Alex D. Wolfsie

AN

US Navy

Alex David Wolfsie passed away on March 10, 2014, as a result of a tragic accident. Alex entered military service with the US Navy on September 25, 2012. After completing basic training at Great Lakes Naval Station north of Chicago, he was sent to Pensacola, Florida to commence his training to be an Avionics Technician. His next stop was San Diego, California for additional training. Alex was then deployed to Guam, arriving there on October 16, 2013, and was undergoing final training before he was to be detached to the amphibious assault ship Bonhomme Richard, based in Japan. Alex will be remembered fondly by his friends and family for his ever present smile, his ability to make anybody laugh and for brightening our lives. The saying there are no strangers, only friends he didn’t meet was never more true than for Alex. But perhaps the best way to put into words the life of someone who was taken from us much too young is to say that Alex wasn’t everybody’s best friend but he was the best friend everybody’s ever had. https://www.cargainfuneralhomes.com/home/index.cfm?action=public:obituaries.view&o_id=2456210&fh_id=10350

Andrew Mark Shaffer Council

SGT

US Army

August 3, 1990 - October 12, 2013 (age 23) Andrew Mark Schaffer Council, age 23, of Lakewood CO, passed away October 12, 2013. He is survived by his parents Karl Council and Pamela Schaffer. Interned at Fort Logan National Cemetery, Denver. https://www.horancares.com/obituary/Andrew-Mark-Schaffer-Council/Lakewood-CO/1304455

Blake A. Harris

SGT

US Army

Assigned to 1st Squadron, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas Army SGT Blake Harris was killed March 5, 2007, by a command-detonated improvised explosive device near his unit in Baqubah, Iraq. Also killed were SPC Ryan D. Russell and PVT Barry W. Mayo. SGT Harris was serving his second deployment to Iraq when he was killed. Blake Harris was born April 25, 1984, to parents John and Deborah in Denver, Colorado. He would be the couple’s first and only son. Blake had worked long and hard to be in the Army—After spending three years with the ROTC at South High School in Pueblo, Colorado, he enlisted in the Army after his graduation in 2002. His mother, Deborah, said her son made his decision after a recruiter came to campus. “He came home and said, ‘Mom, I’m going to join the Army. I’m going to serve my country,’” she recalled. “It was in his blood for sure.” Blake’s father had spent 11 years in the 1st Cavalry Division during Vietnam and Blake followed suit, serving in the 1st Cavalry just like his father. Blake was a self-described class clown. He was known in his close circle to be a ‘master barbecuer’ and his family often teased that he could take forever it seemed to barbecue a chicken, but at least he was good at it. Blake was also a talented wood-worker, but the favorite of his favorite hobbies, besides listening to music where he boasted a very large CD collection, was skateboarding. He had been among a group of teenagers who had lobbied City Council to create a skateboard park for the Pueblo youth. In the spring of 2010, city skate park was officially renamed the “Sergeant Blake A. Harris Skateboard Park.” At the parks re-naming, CPT Lisa Northway, a Fort Carson chaplain, praised Blake for being a role model for Pueblo’s young people. “They will be inspired by Blake Harris and his life,” she told the audience, which included more than a dozen skateboarders in T-shirts and jeans, who were perched on the park’s concrete ramps and steps to listen in the sunshine; it wasn’t hard for his family to imagine Blake among them. SGT Blake Harris is survived by his parents, John and Deborah Harris; wife, Joanna; and son, Jonah. https://americanfallensoldiers.com/army-sgt-blake-a-harris/

Brian D. Allgood

COL

US Army

By TOM ROEDER, THE GAZETTE A Colorado Springs native serving as the top American medical officer in Iraq died in a Sunday January 20, 2007 helicopter crash in Baghdad. Col. Brian D. Allgood, 46 and a 1978 graduate of Air Academy High School, was a doctor in the Army before becoming the command surgeon of Multi-National Forces Iraq, the American military command in Baghdad, his mother Cleo Allgood of Colorado Springs said. He was one of 12 soldiers killed when a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crashed at 3 p.m. Sunday in northeast Baghdad. The crash remains under investigation, but Iraq security forces leaders have said it was likely shot down by insurgents. The son of an Army doctor and Vietnam veteran, retired Col. Gerald Allgood, Brian Allgood decided in his junior year at Air Academy to follow the family tradition. He won an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point and excelled academically, earning a slot in the University of Oklahoma medical school. “He was very brilliant,” Cleo Allgood said. But Allgood wanted to be more than just a doctor. He was a top-notch soldier who served as a battalion surgeon in the 75th Ranger Regiment and parachuted into Panama in the 1989 Operation Just Cause. His mother said the stint with the Rangers, some of the nation’s toughest airborne troops, fit right in with Allgood’s competitive streak. The hard-charging Allgood tempered his personality with a quick wit and an easy smile, she said. “He had a very good, dry sense of humor,” his mother said. He rose through the military ranks, becoming a full colonel in 2002 and serving in top medical posts in Korea and Germany before he was ordered to Iraq. “He was looking forward to doing the job and from what we hear he was doing a great job,” Cleo Allgood said. Brian Allgood was married to another West Point graduate, Jane Allgood, who is living in Germany with their son, 11-year-old Wyatt. “Brian was a wonderful human being,” his mother said. “He was a wonderful brother, son, husband and father. He just was a giving person who served his country.” https://iraqwarheroes.org/allgood.htm

Caleb Medley

SSG

USMC

Sgt Caleb M. Medley Died: February 26, 2013 Marine Corps officials identified a Marine killed Tuesday in a parachuting accident in Perris, Calif., as Sgt. Caleb M. Medley, 26. Medley, of La Junta, Colo., was an assistant radio operator with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion at Camp Pendleton, 1st Marine Division officials said in a news release. The accident happened during military training at about 3 p.m. near Perris Valley Airport, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. “He ended up landing just north of the airport,” in a fenced-in storage lot, said Sgt. Lisa McConnell, a sheriff’s department spokeswoman. Firefighters responded to the scene, but he was dead when they arrived, McConnell said. Division officials are investigating the cause of the accident. No other details about the incident were released. Perris Valley Airport is located about 30 miles north of Camp Pendleton. Medley, an Iraq and Afghanistan combat veteran, enlisted in May 2005, according to the division. His military awards and decorations include the Navy-Marine Corps Commendation Medal with "V" and two Combat Action Ribbons. https://www.forcerecon.com/sgt-caleb-medley

Carl J Bryant

SGT

US Army

Christopher A. Anderson

HM3

US Navy

HM3 US Navy 1st Battalion, 6th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, out of Camp Lejeune, NC A graduate of Longmont CO High School, he enlisted in the US Navy in August 2005. While awaiting his Navy school starting date, he competed with Navy SEAL candidates and excelled in Navy academics. At boot camp, he was the honor graduate, voted #1 in his class by his peers and senior staff, and went on to hospital corpsman medical training and advanced combat medical training. He was deployed to Ramadi, Iraq on September 6, 2006 and while there, he earned the affectionate title of "Doc", a title given to Navy hospital corpsmen that have impressed their US Marine Corps counterparts with medical excellence under field combat conditions. He died as a result of enemy action. He was promoted posthumously to the rank of US Navy Corpsman HM3. Interment on December 27, 2006. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/16925844/christopher-alan-anderson

Christopher R. Thibodeau

CW2

US Army

Chief Warrant Officer Christopher R. Thibodeau, 28, of Chesterland, Ohio, died May 26 in Paktika province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when his helicopter crashed during combat operations. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, Fort Hood, Texas. Thibodeau's awards and decorations include an Air Medal, two Army Achievement Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon and Army Service Ribbon. He was the beloved husband of LeeSandra of Copperas Cove, TX and the dear son of Robert and Doreen Thibodeau of Chesterland, OH. Chris was the dear brother of Nicole M. Vodicka (Nicholas) of Flower Mound, TX and Michael A. Thibodeau (fiancé, Alison Smith) of Chesterland, OH and the beloved grandson of Dora Walker of Dedham, MA. He was also survived by his Yorkie, Moony Love and his Akita, Nolan Ryan. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/70473959/christopher-r.-thibodeau

Christopher W. Rowland

SPC

US Army

Spc. Christopher W. Rowland, age 21, passed away August 16, 2009 in Teller County, Colorado. He was born on March 3, 1988 in Colorado Springs to William J. and Deborah K. Rowland. He was in the military from 2006 to present, serving in Iraq for 15 months. Army awards include Army Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Driver and Mechanic Badge, Weapons Qualification Badge and Overseas Service Bar. He was also an Eagle Scout. He graduated from Widefield High School in 2006. He is survived by his parents, grandmother, June Wallerstedt and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. https://obits.gazette.com/us/obituaries/gazette/name/christopher-rowland-obituary?pid=131609459

Clint H. Loughmiller JR

SSG

US Army

Staff Sergeant Clint Loughmiller, age 29, of Colorado Springs, stationed with the US Army at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina, passed away on May 7, 2011 in Fayetteville, NC. Clint was born on October 11, 1981 in Roswell NM. As a child, Clint enjoyed drawing, music, movies, reading, and spending time with his family. He was a brilliant artist and loved the outdoors. Clint graduated in 2001 from CIVA High School in Colorado Springs. Growing up, Clint had a love for his Japanese culture. He continued in the way of Samurai honor by becoming a master of both the making and wielding of weapons. Clint enjoyed shooting and became a very accomplished marksman. Clint was very talented, and whatever he did, he was a master of his craft. For Clint, becoming an Army Special Forces Green Beret was always his dream from early childhood. Clint joined the army as was a war hero. He served honorably and was decorated for his three war time deployments, two tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. After his last deployment, Clint distinguished himself and was chosen to be a candidate for Special Forces Selection School. Clint was a born leader. He led by example demanding no more of anyone than he demanded of himself, which was perfection. People were instantly drawn to him. He had a fantastic sense of humor and was very intelligent and quick witted. Clint loved to travel and he was much beloved in every country he visited from Hungary to the Middle East. In 2003 Clint met the love of his life, Adrienn, and they were married on Valentine's Day 2004. After 8 blissful years of marriage, Adrienn gave birth to their daughter Emma Juliet. Clint was a loving and giving father. He provided for his family so that they would never have any worries or want for anything. He protected them and sacrificed for them. Clint is survived by his wife, Adrienn Loughmiller and daughter, Emma J. Loughmiller of Fayetteville, his mother, June Wigglesworth, grandmother Eiko Wigglesworth, brother William Loughmiller of Honolulu, HI, his father, Bill Loughmiller of Colorado Springs, and brother David Loughmiller of New York. https://obits.gazette.com/us/obituaries/gazette/name/clint-loughmiller-obituary?pid=150980409

Dane R. Balcon

SPC

US Army

SPC Dane R. Balcon was born on 27 April 1988, at Luke AFB, Arizona. In 2007, he enlisted in the Army as a Fire Support Specialist, following graduation from Sand Creek High School, Colorado Springs. He attended Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training with 2nd Platoon, Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 40th Field Artillery Regiment, at Fort Sill, OK. Upon graduation from AIT, SPC Balcon received his first assignment to 3rd Squadron 8th Cavalry Regt., 1st Cavalry Division, in Fort Hood, TX. He deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in Balad, Iraq on 7 July 2007 and on 5 September 2007 he completed his mission-doing what he loved - serving his country. SPC Balcon is survived by his mother Carla, her husband Larry Sizer, his brothers Grant and Quinn. Dane is also survived by his father John Balcon and his wife Claire, their children Samuel, Joshua, Brianna, and his sister Allegra, Grandparents CMSgt (ret) Stephen B. Thomas, Jr. (Suzanne), Cynthia B. Thomas, Ernesto Balcon (Yvonne), Kathleen Sizer, Alexie Sizer, Godparents CMSgt (ret) James Davis (Lt Col (ret) Bettye), his Uncle Steve (Trina), Aunts Debbie (Charles), Karen, and Yolanda (Eddie), and a host of great Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, friends, brother-in-arms, and a loving country. Awards and ribbons that SPC Balcon earned while serving his country include: The Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, Combat Action Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Global War On Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Weapons Qualification Badge – Expert w/Rifle.

Daniel A. Bader

SSG

US Army

28 year-old SSG Daniel Bader of York, Neb.; assigned to the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Tiger Squadron, Fort Carson, Colo.; killed Nov. 2, 2003 in an attack on a CH-47 Chinook helicopter near Fallujah, Iraq. He joined the National Guard shortly after graduating from high school, going through basic training when he was 17 and joining the Army when he was 18. “He loved it, absolutely loved the military,” his wife said. “He was excited. He wanted to serve his country. I was terrified.” He left with the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment for Iraq on April 4. He specialized in anti-aircraft work but was sent to war against an enemy that lacked an air force. He and his troops adapted, learning security tasks that included guarding U.S. convoys. The soldiers of Predator Battery proved just as effective in their new role; not one supply convoy even had a rock thrown at it. It was the Fourth of July, and Predator Battery was going to hold a barbeque with whatever it could find. No one knows where Daniel came up with the 150 chickens, or the salad, or the baked potatoes. He was well known for caring for the troops under his command and took responsibility for providing dinner to 180 soldiers in Iraq. He is survived by his wife Tiffany and daughter. https://www.fallenheroesproject.org/?p=3108

David G. Richerson

SFC

US Army

David George Richerson March 19, 1985 - July 9, 2016 SFC David G. Richerson, a U.S. Army Engineer and Colorado native has died unexpectedly on July 9, 2016 in Washington. He is survived by his mother, Dorothy Lessem; his wife, Melanie Richerson; his son Tylor Richerson, his extended family, and many friends. David was born on March 19, 1985 in Denver, Colorado. After graduating from John F. Kennedy High School, David joined the U.S. Army and served his country proudly as an Engineer. In 2007 he married Melanie whom he had met while stationed in Germany. In 2008 they welcomed their son, Tylor. David was a devoted father, husband, soldier, and friend. He was a problem-solver who never shied away from the biggest challenges. He was also a thinker who appreciated time by himself in nature. David will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and everybody whose lives he touched. http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=David-Richerson&lc=7549&pid=180713032&mid=7013552

Forrest R. Eaton

SGT

US Army

Frank Buoniconti III

CW3

US Army

He died in a helicopter crash. Three other American soldiers were also killed. Frank graduated from Doherty High School in Colorado Springs. Frank followed his father into the military, serving three overseas tours. He joined up because he felt it was the right thing to do. Frank was an amateur chef and loved to cook. Frank is survived by many loving friends and relatives including his mother, Silvia Buoniconti and his father, Frank Buoniconti Sr.; his wife and their four children. https://sanctuaryofmary.blogspot.com/2011/12/frank-buoniconti.html

Garry Forkum

SGT

US Army

23 August 1949-22 December 1968 (19 years old) Garry Michael Forkum is the son of John Oliver and Ruth Forkum, his father being a career military veteran of World War II. By the age of 19 Garry was already a Sargent in Co. D, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 4th Battalion, U.S. Army. Garry, a member of the Baptist faith, died from small arms fire during a firefight in Binh Dinh Province, Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam). He is buried in Spring Hill Cemetery, Nashville TN. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/116593154/garry-michael-forkum

Gavin B. Reinke

SSG

US Army

PUEBLO, Colorado. An Army soldier from Pueblo on his second tour of duty in Iraq was killed earlier this week when a roadside bomb detonated near his military vehicle, family and the Department of Defense said Friday. Staff Sergeant Gavin B. Reinke, 32, was one of two soldiers who died after the explosion May 4, 2006 in Baghdad. Also killed was Specialist Bryan L. Quinton, 24, of Sand Springs, Oklahoma. Both men were assigned to the 5th Engineer Battalion, 1st Engineer Brigade at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Reinke's wife, Carole Reinke, said she was told her husband died while trying to help fellow soldiers whose Humvee had been hit by an explosive moments earlier. "That's exactly the kind of person he was," Reinke said from her home in Saint Robert, Mo., where she lives with their 3-year-old daughter, Kayleigh. "He was an amazing man. As a friend, as a father, as a husband, and it carried over to being a soldier." She said her husband wasn't an outgoing person, but once people got to know him, he would do anything to help them. When they lived on base, he would take the time to mow the lawn of his neighbor, a single mother, when he had finished his own, she said. "Everybody that knows him is just as proud as they can be of what he did," Reinke said. Gavin Reinke was born in New Jersey, but his family moved to Pueblo in 1980, his father, Scott Reinke, said. He graduated from Central High School and joined the military in 1996. Carole Reinke said he loved his job and wanted to stay in the Army for at least 20 years. His second tour had begun in November, and his family believed he would have returned to the United States for a break in the summer. "He truly believed in what he was doing," his mother, Karen Reinke, said. When his work day was over, he relaxed by hunting deer, elk and turkeys, fishing and riding all-terrain vehicles -- basically any activity that could be done outdoors, Carole Reinke said. Usually, his young daughter was by his side. "He loved to go fishing with his daughter," Scott Reinke said as he looked at a photo of his son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter, with Kayleigh holding a large catfish. http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/gbreinke.htm

Glenn E. Luhnow

PFC

US Army

Glenn Eugene Luhnow was born on September 9, 1945. According to our records California was his home or enlistment state and San Diego County included within the archival record. We have El Cajon listed as the city. He was drafted into the Army. Entered the service via Selective Service. Served during the Vietnam War. He began his tour on September 5, 1967. Luhnow had the rank of Private First Class. His military occupation or specialty was Light Weapons Infantry. Service number assignment was 56704464. Attached to 25th Infantry Division, 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry, D Company. During his service in the Vietnam War, Army Private First Class Luhnow experienced a traumatic event which ultimately resulted in loss of life on October 14, 1967. Recorded circumstances attributed to: Died through hostile action, small arms fire. Incident location: Ho Bo Woods, South Vietnam, Binh Duong province. Glenn Eugene Luhnow is buried or memorialized at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, San Diego, San Diego County, California. This is a National American Cemetery administered through the Department of Veteran's Affairs. Glenn is honored on the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial in Washington DC. Name inscribed at VVM Wall, Panel 28e, Line 2. https://www.honorstates.org/index.php?id=285021

Grant A. Wichmann

SGT

US Army

While Grant was growing up he enjoyed sports of all kinds and played on youth soccer and football teams. In the winter his interests turned to snowboarding and he was very good at it. Actually, Grant loved and enjoyed life and lived it to the fullest. He enjoyed music and was an accomplished guitarist, looking forward to pursuing this interest with his brother and friends on his return from Afghanistan. After much soul searching, Grant joined the army in September 2007. Soon after basic training he married his dream girl on December 22, 2007. Following additional, more specialized, training Grant was deployed to Afghanistan in mid-2009. Soon after he left his son was born on June 19, 2009. Grant came home on leave later in the year and, after meeting his son, reaffirmed his belief in all that he was fighting for. This young man was one that his fellow soldiers trusted their lives to and he never let them down. They gave him their friendship and respect; and Grant returned those feelings. Sergeant Grant Arthur Wichmann was awarded a Purple Heart and Bronze Star in addition to previously earned military honors. Grant was the son of a Vietnam era Sergeant and both his grandfathers were veterans--Staff Sergeant Alvin Edward Wichmann, World War II, and Technical Sergeant James Morrow Noland, Korea. Sgt. Grant A. Wichmann, 27, of Golden, Colo., died April 24 at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, D.C., of wounds sustained March 12 when enemy forces attacked his unit using small arms fire at Out Post Bari Alai, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/51791243/grant-arthur-wichmann

Herman L. Knapp

COL

USAF

Herman Ludwig Knapp (born 11 April 1929) was a US Air Force colonel who was declared "missing in action" on 24 April 1967 during the Vietnam War. Herman Ludwig Knapp was born in Roselle, Union County, New Jersey in 1929, and he married Helene Knapp, a Colorado Springs resident, in June 1952. Knapp rose to the rank of Colonel in the US Air Force, and he served in the Vietnam War. On 24 April 1967, he and navigator Charles Austin flew from the Ubon Airfield in Thailand to bomb a five-span bridge four miles north of the city center of Hanoi, North Vietnam with the goal of severing the country's rail links with communist China. During their strike, their plane was struck by a flak burst, disintegrated, and fell to the ground in a fireball. The two men were declared "missing in action", as they were believed by some to have bailed out of their aircraft before the explosion, but, eleven years later, Knapp was declared legally dead. His wife Helene became an activist for the POW/MIA cause. https://historica.fandom.com/wiki/Herman_L._Knapp

James E. Kinnard

SP4

US Army

ARMY SPC ,CO C, 1ST BN, 8TH CAV, 1ST CAV DIV (AMBL) 03/07/1969, HAU NGHIA PROVINCE, VIETNAM. James Edward Kinnard was born June 12, 1948 in Cherry Point, North Carolina near Camp Lejeune. He grew up in a Marine Corps family that moved frequently across the country. https://www.fallenheroesproject.org/?p=14031&cpage=1

James E. Thode

SFC

USANG

James Earl Thode Jim was born in Show Low, Arizona, on September 27, 1965. He was killed while on active duty in Afghanistan by a roadside bomb on December 2, 2010 (Afghan time). Jim was a Sergeant 1st Class with the 118 Sappers of the Utah National Guard. At age three, Jim and his family moved to Tucson, Arizona, where he graduated from Catalina High School and the University of Arizona. Jim was a sergeant on the Farmington, New Mexico Police Department where he served for 14 years. He was awarded Supervisor of the Year in 2009. Jim is survived by his wife, Carla; daughter, Ashley and son, Thomas all of Kirtland, New Mexico; his mother, Eve and stepfather, Ron Taylor of Pagosa Springs, Colorado. He is also survived by his father, Ernest Thode and Mary Thode; his sisters both of Tucson, Arizona and his grandmother, Olive Myers of Payson, Arizona. https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/tucson/name/james-thode-obituary?pid=147098935

James Gregory Ryan Sartor

SGM

US Army

Sergeant Major James Gregory Ryan Sartor, age 40, was killed in action in the service of his country on July 13, 2019 in Faryab Province, Afghanistan. He was a dedicated husband, father, career Soldier, and a Special Forces Green Beret. Ryan resided with his family in Falcon, Colorado for 11 years and as a native Texan, maintained a permanent residence in Teague, Texas. At the time of his death, he was Sergeant Major of A Co, 2nd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) out of Fort Carson, Colorado, where he was a leader who led with muddy boots. Ryan was born on September 23, 1978 to James Sartor and Mary Teresa (Terri) Pryor in Teague, Texas. He graduated from Teague High School with the class of 1997 where he was a standout football player. After high school, Ryan moved to College Station, TX to work and met the love of his life, Deanna Unger, in the fall of 2000. Ryan and Deanna began dating in February 2001 and were married on June 29, 2002 in Odessa, Texas. Ryan answered the call to serve and joined the Army in June 2001, becoming an infantryman in the 3rd Infantry Division where he quickly deployed to help lead the Invasion of Iraq in 2002. Upon completion of his first combat deployment he continued to advance and after being selected for the Special Forces Qualification Course he earned his Green Beret and was assigned to A Co, 2nd Battalion, 10th SFG(A) in Fort Carson, Colorado where he served for the next 14 years. During his career, Ryan defined the 10th Special Forces Group motto, “Quiet Professional,” and deployed numerous times to include additional combat operations in Iraq in 2006, 2007, 2009 and 2010-2011, Germany and Israel in 2008, Africa in 2012 and 2013, and Afghanistan in 2017 and 2019. Ryan always assured his combat stripes outnumbered his service stripes and in doing so became highly decorated. Ryan’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Army Achievement Medal, Presidential Unit Citation Award, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Valorous Unit Award with two oak leaf clusters, Meritorious Unit Citation with one oak leaf cluster and National Defense Service Medal, among others. He has been posthumously awarded the Purple Heart medal and Bronze Star medal. Ryan also earned the Special Forces Tab, Ranger Tab, where he earned the title of Honor Grad, Combat Infantryman Badge, Senior Parachutist Badge, Special Operations Diver Badge and Dive Supervisor Badge. Ryan loved life to the fullest and was known and highly respected for his kind yet focused soul. He was a beloved friend, neighbor, and brother in arms who lived to be with his family in the outdoors; camping, hiking or finding an adventure. Ryan loved and was deeply loved in return as he lived a life of purpose many only dream about. He was an inspiration, a warrior, a mentor, but first and foremost a family man who left an indelible legacy in the world he left behind through his wife and three children. Ryan is survived by his loving wife, Deanna; his three beautiful children, Stryder, Grace and Garrett; his parents, Mary Teresa (Terri) Pryor and James Sartor; his sister, Crista Brooner; half-sister, Shae Sartor; and his grandmother, Patricia Pryor. He was preceded in death by his great grandmother, Mary Pryor, his grandfather Harold Pryor and his grandmother Carmie Sartor.

John A. Chapman

TSgt

USAF

John Allan Chapman (July 14, 1965 – March 4, 2002) was a Combat Controller in the United States Air Force who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor on August 22, 2018 for his actions in the Battle of Takur Ghar during the War in Afghanistan. He is the first airman to receive the Medal of Honor since the Vietnam War. Chapman was inducted into the Hall of Heroes on August 23, 2018, and posthumously promoted to Master Sergeant on the following day. Chapman was also the first Air Force Combat Controller to be awarded the Air Force Cross before the award was subsequently upgraded to the Medal of Honor. John Chapman was born July 14, 1965, in Springfield, Massachusetts, and grew up in Windsor Locks, Connecticut. In 1983 he graduated from Windsor Locks High School. The citation accompanying his upgrade to the Medal of Honor reads as follows: Technical Sergeant John A. Chapman distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism as an Air Force Special Tactics Combat Controller, attached to a Navy Sea, Air, and Land (SEAL) Team conducting reconnaissance operations in Takur Ghar, Afghanistan, on March 4, 2002. During insertion, the team's helicopter was ambushed causing a teammate to fall into an entrenched group of enemy combatants below. Sergeant Chapman and the team voluntarily reinserted onto the snow-capped mountain, into the heart of a known enemy stronghold to rescue one of their own. Without regard for his own safety, Sergeant Chapman immediately engaged, moving in the direction of the closest enemy position despite coming under heavy fire from multiple directions. He fearlessly charged an enemy bunker, up a steep incline in thigh-deep snow and into hostile fire, directly engaging the enemy. Upon reaching the bunker, Sergeant Chapman assaulted and cleared the position, killing all enemy occupants. With complete disregard for his own life, Sergeant Chapman deliberately moved from cover only 12 meters from the enemy, and exposed himself once again to attack a second bunker, from which an emplaced machine gun was firing on his team. During this assault from an exposed position directly in the line of intense fire, Sergeant Chapman was struck and injured by enemy fire. Despite severe, mortal wounds, he continued to fight relentlessly, sustaining a violent engagement with multiple enemy personnel before making the ultimate sacrifice. By his heroic actions and extraordinary valor, sacrificing his life for the lives of his teammates, Technical Sergeant Chapman upheld the highest traditions of military service and reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force. The ceremony took place Wednesday 22 August 2018.[15] On 23 August 2018, Chapman was inducted into the Hall of Heroes during a ceremony at the Pentagon, which was attended by family and teammates.[16] On 24 August 2018, Chapman was posthumously promoted to the rank of Master Sergeant and his name was added to the Medal of Honor wall at the Air Force Memorial. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_A._Chapman

Joshua B. Silverman

CW2

US Army

Died December 18, 2013 Serving During Operation Enduring Freedom 35, of Scottsdale, Ariz.; assigned to 3rd Assault Helicopter Battalion, 1st Aviation Regiment, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.; died Dec. 18 in Now Bahar, Afghanistan, in a helicopter crash. Silverman, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Joshua B. December 17, 2013 beloved husband of Tina Silverman; dear son of Barry and Susan Silverman; dear brother of the late Sarah Silverman; dear grandson of the late Edward and the late Sophie Silverman and the late Marvin "Murph" and the late Pearl Haffner; dear nephew of Nancy (Alvin Reiter, MD) Haffner Reiter, Randy Haffner and Michael Haffner; dear son in law of Frank (Wendy) Tyler and Linda Lemmer-Tyler; dear brother in law of Major Bruce L. (Lindsey)Tyler, Michael D. Tyler, Ashley (Brandon) Eaves and Hayley Tyler. Our dear cousin and friend. https://thefallen.militarytimes.com/army-chief-warrant-officer-2-joshua-b-silverman/6568538 https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/stltoday/name/joshua-silverman-obituary?id=2994679

Joshua J. Robinson

SGT

USMC

Sgt. Joshua J. Robinson, 29, of Omaha, Neb., died Aug. 7, 2011 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. The Marines were assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. Sgt. Joshua James Robinson, 29, died Sunday, August 7, 2011 in Sangin District, Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Joshua was born on October 28, 1981 in Hastings, at Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital to Steven A. and Misi Lea (Meyer) Robinson of Nelson. Survivors include his wife of Rhonda Robinson of Bennington and sons, Kodiak and Wyatt Robinson both of Bennington; mother and step-father, Misi (Robinson) Moser and Jim Moser, Honolulu, Hawaii; father-in-law and mother-in-law Robert and Ruth Zaruba of Bennington; grandparents: Eileen Robinson of Hastings, Dorothy Moser of Manhattan, Kan.; and grandmother-in-law, Rita Zaruba of Fullerton; sisters and families: Angela S. and Allen Johnson and , Dylan, Adam and Abby of Nowata, Okla., Stacy L. and Blake Horst of Vass, N.C.: step sisters and families: Julie and JR Streff and Taylor and Jenna of Topeka, Kan.; Tami and Carl Ellett of Hermosa Beach, Calif. Joshua was preceded in death by his father, Steven A. Robinson. Other survivors include: Nephew Andy Hard of Oakhurst, Calif., niece, Shonnie Hard of Oakhurst, Calif., Shannon and Brett Wilson and Riley and Kennedy of San Diego, Calif.; Monica and Mark Pardue and Stephanie and Samantha of Oakhurst, Calif.; Stephanie and Patrick Engelkins and Pierce, Mac Kinzie and Sydney of Colorado Springs, Col.; and Toni Benson and Adley and Aiden of Colorado Springs, Col. Sisters-in-law and families: Rachel and Patrick Michael and LeaAnn and Brandon of Omaha; Renae Zaruba of Omaha; Regina and Josh Lewis and Savannah and Lakyn of Hastings. Uncles and spouses: Greg and Coleen Meyer. Beatrice; Craig and Sheri Meyer, Grand Island; and Scott and Dawn Robinson of Hastings. Aunts and spouses: Susi Rinker, Hastings; Linda Robinson of Nashville, Tenn., and Anne and Barry Anderson of New Castle, Col. Also, numerous cousins, extended family and friends Josh grew up in the Nelson/Oak, Nebraska area until he was 9. The family moved to Aurora, Colo. area for 10 years. Josh graduated from Overland High School in 2000. The family moved back to La Vista, Nebraska in 2000. Josh attended Metro College for 2 years. Josh met Rhonda Zaruba a 1994 Bennington High School graduate and they were married in November of 2004. Josh and Rhonda have two sons, Kodiak age 5 and Wyatt age 4. He was also preceded in death by his grandparents, Al Robinson, Harlan and Kathryne Meyer and Glen Moser; step sister, Shonnie Hard; and uncles, Leonard Robinson and David Robinson. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/74658188/joshua-james-robinson

Justin Whiting

SSG

US Army

Staff Sgt. Justin R. Whiting, 27, was killed in action on Jan. 19, 2008 when his vehicle was struck by an IED while conducting combat operations 16 kilometers south of Mosul, Iraq. He was a Special Forces medical sergeant assigned to Company B, 3 rd Battalion, 5 th Special Forces Group (Airborne). He has had two previous combat tours to Iraq in 2004 and 2005 with 3 rd Bn., 5 th SFG(A), and was on his third combat tour in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and the Global War on Terrorism. Whiting was born in Texas and his military records list his home of record as Tennessee. He volunteered for military service and enlisted in the Army on Dec. 15, 1999. He would go on to earn the coveted “Green Beret” in 2000. Whiting’s military education includes; the Special Operations Target Interdiction Course, the Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape Course; Basic Noncommissioned Officer’s Course, Warrior Leaders Course, Basic Airborne Course, and Special Forces Qualification Course. His awards and decorations include; the Bronze Star Medal, two Army Commendation Medals, two Army Achievement Medals, two Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global on War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, two Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbons, Army Service Ribbon, Combat Medical Badge, Parachutist Badge, and Special Forces Tab. https://iraqwarheroes.org/whiting.htm

Kerry J. Brammer

SSG

CG, US Army

Born 28 November 1966 Died in line of duty 5 August 2005 (38 years old), Fairbanks AK Buried in Arlington National Cemetery Wife: Misty J Brammer, Colorado Springs CO https://billiongraves.com/grave/Kerry-Jack-Brammer/10352962 Staff Sergeant Kerry Jack Brammer was born on November 28, 1966, in Los Angeles, California to the late Anna Mae “Punk” Rollenhagen. He was raised in Grand Haven, Michigan in which he always referred to as home. After his mom passed, he maintained close relationships with his grandfather and two aunts, Charlene and Jackie Rollenhagen. He loved the Michigan water, piers and lighthouses. There is no doubt his favorite lighthouse always guided him home. At the tender age of eighteen, Kerry joined the United States Army. During his lifetime he also served in the Coast Guard and National Guard. After a break in military service, Kerry rejoined the Army in 2000 as a medic and his assignment was to Ft Wainwright, Alaska. He earned many awards and medals, gaining the respect of his commanding officers, those that worked for him and the local medical community. He was affectionately referred to as “Doc”. At his memorial, his commanding officer said no other unit was better trained or equipped for their first deployment as a result of Kerry’s work. His dedication as a soldier and deep concern for the safety and well-being of his unit was immeasurable. In the end, it was looking out for his soldiers that served as his last great act. Soon after arriving in Alaska, he met his “Alaskan Angel”, Misty J Brammer who later became his wife. He was a loving father of three, Kyle, Alek (“Little Big Man”) and Phoenix (“Goo”). Kerry and Misty raised two of Kerry’s three children. Now adults, his children describe him just as he was- loving, kind, loyal, hardworking, silly, wise and truly remarkable. While young at the time of his death, he left deep impressions on them of who he was and his values are forever in their memory. He now has grandchildren who his legacy will live through. Kerry lived life to the fullest. He loved music and listened to every genre of it. While we wish we could say his dancing was as good as his taste in music, we idolized his effort and the fun he had trying! He loved motorcycles and looked forward to buying his first Harley Davidson (a post deployment goal). He loved traveling and learning about different cultures and would try just about any type of food, but had a fondness for good cheese and pickles. As a surviving military spouse and his children, it’s probably customary for us to remember him best dressed in his Class A’s, but he’ll be better remembered wearing his oversized Shrek slippers running around the house. We miss his laugh, sense of humor, unconditional love, human kindness, willingness to be vulnerable and philosophical rantings of that beautiful mind. We know he is still watching over us. He will forever be a part of our hearts.

Kristopher B. Domeij

SFC

US Army

Kristoffer Bryan Domeij (October 5, 1982 – October 22, 2011) (29 years old) was a United States Army soldier who is recognized as the U.S. soldier with the most deployments to be killed in action; before his death he had fourteen deployments over ten years. He served four deployments in Iraq and at least nine in Afghanistan; he trained as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller and was recognized as epitomizing the Ranger motto "Rangers lead the way". After a distinguished and highly decorated career, he was killed by a roadside improvised explosive device, along with two other Rangers, in Kandahar Province in Afghanistan. He is buried in Woodlawn Cemetery, Lacey, Thurston County, Washington, USA. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kristoffer_Domeij

Kyle W. Powell

CPL

USMC

Kyle W. Powell, age 21, was killed in action near Fallujah, Iraq, while on patrol with the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, on November 4, 2006. Kyle, son of David and Nancy Powell, and brother to Megan, is also survived by his grandparents, Horace and Betty Pfander, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and caring friends. Kyle was born December 14, 1984, at Ft. Carson Army Hospital. He lived in Aurora, CO from October 1986 to August 1996, where he attended St. Therese Catholic School and began his scouting career in Cub Scouts. After returning to Colorado Springs, he attended Oak Creek Elementary, Broadmoor Elementary, Cheyenne Mountain Junior High, graduating in 2003 from Cheyenne Mountain High School. He had also attended the Pikes Peak Community College vocational Criminal Justice Program during his last two years of high school. Kyle was active in Boy Scout Troop 1, becoming an Eagle Scout and a m