PARTIAL LIST AT THIS TIME
2007
Sgt. 1st Class Keith A. Callahan
Hometown: McClure, Pennsylvania, U.S. Also Listed as MA
Age: 31 years old
Died: January 24, 2007 in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Unit: Army, 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division,
Fort Bragg, N.C.
Incident: Killed when a makeshift bomb exploded while he was conducting a combat
patrol in Baghdad.
Despite being 135 pounds and standing just 5-foot-5, Keith A. Callahan became a high school wrestler, a
Golden Gloves boxer and earned the nickname "Bam-Bam Callahan." "He was this little short guy who
was just so fast and extremely coachable. He did everything to help out the team, and you could see
back then that the military was a great fit for him. It was funny that when other kids complained about
having to do more drills, he welcomed it," said John Morandi, Callahan's former wrestling coach.
Callahan, 31, of McClure, Pa., was killed Jan. 24 when his vehicle struck an explosive south of Baghdad.
He was assigned to Fort Bragg. He was on his fourth deployment. "He was well-known throughout the
brigade as someone to count on when times were tough," said 1st Lt. John Taylor. "He was much more
than a paratrooper; he was a warrior that embodied the spirit of freedom." After graduating in 1993, he
worked with his brother, Steven, for two years at a local telecommunications company, setting up
phone and computer lines. He is survived by his wife, Dody; sons Devin and Brady; daughter Brooke; and
stepson Tyler.
Keith A. Callahan
Age 31, killed in action in Iraq, January 24th, of Fayetteville, NC, formerly of Woburn. Beloved
husband of Dody (Baker) Callahan. Devoted father of Tyler, Devin, Brady & Brooke. Loving
son of Joan (Haverty) Callahan of Woburn and the late Russell Callahan. Dear brother of Russell
of NH, David, Stephen, Mark, and Barbara, all of Woburn, Jerry of Wilmington, Joan O'Brien of
NH. Grandson of the late William and Cecilia Haverty and Bernard and Barbara Callahan. Also
survived by many loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. A Funeral Mass will be
celebrated in St. Charles Church, 280 Main Street, Woburn, on Wednesday, January 31st, at 11
a.m. The family will be receiving relatives and friends at St. Charles Church on Tuesday from 3
to 8 p.m. Burial will be in Pennsylvania later this week. Donations may be made in Sgt.
Callahan's memory to the Children of Keith Callahan Educational Fund, c/o Sovereign Bank, 19
Pleasant Street, Woburn, MA 01801. Arrangements are by the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home,
263 Main Street, WOBURN.
Keith A. Callahan
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Sgt. 1st Class Keith A. Callahan, 31, of
Fayetteville, died Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2007, from wounds suffered while
conducting combat patrol south of Baghdad.
He was born June 8, 1975, in Woburn, Mass., a son of Russell and Joan
(Haverty) Callahan of Woburn. He and the former Dody Baker were
married June 9, 2001.
He was a 1993 graduate of Woburn High School.
Following high school, Keith enlisted in the Army, and first arrived in
Georgia for boot camp training. Following boot camp, he then went to Fort Benning, Ga., where
he was involved in the Basic Airborne Course. Following Airborne training, he then reported to
the 82nd Airborne Division and was assigned as a fire team leader in 2nd Battalion, 325 AIR. He
had three previous deployments with the second Battalion in support of "Operation Iraqi
Freedom."
Sgt. Callahan was described as "much more than a paratrooper, he was a warrior that embodied
the spirit of freedom." Over the past seven years, he received the following medals, awards and
decorations: the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Army Commendation, the Army Achievement Medal
with one Oak Cluster, the Army Good Conduct Medal with one Oak Cluster, the National
Defense Service Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary
Medal and Service Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal, the Noncommissioned Office
Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantry Badge, the
Expert Infantry Badge and the Ranger tab and Senior Parachutists Badge.
At the time of his death, his sole concern was for the welfare of his men, as he had deliberately
posted himself at a critical road crossing to act as an additional safety element to ensure the
security of his platoon. His men had a great respect for him and the service he gave to his
country.
Sgt. Callahan had a great love of his family and his military family. Growing up, he was one of
eight children, who were "all for one and one for all." His best friends were his brothers and
sisters, with whom he shared many happy times throughout his life. Since he became a member
of the Army, he was in constant contact with his mother, assuring her that he was taking good
care of all of us. While in Iraq, his family and his hometown elementary schools would send
"care packages" over to him, which he shared with all. His wife and children were his heart and
soul. When he was not serving on tour, he spent every waking hour with his wife and children.
Surviving, in addition to his parents, and his wife of more than five years, are his children, twins,
Brady and Brooke, age 4, Devin, age 7 and Tyler, age 13, all at home; brothers and sister,
Russell of New Hampshire, Stephen, Mark, and Barbara, all of Woburn, Jerry of Wilmington,
Mass. and Joan O'Brien of New Hampshire; many aunts; uncles; and cousins.
The funeral will be conducted at 11 a.m. today at the Bannerville Church of the Brethren,
McClure, by the Rev. Liane Wagner.
Burial with full military honors will be in the Bannerville Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to MCS Bank, North Brown Street, McClure, PA, for the Callahan
children's college needs.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Keith A. Callahan
Died January 24, 2007 serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom
31, of McClure, Pa.; assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 82nd
Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.; died Jan. 24 of wounds suffered when an improvised
explosive device detonated while he was conducting a combat patrol south of Baghdad.
N.C.-based soldier killed in Iraq
The Associated Press
FORT BRAGG, N.C. — A North Carolina-based soldier has died from wounds he suffered while
fighting in Iraq, the Defense Department announced Jan. 25.
Sgt. 1st Class Keith A. Callahan, 31, of McClure, Pa., died Jan. 24 after an improvised explosive
device detonated while he was on combat patrol south of Baghdad.
Callahan was a platoon sergeant assigned to 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment,
82nd Airborne Division, at Fort Bragg, N.C.
Callahan posted himself at a road crossing to act as additional security for his platoon when he
was killed, said Lt. Col. Ross E. Davidson of the 82nd Airborne Division’s 1st Squadron, 73rd
Calvary Regiment.
“At the time, of his death his sole concern was for the welfare of his men,” Davidson said.
Callahan joined the Army in February 1996 and reported to Fort Bragg in October 2001. He was
on his fourth deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom when he was killed, according
to a statement released by the 82nd Airborne Division.
Callahan is survived by his wife Doty, sons Devin and Brady, daughter Brooke and stepson
Tyler, who live in Fayetteville, N.C. Their ages were not provided.
Dody Callahan said her husband was a sports enthusiast who loved his children and family. He
also treated his fellow soldiers as family, she said.
“Keith loved his soldiers, and his dedication to duty lasted to the end,” Dody Callahan said in a
written statement. “He gave his life to protect his soldiers. He would now want his soldiers to
bravely forge ahead in his mission and continue his legacy.”
Woburn native killed in Iraq
The Associated Press
BOSTON — A former Woburn resident has been killed in Iraq during his fourth deployment to
the country.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Keith Callahan, 31, was killed Jan. 24 when his vehicle struck an explosive
device south of Baghdad. Callahan, of McClure, Pa., was providing security for his platoon,
Army officials said.
In Woburn, childhood friends and former teachers at Woburn Memorial High School, where he
graduated in 1993, grieved.
“When I heard that he had died, I was devastated,” John Morandi, Callahan’s former wrestling
coach, told The Boston Globe. “He was this little short guy who was just so fast and extremely
coachable. He did everything to help out the team, and you could see back then that the military
was a great fit for him.”
Principal Bob Norton said Callahan’s name would be added to a memorial at the school for
Woburn residents killed in the line of duty since the Revolutionary War. The last of more than
200 names on the memorial is Cpl. Charles McMahon, a Marine killed during the evacuation of
Saigon on April 29, 1975.
“We have a lot of kids who are in the military and have been to Iraq, and up to Wednesday, we
were very fortunate that none had died,” Norton said.
Callahan joined the Army in February 1996. He was on his fourth deployment as part of
Operation Iraqi Freedom when he was killed, according to a statement released by the 82nd
Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, N.C.
“Keith loved his soldiers, and his dedication to duty lasted to the end, shown by the fact that he
gave his life to protect his soldiers,” his wife, Dody, said in a statement.
Callahan also is survived by sons Devin and Brady, daughter Brooke and stepson Tyler. He will
be buried near McClure, with a memorial in Woburn planned for next week.
US ARMY SFC KEITH "BAM-BAM" CALLAHAN PARATROOPER, SERGEANT, HUSBAND, FATHER, "THE BEST
WE EVER HAD"
Posted By Blackfive
“Keith loved his soldiers, and his dedication to duty lasted to the end. He
gave his life to protect his soldiers. He would now want his soldiers to bravely
forge ahead in his mission and continue his legacy.” - Dody Callahan
Sergeant First Class Keith A. Callahan, a two time Ft. Bragg boxing champ known
as "Bam-Bam" Callahan, was leading his platoon at an intersection just south of
Baghdad on January 24th. SFC Callahan was one of the most experienced and
respected Paratroopers around - four combat tours in Iraq and wounded once.
Ranger qualified, too. At that time on the 24th, he grew concerned with his
platoon's exposure at the intersection and decided to take an overwatch position to
personally keep an eye on his paratroopers.
That's when the IED went off and killed the 31 year old Sergeant of Paratroopers.
Keith Callahan grew up in Woburn, MA, and graduated from High School in 1993.
Five feet five inches tall and 135 pounds, Callahan was known for being tough, but
also for being a team player. He became a Golden Gloves boxer in Boston and
worked a few jobs before he enlisted in the Army in 1996. In order to join the the
82nd Airborne Division, he completed Airborne School in 2001. I believe that he
met his wife in Airborne School.
He is survived by his wife, Dody; sons, Devin and Brady; his daughter, Brooke; and
a stepson, Tyler. The family has set up a fund for Callahan’s children. Contributions
can be sent to
The Children of Keith Callahan Educational Fund
c/o Sovereign Bank
19 Pleasant St.
Woburn, MA 01801
The Paratroopers in Iraq held a memorial (600 attended) and named their new
Combat Outpost (COP) after SFC Callahan. On the day of the memorial in Woburn,
the streets were filled with people and the Patriot Guard Riders attended the
memorial in Pennsylvania where the Callahans lived for a time.
Godspeed, SFC Callahan.
http://www.cityofwoburn.com/index.aspx?NID=1090
Keith Callahan
Memorial Poem
By Robert D. Mercer, Woburn Native & Retired USNR
A call to service, standing up for freedom,
Its’ citizens like you who bring new words to the meaning.
Leaving behind so many -who loved you,
For the sake of your country, and your children too;
To a distant land, many of us know so little about,
Yet, you still went, without a doubt,
Helping to spread & save democracy,
For that we owe our deepest sympathy;
We can't express our feelings enough,,
Toward an honor in men like you,
We can only continue that something, that something you would
do,
By protecting our family's future in a free land where dreams
come true;
This is how we celebrate your life!
Freedom...
From all of us Woburn Residents
Sgt. First Class, Keith A. Callahan, 31, of Fayetteville, NC died from wounds suffered while
conducting combat patrol south of Baghdad. He was born June 8, 1975 in Woburn, MA a son of
the Russell Callahan and Joan (Haverty) Callahan, Woburn, Mass. June 9, 2001, he married
Dody Baker, who survives.
He graduated from Woburn High School Class of 1993. Following high school, Keith enlisted in
the United States Army, and first arrived in Georgia for boot camp training. Following boot
camp, he then went to Fort Benning, GA where he was involved in the Basic Airborne Course.
Following Airborne training, he then reported to the 82nd Airborne Division and was assigned as
a fire team leader in 2nd Battalion, 325 AIR. He had three previous deployments with the
second Battalion in support of “Operation Iraqi Freedom”. He had been described as “much
more than a paratrooper, he was a warrior that embodied the spirit of freedom.” Over the past
seven years he had received the following medals, awards and decorations, the Purple Heart,
Bronze Star, Army Commendation, the Army Achievement Medal with one Oak Cluster, the
Army Good Conduct Medal with one Oak Cluster, the National Defense Service Medal, the Iraq
Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal and Service Medal, the
Humanitarian Service Medal, the Noncommissioned Office Professional Development Ribbon,
Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantry Badge, the Expert Infantry Badge and the Ranger
tab and Senior Parachutists Badge.
At the time of his death his sole concern was for the welfare of his men, as he had deliberately
posted himself at a critical road crossing to act as an additional safety element to ensure the
security of his platoon. His men had a great respect for him and the service he gave to his
country.
Sgt. Callahan had a great love of his family and his military family. Growing up, he was one of 8
children, who were all for one and one for all. His best friends were his brothers and sisters, with
whom he shared many happy times through-out his life. Since he became a member of the
Army, he was in constant contact with his mother, assuring her that he was taking good care of
all of us. While in Iraq his family and his hometown elementary schools would send “care
packages” over to him which he shared with all. His wife and children were his heart and soul.
When he was not serving on tour, he spent every waking hour with is wife and children.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, twins, Brady and Brooke, age 4, Devin, age
7 and Tyler, age 13, all at home; brothers and sister, Russell, NH; Stephen, Mark, and Barbara,
all of Woburn, MA; Jerry, Wilmington, MA and Joan O’Brien, NH and many aunts, uncles and
cousins.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Keith A. Callahan dies of injuries from I.E.D.
FORT BRAGG - An 82nd Airborne paratrooper died from wounds suffered when he was on
patrol and a roadside bomb exploded south of Baghdad, the Defense Department said late
Thursday.
Sgt. 1st Class Keith A. Callahan, 31, a platoon sergeant with 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne
Infantry Regiment was from McClure, Pa.
"Keith Callahan's death is a tragic loss to our task force, and our thoughts and prayers go" to his
family, said Lt. Col. Ross E. Davidson, 1st Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 82nd Airborne.
"At the time of his death his sole concern was for the welfare of his men, as he had deliberately
posted himself at a critical road crossing point to act as an additional security element to ensure
the security of the platoon," Davidson said.
His widow, Dody Callahan, said in a statement, "Keith was a loving husband, father, son, son-inlaw, brother, brother-in-law, friend, and soldier. Keith was a sports enthusiast and a Bragg twotime boxing champion, earning the nickname Bam-Bam Callahan.
"His paramount concern was always his children and family, to include his military family. Keith
loved his soldiers and his dedication to duty lasted to the end shown by the fact that he gave his
life to protect his soldiers. He would now want his soldiers to bravely forge ahead in this mission
and continue his legacy.
"He would also want the American citizens to support his wife, children, and fellow soldiers at
this most difficult time. What Keith would not tell you is that he is a hero; but ... he is a true
American hero and that is how our family wishes that he be remembered."
Callahan joined the Army in February 1996. He reported to the 82nd Airborne Division in
October 2001 and was assigned as a fire team leader in 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry
Regiment.
Callahan had three previous deployments in Iraq beginning in March 2003.
In addition to his wife, Callahan is survived by sons Devin and Brady of Fayetteville; daughter
Brooke of Fayetteville, and stepson Tyler of Fayetteville. A memorial service will be held for him
in Iraq.
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Keith Callahan laid to rest
WOBURN -- Trying to hold his composure, Richard Haverty of Lunenburg stood beside the flagdraped coffin carrying his nephew yesterday. While reading a letter from members of the
platoon paratrooper Keith A. Callahan was protecting before a bomb took his life, Haverty's
emotions began to unravel.
"January 24 was the worst day of our lives -- a nightmare of a day," the anguished uncle read
during a funeral Mass at St. Charles Church, pausing to choke back tears. "One emotion . . . all of
us vividly remember of that day, pride . . . the professional way Keith trained us all. We were
able to push through and survive."
Callahan, 31, a sergeant first class for the Army's 82d Airborne Division, was killed that day
south of Baghdad. He had posted himself at a critical road to provide security for his platoon
when a bomb exploded.
His fourth deployment spanned two years. The husband and father of four is the first Woburn
native to die in combat since the Vietnam War, his former high school principal had said.
Outside the church yesterday, dozens of students from St. Charles School silently waved
American flags.
Inside, bagpipes played a mournful rendition of "Amazing Grace" as family members clung to
one another. Boxes of tissues were passed through the crowded pews as hundreds of
overwhelmed mourners sobbed through their prayers and disbelief.
Callahan's uniform, decorated with an array of ribbons and medals, dangled on a hanger above
his coffin. A framed photograph of him in his uniform was placed nearby.
Governor Deval Patrick , attending his first service for an Iraq casualty since taking office last
month, offered hugs and condolences, sang hymns, and prayed with Callahan's relatives and
friends , many of whom sought to shake his hand.
"Keith, our fallen hero, sacrificed his life for each and every one of us here this morning," the
Rev. James Achadinha told the crowd.
"Do not let your hearts be troubled," Achadinha said. "We are people who grieve with hope.
Keith, you do not belong to death. You belong to Christ and so do we."
Callahan, the youngest of eight , graduated from Woburn Memorial High School in 1993. The
stocky man, who stood at 5 feet 5 inches, was a Golden Gloves boxer and a two-time boxing
champion at Fort Bragg, N.C., where he earned his nickname "Bam-Bam."
"I wonder where he learned to take a punch," his uncle said and chuckled for a moment between
wiping away tears.
On the day Callahan was killed, his mother and his four children received letters he sent them
just days before. He wrote that he wished the war was over, his uncle said.
"He wanted to hear the voices of his wife and children," Haverty recalled. "He wanted to be there
if they needed him."
Callahan last visited his relatives in Woburn last summer.
He will be buried near McClure, Pa., where he lived with his wife and children.
"It will be impossible to forget him," Haverty said, reading the letter from his unit.
Callahan's fellow soldiers said his death has only made them more driven to succeed in Iraq.
"We resolve to see this mission through to the end," the soldiers' letter said. "Tough times don't
last. Tough men like SFC Callahan do."
Soldier gets a hero's farewell
Letter from platoon is read at his funeral
By Megan Tench, Globe Staff | February 1, 2007
WOBURN -- Trying to hold his composure, Richard Haverty of Lunenburg stood beside the flag-draped
coffin carrying his nephew yesterday. While reading a letter from members of the platoon paratrooper
Keith A. Callahan was protecting before a bomb took his life, Haverty's emotions began to unravel.
"January 24 was the worst day of our lives -- a nightmare of a day," the anguished uncle read during a
funeral Mass at St. Charles Church, pausing to choke back tears. "One emotion . . . all of us vividly
remember of that day, pride . . . the professional way Keith trained us all. We were able to push through
and survive."
Callahan, 31, a sergeant first class for the Army's 82d Airborne Division, was killed that day south of
Baghdad. He had posted himself at a critical road to provide security for his platoon when a bomb
exploded.
His fourth deployment spanned two years. The husband and father of four is the first Woburn native to
die in combat since the Vietnam War, his former high school principal had said.
Outside the church yesterday, dozens of students from St. Charles School silently waved American flags.
Inside, bagpipes played a mournful rendition of "Amazing Grace" as family members clung to one
another. Boxes of tissues were passed through the crowded pews as hundreds of overwhelmed mourners
sobbed through their prayers and disbelief.
Callahan's uniform, decorated with an array of ribbons and medals, dangled on a hanger above his coffin.
A framed photograph of him in his uniform was placed nearby.
Governor Deval Patrick , attending his first service for an Iraq casualty since taking office last month,
offered hugs and condolences, sang hymns, and prayed with Callahan's relatives and friends , many of
whom sought to shake his hand.
"Keith, our fallen hero, sacrificed his life for each and every one of us here this morning," the Rev. James
Achadinha told the crowd.
"Do not let your hearts be troubled," Achadinha said. "We are people who grieve with hope. Keith, you
do not belong to death. You belong to Christ and so do we."
Callahan, the youngest of eight , graduated from Woburn Memorial High School in 1993. The stocky
man, who stood at 5 feet 5 inches, was a Golden Gloves boxer and a two-time boxing champion at Fort
Bragg, N.C., where he earned his nickname "Bam-Bam."
"I wonder where he learned to take a punch," his uncle said and chuckled for a moment between wiping
away tears.
On the day Callahan was killed, his mother and his four children received letters he sent them just days
before. He wrote that he wished the war was over, his uncle said.
"He wanted to hear the voices of his wife and children," Haverty recalled. "He wanted to be there if they
needed him."
Callahan last visited his relatives in Woburn last summer.
He will be buried near McClure, Pa., where he lived with his wife and children.
"It will be impossible to forget him," Haverty said, reading the letter from his unit.
Callahan's fellow soldiers said his death has only made them more driven to succeed in Iraq.
"We resolve to see this mission through to the end," the soldiers' letter said. "Tough times don't last.
Tough men like SFC Callahan do."
© Copyright 2007 Globe Newspaper Company.
Street Memorials (Woburn, MA)
Street Memorials to Those Killed in Action
Callahan Sq
Sturgis St & Beacon St
SFC Keith A. Callahan
US ARMY
IRAQ
Sgt. Curtis J. Forshey
Hometown: Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Age: 22 years old
Died: March 27, 2007 in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Unit: Army, 129th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 101st Sustainment Brigade,
101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.
Incident: Died in Homburg, Germany, of a non-combat related illness.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Army Sgt. Curtis J. Forshey
Remember Our Heroes
Army Sgt. Curtis J. Forshey, 22, of Hollidaysburg, Pa.
Sgt. Forshey was assigned to the 129th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 101st
Sustainment Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky; died March 27 in Homburg,
Germany, of a noncombat related illness after being medevaced out of Kuwait on March 22.
Altoona Mirror -- Sgt. Curtis J. Forshey liked the military life and, despite the daily dangers
that went with serving in Iraq, had planned on making a career of it.
Tragically, the 22-year-old Hollidaysburg resident died Tuesday in an Army hospital in
Homburg, Germany, leaving behind a wife, Laura, and their 3-month-old son, Benjamin.
"He was a great guy," the 23-year-old Laura, said Thursday. "He was a great husband, a great
father and a great soldier."
Curtis' mom, Sharon Forshey, said her son was serving his second tour of Iraq with the 494th
Transportation Company, a part of the 101st Airborne Division out of Fort Campbell, Ky.,
when he got sick. Within a week of finding out he had leukemia, Curtis died from a brain
aneurysm, a complication of his treatment. His death occurred shortly after his wife, son and
parents arrived in Germany where he was hospitalized
"We expected to go over there, fight this and come home," Laura said. Originally, Curtis was
supposed to come back to the states, but doctors decided he was too sick to travel and
started treatment. The State Department made arrangements for the family to fly to
Germany Sunday night.
Laura's birthday was Monday, and Curtis had asked her what she wanted as a gift, said Andy
Himes, a close friend of the family. Flying to Germany to see him would turn out to be more
than just a birthday wish, but by the time the family arrived, Curtis was on life support,
Himes said.
Himes first met the couple when they worked -- Curtis as a Kinder Ski instructor and Laura in
sales -- at Blue Knob Four Seasons Resort. Himes, the mountain manager, also happens to
date Laura's mom, so he’s also seen them go from dating teenagers -- they met at the
mountain -- to a loving couple just starting their own family.
"Curt was someone who you would want your own kids to be like," Himes said. "He was real
good kid -- a good head on his shoulders. You don't meet a lot of kids like him."
For Curtis, the military wasn't just a last resort career or a path taken on a whim.
"He wasn't a flunky who just joined the military because he didn't know what else to do,"
Himes said, recalling how Curtis told him he planned to make a career out of the Army and
was pursuing becoming a helicopter pilot.
Even that part of his plan was further thought out than what one would expect from most
guys his age, Himes said, Curtis told him that since he would only be about 40 years old when
he retired from the service, he wanted to combine his passion for skiing and his training as a
pilot to work ferrying skiers to remote slopes.
Laura said she took the danger of his job in stride.
"We liked the military," she said. "It's part of the job. He came home safely once."
Facing the enemy is the duty of any soldier serving in Iraq, and Curtis had did that.
"He was there fighting," Himes said. "It was just a different kind of enemy that got him."
Army Sgt. Curtis J. Forshey died while serving in Iraq from complications for Leukemia
treatments on 3/27/07. P O S T E D B Y T E R R I R A G E R A T 9 : 4 2 A M
Pfc. Aaron M. Genevie
Hometown: Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Age: 22 years old
Died: April 16, 2007 in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Unit: Army, 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team,
1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
Incident: Killed when his vehicle struck a makeshift bomb in Baghdad.
Pfc. Aaron M. Genevie became the 330th service member killed in Iraq or Afghanistan to be
buried at Arlington.
ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY
Laid to Rest 'Where Heroes Go'
By Christy Goodman
Washington Post Staff Writer
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
The quote appeared on Pfc. Aaron M. Genevie's MySpace page a few days before he was killed
in Baghdad. His mother isn't sure who posted it next to his photo, but it captures the spirit of her
son, she said.
"It is the soldier who salutes the flag, who serves beneath the flag and whose coffin is draped by
the flag."
Genevie, 22, of Chambersburg, Pa., died April 16 when his vehicle was struck by an improvised
explosive device. Genevie was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry
Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, based at Fort Riley, Kan. Yesterday, he became the
330th service member killed in Iraq or Afghanistan to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
"I figured he was my hero and that is where heroes go," Patricia Genevie said in an interview
before the funeral, referring to Arlington. "I think he would be very proud to be there. . . . He
was fulfilling his childhood dream. He believed in America and what it stands for."
Yesterday, Patricia Genevie followed her son's flag-draped coffin to his grave site as 21 shots
echoed from the final salute for another soldier. Near her son's grave were a bouquet of large,
yellow chrysanthemums and two faded red roses that belonged to an Army captain buried more
than a week ago.
Genevie was "a brother, a friend, a fellow citizen, a patriot," said Army Chaplain Lt. Col. James
D. Gray. Then it was Genevie's turn to be saluted. A seven-member rifle squad fired three
volleys. A bugler played taps.
Genevie, an honor roll student and athlete, followed both of his grandfathers into the Army, but
it was harder than he had planned, his mother said. He had to fight a former doctor's note in his
medical file stating that he had asthma and a shoulder injury from the many sports he played, she
said.
"He had to go through all this red tape to get in there, but he never gave up on it," she said.
The 2003 McConnellsburg High School graduate worked at TB Wood's, an electronic motor
controls manufacturing company in Chambersburg, until he was accepted into the service. Joel
Lehman, Genevie's supervisor, described him as a dedicated and "extremely hard worker."
Pfc. Zachary F. Clark, 24, became friends with Genevie during basic training at Fort Knox, Ky.
Both were stationed at Fort Riley.
"He was always just, like, the life of everything. I don't think I ever saw him without smile on his
face," Clark said. He said Genevie was always willing to "help out a buddy."
Friends could always rely on Genevie, said Amanda Ott, 20, of Shippensburg, Pa. "He made you
feel as if he really cared and was interested in everything you had to say. I really admire that
warmth that he could bring to a room. He was a classy guy," she said in an e-mail to The Post.
Genevie was one of the bravest in his troop, said Tina Kyser, 20, whose husband, Pfc. Nathan
Kyser, served with Genevie. In an e-mail to The Post, Kyser said she had to force Genevie to call
her Tina, not Mrs. Kyser, despite the fact that she was younger than him.
Genevie sent Tina Kyser an e-mail the day after her wedding. "He told me that as long as he was
on the truck with my husband and they were together, I had nothing to fear," she said.
But for Patricia Genevie, her worst fear was realized.
"I have a very special relationship with him, also. He was like my best friend. He could talk to
me about anything. I could talk to him. . . . You know, he was just a good kid," she said.
Aaron Michael Genevie
Private First Class, United States Army
NEWS RELEASES from the United States Department of Defense
No. 450-07 IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 17, 2007
Media Contact: (703) 697-5131/697-5132
Public/Industry(703) 428-0711
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Private First Class Aaron M.
Genevie, 22, of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, died April 16, 2007, in
Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds sustained when his vehicle struck an
improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 4th
Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry
Division, Fort Riley, Kansas.
For further information on this soldier, contact the Fort Riley public
affairs office at (785) 239-3410.
19 April 2007:
Phones rang without pause Wednesday at McConnellsburg High School,
where teachers and staff said they hope to honor a 2003 graduate who
died Monday from injuries suffered when an improvised explosive
device detonated in Baghdad.
Private First Class Aaron M. Genevie, who entered the U.S. Army in
July 2005, was in his first deployment when his Humvee struck the IED,
according to a military news release.
Described as polite and considerate, the 22-year-old transferred to the
small Fulton County, Pennsylvania, school in his junior year. The school
of approximately 300 was buzzing with talk about Genevie when the
news broke, according to guidance counselor Shelly McMullen.
"We're very close-knit," she said.
Biology teacher Craig Elbin remembered Genevie as being quiet and
respectful, saying Genevie quickly made friends when he transferred.
Elbin and Genevie exchanged e-mails after graduation when Genevie
was living in Chambersburg.
"I remember that he was excited to finally be able to start his life on his
own and was eagerly awaiting the start of his college career," Elbin said.
Assigned to Troop B, 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry
Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Genevie maintained a
MySpace page that became an informal memorial this week.
Several friends wrote that they know Genevie is watching Troop B from
heaven.
"I'm just thankful that I was able to be home and see him before he
shipped out. I gave him a hug and told him I loved him. He said, 'I love
you too, bro,'" friend Zach Runk said.
Robin Shurley, whose husband was one of Genevie's close friends,
fondly described the soldier's role at weekly parties, serving as the
center of attention and regaling others with games and card tricks.
"He was outgoing," Shurley said. "He was one of a kind."
She said Genevie's time in Iraq had been primarily uneventful, and her
husband, Private First Class Josh Shurley, joined him last week. The
woman considered Genevie to be a younger brother and recently
shipped two dozen cookies to him in a package that will never reach its
intended recipient.
"It's really hard to let him go," Shurley said.
Classmate Jenny Yankie called the U.S. Postal Service on Wednesday
and is unsure if her latest letter reached Genevie.
"We all get caught up in what we're doing and never take time to
appreciate people until it's too late," Yankie said.
Genevie had a Superman tattoo on his chest and listed the character as a
hero on his MySpace page.
"He was always Superman, and I never thought Superman wouldn't be
around," Yankie said.
Stephanie Eisch described Genevie, the best man at her wedding, as
"easy-going and very genuine."
Her husband, Private First Class Glenn Eisch, befriended Genevie while
on base in Kansas and was with him in Iraq.
"Every time I talked to my husband, he was with him," Eisch said.
"This just killed my husband."
Genevie's last comments on the MySpace page dealt with his belief in
"fighting for the right causes."
"Three hundred million people in the United States, and there's no way
that people shouldn't do all they can to help people," he wrote.
"He was doing this for his country," Private First Class Robert DeVitto
said.
The pair worked together at Milky Way Restaurant in Fort Loudon,
Pennsylvania, and joined the Army around the same time. Genevie
encouraged DeVitto to become a cavalry scout.
"When we worked together, he would always talk about his Mom and
how he loved her so," said Runk, who befriended Genevie while
working at Milky Way Restaurant.
Runk described Genevie's tendency to say "yes ma'am" or "yes, sir"
when speaking to his elders.
"We want to mourn in private," said a man who answered the door at
the Genevie home Tuesday. He and a woman at the house declined to be
interviewed.
An Army spokesman said friends, comrades and family will be given the
opportunity to mourn at a service later this week or early next week in
Fort Riley, Kansas.
"We do it for all the Fort Riley soldiers. We do have memorials here,"
said Master Sergeant Cameron Porter, who did not know when the
body would be returned to the United States.
23 April 2007:
Beaver County native serving in Iraq died this week when his vehicle
struck a roadside bomb.
The Pentagon has confirmed the death of Private First Class Aaron M.
Genevie, 22, formerly of Rochester.
Genevie, who had been living in Chambersburg, died on Monday.
He was a scout for the 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 4th
Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, in Fort Riley,
Kansas.
According to officials in Fort Riley, Genevie joined the Army in July
2005 and began serving with the 1st Infantry Division that November.
Though he graduated from McConnellsburg High School near
Chambersburg in 2003, Private Genevie attended Hopewell High School
a few years earlier.
His parents told the Beaver County Times that their son always wanted
to be a soldier and will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.
"He was a very good man, a very young man," John Mason, a family
friend, said Wednesday. "He will be missed by all his friends and
family."
In a special tribute on his MySpace.com page, a photo of Pfc. Genevie is
shown with a sadly fitting quote from him: "It's the Soldier who salutes
the flag, who serves beneath the flag, and whose coffin is draped by the
flag." \Funeral arrangements are pending.
24 April 2007:
Funeral arrangements have been made for a Franklin County,
Pennsylvania, soldier killed in Iraq last week.
Private First Class Aaron Genevie was killed after his vehicle was struck
by a roadside bomb. He had only been in Iraq for about two months.
A viewing is being held this weekend for family and friends at Kelso
Cornelius Funeral Home in Chambersburg from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
and 6:00 p.m. -9:00 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.
Genevie will be buried on Monday at Arlington National Cemetery.
1 May 2007:
At Section 60, Gravesite 8618, U.S. Army Specialist Aaron Michael
Genevie was buried Monday at Arlington National Cemetery, two weeks
after he was killed by an explosive device while serving in Iraq.
Genevie, of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, was 22 years old.
Dozens of people attended the 15-minute service on a warm, windy day.
Genevie was given standard military honors.
While Genevie's family sat solemnly near his casket, Lieutenant Colonel
James Gray, an Army chaplain, delivered a eulogy that mentioned
"sacrifice" and "how precious life is."
Six members of an honor guard held an American flag taut over the
casket while Gray spoke.
Seven soldiers fired three volleys apiece.
As a bugler started to play taps, a woman in a dark dress turned and
walked away from the crowd, about 20 paces.
Major General Sean Byrne knelt and presented a folded flag to
Genevie's mother, Patricia.
Reporters and photographers were kept about 100 feet from the casket
and the crowd during the funeral. From there, it was difficult to hear
anything as the wind gusted.
Kara Anne McCarthy, the cemetery's chief of public affairs, escorted
members of the media away just as the funeral ended, before Genevie's
family and friends left.
McCarthy said there usually are 25 to 30 funerals per day at Arlington.
On Monday, 32 were scheduled.
Volleys from another funeral could be heard in the distance during the
service for Genevie.
A summary that McCarthy distributed says 330 military personnel from
the war in Iraq are buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
Genevie died April 16, 2007. His Humvee in Baghdad hit an improvised
explosive device, or roadside bomb.
He lived in Chambersburg after graduating in 2003 from
McConnellsburg High School in Fulton County, Pennsylvania,
according to his obituary.
He joined the Army in 2005 and was assigned to Troop B, 1st Squadron,
4th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry
Division, which is based in Fort Riley, Kansas.
GENEVIE, AARON MICHEAL
SPC US ARMY
DATE OF BIRTH: 08/31/1984
DATE OF DEATH: 04/16/2007
BURIED AT: SECTION 60 SITE 8618
ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY
Posted: 24 April 2007 Updated: 1 May 2007 Updated: 4 May 2007 Updated: 7 June 2007
Updated: 12 June 2007 Updated: 2 July 2007
Photo Courtesy of Holly, June 2007
Born 8/31/84. Beloved son, brother, and uncle. Aaron
loved sports, his family and being a soldier in the
Army. He is our hero.
Army Pfc. Aaron M. Genevie
Died April 16, 2007 serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom
22, of Chambersburg, Pa.; assigned to the 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry
Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kansas; died April 16 in Baghdad of
wounds sustained when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device.
Pa. soldier dies in Iraq roadside bombing
The Associated Press
CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. — A Pennsylvania soldier assigned to an Army unit based in Kansas
was killed when his vehicle struck a roadside bomb in Iraq.
Pfc. Aaron M. Genevie, 22, of Chambersburg, died April 16, the Pentagon said April 17. He was
a scout for the 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st
Infantry Division, in Fort Riley, Kan.
“He was a very good man, a very young man,” John Mason, a family friend, said April 18. “He
will be missed by all his friends and family.”
Genevie joined the Army in July 2005 and began serving with the 1st Infantry Division in
November of that year, Fort Riley officials said.
A sports enthusiast, Genevie graduated in 2003 from McConnellsburg High School, where
“basketball was his sport of choice,” Mason said.
Genevie worked in the shipping department of TB Wood’s Inc., a Chambersburg transmission
products manufacturer, and a sporting goods store before joining the Army, Mason said.
He was sent to Iraq from Fort Riley on Feb. 9, Mason said.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
Pfc. Robert H. Dembowski
Hometown: Ivyland, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Age: 20 years old
Died: May 24, 2007 in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Unit: Army, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat
Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.
Incident: Killed in Baghdad when his unit came in contact with enemy forces using
small arms fire.
Tribute Site: http://www.pfcrobertdembowski.com/
Robert H. Dembowski, Jr. was born in Meadowbrook, Pennsylvania, on August 10,
1986 to Robert H. and Frances M. (Boyle) Dembowski. Bob attended Churchville
Elementary School and Richboro Junior High School, and was a 2005 graduate of
Council Rock High School North and the Middle Bucks Institute of Technology.
Always an imaginative and charismatic individual, Bob was able to charm anyone
with his infectious smile and sense of humor. He loved the outdoors, especially
hunting, and spending time with his family and friends. From the time he was
young, Bob had a passion for history and an interest in the military.
Bob’s respect for his country and its veterans had an impact on all who came in
contact with him. In May of 2005, when he was 18, Bob gave a speech at the
dedication of the World War II Honor Roll at the Chancellor Center in Newtown,
Pennsylvania. He spoke about service, courage, and commitment to community and
nation, and profoundly touched those present — especially the World War II
veterans. You can read the words of Bob's speech here. (Note that Bob speaks
about the Marine Corps Delayed Entry Program; a back injury ultimately kept him
out, and he enlisted in the Army.)
Bob joined the Army in January 2006, and completed the basic Airborne course at
Fort Benning, Georgia, in April of that year. PFC Dembowski's unit was deployed to
Iraq in January, 2007. While stationed at FOB Loyalty in Iraq, Bob became a friend
to many of his fellow soldiers. They called him “Dembo,” “Ski,” and most often
“Debo,” and noted that he had a way of brightening even the darkest days of their
deployment. Bob showed a willingness to learn and help others, and served as a
machine gunner, driver, and radio transmission operator.
Bob died May 24, 2007 of wounds suffered when his unit came in contact with
enemy forces using small arms fire near Baghdad, Iraq. His military awards and
decorations include the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal,
Good Conduct Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global
War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Army Overseas Service
Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge, and Weapons Qualification
Badge: rifle, expert.
PFC Robert H. Dembowski, Jr. Memorial Night at Citizens Bank Park
May 13, 2009
Memorial Day Ceremony at
Robert H. Dembowski, Jr. Veterans Memorial Park
May 25, 2009
SSGT Carl Fitzwater, SFC Gary Wilson, and SGT Ziven MacWilliams,
who all served in Iraq with PFC Dembowski, were present at the
ceremony.
Lost Heroes Art Quilt
The National Constitution Center, Philadelphia, PA
Fall 2009
Quilt Artist Julie Feingold poses with Robert and Frances Dembowski
in front of the Lost Heroes Art Quilt. PFC Dembowski is featured on
the quilt.
Northampton Township Commons Park officially renamed
Robert H. Dembowski, Jr. Veterans Memorial Park
May 26, 2008
To make a donation, please send check or money order payable to:
PFC Robert H. Dembowski, Jr. Memorial Fund
TD Bank
1110 Street Road
Southampton, PA 18966
As long as the official name of the fund is provided, donations can be
made at any TD Bank.
If you have a question about the Memorial Fund or need assistance,
please email fdembow@verizon.net
The PFC Robert H. Dembowski, Jr. Memorial Fund benefits the Council Rock North and Middle
Bucks Institute of Technology Scholarships, Amigos de Jesús Orphanage, and Wounded
Warrior Project.
Council Rock North is a public high school located in Newtown, Bucks County, Pennsylvania.
Middle Bucks Institute of Technology is a regional career development and technology center.
Its mission is to develop in youth and adults the competencies required for higher education
and work through a rigorous and integrated educational experience.
– Bob attended both Council Rock North and the Middle Bucks Institute of Technology.
Amigos de Jesús or Friends of Jesus, is a home for the impoverished children of Honduras. The
orphanage provides food, clothing, shelter, education, and love to over 50 children living at
Amigos de Jesús, helping boys and girls grow up to be healthy, independent Hondurans who
will, in turn, help lift the spirit of other children struggling to survive in Central America’s
poorest nation.
– Bob had a special place in his heart for the underprivileged children of the world.
Wounded Warrior Project is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to raise awareness and
enlist the public's aid for the needs of severely injured service men and women, to help
severely injured service members aid and assist each other, and to provide unique, direct
programs and services to meet their needs.
–Bob lived every word of the Soldier's Creed, and would never leave a comrade in need.
N.C.-based paratrooper killed in Iraq
The Associated Press
FORT BRAGG, N.C. — An 82nd Airborne Division paratrooper died of injuries
sustained from enemy small-arms fire during combat operations in Baghdad, Iraq,
earlier this week, the Defense Department said May 25.
Spc. Robert Dembowski, Jr., 20, of Ivyland, Pa., was a company radio transmitter with
1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division.
“Spc. Dembowski was a highly dedicated paratrooper,” said Capt. Aaron King, the rear
detachment commander for Dembowki’s battalion. “He was dedicated not only to his
profession but also in serving this great nation.”
Dembowski, who was killed May 24, joined the Army in January 2006. He completed
infantry one station unit training and the basic airborne course at Fort Benning, Ga., in
April 2006.
He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, when he
arrived at the 82nd Airborne in May 2006.
His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart.
Dembowski is survived by his parents, Robert Sr. and Frances Dembowski, and his
sister, Janice Dembowski, all of Ivyland, Pa.
Another Bucks soldier killed in Iraq
By Kevin T Shea
May 25, 2007, 8:11PM
NORTHAMPTON, Pa. -- A 20-year-old Army paratrooper from Bucks County was
killed in action in Iraq on Thursday, the military announced Friday.
Army Pfc. Robert H. Dembowski Jr. of Northampton is the fourth service member
from Bucks to die in Iraq in the past four weeks. He suffered wounds when his unit
came in contact with enemy forces using small arms fire, the Department of
Defense said.
Dembowski was in the 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 1st
Brigade Combat Team of the 82nd Airborne. The 504th, based at Fort Bragg, N.C.,
is a famed infantry unit nicknamed the "Devils in Baggy Pants."
"Dembowski was a highly dedicated paratrooper," said Capt. Aaron King, the rear
detachment commander for Dembowski's battalion. "He was dedicated not only to
his profession but also in serving this great nation."
See Saturday's Times for more on this story.
From staff and wire reports
Spec. Zachary R. Clouser
Hometown: Dover, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Age: 19 years old
Died: July 18, 2007 in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Unit: Army, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry
Division, Schweinfurt, Germany.
Incident: Killed when his vehicle was attacked by enemy forces using a makeshift
bomb and small arms fire.
When Kayla Luckenbaugh needed a place to stay and had nowhere to go, Zachary R. Clouser invited her
to stay with him and his mother. "His mom was just a sweetheart about it," Luckenbaugh said. "They
were so caring." Clouser, 19, of Dover, Pa., was killed July 18 by explosives and small-arms fire in
Adhamiyah. He was a 2005 high school graduate and was assigned to Schweinfurt, Germany. He liked to
work on cars and to ride fast. One quote he was fond of was, "If you see me going slow, take another
look. It's not me." Joel Riedel, his former principal, watched Clouser became comfortable with himself
and with others in high school. He played football, liked to joke around with friends at Denny's and was
nicknamed "Babyface." "He was a bit of a jokester at times," Riedel recalled. "He enjoyed things the way
they were. He enjoyed his senior year and could see some achievements and accomplishments happen.
One of those accomplishments was to be a high school graduate. He set a goal for that and he did it." He
is survived by his mother, Deb Etheridge, and stepfather, Ron Etheridge.
Zachary R. Clouser
SPC Zachary R. Clouser
DOVER - Specialist Zachary Ryan Clouser, 19, was killed in action July 18, 2007 in Iraq.
He was the son of father, Kevin Clouser and step-mother, Ginger Asper-Clouser of West York and,
mother, Debra Etheridge and step-father, Ronald Etheridge of Dover.
Funeral service at 11 a.m., Saturday, August 11th at Bible Baptist Church, 4190 Susquehanna Trail-North,
York, with Pastor Kevin E. Trout officiating. Following the service a celebration of life tribute will be held
in the church's gymnasium. Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m., Saturday, at the church. Heffner Funeral
Chapel and Crematory, Inc, 1551 Kenneth Road, York, is in charge of arrangements.
Specialist Zachary Ryan Clouser was born August 6, 1987 in York. He graduated from Dover Area High
School in 2005 and enlisted in the U.S. Army on September 27, 2005. He completed One Station Unit
Training as an 11B Infantryman assigned to B Company, 2nd Battalion, 54th Infantry at Ft. Benning,
Georgia. On February 1, 2006, he was assigned to 1st Platoon, "Apache" Company, 1st Battalion, 26th
Infantry "Blue Spaders" in Schweinfurt, Germany as a M2A2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle Driver. SPC Clouser
deployed August 6, 2006 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 06-08. He participated in numerous
combat patrols in Northeast Baghdad and Adhamiyah, Iraqi in support of Operation Together Forward II
and the Baghdad Security Plan, where he served as both his platoon Sergeant's M1151 Up-Armor
HMMWV Machine Gunner and M2A2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle Gunner. SPC Clouser was a integral part
of 1st Platoon "Death Dealers". He was always dedicated to mission accomplishment and displayed
unwavering courage and commitment to his fellow Soldiers, Leaders, and the United States Army.
SPC Clouser's awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), Purple Heart
(Posthumous), Army Commendation Medal, National, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign
Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon with
Numeral 2, and the Combat Infantryman Badge (Posthumous). SPC Clouser was very athletic growing up
and in high school, he loved baseball, basketball, football, bowling and precision archery and was an avid
outdoorsman, who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was also a member of several local car clubs.
In addition to his parents, SPC Clouser is also survived by his siblings, Megan Williams and husband,
Shawn, Ronald Etheridge Jr, Matthew Asper, Shaleana Etheridge, Sean Etheridge and Zachary Asper;
paternal grandparents, David and Lucille Clouser; nieces and nephews, Kaile Oyler, Adriel Etheridge,
Chaz Etheridge, Trinity Warren, Damen Etheridge and Shawn Williams, Jr. He was preceded in death by
his maternal grandparents, Franklin and Esther Turner.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fisherhouse at www.fisherhouse.org or Help
America Foundation at www.helpamericafoundation.org, Support 4 Our Troops at 6 Elmwood Blvd.,
York, PA 17403. www.support4ourtroops.org
Send Condolences at BestLifeTributes.com www.pennlive.com/obits
Published in Patriot-News on August 8, 2007
Army Spc. Zachary R. Clouser
Died July 18, 2007 serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom
19, of Dover, Pa.; assigned to the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st
Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany; died July 18 in Adhamiyah, Iraq, of wounds sustained
when his vehicle was attacked by enemy forces using an improvised explosive device and
small-arms fire. Also killed were Sgt. 1st Class Luis E. Gutierrez-Rosales, Spc. Richard Gilmore
III and Spc. Daniel E. Gomez.
Pa. soldier, 19, killed in Iraq
The Associated Press
DOVER, Pa. — A 19-year-old Pennsylvania soldier was killed in Iraq by a roadside bomb,
according to his mother.
Pfc. Zachary Clouser, of Dover Township, who died July 18, had been Iraq for nearly a year and
would have turned 20 in a couple of weeks.
“Zachary was the biggest prankster, jokester, anything he could do to get anybody to smile,” his
mother, Deb Etheridge, told WPMT-TV in Harrisburg on Friday.
Clouser joined the Army soon after graduating from Dover Area High School in 2005. He came
back to visit the school while on leave in the spring, principal Joel Riedel said.
“This is a very, very sad thing. We were stunned yesterday when we got the call from the Army
recruiter,” Riedel said.
Clouser had six siblings and loved to hunt and fish. Etheridge told WPMT that her son planned
to learn more about computers or criminology after his enlistment ended in 2009.
From ABC 27 TV whtm.com 07/20/07:
Dover Soldier Killed in Iraq
Location: Dover, York County
Posted: July 20, 2007 12:10 PM EST
Dover, York County - A 2005 graduate of Dover Area High School has been killed in Iraq just
one month before he was due to come home. Private First Class Zachary Clouser, 19, was one of
four soldiers killed Wednesday when an improvised device exploded under their vehicle.
Stephane Wright, who spoke on behalf of Clouser's family, said his mother just learned Zach was
supposed to leave Iraq in August. Hours later, she received word of his death. "She said
Thursday morning when they announced the casualties, there was a gut feeling that it was Zach,
that one was Zach," Wright said.
"I think she is in shock," Wright said of Zach's mother. "It really hasn't hit, but with most
tragedies it really hits when it's all over, the funeral is finished taking place."
Zach had been in Iraq for 13 months. He came home on leave during the Easter holiday and
visited his former teachers at Dover Area High School. "We got the call from the recruiter," said
Principal Joel Reider, "and we said are you sure? Are you really sure? Because Zach was just
here."
Funeral arrangements have not been made because it will be about 12 days before Zach's body
arrives back in the United States.
Copyright 2007 Harrisburg Television, Inc.
Zachary R Clouser
Dover, Pennsylvania
July 18, 2007
Age Military
19
Army
Rank
Spc
Unit/Location
1st Battalion, 26th Infantry, 2nd Brigade
Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division
Schweinfurt, Germany
Killed in Adhamiyah, Iraq, when their vehicle was attacked by enemy forces
using an improvised explosive device and small arms fire.
Zachary Clouser
Monday, July 23 2007 @ 09:23 AM EDT
Contributed by: tomw
Views: 931
York Daily Record -- Jul 21, 2007 — Nineteen-year-old Zachary Clouser of Dover
Township died this week while serving with the U.S. Army in Iraq.
The Department of Defense will not release any details until 24 hours pass after notifying
family members and the death has been posted to the department's Web site, a Pentagon
spokesman said Friday.
Clouser graduated from Dover Area High School in 2005, and soon after joined the Army. He
left for the war in the Army infantry in August 2006 on his 19th birthday.
He is the 18th person with connections to the York and Adams counties area to be killed in the
Iraq and Afghanis-tan conflicts.
High school principal Joel Riedel remembered Clouser as a hesitant ninth grader.
“He wasn't very excited about high school,” Riedel said Friday. “He didn't know why he was
here, what he would do.”
With the steady encouragement of his mother, Deb Etheridge, Clouser gradually found himself
and began setting and meeting goals, Riedel said. He wanted to graduate from high school
and did. He wanted to join the military and passed the necessary tests.
“Zach transitioned from 'I do not have a goal' to success in setting and meeting his goals,”
Riedel said.
During a recent break from the war, Clouser and his mother visited his high school to talk with
students and teachers, Riedel said. The principal said he missed them then, but later he ran
into Etheridge.
“She was very excited about his medals and awards from the Army,” Riedel said. “This is a
very, very sad thing. We were stunned yesterday when we got the call from the Army
recruiter.” Clouser's parents declined comment.
Brian Zarilla of Dover Township said he heard of the death of a young man he knew very well
while at work.
Clouser grew up playing football, basketball and baseball with Zarilla's children in the Tri-Town
Boys Club. Zarilla was his baseball coach.
“I have seen this kid grow up,” Zarilla said. “It's tough. It hurts the whole town, the whole
community when it's somebody real close.”
As Clouser matured, he came to know just what he wanted to do, said Zarilla, who has been in
the Air National Guard for 22 years.
“His choice was the Army,” Zarilla said. “I talked to his mom a lot. He was doing well. She was
happy he was doing what he wanted to do. He did his job.”
Zarilla said his own unit just left for Iraq, and he expected he would have to go next year.
“Not all the military agrees with the war,” Zarilla said. “We shouldn't have our hometown kids
dying.”
Clouser appeared in a February news article from Baghdad, “Soldiers in Iraq view troop surge
as a lost cause,” by Tom Lasseter of the McClatchy Newspapers.
Lasseter opened with 25-year-old 1st Lt. Antonio Hardy of Clouser's unit saying the people at
home have been shielded from the escalating violence in Iraq. He spoke of contending with an
escalating civil war between Iraq's Sunni and Shiite Muslims, as well as insurgents on both
sides who target U.S. forces.
“'We can go get into a firefight and empty out ammo, but it doesn't accomplish much,' said
Pfc. Zach Clouser, 19, of York, Pa. 'This isn't our war - we're just in the middle,'” the article
says.
Riedel said the high school guidance counselor will have contract counselors available for
students and faculty members as needed.
Spec. Camy Florexil
Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Age: 20 years old
Died: July 24, 2007 in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Unit: Army, 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team,
1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
Incident: Killed when a makeshift bomb exploded near his vehicle during combat
operations in Baghdad.
Marie Gerda-Pierre learned of the death of her nephew, Camy Florexil, and had the task of informing his
mother, Carol Florexil, who lives in her native Haiti. "I told his mother she should be proud anyway. He
didn't die by doing bad stuff. He wasn't hanging on the corner doing illegal stuff," Gerda-Pierre said. "He
was fighting for the freedom of those people." Florexil, 20, of Philadelphia, was killed by a roadside
bomb July 24 in Baghdad. He was assigned to Fort Riley. Although he was a native-born American,
Florexil spent the first few years of his life in Haiti because his mother had been forced to return. "He
was quiet, and a good student," said his aunt. He was an artist who was interested in sketching and
computers. He spent hours in front of the computer." After a few years in Port-au-Prince, his mother who was unable to come back to the United States - made the gut-wrenching decision to part with Camy
and his older sister, Emanuela. She sent them to stay with Gerda-Pierre in northeast Philadelphia. He
joined the Army in September 2005. "Their mother wanted the best for them," Gerda-Pierre said.
Camy Florexil
Specialist, United States Army
U.S. Department of Defense
Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)
News Release
IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 952-07
August 01, 2007
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a
soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spcialist Camy Florexil, 20, of Philadelphia, died July 24, 2007,
in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised
explosive device detonated near his vehicle during combat
operations July 23 in Baghdad. He was assigned to the 1st
Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat
Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kansas.
For more information related to this release, the media may
contact the Fort Riley public affairs office at (785) 239-3410.
2 August 2007:
A soldier whose last known address was in Germantown has been
killed on the streets of Baghdad by an improvised explosive
device, the Pentagon said yesterday.
Specialist Camy Florexil, 20, who was listed as living on School
House Lane, died July 24 from wounds he had suffered a day
earlier when the bomb exploded near his vehicle during combat
operations in the war-ravaged Iraq capital.
Florexil was based in Fort Riley, Kansas. He was an infantryman
assigned to 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry
Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division.
Military records showed that Florexil joined the Army in
September 2005 and began serving with the 1st Infantry Division
in February 2006. This had been his first deployment to Iraq.
3 August 2007:
A soldier from Philadelphia had been in Iraq for five months
when he was killed last week, his family said.
Army Specialist Camy Florexil was killed after an explosive
device detonated near his vehicle in Baghdad.
Family members praised the 20-year-old infantryman as a man
who went to war but wasn't a fighter.
"I told his mother she should be proud anyway," said his aunt,
Marie Gerda-Pierre. "He didn't die by doing bad stuff. He wasn't
hanging on the corner doing illegal stuff ... He was fighting for the
freedom of those people."
Florexil surprised his family when he enlisted nearly two years
ago.
His mother, Carol Florexil, lives in Haiti. Though Florexil was
born in the United States, he spent the first few years of his life in
Port-au-Prince because his mother was forced to return.
When his mother learned she couldn't come back to the United
States, she sent Florexil and his older sister to live with GerdaPierre in Northeast Philadelphia.
Florexil joined the Army when he was 18, soon after attending the
Swenson Arts and Technology High School.
Gerda-Pierre said Florexil would be buried in the United States
after his mother came from Haiti to make funeral arrangements.
Fallen Soldier Made Family Proud
Specialist Studied Cooking, Surprised Relatives by Enlisting
By Mark Berman
Courtesy of the Washington Post
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Carol Florexil got the phone call in Haiti. The son she had sent to
the United States for a better life was dead, killed by a roadside
bomb while serving in Iraq.
"I told his mother she should be proud anyway," Marie GerdaPierre told the Philadelphia Inquirer last month, explaining how
she broke the news to her sister. "He didn't die by doing bad
stuff. He wasn't hanging on the corner doing illegal stuff. He was
fighting for the freedom of those people."
Army Specialist Camy Florexil, 20, was buried yesterday at
Arlington National Cemetery. His mother was there, along with
his father, Vital Florexil, and his sister, Emanuella Florexil.
They were joined by more than 60 mourners who followed the
flag-covered coffin to his grave site near a set of twin green
wreaths adorned with red, white and blue flowers. As the service
began, a woman in the second row of cloth-covered seats wailed
loudly toward the sky.
On July 24, 2007, less than two years after he surprised family
members by enlisting in the Army, Florexil died from injuries
suffered when the bomb detonated near his vehicle during
combat operations, the Department of Defense said.
Florexil, who was American-born, spent his early years in Haiti
after his mother was forced to return to her native land, his aunt
said in the interview. Unable to return to the United States, his
mother made the tough choice of sending Florexil and his sister to
live with Gerda-Pierre in Philadelphia, she said.
Florexil may have gone to war, but he wasn't a fighter, his aunt
said.
"He was quiet, and a good student," Gerda-Pierre said. "He was
an artist who was interested in sketching and computers. He
spent hours in front of the computer."
Florexil attended Swenson Arts and Technology High School, a
Philadelphia institution that offers career and technical programs
along with academic classes. Just getting into the school was
difficult, because prospective students have to apply, go through
an interview process and then make it through a lottery, school
officials said.
He was in the culinary arts program during his time at Swenson.
Florexil was a familiar face at the Lion's Den, an on-campus
restaurant where culinary students practiced everything from
cooking for teachers to serving meals to restaurant management
several times a week.
Florexil last visited Swenson at the end of the last school year,
shortly before leaving for Iraq. He was dressed in his fatigues.
He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th
Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, based at
Fort Riley, Kansas. He joined the Army in September 2005 and
became the 375th military service member killed in Iraq to be
buried at Arlington.
A military honor guard carries the casket of Army Specialist Camy Florexil,
23, of Philadelphia, to the grave
site during funeral services at Arlington National Cemetery, Friday, October 5,
2007
A military honor guard lowers the casket of Army Specialist Camy Florexil,
23, of Philadelphia, during
funeral services at Arlington National Cemetery, Friday, October 5, 2007
A military honor guard holds the flag over the casket of Army Specialist Camy
Florexil, of Philadelphia, during
the funeral services at Arlington Cemetery, Friday, October 5, 2007
An honor guard holds the flag that draped the casket of Army Specialist Camy
Florexil, of Philadelphia,
during the funeral services at Arlington Cemetery, Friday, October 5, 2007
The military honor guard that carried the casket of Army Specialist Camy
Florexil, 23, of Philadelphia,
walks away during funeral services at Arlington Cemetery, Friday, October 5,
2007
Major General James Pillsbury, left, presents an American flag to Emanuella
Florexil, sister of Army
Specialist Camy Florexil, 23, of Philadelphia, during the funeral services at
Arlington Cemetery, Friday, October 5, 2007
Webmaster: Michael Robert Patterson
Posted: 5 October 2007 Updated: 6 October 2007 Updated: 4 November 2007 Updated:
12 May 2008
Sgt. Jan M. Argonish
Hometown: Peckville, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Age: 26 years old
Died: August 27, 2007 in Operation Enduring Freedom.
Unit: Army National Guard, 55th Brigade, Pennsylvania Army National Guard,
Scranton, Penn.
Incident: Died Aug. 27 at Forward Operating Base Naray, Afghanistan, from wounds
suffered when insurgents attacked his unit during combat operations in Jalalabad,
Afghanistan.
Jan Argonish
Sgt. Jan Argonish, 26, of Scranton, was killed Monday in an ambush in Kunar Province,
Afghanistan.
A veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom with nearly 10 years of service in the Pennsylvania Army
National Guard, Sgt. Argonish volunteered to help train soldiers of the Afghan National Army. It
was his third deployment since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Born Feb. 6, 1981, son of Nancy and Michael Argonish, Peckville, Sgt. Argonish was a 1999
graduate of Valley View High School, where he played football and was a member of the swim
team. He joined the National Guard as a junior, with his parents' proud consent.
An accomplished soldier, Sgt. Argonish was a graduate of the Army's infantry and mortar
schools and the tanker school at Fort Knox, Ky. He also served two years as a military recruiter.
During his tour in Iraq, his duties included the capture and detention of several high-level
fugitives.
He received numerous service awards, including the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, National Defense
Service Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal,
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Armed
Forces Expeditionary Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Meritorious Unit
Commendation, Army Good Conduct Medal, Pennsylvania Army National Guard Recruiting and
Retention Medal, Gen. Thomas J. Stewart Medal, Pennsylvania Service Ribbon and the Army
Achievement Medal.
Sgt. Argonish was a member of Sacred Heart Church, Peckville, and VFW Post 5544, Jessup.
Since February 2006, he was employed as a corrections officer at the U.S. Penitentiary Canaan in
Waymart.
An avid outdoorsman, Sgt. Argonish enjoyed hunting, fishing and riding motorcycles and allterrain vehicles with his son, Jakub, and Talia Walsh, whom he planned to marry and called his
"better half." He loved country music and classic cars, and attended a car show in Atlantic City,
N.J., with his father every February. He missed the traditional trip just twice, when he was
deployed.
Jan gave his life to secure a better, safer future for his son, family and all Americans. He
believed in what he was doing and died defending his fellow soldiers against overwhelming
opposition. He was a true hero who will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched. There
are many such lives, but there was only one Jan.
Along with his parents, Sgt. Argonish is survived by a son, Jakub, 8; a brother, Nicholas
Argonish and wife, Leanne, West Chester; a sister, Elizabeth Conaghan and husband, Scott,
Exton; maternal grandmother, Betty Louryk, Scranton; uncles, aunts, nieces and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Nicholas Louryk, and his paternal
grandparents, Joseph and Anna Argonish.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday at 10 a.m. in Sacred Heart Church, 1101 Willow St.,
Peckville. Interment with military honors will be in St. Mary's Byzantine Cemetery.
Friends may call Friday, 4 to 9 p.m., at the church. Arrangements by James M. Margotta Funeral
Home, 1019 Main St., Peckville.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Jakub Fund, c/o PNC Bank, 533
Main St., Peckville, 18452. For directions or online condolences, go to
www.margottafuneralhomes.com.
Published in Scranton Times on August 30, 2007
Army Sgt. Jan M. Argonish
26, of Peckville, Pa.; assigned to the 55th Brigade, Pennsylvania Army National Guard,
Scranton, Pa.; died Aug. 27 at Forward Operating Base Naray, Afghanistan, of wounds
sustained when insurgents attacked his unit during combat operations in Jalalabad,
Afghanistan. Also killed were Maj. Henry S. Ofeciar and Master Sgt. Scott R. Ball.
2 Pa. National Guard soldiers die in combat in Afghanistan
By Michael Rubinkam
The Associated Press
ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Two Pennsylvania National Guard soldiers embedded with the Afghan
military were among five people killed in an ambush by suspected Taliban militants Aug. 27.
The ambush in Kunar province in eastern Afghanistan killed Master Sgt. Scott R. Ball, 38, of
Carlisle, and Sgt. Jan M. Argonish, 26, of Scranton, along with an active-duty Army officer
whose name has not been released and two Afghan soldiers, the Guard said Aug. 28.
In civilian life, Ball was a state police trooper and Argonish a prison guard.
They are the first Pennsylvania Guard soldiers to be killed in combat in Afghanistan. Twentyseven soldiers from the state Guard have been killed in Iraq.
“We mourn the loss of these dedicated soldiers and our thoughts and prayers are with the
families,” Maj. Gen. Jessica L. Wright, state adjutant general, said in a statement. “These brave
warriors proudly represented their commonwealth and country and, sadly, made the ultimate
sacrifice.”
The pair had been in Afghanistan since February helping train Afghan and coalition forces. They
were on a resupply mission when their convoy came under attack.
Ball was an eight-year state police veteran based at the agency’s Carlisle barracks. A former
active-duty soldier, he joined the Guard in 1992. He is survived by his wife and two children and
his mother.
The motorcycle patrolman and training officer was a well-liked, charismatic leader who
mentored many new troopers, said his supervisor, Sgt. Jonathan Mays.
“We looked to him to put his stamp on our younger members because we wanted them to
emulate his performance,” Mays said. “We look to the best among us to fill that role as an
educator and he certainly was one of those. He’s going to be sorely missed.”
Ball also was a doting father who enjoyed motorcycles and auto racing and who was pursuing
his pilot’s license, Mays said.
State police Commissioner Jeffrey Miller said Ball is the second active-duty state police trooper
to be killed in combat since World War II. Trooper Daniel R. Lightner of Hollidaysburg was killed
in Iraq in 2005 while serving with the Guard.
Argonish was a corrections officer at the federal prison in Waymart, Wayne County, who saw
combat in Iraq and volunteered to go to Afghanistan. He is survived by his son, his parents and
two sisters.
He died trying to protect his comrades, said National Guard Lt. Col. Chris Cleaver.
“He was in one of the rear vehicles and where he was found, he was trying to protect his other
soldiers in that convoy,” Cleaver told a news conference in Scranton. “If you can imagine, with
that number of casualties and fatalities, you are looking at overwhelming opposition fire at your
location.”
Violence in Afghanistan is running at its highest level since the U.S. invasion nearly six years
ago. Clashes in southern and eastern Afghanistan this week have killed more than 100 militants
and more than 10 NATO troops, including Ball and Argonish.
Memorial services for both men are pending.
Birth:
Feb. 6, 1981, USA
Death:
Aug. 27, 2007, Afghanistan
Sgt. Jan Argonish, 26, of Scranton Pennsylvania attended Valley View High School
graduating in 1999. While there he played football and was a member of the swim
team joining the National Guard as a Junior. An accomplished soldier, he was a
graduate of the Army's infantry and mortar schools and the tanker school at Fort
Knox, Ky.
He also served two years as a military recruiter. During his tour in Iraq, his duties
included the capture and detention of several high-level fugitives. He was a
correctional officer in Wayne County and a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
An avid outdoorsman, Sgt. Argonish enjoyed hunting, fishing and riding
motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles with his son, Jakub, and Talia Walsh, whom he
planned to marry and called his "better half." He loved country music and classic
cars, and attended a car show in Atlantic City, N.J., with his father every February.
He missed the traditional trip just twice, when he was deployed. Jan is survived by
an 8-year-old son, his parents and 1 brother and 1 sister.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Nicholas Louryk, and his
paternal grandparents, Joseph and Anna Argonish. His awards and decorations
include the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Army
Reserve Components Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Global War
on Terrorism Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Armed
Forces Expeditionary Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Meritorious Unit
Commendation, Army Good Conduct Medal, Pennsylvania Army National Guard
Recruiting and Retention Medal, Gen. Thomas J. Stewart Medal, Pennsylvania
Service Ribbon and the Army Achievement Medal. He was posthumously awarded
the Purple Heart and Combat Action Badge.
Army
National Guard
55th Brigade
Scranton, Penn
Burial:
Saint Marys Cemetery
Scranton
Lackawanna County
Pennsylvania, USA
Created by: Elizabeth Reed
Record added: Aug 28, 2007
Find A Grave Memorial# 21228582
Master Sgt. Scott R. Ball
Hometown: Mount Holly Springs, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Age: 38 years old
Died: August 27, 2007 in Operation Enduring Freedom.
Unit: Army National Guard, 55th Brigade, Pennsylvania Army National Guard,
Scranton, Penn.
Incident: Died Aug. 27 at Forward Operating Base Naray, Afghanistan, from wounds
suffered when insurgents attacked his unit during combat operations in Jalalabad,
Afghanistan.
Scott R. Ball
Master Sgt. Scott R. Ball
Master Sgt. Scott R. Ball, 38, of Carlisle, died Monday August 27, 2007 in Afghanistan.
Born February 25, 1969 in Daytona Beach, FL, he was the son of Margaret Knotts Bertrand of Duncannon
and the late William Richard Ball.
Scott was a devoted husband, dedicated Dad, Super Son, Great son-in-law, loving brother and true
friend. He loved God and his Country; he attended Bethel Assembly of God, Carlisle. Scott believed that
Knowledge is Power. Scott was a 1988 graduate of West Perry High School and a 1993 graduate of
HACC. He excelled in all his accomplishments. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1992 completing basic
training at Ft. Leonard Wood, MO, after completion of Airborne School. He was then stationed in
Bamberg, Germany. He was assigned to the 82nd Airborne and served in Desert Storm. After
transferring to the Army National Guard, he was assigned to Germany providing force protection as a
result of 9/11. He finished air assault school and was then deployed to Afghanistan.
He was a CSO in Lower Allen Twp. in 1992 and a police officer in Lower Merion Twp. in 1995. He
graduated in 2000 from the PA State Police Academy and became a PA State Trooper. His stations
included Media, York, and Chambersburg before joining the Carlisle station on July 6, 2002. He was a
member of the State Police Motorcycle Unit and served as a field-training officer who mentored new
troopers.
Scott held a pilot license with Harrisburg Jet Center; and was a volunteer fire fighter with the Shermans
Dale Fire Dept. He had many achievements and accomplishments. He enjoyed family, friends, dirt track
racing, football, music and traveling. His affiliations were with Blue Knights, Harley Owners Group,
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Assoc., and the FOP; and belonged to the Sara Evans fan club.
Surviving, in addition to his mother, are his wife of 16 years, Leslie McAlister Ball; one son and daughter,
Tyler and Allie Ball; 3 sisters, Tammy Ball, New Bloomfield, Laura Krout, Carlisle and Billie Jo Hibbard and
her husband, Jeff, Missouri; his father and mother in-law, Lester and Pauline McAlister, Mt. Holly
Springs; step-father, William Bertrand, Duncannon; and his step-brother, Dickson Bertrand and wife,
Brandi, Louisiana.
Perfection doesn't stay on earth it goes to be with the LORD. Funeral services at 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007 in the Christ Community Church, 1201 Slate Hill Road, Camp Hill, PA,
with the Rev. Chuck Kish officiating. Burial at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville. Family will
receive friends from 5-9 p.m., Tuesday, in the church.
Hoffman-Roth Funeral Home & Crematory, 219 N. Hanover St., Carlisle, in charge of the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Scott R. Ball Children Fund, c/o Members 1st Federal
Credit Union, 5000 Louise Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055. To sign the guest book, visit www.
hoffmanroth.com
www.pennlive.com/obits Published in Patriot-News on September 2, 2007
Army Master Sgt. Scott R. Ball
38, of Mount Holly Springs, Pa.; assigned to the 55th Brigade, Pennsylvania Army
National Guard, Scranton, Pa.; died Aug. 27 at Forward Operating Base Naray,
Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit during combat
operations in Jalalabad, Afghanistan. Also killed were Maj. Henry S. Ofeciar and Sgt. Jan
M. Argonish.
2 Pa. National Guard soldiers die in combat in Afghanistan
By Michael Rubinkam
The Associated Press
ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Two Pennsylvania National Guard soldiers embedded with the Afghan
military were among five people killed in an ambush by suspected Taliban militants Aug. 27.
The ambush in Kunar province in eastern Afghanistan killed Master Sgt. Scott R. Ball, 38, of
Carlisle, and Sgt. Jan M. Argonish, 26, of Scranton, along with an active-duty Army officer
whose name has not been released and two Afghan soldiers, the Guard said Aug. 28.
In civilian life, Ball was a state police trooper and Argonish a prison guard.
They are the first Pennsylvania Guard soldiers to be killed in combat in Afghanistan. Twentyseven soldiers from the state Guard have been killed in Iraq.
“We mourn the loss of these dedicated soldiers and our thoughts and prayers are with the
families,” Maj. Gen. Jessica L. Wright, state adjutant general, said in a statement. “These brave
warriors proudly represented their commonwealth and country and, sadly, made the ultimate
sacrifice.”
The pair had been in Afghanistan since February helping train Afghan and coalition forces. They
were on a resupply mission when their convoy came under attack.
Ball was an eight-year state police veteran based at the agency’s Carlisle barracks. A former
active-duty soldier, he joined the Guard in 1992. He is survived by his wife and two children and
his mother.
The motorcycle patrolman and training officer was a well-liked, charismatic leader who
mentored many new troopers, said his supervisor, Sgt. Jonathan Mays.
“We looked to him to put his stamp on our younger members because we wanted them to
emulate his performance,” Mays said. “We look to the best among us to fill that role as an
educator and he certainly was one of those. He’s going to be sorely missed.”
Ball also was a doting father who enjoyed motorcycles and auto racing and who was pursuing
his pilot’s license, Mays said.
State police Commissioner Jeffrey Miller said Ball is the second active-duty state police trooper
to be killed in combat since World War II. Trooper Daniel R. Lightner of Hollidaysburg was killed
in Iraq in 2005 while serving with the Guard.
Argonish was a corrections officer at the federal prison in Waymart, Wayne County, who saw
combat in Iraq and volunteered to go to Afghanistan. He is survived by his son, his parents and
two sisters.
He died trying to protect his comrades, said National Guard Lt. Col. Chris Cleaver.
“He was in one of the rear vehicles and where he was found, he was trying to protect his other
soldiers in that convoy,” Cleaver told a news conference in Scranton. “If you can imagine, with
that number of casualties and fatalities, you are looking at overwhelming opposition fire at your
location.”
Violence in Afghanistan is running at its highest level since the U.S. invasion nearly six years
ago. Clashes in southern and eastern Afghanistan this week have killed more than 100 militants
and more than 10 NATO troops, including Ball and Argonish.
Memorial services for both men are pending.
Trooper Scott R. Ball
Pennsylvania State Police
Master Sergeant US Army National Guard
HARRISBURG: (August 28, 2007) – Tpr. Scott R. Ball of Carlisle, who was killed Aug. 27 while serving with
the Pennsylvania Army National Guard in Afghanistan, was described today by State Police
Commissioner Jeffrey B. Miller as “a dedicated trooper who carried out his duties with a high degree of
professionalism and enthusiasm.”
Ball, 38, was killed when American and Afghan soldiers were ambushed in Kunar Province, Afghanistan,
according to the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veteran Affairs. Ball was a master sergeant in
the Pennsylvania Army National Guard and was part of an embedded training team assisting the Afghan
National Army.
Miller said Ball, who was assigned to Troop H, Carlisle, became the second active member of the State
Police killed in military action since World War II. Tpr. Daniel R. Lightner of Hollidaysburg was killed in
Iraq on Oct. 27, 2005, while serving with the Pennsylvania Army National Guard.
Ball enlisted in the State Police on Sept. 7, 1999, and graduated from the State Police Academy as a
member of the 106th Cadet Class on March 25, 2000.
Ball was assigned to the Patrol Unit at Troop K, Philadelphia, following graduation. He later served at
stations in Media, York and Chambersburg before joining the Carlisle station on July 6, 2002. He was a
member of the State Police Motorcycle Unit and served as a field training officer who mentored new
troopers.
Ball was a former active duty soldier and enlisted in the Pennsylvania National Guard in 1992. He had
been on military leave from State Police since last October and had been deployed to Afghanistan since
February.
“It was rare to see Tpr. Ball without a smile on his face,” Miller said. “Those who worked with him on a
daily basis said he had an even temperament and took on all tasks without complaint. Tpr. Ball always
was ready for a new challenge. He was devoted to serving the people of this state and this nation. He
will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”
Miller said Ball was a graduate of West Perry Senior High School and received an associate’s degree from
Harrisburg Area Community College.
Survivors include his widow, Leslie; their children, Tyler, 10, and Allie, 6; and his mother.
August 28, 2007
Two Pennsylvania Army National Guard
Soldiers Killed In Afghanistan
Back to 2007
HARRISBURG – Two Pennsylvania Army National Guard soldiers were killed in an ambush in
Kunar Province, Afghanistan, early yesterday morning.
Master Sgt. Scott R. Ball, 38, Carlisle, and Sgt. Jan M. Argonish, 26, Scranton, were on a resupply mission in a six-vehicle convoy when the ambush occurred.
An active duty Army officer and two Afghan National Army soldiers were also killed in the attack.
Three U.S. service members and seven Afghan soldiers were reported injured. The identity of
the active duty officer has not been released.
“We mourn the loss of these dedicated soldiers and our thoughts and prayers are with the
families of Master Sgt. Ball and Sgt. Argonish during this difficult time,” said Maj. Gen. Jessica
L. Wright, state adjutant general. “These brave warriors proudly represented their
commonwealth and country and, sadly, made the ultimate sacrifice.”
Ball and Argonish are the first Pennsylvania National Guard combat losses in Afghanistan.
Twenty-seven Pennsylvania National Guard soldiers have been killed in Iraq.
The soldiers were part of an embedded training team assisting the Afghan National Army. The
teams help train, advise and execute missions with Afghan and coalition forces in the region.
The soldiers mobilized last October and have been in Afghanistan since February. Their
deployed unit was the Headquarters, Headquarters Company, 55th Brigade Forward.
As a civilian, Ball was an eight-year veteran of the Pennsylvania State Police, assigned to Troop
H in Carlisle. He was a former active duty soldier and enlisted in the Pennsylvania National
Guard in 1992. Ball is survived by his wife, Leslie; a 10-year-old-son; a 6-year-old daughter; and
his mother.
Argonish was a correctional officer at the U.S. Penitentiary Canaan, Waymart, Wayne County.
He was an Operation Iraqi Freedom combat veteran and volunteered for the embedded training
team mission. Argonish is survived by an 8-year-old son; his parents; and two sisters.
Both soldiers will be posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and Combat Action Badge.
Memorial services have not been scheduled at this time.
Sgt. Jan M. Argonish
Master Sgt. Scott R. Ball
AUGUST 27, 2007
Scott R. Ball
Master Sgt. Scott R. Ball, 38, of Mount Holly Springs, Pennsylvania, died August 27,
2007, at Forward Operating Base Naray, Afghanistan, from wounds suffered when
insurgents attacked his unit during combat operations in Jalalabad, Afghanistan. Ball was
assigned to the 55th Brigade, Pennsylvania Army National Guard, Scranton, Pennsylvania.
// Army, OEF, Pennsylvania
6 comments:
Anonymous said...
He was a great guy, a great son, and a great husband and father. he will be
miss by all. I know I'm his mom
September 02, 2007 8:16 PM
Anonymous said...
I first met Scott during mobilization for Afghanistan, got to know his ETT team
pretty good, he had a good sense of humor and was always looking out for his
fellow soldiers, he was a great leader. Although I will miss him, I will never
forget him. Always in my heart.
SSG Chavez, Ali Shiras
September 02, 2007 10:33 PM
George Rife said...
Scott and I met through work. He was a State Trooper and I worked at the
Booking Center at the Cumberland County Prison. He had an infectous smile
and a warmth that filled the room. He always smiled and waved when he saw
me. Everywhere I have gone since his death,people have been commenting
how he touched their life or the life of a friend. Not even Scott knew how many
people he affected. He will be missed by many of us.
George Rife, Cumberland County Prison, Retired
September 05, 2007 8:28 PM
Anonymous said...
I thank Scott and his family for his service. He represents America's best, and
our loss is considerable. I met Scott when he was a CSO for Lower Allen and
would come into our store. He was a wonderful man. Thank God that
American still has a hero like Scott.
June 05, 2008 12:03 AM
Carlisle-area state trooper killed in Afghanistan
Posted by The Patriot-News August 28, 2007 16:27PM
Categories: Cumberland County, Midstate, Military, Perry County
Trooper Scott R. Ball
Trooper Scott R. Ball of South Middleton Twp., Cumberland County, who was killed Monday
while serving with the Pennsylvania Army National Guard in Afghanistan, is described by State
Police Commissioner Jeffrey B. Miller as "a dedicated trooper who carried out his duties with a
high degree of professionalism and enthusiasm."
Ball, 38, was killed when American and Afghan soldiers were ambushed in Kunar province,
Afghanistan, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veteran Affairs. Ball was
a master sergeant in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard and was part of an embedded
training team assisting the Afghan National Army.
Ball graduated from the State Police Academy as a member of the 106th Cadet Class on March
25, 2000. He was assigned to the Patrol Unit at Troop K, Philadelphia, following graduation. He
later served at stations in Media, York and Chambersburg before joining the Carlisle station on
July 6, 2002.
Ball was a former active duty soldier and enlisted in the Pennsylvania National Guard in 1992.
He had been on military leave from State Police since last October and had been deployed to
Afghanistan since February.
Miller said Ball was a graduate of West Perry Senior High School and received an associate's
degree from Harrisburg Area Community College. Survivors include his widow, Leslie; their
children, Tyler, 10, and Allie, 6; and his mother.
Cpl. Adam J. Chitjian
Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Age: 39 years old
Died: October 25, 2007 in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Unit: Army, 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st
Cavalry Division, Fort Hood Tex.
Incident: Killed by enemy forces using small arms during combat operations in Balad.
Cpl. Adam J. Chitjian
CHITJIAN
CPL. ADAM J., age 39, 3rd
Batallion, 8th Cavalry regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat team, 1st Cavalry Division, on Oct. 25,
2007, in Balad, Iraq. Devoted husband of Shirley (nee Denmark). Loving son of Martin and the
late Edith (Curcio) Chitjian. Beloved brother of Martin Chitjian and Kara Spatola, also survived
by 4 nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to his Visitation Thursday morning,
11:30 A.M. until 1:30 P.M. at L.A. DiGIACOMO INC. FUNERAL HOME, 1055 Southampton Rd.,
Phila., followed by services 1:30 P.M. at the Funeral Home. Burial private. In lieu of flowers,
contributions in Adam's memory can be made to the local Humane Society.
Adam J. Chitjian
Saturday, October 27 2007 @ 01:48 AM EDT
Contributed by: James Van Thach
Views: 1,100
The Philadelphia Inquirer - A Philadelphia native due to end his second tour of duty
in Iraq next month died Thursday of injuries sustained from enemy small-arms fire
in Balad, northern Iraq.
Pfc. Adam J. Chitjian, 39, raised in Somerton, had joined the Army four years ago in response
to 9/11, his older brother, Martin, said tonight.
When it came to his country's defense, "he wanted to act, rather than just talk," Martin, 41, of
Buckingham, Bucks County, said. A stocky 5-foot-11-inches, Adam Chitjian "appeared bigger
than he was," Martin said. To his brother, Adam seemed invincible.
"I would have bet my life he would have come back without a scratch," said Martin, a lawyer,
who was struggling to grasp his brother's death. "I don't really believe it happened."
Their father, Martin, who lives in Furlong, and sister, Kara Spatola of Warrington, were too
distraught to talk, Martin said. Their mother, Edith, died 10 years ago of cancer.
Chitjian was assigned to Third Battalion, Eighth Cavalry Regiment, Third Brigade Combat
Team, First Cavalry Division based in Fort Hood, Texas.
It was in Texas where 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.
http://cbs3.com/local/soldier.Iraq.combat.2.413791.html
Philadelphia Soldier Killed In Iraq
PHILADELPHIA (AP) ―
An Army combat engineer from Philadelphia has been killed in Iraq, the Pentagon said Friday.
Pfc. Adam J. Chitjian died Thursday of injuries he sustained in combat in the Iraqi town of
Balad. The graduate of George Washington High School in Northeast Philadelphia was on his
second tour of duty in Iraq. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd
Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Cavalry Division based at Fort Hood, Texas.
(© 2010 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
Capt. David A. Boris
Hometown: Pottsville, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Age: 30 years old
Died: November 12, 2007 in Operation Enduring Freedom.
Unit: Army, 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat
Team, Schweinfurt, Germany
Incident: Killed when the vehicle he was in was struck by a makeshift bomb Bermel,
Afghanistan.
David A. Boris
Capt. David A. Boris, 30, formerly of Pottsville, died on Monday, Nov. 12, in Bermel,
Afghanistan, when the vehicle he was riding in was struck by an improvised explosive
device. He was the commander of Alpha Troop, 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment,
173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team based in Schweinfurt, Germany. He was on a 15month deployment and previously served a tour in Iraq in 2004.
Born in Pottsville, he was a 1995 graduate of Pottsville High School and a 1999 graduate of
the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He was also a graduate of the U.S. Army Armor
School. He was Airborne and Air Assault qualified.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Albin Boris, and his maternal
grandfather, Joseph Steficek.
Surviving is his wife of eight years, the former Jaime Pavao; his parents, Albin and Diana
Steficek Boris; a sister, Jennifer Possinger and her husband, Richard, and their two children,
Dillon and Sara, of Stroudsburg; paternal grandparents Vera and Vincent Petikaitis of
Primrose; maternal grandmother Leona Steficek of Branchdale; in-laws Edmund and Linda
Bergan of Seltzer; and aunts, uncles and cousins.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 28, in St.
Stanislaus Kostka Church, 139 Spruce St. in Minersville, with the Rev. Leo J. Maletz
officiating. There will be no calling hours. Interment with Military Honors will be held in St.
Stanislaus No. 2 Cemetery, Branch Township.
A memorial fund has been set up to honor Dave's memory. Funds collected in this account
will be designed to charities that support soldiers and military families. Contributions can be
sent to "CPT. David A. Boris Memorial Fund" at Wachovia Bank, NA, Fairlane Village Mall
Financial Center, 7270 Fairlane Village Mall, PA 6752, Pottsville, PA 17901.
Butler Funeral Home
Minersville, Pa.
Army Capt. David A. Boris
Died November 12, 2007 serving during Operation Enduring Freedom
30, of Pennsylvania; assigned to 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade
Combat Team, Schweinfurt, Germany; died Nov. 12 in Bermel, Afghanistan, of wounds
sustained when the vehicle he was in was struck by an improvised explosive device. Also killed
was Spc. Adrian E. Hike.
Soldier from Pottsville dies in Afghanistan
The Associated Press
POTTSVILLE, Pa. — A soldier from Pennsylvania has died in Afghanistan, the man’s family told
a newspaper.
Capt. David Boris, 30, of Pottsville, died sometime over the weekend, his family told the
Republican & Herald in Pottsville. He was a member of the 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry
Regiment (Airborne) and a 1999 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
Boris was sent to Afghanistan in May for 15 months, his family said.
The family learned of his death in a phone call from his wife, Jamie, from a military base in
Germany. The couple was married eight years ago.
Details of how Boris died were not released. The Defense Department has not announced
Boris’ death.
“He was a great guy. I don’t know how else to describe him,” Linda Pavao, Boris’ mother-in-law,
said. “If we could have hand-picked a husband for our daughter, he would have been it.”
Boris graduated from Pottsville Area High School in 1994. He was co-captain of the soccer and
swim teams.
Pocono couple mourns soldier killed in Afghanistan
By BEN WOLFGANG
Pottsville Republican-Herald Writer
November 14, 2007
Editor's Note: Please check tomorrow's print and online editions when Jennifer Possinger
shares her brother's story and photo with our readers.
A Pocono couple is mourning the loss of a family member killed in Afghanistan last week.
Capt. David Boris, 30, is the brother of Jennifer Possinger.
Possinger and her husband, Rich, live in Stroud Township.
Boris is from Pottsville in Schuykill County. A former high school sports star and honor
student, he graduated from West Point .
The family of Capt. David Boris, 30, said Boris’ wife, Jaime, telephoned about 3 p.m.
Monday from a military base in Germany with news of his death. Boris was sent to
Afghanistan on May 2 for 15 months, according to family.
Boris was an Alpha Troop Commander in the 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment
(Airborne). He graduated from Pottsville high school in 1995 and the U.S. Military
Academy at West Point in 1999.
“He was a great guy. I don’t know how else to describe him,” Linda Pavao, Boris’ mother-
in-law, said Tuesday. “If we could have hand-picked a husband for our daughter, he would
have been it.”
The Department of Defense did not confirm or release any information regarding Boris’
death as of press time late Tuesday.
The circumstances surrounding his death are unclear, according to the family.
David and Jaime had been married for eight years and were together throughout David’s
military service, according to family. Pavao said Boris was hoping to return home in less
than a year to pursue a teaching career at West Point.
The family believes he died over the weekend, possibly Sunday, according to Pavao.
Kathleen D. Zwiebel, director of publications at Pottsville High School, worked with Boris
during his days as production editor and chief of the publications department at the
school.
“He was just one of those really, really good guys,” Zwiebel said Tuesday. “He was always
concerned about his men.”
Jamie graduated from Pottsville Area High School in 1994. As a high school senior, Boris
was co-captain of the soccer and swim teams. He was also a member of the National
Honor Society and president of the Spanish club, according to Zwiebel.
He worked on Tide Lines, the high school’s newspaper. He was also worked on Expression
through Creativity Literary magazine during his senior year.
In 2004, Boris helped students at the high school organize an Adopt-a-Platoon campaign.
Students in Zwiebel’s publications class sent more than 50 boxes to Boris and other
infantry soldiers fighting in the Middle East. The boxes contained snack foods, disposable
cameras, drinks and hygiene products.
Zwiebel said Boris was excited about participating in another Adopt-a-Platoon campaign
soon.
Planning for memorial services have not been completed.
“Everything is just up in the air right now,” Pavao said.
Boris’ parents and sister, Jennifer, could not be reached for comment Tuesday night.
Capt. David A. Boris USA (KIA)
Capt. David A. Boris, 30, of Pennsylvania. died Nov. 12 in Bermel, Afghanistan, of
wounds suffered when the vehicle he was in, was struck by an improvised explosive
device. He was assigned to 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment, 173rd Airborne
Brigade Combat Team, Schweinfurt, Germany. He was survived by his wife, Jaime, of
eight years, his parents, sister, brother-in-law, nephew, and niece.
Cullum: 55722
Class: '99
Cadet Company:
Date of Birth: June 22, 1977
Date of Death: November 12, 2007
Thursday, December 27, 2007
JOHN D MCHUGH
PHOTOGRAPHER
Farewell to Capt. Boris and Sgt. Hike
23rd Nov
Some days I fucking hate this job! The memorial service for Capt Boris and Sgt Hike, the two
US Cavalry troopers that were killed by the IED on 12 Nov, was held a few hours ago. I have
never seen or photographed one of these events, and I am never doing one again. It was
unbearably sad.
I had spoken with the First Sergeant of Anvil Troop, 1 Squadron 91st Cavalry, about covering
the event. I really didn’t want to do it, but after some discussion with the Charlie Company
Commanding Officer (CO) and 1SG a few days ago, I had agreed that it is important that people
see the reality behind the casualty figures. I had also spoken with the Chaplin about the
ceremony, to try and figure out how to cause the least intrusion during what was going to be a
very emotional event.
The dress rehearsal earlier in the morning gave me some idea of how upsetting the ceremony
would be for the friends of the two dead men, and I was dreading the actual service. I know my
job is to record what happens out here so that others may know, but covering something like
this is extremely difficult. Putting a camera in the face of a weeping human being is something I
have great personal difficulty with, however important the moment is.
The ceremony was held in the gym building, which had been cleared of all the equipment,
cleaned out and carpeted. The flags of the United States and the 1/91 Cav flag stood crossed,
with a 173rd Brigade flag on the wall behind. In front of the flags stood two wooden stands,
constructed and painted just days before. The stands were gleaming white, with the white and
red flag of the Cavalry painted on the base. Each stand held an M4 rifle, standing barrel down
with bayonet attached. The dogtags of each man hung from the guns. A pair of boots wearing
the Cavalry ceremonial spurs had been placed in front of each stand, and the signature Cavalry
Stetson Hat sat atop each rifle. I had never seen this before, and the poignancy almost brought
tears to my eyes. This is the way the Army says goodbye to their fallen, a ritual that allows the
friends and comrades of the dead to pour out their grief. Families and friends at home have a
funeral, but this is goodbye in a combat zone.
Helicopters had been arriving all morning, delivering various senior commanders. A couple of
journalists also arrived. People milled around outside the building, everyone seemingly keen to
avoid the sight of the memorial until the last possible minute. I positioned myself close to where
the Anvil Troop soldiers would stand, in the hopes that I wouldn’t need to move around too
much during the service.
The service began with a prayer, Psalm 23, and then the men’s commander, Lt. Colonel Fenzel,
spoke. “On the 12th of November we lost two great warriors” he said,” we lost a Troop
Commander and his gunner, and it hurts.” He went on to praise the men, and was followed by a
friend of Capt. Boris, and then a friend of Sergeant Hike. These friends spoke of their love for
the dead men, and their pride in knowing and serving with them. Many of the words were
choked out through their sorrow .
Already there were soldiers crying, and then one of the Anvil Troopers passed out, and was
helped out into the fresh air. The lights dimmed, and then two slideshows of photos, set to
music, were shown, first one for Capt. Boris, and then for Sgt Hike. The photos showed smiling
men, in dress uniform, and grim men in filthy ACU fatigues. Many showed the dead men
hugging, wrestling, or simply standing alongside other men, men who now stood together in the
darkened room. I photographed and filmed them, some with jaws set tight, some with heads
bowed, and more than a few with tears in their eyes or running down their faces.
As the slideshow ended and the lights came back on, another Chaplin led another prayer. When
he was finished, the First Sergeant of the Troop, 1SG Lunsford, stepped forward and stood
facing the room. “Sergeant Alonso” he called, followed by the reply “here First Sergeant.” Again
he called a trooper’s name, and again the reply “Here First Sergeant” rang around the room.
“Sergent Hike” the First Sergeant called next. A pause, to let the silence speak. “Sergeant
Adrian Hike” he called again. No answer. “Sergeant Adrian Edward Hike” he called, a third and
final time. And then he began again, calling the officers of Anvil Troop. Everyone in the room
knew what was coming, but it didn’t make it any easier. “Captain Boris. Captain David Boris.
Captain David Albin Boris.” As the last word fell away into the silent room a firing party outside
began the final act in this rite. Three volleys of seven shots rang out, the traditional 21 gun
salute, and then the gathered soldiers saluted as the sad and mournful notes of “Taps” were
played.
A General came forward, saluted, and knelt before one upturned rifle, and then the other. He
placed a coin on the base of each, and reached forward and held each pair of dogtags. Slowly,
and with much dignity, each man in the room, and then the men waiting outside, repeated this
act. Some men touched the Stetsons, some the rifles, many held the dogtags tightly, as they
said their final farewell to their dead comrades. One soldier barely managed the words
“Goodbye Dave” through his tears. It was heartbreaking, and while I stayed and photographed,
and filmed, as long as I could, I finally had to leave before the grief in the room overwhelmed
me. These men will carry on, already have in fact. After all, they have a mission to complete.
Now, they say, they will continue; firstly to complete their mission, but more importantly, to
honour the memory of their departed friends.
POSTED BY JOHN D AT 14:32
Friday, November 16 2007 @ 09:25 AM EST
Whether it was sports, academics or his military career, Capt. David Boris went above and
beyond what was necessary, his family, former teachers and coaches at Pottsville Area High
School said Wednesday.
“He was very bright, but he was also one of the guys. You always remember those who were
special,” Ned Hampford, Boris’ high school swimming coach, said.
Boris was killed in Afghanistan early Monday morning, according to the Army. He was an Alpha
Troop Commander in the 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment (Airborne). He was traveling
with Sgt. Adrian Hike when their vehicle struck an IED near the city of Bermel.
Kathy Zwiebel, a family friend and director of publications at Pottsville Arera High School, said
the information regarding Boris’ and Hike’s deaths came from an Army e-mail sent to the
families.
On Sunday, Veterans Day, Boris called his sister, Jennifer Possinger, Stroudsburg. She wasn’t
home and her husband, Rich, took the call instead.
Hours later, Boris was killed.
“Whenever he was deployed, he tried hard to minimize our concerns,” Jennifer said. “He was
my rock. I could turn to him for anything. Until you have someone in your immediate family
serving in active combat, you don’t really understand how concerned you are. Even knowing his
fate, he would not have chosen anything else.”
After high school, Boris graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in
1999.
He was on a 15-month deployment to Afghanistan and previously served a tour in Iraq in 2004.
Boris’ wife, Jaime, was notified Monday at Schweinfurt Military Community, Germany. According
to family, she had stayed by Boris’ side throughout his military service. Jaime graduated from
Pottsville Area High School in 1994, a year before David.
According to Linda Pavao, David’s mother-in-law, David was planning to pursue a teaching
career at West Point after returning home.
Pottsville Area High School principal Joseph Opalenick said Boris exemplified what the school is
all about.
“If you talk about leadership and character, that’s Captain Boris,” Opalenick said. “He had a
passion for teaching. He would have been an excellent professor at West Point.”
In high school, Boris was the senior co-captain of both the swim and soccer teams. He was a
member of the National Honor Society and president of the Spanish club his senior year. He
also worked on Tide Lines, the high school newspaper, and Expression through Creativity
Literary magazine.
More importantly, he set an example for his peers, school staff said.
“It didn’t surprise me that he was going into the military,” Joe Reichert, Boris’ high school
Spanish teacher, said. “He was just a natural-born leader. He would have been nothing but the
best in whatever he chose.”
“He was intelligent and focused. He was what every mother would want a son to be,” Mary
Ellen Setlock, director of guidance at the high school, said Wednesday.
Setlock said she and the other teachers and coaches who knew Boris were devastated by the
news.
“I just keep getting chills,” Setlock said. “It was horrible. It was kind of like losing a family
member for me.”
Diane Beausang taught Boris and Jaime ninth grade science.
“He was shooting for the stars,” Beausang said. “The men in his company, you know they were
lucky to have him. He was everything the military could have hoped for. This is a huge loss.”
Thomas A. Palamar, Pottsville City administrator, said Boris was a hometown hero — someone
the city should be proud of.
“You’re talking about the creme de la creme here,” Palamar said. “They (members of the
military) do this for us. Pottsville is a tight-knit community and this is a fine young man that
we’ve lost.”
Students at Pottsville Area High School will gather tonight to remember one of their own who
was killed in Afghanistan and send some emotional strength to those who knew the fallen
soldier.
The students are making care packages that will be sent to Afghanistan and to the platoon of
Captain Boris.
"When we heard the news we were all really struck by it," said Alexandra Raring.
The students are fulfilling Boris' request before he died.
"He said would you consider adopting my platoon, sending them letters, messages, if you can
do any kind of care packages because some of the men never received anything," said teacher
Cathy Zwiebel.
David Boris was a 1995 graduate of Pottsville Area High School.
After he joined the military and was stationed in the Middle East, Captain Boris would send
emails and pictures to students. That's why students are continuing to send care packages to
the soldiers Boris led.
"I just always have this theory that it's always best to help others because it could be me
someday," said Zwiebel said.
It's unclear how Boris died serving his country.
"It was like a punch in the stomach. I got the call during a work session here. I still can't
believe it. Istill am expecting Dave and Jamie to walk in here," the teacher added.
Jamie is Captain Boris' wife.
"She and Dave were partners. They were best friends. They were high school sweethearts and
Jamie will make it through," Zwiebel said.
School officials said Dave Boris was the first casualty from Pottsville Area High School, and they
hope he is the last.
Pavao and Possinger said it was too early to begin planning services.
Boris’ parents declined to comment Wednesday.
http://www.johndmchugh.com/slides/memorial/