Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. Richard C Emmons III, 22, of North Granby, Conn.
Spc. Emmons was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Polk, La.; died May 31, 2011 in Logar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with a rocket propelled grenade.
SPC Emmons was driving the lead vehicle in a convoy when the attack occurred. He was rushed to a military hospital, where he later died, the Defense Department said. Two other soldiers suffered minor injuries in the attack.
SPC Emmons, known to his family as "Richie", was originally from Woodstown, NJ. He grew up there and attended Woodstown Middle School before moving with his family to North Granby, Conn., when he was 14 due to his parents’ work. He graduated from Granby Memorial High School in 2006.
SPC Emmons joined the Army in September 2009. He trained at Fort Jackson, S.C., and Fort Gordon, Ga.. before arriving at Fort Polk in May 2010. Emmons was a signal support systems specialist. He eployed to Afghanistan October last year.
Mother, Janice, said that was the last time she saw her son, though stated he called frequently and kept in regular contact through Facebook.
“He loved being in the Army, and he made a lot of good friends,” she said. “With every bad situation, he made it better for everyone with his personality. He was just such an adorable, lovable child.”
"He was a wonderful boy, a wonderful boy," his grandmother, Carol. “We loved him. There will be a hole in our hearts forever."
“People need to remember that there are thousands of Richies over there that need our support,” she said. “Like him, they’re trying to make a difference.”
Gov. Dannel Malloy ordered flags to fly at half-staff in honor of Emmons and to continue that way until SPC Emmons' funeral.
"Our prayers go out to the family and friends of Specialist Emmons at this devastating time," said Malloy. "We will not forget that Specialist Emmons, like too many of our men and women in uniform, gave his life for the cause of freedom and in service to this country. Our thoughts are with his unit still in Afghanistan, and hope they, and the rest of our troops overseas, return home safely."
A flag outside Granby Memorial High School where Emmons graduated also flew at half-staff.
SPC Emmons' platoon held a memorial service for him. A shrine in Emmons' honor included a framed photo, his helmet, rifle and boots and the Bronze Star and Purple Heart he received posthumously.
SPC Emmons’ body was flown back to the United States and arrived at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware, June 2. A large gathering of family and friends were on hand for the arrival and a ceremony honoring Emmons at the base.
SPC Emmons' body arrived in his former hometown of Woodstown, Thursday, June 9, following a motorcade procession from Dover Air Force Base in Dover, Del.
Led by New Jersey State Police and a motorcade of police vehicles and flag-bearing motorcycles, the hearse transporting Emmons passed beneath a giant American flag hung between the ladders of two fire trucks on South Main Street and arrived at the H.T. Layton Funeral Home shortly after 2 p.m.
Salem County emergency personnel and soldiers lined the street to salute as Emmons’ body made its journey down West Avenue and turned onto South Main Street, halting in front of the funeral home. Members of the motorcade and residents gathered around the hearse while the casket was removed.
Emmons’ family stood together, looking on as a military pallbearers carried his silver, flag-draped casket from the hearse through the doors of the funeral home.
Mother, Janice, said the community’s support in bringing her son home was tremendous.
“I’m so proud to see everyone here pulling together as a community to make this a special home coming for my son,” she said. “I’m proud to be a part of Salem County, and I know that Richie was too.”
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated today at 11 a.m. at the Catholic Community of the Holy Spirit Parish Center. Burial with full military honors took place after Mass at Lawnside Cemetery in Pilesgrove.
A memorial service in SPC Emmons’ hometown of North Granby, Conn., will be held at a later date.
SPC Emmons is survived by his mother, Janice, and step-father, William Hogan; sister, Morgan; brother, Conor; maternal grandparents, Carol and Ralph Tighe; and paternal grandmother Arlene Emmons. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard C. Emmons Jr. and paternal grandfather, Richard C. Emmons Sr.
Army Spc. Richard C Emmons III was killed in action on 5/31/11.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
Army Pfc. Anthony M Nunn
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pfc. Anthony M Nunn, 19, of Burnet, Texas
Pfc. Nunn was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.; died May 30, 2011 in Paktika province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
SPC Nunn graduated from Burnet High School in June 2010, where he was the bands' second chair trombone player. Nunn impressed teachers with his spirit and work ethic.
He joined the Army just after graduating high school. He arrived at Ft Campbell four months later, in October. He had only been in Afghanistan three weeks when he was killed.
Mike Lewis, band director at Burnet High School said Nunn showed wisdom and character beyond his years. "All the way through hight school, he was going to be a man of his word," Lewis said. "He said, 'I'm going to be someone people can count on,' and he really tried hard to do that."
Lewis suggested that Nunn join the Army band, but Nunn wanted to be where the fight was. "He really wanted to go infantry. He always had."
Lewis said Nunn, who spent many afternoons at the Lewis home and who was close friends with his son, was a tireless worker. "He would do anything I asked him to do," Lewis said. "He worked on our loading crew, which was one of those thankless jobs. He would always jump in if he saw somebody who needed help."
Lewis said Nunn was also fiercely protective of his younger brother Matt. "Anthony really felt like it was his responsibility to look out for him and make sure other kids didn't pick on him."
SPC Nunn had visited his old high school just a few weeks ago. He told us he was fixing to go to Afghanistan, Lewis said. "It just breaks my heart." Lewis said Nunn texted him on Friday, two days before he was killed, vowing to visit him the next time he was home.
School counselor and former teacher, Julie Collins, said, "He had a goodness about him. He was very honest. That was more important to him than telling you what you wanted to hear."
Spc Nunn's youth pastor, Mike Hickman, said Nunn was passionate, outgoing and caring. "He didn't want to just come to church and sit," said Hickman. "He was a Christian at church, and a Christian at school, and he was a Christian at home."
Hickman said before Nunn deployed to Afghanistan, they talked about the possibility of Nunn losing his life. "He was prepared for that 100 percent, and everyone knew that," said Hickman. "He said, 'For me to die for my country, to live is Christ and to die is gain.' That's what he believed."
"He always chose his words wisely," said SPC Matthew Woodall, who attended a service for Nunn in Afghanistan. "He never wanted to offend anyone. He always cared how others felt."
In his Facebook “About Me” section, SPC Nunn wrote:
i love God and the holy savior Jesus if you ever need help come and find me ill never turn down a hug and go team Jesus
never let true friends go cherish them forever
Jeremiah 29:11 is the most awesome quote
go army
i love being in the army
i hate trying to be a social person when i just like to sit back and listen
i like sleeping
i like running
i like to have shows of strength NEVER pass up a challenge
i like any physical activity
i will never let peer pressure get me again never
i love all my friends
if you ever need anything come find me ill listen
im a hardcore christian even if i dont know all the bible verses
love to sing to lord jesus and god
i would die for any of my friends in a heart beat
PFC Nunn's awards and decorations include:
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
PFC Nunn is survived by his mother, Christina; father, Ted; brother, Matthew; and sister, Savanna.
Army Pfc. Anthony M Nunn was killed in action on 5/30/11.
Army Pfc. Anthony M Nunn, 19, of Burnet, Texas
Pfc. Nunn was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.; died May 30, 2011 in Paktika province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
SPC Nunn graduated from Burnet High School in June 2010, where he was the bands' second chair trombone player. Nunn impressed teachers with his spirit and work ethic.
He joined the Army just after graduating high school. He arrived at Ft Campbell four months later, in October. He had only been in Afghanistan three weeks when he was killed.
Mike Lewis, band director at Burnet High School said Nunn showed wisdom and character beyond his years. "All the way through hight school, he was going to be a man of his word," Lewis said. "He said, 'I'm going to be someone people can count on,' and he really tried hard to do that."
Lewis suggested that Nunn join the Army band, but Nunn wanted to be where the fight was. "He really wanted to go infantry. He always had."
Lewis said Nunn, who spent many afternoons at the Lewis home and who was close friends with his son, was a tireless worker. "He would do anything I asked him to do," Lewis said. "He worked on our loading crew, which was one of those thankless jobs. He would always jump in if he saw somebody who needed help."
Lewis said Nunn was also fiercely protective of his younger brother Matt. "Anthony really felt like it was his responsibility to look out for him and make sure other kids didn't pick on him."
SPC Nunn had visited his old high school just a few weeks ago. He told us he was fixing to go to Afghanistan, Lewis said. "It just breaks my heart." Lewis said Nunn texted him on Friday, two days before he was killed, vowing to visit him the next time he was home.
School counselor and former teacher, Julie Collins, said, "He had a goodness about him. He was very honest. That was more important to him than telling you what you wanted to hear."
Spc Nunn's youth pastor, Mike Hickman, said Nunn was passionate, outgoing and caring. "He didn't want to just come to church and sit," said Hickman. "He was a Christian at church, and a Christian at school, and he was a Christian at home."
Hickman said before Nunn deployed to Afghanistan, they talked about the possibility of Nunn losing his life. "He was prepared for that 100 percent, and everyone knew that," said Hickman. "He said, 'For me to die for my country, to live is Christ and to die is gain.' That's what he believed."
"He always chose his words wisely," said SPC Matthew Woodall, who attended a service for Nunn in Afghanistan. "He never wanted to offend anyone. He always cared how others felt."
In his Facebook “About Me” section, SPC Nunn wrote:
i love God and the holy savior Jesus if you ever need help come and find me ill never turn down a hug and go team Jesus
never let true friends go cherish them forever
Jeremiah 29:11 is the most awesome quote
go army
i love being in the army
i hate trying to be a social person when i just like to sit back and listen
i like sleeping
i like running
i like to have shows of strength NEVER pass up a challenge
i like any physical activity
i will never let peer pressure get me again never
i love all my friends
if you ever need anything come find me ill listen
im a hardcore christian even if i dont know all the bible verses
love to sing to lord jesus and god
i would die for any of my friends in a heart beat
PFC Nunn's awards and decorations include:
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
PFC Nunn is survived by his mother, Christina; father, Ted; brother, Matthew; and sister, Savanna.
Army Pfc. Anthony M Nunn was killed in action on 5/30/11.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Army Sgt. Aaron J Blasjo
Remember Our Heroes
Army Sgt. Aaron J Blasjo, 25, of Riverside, Calif.
Sgt Blasjo was assigned to the 3rd Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died May 29, 2011 in Wardak province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Capt. Joseph W. Schultz and Staff Sgt. Martin R. Apolinar.
Sgt Blasjo was a member of a Special Forces canine unit. Both he and his dog, Hunter, were killed in the attack.
Determined to be in the Special Forces, Sgt Blasjo entered the Army after graduating from Ramona High School in 2004.
After completing basic training and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Ga., he was assigned to 1st Special Warfare Training Group where he completed the Special Forces course in December 2006.
In 2009, Sgt Blasjo married Crystal Thompkins. They had a son, Talon, just 5 weeks before Sgt Blasjo deployed May 1, 2011. This was his third deployment to Afghanistan.
Uncle Darrel Blasjo said Aaron was able to hold his own against his much larger uncle when they wrestled on the living room floor of his parent's house.
The playful wrestling matches were a longstanding tradition between Darrell and his nephew. "I always used to tease him," Darrell said. "I'd wrestle with him and pin him down and pretend I was going to give him mouth-to-mouth. He hated that."
May 30, 2011
To my beloved son Aaron Joseph Blasjo a fine son, wonderful father, loving husband, and a courageous soldier. It is with a very heavy heart and through teary eyes that I try to write to my son who is now in heaven with our heavenly father smiling down on us. I was so proud of my son who served our country not because he had to but because he wanted to and gave his life for it. There aren't enough words or space here to convey how proud I was of my son and how he grew into the kind of man that people looked up to including me. I am so glad that my daughter Kristy and I went out to see him before he deployed and I will treasure those moments forever. My heart hurts so much but our support needs to go to his loving wife Crystal and their newborn son Talon Jefferey who will need all the support we can give them and more. Goodbye son, until we meet again.
Love,
Dad
(Richard Fletcher)
Sgt Blasjo's military awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star Medal
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Special Forces Tab
Combat Infantryman Badge
Parachutists Badge
"When he finished his training, he got pretty tough, pretty cut," he said.
When he made the decision to enter the military, Aaron asked his uncle what he thought. "I said I thought it was a wonderful thing," Darrell said.
"He had become a gentleman. He learned to open the door for other people. He had a greater presence about himself and awareness that you don't see especially among today's youth. He was a very positive force, just his overall presence."
His uncle said that Aaron once told him there were three highlights of his life. The first was the birth of his son in March. The second was the first time he leapt from an airplane in training. "And the other was taking my car to the prom," Darrell Blasjo said. "He liked my car. It's the last year of the Trans Am, a 2002 convertible collector's edition. I let him take it for his prom."
SGT Blasjo is survived by his mother, Bobbi ; father, Richard ; wife, Crystal and son, Talon.
Army Sgt. Aaron J Blasjo was killed in action on 5/29/11.
Army Sgt. Aaron J Blasjo, 25, of Riverside, Calif.
Sgt Blasjo was assigned to the 3rd Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died May 29, 2011 in Wardak province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Capt. Joseph W. Schultz and Staff Sgt. Martin R. Apolinar.
Sgt Blasjo was a member of a Special Forces canine unit. Both he and his dog, Hunter, were killed in the attack.
Determined to be in the Special Forces, Sgt Blasjo entered the Army after graduating from Ramona High School in 2004.
After completing basic training and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Ga., he was assigned to 1st Special Warfare Training Group where he completed the Special Forces course in December 2006.
In 2009, Sgt Blasjo married Crystal Thompkins. They had a son, Talon, just 5 weeks before Sgt Blasjo deployed May 1, 2011. This was his third deployment to Afghanistan.
Uncle Darrel Blasjo said Aaron was able to hold his own against his much larger uncle when they wrestled on the living room floor of his parent's house.
The playful wrestling matches were a longstanding tradition between Darrell and his nephew. "I always used to tease him," Darrell said. "I'd wrestle with him and pin him down and pretend I was going to give him mouth-to-mouth. He hated that."
May 30, 2011
To my beloved son Aaron Joseph Blasjo a fine son, wonderful father, loving husband, and a courageous soldier. It is with a very heavy heart and through teary eyes that I try to write to my son who is now in heaven with our heavenly father smiling down on us. I was so proud of my son who served our country not because he had to but because he wanted to and gave his life for it. There aren't enough words or space here to convey how proud I was of my son and how he grew into the kind of man that people looked up to including me. I am so glad that my daughter Kristy and I went out to see him before he deployed and I will treasure those moments forever. My heart hurts so much but our support needs to go to his loving wife Crystal and their newborn son Talon Jefferey who will need all the support we can give them and more. Goodbye son, until we meet again.
Love,
Dad
(Richard Fletcher)
Sgt Blasjo's military awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star Medal
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Special Forces Tab
Combat Infantryman Badge
Parachutists Badge
"When he finished his training, he got pretty tough, pretty cut," he said.
When he made the decision to enter the military, Aaron asked his uncle what he thought. "I said I thought it was a wonderful thing," Darrell said.
"He had become a gentleman. He learned to open the door for other people. He had a greater presence about himself and awareness that you don't see especially among today's youth. He was a very positive force, just his overall presence."
His uncle said that Aaron once told him there were three highlights of his life. The first was the birth of his son in March. The second was the first time he leapt from an airplane in training. "And the other was taking my car to the prom," Darrell Blasjo said. "He liked my car. It's the last year of the Trans Am, a 2002 convertible collector's edition. I let him take it for his prom."
SGT Blasjo is survived by his mother, Bobbi ; father, Richard ; wife, Crystal and son, Talon.
Army Sgt. Aaron J Blasjo was killed in action on 5/29/11.
Army Capt. Joseph W Schultz
Remember Our Heroes
Army Capt. Joseph W Schultz, 36, of Port Angeles, Wash.
Capt. Schultz was assigned to the 3rd Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died May 29, 2011 in Wardak province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Staff Sgt. Martin R. Apolinar and Sgt. Aaron J. Blasjo.
Capt Schultz was traveling in a vehicle when he was killed. He had previously served two tours in Iraq before deploying to Afghanistan.
Capt. Schultz grew up in Sacramento, CA, but home was listed as Port Angeles, WA, where his mother lives.
Capt Schultz graduated from El camino High School in 1993 where he played football and rugby. He was known for his leadership ability and steadfast friendship.
After high school, Schultz graduated from the University of Oregon and then returned to Sacramento. He participated in a political campaign before working for Gov. Gray Davis. He later made the transition to the U.S. State Department, where he was assigned to the Middle East desk. After that, he lived on a kibbutz in Israel.
Longtime friend, Jim DeBoo, said, "He died doing exactly what he wanted to do, which was be in Afghanistan, be a commanding officer and fight terrorism."
"We both had single parents, we had no siblings," DeBoo said. "We were the closest thing we had to brothers."
Classmate, Lisa Gonzales, anchor and reporter for Channel 13 (KOVR), stated Schultz was an amazing person and a leader. "He was fun to be around, serious when he needed to be serious." She said Schultz was designed for greatness and had once thought he would become a politician.
"Then, when he worked for Gray Davis, I thought one day we would be voting for Joe Schultz for governor," Gonzales said. "Then he took this drastic turn after 9/11 and enlisted in the military. That also did not surprise us because he was such a standout leader."
Capt Schultz received his commission as an intelligence officer in 2003. His first assignement was to the 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82ng Airborne Division at Ft Bragg.
After earning his green beret, he was assigned to Company C, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group.
Capt Schultz's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star Medal
Purple Heart
Army Accommendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal with one campaign star
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Overseas Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Combat Infrantryman Badge
Parachutists Badge
Special Forces Tab
Ranger Tab
Capt Schultz will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
Army Capt. Joseph W Schultz was killed in action on 5/29/11.
Army Capt. Joseph W Schultz, 36, of Port Angeles, Wash.
Capt. Schultz was assigned to the 3rd Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died May 29, 2011 in Wardak province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Staff Sgt. Martin R. Apolinar and Sgt. Aaron J. Blasjo.
Capt Schultz was traveling in a vehicle when he was killed. He had previously served two tours in Iraq before deploying to Afghanistan.
Capt. Schultz grew up in Sacramento, CA, but home was listed as Port Angeles, WA, where his mother lives.
Capt Schultz graduated from El camino High School in 1993 where he played football and rugby. He was known for his leadership ability and steadfast friendship.
After high school, Schultz graduated from the University of Oregon and then returned to Sacramento. He participated in a political campaign before working for Gov. Gray Davis. He later made the transition to the U.S. State Department, where he was assigned to the Middle East desk. After that, he lived on a kibbutz in Israel.
Longtime friend, Jim DeBoo, said, "He died doing exactly what he wanted to do, which was be in Afghanistan, be a commanding officer and fight terrorism."
"We both had single parents, we had no siblings," DeBoo said. "We were the closest thing we had to brothers."
Classmate, Lisa Gonzales, anchor and reporter for Channel 13 (KOVR), stated Schultz was an amazing person and a leader. "He was fun to be around, serious when he needed to be serious." She said Schultz was designed for greatness and had once thought he would become a politician.
"Then, when he worked for Gray Davis, I thought one day we would be voting for Joe Schultz for governor," Gonzales said. "Then he took this drastic turn after 9/11 and enlisted in the military. That also did not surprise us because he was such a standout leader."
Capt Schultz received his commission as an intelligence officer in 2003. His first assignement was to the 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82ng Airborne Division at Ft Bragg.
After earning his green beret, he was assigned to Company C, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group.
Capt Schultz's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star Medal
Purple Heart
Army Accommendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal with one campaign star
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Overseas Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Combat Infrantryman Badge
Parachutists Badge
Special Forces Tab
Ranger Tab
Capt Schultz will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
Army Capt. Joseph W Schultz was killed in action on 5/29/11.
Army Staff Sgt. Martin R Apolinar
Remember Our Heroes
Army Staff Sgt. Martin R Apolinar, 28, of Glendale, Ariz.
SSgt Apolinar was assigned to the 3rd Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died May 29, 2011 in Wardak province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Capt. Joseph W. Schultz and Sgt. Aaron J. Blasjo.
SSgt Apolinar was killed when an improvised explosive device struck the vehicle he was traveling in with his Special Forces team on a mounted patrol.
SSgt Apolinar grew up in Phoenix. He graduated from Trevor Browne High School in 2001 and was voted "prettiest eyes" by his senior class.
SSgt Apolinar enlisted in the U.S. Army three years after he graduated. He served as a rifleman, machine-gunner and team leader at Fort Riley, Kan. In 2008 he completed his Special Forces Qualification Course at Fort Bragg, N.C., becoming a member of the Airborne Special Forces. This was his second deployment, having previously been deployed to Iraq.
SSgt Apolinar's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star Medal
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal with one campaign star
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Overseas Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Infantryman Badge
Parachutists Badge
Special Forces Tab
Ranger Tab
SSgt Apolinar is survived by his mother, Susan, father, Gene; wife, Elisa, son, Martin; two brothers, Michael and Eddie
Army Staff Sgt. Martin R Apolinar was killed in action on 5/29/11.
Army Staff Sgt. Martin R Apolinar, 28, of Glendale, Ariz.
SSgt Apolinar was assigned to the 3rd Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died May 29, 2011 in Wardak province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Capt. Joseph W. Schultz and Sgt. Aaron J. Blasjo.
SSgt Apolinar was killed when an improvised explosive device struck the vehicle he was traveling in with his Special Forces team on a mounted patrol.
SSgt Apolinar grew up in Phoenix. He graduated from Trevor Browne High School in 2001 and was voted "prettiest eyes" by his senior class.
SSgt Apolinar enlisted in the U.S. Army three years after he graduated. He served as a rifleman, machine-gunner and team leader at Fort Riley, Kan. In 2008 he completed his Special Forces Qualification Course at Fort Bragg, N.C., becoming a member of the Airborne Special Forces. This was his second deployment, having previously been deployed to Iraq.
SSgt Apolinar's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star Medal
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal with one campaign star
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Overseas Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Infantryman Badge
Parachutists Badge
Special Forces Tab
Ranger Tab
SSgt Apolinar is survived by his mother, Susan, father, Gene; wife, Elisa, son, Martin; two brothers, Michael and Eddie
Army Staff Sgt. Martin R Apolinar was killed in action on 5/29/11.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Marine Lance Cpl. Peter J Clore
Remember Our Heroes
Marine Lance Cpl. Peter J Clore, 23, of New Philadelphia, Ohio
LCpl Clore was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died May 28, 2011 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
LCpl Clore was mortally wounded by enemy fire while performing his duties as an Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Dog Handler.
The oldest of four children, LCPL Clore was named after his paternal great-grandfather, Peter H. Clore, and his maternal grandfather, James A. Connolly. He enjoyed playing video games and spending time with family and friends.
Active in parish life at Sacred Heart Catholic Church ever since the family moved to New Philadelphia in 1992, he volunteered as an altar server during regular and funeral Masses, earning recognition as an 8th grader for his outstanding service to the church.
He joined Cub Scout Pack 89 at Sacred Heart before becoming a member of Boy Scouts of America Troop 95 of St. Joseph Parish at Dover, where he obtained the rank of Life Scout.
In his senior year, he won the bishop Hermann Service Award for outstanding service to school and community and was recognized as a church usher, Eucharistic minister, teen choir member and vacation Bible school instructor.
LCPL Clore graduated in 2006 from Tuscarawas Central Catholic High School where sister, Sarah, is currently a junior and brother, George, graduated in 2009.
LCPL Clore earned a varsity letter for each of his four years of wrestling and was a qualifier for district competition his junior and senior year where he earned a district championship in wrestling at 112 pounds.
Upon graduation, he was awarded the Bishop Herrmann Service Award for Outstanding Service to school and community and was also the recipient of a scholarship from the Carl C. Stoller Post #1445 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars at New Philadelphia.
After high school, LCPL Clore studied at the Pontifical College Josephinum Seminary in Columbus. He was there for a year before joining the Marines in 2008, where while in boot camp, he was recognized for his service to his fellow recruits as a Religious Lay Leader.
He first deployed in 2009, then again in January 2010 to Haiti to assist in providing earthquake relief. He became a certified dog handler for the Marine Corps last year. He deployed to Afghanistan in March.
Family spokesman, and priest at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Father Jeff Coning, said Clore left the seminary to go into the military. He had spent a year studying priesthood before joining the military in 2008.
"He went in because he really felt that he needed to give some time to the country and just felt a strong sense of wanting to serve," Coning said. He described Clore as hard working, steadfast in his faith, and who you would want as a friend.
"As a priest, this is as close as it gets to losing my own kids...and it's pretty devastating," Coning said
The community paid respects to LCPL Clore last Saturday afternoon beneath the rotunda in the Tuscarawas County Courthouse. A Marine Honor Guard escorted the casket in and out of the courthouse prior to and following the period of mourning.
Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday at 11 a.m. in Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Buriel followed at Calvary Cemetery where full military honores were rendered. Following the committal service, attendess were invited for a luncheon.
As LCPL Clore was the first to announce at any gathering of family and friends that "Life is short, eat dessert first", the parish community of Sacred Heart prepared ample desserts for all who attended.
LCPL Clore is survived by his parents, Chris and Cliff; brothers George and John, who just completed 4th grade, and sister, Sarah.
Marine Lance Cpl. Peter J Clore was killed in action on 5/28/11.
Marine Lance Cpl. Peter J Clore, 23, of New Philadelphia, Ohio
LCpl Clore was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died May 28, 2011 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
LCpl Clore was mortally wounded by enemy fire while performing his duties as an Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Dog Handler.
The oldest of four children, LCPL Clore was named after his paternal great-grandfather, Peter H. Clore, and his maternal grandfather, James A. Connolly. He enjoyed playing video games and spending time with family and friends.
Active in parish life at Sacred Heart Catholic Church ever since the family moved to New Philadelphia in 1992, he volunteered as an altar server during regular and funeral Masses, earning recognition as an 8th grader for his outstanding service to the church.
He joined Cub Scout Pack 89 at Sacred Heart before becoming a member of Boy Scouts of America Troop 95 of St. Joseph Parish at Dover, where he obtained the rank of Life Scout.
In his senior year, he won the bishop Hermann Service Award for outstanding service to school and community and was recognized as a church usher, Eucharistic minister, teen choir member and vacation Bible school instructor.
LCPL Clore graduated in 2006 from Tuscarawas Central Catholic High School where sister, Sarah, is currently a junior and brother, George, graduated in 2009.
LCPL Clore earned a varsity letter for each of his four years of wrestling and was a qualifier for district competition his junior and senior year where he earned a district championship in wrestling at 112 pounds.
Upon graduation, he was awarded the Bishop Herrmann Service Award for Outstanding Service to school and community and was also the recipient of a scholarship from the Carl C. Stoller Post #1445 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars at New Philadelphia.
After high school, LCPL Clore studied at the Pontifical College Josephinum Seminary in Columbus. He was there for a year before joining the Marines in 2008, where while in boot camp, he was recognized for his service to his fellow recruits as a Religious Lay Leader.
He first deployed in 2009, then again in January 2010 to Haiti to assist in providing earthquake relief. He became a certified dog handler for the Marine Corps last year. He deployed to Afghanistan in March.
Family spokesman, and priest at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Father Jeff Coning, said Clore left the seminary to go into the military. He had spent a year studying priesthood before joining the military in 2008.
"He went in because he really felt that he needed to give some time to the country and just felt a strong sense of wanting to serve," Coning said. He described Clore as hard working, steadfast in his faith, and who you would want as a friend.
"As a priest, this is as close as it gets to losing my own kids...and it's pretty devastating," Coning said
The community paid respects to LCPL Clore last Saturday afternoon beneath the rotunda in the Tuscarawas County Courthouse. A Marine Honor Guard escorted the casket in and out of the courthouse prior to and following the period of mourning.
Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday at 11 a.m. in Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Buriel followed at Calvary Cemetery where full military honores were rendered. Following the committal service, attendess were invited for a luncheon.
As LCPL Clore was the first to announce at any gathering of family and friends that "Life is short, eat dessert first", the parish community of Sacred Heart prepared ample desserts for all who attended.
LCPL Clore is survived by his parents, Chris and Cliff; brothers George and John, who just completed 4th grade, and sister, Sarah.
Marine Lance Cpl. Peter J Clore was killed in action on 5/28/11.
Army Spc. Adam S Hamilton
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. Adam S Hamilton, 22, of Kent, Ohio
Spc. Hamilton was assigned to the 4th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died May 28, 2011 in Haji Ruf, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.
SPC Hamilton was on night patrol when an improvised explosive device detonated. He died from wounds sustained in the blast. He had only been deployed two months.
SPC Hamilton graduated in 2007 from Kent Roosevelt Hight School, where he played football, hockey and lacrosse. He continued his lacrosse career at a junior college in Maryland.
"He went off to college to play lacrosse," said father, Scott Hamilton. "[Then] he called me one day and said, 'Dad, I'm going to go serve our country.' And I struggled with that...a lot. And we came to peace with that, and I supported him, and he went into the army."
It was truly his calling, " his father, Scott Hamilton said. "He said, [college] just wasn't for me,' "We differed about it. He was a gifted athlete, he was a leader and he had thing he could do in business.
SPC Hamilton told people that he wanted to join the Army for one reason: to be a part of that team and to be a leader in it. "He truly wanted to serve his country", his father said, "He really loved it."
Scott Hamilton says his son was always strong and athletic, and saw the U.S. Army as the ultimate team. "It's gotten so bad, he was scared. And that's not his style. My little boy's not afraid anymore; he's in a good place, but he will be missed... greatly."
SPC Hamilton's last post on Facebook, just three days before he was killed, "I hate sandstorms! hopefully a month till I get a break from this...still praying and thanking god every morning and night before I go to bed to still let me be here and fight this fight..."
When SPC Hamilton’s 12-year-old sister had asked her parents what the meaning of Memorial Day was, “We told her, and she says, ‘Well, we don’t do as much as we should, and we have a brother that’s over there,’” Scott said. “Boy, I guess she really understands the meaning of it now.”
“He enjoyed camaraderie,” his mother, Nancy, said. “He wanted to do something that would make him feel like he was doing something for others.”
Nancy said the moment she was proudest of her son was when he enlisted. “That was his decision, and his decision was final, and he carried that out,” she said. “That was a very difficult decision, and he stuck to it.”
“He sacrificed his life for it,” Scott said. “But it was his way. It was what he wanted.”
His mother agreed, saying, “That was what was in his heart.”
He talked with his mom about going shopping for clothes, and he talked with his dad about a planned trip together to the Myrtle Beach area.
“He just wanted to come home and hang out with his family,” Scott said.
“His smile lit up a room when he walked in,” Scott said. “I’ve got so many pictures around the house right now and hanging up of Adam, and every single one of them had that loving smile.”
“He was just an inspiration to so many,” Scott said. “The day he came into this world, he changed my life, and the day he left he’s changed it even more, and it’s made me a better person already. Adam was a gifted child. We were very fortunate he was given to us."
Thinking about life without Adam, his mother said she knew what she was going to miss the most. “His face,” Krestan said. “I’m going to miss his face and his voice.”
Kent Mayor Jerry Fiala had ordered all flags at municipal buildings or on municipal grounds be lowered to half-staff in accordance with the city's flag policy and remain at half-staff until after Hamilton's funeral.
Spc Hamilton is survived by his mother, Nancy; father, Scott, and sister.
Army Spc. Adam S Hamilton was killed in action on 5/28/11.
Army Spc. Adam S Hamilton, 22, of Kent, Ohio
Spc. Hamilton was assigned to the 4th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died May 28, 2011 in Haji Ruf, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.
SPC Hamilton was on night patrol when an improvised explosive device detonated. He died from wounds sustained in the blast. He had only been deployed two months.
SPC Hamilton graduated in 2007 from Kent Roosevelt Hight School, where he played football, hockey and lacrosse. He continued his lacrosse career at a junior college in Maryland.
"He went off to college to play lacrosse," said father, Scott Hamilton. "[Then] he called me one day and said, 'Dad, I'm going to go serve our country.' And I struggled with that...a lot. And we came to peace with that, and I supported him, and he went into the army."
It was truly his calling, " his father, Scott Hamilton said. "He said, [college] just wasn't for me,' "We differed about it. He was a gifted athlete, he was a leader and he had thing he could do in business.
SPC Hamilton told people that he wanted to join the Army for one reason: to be a part of that team and to be a leader in it. "He truly wanted to serve his country", his father said, "He really loved it."
Scott Hamilton says his son was always strong and athletic, and saw the U.S. Army as the ultimate team. "It's gotten so bad, he was scared. And that's not his style. My little boy's not afraid anymore; he's in a good place, but he will be missed... greatly."
SPC Hamilton's last post on Facebook, just three days before he was killed, "I hate sandstorms! hopefully a month till I get a break from this...still praying and thanking god every morning and night before I go to bed to still let me be here and fight this fight..."
When SPC Hamilton’s 12-year-old sister had asked her parents what the meaning of Memorial Day was, “We told her, and she says, ‘Well, we don’t do as much as we should, and we have a brother that’s over there,’” Scott said. “Boy, I guess she really understands the meaning of it now.”
“He enjoyed camaraderie,” his mother, Nancy, said. “He wanted to do something that would make him feel like he was doing something for others.”
Nancy said the moment she was proudest of her son was when he enlisted. “That was his decision, and his decision was final, and he carried that out,” she said. “That was a very difficult decision, and he stuck to it.”
“He sacrificed his life for it,” Scott said. “But it was his way. It was what he wanted.”
His mother agreed, saying, “That was what was in his heart.”
He talked with his mom about going shopping for clothes, and he talked with his dad about a planned trip together to the Myrtle Beach area.
“He just wanted to come home and hang out with his family,” Scott said.
“His smile lit up a room when he walked in,” Scott said. “I’ve got so many pictures around the house right now and hanging up of Adam, and every single one of them had that loving smile.”
“He was just an inspiration to so many,” Scott said. “The day he came into this world, he changed my life, and the day he left he’s changed it even more, and it’s made me a better person already. Adam was a gifted child. We were very fortunate he was given to us."
Thinking about life without Adam, his mother said she knew what she was going to miss the most. “His face,” Krestan said. “I’m going to miss his face and his voice.”
Kent Mayor Jerry Fiala had ordered all flags at municipal buildings or on municipal grounds be lowered to half-staff in accordance with the city's flag policy and remain at half-staff until after Hamilton's funeral.
Spc Hamilton is survived by his mother, Nancy; father, Scott, and sister.
Army Spc. Adam S Hamilton was killed in action on 5/28/11.
Army Pvt Adam Armstrong
Remember Our Heroes
Pvt Adam Armstrong died on May 28, 2011 while serving his country in Katterbach, Germany.
Pvt Armstrong graduated from Spanish Fork High School where he learned and loved to speak and write fluent Japanese.
Pvt Armstrong joined the Army during his last year of high school. He did his basic training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma and AIT training as an Apache helicopter mechanic, at Fort Eustis, VA. After AIT, he was then sent to his permanent duty station in Germany.
Pvt Armstrong met the love of his life, Gina Buckwalter, in high school. He could not wait to start his life with Gina and felt their wedding was not happening soon enough.
When asked by Angel Kim if she could tell us something about her son, stepmom, Kimberlee, had this to say:
Oh man where to begin???? His love was Japanese. Reading it, writing it, speaking it. He liked to cook, but was not very good at it. I think it was my fault that he thought he was, I could not tell him it wasn't. Video games AHHHH!!! Even his friends from Germany talked about the long weekend playing games. He loved to read, We would take turnes reading the same books. i wouldn't let him read it first because he would always spoil it for me on purpose. He loved to draw and write stories. Impossible math problems and science "used to make my head hurt" He loved riding his bike, he never got his licence. He was a huge fan of Sprite and Skittles and anything that I baked :) And seafood :P "yuck"
He loved animals. Oh my gosh he loved to suprise you catch you off guard, scare you he thought it was hillarious. He always loved the Army, and he loved his helicopters, I mean loved them!!! He loved antiques. HAHAHA James says farting contests with his dad!
He liked to be challenged and like doing impressions. He LOVED to sew crazy hats. Electronics, oh man, even Sgt. Moerhing gave him the nickname Smeagle "from lord of the rings" because Adam considered his phone and computer his precious ha. He loved church. You know what he didnt like poop scoopin horse poop. He loved to give crazy hugs and to sleep in late and stay up late. Wow I'm going to stop because I could go on for hours probably. But it was nice to think about it, thank you.
Adam is survived by his dad and stepmom, James and Kim; sister, Camille.
Pvt Adam Armstrong died on May 28, 2011 while serving his country in Katterbach, Germany.
Pvt Armstrong graduated from Spanish Fork High School where he learned and loved to speak and write fluent Japanese.
Pvt Armstrong joined the Army during his last year of high school. He did his basic training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma and AIT training as an Apache helicopter mechanic, at Fort Eustis, VA. After AIT, he was then sent to his permanent duty station in Germany.
Pvt Armstrong met the love of his life, Gina Buckwalter, in high school. He could not wait to start his life with Gina and felt their wedding was not happening soon enough.
When asked by Angel Kim if she could tell us something about her son, stepmom, Kimberlee, had this to say:
Oh man where to begin???? His love was Japanese. Reading it, writing it, speaking it. He liked to cook, but was not very good at it. I think it was my fault that he thought he was, I could not tell him it wasn't. Video games AHHHH!!! Even his friends from Germany talked about the long weekend playing games. He loved to read, We would take turnes reading the same books. i wouldn't let him read it first because he would always spoil it for me on purpose. He loved to draw and write stories. Impossible math problems and science "used to make my head hurt" He loved riding his bike, he never got his licence. He was a huge fan of Sprite and Skittles and anything that I baked :) And seafood :P "yuck"
He loved animals. Oh my gosh he loved to suprise you catch you off guard, scare you he thought it was hillarious. He always loved the Army, and he loved his helicopters, I mean loved them!!! He loved antiques. HAHAHA James says farting contests with his dad!
He liked to be challenged and like doing impressions. He LOVED to sew crazy hats. Electronics, oh man, even Sgt. Moerhing gave him the nickname Smeagle "from lord of the rings" because Adam considered his phone and computer his precious ha. He loved church. You know what he didnt like poop scoopin horse poop. He loved to give crazy hugs and to sleep in late and stay up late. Wow I'm going to stop because I could go on for hours probably. But it was nice to think about it, thank you.
Adam is survived by his dad and stepmom, James and Kim; sister, Camille.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Army Pfc. John C. Johnson
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pfc. John C. Johnson, 28, of Phoenix, Ariz., assigned to the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.; died May 27, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire.
Spc Johnson, who went by Corey to family, joined the U.S. Army in February 2010. He completed training at Fort Jackson, S.C., and Fort Benning, Ga., before being assigned to Fort Drum in July 2010. He deployed to Afghanistan in March.
Spc Johnson was an experienced hunter and tracker, who grew up fishing and hunting in Arizona's high country. He worked in a rock mine before he joined the army. He would have been 29 this month.
The last time stepmother, Anita, and her husband, John, saw Corey was around Christmas time, she said. "He'd tease me a lot. We had a good relationship," Anita said. "He'd come up behind me with that Corey smile. Then he'd lean over my shoulder and say, 'I sure do love you with all my heart.' "
As a child, Corey was a happy kid, she said. "He'd shove his little face in my side and hug me. We're having a hard time swallowing the news."
Anita, said Corey had been married once before and had a daughter before that marriage ended in divorce. A few months ago, he surprised his family by telling them he had remarried and his wife was expecting a child. Corey' wife was four months pregnant.
Jennifer Humble and Corey met online in November. A month later, they met in person. They were married the day after Valentine's Day.
A month later, Corey was deployed to Afghanistan.
When Jennifer learned her husband had been killed in action, the news sent her into labor which doctors were able to stop. Their daughter Rae Leann, is expected to be born in August.
“I’m holding up,” said Jennifer who stated she knew what she was getting into when she met Corey. “It was hard, but I always thought he would come back,” Jennifer said.
The last time she spoke with her husband was May 24. “It was hard because he was saying things were getting bad, and he wanted to be home,” she said.
She described her husband as very loving and selfless. “He was a great father and a wonderful husband,” she said. “He made me into the mother I wanted to be for my children.”
Jennifer met her husband’s family for the first time last Saturday at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware, after his remains arrived from overseas.
“I talk to them every day,” she said about her husband’s family. “We talk about Corey, we laugh and cry together."
Justin Leach, SPC Johnson's brother in law, described Corey as an outdoorsman who loved horses, horseback riding, hunting and fishing. “He was definitely a family man. He loved kids,” Leach said. “He had one of those contagious smiles; it could turn anybody’s bad day good.”
Though SPC Johnson never will know his baby girl, both families are putting together videos and photos so Rae Leann will know her father.
PFC Johnson's awards and decorations include:
Army National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Infantryman Badge
Spc Johnson is survived by his mother, Vicki; father and stepmother, John and Anita; wife, Jennifer and stepdaughter, Marina; daughter, McKena, from previous marriage; as well as seven sisters.
Army Pfc. John C. Johnson was killed in action on 5/27/11.
Army Pfc. John C. Johnson, 28, of Phoenix, Ariz., assigned to the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.; died May 27, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire.
Spc Johnson, who went by Corey to family, joined the U.S. Army in February 2010. He completed training at Fort Jackson, S.C., and Fort Benning, Ga., before being assigned to Fort Drum in July 2010. He deployed to Afghanistan in March.
Spc Johnson was an experienced hunter and tracker, who grew up fishing and hunting in Arizona's high country. He worked in a rock mine before he joined the army. He would have been 29 this month.
The last time stepmother, Anita, and her husband, John, saw Corey was around Christmas time, she said. "He'd tease me a lot. We had a good relationship," Anita said. "He'd come up behind me with that Corey smile. Then he'd lean over my shoulder and say, 'I sure do love you with all my heart.' "
As a child, Corey was a happy kid, she said. "He'd shove his little face in my side and hug me. We're having a hard time swallowing the news."
Anita, said Corey had been married once before and had a daughter before that marriage ended in divorce. A few months ago, he surprised his family by telling them he had remarried and his wife was expecting a child. Corey' wife was four months pregnant.
Jennifer Humble and Corey met online in November. A month later, they met in person. They were married the day after Valentine's Day.
A month later, Corey was deployed to Afghanistan.
When Jennifer learned her husband had been killed in action, the news sent her into labor which doctors were able to stop. Their daughter Rae Leann, is expected to be born in August.
“I’m holding up,” said Jennifer who stated she knew what she was getting into when she met Corey. “It was hard, but I always thought he would come back,” Jennifer said.
The last time she spoke with her husband was May 24. “It was hard because he was saying things were getting bad, and he wanted to be home,” she said.
She described her husband as very loving and selfless. “He was a great father and a wonderful husband,” she said. “He made me into the mother I wanted to be for my children.”
Jennifer met her husband’s family for the first time last Saturday at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware, after his remains arrived from overseas.
“I talk to them every day,” she said about her husband’s family. “We talk about Corey, we laugh and cry together."
Justin Leach, SPC Johnson's brother in law, described Corey as an outdoorsman who loved horses, horseback riding, hunting and fishing. “He was definitely a family man. He loved kids,” Leach said. “He had one of those contagious smiles; it could turn anybody’s bad day good.”
Though SPC Johnson never will know his baby girl, both families are putting together videos and photos so Rae Leann will know her father.
PFC Johnson's awards and decorations include:
Army National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Infantryman Badge
Spc Johnson is survived by his mother, Vicki; father and stepmother, John and Anita; wife, Jennifer and stepdaughter, Marina; daughter, McKena, from previous marriage; as well as seven sisters.
Army Pfc. John C. Johnson was killed in action on 5/27/11.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Army Spc. Adam J Patton
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. Adam J Patton, 21, of Port Orchard, Wash.
Spc Patton was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died May 26, 2011 of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province, Afghanistan. Also killed were 1st Lt. John M. Runkle, Staff Sgt. Edward D. Mills Jr., Staff Sgt. Ergin V. Osman, Sgt. Thomas A. Bohall and Sgt. Louie A. Ramos Velazquez.
A distant relative of famed Gen. George S. Patton, Spc Patton wanted to be in the Army and get a chance not only to live up to his family name, but also make a difference in the world.
He loved sports and could often be seen playing soccer or on a bike of some kind. In junior high, he broke both his arms dirt biking but the injury did not deter him from the sport he loved for long.
Spc Patton graduated from South Kitsap High School in 2008. He joined the Army in June 2008 and arrived at Ft Campbell in October that year.
Friend, Matthew Peterson, said, "He had a passion and that was to get the chance to serve the United States."
Spc Patton's friends say that even when he was overseas and in combat, he took great care to keep in touch. When he came home, he tried to see as many people as he could to catch up.
He had a way of making people feel like his best friend," said Melanie Anderson, who got to know SPC Patton through the school's Navy Junior ROTC program.
Friends and family talk of a certain smirk, sometimes followed by a thumbs-up sign. Whenever he did that, "You knew he did something, you just didn't know what," his mother, Sandy, said.
According to his mother, as his plattoon's helicopter was landing, an IED went off, killing some soldiers instantly, but her son died en route to the hospital.
SPC Patton was due to come home for good next month. He wanted to go to college and train to become an agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
"It's the land of the free because of my son," his mother said. "Because all of the fallen soldiers and the men and women who serve our country."
Spc Patton will be buried in Port Orchard. "This is home," his mother said. "This is where we'll bring Adam."
Spc Patton's awards and decorations include:
Air Medal
Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Infantryman Badge
Spc Patton is survived by his mother, Sandy, and stepfather Greg; brother, Tim; two sisters, Emily and Makenna. He is preceded in death by his father, David, who died when Adam was 7.
Army Spc. Adam J Patton was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Army Spc. Adam J Patton, 21, of Port Orchard, Wash.
Spc Patton was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died May 26, 2011 of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province, Afghanistan. Also killed were 1st Lt. John M. Runkle, Staff Sgt. Edward D. Mills Jr., Staff Sgt. Ergin V. Osman, Sgt. Thomas A. Bohall and Sgt. Louie A. Ramos Velazquez.
A distant relative of famed Gen. George S. Patton, Spc Patton wanted to be in the Army and get a chance not only to live up to his family name, but also make a difference in the world.
He loved sports and could often be seen playing soccer or on a bike of some kind. In junior high, he broke both his arms dirt biking but the injury did not deter him from the sport he loved for long.
Spc Patton graduated from South Kitsap High School in 2008. He joined the Army in June 2008 and arrived at Ft Campbell in October that year.
Friend, Matthew Peterson, said, "He had a passion and that was to get the chance to serve the United States."
Spc Patton's friends say that even when he was overseas and in combat, he took great care to keep in touch. When he came home, he tried to see as many people as he could to catch up.
He had a way of making people feel like his best friend," said Melanie Anderson, who got to know SPC Patton through the school's Navy Junior ROTC program.
Friends and family talk of a certain smirk, sometimes followed by a thumbs-up sign. Whenever he did that, "You knew he did something, you just didn't know what," his mother, Sandy, said.
According to his mother, as his plattoon's helicopter was landing, an IED went off, killing some soldiers instantly, but her son died en route to the hospital.
SPC Patton was due to come home for good next month. He wanted to go to college and train to become an agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
"It's the land of the free because of my son," his mother said. "Because all of the fallen soldiers and the men and women who serve our country."
Spc Patton will be buried in Port Orchard. "This is home," his mother said. "This is where we'll bring Adam."
Spc Patton's awards and decorations include:
Air Medal
Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Infantryman Badge
Spc Patton is survived by his mother, Sandy, and stepfather Greg; brother, Tim; two sisters, Emily and Makenna. He is preceded in death by his father, David, who died when Adam was 7.
Army Spc. Adam J Patton was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Army Sgt. Thomas A Bohall
Remember Our Heroes
Army Sgt. Thomas A Bohall, 25, of Bel Aire, Kan.
Sgt Bohall was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died May 26, 2011 of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province, Afghanistan. Also killed were 1st Lt. John M. Runkle, Staff Sgt. Edward D. Mills Jr., Spc. Adam J. Patton, Sgt. Louie A. Ramos Velazquez and Staff Sgt. Ergin V. Osman.
Former Wichita-area resident killed in Afghanistan
By Deb Gruver
The Wichita Eagle
WICHITA, Kan. — Thomas Bohall wasn't the star of his winning high school soccer team. He didn't even start his senior year.
But at a celebration after the team took second statewide, his coach talked about how he was the life of the team.
Army Sgt. Thomas A. Bohall, 25, a Bel Aire native and a graduate of Ronald Reagan High School in San Antonio, died Thursday in Afghanistan with five other soldiers when insurgents attacked their unit with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province.
His father, Tim Bohall of Weston, Fla., on Sunday recalled his son's coach's words. Sgt. Bohall was a goalie who played behind one of the top-rated goalies in the country, Tim Bohall said.
The coach started by talking about the underclassmen, then the seniors. Tim Bohall said he expected the coach to call his son's name first when he got to the seniors. He waited and waited as the coach introduced "Mr. San Antonio Soccer" and "Mr. Texas High School Soccer."
At some point, Tim Bohall said, a fellow player told the coach, "You forgot about Thomas." The coach replied, "I'm saving Thomas for last."
"Thomas had never started a varsity game," his father said. "Thomas had never scored a goal. And what the coach said was, 'This man was the life of our team. He rode the bench, but he never sat on the bench.' They called him the 'Rev' because he was the strength of the team."
The coach, he said, told those at the celebration, "I'd give anything to have a hundred Thomases."
Sgt. Bohall would run up and down the field during games, cheering his team on, not satisfied to sit on the bench, his father said.
"I believe in my heart that that is the way that Thomas carried himself with his troops serving our country," Tim Bohall said. "Thomas reveled in the success of his team and the success of others."
Sgt. Bohall was an infantryman who joined the Army in August 2005 and arrived at Fort Campbell in Kentucky in October 2008.
He earned several decorations and awards and served in missions in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Sgt. Bohall was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell.
Sgt. Bohall "never met a man that he considered his enemy," his father said. "Thomas loved what he was doing. He felt a true calling to serve the way that he served."
Lorna Geist of Bel Aire, Sgt. Bohall's mother, said her son attended middle school at Sunrise Christian Academy and spent two years at Heights High School. He spent his junior and senior years in Texas with his father.
"Tom loved adventure," Geist said. "He loved the outdoors."
She remembers him catching a snapping turtle at age 8, coming home proud.
"Look, Mom," he told her. "I caught a snapping turtle out of the lake."
He told her, "Don't worry; I'm going to take it back. I just wanted you to see it."
"He was into the next adventure," she said. "He loved the Airborne. He loved jumping out of planes."
A short service was held Saturday at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware. Tim Bohall said several military dignitaries attended, including three members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Services for Sgt. Bohall are pending.
Sgt. Bohall's survivors include his wife, Jessica, and daughter, Annabelle, both of Essington, Pa.
Army Sgt. Thomas A Bohall was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Army Sgt. Thomas A Bohall, 25, of Bel Aire, Kan.
Sgt Bohall was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died May 26, 2011 of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province, Afghanistan. Also killed were 1st Lt. John M. Runkle, Staff Sgt. Edward D. Mills Jr., Spc. Adam J. Patton, Sgt. Louie A. Ramos Velazquez and Staff Sgt. Ergin V. Osman.
Former Wichita-area resident killed in Afghanistan
By Deb Gruver
The Wichita Eagle
WICHITA, Kan. — Thomas Bohall wasn't the star of his winning high school soccer team. He didn't even start his senior year.
But at a celebration after the team took second statewide, his coach talked about how he was the life of the team.
Army Sgt. Thomas A. Bohall, 25, a Bel Aire native and a graduate of Ronald Reagan High School in San Antonio, died Thursday in Afghanistan with five other soldiers when insurgents attacked their unit with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province.
His father, Tim Bohall of Weston, Fla., on Sunday recalled his son's coach's words. Sgt. Bohall was a goalie who played behind one of the top-rated goalies in the country, Tim Bohall said.
The coach started by talking about the underclassmen, then the seniors. Tim Bohall said he expected the coach to call his son's name first when he got to the seniors. He waited and waited as the coach introduced "Mr. San Antonio Soccer" and "Mr. Texas High School Soccer."
At some point, Tim Bohall said, a fellow player told the coach, "You forgot about Thomas." The coach replied, "I'm saving Thomas for last."
"Thomas had never started a varsity game," his father said. "Thomas had never scored a goal. And what the coach said was, 'This man was the life of our team. He rode the bench, but he never sat on the bench.' They called him the 'Rev' because he was the strength of the team."
The coach, he said, told those at the celebration, "I'd give anything to have a hundred Thomases."
Sgt. Bohall would run up and down the field during games, cheering his team on, not satisfied to sit on the bench, his father said.
"I believe in my heart that that is the way that Thomas carried himself with his troops serving our country," Tim Bohall said. "Thomas reveled in the success of his team and the success of others."
Sgt. Bohall was an infantryman who joined the Army in August 2005 and arrived at Fort Campbell in Kentucky in October 2008.
He earned several decorations and awards and served in missions in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Sgt. Bohall was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell.
Sgt. Bohall "never met a man that he considered his enemy," his father said. "Thomas loved what he was doing. He felt a true calling to serve the way that he served."
Lorna Geist of Bel Aire, Sgt. Bohall's mother, said her son attended middle school at Sunrise Christian Academy and spent two years at Heights High School. He spent his junior and senior years in Texas with his father.
"Tom loved adventure," Geist said. "He loved the outdoors."
She remembers him catching a snapping turtle at age 8, coming home proud.
"Look, Mom," he told her. "I caught a snapping turtle out of the lake."
He told her, "Don't worry; I'm going to take it back. I just wanted you to see it."
"He was into the next adventure," she said. "He loved the Airborne. He loved jumping out of planes."
A short service was held Saturday at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware. Tim Bohall said several military dignitaries attended, including three members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Services for Sgt. Bohall are pending.
Sgt. Bohall's survivors include his wife, Jessica, and daughter, Annabelle, both of Essington, Pa.
Army Sgt. Thomas A Bohall was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Army Chief Warrant Officer Christopher R. Thibodeau
Remember Our Heroes
Army Chief Warrant Officer Christopher R. Thibodeau, 28, of Chesterland, Ohio
CWO Thibodeau was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, Fort Hood, Texas; died May 26, 2011 in Paktika province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when his helicopter crashed during combat operations.
Growing up in New Hampshire, CWO Thibodeau is the oldest of three children and had wanted to fly since he was 8, after seeing the Navy’s Blue Angels for the first time. During his senior year, the family moved to Ohio where he graduated from West Geauga High School in 2000. In 2004, he graduated from Case Western Reserve University.
Thibodeau enjoyed sports, spending time with his dogs Nolan and Moony, brewing beer, woodworking, camping and hiking.
At Ft Hood since August 2009, CWO Thibodeau deployed to Aghanistan last summer, shortly after marrying his wife, LeeSandra.
Doreen Thibodeau said her son wanted to serve in the military so that his family would be safe. "He knew the risk. I knew the risk," she said. "He told me that, 'If I die in Afghanistan, I want you to remember that I loved to fly and that you have to promise that under no circumstances that you will be mad. I died doing what I loved to do.' "
From friends:
May 30, 2011 at 09:40 AM To the Family of Chris, I had the distinct pleasure in teaching Chris how to fly the Apache Helicopter for a six month period. Each day I did my very best to instill the attack spirit. Chris was an exceptionally motivated student. He did his very best to understand the complxity of the aircraft and the attack mission. Chris loved flying, he loved life, he loved his country. My heart is broken for this loss. I take comfort in God, and the fact that Chris' efforts in Afganistan saved countless fellow American Soldiers. His dedication to fellow Apache pilots, soldiers, and friends will not go unnoticed. To his family I am deeply sorrowed for your loss, if I can help in anyway please do not hesitate to call, Bryan M.
He met his future wife in Florida and proposed to her in Texas, while they were exploring a cave. He was finally able to take LeeSandra on a honeymoon in Mexico earlier this year, after being deployed for nine and a half months.
Awards and decorations include:
Air Medal
Army Achievement Medal (2)
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Armed Forces Reserve Medal
Non-commissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon
Army Service Medal
CWO Thibodeau is survived by his wife, LeeSandra; parents Bob and Doreen; sister Nicole and brother Michael.
Army Chief Warrant Officer Christopher R. Thibodeau was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Army Chief Warrant Officer Christopher R. Thibodeau, 28, of Chesterland, Ohio
CWO Thibodeau was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, Fort Hood, Texas; died May 26, 2011 in Paktika province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when his helicopter crashed during combat operations.
Growing up in New Hampshire, CWO Thibodeau is the oldest of three children and had wanted to fly since he was 8, after seeing the Navy’s Blue Angels for the first time. During his senior year, the family moved to Ohio where he graduated from West Geauga High School in 2000. In 2004, he graduated from Case Western Reserve University.
Thibodeau enjoyed sports, spending time with his dogs Nolan and Moony, brewing beer, woodworking, camping and hiking.
At Ft Hood since August 2009, CWO Thibodeau deployed to Aghanistan last summer, shortly after marrying his wife, LeeSandra.
Doreen Thibodeau said her son wanted to serve in the military so that his family would be safe. "He knew the risk. I knew the risk," she said. "He told me that, 'If I die in Afghanistan, I want you to remember that I loved to fly and that you have to promise that under no circumstances that you will be mad. I died doing what I loved to do.' "
From friends:
May 30, 2011 at 09:40 AM To the Family of Chris, I had the distinct pleasure in teaching Chris how to fly the Apache Helicopter for a six month period. Each day I did my very best to instill the attack spirit. Chris was an exceptionally motivated student. He did his very best to understand the complxity of the aircraft and the attack mission. Chris loved flying, he loved life, he loved his country. My heart is broken for this loss. I take comfort in God, and the fact that Chris' efforts in Afganistan saved countless fellow American Soldiers. His dedication to fellow Apache pilots, soldiers, and friends will not go unnoticed. To his family I am deeply sorrowed for your loss, if I can help in anyway please do not hesitate to call, Bryan M.
He met his future wife in Florida and proposed to her in Texas, while they were exploring a cave. He was finally able to take LeeSandra on a honeymoon in Mexico earlier this year, after being deployed for nine and a half months.
Awards and decorations include:
Air Medal
Army Achievement Medal (2)
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Armed Forces Reserve Medal
Non-commissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon
Army Service Medal
CWO Thibodeau is survived by his wife, LeeSandra; parents Bob and Doreen; sister Nicole and brother Michael.
Army Chief Warrant Officer Christopher R. Thibodeau was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Army Staff Sgt. Ergin V Osman
Remember Our Heroes
Army Staff Sgt. Ergin V Osman, 35, of Jacksonville, N.C.
SSgt Osman was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died May 26, 2011 of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province, Afghanistan. Also killed were 1st Lt. John M. Runkle, Staff Sgt. Edward D. Mills Jr., Sgt. Thomas A. Bohall, Spc. Adam J. Patton and Sgt. Louie A. Ramos Velazquez.
SSgt Osman grew up in Sterling Heights and Harrison Township and attended Sterling Heights High School.
Family and friends of SSgt Osman say the soldier was "born and bred" for the service. His father was a Green Beret during the Vietnam War.
"I think he somewhat followed in his father's footsteps,' said family friend, Geri Witt. "He was a very wonderful young man."
SSgt Osman joined the Marines in 1997 and became part of an elite reconnaissance unit. He served as a Marine for 10 years before switching over to the Army where he was a top honor graduate in Ranger school.
This was SSgt Osman's ninth deployment.
Son, Aidan, remembers good times with his father, "We went down to Ft. Campbell and shot targets with a BB gun." Aidan says he wants to follow in his father's footsteps.
Aidan and Zeren displayed U.S. flags on the front lawn of their family's home along witha poster that says, "Miss You Daddy", with a hand-drawn image of their father.
June 03, 2011
We love you and miss you Ergin. Your sister is in good hands with me and she has your fighting strength. I will forever miss your laugh, your smile and your company. You live on in the hearts of all those who know you. I wish we could have had more time brother!~ Anthony B.
Tampa, Florida
June 03, 2011
Ergin,
Your life was a life well lived. Your example will be followed for years through the lives of those you touched. As I'm sure your blood family is pained so too is your military family. Until we meet again I will remember you always. ~ SSgt Murphy, Virginia Beach, Virginia
June 02, 2011
SSgt Osman,
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever My deepest condolences and deepest prayers to your family. "Fallen but never forgotten. ~ GySgt Czerwinski, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina
June 01, 2011
SSgt Osman,
You will be missed by many my brother. It has been 4 years since I ran into in Iraq and you were the same smiling, happy go-lucky man. I am remembering all of our time together in 3/8. My deepest condolences and deepest prayers to your family. RIP Brother ~ 1stSgt Kindrick,
Englewood, Ohio
SSgt Osman's awards and decorations include:
Air Medal
Army Commendation Medal
Navy Commendation with Combat Distinguishing Device
Army Achievement Medal
Navy Achievement Medal with Valor Device
Air Force Meritorious Unit Award Ribbon
Combat Action Ribbon
Joint Meritorious Unit Award
Navy Unit Commendation
Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation
Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Korean Defense Service Medal
Kosovo Campaign Medal with 2 Bronze Service Stars
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Humanitarian Service Medal
Armed Forces Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Parachutist Badge
Air Assault Badge
Combat Infantryman Badge
Ranger Tab
Gov. Rick Snyder has ordered U.S. flags throughout Michigan to be lowered to half-staff Monday, June 6, in honor of SSgt Osman.
Funeral arrangements are pending. Buriel is expected to be in the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly.
SSgt Osman is survived by his mother, Sara; wife, PFC Kristin Osman; father, Mike; and two sons from a previous marriage, Aiden, 9, and Zeren, 5.
Army Staff Sgt. Ergin V Osman was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Army Staff Sgt. Ergin V Osman, 35, of Jacksonville, N.C.
SSgt Osman was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died May 26, 2011 of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province, Afghanistan. Also killed were 1st Lt. John M. Runkle, Staff Sgt. Edward D. Mills Jr., Sgt. Thomas A. Bohall, Spc. Adam J. Patton and Sgt. Louie A. Ramos Velazquez.
SSgt Osman grew up in Sterling Heights and Harrison Township and attended Sterling Heights High School.
Family and friends of SSgt Osman say the soldier was "born and bred" for the service. His father was a Green Beret during the Vietnam War.
"I think he somewhat followed in his father's footsteps,' said family friend, Geri Witt. "He was a very wonderful young man."
SSgt Osman joined the Marines in 1997 and became part of an elite reconnaissance unit. He served as a Marine for 10 years before switching over to the Army where he was a top honor graduate in Ranger school.
This was SSgt Osman's ninth deployment.
Son, Aidan, remembers good times with his father, "We went down to Ft. Campbell and shot targets with a BB gun." Aidan says he wants to follow in his father's footsteps.
Aidan and Zeren displayed U.S. flags on the front lawn of their family's home along witha poster that says, "Miss You Daddy", with a hand-drawn image of their father.
June 03, 2011
We love you and miss you Ergin. Your sister is in good hands with me and she has your fighting strength. I will forever miss your laugh, your smile and your company. You live on in the hearts of all those who know you. I wish we could have had more time brother!~ Anthony B.
Tampa, Florida
June 03, 2011
Ergin,
Your life was a life well lived. Your example will be followed for years through the lives of those you touched. As I'm sure your blood family is pained so too is your military family. Until we meet again I will remember you always. ~ SSgt Murphy, Virginia Beach, Virginia
June 02, 2011
SSgt Osman,
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever My deepest condolences and deepest prayers to your family. "Fallen but never forgotten. ~ GySgt Czerwinski, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina
June 01, 2011
SSgt Osman,
You will be missed by many my brother. It has been 4 years since I ran into in Iraq and you were the same smiling, happy go-lucky man. I am remembering all of our time together in 3/8. My deepest condolences and deepest prayers to your family. RIP Brother ~ 1stSgt Kindrick,
Englewood, Ohio
SSgt Osman's awards and decorations include:
Air Medal
Army Commendation Medal
Navy Commendation with Combat Distinguishing Device
Army Achievement Medal
Navy Achievement Medal with Valor Device
Air Force Meritorious Unit Award Ribbon
Combat Action Ribbon
Joint Meritorious Unit Award
Navy Unit Commendation
Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation
Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Korean Defense Service Medal
Kosovo Campaign Medal with 2 Bronze Service Stars
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Humanitarian Service Medal
Armed Forces Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Parachutist Badge
Air Assault Badge
Combat Infantryman Badge
Ranger Tab
Gov. Rick Snyder has ordered U.S. flags throughout Michigan to be lowered to half-staff Monday, June 6, in honor of SSgt Osman.
Funeral arrangements are pending. Buriel is expected to be in the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly.
SSgt Osman is survived by his mother, Sara; wife, PFC Kristin Osman; father, Mike; and two sons from a previous marriage, Aiden, 9, and Zeren, 5.
Army Staff Sgt. Ergin V Osman was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Army Staff Sgt. Edward D Mills
Remember Our Heroes
Army Staff Sgt. Edward D Mills, 29, of New Castle, Pa.
SSgt Mills was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died May 26, 2011 of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province, Afghanistan. Also killed were 1st Lt. John M. Runkle, Sgt. Thomas A. Bohall, Spc. Adam J. Patton, Sgt. Louie A. Ramos Velazquez and Staff Sgt. Ergin V. Osman.
SSgt Mills grew up in Union. When he was 11 years old, his father left him, his mother and two siblings. His mother and the family's faith kept them together. As a result, his mother was his hero and meant the world to him. He always made sure she was taken care of.
SSgt Mills graduated from Union High School in 2000 where he was active in a few clubs and track.
Family and friends had always assumed Sgt. Mills would join the military. He was a war buff, reading everything he could and watching
the History Channel with his grandfather, Bill Kirkwood, a World War II veteran, but his mother pushed him to not join after high school, "he needed time to mature."
SSgt Mills spent five years working a variety of factory jobs, but finally joined the Army in January 2005.
Jarod Mills describes his brother as a born leader who was always humble and always put others before himself. "Anytime you talked to him, he was always talking about his guys, those were his guys. He had to watch over his guys," said Mills. "As hard as it is for us and the family, if he had to go, this is the way he wanted to go, over in combat with his guys."
As a Christmas gift to their parents, SSgt Mills, his brothers and sister took a family portrait. "I'm so glad we did that now, knowing that was the last Christmas and the last opportunity we had to do that," said Jarod.
The last time the famly was together was in February, just before he shipped out on his third deployment.
Jarod, pastor at the family's church for three years, will co-conduct his brother's funeral along with the church's former pastor, Rev. Doug Williams. "I'm honored," Jarod said. "...this is going to be hard. I knew I couldn't do it by myself. He'd always say, 'Others have given more.' Now, he's the one to have given it all."
SSgt Mills' awards and decorations include:
Air Medal
Army commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Arrowhead Device
Iraq Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Air Assault Badge
Parachutist Badge
Pathfinder Badge
Combat Infantryman Badge
Ssgt Mills is survived by his mother and stepfather, Kathy and Jeff; father, Edward; wife, Amanda; sister, Tiffany; brothers, Jarod and Lucas.
Army Staff Sgt. Edward D Mills was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Army Staff Sgt. Edward D Mills, 29, of New Castle, Pa.
SSgt Mills was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died May 26, 2011 of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province, Afghanistan. Also killed were 1st Lt. John M. Runkle, Sgt. Thomas A. Bohall, Spc. Adam J. Patton, Sgt. Louie A. Ramos Velazquez and Staff Sgt. Ergin V. Osman.
SSgt Mills grew up in Union. When he was 11 years old, his father left him, his mother and two siblings. His mother and the family's faith kept them together. As a result, his mother was his hero and meant the world to him. He always made sure she was taken care of.
SSgt Mills graduated from Union High School in 2000 where he was active in a few clubs and track.
Family and friends had always assumed Sgt. Mills would join the military. He was a war buff, reading everything he could and watching
the History Channel with his grandfather, Bill Kirkwood, a World War II veteran, but his mother pushed him to not join after high school, "he needed time to mature."
SSgt Mills spent five years working a variety of factory jobs, but finally joined the Army in January 2005.
Jarod Mills describes his brother as a born leader who was always humble and always put others before himself. "Anytime you talked to him, he was always talking about his guys, those were his guys. He had to watch over his guys," said Mills. "As hard as it is for us and the family, if he had to go, this is the way he wanted to go, over in combat with his guys."
As a Christmas gift to their parents, SSgt Mills, his brothers and sister took a family portrait. "I'm so glad we did that now, knowing that was the last Christmas and the last opportunity we had to do that," said Jarod.
The last time the famly was together was in February, just before he shipped out on his third deployment.
Jarod, pastor at the family's church for three years, will co-conduct his brother's funeral along with the church's former pastor, Rev. Doug Williams. "I'm honored," Jarod said. "...this is going to be hard. I knew I couldn't do it by myself. He'd always say, 'Others have given more.' Now, he's the one to have given it all."
SSgt Mills' awards and decorations include:
Air Medal
Army commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Arrowhead Device
Iraq Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Air Assault Badge
Parachutist Badge
Pathfinder Badge
Combat Infantryman Badge
Ssgt Mills is survived by his mother and stepfather, Kathy and Jeff; father, Edward; wife, Amanda; sister, Tiffany; brothers, Jarod and Lucas.
Army Staff Sgt. Edward D Mills was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Army 1st Lt. John M Runkle
Remember Our Heroes
Army 1st Lt. John M Runkle, 27, of West Salem, Ohio
1st Lt. Runkle was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died May 26, 2011 of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province, Afghanistan. Also killed were Staff Sgt. Ergin V. Osman, Staff Sgt. Edward D. Mills Jr., Sgt. Thomas A. Bohall, Spc. Adam J. Patton and Sgt. Louie A. Ramos Velazquez.
Lt Runkle joined the Army in June 2006. He attended West Point and graduated in the top 10 percent of his class. He arrived at Ft Campbell in June 2010. He was an Army Pathfinder and member of the Screaming Eagles.
Lt Runkle's mother, Christine, said she spoke to her son was two weeks ago. "It was a normal conversation. I've been able to speak to him almost on a weekly basis," she said. "However, I didn't get to speak to him the last weekend or Mother's Day weekend."
She said when Runkle got deployed she said just like any other mom, "it wasn't what you want to hear." However, she knew it was a part of his duty. Now, she said Memorial Day has become a "whole different holiday. I'll never look at the flag the same way again," she said.
Northwestern High School Principal, Mike Burkholder, said immediately after the district heard about Runkle's death, it wanted to help in some way. Since the family is expecting many family, friends and community supporters, the high school gym will be used for the memorial service.
"We're trying to be there for the family and the community. We're all in this together. I know there will be a lot of people who will want to take the opportunity to recognize and honor (Runkle's) life and sacrifice," said Burkholder.
Paul Eicher of the American Legion Post 499 in West Salem said Runkle was a member of Post 499 for six years.
"This has hit the community hard. He was a fantastic man. The community and country lost a good citizen," Eicher said.
At Northwestern High School's graduation on Thursday, the flag flew at half mast and a moment of silence was held after it was announced West Salem native, John Runkle Jr., member of the class of 2002, was killed in action in Afghanistan.
Lt Runkle's awards and decorations include:
Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Air Assault Badge
Parachutist Badge
Pathfinder Badge
Ranger Tab
Lt Runkle's mother said she will be notified within 48 hours of her son's body arriving at the Mansfield Lahm Airport. She said Runkle's roommate from West Point, Jacob Sass, will be an escort for Runkle's casket to the high school then to the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, where he will be buried.
The West Salem Police Department plans to escort the procession and encourages community members to help line the route with American flags.
A memorial service at Ft Campbell will honor the fallen Screaming Eagles on June 8th.
Lt Runkle is survived by his mother, Christine; father, John; sister Jana and brothers, Cory and Brent.
Army 1st Lt. John M Runkle was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Army 1st Lt. John M Runkle, 27, of West Salem, Ohio
1st Lt. Runkle was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died May 26, 2011 of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province, Afghanistan. Also killed were Staff Sgt. Ergin V. Osman, Staff Sgt. Edward D. Mills Jr., Sgt. Thomas A. Bohall, Spc. Adam J. Patton and Sgt. Louie A. Ramos Velazquez.
Lt Runkle joined the Army in June 2006. He attended West Point and graduated in the top 10 percent of his class. He arrived at Ft Campbell in June 2010. He was an Army Pathfinder and member of the Screaming Eagles.
Lt Runkle's mother, Christine, said she spoke to her son was two weeks ago. "It was a normal conversation. I've been able to speak to him almost on a weekly basis," she said. "However, I didn't get to speak to him the last weekend or Mother's Day weekend."
She said when Runkle got deployed she said just like any other mom, "it wasn't what you want to hear." However, she knew it was a part of his duty. Now, she said Memorial Day has become a "whole different holiday. I'll never look at the flag the same way again," she said.
Northwestern High School Principal, Mike Burkholder, said immediately after the district heard about Runkle's death, it wanted to help in some way. Since the family is expecting many family, friends and community supporters, the high school gym will be used for the memorial service.
"We're trying to be there for the family and the community. We're all in this together. I know there will be a lot of people who will want to take the opportunity to recognize and honor (Runkle's) life and sacrifice," said Burkholder.
Paul Eicher of the American Legion Post 499 in West Salem said Runkle was a member of Post 499 for six years.
"This has hit the community hard. He was a fantastic man. The community and country lost a good citizen," Eicher said.
At Northwestern High School's graduation on Thursday, the flag flew at half mast and a moment of silence was held after it was announced West Salem native, John Runkle Jr., member of the class of 2002, was killed in action in Afghanistan.
Lt Runkle's awards and decorations include:
Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Air Assault Badge
Parachutist Badge
Pathfinder Badge
Ranger Tab
Lt Runkle's mother said she will be notified within 48 hours of her son's body arriving at the Mansfield Lahm Airport. She said Runkle's roommate from West Point, Jacob Sass, will be an escort for Runkle's casket to the high school then to the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, where he will be buried.
The West Salem Police Department plans to escort the procession and encourages community members to help line the route with American flags.
A memorial service at Ft Campbell will honor the fallen Screaming Eagles on June 8th.
Lt Runkle is survived by his mother, Christine; father, John; sister Jana and brothers, Cory and Brent.
Army 1st Lt. John M Runkle was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Air Force Staff Sgt. Joseph J. Hamski
Remember Our Heroes
Air Force Staff Sgt. Joseph J. Hamski, 28, of Ottumwa, Iowa,
SSgt Hamski was assigned to the 52nd Civil Engineer Squadron, Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany; died May 26, 2011 in the Shorabak district of Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Tech. Sgt. Kristoffer M. Solesbee was also killed.
SSgt Hamski graduated from Ottumwa High School in 2001 and briefly attended Iowa State University before joining the Air Force.
Grandfather, Ray Hamski says his grandson matured into a “super young man” in the military. “He was kind of a free spirit in high school and he just wasn’t a college man. But he really shaped up in the Air Force. It’s a devastating loss.”
SSgt Hamski's mother, Mary, said her son attended Iowa State for just a semester, but struggled academically. She says the minute her son joined the Air Force, he found his purpose in life. "When he went in he was a kid. He didn't know what he was doing with himself but he grew up. He grew into his manhood."
"I knew from the first time he deployed there was always the possibility that he would not come back. I can't be angry for that," said Mary. "He died an honorable death. How many people can say that? Because of the work my son did, there's a lot of other mothers that aren't doing what I have to do today."
According to his mother, her son loved video games. "To this day, till his dying day he would buy video games and have to sit up all night to conquer the stupid thing. His wife says there are video games still all over apartment. He never grew out of that."
SSgt Hamski had only been married to his wife, Christina, also a Staff Sergeant in the Air Force, for less than two years. When his tour of duty was over, the two planned to start a family.
“You can be thankful for all the lives he saved,” said Jennifer Hensley, Hamski’s sister. “We’re just sorry he was gone so soon.”
Best friend, Gabriel Stoffa: "And for Joe's friends and family, I wish we had all had more time with him. I wish we had gotten to say goodbye to Joe in old age as he complained about any of the far-reaching topics he would so gladly bitch about over drinks with friends. He would have made a great crotchety old man; hell, he basically was one, just without the old age".
There will be a Christian wake for SSgt Hamski at 4 p.m. on Friday at Reece Funeral Home. Funeral mass for will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday at St. Mary of the Visitation Catholic Church in Ottumwa. Burial will be at Ottumwa Cemetery.
SSgt Hamski is survived by his mother, Mary Ellen; his wife, Maria Christina; two sisters, Jennifer and Nicole; brother, Thomas.
Air Force Staff Sgt. Joseph J. Hamski was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Air Force Staff Sgt. Joseph J. Hamski, 28, of Ottumwa, Iowa,
SSgt Hamski was assigned to the 52nd Civil Engineer Squadron, Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany; died May 26, 2011 in the Shorabak district of Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Tech. Sgt. Kristoffer M. Solesbee was also killed.
SSgt Hamski graduated from Ottumwa High School in 2001 and briefly attended Iowa State University before joining the Air Force.
Grandfather, Ray Hamski says his grandson matured into a “super young man” in the military. “He was kind of a free spirit in high school and he just wasn’t a college man. But he really shaped up in the Air Force. It’s a devastating loss.”
SSgt Hamski's mother, Mary, said her son attended Iowa State for just a semester, but struggled academically. She says the minute her son joined the Air Force, he found his purpose in life. "When he went in he was a kid. He didn't know what he was doing with himself but he grew up. He grew into his manhood."
"I knew from the first time he deployed there was always the possibility that he would not come back. I can't be angry for that," said Mary. "He died an honorable death. How many people can say that? Because of the work my son did, there's a lot of other mothers that aren't doing what I have to do today."
According to his mother, her son loved video games. "To this day, till his dying day he would buy video games and have to sit up all night to conquer the stupid thing. His wife says there are video games still all over apartment. He never grew out of that."
SSgt Hamski had only been married to his wife, Christina, also a Staff Sergeant in the Air Force, for less than two years. When his tour of duty was over, the two planned to start a family.
“You can be thankful for all the lives he saved,” said Jennifer Hensley, Hamski’s sister. “We’re just sorry he was gone so soon.”
Best friend, Gabriel Stoffa: "And for Joe's friends and family, I wish we had all had more time with him. I wish we had gotten to say goodbye to Joe in old age as he complained about any of the far-reaching topics he would so gladly bitch about over drinks with friends. He would have made a great crotchety old man; hell, he basically was one, just without the old age".
There will be a Christian wake for SSgt Hamski at 4 p.m. on Friday at Reece Funeral Home. Funeral mass for will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday at St. Mary of the Visitation Catholic Church in Ottumwa. Burial will be at Ottumwa Cemetery.
SSgt Hamski is survived by his mother, Mary Ellen; his wife, Maria Christina; two sisters, Jennifer and Nicole; brother, Thomas.
Air Force Staff Sgt. Joseph J. Hamski was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Air Force Tech. Sgt. Kristoffer M. Solesbee
Remember Our Heroes
Air Force Tech. Sgt. Kristoffer M. Solesbee, 32, of Citrus Heights, Calif.
TSgt Solesbee was assigned to the 775th Civil Engineer Squadron, Hill Air Force Base, Utah; died May 26, 2011 in the Shorabak district of Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Staff Sgt. Joseph J. Hamski was also killed.
TSgt Solesbee led a "counter-IED team" of three Explosive Ordinance Disposal technicians that was attached to an army combat team to protect it from IEDs encountered while on patrol. Solesbee's team was responding with an army combat team to a weapons cache Thursday when an IED functioned, killing him, said Col. Patrick Higby, Hill Air Force Base installation commander.
"It's with tremendous regret we announce the loss of one of our own today," said Col. Patrick Higby, 75th air base wing commander. "During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with Sergeant Solesbee's family and friends, as well as the entire explosive ordnance disposal community. His sacrifice and service are not forgotten and he will be greatly missed."
Col. Higby praised the Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit, saying that it is one of the most dangerous assignments, but also saves many lives. "I'm extremely proud of our EOD flight here," Higby said. "They've really gone through some tough times. They're resilient. They're very proud of their mission and again, every day they serve with the mindset of 'we are here to save lives.' When they get hit by an (improvised explosive device), the first thing they want to do is get right back in the fight to keep saving lives."
TSgt Solesbee deployed to Afghanistan in January and was due to return home this summer. This was his second combat tour since being stationed at Hill in 2008.
As a young boy, Kristoffer Solesbee, loved helping people. Growing up, he could often be found next door at his grandparents’ home or across the street helping his elderly neighbor, Mr. Bud.
“He used to come over and follow me around, as he grew into a teenager he would help me with yard work, he was such a pleasant boy to be around,” Bud says.
“His father called and told me. I was just shocked, it hurts,” says Cleo Reit, TSgt Solesbee's grandmother.
Father, Larry Solesbee, said his son died serving his country while fighting in Afghanistan. "His grandfather retired from the Air Force after 30 years, and I was in the Air Force for 9 years," said Solesbee. He said his son was on his third tour, serving two tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. He was due home for leave in August. He said Memorial Day will always carry a special meaning for him. "In years gone by, I typically thought of today as a day off of work, but certainly, starting this year, it will be more meaningful," said Solesbee.
Air Force Tech. Sgt. Kristoffer M. Solesbee was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Air Force Tech. Sgt. Kristoffer M. Solesbee, 32, of Citrus Heights, Calif.
TSgt Solesbee was assigned to the 775th Civil Engineer Squadron, Hill Air Force Base, Utah; died May 26, 2011 in the Shorabak district of Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Staff Sgt. Joseph J. Hamski was also killed.
TSgt Solesbee led a "counter-IED team" of three Explosive Ordinance Disposal technicians that was attached to an army combat team to protect it from IEDs encountered while on patrol. Solesbee's team was responding with an army combat team to a weapons cache Thursday when an IED functioned, killing him, said Col. Patrick Higby, Hill Air Force Base installation commander.
"It's with tremendous regret we announce the loss of one of our own today," said Col. Patrick Higby, 75th air base wing commander. "During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with Sergeant Solesbee's family and friends, as well as the entire explosive ordnance disposal community. His sacrifice and service are not forgotten and he will be greatly missed."
Col. Higby praised the Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit, saying that it is one of the most dangerous assignments, but also saves many lives. "I'm extremely proud of our EOD flight here," Higby said. "They've really gone through some tough times. They're resilient. They're very proud of their mission and again, every day they serve with the mindset of 'we are here to save lives.' When they get hit by an (improvised explosive device), the first thing they want to do is get right back in the fight to keep saving lives."
TSgt Solesbee deployed to Afghanistan in January and was due to return home this summer. This was his second combat tour since being stationed at Hill in 2008.
As a young boy, Kristoffer Solesbee, loved helping people. Growing up, he could often be found next door at his grandparents’ home or across the street helping his elderly neighbor, Mr. Bud.
“He used to come over and follow me around, as he grew into a teenager he would help me with yard work, he was such a pleasant boy to be around,” Bud says.
“His father called and told me. I was just shocked, it hurts,” says Cleo Reit, TSgt Solesbee's grandmother.
Father, Larry Solesbee, said his son died serving his country while fighting in Afghanistan. "His grandfather retired from the Air Force after 30 years, and I was in the Air Force for 9 years," said Solesbee. He said his son was on his third tour, serving two tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. He was due home for leave in August. He said Memorial Day will always carry a special meaning for him. "In years gone by, I typically thought of today as a day off of work, but certainly, starting this year, it will be more meaningful," said Solesbee.
Air Force Tech. Sgt. Kristoffer M. Solesbee was killed in action on 5/26/11.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Army Pvt. Andrew M. Krippner
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pvt. Andrew M. Krippner, 20, Garland, Texas
Pvt Krippner was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; died May 23, 2011 in Kunar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Pvt. Thomas C. Allers, Pfc. William S. Blevins and Staff Sgt. Kristofferson B. Lorenzo.
Pvt Krippner had wanted to be in the military since childhood. When he wasn’t wearing his church or school clothes, he preferred to dress in camouflage. His bedspread and bedroom walls were also camouflage.
Pvt Krippner graduated from the Shelton School in Dallas 2010 and enlisted in the Army shortly thereafter. This was his first deployment. He had only been in Afghanistan for about a month and a half.
Pvt Krippner was an only child. His family has not been talking to the press and has asked for privacy. A note on their front porch reads: “Our dear friends, our hearts break with you as you grieve. Out of respect for Pam and I, please no calls no visitors no exceptions.” The sign is surrounded by flowers, flags, yellow ribbons, and teddy bears left by neighbors and friends.
In a very brief statement on Wednesday his mother said she was very proud of her son.
Krippner's best friend, Nolan Killingsworth, who lives down the street, put up his own memorial to honor a soldier who was like a brother to him. In his front yard he placed a flag at half staff, a photo of Krippner in uniform, and a hand lettered sign that reads: In Memory of Andy Krippner.
“I started calling him my brother after he left for basic training, said 19-year-old Nolan Killingsworth. “When he was stationed in Hawaii, I would end all my e-mails with, I love you, brother.”
Awards and decorations include:
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Combat Infantryman’s Badge
Overseas Service Ribbon
Purple Heart
Army Pvt. Andrew M. Krippner was killed in action on 5/23/11.
Army Pvt. Andrew M. Krippner, 20, Garland, Texas
Pvt Krippner was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; died May 23, 2011 in Kunar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Pvt. Thomas C. Allers, Pfc. William S. Blevins and Staff Sgt. Kristofferson B. Lorenzo.
Pvt Krippner had wanted to be in the military since childhood. When he wasn’t wearing his church or school clothes, he preferred to dress in camouflage. His bedspread and bedroom walls were also camouflage.
Pvt Krippner graduated from the Shelton School in Dallas 2010 and enlisted in the Army shortly thereafter. This was his first deployment. He had only been in Afghanistan for about a month and a half.
Pvt Krippner was an only child. His family has not been talking to the press and has asked for privacy. A note on their front porch reads: “Our dear friends, our hearts break with you as you grieve. Out of respect for Pam and I, please no calls no visitors no exceptions.” The sign is surrounded by flowers, flags, yellow ribbons, and teddy bears left by neighbors and friends.
In a very brief statement on Wednesday his mother said she was very proud of her son.
Krippner's best friend, Nolan Killingsworth, who lives down the street, put up his own memorial to honor a soldier who was like a brother to him. In his front yard he placed a flag at half staff, a photo of Krippner in uniform, and a hand lettered sign that reads: In Memory of Andy Krippner.
“I started calling him my brother after he left for basic training, said 19-year-old Nolan Killingsworth. “When he was stationed in Hawaii, I would end all my e-mails with, I love you, brother.”
Awards and decorations include:
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Combat Infantryman’s Badge
Overseas Service Ribbon
Purple Heart
Army Pvt. Andrew M. Krippner was killed in action on 5/23/11.
Army Pfc. William S. Blevins
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pfc. William S. Blevins, 21, of Sardinia, Ohio
Pfc. Blevins assigned to 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; died May 23, 2011 in Kunar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Staff Sgt. Kristofferson B. Lorenzo, Pvt. Andrew M. Krippner and Pvt. Thomas C. Allers.
PFC Blevins was very involved in his local community as a youth, participating in a number of activities including 4-H and the Brown County Fair. He was passionate about sports and was a talented athlete. For a time, he also worked at his father's construction company.
PFC Blevins graduated from Eastern High School in 2008. He ran track and also competed in basketball and soccer. His numerous academic and extracurricular activities qualified him for National Honor Society.
At the University of Cincinnati, he studied criminal justice for awhile. Accepted at Ohio University in Athens, he applied for the ROTC program and joined the Army the following year.
Steve Blevins said his son was well-known and well-liked in the community, and had touched a number of lives when he worked for Steve Blevins Construction. "I was always proud of my son, no matter what he did. He was a perfect son," his father said. "Everybody loved him. And his smile, everybody remembers his smile."
PFC Blevins' body, along with the bodies of the men he was killed with, arrived at Dover AFB on Wednesday, May 25th. Although no funeral arrangements have been announced, there are at least two groups of volunteers who are planning to cover the expected funeral route with yellow ribbons in his honor.
Former schoolmate Bethany Yockey is helping to organize one of the yellow ribbon campaigns. "No one can forget his wonderful smiling face," Yockey said. "He was a wonderful, wonderful young man."
Yockey added that she and countless other individuals across Brown County will remember him fondly as a kind and brave and honorable young man.
"It is a great loss," she said, "but we can celebrate his life now and hopefully show how much we were proud of him."
PFC Blevins is survived by his parents, Trisha and Steve, and sister, Paige.
Army Pfc. William S. Blevins was killed in action on 5/23/11.
Army Pfc. William S. Blevins, 21, of Sardinia, Ohio
Pfc. Blevins assigned to 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; died May 23, 2011 in Kunar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Staff Sgt. Kristofferson B. Lorenzo, Pvt. Andrew M. Krippner and Pvt. Thomas C. Allers.
PFC Blevins was very involved in his local community as a youth, participating in a number of activities including 4-H and the Brown County Fair. He was passionate about sports and was a talented athlete. For a time, he also worked at his father's construction company.
PFC Blevins graduated from Eastern High School in 2008. He ran track and also competed in basketball and soccer. His numerous academic and extracurricular activities qualified him for National Honor Society.
At the University of Cincinnati, he studied criminal justice for awhile. Accepted at Ohio University in Athens, he applied for the ROTC program and joined the Army the following year.
Steve Blevins said his son was well-known and well-liked in the community, and had touched a number of lives when he worked for Steve Blevins Construction. "I was always proud of my son, no matter what he did. He was a perfect son," his father said. "Everybody loved him. And his smile, everybody remembers his smile."
PFC Blevins' body, along with the bodies of the men he was killed with, arrived at Dover AFB on Wednesday, May 25th. Although no funeral arrangements have been announced, there are at least two groups of volunteers who are planning to cover the expected funeral route with yellow ribbons in his honor.
Former schoolmate Bethany Yockey is helping to organize one of the yellow ribbon campaigns. "No one can forget his wonderful smiling face," Yockey said. "He was a wonderful, wonderful young man."
Yockey added that she and countless other individuals across Brown County will remember him fondly as a kind and brave and honorable young man.
"It is a great loss," she said, "but we can celebrate his life now and hopefully show how much we were proud of him."
PFC Blevins is survived by his parents, Trisha and Steve, and sister, Paige.
Army Pfc. William S. Blevins was killed in action on 5/23/11.
Army Staff Sgt. Kristofferson B. Lorenzo
Remember Our Heroes
Army Staff Sgt. Kristofferson B. Lorenzo, 33, of Chula Vista, Calif.
SSgt. Lorenzo was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, died May 23, 2011 in Kunar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Pfc. William S. Blevins, Pvt. Andrew M. Krippner and Pvt. Thomas C. Allers.
SSgt Lorenzo was a proud Filipino-American who recently took a trip to the Philippines with his family. He loved traditional home cooking, especially burritos and tamales, and his friend Joseph's chicken and tahong.
He is remembered as a jokester who entertained his family and friends with funny stories and knew how to make people laugh. He was also a fan of boxing, especially Manny Pacquiao fights.
SSgt Lorenzo was on his third deployment. This was his second deployment to Afghanistan and had previously served in Iraq.
SSgt Lorenzo’s awards and decorations include:
Army Commendation Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Iraqi Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal
Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Infantryman's Badge
Expert Infantryman's Badge
Airborne Badge
Driver's Badge
Purple Heart
SSgt Lorenzo is survived by his wife Leah and two young sons, Keane, and Tristan; as well as a sister and family members in the Phillipines.
Army Staff Sgt. Kristofferson B. Lorenzo was killed in action on 5/23/11.
Army Staff Sgt. Kristofferson B. Lorenzo, 33, of Chula Vista, Calif.
SSgt. Lorenzo was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, died May 23, 2011 in Kunar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Pfc. William S. Blevins, Pvt. Andrew M. Krippner and Pvt. Thomas C. Allers.
SSgt Lorenzo was a proud Filipino-American who recently took a trip to the Philippines with his family. He loved traditional home cooking, especially burritos and tamales, and his friend Joseph's chicken and tahong.
He is remembered as a jokester who entertained his family and friends with funny stories and knew how to make people laugh. He was also a fan of boxing, especially Manny Pacquiao fights.
SSgt Lorenzo was on his third deployment. This was his second deployment to Afghanistan and had previously served in Iraq.
SSgt Lorenzo’s awards and decorations include:
Army Commendation Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Iraqi Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal
Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Infantryman's Badge
Expert Infantryman's Badge
Airborne Badge
Driver's Badge
Purple Heart
SSgt Lorenzo is survived by his wife Leah and two young sons, Keane, and Tristan; as well as a sister and family members in the Phillipines.
Army Staff Sgt. Kristofferson B. Lorenzo was killed in action on 5/23/11.
Army Pvt. Thomas C. Allers
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pvt. Thomas C. Allers, 23, of Plainwell, Mich.
Pvt Allers was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; died May 23, 2011, in Kunar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Pvt. Andrew M. Krippner, Pfc. William S. Blevins and Staff Sgt. Kristofferson B. Lorenzo.
Pvt Allers graduated Plainwell High School in 2006. This was his first deployment and he had only been in Afghanistan for a few weeks.
Pvt Allers was described as sweet-natured, a great kid, who went fishing with his parents.
Allers was an only child who was very close to his parents. “They just did everything together,” said family friend Tammy Austin, who knew Allers since he was a little boy. “He was a great kid, very sweet.” She added that Allers's mother was very fearful when her son left for Afghanistan. “I can just remember how shaky she was,” said Austin, as she stood in front of the Allers’ empty yellow house off a dirt road outside the city of Plainwell. “What is she going to do now? He was her only child.”
Friend Tom Matusiak says Allers was a generous friend who loved golf. Pictures show the two went golfing often as kids. “We had fun golfing,” said Matusiak. “He was better than me, but that's not saying much.”
Matusiak added that Allers had a positive attitude about his deployment. “He was really pumped about it you know. When he was going over there, he didn't want anyone to worry about him." said Matusiak. "I think the last thing he said to me was, I got a slap on the shoulder and he said, 'Hey, I'll be back.'" Now Matusiak says everyone is feeling the loss. “It's hit a lot of people really hard.”
The Thomas Allers Memorial Fund has been established at First Community Federal Credit Union. "The close-knit community of Plainwell often comes together in times of both joy and in this case, sorrow," a news release from the city of Plainwell said. "The Memorial Fund is one way one Plainwell community members can pay tribute to the deceased and his family."
On Tuesday night, there was a candlelight vigil at the Veterans Memorial in Plainwell.
Pvt Allers awards include:
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Medal, National Defense Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Combat Infantryman’s Badge
Purple Heart
Overseas Service Ribbon
Pvt Allers is survived by his parents, Denise and Lance.
Army Pvt. Thomas C. Allers was killed in action on 5/23/11.
Army Pvt. Thomas C. Allers, 23, of Plainwell, Mich.
Pvt Allers was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; died May 23, 2011, in Kunar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Pvt. Andrew M. Krippner, Pfc. William S. Blevins and Staff Sgt. Kristofferson B. Lorenzo.
Pvt Allers graduated Plainwell High School in 2006. This was his first deployment and he had only been in Afghanistan for a few weeks.
Pvt Allers was described as sweet-natured, a great kid, who went fishing with his parents.
Allers was an only child who was very close to his parents. “They just did everything together,” said family friend Tammy Austin, who knew Allers since he was a little boy. “He was a great kid, very sweet.” She added that Allers's mother was very fearful when her son left for Afghanistan. “I can just remember how shaky she was,” said Austin, as she stood in front of the Allers’ empty yellow house off a dirt road outside the city of Plainwell. “What is she going to do now? He was her only child.”
Friend Tom Matusiak says Allers was a generous friend who loved golf. Pictures show the two went golfing often as kids. “We had fun golfing,” said Matusiak. “He was better than me, but that's not saying much.”
Matusiak added that Allers had a positive attitude about his deployment. “He was really pumped about it you know. When he was going over there, he didn't want anyone to worry about him." said Matusiak. "I think the last thing he said to me was, I got a slap on the shoulder and he said, 'Hey, I'll be back.'" Now Matusiak says everyone is feeling the loss. “It's hit a lot of people really hard.”
The Thomas Allers Memorial Fund has been established at First Community Federal Credit Union. "The close-knit community of Plainwell often comes together in times of both joy and in this case, sorrow," a news release from the city of Plainwell said. "The Memorial Fund is one way one Plainwell community members can pay tribute to the deceased and his family."
On Tuesday night, there was a candlelight vigil at the Veterans Memorial in Plainwell.
Pvt Allers awards include:
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Medal, National Defense Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Combat Infantryman’s Badge
Purple Heart
Overseas Service Ribbon
Pvt Allers is survived by his parents, Denise and Lance.
Army Pvt. Thomas C. Allers was killed in action on 5/23/11.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Army Sgt. 1st Class Clifford E. Beattie
Remember Our Heroes
Army Sgt. 1st Class Clifford E. Beattie, 37, of Medical Lake, Wash.
SFC Beattie was assigned to 1st Battalion, 63rd Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died May 22, 2011 in Baghdad of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Pfc. Ramon Mora Jr.
SFC Beattie had participated in a run to honor fallen soldiers the day he was killed.
SFC Beattie graduated Medical Lake High School in 1992. He was an infantry platoon sergeant and had been in the Army for 17 years.
During his career, SFC Beattie had also served as a drill instructor at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and had earned the Expert Infantryman Badge and Combat Infantryman Badge.
Deploying last November, this was SFC Beattie's third deployment to Iraq.
"You just can't believe that it really happened," said mother, Rhonda.
His mom said he knew the risks when he enlisted nearly two decades ago. "I says Cliff why are you going? And first off he says mom it's my job, and I says I know, but why you, Cliff? You're my only son and he said mom I'm going for you and dad, I'm going for my sisters, I'm going for my wife and my kids. I want them to have a place that is safe and protected," Rhonda said.
"You don't expect to have it happen to you until it does," SFC Beattie's father, Victor, said.
Victor, an Air Force veteran, was his son's inspiration to join the Army. "He probably did more in 37 years than a lot of people do in a lifetime," Victor said of his son.
"When Victor would be deployed we depended on Cliff to kind of hold us together and take care of us," said his mother.
"We feel him here with us and we know he's at peace and our faith gives us a lot of comfort because we know we'll see him again," his mother said.
“He was always joking around,” said sister, Misty Carson. “Always smiling. Always happy.”
“He was the life of any room he went into,” said sister, Anna Beattie. “He just had a smile that would light up the whole room and laughter that was just contagious.”
SFC Beattie and his wife, Karen, also SFC in the Army, would have celebrated their third wedding anniversary on July 18th.
Washington Governor Chris Gregoire has directed that flags at all Washington state agency buildings be lowered to half-staff Wednesday, June 1, in memory of SFC Beattie.
SFC Beattie was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal (second award) and the Purple Heart.
Funeral arrangements are pending, but SFC Beattie will be cremated and likely be buried at the Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake, according to reports.
SFC Beattie is survived by his wife, Karen; a 17-year-old daughter and 13-year-old son from a previous marriage; his mom, Rhonda and his dad, Victor, and three sisters.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Clifford E. Beattie was killed in action on 5/22/11.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Clifford E. Beattie, 37, of Medical Lake, Wash.
SFC Beattie was assigned to 1st Battalion, 63rd Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died May 22, 2011 in Baghdad of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Pfc. Ramon Mora Jr.
SFC Beattie had participated in a run to honor fallen soldiers the day he was killed.
SFC Beattie graduated Medical Lake High School in 1992. He was an infantry platoon sergeant and had been in the Army for 17 years.
During his career, SFC Beattie had also served as a drill instructor at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and had earned the Expert Infantryman Badge and Combat Infantryman Badge.
Deploying last November, this was SFC Beattie's third deployment to Iraq.
"You just can't believe that it really happened," said mother, Rhonda.
His mom said he knew the risks when he enlisted nearly two decades ago. "I says Cliff why are you going? And first off he says mom it's my job, and I says I know, but why you, Cliff? You're my only son and he said mom I'm going for you and dad, I'm going for my sisters, I'm going for my wife and my kids. I want them to have a place that is safe and protected," Rhonda said.
"You don't expect to have it happen to you until it does," SFC Beattie's father, Victor, said.
Victor, an Air Force veteran, was his son's inspiration to join the Army. "He probably did more in 37 years than a lot of people do in a lifetime," Victor said of his son.
"When Victor would be deployed we depended on Cliff to kind of hold us together and take care of us," said his mother.
"We feel him here with us and we know he's at peace and our faith gives us a lot of comfort because we know we'll see him again," his mother said.
“He was always joking around,” said sister, Misty Carson. “Always smiling. Always happy.”
“He was the life of any room he went into,” said sister, Anna Beattie. “He just had a smile that would light up the whole room and laughter that was just contagious.”
SFC Beattie and his wife, Karen, also SFC in the Army, would have celebrated their third wedding anniversary on July 18th.
Washington Governor Chris Gregoire has directed that flags at all Washington state agency buildings be lowered to half-staff Wednesday, June 1, in memory of SFC Beattie.
SFC Beattie was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal (second award) and the Purple Heart.
Funeral arrangements are pending, but SFC Beattie will be cremated and likely be buried at the Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake, according to reports.
SFC Beattie is survived by his wife, Karen; a 17-year-old daughter and 13-year-old son from a previous marriage; his mom, Rhonda and his dad, Victor, and three sisters.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Clifford E. Beattie was killed in action on 5/22/11.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Army Cpl. Brandon M. Kirton
Remember Our Heroes
Army Cpl. Brandon M. Kirton, 25, of Centennial, Colo.
Cpl Kirton was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.; died May 18, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with small-arms fire and mortar rounds.
Corporal Brandon M. Kirton, 25, of Centennial, Colo., was an infantryman assigned to Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team. He joined the military in January 2008 and arrived at Fort Campbell in July 2008.
His awards and decorations include: Bronze Star Medal (pending); Purple Heart Medal (pending); Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; Army Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Afghanistan Campaign Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal (pending) and Combat Infantryman Badge.
Kirton is survived by his daughter, Heaven Kirton of Centennial, Colo. He is also survived by his parents Robert and Kathleen, of Parker, Colo.
Army Cpl. Brandon M. Kirton was killed in action on 5/18/11.
Army Cpl. Brandon M. Kirton, 25, of Centennial, Colo.
Cpl Kirton was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.; died May 18, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with small-arms fire and mortar rounds.
Corporal Brandon M. Kirton, 25, of Centennial, Colo., was an infantryman assigned to Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team. He joined the military in January 2008 and arrived at Fort Campbell in July 2008.
His awards and decorations include: Bronze Star Medal (pending); Purple Heart Medal (pending); Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; Army Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Afghanistan Campaign Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal (pending) and Combat Infantryman Badge.
Kirton is survived by his daughter, Heaven Kirton of Centennial, Colo. He is also survived by his parents Robert and Kathleen, of Parker, Colo.
Army Cpl. Brandon M. Kirton was killed in action on 5/18/11.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Army Spc. Bradley L. Melton
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. Bradley L. Melton, 29, of Rolla, Mo.
Spc. Melton was assigned to Brigade Troops Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died May 16, 2011 in Zabul province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
Spc Melton attended high school in Raymondsville and joined the Army in 2000. He was previously stationed at Ft Hood, Tx, and Ft leonard Wood, Mo.
On Wednesday, Alaska Gov. Sean Parnell issued a statement in response to the death of the soldiers. "Sandy and I were saddened to learn of the tragic loss of these soldiers," he said. "Their brave sacrifice demonstrates an unyielding service to others, and it will not be forgotten. On behalf of all Alaskans, we extend our sympathies to the families and loved ones during this difficult time."
Spc Melton was a combat engineer like his stepfather, Steve Beem, who retired from the Army a couple years ago. Beem said Melton was on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan and had only been there a few weeks.
According to reports, the IED went off while Spc Melton was on a route clearance mission.
"He was very family oriented, you couldn't separate him from his mother. He loved his mother very, very much, and was just a good person to be around. On a bad day, he'd make you smile. On a happy day, he'd make you even happier," said Beem, whom Melton called "Dad".
Beem said the entire family need a lot of support right now, but they're also thinking of those who were deployed with Melton and hoping they make it through the rest of their tour safely.
When he is laid to rest, the Patriot Guard Riders expect to be there to help honor him and his service.
Spc Bradley leaves behind his mom and stepdad; a fiancee (no name provided), plus two sons, Tristen and Preston; and two sisters.
Army Spc. Bradley L. Melton was killed in action on 5/16/11.
Army Spc. Bradley L. Melton, 29, of Rolla, Mo.
Spc. Melton was assigned to Brigade Troops Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died May 16, 2011 in Zabul province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
Spc Melton attended high school in Raymondsville and joined the Army in 2000. He was previously stationed at Ft Hood, Tx, and Ft leonard Wood, Mo.
On Wednesday, Alaska Gov. Sean Parnell issued a statement in response to the death of the soldiers. "Sandy and I were saddened to learn of the tragic loss of these soldiers," he said. "Their brave sacrifice demonstrates an unyielding service to others, and it will not be forgotten. On behalf of all Alaskans, we extend our sympathies to the families and loved ones during this difficult time."
Spc Melton was a combat engineer like his stepfather, Steve Beem, who retired from the Army a couple years ago. Beem said Melton was on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan and had only been there a few weeks.
According to reports, the IED went off while Spc Melton was on a route clearance mission.
"He was very family oriented, you couldn't separate him from his mother. He loved his mother very, very much, and was just a good person to be around. On a bad day, he'd make you smile. On a happy day, he'd make you even happier," said Beem, whom Melton called "Dad".
Beem said the entire family need a lot of support right now, but they're also thinking of those who were deployed with Melton and hoping they make it through the rest of their tour safely.
When he is laid to rest, the Patriot Guard Riders expect to be there to help honor him and his service.
Spc Bradley leaves behind his mom and stepdad; a fiancee (no name provided), plus two sons, Tristen and Preston; and two sisters.
Army Spc. Bradley L. Melton was killed in action on 5/16/11.
Army Pvt. Lamarol J. Tucker
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pvt. Lamarol J. Tucker, 26, of Gainesville, Fla.
Pvt. Tucker was assigned to Brigade Troops Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died May 16, 2011 in Zabul province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
Pvt Tucker, who had just deployed in April, was a 2003 graduate of Santa Fe High School in Alachua. He joined the service in January 2009 and was stationed at Ft Leonard Wood before coming to Alaska. Pvt Tucker’s brother, Keith, said Lamarol Tucker always wanted to do something positive and added that he encouraged his brother to join the military.
Keith said the military gave his brother more structure and said he was proud of the decisions his brother made.
“I loved him. Times were hard, but we made it through together on many occasions. He’s a hero in my book. I love him very much, and I miss him,” Keith said. “He enjoyed music and sports. He was very quiet — didn’t talk a whole lot. We’d cut up ... a lot.”
A procession of law enforcement escorted the body of Army Pvt. Lamarol Tucker from Gainesville Regional Airport to Chestnut Funeral Home yesterday morning.
Intersections along the route were crowded with people paying their respects. People in cars that were stopped along the route also got out to honor Tucker.
Riding in the motorcade was Lamarol Tucker’s cousin, Mary Howard, who also described her cousin as a quiet person who is going to be missed.
“We are so proud that he gave himself to his country,” Howard said. “It was so powerful to see him honored like this.”
Pvt Tucker is survived by his father, Lenard Jerome Tucker, his brother, Keith Tucker. He was preceded in death by his mother, Janice Elaine Walker.
Army Pvt. Lamarol J. Tucker was killed in action on 5/16/11.
Army Pvt. Lamarol J. Tucker, 26, of Gainesville, Fla.
Pvt. Tucker was assigned to Brigade Troops Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died May 16, 2011 in Zabul province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
Pvt Tucker, who had just deployed in April, was a 2003 graduate of Santa Fe High School in Alachua. He joined the service in January 2009 and was stationed at Ft Leonard Wood before coming to Alaska. Pvt Tucker’s brother, Keith, said Lamarol Tucker always wanted to do something positive and added that he encouraged his brother to join the military.
Keith said the military gave his brother more structure and said he was proud of the decisions his brother made.
“I loved him. Times were hard, but we made it through together on many occasions. He’s a hero in my book. I love him very much, and I miss him,” Keith said. “He enjoyed music and sports. He was very quiet — didn’t talk a whole lot. We’d cut up ... a lot.”
A procession of law enforcement escorted the body of Army Pvt. Lamarol Tucker from Gainesville Regional Airport to Chestnut Funeral Home yesterday morning.
Intersections along the route were crowded with people paying their respects. People in cars that were stopped along the route also got out to honor Tucker.
Riding in the motorcade was Lamarol Tucker’s cousin, Mary Howard, who also described her cousin as a quiet person who is going to be missed.
“We are so proud that he gave himself to his country,” Howard said. “It was so powerful to see him honored like this.”
Pvt Tucker is survived by his father, Lenard Jerome Tucker, his brother, Keith Tucker. He was preceded in death by his mother, Janice Elaine Walker.
Army Pvt. Lamarol J. Tucker was killed in action on 5/16/11.
Army Staff Sgt. David D. Self
Remember Our Heroes
Army Staff Sgt. David D. Self, 29, of Pearl, Miss.
SSgt Self was assigned to Fires Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany; died May 16, 2011 in Zabul province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
SSgt Selft, a graduate of Pearl High School in 2000, served several tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. He had been in Afghanistan for 369 days and was killed on his very last mission, training his replacements. A memorial ceremony for fellow soldiers was held 23 May 2011 at 1000 hours in the Rose Barracks Cavalry Chapel in Germany.
"Last mission, first mission ... why now? It just doesn’t seem fair,” said Lt. Col. Steven Bergosh, commander of Fires Squadron, 2nd SCR, whose remarks from a memorial service in Afghanistan were read during the Vilseck service. “We will remember that you were always ready for any mission — even your last,” said Bergosh.
Self was remembered as an exceptional leader who always placed his soldiers' needs before his own. He always maintained his composure and knew everytthing there was to know about his Stryker vehicle, said Capt. Ronald Gevry, Self's troop commander. His remarks also were read during the ceremony.
Gevry said Self was always there for his soldiers. "He led from the front, always staying with [his soldiers] until the mission was completed," said Gevry.
"When it was difficult, he was there. When they were tired, he was there. When they were hungry, he was there. He was always there."
It was these same soldiers and friends who were there during the ceremony, who battled through their emotions to pay their respects.
Several soldiers placed their own combat patches, American flags and combat action badges onto the memorial.
SSgt Self came home on Thursday, May 26th and was escorted by the Patriot Guard Riders to the Funeral home, Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home.
He is survived by his mother, Linda Rhodes; father and step mother, Eddie and Kathleen; sister, Kimela and husband Greg; step sisters, Lorene and husband Bill; and Sherry and husband Russell.
From friends:
May 20, 2011 I served with Ssg. Self in Iraq in 2006. He is a good man and Great soldier. you will be deeply missed and never forgotten. ~ Blake Horne, Zebulon, North Carolina
May 24, 2011 I know everyone will miss you. It was a shock to hear this story so many miles away. I remember you being an NCO who worked for the soldiers and their needs. You were an inspiration to many people. I wish your family the best and an easy heart to know your in a better place. We miss you~ Anthony Mayes, phoenix, Arizona
Army Staff Sgt. David D. Self was killed in action on 5/16/11.
Army Staff Sgt. David D. Self, 29, of Pearl, Miss.
SSgt Self was assigned to Fires Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany; died May 16, 2011 in Zabul province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
SSgt Selft, a graduate of Pearl High School in 2000, served several tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. He had been in Afghanistan for 369 days and was killed on his very last mission, training his replacements. A memorial ceremony for fellow soldiers was held 23 May 2011 at 1000 hours in the Rose Barracks Cavalry Chapel in Germany.
"Last mission, first mission ... why now? It just doesn’t seem fair,” said Lt. Col. Steven Bergosh, commander of Fires Squadron, 2nd SCR, whose remarks from a memorial service in Afghanistan were read during the Vilseck service. “We will remember that you were always ready for any mission — even your last,” said Bergosh.
Self was remembered as an exceptional leader who always placed his soldiers' needs before his own. He always maintained his composure and knew everytthing there was to know about his Stryker vehicle, said Capt. Ronald Gevry, Self's troop commander. His remarks also were read during the ceremony.
Gevry said Self was always there for his soldiers. "He led from the front, always staying with [his soldiers] until the mission was completed," said Gevry.
"When it was difficult, he was there. When they were tired, he was there. When they were hungry, he was there. He was always there."
It was these same soldiers and friends who were there during the ceremony, who battled through their emotions to pay their respects.
Several soldiers placed their own combat patches, American flags and combat action badges onto the memorial.
SSgt Self came home on Thursday, May 26th and was escorted by the Patriot Guard Riders to the Funeral home, Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home.
He is survived by his mother, Linda Rhodes; father and step mother, Eddie and Kathleen; sister, Kimela and husband Greg; step sisters, Lorene and husband Bill; and Sherry and husband Russell.
From friends:
May 20, 2011 I served with Ssg. Self in Iraq in 2006. He is a good man and Great soldier. you will be deeply missed and never forgotten. ~ Blake Horne, Zebulon, North Carolina
May 24, 2011 I know everyone will miss you. It was a shock to hear this story so many miles away. I remember you being an NCO who worked for the soldiers and their needs. You were an inspiration to many people. I wish your family the best and an easy heart to know your in a better place. We miss you~ Anthony Mayes, phoenix, Arizona
Army Staff Sgt. David D. Self was killed in action on 5/16/11.
Army Pvt. Cheizray Pressley
Remember Our Heroes
Army Pvt. Cheizray Pressley, 21, of North Charleston, S.C.
Pvt Pressley was assigned to Brigade Troops Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died May 16, 2011 in Zabul province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
Pvt Pressley graduated from Fort Dorchester High School in 2008. The second-oldest of the family's four sons, he joined the Army in September 2010, arrived in Alaska in January and deployed to Afghanistan in mid-April. Father, Raymond Pressley, said his son last called home on Mother's Day. During the call he expressed his love for his mother but didn't say much about what his job was or what he was involved in.
"He had, for one reason or another, to keep that under wraps, to keep that secretive," his father said.
Raymond Pressley said it was an easy decision for his son to join up, since other family members already had served in various branches and spoke positively of military life. He said Cheziray's decision to join the military "was something he really wanted to do -- to serve his country, complete his education and see the world. He had a sense of patriotism and duty."
Cheziray had a number of hobbies. He loved sports, especially basketball and football, and enjoyed playing paintball. "He always kept a smile on his face," his father said. Pvt Pressley had come home in December to marry his girlfriend of several years, Dawn, and has a young daughter. Pvt Pressley is survived by his wife, Dawn and young daughter; mother and father, Raymond and three brothers.
Army Pvt. Cheizray Pressley was killed in action on 5/16/11.
Army Pvt. Cheizray Pressley, 21, of North Charleston, S.C.
Pvt Pressley was assigned to Brigade Troops Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died May 16, 2011 in Zabul province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
Pvt Pressley graduated from Fort Dorchester High School in 2008. The second-oldest of the family's four sons, he joined the Army in September 2010, arrived in Alaska in January and deployed to Afghanistan in mid-April. Father, Raymond Pressley, said his son last called home on Mother's Day. During the call he expressed his love for his mother but didn't say much about what his job was or what he was involved in.
"He had, for one reason or another, to keep that under wraps, to keep that secretive," his father said.
Raymond Pressley said it was an easy decision for his son to join up, since other family members already had served in various branches and spoke positively of military life. He said Cheziray's decision to join the military "was something he really wanted to do -- to serve his country, complete his education and see the world. He had a sense of patriotism and duty."
Cheziray had a number of hobbies. He loved sports, especially basketball and football, and enjoyed playing paintball. "He always kept a smile on his face," his father said. Pvt Pressley had come home in December to marry his girlfriend of several years, Dawn, and has a young daughter. Pvt Pressley is survived by his wife, Dawn and young daughter; mother and father, Raymond and three brothers.
Army Pvt. Cheizray Pressley was killed in action on 5/16/11.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Army Spc. Brian D. Riley Jr.
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. Brian D. Riley Jr., 24, of Longwood, Fla.
Spc. Riley was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, died May 15, 2011 of unspecified causes in Kunar province, Afghanistan.
The DOD lists Longwood, Florida as Riley's home. He's originally from Binghamton, New York and still has family there.
Spc Riley joined the army in 2008 as an Infantryman.
Binghamton High School Principal Albert Penna said Riley was a "student in good standing" while at the school. Penna also stated that Riley attended Binghamton High School for his freshman and sophomore years, transferring to Lake Brantley High School in Altamonte Springs, Fla., in February 2004.
Marcia Cole, friend of the family, keeps a scrap book of Specialist Brian Riley, someone who she loved with all her heart. "Brian was my hero when he first came down to Florida."
She considers herself an adopted grandmother to the 24 year old who felt it was important to serve his country. "He said boys and girls his age, especially the young ones, needed to keep our freedom so his little girl could stay safe and free and that's why he went."
Marcia says Brian was an incredible father to his little girl Trinity. "He came home whenever he could, he spent every moment he could with her. He took her places, bought her things."
Upon receiving the news that Brian had died, she said, "It was like all the air was sucked out of me". She will miss what she calls his magnetic personality, "his smile, his hugs, his compassion, his love. He was so full of life and he was so proud and I won't see him again." She says he will always be her hero.
Spc. Riley's awards and decorations include:
Army Commendation Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Combat Infantryman's Badge
Spc Riley is survived by his father, Brian Sr., as well as a brother and sisters.
Army Spc. Brian D. Riley Jr. died in Afghanistan on 5/15/11.
Army Spc. Brian D. Riley Jr., 24, of Longwood, Fla.
Spc. Riley was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, died May 15, 2011 of unspecified causes in Kunar province, Afghanistan.
The DOD lists Longwood, Florida as Riley's home. He's originally from Binghamton, New York and still has family there.
Spc Riley joined the army in 2008 as an Infantryman.
Binghamton High School Principal Albert Penna said Riley was a "student in good standing" while at the school. Penna also stated that Riley attended Binghamton High School for his freshman and sophomore years, transferring to Lake Brantley High School in Altamonte Springs, Fla., in February 2004.
Marcia Cole, friend of the family, keeps a scrap book of Specialist Brian Riley, someone who she loved with all her heart. "Brian was my hero when he first came down to Florida."
She considers herself an adopted grandmother to the 24 year old who felt it was important to serve his country. "He said boys and girls his age, especially the young ones, needed to keep our freedom so his little girl could stay safe and free and that's why he went."
Marcia says Brian was an incredible father to his little girl Trinity. "He came home whenever he could, he spent every moment he could with her. He took her places, bought her things."
Upon receiving the news that Brian had died, she said, "It was like all the air was sucked out of me". She will miss what she calls his magnetic personality, "his smile, his hugs, his compassion, his love. He was so full of life and he was so proud and I won't see him again." She says he will always be her hero.
Spc. Riley's awards and decorations include:
Army Commendation Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Combat Infantryman's Badge
Spc Riley is survived by his father, Brian Sr., as well as a brother and sisters.
Army Spc. Brian D. Riley Jr. died in Afghanistan on 5/15/11.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Army Sgt. Robert C. Schlote
Remember Our Heroes
Army Sgt. Robert C. Schlote,26, of Norfolk, Neb.
Sgt Schlote was assigned to 195th Forward Support Company, Nebraska Army National Guard, Omaha, Neb., died May 14, 2011 in Omaha, Neb., from a non-combat medical illness.
The Nebraska National Guard member fell ill after he arrived in Afghanistan in February, said his older brother, Sgt. Bill Schlote. He had been a big, fit man -- he weighed about 240 and ran marathons -- before he got sick and dropped 30 pounds.
Doctors didn't know what he suffered from, and his older brother didn't know he was suffering. Bill Schlote was serving in Afghanistan, too, but they didn't see each other. "He wasn't a complainer. He did not show any outward signs of weaknesses."
Sgt. Schlote graduated Norfolk High School in 2003 where he was an avid cross-country runner. During high school he worked for WJAG/KEXL Radio where he was a part-time DJ.
Between his junior and senior year he enlisted in the Nebraska National Guard and completed his basic training at Fort Benning, Ga. After graduation he completed his advanced individual training as a communication specialist at Fort Gordon, Ga.
Sgt Schlote volunteered for four tours of duty with the Nebraska National Guard. First in Kuwait, second and third in Iraq and the fourth when he deployed to Afghanistan in January.
He returned on leave April 14. His mother didn't recognize him at the Omaha airport.
He was so weak he was in a wheelchair when daughter, Blair, was born the next day. At home, he couldn't climb into his bed, so he slept on the couch. He was in no condition to return to Afghanistan after his two-week leave was up.
Sgt Schlote was undergoing medical tests at Offutt Air Force Base and was scheduled to go Fort Bragg, N.C., this week for more examination, his brother said.
Early Saturday, Tiffany Schlote found him on the floor near Blair's bassinet, and tried to revive him. He was pronounced dead at Methodist Hospital. The family is waiting for autopsy results to determine why.
Sgt Schlote is survived by his wife Tiffany Schlote and their daughter Blair; parents Roger and DeAnne; brothers, Brad, Bill, Justin, Josh; and one sister Jennifer; grandparents Les and Sharon Clausen, Merlyn Olson, Loretta Scholte, and his great grandmother Miranda Olson Pitttenger. He was preceded in death by his grandfather Harvey Schlote.
Army Sgt. Robert C. Schlote died from a medical illness on 5/14/11.
Army Sgt. Robert C. Schlote,26, of Norfolk, Neb.
Sgt Schlote was assigned to 195th Forward Support Company, Nebraska Army National Guard, Omaha, Neb., died May 14, 2011 in Omaha, Neb., from a non-combat medical illness.
The Nebraska National Guard member fell ill after he arrived in Afghanistan in February, said his older brother, Sgt. Bill Schlote. He had been a big, fit man -- he weighed about 240 and ran marathons -- before he got sick and dropped 30 pounds.
Doctors didn't know what he suffered from, and his older brother didn't know he was suffering. Bill Schlote was serving in Afghanistan, too, but they didn't see each other. "He wasn't a complainer. He did not show any outward signs of weaknesses."
Sgt. Schlote graduated Norfolk High School in 2003 where he was an avid cross-country runner. During high school he worked for WJAG/KEXL Radio where he was a part-time DJ.
Between his junior and senior year he enlisted in the Nebraska National Guard and completed his basic training at Fort Benning, Ga. After graduation he completed his advanced individual training as a communication specialist at Fort Gordon, Ga.
Sgt Schlote volunteered for four tours of duty with the Nebraska National Guard. First in Kuwait, second and third in Iraq and the fourth when he deployed to Afghanistan in January.
He returned on leave April 14. His mother didn't recognize him at the Omaha airport.
He was so weak he was in a wheelchair when daughter, Blair, was born the next day. At home, he couldn't climb into his bed, so he slept on the couch. He was in no condition to return to Afghanistan after his two-week leave was up.
Sgt Schlote was undergoing medical tests at Offutt Air Force Base and was scheduled to go Fort Bragg, N.C., this week for more examination, his brother said.
Early Saturday, Tiffany Schlote found him on the floor near Blair's bassinet, and tried to revive him. He was pronounced dead at Methodist Hospital. The family is waiting for autopsy results to determine why.
Sgt Schlote is survived by his wife Tiffany Schlote and their daughter Blair; parents Roger and DeAnne; brothers, Brad, Bill, Justin, Josh; and one sister Jennifer; grandparents Les and Sharon Clausen, Merlyn Olson, Loretta Scholte, and his great grandmother Miranda Olson Pitttenger. He was preceded in death by his grandfather Harvey Schlote.
Army Sgt. Robert C. Schlote died from a medical illness on 5/14/11.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Army Sgt. Amaru Aguilar
Remember Our Heroes
Army Sgt. Amaru Aguilar, 26, of Miami, Fla.
Sgt. Aguilar was assigned to 4th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died May 13, 2011 at Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when his unit encountered small-arms fire.
Sgt Aguilar joined the U.S. Army shortly after graduating from South Miami Senior High School in 2003.
Sgt Aguilar also took courses at a technical school often sharing his passion for tae kwon do with fellow students.
"Even when he was fighting, he used to fight with a smile, and we used to remember the opponent being mad at him because he was smiling while he was fighting," said Amaru's sister, Soli Aguilar.
"He served twice in Iraq, and when we found out right after New Year's that he was going to serve in Afghanistan, we all knew that it was a higher possibility that he was not going to come back," said Soli.
Sgt Aguilar had been deployed less than two months.
"He was a scout and died a hero saving the lives of his fellow soldiers," said Soli. "When will it end? When will it come to a resolution?"
Martha Borgen said she often feared this fate for Amaru, her only son, as he led troops through the dangerous valleys of Afghanistan. "I put my son and daughter in the hands of God every day," Borgen said. "I am so proud of Amaru and I'm proud of this country."
Sgt Aguilar's greatest joy was being a father to his 9-month-old son. "We will tell him exactly how my brother was," said Soli.
From a friend:
I will always remember you smiling...You always gave your best.~Sgt. Grisselle Diaz-Perez
Sgt Aguilar is survived by his mother, Martha; sister, Soli, and a 9 month old son.
Army Sgt. Amaru Aguilar was killed in action on 5/13/11.
Army Sgt. Amaru Aguilar, 26, of Miami, Fla.
Sgt. Aguilar was assigned to 4th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died May 13, 2011 at Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when his unit encountered small-arms fire.
Sgt Aguilar joined the U.S. Army shortly after graduating from South Miami Senior High School in 2003.
Sgt Aguilar also took courses at a technical school often sharing his passion for tae kwon do with fellow students.
"Even when he was fighting, he used to fight with a smile, and we used to remember the opponent being mad at him because he was smiling while he was fighting," said Amaru's sister, Soli Aguilar.
"He served twice in Iraq, and when we found out right after New Year's that he was going to serve in Afghanistan, we all knew that it was a higher possibility that he was not going to come back," said Soli.
Sgt Aguilar had been deployed less than two months.
"He was a scout and died a hero saving the lives of his fellow soldiers," said Soli. "When will it end? When will it come to a resolution?"
Martha Borgen said she often feared this fate for Amaru, her only son, as he led troops through the dangerous valleys of Afghanistan. "I put my son and daughter in the hands of God every day," Borgen said. "I am so proud of Amaru and I'm proud of this country."
Sgt Aguilar's greatest joy was being a father to his 9-month-old son. "We will tell him exactly how my brother was," said Soli.
From a friend:
I will always remember you smiling...You always gave your best.~Sgt. Grisselle Diaz-Perez
Sgt Aguilar is survived by his mother, Martha; sister, Soli, and a 9 month old son.
Army Sgt. Amaru Aguilar was killed in action on 5/13/11.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Marine Lt. Col. Benjamin J. Palmer
Remember Our Heroes
Marine Lt. Col. Benjamin J. Palmer, 43, of Modesto, Calif.
Lt. Col. Palmer was assigned to Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Cherry Point, N.C. died May 12, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while supporting combat operations. Also killed was Sgt. Kevin Balduf.
Lt Col Palmer, a 1986 graduate of Downey High School in Modesto, Calif., played soprano bugle in high school and after his graduation.
Lt Col Palmer's mother, Linda, said her son wanted to enlist in the Marine Corps right after high school so he could play in the Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, but decided to finish college first.
Linda, said of her son, “He had a strong sense of duty and of helping others. Always taking care of his Marines and his family, too. We are going to miss him like crazy.”
She said her son had previously served three tours in Iraq and had deployed to Afghanistan about three weeks ago.
He had previously served as the commanding officer of 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion at Cherry Point. Palmer relinquished command of 2nd LAAD on Dec. 16 prior to his deployment to Afghanistan.
At the ceremony, Palmer gave credit to those under his command. “All the time I’ve been here, I’ve focused on one thing, and that’s making this battalion the best,” he said. “It’s not me; it’s what they’ve done. I just set the stage to allow them to be successful and they’ve done that.”
Lt Col Palmer’s military awards and decorations include:
Defense meritorious service medal
Meritorious service medal with gold star
Joint service commendation medal
Korean defense service medal
Navy and Marine Corps commendation medal with two gold stars
Lt Col Palmer is survived by his wife, Leafa; children Katie, Jack and Jenna; mother, Linda; son A.J.; and brother, Joseph. Palmer’s father, Richard, a Modesto, Calif., attorney, died in 1999.
Marine Lt. Col. Benjamin J. Palmer was killed in action on 5/12/11.
Marine Lt. Col. Benjamin J. Palmer, 43, of Modesto, Calif.
Lt. Col. Palmer was assigned to Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Cherry Point, N.C. died May 12, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while supporting combat operations. Also killed was Sgt. Kevin Balduf.
Lt Col Palmer, a 1986 graduate of Downey High School in Modesto, Calif., played soprano bugle in high school and after his graduation.
Lt Col Palmer's mother, Linda, said her son wanted to enlist in the Marine Corps right after high school so he could play in the Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, but decided to finish college first.
Linda, said of her son, “He had a strong sense of duty and of helping others. Always taking care of his Marines and his family, too. We are going to miss him like crazy.”
She said her son had previously served three tours in Iraq and had deployed to Afghanistan about three weeks ago.
He had previously served as the commanding officer of 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion at Cherry Point. Palmer relinquished command of 2nd LAAD on Dec. 16 prior to his deployment to Afghanistan.
At the ceremony, Palmer gave credit to those under his command. “All the time I’ve been here, I’ve focused on one thing, and that’s making this battalion the best,” he said. “It’s not me; it’s what they’ve done. I just set the stage to allow them to be successful and they’ve done that.”
Lt Col Palmer’s military awards and decorations include:
Defense meritorious service medal
Meritorious service medal with gold star
Joint service commendation medal
Korean defense service medal
Navy and Marine Corps commendation medal with two gold stars
Lt Col Palmer is survived by his wife, Leafa; children Katie, Jack and Jenna; mother, Linda; son A.J.; and brother, Joseph. Palmer’s father, Richard, a Modesto, Calif., attorney, died in 1999.
Marine Lt. Col. Benjamin J. Palmer was killed in action on 5/12/11.
Marine Sgt. Kevin B. Balduf
Remember Our Heroes
Marine Sgt. Kevin B. Balduf, 27, of Nashville, Tenn.
Sgt Balduf was assigned to 8th Communications Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died May 12, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while supporting combat operations.
Sgt. Kevin Balduf enlisted just after graduating from David Lipscomb High School in 2002 where he played on the school's football team. He got in trouble with his coaches his senior year cause he lost so much weight training to be a Marine.
Sgt Balduf joined the Marine Corps June 10, 2002, and was promoted to the rank of sergeant in March 2008.
Sgt Balduf had previously been deployed to Iraq. This was his second deployment to Afghanistan, having deployed in January.
He wasn’t outside the wire and I think that’s what really hits home and really hurts,” said wife, Amy, who felt safe enough about her husband working at Camp Leatherneck.
When she found out he was going to an Afghan training camp nearby, they both had mixed feelings. “But at the same time you cant say no,” she said, so he went. “He sent me an email that said I don’t trust them, I don’t trust them for anything, not for anything at all.”
“He said he'd call tomorrow,” she remembered, “and he never said I'll call tomorrow, he said I'll try and call tomorrow, and then tomorrow came."
The phone call she got, was the one to notify her that her husband had been killed.
“His life was not in the hands of other Marines,” she said.
Sgt. Balduf, a radio equipment operator, had been helping Afghan police trainees with communication systems. At the new base, he ate, worked and slept only with Afghan military and law enforcement trainees.
Sgt Balduf's twin brother Kyle, said his younger brother by one minute wanted to be a Marine practically his whole life.
"Kevin wanted me to be in the Marine Corps with him and I knew it wasn't my thing. He did, but I didn't want to be a part of it. I think about that," Kyle Balduf said.
Despite not joining the Marine's with his brother, Kyle said he knew his brother's fellow Marines looked after his Kevin when he couldn't.
"He had brothers in the Marine Corps who would guard him in my absence and that was neat. It's been neat to hear from them over the past few days and recognize their names and remember him talking about them," Kyle said.
Kyle said that he last spoke with his brother via email just days before he was killed. In the email, he got to tell his younger brother that he loved him for what would be the final time.
"He let me know what things were going on there and he said, ‘I love you too,'" Balduf said, adding, "If he hadn't taken the time to do that, I wouldn't have had those precious last words with my brother."
His awards are
Bronze Star Medal with combat “V” device
Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal
Combat Action Ribbon
Navy Unit Commendation
Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation
Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
Marine Sgt. Kevin B. Balduf was killed in action on 5/12/11.
Marine Sgt. Kevin B. Balduf, 27, of Nashville, Tenn.
Sgt Balduf was assigned to 8th Communications Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died May 12, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while supporting combat operations.
Sgt. Kevin Balduf enlisted just after graduating from David Lipscomb High School in 2002 where he played on the school's football team. He got in trouble with his coaches his senior year cause he lost so much weight training to be a Marine.
Sgt Balduf joined the Marine Corps June 10, 2002, and was promoted to the rank of sergeant in March 2008.
Sgt Balduf had previously been deployed to Iraq. This was his second deployment to Afghanistan, having deployed in January.
He wasn’t outside the wire and I think that’s what really hits home and really hurts,” said wife, Amy, who felt safe enough about her husband working at Camp Leatherneck.
When she found out he was going to an Afghan training camp nearby, they both had mixed feelings. “But at the same time you cant say no,” she said, so he went. “He sent me an email that said I don’t trust them, I don’t trust them for anything, not for anything at all.”
“He said he'd call tomorrow,” she remembered, “and he never said I'll call tomorrow, he said I'll try and call tomorrow, and then tomorrow came."
The phone call she got, was the one to notify her that her husband had been killed.
“His life was not in the hands of other Marines,” she said.
Sgt. Balduf, a radio equipment operator, had been helping Afghan police trainees with communication systems. At the new base, he ate, worked and slept only with Afghan military and law enforcement trainees.
Sgt Balduf's twin brother Kyle, said his younger brother by one minute wanted to be a Marine practically his whole life.
"Kevin wanted me to be in the Marine Corps with him and I knew it wasn't my thing. He did, but I didn't want to be a part of it. I think about that," Kyle Balduf said.
Despite not joining the Marine's with his brother, Kyle said he knew his brother's fellow Marines looked after his Kevin when he couldn't.
"He had brothers in the Marine Corps who would guard him in my absence and that was neat. It's been neat to hear from them over the past few days and recognize their names and remember him talking about them," Kyle said.
Kyle said that he last spoke with his brother via email just days before he was killed. In the email, he got to tell his younger brother that he loved him for what would be the final time.
"He let me know what things were going on there and he said, ‘I love you too,'" Balduf said, adding, "If he hadn't taken the time to do that, I wouldn't have had those precious last words with my brother."
His awards are
Bronze Star Medal with combat “V” device
Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal
Combat Action Ribbon
Navy Unit Commendation
Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation
Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
Marine Sgt. Kevin B. Balduf was killed in action on 5/12/11.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Army 1st Lt. Demetrius M. Frison
Remember Our Heroes
Army 1st Lt. Demetrius M. Frison, 26, of Lancaster, Pa.
1st Lt Frison was assigned to 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Knox, Ky.; died May 10, 2011 in Khost province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
Lt Frison began his military service in April 2009 and arrived at Fort Knox in October 2010. He deployed to Afghanistan on Jan. 9. This was his first deployment to Afghanistan
Lt Frison graduated from Parkway Northwest High School and received a bachelor's degree in psychology from Millersville University in 2008. Frison was Vice-President of the university's NAACP chapter. He was also a member of the Black Student Union
Dr. Rita Smith-Wade-El, a Psychology professor at the university, says Frison was an ambitious and driven student. "He was very articulate, he always presented himself well, he was a gentleman, he was one of my brightest students, but probably more important he was one of my most caring students," said Smith-Wade-El.
"It is very devastating because he just had so much to give to the community, he would have made such a big difference in the community when he came home and now he is not coming home," said Smith-Wade-El.
Lt Frison worked at the Lancaster Youth Intervention Center for 2 years as a youth care worker. He spent most of his time counseling and mentoring troubled teens. Frison left the youth center to join the Army in 2009.
"Demetrius was just a fabulous individual, everything he did, he did 110%," said Jonathan Breitegan, former co-worker.
"Demetrius loved the job here, he was great at what he did, he was a solid person, he was a very good role model for the residents," said Steve Thatcher, former co-worker.
His mother, Louella, described her son as "honorable" and "very religious." He "lived by the rules and the standards of what was put before him," she said.
As a child, he played with toy soldiers, she recalled. "He always was a military person at heart," she said.
On his MySpace page, he listed his mother and grandmothers as his heroes. He also posed a question about whom he'd like to meet. His response: "Me in 25 years, to see where I am at & change what I don't like about myself before it is too late."
His wife, Mikki, said they met at Morris Leeds Middle School when they were 12. (He lived in Logan. She lived in West Oak Lane) They married March 2009. Their son, Christopher, was born November last year.
He was promoted to first lieutenant on April 10, his birthday. "He loved what he did," his wife, Mikki, said.
Frison has been awarded the NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart posthumously.
Frison's body was returned to Dover Air Force Base Thursday afternoon. Funeral arrangements are pending.
He leaves behind his wife,Mikki, six month old son, Christopher; and mother Louella.
Army 1st Lt. Demetrius M. Frison was killed in action on 5/10/11.
Army 1st Lt. Demetrius M. Frison, 26, of Lancaster, Pa.
1st Lt Frison was assigned to 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Knox, Ky.; died May 10, 2011 in Khost province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.
Lt Frison began his military service in April 2009 and arrived at Fort Knox in October 2010. He deployed to Afghanistan on Jan. 9. This was his first deployment to Afghanistan
Lt Frison graduated from Parkway Northwest High School and received a bachelor's degree in psychology from Millersville University in 2008. Frison was Vice-President of the university's NAACP chapter. He was also a member of the Black Student Union
Dr. Rita Smith-Wade-El, a Psychology professor at the university, says Frison was an ambitious and driven student. "He was very articulate, he always presented himself well, he was a gentleman, he was one of my brightest students, but probably more important he was one of my most caring students," said Smith-Wade-El.
"It is very devastating because he just had so much to give to the community, he would have made such a big difference in the community when he came home and now he is not coming home," said Smith-Wade-El.
Lt Frison worked at the Lancaster Youth Intervention Center for 2 years as a youth care worker. He spent most of his time counseling and mentoring troubled teens. Frison left the youth center to join the Army in 2009.
"Demetrius was just a fabulous individual, everything he did, he did 110%," said Jonathan Breitegan, former co-worker.
"Demetrius loved the job here, he was great at what he did, he was a solid person, he was a very good role model for the residents," said Steve Thatcher, former co-worker.
His mother, Louella, described her son as "honorable" and "very religious." He "lived by the rules and the standards of what was put before him," she said.
As a child, he played with toy soldiers, she recalled. "He always was a military person at heart," she said.
On his MySpace page, he listed his mother and grandmothers as his heroes. He also posed a question about whom he'd like to meet. His response: "Me in 25 years, to see where I am at & change what I don't like about myself before it is too late."
His wife, Mikki, said they met at Morris Leeds Middle School when they were 12. (He lived in Logan. She lived in West Oak Lane) They married March 2009. Their son, Christopher, was born November last year.
He was promoted to first lieutenant on April 10, his birthday. "He loved what he did," his wife, Mikki, said.
Frison has been awarded the NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart posthumously.
Frison's body was returned to Dover Air Force Base Thursday afternoon. Funeral arrangements are pending.
He leaves behind his wife,Mikki, six month old son, Christopher; and mother Louella.
Army 1st Lt. Demetrius M. Frison was killed in action on 5/10/11.
Monday, May 09, 2011
Army Sgt. Ken K. Hermogino
Remember Our Heroes
Army Sgt. Ken K. Hermogino, 30, of Edwards Air Force Base, Calif.
Sgt Hermogino was assigned to 7th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.; died May 9, 2011 in Herat province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained in a non-combat vehicle accident.
Sgt Hermongino joined the Army on November 19, 2001, two months after the September 11 attacks. He joined his current unit last June just before the unit deployed to Afghanistan. He'd been in Afghanistan for 11 months and was due to come home in just a few weeks to be re-united with his wife, Monica, and 5-year-old son.
He and his wife were high school sweethearts and married shortly after they graduated from high school. They both joined the military, though Monica left when she had their son.
Sister-in-Law, Teresa Bruss, said, "He was very sweet and very talkative and fun and full of life. He truly enjoyed being in the military. He was very happy that he was on a great team and a great unit and serving his country. He was very proud about that."
He often practiced martial arts with his 5-year-old son, Bruss said, and was known to go off-roading in his spare time.
Last winter, he recorded Christmas greetings to his wife and son in Colorado Springs http://www.krdo.com/video/25911854/index.html
Ken previously served in the Air Force. Awards and decorations include:
Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
Air Force Achievement Medal
Air Force meritorious Unit Award
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
Air Force Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
(2) Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campain Star
Global War on Terrorism Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Air Force Longevity Service Award
Air Force Training Ribbon
(2)NATO Medal
Combat Action Badge
Driver and Mechanic Badge with Driver-Wheeled Vehicles.
Sgt Hermogino is survived by his wife, Monica, and 5 yr old son, Kevin.
Army Sgt. Ken K. Hermogino was killed in a vehicle accident on 5/9/11.
Army Sgt. Ken K. Hermogino, 30, of Edwards Air Force Base, Calif.
Sgt Hermogino was assigned to 7th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.; died May 9, 2011 in Herat province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained in a non-combat vehicle accident.
Sgt Hermongino joined the Army on November 19, 2001, two months after the September 11 attacks. He joined his current unit last June just before the unit deployed to Afghanistan. He'd been in Afghanistan for 11 months and was due to come home in just a few weeks to be re-united with his wife, Monica, and 5-year-old son.
He and his wife were high school sweethearts and married shortly after they graduated from high school. They both joined the military, though Monica left when she had their son.
Sister-in-Law, Teresa Bruss, said, "He was very sweet and very talkative and fun and full of life. He truly enjoyed being in the military. He was very happy that he was on a great team and a great unit and serving his country. He was very proud about that."
He often practiced martial arts with his 5-year-old son, Bruss said, and was known to go off-roading in his spare time.
Last winter, he recorded Christmas greetings to his wife and son in Colorado Springs http://www.krdo.com/video/25911854/index.html
Ken previously served in the Air Force. Awards and decorations include:
Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
Air Force Achievement Medal
Air Force meritorious Unit Award
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
Air Force Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
(2) Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campain Star
Global War on Terrorism Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Air Force Longevity Service Award
Air Force Training Ribbon
(2)NATO Medal
Combat Action Badge
Driver and Mechanic Badge with Driver-Wheeled Vehicles.
Sgt Hermogino is survived by his wife, Monica, and 5 yr old son, Kevin.
Army Sgt. Ken K. Hermogino was killed in a vehicle accident on 5/9/11.
Wednesday, May 04, 2011
Army Spc. Riley S. Spaulding
Remember Our Heroes
Army Spc. Riley S. Spaulding, 21, of Sheridan, Texas
Spc Spaulding was assigned to 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany; died May 4, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained in a non-combat incident.
Army Spc. Riley S. Spaulding had just finished his Afghanistan tour and was about to returned to Germany, then back to Texas.
But somehow — no one yet knows how — Spaulding was killed in a non-combat incident.
"I just wanted to know what happened," Micki Spaulding said of her 21-year-old son, of Sheridan, about 70 miles west of Houston. "But they couldn't tell me."
The U.S. Department of Defense confirmed over the weekend that Spaulding died last Wednesday in Afghanistan. His body arrived at Dover Air Force Base on Thursday.
"They (Army officials) are doing an investigation and can't say anything until it's complete," said Spaulding. "It is an accident, I'm sure."
The specialist wanted to wanted to join the Army while still a student at Rice High School, near Sheridan.
"I had to sign his paperwork for him to go into the Army," his mother said. "He didn't turn 18 until after he graduated."
After his 2007 graduation, he was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Spaulding was described by his mother as an "energetic young man" who loved to fish on a lake near their home, and to hang out with his friends.
He completed basic training at Fort Benning, Ga., and served a tour in Iraq. His last tour was in the Kandahar province in Afghanistan.
Spaulding said the tight-knit Sheridan community has rallied to her family's support since learning the news.
"I am surrounded by a community of wonderful people who have just flooded me with their love and concern," she said.
Army Spc. Riley S. Spaulding was killed in a non-combat related incident on 5/4/11.
Army Spc. Riley S. Spaulding, 21, of Sheridan, Texas
Spc Spaulding was assigned to 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany; died May 4, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained in a non-combat incident.
Army Spc. Riley S. Spaulding had just finished his Afghanistan tour and was about to returned to Germany, then back to Texas.
But somehow — no one yet knows how — Spaulding was killed in a non-combat incident.
"I just wanted to know what happened," Micki Spaulding said of her 21-year-old son, of Sheridan, about 70 miles west of Houston. "But they couldn't tell me."
The U.S. Department of Defense confirmed over the weekend that Spaulding died last Wednesday in Afghanistan. His body arrived at Dover Air Force Base on Thursday.
"They (Army officials) are doing an investigation and can't say anything until it's complete," said Spaulding. "It is an accident, I'm sure."
The specialist wanted to wanted to join the Army while still a student at Rice High School, near Sheridan.
"I had to sign his paperwork for him to go into the Army," his mother said. "He didn't turn 18 until after he graduated."
After his 2007 graduation, he was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Spaulding was described by his mother as an "energetic young man" who loved to fish on a lake near their home, and to hang out with his friends.
He completed basic training at Fort Benning, Ga., and served a tour in Iraq. His last tour was in the Kandahar province in Afghanistan.
Spaulding said the tight-knit Sheridan community has rallied to her family's support since learning the news.
"I am surrounded by a community of wonderful people who have just flooded me with their love and concern," she said.
Army Spc. Riley S. Spaulding was killed in a non-combat related incident on 5/4/11.
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