|
Joshua Charles Brennan |
||||||||
|
Ontario, Oregon |
||||||||
|
October 26, 2007 |
||||||||
|
||||||||
|
Died of wounds sustained when they came in contact with enemy forces using RPG, machine gun and small arms fire during combat operations on Oct 25, in Korengal Valley, Afghanistan. |
||||||||
|
|
||||||||
|
Welcoming Home Our Hero. Click photo below.
November 2, 2007 |
||||||||
|
Vigil Eve for our Hero. Click photo below.
November 2, 2007 |
||||||||
|
For Memorial Service Snapshots, Click photo below.
November 3, 2007 |
||||||||
| From The Oregonian oregonlive.com
10/28/07:
A thoughtful son dies in Afghanistan |
||||||||
| BC-Afghan-US Toll Capsules-October,1820 U.S. troops who have died while serving in Afghanistan and the Horn of Africa Eds: Includes troops since last transmission Oct. 3. With BC-Iraq-US Toll Capsules-October By The Associated Press Army Sgt. Joshua C. Brennan Joshua C. Brennan and his mother, Janice Gates, communicated through Gates' MySpace page. After Brennan's platoon sergeant died, she posted the song, "Heaven Was Needing a Hero," to comfort her son. "Never in my wildest dreams did I know heaven was needing him, too," Gates said. Brennan, 22, of Ontario, Ore., died Oct. 26 in Asadabad of injuries suffered from small-arms fire the day before in Korengal Valley. He was a 2003 high school graduate and was assigned to Vicenza, Italy. Brennan was on his second tour of duty in Afghanistan. Brennan was wounded in the leg in early August. "Within days of being shot, he was insistent he wanted to be back out with his men," Gates said. "He wanted to make sure they were OK." In high school, Brennan ran the hurdles, played football and hunted elk. After the military, Brennan intended to attend college and pursue a career in forensic science or criminology. He also is survived by his father, Michael Brennan, and stepfather, Jared Cutler. "He was just such a responsible young man," she said. "I know he would have done absolutely amazing things in his life." Army Sgt. Thomas L. Bruner Thomas L. Bruner liked Christmas so much that he even decorated the inside of the garage. "He had reindeer, he had lights, a snowman, a sled," said Bruner's wife, Jane Bruner. "We've always had big Christmases." Bruner, 50, of Owensboro, Ky., died Oct. 28 in Kabul from what is believed to have been a heart attack. He was on his second deployment to Afghanistan. "He was just a soldier doing his job and he loved it," said his wife. He was assigned to Owensboro. Bruner was on active duty from 1975 to 1979, followed by 26 years in the Army Reserve beginning in 1981. "He knew his guys," said Patrick Rowe, training coordinator at the Owensboro Army Reserve Center. Bruner knew his men's attitudes, where they stood in their careers, their abilities and what they could handle. "You could ask him anything about anybody." Brian Sandefur, one of Bruner's two stepsons, said he was never treated like anything but Bruner's own son. "He was always there," Sandefur said. "He was a good father, husband and friend." "He spoiled me rotten. He would do anything for me," Jane Bruner said. "He was my everything." Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Mark R. Cannon Mark R. Cannon, a medic who stood 6-foot-5 and weighed 250 pounds, would take the time to patch up Iraqi kids. "He was kind of a softie on that," said his father, Tom. "I mean, as big as he was, he had a real soft, tender side to him, and he loved kids, and he loved helping people." Cannon, 31, of Lubbock, Texas, was shot Oct. 2 while giving medical aid to a wounded Marine in Kunar province. He was a 1994 high school graduate and was assigned to Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Prior to his tour in Afghanistan, he served in Iraq and volunteered to tend to sick and wounded Marines in another war zone. "He was very proud of his time in Iraq. He didn't want to push papers," said his uncle, Bob Orf. The Rev. Margaret Austin said he made regular trips to her church, occasionally to visit his mother's grave. "He'd pop into my office and give one of those bone-crushing hugs," she said. "I would tell him all the time, 'It's an honor to know you,"' said family friend Kelly Whitman. "He had a hell of a big grin and a big laugh - that's what I'm going to miss most," Tom Cannon said. Army Sgt. Joseph F. Curreri A swimmer since he was a youngster, Joseph F. Curreri broke many a record while at North Baltimore Aquatic Academy, trained at a Catholic preparatory school until graduating in 1998, and went on to captain the University of Southern California's Trojans swim team. Brad Schertle, a fellow swimmer, compared Curreri to Olympic swimmers Mark Spitz and Matt Biondi - two of the greatest swimmers of all time. "When it came to swimming, that's who I wanted to follow," Brad Schertle. Curreri, 27, of Los Angeles, drowned Oct. 26 during a training exercise near Panamao in the southern Philippines. Curreri's family was told that he had completed an intensive scuba training mission in Siet Lake, and went back into the water without a tank to look for something he had dropped. He then became disoriented and blacked out while trying to resurface. Curreri was not only fast, "he had this aura about him," Schertle said. He had leadership and motivational qualities that you didn't see in an average 14-, 15-, 16-year-old kid, he added. "He had the drive of a Fortune 500 CEO." He is survived by his widow, Athena Wickam. Army Spc. Hugo V. Mendoza Friends of Hugo V. Mendoza remember him as a person who loved to sit around and discuss philosophy. "He loved religion and trying to find the answers to age-old questions," said Christi Ramirez, a childhood friend. "He was a very loving soul." Mendoza, 29, of Glendale, Ariz., was killed Oct. 25 of small-arms fire in the Korengal Valley. He was assigned to Vicenza, Italy. "My brother gave his life for another," said his brother, Jesus Carlos Mendoza Jr. "He was trying to save another gentleman, Army brother's life." Born in California, Hugo Mendoza spent most of childhood days in El Paso, Texas. As a high school junior, he moved to Phoenix 12 years ago. He worked in sheet metal construction after graduating from high school. "Once he got money for being in service, he was going to use it to go to school and follow his dream of being a firefighter," his brother said. He also is survived by his father, Jesus Carlos Mendoza Sr., and his mother, Sara. "He had an infectious smile," his brother said. "He treated you the way you wanted to be treated. He was very giving of himself and his time, especially recently." Army Sgt. Edward O. Philpot Edward O. Philpot's sister said she heard from other soldiers in his unit that he was quick to volunteer for missions and duty. "When they asked for volunteers, they said his hand was the first to go up, especially if it meant one of the other soldiers would have the opportunity to go on leave and see his family," said his sister, Renee Crockett. Philpot, 38, of Latta, S.C., was killed Oct. 23 when his vehicle rolled over northwest of Kandahar. He was a graduate of Coastal Carolina University in Conway and was based in Mullins. In a note to his mom, Edward said he was proud to be part of the U.S. effort in Afghanistan, where he was working to help train the Afghan police. He said he was making a difference, especially for the children, both over there and in the U.S. "I would like to help the children over here," Edward said in the note. "When we asked, he always said he didn't need anything, but he wanted candy and things for the local Afghan children," said his sister. He is survived by his wife, Stephanie, and three daughters - Hollen, 9, Lily, 5, and Ella Grace, 1. Army Spc. Adam D. Quinn Adam D. Quinn always stressed the importance of enjoying life and even had the words "eat, drink and be merry" tattooed on one wrist and "for tomorrow we may die" on the other. Quinn, 22, of Orange City, Fla., was killed Oct. 6 near Bagram when an explosive detonated near his vehicle. He was a 2003 high school graduate and was assigned to Fort Bragg. "Adam loved to joke around and just have fun. It didn't seem like much ever got him down," said Spc. Shawn Dempsey. "If he saw you down, he knew just what to say to get you back in a good mood." Quinn, a paratrooper and an automation specialist, is survived by his wife, Faye. The couple's first child is due in March. "He had a wonderful sense of humor. He was so funny," Faye Quinn. "He was really excited, very proud to be a father." Quinn's 19-year-old brother Asa, said "nobody will ever forget him." "He made you laugh," Asa Quinn said. "He was just this goofy kid." Adam Quinn planned to make a career out of the military, his brother said. "He loved doing what he was doing - jumping out of perfectly good airplanes." Army Sgt. Larry I. Rougle Larry I. Rougle was on his third tour in Afghanistan. He also had completed three tours in Iraq. He felt he owed his country something - his brother said that the military "straightened him out 180 degrees." "It was the best thing for him," David Rougle said. "He was proud to serve. He believed in what he was doing. And he would debate with anyone who said anything differently." Larry Rougle, 25, of West Jordan, Utah, was killed Oct. 23 by small-arms fire in Sawtalo Sar Mountain. He was stationed in Italy. "My Larry was always pretty happy. He smiled; he was just the greatest," said his mother, Nancy Rougle. He also is survived by his former wife, Jackie Rougle and their daughter, Carmin, 3. "I couldn't ask for a better dad for my little girl," she said. "He was a very proud soldier and loved what he did," said Rougle's aunt, Char Rodriguez. "He was a young man full of dreams that have now come to a stop." David Rougle said he had discussed with his brother the possibility that this tour might end badly. "He knew the stakes," David Rougle said. "He just said, if I get waxed, don't let there be any drama in the family." Army Sgt. Zachary D. Tellier Zachary D. Tellier received the Bronze Star with valor for pulling two comrades from a burning vehicle in April. Despite burning his hands in the rescue, Tellier jumped in the turret to return fire, said Army Sgt. Michael Layton. "Zachary Tellier has to be the biggest hero I've ever known or heard of, not just because of what he did, but because of his personality," Layton said. Tellier, 31, of Charlotte, N.C., died Sept. 29 at Firebase Wilderness from small-arms fire. He graduated from American University in 1998 and was assigned to Fort Bragg. In high school, he worked for Manchester Community Television in New Hampshire and taught children at the German Language School. In 1993, Tellier was chosen to participate in a student exchange program in Poland, where students produced documentaries to learn each other's languages and cultures. He loved camping, roughhousing, playing "Risk" and laughing with his brothers, James and Dan, and giving "helicopter rides" to his youngest brother and sister, Sam and Hannah. He also is survived by his wife, Sara. (Copyright 2003-2020 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) AP-NY-11-05-07 0311EST BC-Iraq-US Toll Capsules-October, 2nd Add,2753 UNDATED: and Liane McCall. Army Cpt. Timothy I. McGovern Capt. Tim Hudson said he commanded his company for 20 months, and when he turned over the unit to Timothy I. McGovern, he knew he was leaving it in good hands. "I put my heart and soul into this company," Hudson said. "And after he took over, Echo Company only got better. They found more IEDs and they killed more enemy." McGovern, 28, of Idaville, Ind., was killed Oct. 31 by a roadside bomb in Mosul. He was a 2001 graduate of Purdue University and was assigned to Fort Bliss. "He told me there was no greater honor than leading American soldiers in combat. I'm going to remember that until the day I hang up my uniform," said First Lt. Michael Holbrook. During high school, McGovern loved social studies, history and economics. He also wreaked havoc on the gridiron and at the discus and shot put pits. "He was a down and dirty lineman," said Mike Wright, McGovern's uncle. As a unit leader, McGovern would have contacted families if soldiers under his command were killed. But none was. "He was able to do his job without sending a note or a letter to a mom and dad - no one was killed," said his uncle. Army Cpl. Graham M. McMahon Graham M. McMahon was proud to be called "Doc" by his fellow soldiers. He was looking forward to returning to school and furthering his career in medicine. "He would call me and tell me he was treating gunshot wounds, staph infections, all this stuff," said Dylan McMahon, Graham's brother. "It takes a lot of guts to do that, man. I was always so proud of him." McMahon, 22, Corvallis, Ore., died Sept. 19 by a non-combat related illness after returning to base from a patrol. He was a 2003 high school graduate and was assigned to Fort Lewis. Graham was born in Fort Collins, Colo., and moved to Corvallis with his family as a child. Snowboarding in the Oregon mountains was one of his favorite activities. "He was smart," said Bill McMahon, Graham's father. "He was a really sharp kid. He was perceptive." Then he added, "He never got a chance to see what he could do." Graham's mother, Karen, said he was always looking out toward the world: first as a child on the front porch swing, then his first apartment, and then into the Army. "I remember the next big call came from Kuwait," Karen McMahon said. "'Tell Mom I'm OK.' I know he's OK still." Army Cpl. Gilberto A. Meza Gilberto A. Meza relished life in a uniform, probably because he loved dressing up - even to get a quart of milk at the corner market. "He was very picky about his presentation," said Guadalupe Sanchez, Meza's stepfather. Meza, 21, of Oxnard, Calif., was killed Oct. 6 in Baghdad when an explosive detonated near his unit. He was assigned to Vilseck, Germany. He finished his GED in the Army, which was another reason he joined the military, said Juan Martinez, his uncle. Meza wanted to be a drill sergeant, and Iraq was a challenge that could lead to a promotion, said his brother, Rigo. "He didn't want to be a follower," he added. "He wanted to be a leader." Cristina Zavala, a longtime friend, said Meza often talked about his wishes should he die young. "He always said we shouldn't worry about him," Zavala said. "He always said he would rather die with honor on the battlefield than die on a street somewhere here." He also is survived by his mother, Silvia Martinez. "He lived life to the fullest," Rigo said. "He accomplished everything he wanted to do and more." Army Sgt. Joseph B. Milledge Joseph B. Milledge was an avid reader, especially about religion and philosophy. He especially enjoyed learning and reading about Socrates. "My brother would always say, 'Don't let schooling get in the way of education,"' said a sister Mary Cooper. "He never stopped reading, and he was always a very good person. He doesn't want to be portrayed just as a soldier because he was much more than that." Milledge, 23, of Pointblank, Texas, was killed Oct. 5 by a bomb blast in Baghdad. He was a 2002 high school graduate and was assigned to Vilseck, Germany. "He was a sergeant and a team leader," said his mother, Carla Milledge. "He was a good soldier for the Army. He eventually wanted to get into the Special Forces." Cooper said Milledge tried to return to Iowa every six months to visit family and maintain his local ties. "No matter where he was, it was always of the uttermost importance for him to see his family," Cooper said. "Even though he had nine nieces and nephews, he would spend quality time with every one of them while he was here." He also is survived by a wife, Amanda, and a son, Joseph Jr., 1. Army Spc. Avealalo Milo Avealalo Milo and his wife, Jocelyn, met in November 2004 at a Wal-Mart. She was a cashier; he loaded trucks in the back. "At first, he was shy," she said. They started seeing each other and something clicked. "He was happy. The smallest things that people don't pay attention to are what meant most to him - like going for a walk down the street, going to the park, just getting out of the house," she said. Milo, 23, of Hayward, Calif., was killed Oct. 4 in Baghdad when insurgents attacked his unit. He was assigned to Vilseck, Germany, and convinced Jocelyn to sign up, too. He was born in American Samoa and lived there, and in nearby independent Samoa, until he moved to Hayward on Aug. 14, 2003, according to his sister, Veape Milo. He liked playing rugby and soccer. "He went to California to seek a better future," she said. Jocelyn Milo learned her husband was dead a day before completing Army basic training and shipping out to an advanced individual training course. Her company commander did not think she could participate in her graduation ceremony, but she decided to walk in honor of her husband. Army Sgt. 1st Class Justin S. Monschke Justin S. Monschke was due to return in December from his tour in Iraq and had an idea of what he'd do first. "His plan was to go home to Texas and surprise his family," said Warrant Officer Josh Montgomery. "He said his Pa-Pa would really dig all the medals." Monschke, 28, of Krum, Texas, was killed by a roadside bomb Oct. 14 in Arab Jabour. He was a 1997 high school graduate and was assigned to Fort Bragg. In high school, he played baseball and ran for the cross country team. In junior year, he enlisted and left for boot camp a week after graduating. Monschke earned the nickname "Goose" as a high school freshman because of his unique running style. In 2002, he earned the legendary Green Beret. He is survived by his wife, Melissa, his daughter and son, Ashley, 4, and Ryan, 6, and stepson, Dylan, 10. When he was home, he spent time with his family, riding dirt bikes and motorcycles, riding bikes with the children and taking them fishing. "He liked taking them to the outdoors," said Larry Monschke, his father. "He liked being a father." Army Staff Sgt. Donald L. Munn II Donald L. Munn II's younger sister brought him along to her recruitment test for moral support. Both were soon in Army green. "He was always the good one, and I was always the one getting into trouble," said Courtney Pyles. "I was proud of him, and I wanted him to be proud of me. I looked up to him more than anyone." Munn, 25, of St. Clair Shores, Mich., was killed Oct. 11 in Baghdad when an explosive detonated near his unit. He was a 2000 high school graduate and was assigned to Fort Hood. After graduation, he went to Western Michigan University for a year, where he was studying criminal law before joining the Army. He served two tours of duty in Iraq. Munn enjoyed sports, especially baseball, according to childhood friend, David Krenzer. He was a fan of the Detroit Tigers and the Notre Dame football team. "He was loved by everybody," said Krenzer, who knew Munn since fourth grade. He also is survived by his wife, Jennifer and a 17-month-old daughter, Jordan Lyn. "He's 25 years old and had a whole life ahead of him," said his grandmother, Dorothy Richards. Marine Gunnery Sgt. Herman J. Murkerson Jr. Herman J. Murkerson Jr.'s mother remembers her son as a huge Alabama fan who went to Tuscaloosa every time he could get a football ticket, dreamed of his 15-year-old son playing football for the Crimson Tide and phoned home from Iraq to make sure Auburn really lost to South Florida. "He said, 'I wanted to make sure I saw it on the Internet right,"' Brenda Murkerson said. Murkerson, 35, of Adger, Ala., died Oct. 1 during combat in Anbar province. He was a 1990 high school graduate and was assigned to Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. He was on his third deployment. Murkerson met his wife Windy on the bus going to and from Oak Grove High School, where he graduated in 1990. He'd swipe roses for her off his mother's bush. "I'd say, `Who'd you give it to?' and he'd just grin," she said. Murkerson also is survived by his children, Stephen, Daniel and Kristina. "Gunny Murkerson was the real deal - an expert in his field, a leader with vision and a man with tremendous integrity," said Lt. Col. Mary J. Choate. "He was the guy you would ask for by name for any challenge, the harder the better." Army Spc. Samuel F. Pearson After graduating from high school in 1998, Samuel F. Pearson went to Otterbein College, where he played football and majored in economics. "Someone who works hard for their education and then represents their country - it's just a tragedy," said Otterbein Athletics Director Dick Reynolds. "Having been in Vietnam myself, I know the tragedy of this thing. It's kind of hard to express." Pearson, 28, of Westerville, Ohio, was killed Oct. 10 in Baghdad of wounds suffered from a rocket attack. He graduated from Otterbein College in 2003 and was assigned to Wausau. His senior year in high school, Pearson caught 15 passes for 243 yards and five touchdowns. One of those was a 50-yard catch against West Carrollton to beat the Pirates 7-5. "He was a great kid for us," football coach Bill Nees said. After he signed up in September 2006, Pearson "really took a sense of pride" that he was serving in the reserve, said his sister-in-law, Lindsay Pearson. He was a "quiet guy, but a sweet guy," she said. "He was always there for his family." He also is survived by his parents, Randi and Carolyn. Navy Seaman Apprentice Shayna Ann Schnell Khandis Martindale feels blessed to meet Shayna Ann Schnell at Master-At-Arms school in Texas. "We lived and laughed all the time. She never had an enemy, everyone loved her," Martindale said. "She was beautiful and kind. I think of her daily and never leave her out of my prayers." Schnell, 19, of Tell City, Ind., died Oct. 1 as a result of injuries suffered from a vehicle accident in Dubai on Sept. 24. She was in a taxi en route to a doctor's office when a tire on the taxi failed, sending the vehicle into a brick wall. She was a 2006 high school graduate and was assigned to Naval Security Force Bahrain. She was later stationed at Lackland Air Force Base and became a master of arms before being deployed to Bahrain. She enjoyed baking, being outdoors, horseback riding, arts, crafts, watching Disney movies and spending time with her family and friends. She is survived by her father and stepmother, Doug and Peggy Schnell, and her mother and stepfather, Karen and Vernon Silacci. Army Spc. Brandon W. Smitherman Capt. Tim Hudson remembered handpicking Brandon W. Smitherman to be his driver because he was such a squared-away young soldier. At least an hour before any mission, Smitherman would have the commander's vehicle in top shape and ready to go. "You need a smart, motivated and disciplined soldier to be the commander's driver," Hudson said. "He was absolutely the right guy for the job. He was completely on the ball." Smitherman, 21, of Conroe, Texas, was killed Oct. 31 when an explosive detonated near his vehicle in Mosul. He was a 2004 high school graduate and was assigned to Fort Bliss. Everyone called Smitherman "Smitty." Sgt. Keith Sangster recalled the younger soldier as a "kid who never showed his frustrations." "He was always happy and smiling and always messing around with people," Sangster said. "He was also one of the most physically fit people in our company." In high school, Smitherman was a third-string defensive end and also served as a deep snapper. "He was a super kid who was very polite and worked hard," said football coach John Bolfing. Smitherman is survived by his mother, Teresa, and father, Harvey. Army Pvt. Nathan Z. Thacker In their last conversation, Nathan Z. Thacker told his mother he was in a safe zone and not to worry. "He believed in doing his duty," said his father, Stephen Thacker. "He was afraid to go over there, but like he said, 'It's my job now, and I need to do it.' He was very duty-conscious, a good boy." Thacker, 18, of Greenbrier, Ark., was killed Oct. 12 in Kirkuk when an explosive detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to Fort Drum. Thacker participated in the local Future Farmers of America chapter. "He was just one of those you could count on to be in class and do his work. He was not disruptive," said David Westenhover, his former principal. "Citizenship was definitely a plus for him." He got his General Educational Development diploma last year. Westenhover describes a young man that did his best, but also did everything with a smile. "He was a bit of clown," Westenhover said, "But only in a good way." He also is survived by his mother, Darlene. "Nathan was an excellent man," sister Sabrina Black said. "He loved me, I loved him, and I'd give anything to have him back." Army Staff Sgt. Robin L. Towns Sr. During games between the Washington Redskins and the Philadelphia Eagles, Robin L. Towns Sr. loved donning his Eagles jersey and serving guests his signature barbecued chicken and ribs. Family members and friends said they couldn't stand it when he rooted for the Eagles, but they loved his barbecue so much they never complained. Towns, 52, of Upper Marlboro, Md., was killed Oct. 24 when a bomb exploded under his Humvee in Beiji. He was assigned to Washington, D.C. After graduating from high school in 1973, he joined the Army and received an honorable discharge in 1989. He worked as a correctional officer with the Prince George's County government. Towns had been with the D.C. National Guard since April 2006, after transferring from the Maryland National Guard. As a guardsman, Towns worked several natural disasters, including hurricanes Katrina and Isabel. He is survived by his wife, Sheila. He had four children from a previous relationship, and she had two. "He was the Eagles fan in the family; we would have a ball," said his sister-in-law Joyce Wise. "I miss his barbecue. It's too bad I can't taste it." Army Spc. Chirasak Vidhyarkorn As a boy in Thailand, Chirasak Vidhyarkorn served as a cadet in a group similar to the American Boy Scouts. "He wanted to be in the military; it was his dream," said his aunt, Saipun Kunatee. Vidhyarkorn, 32, of New York City, died Sept. 29 in Diwanihay of injuries from a non-combat incident. He was assigned to Camp Shelby. Born in New York, Vidhyarkorn moved with his parents back to Thailand when he was 2. He studied environmental engineering at a university there and returned to New York at the age of 24. After serving his first tour, Vidhyarkorn enrolled at the New York Institute of Technology, earning a master's degree in engineering and took a job as an environmental engineer with the State Department of Environmental Conservation. "He was a person, he was not a number," said co-worker Beth Zicca. "And he mattered to people. He was a hero and an American. He was not just a soldier. We were eagerly waiting for him to come back." Andrew Miller, who served in Iraq with Vidhyarkorn in 2003 and attended his funeral said, "He was a person ready to jump right in and help do anything." (Copyright 2003-2020 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) AP-NY-11-05-07 0311EST BC-Iraq-US Toll Capsules-October, 1st Add,2782 UNDATED: his mother, Kim. Navy Seaman Genesia M. Gresham Seaman Jeremiah Lamb said he and others considered Genesia M. Gresham as more than just another sailor in their unit. "She was more than a friend. She was more than a shipmate," he said. "She was family." Gresham, 19, of Lithonia, Ga., was shot and killed Oct. 23 along with another female sailor by a fellow serviceman in Bahrain. She was assigned to U.S. Naval Support Activity Bahrain. Their alleged killer, Clarence Jackson, apparently shot himself in the head immediately after the slayings. Known to her friends and family as Snowflake, Gresham was known for her wide smile and zest for life. She was on dance team and could coax a laugh from anyone. "She was always the first one to crack a joke and make the class laugh," said Ahmani DoDoo. "She truly touched my life and I will forever carry the lessons she taught with me." She is survived by mother, Natalie Gresham, and father, Joseph Webb. "She will be remembered as a light that continues to shine in all our hearts," wrote Chief Isaac Edwards. "Her smile was infectious and even on my worst days she quickly brought a smile to my face." Army Sgt. Louis A. Griese Louis A. Griese's mother said she had some concerns about her son's third time in Iraq. "I just said to him, 'I just have a bad feeling.' Call it mother's intuition," Susan Frihart said. "He said, 'Mom, everything is going to be OK."' Griese, 30, of Sturgeon Bay, Wis., was killed Oct. 31 when an explosive detonated near his vehicle in northern Samarra. He was a 1996 high school graduate and was assigned to Fort Campbell. Griese's father was in the Army and the young man wanted to be like his father. "He was very proud of what he was doing," said Frihart, who remembered the day her son signed up for military service nearly 12 years ago. At the time, she told him: "Just remember: Mom didn't raise a quitter." Griese "was a good friend in high school," said Doug Roatch, a member of the class of '96. "He liked to mess around with cars; fix 'em, tweak 'em, put in stereo gear." He is survived by his wife, Stephany, and 4-month-old daughter, Skylar. "He didn't really want to go this time," said his mother. "He didn't want to leave that newborn baby, but he left because that was his duty." Army Spc. Rachael L. Hugo Rachael L. Hugo's parents and her little brother remembered her as a beautiful and intelligent woman who had a passion for caring for the wounded. In an e-mail to her parents from Iraq, she wrote: "Being a medic is what I live to do." Hugo, 24, of Madison, Wis., was killed Oct. 5 by an explosive and small-arms fire in Bayji. She was a 2001 high school graduate and was assigned to Jackson, Mich. "She was always very adamant about volunteering and going out on missions with her guys," said her father, Kermit Hugo. "She told us countless times that she needed to be out there with them. If somebody got hurt or something and they didn't have a medic, she was beside herself." The former high school cheerleader was looking forward to coming home and had even gone on an online shopping spree for new clothes, said her mother, Ruth Hugo. Hugo was studying to be a nurse at Viterbo University in La Crosse when she was called to active duty. She had two years of school remaining. "She saw death, destruction, despair - and a lot of good things, too," said Kermit Hugo. "Despite it all, she always kept her head held high." Army Pfc. Kenneth J. Iwasinski Members of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8428 had gotten to like one of their youngest members - Kenneth J. Iwasinski. "He was very energetic and full of new ideas," said post Commander George D. "Archie" Archible Jr. Iwasinski, 22, of West Springfield, Mass., was killed Oct. 14 in Baghdad by a roadside bomb. He was assigned to Fort Carson. His mother, Tracy Taylor, recalled a recent phone call: "Kenny loved to laugh. He was picking on a buddy standing next to him, laughing the whole time. What a wonderful memory to have." He was "nice young man, always a gentleman, recognizing his own strengths and weaknesses," said high school guidance director Paula A. Pagos. "After 9/11 and the way things were going in Iraq, he felt it was his duty. He enlisted knowing full well that he was going to go to Iraq," said his father, Dominick Iwasinski. "He was scared, like everybody else, but he was hoping that what he was doing was making a difference." He also is survived by his stepmother, Tawnia Iwasinski, and stepfather Matthew Taylor. "He lived a short, shortened life," said his mother. "But he touched many people." Army Pfc. Rush M. Jenkins Rush M. Jenkins' twin brother, Michael woke up on his birthday and thought of his sibling, off fighting in a faraway place. "I was waiting for him to give me a call," he said. Instead he received another call. Rush "Mickey" Jenkins, 22, of Clarksville, Tenn., was killed Oct. 30 when his patrol was struck by an explosive and small-arms fire in Salman Pak. He was a 2004 high school graduate and was assigned to Fort Benning. "That's all I could think of, is why on his birthday?" Michael Jenkins said. Jenkins worked for a beer distributor in North Carolina after graduating from high school. Uninspired, he joined the Army in March 2006. He played football and wrestled. "He was ready to get out on his own and be his own man," said another brother, Sgt. George "Alex" Jenkins. His father taught him to play guitar when he was about 10, and they paired up often for jam sessions. "He was my picking buddy," Rickey Jenkins said. "We had about a dozen guitars." Jenkins "was doing what he thought was right," said his brother George. "He was a really nice guy. He was caring and easy to get along with." Army Sgt. 1st Class Randy L. Johnson Randy L. Johnson worked summer jobs as a swimming pool lifeguard and played wide receiver on the high school football team. He wasn't very tall or fast, but he had good hands and remained determined. "He was a tough-nosed little guy. He had the heart of a 7-footer," Vernon Johnson said, adding that his brother was a "math whiz" who used to do homework for his little brother. Johnson, 34, of Washington, D.C., died Sept. 27 in Baghdad of wounds suffered when an explosive detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to Vilseck, Germany, and was on his third tour in Iraq. Last year, Johnson was training troops in Washington state when a desire to be with his unit sent him back to his cavalry regiment in Germany and then to Iraq. "He got that gung-ho attitude about his fellow soldiers, and he wanted to be with them," said his father, Randy Johnson Sr. As a teenager he preferred watching karate movies to hanging out on the streets. "He was one of those cats who would never let that distract what he was. He was a regular guy," said his brother. He also is survived by his wife, Claudia, and two sons, Devin, 5, and Aaron, 1. Army Spc. Vincent G. Kamka Vincent G. Kamka was not the kind of person who called attention to himself, said Kamka's sister, Yvette Wise. "If he didn't have to, he wouldn't even wear his military outfit on the plane, because he didn't want any kind of special treatment," she said. Kamka, 23, of Everett, Wash., died Oct. 4 in a non-combat incident in Beiji. He was a 2003 high school graduate and was assigned to Fort Bragg. He was on his first tour. On his MySpace page, Kamka listed his favorite books from authors including Robert Heinlein, Kurt Vonnegut, Aldous Huxley, Louis Lamour and Tom Clancy, as well as "I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell," by Tucker Max. In December 2006, he made arrangements for the distribution of presents to children in Iraq for the holiday season. The presents were wrapped and loaded, but the truck they were on was destroyed before they could be distributed. Wise said new collections being taken in Kamka's name will be used for a similar effort this winter. "His nieces and nephews want to do that in his name," she said. He is survived by his parents, Chuck and Brenda. Army Spc. Jason B. Koutroubas A friend of Jason B. Koutroubas' said some of his e-mails provided a glimpse of what life was like in a war zone. "He was glad he had the night shift because it was cooler and darker then, and he felt safer," said Michael McClain Jr., a friend. "He said there were a lot of sandstorms too, and he missed trees." Koutroubas, 21, of Dunnellon, Fla., died Oct. 14 in Tal Afar of injuries from a non-combat incident. He was a 2005 high school graduate and was assigned to Fort Bliss. Master Sgt. Allen Burlison, an instructor with the Air Force JROTC program at Dunnellon High, remembered Koutroubas joining in 2004 during his senior year. "He was a good cadet, did everything we asked him to do, and if he had been with us longer, I'm sure he would have been in a leadership role," Burlison said. "He always made sure our uniform was right," said Alicia Rome. He was looking forward to going to college and loved heavy metal, particularly Korn. "He was always a soldier, always fighting for something and he always wanted to go into the military," McClain said. He is survived by a widow and infant daughter. Army Spc. David E. Lambert The last time Brittany Lambert saw her uncle, David E. Lambert, was just a few days before her birthday in September. He bought her a manicure and make-up set as a present. "He hugged and kissed me goodbye and I told him that I better see him again," Brittany Lambert said. "At least I got to tell him goodbye." Lambert, 39, of Cedar Bluff, Va., was killed Oct. 26 by an explosive in Baghdad. He was a 1987 high school graduate and was assigned to West Point, Va. "He was a great guy. He was very nice and had a good sense of humor," said Ronnie Sparks, his former business teacher. "He was a guy you would trust." Lambert, who grew up in Virginia and enlisted in the Army in 1988, worked as a corrections officer in a state prison and studied criminal justice at Southwest Virginia Community College. "He was a first-class individual and a really outstanding guy. I've heard nothing but good things about him, and he was well-respected in anything he was involved in. He was just a decent guy," said Spc. James Spurlock. He is survived by his parents, Howard and Mary Sue, and his fiancee, Heather Spencer. Army Sgt. Jason M. Lantieri Charlie Macunas, who was a teacher and principal to Jason M. Lantieri, said he held a solid "B" average while playing on the high school's soccer, basketball and baseball teams. "He worked hard academically, but you could always tell it was hard for him to sit still. He was a bundle of energy," Macunas said of Lantieri, who also served on the school's student council for two years. Lantieri, 25, of Killingworth, Conn., died Oct. 10 in Iskandaryah of injuries from an Oct. 9 vehicle accident. He was assigned to Fort Richardson. Lantieri graduated high school in 2000 and earned a business degree from Western New England College in Springfield, Mass. In a MySpace posting in January, Lantieri described traveling around Europe during a 15-day break from Iraq. He said Europe was beautiful, and he raved about the Coliseum, the Louvre and the food. He wrote: "Europe is a great place to just live for the day and for the moment. For now I will say arrivederci, auf wiedersehen and au revoir to Europe, but the next time around I'll be bringing Chuck Norris." He is survived by his parents, Kathleen and Jon. Army Spc. Vincent A. Madero Vincent A. Madero met his wife, Ellen, in late 2004 through mutual friends while stationed at Fort Wainwright. Ellen felt an immediate connection to the shy soldier. "He was so quiet, he seemed really mysterious," Ellen said. "I knew I wanted to get to know him." Madero, 22, of Port Hueneme, Calif., was killed Oct. 17 in Balad when an explosive detonated near his vehicle. He was on his second tour of duty and was assigned to Fort Hood. "He had a big heart," said his father, Bias Madero. "He touched a lot of people." He had enlisted in the Army in 2003 after receiving his GED. He enjoyed mechanics, camping, photography, art work, and he couldn't survive without his music. In Ellen's last conversations with Vincent, he told her to pick out a dress for a ball the couple planned to attend next year, and he talked about renewing their vows at a much larger ceremony when they had saved up the money. His MySpace page is titled "Ellensloveloveguy." The page plays a loop of Audrey Hepburn singing "Moon River" from the movie "Breakfast at Tiffany's." He also is survived by a stepson, James Housley. Army Spc. Jason N. Marchand Jason N. Marchand's mother cherishes the moments she had with him. "Even though he was my middle son, we had a special bond. Maybe it was because we looked so much alike. He could tell me anything and he knew it wouldn't go any farther," said Debbie Parsons. Marchand, 26, of Greenwood, W.Va., was killed Oct. 5 by an explosion in Baghdad. He was a 2000 high school graduate and was assigned to Vilseck, Germany. "He was a wonderful son, brother and father," Parsons said. "He was popular in school, ran track and played football. He had lots of friends. Everyone loved him." He also is survived by his father, William Marchand, and 6-year-old daughter, Savannah, who lives with her mother, Jamanda Marchand. On Oct. 2, Marchand called Parsons from Iraq. "He said he didn't like it over there, but felt it was his duty to be there to protect me and his daughter Savannah," she said. "Plus, he said his buddies needed him." "He was a good all-around kid," said Dan McConnell, Marchand's football coach. "He was a good student, a good human being and he would do anything you asked of him." Army 1st Lt. Thomas M. Martin An Eagle Scout, Thomas M. Martin took on cleaning up an old red train caboose as a service project. "He remodeled it to make it where people could go inside. If you saw it before and looked in it after he was through - it was daylight and dark," said his former principal, Robert Martin, who is no relation. Martin, 27, of Ward, Ark., died Oct. 14 in Al Busayifi of wounds from small-arms fire. He was assigned to Fort Richardson. He enlisted in the Army in 1998 after graduating high school and served in Korea before accepting an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 2005. "He was very polite and respectful. I can't think of him ever overreacting; he had a wonderful, good-natured personality," said Pat Hagge, a family friend. "It's a terrible tragedy; he was a great young man." He is survived by his parents, Edmund and Candis. "Tom was involved in Key Club, German Club and band, making All-Region Band his sophomore year," said his former principal. "He was a wonderful young man. Those that knew him knew he was funny and outgoing." Army Sgt. Daniel L. McCall Friends said Daniel L. McCall was an all-around athlete who brightened up their world. "He was a great-looking guy who was excellent at soccer," said Jeanna Kay Woodhall, who knew McCall since both were preschoolers. "He did all the church functions with us and was a great all-around person. He wasn't just good at sports. He was good at everything. And he always thought the Army was the best thing that ever happened to him." McCall, 24, of Pace, Fla., was killed Oct. 30 when his patrol was struck by an explosive and small-arms fire in Salman Pak. He was a 2001 high school graduate and was assigned to Fort Benning. McCall also played soccer throughout his life and football during his senior year. He was chosen to the News Journal All-Area Track second team in 2001 after finishing second at the Class 3A state championships in the 400-meters. "He still has our 400-meter record," said Kent Smith, a track and football coach at Pace High School. "He had good speed and ran well. He was a happy-go-lucky kid. And the thing I remember about him is that he could run forever and run fast." He was raised by his grandparents, Marvin and Liane McCall. (Copyright 2003-2020 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) AP-NY-11-05-07 0311EST BC-Iraq-US Toll Capsules-October, 3 Takes,2601 U.S. troops who have died while serving in Iraq and Kuwait Eds: Includes troops since last transmission Oct. 3. With BC-Afghan-US Toll Capsules-October AP Photos By The Associated Press Army Sgt. Robert T. Ayres III Robert T. Ayres III's mother remembers him at age 5, with blond hair and blue eyes. He was a child who always had his eyes open, was constantly smiling, who would ride a bicycle without touching the handlebars. "He'd close his eyes just to see what he would run into," said Michelle Ayres. She worried, but he kept saying: "Don't worry Mom, I'm made out of rubber." Ayres, 23, of Los Angeles, was shot dead by a sniper Sept. 29 as he exited a vehicle in Baghdad. He was a 2003 high school graduate and was assigned to Vilseck, Germany. Ayres was on his second tour of duty. "He was a happy, funny and just a really sweet boy," said his mother. Well-liked by his superiors and soldiers alike, Ayres loved to play with children. At unit cookouts, he would go to fellow soldiers' homes and spend his time playing with the kids, said Capt. David Dykema. He lost much of his hearing from training with heavy machine guns and fellow officers often had to raise their voices to get his attention - even on patrols requiring stealth. He also is survived by his father, Robert. Army Spc. Micheal D. Brown Not only was Micheal D. Brown willing to serve in Iraq for a second deployment, he was excited about it. "Micheal was so excited to go back on his second tour," Edna Brown, said his sister, adding that in one of the last letters she received, Brown said it was like "a permanent vacation on a beach with no water." "He had a really humorous personality," she said. "Always funny. He was always cracking jokes and making people laugh." Brown, 20, of Williamsburg, Kan., died Oct. 16 at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center of a non-combat related illness after being transported from Tikrit. He was assigned to Fort Riley. As a high school student, Brown was interested in joining the military, said Robert Allen, his former principal. He graduated in 2005. "He was always interested in aviation and said he was going into the military," Allen said. Allen, who had served in the Army, said Brown frequently asked him about the military. "He was very energetic," Allen said. "He loved to explore new things." He is survived by his parents, Donna Hollon and Steve Brown. Marine Lance Cpl. Jeremy W. Burris In Jeremy W. Burris' blog, he showed a confidence that many could only wish for. "The hard things in life, the deserts, are the things that make you stronger," he wrote. "I will continue to learn to be content in EVERY situation." Burris, 22, of Tacoma, Wash., was killed Oct. 8 by a set of roadside bomb in Anbar province. He was assigned to Camp Pendleton. Burris survived the initial blast and helped two Marines out of the vehicle. He returned to get some equipment, and a second bomb detonated, killing him instantly, his father Brent said. Burris lived in Liberty, about 40 miles northeast of Houston, since he was 12. After he finished home-schooling, Burris moved to Tacoma to participate in a Christian discipleship program. He attended Lee College in Baytown and a community college in Tacoma. Burris attended the non-denominational Cornerstone Church in Liberty, where he led praise and worship sessions for the youth group and was a guitar player during the main services. "He was a precious young man who touched many lives," pastor Mike Glazener said. He is also survived by his mother, Karla. Army Frank L. Cady III Frank L. Cady III was a veritable "kid genius" who could have been a formidable attorney, his mother said. But Cady's dreams took him in another direction after seeing the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. He decided to join the Army after graduating from high school in 2005, and deployed to Iraq in January. "My son died living his dream," said his mother, Billie-Jo Hull. "How many people could say that, if they died today, they would be living their dream?" Cady, 20, of Sacramento, Calif., was killed Oct. 10 of injuries from a vehicle rollover in Baghdad, where he served as a chemical operations specialist. He was assigned to Fort Riley. Friends and family members also described Cady as a talkative young man who'd do anything for a laugh. "He was an amazing kid. There was something about him. He had a sparkle in his eyes - I call it a hint of mischief," said his friend, former Army Pfc. Tasha Feenan. "He was always there for you no matter what, even if you didn't want him to be. We lost one of the few genuine people left in this world the day he died." He also is survived by his stepfather, John Hull. Navy Seaman Anamarie S. Camacho It was Anamarie S. Camacho's decision to join the Navy two years ago. She knew that getting into college was expensive, so she chose to join the Navy right after graduating high school. "She always tried to do things on her own. She was an independent child," said her mother, Jovy Paulino. Camacho, 20, of Panama City, Fla., was shot and killed Oct. 23 with another female sailor by a fellow serviceman in Bahrain. She was assigned to U.S. Naval Support Activity Bahrain. Their alleged killer, Clarence Jackson, apparently shot himself in the head immediately after the slayings. Paulino said she could still remember her daughter's face, especially the big smile she had. "She always had big smiles. She was an individual who was filled with so much energy," she said. Jody Jones remembered picking her up from the airport the night she arrived in Bahrain. "Even after a 24 hour trip, she still was her cheerful self. Never did I think that this would happen. Anamarie was a great person. Just like everyone else said, she could bring a smile to your face no matter what your life had going on," Jones wrote. Army Pvt. Cody M. Carver Cody M. Carver was trickster who loved teasing his mother. "He liked to jump out and scare me," Pam Carver said. "He would put a piece of tape around the handle on the sprayer next to the kitchen sink, and then aim it so that it would squirt me when I turned on the water." Carver, 19, of Haskell, Okla., was killed Oct. 30 when his patrol was struck by an explosive and small-arms fire in Salman Pak. He was based at Fort Benning. "He was really outgoing," said his mother. "Everybody loved him. You couldn't have asked for a better child." Carver's father, Darrell Lee Carver, was wounded during the Vietnam War. That, along with the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, was Cody Carver's motivation for joining the Army, his mother said. "He had talked about joining the Army since the ninth grade. I guess it was about the same time 9/11 happened. That bothered him so bad, he just wanted to go and make it right," she said. He was very much a single man. "I asked him at Valentine's Day if there was anyone he wanted me to send flowers to," said his mother. "He said 'Mom, that would be too many flowers. You couldn't afford it."' Army Pfc. Adam J. Chitjian Adam J. Chitjian joined the Army four years ago in response to 9/11, said his older brother, Martin. When it came to his country's defense, "he wanted to act, rather than just talk," said the elder Chitjian. Chitjian, 39, of Philadelphia, was killed Oct. 25 in Balad of injuries suffered from small-arms fire. He was assigned to Fort Hood. A stocky 5-foot-11, Chitjian "appeared bigger than he was," Martin said. He was called "Pappy" by the others in his squad because of his maturity. To his brother, Adam seemed invincible. "I would have bet my life he would have come back without a scratch," said Martin. "I don't really believe it happened." In Texas, he met Shirley, who would become his wife. They married in the summer of 2006, after he returned from his first tour of duty in Iraq. The couple have no children. Martin said his brother had been a commercial painter since graduating from Northeast Philadelphia's George Washington High School. He had talked of possibly joining a private security firm at the end of his duty in Iraq. His mother, Edith Curcio Chitjian, died in 1998. Army Staff Sgt. Lillian Clamens Lillian Clamens had an infectious smile and a bright personality, said her husband, Raymond. "She could make a friend for life every single day. She was very friendly, very outgoing and always had a smile." Clamens, 35, of Homestead, Fla., died Oct. 10 in Baghdad of wounds suffered from a rocket attack. She was a 1990 high school graduate and was assigned to Miami. She had served in Korea and at Fort Leonard Wood before an assignment in Germany brought her and her husband together in 1996 - when she handed him some paperwork at an Army base in Vilseck. She worked as an administrative clerk and loved the job because she could directly help soldiers by making sure their transitions from the United States to Iraq and home again went smoothly. "She really loved taking care of soldiers. That's always been her job," Raymond Clamens said. She was known for her love of dancing, music, performing arts and people. "She would meet you on the street and you'd be best friends in five minutes," said her husband. Clamens also is survived by three children: daughters Victoria, 7, and Lana, 8; and son, Ayinde, 14. Army Cpl. Benjamin C. Dillon Bob Dunn, Benjamin C. Dillon's basketball coach, recounted an impromptu slam dunk contest one day at practice. Dillon convinced a teammate to hunch over. Then the 5-foot-7 player ran and jumped off the other player's back to dunk the ball. "We celebrated like Ben had just won the NBA dunk contest," Dunn said. "That showed the spirit of Ben. He always found a way to be successful, despite the obstacles before him." Dillon, 22, of Edinburg, Ohio, was killed Oct. 7 by small-arms fire. He was a 2004 high school graduate and was assigned to Fort Benning. He was on his fourth overseas tour. He also loved golf and baseball, beating his friends at a James Bond Nintendo game and telling stories by the campfire. He always wanted to be an Army Ranger. "He could have done anything in life he wanted to do, and that's what he was doing," said Staff Sgt. Fernando Gonzalez. "One night during his training, he was sleeping outside when a spider crawled on him," said his mother, Linda. "But he just left it there. It was so cold that night, he said he needed it for the body heat." He also is survived by his father, Terry. Army Staff Sgt. Eric T. Duckworth During the last conversation Barbara Duckworth had with her son, Eric T. Duckworth, he spoke about what he was experiencing. "Eric told me about the Iraqi interpreter in his unit and how he was another brother in arms," she said. "He expressed how grateful the Iraqi people were, in spite of the fanatic element." Duckworth, 26, of Plano, Texas, was killed Oct. 10 when a makeshift bomb detonated near his vehicle. He was a 1999 high school graduate and was assigned to Fort Carson. Duckworth was sent to Iraq with the first invasion in March 2003, but returned stateside when he sustained a knee injury. He served in Korea and then left in August 2006 for his current tour in Iraq. He loved sports, especially the Dallas Cowboys and NASCAR. "He made friends easily," his mother said. "He was also very much a family man." Duckworth is survived by his wife, Sonya; his stepdaughter, Kaylynn, 10; daughter Madison, 4; and son Michael, 1. "I will miss seeing him with his children," said Barbara Duckworth. "He was such a good daddy. He enjoyed the kids so much." Army Staff Sgt. Jarred S. Fontenot Jarred S. Fontenot's fellow soldiers described him as someone who took the time to care for others, and as a calm force during the unit's darkest days in Iraq. "He was our rock - able to take on the problems of a big company and never break," Maj. Gen. James Myles said. Fontenot, 35, of Port Barre, La., was killed Oct. 18 in Baghdad from an explosive and small-arms fire. He was assigned to Fort Carson. Fontenot, who entered the Army on Christmas Day 1993, worked for local law enforcement between tours in Iraq. Fontenot also served in Korea and was killed during his second tour in Iraq. Fontenot loved to fish and hunt, making it on the high school football and track teams. "He was one hard-nosed football player," said William Duplechain, his former principal. "You couldn't hurt this guy physically at all. He was tough." Fontenot is survived by his wife, Dana, and four children - 16-year-old Cameron, 7-year-old Logan, 6-year-old Mason and 4-year-old Macy. "Jarred didn't do it for the glory," said Bett Dedon, his mother-in-law. "That's what he wanted to do his entire life was serve his country." Marine Cpl. Erik T. Garoutte Erik T. Garoutte enlisted with the Marines in 2005 and was quickly promoted, gaining the rank of corporal in June, and was expected to make sergeant in the near future. "After he graduated from boot camp, I took him to Ruth's Chris Steak House," said Jeff Stine, his pastor. "I asked him if he wanted to change clothes before we went out. He said he worked too hard earning the uniform to take it off." Garoutte, 22, of Santee, Calif., collapsed and died Oct. 19 after working out in Baghdad. He graduated high school in 2004 and was assigned to Norfolk. "He was so full of life and always had a smile on his face," said his stepmother, Judith Garoutte. "I regret that he will never have children because he would've been such a great father." He briefly moved to Nashville with a friend, where they attempted to break into the music business. A highlight was being in the audience during an episode of "Nashville Star." "It was harder than he thought," his stepmother said. "He drove for 24 hours to get home, where he could feel the love." He also is survived by his mother, Donna Stone, and stepmother, Judith Garoutte. Army Spc. Wayne M. Geiger Before deploying, Wayne M. Geiger spoke to his father of his decision to join the military. "It's not fair watching our men and women make sacrifices and me not doing my share. I want to be on the front lines with all the rest doing the fighting," Randy Geiger recalled his son saying. Geiger, 23, of Lone Pine, Calif., was killed Oct. 18 when an explosive detonated near his vehicle in Baghdad. He was a 2003 high school graduate and was assigned to Vilseck, Germany. "Those of us who knew Wayne had uniform respect and admiration for his sense of humor, athletic prowess and dedication to his duties as a soldier," said Maj. Thomas Rickard. Geiger was in the Army for just over two years. He was previously stationed at Fort Lewis and moved to Vilseck in July 2006. Former basketball coaches Matt Kingsley and Scott Kemp, spoke on the soldier's love for the game at his funeral. Kingsley, as well as friends and family, all spoke about the young Geiger's sense of humor that kept them entertained over the years. He also is survived by his mother, Kim. (Copyright 2003-2020 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) AP-NY-11-05-07 0311EST |
||||||||
Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away
Copyright 2003-2024 Q Madp
