30 posts tagged “honor the fallen”
From The Gazette in Colorado Springs, CO:
More than a thousand mourners honor Fort Carson's fallen soldiers
More than a thousand mourners packed two services at Fort Carson on Wednesday to remember 15 men who died in Afghanistan during the post’s deadliest month since Vietnam.
Eight of them died alongside their badly outnumbered comrades defending Combat Outpost Keating, a fortified piece of valley in the highlands near Pakistan that was virtually unknown before the fight and was abandoned afterward.
But the fighting at outpost on the morning of Oct. 3 won’t soon be forgotten, eulogists said.
“The stories that came out of that day demonstrate their service, their professionalism as soldiers and their character as men of honor,” said Maj. Dan Chandler, an officer with the 4th Brigade Combat Team, where the eight served.
The other seven were combat engineers who died while hunting for insurgents’ bombs and fighting off ambushes in central and western Afghanistan. It’s one of the most dangerous jobs in a war where insurgents prefer bombs over bullets.
“They will live on through all the lives they have touched and all the things they have done,” Capt. Jonathan Davis said of his seven fallen comrades from the 4th Engineer Battalion.
In all, 17 soldiers from Fort Carson died last month, bringing the toll to 287 for the post since fighting began in 2001.
The dimensions of October’s tragedy were evident in the faces of the mourners, who included Secretary of the Army John McHugh, who flew in from the Pentagon for the two services.
The first service honored 4th Brigade soldiers Staff Sgt. Justin T. Gallegos, Staff Sgt. Vernon W. Martin, Sgt. Joshua M. Hardt, Sgt. Joshua J. Kirk, Sgt. Michael P. Scusa, Spc. Christopher T. Griffin, Spc. Stephan L. Mace and Pfc. Kevin C. Thomson. All served in Afghanistan with the 4th Brigade’s 3rd Squadron of the 61st Cavalry Regiment.
The afternoon service was for soldiers from the 4th Engineer Battalion — Staff Sgt. Glen H. Stivison Jr., Spc. Kevin O. Hill, Spc. Jesus O. Flores, Spc. Daniel C. Lawson, Spc. Eric N. Lembke, Spc. Kimble A. Han and Pfc. Brandon M. Styer.
Eulogists described each, in turn drawing laughter and sobs from the crowd.
Justin Gallegos, 27, of San Gabriel, Calif., was on his third deployment with the Army, having served in Iraq in 2005 and 2007, during which he was wounded twice.
He was remembered as a loving father who took his duties as a cavalry scout with deadly seriousness.
In keeping with that reputation, he was dismissive the first time he met Spc. Thomas Rasmussen, then a rookie to the unit.
“He looked me up and down and turned away,” Rasmussen recalled in a letter read at the ceremony. “I knew that this was a guy that I wanted to beat and pace myself by.”
It was a fitting welcome from a man who taught his young son, MacAiden, the seven rules of reconnaissance and then brought him into the office to demonstrate that his boy could learn what some soldiers neglected.
At 25, Vernon Martin was known as a big brother to his family and to the soldiers he led, his sister, Vanessa Jackson, said after the service.
Martin, of Savannah, Ga., was a mechanic who joined the Army in 2002 and served in Iraq before heading to Afghanistan with the cavalry squadron.
He cheered people up, a precious trait in a long war.
“Staff Sgt. Martin was bursting with life and always had a smile on his face,” his friend, Staff Sgt. Damien Jefferson, wrote in a letter from Afghanistan that was read at the service.
In his brief life, he’d also married and had three kids to love. He’d joined the Army to support his children, Jackson said.
“He was determined to be there for them, no matter what,” she said.
Just 24, California native Joshua Hardt was already a respected leader in the cavalry squadron.
“He always wanted to do the best and expected the same from his soldiers,” wrote Sgt. Bradley Larson in a letter read at the service.
But he didn’t talk about himself much.
“He always played his cards close to his chest, except when he was playing spades,” Larson wrote.
Friends, though, knew he loved his wife, Olivia, with an adoration only rivaled by his love of football and fishing.
Bespectacled and skinny, Michael Scusa seemed a less-than-imposing figure.
“He looked so young to me,” Sgt. Scott Potempa wrote in a letter read at the service. “He looked like he was wearing his big brother’s uniform.”
The 22-year-old husband and father, though, was easy to underestimate.
No one could take more pressure and still maintain that signature smile and pleasant disposition.
“He never had a bad thing to say about anyone,” Potempa wrote.
That made him the guy everyone leaned on in times of crisis, a touchstone for his friends.
“Scusa was that one solder that we could always relate to,” Potempa wrote.
Two shots of Jagermeister and a Coors beer were enough to make the gregarious Kevin Thomson smile all night, friends recalled.
The 22-year-old was that guy who makes everybody laugh with his antics. He’d argue for hours that “Ghostbusters” was the best cinematic feat in the history of Hollywood.
“To him there was nothing a blueberry Pop Tart and some nicotine product couldn’t cure,” Spc. Daniel Rodriguez wrote in a letter from Afghanistan read at the service.
His favorite phrases included “happy hour” and “all you can eat.”
“He was simple, and that’s what made him one of a kind,” Rodriguez wrote.
Kevin Hill was a hard-charger. He went to college, majoring in criminal justice before enlisting as a combat engineer.
“He was always moving and ready to get things done,” according to a letter read at the service by Staff Sgt. Kevin Case.
The New York native joined in 2008 to follow in his soldier-father’s footsteps, friends said.
He talked about someday getting out of the Army but still wanted to help his fellow citizens and often dreamed aloud of his future as a cop.
A father of three, Daniel Lawson was a seen as a spiritual leader in his platoon.
Eulogists said that he preached to his comrades but showed them to how live a life of honor and exhibited a confidence inspired by deep faith.
The 33-year-old talked his friends through the tough times in Afghanistan, calming their fears of death by telling them their fate was in the hands of a higher power.
One friend summed up his influence in a letter read at the service: “He made me a better person.”
Friends say Kimble Han joined the Army as a living tribute to a buddy who had died in Iraq.
The 30-year-old was older than most of his comrades and had a quiet determination that endeared him to leaders.
“Spc. Han was the best thing I could hope for in a soldier,” one sergeant wrote in a letter read at the service.
“The only thing that ever came out of his mouth was ‘Roger sergeant.’”
But everyone knew how much Han cared about his wife and three stepsons.
He called home after every mission to let them know he was safe.
The boost from the calls left him “with an ear-to-ear grin,” friends said.
Griffin, 24, of Sault Sainte Marie, Mich., as “strong, smart and full of life.”
The cavalry scout was ready for the enemy he faced Oct. 3. He had already completed one tour of duty in Iraq but left for Afghanistan ready for more.
“He had a fight in him that was out of this world,” Spc. Mark Dulaney recalled in a letter. “Never once did he stop and ask, ‘Why am I here?’ … He knew why he was here.”
Kirk, 30, of Colorado Springs, shared his comrade’s passion for the fight.
A team leader sometimes referred to, simply, as the “tall, crazy guy,” Kirk ran toward danger, not away from it, a friend recalled.
“He was always the first guy out the door, ready to do the job, no matter what the price,” Pfc. Christopher Jones wrote in a letter.
He showed heart off the battlefield, too. A veteran of an earlier tour in Afghanistan, he once took the time to call up Jones’ parents and reassure them that the younger man would never be more than 4 feet away.
“They felt their son was going into combat with a true soldier,” Jones said.
Mace was small-town kid from Fairfax, Va., who tattooed the initials of his family members on his back. He always said they helped “shape him,” said Spc. Zachary Koppes.
His mother, Vanessa Adelson, said she was told her son died while manning a .50-caliber machine gun, determined to protect his outpost from advancing insurgents. He and Gallegos kept firing until they ran out of bullets and were left without a means to protect themselves.
Growing up, Mace rode dirt bikes, played football and all but ignored the injuries he racked up during his “adventures,” she said. He was the kind of boy other kids looked up to, and he had a life to match: He spent three summers during his high school years staying with a friend in South Africa whose father operated a safari business.
“He was 21, and he probably lived a bigger life and a fuller life than any one of us would if we lived until we were old and gray,” Adelson said. “We knew he probably went down like Jesse James.”
Stivison, 34, had a military pedigree: He was the grandson of an Army Ranger who fought at Pointe du Hoc on D-Day in World War II, and he grew up attending his grandfather’s Ranger reunions.
He came into his own as a squad leader in the Army, where comrades knew him as a “gentle giant,” family members said.
“He was happy to do it. He was just glad to take charge and lead,” said father-in-law John Leaver, of Colorado Springs.
His family wore red to the memorial in a tribute to the 4th Engineer Battalion, and his sons Williams Blaze, 8, and Andrew, 6, had dog tags bearing his name hanging from their necks.
Flores — or “Flo” — was an amateur rapper who could dream up rhymes about anything, even rearranging shipping containers, a comrade said in a letter from Afghanistan.
The 28-year-old was a proud Filipino who attended high school in California but dreamed of returning to the Philippines after getting out of the Army and fixing up his childhood home.
He regaled his friends with accounts of movies and video games he had just picked up, and then offered to lend them out to be experienced firsthand, friends said.
Lembke’s nickname, Teabag, was a nod to his love of tea but also referred to what was important in his life.
Drinking sweet tea was part of a ritual that reminded him of home — namely his wife, Mashelle, and their children, Alexis and Thomas. The family loved to barbecue together on summer days, and they enthusiastically welcomed Lembke’s friends and comrades into the fold.
The 25-year-old joined the Army in January 2008 and was deployed to Iraq a little more than a year later, where he distinguished himself as “one of the hardest workers in the platoon,” a colleague said.
Styer, 19, of Pennsylvania, was a funny, energetic bachelor who talked about girlfriends from time to time but saved up most his energy for something he valued even more: His car.
“He’d bring his laptop over to your bunk and make you look at these pictures,” a friend wrote in a letter
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.
I am proud to announce that the owner and employees of n-Space have asked to be the sponsor of all costs required in order to have a stained glass artist make a window and install it in the Chapel at Fort Carson in Memory of all Fallen Soldiers from 4-4 Brigade. 4-4 is newly flagged at Fort Carson after having recently been relocated there from Fort Hood and had no Memorial Window in the Chapel. Sadly we all know that the Brigade has had many of their Heroes Killed in Action on their current deployment to Afghanistan.
Jen from n-Space contacted me on behalf of the company a few days after we had issued the call for assistance in replacing the lost personal items of the survivors of the Battle at COP Keating. By the time I received Jen's email we had received all of the donations we needed for the Soldiers' personal items. I did have a couple of other projects I wanted to try to make happen. One was the Memorial window. I had sent out a handful of emails asking people and groups if they would be interested in donating towards that project when I received Jen's email.
Jen and I exchanged a additional emails and phone calls. She was so patient with me. I have no idea about gaming beyond Pong, Centipede and PacMan - yeah, I'm that old. So wrapping my brain around what n-Space does was way over my head beyond the basic concept that they design video games. LOTS of video games for LOTS of different systems.
I put Jen in touch with 4-4 Brigade Commander's wife. The two of them have worked together to iron out all of the details. I cannot tell you how much it means to me, to Jen and Dan and all of the employees of n-Space and to the Soldiers and family members of 4-4 Brigade that this has become a reality.
A HUGE HOOAH to n-Space's owners, management and employees for taking on such an important and meaningful task. Because of n-Space and their generosity the Fallen Heroes of 4-4 Brigade will forever be remembered in a meaningful way.
Thank you Jen, Dan and all of you great Americans at n-Space.
So all of you gamers out there (well and the non gamers, too) - go become a fan of and follow n-Space on their Facebook page. Go! Now! Leave a comment for them, too, please. Here are a few of the 100 employees you will be thanking. By the way, they are holding signs that say "I give a shit" and "n-Space gives a shit". AWESOME!
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.
SPC Hugo "DOC" Mendoza died of wounds sustained when he came in contact with enemy forces using RPG, machine gun and small arms fire during Operation Rock Avalanche combat operations on Oct 25,2007 in the Korengal Valley, Afghanistan.
SPC Mendoza's family recalls him as a very giving person; a man who treated everyone the way he wanted to be treated. SPC Mendoza planned to become a firefighter once he left the Army.
He was laid to rest at Fort Bliss, TX.
We will NEVER forget you "DOC". Rest in Peace brave warrior.
23 March 1978 – 25 October 2007
Battle Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
SPC Hugo Victor Mendoza was born on 23 March 1978 in California and spent most of his childhood in El Paso, Texas. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 31 May 2005.
During his time in service, SPC Hugo Victor Mendoza completed Basic Infantry Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, Medical Advanced Individual Training at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia. On 6 March 2006, SPC Mendoza reported to his first duty station at Caserma, Ederle, Vicenza, Italy. He was assigned to the 173d Airborne Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry – The ROCK. SPC Mendoza was then assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company with duty as a combat medic in Battle Company. He immediately found his home among the combat warriors of 1st Platoon – The Celts. SPC Mendoza trained, deployed and fought side by side with his band of brothers in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII. SPC Mendoza distinguished himself in The ROCK as a heroic medic, charismatic Paratrooper, and an overall altruistic human being.
SPC Mendoza’s awards include: The Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Medical Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge. SPC Mendoza has been submitted for the Bronze Star Medal for Service in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII.
Please go here and read more about what SPC Mendoza's family and friends had to say about this great American Hero.
SSG Larry Rouge was a husband, father, son, brother, nephew and friend to many. His father, Ismael Rougle is a Vietnam Veteran who served 25 years in the Army. SSG Rougle joined the Army in 1999 at age 17. He was killed by insurgent small arms fire on 23 October 2007 at age 25 during Operation Rock Avalanche. He was on his sixth deployment since joining the Army.
SSG Rouge was laid to rest on 8 November 2007 at Arlington National Cemetery. I encourage you to click on the link for Arlington National Cemetery to read more about SSG Rougle. A great American Hero who left those who loved him way too soon.
We will NEVER forget you SSG Rougle.
Additional links about SSG Rougle here and here.
Last night, on the second anniversary of his death, several of SSG Rougle's battle buddies joined together to remember him, SPC Hugo Mendoza and SGT Joshua Brennan (who I will post about tomorrow and Monday)
UPDATED with video thanks to Yankeemom
Video added - "I'm leaving you but I died doing what I most wanted to do."
Note about a statement in the video - SGT Garcia had served with the 82nd Airborne prior to being assigned to the 173rd Airborne with whom he was serving at the time of his death.
SGT Israel Garcia was posthumously awarded the Silver Star, our nation's third highest award for valor, on 29 August 2009 at 11:00 at the Los Alamitos Joint Forces Training Base, California for "gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States." SGT Garcia was awarded the Silver Star for his heroic actions on 13 July 2008 at the Battle of Wanat, Afghanistan where he and eight of his Brothers in Arms were killed by the enemy.
A crowd of 200 including three of the men who served with SGT Garcia, SPC Kerns, SGT Deloria and Mike Santiago (rank unknown) were present for the ceremony despite the 100+ degree heat. The Patriot Guard Riders were present for the ceremony just as they had been for SGT Garcia's family when he returned home and for his funeral.
Myer also praised Garcia's widow, Lesly. "Her incredible strength in this process is humbling to me," he said.
Rep. Dana Rohrabacher, R-Huntington Beach/Long Beach, said Garcia gave his life as a hero. "I have three children," he said. "And they're all safe because of Sgt. Garcia."
Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster said the city is proud of its hero. "We're a grateful city," he said.
A Silver Star is the 3rd highest Military decoration that can be awarded to a soldier for his valor actions. It was established in 1918 as a citation Star.
For those of you that don't know why my husband is receiving a Silver Star today.... Let me explain it to you all briefly.
On July 8th, 2008, Chosen Company was sent to Wanat, Afghanistan. When they arrived they found themselves on a remote patrol base which they had to build from scratch. What little supplies they had they began to set up their perimeter with sandbags and c-wire. This base was build within feet of a village. Giving the Taliban's easy access to our soldiers.
On July 13th, 2008 at around 4:15am They were woken up by heavy fire coming from all directions. They had little time to prepare themselves for the attack that would eventually last 4 hours. About 30 minutes into the attack my husband's squad gets a radio call from the observation post stating multiple casualties and reinforcement needed. Israel along with 3 other soldiers without any hesitation ran up to the observation post where they assisted the injured soldiers to safety. While trying to get control of the post, 3 rocket propel grenades hit their location with one hitting my husband. By 5:30am, 9 American soldiers had been killed and 27 were wounded. This happen just 10 days before our soldiers were schedule to return home after a 14 month deployment. And this is why my husband is being honored with this Silver Star.
My Husband loved this country and devoted his life serving it. Israel was willing to not only reach across the aisle, but had this unique was to pull people together and get things done, with both substance and a great sense of humor. He was a compassionate, loving, hard-worker, unselfish, joyful, positive attitude, family man, caring ... And... I can stand here in front of you all and describe how great of a person he was, but we don't have all day. Israel will forever live in the hearts of his friends, family and mine.... thank you!
When I turned on the computer this morning everywhere I read on blogs, news feeds and Facebook I saw where the remains of Navy Capt. Michael Speicher had been found and positively identified. A bittersweet day for his family and friends. I am so grateful that our military personnel always do what it takes to bring home those Missing in Action.
Navy Capt. Michael "Scott" Speicher was shot down over western Iraq on 17 January 1991 during the first Gulf War.
Rest in Peace Capt Speicher. I am grateful for your service and sacrifice on behalf of this nation. May your family find comfort in knowing that you are finally home.
My heart still aches for these American Heroes, their families and friends and their comrades in arms.
I've been trying to write this post for at least a week. Nothing I write is enough but I want to remind anyone who reads here about these men and ask everyone to NEVER FORGET those who have died in service to this nation.
COL Bill Ostlund who was the 173rd, 2-503 Commander during their deployment in OEF VIII posted these comments on his Facebook page:
ROCK Paratroopers- July is an incredible month for our great nation. We have a great nation because of the tens of millions who have volunteered to protect our great nation and for the millions that have bled and “lived their lives” for our great nation. In The ROCK, in OEF VIII in July 2007 we lost:
Chris Honaker and Joe Miracle on 5 July; Juan Restrepo on 22 July, and Ben Hall on 31 July. A year later we lost Sergio Abad, John Ayers, Jason Bogar, John Brostrom, Israel Garcia, Jason Hovater, Matt Phillips, Pruitt Rainey, and Gunnar Zwilling on 13 July 2008.
Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
1LT Jonathan P. Brostrom was born on 22 August 1983 in Stuttgart, Germany. He was commissioned in the U.S. Army on 15 May 2006.
1LT Brostrom participated in the ROTC program at the University of Hawaii and while a cadet, he attended Airborne School, Air Assault School, and the U.S. Navy Scuba Divers Course. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Human Resources in 2006, he received his commission as a U.S. Army Infantry Second Lieutenant.
1LT Brostrom graduated from the Infantry Officer Basic Course and Ranger School prior to reporting to Vicenza, Italy on 26 June 2007. Shortly afterward, 1LT Brostrom deployed in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII and was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment as a Rifle Platoon Leader.
1LT Brostrom served for eight months in Afghanistan as Platoon Leader for 2nd Platoon. During his deployment, 1LT Brostrom led countless combat patrols and was responsible for the defense of Combat Outpost Bella – a remote, platoon-size, coalition outpost in northeastern Afghanistan.
1LT Brostrom’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Air Assault Badge, Basic Parachutist Badge, Scuba Diver Badge, and Ranger Tab.
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19 JANUARY 1984 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
SGT Israel Garcia was born on 19 January 1984 in Nayarit, Mexico. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 23 October 2002.
After completing One Station Unit Training and Airborne School, SGT Garcia was assigned to B Company, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 504th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division as a Rifleman and later as a Rifle Team Leader. SGT Garcia deployed in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM twice before PCSing to Vicenza, Italy.
In July 2006, SGT Garcia was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment as a Rifle Team Leader. He deployed in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007. During his deployment to Afghanistan, SGT Garcia participated in numerous combat patrols and helped defend Combat Outpost Bella – a remote, platoon-size, coalition outpost in northeastern Afghanistan.
SGT Garcia’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal (3), Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon (2), NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.
CPL Jonathan Ayers
4 MAY 1984 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company , 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
CPL Jonathan R. Ayers was born on 4 May 1984 in Atlanta, Georgia. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 26 April 2006.
After completing One Station Unit Training and graduating from Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia, CPL Ayers reported to Vicenza, Italy and was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment where he most recently served as an M249 Machine Gunner.
CPL Ayers deployed in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007. While serving in Afghanistan, CPL Ayers participated in numerous combat patrols and air assault operations. He also helped defend Combat Outpost Bella – a remote, platoon-size, coalition outpost in northeastern Afghanistan.
CPL Ayers’ awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.
CPL Jason Bogar
19 FEBRUARY 1983 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
CPL Jason M.C. Bogar was born on 19 February 1983 in Washington State. He enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard on 12 September 2001.
After completing One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Georgia, CPL Bogar was assigned to A Company, 1st Battalion, 161 Infantry Regiment (National Guard) as a Rifleman. CPL Bogar deployed in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM twice before transferring to Active Duty and PCSing to Vicenza, Italy.
CPL Bogar was assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team in November 2007 and joined Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment in Afghanistan. During OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII, CPL Bogar participated in numerous combat operations to include combat patrolling from Combat Outpost Bella – a remote, platoon-size, coalition outpost in northeastern Afghanistan.
CPL Bogar’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge.
CPL Jason Hovater
10 AUGUST 1983 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company , 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
CPL Jason D. Hovater was born on 10 August 1983 in Tennessee. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 9 February 2006.
After completing One Station Unit Training, CPL Hovater attended Airborne School and was subsequently assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment as an Automatic Rifleman. While serving with Chosen Company, CPL Hovater deployed to Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII.
In Afghanistan, CPL Hovater participated in numerous combat patrols as an M203 Grenadier. On one such patrol on 8 March 2008, CPL Hovater’s element came under heavy enemy fire from multiple locations. For his bravery that day CPL Hovater was awarded the Army Commendation Medal w/ Valor.
CPL Hovater’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal w/combat distinguishing device “V”, Army Good Conduct Medal (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.
CPL Matthew Phillips
13 APRIL 1981 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company , 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
CPL Matthew B. Phillips was born in 13 April 1981 in Florence, Alabama. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 22 November 2005.
After enlisting, CPL Phillips completed One Station Unit Training and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia. Upon completion of Airborne School he was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment where he most recently served as an M240B Machine Gunner.
CPL Phillips deployed in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007. During his time in Afghanistan, CPL Phillips participated in numerous combat patrols and helped defend Combat Outpost Bella – a remote, platoon-size, coalition outpost in northeastern Afghanistan. For his outstanding service throughout the deployment he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal.
CPL Phillips’ awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.
CPL Pruitt Rainey
21 FEBRUARY 1986 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company , 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
CPL Pruitt A. Rainey was born on 21 February 1986 in Rockingham, North Carolina. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 10 August 2005.
CPL Rainey graduated from One Station Unit Training and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia. He also attended the Ranger Indoctrination Program before being assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment on 28 February 2006. CPL Rainey most recently served as an M240B Machine Gunner in 2nd Platoon.
CPL Rainey deployed in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007. During his deployment, CPL Rainey participated in countless combat patrols and air assault operations. He also defended and conducted patrols from Combat Outpost Bella – a remote, platoon-size, coalition outpost in northeastern Afghanistan.
CPL Rainey’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (2), NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.
CPL Gunnar Zwilling
29 APRIL 1988 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company , 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
CPL Gunnar W. Zwilling was born on 29 April 1988 in Fountain Valley, California. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 15 February 2006.
CPL Zwilling attended One Station Unit Training and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia. After earning his Airborne Wings, he was assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment as a Grenadier and later as an Assistant Machine Gunner.
While serving with Chosen Company, CPL Zwilling deployed to Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII. Throughout his deployment, CPL Zwilling participated in numerous combat patrols and air assaults that disrupted enemy operations. His actions brought security to the Afghan population in Kunar Province.
CPL Zwilling’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.
SPC Sergio Abad
15 MARCH 1987 – 13 JULY 2008
Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment
SPC Sergio S. Abad was born on 15 March 1987 in Miami, Florida. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on 17 January 2006.
SPC Abad completed training as an 11C Mortarman from One Station Unit Training and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia. He also attended the Ranger Indoctrination Program, 75th Ranger Regiment before being assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment in August 2006.
SPC Abad deployed in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VIII in May 2007. He served with HHC for 10 months before being assigned to Chosen Company as a 120mm Mortar Gunner. During his time with Chosen, SPC Abad participated in countless fire missions in support of friendly troops on the ground.
SPC Abad’s awards include: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart (Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal w/ combat distinguishing device “V”, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (Posthumous), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge.
The Board of Directors
of the
173d Airborne Brigade
National Memorial Foundation
proudly announces that the
Dedication of the Memorial
will take place
at 10:00 A.M.
Tuesday, 1 June, 2010.
The Memorial is located at the
National Infantry Foundation
Museum and Soldier Center
(1775 Legacy Way, Columbus, Georgia).
For more information about the Dedication,
or to find out how to contact us, please visit the
173d Airborne Brigade National Memorial Foundation website at www.173dairbornememorial.org
To arrange for hotel accommodations, please go to www.visitcolumbusga.com and click on “Accommodations.”
The National Infantry Foundation and
The National Infantry Museum Staff
are extremely busy with their primary duties.
PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THEM
WITH QUESTIONS ABOUT THE DEDICATION!
Directions to the National Infantry Museum
National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center
1775 Legacy Way
Columbus, Georgia 31903
From the north:
From Interstate 85 South, take exit 21 to I-185 South to Columbus. Take exit 1B and merge onto US 431/US 280/Victory Drive. Turn left onto Fort Benning Road and continue to park entrance.
From the south:
From Interstate 85 North, take exit 62 for US 431/US 280. Continue right toward Columbus US 431/US 280. Turn right onto County Road 27. Turn right onto Fort Benning Road and continue to park entrance.
Note: If you are using a GPS use the address 3800 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus, Georgia 31903
Although the Foundation plans to start construction of the Monument in July 2009, additional donations are needed to reach our fundraising goal.
Checks should be made out to the 173d Memorial Foundation and mailed to the Memorial Foundation, 1160 Lake Royale, Louisburg, NC 27549. Alternatively, if you would like to use a credit card to make a donation, please visit our website at www.173dairbornememorial.org and follow the simple instructions using Paypal. The Foundation is a 501(C)(3) organization. All donations are tax deductible and will be acknowledged.
