family said Thursday.
Patiño, who graduated from El Dorado High School in 2006, was on his second deployment to Afghanistan.
"He was a Marine to the core," said Patiño's brother, Marlon Chinchilla. "He died the way he wanted to die. He died a warrior, and he really believed in fighting for his country."
Patiño was married; he did not have children.
A memorial, originally planned for Sunday, is now scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday in El Dorado High School's gym, at 1651 Valencia Ave., El Dorado Assistant Principal John Bellows said. The Patino family is coordinating a "celebration of his life'' memorial at his alma mater, El Dorado High School in Placentia, according to Assistant Principal John Bellows. Patino and his wife both graduated from the high school.
"He was a good guy who went into the military right after high school,'' Bellows said. "He was a good kid, well liked by a lot of kids.''
Anyone wishing to pay their respects is welcome to attend, Chinchilla said.
The family plans to set up a charity in Patiño's name to send care packages to members of the military in Afghanistan. The family is asking that in lieu of flowers or cards, mourners wait and donate to the charity.
The Department of Defense has not yet released any information on Patiño. His family is waiting for information on when his casket will return.
Patiño was the third Marine from Yorba Linda killed in Afghanistan this year. Sgt. Major Robert Cottle and Lance Cpl. Rick Centanni were killed in Helmand Province by an improvised explosive device on March 24.
YORBA LINDA – Flags will fly at half-staff in Yorba Linda through next week in honor of Marine Cpl. Claudio Patiño IV, who was killed in action Tuesday in Afghanistan.
Patiño, who signed up for the Marines shortly after graduating from El Dorado High School in 2006, was on his third overseas deployment.
"He was a Marine to the core," said Patiño's brother, Marlon Chinchilla. "He died the way he wanted to die. He died a warrior, and he really believed in fighting for his country."
The 22-year-old was deployed to Iraq in 2008; in 2009, he received a combat-action medal during a tour in Afghanistan.
Patino was also a decorated fighter. His awards include: the Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Unit Commendation, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon and the NATO Medal.
His battalion, based at Twentynine Palms, was deployed to Afghanistan in the end of March to assist with general combat operations, train and equip Afghan security forces, and suppress the Taliban, Marine spokesman Lt. Kenneth Kunze said.
YORBA LINDA – Marine Cpl. Claudio Patiño IV had been home from Afghanistan for only few weeks when he started talking about going back.
The 22-year-old scout sniper returned from deployment in December 2009, and soon paid a visit to the mother of a fallen Anaheim Marine, Lance Cpl. Justin Swanson. He told her he wanted to go back to avenge her son.
The Yorba Linda native requested a special transfer so that he could redeploy. He left for Afghanistan on March 31 and was killed by small-arms fire during combat in Helmand Province on Tuesday.
"These guys get so close, it's like no other bond you've ever seen," Swanson's mother, Mary Hargrove said.
He was the third Marine from Yorba Linda killed in Afghanistan this year.
Members of Patiño's large, close-knit, family said Friday they were coping with his loss through the knowledge that he died doing what he treasured.
"There is no greater honor than to die the way he did," brother Andrew Parada said. "That's the way a true warrior thinks when they go into battle, that they might not come back."
Patiño, the U.S.-born son of a Mexican immigrant father from Guadalajara, came from family with a strong tradition of military service in Mexico. He started talking about becoming a Marine soon after he learned how to walk.
"He would walk around with a toy gun screaming, 'I am a Marine,' in Spanish," Parada, said.
As kids, Patiño and Parada would sneak out the house at night, playing in nearby Hurless Barton Park, pretending that they were ancient warriors in the woods, coyotes their terrible foe.
He was a tough kid. He started a fight club as a teenager, meeting with friends in the park after his mother banned fighting in the house. He was the kind of guy who always won at a fight, but would stick around to help the other guy up. Because of that, his foes often became his friends.
Patiño was athletic. He loved to be outdoors, running in Carbon Canyon or camping in Yosemite. He was popular in high school and did well on the wrestling team, but his grades were mediocre at best, family said. Still, when he set his mind to something nothing could stand in his way.
He achieved his dream of joining the Marines soon after graduating from El Dorado High School in 2006.
"He was committed to his job," Parada said. "He wanted to be the best warrior out there."
On one Patiño's biceps was tattooed a Mexican eagle in honor of his father's military service. On the other arm was an American eagle, inspired by an old USMC insignia.
On his chest he had a pair brass knuckles tattooed near his heart, a tough-love symbol in honor of his mother, the only person whose opinion he really worried about, family members said.
This week, Patiño's brothers and sisters plan to get memorial tattoos, honoring the different sides of their fallen brother. Parada had an image of Patiño holding an M-16 rifle tattooed on his arm. Sister Evelyn Patiño plans to get a tattoo with his nickname, "Nene" along with one of his favorite cartoon characters.
The tough kid, who became an even tougher Marine, had a sensitive heart, his siblings said.
He couldn't pass beggars on the street without stopping to try and buy them food. He rescued birds with broken wings, Evelyn said
When Patiño he came home from deployment, he would tell his family about fellow Marines who never received care packages. The family plans to set up a charity in Patiño's name to send care packages to Marines in Afghanistan. The family is asking that in lieu of flowers or cards, mourners wait and donate to the charity.
Marine Cpl. Claudio Patino IV was killed in action on 6/22/10.
Marine Cpl. Claudio Patino IV, 22, of Yorba Linda, Calif.
Cpl. Patino was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, based at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif.; died June 22, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Also killed was Cpl. Kevin A. Cueto.
YORBA LINDA – Marine Cpl. Claudio Patiño IV, a 22-year-old from Yorba Linda, was killed in action in Afghanistan earlier this week, his family said Thursday.
Patiño, who graduated from El Dorado High School in 2006, was on his second deployment to Afghanistan.
"He was a Marine to the core," said Patiño's brother, Marlon Chinchilla. "He died the way he wanted to die. He died a warrior, and he really believed in fighting for his country."
Patiño was married; he did not have children.
A memorial, originally planned for Sunday, is now scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday in El Dorado High School's gym, at 1651 Valencia Ave., El Dorado Assistant Principal John Bellows said. The Patino family is coordinating a "celebration of his life'' memorial at his alma mater, El Dorado High School in Placentia, according to Assistant Principal John Bellows. Patino and his wife both graduated from the high school.
"He was a good guy who went into the military right after high school,'' Bellows said. "He was a good kid, well liked by a lot of kids.''
Anyone wishing to pay their respects is welcome to attend, Chinchilla said.
The family plans to set up a charity in Patiño's name to send care packages to members of the military in Afghanistan. The family is asking that in lieu of flowers or cards, mourners wait and donate to the charity.
The Department of Defense has not yet released any information on Patiño. His family is waiting for information on when his casket will return.
Patiño was the third Marine from Yorba Linda killed in Afghanistan this year. Sgt. Major Robert Cottle and Lance Cpl. Rick Centanni were killed in Helmand Province by an improvised explosive device on March 24.
YORBA LINDA – Flags will fly at half-staff in Yorba Linda through next week in honor of Marine Cpl. Claudio Patiño IV, who was killed in action Tuesday in Afghanistan.
Patiño, who signed up for the Marines shortly after graduating from El Dorado High School in 2006, was on his third overseas deployment.
"He was a Marine to the core," said Patiño's brother, Marlon Chinchilla. "He died the way he wanted to die. He died a warrior, and he really believed in fighting for his country."
The 22-year-old was deployed to Iraq in 2008; in 2009, he received a combat-action medal during a tour in Afghanistan.
Patino was also a decorated fighter. His awards include: the Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Unit Commendation, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon and the NATO Medal.
His battalion, based at Twentynine Palms, was deployed to Afghanistan in the end of March to assist with general combat operations, train and equip Afghan security forces, and suppress the Taliban, Marine spokesman Lt. Kenneth Kunze said.
YORBA LINDA – Marine Cpl. Claudio Patiño IV had been home from Afghanistan for only few weeks when he started talking about going back.
The 22-year-old scout sniper returned from deployment in December 2009, and soon paid a visit to the mother of a fallen Anaheim Marine, Lance Cpl. Justin Swanson. He told her he wanted to go back to avenge her son.
The Yorba Linda native requested a special transfer so that he could redeploy. He left for Afghanistan on March 31 and was killed by small-arms fire during combat in Helmand Province on Tuesday.
"These guys get so close, it's like no other bond you've ever seen," Swanson's mother, Mary Hargrove said.
He was the third Marine from Yorba Linda killed in Afghanistan this year.
Members of Patiño's large, close-knit, family said Friday they were coping with his loss through the knowledge that he died doing what he treasured.
"There is no greater honor than to die the way he did," brother Andrew Parada said. "That's the way a true warrior thinks when they go into battle, that they might not come back."
Patiño, the U.S.-born son of a Mexican immigrant father from Guadalajara, came from family with a strong tradition of military service in Mexico. He started talking about becoming a Marine soon after he learned how to walk.
"He would walk around with a toy gun screaming, 'I am a Marine,' in Spanish," Parada, said.
As kids, Patiño and Parada would sneak out the house at night, playing in nearby Hurless Barton Park, pretending that they were ancient warriors in the woods, coyotes their terrible foe.
He was a tough kid. He started a fight club as a teenager, meeting with friends in the park after his mother banned fighting in the house. He was the kind of guy who always won at a fight, but would stick around to help the other guy up. Because of that, his foes often became his friends.
Patiño was athletic. He loved to be outdoors, running in Carbon Canyon or camping in Yosemite. He was popular in high school and did well on the wrestling team, but his grades were mediocre at best, family said. Still, when he set his mind to something nothing could stand in his way.
He achieved his dream of joining the Marines soon after graduating from El Dorado High School in 2006.
"He was committed to his job," Parada said. "He wanted to be the best warrior out there."
On one Patiño's biceps was tattooed a Mexican eagle in honor of his father's military service. On the other arm was an American eagle, inspired by an old USMC insignia.
On his chest he had a pair brass knuckles tattooed near his heart, a tough-love symbol in honor of his mother, the only person whose opinion he really worried about, family members said.
This week, Patiño's brothers and sisters plan to get memorial tattoos, honoring the different sides of their fallen brother. Parada had an image of Patiño holding an M-16 rifle tattooed on his arm. Sister Evelyn Patiño plans to get a tattoo with his nickname, "Nene" along with one of his favorite cartoon characters.
The tough kid, who became an even tougher Marine, had a sensitive heart, his siblings said.
He couldn't pass beggars on the street without stopping to try and buy them food. He rescued birds with broken wings, Evelyn said
When Patiño he came home from deployment, he would tell his family about fellow Marines who never received care packages. The family plans to set up a charity in Patiño's name to send care packages to Marines in Afghanistan. The family is asking that in lieu of flowers or cards, mourners wait and donate to the charity.
Marine Cpl. Claudio Patino IV was killed in action on 6/22/10.
Marine Cpl. Kevin A. Cueto
Remember Our Heroes
Marine Cpl. Kevin A. Cueto, 23, of San Jose, Calif.
Cpl. Cueto was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, based at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif.; died June 22, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Also killed was Cpl. Claudio Patino IV.
SAN JOSE, CA -- A 23-year-old Marine corporal from San Jose was killed by an explosive device in Afghanistan on Tuesday, according to the Department of Defense.
Cpl. Kevin A. Cueto was supporting combat operations in Helmand province. He is the second person from the Bay Area to be killed in Afghanistan in the past two weeks. Army specialist Nathan Cox, 27, of Fremont, died after insurgents attacked the unit he was with on June 16.
Cueto enlisted in the Marine Corps on Aug. 15, 2005, and this was his second combat deployment. He had previously served in Iraq in 2009, according to the Department of Defense.
His personal service awards include the Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
Cueto was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force based at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, Calif.
Since the eighth grade, Kevin Cueto wanted to be in the military.
And so, when the 23-year-old Marine from the South Bay was killed by an explosive device Tuesday in Afghanistan, his family can say that he died living his dream.
"Oh, we worried about him," said his aunt, Maria Cueto, a senior building custodian at Mineta San Jose International Airport. "We tried to tell him about the dangers. But he didn't care. He said that if he was going to go, he wanted to go out for his country and for his family."
Cueto grew up in San Jose, his aunt said, and began thinking about joining the military in eighth grade. He moved to Campbell to live with his father when he was a freshman at Westmont High School, his aunt said, which is when he joined the Reserve Officers Training Corps. He also was on Westmont's football, baseball and wrestling teams, his aunt said.
"He was a good student," she said. "He was a good kid. He always made us laugh."
She said her nephew loved to sing and dance, and was just an "all-around happy kid'' with a really "good heart.'' Cueto had recently starting seeing someone, a young woman in the Marine reserves whom he met while on leave during Christmas at a karaoke restaurant where his cousin worked.
Cueto's Facebook page states his favorite movie was "We Were Soldiers,'' along with "Gladiator," "Spaceballs," and his favorite television shows were "Family Guy," South Park," and "Battlestar Gallactica.'' As for his interests, Cueto listed sports, video games, working out, and heavy metal and techno music.
His Facebook quote says he's "normally pretty chill (sic) love the beach and good times love doing what i do and just kickin back and relaxing.''
Maria Cueto said her family is not particularly a military family, although Kevin's father and her brother, Phillip Cueto, is a facilities supervisor for General Dynamics, a military defense company in Santa Clara. Today, the senior Cueto was in Delaware, awaiting the arrival of his son's body, which had been en route from Afghanistan to Germany to the United States. The senior Cueto was not immediately available for comment, and neither was Kevin's 19-year-old brother, Tim, who is entering Oklahoma University this fall. Kevin Cueto's mother, Kelley, lives in Oklahoma.
Marine Cpl. Kevin A. Cueto was killed in action on 6/22/10.
Marine Cpl. Kevin A. Cueto, 23, of San Jose, Calif.
Cpl. Cueto was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, based at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif.; died June 22, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Also killed was Cpl. Claudio Patino IV.
SAN JOSE, CA -- A 23-year-old Marine corporal from San Jose was killed by an explosive device in Afghanistan on Tuesday, according to the Department of Defense.
Cpl. Kevin A. Cueto was supporting combat operations in Helmand province. He is the second person from the Bay Area to be killed in Afghanistan in the past two weeks. Army specialist Nathan Cox, 27, of Fremont, died after insurgents attacked the unit he was with on June 16.
Cueto enlisted in the Marine Corps on Aug. 15, 2005, and this was his second combat deployment. He had previously served in Iraq in 2009, according to the Department of Defense.
His personal service awards include the Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
Cueto was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force based at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, Calif.
Since the eighth grade, Kevin Cueto wanted to be in the military.
And so, when the 23-year-old Marine from the South Bay was killed by an explosive device Tuesday in Afghanistan, his family can say that he died living his dream.
"Oh, we worried about him," said his aunt, Maria Cueto, a senior building custodian at Mineta San Jose International Airport. "We tried to tell him about the dangers. But he didn't care. He said that if he was going to go, he wanted to go out for his country and for his family."
Cueto grew up in San Jose, his aunt said, and began thinking about joining the military in eighth grade. He moved to Campbell to live with his father when he was a freshman at Westmont High School, his aunt said, which is when he joined the Reserve Officers Training Corps. He also was on Westmont's football, baseball and wrestling teams, his aunt said.
"He was a good student," she said. "He was a good kid. He always made us laugh."
She said her nephew loved to sing and dance, and was just an "all-around happy kid'' with a really "good heart.'' Cueto had recently starting seeing someone, a young woman in the Marine reserves whom he met while on leave during Christmas at a karaoke restaurant where his cousin worked.
Cueto's Facebook page states his favorite movie was "We Were Soldiers,'' along with "Gladiator," "Spaceballs," and his favorite television shows were "Family Guy," South Park," and "Battlestar Gallactica.'' As for his interests, Cueto listed sports, video games, working out, and heavy metal and techno music.
His Facebook quote says he's "normally pretty chill (sic) love the beach and good times love doing what i do and just kickin back and relaxing.''
Maria Cueto said her family is not particularly a military family, although Kevin's father and her brother, Phillip Cueto, is a facilities supervisor for General Dynamics, a military defense company in Santa Clara. Today, the senior Cueto was in Delaware, awaiting the arrival of his son's body, which had been en route from Afghanistan to Germany to the United States. The senior Cueto was not immediately available for comment, and neither was Kevin's 19-year-old brother, Tim, who is entering Oklahoma University this fall. Kevin Cueto's mother, Kelley, lives in Oklahoma.
Marine Cpl. Kevin A. Cueto was killed in action on 6/22/10.
Army 1st Sgt. Eddie Turner
Remember Our Heroes
1st Sgt. Eddie Turner, 41, of Fort Belvoir, Va., died June 22, 2010 at Camp Clark, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 626th Brigade Support Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.
1st Sgt. Eddie Turner, 41, of Fort Belvoir, VA, was an automated logistical specialist assigned to the 626th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team. Turner entered the Army in January 1990 and arrived at Fort Campbell in November 2007.
Turner’s awards and decorations include: Bronze Star Medal; Meritorious Service Medal (2); Army Commendation Medal (8); Army Achievement Medal (8); Army Good Conduct Medal (6); National Defense Service Medal (2); Korean Defense Service Medal; Southwest Asia Service Medal; Afghanistan Service Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon (3); Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; Kuwait Liberation Medal; NATO Medal Former Republic of Yugoslavia; Parachutists Badge; Air Assault Badge; Driver/Mechanic Badge; and Weapons Qualification, M4, expert.
Turner is survived by his mother, Jeannie Karr of Clarksville, TN.
1st Sgt. Eddie Turner, 41, of Fort Belvoir, Va., died June 22, 2010 at Camp Clark, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 626th Brigade Support Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.
1st Sgt. Eddie Turner, 41, of Fort Belvoir, VA, was an automated logistical specialist assigned to the 626th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team. Turner entered the Army in January 1990 and arrived at Fort Campbell in November 2007.
Turner’s awards and decorations include: Bronze Star Medal; Meritorious Service Medal (2); Army Commendation Medal (8); Army Achievement Medal (8); Army Good Conduct Medal (6); National Defense Service Medal (2); Korean Defense Service Medal; Southwest Asia Service Medal; Afghanistan Service Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon (3); Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; Kuwait Liberation Medal; NATO Medal Former Republic of Yugoslavia; Parachutists Badge; Air Assault Badge; Driver/Mechanic Badge; and Weapons Qualification, M4, expert.
Turner is survived by his mother, Jeannie Karr of Clarksville, TN.
Marine Cpl. Joshua R. Dumaw
Remember Our Heroes
Marine Cpl. Joshua R. Dumaw, 23, of Spokane Valley, Wash.
Cpl. Dumaw was assigned to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C.; died June 22, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Nimruz province, Afghanistan.
A Cherry Point Marine killed in Afghanistan Tuesday was to have become a father for the first time later this year.
Cpl. Joshua R. Dumaw, 23, of Spokane Valley, Wash., died while supporting combat operations in Nimruz province, according to a release from the Department of Defense. Dumaw was assigned to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, II Marine Expeditionary Force, based at Cherry Point.
Stacie McGarvey of Spokane Valley, Wash., a family friend, said that Dumow’s wife, Kailyn Dumaw, is pregnant with their first child, which is due in September.
She said the couple had already settled on a named for their son, Bode Alexzandyr Dumaw. The young Marine wanted his son’s initials to be B-A-D, “because he wanted his son to be bad,” McGarvey said.
McGarvey said the young couple met through Facebook.
“She just sparkled when she looked at him and he did, too,” she said. “They were in love. They had decided to spend their life together and have a family and they were very excited together to be having a baby. He anticipated being home for the birth of his son.”
McGarvey said Dumaw gave up an opportunity to work in his family business to join the Marine Corps.
“His family has a thriving business in town and he probably could have had an opportunity to participate in that company, but he chose instead to serve his country and I always thought that was a pretty commendable thing,” McGarvey said. “It kind of shows the type of person he was.”
McGarvey said that Dumaw’s mother, Jennifer Gorman, traveled to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware on Thursday to receive her son’s remains.
Dumaw is a graduate of West Valley High School in Spokane Valley. McGarvey said Dumaw was an avid snowboarder, liked to play basketball and went on frequent camping trips with family and friends.
“He was a great kid,” she said. “He was always smiling and happy. Josh was like the older of all the kids.
“The thing about Josh was he was always looking out after the little kids, taking them camping. We would all camp together, and Josh would never let any of the little kids feel left out.”
McGarvey said that an improvised explosive device killed the Marine.
“My understanding is that they were trying to secure an area and they saw what they suspected to be an IED, and Joshua ended up stepping on a second one that they didn’t know was there,” McGarvey said. “His mother informed me (Thursday) night that he’s going to receive the Purple Heart.”
According to family members, Dumaw and his platoon were "in an area that was unoccupied by the U.S. and had not been swept, when they came across and I.E.D." Family members say Dumaw's friend was by his side before encountering the IED, and Dumaw was "laughing and joking...before he left us."
Dumaw was diligent in keeping his family and friends informed on his welfare while deployed. He posted a thank you message on Facebook on June 16, less than a week before he was killed.
“hey everybody thank you for the b day comments it really helps!!!! sorry i don't get to talk to you at all, were busy out here!!! but i think of all of you all the time i miss and love y'all ill be home soon.”
McGarvey said the family has received numerous condolences.
“On behalf of the family, we thank everybody for their well wishes and their condolences,” she said. “He was very proud of what he was doing.”
Dumaw’s mother, Jennifer Gorman, of Spokane Valley, told family friends he will likely receive a Purple Heart, and that he will eventually be brought back to Fairchild Air Force Base, where he will be welcomed by the honor guard.
“He was always one of those kids that shined,” said Stacie McGarvey, who spoke on Gorman’s behalf.
Gorman, who was on her way to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware Thursday to greet Dumaw’s body as it arrived, declined to comment.
The family was overwhelmed and grateful for the condolences and thoughts pouring in from all over, McGarvey said.
Dumaw had completed previous tours of duty in Iraq, but this was his first tour in Afghanistan. He had planned to return home in a few months for the birth of his son, due in September. The couple had decided to name the boy Bode Alexzandyr Dumaw, so that his initials would be BAD.
“He wanted his son to be B-A-D,” McGarvey said. Josh Dumaw was married less than a year.
McGarvey said Dumaw had enlisted in the Marine Corps right after high school.
“He was very proud of what he was doing, serving his country,” McGarvey said.
Ashley Byrd, a longtime family friend, said Dumaw was the guy known for helping everybody out.
“He was the nicest guy I ever met. He would always have a smile on his face,” Byrd said. “He’s going to be loved and missed by everybody.”
Dumaw enlisted in the Marine Corps in June of 2007, according to Capt. Abe Sipe of Cherry Point’s Public Affairs Office.
Dumaw was a military police officer assigned to MP Company for the air wing.
He citations include the Good Conduct Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal and a Combat Action Ribbon. Sipe said Dumaw may have also earned other medals that haven’t as yet gone through the system.
Capt.Sipe said a memorial for Dumaw at Cherry Point is being planned, but a time and date have yet to be set
Marine Cpl. Joshua R. Dumaw was killed in action on 6/22/10.
Marine Cpl. Joshua R. Dumaw, 23, of Spokane Valley, Wash.
Cpl. Dumaw was assigned to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C.; died June 22, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Nimruz province, Afghanistan.
A Cherry Point Marine killed in Afghanistan Tuesday was to have become a father for the first time later this year.
Cpl. Joshua R. Dumaw, 23, of Spokane Valley, Wash., died while supporting combat operations in Nimruz province, according to a release from the Department of Defense. Dumaw was assigned to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, II Marine Expeditionary Force, based at Cherry Point.
Stacie McGarvey of Spokane Valley, Wash., a family friend, said that Dumow’s wife, Kailyn Dumaw, is pregnant with their first child, which is due in September.
She said the couple had already settled on a named for their son, Bode Alexzandyr Dumaw. The young Marine wanted his son’s initials to be B-A-D, “because he wanted his son to be bad,” McGarvey said.
McGarvey said the young couple met through Facebook.
“She just sparkled when she looked at him and he did, too,” she said. “They were in love. They had decided to spend their life together and have a family and they were very excited together to be having a baby. He anticipated being home for the birth of his son.”
McGarvey said Dumaw gave up an opportunity to work in his family business to join the Marine Corps.
“His family has a thriving business in town and he probably could have had an opportunity to participate in that company, but he chose instead to serve his country and I always thought that was a pretty commendable thing,” McGarvey said. “It kind of shows the type of person he was.”
McGarvey said that Dumaw’s mother, Jennifer Gorman, traveled to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware on Thursday to receive her son’s remains.
Dumaw is a graduate of West Valley High School in Spokane Valley. McGarvey said Dumaw was an avid snowboarder, liked to play basketball and went on frequent camping trips with family and friends.
“He was a great kid,” she said. “He was always smiling and happy. Josh was like the older of all the kids.
“The thing about Josh was he was always looking out after the little kids, taking them camping. We would all camp together, and Josh would never let any of the little kids feel left out.”
McGarvey said that an improvised explosive device killed the Marine.
“My understanding is that they were trying to secure an area and they saw what they suspected to be an IED, and Joshua ended up stepping on a second one that they didn’t know was there,” McGarvey said. “His mother informed me (Thursday) night that he’s going to receive the Purple Heart.”
According to family members, Dumaw and his platoon were "in an area that was unoccupied by the U.S. and had not been swept, when they came across and I.E.D." Family members say Dumaw's friend was by his side before encountering the IED, and Dumaw was "laughing and joking...before he left us."
Dumaw was diligent in keeping his family and friends informed on his welfare while deployed. He posted a thank you message on Facebook on June 16, less than a week before he was killed.
“hey everybody thank you for the b day comments it really helps!!!! sorry i don't get to talk to you at all, were busy out here!!! but i think of all of you all the time i miss and love y'all ill be home soon.”
McGarvey said the family has received numerous condolences.
“On behalf of the family, we thank everybody for their well wishes and their condolences,” she said. “He was very proud of what he was doing.”
Dumaw’s mother, Jennifer Gorman, of Spokane Valley, told family friends he will likely receive a Purple Heart, and that he will eventually be brought back to Fairchild Air Force Base, where he will be welcomed by the honor guard.
“He was always one of those kids that shined,” said Stacie McGarvey, who spoke on Gorman’s behalf.
Gorman, who was on her way to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware Thursday to greet Dumaw’s body as it arrived, declined to comment.
The family was overwhelmed and grateful for the condolences and thoughts pouring in from all over, McGarvey said.
Dumaw had completed previous tours of duty in Iraq, but this was his first tour in Afghanistan. He had planned to return home in a few months for the birth of his son, due in September. The couple had decided to name the boy Bode Alexzandyr Dumaw, so that his initials would be BAD.
“He wanted his son to be B-A-D,” McGarvey said. Josh Dumaw was married less than a year.
McGarvey said Dumaw had enlisted in the Marine Corps right after high school.
“He was very proud of what he was doing, serving his country,” McGarvey said.
Ashley Byrd, a longtime family friend, said Dumaw was the guy known for helping everybody out.
“He was the nicest guy I ever met. He would always have a smile on his face,” Byrd said. “He’s going to be loved and missed by everybody.”
Dumaw enlisted in the Marine Corps in June of 2007, according to Capt. Abe Sipe of Cherry Point’s Public Affairs Office.
Dumaw was a military police officer assigned to MP Company for the air wing.
He citations include the Good Conduct Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal and a Combat Action Ribbon. Sipe said Dumaw may have also earned other medals that haven’t as yet gone through the system.
Capt.Sipe said a memorial for Dumaw at Cherry Point is being planned, but a time and date have yet to be set
Marine Cpl. Joshua R. Dumaw was killed in action on 6/22/10.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Army Pfc. David T. Miller
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pfc. David T. Miller, 19, of Wilton, N.Y.
Pfc. Miller was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 21, 2010 from wounds sustained when a suicide bomber attacked his unit at Lar Sholtan Village, Afghanistan. Also killed was Spc. Andrew R. Looney.
David Taylor Miller was not your average 19-year-old, said his aunt Suzanne D'Iorio. The polite and respectful young man was just the kind of person who would make a wonderful husband someday, she added.
But sadly, this was not in the universe's plan for Miller, who was known by his middle name to friends and family. Miller was killed by a suicide bomber while fighting with the United States Army and the 101st Airborne Division in Afghanistan Tuesday morning.
"He (the suicide bomber) decided to detonate as he crossed a checkpoint surrounded by soldiers. He killed my nephew and one other," D'Iorio said. "He was 19. He had only just begun to hit his stride. He was the most kind-hearted person I've ever known; a gentle soul."
Miller moved to Saratoga Springs with his mother, Leslie Miller, from Amherst, Va. just over two years ago. He graduated from Saratoga Springs High School with the class of 2009 and considered fellow classmate Zachary Lafarr his best friend. His father, Jesse, still resides in Virginia.
During his time at Saratoga Springs High School, Miller played lineman for the varsity football team, wearing the number 72. Coach Terry Jones remembers Miller as a bright and well-liked teammate. "He always had a smile on his face," Jones said.
Superintendent of Saratoga Springs City School District Dr. Janice White issued a statement Tuesday evening after she had heard the news.
"A bright young man with so much potential was taken from our community. We grieve with his family in their profound sorrow. Less than one year ago, David crossed the stage at graduation. We graduate young men and women to be courageous and of good character. David Miller's service to our country has humbled us," she said.
After his high school graduation, Miller joined the Army.
“His loss has been devastating for me,” his Dad said in a telephone interview. “I don’t know what to do.” Jesse Miller said he knew his son as his best friend, who served communion at church, played football and was a great soldier. “One of the nicest kids I ever knew,” Miller said, “and not because he was mine.”
“I never met anyone who didn’t like him.” Miller said he still has the voicemail message that Taylor left for him last Sunday, Father’s Day. “He said, ‘Happy Father’s Day. Don’t forget I love you.’”
Miller, a former U.S. Marine, said he encouraged his son to attend VMI. Like any father, he said, he wanted his son behind a desk instead of joining the Army.
Taylor applied to the school, but was placed on a waiting list.
“Apparently he didn’t want to wait so he enlisted,” Miller said. “I didn’t want him to die in combat, but sadly, that’s what he did.”
"It was always in the back of his head. His father was a Marine and he was a history and war buff. It's something he was always interested in," D'Iorio said. "He loved to shoot his paintball gun with friends, probably as practice."
Miller left for Afghanistan on April 29. He was stationed at Fort Campbell and was a designated marksman in the Army. He was performing traffic detail at the time of his death in Kumar providence in Afghanistan. “He was an accurate, deadly shot,” said his father Jesse Miller, of Amherst County. “Very good —an expert.”
Congressman James Tedisco also mourns the loss of Miller, but praised his service as well.
"Another one of America's sons has paid the ultimate sacrifice as our community mourns the loss of one of its finest. In fighting for our basic American tenets - our democracy, our liberties - David Taylor Miller personified the greatness of our nation. This courageous young man exhibited the highest degree of service, dedication and honor. With today's somber news, my prayers go out to this hero and his family," he said.
Miller's burial will take place in Arlington Cemetery later this week and a memorial service for the local hero in Saratoga Springs is being planned for the near future, D'Iorio said.
Army Pfc. David T. Miller was killed in action on 6/21/10.
Army Pfc. David T. Miller, 19, of Wilton, N.Y.
Pfc. Miller was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 21, 2010 from wounds sustained when a suicide bomber attacked his unit at Lar Sholtan Village, Afghanistan. Also killed was Spc. Andrew R. Looney.
David Taylor Miller was not your average 19-year-old, said his aunt Suzanne D'Iorio. The polite and respectful young man was just the kind of person who would make a wonderful husband someday, she added.
But sadly, this was not in the universe's plan for Miller, who was known by his middle name to friends and family. Miller was killed by a suicide bomber while fighting with the United States Army and the 101st Airborne Division in Afghanistan Tuesday morning.
"He (the suicide bomber) decided to detonate as he crossed a checkpoint surrounded by soldiers. He killed my nephew and one other," D'Iorio said. "He was 19. He had only just begun to hit his stride. He was the most kind-hearted person I've ever known; a gentle soul."
Miller moved to Saratoga Springs with his mother, Leslie Miller, from Amherst, Va. just over two years ago. He graduated from Saratoga Springs High School with the class of 2009 and considered fellow classmate Zachary Lafarr his best friend. His father, Jesse, still resides in Virginia.
During his time at Saratoga Springs High School, Miller played lineman for the varsity football team, wearing the number 72. Coach Terry Jones remembers Miller as a bright and well-liked teammate. "He always had a smile on his face," Jones said.
Superintendent of Saratoga Springs City School District Dr. Janice White issued a statement Tuesday evening after she had heard the news.
"A bright young man with so much potential was taken from our community. We grieve with his family in their profound sorrow. Less than one year ago, David crossed the stage at graduation. We graduate young men and women to be courageous and of good character. David Miller's service to our country has humbled us," she said.
After his high school graduation, Miller joined the Army.
“His loss has been devastating for me,” his Dad said in a telephone interview. “I don’t know what to do.” Jesse Miller said he knew his son as his best friend, who served communion at church, played football and was a great soldier. “One of the nicest kids I ever knew,” Miller said, “and not because he was mine.”
“I never met anyone who didn’t like him.” Miller said he still has the voicemail message that Taylor left for him last Sunday, Father’s Day. “He said, ‘Happy Father’s Day. Don’t forget I love you.’”
Miller, a former U.S. Marine, said he encouraged his son to attend VMI. Like any father, he said, he wanted his son behind a desk instead of joining the Army.
Taylor applied to the school, but was placed on a waiting list.
“Apparently he didn’t want to wait so he enlisted,” Miller said. “I didn’t want him to die in combat, but sadly, that’s what he did.”
"It was always in the back of his head. His father was a Marine and he was a history and war buff. It's something he was always interested in," D'Iorio said. "He loved to shoot his paintball gun with friends, probably as practice."
Miller left for Afghanistan on April 29. He was stationed at Fort Campbell and was a designated marksman in the Army. He was performing traffic detail at the time of his death in Kumar providence in Afghanistan. “He was an accurate, deadly shot,” said his father Jesse Miller, of Amherst County. “Very good —an expert.”
Congressman James Tedisco also mourns the loss of Miller, but praised his service as well.
"Another one of America's sons has paid the ultimate sacrifice as our community mourns the loss of one of its finest. In fighting for our basic American tenets - our democracy, our liberties - David Taylor Miller personified the greatness of our nation. This courageous young man exhibited the highest degree of service, dedication and honor. With today's somber news, my prayers go out to this hero and his family," he said.
Miller's burial will take place in Arlington Cemetery later this week and a memorial service for the local hero in Saratoga Springs is being planned for the near future, D'Iorio said.
Army Pfc. David T. Miller was killed in action on 6/21/10.
Army Spc. Andrew R. Looney
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. Andrew R. Looney, 22, of Owasso, Okla.
Spc. Looney was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 21, 2010 from wounds sustained when a suicide bomber attacked his unit at Lar Sholtan Village, Afghanistan. Also killed was Pfc. David T. Miller.
An Owasso soldier has lost his life in Operation Enduring Freedom, the Department of Defense announced Thursday.
Spc. Andrew R. Looney, 22, died June 21 at Lar Sholtan Village, Afghanistan, from wounds suffered after an insurgent detonated a suicide vest next to a traffic control point.
Looney's parents, Martha and Richard Looney, live in Owasso. "They called us on the phone at 12 midnight," Martha said. "We were asleep and the Army personnel said I have some news for you and your husband and you both have to be present and I said we're here. And I knew what it was."
Richard and Martha Looney were on a 30th wedding anniversary trip to Ireland when they got the call they hoped never to receive. The Looneys flew back home to the States and are now planning the funeral for their youngest son.
"Sometimes he would get in a ruckus with his brother but usually it was his brother that caused the problem," Martha said. "But he knew how to get along with people. He was very quiet. Rather shy."
Quiet, but focused. Andrew's parents say he loved sports. He played football for Owasso High School.
"He wasn't built big so he had to work all the harder to play," she said. "But they called him Rudy because he had the determination to do whatever he wanted to do and get it done."
Andrew joined the Army immediately after high school. During his first tour in Iraq Andrew was wounded severely, suffering a traumatic brain injury and losing half of his foot.
The father said his son arrived in Iraq in Febuary 2007, and in August of that year, while his son was in a Humvee in Baghdad a roadside bomb exploded and blew off part of his right foot.
He spent more than a year at Brooke Army Medical Center at San Antonio, recuperating from his injuries, while undergoing rehabilitation after being fitted with a prosthetic. “While he was at Brooke, I kept thinking he would pursue other interests,” his father said. But that wasn’t to be.
Richard Looney said his son didn’t want to pursue other things, not even go to college. Instead, he said, his son was bound and determined to stay in the military, to stay in the infantry. “He was very patriotic, very much so. He was very much that way,” he said. “I think he felt he was making a difference in the war, and was much needed.”
From Brooke Army Medical Center, Andrew Looney was assigned to Fort Campbell, arriving there in February 2009.
Richard Looney said his son went to Afghanistan about six weeks ago.
The last time the family saw him was in April, “and he was looking forward to his assignment in Afghanistan,” the father said.
Looney was one of two soldiers who died in the bombing. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
"I'll miss his smile," his mother said. "I'll miss how he loved to be home. And just spend time with us and to play games with us."
The Looneys say they find comfort in their faith. And they will rely on that faith as they honor their soldier, their son.
The Looneys say Andrew wanted to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery. They say they will honor his wishes.
Andrew Looney's awards and decorations include:
Purple Heart; Army Commendation Medal; Army Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Iraqi Campaign Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon; Army Service Ribbon; Combat Infantry Badge and Weapons Qualification, M4, expert.
Army Spc. Andrew R. Looney was killed in action on 6/21/10.
Army Spc. Andrew R. Looney, 22, of Owasso, Okla.
Spc. Looney was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 21, 2010 from wounds sustained when a suicide bomber attacked his unit at Lar Sholtan Village, Afghanistan. Also killed was Pfc. David T. Miller.
An Owasso soldier has lost his life in Operation Enduring Freedom, the Department of Defense announced Thursday.
Spc. Andrew R. Looney, 22, died June 21 at Lar Sholtan Village, Afghanistan, from wounds suffered after an insurgent detonated a suicide vest next to a traffic control point.
Looney's parents, Martha and Richard Looney, live in Owasso. "They called us on the phone at 12 midnight," Martha said. "We were asleep and the Army personnel said I have some news for you and your husband and you both have to be present and I said we're here. And I knew what it was."
Richard and Martha Looney were on a 30th wedding anniversary trip to Ireland when they got the call they hoped never to receive. The Looneys flew back home to the States and are now planning the funeral for their youngest son.
"Sometimes he would get in a ruckus with his brother but usually it was his brother that caused the problem," Martha said. "But he knew how to get along with people. He was very quiet. Rather shy."
Quiet, but focused. Andrew's parents say he loved sports. He played football for Owasso High School.
"He wasn't built big so he had to work all the harder to play," she said. "But they called him Rudy because he had the determination to do whatever he wanted to do and get it done."
Andrew joined the Army immediately after high school. During his first tour in Iraq Andrew was wounded severely, suffering a traumatic brain injury and losing half of his foot.
The father said his son arrived in Iraq in Febuary 2007, and in August of that year, while his son was in a Humvee in Baghdad a roadside bomb exploded and blew off part of his right foot.
He spent more than a year at Brooke Army Medical Center at San Antonio, recuperating from his injuries, while undergoing rehabilitation after being fitted with a prosthetic. “While he was at Brooke, I kept thinking he would pursue other interests,” his father said. But that wasn’t to be.
Richard Looney said his son didn’t want to pursue other things, not even go to college. Instead, he said, his son was bound and determined to stay in the military, to stay in the infantry. “He was very patriotic, very much so. He was very much that way,” he said. “I think he felt he was making a difference in the war, and was much needed.”
From Brooke Army Medical Center, Andrew Looney was assigned to Fort Campbell, arriving there in February 2009.
Richard Looney said his son went to Afghanistan about six weeks ago.
The last time the family saw him was in April, “and he was looking forward to his assignment in Afghanistan,” the father said.
Looney was one of two soldiers who died in the bombing. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
"I'll miss his smile," his mother said. "I'll miss how he loved to be home. And just spend time with us and to play games with us."
The Looneys say they find comfort in their faith. And they will rely on that faith as they honor their soldier, their son.
The Looneys say Andrew wanted to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery. They say they will honor his wishes.
Andrew Looney's awards and decorations include:
Purple Heart; Army Commendation Medal; Army Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Iraqi Campaign Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon; Army Service Ribbon; Combat Infantry Badge and Weapons Qualification, M4, expert.
Army Spc. Andrew R. Looney was killed in action on 6/21/10.
Army Spc. Jacob P. Dohrenwend
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. Jacob P. Dohrenwend, 20, of Milford, Ohio
Spc. Dohrenwend was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died June 21, 2010 at Balad, Iraq, of injuries sustained in a noncombat-related incident.
Army Spc. Jacob P. Dohrenwend, 20, died Monday at Balad, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident, according to the U.S. Department of Defense. Military officials have not responded to questions about the circumstances surrounding his death.
The infantryman enlisted in the Army on May 29, 2008, according to a statement from a military spokesman. After completing basic training, he was assigned to Fort Riley in October 2008. This was Dohrenwend's first deployment overseas.
“I am devastated,” said Allison Willson of Loveland, his 11th grade English teacher at Milford High School. “I’ve been in a funk all day. He will be truly missed by the Milford community, definitely.”
Dohrenwend is the second Milford High graduate to die in Iraq, he added.
She said he was one of five Milford graduates who served in the military in Iraq and Afghanistan over the past year. “One of them came back in April,” she said. “We have three currently over there right now, including two brothers. It kind of makes you send out an extra prayer for them, to make sure that they come home safely. It’s devastating. Jacob was just 20, 20.”
Army Spc. Jacob P. Dohrenwend was killed in a non-combat related incident on 6/21/10.
Army Spc. Jacob P. Dohrenwend, 20, of Milford, Ohio
Spc. Dohrenwend was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died June 21, 2010 at Balad, Iraq, of injuries sustained in a noncombat-related incident.
Army Spc. Jacob P. Dohrenwend, 20, died Monday at Balad, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident, according to the U.S. Department of Defense. Military officials have not responded to questions about the circumstances surrounding his death.
The infantryman enlisted in the Army on May 29, 2008, according to a statement from a military spokesman. After completing basic training, he was assigned to Fort Riley in October 2008. This was Dohrenwend's first deployment overseas.
“I am devastated,” said Allison Willson of Loveland, his 11th grade English teacher at Milford High School. “I’ve been in a funk all day. He will be truly missed by the Milford community, definitely.”
Dohrenwend is the second Milford High graduate to die in Iraq, he added.
She said he was one of five Milford graduates who served in the military in Iraq and Afghanistan over the past year. “One of them came back in April,” she said. “We have three currently over there right now, including two brothers. It kind of makes you send out an extra prayer for them, to make sure that they come home safely. It’s devastating. Jacob was just 20, 20.”
Army Spc. Jacob P. Dohrenwend was killed in a non-combat related incident on 6/21/10.
Marine Lance Cpl. Timothy G. Serwinowski
Remember Our Heroes
Marine Lance Cpl. Timothy G. Serwinowski, 21, of North Tonawanda, N.Y.
LCpl. Serwinowski was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died June 21, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
NORTH TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WIVB) - Lance Corporal Timothy Serwinowski is the latest local Marine to make the ultimate sacrifice.
The North Tonawanda native died just two weeks before he was scheduled to return to Western New York.
A heartbroken family said Lance Cpl. Timothy Serwinowski wanted to make a difference in the world.
They gathered Tuesday at his mother's North Tonawanda home to share memories of the fallen hero.
The 21-year-old was killed in combat Monday in Afghanistan. He was hit by a sniper's bullet.
Tim Serwinowski graduated three years ago from North Tonawanda High School, where the flag now waves at half staff.
His teachers described him as a quiet leader, who made a tremendous impact.
Teacher, Peter Fezer explained, "Everybody knew him. Everybody loved him. He was so easy going. He always had a smile on his face."
Serwinowski is also remembered for his confidence, and for helping the Lumberjacks win the North Division Football Championship his senior year.
North Tonawanda High School Principal, James Fisher remarked, "He was known as a young man who achieved his potential as an athlete and we're saddened and mourning the loss of his future potential."
It's tough. His death came two weeks before he was scheduled to return to western New York. Tuesday, family and friends of the Marine Lance Cpl. are holding tight to the memories.
American flags waved proudly outside a number of homes in the Niagara Parkway neighborhood. Sadly, at this house, mourners gathered to remember Marine Lance Cpl. Timothy Serwinowski. The 21-year-old North Tonawanda native was killed in battle on Monday in Afghanistan.
Michelle Cooke didn't know him, but this mom can only imagine the heartbreak.
Cooke said, "It's awful. You want to see them fight for this country, but it's a never-ending battle and heart breaking."
Serwinowski graduated three years ago from North Tonawanda High where the flag now waves at half staff. His teachers described him as a quit leader, who made a tremendous impact.
Greg Woytila recalls, "He got the jokes. He got the humor, but was someone the class looked up to."
Peter Fezer added, "Everybody knew him. Everybody loved him. He was so easy going. He always had a smile on his face."
His grief stricken family declined an on-camera interview, but told News 4 that he joined the military to, "make a difference." In their eyes, he's a hero.
Principal James Fisher said, "Any time we lose a student, it's a tragedy, but given circumstance, a fine man respected by everyone. We feel sorrow, but a great deal of pride."
Obviously, news of his death hit hard in this community where he had lots of friends, who have been filling pages of Facebook with praises.
His brother wrote, "I know you died fighting for what you believed in."
Another comment read, "Timmer, your courage and dedication to this country is something that I could never match."
There's a shared sadness, and frustration, throughout North Tonawanda. June is becoming one of the deadliest months for U.S. troops in the nearly 9-year-old Afghan war.
Julie Czerwinski said, " I'm very angry. These young boys are getting killed for no reason at all and I feel sorry for their parents."
The Lance Corporals death came as a complete shock to his parents, who expected him home in just a few weeks. Now, he'll return, but for a sad homecoming nobody wanted.
It's such a sad time for this close-knit family. Tim's mom works for the school district, and his sister is a member of the class of 2010 and will graduate on Sunday. The class is expected to pause to recognize him during the ceremony.
Marine Lance Cpl. Timothy G. "Win" Serwinowski looked forward to sitting down with his father later this summer and discussing his future.
Late Sunday, those plans were cut short when a sniper's bullet mortally wounded the 21-year- old from North Tonawanda as he stepped out of a military vehicle while on patrol in Helmand province in southern Afghanistan.
Lance Cpl. Serwinowski lived for about an hour before he was pronounced dead early Monday.
Family members said details of the attack are limited, but they believe that after he was shot, a firefight broke out; no other Marines were injured. He was a member of the 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, out of Camp Lejeune, N.C.
"Tim was thinking of continuing his military career, and he wanted to talk it over with me. He only had one month to go before he came home," said a shattered Phillip Serwinowski, the fallen Marine's father. "Tim loved life, and he was a good man. He could have been an even better man if given the chance."
For months, Timothy Serwinowski's relatives had been concerned not only for his safety but also for the safety of another 21-year-old in the family, his stepbrother, Airman 1st Class David Urban, who had been serving in Iraq since September. His deployment to Iraq ended Saturday-- one day before Serwinowski was shot.
"He learned about the death in Kuwait," James Urban said of his son, adding that he and his wife, Sally Urban, the mother of Serwinowski, have flown the American flag in front of their North Tonawanda home for both sons since they left.
This isn't the first time the tragedy of war has hit home for the Serwinowski family. Richard E. Serwinowski, a cousin of Phillip Serwinowski, was killed in Vietnam in the 1960s.
Timothy Serwinowski, a 2007 graduate of North Tonawanda High School, attended Niagara County Community College for a year before enlisting in May 2008.
He never lost touch with his connections to the high school. Before his deployment in December, he had stopped by the Meadow Drive school to say goodbye.
"When I asked him, "Why the Marines?' he said, "If you're going to do it, you go with the best,'" said Peter Fezer, his 11th-grade history teacher and 12th-grade economics teacher.
On that visit, Serwinowski also stopped by the school library to view a wall of photographs featuring veterans and current members of the armed forces.
Emily Serwinowski, his 17-year-old sister, had brought his photograph in after librarian Catherine Duquin had asked him for a picture.
"I know he was very proud to see that photograph on the veterans' wall," Fezer said.
The teacher also recalled how, in the years Serwinowski played football for the school team, the Lumberjacks, the 6-foot, 2-inch safety maintained a cheerful disposition and could be counted on for an ever-present smile "even when he was bruised and beat up from football practice."
When Serwinowski turned 21 in December, his family and friends gathered at Pizza Junction in North Tonawanda for a combination party to celebrate his birthday and upcoming deployment.
A photograph of Serwinowski at the party shows him smiling and sitting in front of a birthday cake decorated with two miniature American flags.
"Tim was a little nervous but wanted to leave on a good note," said Alex Rivera, Serwinowski's 20-year-old stepbrother. "I never thought this would happen. He wanted to serve his country."
And that he did, according to North Tonawanda High School Principal James V. Fisher.
"At this somber time we mourn the great future potential that has been lost, but we will forever count Tim as a model of selfless service to his country," Fisher said at a news conference Tuesday afternoon in the school library.
During Tim Serwinowski's senior year, the principal added, he was honored by his football coaches for his "excellence and leadership" when the Lumberjacks won the Niagara Frontier League's North Division Championship.
Outside the high school, the American flag flew at half-staff as well as next door at Meadow Elementary School, where Serwinowski's mother works as a teacher's aide.
"I'd say to him, "Honey, we worry about you,' and he'd say, "Mom, I'm with my family here. I have their back, and they have my back,'" Sally Urban said of conversations she had with her son during his deployment. "I'd ask him if he had a shower, and he'd say, "I went in the canal.' I said, "No, a shower?' He never had a shower over there."
True to form in putting the best face on his circumstances, she said he would tell her, "Mom, the Vietnam, Korean and World War II veterans had it so much worse."
When he was at home, she said that he was constantly upbeat and that he loved it when she made him his favorite meal of the day. "He'd say, "Mom, are you going to make me breakfast?' He loved to eat," she recalled.
Born on his mother's 30th birthday, Serwinowski enjoyed singing and playing the guitar. And while he loved the camaraderie of the Marine Corps, his mother said, he was undecided on whether to make a career of it or, in time, return to college and one day become a state trooper.
Now, the North Tonawanda School District and its graduating Class of 2010 are planning to pay a special tribute to Serwinowski at 10 a.m. Sunday during graduation exercises in Artpark.
Before the diplomas are given to graduates, there will be a moment of silence followed by a tribute read aloud in Serwinowski's honor. Among the graduates, district officials said, will be his sister Emily.
Marine Lance Cpl. Timothy G. Serwinowski was killed in action on 6/21/10.
Marine Lance Cpl. Timothy G. Serwinowski, 21, of North Tonawanda, N.Y.
LCpl. Serwinowski was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died June 21, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
NORTH TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WIVB) - Lance Corporal Timothy Serwinowski is the latest local Marine to make the ultimate sacrifice.
The North Tonawanda native died just two weeks before he was scheduled to return to Western New York.
A heartbroken family said Lance Cpl. Timothy Serwinowski wanted to make a difference in the world.
They gathered Tuesday at his mother's North Tonawanda home to share memories of the fallen hero.
The 21-year-old was killed in combat Monday in Afghanistan. He was hit by a sniper's bullet.
Tim Serwinowski graduated three years ago from North Tonawanda High School, where the flag now waves at half staff.
His teachers described him as a quiet leader, who made a tremendous impact.
Teacher, Peter Fezer explained, "Everybody knew him. Everybody loved him. He was so easy going. He always had a smile on his face."
Serwinowski is also remembered for his confidence, and for helping the Lumberjacks win the North Division Football Championship his senior year.
North Tonawanda High School Principal, James Fisher remarked, "He was known as a young man who achieved his potential as an athlete and we're saddened and mourning the loss of his future potential."
It's tough. His death came two weeks before he was scheduled to return to western New York. Tuesday, family and friends of the Marine Lance Cpl. are holding tight to the memories.
American flags waved proudly outside a number of homes in the Niagara Parkway neighborhood. Sadly, at this house, mourners gathered to remember Marine Lance Cpl. Timothy Serwinowski. The 21-year-old North Tonawanda native was killed in battle on Monday in Afghanistan.
Michelle Cooke didn't know him, but this mom can only imagine the heartbreak.
Cooke said, "It's awful. You want to see them fight for this country, but it's a never-ending battle and heart breaking."
Serwinowski graduated three years ago from North Tonawanda High where the flag now waves at half staff. His teachers described him as a quit leader, who made a tremendous impact.
Greg Woytila recalls, "He got the jokes. He got the humor, but was someone the class looked up to."
Peter Fezer added, "Everybody knew him. Everybody loved him. He was so easy going. He always had a smile on his face."
His grief stricken family declined an on-camera interview, but told News 4 that he joined the military to, "make a difference." In their eyes, he's a hero.
Principal James Fisher said, "Any time we lose a student, it's a tragedy, but given circumstance, a fine man respected by everyone. We feel sorrow, but a great deal of pride."
Obviously, news of his death hit hard in this community where he had lots of friends, who have been filling pages of Facebook with praises.
His brother wrote, "I know you died fighting for what you believed in."
Another comment read, "Timmer, your courage and dedication to this country is something that I could never match."
There's a shared sadness, and frustration, throughout North Tonawanda. June is becoming one of the deadliest months for U.S. troops in the nearly 9-year-old Afghan war.
Julie Czerwinski said, " I'm very angry. These young boys are getting killed for no reason at all and I feel sorry for their parents."
The Lance Corporals death came as a complete shock to his parents, who expected him home in just a few weeks. Now, he'll return, but for a sad homecoming nobody wanted.
It's such a sad time for this close-knit family. Tim's mom works for the school district, and his sister is a member of the class of 2010 and will graduate on Sunday. The class is expected to pause to recognize him during the ceremony.
Marine Lance Cpl. Timothy G. "Win" Serwinowski looked forward to sitting down with his father later this summer and discussing his future.
Late Sunday, those plans were cut short when a sniper's bullet mortally wounded the 21-year- old from North Tonawanda as he stepped out of a military vehicle while on patrol in Helmand province in southern Afghanistan.
Lance Cpl. Serwinowski lived for about an hour before he was pronounced dead early Monday.
Family members said details of the attack are limited, but they believe that after he was shot, a firefight broke out; no other Marines were injured. He was a member of the 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, out of Camp Lejeune, N.C.
"Tim was thinking of continuing his military career, and he wanted to talk it over with me. He only had one month to go before he came home," said a shattered Phillip Serwinowski, the fallen Marine's father. "Tim loved life, and he was a good man. He could have been an even better man if given the chance."
For months, Timothy Serwinowski's relatives had been concerned not only for his safety but also for the safety of another 21-year-old in the family, his stepbrother, Airman 1st Class David Urban, who had been serving in Iraq since September. His deployment to Iraq ended Saturday-- one day before Serwinowski was shot.
"He learned about the death in Kuwait," James Urban said of his son, adding that he and his wife, Sally Urban, the mother of Serwinowski, have flown the American flag in front of their North Tonawanda home for both sons since they left.
This isn't the first time the tragedy of war has hit home for the Serwinowski family. Richard E. Serwinowski, a cousin of Phillip Serwinowski, was killed in Vietnam in the 1960s.
Timothy Serwinowski, a 2007 graduate of North Tonawanda High School, attended Niagara County Community College for a year before enlisting in May 2008.
He never lost touch with his connections to the high school. Before his deployment in December, he had stopped by the Meadow Drive school to say goodbye.
"When I asked him, "Why the Marines?' he said, "If you're going to do it, you go with the best,'" said Peter Fezer, his 11th-grade history teacher and 12th-grade economics teacher.
On that visit, Serwinowski also stopped by the school library to view a wall of photographs featuring veterans and current members of the armed forces.
Emily Serwinowski, his 17-year-old sister, had brought his photograph in after librarian Catherine Duquin had asked him for a picture.
"I know he was very proud to see that photograph on the veterans' wall," Fezer said.
The teacher also recalled how, in the years Serwinowski played football for the school team, the Lumberjacks, the 6-foot, 2-inch safety maintained a cheerful disposition and could be counted on for an ever-present smile "even when he was bruised and beat up from football practice."
When Serwinowski turned 21 in December, his family and friends gathered at Pizza Junction in North Tonawanda for a combination party to celebrate his birthday and upcoming deployment.
A photograph of Serwinowski at the party shows him smiling and sitting in front of a birthday cake decorated with two miniature American flags.
"Tim was a little nervous but wanted to leave on a good note," said Alex Rivera, Serwinowski's 20-year-old stepbrother. "I never thought this would happen. He wanted to serve his country."
And that he did, according to North Tonawanda High School Principal James V. Fisher.
"At this somber time we mourn the great future potential that has been lost, but we will forever count Tim as a model of selfless service to his country," Fisher said at a news conference Tuesday afternoon in the school library.
During Tim Serwinowski's senior year, the principal added, he was honored by his football coaches for his "excellence and leadership" when the Lumberjacks won the Niagara Frontier League's North Division Championship.
Outside the high school, the American flag flew at half-staff as well as next door at Meadow Elementary School, where Serwinowski's mother works as a teacher's aide.
"I'd say to him, "Honey, we worry about you,' and he'd say, "Mom, I'm with my family here. I have their back, and they have my back,'" Sally Urban said of conversations she had with her son during his deployment. "I'd ask him if he had a shower, and he'd say, "I went in the canal.' I said, "No, a shower?' He never had a shower over there."
True to form in putting the best face on his circumstances, she said he would tell her, "Mom, the Vietnam, Korean and World War II veterans had it so much worse."
When he was at home, she said that he was constantly upbeat and that he loved it when she made him his favorite meal of the day. "He'd say, "Mom, are you going to make me breakfast?' He loved to eat," she recalled.
Born on his mother's 30th birthday, Serwinowski enjoyed singing and playing the guitar. And while he loved the camaraderie of the Marine Corps, his mother said, he was undecided on whether to make a career of it or, in time, return to college and one day become a state trooper.
Now, the North Tonawanda School District and its graduating Class of 2010 are planning to pay a special tribute to Serwinowski at 10 a.m. Sunday during graduation exercises in Artpark.
Before the diplomas are given to graduates, there will be a moment of silence followed by a tribute read aloud in Serwinowski's honor. Among the graduates, district officials said, will be his sister Emily.
Marine Lance Cpl. Timothy G. Serwinowski was killed in action on 6/21/10.
Army Spc. Scott A. Andrews
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. Scott A. Andrews, 21, of Fall River, Mass.
Spc. Andrews was assigned to the 618th Engineer Support Company, 27th Engineer Battalion, 20th Engineer Brigade, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died June 21, 2010 at Forward Operating Base Lagman, Zabul province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.
Army Spc. Scott A. Andrews had high hopes for his life after military service.
Andrews, 21, dreamed of buying a multifamily house so he, his two older brothers and his father could all be together. He also wanted a boat so he and his father could spend time on the water clamming, his grandmother Lydia Andrews said Tuesday at her Fall River home.
The son of divorced parents, Alfred Andrews and Joanne Mello, he loved to be on the water with his father or root for the Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots and Celtics with his brothers and father. The sons "liked to do anything with their dad," said George Nientimp, a close friend of the family. "Anything Boston."
Friends and relatives gathered at the Fall River home of Army Specialist Scott Anthony Andrews, killed Monday by an improvised explosive device during widespread attacks in Afghanistan that claimed the life of nine coalition soldiers.
"This is just the most awful thing that we as a family have had to go through,'' said Lydia Andrews, Scott Andrews's paternal grandmother, at her Wellington Street home. "Scott was such a good boy; he would visit me whenever he came home, always with a smile on his face."
She added, "I don't know why we're there, it's not like World War II. I went through World War II with my brothers, it was a different kind of war. We did our job and came home. This one just lingers and lingers. I don't know what's going to happen over there."
"He was like a mechanic.... Go up and get the trucks that need repairing and bring them back to base."
Lydia Andrews says she last saw her grandson just a few months ago. "I loved seeing him, I love him very dearly and I hated to see him go back well he says I'll be back in October. I felt contented. He was going to be coming back."
The youngest of three boys, Andrews most recently lived in the Fall River home with his mother, but always made sure to spend time with his grandmother when back home. A grandmother that despite assurances, still worried. "There was always the worrying. All the time. Oh it's so hard to take to lose a baby like that."
Andrews's mother, who is divorced from the soldier's father and who lives on Martha Street, declined to comment, saying through a friend that she was too grief-stricken.
He turned 21 on Memorial Day. Andrews' grandmother, Lydia Andrews, said her son is devastated. "He still can't handle it. He's so broken hearted," she said. "I still can't believe it."
Lydia Andrews was just returning home from shopping when she spotted two Army officials and a police officer get out of a car and walk toward the Wellington Street home where she and her son live.
"I just stopped the car in the middle of the street, and I said, 'Who are you looking for?' And of course they wouldn't answer me, and when they didn't answer me, of course, I knew what had happened," she said. Overcome with emotion, she was rushed to the hospital.
The fallen soldier was one of nine NATO soldiers killed on Monday -- the second deadliest day of fighting against the Taliban this year.
"This just seems to be lingering and lingering, and you never know when it's going to end," Lydia Andrews said.
Scott Andrews signed up with the Army two years ago. He was trained as a construction equipment operator and mechanic. "He thought it was a good thing for him to do -- learn a trade, and he seemed to enjoy it," Lydia Andrews said.
Scott Andrews was supposed to return home for good at the beginning of the year. He leaves behind two brothers.
Andrews was the second Fall River soldier to die in Afghanistan recently. On April 19, Army National Guard Sergeant Robert Barrett, 20, was killed by a suicide bomber.
In a telephone interview, Fall River Mayor William A. Flanagan said the city has lowered its flags to half-staff in Andrews's memory, just as they did two months ago for Barrett.
"It's another sad day for the city of Fall River,'' said Flanagan, who added that he did not know Andrews or his family. He plans to visit the Andrews family sometime today to offer the city's condolences. "Our city's thoughts and prayers are with the Andrews family.''
Manuel DaPonte, the Fall River veterans agent and a retired Army command sergeant major, said in a telephone interview today that Andrews was a heavy machine operator and mechanic. He said he was with the family Monday evening when they were told by an Army official that Andrews had been killed. "The family is very devastated right now, but they are dealing with it,'' he said. He added, "The city is in mourning. Two in two months is too many.''
DaPonte has written US Senator John F. Kerry and asked him to sponsor a measure that would rename the post office on President's Avenue in Fall River after Barrett. DaPonte said he will seek out a similar honor for Andrews, who is the fifth person with ties to Fall River to have died in Iraq or Afghanistan since Desert Storm in 1991.
According to DaPonte, funeral services for Andrews will be held at the Holy Name parish on Hanover Street in Fall River and burial will be at St. Patrick's Cemetery, also in Fall River.
DaPonte added, however, that is not yet clear when Andrews's remains will return to Massachusetts. He said the Manuel Rogers Funeral Home on North Main will handle the funeral arrangements.
"I would invite everyone to come from near and far to come to Fall River and help this family go through the grieving process,'' he said of the funeral that will be held for Andrews. "It's the least we can do for our fallen heroes.'
Army Spc. Scott A. Andrews was killed in action on 6/21/10.
Army Spc. Scott A. Andrews, 21, of Fall River, Mass.
Spc. Andrews was assigned to the 618th Engineer Support Company, 27th Engineer Battalion, 20th Engineer Brigade, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died June 21, 2010 at Forward Operating Base Lagman, Zabul province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.
Army Spc. Scott A. Andrews had high hopes for his life after military service.
Andrews, 21, dreamed of buying a multifamily house so he, his two older brothers and his father could all be together. He also wanted a boat so he and his father could spend time on the water clamming, his grandmother Lydia Andrews said Tuesday at her Fall River home.
The son of divorced parents, Alfred Andrews and Joanne Mello, he loved to be on the water with his father or root for the Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots and Celtics with his brothers and father. The sons "liked to do anything with their dad," said George Nientimp, a close friend of the family. "Anything Boston."
Friends and relatives gathered at the Fall River home of Army Specialist Scott Anthony Andrews, killed Monday by an improvised explosive device during widespread attacks in Afghanistan that claimed the life of nine coalition soldiers.
"This is just the most awful thing that we as a family have had to go through,'' said Lydia Andrews, Scott Andrews's paternal grandmother, at her Wellington Street home. "Scott was such a good boy; he would visit me whenever he came home, always with a smile on his face."
She added, "I don't know why we're there, it's not like World War II. I went through World War II with my brothers, it was a different kind of war. We did our job and came home. This one just lingers and lingers. I don't know what's going to happen over there."
"He was like a mechanic.... Go up and get the trucks that need repairing and bring them back to base."
Lydia Andrews says she last saw her grandson just a few months ago. "I loved seeing him, I love him very dearly and I hated to see him go back well he says I'll be back in October. I felt contented. He was going to be coming back."
The youngest of three boys, Andrews most recently lived in the Fall River home with his mother, but always made sure to spend time with his grandmother when back home. A grandmother that despite assurances, still worried. "There was always the worrying. All the time. Oh it's so hard to take to lose a baby like that."
Andrews's mother, who is divorced from the soldier's father and who lives on Martha Street, declined to comment, saying through a friend that she was too grief-stricken.
He turned 21 on Memorial Day. Andrews' grandmother, Lydia Andrews, said her son is devastated. "He still can't handle it. He's so broken hearted," she said. "I still can't believe it."
Lydia Andrews was just returning home from shopping when she spotted two Army officials and a police officer get out of a car and walk toward the Wellington Street home where she and her son live.
"I just stopped the car in the middle of the street, and I said, 'Who are you looking for?' And of course they wouldn't answer me, and when they didn't answer me, of course, I knew what had happened," she said. Overcome with emotion, she was rushed to the hospital.
The fallen soldier was one of nine NATO soldiers killed on Monday -- the second deadliest day of fighting against the Taliban this year.
"This just seems to be lingering and lingering, and you never know when it's going to end," Lydia Andrews said.
Scott Andrews signed up with the Army two years ago. He was trained as a construction equipment operator and mechanic. "He thought it was a good thing for him to do -- learn a trade, and he seemed to enjoy it," Lydia Andrews said.
Scott Andrews was supposed to return home for good at the beginning of the year. He leaves behind two brothers.
Andrews was the second Fall River soldier to die in Afghanistan recently. On April 19, Army National Guard Sergeant Robert Barrett, 20, was killed by a suicide bomber.
In a telephone interview, Fall River Mayor William A. Flanagan said the city has lowered its flags to half-staff in Andrews's memory, just as they did two months ago for Barrett.
"It's another sad day for the city of Fall River,'' said Flanagan, who added that he did not know Andrews or his family. He plans to visit the Andrews family sometime today to offer the city's condolences. "Our city's thoughts and prayers are with the Andrews family.''
Manuel DaPonte, the Fall River veterans agent and a retired Army command sergeant major, said in a telephone interview today that Andrews was a heavy machine operator and mechanic. He said he was with the family Monday evening when they were told by an Army official that Andrews had been killed. "The family is very devastated right now, but they are dealing with it,'' he said. He added, "The city is in mourning. Two in two months is too many.''
DaPonte has written US Senator John F. Kerry and asked him to sponsor a measure that would rename the post office on President's Avenue in Fall River after Barrett. DaPonte said he will seek out a similar honor for Andrews, who is the fifth person with ties to Fall River to have died in Iraq or Afghanistan since Desert Storm in 1991.
According to DaPonte, funeral services for Andrews will be held at the Holy Name parish on Hanover Street in Fall River and burial will be at St. Patrick's Cemetery, also in Fall River.
DaPonte added, however, that is not yet clear when Andrews's remains will return to Massachusetts. He said the Manuel Rogers Funeral Home on North Main will handle the funeral arrangements.
"I would invite everyone to come from near and far to come to Fall River and help this family go through the grieving process,'' he said of the funeral that will be held for Andrews. "It's the least we can do for our fallen heroes.'
Army Spc. Scott A. Andrews was killed in action on 6/21/10.
Army Staff Sgt. Brandon M. Silk
Remember Our Heroes
Army Staff Sgt. Brandon M. Silk, 25, of Orono, Maine
SSgt. Silk was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 21, 2010 near Gaza Ridge, Afghanistan, when the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter in which he was traveling made a hard landing.
Played football, ran track in high school
The Associated Press
AUGUSTA, Maine — Officials say a soldier from Maine who served as a Black Hawk helicopter crew chief has been killed in Afghanistan.
Rep. Chellie Pingree, D-Maine, said 25-year-old Sgt. Brandon Silk of Orono died June 21 from injuries suffered during a hard helicopter landing. Silk served with the 101st Airborne Division out of Fort Campbell, Ky.
Orono High School Assistant Principal Bob Sinclair said Silk played football and ran track while in high school, and joined the military upon graduation.
The Defense Department has not released details on his death. The governor said he will order flags flown at half-staff on the day of Silk’s funeral.
Working on Black Hawks was a dream come true
The Associated Press
Brandon Silk’s favorite movie growing up was “Top Gun.”
It was one of his inspirations for joining the Army and becoming a Black Hawk crew chief for the 101st Airborne Division based at Fort Campbell, Ky.
Silk, of Orono, Maine, enlisted shortly after graduating from Orono High School in 2003. Working on Black Hawk helicopters and accompanying pilots on missions was a dream come true. Silk loved his job so much he turned down a promotion to a desk job.
He served in Korea, Iraq and twice in Afghanistan. He wasn’t required to go on the second Afghanistan tour, said his father, Mark Silk.
“But he had been training all these other guys. He didn’t want them to go without him,” his father said.
Silk, 25, died June 21 after a hard landing in a helicopter near Gaza Ridge, Afghanistan.
“He was one of those rare individuals that could make a bad day good and a good day that much better,” former colleague Jared Adams posted on a Facebook page honoring Silk. “He made me a better crew chief, a better soldier and a better person.”
He also leaves behind his wife, Kayce Silk; a stepson, Brayden Browning; and his mother, Lynn Silk.
Army Staff Sgt. Brandon M. Silk was killed in action on 6/21/10
Army Staff Sgt. Brandon M. Silk, 25, of Orono, Maine
SSgt. Silk was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 21, 2010 near Gaza Ridge, Afghanistan, when the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter in which he was traveling made a hard landing.
Played football, ran track in high school
The Associated Press
AUGUSTA, Maine — Officials say a soldier from Maine who served as a Black Hawk helicopter crew chief has been killed in Afghanistan.
Rep. Chellie Pingree, D-Maine, said 25-year-old Sgt. Brandon Silk of Orono died June 21 from injuries suffered during a hard helicopter landing. Silk served with the 101st Airborne Division out of Fort Campbell, Ky.
Orono High School Assistant Principal Bob Sinclair said Silk played football and ran track while in high school, and joined the military upon graduation.
The Defense Department has not released details on his death. The governor said he will order flags flown at half-staff on the day of Silk’s funeral.
Working on Black Hawks was a dream come true
The Associated Press
Brandon Silk’s favorite movie growing up was “Top Gun.”
It was one of his inspirations for joining the Army and becoming a Black Hawk crew chief for the 101st Airborne Division based at Fort Campbell, Ky.
Silk, of Orono, Maine, enlisted shortly after graduating from Orono High School in 2003. Working on Black Hawk helicopters and accompanying pilots on missions was a dream come true. Silk loved his job so much he turned down a promotion to a desk job.
He served in Korea, Iraq and twice in Afghanistan. He wasn’t required to go on the second Afghanistan tour, said his father, Mark Silk.
“But he had been training all these other guys. He didn’t want them to go without him,” his father said.
Silk, 25, died June 21 after a hard landing in a helicopter near Gaza Ridge, Afghanistan.
“He was one of those rare individuals that could make a bad day good and a good day that much better,” former colleague Jared Adams posted on a Facebook page honoring Silk. “He made me a better crew chief, a better soldier and a better person.”
He also leaves behind his wife, Kayce Silk; a stepson, Brayden Browning; and his mother, Lynn Silk.
Army Staff Sgt. Brandon M. Silk was killed in action on 6/21/10
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