6 posts tagged “2007”

 

 

On 9 November 2007 five Soldiers of the 173rd, 2-503 "Chosen Few" and a Marine attached to them were killed while returning to Firebase Bella in Kunar Province, Afghanistan.  Please take a few minutes today to remember them; to pray for them and to honor them.  And also pray for their families, brothers in arms and friends who miss them every day. 

 

 

14 October 1983 – 9 November 2007

Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment

CPT Matthew C. Ferrara was born on 14 October 1983 in Torrance, California, and he graduated and was commissioned from the United States Military Academy at West Point on 28 May 2005 as an Infantry officer.

CPT Ferrara completed the Infantry Officer Basic Course, Airborne School, and Ranger School at Fort Benning, Georgia and reported to Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy for his first duty assignment.  Matt was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry as the Platoon Leader of First Platoon.

In May 2007, CPT Ferrara deployed with the company to Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII.  On 22 August 2007, CPT Ferrara led his men to thwart a deliberate enemy attack on the Aranas Combat Outpost (Ranch House) by a numerically superior force.  For his valorous and heroic actions that day he was submitted for the Silver Star.

CPT Ferrara’s awards include: Silver Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Ranger Tab, and Basic Parachutist Badge.

CPT Ferrera  a graduate of the U. S. Military Academy at West Point had an older brother who had graduated from the academy.  At the time of Matt's death he had another brother attending the academy as well as a younger brother in ROTC at the Univerity of Souther California. He held dual citizens ship in the USA and New Zealand.  Matt was the first New Zealander to die in combat in Afghanistan.  Matt's mother wrote an article for the New Zealand Listener.  I encourage you to take the time to read her article.  Matt's family continues to work tirelessly in support of the wounded and deployed military personnel.

 

11 May 1984 – 9 November 2007

Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment

SGT Jeffery S. Mersman was born on 11 May 1984 in Paola, Kansas.  He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 15 January 2002. 

SGT Mersman served in C Company, 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division as a Grenadier and Rifle Team Leader.  While in this unit, SGT Mersman deployed three times in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM before reporting for duty at Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy.  

SGT Mersman was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team as a Rifle Team Leader in August 2006.  He deployed to Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDUING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007.  During this deployment, SGT Mersman participated in numerous combat patrols and manned a critical observation point at Bella Combat Outpost in Nuristan Province providing surveillance and early warning of enemy activity.
 
SGT Mersman’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal (3 Oak Leaf Clusters), Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Valorous Unit Award, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.

SGT Mersman had served three combat tours in Iraq prior to his tour in Afghanistan.  His family remembers him here.  The rescue pilots recount the night of the recovery of SGT Mersman in this article.  SGT Mersman's father also comments in the article.  I encourage you to take the time to read this article.

                                                      4 December 1983 – 9 November 2007

Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2dn Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment

CPL Lester G. Roque was born on 4 December 1983 in Obando, Bulacan, Philippines where he spent most of his childhood.   He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 2 February 2005.

During his time in service, CPL Roque completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, Medical Advanced Individual Training at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia.  On 10 October 2005, CPL Roque reported to his first duty station at Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy.  He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team.  After his arrival, he immediately joined Headquarters and Headquarters Company in Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VI where he was assigned as a trauma medic.  Due to his maturity and leadership, he was assigned as the Chosen Company Senior Medic where he served with distinction.  During OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII, CPL Roque established two aid stations at Combat Outposts Bella and Aranas (Ranch House), conducted numerous combat patrols, and established a local national clinic to increase the healthcare for the surrounding populace. 

CPL Roque’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Combat Medical Badge, Expert Field Medical Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.

Photos from CPL Roque's memorial service can be viewed here.  And in this blog tribute you can read more about CPL Roque including his love affair with is beloved wife Leikathryn.

17 August 1984 – 9 November 2007

Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment

CPL Sean K. Langevin was born on 17 August 1984 in Walnut Creek, California. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 14 February 2006. 

After completing Infantry One Station Unit Training (OSUT) and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georiga, CPL Langevin reported to his first duty station at Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy.  He was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team as an Automatic Rifleman.  CPL Langevin deployed to Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007. 

During his time in Afghanistan, CPL Langevin went on numerous combat patrols.  He was also involved in a violent firefight with enemy forces at the Aranas Combat Outpost (Ranch House) on 22 August 2007.  For his heroic actions during the Ranch House attack, CPL Langevin was submitted for the Bronze Star Medal with Valor. 

CPL Langevin’s awards include:  Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, Army Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Basic Parachutist Badge.

CPL Lagnevin was an Eagle Scout.  He is survived by his wife Jessica who was expecting their first child, a daughter, at the time of his death.

 

                                                          26 June 1986 – 9 November 2007

Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment

SPC Joseph M. Lancour was born on 26 June 1986 in Cadillac, Michigan. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 8 February 2006. 

After completing Infantry One Station Unit Training (OSUT) and attending Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia, SPC Lancour arrived at Caserma, Ederle in Vicenza, Italy for his first duty assignment.  SPC Lancour was immediately assigned as a Rifleman in Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team.

SPC Lancour conducted his first deployment to Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007.  During his service, SPC Lancour participated in numerous combat patrols and manned a critical observation post at Bella Combat Outpost providing security and observation of the surrounding mountainous terrain.

SPC Lancour’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, Army Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Basic Parachutist Badge

SPC Lancour's family and high school staff talk about what great young man he was here and here.

SGT Bocks was an only child.  His family tells a little about his childhood and his service iin the Marine Corps in this article.  Friends remember SGT Bocks here.  There are two wonderful memorial videos of SGT Bocks here and here

I will never forget the first time I watched and listened to the following rescue/recovery video from the ambush near Aranas of the men who had been on patrol from Firebase Bella in Kunar Province, Afghanistan.  The rescue/recovery operation lasted over 24 hous.  God Bless the helicopter pilots and medevac personnel who risk their lives every day for the wounded and fallen.

 

All fine looking young Americans taken way too soon.  Rest in Peace Brave Warriors. I will NEVER forget you.

SGT Joshua Brennan was a beloved son, brother, nephew and cousin who is missed by all who knew him and loved him.  SGT Brennan was shot multiple times on 25 October 2007 in an ambush during Operation Rock Avalanche.  He succumbed to his wounds the following day.

Josh's father, Mike Brennan, has told me about the day Josh and his Battle Buddies were ambushed.  It is one of the most harrowing stories I've heard.  During the ambush the Taliban attempted to drag Josh away.  His fellow Soldiers immediately came to his rescue.  SPC Hugo "DOC" Mendoza gave his life attempting to save Josh from the enemy.  Others on his team continued to fight the enemy and were successful in getting Josh back.  One of those men has been nominated for the Medal of Honor for his actions that day.

A family member made this incredibly moving video to honor Josh.  You'll need tissues to watch this.

 

My heart is very heavy today, on this second anniversary of Josh's death.  Please take a minute to pray for Josh and his family.  And say a special prayer for his cousin, PVT Joseph Brennan and his family, too.  Joseph recently completed basic training and Airborne School.  His family took him to the airport this morning (talk about timing) to board a flight to Italy where he will join Josh's unit, 173rd, 2-503, Battle Company and will deploy before the end of the year to Afghanistan.

So on this day of remembrance I send my love to the Brennan family.  They are some of the greatest people I have ever had the privilege to know.  Josh's father, Mike, and his mother, Janice, both served in the Army.  Their son, Josh, gave his life defending our freedom.  Now Joseph proudly wears the uniform of the US Army.

Rest in Peace Josh.  Keep Joseph safe.

  

 

Read more about Josh here, here, here and on his mother's MySpace page here

There is a story about his dad and one of his uncles here. 

And go here to read about and see photos of Joseph Brennan's graduation from Airborne School.

A quick update from Colorado while Uncle J and kev work on editing video.

Saying that we've been busy since I landed in Denver on Wednesday is definitely an understatement.  kev was waiting for me when I landed.  He whisked me off to an "undisclosed" location :) where we shared a few cocktails and discussed plans for Thursday.  It's always good to see kev and Uncle J but intense is definitely an understatement.

Thursday morning we arrived bright and early at the site of the Traveling Vietnam Memorial in Thornton, CO so that we could video the arrival.  The Patriot Guard Riders and Rolling Thunder provided a great escort.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WOW!  The city has REALLY gone all out for this event.  Major kudos to Thornton, CO and to the planning committee for their vision and amazing work.  They have created a park from nothing.  It is BEAUTIFUL!  The city of Thornton pulled employees off of another park project to work on this AND they are using a lot of the landscaping materials earmarked for the new city park.  After the Vietnam Memorial Wall leaves town the landscaping materials will go to the park where they were originally planned to be planted.  AWESOME!  Just darn awesome!

They have park benches along the path of the Wall so that people can sit and reflect on the memories of those whose names appear on the Wall.  The lighting, landscaping and all esthetic aspects could not be more perfect.  The display will be opeb 24 hours through the holiday weekend.

Thursday afternoon we headed south to LIttleton, CO to meet with Dan and Cindy Dietz, parents of Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Danny P. Dietz.  Danny was one of the members of Seal Team 10 who perished in Operation Red Wing in Kunar Province, Afghanistan on 28 June 2005.  I cannot begin to express in words what it was like to meet Dan and Cindy as well as Danny' s younger brother Eric.  We spent several hours with them listening to them tell stories about Danny as he was growing up, his experience at BUDS, the amazing relationship he had with his widow, Patsy, and many other stories about the man he was.  We threw some steaks on the grill and enjoyed dinner on their fabulous patio.  Dan even entertained us by playing guitar and singing a song or two.  The hours passed so quickly and it was difficult to leave.  I'm so thankful to Dan, Cindy and Eric for inviting us into their home and for sharing so much of their lives and Danny's with us.  We look forward to spending more time with them all.

This morning (Friday July 4th) we were up early again.  We drove back down to Littleton to attend the re-dedication of the Memorial Statue of Danny.

It was a very moving ceremony.  The Patriot Guard Riders placed a wreath at the statue

Cindy and Dan reminded everyone that although the Memorial is of Danny it represents all of those who have given their lives in service to our nation.  I was touched at how respectful everyone was.  Colorado U S Congressman Tom Tancredo (R) attended and offered some very poignant remarks.

We've returned to our "undisclosed" location so the boys could do a little video editing.  Shortly we're off to the Vietnam Veteran's Traveling Wall event.  More on that later.

I hope that everyone is having a safe and peaceful 4th of July and that you are taking time out of your day to remember those who have died for the freedoms we have and to say prayers of thanks and safety for those who are currently serving

My dear friend Kyle from www.keystonesoldiers.com just shared the following press release with me.  Don't know about the rest of you but my Hershey's chocolate consumption will be going up!  Hmmmmmmmm is that possible? 

For those of you in the Hershey, PA area drop by and enjoy the Hersheypark Christmas Candylane and drop off some goodies for Kyle to ship to our deployed military personnel.  Talk about a WIN/WIN/WIN situation.

Share The Spirit of the Season at Hersheypark Christmas Candylane

 

(HERSHEY, PA) — Hersheypark Christmas Candylane is joining forces with the non-profit organization Keystone Soldiers to send care packages to soldiers who are serving overseas in the military.

“Each year Hersheypark Christmas Candylane hosts a live musical show in the Music Box Theatre. This year’s production is called Home Sweet Home for Christmas and features a father serving his country in the military,” said Frank O’Connell, Hersheypark general manager. “Partnering with Keystone Soldiers gives us the opportunity to support our troops who are far from home during this holiday season.”

The giving campaign kicks off December 6 and continues through the remainder of the Christmas Candylane season, which ends on December 31. Guests can drop off items they would like to donate to Keystone Soldiers at the Hersheypark Tram Circle Building, just outside the main gates of Hersheypark.

Keystone Soldiers has requested the following items: power bars; trail mix; soups, stews and chili (canned or boxed); hot drink mixes (hot chocolate, flavored coffees, chai tea and hot cider); and ground coffee. The donations will be sent to troops currently serving in the areas of Iraq and Afghanistan that are experiencing cold winters.

To get the campaign off to a strong start, Hersheypark is making a $5,000 donation to Keystone Soldiers on behalf of the Park’s entire staff.

             “I am truly thrilled to be working with a company that has the reputation for making people happy,” said Kyle Lord, founder of Keystone Soldiers. “The people at Hersheypark have sure made Keystone Soldiers happy, and I know for a fact that there will be many happy soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen receiving care packages thanks to them!”

For more information, please visit www.keystonesoldiers.com, www.hersheypark.com or call 1-800-HERSHEY.

 

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Words in boldface are used under license.

 

Game On! 

Fund raiser runs from October 29 through November 11, 2007.

Goal this year is $240,000.  First team to $60,000 wins!!!

Now go on...click below and make a donation.  Don't even stop to think about it.  Just DO it!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For some reason I cannot get this to work.  Please go to www.blackfive.net to make your donation so that the ARMY team gets the credit.

To join a team or to see how each branch is doing go here.

For those of you who are not familiar with Valour IT the following was taken from www.soldiersangels.org:

It is with a great deal of sadness that I post the following.  These men gave their lives in service to our nation.  May their lives be celebrated and honored every day and may their families know how grateful we are for the brave Warriors they were.  These men are true HEROES in every sense of the word and by every action they took to protect the freedom and security of our great nation.  My heartfelt condolences to their families during this time of grief and sorrow.  You are in my prayers.  May you find comfort and strength among family, friends, community and faith during this difficult time

To the Soldiers in Afghanistan who remain to fight the fight and to the families back in Italy my thoughts and prayers are with all of you as well.  May God's grace give you strength and comfort.

 

 

 

Staff Sgt. Larry I. Rougle, 25, of West Jordan, Utah, died Oct. 23 in Sawtalo Sar Mountain, Kunar Province, Afghanistan, of wounds when he was engaged by enemy small arms fire during combat operations. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Vicenza, Italy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spc. Hugo V. Mendoza, 29, of Glendale, Ariz., died Oct 25 died of wounds sustained when he came in contact with enemy forces using RPG, machine gun and small arms fire during combat operations on Oct 25, in Korengal Valley, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Vicenza, Italy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sgt. Joshua C. Brennan, 22, of Ontario, Ore., who died Oct 26 in Asadabad, Afghanistan of wounds sustained when he came in contact with enemy forces using RPG, machine gun and small arms fire during combat operations on Oct 25, in Korengal Valley, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Vicenza, Italy.

 

 

 

The following video honoring the life of Josh Brennan was found on YouTube.  It is a very moving and touching memorial to his life.  It was made by his family and posted with the following message:

"In loving memory of our fallen hero, Sgt. Joshua Brennan. Josh was a hero who died fighting for our freedom. Honor him and remember him. He paid the ultimate price. We love you Josh! Take care up in heaven. We'll all be together soon!!!"