Fallen Heroes

Army Sgt. Tyler N. Holtz

2011-12-08T16:11:00.001-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Tyler N. Holtz, 22, of Dana Point, Calif.

Sgt Holtz was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.; died Sept. 24, 2011 in Wardak province of wounds caused by small-arms fire.

Sgt Holtz graduated from Mater Dei High School, a Catholic school in Santa Ana, Calif, where he played football for four years. He joined the Army in October 2007.

He graduated from the Army's Ranger program in 2008. He arrived at Lewis-McChord in July 2008, where he served as a rifleman and a Ranger Team Leader. This was his fourth deployment to Afghanistan. He died while leading his men in combat.

Sgt Holtz "was a courageous and incredibly talented Ranger who died while leading his men against determined insurgents," said Lt. Col. David Hodne, commander of the Lewis-McChord-based Ranger battalion. "Tyler Holtz personified the Ranger Creed to the final moments of his life and his actions inspire us to do the same."

Holtz "had the stuff from which legends are made and possessed the character which makes up the foundations that our Army and nation are built on," said Col. Mark Odom, commander of the 75th Ranger Regiment.

Sgt Holtz's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star Medal
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defence Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
Joint Service Achievement Medal Meritorious Service Medal
Ranger Tab
Expert Infantryman Badge
Combat Infantrymans Badge
Parachutist Badge
U.S. Army Expert Rifle Marksmanship Qualification Badge

Sgt Holtz is survived by his mother, Karen; father, Andrew; brothers, Luke, Hayden and Michael.

Army Sgt. Tyler N. Holtz was killed in action on 9/24/11.

Army Sgt. Ryan Sharp

2011-12-03T14:07:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Ryan Sharp, 28, of Idaho Falls, Idaho

Sgt Sharp was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 34th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died Dec. 3, 2011 at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Landstuhl, Germany, of wounds suffered Nov. 21 at Kandahar province, when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho -- After arriving in Idaho via charted aircraft on Sunday, the body of U.S. Army Sgt. Ryan David Sharp was laid to rest at Rose Hill Cemetery in Idaho Falls on Monday afternoon.

Sharp died Dec. 3 from injuries sustained in an I.E.D. attack during his third tour of duty in Afghanistan.

At Monday's service, Sharp's sister Michelle Harrison delivered his "Life Sketch." She spoke of a boy who grew up loving childhood.

Harrison spoke of her brother's close relationship with their grandmother, who would often call him, "My Ryan."

Army officials also spoke at the service. Brigadier General Alan Gayhart said Sharp was helping a fellow soldier, Sgt. First Class Murray, when an improvised explosive device detonated Nov. 21.

"Everyone knew Cpl. Sharp," said Gayhart during the service.

Sharp's rank was upgraded from corporal to sergeant after his death.

Graveside, Idaho Governor Butch Otter paid his respects. Flags were presented to Sharp's two young daughters, 8-year-old Sarah and 6-year-old Mia.

The other soldier's in Sharp's company returned home to the U.S. this week. Harrison said the timing was bittersweet, but that Sharp's family is glad his brothers are coming home safely.

Sharp planned to be honorably discharged in May 2012

by Associated Press
KTVB.COM

IDAHO FALLS -- Roughly 200 people gathered at the Idaho Falls Airport to honor the return of a fallen soldier.

Army Sgt. Ryan D. Sharp's body was returned to his family in a ceremonial transfer on Sunday. Family spokeswoman and Sharp's sister-in-law, Karen Sharp, said the family was impressed and overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from the community and the Army.

Sharp was serving in Afghanistan when he was injured by an improvised explosive device on Nov. 21. Doctors put him in a medical coma and transferred him to a hospital in Germany for treatment, but he did not survive his wounds. Funeral services were scheduled to begin Monday morning.

Army Pfc. Theodore B. Rushing

2011-11-11T14:01:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Pfc. Theodore B. Rushing, 25, of Longwood, Fla.

Pfc. Rushign was assigned to 3rd Squadron, 71st Cavalry Regiment; 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Fort Drum, N.Y., died Nov. 11, in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by an improvised explosive device.

Pfc Rushing was killed in action on Veterans Day, after heavy fighting in Afghanistan. He was on foot patrol when his unit encountered an IED.

Pfc Rushing joined Army in March 2011. He went through basic training at Ft Benning, GA, trained at the Cavalry Scout School at Fort Knox, Ky and arrived Ft Drum in July 2011. He deployed August. He served as a Forward Scout.

After graduating high school, he received his associate's degree at Seminole State College.

Pfc Rushing preferred to be outdoors, he loved to ride his BMX bike or surf the waves at Cocoa Beach.

Growing up in Orlando, Theodore "Teddy" Rushing was always something of a daredevil, said his father, Rick Rushing. "He was one of those kids who'd be bungee-jumping, skateboarding or jumping off the roof."

Pfc Rushing was going to follow his father, Rick's footsteps, who is a police officer with the Orlando Police Department, but once he joined the army, he told his dad that he'd found a new career.

"He told me, 'Dad, this is it.' This is what he wanted to do. He loved being a scout, being the first one out in front of everybody else to make sure it's safe. He liked the fact that he was able to give back to his country that had given so much back to him. He liked the fact that he was a Calvary scout, out front paving the way for everybody else," said Rushing's father.

"The last time I talked with him, he wouldn't share much about what was going on, but he said it was very dangerous, heavy fighting," his dad said. "He was the only casualty that day, which tells me that he was out front doing his job and he didn't let anyone get close enough to get hurt. We're so very proud."

Johnette Barton, assistant director of the school, said that during a senior trip to the mountains, Teddy attempted to ride down a mountain slope on his skateboard, Barton said. Despite being injured, he was still eager to go whitewater rafting and bungee jumping.

"Teddy was enthusiastic about life. He never knew a stranger. Everybody loved him. He was the life of the party," said Barton.

Pfc Rushing's awards and decorations include:
Purple Heart
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Army Combat Action Badge
Combat and special skill badge, weapons expert and overseas service bar

Pfc Rushing was laid to rest on November 28 at Arlington National Cemetery.

He is survived by his parents, Ann and Rick; sister, Stacy; maternal grandmother, Marcheta; maternal grandfather, William.

Army Pfc. Theodore B. Rushing was killed in action on 11/11/11.

Army Pfc. Cody R. Norris

2011-11-09T13:55:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Pfc. Cody R. Norris, 20, of Houston, Texas

Pfc Norris was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 34th Armor Regiment, 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.,died Nov. 9, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by enemy small-arms fire.

Pfc Norris graduated from La Porte High School in 2010, where he was in ROTC and was a member of the Color Guard, Rifle Team and was a member of the Military Museum.

Following in his brother's footsteps, Pfc Norris joined the Army in 2010. He won the expert marksman badge during basic training. This was his first deployment.

Family and friends described him as someone who made everyone smile and just being silly. He was bubbly, happy, energetic, light hearted.

"He loved what he was doing," said Pastor Jim Bob Benton, who gave the eulogy at Norris' funeral. "It was like he was made to do what he was doing, and he loved his family, and those two things came together to bring him where he was."

He quoted Norris' own words on his Facebook page: "I love what I do as my job and my dream in life and no one can take that way from me. I am trained by the best, and I will be the best as I can. Wanna do all I can for the ones I love and my country. To keep all of us free!!! Even if it means death."

Pfc Norris enjoyed paintball, deer hunting, playing video games, Hibachi food, and working on his 1952 M37 Army Truck that he had convinced his stepfather to let him buy. He drove it to and from classes.

"It wasn't a fast ride," Benton said. "It took an hour, hour and a half, every day, back and forth," but the slow commute didn't bother Norris.

Pfc Norris briefly returned home from Afghanistan on leave last month to celebrate his 20th birthday with family and friends, but was eager to get back.

Benton said, "He knew he needed to go back. He had buddies he wanted to protect and one of the things he told everybody was, 'Look, I'm not afraid to die.'"

To have known Norris was a gift from God, the pastor said. "That's not something that can be taken away. He's with us. He'll be with us always, forever young."

Pfc Norris' awards and decorations include:
Army Commendation Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two campaign stars
NATO Medal
Combat Infantryman Badge

Pfc Norris was laid to rest on November 21 at Grand View Memorial Park, Pasadena, TX. The Patriot Guard escorted.

Pfc Norris is survived by his mother, Terri, and stepfather, Kenneth; father, Reese Norris; brother, Michael Norris,a cadet at West Point; grandparents, Robert and Patricia Vegil, and Geneva Pynes.

Army Pfc. Cody R. Norris was killed in action on 11/09/11.

Marine Lance Cpl. Nickolas A. Daniels

2011-11-05T13:45:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Marine Lance Cpl. Nickolas A. Daniels, 25, of Elmwood Park, Ill.

LCpl Daniels was assigned to 3rd Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, Calif.; died Nov. 5, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while conducting combat operations.

Lcpl Daniels graduated from Saint Patrick High School in 2004, where he played football, and later coached football for his alma mater.

Lcpl Daniels joined the Marines in January 2010. He reported on September 3 and left for his first tour of duty in Afghanistan 16 days later. He had only been in Afghanistan for six weeks when he was killed. He served as a combat engineer.

Oldest of four children, Lcpl Daniels aspired to become a police officer. Family and friends described Nick as a very happy, fun loving young man, who was very driven, dedicated, and goal oriented. He planned to marry his fiancee, Katie, when he returned home.

"Everybody always thinks it's not going to happen to their family but it's real and it happens," said family friend Joe Pullia.

His sister, Kati, said that L-Cpl Daniels had joined the Marine Corps less than two years ago and was trained in bomb disposal.

"I just didn't believe it because he was only there for a month and a half and he just got an award for digging up a bomb, and then this happened. And I didn't want to believe it when (the Marines) came to our house," she said.

"We're going to be here in the back for the procession and then when he walks out, we're all going to take a knee to remember Nick and how he was our coach," said Ryan Tentler, co-captain of the football team.

"It hit us pretty hard just because he was a shamrock. Most of us knew him because we all played football. He was a great coach," said Zeck Jankeiwicz, football team co-captain.

Lonny Daniels says his big brother was always up for a challenge and loved competition. Lonny says he will always remember Nick as cool guy who watched out for his younger siblings.

"I always aspired to be like him. He was always fast, athletic, the girls loved him," Lonny said. "He's really funny, probably one of the funniest guys. He had a really good attitude with everybody. Everybody loved him."

Master Sergeant Rick Hernandez, who led the honor guard, said, "We're going to do for Nick what I know Nick would do for me. That's what I'm going to do for Nick today."

"For me personally, it's very difficult to wrap my mind around. But it's so much more about him and what a special person he was," said Timothy Woods, friend and co-worker.

Lcpl Daniels' awards and decorations include:
Purple Heart
Combat Action Ribbon
National Defense Service Metal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon

Lcpl Daniels was laid to rest on November 13 at Elmwood Cemetery in River Grove.

Nick Daniels is survived by his mother and stepdad, Eva and Roger; father and stepmom, Gregory and Debi; siblings Kati, Lonny, Olivi; stepbrothers, Billy and Jacob; grandparents Susie Daniels and Lottie Kamien; fiancee, Katie.

Marine Lance Cpl. Nickolas A. Daniels was killed in action on 11/05/11.

Army 1st Lt. Dustin D. Vincent

2011-11-03T15:04:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army 1st Lt. Dustin D. Vincent, 25, of Mesquite, Texas

1st Lt. Vincent was assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Field Artillery, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died Nov. 3, 2011 in Kirkuk province, Iraq, of wounds caused by enemy small-arms fire.

Lt Vincent graduated from Mesquite High School and attended University of Texas in Arlington, where he studied engineering.

He joined the Army in 2009 and served as an artillery officer.This was his first deployment.

Lt Vincent married wife two days before deployed and had adopted her daughter.

Step-sister, Chandra Usry, described Lt Vincent as loving, selfless and kind, stating that he took her right in when they were brought together by marriage a few years ago.

Lt Vincent's awards and decorations include:

Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal with one Campaign Star
Global War on Terror Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon

I didn't know him but attended his memorial here in Iraq today. His soldiers loved him and his commanders thought very highly of him. Funny thing, they teased him about always looking forward to "taco day" in the dining facility. He said he loved tacos because he was from Texas and it reminded him of home.~Kevin M.

Army 1st Lt. Dustin D. Vincent was killed in action on 11/03/11.

Army Pfc. Sarina N. Butcher

2011-11-01T16:31:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Pfc. Sarina N. Butcher, 19, of Checotah, Okla.

Pfc. Butcher was assigned to 700th Brigade Support Battalion, 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oklahoma National Guard, Tulsa, Okla.; died Nov. 1, 2011 in Paktya province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Army Spc. Christopher D. Gailey.

“Spc. Sarina Butcher left her friends, family and a young child to help defend our nation,” Maj. Gen. Myles Deering, adjutant general for Oklahoma, said in a statement. “She was a brave young woman who selflessly gave all she had for her country and the other soldiers that served alongside her.”

Following in her grandfather's and brother's footsteps, Spc Butcher joined the National Guard to help finance and pursue her career dreams of becoming a nurse while also helping to support her daughter, Zoey.

Spc Butcher joined the Guard in April 2010 and served as an automated logistical specialist. She deployed in June.

Her grandmother, Martha Wills, described her as a much-loved daughter, sister, granddaughter and mother.

She was really outgoing and there was no one that wasn't her friend," said mother Dana Bailey.

“She was barely 5 foot 2, and her heart was bigger than she was,” grandfather, James Clayton Mills said.

"I tried to instill in her, good traditions and things about the military. She always looked up to me as her hero, but today, she's my hero," her grandfather said.

Mills says Sarina's spirit lives on through her daughter. "Sarina used to sit and talk, throw her hand on her hip. Zoey does the same thing at two and half years old. So she's going to up and be another Sarina."

Spc Butcher's awards and decorations include:

Bronze Star
Purple Heart
National Defense Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Oklahoma Good Conduct Medal

Spc Butcher is survived by her mother, Dana and step-father, Howard.; father, James and step-mother, Cheryl; daughter, Zoey; brother, Anthony; and grandparents, Clayton and Martha Mills and Betty Terrell.

Army Pfc. Sarina N. Butcher was killed in action on 11/01/11.

Army Sgt. Christopher D. Gailey

2011-11-01T16:16:00.001-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Christopher D. Gailey, 26, of Ochelata, Okla.

Sgt Gailey was assigned to 700th Brigade Support Battalion, 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oklahoma National Guard, Tulsa, Okla.; died Nov. 1, 2011 in Paktya province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Army Pfc. Sarina N. Butcher.

Sgt Gailey graduated from Caney Valley High School in 2005. He enlisted in the National Guard in 2004. He served as a motor vehicle operator.

This was Sgt Gailey's second deployment, having previously deployed to Iraq in 2007. He deployed to Afghanistan in June.

He loved to be outside riding four-wheelers and mudding with his friends.

Family friend, Heather Fugate, said, "He was one of the best guys around. He would do anything for you. That's the kind of guy he was.

"He was a fantastic father. He loved his little girl," she said.

Christopher's twin sister, Tina, spoke of emails her brother had sent her. She said that the death of a comrade had stirred him and that in the event that something should happen to him, he told her, "I want people to think I helped where I could when I could." He said, “I don’t want anyone to cry for me."

Chaplain David Jordan first met Gailey in the gym, said, "What I was so overwhelmed by was his tender heart," Jordan said. "He made such a difference in so many lives."

Chaplain Jordan said he and Gailey developed a strong relationship during their time in service together.

"The thing we shared at the time is we were both woefully out of shape," Jordan said. So they worked together to get ready for their upcoming deployment.

"Every day there would be a friendly smile and a welcome," Jordan said. "He was always glad to see me."

Jordan said it has been a difficult time for those in Oklahoma and the soldiers in the 45th IBCT, but Gailey had a particularly difficult time when one of his friends was killed there.

Father, Shan Gailey, said the last time he saw his son was when he came home for leave on his birthday in September.

Sgt Gailey's awards and decorations include:

Purple Heart
Bronze Star
National defense Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Armed orces Reserve Medal with "M" Device
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal
Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal
Oklahoma Long Service Ribbon

Sgt Gailey is survived by his parents, Tammy and Shan; daughter, Allison; siblings, Beau, Angelina and Kristina; paternal grandmother, Lela Belle Gailey; maternal grandparents, Carl and Carol.

Army Sgt. Christopher D. Gailey was killed in action on 11/01/11.

Army Staff Sgt. Ari R. Cullers

2011-10-30T16:00:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Staff Sgt. Ari R. Cullers, 28, of New London, Conn.

SSgt Cullers was assigned to 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.; died Oct. 30, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries caused by an enemy rocket-propelled grenade.

SSgt Cullers was born in New London. At some point, he moved to Waterford, where he graduated from Waterford High School in 2001. He is the third Waterford High alumni to die in combat in the Middle East.

SSgt Cullers joined the Army in 2005. He had been stationed at Fort Sill, OK, before being assigned to Fort Drum in 2008. He had previously served a tour in Korea and had deployed to Afghanistan in December 2008. He deployed to Afghanistan for the second time in March.

SSgt Cullers' awards and decorations include:

Bronze Star
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal (2)
Army Achievement Medal (4)
Army Good Conduct Medal (4)
Meritorious Unit Commendation
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Overseas Service Ribbon (3)
NATO Medal
Korean Defense Service Medal
Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon
Combat Action Badge
Combat and Special Skill Badge Basic Marksmanship Qualification Badge Bar, Weapon, Rifle
Driver and Mechanic Badge, Driver W

November 13, 2011
I have been in The same Platoon as SSG Cullers since 2008. I am extremely proud that I had the opportunity to serve side by side with him. He taught all of us so much and he will surely be missed. My heart and prayers are with your family through this hard time in life. Gone but never forgotten, the greatest leader I know, SSG Ari R. Cullers.~ SGT Robert I., Ft Drum, New York

November 09, 2011
I am a Goverment Contractor assigned to Ari's unit here at FOB Pasab, Afghanistan. I have worked closely with Ari. I have nothing but respect for him, He truley is a great man, a great leader and a man I am proud to call my friend. Rest in Peace Ari R, Cullers. My prayers and Thoughs go out to you and your Family. The Nation has truely lost a real Hero.~Rick P., Cullman, Alabama

November 07, 2011
SSG Ari Cullers It was my pleasure to serve with you in Afghanistan (10 MTN DIV). You will always remain a part of our lives and your ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten. We love you. To the family my deepest condolence and you all will remain in our prayers. Know that your Soldier was the very best at what he did….. He is deeply missed! Very respectfully, WO1 Marilyn T P.

Army Staff Sgt. Ari R. Cullers was killed in action on 10/30/11.

Army Sgt. Carlo F. Eugenio

2011-10-29T16:36:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Carlo F. Eugenio, 29, of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.

Sgt Eugenio was assigned to 756th Transportation Company, 224th Sustainment Brigade, California Army National Guard, Van Nuys, Calif.; died Oct. 29, 2011 in Kabul province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by an IED. Also killed were Army Lt. Col. David E. Cabrera, Army Staff Sgt. Christopher R. Newman and Army Sgt. James M. Darrough.

Maj. Gen. David S. Baldwin, Adjutant General for the California National Guard, said in a press statement: "We extend our heartfelt condolences to Sgt. Eugenio's family and commit to them our unwavering support. Sgt. Eugenio's death, the first of a California Guardsman in Afghanistan, is a painfully wrenching testimony to the bravery, service and sacrifice of our state's National Guardsmen."

Sgt Eugenio is the first California National Guardsman to be killed in combat in Afghanistan.

Sgt Eugenio is the youngest of five children. He graduated from Etiwanda High School.

Sgt Eugenio joined the service five years ago and had received several commendations and medal. He was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart posthumously.

This was Eugenio’s second deployment as an Army soldier. His first was to Kuwait, said Eugenio’s sister Cynthia Valdez.

Valdez remembers her brother as upbeat and surrounded by friends.

“He was always happy. It took a lot for him not to be sunny,” she said. “He didn’t just know people, he had relationships with everyone.”

Eugenio was the youngest of five children. The family resided in Fontana before moving to Rancho Cucamonga about 10 years ago.

He was a guy’s guy who loved the excitement of the outdoors.

“Motorcycle, dirt bike, snow boarding, any kind of extreme sport, he was into,” Valdez said.

Eugenio’s military banner was hung in front of the family home on Tuesday. The city gave the banner to the family after Eugenio’s first deployment.

Army Sgt. Carlo F. Eugenio was killed in action on 10/29/11.

Army Sgt. James M. Darrough

2011-10-29T13:40:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. James M. Darrough, 38, of Austin, Texas

Sgt Darrough was assigned to 101st Finance Company, 101st Special Troops Battalion, 101st Sustainment Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Oct. 29, 2011 in Kabul province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by an IED. Also killed were Army Lt. Col. David E. Cabrera, Army Staff Sgt. Christopher R. Newman and Army Sgt. Carlo F. Eugenio.

Darrough was a Financial Management Technician assigned to Charlie Detachment, 101st Finance Company, 101st Special Troops Battalion, 101st Sustainment Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.

He joined the Army in February 2005 and arrived at Fort Campbell in July 2009. His awards and decorations include: Bronze Star Medal; Purple Heart Medal; Joint Service Commendation Medal; Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; Meritorious Unit Commendation; Army Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Service Medal with service star; Southwest Asia Service Medal with service star; Afghanistan Campaign Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Armed Forces Service Medal; Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; United Nations Medal; North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal; Kuwait Liberation Medal; Expert Field Medical Badge and Combat Action Badge.

Darrough is survived by his father, Robert Darrough of Charlotte, N.C. and mother, Janelle Darrough of Livingston, Texas. He is also survived by his wife, Isaura Darrough; sons, Justin and Jared Darrough and daughters, Julianna and Jenna Darrough, all of Clarksville, Tenn.

Army Sgt. James M. Darrough was killed in action on 10/29/11.

Army Staff Sgt. Christopher R. Newman

2011-10-29T13:27:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Staff Sgt. Christopher R. Newman, 26, of Shelby, N.C.

SSgt Newman was assigned to Medical Company A, Tripler Army Medical Center, Hawaii; died Oct. 29, 2011 in Kabul province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by an IED. Also killed were Army Lt. Col. David E. Cabrera, Army Sgt. James M. Darrough and Army Sgt. Carlo F. Eugenio.

by Audrina Bigos
SHELBY, NC-A local family mourns the loss of U.S. Army Sgt. Christopher Newman. The soldier from Shelby was one of 13 Americans and four others killed Saturday in Afghanistan.

Sgt. Newman was Shelby born and raised.

Newman graduated from Crest High School in 2004, leaving behind his younger brother, Brent Newman.

Brent thought his brother's 6’-6’’, 280 pound build made him invincible.

"I'm thinking, just that right there, he ain't getting killed," said Newman.

Brent's grandparents knocked on his door early Sunday morning to tell him his brother was dead.

Sgt. Newman was one of 13 Americans and four others killed on an armored Nato bus in Kabul, Afghanistan. A Taliban suicide bomber rammed the bus with a car filled with explosives.

"I really admire him because he know'd when he went over there that there's that possibility," said Teresa Gregory, Sgt. Newman’s aunt.

Newman was scheduled to come home for a two-week leave on December 31.

It would have been his first time home for the holidays since joining the military in 2004.

"It's going to be hard this year. It's really, really going to be hard,” said Gregory.

Newman’s grandparents, Don and Earlene Newman, flew to Dover, Delaware with Newman's wife to claim his body.

The soldier leaves behind his wife and a 5-year-old daughter.

The Newton family plans to hold Sgt. Newman's funeral this weekend or early next week. The funeral service will take place at Cleveland Funeral Home and Newman will be buried at Cleveland Memorial Park with full military honors.

Crest graduate killed in Afghan suicide attack

SHELBY — A suicide bomber smashed a vehicle piled with explosives into an armored NATO bus Saturday in Kabul, Afghanistan. At least 17 people were killed. Thirteen were Americans including a 2004 Crest High School graduate.

U.S. Army Sgt. Christopher Rod Newman, 25, was on the bus. The bus was en route to a hospital, said Newman’s aunt, Teresa Gregory. Military personnel confirmed his death Sunday morning to Newman’s family. The attack was labeled as a deadly strike against the U.S.-led coalition in Kabul since the war began, according to the Associated Press. The explosion tilted the bus on its side and a fired ensued. The bus was surrounded by military vehicles.

Newman was raised in Shelby by his grandparents. Gregory said he joined the Army just after he graduated high school. He was a counselor in the Army.

Newman was supposed to come home Dec. 31 for two weeks. He left behind a wife and five-year-old daughter from a previous marriage.

“It doesn’t seem real,” Gregory said. “We were really shocked.”

Brent Newman said his older brother had a big heart and enjoyed making people laugh. It is hard for him to say his brother was gone.

“I felt angry when I found out, but now it’s just sorrow,” Brent Newman said. “I loved him. That’s it.”

The family used Facebook Chat to stay in touch with Newman while he was deployed. Gregory said a week never went by when Newman didn’t talk to a family member.

Newman bought a car in Shelby while in Afghanistan. He looked to buy a home in Shelby after he retired from the military, Gregory said.

“He’ll never get to see that car, and he was such a hard worker,” she said. “He would’ve given the shirt off his back.”

Randy Birch said Newman, his cousin, was also his best friend. Birch was one of the last people from home to talk to Newman before he died. Birch said they spoke Friday morning.

“He was concerned about what to get people for Christmas,” Birch said. “I told him not to worry about gifts and just come home safe.”

Birch described Newman as a big guy, standing around 6 feet 6 inches tall. Birch said his cousin was good with computers and loved the Army.

“My mother came crying to me and told me what happened. I was in shock,” Birch said.

Birch said the family often sent care packages to Newman. The family would always send Livermush, Newman’s favorite. Birch said his grandmother sent his cousin desserts in the packages. A red velvet cake and pecan pie sit in her freezer. She was going to send them to Newman in a few days.

Newman’s grandparents planned to join his wife in Dover, Del. Sunday to claim his body.

Newman will be buried in Shelby with funeral arrangements announced this week. The family wants to bring him home, Gregory said.

Army Staff Sgt. Christopher R. Newman was killed in action on 10/29/11.

Army Lt. Col. David E. Cabrera

2011-10-29T11:53:00.001-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Lt. Col. David E. Cabrera, 41, of Abilene, Texas

Lt Col Cabrera was assigned to Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, Bethesda, Md.; died Oct. 29, 2011 in Kabul province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by an improvised explosive device. Also killed were Army Staff Sgt. Christopher R. Newman, Army Sgt. James M. Darrough and Army Sgt. Carlo F. Eugenio.

Lt Col Cabrera was killed along with 12 others when a suicide car bomber rammed the NATO convoy in which he was riding in. He had just deployed to Afghanistan on September 30.

Lt Col Cabrera graduated from Sam Houston High School in 1988 and attended Texas A&M University. He joined the Army in 1996 and served as a Medical Service Corps Officer.

Lt Col Cabrera was Assistant Professor of Family Medicine at the Uniformed Serivce University of Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, where he saw patients, taught third- and fourth-year military medical students, conducted research in the fields of resilience, PTSD and post-traumatic growth, and avidly participated in a number of university field training exercises and activities.

He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel on September 1, 2011, in a small ceremony at USU, surrounded by his family, friends, and close colleagues.

Lt Col Cabrera had a great sense of humor, was easy going and had an infectious smile. He loved to travel the world with his family and friends. He climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, Mt. Rainier in addition to other mountain peaks. He loved the ocean.

Wife, August said she received her last letter from her husband four days after she learned that he had been killed. He had written the letter in honor of their wedding anniversary, October 19th. He had mailed it from Afghanistan weeks before.

"I figured it had been lost because it had been so long," said August. "It sort of felt like a gift from God, you know, like, 'Here's the last thing David said to you.' It was very, sweet, very sweet, just filled with love."

Lt Col Cabrera's 7 year old son, Max said, "He never said tomorrow. You want to ride a bike, let's do it today. You want to climb a mountain, let's do it today."

August said, "He never postponed anything. He lived in the moment. Almost like he knew he wasn't going to have all the time in the world."

August last spoke with her husband the day before he was killed. She told him to be safe and he promised to come home. She woke up during the night and felt something was wrong. It wasn't long before she found out why.

Lt Col Cabrera is survived by father and step-mother, Robert and Anita; wife, August, and their sons Maxwell and Roanin; son Corbin and daughter Gillian; siblings Darcy, David, Daniel, Paul, Renae, Diane, Angelina, Robert, Samuel, Julie, Kevin, Michael

Army Lt. Col. David E. Cabrera was killed in action on 10/29/11.

Marine Staff Sgt. Stephen J. Dunning

2011-10-27T11:42:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Marine Staff Sgt. Stephen J. Dunning, 31, of Milpitas, Calif.

SSgt Dunning was assigned to 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Okinawa, Japan; died Oct. 27, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while conducting combat operations.

SSgt Dunning served as an Explosive Ordinance Disposal Technician. He was killed while disarming a bomb that had been buried by insurgents in the Helmond province. This was his second deployment to Afghanistan.

SSgt Dunning graduated from Milpitas High School in 1998. Following in his father's and uncle's footsteps into the service, joining the Marines in 1999.

In 2010, SSgt Dunning was featured in a photo in Vanity Fair magazine showing him holding an Xbox controller that guids a remote control bomb disposal robot.

SSgt Dunning's awards and decorations include:
Purple Heart
Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal
Combat Action Ribbon
Navy Unit Commendation
Good Conduct Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
National Defense Service Medal
NATO Medal-ISAF Afghanistan
2 Letters of Appreciation
Certificate of Commendation

SSgt Dunning was laid to rest on November 4, in Pleasant Hill Cemetery.

SSgt Dunning is survived by his parents, Tomoe and Robert; siblings, David and Joy; maternal grandparents, Yoshiko and Gary Watson of Japan; paternal grandparents, Jim and Olga Dunning; Marie and Carl.

Marine Staff Sgt. Stephen J. Dunning was killed in action on 10/27/11.

Army Sgt. John A. Lyons

2011-10-26T11:39:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. John A. Lyons, 26, of Seaside Park, N.J.

Sgt. Lyons was assigned to 8th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade, Fort Hood, Texas; died Oct. 26, 2011 in Ghazni province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by enemy small-arms fire.

Sgt Lyons graduated from Central Regional High School in 2003. He graduated from Rutgers University in 2008 with degrees in Political Science and Latin.

Sgt Lyons joined the Army in 2009. He served as a combat engineer. He deployed to Afghanistan last December and was due to be home this month in time to celebrate Christmas and his birthday with family.

Former teacher, Joseph Winkelried, said, "He was very, very intelligent. He would have succeeded in anything."

Sgt Lyons' awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star
Purple Heart
Good Conduct Medal
NATO Medal
Army Achievement Medal (3)
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal with campaign star
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
Combat Action Badge

It was an honor and pleasure to serve with you. You will never be forgotten. you will forever be in my heart and in my soul. It's my pleasure to call you my brother, my battle and my friend. Rest easy Sgt Lyons.~Cpl Thomas C.

Funeral for Sgt Lyons was held on November 12 in Toms River, NJ.

Sgt Lyons is survived by his mother, Susan; father, Ron; siblings, Adan and Lena; aunt and uncle Beth and Tony; fiancee, Kristiani.

Army Sgt. John A. Lyons was killed in action on 10/26/11.

Army Sgt. 1st Class David G. Robinson

2011-10-25T11:22:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. 1st Class David G. Robinson, 28, of Winthrop Harbor, Ill.

SFC Robinson was assigned to the U.S. Army Support Activity, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; died Oct. 25, 2011 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

SFC Robinson's family released the following statement:
“Our family appreciates the wonderful outpouring of support we have received from our family, friends and neighbors.David will always remain a hero in our eyes, because he chose to stand up for his country at a time when we all needed him the most. He will forever be held in our family’s honor as a true patriot, and in our hearts as a loving son, a humbled and caring husband and an awesome father. Thank you for this opportunity to share David’s memory with our community. Although we are very grateful for the outpouring of support, we prefer to keep our family’s observances for David private. We appreciate your consideration during this time of our deepest sorrow.”

SFC Robinson attended St Joseph Catholic Academy in Kenosha, Wisconsin. He joined the Army in 2003. This was his second deployment to the Middle East. He was based in El Paso, Texas.

SFC Robinson was an avid Chicago Bears and Cubs fan. He met his wife Emily when they both worked at Six Flags in Gurnee. They married in 2003.

SFC Robinson was laid to rest on November 8, in Ascension Cemetery, Libertyville, Ill.

SFC Robinson is survived by parents, Marijo and Dennis; wife, Emily, and their children, Matthew and Jackson; brothers, Gregory and Michael. He was preceded in death by brother, Joseph.

Army Sgt. 1st Class David G. Robinson was killed in action on 10/25/11.

Marine Lance Cpl. Jason N. Barfield

2011-10-24T11:11:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Marine Lance Cpl. Jason N. Barfield, 22, of Ashford, Ala.

LCpl Barfield was assigned to 3rd Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, based at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif.; died Oct. 24, 2011 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.

Lcpl Barfield graduated Ashford High School in 2008. He joined the Marines in Januray 2010. This was his first deployment.

Friends and family remembered Barfield as a man who loved God, loved his family, had a positive attitude and infectious smile.

Father, Ray, said, “He was one of the most well-loved guys you’d ever meet, and I’m not just saying that because he’s my son. He never met a stranger. Everywhere he went, everybody just took to him. He was always smiling and so outgoing.”

“We knew what he was facing,” Ray said. “You just don’t think about it happening this close to home.”

“He’s like that all the time. He had one of those smiles that I don’t think it ever left his face,” said Kelli Barfield. “He was one of those people who, when you met him, you never forgot him. He had an impact on everyone. I just can’t say enough. I think he slept with a smile on his face, and he never gave in to idle gossip.”

“One thing about him is he loved family,” Ray said. “He even had a tattoo with family put on his arm. He loved the Lord. He loved going to church. He sang ‘Amazing Grace’ at my (mother’s) funeral about three years ago.”

The Barfields had just spoken to their son the day before. “He just called us Sunday morning at about 1:30 in the morning, woke us up and talked to us,” Ray said. “He sounded so good. They’d been on a mission and everything was fine. He was looking forward to getting home and getting some of my cooking. He loved my cooking.”

Aunt, Shirley Cobb, recalled a conversation she had with her nephew, “He said, ‘This is my job, I’ve got to go do my job. I hate that it’s in Afghanistan, but that’s my job."

“You know these boys go over there and fight, and he knew it was taking a chance. He said that the last time he was here. It’s just a terrible feeling for (us).”

“He had grown up to be the best, sweetest, kindest, most loving young man that you have ever wanted to meet,” she said. “He was just such a good person. He was loved by everybody that met him, and we loved him dearly. He’s going to be missed terribly.”

Kelli said her son surprised them with a visit home last Christmas. He had told her he wasn't going to make it home cause he had been assigned to cold weather training over the holidays. First he surprised his little sister, Savannah, by going to her school, then surprised his family at home.

“That was my last Christmas with him, and I will always cherish it,” Kelli said. “I knew he wouldn’t be home this year, but I never dreamed last year would be my final one. I will cherish it forever. I was very blessed to have him as a son."

Lcpl Barfield's awards and decorations include:
Purple Heart
Combat Action Ribbon
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
NATO-ISAF Medal

Lcpl Barfield was laid to rest on November 5 in Center Baptist Church Cemetery in Webb.

Lcpl Barfield is survived by his parents, Kelli and Ray; brothers, Chris, Phillip, Zack, Airman 1st Class Travis Barfield, Lance Corporal Lucas Barfield; sisters, Jennifer and Savannah; and fiancee, Joyanna.

Marine Lance Cpl. Jason N. Barfield was killed in action on 10/24/11.

Army Sgt. Edward S. Grace

2011-10-23T11:19:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Edward S. Grace, 39, of South Dartmouth, Mass.

Sgt Grace was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 182nd Infantry Regiment, 26th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Massachusetts National Guard; died Oct. 23, 2011 in Silver Spring, Md., from a non-combat illness.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Grace family during this very difficult time. We hope the Grace family will find some consolation knowing that Sergeant Grace gave his life while defending our commonwealth and nation,” said Maj. Gen. Joseph C. Carter, The Adjutant General of the Massachusetts National Guard.

Sgt Grace died from an unknown medical condition at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. He had been flown to Walter Reed from Afghanistan, where he was serving with the 182nd Infantry Battalion, providing security for a provincial reconstruction team.

Sgt Grace joined the National Guard in 2006. He deployed to Afghanistan in March this year. He was due to return early next year.

Army Capt. Shawn P.T. Charles

2011-10-23T11:16:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Capt. Shawn P.T. Charles, 40, of Hickory, N.C.

Capt. Charles was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas; died Oct. 23, 2011 in San Antonio from a non-combat illness.

Capt Charles, born in Los Angeles, Calif., died of a terminal illness at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, TX. He was diagnosed while deployed in Iraq. He had deployed there in August.

A 22 year decorated veteran of the Army and Army Reserves. He re-entered active duty servedservice in Januray 2009 and served as the S-1 and Battalion Adjutant.

Capt Charles received a bachelor's degree from Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory, as well as a master's degree in public administration from Appalachian State University in Boone.

"I'm proud to say I served with Capt. Shawn Charles in (2nd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment), where he was highly respected. We all loved Capt. Charles," said Maj. Charles Cowan. "We loved Capt. Charles for who he was, how he treated people and what he stood for. (He) illustrates the idea of living life as a positive example for others."

Capt Charles' awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star
Meritorious Service Medal
Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal (2)
Army Good Conduct Medal (2)
National Defense Service Medal (2)
Global War on Terorism Service Medal
Armed Forced Reserve Medal with Mobilization Device
Army Service Ribbon
Oversseas Service Ribbon

Capt Charles was laid to rest in Hopewell Baptist Church Cemetery in Morganton.

Capt Charles is survived by his wife of nine years, Melissa; and their children, Zoe and Max

Marine Lance Cpl. Jordan S. Bastean

2011-10-23T10:46:00.001-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Marine Lance Cpl. Jordan S. Bastean, 19, of Pekin, Ill.

LCpl Bastean was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, Calif.; died Oct. 23, 2011 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.

Lcpl Bastean graduated from Pekin Community High School in 2010, where he was a four-year cadet of the JROTC and had been the captain of the Air Rifle Team. He also had participated in track and cross country.

Lcpl Bastean enlisted in the Marines in July 2010. The battalion deployed last month to Sangin, where forces have recently suffered the heaviest casualties. This was his first deployment.

Lcpl Bastean loved big trucks, loved to hunt and was a fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Chicago Cubs. He was an only child.

Bastean “excelled in everything,” not just as a four-year cadet and captain of the program’s champion-caliber Air Rifle Team, said Master Sgt. Joseph Fabish. “He was a very well-rounded person. I’d trust him completely in anything. I’m just devastated. This is hitting the cadets pretty hard...”

Father, Steve, remembered how his son, Jordan returned his Jeep after a day of four-wheeling. "He brought it back with 4 inches of mud inside. He told me, 'Dad, it's a Jeep; it's supposed to get dirty.' It had a broken transmission and a broken engine. I laughed and then fixed it."

Further remembering his son, Steve said, there's the goofy smile, the cowboy hat, the love of monster trucks, and of course, the Marines. It's what his son wanted to do, be a Marine because "they were the toughest."

Steve, who is 40, enlisted in the Army and completed boot camp a few months ago. He is a private, serving with the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, N.C. He left civilian life and a good job because of his son's example.

"He inspired me. Fathers are supposed to inspire their kids to look up to them. Well, my son is my hero and what I look up to," said Steve.

"My son and I had a father-son relationship, but we were also friends. This was something that kept us together. We could go for a run in the park and I could keep up with him and he could keep up with me."

The two were able to time their leaves to come back over Labor Day weekend for some time together. It was just before Jordan was to ship out for Afghanistan. As for any interservice rivalry, he noted his son outranked him as long as they were in uniform.

His father says his son was the type of person who didn't get angry and always managed to look at the positives in life, no matter what.

"He'd be going down the road in his truck, a wheel would fall off and he'd stop, look at it, laugh, fix the wheel and then go on again. Nothing bothered him," Steve Bastean said. "No matter what, Jordan was a happy kid and a happy man."

Lcpl Bastean’s girlfriend, Courtney Anglin, wrote this message on Bastean's Facebook page:

i love you so much i will never forget you, you will always be in my heart no matter what babe i love you ♥ you made me feel like a different person when i was around you, you made me the happiest person:) and you will be missed I LOVE YOU

Friend, Vanessa Kowalczyk wrote: "I remember every bit of advice you have given me, and I love you with all my heart. ... You were the best brother I could have ever asked for. You are my hero and I will never forget you." She also posted lyrics from a Tim McGraw song, "so lay me down in that open field out on the edge of town. And know my soul is where my momma always prayed that it would go. And if you're reading this, I'm already home."

Lcpl Bastean's awards and decorations include:
Purple Heart
Combat Action Ribbon
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
NATO Medal ISAF-Afghanistan.

Lcpl Bastean was laid to rest on November 2 in Prairie Haven Cemetery, Pekin, IL.

Lcpl Bastean is survived by his parents, Kathy and Steven; grandparents, Bob, Judy, and Thomas; and Jackie and Phil; girlfriend, Courtney Anglin.

Marine Lance Cpl. Jordan S. Bastean was killed in action on 10/23/11.

Army Sgt. Paul A. Rivera

2011-10-22T10:39:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Paul A. Rivera, 26, of Round Rock, Texas

Sgt Rivera was assigned to the 709th Military Police Battalion, 18th Military Police Brigade, 21st Theater Sustainment Command, Hohenfels, Germany; died Oct. 22, 2011 in Logar province, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered in a vehicle rollover during an attack by enemy forces.

Sgt Rivera deployed to Afghanistan in April. This was his second deployment. He was due to come home in January.

Sgt Rivera was a 2003 graduate of Stony Point High School. He served as manager of the school's basketball team, where he kept statistics and filmed games. He was also a member of the school's NJROTC.

Stony Point basketball coach Brian Route said, "Paul was the ultimate team player. Whatever we needed him to do he did it. By the time he was a senior, I felt like he was an assistant coach to us because of all the work he did. He was very mature for his age and he was willing to do anything you would ask of him. He was a great friend to people and you could really count on him."

Rivera continued to keep in contact with Route, sending him text messages to learn when Stony Point's basketball team was playing.

"Whatever he decided to do in life he was successful at it," Route said.

Family and friends described Rivera as deeply spiritual, sincere and serene. He was an alter server with his church. He loved playing video games and football.

Best friend, Nick Carmona, said he and Rivera grew up playing Micro Machines and video games.

The attacks of September 11 inspired the two to join the military as soon as they were old enough. Rivera joined the Army, Carmona the Air Force.

“The games we used to play had just become reality," said Carmona, who is a senior airman.

“He was funny, he was charismatic, he was a genuine person, he was kind-hearted,” said Carmona. “He was constantly praying and did everything by the book. He left everything in God’s hands."

The last time Carmona spoke to his best friend was on Facebook, 11 days before Rivera was killed.

“I could tell he wanted to come back home, but the soldier that he was, he didn’t let other people see that,” Carmona said. “It hurts me a lot because I didn’t get to say, ‘I love you,’ to him; I just said, ‘I’ll talk to you later, man.’”
Father, Fred, remembered the day his son announced his intentions.

"My son told my wife, 'You know I'm thinking of joining the Army,' smiling at her. And she said, 'Why don't you just let somebody else do that?'

"His reply was, 'But Mom, if all mothers felt that way, who would be there to defend our country?"

"That was his way of letting us know that he had his heart set," said his father.

Rivera also inspired his brother, Spc. Phillip Rivera, to join the Army.

"My heart goes out to the family because it's just tragedy you know something happened to him," said neighbor Debra Alvarez. "He fought for our country, he's our hero."

Another neighbor, Jesse Padilla, said, "I hope that people when they see the military uniform, I hope they at least acknowledge them, and whenever I see them I say thank you for serving."

Sgt Rivera was laid to rest on November 2, in Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, TX.

Sgt Rivera is survived by parents, Evelyn and Fred; brother Phillip.

Army Sgt. Paul A. Rivera was killed in action on 10/22/11.

Army Pfc. Christopher A. Horns

2011-10-22T10:33:00.002-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Pfc. Christopher A. Horns, 20, of Colorado Springs, Colo.

Pfc Horns was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.; died Oct. 22, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

Lt Col David Hodne, commander of the 2nd Battalion, paid this tribute to Pfc Horns: "Courageous and disciplined, he lost his life while pressing the assault in an area known for insurgent activity. He earned the universal respect of seniors and peers alike. We will honor his service and remember his sacrifice."

Pfc Horns was an avid outdoorsman who loved to ride his dirt bike and hike. He had recently proposed to his girlfriend. He had yet to introduce his fiancée to his family. Following his father, Larry's, footsteps who served nearly 30 years in the Army and served a tour in Afghanistan near the beginning of the war, Christopher joined the Army in 2010. He served as an assistand machine gunner and automatic rifleman. This was his first deployment.

Uncle, Martin Horns, said his nephew had trained for boot camp months before he shipped out and lost about 40 pounds in the process. He qualified for Ranger school right out of boot camp, he said.

“There’s a high dropout rate but he made it through and he was so proud to be a Ranger,” Martin Horns said.

Pfc awards and decorations include:
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal for Combat Service
Army Commendation Medal for Peacetime Service
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Army Expert Rifle Marksmanship Qualification Badge
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Combat Infantry Badge
Parachutist Badge

Funeral services were held on November 5 in Calmar, IA. Patriot Guars Riders from at least three different states accompanied Horns' body from Colorado to Iowa.

Pfc Horns is survived by his parents, Tamara and Larry; and sister, Tiffany.

Army Pfc. Christopher A. Horns was killed in action on 10/22/11.

Army Sgt. 1st Class Kristoffer B. Domeij

2011-10-22T10:27:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. 1st Class Kristoffer B. Domeij, 29, of San Diego

SFC Domeij was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.; died Oct. 22, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

SFC Domeij grew up in San Diego, CA and Colorado Springs, CO. He lived in Lacey, WA with his wife and two children.

SFC Domeij graduated from Rancho Bernardo High School in 2001. He enlisted in the Army in July 2001.

He was on his 14th deployment (four to Iraq, nine to Afghanistan), making him the Army Ranger with the most deployments to date killed in action. Rangers serve three to four month tours of duty that are significantly shorter than the year-long deployments served by soldiers in conventional units. But during those short deployments they see a constant churn of intense combat missions. On average, a Ranger battalion will conduct between 400 to 500 missions during a combat deployment.

SFC Domeij had the distinction of being one of the first Rangers to be qualified as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC), a position usually reserved for Air Force airmen who serve with ground combat units and call in airstrikes from fighters or bombers

He was a part of the unit that was involved in the rescue of wounded US Pvt Jessica Lynch from an Iraqi hospital where she was being held captive.

Col. Mark W. Odom, commander of the 75th Ranger Regiment, called Domeij "the prototypical special operations NCO" whose abilities as a JTAC "made him a game changer on the battlefield, an operator who in real terms had the value of an entire strike force on the battlefield."

Battalion Commander, LT Col David Hodne, described SFC Domeij as "one of those men who was knonw by all as much for his humor, enthusiasm, and loyal friendship, as he was for his unparalleled skill and bravery under fire. This was a Ranger you wanted at your side when the chips were down. He is irreplaceable in our formation and in our hearts."

SFC Domeij's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star Medal with one oak leaf cluster
Purple Heart
Meritorious Service Medal
Joint Commendation Medal
Army Commendation Medal with four oak leaf clusters
Army Achievement Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal with three loops
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two campaign stars
Iraq Campaign Medal with three campaign stars
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Noncommissioned Offficer Professional Development Ribbon with numeral three
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Ribbon with numeral four
Ranger Tab
Combat Action Badge
Expert Infantry Bade
Senior Parachutist Badge
Pathfinder Badge
Expert Rifle Marksmanship Qualification Badge

SFC Domeij is survived by his mother, Scoti; wife, Sarah and their daughters, Mikajsa and Aaliyah; brother Kyle.

Army Sgt. 1st Class Kristoffer B. Domeij was killed in action on 10/22/11.

Army 1st Lt. Ashley I. White

2011-10-22T10:22:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army 1st Lt. Ashley I. White, 24, of Alliance, Ohio

Lt. White was assigned to 230th Brigade Support Battalion, 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, North Carolina National Guard, Goldsboro, N.C.; died Oct. 22, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked her unit with an improvised explosive device.

White was born Sept. 3, 1987. She was commissioned in the U.S. Army as a Medical Service Corps Officer after graduating from Kent State in 2009. White completed the Medical Services Officer Basic Course at Fort Sam Houston, Texas and the U.S. Army Basic Airborne Course at Fort Benning, Ga. White was then assigned to Co. C, 230
th Bde. Support Bn., N.C. National Guard where she served as an Evacuation Platoon Leader.

Her military education includes the Medical Service Corps Officer Basic Course and the U.S. Army Airborne Course. Her awards and decorations include the Parachutist Badge, the Ohio Faithful Service Ribbon, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, the Army Reserve Achievement Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. White will be posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, and the Combat Action Badge.

As a Cultural Support Team Member attached to a Joint Special Operations Task Force, White selflessly served and her actions exemplify the highest commitment to duty, honor and country. In every instance she served with distinction in support of the Task Force and our great Nation.

A native of Alliance, Ohio, White was commissioned in the U.S. Army as a Medical Service Corps Officer after receiving a commission from Kent State in 2009.
White is survived by her husband Cpt. Jason Stumpf of Raeford, N.C., her parents Robert and Deborah White, twin sister Brittney and brother Josh, all of Alliance, Ohio.

"She believed in what she was doing, and she wanted to take part in something that was bigger than herself," said Laura Dodson, who served with White in the North Carolina National Guard. "I got an email from her, and she said she was enjoying the mission, and she missed her family. She was looking forward to coming home."

Sonjia Ferenac attended Kent State University with White, where they studied athletic training. They were in the same classes and often studied together. White, Ferenac said, graduated in December 2009. Feranac called White upbeat, down-to-earth and selfless. "She made you a better person just being around her," Ferenac said.

Army 1st Lt. Ashley I. White was killed in action on 10/22/11.

Army Pfc. Steven F. Shapiro

2011-10-21T10:50:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Pfc. Steven F. Shapiro, 29, of Hidden Valley Lake, Calif.

Pfc Shapiro was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas; died Oct. 21, 2011 in Tallil, Iraq.

Pfc Shapiro grew up in foster home in Fremont. By his 18th birthday, his guardian had passed away. He traveled around for a bit, then attended San Francisco City College, majoring in Liberal Arts.

Inspired by his father-in-law, John Veguilla, who is a retired Command Sergeant Major, Shapiro joined the Army in March 2010, serving as an M1 Armor Crewman. He deployed to Iraq early this year.

Wife, Adela, along with her brother, Hannibal, and father, arrived at a designated location to be greeted by approximately 25 supporters who formed a flag line which included members of the Warriors Watch Riders, Patriot Guard Riders and Operation Tango Mike.

More than 500 students and citizens awaited their caravan, which included the student body and staff of Middletown High School and the middle school who had gathered at the edge of campus, lining the caravan’s route. Many holding flags and signs.

Ride Captain Rick Rice later commented, “There was not a dry eye on that ride.” He said it was personally overwhelming to see so many young people honoring the family.

Wife, Adela, said she and her husband met eight years ago, but that they didn't start dating until 2009, marrying the end of that year. She said her husband quickly embraced her family as his own and listed their home in Hidden Valley Lake as his hometown on military forms. Adela has been living there with her family during her husband's deployment.

“He was very intellectual. He could talk about anything,” she said.

She said her husband loved being a family man and a father. “He looks exactly like my husband,” wife, Adela said of their son, Micah, who was born Sept. 30. She said her husband been able to come home for the birth of their son in September and had just returned to Iraq eight days before he was killed.

Shapiro loved being in the Army and planned to make it his career, his wife said.

Pfc Shapiro's awards and decorations include:
Army Commendation Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon

Pfc Shapiro was laid to rest on November 2, in Golden Gate National Cemetery, San Bruno, CA.

Pfc Shapiro is survived by his wife, Adela and their infant son, Micah; father-in-law, John; brother-in-law, Sgt Hannibal Veguilla, who is stationed at Fort Bliss, TX.

Army Pfc. Steven F. Shapiro was killed in action on 10/21/11.

Navy Chief Petty Officer Raymond J. Border

2011-10-19T10:18:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Navy Chief Petty Officer Raymond J. Border, 31, of West Lafayette, Ohio

CPO Border was assigned to Navy Mobile Construction Battalion 74 in Gulfport, Miss.; died Oct. 19, 2011 while assessing a route in Paktika province, Afghanistan.

CPO Border died inspecting a highway in Paktika province for a convoy to pass. He had stepped out of his vehicle when the mine went off. Killed with him was Jorge M. Oliveira, 33, of Newark, N.J.

CPO Border graduated from Ridgewood High school in 1999 where he was on the football and track teams and was a two-time state qualifier in wrestling.

He enlisted in the Navy in September 1999. He deployed to Afghanistan for the second time in August. He had also previously been deployed to Iraq.

Father, Craig, said his son took two flags with him from Annin Flagmakers in Coshocton, where his mother worked part time, and had proudly raised those flags above the military base in Yahya Khel District on Sept. 11, 2011.

"He loved serving his country, and we were proud of him," Craig said. "Every time he left we'd say be careful, and he'd say 'I will, Dad.'"

Friend, Ralph Young remembers Raymond stopped by his house the day he signed up to join the Navy.

"He told me 'I'm just going to tell Dad to take that money he's been saving for me to go to school and give it to Mom so she can buy a new car because she deserves it,'" Young said

Tom Lahna, Raymond's wrestling coach, in high school, said, "My son, Hollis, was a freshman when Raymond was a senior, and he instilled his work ethic in the younger kids. He recognized the team was like a family and a family needs leaders, and he was one of those."

Ridgewood Middle School teacher Terry Guilliams was his head football coach. "You knew he was going to be a good person when he grew up," Guilliams said. "He was always smiling, positive, just one of those people you wanted to be around. His work ethic was always full-out go, and he was a force on the football field."

Family remembers described Ray as loving and goofy. His fiancee, Terrence, describes him affectionately as a "redneck," saying he was never without a pair of blue jeans, work boots and a camouflage hat when home.

"He would always tell us how much he loved us, and he never treated us like we weren't his own kids. He loved us like his own kids, and he treated us like it," said step-daughter, Caitlin Boyd.

Terrence said she and Raymond had been together for seven years and had decided to get married. While video chatting, Raymond had told her to pick out a dress and a ring. He had planned to officially propose when he returned in November.

CPO Border's awards and decorations include:
Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal
Navy and Marince Corps Achievement Medal (3)
Joint Meritorious Unit Award
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Service Medal
Humanitarian Service Medal
Expertice with a rifle/pistol
Philippine Presidential Unit Citation

CPO Border was laid to rest on November 3 in Plainfield Cemetery.

He is survived by his parents, Julie and Craig; children, Donovan and Shelva; siblings, Holden Border of West Lafayette and Shanna Weaver of Jacksonville, FL and fiancee, Terrence Boyd of Gulfport, MS and stepchildren, Amber, Caitlin and Aaron.

Navy Chief Petty Officer Raymond J. Border was killed in action on 10/19/11.

Army Staff Sgt. Jorge M. Oliveira

2011-10-19T10:14:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Staff Sgt. Jorge M. Oliveira, 33, of Newark, N.J.

SSgt Oliveira was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 113th Infantry Regiment, 50th Brigade Combat Team, Riverdale, N.J.; died Oct. 19, 2011 in Paktika province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

SSgt Oliveira, a native of Portugal, came to the U.S. when he was 7, the son of immigrants who spoke no English.

He graduated from Newark’s East Side High School in 1996 and went to Essex County College. He worked as a busboy at the Mediterranean Manor because he could walk there from his house.

He joined the National Guard in 2003. He joined the Army in 1997, serving three years, then joined the National Guard where he was involved in operations in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, in 2004, and relief efforts after Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

He got a job with the Essex County Sheriff’s Office. He did so well on the civil service law enforcement exam that he got offers from five communities right away. Waiting for something with the Newark PD or the Essex sheriff, he passed up on those offers.

"The kid wanted to serve his community," said Essex County Sheriff Armando Fontoura, himself a Portuguese-American. "That’s all he ever wanted, to be an American, and to be part this community. His mother said he learned the language in six months."

SSgt Oliveira joined the sheriff’s office in 2001 and served as a member of the S.W.A.T. team and warrants squad. Most recently, he was a detective with the fugitive squad.

"He had a perfect attendance record, every year since he’s been here. Never took a sick day,” Essex County Sheriff Armando Fontoura. "He was one of the very best. Very dedicated."

Whenever fellow officers in the sheriff’s department or soldiers in his guard unit wanted to spend the holidays with their wives and families, Oliveira was the first to volunteer to cover their shifts, Fontoura and family members said.

When his unit was deployed to Afghanistan earlier this year, Oliveira decided to go, even though he didn’t have to and even though his mother begged him not to.

I said ‘we don’t want to push our luck. You get back here quickly. And he said ‘boss please don’t worry, you know how much I love this job. I’ll be back here soon and I’ll get back to work as soon as I can,’” Fontoura said.

SSgt Oliveira had previously served a year in Iraq. He deployed to Afghanistan in June expecting to come home next March.

"He was such a great brother, just an awesome person," said his sister, Jessica Oliveria, fighting back tears outside the family’s home in Newark’s Ironbound neighborhood. "Words can’t even describe how great he was. He always put everyone else before himself."

While on leave last month, he bought a new motorcycle and had closed on a new house in Elizabeth. Once his tour was up next year, he wanted to "travel the world" on the vacation of a lifetime, his sister said.

SSgt Oliveira's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star
Purple Heart
National Defense Service Medl
Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star
Expert Infantrymand Badge
Air Assault Badge

SSgt Oliveira was laid to rest on October 28 in a special section of the Holy Cross cemetery near a new 9/11 memorial of a brushed aluminum frame and a fiery cross, among World Trade Center victims and service members.

SSgt Oliveira is survived by parents, Amanda and Manuel, sister Jessica and brother Marco.

Army Staff Sgt. Jorge M. Oliveira was killed in action on 10/19/11.

Army Staff Sgt. James R. Leep Jr.

2011-10-17T10:09:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Staff Sgt. James R. Leep Jr., 44, of Richmond, Va.

SSgt Leep was assigned to 2nd Squadron, 183rd Cavalry Regiment, 116th Brigade Combat Team, Virginia National Guard, Portsmouth, Va.; died Oct. 17, 2011 in Babil province, Iraq in a noncombat incident.

SSgt Leep joined the National Guard in 1986 and served on active duty from December 1987 to August 1995 as a light-wheeled vehicle mechanic. He rejoined in January 2006 and worked as a combat engineer and construction equipment supervisor.

He worked full time as a surface maintenance repair technician at the Virginia National Guard field maintenance shop in Richlands, Va. He had previously been deployed to Bosnia from 2001-’02; Southwest border security in 2006; in Iraq with the 276th Engineer Battalion from 2003-’05; and in Afghanistan from 2008-’10, also with the 276th.

SSgt Leep was serving as a combat engineer and construction equipment supervisor and was reassigned to Troop A as a truck commander for the unit’s convoy security mission and was commander for a convoy escort team. He began active duty on June 1, to conduct convoy security and base defense operations. The unit arrived in Iraq in late July.

“It is very sad that this has happened and difficult to think of the appropriate words to say that would relieve the pain and suffering that this family feels,” Maj. Gen. Daniel E. Long Jr., the Adjutant General of Virginia. “Soldier and family care are very important and we intend to do everything we can to support his family and the men and women that deployed with him.

“We ask that his community and the rest of Virginia keep his family in their prayers during this time of Grief,” Long stated. “I have personally spoken with the unit’s commander in Iraq, and the unit is doing everything that can be done to support the members of the unit during this difficult time. Here in Virginia, we will make sure the family has all the resources we can provide to help them cope with their loss.”

Sgt. Timothy Bayless, who deployed with Leep to the southwest U.S. border in 2005 and to Afghanistan in 2008, described his longtime friend as a happy, conscientious team player. “He was always upbeat, always willing to do whatever it took to complete the mission at hand,” Bayless said

Leer was an avid motorcycle rider, hunter and fisher who was always talking about his two daughters, Bayless said.

“I remember him riding that big Harley-Davidson to work from the time it started getting warm in the spring until it got cold," said Staff Sgt. Greg Newberry. “That ride and hunt was what he liked to do when he wasn’t serving his country or working."

SSgt Leep is survived by his wife, Paula, two adult children, and sister, Sherry.

Army Spc. Michael D. Elm

2011-10-14T10:04:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Michael D. Elm, 25, of Phoenix, Ariz

Spc Elm was assigned to 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Knox, Ky.; died Oct. 14, 2011 in Khowst, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by an improvised explosive device.

Spc Elm graduated from Greenway High School in 2004, where he was an avid participant in Youth in Government and loved to engage in debates and where he was voted best actor for playing the school's lead role in The Importance of Being Earnest. He attended the University of Maryland, where he was the school's mascot.

He joined the Army in 2009. He deployed to Afghanistan about 11 months ago. This was his first deployment.

The third of five children, he was ambitious, artistic and sensitive. He volunteered for years with Planned Parenthood where he was sent throughout the state providing training programs at high schools. He served as a counselor for the Boy Scouts at Camp Geronimo where he earned his NRA sharp shooter's designation the same day that he first fired a gun

His mother, Donna Lee Elm, last spoke with her son on Mother's Day.

"He didn't have to do this," said his mother, a federal public defender for the Middle District of Florida. "I'm the head of a federal agency. We have plenty of money. He excelled in school and everything else he undertook. This was a kid who was going somewhere. He was going to accomplish things. He had options. He joined the Army because he wanted to serve his country."

Spc Elm was offered a chance to enter the officer training program three times. He declined. "He wanted to be an infantryman," his mother said.

He wanted to be in a relationship, his mother said, but he had put that part of his life on hold for the military. "It was what he felt was right for him," she said.

Spc Elm's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star
Purple Heart
Army Achievement Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Army Good Conduct Medal
Army Commendation Medal
Navy Achievement Medal
Combat Infantryman Badge

Spc Elm was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery.

Spc Elm is survived by his parents, Donna and Dennis Elm; siblings, Matthew, Margaret, Christy and Katie.

Army Spc. Michael D. Elm was killed in action on 10/14/11.

Air Force Airman 1st Class Jerome D. Miller Jr.

2011-10-13T11:05:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Air Force Airman 1st Class Jerome D. Miller Jr., 23, of Washington, D.C.

A1C Miller was assigned to the 459th Security Forces Squadron, Andrews Air Force Base, Md.; died Oct. 13 due to a non-combat-related incident in Parwan province, Afghanistan.

Air Force Reserve Airman Jerome D. Miller Jr. graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the son of Theresa Wilson of Kingsland Ave., Brooklyn, N.Y.

No other information is available.

Air Force Airman 1st Class Jerome D. Miller Jr. was killed in a non-combat related incident on 10/13/11.

Army Staff Sgt. Houston M. Taylor

2011-10-13T09:49:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Staff Sgt. Houston M. Taylor, 25, of Hurst, Texas

SSgt Taylor was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; died Oct. 13, 2011 in Kunar province, Afghanistan, of injuries caused by small-arms fire.

"He was a warrior, and he was fighting for a cause that he truly believed in," said Maj. Dave Eastburn, a spokesman for the brigade in which Sgt. Taylor served. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family right now as they go through this terrible time. He was a great leader and is on our minds every day as we continue to fight, just as he would have wanted. He'll truly be missed."

Born in Portsmouth, Virginia, Sgt Taylor grew up in Azle, TX (not sure when he moved to TX). He graduated from Azle High School. He married his high school sweetheart, Kelsey, in 2005. They have two children.

SSgt Taylor enlisted in the Army in May 2005. He was little more than half way through his 12 month deloyment when he was killed. This was his third deployment.

Wife, Kelsey, said her husband was "a very good dad" to their son, Rylan, 4, and daughter, Avery, 1. "He was very strong," she said. "He never complained about anything he had to do."

During her husband's last call home, Kelsey said that he told her he wouldn't be able to call her for 10 days or so, because he was about to start a mission.

"I asked him if I should be scared, because I always ask that when he says he can't call me for a while," she said. "He said, 'No, because I'm not.' Then we said, 'I love you' and got off the phone."

Mother, Renee Cremean said, "When other kids played soldier, they said, 'I'm going to get my gun.' He said, 'I'm going to get my weapon. He loved serving his country. He was very protective of the soldiers under him."

SSgt Taylor's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star Medal
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters
Army Achievement Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters
Meritorius Unit Citation
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Iraqi Campaign with 3 Bronze Stars
Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star
Global War on Terrorism Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon with numeral 3
NATO Medal
Combat Infantryman Badge

SSgt Taylor was laid to rest on October 26 at Ash Creek Cemetery, Azle, TX.

SSgt Taylor is survived by his mother and stepfather, Renee and Billy; father, Shawn; wife Kelsey Rae, their children Rylan and Avery; and brothers Austin and Dallas.

Army Staff Sgt. Houston M. Taylor was killed in action on 10/13/11.

Army Spc. Jeremiah T. Sancho

2011-10-13T09:45:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Jeremiah T. Sancho, 23, of Palm Bay, Fla.

Spc. Sancho was assigned to 3rd Squadron, 71st Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.; died Oct. 13, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries caused by an improvised explosive device.

Spc Sancho enjoyed playing video games and playing bass guitar. He was an avid comic-book fan and budding artist on paper and film.

Spc Sancho graduated from Palm Bay High in 2007. He joined the Army in 2010.

During his basic-training graduation ceremony, he surprised his longtime girlfriend, RaiAnne Bocco, by dropping to one knee and proposing behind the bleachers at Fort Benning, Ga. The couple married seven days later in RaiAnne’s parents' back yard. Sancho’s grandfather, Eddie, an ordained minister, performed the ceremony.

Spc Sancho deployed in April. He had planned to return home on leave in November.

“I have a hole in my chest. He wasn’t just my son-in-law. He was my son,” said Sharon Bocco, RaiAnne’s mother. “He’s been living here since he was 17 years old.”

On her FB page, wife, RaiAnne wrote, “Jerry I miss you. I love you so much baby. I don’t know what I’m gonna do without you, but I know you’re watching over me. love you and was proud to be your wife.”

Spc Sancho’s awards and decorations include:
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Action Badge

Spc Sancho is survived by his mother and stepfather, Jante and Bernardo;
wife, RaiAnne, siblings, Bernardo, Josiah, Jovon and Jaell.

Army Spc. Jeremiah T. Sancho was killed in action on 10/13/11.

Marine Lance Cpl. Scott D. Harper

2011-10-13T09:42:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Marine Lance Cpl. Scott D. Harper, 21, of Winston, Ga.

LCpl Harper was assigned to 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died Oct. 13, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while conducting combat operations.

Lcpl Harper, known as "Boots" in high school, graduated from Alexander High in 2008 where he was very active in the ROTC program and was on the golf team. He joined the Marines in 2008. He was promoted to Lance Corporal in 2009. This was his second deployment to Afghanistan. He had been there four months.

Lcpl Harper loved hunting, fishing and playing his guitar, which he had with him in Afghanistan.

Family released the following statement:

"Although we are heartbroken over Scott's death, we are so proud of his service. He will forever be our hero and his memory will live on in our hearts. Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers and kind words. Knowing that Scott touched so many lives brings us comfort."

High school friend, Chad Jenkins, said that Scott was "that guy." "You know, the guy who wanted to be friends with everybody and everybody wanted to be friends with him."

"His friends said he took up for the underdog," said Rebecca Murray, one of Harper's teachers at Alexander High. "He was very devoted to his friends, so it doesn't surprise me that he would devote his life to his country."

Father, Brian, last talked with his son the Saturday before his son died. Scott had called to see if the boots he had ordered had arrived. His family had mailed them out to him two days prior.

His father said that his son had wanted to be a Marine because he believed they were the best. "You know, the few, the chosen, and that’s what he wanted to be, one of the few and chosen."

Lcpl Harper's awards and decorations include:
Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
NATO Medal – ISAF – Afghanistan

Lcpl Harper was laid to rest on October 23 at Ephesus Baptist Church Cemetery in Winston, GA.

Lcpl Harper is survived by his mother, Deborah; father and stepmother, Brian and Angela; siblings, Amber, Mitchell, Joseph and Holly.

Marine Lance Cpl. Scott D. Harper was killed in action on 10/13/11.

Army Staff Sgt. Robert B. Cowdrey

2011-10-13T08:52:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Staff Sgt. Robert B. Cowdrey, 39, of Atwater, Ohio

SSgt Cowdrey was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died Oct. 13, 2011 in Kunar province, Afghanistan, from injuries suffered during combat operations.

SSgt Cowdrey, a flight medic, was killed during a rescue mission. This was his fourth deployment, having previously deployed once to Iraq and Afghanistan twice in 2007 and 2009.

SSgt Cowdrey graduated from La Junta High School in 1990. He was a firefighter for the Suffield and Ravenna township departments for a number of years. He does training for fire departments around the state.

SSgt Cowdrey joined the Army in 2003. He was currently serving his 4th deployment that began in August 2010. He had previously served in Iraq from July 2004 to July 2005 and in Afghanistan from January 2007 to February 2008 and April 2009 to March 2010.

SSgt Cowdrey was an avid outdoorsman. He loved visiting his relatives in Ohio and loved hunting with his brother, Quentin.

Quentin said his brother was a hero who “died doing what he loved to do. He loved his family and his job. To say that he impacted the lives of countless people is an understatement.”

Father-in-law, Jay Bollacker, said Cowdrey, who went by “Brian”, loved being a soldier and the military. “He felt like he was helping the war effort. He had a very dangerous job.”

SSgt Cowdrey and wife of 17 years, Kimberly, have three sons. Oldest son, Justin, serves in the Army and is currently stationed in Germany. Middle son, Nathan, dreams of going to West Point. Youngest son, Jacob “just wants to grow up to make a difference in the world, just like his dad and his brothers.”

SSgt Cowdrey's awards and decorations include:

Bronze Star
Air Medal (3)
Commendation Medal for Valor (2)
Commendation Medal (3)
Achievement Medal (2)
Good Conduct Medal (2)
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Humanitarian Service Medal
Noncommisssioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Medic Badge
Combat Action Badge
Aviator Badge

SSgt Cowdrey is survived by his mother, Donna; wife, Kimberly, and sons, Justin, Nathan and Jacob; brother, Quentin.

Army Staff Sgt. Robert B. Cowdrey was killed in action on 10/13/11.

2011-10-12T09:16:00.001-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Michael R. Tatham, 33, of University Place, Wash., was involved in a fatal motorcycle accident, Oct. 12, 2011 while on rest and recuperation leave from supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Bali, Indonesia.

Tatham was assigned to a West Coast based Naval Special Warfare unit.

CPO Tatham was born December 12, 1977 in Fort Bragg, NC. He graduated from Curtis High School in 1996. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of San Diego in 2001. He was active on the rowing team and was instrumental in winning the Men’s 4 Man National Contest.

CPO Tatham enlisted in the Navy in 2002. He graduated from Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL Class 248 in April 2004. He continued on with advanced training after reporting to his West Coast-based SEAL team.

CPO Tatham's awards and decorations include:

Bronze Star Medal with combat "V"
Joint Service Achievement Medal
Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medals (4), including one with "V"
Good Conduct Medals (2)
National Defense Service Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service medal
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (3)
NATO Service Medal
Expert Rifle Ribbon
Expert Pistol Ribbon

CPO Tatham was laid to rest on November 2 in Rosecrans National Cemeter in San Diego.

CPO Tatham is survived by his mother, Diane; father, Stephen; brother, Matthew.

Army Staff Sgt. Nathan L. Wyrick

2011-10-10T09:05:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Staff Sgt. Nathan L. Wyrick, 34, of Enumclaw, Wash.

SSgt Wyrick was assigned to 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.; died Oct. 10, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of combat-related injuries.

SSgt Wyrick graduated from Tacoma's Franklin Pierce High School in 1996 where he played for the school's varsity football team.

He joined the Army in March 2006 and served as a supply specialist. He deployed to Afghanistan in March 2011. He had previously deployed to Iraq in 2008.

SSgt Wyrick's awards and decorations include:
Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
Meritorious Unit Commendations (2)
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
Certificates of Achievement (5)
Combat Action Badge
Driver Badge
Mechanic Badge

SSgt Wyrick is survived by his wife, Rachel Wyrick, and their four children, Stephan, Garrett, Ethan and Tanner.

Word of Sgt. Wyrick's death circulated Tuesday among Joint Base Lewis-McChord soldiers who knew him from a past assignment and among his fellow worshippers at Lakewood's New Hope Community Church.

Sgt. Wyrick graduated from Franklin Pierce High School with the class of 1996 and played for the school's varsity football team, a school spokesman said.

He left a lasting mark on his friends at New Hope church. They remembered him as a generous man who had served in Iraq and looked out for other Army families coping with deployments to the Middle East.

"He was a dad first and foremost, and a soldier second," said Andrea Wright, 28, of University Place.

Wright learned of Sgt. Wyrick's death Monday from the soldier's wife, Rachel Wyrick. They became close friends several years ago when Wright's husband was assigned to Lewis-McChord.

Another friend said Sgt. Wyrick loved his children so much he had tattoos of their names. He had an affection for other children, too, spending time with Wright's four sons when her husband served on a deployment overseas.

"He was uncle Nay-Nay," she said.

The Wyricks moved about a year and a half ago to Fort Drum, N.Y., when Sgt. Wyrick was assigned to the 10th Mountain Division. They've visited the South Sound several times since then, friends said.

Dan Livingston, a friend from New Hope Church, admired how Sgt. Wyrick supported his family while serving in the Army. Livingston said Sgt. Wyrick joined the service after first pursuing a career as a civilian electrician.

"He was a real passionate dad who joined the Army to support his family," Livingston said.

Another friend remembered Sgt. Wyrick as a "gung ho" soldier who never had a bad word to say about others.

"He was proud of the job he did," said Iona Parker, 60, of Steilacoom. "He did it very well. He wasn't a shirker and he didn't bad-mouth anyone."

The Wyricks stayed with the Parkers just before they moved to New York. Iona Parker said Nathan would spend time in the garage with her husband, talking about military life and "sharing what it means to leave your family and the risks involved."

"He desperately loved his family," Parker said.

Army Staff Sgt. Nathan L. Wyrick was killed in action on 10/10/11.

Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 James B. Wilke

2011-10-10T08:59:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 James B. Wilke, 38, of Ione, Calif.

CWO3 Wilke was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, 32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command, Fort Bliss, Texas; died Oct. 10, 2011 in Doha, Qatar, in a noncombat incident.

CWO Wilke joined the Army in 1992. He served as a Patriot Weapons System Technician. He deployed to Qatar in January 2011. He was planning on retiring next year with 20 years of service.

CWO Wilke was selfless and committed to the troops. He signed up to do whatever he could to keep the morale of their team high during a deployment.

CWO Wilke met his wife, Monia, when he was stationed in Italy 15 years ago. She last saw him when he took leave in July for their 15th wedding anniversary.
"We don't know for sure what happened," said his wife, Monia.

She described her husband as a big NASCAR racing fan, and a fan of driver Jeff Gordon. "He loved his car; he had a red Corvette, which he adored."

"He was an animal lover," Monia said. "He was especially attached to our dog. Our dog was like our baby."

"He touched so many people and everybody loved him," Monia said. "He was professional in his job and was extremely smart. But he had a fun, playful side. He made me very happy."

"Everyone who knew him, adored him," Monia said. "He has been a really good soldier. He adored me. Everyone told me he loved me very much. There are no words to explain the love we had. It was way too good to be true."

"He was the love of my life and I was the love of his life, soul mates. We always thought we would be together. Now, nothing makes sense."

CWO Wilke's awards and decorations include:
Meritorious Service Medal
Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
Air Force Achievement Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Armed Forces Expeditionary medal
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terorism Service medal
Korean Defense Service Medal
Parachutist Badge

He is survived by his mother Patricia; wife of 15 years, Monia; and two brothers, Larry and Gary.

Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 James B. Wilke was killed in action on 10/10/11.

Army Spc. Ricardo Cerros Jr.

2011-10-08T16:40:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Ricardo Cerros Jr., 24, of Salinas, Calif.

Spc. Cerros was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.; died Oct. 8, 2011 in Logar province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by small-arms fire.

Lt. Col. David Hodne, Commander of 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, said about Spc. Cerros: “He was a warrior who lost his life while fighting courageously alongside his fellow Rangers. We will honor his service to our country and never forget his sacrifice. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Cerros family.”

Spc Cerros graduated from Everett Alarez High School in 2005, where he participated in the NJ ROTC Program for four years, obtaining Commanding Officer of the program. He attended the University of California, Irvine where he obtained a bachelors of Chemistry degree in 2010.

Spc Cerros enlisted in the Army July 2010, joining the 75th Ranger Regiment in March this year after graduating from Ranger Assessment and Selection Program. The regiment has been continuously deployed to Afghanistan since the U.S. invasion in 2001. This was his first deployment.

Spc Cerros' awards and decorations include:
Purple Heart
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Combat Infantryman Badge
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Parachutist Badge
Army Expert Rifle Marksmanship Qualification Badge

Spc Cerros was laid to rest on October 19 at Ridgelawn Cemetery in Gary, Indiana.

Spc Cerros is survived by his mother, Marguerite; father and stepmother, Ricardo Sr. and Deborah; siblings, MSgt Marco Cerros, who is stationed in England, Nicholas and Theresa.

Army Spc. Ricardo Cerros Jr. was killed in action on 10/08/11.

Army Capt. Drew E. Russell

2011-10-08T08:43:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Capt. Drew E. Russell, 25, of Scotts, Mich.

Capt Russell was assigned to 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.; died Oct. 8, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by a rocket propelled grenade. Also killed was Capt. Joshua S. Lawrence.

Capt Russell graduated from Vicksburg High School in 2004 where he played football his freshman year and was an honor roll student all four years. He enrolled in Western Michigan University’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program, graduating in 2008 with a double major in criminal justice and military science. He joined the Army in 2008 and joined the unit in June 2009.

Capt Russell received his captain's bars shortly after deploying in June. This was his first deployment.

Vicksburg High School Principal Keevin O’Neill said ,“He knew he wanted to go into the military and followed that dream,” O’Neill said. “I remember what a good kid he was ... a very hard worker.”

He was a wonderful son,” his mother, Patti, 52, said Monday. “He was very loving, and he had a great sense of humor. There’s just an empty hole in my heart that will never be filled again.”

Father, Jim, said he last talked to his son on a Skype about two weeks prior and that the family received an email from him on Friday. He recalled the great time the family had when they went to Colorado to spend time together before Drew’s deployment. The father and his two sons enjoyed one of Drew’s favorite hobbies.

“We were laughing and sending bullets down the (firing) range,” Jim Russell said. “The boys were close. They always took good care of their dad.”

Aunt, Janean Monaham, would get a phone call from her nephew, Drew, every year on her birthday. “We had a special bond,” she said of the nephew, Drewbie, as family called him. Instead of a phone call this year, her nephew will be buried on her birthday.

”To have him buried on my birthday is truly an honor," Monaham said. "I’ll celebrate his life every year."

Katie Bennett who attended Western Michigan University with Russell, said they first met on a dark night in 2006 when he told her she shouldn’t walk home alone and offered her a ride. He drove her home until the semester ended. “It’s hard because I wasn’t as close to him as some of the others here, but the loss has shook me to my core. He was just such a nice guy, how couldn’t I be here for him?”

JP Lambrechts met Drew in middle school, saying Drew always had a joke to tell that would make his day go better. They would spend their days playing on the golf course near their homes and building forts in the woods.

“I knew he was going to be great at whatever he did. He had that mindset to do a great job,” Lambrechts said. “I’ll always remember Drew in my heart.”

Jonathan Stoner said Drew was a mentor when they were both attending WMU’s ROTC program. “The world doesn’t know how much it misses Drew Russell yet, that’s the sad part,” he said.

His best friends, Mark Bush and Ray Babushka, graduated from high school with Drew and attended classes at WMU at the same time, spending much of their free time together.

“I didn’t believe it when I heard the news....,” Babushka said. “I was just in shock. It was surreal.”

Bush remembered the pranks Drew would play, like the time when Drew was 12 and took the labels off all the soup cans in Bush family’s pantry. Bush said the family had to eat the food from inside the cans without first knowing what they contained. Drew pulled the same prank again just before his deployment, Bush said. “He always liked to have fun, always liked to poke you,” he said.

“His dedication to his country was something I’ve never seen before,” Bush said. “Drew had his mind set on it. He was very goal-oriented.”
“He was a real stand-up guy,” Bush said. “I could go on about Drew forever.”

Friend and neighbor, Dustin Lindsey, said, “Drew was an amazing kid. He always took the time out when he was at home on leave to play army guys with my (6-year-old) son.”

Capt Russell was laid to rest on October 20 in Vicksburg Cemetery.

He is survived by his parents, Patti and Jim; brother, James; and his sweetheart, Sarah and their dog, Peanut.

Army Capt. Drew E. Russell was killed in action on 10/08/11.

Army Capt. Joshua S. Lawrence

2011-10-08T08:30:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Capt. Joshua S. Lawrence, 29, of Nashville, Tenn.

Capt Lawrence was assigned to 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.; died Oct. 8, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by a rocket propelled grenade. Also killed was Capt. Drew E. Russell.

“Captains Lawrence and Russell were part of a command node helping the Afghans secure Kandahar City for a province-wide peace summit, and were located inside an Afghan army base,” brigade spokesman Maj. Kevin Toner said. “The command node received RPG and small arms fire, killing Lawrence and Russell. We are investigating the incident.”

Capt Lawrence graduated from Hume-Fogg High School and Austin Peay University graduate. He joined the Army in 2005. He joined his current unit in May 2011.

Capt Lawrence met his wife, Brittney, in February. They married a week before he deployed in June. They postponed their honeymoon, but spent as much time together as possible.They decided on a honeymoon trip to Ireland upon his return. Brittany planned to surprise her husband with a castle tour. She had planned to move to Colorado Springs in April, to be there when her husband returned from deployment.

“Joshua had an idea every day or every other week. He wanted to be an astronaut, or something else,” wife, Brittany said.. “Him joining the military allowed him to be good at something, and he was a really good soldier.”

“He was so handsome in uniform,” Brittany said. “The first time I had to see him (in it), I almost passed out.”

“I thought the day [in June] I had to say goodbye to my soldier was the hardest day of my life,” she said. “I was wrong.”

Mother, Judy Lawrence, said, "He was amazing, he was an amazing young man. He had lots of dreams big dreams...I mean, he used to tell me that there was not enough time in life to do everything he wanted to accomplish. And one of those things was to serve in the military," said his mother.

"He never had any questions, once he made that decision that was what he wanted to do. He told me that even though he had been to Korea twice, he didn't feel like he had done what he was there to do. This was choice and his decision to go to Afghanistan," his mother said. There is peace in knowing that he was there by choice and that he was doing what he wanted to do and what he felt was right."

"What I have always tried to say to all my children is I support your decisions, they've never done anything but make me proud," said Judy.

“Josh was the heart of the plans shop; his positive disposition and sense of humor made the bad days better and his ability to plan complex operations with minimal guidance was essential to mission accomplishment,” said Maj. Jerome Barbour, brigade plans officer for 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. “His dedication to the welfare of Soldiers was obvious as was his love for his family and friends.”

“Josh was a life-long learner with incredible intelligence and he was the epitome of selfless service,” said Capt. Matt Pratt, assistant brigade planner for 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div.

"Josh and I were almost instantly life-long friends,” Pratt said. “I’ve never clicked with someone like Josh, but I did. At night, back in the room, we would develop business plans for when we got out of the Army. In his free time at the office he was learning the capitals to every country in the world, which is no small feat,” Pratt said.

Capt Lawrence's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
Joint Service Achievement Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Korea Defense Service Medal
NATO Medal
Combat Action Badge

Capt Lawrence is survived by his mother, Judy; wife, Brittany; siblings, Zachary and Major Kendra Lawrence. He is preceded in death by his father, Robert, who passed away in July.

Carson widow can't believe hero won't be home
By Ryan Maye Handy, The (Colorado Springs, Colo.) Gazette via AP

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - Brittany met her husband, Joshua Lawrence, in Las Vegas. It was a whirlwind February romance - like something out of novel, her friends tell her.

She was in town for business, busily ushering a VIP group out of a hotel and onto a golf course. He and some Army buddies were in town for a good time.

When Lawrence saw Brittany across the hotel lobby, he went straight to her and introduced himself.

“I'm Josh,” she remembers him saying.

She had noticed him, too.

“That's wonderful,” Brittany told him. “But I'm working.”

Still, Lawrence won her over with his broad smile and infectious laugh. They met later and danced the night away at a Blue Man Group concert. And they promised to stay in touch.

Four months later, on May 31, Brittany, 26, and Josh, 29, were married. On June 7, Lawrence, a Fort Carson soldier, left for Afghanistan.

Capt. Joshua Lawrence had been in the Army six years. He considered it the ideal profession.

“Joshua had an idea every day or every other week. He wanted to be an astronaut, or something else,” Brittany recalled. “Him joining the military allowed him to be good at something, and he was a really good soldier.”

Lawrence's insatiable thirst for knowledge fueled his enthusiasm for the military life, she said. He completed two tours in Korea, and traveled extensively around Asia, falling in love with Vietnam.

He was looking forward to his deployment to Afghanistan, his first with the 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team in the 4th Infantry Division.

“He was so handsome in uniform,” Brittany said. “The first time I had to see him (in it), I almost passed out.”

With Lawrence's deployment just days after their wedding, the couple postponed their honeymoon, but spent as much time together as possible.

They decided on a honeymoon trip to Ireland upon Lawrence's return, and Brittany planned to surprise her husband with a castle tour. She planned to move to Colorado Springs in April - to be here when Lawrence returned from deployment.

At 6 a.m. Monday, Brittany was called to the door of her Kernersville, N.C., home by service members in uniform.

“They were at my porch telling me that he [Josh] was gone,” she said Wednesday morning.

Drew Russell, 25, were killed when insurgents fired a rocket-propelled grenade at their unit, according to the Defense Department.

The brigade, in an email from Kandahar, said the captains were working with Afghan troops to plan a “peace summit” and were together on an Afghan military compound during the attack.

“Captains Lawrence and Russell were part of a command node helping the Afghans secure Kandahar City for a province-wide peace summit, and were located inside an Afghan army base,” brigade spokesman Maj. Kevin Toner said. “The command node received RPG and small arms fire, killing Lawrence and Russell. We are investigating the incident.”

The soldiers, both Bronze Star recipients, were serving in their first tour of Afghanistan. They were the 325th and 326th Fort Carson soldiers to be killed in Iraq and Afghanistan.

In the days since she learned of his death, Brittany has been overwhelmed by Lawrence's legacy: the people who loved him.

“All the soldiers are really torn up about it,” she said, as are his mother and two siblings, who were very close to him.

“I'll trade places with him,” she said through tears. “So people can hear his laugh and see his smile.”

She has relied heavily this week on the military community that has become her family.

“I had every wife's nightmare happen to me,” she said.

She hasn't been able to sleep, and is haunted by the thought the man she calls her hero won't be coming home.

“I thought the day [in June] I had to say goodbye to my soldier was the hardest day of my life,” she said. “I was wrong.”

Army Capt. Joshua S. Lawrence was killed in action on 10/08/11.

Marine Lance Cpl. Benjamin W. Schmidt

2011-10-06T16:35:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Marine Lance Cpl. Benjamin W. Schmidt, 24, of San Antonio

LCpl Schmidt was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.; died Oct. 6, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while conducting combat operations.

Lcpl Schmidt, serving as leader and on point, while patrolling with his plattoon, was killed. Family says he was shot in the head. This incident is under investigation.

Lcpl Schmidt, a Marine sniper, graduated from Alamo Heights High School in 2006 where he played football. He joined the Marines four years ago, after dropping out of college. Deployed to Afghanistan in September. This was his second deployment.

"He loved his buddies in teh Marines and he owuld have done anything for them," mother, Becky Whetstone, Ph.D., a marriage and family therapist and former advice columnist for the San Antonio Express-News.

She said her son returned from a previous deployment to Afghanistan disillusioned with the Marine Corps and the war. After a friend lost a leg in combat, Schmidt became furious with his superiors, whom he blamed for needlessly putting Marines in danger.

He also felt the Marines had to operate on the battlefield under too many restrictions that limited their ability to defend themselves, she said.“He didn't believe in war anymore,” she said. “There are people who die for their country who aren’t necessarily believing in the cause. They're doing their job because they committed to doing their job and they are seeing it through.”

On Sept. 11, Schmidt wrote on his Facebook page: “I guess you can use today as a reason for us to be here in Afghanistan. Just know I'm fighting for myself, but most of all for all my friends and family who read this. Everyone, it’s an honor to be your ambassador.”

His mother said he was a special young man who had been looking forward to leaving the Marine Corps and pursuing a career as a history professor or in politics.
"At first, he had a passion for the military. But over time, he decided he didn't like it, and didn't like the policies of the war. He had never been interested in politics before, but that changed in Afghanistan."

Schmidt's father is Dr. David Schmidt, the team physician for the San Antonio Spurs and Alamo Heights football team doctor.

Lcpl Schmidt's death was announced during one of the high school's recent football games.

"I had to be here. This is my family, you know, all the coaches, and I've been here, he's been here his whole life," replied Dr. Schmidt.

Lcpl Schmidt returned to his Alma Mater last year to say hello during a football game. "He got a standing ovation and it was one of those great things in life that you get to do," Rick Shaw, football game announcer for past 12 years, said.

"To lose him is tragic for his service to our country, it's something that these young men do and God bless him for doing it," said Shaw.

"My son's in a good place right now," added Dr. Schmidt. "We did everything together, we fished together we hunted together we came to football games together," said Schmidt.

"He loved life and he lived life big," added his father. "I cant think of a greater honor than giving your life for your community."

Lcpl Schmidt's awards and decorations include:

Purple Heart
Bronze Star (2)
Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with Combat Valor
Combat Action Ribbon
Sea Service Deployment
Afghan Campaign Ribbon (2)
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
National Defensive Service Medal
NATO medal- ISAF Afghanistan

Lcpl Schmidt was laid to rest on October 14 at Fort Sam National Cemetery.

Lcpl Schmidt is survived by his parents, Dr. Becky Whetstone and Dr. David Schmidt; sister, Casey; and girlfriend, Taylor.

Marine Lance Cpl. Benjamin W. Schmidt was killed on 10/06/11.

2011-10-03T16:29:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Pvt. Danny Chen, 19, of New York

Pvt Chen was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died Oct. 3, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan of unspecified causes.

Pvt Danny Chen was found in his barracks with non-combat injuries.

Pvt Danny Chen grew up in Chinatown. He graduated from Pace University High School in Manhattan in 2010 and briefly attended Baruch College before joining the Army in January 2011. He deployed to Afghanistan in August.

Before he left, Pvt Chen told his loved ones not to be sad if anything should happen to him.

Pvt Chen was described as a quiet, smart student with a unique sense of humor. He hoped to become a member of the New York City Police Department after he completed his service.

Pvt Chen's family was against the idea of his joining the service, especially since he was an only child. His aunt, Lucy Chen, said there was no stopping him.

“He want to save the country, something like that. He really loved the country,” Lucy Chen said.

Chen’s mother said her son dreamed of serving in the military since he was a child. What makes the heartbreak even more painful is what the family found out shortly after learning of his death.

Pvt Chen’s parents reportedly said military personnel informed them that their son had been subjected to harassment and physical abuse by fellow soldiers and may have committed suicide. Reports indicate that Chen died from a gunshot wound to the head.

Through a translator, his parents said someone within their son’s unit told the family that Chen had been beaten up by fellow soldiers.

Translator Frank Gee said the family was told that Chen was “harassed and beaten up by six soldiers.”

Pvt Chen's father had been concerned Chen faced race problems in the Army and had asked his son about it. The family said Chen never complained about any problems he was having in the Army.

Pvt Chen was reportedly the only Asian-American soldier in his barracks. They asked the question, specifically, are you discriminated against because you’re Chinese or whatever.’ Danny said I would rather not answer that question,” translator Gee told Hsu.

The parents were told their son was shot through the chin, but they dismissed any suggestion of suicide.

Pvt Chen was laid to rest on October 13 in Kensico Cemetery.

Pvt Chen is survived by his parents, Yan Tao Chen and Su Zhen Chen.

Navy Special Warfare Operator 1st Class (SEAL) Caleb A. Nelson

2011-10-01T16:02:00.001-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Navy Special Warfare Operator 1st Class (SEAL) Caleb A. Nelson, 26, of Omaha, Neb.

PO1 Nelson was assigned to an East Coast-based Naval Special Warfare unit, Norfolk, Va., died Oct. 1, 2011 in Zabul province, Afghanistan after his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device.

Fallen SEAL remembered as 'a cherished teammate'
The Associated Press

OMAHA, Neb. — A Navy SEAL who grew up in Omaha has been killed during combat patrol in Afghanistan, military officials confirmed Sunday.

Petty Officer 1st Class Caleb A. Nelson, 26, died Saturday when his vehicle was struck by an explosive device in Zabul province, according to the Department of Defense.

Nelson had been assigned to the Naval Special Warfare unit based in Norfolk, Va., since his graduation from SEAL training in 2006. A statement released by the unit said Nelson had been in Afghanistan since March. He’d previously been deployed to Iraq in 2009.

Capt. Tim Szymanski, commander of Naval Special Warfare Group Two, called Nelson “a cherished teammate, a gifted SEAL operator and a loving husband and father."

“His tireless professionalism, inspiring passion for life and his humble and selfless service to our country made him a role model for all who knew him,” Szymanski said. “... We will never forget the ultimate sacrifice that Caleb made while protecting our nation and his teammates.”

Nelson has received numerous awards and decorations for his military service, including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.

Nelson is survived by his wife and two sons in Norfolk, Va., and his parents, who still live in Omaha.

Nelson grew up in Millard. He joined the Navy in 2005. He graduated SEAL qualification training in November 2006. PO1 Nelson deployed to Afghanistan in March. This was his second deployment, having previously deployed to Iraq in 2006.

Captain Tim Szymanski, commander of Nelson's unit said: “Caleb Nelson was a cherished teammate, a gifted SEAL operator, and a loving husband and father. His tireless professionalism, inspiring passion for life and his humble and selfless service to our country made him a role model for all who knew him.”

His family released this statement to the media:

"Caleb was a dedicated Christian, a loving husband and father, and a warrior elite. He was an example of strength and courage to all who knew him and in each of our lives he leaves a gaping hole words can't describe. Caleb received Christ as his Lord and Savior, and serving Him was the foundational motivation in Caleb's life.

"He strongly felt that God had directed him into the SEALs and had given him the skills to excel in that capacity and he accepted the challenges, pain and danger as part of God's plan for his life. He was driven to succeed in everything he did, hating mediocre, always striving to be the best he could possibly be. "Caleb was also a mentor, always challenging those around to improve themselves. He did this with such a winning way, that people loved him. He had a magnetic personality and a contagious enthusiasm, inspiring and captivating everyone around.

"Caleb was a dedicated husband and father, and being apart from his family was the most difficult aspect of his times away in training or deployment. He was a rock of strength to his wife even when he was thousands of miles away. Caleb was a patriot who loved his country and was thrilled to serve as a SEAL and loved nothing more than being active in his duties.

"Caleb leaves behind a legacy of courage, faith, and dedication. He will be sorely missed by his family and friends and by his fellow Navy SEALs whom he regarded as his brothers. His death is devastating to all of us, but because of his faith in Christ, we look forward to seeing him again someday in heaven."

"He was an example of strength and courage to all who knew him, and in each of our lives leaves a gaping hole words cannot describe," family spokesman Rod Grady said.

PO Nelson's awards and decorations include:Bronze Star with Valor, Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Sea Service Ribbon(2), NATO Service Medal, Expert Rifle Ribbon, Expert Pistol Ribbon

PO1 Nelson was laid to rest at Voss Mohr Cemetery in Chalco, NE.

Survived by parents Barb and Larry; wife Anna and sons David and Kyle; siblings Alicia, Peter, Anna, Micah, Luke, Josiah, Levi and Grace. He was preceded in death by brother, Jonathan.

Navy Special Warfare Operator 1st Class (SEAL) Caleb A. Nelson was killed in action on 10/01/11.

Army Spc. Adrian G. Mills

2011-09-29T14:31:00.001-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Adrian G. Mills, 23, of Newnan, Ga.

Spc Mills was assigned to 272nd Military Police Company, 519th Military Police Battalion, Fort Polk, La., died Sept. 29 in Kirkuk, Iraq, of wounds caused by indirect fire.

Spc Mills is the first casualty killed in Iraq since July. In a teleconference with reporters at the Pentagon, U.S. Maj. Gen. David Perkins said the solider was about to go on a military operation when he was fatally struck.

Spc Mills graduated from Northgate High School in 2007 where he served in the Air Force Junior ROTC. “That kid wanted to go in and help his country since he was in 7th grade,” Mr. Blehschmidt said.

Air Force Master Sgt. Ron Wolfe, who oversees Northgate’s Junior ROTC program, said the young man’s leadership abilities were readily apparent. “He was a quiet leader. He wasn’t demanding. He led by a positive example,” Master Sgt. Wolfe said.

Spc Mills was the first to be involved in the school’s color guard and its Saber Team special events squad. “We didn’t even have uniforms yet, nothing more than an Air Force T-shirt, and he was doing our first color guards at football games,” Master Sgt. Wolfe said.

Cassie McDonald, who grew up a few doors down from her friend and served with him in Northgate’s ROTC program, said, “When it came to organizing different events to help the community, A.J. was one of the first ones to jump in, which illustrated how big his heart was.”

"A.J.," McDonald said, "wanted everybody to remember what their freedom is worth and that life is short, so live it with no regrets.”

After Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005, Spc. Mills helped lead a school-wide drive to gather items desperately needed by the survivors – more than 15,000 pounds of “clothing, toys, diapers, wipes, water, anything and everything,” Master Sgt. Wolfe said.

In 2009, Spc Mills, stationed in Heidelberg, Germany, was one of more than 1,000 service members from posts and bases throughout Europe and the US who took part in the 65th anniversary ceremonies in Normandy, recalling the bravery of US troop at St. Mere Eglise, the Omaha and Utah Beaches and small viallages in the are in 1944.

In a 2009 interview, Mills spoke of "the sacrifice and courage of the soldiers who fought and died" in France. "I was honored to be a part of this," he said.

Spc Mills was laid to rest on October 11 at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA. next to his friend, Army Pvt Colman Joseph Meadows III, who died in Afghanistan in December 2008.

Spc Mills had left this message in a memorial for his friend Pvt. Meadows

June 29, 2011
Spc Mills
Joe was like a brother to me, we grew up together and was always the life of the group. He is missed greatly and I know that he is watching over all of us. I miss you bro, one day we will cause havoc together again. Until then, I will keep fighting the good fight.

I imagine today they are wreaking that havoc!

Spc Mills is survived by his mother and stepfather, Marie and Jeffrey; wife, Sandra, who he met while stationed in Germany; sister, Maegon; grandparents, Gladiola Dowell and C.A. and Wanda Mills.

By David Ibata
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Every evening for the past week, family members and friends have come to light candles at a memorial on the front lawn of the house where Adrian Mills grew up in Newnan.

“I just can’t tell you how kind the people are from Coweta County. They are still lighting candles … [and] a vigil will be every evening at dusk until Sunday,” said Jeff Blehschmidt, stepfather of Adrian Mills. “That candlelight vigil they’re doing here is being done around the globe every night in his memory.”

Army Spc. Adrian Glyn "A.J." Mills, 23, died Sept. 29 in Kirkuk, Iraq, from wounds sustained when his unit came under insurgent mortar fire, the Army said. Spc. Mills was assigned to the 272nd Military Police Company, 519th Military Police Battalion, 1st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade at Fort Polk.

The soldier’s body has been flown home, and visitation is set for 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday in McKoon Funeral Home, Newnan. The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday in the chapel of the funeral home. McKoon is handling arrangements.

Mr. Blehschmidt set up the memorial to his son, a series of full-size American flags and dozens of smaller ones. Visitors have added candles, flowers and other items to the display.

As a teen, Spc. Mills served in the Civil Air Patrol and Northgate High School’s Air Force Junior ROTC. “That kid wanted to go in and help his country since he was in 7th grade,” Mr. Blehschmidt said.

But instead of joining the Air Force after graduating from Northgate in 2007, Spc. Mills joined the Army.

“He wanted more action than I think the Air Force would give him – and the Air Force couldn’t give him a guaranteed job as a military policeman, and that’s what he wanted to do,” Mr. Blehschmidt said.

Air Force Master Sgt. Ron Wolfe, who oversees Northgate’s Junior ROTC program, said the young man’s leadership abilities were readily apparent. “He was a quiet leader. He wasn’t demanding. He led by a positive example,” Master Sgt. Wolfe said.

A student when Northgate’s ROTC was being started, Spc. Mills was the first to be involved in the school’s color guard and its Saber Team special events squad. “We didn’t even have uniforms yet – nothing more than an Air Force T-shirt – and he was doing our first color guards at football games,” Master Sgt. Wolfe said.

Cassie McDonald, who grew up a few doors down from her friend and served with him in Northgate’s ROTC program, said, “When it came to organizing different events to help the community, A.J. was one of the first ones to jump in, which illustrated how big his heart was.”

For example, after Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005, Spc. Mills helped lead a school-wide drive to gather items desperately needed by the survivors – more than 15,000 pounds of “clothing, toys, diapers, wipes, water, anything and everything,” Master Sgt. Wolfe said.

Spc. Mills also is survived by his mother, Marie Elaine Blehschmidt, his wife, Sandra, who he met while stationed in Germany, and his sister, Maegon Mills of Houston. The military has flown Sandra’s parents, Franz and Doris Abel, to the United States from Heidelberg to attend the funeral.

The young soldier will be buried at Georgia National Cemetery, Canton, next to his friend Army Pvt. 2nd Colman Joseph Meadows III, who died in Afghanistan in December 2008.

"A.J.," Ms. McDonald said, "wanted everybody to remember what their freedom is worth and that life is short, so live it with no regrets.”

Army Spc. Adrian G. Mills was killed in action on 9/29/11.

Marine Lance Cpl. John R. Wimpey Cagle

2011-09-28T16:25:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Marine Lance Cpl. John R. Wimpey Cagle, 19, of Tucker, Ga.

LCpl Cagle was assigned to 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died Sept. 28, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while supporting combat operations.

Lcpl Cagle graduated from Chamblee Charter High School in 2010 where he participated in JROTC. He joined the Marines June 2010 just after he graduated. He was promoted to lance corporal in March.

As a child, Cagle was full of energy and extremely loyal, his former youth pastor said Friday. That fierce loyalty to family and friends made him an ideal candidate for the Marines.

Adam Barker, who served as Cagle's youth pastor for several years at Pleasantdale Church of God, said as a young boy Cagle had a unique personality that set him apart.

"He was a very excited child," Barker said. "He had a lot of energy and was extremely loyal to other kids."

"No matter what you did, it never got him down," Barker said. "He always was in a good mood. Always encouraging.”

Sometimes, Cagle's energy was hard to contain, Barker said, remembering a time when he told a rambunctious Cagle to sit in the hall so he wouldn't cause a disruption to the youth group.

Cagle followed the order, but stood outside the door and peered through the window. When the youth group sang a song, complete with hand motions, Cagle followed along. Through the glass, Barker watched Cagle singing and moving his arms, not letting his punishment stop him.

Longtime neighbor, Gilbert Archuleta, "I didn't expect it to hit me so hard, I was in tears myself," Archuleta said. "I couldn't even begin to imagine the loss."

Lcpl Cagle's awards and decorations include:
National Defense Service Medal
Afganistan Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal

Marine Lance Cpl. John R. Wimpey Cagle was killed in action on 9/28/11.

Marine Capt. Ryan K. Iannelli

2011-09-28T16:14:00.001-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Marine Capt. Ryan K. Iannelli, 27, of Clarksboro, N.J.

Capt. Iannelli was assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269, Marine Air Group 29, 2nd Marine Air Wing, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C.; died Sept. 28, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while conducting combat operations.

Capt Iannelli, an AH-1W Super Cobra pilot, graduated from Kingsway Regional High School in 2002, where he was in the National Honor Society and was caption of the baseball team and played the positions of centerfield and second base. He graduated from Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Okla., where he also played ball. He earned a degree in public relations and advertising. He also received an MBA from Felician College in Lodi.

A lifelong Philadelphia Phillies fan, Iannelli coached an American Legion baseball team in Williamstown as recently as 2007, but by 2009 had joined the Marine Corps.

Coach Jim Ambrosius said Iannelli served as team captain for two years. “I never saw any reluctance or fear in him,” the coach said. “He was just a person of tremendous character.

“The most touching thing about him was that when he put his mind to something, it was total commitment,” Ambrosius continued. “Ryan was the ultimate achiever.”

“He loved baseball, but he always said if things didn’t work out on the baseball field, he’d follow in his grandfather’s footsteps and join the military. He knew the risks, but he had such a love of his family and a love of his country. He had a very deep belief in God. Ryan and his whole family are very spiritual, " Ambrosius said.

“Anyone who came across Ryan knew what a special kid he was,” he said. “He was a special kid who turned into a special man.

“When you enter the field of teaching and coaching,” Ambrosius said, “you think of what you can impart on the kids you work with, but you get to a point at which you’re learning from one of them.”

Oral Roberts University baseball coach Rob Walton, a fellow Jersey native, said, “We both missed the food. We were always looking for a place to get a good (pizza) pie,” Walton said. The two eventually did find a place to get some good New York style pizza, and the would make weekly trips to get a fix.

When Walton got sick and had to be taken from baseball practice to the hospital where he eventually had his gallbladder removed, Iannelli decided to do something special for his coach.

“After a few hours he swings by and he has a slice of pizza from the pizza shop,” Walton said. “In a nutshell that’s the kind of guy he was and the relationship we had. I’ll never forget him walking into the hospital with that slice of pizza, it was hilarious.”

Walton plans on memorializing his former player by dedicating the Oral Roberts’ baseball team’s season to him and his family — and the team will wear his number on their jerseys — because although Iannelli didn’t get a lot of playing time at the school, he still had a major impact on his team.

“The guys gravitated to him a bit,” Walton said. “Even tough he wasn’t a major role player on the team, he was an emotional role player for the guys on the team.”
.
Mary Foster, his third grade teacher, remembers the young boy that she taught and how he was always very focused.

“I just remember this little boy with dark, dark hair and a very determined look on his face, always doing his work, hand raised, asking questions if he wasn’t sure, but otherwise very quiet,” she said. “I am just sad beyond words.”

Another teacher at the school, Cindy Morris, said, “I don’t think anybody could have ever said a mean thing about him,” she said. “He was the kind of student you want your kid to be.”

“Whether you knew him for five minutes or five years, he impacted you in a positive way,” said Capt. Scott Neidecker, a Super Cobra pilot with the squadron. “He was the kind of guy who would do anything for anyone.”

Neidecker said he had known Iannelli since they met at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla., for flight school.

“We worked in [operations], writing the schedule together,” Neidecker said. “After I checked in with the squadron, he came out here, too, and we still wrote the schedule together. We were really good friends. He was my best friend here.”

Days before Iannelli’s death, Col. Ben Hancock, the assistant wing commander for 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), traveled to Camp Dwyer to fly with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269. There he met the young captain. Hancock flew a mission that Iannelli had been slated to go on.

“Here comes this old colonel, taking his flight time,” Hancock said. “A lot of guys would have been upset, but he was very gracious, very sharp, very motivated and very helpful.”

Hancock said Iannelli lent him his helmet, his flight vest, his supply of cold water and even his rifle.

“We all know that this is a part of our profession, we all understand there’s an element of potential risk and sacrifice,” said Hancock. “We’re all hopeful that we will grow old and be alive and well, but we all know there are a lot of very great young Marines and exceptional people who die in the line of duty.”

Capt Iannelli was laid to rest at Gloucester County Veterans memorial Cemetery in Williamstown, New Jersey.

Capt Iannelli is survived by his parents, Donna and Kenneth; sister, Amanda.

Marine Capt. Ryan K. Iannelli was killed in action on 9/28/11.

Army 1st Sgt. Billy J. Siercks

2011-09-28T15:54:00.001-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army 1st Sgt. Billy J. Siercks, 32, of Velda Village, Mo.

Sgt Siercks was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 10th Aviation Regiment, 10th Combat Aviation Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y., died Sept. 28, 2011 in Landstuhl, Germany, of wounds suffered Sept. 27 in Logar, Afghanistan when insurgents attacked his unit using indirect fire.

Sgt Siercks suffered severe injuries from shrapnel to the back of the neck, head and spine. Tests confirmed that he was no longer with us on Wednesday, September 28th. All five soldiers stayed at his side every chance they got until his family arrived in Germany on Thursday. He was taken off life support on Friday.

The DOD gave his hometown in St. Louis County, but his mother said he was born and raised in Lincoln, MO.

Sgt Siercks graduated from Lincoln High School in 1997. He enlisted in the Army his senior year in May, just before he graduated.

He's been deployed to Bosnia, Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan. He deployed to Afghanistan again in October 2010. He was due to come home in a few weeks.

"He loved the camaraderie and the closeness of the guys. They loved him and he love them to death," Toni Siercks said. "He believed in what he was doing."

Parents were told that when the missiles were coming in, Siercks was trying to round up the other soldiers and herd them into a bunker.

Mother Toni, said some of his friends in the military grew up in rough environments and didn't come from strong families like her son did, his mother said. "He wanted to be their protector and their leader."

Ultimately, his plans were to return to Lincoln, Mo., open a small business and build a home on the family farm, his mother said.

Sgt Siercks' awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star (2)
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal (2)
Army Achievement Medal (3)
Meritorious Unit Commendation
Army Good Conduct Medal (4)
Kosovo Campaign Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal (2)
Iraqi Campaign Medal
Global War on Terriorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terriorism Service Medal
Non Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbons (2)
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbons (2)
NATO Medals (3)
Drill Sergeant Identifiction Badge
Ranger Tab
Combat Infantryman Badge
Expert Infantryman Badge
Pathfinder Badge
Parachutist Badge
Senior Parachutist Badge

October 15, 2011
You will be missed my friend. You were a great friend and mentor. I am proud to have known you and learned from you. Your a true hero. My sympathies go out to the Siercks family, I am very sorry for your loss. Billy was a great American and his passing is truly a loss for us all.~ John Hawes, New York

Billy Siercks, my brother you will truly be missed. I am honored to have served with you on three different deployments. Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan. You are a true leader and a awesome friend.~Adones Flores

Sgt Siercks will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery on November 10.

Sgt Siercks is survived by his parents, Toni and Joe; wife, Georganne and their sons ages 3 and 7.

Army 1st Sgt. Billy J. Siercks was killed in action on 9/28/11.

Army Spc. James A. Butz

2011-09-28T15:46:00.001-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. James A. Butz, 21, of Porter, Ind.

Spc Butz was assigned to 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C., died Sept. 28, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, of injuries caused by an improvised explosive device.

Spc Butz, a combat medic, was killed by an improvised explosive device when running to assist two wounded servicemen, who also died in the attack.

Spc Butz graduated from Cherstefield High School in 2009 where he played football and wrestled. He was certified national firefighter and was a Porter Fire Dept. cadet. He joined the Army in 2009. He deployed to Afghanistan in June. This was his first deployment.

Adjutant Gen. Marty Umbarger called Butz a true American hero and told his parents, John and Mary Jane, and brothers John and Will, "You should be very proud of your son and brother."

"Medics are an interesting breed," Chaplain David Meyer, of the 3rd Brigade combat team of the 82nd Airborne, said during a graveside service at Chesterton Cemetery.

"(Medics) are guys who are designed, trained, wired to help others," Meyer said. "They don't focus on their own safety. There is no higher commendation for a medic than he gave his life helping others."

Chris Richardson, freshman football coach for Chesterton said, "Jim was an energetic young man who worked really hard, was always punctual and made everyone around him a better person because of his work ethic."

"Jim is a man who raced to save two others," said Rev. Jane Aicher during the sermon. "Jim ran the race of a hero. Jim's race has been run, and Jesus met him at the finish line."

"Jim knew his reason for being, and he acted on it," Aicher said.

In their last conversation two weeks prior to his son being killed, Jim told his father, "Dad, I really, really love what I'm doing."

"He was a great kid," his father said. "He had a wonderful personality. He was strong. He was bright. He had a gift of gab. He was a born leader."

"I think we knew the possibility existed. We knew for the past two years he could be deployed," he said. "It's a tragedy, but he died doing what he liked. He'll always be my hero."

Members of Chesterton High's football team wore their jerseys and lined up along the procession route with their coaches to support the former Trojan player when he was brought home for burial.

Spc Butz's awards and decorations include:
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Action Badge

Spc Butz was laid to rest on October 11 at Chesterton Cemetery.

He is survived by his parents, Mary Jane and John; brothers, William and John; grandparents, John Butz and James and Elizabeth Frommer.

Army Spc. James A. Butz was killed in action on 9/28/11.

Marine Staff Sgt. Christopher Diaz

2011-09-28T14:20:00.001-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Marine Staff Sgt. Christopher Diaz, 27, of Albuquerque, N.M.

SSgt Diaz was assigned to Headquarters Battalion, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., died Sept. 28, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan while conducting combat operations.

SSgt Diaz graduated from La Cueva High school where he was in ROTC.

SSgt Diaz joined the Marines eight years ago. His family has a long history of military service. Diaz’s father and grandfather are both Marine veterans. His second brother is also currently serving.

Sgt. Diaz deployed to Afghanistan in May. He was one of the most experienced dog handlers in the Marine Corps.

Friends and family said Sgt. Diaz was always upbeat, and always up for adventures, ready to see the positive side of things.

Diaz's younger brother, Jeromie, said his family was touched by the community's support.

"It shows he is loved and how strong that service bond is with military members," Jeromie Diaz said. "It touches your heart to see this.

"I expected people to be here, but to see all the extra people show up and make signs saying they love my brother, that was overwhelming."

"He was an amazing person, just an all-around great guy. He could get along with anybody. He walked in the door and he would make you smile."

"He was the top dog. Once he got out of Afghanistan, he was going to go to San Diego to be a drill instructor for K-9 handlers."

Jaime Rosales, a friend of the family, said Diaz's dog, Dino, survived the explosion that killed both Marines.

"Mr. (Salvador) Diaz wants to adopt the dog," Rosales said. "That dog was with Christopher when he died."

Sgt Diaz's awards and decorations include:
Combat Action Ribbon
Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal
Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon
Iraq Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation
Certificate of Commendation (Individual Award)
Letter of Appreciation

Marine Staff Sgt. Christopher Diaz, assigned to a battalion from Twentynine Palms, was one of the most experienced dog-handlers in the Marine Corps.

Marine dogs do a variety of high-risk combat chores: sniffing out weapons and drugs and helping in the take-down of suspects. The bond between dog and handler is exceptional, each trusting his life to the other.

When the 27-year-old Diaz, a third-generation Marine, deployed to Afghanistan, he was selected to support reconnaissance and special forces units on raids to kill or capture Taliban leaders in their Helmand province stronghold.

He was killed last week on one such raid -- mortally wounded while rushing to help a wounded Marine.

Over the weekend, the many Marines who respected Diaz gathered at Camp Leatherneck, the Marines' headquarters in Helmand province, to honor his memory and mourn his loss.

And in the front row, in a place of honor, was Dino, Diaz's working dog, maintaining a disciplined posture but seemingly unable to look at the large picture of Diaz at the front of the makeshift chapel.

-- Tony Perry in San Diego

Sgt Diaz was laid to rest at Fort Bliss National Cemetery .

He is survived by his mother, Sandra; father, Salvado; children Jeremy and Mia; brothers, Raynaldo and Jeromie; and fiancee, Tonya.

Marine Staff Sgt. Christopher Diaz was killed in action on 9/28/11.

Marine Staff Sgt. Nicholas A. Sprovtsoff

2011-09-28T14:15:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Marine Staff Sgt. Nicholas A. Sprovtsoff, 28, of Davison, Mich.

SSgt Sprovtsoff was assigned to 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, Camp Pendleton, Calif., died Sept. 28, 211 in Helmand province, Afghanistan while conducting combat operations.

SSgt Sprovtsoff graduated from Davison High School in 2001 and joined the Marines. He attended the Amphibious Assault Vehicle Crewman School at Camp Pendleton in 2002 and served his first six years as an AAV crew man. In November 2008, he joined MARSOC as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician.

Former high school tennis coach, Walt White, said Nicholas always talked about being a Marine. “It doesn’t surprise me that he died in honor because he was such a wonderful human being. He was a great kid.”

Chidhood friend, Bill Tenny, “Nick never cared much for academics, but he was a hard worker,” said Tenny. “He had his own snow removal business when he was still in high school and also spent some time working for a roofing company.

Tenny said Nick decided to become a Marine in high school. “Nick entertained the idea of becoming a Marine and looking back, it fit him perfectly. Even at a young age he exemplified many of the qualities of a Marine”.

SSgt Sprovtsoff's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star with combat V
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal
Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medal with combat V
Army Achievement Medals (2)
Combat Action Ribbons (2)
Good Conduct Medals (2)

SSgt Sprovtsoff was laid to rest on October 6 in Arlington National Cemetery.

He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Sandra and Mark; father, Jack; wife, Tasha, their daughter, Lanie and another child due in November; and his sister, Jessica.

Marine was dedicated to serving the military
The Associated Press

DAVISON, Mich. — A Marine from Michigan who was killed during combat operations in Afghanistan had a dedication to the military that went back to when he was a high school student, a former coach said.

Staff Sgt. Nicholas Sprovtsoff, 28, of Davison died Sept. 28 in Helmand province along with Sgt. Christopher Diaz, 27, of Albuquerque, N.M., the Defense Department said. He was assigned to the 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, out of Camp Pendleton, Calif.

Sprovtsoff graduated in 2001 from Davison High School, about 50 miles north of Detroit. His former high school tennis coach at the school, Walt White told, The Flint Journal that Sprovtsoff always talked about wanting to be a Marine.

“It doesn’t surprise me that he died in honor because he was such a wonderful human being,” White said. “He was a great kid.”

Sprovtsoff, a 10-year veteran of the Marines, is survived by his wife, Tasha, and a daughter, Lanie, who live near where he was stationed, the military said.

Sprovtsoff, who most recently served as an explosive ordnance disposal technician, completed his Marine basic training following his graduation from high school.

His mother, Sandee, told the newspaper in 2003 that she was impressed with her son’s commitment.

“That’s a lot for a 19-year-old,” she said at the time. “He thought he was doing the right thing and he’s really committed to his nation and the people who have trained him — we’re behind him 100 percent.”

Sprovtsoff had been deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan as well as Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Marine Staff Sgt. Nicholas A. Sprovtsoff was killed in action on 9/28/11.

Army Pfc. David A. Drake

2011-09-28T14:08:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Pfc. David A. Drake, 21, of Lumberton, Texas

Pfc. Drake was assigned to 5th Engineer Battalion, 4th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.; died Sept. 28, 2011 in Ghazni province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

Pfc Drake graduated Lumberton High School in 2008. After graduation, he attended Lamar Institute of Technology, receiving his certificate for Fire Protection Technology.

He loved football and was a volunteer firefighter before joining the Army in January 2011. He graduated Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training as part of Company C, 31st Engineer Battalion and graduated in May before moving to the 5th Engineer Battalion to serve as a combat engineer in the 515th Sapper Company in June. He deployed to Afghanistan in July.

Pfc. Drake had only been in the Army for eight months. He was killed nine days before his 22nd birthday.

Brother, William, who was also serving in the Army , had been home on leave when he heard the devastating news, an IED over 200 lbs. had killed his brother and two others.

"Got a call saying there was two people in military uniforms. I rushed to the house. I kinda knew. It really didn't sink in till they actually told me the new," he said.

"I believe he was doing what he wanted to do. For him it was pride serving our country. Serving the people. Keeping our freedom," said William.

Mother, Tommye Clark-Rivers, "He was fun. He was my serious child but he was fun-loving. He was a good boy. Just somebody you'd be proud of. Since he was in grade school or junior high, he wanted to be in the military and then be a cop."

"Means a lot for us to be out here," said 1st Lt. Aaron Peterson. "Obviously want to honor one of our fallen brothers."

"It's...hard to see the family and how they're hurting. But he was proud to serve his country and we are proud to serve our country," said Peterson.

"I really felt like I needed to come and respect him and show him how much I loved him," said longtime friend Courtney Northcutt. She graduated with Drake from Lumberton High School in 2008. She says he'd be thankful for all the community support.

"He would be overjoyed. He was a very loving person and everyone loved him that knew him. He was a really great person."

"It is probably the most support I've seen anywhere I've been. So this is, it's really nice to see everyone come out to support him and his family," said Peterson.

"On that fateful day, David lost his life for us," said Maj. Gen. David Rubenstein at the funeral.

"He was a son, a brother, a brave hero who lost his life for our country and our way of life. Our fond memories and heartfelt words of sympathy never fully relieve the grief of your loss of David."

Friend, Betty Pender Oliver, said he was a, "Wonderful, wonderful person. He put anybody before himself. He believed and wanted to do something with his life. Just making this world a better place the best way he could."

Pfc Drakes's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star Medal
Purple Heart
National Defense Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Action Badge

Pfc Drake was laid to rest on October 11 at Forest Lawn Memorial Park

Pfc Drake is survived by his mother and step-father, Tommye Ann and Steve; father, David; brother, PFC William Terence; sister, Tori; grandparents, Sissy and Herbert Clark.

Army Pfc. David A. Drake was killed in action on 9/28/11.

Army Spc. Steven E. Gutowski

2011-09-28T10:06:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Steven E. Gutowski, 24, of Plymouth, Mass.

Spc Gutowski was assigned to 5th Engineer Battalion, 4th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.; died Sept. 28, 2011 in Ghazni province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

Spc Gutowski graduated from Plymouth North High School in 2005, where he played several sports including football and track. He attended Cape Cod Community College before deciding to join the US Army in December 2008.

He was the middle child of three children, with two sisters. His mother, Joan, said she would always joke that he was her favorite son.

“We actually put that in his yearbook,” she said, recalling the woman’s reaction before she explained that he was her only son.

Deployed since February, Spc Gutowski had recently made a trip home on leave in August for his sister’s wedding, after another soldier switched leaves with him, mother Joan said.

“He lived for his family,” his mother said. “He couldn’t wait to come home and just sit and be with us.”

Uncle, Bob Gutowski, said his nephew had survived two other explosions near his vehicle while in Afghanistan. He described his nephew as a "guy who loved life and always stood up for what's right."

Sister, Cheryl, 27, said her brother was looking forward to coming home and was starting to seriously consider becoming a police officer. He was looking into taking the Civil Service exams upon his return to the US next spring. But if that did not work out, he wanted to return to working with youth, as he did for the recreation center in Plymouth prior to leaving for Afghanistan.

“Everybody is seriously feeling a hole in their soul with this loss, nobody can believe it,” said Cheryl.

Sister Cheryl’s mother in-law, Pamela Chamallas, said, “He was a sincere young man, full of energy. I really think that at 24, he had his idea of where he wanted to go in life. He was full of energy and ideas. It was exciting to see him mature. I think the service had really done good things for him.”

“Before he went into the Army, he was doing a lot of soul searching. The Army really seemed to help him," she said.

Spc Gutowski's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star Medal
Purple Heart
National Defense Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Action Badge

Spc Gutowski is survived by parents, Joan and Edward; and sisters, Cheryl and Karen.

Army Spc. Steven E. Gutowski was killed in action on 9/28/11.

Army 1st Lt. Ivan D. Lechowich

2011-09-28T09:39:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army 1st Lt. Ivan D. Lechowich, 27, of Valrico, Fla.

Lt. Lechowich was assigned to 5th Engineer Battalion, 4th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.; died Sept. 28, 2011 in Ghazni province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by an improvised explosive device.

Lt Lechowich graduated from King High School in 2002 where he played baritone saxophone in the band. He attended the University of Florida where he majored in history. He thought about becoming a lawyer.

Lt Lechowich enlisted in the Army in July of 2009. He entered officer candidate school and was commissioned at Fort Benning, Ga., in January 2010. After completing Engineer Basic Officer Leadership Course at Fort Leonard Wood, he was assigned to 554th Engineer Battalion Sapper Leader Course as the company executive officer. In December 2010, he was assigned to the 5th Engineer Battalion. He deployed to Afghanistan in April of 2011.

Lt Lechowich was killed one week after he witnessed his daughter's birth on Skype. If Natalie Marie had come into the world on her due date, her father would have never seen her face.

"It's a beautiful thing, it's a sad thing," said the Rev. Bill Swengros of St. Stephen Catholic Church in Valrico, where the couple was married last November.
He had been scheduled to soon christen their daughter.

"He had a great sense of humor and was very mature for his age," said Swengros. "He was smart and funny, a family man and a patriot. This is just very, very sad, an unbelievable tragedy."

"He described himself to me as being a class clown," Swengros said. "I just saw it more as an easy-going personality, not uptight. I saw him as a very gentle, very intelligent person. Somebody who really loved serving his country. He had his head on straight."

Younger sister, Erika said their father, Richard, is a retired lieutenant colonel and that the family wasn't surprised when Ivan decided to join the Army two years ago.

"He was all about it," Erika said. "He really enjoyed what he did. He was excited about the opportunity to be deployed."

Wife, Jennifer, met Ivan while working at Papa John's when he took a job there after college. She remembers a charming co-worker who finally talked her into having a drink with him. She said she loved him ever since.

"He's, like, invincible," said Jen. "You can't get Ivan down. He was what you want to be. He's just unstoppable. He could do anything he wanted to do."

After her husband was deployed, a pregnant Jen moved back to Valrico to stay with his parents. She said she and Ivan had made plans. One more baby, maybe two. See where the Army would take them. Meet new people. Live in places she had only read about. Then come home to Florida. "We loved the life," she said.

Jen said the last time she and her father-in-law got on the computer with Ivan, he didn't have much time to talk. He was packing up. He had to go out on a mission. They hung up, but she knew he would call when he got back.

Lt Lechowich's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star
Purple Heart
National Defense Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Action Badge
Sapper Tab (engineer equivalent to the Ranger Tab)

Lt Lechowich is survived by his parents, Richard and Gina; wife, Jennifer and their newborn daughter, Natalie Marie; and sister, Erika.

Army 1st Lt. Ivan D. Lechowich was killed in action on 9/28/11.

Army Spc. Garrett A. Fant

2011-09-26T16:34:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Garrett A. Fant, 21, of American Canyon, Calif.

Spc. Fant was assigned to 4th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died Sept. 26, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by an improvised explosive device.

Spc Fant graduated from South Tahoe High School in 2008. He joined the Army in March 2009 and served as an indirect fire infantryman. This was his first deployment.

He first came to live in American Canyon when he was 2 years old, said grandfather, Robert Fant. He alternated living with his father and mother.

“He was proud of his uniform. He was dedicated,” his grandfather said.

“He was a very deep thinker, very mature for his age,” said Maria Cisneros, principal of Valley Oaks High School. “He was a very serious young man, a stand-up young man. He was quite the intellectual. He stayed after school to talk to teachers. He was passionate about serving his country.”

Spc Fant had come home in June for a few days on his 21st birthday.

Mother, Julia, says her son had hoped to teach history at his high school in South Lake Tahoe after completing his service.

She said her son Fant would always try to call her whenever there was news of U.S. casualties in Afghanistan. He wanted to reassure her that he would be fine and reduce her stress.

Spc Fant’s awards and decorations include:
Combat Infantryman’s Badge
NATO Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal with one Campaign Star
Army Service Ribbon

Spc Fant was laid to rest on October 7 at Happy Homestead Cemetery in South Lake Tahoe, CA.

Spc Fant is survived by his mother, Julia; father, John; sister, Shawna and brother, Ricky, who is stationed in San Diego.

Army Spc. Garrett A. Fant was killed in action on 9/26/11.

Army 1st Lt. Andres Zermeno

2011-09-25T16:38:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army 1st Lt. Andres Zermeno, 26, of San Antonio

1st Lt Zermeno was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Polk, La.; died Sept. 25, 2011 in Wardak province, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by a rocket-propelled grenade.

Lt Zermeno was born in Brownsville, TX and moved to San Antonio to attend university. He loved music and taught himself to play guitar.

He graduated from St. Mary's University with a degree in psychology. He was active in the ROTC and campus ministry. He met his wife Rachel while attending the university.

Lt Zermeno served in the National Guard while attending St Mary's and was commissioned into the Army upon graduation. This was his first deployment. He had been in Afghanistan for 11 months and was due home in about a month.

“His love for his wife Rachel was shown daily by the way he looked at his wedding ring, the way he talked about her and the way he talked with her on the phone,” said Army 1st Lt. Chad Presser in a message from Zermeño's unit in Afghanistan. “Not a day went by that he didn't brag or have a story about what his kids were doing back home."

Zermeño, known as “Z” and “Andy,” was remembered as an inspiration and “a gift to us” by university chaplain Charles “Kip” Stander, who co-officiated at the bilingual services with the deceased's brother Joaquin Zermeño, pastor of St. John the Baptist Church in San Juan.

A message from Army 1st Lt. Peter Houhoulis in Iraq said, “You were one of the best leaders I have ever seen,” he wrote. “You earned the respect of your peers and subordinates by your willingness to take on the tough jobs and see them through.”

1st Army Lt. Stephen Moreno recalled Zermeño as a mentor and caring friend who helped him survive rigorous ROTC training.
“His sense of humor and down-to-earth mentality always kept the mood positive,” Moreno said.

Lt Zermeno's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Stars (2)
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Action Badge

Lt Zermeno was laid to rest on October 8th at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

Lt Zermeno is survived by parents, Dolores and Juan; wife, Rachel and their children, 3-year-old Steven and 20 month-old, Madeline; sister, Isabel and brothers, Juan, Joaquin and Adrian.

Army 1st Lt. Andres Zermeno was killed in action on 9/25/11.

Army Spc. Francisco Briseno-Alvarez

2011-09-25T16:07:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Francisco Briseno-Alvarez, 27, of Oklahoma City, Okla.

Spc. Briseno-Alvarez was assigned to 1st Battalion, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Brigade Combat Team, Oklahoma National Guard, Stillwater, Okla. died Sept. 25, 2011 in Laghman province, Afghanistan, of injuries caused by an improvise dexplosive device.

Sgt Briseno-Alvarez graduated from U.S. Grant High School in 2003. He joined the Army National Guard on Sept. 11, 2010, and served as a truck driver.

Major General Myles Deering, from the Oklahoma Army National Guard, said, “My thoughts and prayers are with the Briseno-Alvarez family and those of our wounded heroes. Spc. Briseno-Alvarez answered the call to serve this great Nation and help defend it. His loyalty and ultimate sacrifice for the sake of our Country will never be forgotten.”

Briseno-Alvarez's cousin Juan Cerano said that "he died doing the right thing. He died serving and protecting his country."

"He was like the brother I never had," Cerano said. "I'm really going to miss him. I only have four sisters. I don't have an actual brother, so it's hard to lose somebody like that. There's always going to be part of him in our hearts," Cerano said.

Another cousin, Sarai Cerano, said she remembers him as "always smiling."

"He could lighten up a room," she said, describing him as "just the sweetest, most caring guy ever."

His death is "devastating for our family," she said.

Sarai said her cousin had worked as a delivery driver for a soda company before he was deployed to Afghanistan.

The last time Sarai saw her cousin was when he was in town for a week in the summer.

“He was a bundle of sunshine in every person's path that he crossed. He just had a fire that could ignite anyone's world,” she said.

Briseno-Alvarez is survived by his father, Javier Briseno; his mother, Lurdes Alvarez; a brother, Adrian and sister, Diana.

Army Spc. Francisco Briseno-Alvarez was killed in action on 9/25/11.

Marine Lance Cpl. Franklin N. Watson

2011-09-24T16:29:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Marine Lance Cpl. Franklin N. Watson, 21, of Vonore, Tenn.

LCpl Watson was assigned to 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, Knoxville, Tenn.; died Sept. 24, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while conducting combat operations.

Lance Cpl Franklin N. Watson dreamed of one day guarding the President of the United States. He believed that his excelling in the Marine Corps would assist him in achieving that goal.

Lcpl Watson graduated from Swquoyah High School in 2008 where he played football. He was employed at the Madisonville Police Department. His law enforcement career began as a part time deputy with the Monroe County Sheriff's Department. He joined the Marines in 2010.

Madison Police Chief Gregg Breeden, "Frankie was too young to die. He had a lot of life to live and a lot of good things to do, but in his time he was just inspirational as far as his attitude and outlook towards life. I think that's somethingthat will carry on."

Sheriff Bill Bivens, "We've got sadness in our heart. We will miss him. Our department will miss him. I've seen a lot of teary eyes and a lot of folks calling me over the weekend. It's just bad, and we hate to see this happen."

Family friend, Lowell Russel said a competitive drive prompted Watson to join the Marines. When Russel asked why he chose the Marine Corps, Watson answered, "I wanted to go through the hardest one I could get in."

Cousin, Miriam Watson wrote the following, which the family asked the news media to print:

It takes a real man to do what you've done. You've not only inspired your friends and family, but the world. You showed them that you're brave enough, to risk your own life, to give us freedom. You were our hero before you left, and you still will be. You mean everything in this world to us, and you'll be missed so much. That great personality of yours, that beautiful smile; everything. You were pretty much my brother! You're truly a great young man, who had a brave heart. You stand out, over so many people in this world, Frankie. You had a wonderful heart, and put it to great use! Some people come into our lives and leave footprints in our hearts and we are never ever the same again. You left footprints in my heart, that will always be there. You're in a much better place that this, and with a man who is gonna make everything better for you. I know you wouldn't wanna see me with tears streaming down my face, so I may cry, but I'm gonna keep smiling because that's what you would want, and I'm gonna do exactly what you would hope for, no matter how sad I am, or how much I cry. Although this is my "goodbye" letter, goodbyes are not forever. Goodbyes are not the end. They simply mean I'll miss you, until we meet again! So, when God is ready for me to see you again, I'll be ready. I love you more than anything in this world, Frankie, and you will be missed!

Lcpl Watson was laid to rest on September 3 at Hiwassee Church of God Cemetery in Madisonville.

He is survived by his mother and step-father, Stacy and Jack; father and step-mother, Troy N., Jr. and Katie Watson; grandparents, Troy N., Sr. and Edith Watson.

Marine Lance Cpl. Franklin N. Watson was killed in action on 9/24/11.

Army Pfc. Carlos A. Aparicio

2011-09-23T13:56:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Pfc. Carlos A. Aparicio, 19, of San Bernadino, Calif.;

Pfc Aparicio was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Polk, La.; died Sept. 23, 2011 in Wardak province of injuries caused by an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Sgt. Rafael E. Bigai Baez.

SAN BERNARDINO - Army Pfc. Carlos Aparicio will keep a promise he made to his mom in the weeks leading up to his return from Afghanistan.

Giving into the gentle nudges of Connie Aparicio, the 19-year-old infantryman in his last email to her said he would wear the more formal Army service uniform in which she always wanted to see him.

"He said mom, when I come home, I'm going to be in my dress uniform," Connie Aparicio said. "Make sure you have a camera ready because that's the last time you're going to see me in that uniform."

Known for his piercing brown eyes, softened by a warm smile and the dimples his mother gave him, Carlos Aparicio will come home Wednesday. The youngest of three children, he was killed Sept. 23 in Wardak province. His body will arrive at L.A./Ontario International Airport.

"It's the first time we're going to be able to see him," Connie Aparicio said. "Really see him."

Born to Connie and Hugo Aparicio, Carlos Aparicio was the little brother of Miguel Aparicio, 28, and Maricela Aparicio, 26.

He was marked out at an early age as a high achiever who could accomplish whatever he wanted in life.

His family recalled how, at the age of two, Carlos Aparicio grabbed a pen and tried as hard as he could to help his big sister with homework.

They cherish a report card from Redlands East Valley High School that their youngest boy filled with A's.

But Carlos Aparicio was not an introverted bookworm.

Looking over photos of her son Tuesday night, Connie Aparicio said: "He was a ham. He loved the camera."

Indeed, one could see the soldier mugging for the camera in several photographs - many times posing like a statue gazing off in the distance, his jaw firm, his stout frame thick with young man's muscle.

And he was a jokester too.

Asked if he was taller than his older siblings, they both yelled "Yes!"

He often reminded them of his stature.

"He was always joshing with me, telling me, `How you doing, little brother?"' Miguel Aparicio said.

Carlos Aparicio also excelled as an athlete at Fontana High School, and at Redlands East Valley, where he graduated in 2010.

Upon hearing the news of his death, emails poured into the Aparicio family, including those from coaches at both schools who lauded him as a wrestler, and more so as a young man.

"I felt like I was punched in the chest when I heard the news of his death," wrote Elliott Anderson, a wrestling coach at Redlands East Valley.

It was in his senior year that Carlos Aparicio committed himself to a military life. He wanted combat experience, saying it would make him a better officer, and then he considered a career in law enforcement after the Army.

"He always said `This is what I want..."' Connie Aparicio said. "He knew what he wanted."

He enlisted out of high school in June last year.

Carlos Aparicio was an infantryman with the 2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Polk, La., according to the Fort Drum Public Affairs Office in New York.

After training at Fort Benning, Ga., he went to Fort Polk in January. He deployed to Afghanistan in February.

"From the moment he went over there, all we could do was just have that faith that God would bring him back alive, and if he didn't, we had 19 beautiful years with him," Connie Aparicio said.

It was a cool and overcast Saturday morning at 6 a.m. when a knock at the door stirred Connie Aparicio from her sleep.

She walked into the living room and looked out the window.

"As soon as I saw the two uniforms...I went hysterical," she said. "All I could say was `no, no, no' because I knew."

An Army chaplain and casualty assistance officer stood on the porch.

"It took me a little while to open the door," Connie Aparicio said.

Army Pfc. Carlos A. Aparicio was killed in action on 9/23/11.

Army Sgt. Andy Morales

2011-09-22T13:59:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Andy Morales, 32, of Longwood, Fla.

Sgt Morales was assigned to the 143rd Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), Orlando, Fla. He died Sept. 22, 2011 in Baghdad, Iraq.

The body of U.S. Army Sgt. Andy C. Morales was buried today after a funeral service at River of Life Church in Oviedo.

Morales was killed in Iraq Sept. 22, the 2-month-anniversary of the birth of his daughter.

The 32-year-old soldier, who was killed in Baghdad, was assigned to the 143rd Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) of Orlando and was serving in Operation New Dawn, according to the Department of Defense.

When Army officials delivered the news to his wife, Mariela Caraballo-Morales, she could hardly believe it, said sister-in-law Mercian Lesser said from her Sarasota home.

Just five months before, the best friends were married in a celebration that brought together a family that had seen its share of hardships. The young soldier spent just nine days with his newborn, Naiara Morales, before he was deployed, his wife said.

Morales was the second of five children born to a single mother from Puerto Rico who struggled to keep her family safe and secure in Brooklyn, N.Y., family members said.

The close-knit siblings — each born just a year apart — celebrated all their November birthdays together in one party more out of necessity than novelty. Their tightness kept each other out of trouble in the inner city despite the enormous obstacles they faced as a family, they said.

'We were always la familia," she said. "We had to stick together."

Sgt. Morales was the warrior of the clan, always fighting to protect his family and work toward their collective success, his brother and sisters said.

"We were always just skating by," Lesser said. "He always felt the need to fight for us."

He was also the family comic, transforming the most heartbreaking occasions into laughing marathons.

"Andy didn't believe in being angry. He hated it when people were angry with him," said older brother Robert Morales. "He loved seeing people smile, and that's probably the one thing I'm going to miss the most — his smile."

Morales recalled a time when his brother took off his shoes and walked home barefoot with a friend who had had his shoes stolen. "That's the kind of person Andy was," he said.

Younger sister Glorian Morales said her brother was not only her dance partner and a cheating board games opponent, but he also was the father figure of the dad she never had. He was everything to his little sisters, twins Mercian and Glorian, and the youngest Jeannie.

"I am angry at the world, at the military, at myself. I'm angry at the things we had to live through and the constant struggle we faced," she said. "Even though he's gone, we all have a part of him that comes out in us. Sometimes it's his funny jokes or his temper … He's a hero and an awesome brother."

Morales joined the Marines in 2002 but left as a sergeant after four years of active duty at bases in Japan and California.

The family drifted apart as they lived their lives separately in other states, but Sgt. Morales' near-fatal car accident in North Carolina in 2009 helped draw them back together, family said.

Through all of Morales' carefree adventures in life, his relationship with then-friend and now wife Mariela was constant. They kept in touch throughout the years and made their union official when he relocated to Central Florida where she lived.

After his wife became pregnant and several unsuccessful attempts to find work, he rejoined the military — this time with the Army in October 2010. They married April 25 during a small, intimate ceremony.

When his daughter was born, Andy Morales' world changed and he was determined to take care of her and his wife's 11-year-old daughter, Nyobi, said Robert Morales.

On the day he deployed, Glorian Morales said her brother promised to come back. In turn, she made a promise to take care of his family if anything happened.

She has vowed to keep her end of the bargain even if Sgt. Morales didn't, she said.

The family was told the 32-year-old soldier was on a mission when he was shot and killed, but the incident is under investigation, they said.

"Last thing he said was he couldn't wait to see his children," his wife, Mariela, said. "Let the world know he died for his children."

Army Sgt. Andy Morales was killed in action on 9/22/11.

Marine Lance Cpl. Terry C. Wright

2011-09-21T14:11:00.001-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Marine Lance Cpl. Terry C. Wright, 21, of Scio, Ohio

LCpl Wright was assigned to 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died Sept. 21, 2011 in Helmand province while supporting combat operations.

An investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Department of Defense into the death of Marine Lance Cpl. Terry C. Wright, 21, of the Scio area, who died Wednesday while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.

Wright was the son of Dawn Seabolt of the Scio area. He graduated in 2008 from Carrollton High School and Buckeye Career Center in New Philadelphia.

“The circumstances surrounding Lance Cpl. Wright’s death are still being determined,” 2nd Lt. D. Oliver David, public affairs officer for the 2nd Marine Division, said Friday night.

“His death occurred due to wounds sustained while conducting combat operations and in the course of duty. I can’t release specific information until the investigation is complete. At this point, there’s certainly no indication of friendly fire.

“It’s always unfortunate when we lose a member of our team and our family. We’re working to ensure that we are able to provide his family and his loved ones with the best care that we can.”

Wright joined the Marine Corps in July 2008 and was promoted to lance corporal in April 2009.

He deployed to Afghanistan in December 2009 for his first tour of duty, with his second tour beginning in July 2011.

“He always wanted to be in the military,” 1st Sgt. Lowell Hilty, Army instructor of the ROTC program at Carrollton High School, told The Times-Reporter.

“He was small in stature, like me, but that didn’t deter him from wanting to serve his country and be a Marine. He was probably about 5-foot-5 and 110 pounds. Size doesn’t matter when you want to serve your country.”

“He was always happy-go-lucky — it was a rare day when he was down in the dumps about anything,” Hilty said. “He enjoyed life and wanted to excel. The Marine Corps gave him that opportunity, and he excelled more so than many Americans ever get the opportunity to do. It’s young people like him who allow us to go to bed at night and sleep knowing we’re in good hands. I would tell him ‘thank you’ for serving our country and making the ultimate sacrifice.”

Hilty said that none of the current R.O.T.C. students were in high school with him, but “we’ll offer them the opportunity to go to the funeral as a group. We would assist the family in any way they ask. The whole family was in R.O.T.C., which is kind of neat.”

Wright’s family “is very patriotic,” Hilty said, adding that an older sister served in the Army and an older brother, Adam, is currently serving in the Marine Corps.

“It makes for a somber day,” James “Bucky” Myers of Uhrichsville said after he received a phone message about Wright’s death.

Myers is an instructor in the law enforcement and criminal justice program at Buckeye Career Center. Wright was a student there as a junior and senior in high school.

“I remember that he would accept any challenge that I gave him,” Myers said. “He would accept whatever came his way and never offered excuses.”

Myers said Wright’s “class was a rather small class, with maybe 10 to 12 in it. They were all close, almost like brothers and sisters.”

Buckeye Career Center Superintendent Roger Bond said the flag at the school will be lowered to half-staff when Wright’s body is returned to the area.

Wright’s awards include the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, and the NATO Medal for Afghanistan.

Carrollton High Principal Dave Davis remembered Wright as a freshman and sophomore.

“He was a real likable kid and all his teachers appreciated having him in class,” he said. “His friends could always count on him to be there for them. He had a goal and vision that he wanted to serve his country, wanted to be a Marine. We are all very proud of him. Obviously, we mourn his loss and pray for his family. His family has given a lot to everyone and given more now, for sure, with his loss.”

Marine Lance Cpl. Terry C. Wright was killed in action on 9/21/11.

Army Spc. Jakob J. Roelli

2011-09-21T08:03:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Jakob J. Roelli, 24, of Darlington, Wis.

Spc Roelli was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 34th Armor Regiment, 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died Sept. 21, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with small-arms fire.

It wasn't enough for Jakob Roelli to join the Army, putting college and dreams of law school on hold. He wanted to be in the Special Forces, whose members undergo the most grueling training and carry out some of the most dangerous missions.

"When Jake decided to join the Army, he fully embraced all aspects of what it meant to be a soldier," said his former girlfriend, Amy Siegenthaler, a UW-Madison senior. "His summer before basic training, you could find him running around Darlington in his Army boots and a backpack full of rocks or bricks.

"When he found out his scores were high enough for him to be in Special Forces, he was beyond happy. He wanted to be right in the middle of all the action. He was a fearless man who would take on any challenge."

Earlier this week, that dream ended when the 24-year-old Army specialist was killed in Afghanistan. His father and brother traveled Thursday to Dover Air Force Base to bring Roelli's remains home to Wisconsin. An Army spokeswoman said details of his death were not yet being released.

Jakob Roelli grew up on a farm outside of Darlington and graduated from Darlington High School in 2006. He played football, ran cross country, wrestled, was on the forensics team, acted in school plays and musicals, including Beauty and the Beast and The Sting, and enjoyed pastimes including sliding down the moss-covered dam at Ludden Lake in Mineral Point.

"He was a young man who was not afraid to try new things," Principal Doug McArthur

Family members were notified Wednesday that Army Spc. Jakob Roelli of Darlington, died while serving in Afghanistan. His father, Richard Roelli, told The Associated Press on Thursday that his 24-year-old son was “the best of the best” and was in the Army Special Forces for two years.

His uncle, Greg Roelli, said his nephew was a “fine young man” who was always there to lend a hand to his acquaintances.

His aunt, Kathy Roelli, said he grew up on a farm, graduated from Darlington High School in 2006 and attended the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh before joining the military. She said he was active in his Baptist church.

The Roelli family traveled Thursday to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware to receive his remains.

Darlington had not lost a resident in combat since the Vietnam War. His name is expected to be added to a new veterans memorial the town hopes to install by 2013.

“We've been very fortunate to avoid some of that grief but it fell on us yesterday,” Darlington High School Principal Doug McArthur told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Roelli was remembered at his school as someone who would try just about anything. He played football two years and was active in theater.

McArthur said Roelli sang and danced in “Beauty and the Beast” and starred in “The Sting,” acting the part played by Paul Newman in the film.

“He was a good singer, good actor, just a fun-loving kid,” McArthur said. “Obviously a person that wasn't afraid to try something new.”

The principal said Roelli studied business and pre-law at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh but joined the Army after a year of college.

“I believe his desire was to move up in ranking in the military and I heard he asked to be deployed to Afghanistan with the special forces,” McArthur said.

Army Spc. Jakob J. Roelli was killed in action on 9/21/11.

Army Spc. Robert E. Dyas

2011-09-21T08:01:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Robert E. Dyas, 21, of Nampa, Idaho

Spc Dyas was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 34th Armor Regiment, 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died Sept. 21, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with small-arms fire.

NAMPA — The parents of U.S. Army Spc. Robert E. Dyas announced Thursday that their son was killed in combat in Afghanistan.

The military had not confirmed the death, but Melissa and Jerry Nowland held a press conference in their Nampa front yard to notify the public. Other family members cried as they stood behind the couple in front of their modest home with a U.S. flag at half mast and a makeshift memorial with pictures of Dyas.

According to his family, Dyas died Wednesday from wounds in the abdomen received during a small arms fire fight in the Kandahar Province.

Melissa Nowland called Dyas, 21, a “true hero” who made the ultimate sacrifice for his country.

“He is a son, he is a friend and he is a brother,” she said, “and he is going to be so missed, so missed.”

Dyas was a fire support specialist in the 34th Regiment, 1st Brigade, out of Fort Riley, Kansas. Melissa said Dyas’s civilian job was eliminated before he enlisted.

“He didn’t want to just sit around and wait and look for jobs,” she said. “He thought he wanted the security of the military.”

Dyas planned to go back to school and learn a trade when he got out of the military, Jerry Nowland said. He liked to bird hunt with his stepfather and said considered hunting his lifetime training. Jerry said what Dyas learned hunting helped him in Afghanistan.

Dyas had recently purchased a 1966 Pontiac LeMans, like the one his step father owns, on eBay. He told Jerry that the two could cruise together in their classic cars.

“That car’s going to be so special to us,” Jerry said.

Jerry also expressed his opinion that the soldiers still in Afghanistan should come home.

“We need to bring them home,” he said. “Nobody needs to feel this kind of pain.”

Melissa planned to travel to Dover, Del., Thursday for the return of Dyas’s remains.

Family members said they plan to set up foundation representing Dyas.

Army Spc. Robert E. Dyas was killed in action on 9/21/11.

Army Sgt. Timothy D. Sayne

2011-09-18T11:57:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Timothy D. Sayne, 31, of Reno, Nev.

Sgt Sayne was assigned to 5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died Sept. 18, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

Sgt Sayne was killed by an improvised explosive device while on a dismounted patrol in the district of Shah Wali in Afghanistan, where he had been deployed since April to train Afghanistan Army personnel and police.

Sgt Sayne was born in Kentucky. At some point, family moved to Illinois where he graduated from Effingham High School. He joined the Army in February 2008, reporting to Fort Wainwright six months later in August.

This was Sgt Sayne's second deployment, having previously been deployed to Iraq for 12 months in September 2008.

“It’s the kind of thing you see on TV around the country. You don’t think of it happening to someone you know so close to home,” said friend, Todd Cisna. "We had supper three or four weeks ago to get caught up on the kids. She (his mother) was so proud of him,” he recalled. “He was a good kid. It’s a shame something like this had to happen.”

Linda Matte, a Captain with the Illinois Patriot Guard Riders said, "Because he gave the ultimate sacrifice for all of us, this is the least we could do for his family. I know Timothy's family, not well, but I knew them and it really hits home when you lose one of your own but they’re all our brothers, our soldiers whether we knew them or not."

Major Gen. Gregory Couch, who spoke at the eulogy, said officers and fellow soldiers remembered Sayne during a memorial service in Afghanistan as someone who always looked at the positive side of life and always accomplished the mission.

In a message from Sayne's squadron commander, Couch read, “He is strong, brave, always tries his hardest. He is the eternal optimist. I have watched Sayne mature into an effective, charismatic and determined young leader. The type of leader who walks in the front to clear the way.”

From Sayne’s platoon leader, Couch read, “What I learned through knowing Sgt. Sayne is what makes a hero is the way they lived their life leading up to those fateful moments. I am truly indebted to Sgt. Sayne because he will always be a hero of mine. He was a person with a presence and personality that left an indelible mark on those he met and especially those with whom he served. His devotion to his family was unmistakable and only strengthened the deep sense of respect that those who knew him will share.”

According to both officers, Sayne embodied the Army’s core values of courage, selfless service, loyalty, respect, honor, integrity and duty.

“His integrity was of utmost importance as he always chose the hard right over the easy wrong,” Couch read.

Sgt Sayne is survived by his mother, Kathy; wife, Thania, 1-year-old son, Timothy with another child due in January; siblings, Cory, Joey and Paige.

Army Sgt. Timothy D. Sayne was killed in action on 9/18/11.

Army Staff Sgt. Estevan Altamirano

2011-09-18T11:52:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Staff Sgt. Estevan Altamirano, 30, of Edcouch, Texas

SSgt Altamirano was assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas; died Sept. 18, 2011 in Tikrit, Iraq, of injuries suffered in a non-combat incident.

SSgt Altamirano died from a non-combat weapon malfunction. In another report, wife, Pamela, stated that her husband accidentally shot himself while cleaning his gun.

Altamirano was posthumously promoted from Sergeant to Staff Sergeant.

SSgt Altamirano graduated from Edcouch Elsa High School in 1999. He joined the Army in January 2001 and served as an armor crewman. This was his fourth deployment to Iraq, having deployed in May.

Fellow soldiers called him "Speedy". Brig Gen Stephen B. Leisenring said, "The nickname says something about his dedication to his unit and his family because he tried to spend as much time as possible with both."

Even though he spent months away from his family, Altamirano did not complain when one of his superiors told him that his leave to come home from Iraq would be postponed, Leisenring said. "He was a selfless soldier," Leisenring said.

Wife, Pamela, said her husband loved the military and his fellow servicemen.

“His war brothers were his everything. I asked him not to go this time because he had some injuries from other deployments. He said he couldn't leave his brothers behind,” said Pamela Altamirano.

Edcouch Mayor Robert Schmalzried ordered that flags be flown at half-staff until two weeks after SSgt Altamirano's burial in memory of the valiant young man.

"Soldiers often go unannounced and they don’t get the respect that they deserve. They do so much for our country and they do so much for their families and their friends. They need to have all the respect that they can get,” said Edcouch Mayor Robert Schmalzried.

Stepdaughter Kayla,16, presented a slideshow of family photos at his funeral.

“I love him and he was a wonderful man,” she said. “And there is no one who will ever be like him.”

SSgt Altamirano's awards and decorations include the following:
Meritorious Service Medal
Army Commendation Medals (4)
Army Achievement Medals (4)
Valorous Unit Award
Meritorious Unit Award
Army Good conduct Medals (3)
National Defense Service Medal
Iraqi Campaign Medal with 4 Campaign Stars
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon (3)
Combat Action Badge

Army Staff Sgt. Estevan Altamirano was killed in non-combat related accident on 9/18/11.

Army Spc. Chazray C. Clark

2011-09-18T09:13:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Chazray C. Clark, 24, of Ecorse, Mich.

Spc Clark was assigned to 4th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died Sept. 18, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.

SPC Clark was home on leave about two weeks before he was killed.

SPC Clark graduated from Ecorse High School in 2005 where he participated in football, basketball and baseball. He joined the Army in September 2009. He was a highly skilled combat engineer and planned to make a career of the military. He deployed to Afghanistan in February 2011. This was his first deployment.

He met his wife, Christina Clark, in 2003. They both worked at Kentucky Fried Chicken in Lincoln Park. He was a cook and she was a drive through cashier. They were married seven years later.

Wife, Christina, said, “He was proud to serve his country. I know he’s with God and that he died for his country. He was brave enough to go over there and fight for our country and he died for that.

I talked to him three hours before he went on his last mission. He said, ‘I'm going out on a mission and will call in 48 hours.’ I never heard from him again.

Family was important to him. The two of us had a great marriage and he just adored his son.”

SPC Clark’s awards and decorations include the following:

Bronze Star
Purple Heart
Good Conduct Medal
NATO Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Service Medal with Bronze Service Star
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
Combat Action Badge
Combat and Special Skill Badge
Basic Marksmanship Qualifications Badge
Rifle Expert Marksmanship Badge
Overseas Service Bar

Army Spc. Chazray C. Clark was killed in action on 9/18/11.

Army Spc. Ryan J. Cook

2011-09-18T09:01:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Ryan J. Cook, 29, of Fort Walton Beach, Fla.

Spc Cook was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died Sept. 18, 2011 in Takhar province, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

SPC Cook was born in Danvers, MA. He moved to Fort Walton Beach when he was seven. He graduated from Choctawhatchee High School, where he played football.

Spc Cook joined the Army in March 2008. This was his second deployment, having previously been deployed to Iraq.

As a little boy, Ryan never passed up an opportunity to protect his younger siblings or save an injured animal. As a soldier, he showed the same compassion and loyalty to others.

Despite being injured and offered a chance to go home, SPC Cook stayed with his unit and embarked upon what would be his last mission.

“He was the last guy out, always,” said his mom, Kathleen Silva. “He was just always soft-hearted and sweet. He had the bluest eyes, the most disarming smile and the softest heart in the world,” she said.

Kathleen said she last spoke to her son about a month ago. She said she since learned that he chose not to call her before he left on what would be his last mission. He was afraid she would hear it in his voice.

“This was a really bad mission,” she said, “And he knew I would know.”

Kathleen, wears the dog tags of both her son and daughter (who's in the Air Force) around her neck.

“He loved his Army,” his mother said. “He said he was doing what he needed to do.”

Army Spc. Ryan J. Cook was killed in action on 9/18/11.

Staff Sgt. Michael W. Hosey

2011-09-17T09:17:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Staff Sgt. Michael W. Hosey, 27, of Birmingham, Ala.

SSgt Hosey was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.; died Sept. 17, 2011 in Uruzgan province, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using small-arms fire.

SSgt Hosey graduated from Clay-Chalkville High School in 2001.

"No matter how the class was going he could put a smile on your face," said Erin Kinnaird, who graduated with Hosey from Clay-Chalkville High School in 2001.

On days students were allowed to dress up in costumes in high school, Hosey would wear military uniforms, Kinnaird said. "He had always wanted to be in the military," she said.

After graduating high school Hosey joined the Army and became a communications intelligence specialist. After attending basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and then the Defense Language Institute, Foreign Language Center at the Presidio of Monterey in Monterey, California, He attended Advanced Individual Training at Goodfellow Air Force Base in San Angelo Texas.

Hosey's first duty assignment was with Company B, 304th Military Intelligence Battalion, 111th MI Brigade where he instructed officers in the MI Officer Basic Course and Officer Training Corps, in the proper deployment of a Signal Intelligence Company on the battlefield. He also instructed Air Force Surface Weather Officer assigned to Army units and worked with US Border Patrol in the emplacement of Remote Battlefield Sensor System for joint task forces.

In 2003, he was assigned to Fort Huachuca, Arizona, where he served as a communications intelligence specialist. In 2005, Hosey was assigned to Fort Lewis, Washington.

Hosey's military education included the Defense Language Institute-Korean, Warrior Leader Course, Airborne School, Survival Evasion Resistance Escape School, and the Advanced Leader Course.

SSgt Hosey's awards and decorations include:

Purple Heart
Bronze Star
Meritorious Service Medal
Army Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters
Army Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster
Army Good Conduct Medal with bronze clasp (two Loops)
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal (with Campaign Star)
Iraq Campaign Medal (with Campaign Star)
Global War on Terror Service Medal
Non-commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with the Numeral 2
Army Service Ribbon
NATO Medal

Staff Sgt. Michael W. Hosey was killed in action on 9/17/11.

Army Sgt. Garrick L. Eppinger Jr.

2011-09-17T08:15:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Garrick L. Eppinger Jr., 25, of Appleton, Wis.

Sgt Eppinger was assigned to 395th Ordnance Company, 687th Combat Sustainment Support Brigade, 646th Regional Support Group, 310th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, U.S. Army Reserve, Wausau, Wis.; died Sept. 17, 2011 in Parwan province, Afghanistan.

Sgt Eppinger was a supply specialist for the munitions post at Bagram Air Base.

The youngest of five children. Sisters, Shandra, Robbyn and Amy said their brother worked a desk job when he was found dead at Bagram Airbase.

“Garrick wasn’t infantry,” Shandra said. “He wasn’t in the line of fire. He wasn’t in one of the valley areas where there’s fighting. You would almost expect then that something could happen, but he was on a base, near where he worked.”

Shandra said her brother was shot but that the circumstances of his death were unknown. She said a death on base was “highly irregular” and that an investigation by military police was ongoing.

“They found him behind the ammunitions post where he worked. That’s all we know,” she said. “We won’t know any details until they
complete their investigation.”

Sgt Eppinger graduated from Appleton North High School in 2005 and joined the Army shortly afterwards. He had been deployed for about 1 1/2 months. This was his third deployment, having previously served in Iraq in 2005 and 2009.

Mother, Linda, last spoke with her son the Friday before he was killed. He told her everything was OK. On Saturday morning, two Army officers arrived at her home to inform her that her son had been shot and killed in the line of duty.

Linda and Garrick Eppinger Sr., both Navy veterans, knew the risks of serving in the military. That doesn't make the loss of their son any easier.

"It's really rough right now," said mother, Linda. "We've had a lot of support from our family and friends, but it's just not something you expect to land on your doorstep."

She said the details of their son's death were not immediately known. "All we know is he was shot in Afghanistan," she said.

Garrick Sr. said he was at peace with his son's death because he told him, in a letter and in a conversation, that he loved him and that he was proud of him.

"I got a chance to state my peace with him before he left," he said. "A lot of parents tend to think of things that they should have said. If they're in earnest and try to put as much of that (down), knowing full well that the child may not come back, then they're at peace when something like this happens."

He said his son had strong faith in God and "a strong love of country."

Army Sgt. Garrick L. Eppinger Jr. was killed in action on 9/17/11.

Marine Cpl Gregory W. Courtney

2011-09-16T14:08:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Cpl Gregory W. Courtney, 22, of Allegan, MI.

Cpl Courtney was killed in a car crash on September 16, 2011 when he failed to negotiate a curve, ran off the road and struck two trees. Deputies stated that after running off the road, Courtney's car “continued to roll and tumble, ejecting the driver” and then struck some smaller trees before catching fire. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators were not clear if Courtney was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash due to the extensive damage to his vehicle.

Cpl Courtney joined the Marines after graduating from Allegan High School in 2007 where he was on the wrestling team and gone on to state championship his senior year.

Cpl Courtney had just returned home in early August after being deployed to Afghanistan for a year.

“I'm still numb, I don't have any emotion right now because I just can't believe it,” Courtney's aunt, Shirlee Boitnott. “I didn't expect this to happen because he made it through Afghanistan.”

“He was pretty much one of a kind,” Boitnott said. “He's the type of person, he would give the shirt off his back for anybody. He'd go up and give anyone a hug.”

Boitnott said her brother left his home for work Friday and saw deputies' cruisers at the scene of the crash, but didn't know his son was involved until he got a call at work later in the day from one of his other sons.
Cpl Courtney was laid to rest at Ft. Custer National Cemetery in Augusta.

Cpl Courtney is survived by his mother, Lauri; father, Joseph; as well as three brothers, one sister; aunt Shirlee and a grandmother.

Army Sgt. Mycal L. Prince

2011-09-15T09:33:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Mycal L. Prince, 28, of Minco, Okla.

Sgt Prince was assigned to 1st Battalion, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Brigade Combat Team, Oklahoma National Guard, Stillwater, Okla.; died Sept. 15, 2011 in Laghman province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire.

He was to have celebrated his sixth wedding anniversary in October.

Sgt Prince graduated from Ninnekah High School in 1997. He joined the National Guard shortly after his 17th birthday. This was his third deployment.

Sgt Prince served as a police officer in Alex for three years before he and his wife, Surana, moved to Minco in 2009. On the Minco police force, Prince was a K-9 officer. He and his K-9 partner, Bayca, helped fight the drug trade.

Sgt Prince was a respected leader in his company. Friends said he exemplified leadership to younger soldiers.

“Mycal Prince was a soldier. He wasn't looking for glory or fame. He was simply willing and ready when his country called,” said Capt. Jeremy Dunn, an Army chaplain.

Dunn said being a police officer fit with the mentality Prince developed as a soldier, willing to give everything for his country and his neighbors.

“He was a true servant to his community,” Dunn said. “Mycal wasn't content to stand on the sidelines. He was a doer, and he was always looking for ways to make a difference in someone's life.”

“Mycal Prince left his home, his wife and daughters and gave his life to create a better life for people he didn't even know,” Dunn said. “That's a hero in my book.”

Prince's third deployment, having previously deployed to Iraq and served in Saudi Arabia. He was a respected leader in his company. Friends said he exemplified leadership to younger soldiers.

Army Sgt. Mycal L. Prince was killed in action on 9/15/11.

Marine Cpl. Michael J. Dutcher

2011-09-15T09:20:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Marine Cpl. Michael J. Dutcher, 22, of Asheville, N.C.

Cpl Dutcher was assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.; died Sept. 15, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while conducting combat operations.

Cpl Dutcher graduated from Asheville High School in 2007 where he was a member of the marching band and a member of the Marine Corps JROTC, which was one of the reasons he chose to join the Marines. He joined the Marines after graduation.

Cpl Dutcher deployed to Afghanistan for the second time in April and served as an infantryman. He was scheduled to come home in three weeks.

He had planned to ride his motorcycle across the country from California to North Carolina, then he planned to go to college. He wanted to be a history teacher.

Greg Townsend, family friend and Principal of Asheville High School, said, "He was such a natural leader. It's sad to see him go."

Mother, Teresa Dutcher, described Michael as having a good outlook on life. "He was loving and caring. He was an awesome dude."

Cpl Dutcher's awards and decorations include:

Purple Heart
Combat Action Ribbon
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Sea Service Deployment with three Bronze Stars
Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
National Defense Service Medal
NATO Medal ISAF-Afghanistan

Marine Cpl. Michael J. Dutcher was killed in action on 9/15/11.

Army Sgt. Rodolfo Rodriguez Jr.

2011-09-14T09:37:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Rodolfo Rodriguez Jr., 26, of Pharr, Texas

Sgt Rodriguez was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died Sep. 14, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

Sgt Rodriguez graduated from Weslaco High School in 2003 where he was a varsity basketball and football player. He was named Defensive Player of the Year in his district as a senior.

Sgt Rodriguez joined the Army in March of 2006. After basic at Fort Benning in Georgia, he served three years with the 2nd Battalion, 505th Infantry at Fort Bragg before arriving at Fort Wainwright in March of last year.

This was his third deployment, having previosly been deployed to Iraq in November 2006 and December 2008. He deployed to Afghanistan in August.

Cousin, Leann Rodriguez, hoped it would be his last tour of duty. He was expected to return home in December.

She described her cousin as a gregarious man who loved fishing, sports and his family, whose future he would plan every day.

Mark Aguilar, one of the soldiers who served along side Rudy in Iraq, said, “That was my boy, man. I just want everybody to know he was a good f---ing leader.”

“He would joke around with them,” he said. “But when it came time to work, he would work. And he always made sure his guys were taken care of first.”

Sgt Rodriguez was laid to rest on September 26 at Rio Grande Valley State Veteran's cemetery in Mission.

He is survived by his mother, Cristela; father, Rodolfo Rodriguez Sr; wife, Melissa and their children, Derek, 7, and Katelyn, 5; siblings, Rodzie, Cristy and Danny; paternal grandparents, Juan and Isabel; maternal grandmother, Carolina.

Army Sgt. Rodolfo Rodriguez Jr. was killed in action on 9/14/11.

Army MSgt. Danial R. Adams

2011-09-13T08:46:00.001-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Master Sgt. Danial R. Adams, 35, of Portland, Ore.

MSgt Adams was assigned to 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Stuttgart, Germany; died Sept. 13, 2011 in Wardak province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using mortar, machine-gun and small-arms fire.

MSgt Adams joined the Army in 1995 as an infantryman, where he served with distinction as a team and squad leader while stationed at Fort Richardson, Alaska. After a short assignment at Fort Lewis, Wash., Adams earned the Green Beret in 2005.

In 2009 he joined the 1st Battalion of the 10th Special Forces Group, stationed in Stuttgart where he served on a Special Forces team and took advanced courses including jungle warfare and air assault. Other educational achievements included Airborne School, Ranger School, Jumpmaster School and the Special Forces Qualification Course.

MSgt Adams' awards and decorations include:

Bronze Star Medal with 2 oak leaf clusters
Army Commendation Medal with 2 oak leaf clusters
Army Achievement Medal with 3 oak leaf clusters
Army Good Conduct Medal with bronze clasp
National Defense Service Medal with 1 service star
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal Professional Development Ribbon
Global War on Terror Service Medal
Noncommissioned Officer
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Special Forces Tab
Ranger Tab
Parachutist Badge
Air Assault Badge
Combat Infantryman's Badge
Expert Infantryman's Badge

STUTTGART, Germany — When Sgt. 1st Class Danial R. Adams fell to enemy fire Sept. 13 in eastern Afghanistan, he was leading the same way he always did, from the front.

“He led from the front, time and time again, through enemy fire so his boys didn’t have to,” said Sgt. 1st Class Matthew Hughes during a memorial service Tuesday.

Members of 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) gathered at Panzer Kaserne Chapel in Böblingen to mourn of one of their own.

Adams, 35, of Portland, Ore., died in an intense firefight when insurgents assaulted his unit with mortar, machine-gun and small-arms fire while the unit was on patrol in Wardak province.

Adams, who was posthumously promoted to master sergeant, was recalled as a natural leader with an easygoing nature. He was called a “quiet professional” who led by example.

The slightly built soldier, known as “Slim” to his comrades, was usually the last guy to leave the office when in garrison, going out of his way to make sure no one was stuck behind to work alone, soldiers said. It was no different on the battlefield.

“He’s everything that embodies a Special Forces soldier,” said Staff Sgt. Joseph Steadman, who read recollections from Adams’ team members in Afghanistan.

“His appearance was deceiving,” Steadman continued. “We never fought beside a more fearsome warrior. He had the heart of a lion. He pushed forward when other men would have cowered. ‘Slim’ was the standard.”

Adams joined the Army in 1995 as an infantryman, serving as a team and squad leader while stationed at Fort Richardson, Alaska. His first Special Forces assignment was as a senior medical sergeant with the 3rd Special Forces Group out of Fort Bragg, N.C.

As he worked his way up the ranks, Adams emerged as a talented leader and gifted athlete, winning unit iron man contests along the way, said Lt. Col. Isaac Peltier, commander of the 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group.

“He was renowned for his physical fitness,” Peltier said. “His reputation as a warrior and outstanding medic preceded him.”

He also had the ability to smile and make a joke “even as everything went to hell,” Hughes said.

During downtime on his most recent tour in Afghanistan, Adams had started talking about how this could be his last combat tour. A veteran of five tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, he had hopes of making up for lost time with his wife Melany; his sons, Jeffrey and John; and his daughter, Skye.

“When we asked him why, he’d get that big grin on his face and say, ‘Man, because Melany would beat me if I try to go again,’ ” said Steadman.

Adams was serving as team sergeant, a key position within the Green Berets, when his unit came under fire earlier this month. Outmanned and outgunned, Adams took the lead in the fight, dying in the process, according to members of the unit.

“An A-Team is the heart of the Special Forces and the team sergeant is the heart of an A-Team,” Peltier said. “The loss of Master Sergeant Dan Adams strikes at the heart of our force.”

Soldiers said they would honor Adams’ memory by carrying on with the mission.

“Dan, your boys fought like lions that day,” Hughes said. “They refused to leave your side.”

Army Master Sgt. Danial R. Adams was killed in action on 9/13/11.

Staff Sgt. Daniel A. Quintana

2011-09-10T09:05:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Staff Sgt. Daniel A. Quintana, 30, of Huntington Park, Calif.

SSgt Quintana was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 172nd Infantry Brigade, Schweinfurt, Germany; died Sept. 10, 2011 in Paktika province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using small-arms fire.

Sgt. Quintana grew up in Fresno and attended McLane and Fresno High Schools.

Remembered by his family as good natured with a big heart, he first joined the Air Force when he was 18, then later joined the Army, planning to make a career out of the military. He was on his second deployment, having previously been deployed to Iraq.

“He couldn’t stand being a civilian,” said Tammy Echeverria, his aunt. “He said it was too boring.” She added, “He said he wanted to learn how to drive a tank and jump out of airplanes.”

“He loved it,” said his mother, Dora Melendez. “He stood up for his country. He was a very giving person. Very respectful. That’s what the military taught him.”
He had a wonderful sense of humor. “He was a prankster,” said Maryann Echeverria, another aunt. “He had a lot of stories. No matter what, he was always laughing.”

Daniel Quintana, Sr. said his son planned a career in the military. “He told me, ‘Dad, I love what I do. Don’t worry about me. I’m a great soldier’,” the father recalled. “I believe him. He was a great soldier.”

He was described as a father, football coach and a leader within his platoon. He was known to everyone as “Staff Sergeant Q” or just “Q”. He was a former armor soldier in the Brigade’s 3rd Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment who converted to the infantry during preparations for deployment.

SSgt Quintana was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. His father said, “He wanted to be buried with his fallen brothers.”

SSgt Quintana is survived by his parents, Dora and Daniel Sr; wife, Nilda and children, Jose and Daniel, and a third child due in January 2012; sisters Desiree Quintana, Emily Echeverria, Daisy Echeverria; brothers Jonathan Echeverria, Matthew Belmontez, Fred Belmontez and Vincent Melendez

Staff Sgt. Daniel A. Quintana was killed in action on 9/10/11.

Staff Sgt. Keith F. Rudd

2011-09-10T08:08:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Staff Sgt. Keith F. Rudd, 36, of Winder, Ga.

SSgt Rudd was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died Sept. 10, 2011 in Parvan, Afghanistan, after being found unresponsive in his room.

The original DOD announcement stated that SSgt Rudd died Sept. 10 in Parvan, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained while supporting combat operations.

However, a later release from the 82nd Airborne Division said Staff Sgt. Keith Rudd did not respond to efforts to revive him after he was discovered in his room in Parvan, Afghanistan. His death is under investigation.

SSgt Rudd joined the Army in 2003. He served as medic. He deployed last month. This was his third deployment, having previously been deployed to Iraq in 2007 and Afghanistan in 2009.

"If Rudd was your medic, you could be rest assured of two things," said U.S. Army Sgt. Robert Smith of Savannah, Ga., a colleague and friend of the fallen medic. "One, he would come to get you without hesitation. Two, he would not stop until you were safe and in good care."

SSgt Rudd's awards and decorations include:
Air Medals (3)
Army Achievement Medals (6)
Army Good Conduct Medals (2)
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Iraqi Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon
Army Serivce Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbons (2)
Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal
NATO Medal
Combat Medic Badge
Army Aviation Badge

September 20, 2011
I feel compelled to share some of my earliest memories of knowing our dearest friend and brother, Keith Freeman Rudd. Keith and I were assigned to our first duty station, Tripler AMC, within a week of each other back in January 2004 and the first week we knew each other demonstrated both who Keith was and what he loved.

The first time I experienced who Keith truly was on my third day in Hawai’i. We went to Hanauma Bay, he went scuba diving and I snorkeling. This outing seemed like any other one would expect in Hawai’i, gorgeous water and nature. After spending a few hours exploring the bay we decided it was time to pack up and head out. It was approximately 1630, the same time the lifeguards call it a day, and time to go any ways because the park closes at 1700 and there were maybe five people left on the beach including Keith and myself. Just as we are about to collect our things we hear someone call for help from the water. We both turn and cannot see any one in the water and remark to each other derisively that it was probably some kids playing a joke and that needing help is not something to joke around about. Just as we saying this we hear another call for help, turn back to the water, and notice that a woman is screaming frantically for help. Keith, myself, and one other Samaritan then headed for her calls of help. Keith grabbed his scuba gear, thinking it is damn good source of air for a casualty, and the other guy grabbed the lifeguard paddle board. The paddle board reaches the guy (his wife was the one screaming for help) before us and we met up at a coral outcropping in the middle of the bay. We drag the board with the guy up onto the rocks for a solid base and Keith starts performing CPR. During this time I am trying to hold the board steady as the breaking waves are rocking it and all of us. At sometime during this someone on the beach called EMS and the just departed lifeguards. After about 2-3 minutes of CPR a lifeguard makes it out to us and brings the man on the board back to a just arrived ambulance on the beach. They are unable to revive this guy and suspected that he had a heart attack and then slipped under the water. That day we left the beach with an indelible mark on us both physically from the sharp coral and on our souls and heart pondering how little nuances might have made a difference.

The second event that week involves something that Keith had a lifelong obsession with, vehicles. We went out to Schofield Barracks to the salvage yard, Keith was always working on his or someone else car and I decided to head out with him. Keith at time had 1989 three cylinder Dodge Colt he bought for 300 bucks to cover until his Ford Ranger arrived, based on his beater at the time I am sure we were looking for parts for the Colt. I needed a car because I did not ship one to Hawai’i. In the salvage yard was a 1995 Jeep Grand Cherokee that was impounded by the MPs and the owner went to jail. It would not start at this time and was missing a window, the radio, keys and even a title but Keith looked it over and recommended I put in a bid in the silent auction for it. I ended up following his advice and won it with a 3 grand bid. I knew this guy a week and took his advice to buy a car that didn’t work and was missing a couple of things. There were many things that I had to fix and replace not to mention about 6 different starters/solenoids. I learned everything there was to know about a car for Keith because he was there busted knuckle and greasy with me every time. Similar tales occurred many times over, and there are many great stories I have about Keith and I am sure all of the stories you have are just as great. Keith will be truly missed and I am looking forward to having many more great times with him when my time comes too. ~ Michael C., Chisinau, Moldova

Staff Sgt. Keith F. Rudd died in Afghanistan on 9/10/11/.

Army Sgt. Bret D. Isenhower

2011-09-09T12:52:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Bret D. Isenhower, 26, of Lamar, Okla.

Sgt Isenhower was assigned to 1st Battalion, 279 Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oklahoma National Guard, Tulsa, Okla.; died Sept. 9, 2011 in Paktya, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with small-arms fire. Also killed were Sgt. Christopher D. Horton and Pfc. Tony J. Potter Jr.

Sgt. Bret D. Isenhower, was born January 30, 1985 in Shawnee, OK. He graduated from Seminole High School in 2003; he moved on to attend East Central University, and a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He worked as a volunteer Firefighter at Seminole Fire Department and at the Seminole County 911 Dispatch center. Bret is a member of the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oklahoma Army National Guard. He served in Iraq in 2007 and 2008 during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Bret’s journey on earth ended on September 9, 2011 serving our country in eastern Afghanistan. This was his second tour of duty. Bret paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our country. He was a loving, kind and generous man who touched the lives of everyone he met. Bret was a powerful role model to the many children in his life because of the care and attention he showed them. He had an infectious smile that will never be forgotten.

Bret was survived by his parents Janet Dawsey and Kevin Isenhower; two sisters, Bridgette Hall and her husband Ryan and Krysten Isenhower; one nephew, Jackson Hall; three grandparents, Rheta Jo McNary, Joy Isenhower and Phil Isenhower; an aunt, uncle and cousins, along with a multitude of friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfather Raymond McNary.

Isenhower joined the Oklahoma National Guard in 2006, three years after he graduated from Seminole High School, according to a release. He was promoted to sergeant in March and was a fire team leader.

His hometown, Lamar, is 30 miles east of Seminole and 40 miles south of Henryetta.

Isenhower was deployed in Iraq in 2007. His most recent deployment was his second.

Before he enlisted in the Oklahoma Guard in 2008, Horton graduated from the Missouri Military Academy. He was trained to be an infantrymen and was sniper qualified, according to the release. This was his first deployment.

Army Sgt. Bret D. Isenhower was killed in action on 9/9/11.

Army Pfc. Tony J. Potter Jr.

2011-09-09T12:36:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Pfc. Tony J. Potter Jr., 20, of Okmulgee, Okla.

Pfc Potter was assigned to 1st Battalion, 279 Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oklahoma National Guard, Tulsa, Okla.; died Sept. 9, 2011 in Paktya, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with small-arms fire. Also killed were Sgt. Bret D. Isenhower and Spc. Christopher D. Horton.

Potter was on his first deployment, and is the youngest guard member to die in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the guard stated. Potter, an Okmulgee High School graduate, joined the Oklahoma Guard in 2010 and was promoted to private first class in May, according to the release.

His mother-in-law, Somi Yarbrough, said Potter was a smart, ambitious young man who was very in love with his wife, Emily.

The two were married Dec. 22, and Emily Potter is currently pregnant with their first child, Yarbrough said.

"He was waiting for word from his wife to find out if they were having a boy or girl," Yarbrough said. "Unfortunately, he didn't make it long enough to find out."
The two met while taking a carpentry class three years ago at Oklahoma State University in Okmulgee, where they worked on several projects together and even helped build a house, she said.

"It was young love and true love," Yarbrough said. "Not just infatuation, but true love. That would have lasted for a lifetime. I truly believe they were actually soulmates."

Tony and Emily Potter lived in Miami, Okla., while Emily went to school at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, Yarbrough said.

Potter was on the wrestling team at Okmulgee High School and was an honors student, she said.

Potter joined the Oklahoma National Guard to have a stronger sense of purpose and be able to serve others.

"He just believed in our country and wanted to serve our country and do something better with his life," Yarbrough said. "He was excited about what he was doing and proud to go and serve."

Army Pfc. Tony J. Potter Jr. was killed in action on 9/9/11.

Army Spc. Christopher D. Horton

2011-09-09T12:30:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Christopher D. Horton, 26, of Collinsville, Okla.

Spc Horton was assigned to 1st Battalion, 279 Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oklahoma National Guard, Tulsa, Okla.; died Sept. 9, 2011 in Paktya, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with small-arms fire. Also killed were Sgt. Bret D. Isenhower and Pfc. Tony J. Potter Jr.

Specialist Christopher David Horton, 26, of Collinsville, Oklahoma was a sniper killed in action on September 9, 2011 while serving in Afghanistan with the Oklahoma Army National Guard's 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

He was killed when his unit was attacked with small arms fire in Zormat, Paktia Province.

Christopher was born on October 1, 1984 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to David and Cherie Horton. He has two siblings, a brother, Nicholas, and a sister, Tenley.

He was married to his wife Jane Horton of Cleveland, Ohio whom he met while attending The King’s College in New York City.

Before enlisting in the Oklahoma Army National Guard in 2008, Christopher graduated from the Missouri Military Academy in Mexico, Missouri. Chris was an exceptional cadet during his six years at Missouri Military Academy in every area. Academically, he was on the honor roll, earning the Academic Fourragere. He was the 2nd Platoon Leader his senior year, as well as captain of the rifle team. During his time with the Oklahoma National Guard, He was trained to be an infantryman, was SWAT certified, and was sniper qualified, graduating at the top of his class.

Some of his extensive marksman awards include: The Gus Hadwiger Award in 2009, 1st place novice pistol in the Oklahoma National Guard Sergeant Major’s match 2009, 1st place novice pistol in the Governor’s Twenty Matches in 2009, 2nd place novice rifle in the Oklahoma National Guard Sergeant Major’s Match in 2009, 2nd place in the Old Fort Shootout in the Unclassified Production Division 2009, 2nd place pistol in The State of Oklahoma Governor’s Twenty 2009, Oklahoma State IDPA Championship High Military 2008 and 2009, 3rd place in the Carolina Cup Enhanced Service Pistol Sharpshooter in 2008 as well as many others.

Chris worked on many political campaigns including K.T. McFarland’s 2006 Senate Campaign, Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s 2005 re-election campaign, President Bush’s 2004 election campaign, and Governor Romney’s 2008 Presidential primary. Chris also was a professional sponsored shooter through United States Shooting Academy in Owasso, Oklahoma, and was a business owner as well as a volunteer Police officer.

Christopher was an accomplished competitive and recreational shooter. Every opportunity he had, Christopher fished both ocean and freshwaters. He loved fishing for all species of fish.

Chris was both passionate and dedicated to politics and conservative causes. He also worked on many campaigns and was extremely patriotic and passionate about America and the freedoms we love and enjoy.

Chris had a love for baseball and had aspirations of someday trying out for the minors.

Army Spc. Christopher D. Horton was killed in action on 9/9/11.

Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Brian K. Lundy

2011-09-09T09:50:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Brian K. Lundy, 25, of Austin, Texas

Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Lundy was assigned to 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died while conducting a dismounted patrol in Marjah, Helmand province, Afghanistan, on Sept. 9, 2011.

Petty Officer Lundy graduated from Bowie High School in May 2004. Receiving a scholarship to Huston Tillotson University, he enrolled in August that year.

Deciding that college was not for him, he enlisted in the Navy in May 2006 and served as a Hospital Corspman, first aboard the Aircraft Carrier USS Ronald Reagan from November 2006 to August 2008, then with the Naval Hospital 29 Palms, California from December 2008 to December 2010. He then applied for and was accepted to Special Training as Hospital Corpsman with the Fleet Marine Force afterwhich he was assigned to Camp Lejuene, NC in March 2011. He deployed to Afghanistan four months later in July.

Petty Officer Lundy loved motorcycles and loved animals. As a child, wanted to be veterinarian when he grew up. His pets included Great Danes, an iguana and a parrot which now resides with his mother.

He sang with the Voices of Joy and was an active member of TCIA and JCIA Youth groups. He was also a Jr. Deacon and early on demonstrated an eagerness to serve.

Mother, Ramona, said that he son often callled her detailing interesting stories about his duties as a Corpsman. He told her about having to deliver a baby, treating an Afghani National with multiple stab wounds, and even having to remove a rock from the eye of a young Afghanistan boy.

His mother said her son had finally found his calling and his purpose in life, and that he was doing something that made him feel that he was making a difference in this world. Her little "Peanut" had become a man.

Petty Officer Lundy's awards and decorations include:

Purple Heart
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal
Humanitarian Service Medal
Navy "E" Ribbon Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with Bronze Star
Good Conduct Medal NATO Medal
National Defense Service Medal

Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Brian K. Lundy was killed in action on 9/9/11.

Pfc. Brett E. Wood

2011-09-09T09:09:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Pfc. Brett E. Wood, 19, of Spencer, Ind.

Pfc Wood assigned to to 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died Sept. 9, 2011 in Kandahar, Afghanistan, when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

Pfc Wood graduated from Owen Valley High School in 2010. He enlisted with his older brother Nikk that summer. He reported to Fort Wainwrght in November 2010. He deployed to Afghanistan five months later, in April.

Owen Valley High School principal Rhonda Schafer, who had been one of Brett Wood’s teachers, said, “Just a couple weeks ago, he came here visiting everyone,” Schafer said. “I saw him briefly. He was friends with everyone because he was so outgoing. He got along with all students.”

Pfc Wood came home over the summer to heal from head wounds suffered in another improvised explosive device blast. He continued to suffer from mild headaches and dizziness, but was later cleared to return to active duty and returned to Afghanistan.

Brother Nikk returned from service in Afghanistan on Sept. 12 for his brother's funeral where he read "last word" messages his brother had written for family members and friends. Nikk told mourners he became closer to his younger brother while they served in the Army together.

"He was always the person that was positive," said sister, Amber Poland. “I wish he knew how much I loved him, how much I miss him and how
proud I am of him.”

“We are so thankful for all of the support from the community. People have brought food, flags, flowers and candles. The support has been incredible,” she said, noting that her brother was proud to serve and “cherished life.”

Pfc. Brett E. Wood was killed in action on 9/9/11.

Army Spc. Koran P. Contreras

2011-09-08T13:06:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Koran P. Contreras, 21, of Lawndale, Calif.

Spc Contreras was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.; died Sept. 8. 2011 in Kandahar, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Pfc. Douglas J. Jeffries Jr.

Specialist Koran Pulido Contreras, age 21, of Lawndale, California passed away on Thursday, September 8, 2011 in Kandahar, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

Koran was born in Redondo Beach, California and was an Union High School graduate.

He enjoyed food with coffee, donuts and tacos being his favorites. He was a Pittsburg Steelers fan and a sports enthusiast who enjoyed basketball and skate boarding.

Spending time with his younger brother Anthony was Koran's special pastime.

Koran served his community as a police officer after serving in the military and our nation. He was an Infantryman with the 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, and 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, NY. Koran joined the Army in April 2008. After training at Fort Benning, Georgia he was assigned to Fort Hood, Texas and arrived at Fort Drum in April 2010.

Koran previously deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from January 2009 to December 2009. He deployed with his unit to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in March 2011.

Koran's awards and decorations include the Bronze Star, Posthumous; the Purple Heart, 2, Posthumous; the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, Posthumous; the Meritorious Unit Commendation; the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal; the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon; the Overseas Service Ribbon; the NATO Medal, Posthumous; and the Combat Infantryman Badge.

Koran is survived by mother, Lilia Contreras; father, Marco Quiroz; and brother, Anthony Contreras.

Army Spc. Koran P. Contreras was killed in action on 9/8/11.

Army Pfc. Douglas J. Jeffries Jr.

2011-09-08T12:54:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Pfc. Douglas J. Jeffries Jr., 20, of Springville, Calif.

Pfc. Jeffries was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.; died Sept. 8, 2011 in Kandahar, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Also killed was Spc. Koran P. Contreras.

Jeffries is survived by his father and mom, Doug and Andrea Jeffries, his sister Jessica, and fiancee Tiffany Stanford, all of Springville. He is also survived by his mother, Evelyn McLeod, sister Jamie Viray and her husband Paul, brother Joseph Averman, and several nephews — Dylan and Kaleb Viray, and Taylor and Joseph Jr. Averman, all of Las Vegas. Grandparents include Stephen and Vanola Jeffries of Springville, Donna Jeffries of Clearlake, and Helen Dinning of Las Vegas.

As a child, DJ, as the family called Doug Jeffries, loved to play his guitar, and ride his bicycles and motorcycles, said his father, Doug Jeffries.

“He loved life. He lived his life,” Jeffries said.

His mom added that her son was “real funny” and loved to laugh.

“He got his sense of humor from his mom,” Jeffries said. “Everyone who knew DJ knew that his family — and his country — were the most important things to him, and that he was funny.”

Doug Jeffries parents also shared that they learned that their son carried a full-size American flag in his pack in Afghanistan, proof of his pride and love of his country, they said.

But there were many other wonderful qualities in the young soldier.

“How many 18 year olds do you know who register to vote on their 18th birthday?” his mom asked.

For hours, family and friends have gathered at the home to share stories, Jeffries said.

They weren’t the only ones. Earlier in the day, the associated student body at Porterville High School honored Jeffries with a short memorial that included a few words by his former teacher Todd Coons, a moment of silence, taps played on trumpet by PHS band director Jim Kusserow, and the release of dozens of red and blue balloons attached to small pieces of colored construction paper that read “Thank you for your service, Doug Jeffries” and “Once a Panther - Always a Panther.”

“This is a truibute for all he has done for Porterville and our country,” said Makayla Reed, ASB public relations. “He was a student here and really involved with the ag program. We just wanted to honor him.”

It is a sentiment that has been expressed again and again throughout the small mountain community where flags are flying at half staff in honor of Pfc. Jeffries.

“The amount of outpouring and emotion from the community has been overwhelming,” Jeffries said. “We’ll never leave Springville. We’ll never move out of this house.”

Army Pfc. Douglas J. Jeffries Jr. was killed in action on 9/8/11.

Navy Cmdr. James K. Crawford

2011-09-07T13:36:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Navy Cmdr. James K. Crawford, 50, of East Concord, N.Y.

Cmdr Crawford was assigned to U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, supporting operations at the Combined Maritime Forces Coalition Coordination Center at Naval Support Activity, Bahrain; died Sept. 7 of a heart attack while exercising in Manama, Bahrain.

A final goodbye Friday morning for a Western New Yorker who died in the Middle East while serving his country.

Commander James K. Crawford, 50, of East Concord died last Wednesday in a non-combat incident in Manama, Bahrain. Crawford was there as part of Operation New Dawn. His family says Crawford was assigned to Fifth Fleet Headquarters in Bahrain where he worked in an Intelligence unit.

Mark Crawford, the brother of the Commander, says he suffered a heart attack while working out and could not be revived. The Defense Department says an investigation is still underway.

A funeral with full military honors was held at SS Peter and Paul Church in Hamburg. Commander Crawford was then laid to rest in SS Peter and Paul Cemetery.

Mark Crawford says his brother was a veteran of the First Gulf War in 1991. He was a Navy reservist for 22 years, And in civilian life he was an agent with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency of the Homeland Security Department.

Navy Cmdr. James K. Crawford died of a heart attack on 9/7/11.

James W. Coker

2011-09-05T12:13:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

The Department of Defense announced the death of a Department of the Navy civilian who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

James W. Coker, 59, of Mount Pleasant, S.C., was pronounced dead Sept. 5 in Kabul, Afghanistan, while on temporary assignment with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Coker worked for Naval Facilities Engineering Command Atlantic, Norfolk, Va.

The circumstances surrounding his death are under investigation.

In Afghanistan, a Western official who was briefed on the incident told The Associated Press that after the kidnapping, Coker's body was found in a cave in nearby hills. He was strangled with a belt, the official said, speaking anonymously to discuss matters of intelligence.

Coker, 59, was a civilian working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He reportedly was kidnapped from a power plant near Kabul and strangled, making him the third Pentagon civilian killed in 10 years of war and U.S. involvement in Afghanistan.

Coker was a life-long area resident who worked as a civilian at the Charleston Air Force Base for about 20 years prior to his more recent postings. He also built houses in the Charleston area.

Carrie Coker-Hughes of Goose Creek said her father, James W. "Will" Coker, was a deeply religious man who loved his three children, five grandchildren and traveling the world.

"He raised three children on his own," she said. "He was a precious man who loved his family and God unconditionally."

Daughter, Carrie,
said they always talked about the good times and family business, not on the goings-on around him in Afghanistan.

"I knew it was a dangerous risk," she said. "That lifestyle over there is pretty tough." He'd been overseas for about three months but was expected to return home in about two weeks.

Carrie said her father was assigned to several bases while in Afghanistan, identifying those places as Camp Blackhorse and Camp Integrity, where the phone service was less consistent, she said.

She knew something was wrong when she didn't hear from him during the weekend, saying his habit had been to call her during her breaks from her job as a dental hygienist.

Outside of work, Coker became involved in overseas relief missions with local church groups, including to Africa. His daughter described him as a workaholic.

"Working in the yard and reading, or just working with his hands," Coker-Hughes said of his hobbies. "He was a hard worker. He just never stopped."

She believes her father's good deeds left him at peace, and called him her guardian angel. "He has gone to heaven," she said. "I have no doubt."

James Coker was laid to rest at Whispering Pines Memorial Gardens.
He is survived by his wife, Marli; children, James, Lisa and Carrie; siblings, Ben, Mack, Bill, Peggy, Betty Jo and Juanita.

Army Spc. Christophe J. Marquis

2011-09-04T12:14:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Christophe J. Marquis, 40, of Tampa, Fla.

Spc Marquis was assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died Sept. 4, 2011 at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Germany, of injuries sustained Aug. 27 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.

Spc Marquis was born in was born in Strasbourg, France. He joined the French Foreign Legion as an infantryman in 1990. He deployed to Bosnia and French Guiana in South America. He earned the rank of staff sergeant while in the Legion.

“Specialist Marquis was a warrior in the truest sense of the word,” said Capt. Christopher Gardiner, the commander of Troop A, 5th Sqdn., 1st Cav. Reg.

“There is no one who exemplifies the warrior lifestyle more. (His) attention to detail and dedication to mission was phenomenal and an example to junior troopers around him.”

“Soldiering was what Marquis loved to do and he let nothing get in the way,” added Pfc. Daniel Bridges. “He especially had a way of continuously lightening the mood day-in and day-out whether it was (with) his French dance or his many other ways of making people laugh,” Bridges said Specialist Marquis was the epitome of a Soldier,” said Staff Sgt. Aloysius Domme, a squad leader with Troop A. “He was a Soldier (who) everyone, including myself, learned from.”

“He could take any situation and pull the positives out of it in a way to make people feel better about what’s going on,” Domme said. “He always brought a smile to our faces. He was, in his own way, a morale boost.”

“He was a great Soldier and more importantly he was a good friend, my friend,” Domme said. “He will not be forgotten. It was an honor to serve with him and a privilege to know him.”

“Marquis was a good Soldier, knowledgeable, helpful and willing to carry the heaviest loads, and it’s clear his platoon-mates liked and admired him,” said Lt. Col. David Hardy, the commander of 2nd Bn., 8th Inf. Reg. “He came from a different background and he was a little older than the rest and he had a different accent but he was right at home among his fellow Soldiers.”

Few have a story like his, Hardy said. He went from the Legion to owning a bar in France to owning a bar in Florida, but ended up in the U.S. Army because he loved being a soldier.

He moved to the U.S. in 2007 and joined the Army in April 2010. He arrived at Fort Wainwight in February 2011. He deployed to Afghanistan in April. He served as a M240 gunner and a biometrics equipment operator.

Awards and decorations include:

Bronze Star
Purple Heart
Combat Infantryman Badge
National Defense Service Ribbon
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Afghan Campaign Medal

Army Spc. Christophe J. Marquis died on 9/4/11 from injuries received in action on 8/27/11.

Army Spc. Christopher J. Scott

2011-09-03T12:19:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Christopher J. Scott, 21, of Tyrone, N.Y.

Spc Scott was assigned to 716th Military Police Battalion, 101st Sustainment Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Sept. 3, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with small-arms fire.

Spc Scott was born in New Port Richey, FL, but raised in Dundee NY. He graduated from Dundee High School in 2009 where he participated in football, track and was the only male cheerleader on the Varsity Team. He received both the Maroon and White Varsity Letters in football and track.

A former Boy Scout, Spc Scott was an avid sportsman and hunter. He loved to go duck and coon hunting and was a member of the Spencer Van Etton Coon Hunting Club. He was skilled in martial arts and had received his Senior Red Belt.

He dreamed of serving his country as a Military Policeman. He followed his dream by joining the Army a month after he graduated high school. He was assigned to Fort Campbell in May 2010.

This was Spc Scott's first deployment, having just deployed to Afghanistan in July. He was killed 12 days before he was due to return home to get married.

"As a leader, I couldn't ask for a better soldier," said Sgt Christopher Coats, a team leader with the 561st Military Police Company. The way he conducted himself on a daily basis was 100% professional."

"Spc Scott served with distinction in our nations battle against terrorism," said Lt Col John Cook, Commander, 1st SQDN, 10th Cavalry Regiment.

Spc Scott's awards and decorations include:

Bronze Star
Purple Heart
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star
Overseas Service Ribbon
Army Good Conduct Medal
NATO Medal
Combat Action Badge

Army Spc. Christopher J. Scott was killed in action on 9/3/11.

Army Sgt. Chester G. Stoda

2011-09-02T08:40:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Chester G. Stoda, 32, of Black River Falls, Wis.

Sgt Stoda died Sep. 2, 2011 from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 8th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade, Fort Hood, Texas.

Sgt Stoda died while scuba diving in Hawaii while on leave from Afghanistan.

A lifeguard at Haena Beach Park administered CPR for more than 30 minutes in an attempt to save Stoda's life before medics arrived.

Sgt Stoda was scuba diving with a friend from Texas near Tunnels Beach. Lifeguard John Cammak noticed the two enter the water around 3 p.m. and for more than an hour, observed the pair diving and periodically surfacing. Around 4:30 p.m., Stoda's diving companion returned to the beach while Stoda remained in the water to snorkel.

The lifeguard continued to observe Stoda as he snorkeled and drifted closer to the waters in front of the lifeguard stand. Around 5:00 p.m., as Cammak was closing up the lifeguard stand, he observed Stoda still in the water about 50 yards offshore and decided to swim out to see if he needed assistance. When he reached Stoda, Stoda was unconscious.

The lifeguard brought Stoda back to shore and asked for assistance from beachgoers in retrieving first aid and communications equipment from the lifeguard stand.

Stoda was transported to Wilcox Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 7:32 p.m.

North District Lifeguard Supervisor Jim Ingham praised Cammak for following his instincts and making heroic efforts to save Stoda’s life. “John felt something wasn’t right, so before closing up for the night he felt compelled to swim out and check on Mr. Stoda,” stated Ingham. “Although ultimately the victim couldn’t be revived, John and others on the beach did everything they could to assist. John’s actions truly represent the dedication, commitment and skill of our lifeguards.”

Sgt. Stoda had worked as a logger in his father's logging business as well as Webster Lumber and several logging operations in the Bangor area. He was working as a self-employed logger at the time he entered the service.

Sgt Stoda enlisted in the Army in February 2008, where he served as a combat engineer and was responsible for locating and removing improvised explosive devices from roads. He deployed to Afghanistan in December 2010.

Sgt Stoda was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking, cross-county skiing, camping and bee keeping.

"He loved the outdoors," said his mother, Ann.

He also loved history and enjoyed reading books about events such as World War II.

When describing their son, Ann and Douglas Stoda refer to him as a man who was kind and would do anything for anyone.

His father, Douglas, described Chester as "easy and fun to be around."

Sgt Stoda's awards and decorations include:

Army Achievement Medals (2)
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Meda
Korea Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal with campaighn star
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
NATO Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbons (2)
Combat Action Badge

Sgt Stoda was laid to rest in Oak Grove Cemetery in Tomah

Sgt Stoda is survived by his parents, grandparents, and two sisters.

Army Sgt. Chester G. Stoda died in a non-combat related accident on 9/2/11.

Army Spc. Kevin R. Shumaker

2011-08-31T13:38:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Kevin R. Shumaker, 24, of Livermore, Calif.

Spc Shumaker was assigned to Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.; died Aug. 31, 2011 in a stateside hospital of rabies believed to have been contracted while he was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

By DANIEL WOOLFOLK
TIMES STAFF WRITER

FORT DRUM — The family of a 10th Mountain Division soldier who died of rabies last month wants to know why he died of the treatable disease.

The soldier, Spc. Kevin R. Shumaker, 24, Livermore, Calif., died Aug. 31 at Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, days after being assigned to the post.

While deployed with a Germany-based Army unit to Afghanistan eight months before dying, the soldier was bitten by a dog, his mother, Elaine Taylor of Castro Valley, Calif., told the Contra Costa Times, adding that a series of blood tests at the Syracuse hospital indicated her son may not have received the proper doses of vaccines that, according to the World Health Organization, can save a bite victim from rabies before the symptoms begin to show.

The soldier was assigned to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team’s Special Troops Battalion and began showing symptoms of rabies shortly after arriving last month.

“He was only there for a couple of days,” his stepfather, David Taylor of Castro Valley, told the Watertown Daily Times.

The battalion’s commander, Lt. Col. Rhett R. Cox, and other unit leaders were especially helpful once family members flew to New York to be with the dying soldier, Mr. Taylor said.

“They supported the family,” he said. “Col. Cox performed brilliantly.”

The soldier’s Fort Drum unit held a memorial service for him last week at the division chapel.

The Department of Defense is investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.

Army Spc. Kevin R. Shumaker died of a non-combat related illness on 8/31/11.

Army Spc. Dennis James Jr.

2011-08-31T12:21:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Dennis James Jr., 21, of Deltona, Fla.

Spc. James was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Polk, La.; died Aug. 31, 2011 in Wardak province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

Spc James graduated from Pine Ridge High School where he participated in basketball, football and track. He enlisted in the Army in June 2008. Arrived at Fort Polk in November 2009. He deployed to Afghanistan in October 2010.

Dean of Students, Madsen Cange, who had lost touch with Dennis about three years ago, said James was very popular among his classmates and was a good student in the classroom. "it's a very sad day. I found out this week he was in the Armed Forces...but in the same sentence, I had found out he had been killed.

Adam Coniglio, who was an acquaintance of James and former teammate, said he knew him as a hard worker from their days on the football field.

"From what I knew of him, he was a great guy," Coniglio said before the game. "What can you say about someone who gave his life for his country? I'm very proud to have known him."

Aunt and guardian, Rhonda Willams, said, "He was going to make his career in the Army. His career was cut short."

She described her nephew as a generous and kind man with a sense of humor, who loved to play basketball with his much taller cousins.

"You couldn't tell him that he wasn't the big dog of the group. When he wasn't driving to the hoop, he was working on his car, the Dodge Magnum with the big wheels."

Spc James' awards and decorations include:

Bronze Star
Purple Heart
Army Achievement Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Combat Action Badge

Army Spc. Dennis James Jr. was killed in action on 8/31/11.

Army Spc. Douglas J. Green

2011-08-28T12:26:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Douglas J. Green, 23, of Sterling, Va.

Spc Green was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died Aug. 28, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device and small-arms fire.

Washington Post
By Martin Weil, Published: August 29

People could not stop recalling good things on Tuesday night about Douglas J. Green, who grew up in Northern Virginia and was known for caring about his high school and its students and teachers and the community that surrounded it.

He also cared about his country, and shortly after graduation from Potomac Falls High School in Sterling, he joined the Army.

Spc. Douglas J. Green, 23, was killed in Afghanistan on Sunday, the Pentagon said, when insurgents attacked his unit using a makeshift bomb and small arms fire.

“It’s pretty devastating,” said his aunt, Stacy Dinkel. “Doug was one of the nicest human beings on the face of the Earth. He was an amazing person.”

In the hours after news of his death began to spread, hundreds of people posted remembrances on a Facebook page created in his memory.

“Everybody loved Doug,” said his mother, Suni Erlanger. “Everybody loved him.”

Chad Runfola, who was an assistant principal at Potomac Falls while Green was there, recalled that he “was just so genuinely nice to others.”

He “always communicated a sense of caring for his teachers, his classmates and his school,” Runfola said.

In the eastern Loudoun County community, “this was a very special young man,” said John P. Murray, a Newspaper Association of America executive and Loudoun resident.

“He was a pretty selfless kid,” said David Spage, who was principal at Potomac Falls during Green’s years there. His ethic of service was such that “when he decided he wanted to go serve his country, it wasn’t a surprise.”

His family had tried to dissuade him from enlisting, his mother said. His maternal grandfather, Jay Chabrow, a technology consultant, said he wanted Green to work for him. But, Erlanger said, “he loved his country and nothing was going to stop him.”

Green was “my hero,” Chabrow said.

After enlisting in 2007, Green served a tour in Iraq. He was sent to Afghanistan in April as a member of the 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, based at Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

Family members said he had played football at Potomac Falls, probably as much out of a sense of obligation to the school as anything else. He was also prominent in drama, and, his mother said, he “played the bad guy” in a school production of “Footloose.”

Many remembered Green for his sense of humor. He was “quite a character,” Spage said. His mother thought that made him something of an atypical soldier. “He was a stand-up comedian,” she said.

Even in difficult times for Green and his unit in Afghanistan, Erlanger said, “he made them all laugh.” In times of peril, she said, Green would assure his fellow soldiers “that everything’s going to be okay.”

Erlanger said her son’s enlistment was to be up before the end of the year. She said he planned to return home and marry his sweetheart, attend college, work for the Secret Service or the CIA and, perhaps, enter politics.

Other survivors include his father, Douglas Green of Sterling, and two sisters.

“You were an awesome dude,” read one comment on the memorial Facebook page. “You always knew how to make me feel better,” read another.

“You impacted so many lives with your goodness, humor, and positive attitude,” read yet another. “You had an inexplicable way of drawing people toward you."

Army Spc. Douglas J. Green was killed in action on 8/28/11.

Army Spc. Michael C. Roberts

2011-08-27T13:07:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Michael C. Roberts, 23, of Watauga, Texas

Spc Roberts was assigned to 561st Military Police Company, 716th Military Police Battalion, 101st Sustainment Brigade, Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Aug. 27, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.

Michael C. Roberts, 23, an Army specialist, was killed in action Saturday, Aug. 27, 2011, while serving our country.

Michael was born Nov. 24, 1987, in Lexington, Ky. He was the third son of Dave and Kathy Roberts.

His brother Patrick, 28, served his country in an air defense battery at Fort Bliss during his time in the Army. His brother Brian, 25, just completed his advanced training, earning honors grad and will be assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division in Fort Benning, Ga., upon his return this month in the Army.

Michael's family moved to Texas in 1992 when he was 4 and has resided here since.

Growing up, he competed in soccer leagues for many years and was also active in Scouting. He enjoyed fishing and camping and had a love for the great outdoors.

Michael graduated from Richland High School in 2006. During high school Michael was a varsity wrestler and tuba player in both the marching band and concert bands.

After attending the University of North Texas for a semester, Michael decided he wanted to make a difference for others and enlisted in the Army in 2007. After his training he was assigned to the 1st Cavalry based at Fort Hood as a communications specialist. He deployed to Iraq from 2009-2010 as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He re-enlisted in 2010 and was retrained at Fort Leonard Wood and became part of the 561st Military Police Company based at Fort Campbell, Ky. Michael's unit deployed to Afghanistan in July 2011 and was based in the city of Kandahar.

On Aug. 27, Michael was protecting a secured area outside a police station when a vehicle attempted to breach the area. He heroically engaged the enemy and prevented them from harming a large number of soldiers. The vehicle exploded, killing Michael instantly and injured approximately 20 others.

Although tragic, his comrades survived, greatly due to Michael's swift and decisive actions.

He was recognized for his actions with being awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, NATO Medal and Combat Action Badge.

Michael lived his life putting others first and demonstrated that daily. It was common for Michael to greet you with a smile and a big bear hug showing his genuine concern that you were having a good day. He made it his mission to bring a smile to all he encountered, even those who he just met and offered whatever he could to make that person's day special.

Michael spent his days checking back with friends, former schoolmates, Army buddies and knowing his genuine concerns for them, made their day better.

Michael will be sorely missed by many but his legacy lives on for all of us to stop, take time from our day and show the type of compassion for others as he did.

Survivors: Parents, David and Kathy Roberts; brothers, Patrick Roberts and wife, Brittany, and Brian Roberts; nephew dog, Cooper Roberts; grandmothers, Mary Jane Ryan and Martha Roberts; aunts and uncles, Cathy Witchek, Donna La Tour, Tim and Diane Roberts, Joanne Ryan, Charles Ryan and wife, Sharon, and Mary Ellen Ryan; cousins; fiancee, Rachel Pledger; and many friends and brothers in arms.

Army Spc. Michael C. Roberts was killed in action on 8/27/11.

Army Pfc. Jesse W. Dietrich

2011-08-25T13:51:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Pfc. Jesse W. Dietrich, 20, of Venus, Texas

Pfc Dietrich was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.; died Aug. 25, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using small-arms fire.

Star Telegram
By Sarah Bahari

A 20-year-old Army private from the Johnson County town of Venus was killed in Afghanistan last week, the Defense Department announced Saturday.

Pfc. Jesse W. Dietrich's survivors include his father, Paul Dietrich, who was serving with the Army in Iraq when he was given the news, said A.J. Hillin, pastor at Cahill United Methodist Church in Alvarado, who knows the family. The slain soldier also leaves a child, the Army said.

No further details were given.

Jesse Dietrich died Thursday in Kandahar province from injuries he suffered when insurgents attacked with small arms, the department said. A 24-year-old sergeant in the unit was also killed in Kandahar province, it said.

Dietrich enlisted in March 2009 and arrived at Fort Drum, N.Y., in July 2010 to join the 10th Mountain Division, the base's public affairs office said. He deployed in March to Afghanistan with his unit, the 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team.

His awards and decorations include the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal and the Combat Infantry Badge.

Funeral arrangements were not immediately known.

Venus is about 25 miles southeast of Fort Worth between Alvarado and Midlothian

Jesse Wayne Dietrich, 20, a U.S. Army specialist and a great American hero, paid the ultimate sacrifice in the Kandahar province, Afghanistan, on Thursday, Aug. 25, 2011.

Celebration of a hero will take place at 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 9, at First Baptist Church, Mansfield. Interment: Diamond J Youth Ranch in Gustine. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Skyvue Funeral Home. Jesse resided with his aunt and uncle in Mansfield and attended Mansfield ISD schools until a semester before his graduation when he then moved to Venus. Survivors: Son, Kevin Wayne Dietrich; father, Paul Dietrich and wife, Sherri, and their children, Kolton and Laronda; mother, Natasha Bullard and husband, Larry; sister, Jocelyn Dietrich; cherished Aunt Neta and Uncle Rex Southern; and numerous other family and friends.

Army Pfc. Jesse W. Dietrich was killed in action on 8/25/11.

Army Sgt. Devin J. Daniels

2011-08-25T12:26:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Devin J. Daniels, 22, of Kuna, Idaho

Sgt Daniels was assigned to 546th Transportation Company, 82nd Sustainment Brigade, XVIII Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died Aug. 25 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his vehicle using an improvised explosive device.

Sgt. Daniels was posthumously promoted to sergeant from the rank of corporal.

Sgt Daniels graduated from Eagle High School in 2007. He joined the Army in 2008 and was an Army Ranger. He served at Fort Hood, Texas; Fort Benning, Georgia; Fort Bliss, Texas; and Fort Leonard-Wood, Missouri. He served as a heavy vehicle operator, deploying to Afghanistan in August 2010.

Sgt Daniels loved the outdoors and loved hunting with his dad.

Devin Daniels and his wife Samantha welcomed their first child, born in January this year. He was able to come home on leave for 17 days meet and hold his daughter, Olivia Lynn.

In a statement released through the Idaho National Guard, his family said:
“Devin was our family’s pride and joy. Growing up, he was a wonderful young man who was a good student, good athlete and who was never in trouble. He lived by the motto, ‘Winners never quit and quitters never win.’

Sgt Devin's awards and decorations include:
Bronze Star
Purple Heart
Army Commendation Medal (2)
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal w/ Bronze Service Star
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Action Badge
Drivers Badge

To the wife, daughter, and parents of Sgt Daniels. I was honored as a Patriot Guard Riders member to escort Sgt Daniels on 2 separate occasions. First from his arrival at Gowen Field to Payette then later from Payette to Council then returning to Payette. Sgt Daniels became a part of my life when I moved him as a pallbearer in Payette and that is when the reality of his ultimate sacrifice touched my heart very deeply. The ride to Council was tearful for me on many occasions as we passed through towns along the way and people showed their respect with flags, salutes, and hands over their hearts. Police and Fire equipment had their lights flashing to show their honor and appreciation for his sacrifice. People came from homes far off the roadway to honor a hero they did not know. What impressed me deeply was a little boy about 6 or 7 standing alone, all alone on the sidewalk when we arrived back to Payette from Council. He was at attention with his right hand over his heart. Three of our riders later spoke with him and his father and commended him for the respect he paid to the procession. I will long remember your Son, Husband, and Father~ Nick B., Boise, Idaho

Army Sgt. Devin J. Daniels was killed in action on 8/25/11.

Army Sgt. Colby L. Richmond

2011-08-25T12:24:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Colby L. Richmond, 28, of Providence, N.C.

Sgt Richmond was assigned to 546th Transportation Company, 82nd Sustainment Brigade, XVIII Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died Aug. 25, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his vehicle using an improvised explosive device.

Mother, Cynthia, said her only son Colby was a hard worker "who loved people" and had "the biggest smile."

While Sgt Richmond did not have any siblings, his mother said that he had an extended "family" of close friends.

"He really embraced people," his mother said. "He loved meeting people. Everyone became family."

Sgt. Colby's unit was scheduled to return home in mid-October.

His mother said news of her only son's death came as a shock. "I was devastated. Just very devastated," she said. "It's like I'm numb. I can't believe it."

She was angry about her son's death at first. "We all make choices, and we know the risks," she said. "He wanted to serve his country, and he wanted to make a difference. I want people to remember him as my hero and their hero. He was doing what he loved to do. He was trying to help his country."

Sgt Richmond's awards and decorations include:

Army Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Noncommissioned Professional Development Ribbon
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Action Badge
Drivers Badge

Army Sgt. Colby L. Richmond was killed in action on 8/25/11.

Army Pfc. Brandon S. Mullins

2011-08-25T09:14:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Pfc. Brandon S. Mullins, 21, of Owensboro, Ky.

Pfc Mullins was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died Aug. 25, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

SPC Brandon Scott Mullins, 21, of Owensboro, Kentucky died in service to his country in Kandahar province in southeast Afghanistan on August 25, 2011. He graduated from Apollo High School in 2008, participated in hockey and youth football and was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. PFC Mullins joined the Army in 2010 and had been assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division at Fort Wainwright, Alaska. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Rev. Thomas C. Mullins and Mary Mullins and his maternal grandparents, Gerald Heald and Sara Davis Heald.

Survivors include his parents, Thomas and Catherine Mullins of Owensboro; a brother, PFC Shaun Erik Mullins and his wife Ashley of Fort Bragg, NC; a sister, Bethany Rose Mullins of Owensboro; uncles, Bob Mullins of Lexington, David Mullins and his wife Kathy of Irvine, CA and James Heald of Thailand; aunt, Elizabeth Wright of Ashland, KY; and cousins, Stephanie Mullins Sweatt, Brian Mullins, Tori Mullins, Alexis Mullins, Madison Mullins, Jake Wright, and Daniel Berry.

‘He wanted to serve and was proud to serve’
The Associated Press

OWENSBORO, Ky. — A solider killed in Afghanistan has been remembered as a selfless young man who made a difference in the lives of others.

Army Gen. Steve Lyons told hundreds of people who attended a funeral service on Sept. 11 for 21-year-old Spc. Brandon Scott Mullins of Owensboro that he was the heart of his platoon and the epitome of service. Lyons said those were just two reasons Mullins has been nominated to receive the Bronze Star, the Messenger-Inquirer of Owensboro reported.

“Some people can live their entire lives wondering, did they make a difference,” Lyons said. “We never have to wonder about Brandon’s life.”

Mullins was killed when his vehicle struck a roadside bomb in Kandahar province on Aug. 25. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, out of Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

David Mullins said his nephew knew the risks of enlisting, but decided to follow in the steps of his older brother, father and grandfather.

“He wanted to serve and was proud to serve,” Mullins said, adding that his nephew had planned to re-enlist.

Youth pastor Damian Schoonmaker said Mullins has found himself in the Army.

“He became such a man — faithful, stalwart, servant-hearted and passionate.”

Christy Chaney of Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory, which handled the service at Good Shepherd Church in Owensboro, said about 1,500 people signed a register in remembrance of the soldier.

He was buried in Owensboro Memorial Gardens.

Army Pfc. Brandon S. Mullins was killed in action on 8/25/11.

Army Sgt. Andrew R. Tobin

2011-08-24T13:52:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Sgt. Andrew R. Tobin, 24, of Jacksonville, Ill.

Sgt Tobin was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.; died Aug. 24, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit using small arms fire.

Sgt Tobin, born in Glendora, CA, raised in Woodland Hills, CA moved to Manteno, IL at some point. He graduated from Manteno High School in 2005 and attended MacMurray College in Jacksonville, IL where he participated in the wrestling program. He enlisted in the Army in January 2008.

This was his second deployment to Afghanistan.

Friends described Andrew as an outgoing and personalbe young man who was always wearing a smile. He loved to spend time with his friends and family. He enjoyed target shooting and trying to master the "Call of Duty" video game. He loved cooking outdoors and believed anything tasted better with BBQ sauce.

Sgt Tobin's awards and decorations include:

Army Achievement Medal
Army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Afghanistan Campaign medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
NATO Medal
Combat Infantryman Badge
Air Assault Badge
Marksmanship Qualification Badge-Sharpshooter with Machingun
Marksmanship Qualification Badge-Sharpshooter with Pistol

September 12, 2011
I will remember Drew for being someone who could do anything he set his mind to. Also being a very kind & thoughtful person, that everyone liked. He was very kind to his Grandma Smith & my daughter "His Cousin" Paris Smith. Going to Jacksonville & seeing everything & everybody there, I seen how Drew touched everyone & how he will be remembered & missed!I've always been Proud of him since he was a little kid (to) Wrestling in HighSchool (to) College (to) The Military & then, getting Married.I used to say " Drew is my Nephew " now... I'm Proud to say " I'm Drews Uncle" He truly is a HERO! Thank you Drew for everything! I LOVE YOU! Your Uncle Aaron.~ Aaron S., Bradley, Illinois
September 12, 2011

I would like everyone to know that SGT Andrew 'Floater' Tobin was an EXCEPTIONAL soldier. It was nothing short of an honor serving with SGT Tobin in Afghanistan. Not many could just 'turn it on' before a patrol and then just 'turn it off' as soon as he came in. As a Platoon Leader, I'm so grateful to have had the chance to listen to Tobin's advice. As a friend, I'm even more grateful to have had the chance to hear his jokes and share some great laughs. Floater...take care of us up there. ~ Kevin P., Williamsport, Maryland

September 07, 2011
I miss you my friend and Brother. You will forever be in my heart and in my thoughts. We all miss you and wish you were still with us. ~
SPC Andrew Jones, Ft. Drum, New York

September 06, 2011
I had the honor of being one of Andrew's high school teachers. I still remember his smile, his friendliness, and the character he showed each and every day. He was a wonderful young man. ~ Donna E., Manteno, Illinois

September 02, 2011
My heart stopped for a moment when I saw your obituary and I flashed back to the year when I was in your corner at the Cal. state wrestling championships cheering you on. I remembered your toughness on the mat, your encouragement to your teammates.Thank you Lord for letting us have Andrew for a season. Thank you Andrew for your service to our country RIP.Deepest Sympathy to Katie,and Lee Ann and the family.~
Ron M., Woodland Hills, California

September 01, 2011
I knew Andrew, always called him Toby to him calling me Gonzo. He was one of the genuine people that I had considered my friend while with our unit. To know that his smile and his personality will not be with any of us anymore is a tragedy. I am so sorry for your sacrifice. We will all miss him deeply.
~ Carlos Gonzales, Perth Amboy, New Jersey

August 31, 2011
I was one of Andrew's teachers at Manteno High School. His death came as a shock to many of us as we remember Andrew from his student days as a fun loving and happy young man. My thoughts and prayers are with Andrew and his family during this difficult time. ~ Brent Z., Galesburg, Illinois

August 31, 2011
Something I read a few days ago touches this life so exactly, I want to share it with you all. "There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even when they are gone the light remains." [author unknown] Andrew was such a person. His life brings a glow to our hearts that will remember him always. Our sympathy to his wife, mother, brother, and family and friends. We were all so blessed to have shared this light in knowing Andrew.
~ Margaret & John M., Saucier, Mississippi

August 30, 2011
Andrew you are always going to be a smile in my heart. I love you so very much, and you are truly going to be missed by this grandmother. You have always been one very special grandson to me. There is nothing I can say or do for you now but just knowing you are up there watching over all of us here. I love you so much. ~ Grandmother Dee Schreiber, Mt. Vernon, Illinois

August 29, 2011
We met by chance in the street. your buddies bet you couldnt get a hug frm the next girl that passd you. It was me. That hug turnd into a great friendship! As you would say, "good times " i'll always be one of your P.I.C.'s I will never forget you or your electric smile and personality. Forever and always in my heart. Goodbye...... ~ Shannon M, White Hall, Illinois

August 28, 2011
I didn't think that day when you left and you said i will catch you later, that that would be the last time i would ever see you.... Tobin you were a true hero to me. thank you for keeping this country safe and free. I'll miss you Tobin. ~ Ryan N., Chapin, Illinois

Sgt Tobin was laid to rest at Asbury Cemetery in IL.

Sgt Tobin is survived by his mother, Lee Ann; father, Nicholas; wife, Katie Lynn; brother, Nicholas; adoptive grandparents, Deonna and David.

Illinois soldier, 24, killed in Afghanistan
The Associated Press

KANKAKEE, Ill. — An Illinois soldier has been killed while serving in Afghanistan, U.S. Army officials said.

Officials at Fort Drum in New York say 24-year-old Sgt. Andrew Tobin was killed Wednesday in Kandahar province when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire.

Tobin, who is survived by his wife, Katie, most recently lived in Jacksonville.

An infantryman with the 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, Tobin joined the Army in January 2008. He'd been deployed to Afghanistan in 2009 and returned there in March 2011.

"He was sitting on a couch in my living room three weeks ago, talking about going back there," Manteno High School wrestling teammate Larry George told the Daily Journal of Kankakee (http://bit.ly/oRiNMg). "He was the kind of person you wanted to surround yourself with. This was going to be his last tour of duty."

Tobin was described by friends as a "jokester," ''goofball" and "class clown." People also say they were impressed with his modesty, amiability and dedication.

"He sat around with my dad and talked about the military," cousin Pam Thompson, of Bradley, told The Daily Journal. "I think he liked (the military), because he never complained about it. He wanted to become a recruiter so he could work 9 to 5 and be able to stay home with his wife. He loved his wife. He loved his whole family."

In addition to his wife, Tobin is survived by his mother, Lee Ann Smith, of Los Angeles; his father, Nicholas D, Tobin, Sr., also of California; and a brother, Nicholas Jr., of Riverside, Calif.

Army Sgt. Andrew R. Tobin was killed in action on 8/24/11.

Army 1st Lt. Timothy J. Steele

2011-08-23T13:57:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army 1st Lt. Timothy J. Steele, 25, of Duxbury, Mass.

1st Lt Steele was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.; died Aug. 23, 2011 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device.

Lt Steele graduated from Duxbury High School in 2004 where he was a star athlete, class president and an Honor student. He went on to graduate from West Point and was commissioned in 2009. He was assigned to Fort Drum in 2010. He deployed to Afghanistan in March.

His family said that even as a teenager, he knew he wanted to be in the military. He carried the American flag during his final cross-country race and wore military fatigues in his senior picture.

Lt Steel's awards and decorations include:

National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon
Afghanistan Campagn Medal
NATO Medal
Air Assault Medal
Infantryman's Badge
Parachutist's Badge
Ranger Tab

September 09, 2011
We are praying for you all.....we love you all......Tim will never be forgotten~The Quatrevingts, Houma, Louisiana

August 27, 2011
You do not know me, but felt a need to express my sympathies. My girls went to high school with Joseph. May God Bless you and comfort the Steele family. So sorry for your loss.~ Janet Pierce, Duxbury, Massachusetts

Funeral services were held at the Catholic Chapel, West Point. Burial and final honors were at the West Point Cemetery. A memorial mass was held at the Holy Family Parish in Duxbury.

Lt Steele is survived by his parents, Mary Ellen and John; wife, Meaghan and their daughter, Liberty; siblings, John, Christopher, Major Julie Maxwell, Jessica, Anne Marie and Theresa. He was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph, who died in an auto accident in 2001.

Army 1st Lt. Timothy J. Steele was killed in action on 8/23/11.

Army Pfc. Douglas L. Cordo

2011-08-19T14:00:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Pfc. Douglas L. Cordo, 20, of Kingston, N.Y.

Pfc Cordo was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; died Aug. 19, 2011 in Zabul, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

Fallen soldier ‘wanted to be right out’ on front lines
By Susan Campriello
The Poughkeepsie (N.Y.) Journal

KINGSTON, N.Y. — Tracy Karson, the mother of Army Pvt. 1st Class Douglas L. Cordo, said she hopes her son’s body will be home in the coming days.

Cordo, a Kingston native, died Aug. 19 of injuries he suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated while his unit patrolled the Zabul Province village of Shah Joy in Afghanistan.

Cordo was an infantryman with 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team of the 25th Infantry Division, out of Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

Days after Cordo’s death, Karson, 43, of Hurleyville, Sullivan County, expressed mixed feelings about the departure of American troops from Afghanistan and the continuing conflict there.

“I want it to end. I want to bring those guys home,” she said. “But what’s the alternative?”

Karson said she does not want America to experience another 9/11-type attack or for fighting to take place in the United States. Karson said she has discussed the drawdown of troops and her mixed feelings with an Army major assigned to her.

Cordo arrived in Afghanistan for a yearlong tour in April, and would not have been among the troops to leave by the end of this year.

Cordo was expected to return home for 15 days in mid-September, Karson said.

He had returned in March and attended her wedding, and had traveled from Fort Wainwright for Christmas, she said.

Karson and Cordo’s father, also named Douglas Cordo, of Ballston Spa, Saratoga County, said their son was a natural leader and had wanted to join the military as a child.

Karson said her son discussed with her his desire to join the Army or the Marines after he briefly attended SUNY Ulster.

Cordo grew up in Kingston and graduated from Kingston High School in 2009.

Karson said she supported her son’s decision to join the Army in 2010 “100 percent.”

However, she wished that he had joined to do something away from the front line instead of the infantry, she said.

“He wanted to be right out there,” she said.

‘There’s nothing you can really say about this’
By Emily Stewart
The Poughkeepsie (N.Y.) Journal

KINGSTON, N.Y. — Army Pfc. Douglas L. Cordo was laid to rest Aug. 31 in St. Remy Cemetery following a funeral service at the Old Dutch Church.

Cordo, 20, a Kingston native, died Aug. 19 of injuries he sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated while his unit patrolled the Zabul province village of Shah Joy.

Cordo was an infantryman with the 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, based at Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

Four of Cordo’s friends and a friend’s mother spoke at the funeral, recollecting antics and stories about a class clown — and sometime troublemaker — who put his friends before girls and transformed into a brave soldier who died for his country.

“There’s just so many stories,” said Mike Campbell, 21. “There’s nothing you can really say about this. It’s something — all you can do is think about it.”

A crowd stood somberly in front of the uptown post office, across the street from the church.

Troy Boutilette, 43, watched as six Army pallbearers from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point carried Cordo’s flag-draped coffin. Boutilette said he served with the Marines in Afghanistan in 2003-04.

“These kids are making a big sacrifice,” he said. “He had his whole life ahead of him.”

Michelle Elise and her daughter, Sylvan Garesche, 6, each held a small American flag. Elise said she didn’t know Cordo but felt compassion for his mother after reading about the death in newspapers.

“He was an only child,” she said.

About three dozen motorcycle riders accompanied the funeral procession. Most were members of the Patriot Guard Riders and Rolling Thunder, two groups that support fallen service members.

“We’re believers in freedom,” said Mike Kubiak, 52, a Patriot Guard Rider. “And they gave the ultimate sacrifice for freedom.”

Cordo arrived in Afghanistan in April for a yearlong tour. He would not have been among the troops scheduled to leave by the end of this year.

His family said he intended to pursue a career in law enforcement.

Army Pfc. Douglas L. Cordo was killed in action on 8/19/11.

Marine Lance Cpl. Travis M. Nelson

2011-08-18T15:44:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Marine Lance Cpl. Travis M. Nelson, 19, of Pace, Fla.

LCpl Nelson was assigned to 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.; died Aug. 18, 2011 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.

Lcpl Nelson graduated from Pace High School in 2010 where he was in Navy Junior ROTC. He was also in the Young Marines of Pensacola. He joined the Marines in September last year, following in the footsteps of his father, Scott, Army veteran, mother, Becie, who retired from the Navy and his grandfather who was in the U.S. Air Force.

He deployed to Afghanistan in March and was promoted to Lance Corporal in June.

"I can’t describe in words the kind of young man Travis was in terms of his patriotism," father, Scott Nelson said. "His willingness to defend his country was very strong."

On July Fourth, when the Nelson family gathered with Travis before he shipped out for Afghanistan, the young Marine, said his father, was "a little nervous, anxious, and very proud."

"We’re getting through this with prayer," said father, Scott, "a lot of friends, a lot of supporters. And then there’s a sense of knowing that Travis was doing what his life dream was."

Father, Scott, described his son has having had "a great love for the outdoors. He was always outside fishing and hunting. And he was a comical young man. He loved to make people laugh."

Lcpl Nelson was laid to rest at Oak Hill Cemetery where he was buried next to his grandfather.

Lcpl Nelson is survived by his parents, Beckie and Scott; siblings, Daniel, Chandler, Jenna and Anna; and fiancee, Madelina, who was his high school sweetheart.

Marine Lance Cpl. Travis M. Nelson nwas killed in action on 8/18/11.

Army Spc. Dennis G. Jensen

2011-08-16T15:52:00.000-05:00

Remember Our Heroes

Army Spc. Dennis G. Jensen, 21, of Vermillion, S.D.

Spc. Jensen was assigned to 153rd Engineer Battalion, 196th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Sioux Falls, S.D.; died Aug. 16, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, from a non-combat incident.

Spc Jensen was working with bridge materials when he was hit by two steel bridge decking panels that fell from a forklift when a strap securing them to the machine had broken. He was taken to Bastion Airfield Hospital where he died. Officials said Jensen was wearing all appropriate safety gear at the time.

“I am deeply saddened by the loss of Specialist Dennis Jensen,” Gov. Dennis Daugaard said in a statement. “Our hearts and prayers go out to his family and friends for their loss, and we offer our gratitude for Specialist Jensen’s service to our state and nation.”

Spc Jensen, born in Omaha, Neb., grew up in southeast South Dakota from the age of 2. He graduated from Vermillion High School.

Friends say Dennis always had a smile on his face. He loved cars, music, computers, video games, history, being a soldier and hunting with his Dad.

Spc Jensen served as a combat engineer with the 211th Engineer Company of Madison and De Smet. He volunteered to deploy with the 200th Engineer Company out of Pierre, which deployed in May for a one-year mission to maintain, repair and replace military bridges throughout Afghanistan. This was his first deployment.

Spc Jensen was laid to rest August 25 at Black Hills National Cemetery.

Spc Jensen is survived by his mother and stepfather, Christine and William; father, Glenn; and sister Melissa.

Army Spc. Dennis G. Jensen was killed in a non-combat related incident on 8/16/11.