Remember Our Heroes
Air Force Senior Airman Mark A. Forester, 29, of Tuscaloosa, Ala.
SrA Forester was assigned to the 21st Special Tactics Squadron, Pope Air Force Base, N.C.; died Sept. 29, 2010 while conducting combat operations in Uruzgan province.
Senior Airman Mark A. Forester died in the Uruzgan province Sept. 29 while conducting combat operations in the area. The 29-year-old worked with the 21st Special Tactics Squadron of Pope Air Force Base, N.C.
Forester, of Tuscaloosa, Ala., was a devout Mormon with a close-knit family, said his friend Michael Andrew. The airman also believed he was put on earth to defend the U.S.
Relatives say that Mark Andrew Forester had accepted the reality that his commitment to the United States was going to keep him away from the Crimson Tide’s upcoming football season.
Forester, a University of Alabama graduate and senior airman with the U.S. Air Force, was supposed to return home to Haleyville next month and had already made plans to attend the Iron Bowl in November with his family. Instead, Forester, 29, died Wednesday in combat in Afghanistan.
His family described him as good brother and a gentle friend. Forester’s brother, Thad, said he couldn’t reveal many of the details surrounding his brother’s death.
“He went down fighting,” Thad Forester said.
Thad Forester, 33, said he was concerned when his little brother announced that he would be taking his finance degree not to Wall Street but to war. “I supported him,” Thad Forester said. “I mean, somebody has got to do it — I’d just rather it not be my brother.
“But he was prepared for the challenges and he knew that he was putting his life seriously on the line.”
He recalled the day that he and his brother bought a camouflage hat with an Alabama script “A” from Woods & Water. Thad Forester said his brother didn’t buy it for his first tour of duty as an Air Force combat controller — a highly trained, skilled position that demands entry into hostile enemy territories. “He just got it because he liked it,” Thad Forester said.
But Mark Forester found a way to work an item representing the Crimson Tide into his combat wardrobe on a regular basis, Thad Forester said.
Thad Forester said his little brother loved his job. “He loved shooting, he loved swimming and he loved jumping out of planes — it was just things that he loved,” he said. “And he was able to stay calm in extremely stressful situations.”
Mark Forester was living with Thad in Tuscaloosa, which ultimately led to him following Thad to the university.
Both the Foresters met Michael Andrew, a fellow UA student who became a professional photographer.
Andrew wrote a memorial to Mark Forester on his website, www.michaelthemaven.com: "First let me say to those of you who read this blog who know Mark, I apologize to you if this is the first time you are hearing the bad news.
For the rest of you who never met him, Mark was one of my very best friends and was stationed at FOB Cobra in Afghanistan as an Air Force Combat Controller embedded with a Green Beret unit. I was able to see him immediately before he left for combat, and had the privilege to do a farewell shoot with his family before he left.
I still do not have all the details of what happened, but my understanding is that Mark and his unit were ambushed and a terrific gun fight ensued. Mark was struck twice, once in the chest and once in the forearm, possibly from the same round, and eventually died of his injuries. I was also told that he died while fighting. Two other members of his squad were also killed. This is all I know right now.
This post is a tribute to Mark, as well as all of the other family members and friends we all have lost fighting for our country. I want everyone know what an absolutely amazing person he was and what a tremendous sacrifice he paid for the freedoms we enjoy. The price is paid with the very best blood our country has to offer and Mark is a perfect example of this.
Of all the people I know, I cannot think of a more kind, generous and well rounded person I have ever met. He was a true friend, slow to temper, always reliable and extremely fun to be around. We spent so much time playing Halo on Xbox that I am sure I will be in some kind of trouble when I stand before the judgement bar. One night, we had played so much that instead of going home, I crawled over to some random corner in his living room and slept there for the night- not even realizing what I was doing. There are so many memories of him working out, playing flag football, going to Chick-Fil-A, talking for hours about women, scuba diving, church, school and just about anything else 2 young men might talk about- all of which I will treasure forever. Any person who does not have a friend like Mark was to me is really getting a raw deal in life.
Mark's family, including his brother Thad and his parents are as good as they come. My heart is aching for them and I want them to know that my thoughts and prayers are with them, how much I love them as well as Mark. I spent most of the afternoon and evening down by the beach crying & thinking about Mark, and how much he will be missed. On one hand, this is extremely painful and on the other, I cannot express how proud I am of him. We had many talks about the dangers involved- Mark absolutely knew what he was getting into and that there was a chance he may not come back. He went anyway. Brave as hell. I have so much admiration and respect for him. Losing Mark has been a reality check for me, in a good way. I imagine that over the next short period I will be making some changes in my life, mostly for the better, just knowing him and what he gave up. It is a true pleasure and humbling honor to have known him. I miss him so much already and would give anything to have him back. Words cannot express how thankful I am to you Mark and I know I am better person for having known you.
Today, on September 29th, 2010- a great man named Mark Forester paid the ultimate price for you and me, defending and protecting the Great Country of America. Mark is, as so many others are, a True American Hero.
Rest in peace brother and God be with you till we meet again."
Andrew said his friend was a devout Mormon who did not smoke or drink.
It was the warrior part of him that led Mark Forester to choose one of the most grueling military disciplines available.
Forester’s death in Afghanistan follows those of Senior Airman Daniel R. Sanchez, a combat controller who died Sept. 16 conducting combat operations, and Senior Airman Michael J. Buras, a bomb technician killed Sept. 21 in a bomb explosion. Senior Airman James A. Hansen, an airfield management operations coordinator, died in Iraq on Sept. 15 during a controlled detonation.
Forester and Sanchez will be honored during the Walk for the Fallen, an 860-mile trek beginning Oct. 9 from Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, to Hurlburt Field, Fla.
The walk originally commemorated 12 fallen special tactics airmen, but Forester and Sanchez were added after their deaths. Each of the 15 active-duty airmen scheduled to participate in the walk will carry 50-pound rucksacks and batons, each with the name of one of the 14 fallen airmen.
Master Sgt. Kenneth Huhman, one of the event’s organizers and chief of the combat control selection course at Lackland, said deaths often hit home in such a small career field.
One of the walking airmen will escort Forester’s remains home, and another was close to Sanchez. But Huhman said the deaths will help motivate the airmen honoring fallen colleagues.
“We’re always going to want to be motivated and remember the guys we lost,” he said. “The fact we lost them so close to the walk, it does give a little additional inspiration.”
Reached Thursday night in Haleyville, Ala., Forester's aunt, Carolyn Forester, said he joined the Air Force because he wanted to serve his country and that he loved the work. His parents were at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware on Thursday waiting for his return, she said.
Air Force Senior Airman Mark A. Forester was killed in action on 9/29/10.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Army Sgt. 1st Class Calvin B. Harrison
Remember Our Heroes
Army Sgt. 1st Class Calvin B. Harrison, 31, of San Antonio
SFC Harrison was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Fort Bragg, N.C.; died Sept. 29, 2010 in Uruzgan province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with small-arms fire.
Sgt. 1st Class Calvin B. Harrison, 31, of San Antonio, died Wednesday in Uruzgan province of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire, the Pentagon said. He was killed by enemy fire during a combat reconnaissance patrol, according to the Army's Special Operations Command.
Harrison was a Special Forces medical sergeant assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) at Fort Bragg.
According to the Special Operations Command, Harrison graduated from Jones High School in Coldspring, Texas, and enlisted in the Army in 1998 as a psychological operations specialist. His first assignment was with the 4th Psychological Operations Group (Airborne) at Fort Bragg.
In 2007, Harrison completed the Special Forces qualification course and earned the Green Beret as a Special Forces medical sergeant. He was then stationed with the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne).
His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, two Army Achievement medals, Army Good Conduct Medal (third award), National Defense Service Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with numeral three, Army Service Ribbon, Special Forces tab, Combat Infantryman Badge and Parachutist Badge.
He was posthumously awarded his second Bronze Star, the Purple Heart and the Meritorious Service Medal.
A native of Cleveland, Texas, Harrison is survived by his two daughters, Azalia and Eleanna, and his parents, Jack Washington and Betty Harrison.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Calvin B. Harrison was killed in action on 9/29/10.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Calvin B. Harrison, 31, of San Antonio
SFC Harrison was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Fort Bragg, N.C.; died Sept. 29, 2010 in Uruzgan province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with small-arms fire.
Sgt. 1st Class Calvin B. Harrison, 31, of San Antonio, died Wednesday in Uruzgan province of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire, the Pentagon said. He was killed by enemy fire during a combat reconnaissance patrol, according to the Army's Special Operations Command.
Harrison was a Special Forces medical sergeant assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) at Fort Bragg.
According to the Special Operations Command, Harrison graduated from Jones High School in Coldspring, Texas, and enlisted in the Army in 1998 as a psychological operations specialist. His first assignment was with the 4th Psychological Operations Group (Airborne) at Fort Bragg.
In 2007, Harrison completed the Special Forces qualification course and earned the Green Beret as a Special Forces medical sergeant. He was then stationed with the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne).
His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, two Army Achievement medals, Army Good Conduct Medal (third award), National Defense Service Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with numeral three, Army Service Ribbon, Special Forces tab, Combat Infantryman Badge and Parachutist Badge.
He was posthumously awarded his second Bronze Star, the Purple Heart and the Meritorious Service Medal.
A native of Cleveland, Texas, Harrison is survived by his two daughters, Azalia and Eleanna, and his parents, Jack Washington and Betty Harrison.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Calvin B. Harrison was killed in action on 9/29/10.
Army Sgt. Justin A. Officer
Remember Our Heroes
Army Sgt. Justin A. Officer, 26, of Wichita, Kan.
Sgt. Officer was assigned to 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Sept. 29, 2010 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
Justin was a Cavalry Scout assigned to Bravo Troop, 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky. He joined the Army in March 2004 and arrived at Fort Campbell in July 2004. His awards and decorations include: Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; Meritorious Unit Citation; Army Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; Combat Action Badge and Air Assault Badge. Justin served two tours of duty in Iraq prior to this tour in Afghanistan. His devotion to "duty, honor, country" is an inspiration to every American citizen.
Timothy Officer, the father of 26-year-old Sgt. Justin A. Officer of Wichita, Kansas, told KAKE News Saturday that "Justin was a great son."
The elder Officer, himself a retired United States Air Force serviceman, who now resides in Colorado Springs, Colorado said, "Growing up the only trouble he caused us was that he did not want to go to school. After the 7th grade, school for Justin did not hold his attention, he thought of things differently than most."
"He could draw, but never pursued that natural talent. He would often request art supplies on his deployments but I do not know if he was able to produce any drawings or paintings. Justin did not always share all of the details of his military life," Officer continued. "I think he wanted to keep some of that from us to shield us from the dangers, though we knew the danger he was in when he deployed."
"We only lived in Wichita a few years as I was on active duty at the time in the USAF. Justin was naturally exposed to the military from an early age," Officer recalls. "One of his good friends was joining the Army at about the same time that Justin was interested. Justin had no regrets about joining the Army though he did not re-enlist, he continued to extend his service commitment."
"I expected Justin to re-enlist after or on this deployment, though I believe he a had a difficult time revealing this to us. Justin thought of the soldiers in his unit as family, as many soldiers do. Just like you would give your life for your family, Justin gave his life for his Army family," Officer says.
Justin who was raised by the elder Officer and his wife, Stacy, recalls, "Our last time together was in May of this year. Justin always came to visit us on his leaves. We have many great memories from his visits and we miss him more than words can express."
Army Sgt. Justin A. Officer was killed in action on 9/29/10.
Army Sgt. Justin A. Officer, 26, of Wichita, Kan.
Sgt. Officer was assigned to 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Sept. 29, 2010 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
Justin was a Cavalry Scout assigned to Bravo Troop, 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky. He joined the Army in March 2004 and arrived at Fort Campbell in July 2004. His awards and decorations include: Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; Meritorious Unit Citation; Army Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; Combat Action Badge and Air Assault Badge. Justin served two tours of duty in Iraq prior to this tour in Afghanistan. His devotion to "duty, honor, country" is an inspiration to every American citizen.
Timothy Officer, the father of 26-year-old Sgt. Justin A. Officer of Wichita, Kansas, told KAKE News Saturday that "Justin was a great son."
The elder Officer, himself a retired United States Air Force serviceman, who now resides in Colorado Springs, Colorado said, "Growing up the only trouble he caused us was that he did not want to go to school. After the 7th grade, school for Justin did not hold his attention, he thought of things differently than most."
"He could draw, but never pursued that natural talent. He would often request art supplies on his deployments but I do not know if he was able to produce any drawings or paintings. Justin did not always share all of the details of his military life," Officer continued. "I think he wanted to keep some of that from us to shield us from the dangers, though we knew the danger he was in when he deployed."
"We only lived in Wichita a few years as I was on active duty at the time in the USAF. Justin was naturally exposed to the military from an early age," Officer recalls. "One of his good friends was joining the Army at about the same time that Justin was interested. Justin had no regrets about joining the Army though he did not re-enlist, he continued to extend his service commitment."
"I expected Justin to re-enlist after or on this deployment, though I believe he a had a difficult time revealing this to us. Justin thought of the soldiers in his unit as family, as many soldiers do. Just like you would give your life for your family, Justin gave his life for his Army family," Officer says.
Justin who was raised by the elder Officer and his wife, Stacy, recalls, "Our last time together was in May of this year. Justin always came to visit us on his leaves. We have many great memories from his visits and we miss him more than words can express."
Army Sgt. Justin A. Officer was killed in action on 9/29/10.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Marine Lance Cpl. Ralph J. Fabbri
Remember Our Heroes
Marine Lance Cpl. Ralph J. Fabbri, 20, of Gallitzin, Pa.
LCpl. Fabbri was assigned to Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.; died Sept. 28, 2010 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
Lance Cpl. Ralph Fabbri would have celebrated his 21st birthday Wednesday. Instead, his grieving family released a bouquet of balloons in his memory last night - a day after the 2008 Penn Cambria High School graduate was killed during military operations in war-torn Afghanistan, they said.
While details of Fabbri's death have not yet been released by the Department of Defense, it appears Afghanistan's violent southern tier is again to blame for the Cambria County Marine's death. The Gallitzin native is believed to be the lone Marine reportedly killed in an insurgent attack Tuesday. He is one of two combat deaths this week, both occurring in the Taliban stronghold of Kandahar, where Operation Dragon Strike has been under way for weeks to flush out militants, the Associated Press reported Wednesday.
Fabbri primarily worked as a combat photographer, his cousin Stacy Hoover said. He was in the final weeks of an approximately six-month tour in Afghanistan and his first in the Middle East since joining the Marine Corps in 2008, the Cresson woman said. "He was scheduled to be back on home soil in three weeks," said Hoover, 34, adding that it has made the news especially heartbreaking for family members.
Hoover was handling arrangements for Fabbri's grieving family Wednesday. The family released a statement saying the 21-year-old "will be remembered as a down-to-earth, fun-loving and considerate person who chose to serve his country."
Hoover described Fabbri as a proud Marine who saw military service "as the right thing to do" but who aspired to become an art teacher after ending his tour. It would have suited Fabbri, Penn Cambria school officials said.
Penn Cambria Superintendent Mary Beth Whited recalled his days as an honor student in the district, his friendly smile and his strong interest in art, science and history courses. "He took pretty much every history course he could while he was here; he just loved it," she said. His enthusiasm and talent left a legacy at the school, Whited added.
Some of his artwork was framed during his high school years and remains a part of the district's permanent art collection on display in the high school, she said.
The district lowered flags Wednesday in his honor. They'll remain that way until he is laid to rest, she said. Flags were also at half-staff in Gallitzin, where word spread quickly that a native son had passed.
Mayor Ray Osmolinski Sr. said he was awakened by a phone call Wednesday about the news. "He was known around town. He was a well-liked young man," said Osmolinski, who said he did not know the Marine personally but knows both parents. "When something like this happens it hits home in a small town. It's heartbreaking."
Marine Lance Cpl. Ralph J. Fabbri was killed in action on 9/28/10.
Marine Lance Cpl. Ralph J. Fabbri, 20, of Gallitzin, Pa.
LCpl. Fabbri was assigned to Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.; died Sept. 28, 2010 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
Lance Cpl. Ralph Fabbri would have celebrated his 21st birthday Wednesday. Instead, his grieving family released a bouquet of balloons in his memory last night - a day after the 2008 Penn Cambria High School graduate was killed during military operations in war-torn Afghanistan, they said.
While details of Fabbri's death have not yet been released by the Department of Defense, it appears Afghanistan's violent southern tier is again to blame for the Cambria County Marine's death. The Gallitzin native is believed to be the lone Marine reportedly killed in an insurgent attack Tuesday. He is one of two combat deaths this week, both occurring in the Taliban stronghold of Kandahar, where Operation Dragon Strike has been under way for weeks to flush out militants, the Associated Press reported Wednesday.
Fabbri primarily worked as a combat photographer, his cousin Stacy Hoover said. He was in the final weeks of an approximately six-month tour in Afghanistan and his first in the Middle East since joining the Marine Corps in 2008, the Cresson woman said. "He was scheduled to be back on home soil in three weeks," said Hoover, 34, adding that it has made the news especially heartbreaking for family members.
Hoover was handling arrangements for Fabbri's grieving family Wednesday. The family released a statement saying the 21-year-old "will be remembered as a down-to-earth, fun-loving and considerate person who chose to serve his country."
Hoover described Fabbri as a proud Marine who saw military service "as the right thing to do" but who aspired to become an art teacher after ending his tour. It would have suited Fabbri, Penn Cambria school officials said.
Penn Cambria Superintendent Mary Beth Whited recalled his days as an honor student in the district, his friendly smile and his strong interest in art, science and history courses. "He took pretty much every history course he could while he was here; he just loved it," she said. His enthusiasm and talent left a legacy at the school, Whited added.
Some of his artwork was framed during his high school years and remains a part of the district's permanent art collection on display in the high school, she said.
The district lowered flags Wednesday in his honor. They'll remain that way until he is laid to rest, she said. Flags were also at half-staff in Gallitzin, where word spread quickly that a native son had passed.
Mayor Ray Osmolinski Sr. said he was awakened by a phone call Wednesday about the news. "He was known around town. He was a well-liked young man," said Osmolinski, who said he did not know the Marine personally but knows both parents. "When something like this happens it hits home in a small town. It's heartbreaking."
Marine Lance Cpl. Ralph J. Fabbri was killed in action on 9/28/10.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Army Sgt. Mark A. Simpson
Remember Our Heroes
Army Sgt. Mark A. Simpson, 40, of Peoria, Ill.
Sgt Simpson was assigned to 20th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade, Fort Hood, Texas; died Sept. 26, 2010 in Kandahar, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his military vehicle with an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Spc. Donald S. Morrison.
Being the youngest of five children, Mark Simpson was a prankster who could give as good as he got, one of his sisters recalled a few days after the soldier was killed while serving in Afghanistan.
"All day at work, I have been thinking and trying to rack my brain but I am just numb," said Carol Goewey of Spring Bay. "He was a loving father and his girls were the light of his life. He will be greatly missed by everybody."
Simpson, 40, was one of two soldiers fatally injured in an attack Saturday north of Kandahar. Simpson and the other soldier, Spc. Donald S. Morrison, 23, of Cincinnati, Ohio, died of their injuries on Sunday, according to a news release from the Pentagon.
Both were deployed with the Fort Hood, Texas-based 584th Mobility Augmentation Company, 20th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade.
Two other soldiers were injured in the attack, according to a Facebook page affiliated with the 20th Engineer Battalion.
Funeral arrangements are pending, but Goewey said services would be in Texas. A memorial service could be held in Peoria but nothing had been planned as of Tuesday. Their parents, George and Carol Simpson, still live in the Peoria area, as do Goewey and another sister.
Choking back tears, Goewey said her brother was an avid Trekkie and a big New England Patriots fan; he used to needle his sister whenever the Patriots and the Bears would lock up.
"We would razz each other over who would win and when the Patriots did win, oh, he'd rub it in really good," she said. "But being the baby of the group, he had to hold his own."
Allen, as he went by, was a 1988 Richwoods High School graduate and enlisted in the Army in late 2004 after working a series of odd jobs in Peoria. He saw the military as a way to provide for his family and a way to fulfill his desire to see the world and meet people.
After high school, Simpson had bounced around the United States, filled with a wanderlust and a desire to "just keep moving," said his sister. He worked in construction in Colorado, as a sheriff in El Paso, and as a bailiff in Colorado Springs, according to the military.
"He did a lot of jobs, and was trying to find himself and where he belonged in life. He was one who liked to be active," she said. "He wanted to meet lots of different people and see different things. He was the type of guy who if you needed something, he would give it to you."
Simpson met his wife and after a brief romance, was married in 1996, Goewey said. The family was in Peoria until 2005 when he finished basic training. After that, they moved to New York and later to Texas.
He initially was assigned to the 10th Mountain Division before transferring to the 20th Engineer Battalion. He deployed to Iraq in August 2006 where he served in the "Triangle of Death," a then volatile region south of Baghdad.
Goewey said she and her brother were close, that they just connected more than the other siblings. She would always know he was on the other line when he called by his greeting, "Hi sis." She last talked to him about a month ago when he was home on leave. He told her not to worry if she didn't hear from him for a while and that he loved her.
His faith in God was strong, Goewey said of her brother. He was a saved Christian who loved his church and his family.
Goewey said her brother loved the Army.
"He was going to do this until he could retire or they kicked him out. He knew he needed to do this. He knew this was where he needed to be and he was proud of what he was doing."
Simpson deployed to Afghanistan in January. He earlier served in Iraq from August 2006 to October 2007.
Army Sgt. Mark A. Simpson was killed in action on 9/26/10.
Army Sgt. Mark A. Simpson, 40, of Peoria, Ill.
Sgt Simpson was assigned to 20th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade, Fort Hood, Texas; died Sept. 26, 2010 in Kandahar, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his military vehicle with an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Spc. Donald S. Morrison.
Being the youngest of five children, Mark Simpson was a prankster who could give as good as he got, one of his sisters recalled a few days after the soldier was killed while serving in Afghanistan.
"All day at work, I have been thinking and trying to rack my brain but I am just numb," said Carol Goewey of Spring Bay. "He was a loving father and his girls were the light of his life. He will be greatly missed by everybody."
Simpson, 40, was one of two soldiers fatally injured in an attack Saturday north of Kandahar. Simpson and the other soldier, Spc. Donald S. Morrison, 23, of Cincinnati, Ohio, died of their injuries on Sunday, according to a news release from the Pentagon.
Both were deployed with the Fort Hood, Texas-based 584th Mobility Augmentation Company, 20th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade.
Two other soldiers were injured in the attack, according to a Facebook page affiliated with the 20th Engineer Battalion.
Funeral arrangements are pending, but Goewey said services would be in Texas. A memorial service could be held in Peoria but nothing had been planned as of Tuesday. Their parents, George and Carol Simpson, still live in the Peoria area, as do Goewey and another sister.
Choking back tears, Goewey said her brother was an avid Trekkie and a big New England Patriots fan; he used to needle his sister whenever the Patriots and the Bears would lock up.
"We would razz each other over who would win and when the Patriots did win, oh, he'd rub it in really good," she said. "But being the baby of the group, he had to hold his own."
Allen, as he went by, was a 1988 Richwoods High School graduate and enlisted in the Army in late 2004 after working a series of odd jobs in Peoria. He saw the military as a way to provide for his family and a way to fulfill his desire to see the world and meet people.
After high school, Simpson had bounced around the United States, filled with a wanderlust and a desire to "just keep moving," said his sister. He worked in construction in Colorado, as a sheriff in El Paso, and as a bailiff in Colorado Springs, according to the military.
"He did a lot of jobs, and was trying to find himself and where he belonged in life. He was one who liked to be active," she said. "He wanted to meet lots of different people and see different things. He was the type of guy who if you needed something, he would give it to you."
Simpson met his wife and after a brief romance, was married in 1996, Goewey said. The family was in Peoria until 2005 when he finished basic training. After that, they moved to New York and later to Texas.
He initially was assigned to the 10th Mountain Division before transferring to the 20th Engineer Battalion. He deployed to Iraq in August 2006 where he served in the "Triangle of Death," a then volatile region south of Baghdad.
Goewey said she and her brother were close, that they just connected more than the other siblings. She would always know he was on the other line when he called by his greeting, "Hi sis." She last talked to him about a month ago when he was home on leave. He told her not to worry if she didn't hear from him for a while and that he loved her.
His faith in God was strong, Goewey said of her brother. He was a saved Christian who loved his church and his family.
Goewey said her brother loved the Army.
"He was going to do this until he could retire or they kicked him out. He knew he needed to do this. He knew this was where he needed to be and he was proud of what he was doing."
Simpson deployed to Afghanistan in January. He earlier served in Iraq from August 2006 to October 2007.
Army Sgt. Mark A. Simpson was killed in action on 9/26/10.
Army Spc. Donald S. Morrison
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. Donald S. Morrison, 23, of Cincinnati, Ohio
Spc. Morrison was assigned to 20th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade, Fort Hood, Texas; died Sept. 26, 2010 in Kandahar, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his military vehicle with an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Sgt. Mark A. Simpson.
BLUE ASH – A 23-year-old man who joined the military two years ago to honor a fallen friend died Friday in Afghanistan, according to officials at Sycamore Community Schools.
U.S. Army Spc. Scott Morrison, a 2005 graduate of Sycamore High School, joined the Army after his friend, Army Spc. Branden Haunert, was killed in Iraq in May 2008, according to Sycamore schools spokeswoman Erika Daggett.
Morrison is the son of Blue Ash firefighter Donald Morrison, fire Lt. Lou Ernstes said Monday.
The young man’s family is at Dover Air Force Base waiting to bring his body home, Daggett said. She said the family has requested privacy as they deal with his death. No further statements will be released.
The circumstances leading up to his death have not been released by the military.
Meredith Post graduated with Morrison in 2005. She is Sycamore’s assistant lacrosse coach.
“He didn’t play a sport, but he was one of the most avid fans of Sycamore athletics,” she recalled. “He never seemed to miss a basketball, football or soccer game … He was a happy guy who put his friends first and always made everyone around him laugh.”
Morrison attended the district from kindergarten until graduation and prior to attending the high school was student at Maple Dale Elementary School, Daggett said.
Flags are flying at half-staff at the fire department and at Sycamore High School.
A moment of silence will be observed in his honor Tuesday at Sycamore High School and again at the homecoming football game Friday night against Middletown High School, Daggett said.
Prior to joining the military, Morrison spent some time working at the Blue Ash Recreation Center, Daggett said.
Morrison is the fifth Sycamore High School graduate to die serving in military operations in Iraq or Afghanistan, Daggett said. His name will be added to a memorial in the school’s entrance way created to honor those who have served or are currently serving in the Armed Forces.
Paul Payne, the school resource officer, remembered Morrison on Monday as a student who never caused any trouble.
"If I didn't know your name in school, that was good," Payne said. "And that's Scott. Scott was a good kid. All the kids loved him, hung around with him."
Before joining the Army, Morrison worked with his mother at the Blue Ash Recreation Center as a fitness coordinator.
"(He) enjoyed life. He laughed a lot," said recreation leader Brian Kruse. "He was a good person. He had a lot of friends."
Staff members and family friends spent their Monday working in shifts to make enough yellow ribbons to honor Morrison when his body returns home to Blue Ash.
"This is just therapeutic, to be able to be with other people who knew him and loved him just as much as I do," said family friend Barb Griffin.
SPC Donald Scott Morrison
by 20th Engineer Battalion on Monday, September 27, 2010 at 11:21am
SPC Donald "Scott" Morrison was born on October 27, 1986. He grew up in Cincinnati, OH, graduating from Sycamore High School. He enlisted in the Army as a combat engineer in October of 2008 and attended Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Leonard Wood, MO. He was then assigned to the 584th Mobility Augmentation Company, 20th Engineer Battalion, at Fort Hood, TX.
In his spare time, he was a sports fanatic who loved to play football, softball, and soccer. He was an avid Bengals fan, and he followed professional Soccer Religiously. He loved his home state and maintained close contact with his family and many friends back home.
He was an extremely valuable and versatile Soldier. He was an accomplished vehicle operator, gunner, and sapper with the 584th. He was more than just a good Soldier to members of his unit; he was a true friend. He was always there to help anyone with their problems, personal or professional. He took pride in his team, and truly believed in his mission. He died on September 26, 2010, when his patrol struck an IED.
His awards include the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal, and the Combat Action Badge.
He is survived by his parents, Donald Sr. and Susan Morrison, his brother Gary, and his sister Katie.
Army Spc. Donald S. Morrison was killed in action on 9/26/10.
Army Spc. Donald S. Morrison, 23, of Cincinnati, Ohio
Spc. Morrison was assigned to 20th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade, Fort Hood, Texas; died Sept. 26, 2010 in Kandahar, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his military vehicle with an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Sgt. Mark A. Simpson.
BLUE ASH – A 23-year-old man who joined the military two years ago to honor a fallen friend died Friday in Afghanistan, according to officials at Sycamore Community Schools.
U.S. Army Spc. Scott Morrison, a 2005 graduate of Sycamore High School, joined the Army after his friend, Army Spc. Branden Haunert, was killed in Iraq in May 2008, according to Sycamore schools spokeswoman Erika Daggett.
Morrison is the son of Blue Ash firefighter Donald Morrison, fire Lt. Lou Ernstes said Monday.
The young man’s family is at Dover Air Force Base waiting to bring his body home, Daggett said. She said the family has requested privacy as they deal with his death. No further statements will be released.
The circumstances leading up to his death have not been released by the military.
Meredith Post graduated with Morrison in 2005. She is Sycamore’s assistant lacrosse coach.
“He didn’t play a sport, but he was one of the most avid fans of Sycamore athletics,” she recalled. “He never seemed to miss a basketball, football or soccer game … He was a happy guy who put his friends first and always made everyone around him laugh.”
Morrison attended the district from kindergarten until graduation and prior to attending the high school was student at Maple Dale Elementary School, Daggett said.
Flags are flying at half-staff at the fire department and at Sycamore High School.
A moment of silence will be observed in his honor Tuesday at Sycamore High School and again at the homecoming football game Friday night against Middletown High School, Daggett said.
Prior to joining the military, Morrison spent some time working at the Blue Ash Recreation Center, Daggett said.
Morrison is the fifth Sycamore High School graduate to die serving in military operations in Iraq or Afghanistan, Daggett said. His name will be added to a memorial in the school’s entrance way created to honor those who have served or are currently serving in the Armed Forces.
Paul Payne, the school resource officer, remembered Morrison on Monday as a student who never caused any trouble.
"If I didn't know your name in school, that was good," Payne said. "And that's Scott. Scott was a good kid. All the kids loved him, hung around with him."
Before joining the Army, Morrison worked with his mother at the Blue Ash Recreation Center as a fitness coordinator.
"(He) enjoyed life. He laughed a lot," said recreation leader Brian Kruse. "He was a good person. He had a lot of friends."
Staff members and family friends spent their Monday working in shifts to make enough yellow ribbons to honor Morrison when his body returns home to Blue Ash.
"This is just therapeutic, to be able to be with other people who knew him and loved him just as much as I do," said family friend Barb Griffin.
SPC Donald Scott Morrison
by 20th Engineer Battalion on Monday, September 27, 2010 at 11:21am
SPC Donald "Scott" Morrison was born on October 27, 1986. He grew up in Cincinnati, OH, graduating from Sycamore High School. He enlisted in the Army as a combat engineer in October of 2008 and attended Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Leonard Wood, MO. He was then assigned to the 584th Mobility Augmentation Company, 20th Engineer Battalion, at Fort Hood, TX.
In his spare time, he was a sports fanatic who loved to play football, softball, and soccer. He was an avid Bengals fan, and he followed professional Soccer Religiously. He loved his home state and maintained close contact with his family and many friends back home.
He was an extremely valuable and versatile Soldier. He was an accomplished vehicle operator, gunner, and sapper with the 584th. He was more than just a good Soldier to members of his unit; he was a true friend. He was always there to help anyone with their problems, personal or professional. He took pride in his team, and truly believed in his mission. He died on September 26, 2010, when his patrol struck an IED.
His awards include the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal, and the Combat Action Badge.
He is survived by his parents, Donald Sr. and Susan Morrison, his brother Gary, and his sister Katie.
Army Spc. Donald S. Morrison was killed in action on 9/26/10.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Army Pfc. William B. Dawson
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pfc. William B. Dawson, 20, of Tunica, Miss.
Pfc. Dawson was assigned to 17th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 3rd Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Fort Richardson, Alaska; died Sept. 24, 2010 while traveling between Ghanzi and Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, when his military vehicle was attacked with an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Pfc. Jaysine P. S. Petree.
Miss. soldier killed in Afghanistan
By Sheila Byrd
The Associated Press
JACKSON, Miss. — Army Pfc. William Brandon Dawson’s younger brothers looked up to him as a man with the characteristics of a good soldier.
“He never talked back to his mother or father. He was always respectful,” Joseph Dawson said of his older brother. “He was a perfect man.”
William Dawson, 20, from Tunica, and Pfc. Jaysine P.S. Petree, 19, of Yigo, Guam, were killed Friday between Ghanzi and Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, the Department of Defense said.
Their military vehicle was attacked with an improvised explosive device, the military said Monday. They were assigned to the 17th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 3rd Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, U.S. Army, Alaska, Fort Richardson, Alaska.
Quita Weeden-Dawson of Walls said she talked to her son the day before he was killed.
“Ever since he was a little boy he wanted to be in the military. I was hoping that he came back home. I’m thankful he went on to glory instead of coming back home messed up,” Weeden-Dawson said.
Weeden-Dawson traveled to Dover, Del., for the return of her son’s body. She was back in Walls on Monday and she said it could be days before his body arrives in Mississippi. Funeral information was pending, but relatives said he would be buried in a family plot in Tunica.
Dawson was a motor transport operator who joined the Army in September 2009. He was assigned to Fort Richardson in February 2010, the military said.
He was the eldest of his mother’s four sons. Joseph Dawson, 18, said the family last saw his older brother about four months ago when he was on leave from Alaska. He said William Dawson stayed in touch with the family after he arrived in Afghanistan.
“He called a lot and we talked on Facebook every day. He never talked about what was going on down there. He just talked about what he wanted to do when he came back here,” Joseph Dawson said.
The Rev. Willie Dawson, 40, associate pastor at Adams Chapel in Clarksdale, said his soldier son was ambitious and had talked about a career in politics.
“He told me he wanted to be a senator. He could do so many different things,” Willie Dawson said. “He made a career choice, and he had all the support of his family. He wanted to drive trucks and he wanted to serve his country.”
Dawson’s death came four days after another Mississippi resident, Joshua Ose, 19, a private first class, was killed while on foot patrol in Afghanistan. The Marine Corps said Ose was struck by small arms fire in the southern Helmand Province on Sept. 20.
William Dawson, a 2009 graduate of Rosa Fort High School in Tunica, left an impression on Principal Derrick Dace, who described him as a positive young man.
“As his grandfather got older, I used to always see him driving him around. He was very respectful. He’s just one of those students, every time you see him, he lifts your spirits,” Dace said.
Army Pfc. William B. Dawson was killed in action on 9/24/10.
Army Pfc. William B. Dawson, 20, of Tunica, Miss.
Pfc. Dawson was assigned to 17th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 3rd Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Fort Richardson, Alaska; died Sept. 24, 2010 while traveling between Ghanzi and Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, when his military vehicle was attacked with an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Pfc. Jaysine P. S. Petree.
Miss. soldier killed in Afghanistan
By Sheila Byrd
The Associated Press
JACKSON, Miss. — Army Pfc. William Brandon Dawson’s younger brothers looked up to him as a man with the characteristics of a good soldier.
“He never talked back to his mother or father. He was always respectful,” Joseph Dawson said of his older brother. “He was a perfect man.”
William Dawson, 20, from Tunica, and Pfc. Jaysine P.S. Petree, 19, of Yigo, Guam, were killed Friday between Ghanzi and Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, the Department of Defense said.
Their military vehicle was attacked with an improvised explosive device, the military said Monday. They were assigned to the 17th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 3rd Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, U.S. Army, Alaska, Fort Richardson, Alaska.
Quita Weeden-Dawson of Walls said she talked to her son the day before he was killed.
“Ever since he was a little boy he wanted to be in the military. I was hoping that he came back home. I’m thankful he went on to glory instead of coming back home messed up,” Weeden-Dawson said.
Weeden-Dawson traveled to Dover, Del., for the return of her son’s body. She was back in Walls on Monday and she said it could be days before his body arrives in Mississippi. Funeral information was pending, but relatives said he would be buried in a family plot in Tunica.
Dawson was a motor transport operator who joined the Army in September 2009. He was assigned to Fort Richardson in February 2010, the military said.
He was the eldest of his mother’s four sons. Joseph Dawson, 18, said the family last saw his older brother about four months ago when he was on leave from Alaska. He said William Dawson stayed in touch with the family after he arrived in Afghanistan.
“He called a lot and we talked on Facebook every day. He never talked about what was going on down there. He just talked about what he wanted to do when he came back here,” Joseph Dawson said.
The Rev. Willie Dawson, 40, associate pastor at Adams Chapel in Clarksdale, said his soldier son was ambitious and had talked about a career in politics.
“He told me he wanted to be a senator. He could do so many different things,” Willie Dawson said. “He made a career choice, and he had all the support of his family. He wanted to drive trucks and he wanted to serve his country.”
Dawson’s death came four days after another Mississippi resident, Joshua Ose, 19, a private first class, was killed while on foot patrol in Afghanistan. The Marine Corps said Ose was struck by small arms fire in the southern Helmand Province on Sept. 20.
William Dawson, a 2009 graduate of Rosa Fort High School in Tunica, left an impression on Principal Derrick Dace, who described him as a positive young man.
“As his grandfather got older, I used to always see him driving him around. He was very respectful. He’s just one of those students, every time you see him, he lifts your spirits,” Dace said.
Army Pfc. William B. Dawson was killed in action on 9/24/10.
Army Pfc. Jaysine P. S. Petree
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pfc. Jaysine P. S. Petree, 19, of Yigo, Guam
Pfc. Petree was assigned to 17th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 3rd Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Fort Richardson, Alaska; died Sept. 24, 2010 while traveling between Ghanzi and Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, when her military vehicle was attacked with an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Pfc. William B. Dawson.
The Guam National Guard is stepping in to assist the family of fallen U.S. Army Private First Class Jaysine Petree. Adjutant General Major General Donald Goldhorn paid a visit to the family's residence in Yigo this morning.
"When we have a fallen service member on Guam, the entire island of Guam comes together to support that family and I extend my appreciation for what all the members and people of Guam do in times like this," Goldhorn said.
PFC Petree died on September 24 after the vehicle she was in was hit by an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan. Her parents, Jayne and Herbert Petree say they did not want their daughter to join the Army, but that it was her drive to take care of her family and pay her way through college that compelled her to do so. They say the last time they spoke to their daughter was last week, Wednesday.
Jayne said, "I was very surprised when those sergeants came and then they told me that she was dead. I'm really, really surprised, I cannot believe until we are doing the rosary; I cannot still believe that she passed away because she always called me, she will notify me anywhere they go."
Herbert added "Everytime she called no matter what time or day she always called to tell us, 'We're going out on a mission, pray for me and I'll call you when I get back and again.' Like the wife said, she never called."
"My final words to her is that I love her so much," her mother tearfully added, with her father saying, "And we'll miss her deeply."
A beaming smile, frozen in a photograph, greets you in the front office of Simon Sanchez High School. But the swelling pride that face brought the school is now drowned in sorrow.
Army Pfc. Jaysine Petree, 19, is just one in a long line of Simon Sanchez students who enlisted in the military and fought for their country overseas. Now, she's the latest in a tragic list of graduates who won't come back.
An explosive in Afghanistan killed Petree on Friday, after only 19 months in the military. She graduated from Simon Sanchez in 2009.
Petree is the second recent graduate of Simon Sanchez to die in the war in Afghanistan, following 2005 graduate Joshua Akoni Sablan Lukeala, a 23-year-old Army sergeant who died in June.
Many students who knew and admired Petree still walk the school's halls every day. "She seemed like one of those students who knew what she wanted and decided to go after it," said Beth Perez, Simon Sanchez High principal. "So we're proud because she was making her way in the world, but this is a sad day for our school."
Perez said Simon Sanchez students and their families understand the risks when students choose to enter the military after graduation. Despite the danger -- and the high price some pay -- they enlist anyway, she said.
"We still have a strong JROTC program, and we still have many students who want to serve their country, ... just like this lady," Perez said. "Although she was not in the JROTC program, from the outside looking in, this is still what she wanted to do."
Although Petree wasn't involved in the school's Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program, she approached Capt. Ignas Susuico, the school program's senior instructor, with interest in what the military could do for her future. Many Simon Sanchez students do.
Susuico said there currently are about 235 students enrolled in the Junior ROTC programs at Simon Sanchez, and about 15 to 20 students a year join the military.
Petree signed up for the Army in June 2008, a year ahead of graduation, after Susuico connected her with a recruiter.
"She wanted to go to college," said Susuico, explaining that Petree hoped the military could pay for her tuition. "She wanted to get into the delayed entry program, earn some military time, as well as get a bonus."
The girl's death was a "tragic loss" for the entire island, Susuico said yesterday. "And that's the price of freedom that we live through every day," he said.
Memories
Even if a photo of Petree's smile wasn't framed in the office and hung on the wall of the teacher's lounge, Robert Becker wouldn't forget it.
Becker, a Simon Sanchez physical education teacher, said Petree was the kind of graduate any high school would be proud to produce. It's a shame the war has denied Guam the chance to have Petree make the island a better place, Becker said. "We lost somebody that I felt would have eventually made a difference in the world," Becker said. "She just had that personality that made everyone around her happy."
Petree's memory won't fade for Luis Cabral either, who taught her in choir and band a few years back. "There are students you can't forget and she's one of them," Cabral said yesterday. "She was always fun."
Every teacher struggles when they lose a student, even a former student, Cabral said. He said he was shocked by the news of her death. Cabral said it stung a little to see her photo framed on the high school's walls, but it's posted for a reason.
"At Sanchez, we take a lot of pride in the kids who do succeed," Cabral said. "Having her up on that board, we hoped she was an inspiration to the other kids. I would like to think it still will be an inspiration."
"She's a very short, petite young lady, but she had a big heart and a very strong and driven desire to succeed," U.S. Army Captain Ignus Susiuco, the senior instructor of the JROTC battalion at Simon Sanchez High School, recalled.
The private first class, known by many as "Jen" was killed while serving in Afghanistan after she came in contact with an improvised explosive device. According to her father, Herbert Petree, she had only been in the army for about 19 months and while stationed in Alaska was sent on her very first deployment. "Jaysine was a very outgoing and loving female," Cpt Susuico added. "She enjoyed her family and friends."
He added, "She was a very strong individual - she liked to be outdoors, she liked to take care of her family and friends and she enjoyed different kind of things, sports and stuff like that."
She joined the U.S. Army straight out of high school last year because she wanted to bring her family to the U.S. mainland. “It was our goal together that we were going to have a big house on the mainland and bring our family there,” said Jam Petree, Jaysine’s younger brother.
After moving to Guam from the Philippines in 2002, Jam said he and his sister promised each other to work together to help their family. “We just wanted to be successful in life. That was our main goal together,” Jam explained.
Jam said he was in the Philippines when he learned of his sister’s death and immediately flew back to Guam to be with his family. “My uncle called me because my mom couldn’t speak,” Jam said. “She was in shock.”
Petree’s body was flown to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware yesterday, Guam time. It was unknown as of yesterday when Petree’s body will be flown to Guam.
Army Pfc. Jaysine P. S. Petree was killed in action on 9/24/10.
Army Pfc. Jaysine P. S. Petree, 19, of Yigo, Guam
Pfc. Petree was assigned to 17th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 3rd Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Fort Richardson, Alaska; died Sept. 24, 2010 while traveling between Ghanzi and Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, when her military vehicle was attacked with an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Pfc. William B. Dawson.
The Guam National Guard is stepping in to assist the family of fallen U.S. Army Private First Class Jaysine Petree. Adjutant General Major General Donald Goldhorn paid a visit to the family's residence in Yigo this morning.
"When we have a fallen service member on Guam, the entire island of Guam comes together to support that family and I extend my appreciation for what all the members and people of Guam do in times like this," Goldhorn said.
PFC Petree died on September 24 after the vehicle she was in was hit by an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan. Her parents, Jayne and Herbert Petree say they did not want their daughter to join the Army, but that it was her drive to take care of her family and pay her way through college that compelled her to do so. They say the last time they spoke to their daughter was last week, Wednesday.
Jayne said, "I was very surprised when those sergeants came and then they told me that she was dead. I'm really, really surprised, I cannot believe until we are doing the rosary; I cannot still believe that she passed away because she always called me, she will notify me anywhere they go."
Herbert added "Everytime she called no matter what time or day she always called to tell us, 'We're going out on a mission, pray for me and I'll call you when I get back and again.' Like the wife said, she never called."
"My final words to her is that I love her so much," her mother tearfully added, with her father saying, "And we'll miss her deeply."
A beaming smile, frozen in a photograph, greets you in the front office of Simon Sanchez High School. But the swelling pride that face brought the school is now drowned in sorrow.
Army Pfc. Jaysine Petree, 19, is just one in a long line of Simon Sanchez students who enlisted in the military and fought for their country overseas. Now, she's the latest in a tragic list of graduates who won't come back.
An explosive in Afghanistan killed Petree on Friday, after only 19 months in the military. She graduated from Simon Sanchez in 2009.
Petree is the second recent graduate of Simon Sanchez to die in the war in Afghanistan, following 2005 graduate Joshua Akoni Sablan Lukeala, a 23-year-old Army sergeant who died in June.
Many students who knew and admired Petree still walk the school's halls every day. "She seemed like one of those students who knew what she wanted and decided to go after it," said Beth Perez, Simon Sanchez High principal. "So we're proud because she was making her way in the world, but this is a sad day for our school."
Perez said Simon Sanchez students and their families understand the risks when students choose to enter the military after graduation. Despite the danger -- and the high price some pay -- they enlist anyway, she said.
"We still have a strong JROTC program, and we still have many students who want to serve their country, ... just like this lady," Perez said. "Although she was not in the JROTC program, from the outside looking in, this is still what she wanted to do."
Although Petree wasn't involved in the school's Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program, she approached Capt. Ignas Susuico, the school program's senior instructor, with interest in what the military could do for her future. Many Simon Sanchez students do.
Susuico said there currently are about 235 students enrolled in the Junior ROTC programs at Simon Sanchez, and about 15 to 20 students a year join the military.
Petree signed up for the Army in June 2008, a year ahead of graduation, after Susuico connected her with a recruiter.
"She wanted to go to college," said Susuico, explaining that Petree hoped the military could pay for her tuition. "She wanted to get into the delayed entry program, earn some military time, as well as get a bonus."
The girl's death was a "tragic loss" for the entire island, Susuico said yesterday. "And that's the price of freedom that we live through every day," he said.
Memories
Even if a photo of Petree's smile wasn't framed in the office and hung on the wall of the teacher's lounge, Robert Becker wouldn't forget it.
Becker, a Simon Sanchez physical education teacher, said Petree was the kind of graduate any high school would be proud to produce. It's a shame the war has denied Guam the chance to have Petree make the island a better place, Becker said. "We lost somebody that I felt would have eventually made a difference in the world," Becker said. "She just had that personality that made everyone around her happy."
Petree's memory won't fade for Luis Cabral either, who taught her in choir and band a few years back. "There are students you can't forget and she's one of them," Cabral said yesterday. "She was always fun."
Every teacher struggles when they lose a student, even a former student, Cabral said. He said he was shocked by the news of her death. Cabral said it stung a little to see her photo framed on the high school's walls, but it's posted for a reason.
"At Sanchez, we take a lot of pride in the kids who do succeed," Cabral said. "Having her up on that board, we hoped she was an inspiration to the other kids. I would like to think it still will be an inspiration."
"She's a very short, petite young lady, but she had a big heart and a very strong and driven desire to succeed," U.S. Army Captain Ignus Susiuco, the senior instructor of the JROTC battalion at Simon Sanchez High School, recalled.
The private first class, known by many as "Jen" was killed while serving in Afghanistan after she came in contact with an improvised explosive device. According to her father, Herbert Petree, she had only been in the army for about 19 months and while stationed in Alaska was sent on her very first deployment. "Jaysine was a very outgoing and loving female," Cpt Susuico added. "She enjoyed her family and friends."
He added, "She was a very strong individual - she liked to be outdoors, she liked to take care of her family and friends and she enjoyed different kind of things, sports and stuff like that."
She joined the U.S. Army straight out of high school last year because she wanted to bring her family to the U.S. mainland. “It was our goal together that we were going to have a big house on the mainland and bring our family there,” said Jam Petree, Jaysine’s younger brother.
After moving to Guam from the Philippines in 2002, Jam said he and his sister promised each other to work together to help their family. “We just wanted to be successful in life. That was our main goal together,” Jam explained.
Jam said he was in the Philippines when he learned of his sister’s death and immediately flew back to Guam to be with his family. “My uncle called me because my mom couldn’t speak,” Jam said. “She was in shock.”
Petree’s body was flown to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware yesterday, Guam time. It was unknown as of yesterday when Petree’s body will be flown to Guam.
Army Pfc. Jaysine P. S. Petree was killed in action on 9/24/10.
Army Spc. Marc C. Whisenant
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. Marc C. Whisenant, 23, of Holly Hill, Fla.
Spc. Whisenant was assigned to 1st Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment, Florida National Guard, Miami, Fla.; died Sept. 24, 2010 in Kuwait of injuries sustained in a military vehicle rollover.
Spc. Whisenant, who was from Holly Hill, was not a Florida National Guardsman but was activated from the ready reserves and attached to the Florida National Guard's 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team's 1st Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment.
Comprised of approximately 25 hundred soldiers, the 53rd Infantry Brigade was federally mobilized in January 2010 and is expected to return home in December 2010. One of the key missions of the 1st Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment is providing escort security for personnel and equipment from Iraq into Kuwait as part of the draw down of forces under Operation New Dawn.
Comment left to Spc. Whisenant's parents:
I didnt really know SPC Wisenaut but I treated him once in the Aid Station he seemd like a fine soldier very curteous and respectful. He displayed a high military bearing. I wish I had known him better and could tell you more. His parents shoud be very proud of him. LTC Bartlett Medical Officer
From His Obituary --
Army Specialist Marc C. Whisenant, 23, of Daytona Beach tragically was killed in a training exercise in Kuwait on Friday, September 24th, 2010.
Funeral Services for Marc will be announced at a later date, and are under the careful direction of Lohman Funeral Home Daytona.
Marc graduated from Spruce Creek High School in 2005, and was a past member of the ROTC program. After graduation, Marc pursued his lifelong dream of joining the military and served his country proudly. He also enjoyed being involved in the Boy Scouts and was a dedicated leader.
Most of all Marc loved surrounding himself with his family and friends. He found a friend in all, had a heart of gold, and a zest for life that seemed to make everyone around him smile.
His life was brief but the legacy he leaves behind will never be forgotten. Although we are all feeling such grief and disbelief that he is gone from us, we must keep his memory alive in our hearts.
Left to cherish his memory are his eternally proud parents, Jerry Whisenant and Elizabeth Cook; beloved sisters, Michelle Lyttle and Monica Whisenant; loving niece, Alexis Lyttle; brother in law, Jason Lyttle; many extended family members, friends, and a niece that is yet to be welcomed to this world.
Army Spc. Marc C. Whisenant was killed in a vehicle rollover on 9/24/10.
Army Spc. Marc C. Whisenant, 23, of Holly Hill, Fla.
Spc. Whisenant was assigned to 1st Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment, Florida National Guard, Miami, Fla.; died Sept. 24, 2010 in Kuwait of injuries sustained in a military vehicle rollover.
Spc. Whisenant, who was from Holly Hill, was not a Florida National Guardsman but was activated from the ready reserves and attached to the Florida National Guard's 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team's 1st Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment.
Comprised of approximately 25 hundred soldiers, the 53rd Infantry Brigade was federally mobilized in January 2010 and is expected to return home in December 2010. One of the key missions of the 1st Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment is providing escort security for personnel and equipment from Iraq into Kuwait as part of the draw down of forces under Operation New Dawn.
Comment left to Spc. Whisenant's parents:
I didnt really know SPC Wisenaut but I treated him once in the Aid Station he seemd like a fine soldier very curteous and respectful. He displayed a high military bearing. I wish I had known him better and could tell you more. His parents shoud be very proud of him. LTC Bartlett Medical Officer
From His Obituary --
Army Specialist Marc C. Whisenant, 23, of Daytona Beach tragically was killed in a training exercise in Kuwait on Friday, September 24th, 2010.
Funeral Services for Marc will be announced at a later date, and are under the careful direction of Lohman Funeral Home Daytona.
Marc graduated from Spruce Creek High School in 2005, and was a past member of the ROTC program. After graduation, Marc pursued his lifelong dream of joining the military and served his country proudly. He also enjoyed being involved in the Boy Scouts and was a dedicated leader.
Most of all Marc loved surrounding himself with his family and friends. He found a friend in all, had a heart of gold, and a zest for life that seemed to make everyone around him smile.
His life was brief but the legacy he leaves behind will never be forgotten. Although we are all feeling such grief and disbelief that he is gone from us, we must keep his memory alive in our hearts.
Left to cherish his memory are his eternally proud parents, Jerry Whisenant and Elizabeth Cook; beloved sisters, Michelle Lyttle and Monica Whisenant; loving niece, Alexis Lyttle; brother in law, Jason Lyttle; many extended family members, friends, and a niece that is yet to be welcomed to this world.
Army Spc. Marc C. Whisenant was killed in a vehicle rollover on 9/24/10.
Army Pfc. Gebrah P. Noonan
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pfc. Gebrah P. Noonan, 26, of Watertown, Conn.
Pfc. Noonan was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.; died Sept. 24, 2010 in Fallujah, Iraq, of injuries sustained Sept. 23 in a non-combat-related incident. Also killed was Spc. John Carillo Jr.
Comments he wrote on his Facebook page within days of his death. He is listed on his FB page as being "widowed."
Gebrah Noonan You keep telling me I've got everything, you say I've got everything I want You keep telling me you're gonna help me, you're gonna help me, but you don't But now I'm in too deep. (September 20, 2010)
Gebrah Noonan Great rulers make for greater glory
The only thing growing is our history
Knock me down I'll get right back up again
I'll come back stronger than a powered up Pac-Man (September 16, 2010)
Gebrah Noonan I just can't get over losing you
So if I seem broken in two
Please walk on by, walk on by
Foolish pride is all that I have left
So let me hide (August 1, 2010)
Gebrah Noonan, an Army private who died Thursday in Iraq, loved good literature and Michael Jackson and had a sense of humor sharp enough to get him voted class clown at Watertown High School.
Noonan, 26, died Thursday in a non-combat incident in Fallujah, about a month after combat operations ended in Iraq. On Sunday, Gov. M. Jodi Rell ordered flags flown at half-staff to honor his memory.
His best friend, Patrick Jacques Jr., who had driven him to the airport to begin basic training about a year ago, remembers Noonan as a lively person as individual as his first name. "Most people knew him as the life of the party," Jacques said. "He never looked for someone to emulate or latch onto — he had his own followers."
Noonan, who would introduce himself as "Gebrah rhymes with zebra," loved reading and was partial to Jack Kerouac and was a big movie buff. He also loved soul music and had more than 4,000 songs on his iPod. On senior dress-up day, he went to school dressed as Michael Jackson.
"One of the best things we'll always remember was his sense of humor," Jacques said. "He had a quick wit. It all comes from his intelligence."
He was patriotic, decisive and a huge football fan, although he would never settle for just one team.
Noonan, who was known for wearing a large Afro in high school, graduated in 2002. He then spent a year at Manhattanville College, took a year off, then attended Fordham University for a year.
Noonan was the second Connecticut soldier to die in Iraq or Afghanistan in the past month. Army National Guard Sgt. Steven Deluzio of South Glastonbury was a member of the Vermont National Guard. He was killed Aug. 22 when insurgents attacked his unit in Afghanistan.
Before he left for Iraq, U.S. Army Pvt. 1st Class Gebrah Noonan put up four flags outside his Watertown home. Now the community is mourning the loss of the 26-year-old 2002 graduate of Watertown High School.
Family and friends described Noonan as a fun loving person who loved the Yankees. They say he would stand up for anyone. His loved ones say he took pride wearing the uniform. "He used his influence for good and really looked out for people," said his sister Shemmy Noonan.
Since learning of his death, flags across the town are were lowered to half-staff.
"It is very sad," said Richard DiFederico, VFW State Commander. "There's no coming back from it and what his family is going through, unless it happens to you it's hard to understand."
The town manager says this is the first soldier from Watertown who has died since both the Iraq and Afghanistan wars began.
"For a war that started out so personally for so many of us and now to have it right here and taken home to Watertown is very tragic," said town manager Chuck Frigon.
While the circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation, family and friends say they want people to remember him for how he lived his life.
Governor Jodi Rell issued the following statement: "All of us are diminished by the death of this patriotic young man, who gave his life in the service of his country and in a mission to help others, yet all of us are the better because of his devoted service."
The family said they're grateful and overwhelmed by the support they've already received.
A procession of friends and neighbors somberly filed in and out of the family home of Army Pfc. Gebrah P. Noonan on Sunday to pay their respects to a man described as an American patriot.
On Noonan's quiet street in Watertown, tears mixed with laughter as stories of the man described as brilliant, funny, charismatic and open-minded were retold by loved-ones in the shade of the family's whitewashed front porch. Neighbors bearing flowers and baked goods filtered in and out of the home, shared a hug or two, and quietly slipped away.
Ling Noonan, Gebrah's mother, was calm and composed as she talked about her son, who she said joined the Army last October and deployed to Iraq in July.
Donna Gerl Whitlock wrote on Sep 27, 2010 4:57 AM: "Gebrah was always the Kid in the middle, always making everyone laugh, Just so truley sorry for the Entire Noonan Family. G-d bless you all. Our debt for his ultimate sacrafice can never be repaid. Bethlehem Loved him "
He leaves behind his parents, Ling and William, two brothers and a sister.
Army Pfc. Gebrah P. Noonan died 9/24/10 as a result of a non-combat related incident on 9/23/10.
Army Pfc. Gebrah P. Noonan, 26, of Watertown, Conn.
Pfc. Noonan was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.; died Sept. 24, 2010 in Fallujah, Iraq, of injuries sustained Sept. 23 in a non-combat-related incident. Also killed was Spc. John Carillo Jr.
Comments he wrote on his Facebook page within days of his death. He is listed on his FB page as being "widowed."
Gebrah Noonan You keep telling me I've got everything, you say I've got everything I want You keep telling me you're gonna help me, you're gonna help me, but you don't But now I'm in too deep. (September 20, 2010)
Gebrah Noonan Great rulers make for greater glory
The only thing growing is our history
Knock me down I'll get right back up again
I'll come back stronger than a powered up Pac-Man (September 16, 2010)
Gebrah Noonan I just can't get over losing you
So if I seem broken in two
Please walk on by, walk on by
Foolish pride is all that I have left
So let me hide (August 1, 2010)
Gebrah Noonan, an Army private who died Thursday in Iraq, loved good literature and Michael Jackson and had a sense of humor sharp enough to get him voted class clown at Watertown High School.
Noonan, 26, died Thursday in a non-combat incident in Fallujah, about a month after combat operations ended in Iraq. On Sunday, Gov. M. Jodi Rell ordered flags flown at half-staff to honor his memory.
His best friend, Patrick Jacques Jr., who had driven him to the airport to begin basic training about a year ago, remembers Noonan as a lively person as individual as his first name. "Most people knew him as the life of the party," Jacques said. "He never looked for someone to emulate or latch onto — he had his own followers."
Noonan, who would introduce himself as "Gebrah rhymes with zebra," loved reading and was partial to Jack Kerouac and was a big movie buff. He also loved soul music and had more than 4,000 songs on his iPod. On senior dress-up day, he went to school dressed as Michael Jackson.
"One of the best things we'll always remember was his sense of humor," Jacques said. "He had a quick wit. It all comes from his intelligence."
He was patriotic, decisive and a huge football fan, although he would never settle for just one team.
Noonan, who was known for wearing a large Afro in high school, graduated in 2002. He then spent a year at Manhattanville College, took a year off, then attended Fordham University for a year.
Noonan was the second Connecticut soldier to die in Iraq or Afghanistan in the past month. Army National Guard Sgt. Steven Deluzio of South Glastonbury was a member of the Vermont National Guard. He was killed Aug. 22 when insurgents attacked his unit in Afghanistan.
Before he left for Iraq, U.S. Army Pvt. 1st Class Gebrah Noonan put up four flags outside his Watertown home. Now the community is mourning the loss of the 26-year-old 2002 graduate of Watertown High School.
Family and friends described Noonan as a fun loving person who loved the Yankees. They say he would stand up for anyone. His loved ones say he took pride wearing the uniform. "He used his influence for good and really looked out for people," said his sister Shemmy Noonan.
Since learning of his death, flags across the town are were lowered to half-staff.
"It is very sad," said Richard DiFederico, VFW State Commander. "There's no coming back from it and what his family is going through, unless it happens to you it's hard to understand."
The town manager says this is the first soldier from Watertown who has died since both the Iraq and Afghanistan wars began.
"For a war that started out so personally for so many of us and now to have it right here and taken home to Watertown is very tragic," said town manager Chuck Frigon.
While the circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation, family and friends say they want people to remember him for how he lived his life.
Governor Jodi Rell issued the following statement: "All of us are diminished by the death of this patriotic young man, who gave his life in the service of his country and in a mission to help others, yet all of us are the better because of his devoted service."
The family said they're grateful and overwhelmed by the support they've already received.
A procession of friends and neighbors somberly filed in and out of the family home of Army Pfc. Gebrah P. Noonan on Sunday to pay their respects to a man described as an American patriot.
On Noonan's quiet street in Watertown, tears mixed with laughter as stories of the man described as brilliant, funny, charismatic and open-minded were retold by loved-ones in the shade of the family's whitewashed front porch. Neighbors bearing flowers and baked goods filtered in and out of the home, shared a hug or two, and quietly slipped away.
Ling Noonan, Gebrah's mother, was calm and composed as she talked about her son, who she said joined the Army last October and deployed to Iraq in July.
Donna Gerl Whitlock wrote on Sep 27, 2010 4:57 AM: "Gebrah was always the Kid in the middle, always making everyone laugh, Just so truley sorry for the Entire Noonan Family. G-d bless you all. Our debt for his ultimate sacrafice can never be repaid. Bethlehem Loved him "
He leaves behind his parents, Ling and William, two brothers and a sister.
Army Pfc. Gebrah P. Noonan died 9/24/10 as a result of a non-combat related incident on 9/23/10.
Army Pfc. Clinton E. Springer II
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pfc. Clinton E. Springer II, 21, of Sanford, Maine
Pfc. Springer was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), Fort Drum, N.Y.; died Sept. 24, 2010 in Kabul, Afghanistan, in a non-combat-related incident.
FORT DRUM — A 10th Mountain Division infantryman died in Kabul, Afghanistan on Friday. The cause of death is under investigation.
Private First Class Clinton E. Springer II, 21, of Sanford, Maine, came to Fort Drum in July 2009 and was a member of the 2nd Battalion, 22 Infantry Regiment and was on his first deployment.
His unit is part of 1st Brigade, which is expected to return from Afghanistan early next year, a division spokesman said.
Maine Gov. John E. Baldacci announced he will order flags to be flown at half-mast on the day of the soldier's funeral, which has not yet been announced.
A soldier whose father lives in Sanford died last week in Kabul, Afghanistan. Gov. John Baldacci's office says Private First Class Clinton E. Springer II, 21, died on September 24. The circumstances of his death are under review.
Springer was a member of Company C, 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry, stationed at Fort Drum, New York, Baldacci's office says.
"Pfc. Springer died while serving his country. His loss is a terrible tragedy," Baldacci says in a statement. "The military men and women serving in Afghanistan are called upon to complete dangerous missions far from home and family. Each and every one of them is a hero worthy of our respect and gratitude. Our hearts and prayers go out to Pfc. Springer's family and friends during this difficult time."
The governor says he'll order flags flown at half-staff on the day of Pfc. Springer's funeral.
Springer's awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Army said. He had completed the Combat Lifesavers Course this year prior to deployment
Soldier with Cape ties killed in Afghanistan
U.S. Army Spc. Clinton Springer was killed late last week, his tearful mother said this afternoon. There are no details yet of what happened to Springer, but an Army spokesman confirmed his death and said a press release will be going up on the U.S. Department of Defense website later today.
Clint Springer grew up in the Cataumet section of Bourne and attended Bourne High School, reports the Cape Cod Times. He finished high school in New Hampshire, but is still well known in town, his friend, Terean O’Reilly said: “People are just in shock,” she said.
In a brief telephone interview, Kathleen Lumsden of Mashpee said she is saddened by the loss of her son. “He was a fun-loving guy. He was full of life,” said Kathleen Lumsden of Mashpee
The Army said late this afternoon that he died in Kabul, Afghanistan, in a non-combat related incident. The cause of his death remains under investigation.
Springer grew up in the Cataumet section of Bourne and attended Bourne High School. He finished high school in New Hampshire, but is still well known in town, his friend, Terean O'Reilly said. “People are just in shock,” she said.
In a brief telephone interview, Kathleen Lumsden of Mashpee said she is saddened by the loss of her son. “He was a fun-loving guy. He was full of life,” she said.
Springer joined the Army in March 2009, the Army said. After completing training, he arrived at Fort Drum in July 2009.He served as an infantryman with the 2nd Battalion, 22 Infantry Regiment and was deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan with the 1st Brigade Combat Team in January 2010. It was his first deployment.
Family mourns soldier, 21, killed in Afghanistan
A soldier with Cape Cod ties who died in Afghanistan last week was remembered by heartbroken relatives yesterday as someone who always looked to help others.
“He did everything a boy is supposed to do when he turns into a man, and I’m tremendously proud of him,” said Clinton E. Springer, 47, of Sanford, Maine, about his son Army Pfc. Clinton E. Springer II.
Springer, 21, was born in Fall River and lived in Bourne for several years. He died in a non-combat-related incident in Kabul on Friday, the Army reported. The cause of death is under investigation. The elder Springer a retired Navy boiler technician, said he doesn’t know how his son died.
Springer joined the Army in March 2009 and served with the 10th Mountain Division’s 2/22nd Infantry, which deployed to Afghanistan in January.
Eric Springer of Mashpee, 19, described his older brother as “the type of person who would do anything for anybody.”
“He’s going to be missed like crazy,” Eric Springer said.
He said his son researched all of the branches of the military before settling on the Army. "He told me he didn't want to live on a ship," Springer said.
Springer said his son was a go-getter. "If there was an event, he didn't want to just go to it, he wanted to be part of it," he said.
His outgoing nature allowed him to forge many relationships. "He has a few hundred friends. I mean that," his father said.
The soldier told his father that, after finishing his deployment, he wanted to attend the University of North Carolina to pursue a degree in law enforcement.
Clinton E. Springer said he “completely” supported his son’s decision to enlist. “I don’t regret his decision, but it’s a horrible, horrible loss in my heart,” he said
"I'm very proud of him. I don't regret what he did (joining the Army). I just regret the outcome," said Springer, who had just returned home from Dover Air Force Base, Del., where his son's body was taken.
Once the soldier's body has been released to his family, his funeral will be scheduled.
U.S. Sen. Susan Collins said in a statement, "I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of Private First Clinton Springer. We are proud of his selfless service to our nation, and my deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends and loved ones."
Sen. Olympia Snowe, R-Maine, said, "It is with the heaviest of hearts that I convey my most profound condolences to the family and loved ones of Private Springer. My thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time."
U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud said, "I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Private First Class Springer. Hearing of the passing of another soldier with ties to Maine reminds us all of how close the current wars are to our local communities."
"My Dearest Clinton you are so loved by so many !!!!! You have made me so proud. You may be gone from us but no one can ever take away my memories of you. Rest in Peace my son my hero ♥" (Facebook - from his mother)
"RIP Clinton E Springer II...you will be missed and loved by all...you were a great son, brother, friend and soldier!" (FB)
Army Pfc. Clinton E. Springer II was killed in a non-combat related incident on 9/24/10.
Army Pfc. Clinton E. Springer II, 21, of Sanford, Maine
Pfc. Springer was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), Fort Drum, N.Y.; died Sept. 24, 2010 in Kabul, Afghanistan, in a non-combat-related incident.
FORT DRUM — A 10th Mountain Division infantryman died in Kabul, Afghanistan on Friday. The cause of death is under investigation.
Private First Class Clinton E. Springer II, 21, of Sanford, Maine, came to Fort Drum in July 2009 and was a member of the 2nd Battalion, 22 Infantry Regiment and was on his first deployment.
His unit is part of 1st Brigade, which is expected to return from Afghanistan early next year, a division spokesman said.
Maine Gov. John E. Baldacci announced he will order flags to be flown at half-mast on the day of the soldier's funeral, which has not yet been announced.
A soldier whose father lives in Sanford died last week in Kabul, Afghanistan. Gov. John Baldacci's office says Private First Class Clinton E. Springer II, 21, died on September 24. The circumstances of his death are under review.
Springer was a member of Company C, 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry, stationed at Fort Drum, New York, Baldacci's office says.
"Pfc. Springer died while serving his country. His loss is a terrible tragedy," Baldacci says in a statement. "The military men and women serving in Afghanistan are called upon to complete dangerous missions far from home and family. Each and every one of them is a hero worthy of our respect and gratitude. Our hearts and prayers go out to Pfc. Springer's family and friends during this difficult time."
The governor says he'll order flags flown at half-staff on the day of Pfc. Springer's funeral.
Springer's awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Army said. He had completed the Combat Lifesavers Course this year prior to deployment
Soldier with Cape ties killed in Afghanistan
U.S. Army Spc. Clinton Springer was killed late last week, his tearful mother said this afternoon. There are no details yet of what happened to Springer, but an Army spokesman confirmed his death and said a press release will be going up on the U.S. Department of Defense website later today.
Clint Springer grew up in the Cataumet section of Bourne and attended Bourne High School, reports the Cape Cod Times. He finished high school in New Hampshire, but is still well known in town, his friend, Terean O’Reilly said: “People are just in shock,” she said.
In a brief telephone interview, Kathleen Lumsden of Mashpee said she is saddened by the loss of her son. “He was a fun-loving guy. He was full of life,” said Kathleen Lumsden of Mashpee
The Army said late this afternoon that he died in Kabul, Afghanistan, in a non-combat related incident. The cause of his death remains under investigation.
Springer grew up in the Cataumet section of Bourne and attended Bourne High School. He finished high school in New Hampshire, but is still well known in town, his friend, Terean O'Reilly said. “People are just in shock,” she said.
In a brief telephone interview, Kathleen Lumsden of Mashpee said she is saddened by the loss of her son. “He was a fun-loving guy. He was full of life,” she said.
Springer joined the Army in March 2009, the Army said. After completing training, he arrived at Fort Drum in July 2009.He served as an infantryman with the 2nd Battalion, 22 Infantry Regiment and was deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan with the 1st Brigade Combat Team in January 2010. It was his first deployment.
Family mourns soldier, 21, killed in Afghanistan
A soldier with Cape Cod ties who died in Afghanistan last week was remembered by heartbroken relatives yesterday as someone who always looked to help others.
“He did everything a boy is supposed to do when he turns into a man, and I’m tremendously proud of him,” said Clinton E. Springer, 47, of Sanford, Maine, about his son Army Pfc. Clinton E. Springer II.
Springer, 21, was born in Fall River and lived in Bourne for several years. He died in a non-combat-related incident in Kabul on Friday, the Army reported. The cause of death is under investigation. The elder Springer a retired Navy boiler technician, said he doesn’t know how his son died.
Springer joined the Army in March 2009 and served with the 10th Mountain Division’s 2/22nd Infantry, which deployed to Afghanistan in January.
Eric Springer of Mashpee, 19, described his older brother as “the type of person who would do anything for anybody.”
“He’s going to be missed like crazy,” Eric Springer said.
He said his son researched all of the branches of the military before settling on the Army. "He told me he didn't want to live on a ship," Springer said.
Springer said his son was a go-getter. "If there was an event, he didn't want to just go to it, he wanted to be part of it," he said.
His outgoing nature allowed him to forge many relationships. "He has a few hundred friends. I mean that," his father said.
The soldier told his father that, after finishing his deployment, he wanted to attend the University of North Carolina to pursue a degree in law enforcement.
Clinton E. Springer said he “completely” supported his son’s decision to enlist. “I don’t regret his decision, but it’s a horrible, horrible loss in my heart,” he said
"I'm very proud of him. I don't regret what he did (joining the Army). I just regret the outcome," said Springer, who had just returned home from Dover Air Force Base, Del., where his son's body was taken.
Once the soldier's body has been released to his family, his funeral will be scheduled.
U.S. Sen. Susan Collins said in a statement, "I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of Private First Clinton Springer. We are proud of his selfless service to our nation, and my deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends and loved ones."
Sen. Olympia Snowe, R-Maine, said, "It is with the heaviest of hearts that I convey my most profound condolences to the family and loved ones of Private Springer. My thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time."
U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud said, "I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Private First Class Springer. Hearing of the passing of another soldier with ties to Maine reminds us all of how close the current wars are to our local communities."
"My Dearest Clinton you are so loved by so many !!!!! You have made me so proud. You may be gone from us but no one can ever take away my memories of you. Rest in Peace my son my hero ♥" (Facebook - from his mother)
"RIP Clinton E Springer II...you will be missed and loved by all...you were a great son, brother, friend and soldier!" (FB)
Army Pfc. Clinton E. Springer II was killed in a non-combat related incident on 9/24/10.
Army Spc. John J. Carrillo Jr.
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. John Carrillo Jr., 20, of Stockton, Calif.
Spc Carrillo was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga. He died Sept. 24, 2010in Fallujah, Iraq, of injuries sustained Sept. 23 in a non-combat incident.
A U.S. service member is in custody in connection with the shooting deaths of two other service members and the injury of a third in Iraq, the U.S. military said Tuesday. Spc. Neftaly Platero is in pre-trial confinement, the United States Forces -Iraq said. Platero is suspected in the deaths of Spc. John Carrillo Jr., 20, of Stockton, California, and Pfc. Gebrah P. Noonan, 26, of Watertown, Connecticut, the U.S. military said.
Desiree Carillo is the mother of one of the victim's, Spc. John Carrillo Jr., 20, of Stockton. Carrillo died Friday of injuries suffered a day earlier in Fallujah, Iraq, the U.S. Department of Defense announced on Monday. Carrillo said the military only told them of her son's death at 1 a.m. Friday and did not tell them he was possibly killed by another soldier. Family members told KCRA they learned of the details surrounding his death on Monday.
"It was very devastating to find out he was shot by a fellow soldier. (It) is unbelievable. The military should be embarrassed," said Desiree Carrillo.
“Our condolences go out to the families of those service members whose lives were lost. We are saddened by this tragic incident,” said Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Buchanan.
"He was smart. He was funny. He was a good son and a good father," Desiree Carrillo said. "He joined the Army to better his family. He was a young father and he wanted to support his kids."
Family members tell KCRA that this was Carrillo's first deployment and he was last home in late June before deploying to Iraq.
Carrillo had two sons, a 3-year-old and a 3-month-old, with his wife Reylene Carrillo.
Army Spc. John J. Carrillo Jr. died 9/24/10 from a non-combat incident that occurred 9/23/10.
Army Spc. John Carrillo Jr., 20, of Stockton, Calif.
Spc Carrillo was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga. He died Sept. 24, 2010in Fallujah, Iraq, of injuries sustained Sept. 23 in a non-combat incident.
A U.S. service member is in custody in connection with the shooting deaths of two other service members and the injury of a third in Iraq, the U.S. military said Tuesday. Spc. Neftaly Platero is in pre-trial confinement, the United States Forces -Iraq said. Platero is suspected in the deaths of Spc. John Carrillo Jr., 20, of Stockton, California, and Pfc. Gebrah P. Noonan, 26, of Watertown, Connecticut, the U.S. military said.
Desiree Carillo is the mother of one of the victim's, Spc. John Carrillo Jr., 20, of Stockton. Carrillo died Friday of injuries suffered a day earlier in Fallujah, Iraq, the U.S. Department of Defense announced on Monday. Carrillo said the military only told them of her son's death at 1 a.m. Friday and did not tell them he was possibly killed by another soldier. Family members told KCRA they learned of the details surrounding his death on Monday.
"It was very devastating to find out he was shot by a fellow soldier. (It) is unbelievable. The military should be embarrassed," said Desiree Carrillo.
“Our condolences go out to the families of those service members whose lives were lost. We are saddened by this tragic incident,” said Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Buchanan.
"He was smart. He was funny. He was a good son and a good father," Desiree Carrillo said. "He joined the Army to better his family. He was a young father and he wanted to support his kids."
Family members tell KCRA that this was Carrillo's first deployment and he was last home in late June before deploying to Iraq.
Carrillo had two sons, a 3-year-old and a 3-month-old, with his wife Reylene Carrillo.
Army Spc. John J. Carrillo Jr. died 9/24/10 from a non-combat incident that occurred 9/23/10.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Marine Lance Cpl. Anthony J. Rosa
Remember Our Heroes
Marine Lance Cpl. Anthony J. Rosa, 20, of Swanton, Vt.
LCpl. Rosa was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died Sept. 23, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
‘He was shot’ on patrol, family spokesman said
By John Briggs
The Burlington (Vt.) Free Press
Marine Lance Cpl. Anthony “Chuckie” Rosa, 20, of Swanton, Vt., was killed Sept. 23 in Afghanistan, the Defense Department confirmed late Sept. 24.
His death was confirmed earlier Sept. 24 by family friend Bill Rowell, who spoke from the family’s home. Rowell said a Marine, a Vermont state trooper and a city police officer went to the family’s home late Sept. 23 with news of Rosa’s death.
According to the Pentagon, Rosa died while supporting combat operations in Helmand province. Rowell, the family friend, said Rosa was killed while on patrol. “He was shot,” Rowell said.
Rosa was assigned to G Company, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, out of Camp Lejeune, N.C. He left the Marine training facility at Lejeune for Afghanistan several months ago, Rowell said.
Rosa graduated in 2008 from Missisquoi Valley Union High School. Franklin Northwest Supervisory Union Superintendent Jack McCarthy said the school was waiting to learn the family’s wishes before planning a memorial ceremony.
Rosa’s body arrived Sept. 25 at Dover Air Force Base, Del. Rosa said it then would fly on to Vermont in a National Guard plane.
“The Marine delegation will be here this evening to go through the paperwork with us,” Rowell said Sept. 24. “Anthony’s mother asked me to field the calls.”
Rosa is the 39th U.S. service member either from Vermont or with close ties to the state who has died in support of the wars in Iraq and in Afghanistan since March 2003.
Marine Lance Cpl. Anthony J. Rosa was killed in action on 9/23/10.
Marine Lance Cpl. Anthony J. Rosa, 20, of Swanton, Vt.
LCpl. Rosa was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died Sept. 23, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
‘He was shot’ on patrol, family spokesman said
By John Briggs
The Burlington (Vt.) Free Press
Marine Lance Cpl. Anthony “Chuckie” Rosa, 20, of Swanton, Vt., was killed Sept. 23 in Afghanistan, the Defense Department confirmed late Sept. 24.
His death was confirmed earlier Sept. 24 by family friend Bill Rowell, who spoke from the family’s home. Rowell said a Marine, a Vermont state trooper and a city police officer went to the family’s home late Sept. 23 with news of Rosa’s death.
According to the Pentagon, Rosa died while supporting combat operations in Helmand province. Rowell, the family friend, said Rosa was killed while on patrol. “He was shot,” Rowell said.
Rosa was assigned to G Company, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, out of Camp Lejeune, N.C. He left the Marine training facility at Lejeune for Afghanistan several months ago, Rowell said.
Rosa graduated in 2008 from Missisquoi Valley Union High School. Franklin Northwest Supervisory Union Superintendent Jack McCarthy said the school was waiting to learn the family’s wishes before planning a memorial ceremony.
Rosa’s body arrived Sept. 25 at Dover Air Force Base, Del. Rosa said it then would fly on to Vermont in a National Guard plane.
“The Marine delegation will be here this evening to go through the paperwork with us,” Rowell said Sept. 24. “Anthony’s mother asked me to field the calls.”
Rosa is the 39th U.S. service member either from Vermont or with close ties to the state who has died in support of the wars in Iraq and in Afghanistan since March 2003.
Marine Lance Cpl. Anthony J. Rosa was killed in action on 9/23/10.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Air Force Senior Airman Michael J. Buras
Remember Our Heroes
Air Force Senior Airman Michael J. Buras, 23, of Fitzgerald, Ga.
SAr Buras was assigned to the 99th Civil Engineer Squadron, Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.; died Sept. 21, 2010 of wounds suffered as the result of an improvised explosive device detonation in Kandahar, Afghanistan.
A Fitzgerald family is mourning the death of a military family member tonight.
23 year old Michael Buras, a Senior Airman with Airforce was killed in a possible explosion yesterday.
It's the type of news no one is prepared for. "His dad called me yesterday morning from California and told me that Michael was gone," said his aunt Terri Sumner.
"They always say God takes the good ones first," said his grandmother Olive Butrica.
Family members found out Tuesday that 23-year old Michael Buras was killed in Afghanistan. He was traveling down the road in a convoy, when something hit his truck. "I understand there were only three in the truck, the other two were injured but unfortunately Mike didn't make it," said his grandmother.
Michael worked as a demolition specialist and worked on dismantling bombs. His family members say they realized the danger of his career but supported him 100 percent. "We were a little worried, but that's what he wanted to do," said his grandmother.
Family members last saw Michael in July, right before he left for Afghanistan for the third time. "When I talked to him, he was actually taxiing down the runway and he said I'm leaving and that's the last time I said goodbye," said his grandmother.
But its not the first time he's been in an accident overseas. During his last tour he was injured in an explosion and awarded a purple heart.
But that didn't stop Michael from going back, even though family members wish it did. "I'm proud of him but I don't think they should have ever sent him back after he got wounded," said his grandfather Irv Butrica.
Michael's unexpected and sudden loss is touching the community too.Today Coach Vaughn made an emotional announcement in honor of Michael over the intercom at Fitzgerald high school. Something he hoped would touch the lives of others. "I made that step to recognize him and what he did, I never had the chance to do so without question I respect that more than anything," he said.
Just as Michael touched his own.
Michael Buras was stationed in Las Vegas, and left behind a one year old daughter.
His mother and father are in the process of bringing his body back to Fitzgerald, where they plan to have a ceremony in his honor.
Family members say Airman Buras will likely be buried in Atlanta.
"Our sincere condolences go out to the family, friends, and fellow Airmen affected by the loss of Airman Buras in Afghanistan," said Lt. Col. Mark McCloud, 99th Civil Engineer Squadron commander. "Airman Buras was a dedicated professional and a true patriot and he will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers are also with our other two Airmen who were injured and are receiving care in the AOR."
Air Force Senior Airman Michael J. Buras was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Air Force Senior Airman Michael J. Buras, 23, of Fitzgerald, Ga.
SAr Buras was assigned to the 99th Civil Engineer Squadron, Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.; died Sept. 21, 2010 of wounds suffered as the result of an improvised explosive device detonation in Kandahar, Afghanistan.
A Fitzgerald family is mourning the death of a military family member tonight.
23 year old Michael Buras, a Senior Airman with Airforce was killed in a possible explosion yesterday.
It's the type of news no one is prepared for. "His dad called me yesterday morning from California and told me that Michael was gone," said his aunt Terri Sumner.
"They always say God takes the good ones first," said his grandmother Olive Butrica.
Family members found out Tuesday that 23-year old Michael Buras was killed in Afghanistan. He was traveling down the road in a convoy, when something hit his truck. "I understand there were only three in the truck, the other two were injured but unfortunately Mike didn't make it," said his grandmother.
Michael worked as a demolition specialist and worked on dismantling bombs. His family members say they realized the danger of his career but supported him 100 percent. "We were a little worried, but that's what he wanted to do," said his grandmother.
Family members last saw Michael in July, right before he left for Afghanistan for the third time. "When I talked to him, he was actually taxiing down the runway and he said I'm leaving and that's the last time I said goodbye," said his grandmother.
But its not the first time he's been in an accident overseas. During his last tour he was injured in an explosion and awarded a purple heart.
But that didn't stop Michael from going back, even though family members wish it did. "I'm proud of him but I don't think they should have ever sent him back after he got wounded," said his grandfather Irv Butrica.
Michael's unexpected and sudden loss is touching the community too.Today Coach Vaughn made an emotional announcement in honor of Michael over the intercom at Fitzgerald high school. Something he hoped would touch the lives of others. "I made that step to recognize him and what he did, I never had the chance to do so without question I respect that more than anything," he said.
Just as Michael touched his own.
Michael Buras was stationed in Las Vegas, and left behind a one year old daughter.
His mother and father are in the process of bringing his body back to Fitzgerald, where they plan to have a ceremony in his honor.
Family members say Airman Buras will likely be buried in Atlanta.
"Our sincere condolences go out to the family, friends, and fellow Airmen affected by the loss of Airman Buras in Afghanistan," said Lt. Col. Mark McCloud, 99th Civil Engineer Squadron commander. "Airman Buras was a dedicated professional and a true patriot and he will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers are also with our other two Airmen who were injured and are receiving care in the AOR."
Air Force Senior Airman Michael J. Buras was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff
Remember Our Heroes
Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff, 34, of Orem, Utah
CWO3 was assigned to 5th Battalion, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in Zabul province, Afgha, 2010nistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, and Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith.
An Orem family is grieving the loss of a son who died this week in Afghanistan.
Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff, of Orem, was killed Tuesday during his work with Operation Enduring Freedom. Family friend Kelvin Brock said Wagstaff was a big and burly former football player, but he was a teddy bear.
"Matt was actually kind of quiet, reserved," Brock said.
Wagstaff, 34, played football at Orem High School before attending and graduating from Utah State University. He was in the Army for nearly 10 years, and joined for his love of flying.
"Matt was really interested in becoming a helicopter pilot," Brock said.
During his time in the Army, Wagstaff served three tours of duty, including one in Iraq and two in Afghanistan. Brock said Wagstaff was in more of an administrative role at first, so he was excited to be flying in his latest tour, which he left for in March. In January, Wagstaff married his wife, Tiffany, and intended to take her on a honeymoon when he came home for a short leave next month.
According to a 2007 article in the Barstow Desert Dispatch, Wagstaff was one of several pilots who flew Black Hawk helicopters through Los Angeles for scenes in the "Transformers" movie. Brock said Wagstaff enjoyed his involvement in the movie, though only a glimpse of him could be seen on the screen.
"That was a fun little factoid that he enjoyed sharing with people," he said.
Brock said Wagstaff loved motorcycles and had a Harley-Davidson that he liked to ride, but what made him the happiest was to spend time with his family. He said Wagstaff's family is upset by his death, but comforted that he died an honorable man who was doing what he loved.
"They're devastated at his loss, but at the same time proud of his service," Brock said.
Funeral arrangements for Wagstaff are pending. His family released a statement through Brock, thanking the public for their support.
"We appreciate the support and concern expressed by our family, friends, neighbors and community during this difficult time," the family said. "Matt died doing what he loved to do -- and that was to fly. He was a tremendous husband, son, brother and uncle, and he served his country well."
Wagstaff was a Black Hawk pilot with the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). According to Fort Campbell media relations officer Rick Rzepka, Wagstaff was deployed to Afghanistan in March.
Rzepka said Wagstaff was one of nine NATO troops killed Tuesday in a helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan. He said five of the nine people killed were from the 101st Division. The four other members of the 101st Division killed were Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, 39, of Muscatine, Iowa; Chief Warrant Officer Jonah D. McClellan, 26, of St. Louis Park, Minnesota; Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, 25, of Pleasant Plains, Illinois; and Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., 23, of Elkhart, Indiana, according to a news release from the Department of Defense.
Baldwin was assigned to the brigade headquarters; Wagstaff, McClellan and Calhoun were assigned to the 5th Battalion; and Powell was assigned to the 6th Battalion, according to the release.
Rzepka said the losses are difficult, but they are not uncommon for the 101st. He said the division has been at the spearhead of nearly every major conflict since World War II and was the longest serving unit in Vietnam.
"This division serves one purpose, and that's to engage the enemy in combat," he said.
He said the troops in the 101st are the best in the Army and are highly skilled.
Wagstaff's body was transferred to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware Wednesday.
Governor Gary Herbert issued a statement Wednesday afternoon extending his sympathy to Wagstaff's family.
"Jeanette and I extend our sincere condolences to the family of Chief Warrant Officer Matthew Wagstaff," he said in the statement. "This young man placed service above self as he sought to bring peace and stability to a troubled land."
The nine NATO soldiers killed Tuesday morning in a helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan make 2010 the deadliest year for the U.S.-led international force in Afghanistan.
Another NATO service member, an Afghan soldier and an American civilian were wounded in the crash, the military said in a statement.
The helicopter crashed in the Diachopan district of Zabul province, provincial spokesman Mohammad Jan Rasoulyar told The Washington Post. Rasoulyar told the newspaper that the Taliban took responsibility for downing the helicopter, but he added that there is no evidence to support that claim.
NATO said the cause of the crash is under investigation but noted there were "no reports of enemy fire in the area," the Post reported.
The crash on Tuesday raised the toll of NATO troops killed in Afghanistan so far this year to 529, according to a tally kept by icasualties.org, the Post reported. Last year 521 NATO troops died in Afghanistan.
The incident appeared to be the deadliest NATO aircraft crash in Afghanistan since the Oct. 26 Chinook crash in western Badghis province, which killed seven U.S. service members and three Drug Enforcement Administration agents, the Post reported.
Wagstaff is survived by his wife, Tiffany A. Wagstaff of Clarksville; and parents Ronald and Suzanne Wagstaff of Orem, Utah.
Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff, 34, of Orem, Utah
CWO3 was assigned to 5th Battalion, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in Zabul province, Afgha, 2010nistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, and Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith.
An Orem family is grieving the loss of a son who died this week in Afghanistan.
Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff, of Orem, was killed Tuesday during his work with Operation Enduring Freedom. Family friend Kelvin Brock said Wagstaff was a big and burly former football player, but he was a teddy bear.
"Matt was actually kind of quiet, reserved," Brock said.
Wagstaff, 34, played football at Orem High School before attending and graduating from Utah State University. He was in the Army for nearly 10 years, and joined for his love of flying.
"Matt was really interested in becoming a helicopter pilot," Brock said.
During his time in the Army, Wagstaff served three tours of duty, including one in Iraq and two in Afghanistan. Brock said Wagstaff was in more of an administrative role at first, so he was excited to be flying in his latest tour, which he left for in March. In January, Wagstaff married his wife, Tiffany, and intended to take her on a honeymoon when he came home for a short leave next month.
According to a 2007 article in the Barstow Desert Dispatch, Wagstaff was one of several pilots who flew Black Hawk helicopters through Los Angeles for scenes in the "Transformers" movie. Brock said Wagstaff enjoyed his involvement in the movie, though only a glimpse of him could be seen on the screen.
"That was a fun little factoid that he enjoyed sharing with people," he said.
Brock said Wagstaff loved motorcycles and had a Harley-Davidson that he liked to ride, but what made him the happiest was to spend time with his family. He said Wagstaff's family is upset by his death, but comforted that he died an honorable man who was doing what he loved.
"They're devastated at his loss, but at the same time proud of his service," Brock said.
Funeral arrangements for Wagstaff are pending. His family released a statement through Brock, thanking the public for their support.
"We appreciate the support and concern expressed by our family, friends, neighbors and community during this difficult time," the family said. "Matt died doing what he loved to do -- and that was to fly. He was a tremendous husband, son, brother and uncle, and he served his country well."
Wagstaff was a Black Hawk pilot with the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). According to Fort Campbell media relations officer Rick Rzepka, Wagstaff was deployed to Afghanistan in March.
Rzepka said Wagstaff was one of nine NATO troops killed Tuesday in a helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan. He said five of the nine people killed were from the 101st Division. The four other members of the 101st Division killed were Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, 39, of Muscatine, Iowa; Chief Warrant Officer Jonah D. McClellan, 26, of St. Louis Park, Minnesota; Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, 25, of Pleasant Plains, Illinois; and Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., 23, of Elkhart, Indiana, according to a news release from the Department of Defense.
Baldwin was assigned to the brigade headquarters; Wagstaff, McClellan and Calhoun were assigned to the 5th Battalion; and Powell was assigned to the 6th Battalion, according to the release.
Rzepka said the losses are difficult, but they are not uncommon for the 101st. He said the division has been at the spearhead of nearly every major conflict since World War II and was the longest serving unit in Vietnam.
"This division serves one purpose, and that's to engage the enemy in combat," he said.
He said the troops in the 101st are the best in the Army and are highly skilled.
Wagstaff's body was transferred to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware Wednesday.
Governor Gary Herbert issued a statement Wednesday afternoon extending his sympathy to Wagstaff's family.
"Jeanette and I extend our sincere condolences to the family of Chief Warrant Officer Matthew Wagstaff," he said in the statement. "This young man placed service above self as he sought to bring peace and stability to a troubled land."
The nine NATO soldiers killed Tuesday morning in a helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan make 2010 the deadliest year for the U.S.-led international force in Afghanistan.
Another NATO service member, an Afghan soldier and an American civilian were wounded in the crash, the military said in a statement.
The helicopter crashed in the Diachopan district of Zabul province, provincial spokesman Mohammad Jan Rasoulyar told The Washington Post. Rasoulyar told the newspaper that the Taliban took responsibility for downing the helicopter, but he added that there is no evidence to support that claim.
NATO said the cause of the crash is under investigation but noted there were "no reports of enemy fire in the area," the Post reported.
The crash on Tuesday raised the toll of NATO troops killed in Afghanistan so far this year to 529, according to a tally kept by icasualties.org, the Post reported. Last year 521 NATO troops died in Afghanistan.
The incident appeared to be the deadliest NATO aircraft crash in Afghanistan since the Oct. 26 Chinook crash in western Badghis province, which killed seven U.S. service members and three Drug Enforcement Administration agents, the Post reported.
Wagstaff is survived by his wife, Tiffany A. Wagstaff of Clarksville; and parents Ronald and Suzanne Wagstaff of Orem, Utah.
Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell
Remember Our Heroes
Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, 25, of Pleasant Plains, Ill.
SSgt Powell was assigned to the 6th Battalion, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Staff Sgt. Josh Powell’s devotion to his country started long before the 25-year-old Pleasant Plains native joined the U.S. Army.
“Even as a little boy, he was extremely patriotic. During (Operation) Desert Storm, he was very involved in wanting to know what was going on. As a really small child, he was constantly calling me in to see what was on the news versus watching cartoons,” his mother, Susan Needham of Pleasant Plains, said Wednesday.
Powell was serving with the 101st Airborne based at Fort Campbell, Ky. It was his third deployment and second stint in Afghanistan.
“He always said that if he were going to pass on, that’s how he wanted to go – doing what he believed in and fighting for the freedom of his country,” Susan Needham said.
No second-guessing career
That wish is what helps his relatives cope with their grief.
“He made a decision early on that this was going to be his career. There was no second-guessing whatsoever,” his father, David Powell of Springfield, said. “He loved the Army.”
Powell grew up in the Pleasant Plains area and attended Plains schools, graduating from Pleasant Plains High School in 2003.
Josh Powell started talking about a military career in high school, his parents said, and entered basic training for the Illinois National Guard after graduation. He then attended college at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.
About two years into his college career, he changed course, Susan Needham said.
“He called me up and said, ‘Mom, you’re going to be mad at me. … I want to quit college and go into the military full-time.’ I said, ‘Why would I be mad at you for that?’ because I’d always known that’s what had been in his heart.”
David Powell recalled a similar conversation.
“It made me nervous doing what he did. It was always a worry, but as a parent, you have to let your kids do what they want to do, and that’s what he wanted,” he said.
David Powell said his son was assigned to the 101st Airborne medical evacuation unit at Fort Campbell and served as a helicopter crew chief when he was deployed to Iraq.
He said the experience matured his son and gave him a great sense of purpose and discipline.
Transfer to air assault
After Iraq, Powell transferred to an air assault unit and was deployed to Afghanistan as a crew chief. During his most recent deployment, he had been promoted to an instructor position that involved training soldiers in the helicopters.
Doug Needham said Powell was relieved the promotion didn’t take him out of the action.
He spent most of his time in a Blackhawk helicopter, and his family said he loved to fly. He also rarely took advantage of his own leave time, giving it to other soldiers who are married or have children.
“He would give up his leave at Christmas time so they could go home and be with their families,” Susan Needham said.
His family said he was modest about his own accomplishments, downplaying a medal he received after he helped rescue a soldier injured by an improvised explosive device.
“He did not want to be seen as a hero,” Travis Powell said. “He just always thought, ‘Well, this is my job.’”
Josh Powell’s girlfriend, Rebecca Elschoff of Chatham, kept in contact with Powell through instant messaging and Skype telephone service. She said he never complained about his circumstances, except to occasionally gripe about the food.
Elschoff last talked to Powell Sunday night and he was in good spirits.
‘Just be careful’
David Powell said his son had sent an e-mail indicating he’d be flying with Navy Seals this week. “I said, ‘Just be careful.’ And he said, ‘I always am,’” David Powell said.
He added that he heard about the helicopter crash early Tuesday but didn’t know if his son was involved.
“I just had a bad feeling all day,” David Powell said. “I called Travis right away and left a voice mail if he heard anything. I sent (Josh Powell) an email, ‘Are you OK?’ and usually I hear back from him right away.”
In the meantime, the Army had started to notify the family, arriving at the Needhams’ home first.
Susan Needham, who works for the Springfield FBI office, said she was at the bureau’s facility in Quantico, Va., at the time. She credited her employer with going to great lengths to get her home Tuesday night. Since she’s been home, Susan Needham said the outpouring of support has been “unbelievable.”
Family members say Josh wouldn’t have wanted the attention. “He was so unselfish with what he gave to his country, and we want to honor him,” Susan Needham said.
Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, 25, of Pleasant Plains, Ill.
SSgt Powell was assigned to the 6th Battalion, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Staff Sgt. Josh Powell’s devotion to his country started long before the 25-year-old Pleasant Plains native joined the U.S. Army.
“Even as a little boy, he was extremely patriotic. During (Operation) Desert Storm, he was very involved in wanting to know what was going on. As a really small child, he was constantly calling me in to see what was on the news versus watching cartoons,” his mother, Susan Needham of Pleasant Plains, said Wednesday.
Powell was serving with the 101st Airborne based at Fort Campbell, Ky. It was his third deployment and second stint in Afghanistan.
“He always said that if he were going to pass on, that’s how he wanted to go – doing what he believed in and fighting for the freedom of his country,” Susan Needham said.
No second-guessing career
That wish is what helps his relatives cope with their grief.
“He made a decision early on that this was going to be his career. There was no second-guessing whatsoever,” his father, David Powell of Springfield, said. “He loved the Army.”
Powell grew up in the Pleasant Plains area and attended Plains schools, graduating from Pleasant Plains High School in 2003.
Josh Powell started talking about a military career in high school, his parents said, and entered basic training for the Illinois National Guard after graduation. He then attended college at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.
About two years into his college career, he changed course, Susan Needham said.
“He called me up and said, ‘Mom, you’re going to be mad at me. … I want to quit college and go into the military full-time.’ I said, ‘Why would I be mad at you for that?’ because I’d always known that’s what had been in his heart.”
David Powell recalled a similar conversation.
“It made me nervous doing what he did. It was always a worry, but as a parent, you have to let your kids do what they want to do, and that’s what he wanted,” he said.
David Powell said his son was assigned to the 101st Airborne medical evacuation unit at Fort Campbell and served as a helicopter crew chief when he was deployed to Iraq.
He said the experience matured his son and gave him a great sense of purpose and discipline.
Transfer to air assault
After Iraq, Powell transferred to an air assault unit and was deployed to Afghanistan as a crew chief. During his most recent deployment, he had been promoted to an instructor position that involved training soldiers in the helicopters.
Doug Needham said Powell was relieved the promotion didn’t take him out of the action.
He spent most of his time in a Blackhawk helicopter, and his family said he loved to fly. He also rarely took advantage of his own leave time, giving it to other soldiers who are married or have children.
“He would give up his leave at Christmas time so they could go home and be with their families,” Susan Needham said.
His family said he was modest about his own accomplishments, downplaying a medal he received after he helped rescue a soldier injured by an improvised explosive device.
“He did not want to be seen as a hero,” Travis Powell said. “He just always thought, ‘Well, this is my job.’”
Josh Powell’s girlfriend, Rebecca Elschoff of Chatham, kept in contact with Powell through instant messaging and Skype telephone service. She said he never complained about his circumstances, except to occasionally gripe about the food.
Elschoff last talked to Powell Sunday night and he was in good spirits.
‘Just be careful’
David Powell said his son had sent an e-mail indicating he’d be flying with Navy Seals this week. “I said, ‘Just be careful.’ And he said, ‘I always am,’” David Powell said.
He added that he heard about the helicopter crash early Tuesday but didn’t know if his son was involved.
“I just had a bad feeling all day,” David Powell said. “I called Travis right away and left a voice mail if he heard anything. I sent (Josh Powell) an email, ‘Are you OK?’ and usually I hear back from him right away.”
In the meantime, the Army had started to notify the family, arriving at the Needhams’ home first.
Susan Needham, who works for the Springfield FBI office, said she was at the bureau’s facility in Quantico, Va., at the time. She credited her employer with going to great lengths to get her home Tuesday night. Since she’s been home, Susan Needham said the outpouring of support has been “unbelievable.”
Family members say Josh wouldn’t have wanted the attention. “He was so unselfish with what he gave to his country, and we want to honor him,” Susan Needham said.
Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin
Remember Our Heroes
Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, 39, of Muscatine, Iowa
Maj. Baldwin was assigned to the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk a helicopter crash during combat operations in Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Maj. Robert Francis Baldwin, 37, of New Boston, Ill. Baldwin entered the Army in February 1994 and arrived at Fort Campbell in January 2007. Baldwin was an Aviation Liaison Officer assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company.
Robert Baldwin will never take his youngest son deer hunting in Eliza Township the way his father hunted with him in the Illinois countryside.
Baldwin, 39, a major with the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division from Fort Campbell, Ky., died Tuesday in a helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan. Eight other American troops were killed in a helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan, the military said Wednesday.
The crash was the worst coalition helicopter crash in Afghanistan in four years. The cause was not immediately known.
“He was a young major,” Eliza Township Supervisor Dick Nash said Thursday of Baldwin. “He was an up-and-comer in the military. This was his third or fourth tour in this war.”
Baldwin — the son of Cheryl and Gary Baldwin of Eliza Township — graduated from Western Illinois University in 1993 with a bachelor’s degree in industrial technology and a minor in military science. He was a member of Western’s Reserve Officers Training Corps, or ROTC, and was commissioned a second lieutenant in December 1993. He entered the Army in February 1994.
“I guess becoming a soldier came naturally to Rob,” Amy Saddoris, 43, a friend of his parents, said. “Rob comes from a family of soldiers. His grandfather was a WWII veteran, and his dad was a Vietnam veteran. His parents are very proud of him.”
Nash, 63, is a Vietnam veteran who enjoyed talking with Baldwin when he visited Eliza Township. Nash, who served in the U.S. Army in the late 1960s as a first lieutenant, is a member of the Eliza American Legion. Its members pay dues for the area’s active-duty residents, he said, but paying Baldwin’s wasn’t a simple matter.
“He’d always send a check in for his dues,” he said. “And we’d always send it back. He wanted to pay his own way, but we wouldn’t let him.”
Nash asked that flags on township properties be flown at half-staff. “I would urge anyone in the township who flies a flag to fly theirs (that way) too for the next two weeks or past the day of the funeral,” Nash said.
Vickie Fitchner, owner of Eliza Kountry Kafe, has known Baldwin since he was a teenager. She remembered him as a quiet young man who appeared very sleepy when he joined his dad and their friends for breakfast at her cafe.
“They did a lot of deer hunting,” Fitchner, 44, said. “They’d come in here early in the morning.”
Baldwin originally was identified as being from Muscatine, but that later was corrected to New Boston, Ill.
Fitchner said the confusion likely stemmed from the fact that Eliza Township was listed as a Muscatine address until about four or five years ago.
Saddoris said Baldwin and his wife, Danielle Rausch Baldwin, have two sons and two daughters. Their youngest son was born earlier this year.
“Robert only had a few weeks with him before he was deployed the last time,” Saddoris said.
Nash said support for the Baldwin family among the township’s approximately 400 residents will continue.
“The Eliza Lions Club met Wednesday, and within the first few minutes, they had donated $500 for a memorial for Rob,” Nash said. “We’ll do anything we can to soften the blow even though we know we certainly can’t. Time becomes your friend in these sort of things.”
Baldwin is survived by his wife, Danielle M. Baldwin; daughters Rachel and Meaghan Baldwin; and sons Keegan and Patrick Baldwin, all of Clarksville. He is also survived by parents Gary and Cheryl Baldwin of New Boston, Ill.
Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, 39, of Muscatine, Iowa
Maj. Baldwin was assigned to the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk a helicopter crash during combat operations in Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Maj. Robert Francis Baldwin, 37, of New Boston, Ill. Baldwin entered the Army in February 1994 and arrived at Fort Campbell in January 2007. Baldwin was an Aviation Liaison Officer assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company.
Robert Baldwin will never take his youngest son deer hunting in Eliza Township the way his father hunted with him in the Illinois countryside.
Baldwin, 39, a major with the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division from Fort Campbell, Ky., died Tuesday in a helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan. Eight other American troops were killed in a helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan, the military said Wednesday.
The crash was the worst coalition helicopter crash in Afghanistan in four years. The cause was not immediately known.
“He was a young major,” Eliza Township Supervisor Dick Nash said Thursday of Baldwin. “He was an up-and-comer in the military. This was his third or fourth tour in this war.”
Baldwin — the son of Cheryl and Gary Baldwin of Eliza Township — graduated from Western Illinois University in 1993 with a bachelor’s degree in industrial technology and a minor in military science. He was a member of Western’s Reserve Officers Training Corps, or ROTC, and was commissioned a second lieutenant in December 1993. He entered the Army in February 1994.
“I guess becoming a soldier came naturally to Rob,” Amy Saddoris, 43, a friend of his parents, said. “Rob comes from a family of soldiers. His grandfather was a WWII veteran, and his dad was a Vietnam veteran. His parents are very proud of him.”
Nash, 63, is a Vietnam veteran who enjoyed talking with Baldwin when he visited Eliza Township. Nash, who served in the U.S. Army in the late 1960s as a first lieutenant, is a member of the Eliza American Legion. Its members pay dues for the area’s active-duty residents, he said, but paying Baldwin’s wasn’t a simple matter.
“He’d always send a check in for his dues,” he said. “And we’d always send it back. He wanted to pay his own way, but we wouldn’t let him.”
Nash asked that flags on township properties be flown at half-staff. “I would urge anyone in the township who flies a flag to fly theirs (that way) too for the next two weeks or past the day of the funeral,” Nash said.
Vickie Fitchner, owner of Eliza Kountry Kafe, has known Baldwin since he was a teenager. She remembered him as a quiet young man who appeared very sleepy when he joined his dad and their friends for breakfast at her cafe.
“They did a lot of deer hunting,” Fitchner, 44, said. “They’d come in here early in the morning.”
Baldwin originally was identified as being from Muscatine, but that later was corrected to New Boston, Ill.
Fitchner said the confusion likely stemmed from the fact that Eliza Township was listed as a Muscatine address until about four or five years ago.
Saddoris said Baldwin and his wife, Danielle Rausch Baldwin, have two sons and two daughters. Their youngest son was born earlier this year.
“Robert only had a few weeks with him before he was deployed the last time,” Saddoris said.
Nash said support for the Baldwin family among the township’s approximately 400 residents will continue.
“The Eliza Lions Club met Wednesday, and within the first few minutes, they had donated $500 for a memorial for Rob,” Nash said. “We’ll do anything we can to soften the blow even though we know we certainly can’t. Time becomes your friend in these sort of things.”
Baldwin is survived by his wife, Danielle M. Baldwin; daughters Rachel and Meaghan Baldwin; and sons Keegan and Patrick Baldwin, all of Clarksville. He is also survived by parents Gary and Cheryl Baldwin of New Boston, Ill.
Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda
Remember Our Heroes
Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, 24, of Toms River, N.J.
PO3 Miranda was assigned to an East Coast-based SEAL Team; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in the Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Was key member of high school swim team
By Matthew McGrath
Asbury Park (N.J.) Press
TOMS RIVER, N.J. — A Toms River High School East graduate who later became a Navy SEAL was among nine American troops killed in a Sept. 21 military helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Denis Miranda was one of four sailors killed in the crash in the Zabul province, Defense Department officials said. Five soldiers also died.
Miranda graduated from High School East in 2003. He was a member of the school swim team. During his sophomore year in 2001, Miranda was picked by the Asbury Park Press as a key newcomer to the team. In 2002, he was picked as a key returning swimmer.
“He was one of the guys that helped me out when I took over the swimming program,” said Brian Carbone, High School East swim coach. “When I needed something done he would round up the kids. He was one of the more vocal swimmers.”
Miranda enlisted in the Navy on Sept. 10, 2003. Before becoming a SEAL in 2007, he served at Patrol Squadron 8 in Jacksonville, Fla.
Carbone said he got to know Miranda better after he enlisted. Miranda would follow his two younger brothers, Alan and Kevin, through their swimming careers.
“He had a real passion, and I was happy to see that,” Carbone said. “You could see that he was very focused. He had his goals.”
Military officials have not disclosed the helicopter’s mission, and the cause of the crash was not immediately clear.
NATO said there were no reports of enemy fire in the early morning hours in the Daychopan district of Zabul, where the crash took place.
Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, 24, of Toms River, N.J.
PO3 Miranda was assigned to an East Coast-based SEAL Team; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in the Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Was key member of high school swim team
By Matthew McGrath
Asbury Park (N.J.) Press
TOMS RIVER, N.J. — A Toms River High School East graduate who later became a Navy SEAL was among nine American troops killed in a Sept. 21 military helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Denis Miranda was one of four sailors killed in the crash in the Zabul province, Defense Department officials said. Five soldiers also died.
Miranda graduated from High School East in 2003. He was a member of the school swim team. During his sophomore year in 2001, Miranda was picked by the Asbury Park Press as a key newcomer to the team. In 2002, he was picked as a key returning swimmer.
“He was one of the guys that helped me out when I took over the swimming program,” said Brian Carbone, High School East swim coach. “When I needed something done he would round up the kids. He was one of the more vocal swimmers.”
Miranda enlisted in the Navy on Sept. 10, 2003. Before becoming a SEAL in 2007, he served at Patrol Squadron 8 in Jacksonville, Fla.
Carbone said he got to know Miranda better after he enlisted. Miranda would follow his two younger brothers, Alan and Kevin, through their swimming careers.
“He had a real passion, and I was happy to see that,” Carbone said. “You could see that he was very focused. He had his goals.”
Military officials have not disclosed the helicopter’s mission, and the cause of the crash was not immediately clear.
NATO said there were no reports of enemy fire in the early morning hours in the Daychopan district of Zabul, where the crash took place.
Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Navy Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon
Remember Our Heroes
Navy Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, 30, of Thomasville, Ga.
Navy Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon was assigned to an East Coast-based Naval Special Warfare unit; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in the Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Family members say a 30-year-old Navy man was among those killed in the crash of a military helicopter in southern Afghanistan.
Kelly Lockman said Wednesday that her brother, David Blake McLendon, was one of the servicemen killed in the crash Tuesday morning in the Daychopan district of Zabul province.
The U.S. military has not disclosed the helicopter's mission, and the cause of the crash is not clear.
"On behalf of the entire Naval Special Warfare community -- we extend our sincerest condolences to all the families of our fallen brothers, our Navy SEALs and support tech, Army air crewmen, and coalition personnel," said Rear Adm. Edward Winters, commander, Naval Special Warfare Command. "Our prayers are with these families during this very difficult time."
McLendon was a Navy cryptologic technician assigned to an east coast Naval Special Warfare unit. He entered the Navy in 1998 and was a graduate of Thomas County Central High School in Georgia. During his 12-year Navy career, McLendon served at various Navy commands in Norfolk, Pearl Harbor, and Brunswick, Maine. His fellow service members said they remember McLendon as a consummate Navy professional.
"These men bravely and unselfishly answered the nation's call to defend freedom and protect the nation and its allies from terrorism," said Rear Adm. Winters. "The loss of these brave warriors will only strengthen our resolve in the fight against extremism and terror."
Lockman said her brother, a 1998 graduate of Thomas County Central High School, was a senior chief in Naval Special Warfare stationed in Little Creek. She says he trained with a Navy SEAL team but was not serving as a SEAL.
She says a military chaplain informed the family of McLendon's death on Tuesday.
"He loved to go fishing," Lockman said of her brother, who went by his middle name.
She said that when he came home in June, he went fishing with family and friends and went to Turner Field in Atlanta to see a Braves game. "It was the first time he'd been there," she said.
The body was to arrive Wednesday at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware, family members said.
Brian Bass, a close friend, said there was never a dull moment when McLendon was around. “He was just a joy to be around, the funniest guy ever, guaranteed to put a smile on your face,” Bass said.
Bass’ stepsister, Jessie Winkelman, described McLendon as “a good kid.” Winkelman recalled McLendon “hanging out” with her sibling.
McLendon’s former sister-in-law, Meredith Harper, said McLendon loved children and his family. “He loved what he did,” Harper said.
Late Tuesday afternoon, she had not told her son, Harper McLendon, about his uncle’s death. She knows she must. “He looked up to Blake and everything he did and adored Blake,” Harper said.
McLendon, 30, had deployed previously to the Middle East, but hadn’t been in Afghanistan long this time, Lockman said. He arrived less than a month ago.
McLendon, who went by Blake, was a 1998 graduate of Thomas County Central High School. He entered the Navy after graduation, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. He was a cryptologic technician who worked with SEAL teams and was stationed at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek.
Navy Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Navy Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, 30, of Thomasville, Ga.
Navy Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon was assigned to an East Coast-based Naval Special Warfare unit; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in the Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Family members say a 30-year-old Navy man was among those killed in the crash of a military helicopter in southern Afghanistan.
Kelly Lockman said Wednesday that her brother, David Blake McLendon, was one of the servicemen killed in the crash Tuesday morning in the Daychopan district of Zabul province.
The U.S. military has not disclosed the helicopter's mission, and the cause of the crash is not clear.
"On behalf of the entire Naval Special Warfare community -- we extend our sincerest condolences to all the families of our fallen brothers, our Navy SEALs and support tech, Army air crewmen, and coalition personnel," said Rear Adm. Edward Winters, commander, Naval Special Warfare Command. "Our prayers are with these families during this very difficult time."
McLendon was a Navy cryptologic technician assigned to an east coast Naval Special Warfare unit. He entered the Navy in 1998 and was a graduate of Thomas County Central High School in Georgia. During his 12-year Navy career, McLendon served at various Navy commands in Norfolk, Pearl Harbor, and Brunswick, Maine. His fellow service members said they remember McLendon as a consummate Navy professional.
"These men bravely and unselfishly answered the nation's call to defend freedom and protect the nation and its allies from terrorism," said Rear Adm. Winters. "The loss of these brave warriors will only strengthen our resolve in the fight against extremism and terror."
Lockman said her brother, a 1998 graduate of Thomas County Central High School, was a senior chief in Naval Special Warfare stationed in Little Creek. She says he trained with a Navy SEAL team but was not serving as a SEAL.
She says a military chaplain informed the family of McLendon's death on Tuesday.
"He loved to go fishing," Lockman said of her brother, who went by his middle name.
She said that when he came home in June, he went fishing with family and friends and went to Turner Field in Atlanta to see a Braves game. "It was the first time he'd been there," she said.
The body was to arrive Wednesday at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware, family members said.
Brian Bass, a close friend, said there was never a dull moment when McLendon was around. “He was just a joy to be around, the funniest guy ever, guaranteed to put a smile on your face,” Bass said.
Bass’ stepsister, Jessie Winkelman, described McLendon as “a good kid.” Winkelman recalled McLendon “hanging out” with her sibling.
McLendon’s former sister-in-law, Meredith Harper, said McLendon loved children and his family. “He loved what he did,” Harper said.
Late Tuesday afternoon, she had not told her son, Harper McLendon, about his uncle’s death. She knows she must. “He looked up to Blake and everything he did and adored Blake,” Harper said.
McLendon, 30, had deployed previously to the Middle East, but hadn’t been in Afghanistan long this time, Lockman said. He arrived less than a month ago.
McLendon, who went by Blake, was a 1998 graduate of Thomas County Central High School. He entered the Navy after graduation, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. He was a cryptologic technician who worked with SEAL teams and was stationed at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek.
Navy Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr.
Remember Our Heroes
Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., 23, of Elkhart, Ind.
Sgt. Calhoun was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Sept. 21, in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. 2010Looney, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Former Elkhart Central football coach Mark Hummel says Calhoun loved to joke around but was one of his hardest working players.
A small town is mourning the loss of a hero after an Elkhart soldier was killed in Afghanistan. Marvin Calhoun Jr., 23, of Elkhart was one of nine soldiers who died Tuesday when their helicopter crashed in Afghanistan.
The Taliban is claiming insurgents shot it down, but officials say there were no reports of enemy fire in the area.
It was a somber day at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware as the bodies of the nine soldiers returned home. One of those caskets belongs to Calhoun.
"It is really, really sad, especially when it is somebody here," said Jessica Petree.
Jessica and her family are from Elkhart. Every night they pray for the soldiers risking their lives overseas. Now, they are praying for one soldier in particular. "I heard it on the news last night," said Jessica’s husband, Leonard.
And while the Petree's have never met Calhoun, their hearts are breaking for his family. "I am sorry that it happened and our thoughts and prayers do go to you [the family]," Jessica said.
Laura Miller works at a coffee shop in downtown Elkhart. She is a little younger than Calhoun, but she remembers him from school.
"You see them everyday for years. You see their faces...never think they will go away and be gone for good," Miller said.
Calhoun joined the army in 2006. He was the door gunner in a black hawk helicopter. Those who knew him say he was a hard worker, a good friend, a fun guy with a lot of personality.
Those who didn't know him are still very proud.
"As a Michiana resident, I am proud of the guys — the men and the women that fight — that go to work every day to keep our country safe," said Mark Solomon of South Bend.
Calhoun is the sixth soldier from Elkhart killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. A number that is literally hitting home for everyone who lives here.
"Not only am I sad that it happened, but it also makes me proud that there are people over there fighting for our country and they are giving their lives, and it is a sacrifice," Jessica said.
Calhoun is being remembered most for his smile and great personality.
"He always had a smile on his face," said Lisa Miller, Calhoun's English teacher with the LIFE program. "That was what I noticed most was that smile. As soon as I saw the smile [on TV], it hit me like a ton of bricks. I was like 'oh my gosh that was Marvin he was one of my student's. He just was always was very happy and wanted everybody around him to be happy."
Sgt. Calhoun leaves behind his wife and two year old daughter. His wife is also in the military, stationed in Texas. Sergeant Calhoun's body isn't expected to be back in Elkhart for a few more days.
Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr. was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., 23, of Elkhart, Ind.
Sgt. Calhoun was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Sept. 21, in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. 2010Looney, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Former Elkhart Central football coach Mark Hummel says Calhoun loved to joke around but was one of his hardest working players.
A small town is mourning the loss of a hero after an Elkhart soldier was killed in Afghanistan. Marvin Calhoun Jr., 23, of Elkhart was one of nine soldiers who died Tuesday when their helicopter crashed in Afghanistan.
The Taliban is claiming insurgents shot it down, but officials say there were no reports of enemy fire in the area.
It was a somber day at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware as the bodies of the nine soldiers returned home. One of those caskets belongs to Calhoun.
"It is really, really sad, especially when it is somebody here," said Jessica Petree.
Jessica and her family are from Elkhart. Every night they pray for the soldiers risking their lives overseas. Now, they are praying for one soldier in particular. "I heard it on the news last night," said Jessica’s husband, Leonard.
And while the Petree's have never met Calhoun, their hearts are breaking for his family. "I am sorry that it happened and our thoughts and prayers do go to you [the family]," Jessica said.
Laura Miller works at a coffee shop in downtown Elkhart. She is a little younger than Calhoun, but she remembers him from school.
"You see them everyday for years. You see their faces...never think they will go away and be gone for good," Miller said.
Calhoun joined the army in 2006. He was the door gunner in a black hawk helicopter. Those who knew him say he was a hard worker, a good friend, a fun guy with a lot of personality.
Those who didn't know him are still very proud.
"As a Michiana resident, I am proud of the guys — the men and the women that fight — that go to work every day to keep our country safe," said Mark Solomon of South Bend.
Calhoun is the sixth soldier from Elkhart killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. A number that is literally hitting home for everyone who lives here.
"Not only am I sad that it happened, but it also makes me proud that there are people over there fighting for our country and they are giving their lives, and it is a sacrifice," Jessica said.
Calhoun is being remembered most for his smile and great personality.
"He always had a smile on his face," said Lisa Miller, Calhoun's English teacher with the LIFE program. "That was what I noticed most was that smile. As soon as I saw the smile [on TV], it hit me like a ton of bricks. I was like 'oh my gosh that was Marvin he was one of my student's. He just was always was very happy and wanted everybody around him to be happy."
Sgt. Calhoun leaves behind his wife and two year old daughter. His wife is also in the military, stationed in Texas. Sergeant Calhoun's body isn't expected to be back in Elkhart for a few more days.
Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr. was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan
Remember Our Heroes
Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, 26, of St. Louis Park, Minn.;
CWO2 Jonah D. McClellan was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Father says Wash. soldier among helo victims
The Associated Press
VANCOUVER, Wash. — A father says a Clark County, Wash., soldier is among the victims of a helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan that killed nine service members.
Rod McClellan tells The Columbian that 26-year-old Army Chief Warrant Officer Jonah McClellan is among the dead. The elder McClellan says his son was a Blackhawk helicopter pilot with the 101st Airborne and grew up northeast of Battle Ground.
Jonah McClellan leaves behind his wife, Nina, and their three small children.
His father says Jonah McClellan graduated from Battle Ground's Summit View High School in 2002 and joined the Army in August 2003 so he could learn to fly helicopters. Rod McClellan says his son went to Afghanistan in March for his second one-year tour.
Army Chief Warrant Officer Jonah D. McClellan was with the 101st Airborne Division based at Fort Campbell, Ky.
It wasn't clear whether he was piloting the helicopter at the time of the crash, said his father, Rob McClellan, of Battle Ground. "He was at the controls, whether as a co-pilot or pilot, I don't know," McClellan said. "We got very little more information from the Army."
His son had been involved in a variety of missions, including medical recovery, transporting troops and dropping ammunition.
"I think what he told us was filtered. He was very, very excited about everything about it -- as far as just getting behind that stick, every time was like the first time," McClellan said. "Anything tough he didn't tell us -- close calls or being fired on, he never told us that stuff."
Jonah McClellan leaves behind his wife, Nina, and three small children. Funeral plans are pending.
He was a 2002 graduate of Summit View High School, an alternative school with about 300 students, said Gregg Herrington, a spokesman for the Battle Ground School District.
Many of the teachers and staff who worked at the school then have left, but at least one remembered McClellan as quiet and polite, Herrington said.
Julia Scott, a school nurse now deployed as an Air Force medevac nurse in Kandahar, helped unload the dead and injured from Tuesday's helicopter crash, Herrington said. "It's just flabbergasting," he said. "At the time she did not know that a former student from the high school where she worked as a nurse was involved until later."
Military officials wouldn't disclose the helicopter's mission, and the cause of the crash wasn't immediately clear. Five members of the 101st Airborne were among the troops killed, they said.
The five were all assigned to the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade and their families have been notified, said Fort Campbell spokesman Rick Rzepka. The brigade started its deployment in March.
Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, 26, of St. Louis Park, Minn.;
CWO2 Jonah D. McClellan was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Father says Wash. soldier among helo victims
The Associated Press
VANCOUVER, Wash. — A father says a Clark County, Wash., soldier is among the victims of a helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan that killed nine service members.
Rod McClellan tells The Columbian that 26-year-old Army Chief Warrant Officer Jonah McClellan is among the dead. The elder McClellan says his son was a Blackhawk helicopter pilot with the 101st Airborne and grew up northeast of Battle Ground.
Jonah McClellan leaves behind his wife, Nina, and their three small children.
His father says Jonah McClellan graduated from Battle Ground's Summit View High School in 2002 and joined the Army in August 2003 so he could learn to fly helicopters. Rod McClellan says his son went to Afghanistan in March for his second one-year tour.
Army Chief Warrant Officer Jonah D. McClellan was with the 101st Airborne Division based at Fort Campbell, Ky.
It wasn't clear whether he was piloting the helicopter at the time of the crash, said his father, Rob McClellan, of Battle Ground. "He was at the controls, whether as a co-pilot or pilot, I don't know," McClellan said. "We got very little more information from the Army."
His son had been involved in a variety of missions, including medical recovery, transporting troops and dropping ammunition.
"I think what he told us was filtered. He was very, very excited about everything about it -- as far as just getting behind that stick, every time was like the first time," McClellan said. "Anything tough he didn't tell us -- close calls or being fired on, he never told us that stuff."
Jonah McClellan leaves behind his wife, Nina, and three small children. Funeral plans are pending.
He was a 2002 graduate of Summit View High School, an alternative school with about 300 students, said Gregg Herrington, a spokesman for the Battle Ground School District.
Many of the teachers and staff who worked at the school then have left, but at least one remembered McClellan as quiet and polite, Herrington said.
Julia Scott, a school nurse now deployed as an Air Force medevac nurse in Kandahar, helped unload the dead and injured from Tuesday's helicopter crash, Herrington said. "It's just flabbergasting," he said. "At the time she did not know that a former student from the high school where she worked as a nurse was involved until later."
Military officials wouldn't disclose the helicopter's mission, and the cause of the crash wasn't immediately clear. Five members of the 101st Airborne were among the troops killed, they said.
The five were all assigned to the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade and their families have been notified, said Fort Campbell spokesman Rick Rzepka. The brigade started its deployment in March.
Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Navy Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney
Remember Our Heroes
Navy Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, 29, of Owings, Md.
Lt Looney was assigned to a West Coast-based SEAL Team; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in the Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Played lacrosse at Naval Academy with his brothers
By Phil Creed
Staff writer
A former Naval Academy lacrosse player was one of the nine U.S. troops killed in a Black Hawk helicopter crash in Afghanistan on Sept. 21.
Lt. Brendan Looney, a Navy SEAL and a 2004 Naval Academy graduate, was one of four sailors killed. The Defense Department officially announced late Sept. 22 that Looney, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) (SW/FMF) David Blake McLendon, Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Adam Smith and Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class Denis Miranda were killed in the crash. Five Fort Campbell, Ky.-based soldiers were also killed.
A native of Owings, Md., Looney was a graduate of DeMatha Catholic High School. Originally an intelligence officer, Looney was redesignated for Special Warfare in 2006 and promoted to lieutenant in 2008, according to Navy records.
Looney, 29, was the oldest of three brothers who played lacrosse at Navy. Steve and Billy Looney graduated from the academy in 2006 and 2007, respectively.
According to a Washington Post article about the family, Brendan Looney was originally recruited to Navy to play football, and took up organized lacrosse for the first time in 2002 after leaving the football team. In 2004, the three brothers were able to play together on the same team for the first time.
“This year has been so fun, because it’s great to see my brothers play so well,” Brendan Looney told The Washington Post in 2004. “It’s great to see Billy score goals and see all that Steve does on the field. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance.”
Looney is also survived by younger sisters Bridget, Erin and Kelly, as well as parents Kevin and Maureen Looney, according to The Baltimore Sun.
Navy Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Navy Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, 29, of Owings, Md.
Lt Looney was assigned to a West Coast-based SEAL Team; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in the Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were: Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Played lacrosse at Naval Academy with his brothers
By Phil Creed
Staff writer
A former Naval Academy lacrosse player was one of the nine U.S. troops killed in a Black Hawk helicopter crash in Afghanistan on Sept. 21.
Lt. Brendan Looney, a Navy SEAL and a 2004 Naval Academy graduate, was one of four sailors killed. The Defense Department officially announced late Sept. 22 that Looney, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) (SW/FMF) David Blake McLendon, Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Adam Smith and Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class Denis Miranda were killed in the crash. Five Fort Campbell, Ky.-based soldiers were also killed.
A native of Owings, Md., Looney was a graduate of DeMatha Catholic High School. Originally an intelligence officer, Looney was redesignated for Special Warfare in 2006 and promoted to lieutenant in 2008, according to Navy records.
Looney, 29, was the oldest of three brothers who played lacrosse at Navy. Steve and Billy Looney graduated from the academy in 2006 and 2007, respectively.
According to a Washington Post article about the family, Brendan Looney was originally recruited to Navy to play football, and took up organized lacrosse for the first time in 2002 after leaving the football team. In 2004, the three brothers were able to play together on the same team for the first time.
“This year has been so fun, because it’s great to see my brothers play so well,” Brendan Looney told The Washington Post in 2004. “It’s great to see Billy score goals and see all that Steve does on the field. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance.”
Looney is also survived by younger sisters Bridget, Erin and Kelly, as well as parents Kevin and Maureen Looney, according to The Baltimore Sun.
Navy Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith
Remember Our Heroes
Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, 26, of Hurdland, Mo.
PO2 Smith was assigned to an East Coast-based SEAL Team; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in the Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Being Adams 1st platoon chief... I can say he was one of my best! Hard charging new breed of Frogman! You will be missed my brother! God bless!
(from the Navy SEAL facebook pages)
Macon, Mo —
Macon County received word one of their former citizens had died in Afghanistan Tuesday while serving his country.
He is the son of Eric Smith of Columbia and Michele Jorgenson of Macon. He is the grandson of Gene and Lucille Smith of the state of Louisiana, formerly of Bevier and Katherine and Stanley Lay of Bevier.
On Tuesday, Sept. 7, Spec. 4 Jacob Richardson, a cousin to Navy Seal Adam Smith, was among 10 other soldiers who were shot by an Iraqi soldier in northern Iraq.
Spec. 4 Richardson has been transported to a VA hospital in Hawaii so he can be near his wife, Robin Morgan of Bevier, Spec. 4 Richardson’s aunt said.
“Adam and Jacob are cousins,” Robin said. “Jacob is undergoing extensive therapy now. There is a 50/50 chance he could lose his leg. His focus is to walk again.”
Below is the KTVO story from September 21, 2010:
The Department of Defense announced Wednesday afternoon that a Navy SEAL from northeast Missouri was one of four sailors who died Tuesday in a helicopter crash.
It happened during combat operations in a rugged section of southern Afghanistan.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Adam O. Smith, 26, formerly of Bevier, was one of nine U.S. service members on board the chopper.
Smith was assigned to an East-Coast-based SEAL team.
Smith was a graduate of Bevier High School.
In his younger years, he also attended school in the Knox County School District.
Smith's funeral arrangements are pending with Hutton and McElwain Funeral Home in Macon.
A funeral home spokeswoman told KTVO Wednesday afternoon that Smith's family was informed that the Navy won't release his body to the family for five to seven days.
"On behalf of the entire Naval Special Warfare community -- we extend our sincerest condolences to all the families of our fallen brothers, our Navy SEALs and support tech, Army air crewmen, and coalition personnel," said Rear Adm. Edward Winters, commander, Naval Special Warfare Command. "Our prayers are with these families during this very difficult time."
Smith entered the Navy in October 2004 and attended aviation technical training at Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla. In March of 2005, Smith was accepted to BUD/S. After SEAL qualification training, Smith was assigned to an east coast SEAL Team, where he excelled as a special warfare operator, making numerous deployments in support of overseas contingency operations. Smith was described by fellow SEALs as a highly decorated combat veteran and dedicated teammate. Smith is survived by his mother and father.
"These men bravely and unselfishly answered the nation's call to defend freedom and protect the nation and its allies from terrorism," said Rear Adm. Winters. "The loss of these brave warriors will only strengthen our resolve in the fight against extremism and terror."
Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, 26, of Hurdland, Mo.
PO2 Smith was assigned to an East Coast-based SEAL Team; died Sept. 21, 2010 in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crash during combat operations in the Zabul province, Afghanistan. Also killed in the crash were Army Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, Army Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonah D. McClellan, Navy Special Warfare Operator 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) David B. McLendon, Army Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew G. Wagstaff.
Being Adams 1st platoon chief... I can say he was one of my best! Hard charging new breed of Frogman! You will be missed my brother! God bless!
(from the Navy SEAL facebook pages)
Macon, Mo —
Macon County received word one of their former citizens had died in Afghanistan Tuesday while serving his country.
He is the son of Eric Smith of Columbia and Michele Jorgenson of Macon. He is the grandson of Gene and Lucille Smith of the state of Louisiana, formerly of Bevier and Katherine and Stanley Lay of Bevier.
On Tuesday, Sept. 7, Spec. 4 Jacob Richardson, a cousin to Navy Seal Adam Smith, was among 10 other soldiers who were shot by an Iraqi soldier in northern Iraq.
Spec. 4 Richardson has been transported to a VA hospital in Hawaii so he can be near his wife, Robin Morgan of Bevier, Spec. 4 Richardson’s aunt said.
“Adam and Jacob are cousins,” Robin said. “Jacob is undergoing extensive therapy now. There is a 50/50 chance he could lose his leg. His focus is to walk again.”
Below is the KTVO story from September 21, 2010:
The Department of Defense announced Wednesday afternoon that a Navy SEAL from northeast Missouri was one of four sailors who died Tuesday in a helicopter crash.
It happened during combat operations in a rugged section of southern Afghanistan.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Adam O. Smith, 26, formerly of Bevier, was one of nine U.S. service members on board the chopper.
Smith was assigned to an East-Coast-based SEAL team.
Smith was a graduate of Bevier High School.
In his younger years, he also attended school in the Knox County School District.
Smith's funeral arrangements are pending with Hutton and McElwain Funeral Home in Macon.
A funeral home spokeswoman told KTVO Wednesday afternoon that Smith's family was informed that the Navy won't release his body to the family for five to seven days.
"On behalf of the entire Naval Special Warfare community -- we extend our sincerest condolences to all the families of our fallen brothers, our Navy SEALs and support tech, Army air crewmen, and coalition personnel," said Rear Adm. Edward Winters, commander, Naval Special Warfare Command. "Our prayers are with these families during this very difficult time."
Smith entered the Navy in October 2004 and attended aviation technical training at Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla. In March of 2005, Smith was accepted to BUD/S. After SEAL qualification training, Smith was assigned to an east coast SEAL Team, where he excelled as a special warfare operator, making numerous deployments in support of overseas contingency operations. Smith was described by fellow SEALs as a highly decorated combat veteran and dedicated teammate. Smith is survived by his mother and father.
"These men bravely and unselfishly answered the nation's call to defend freedom and protect the nation and its allies from terrorism," said Rear Adm. Winters. "The loss of these brave warriors will only strengthen our resolve in the fight against extremism and terror."
Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith was killed in action on 9/21/10.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Marine Pfc. Joshua S. Ose
Remember Our Heroes
Marine Pfc. Joshua S. Ose, 19, of Hernando, Miss.
Pfc. Ose was assigned to 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died Sept. 20, 2010 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
19-year-old Marine from Mississippi dies in Afghanistan
JACKSON — Joshua Ose’s mother said he was so determined to join the Marine Corps he signed up during his senior year in high school, committing himself to begin boot camp just a few weeks after graduating from Hernando High School in 2009.
The Department of Defense said Tuesday the 19-year-old private first-class was killed Monday while on foot patrol in Afghanistan. The Marine Corps said Ose was struck by small-arms fire in the southern Helmand Province.
Ose was assigned to a unit based at Camp Lejeune, N.C.. His mother, Sissy Ose, said he had been in Afghanistan about two weeks.
Sissy Ose said in a telephone interview Tuesday from the family’s home in Hernando her son, who went by Josh, was in junior high when he started talking about entering the military. She said she encouraged him to choose his own path in life.
Josh Ose was a gun enthusiast and worked during high school at a local farm where people would shoot each other with paint balls for fun, his mother said. She said the last time he was home, he played paint ball for two days.
“He had a great imagination and could come up with some really adventurous things to do,” she said. “He called them his shenanigans.”
The shenanigans were sometimes the kind that invited attention from law officers, his mother said with a laugh. During high school, for example, Josh and one of his friends put on life vests and jumped off local bridges into the Coldwater River, which was swollen from heavy rainfall.
“I did not discourage his adventures or condemn him when the sheriff’s department called and we had to go there when he had been jumping off a bridge — which is not illegal in Mississippi,” Sissy Ose said.
Josh Ose was an only child. He is also survived by his father, Ross Ose. Josh's father Ross had been traveling on business when the family received word of Josh's death.
Each side of Josh Ose’s family has a history of military service, with a paternal forefather who fought in the Civil War, his mother said.
The Ose family’s minister, the Rev. Chip Hatcher of First Presbyterian Church in Hernando, said Josh Ose thought the purest form of military service was being an enlisted Marine.
“I want people to remember him as a very authentic young man and someone who really was his own person,” Hatcher said. “He wasn’t one to follow the crowd. I think other people followed him.”
(Hernando, MS 09/21/2010) -- When Joshua Ose graduated from Hernando High School last year he knew he was going to be a Marine. He knew he wanted to be a part of the infantry and he knew he'd probably have to go to war.
Josh's Pastor, Robert "Chip" Hatcher, recently saw him. Josh was in Hernando visiting family before he was to start his tour in Afghanistan. He came to church in his dress blues.
"You always send somebody off with the hopes that they're going to come home and have a lot of stories to tell. Unfortunately, we won't be able to hear those stories from Josh."
Sunday, Josh was hit by small arms fire while on foot patrol in Afghanistan. He died as he was being airlifted to a field hospital. The 19-year old Marine was two weeks into his tour.
"He believed in what the Marine Corps was about. He believed in the mission, as controversial as it may be, and he knew somebody needed to go over there and do a good job. He thought he could do that."
Word that Ose died in the line of duty is quickly spreading around Hernando. His neighbor, James Oliver, remembers the pride Ose had about becoming a Marine.
"He said he wanted to be a Marine. He wanted to do his share. This is really a tragic loss. Unfortunately he's the only child the family had," said Oliver. Josh Ose would have turned 20 years old in October.
Those who know Ose say he died doing what he loved and to them he's a hero. The mayor recalled Ose's enthusiasm to serve and said "he was the best shot in the Hernando Rifle and Pistol Club. He was way better than I was.
"He really excelled when he was in boot camp. He was in his element." The Marine Corps' official notification to the office of U.S. Rep. Travis Childers, D-Miss., identified Ose as a member of the 2nd Marine Division from Camp Lejeune, N.C. A U.S. flag will be flown over the Capitol in Washington today in Ose's honor, according to Childers' office.
"The shock of this event is still very real, and many tears have been shed as the news has filtered through our community." On his Facebook page, which Tuesday carried a picture of a helmet as a profile photo, Ose's "likes" included Domino's Pizza and the Marine Corps.
"So I'm 'bout gone," Ose said in one of his last Facebook postings on Sept. 2. "I (sic) catch ya'll on the flip side."
"In that I feel the love that Josh had for his home, for his church, his community and especially his country," said Pastor Hatcher. Friends and church members describe Josh Ose as a polite young man who was a little on the mischievous side as a boy.
"He was a striking figure in his dress blues," Hatcher said. Josh Ose was the very first child Hatcher baptized when he became pastor in this North Mississippi town of about 15,000.
"Josh loved the U.S. Marine Corps and the nation he had pledged to defend through his service in the Corps," Hatcher said. "He believed in the mission his unit was undertaking in Afghanistan, and he was fully committed to his calling as a Marine. In my mind Josh will always represent the noble ideals of patriotism and self-sacrifice, and in my heart, he will always be a hero."
Pfc. Ose leaves behind his parents Ross and Sissy Ose as well as numerous friends and church members in his community to include: his aunts and uncles, Scott and Sherry Fernandez and Brenda and John Conrad; his great-aunt, Shirley Carter of Hernando; and a host of other great-aunts, great-uncles and cousins.
Marine Pfc. Joshua S. Ose was killed in action on 9/20/10.
Marine Pfc. Joshua S. Ose, 19, of Hernando, Miss.
Pfc. Ose was assigned to 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died Sept. 20, 2010 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
19-year-old Marine from Mississippi dies in Afghanistan
JACKSON — Joshua Ose’s mother said he was so determined to join the Marine Corps he signed up during his senior year in high school, committing himself to begin boot camp just a few weeks after graduating from Hernando High School in 2009.
The Department of Defense said Tuesday the 19-year-old private first-class was killed Monday while on foot patrol in Afghanistan. The Marine Corps said Ose was struck by small-arms fire in the southern Helmand Province.
Ose was assigned to a unit based at Camp Lejeune, N.C.. His mother, Sissy Ose, said he had been in Afghanistan about two weeks.
Sissy Ose said in a telephone interview Tuesday from the family’s home in Hernando her son, who went by Josh, was in junior high when he started talking about entering the military. She said she encouraged him to choose his own path in life.
Josh Ose was a gun enthusiast and worked during high school at a local farm where people would shoot each other with paint balls for fun, his mother said. She said the last time he was home, he played paint ball for two days.
“He had a great imagination and could come up with some really adventurous things to do,” she said. “He called them his shenanigans.”
The shenanigans were sometimes the kind that invited attention from law officers, his mother said with a laugh. During high school, for example, Josh and one of his friends put on life vests and jumped off local bridges into the Coldwater River, which was swollen from heavy rainfall.
“I did not discourage his adventures or condemn him when the sheriff’s department called and we had to go there when he had been jumping off a bridge — which is not illegal in Mississippi,” Sissy Ose said.
Josh Ose was an only child. He is also survived by his father, Ross Ose. Josh's father Ross had been traveling on business when the family received word of Josh's death.
Each side of Josh Ose’s family has a history of military service, with a paternal forefather who fought in the Civil War, his mother said.
The Ose family’s minister, the Rev. Chip Hatcher of First Presbyterian Church in Hernando, said Josh Ose thought the purest form of military service was being an enlisted Marine.
“I want people to remember him as a very authentic young man and someone who really was his own person,” Hatcher said. “He wasn’t one to follow the crowd. I think other people followed him.”
(Hernando, MS 09/21/2010) -- When Joshua Ose graduated from Hernando High School last year he knew he was going to be a Marine. He knew he wanted to be a part of the infantry and he knew he'd probably have to go to war.
Josh's Pastor, Robert "Chip" Hatcher, recently saw him. Josh was in Hernando visiting family before he was to start his tour in Afghanistan. He came to church in his dress blues.
"You always send somebody off with the hopes that they're going to come home and have a lot of stories to tell. Unfortunately, we won't be able to hear those stories from Josh."
Sunday, Josh was hit by small arms fire while on foot patrol in Afghanistan. He died as he was being airlifted to a field hospital. The 19-year old Marine was two weeks into his tour.
"He believed in what the Marine Corps was about. He believed in the mission, as controversial as it may be, and he knew somebody needed to go over there and do a good job. He thought he could do that."
Word that Ose died in the line of duty is quickly spreading around Hernando. His neighbor, James Oliver, remembers the pride Ose had about becoming a Marine.
"He said he wanted to be a Marine. He wanted to do his share. This is really a tragic loss. Unfortunately he's the only child the family had," said Oliver. Josh Ose would have turned 20 years old in October.
Those who know Ose say he died doing what he loved and to them he's a hero. The mayor recalled Ose's enthusiasm to serve and said "he was the best shot in the Hernando Rifle and Pistol Club. He was way better than I was.
"He really excelled when he was in boot camp. He was in his element." The Marine Corps' official notification to the office of U.S. Rep. Travis Childers, D-Miss., identified Ose as a member of the 2nd Marine Division from Camp Lejeune, N.C. A U.S. flag will be flown over the Capitol in Washington today in Ose's honor, according to Childers' office.
"The shock of this event is still very real, and many tears have been shed as the news has filtered through our community." On his Facebook page, which Tuesday carried a picture of a helmet as a profile photo, Ose's "likes" included Domino's Pizza and the Marine Corps.
"So I'm 'bout gone," Ose said in one of his last Facebook postings on Sept. 2. "I (sic) catch ya'll on the flip side."
"In that I feel the love that Josh had for his home, for his church, his community and especially his country," said Pastor Hatcher. Friends and church members describe Josh Ose as a polite young man who was a little on the mischievous side as a boy.
"He was a striking figure in his dress blues," Hatcher said. Josh Ose was the very first child Hatcher baptized when he became pastor in this North Mississippi town of about 15,000.
"Josh loved the U.S. Marine Corps and the nation he had pledged to defend through his service in the Corps," Hatcher said. "He believed in the mission his unit was undertaking in Afghanistan, and he was fully committed to his calling as a Marine. In my mind Josh will always represent the noble ideals of patriotism and self-sacrifice, and in my heart, he will always be a hero."
Pfc. Ose leaves behind his parents Ross and Sissy Ose as well as numerous friends and church members in his community to include: his aunts and uncles, Scott and Sherry Fernandez and Brenda and John Conrad; his great-aunt, Shirley Carter of Hernando; and a host of other great-aunts, great-uncles and cousins.
Marine Pfc. Joshua S. Ose was killed in action on 9/20/10.
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