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Gardens of Stone 
Every military cemetery has its own name,
But all could be called gardens of stone.
With row after row of white granite markers,
Bearing names of fallen soldiers, except for the unknowns. 

These places are quiet and always well tended
And a reverence and stillness prevails at the scene.
Its almost as if GOD has willed it to be,
to ensure those resting here, have a place that’s serene. 

For many of these dead, who have given their all,
took part in campaigns that did not go well.
And so paid the price that some battles charge,
leaving each cross and star with its story to tell. 

These tales will not be of sought after glory,
for in warfare, only fools have such dreams.
No, the stories will speak of the unfilled lives,
as many lying here, were still in their teens. 

The years will pass by and the gravestones take on age,
and only spirits of sleeping warriors will now roam.
But homage will be paid, down through the years,
by those who know the meaning of these gardens of stone. 

Donald A. Chase
15th Infantry Regiment

Click Here to learn about Warriors Walk at Fort Stewart
OIF 2007 - 2010  3ID Active Duty Casualties

Click Here for Complete List of Honorees
on Warriors Walk

http://www.defenselink.mil/releases/

The Department of Defense announced July 12, 2010 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Spc. Joseph W. Dimock II, 21, of Wildwood, Ill, died July 10 in Salerno, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident when an explosion occurred in an ammunition holding facility during an inventory. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced July 03, 2010 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Johnny W. Lumpkin, 38, of Columbus, Ga., died July 2 in Balad, Iraq, of wounds sustained July 1 in a non-combat related equipment incident in Taji, Iraq. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 41st Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced June 19, 2010 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Capt. Michael P. Cassidy, 41, of Simpsonville, S.C., died June 17 in Mosul, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery, 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced June 04, 2010 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Pvt. Francisco J. Guardado-Ramirez, 21, of Sunland Park, N.M., died June 2 in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 41st Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced June 02, 2010 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Spc. Jonathan K. Peney, 22, of Marietta, Ga., died June 1 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when he was shot by enemy forces. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.
UPDATE: June 4, 2010, Spc. Peney was posthumously promoted to Sergeant.

The Department of Defense announced May 25, 2010 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Staff Sgt. Amilcar H. Gonzalez, 26, of Miami, Fla., died May 21 in Ash Shura, Iraq, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced May 10, 2010 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Capt. Kyle A. Comfort, 27, of Jacksonville, Ala., died May 8 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced May 08, 2010 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Esau S.A. Gonzales, 30, of White Deer, Texas, died May 3 in Mosul, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 38th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced May 03, 2010 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Anthony O. Magee, 29, of Hattiesburg, Miss., died April 27 at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, of wounds sustained April 24 when enemy forces attacked his unit with indirect fire at Contingency Operating Base Kalsu, Iskandariyah, Iraq. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced April 25, 2010 the deaths of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died April 23 in Logar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained while conducting combat operations. Both soldiers were assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, Ga.
Killed were:

Sgt. Ronald A. Kubik, 21, of Brielle, N.J., and .

Sgt. Jason A. Santora, 25, of Farmingville, N.Y.

 The Department of Defense announced April 21, 2010 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. James R. Patton, 23, of Fort Benning, Ga., died April 18 in Tikrit, Iraq, of injuries sustained as the result of a helicopter crash. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced April 13, 2010 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Cpl. Michael D. Jankiewicz, 23, of Ramsey, N.J., died April 9 in Zabul, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when the CV-22 Osprey he was flying in crashed. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced April 10, 2010 the deaths of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died April 7 in Mosul, Iraq, when enemy forces attacked their vehicle with an improvised explosive device. The soldiers were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, Fort Stewart, Ga.
Killed were:
1st Lt. Robert W. Collins, 24, of Tyrone, Ga., and
Pfc. William A. Blount, 21, of Petal, Miss.
UPDATE: April 12, 2010 - Pfc. Blount was posthumously promoted to specialist on April 7, 2010.

The Department of Defense announced March 10, 2010 the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died March 8 north of Al Kut, Iraq, of injuries sustained during a vehicle roll-over. They were assigned to the 203rd Brigade Support Battalion, attached to the 1st Battalion, 10th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.
Killed were:
Sgt. Aaron M. Arthur, 25, of Lake City, S.C.
Spc. Lakeshia M. Bailey, 23, of Columbus, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced December 14, 2009 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Jaiciae L. Pauley, 29, of Austell, Ga., died Dec. 11 in Kirkuk, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division,
Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced November 24, 2009 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Briand T. Williams, 25, of Sparks, Ga., died Nov. 22, in Numaniyah, Iraq, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 10th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced November 3, 2009 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Jonathon M. Sylvestre, 21, of Colorado Springs, Colo., died Nov. 2 in Kut, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 10th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced October 29, 2009 the deaths of seven soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died Oct. 26 of wounds suffered when the MH-47 helicopter they were aboard crashed in Darreh-ye Bum, Afghanistan.
Killed were five soldiers assigned to the
3rd Battalion, 160th Special Operations Regiment (Airborne), Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.:

Chief Warrant Officer Michael P. Montgomery, 36, of Savannah, Ga.

Chief Warrant Officer Niall Lyons, 40, of Spokane, Wash.

Staff Sgt. Shawn H. McNabb, 24, of Terrell, Texas.

Sgt. Josue E. Hernandez Chavez, 23, of Reno, Nev.

Sgt. Nikolas A. Mueller, 26, of Little Chute, Wisc.

Also killed were two soldiers assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Fort Bragg, N.C.:

Sgt. 1st Class David E. Metzger, 32, of San Diego.

Staff Sgt. Keith R. Bishop, 28, of Medford, N.Y.

The Department of Defense announced October 17, 2009 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Sgt. Christopher M. Rudzinski, 28, of Rantoul, Ill., died Oct. 16 near Kandahar, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his vehicle with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to 293rd Military Police Company, 385th Military Police Battalion, 16th Military Police Brigade (Airborne), Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced August 31, 2009 the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died Aug. 29 in Paktika province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when they were shot by enemy forces Aug. 28 while conducting combat operations. Both soldiers were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.
Killed were:
Staff Sgt. Jason S. Dahlke, 29, of Orlando, Fla.; and
Pfc. Eric W. Hario, 19, of Monroe, Mich.

The Department of Defense announced June 17, 2009 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Spc. Jonathan C. O’Neill, 22, of Zephyrhills, Fla., died June 15 at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, of wounds suffered June 2 in Paktya, Afghanistan, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to the 549th Military Police Company, 385th Military Police Battalion, 16th Military Police Brigade (Airborne) at Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced June 04, 2009 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Spc. Roberto A. Hernandez I, 21, of Far Rockaway, N.Y., died June 2 in Paktya, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when his mounted patrol was attacked with an improvised explosive device and small arms fire. He was assigned to the 549th Military Police Company, 385th Military Police Battalion, 16th Military Police Brigade (Airborne), Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced January 7, 2009 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Anthony D. Davis, 29, of Daytona Beach, Fla., died Jan. 6 in Northern Iraq, of wounds suffered when he was shot by enemy forces. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia.

The Department of Defense announced November 8, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Adam M. Wenger, 27, of Waterford, Mich., died Nov. 5 in Tunnis, Iraq, of injuries sustained during a non-combat incident. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 76th Field Artillery, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced October 6, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. William P. Rudd, 27, of Madisonville, Ky., died Oct. 5 of wounds suffered from enemy small arms fire while on a combat patrol in Mosul, Iraq. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced Sept. 29, 2008, the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Ronald Phillips Jr., 33, of Conway, S.C., died Sept. 25 in Bahbahani, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced September 15, 2008 the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died Sept. 14 in Tunnis, Iraq, of wounds sustained in a non-hostile incident. The soldiers were assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga. The incident is under investigation.
Killed were:

Staff Sgt. Darris J. Dawson, 24, of Pensacola, Fla.

Sgt. Wesley R. Durbin, 26, of Hurst, Texas.

The Department of Defense announced June 13, 2009 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Steve A. McCoy, 23, of Moultrie, Ga., died June 10 at Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, Texas, of wounds suffered on March 23 in Baghdad, Iraq, when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced May 28, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. 1st Class Jason F. Dene, 37, of Castleton, Vt., died May 25 in Baghdad, Iraq, from injuries suffered in a non-combat related incident on May 24. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced May 27, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Kyle P. Norris, 22, of Zanesville, Ohio, died May 23 in Balad, Iraq, from wounds suffered when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device during a patrol May 22 in Jurf as Sakhr, Iraq. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced April 23, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pvt. Ronald R. Harrison, 25, of Morris Plains, N.J., died April 22 at Forward Operating Base Falcon near Baghdad, Iraq, of a non-combat related injury. He was assigned to the 703rd Brigade Support Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced April 14, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. William E. Allmon, 25, of Ardmore, Okla., died April 12 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced April 10, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Jeffery L. Hartley, 25, of Hempstead, Texas, died April 8 in Kharguliah, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 10th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced April 4, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Spc. Charles A. Jankowski, 24, of Panama City, Fla., died March 28, in Arab Jabour, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to the 3rd Brigade Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced April 3, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Dayne D. Dhanoolal, 26, of Brooklyn, died March 31 in Baghdad, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced April 2, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Jevon K. Jordan, 32, of Norfolk, Va., died Mar. 29 at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Landstuhl, Germany, from wounds suffered Mar. 23 in Abu Jassim, Iraq, when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced March 26, 2008 the death of four soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died March 24 in Baghdad, Iraq, from wounds suffered when their vehicle encountered an improvised explosive on March 23. They were assigned to the 4th Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team,
3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

Killed were:

Pvt. George Delgado, 21, of Palmdale, Calif.

Staff Sgt. Christopher M. Hake, 26, of Enid, Okla.

Pfc. Andrew J. Habsieger, 22, of Festus, Mo.

Spc. Jose A. Rubio Hernandez, 24, of Mission, Texas.

The Department of Defense announced March 24, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Pvt. Tyler J. Smith, 22, of Bethel, Maine, died Mar. 21 at Forward Operating Base Falcon near Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when the base received indirect fire. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced March 15, 2008 the death of five soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
They died March 10 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when a suicide bomber detonated an explosive device. They were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

Killed were:

Sgt. 1st. Class Shawn M. Suzch, 32, of Hilltown, Penn.

Staff Sgt. Ernesto G. Cimarrusti, 25, of Douglas, Ariz.

Staff Sgt. David D. Julian, 31, of Evanston, Wyo.

Cpl. Robert T. Mc David, 29, of Starkville, Miss.

Cpl. Scott A. Mc Intosh, 26, of Houston, Texas.

The Department of Defense announced February 22, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Capt. Nathan R. Raudenbush, 25, of Pennsylvania, died Feb. 20 in Busayefi, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced January 21, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Richard B. Burress, 25, of Naples, Fla., died Jan. 19 in Al Jabour, Iraq, of wounds sustained when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division,
Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced January 8, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. James D. Gudridge, 20, of Carthage, N.Y., died Jan. 6 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced January 8, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Timothy R. Hanson, 23, of Kenosha, Wis., died Jan. 7 in Salmon Pak, Iraq, of wounds suffered from enemy small arms fire. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced January 4, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Joshua R. Anderson, 24, of Jordan, Minn., died Jan 2 in Kamasia, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to the 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced January 2, 2008 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Reno S. Lacerna, 44, of Waipahu, Hawaii, died Dec. 31, 2007 in Al Qayyarah, Iraq, of a non-combat related illness. He was assigned to the 87th Corps Support Battalion, 3rd Sustainment Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced December 26th the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Peter C. Neesley, 28, of Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich., died Dec. 25 in Baghdad, Iraq, of an undetermined cause in a non-combat environment. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced December 14, 2007 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Samuel E. Kelsey, 24, of Troup, Texas, died Dec 13 in Tunnis, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced November 23, 2007 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Melvin L. Henley Jr., 26, of Jackson, Miss., died at Camp Striker in Baghdad on Nov. 21 of injuries suffered from non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 603rd Aviation Support Battalion, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced November 18, 2007 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Steven C. Ganczewski, 22, of Niagara Falls, N.Y., died Nov. 16, in Balad, Iraq, wounds suffered from a combat-related incident. The incident is under investigation. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced November 17, 2007 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Mason L. Lewis, 26, of Gloucester, Va., died in Baghdad on Nov. 16, as a result of a non-combat related training accident. He was assigned to the 26th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced November 8, 2007 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Lui Tumanuvao, 29, of Fagaalu, American Samoa, died Nov. 7 in Arab Jabour, Iraq, of wounds suffered when he was struck by an improvised explosive device during combat operations. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced November 5th the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Dwane A. Covert Jr., 20, of Tonawanda, N.Y., died Nov 3, in Al-Sahra, Iraq, from injuries suffered in a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 104th Transportation Company, 13th Corps Support Sustainment Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced November 2nd the death of three soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died Oct. 30 of wounds suffered in Salman Pak, Iraq, when enemy forces engaged their unit with small arms fire and an improvised explosive device. They were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.
Killed were:
Sgt. Daniel L. McCall, 24, of Pace, Fla. He died in Baghdad, Iraq.

Pfc. Rush M. Jenkins, 22, of Clarksville, Tenn. He died in Salman Pak, Iraq.

Pvt. Cody M. Carver, 19, of Haskell, Okla. He died in Salman Pak, Iraq.

The Department of Defense announced October 9th the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Cpl. Benjamin C. Dillon, 22, of Rootstown, Ohio, died Oct. 7 in northern Iraq of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced Sept. 20th the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Christian M. Neff, 19, of Lima, Ohio, died Sept. 19 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced Sept. 17th the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. John Mele, 25, of Bunnell, Fla., died Sept. 14 in Arab Jabour, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his unit during combat operations. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced Sept.11th the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Cpl. Javier G. Paredes, 24, of San Antonio, died Sept. 5 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from a rocket propelled grenade. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

Spc. Keith A. Nurnberg, 26, of McHenry, Ill., died Sept. 5 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit during combat operations. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced Sept. 3rd the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Spc. Travis M. Virgadamo, 19, of Las Vegas, Nev., died Aug. 30 in Taji, Iraq, in a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 3d Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 2d Brigade Combat Team, 3d Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced August 20th the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
1st Lt. Jonathan W. Edds, 24, of White Pigeon, Mich., died Aug. 17 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his vehicle using an improvised explosive device and small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced August 16th the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Alun R. Howells, 20, of Parlin, Colo., died Aug. 13 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from enemy direct fire. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced August 14th the death of four soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died Aug. 11 in Arab Jabour, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. They were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
Killed were:
Staff Sgt. William D. Scates, 31, of Oklahoma City.
Sgt. Scott L. Kirkpatrick, 26, of Reston, Va.
Sgt. Andrew W. Lancaster, 23, of Stockton, Ill.
Spc. Justin O. Penrod, 24, of Mahomet, Ill.

The Department of Defense announced August 13th the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. William L. Edwards, 23, of Houston, died Aug. 11 in Arab Jabour, Iraq, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with small arms fire. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced July 30th the death of three soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died July 26 in Saqlawiyah, Iraq of wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle. They were assigned to the 5th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team,
3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

Killed were:
Sgt. William R. Howdeshell, 37, of Norfolk, Va.,
Spc. Charles E Bilbrey, Jr., 21, of Owego, New York, and
Spc. Jaime Rodriguez, Jr., 19, of Oxnard, Calif.

The Department of Defense announced July 15th the death of one soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Allen A. Greka, 29, of Alpena, Michigan, died July 13 of wounds sustained from a land mine detonation during a dismounted patrol in Jisr Diyala, Iraq. He was assigned to the 3d Battalion, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 3d Brigade Combat Team, 3d Infantry Division at Fort Benning, Georgia.

The Department of Defense announced July 13th the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Courtney T. Johnson, 26, of Garner, N.C., died July 11 in Besmaya, Iraq, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with indirect fire. He was assigned to the 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced July 11th the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died July 6 in Iraq of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle.
Killed were:
Sgt. Gene L. Lamie, 25, of Homerville, Ga. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
Pfc. Le Ron A. Wilson, 18, of Queens, N.Y. He was assigned to the 26th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced July 11th the death of a soldier who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. He died July 6 in Muhammad Sath, Iraq, of wounds sustained from an improvised explosive device.
Pfc. Bruce C. Salazar Jr., 24, of Tracy, Calif. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced July 8th the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
Spc. Michelle R. Ring, 24, of Martin, Tenn., died July 5 of wounds sustained from enemy mortar fire in Baghdad, Iraq. She was assigned to the 92d Military Police Battalion, Fort Benning, Ga.
Sgt. Thomas P. McGee, 23, of Hawthorne, Calif., died July 6 of wounds sustained when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device in Wazi Khwa, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 546th Military Police Company, 385th Military Police Battalion, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced June 26th the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Henry G. Byrd III, 20, of Veguita, N.M., died June 24 in Landstuhl Germany, from a non-combat related illness sustained June 18 while in Iraq. His death is under investigation.
Byrd was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced June 25th the death of three soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died June 23 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when their unit was attacked by insurgents using an improvised explosive device and small arms fire. They were assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.
Killed were:
Staff Sgt. Michael D. Moody Jr., 31, of Richmond, Va.
Sgt. Chris Davis, 35, of Lubbock, Texas.
Pvt. Shane M. Stinson, 23, of Fullerton, Calif.

The Department of Defense announced June 25th the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Carter A. Gamble Jr., 24 of Brownstown, Ind., died June 24 in Duraiya, Iraq, of wounds suffered from enemy small arms fire. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced June 25th the death of four soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died June 20 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle. They were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
Killed were:
Maj. Sid W. Brookshire, 36, of Missouri.
Staff Sgt. Darren P. Hubbell, 38, of Tifton, Ga.
Spc. Joe G. Charfauros Jr., 33, of Rota, Mariana Islands.
Pfc. David J. Bentz III, 20, of Newfield, N.J.

The Department of Defense announced June 21st the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died June 19 in Muhammad al Ali, Iraq, of wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle.
Killed were:
Sgt. 1st Class William A. Zapfe, 35, of Muldraugh, Ky.
Pfc. Joshua S. Modgling, 22, of Las Vegas. They were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

Pfc. Larry Parks Jr., 24, of Altoona, Penn., died June 18 in Arab Jabor, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.Cpl. Dustin R. Brisky, 26, of Round Rock, Texas, died June 14 in Tallil, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an explosion. He was assigned to the Army Reserve’s 952nd Engineer Company, Paris, Texas. The unit was attached to the 92nd Engineer Battalion, 3rd Sustainment Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga

Pfc. Robert A. Liggett, 23, of Urbana, Ill., died May 29 in Rustamiyah, Iraq, from injuries suffered in a non-combat related incident. His death is under investigation.  Liggett was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced May 25th the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died May 23 of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near their unit in Ramadi, Iraq. They were assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
Killed were:
Staff Sgt. Steve Butcher Jr., 27, of Penfield, N.Y. He died in Ramadi, Iraq.
Pfc. Daniel P. Cagle, 22, of Carson, Calif. He died in Balad, Iraq.

The Department of Defense announced May 17th the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died May 14 in Salman Pak, Iraq, of wounds suffered when their unit came in contact with enemy forces using an improvised explosive device and small arms fire. They were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.
Killed were:
Sgt. Allen J. Dunckley, 25, of Yardley, Pa.
Sgt. Christopher N. Gonzalez, 25, of Winslow, Ariz.

The Department of Defense announced May 11th the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died May 8 in Salman Pak, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle. Both soldiers were assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.
Killed were:
Sgt. Blake C. Stephens, 25, of Pocatello, Idaho.
Spc. Kyle A. Little, 20, of West Boylston, Mass.

The Department of Defense announced today the death of three soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died Apr. 28 in Salman Pak, Iraq, of wounds suffered when their vehicle was struck with an improvised explosive device and small arms fire during combat operations. They were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.
Killed were:
Sgt. Glenn D. Hicks Jr., 24, of College Station, Texas.
Pfc. Jay-D H. Ornsby-Adkins, 21, of Ione, Calif.
Pvt. Cole E. Spencer, 21, of Gays, Ill.

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died Apr. 27 in Fallujah, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle during combat operations. They were assigned to the 5th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
Killed were:
Spc. Eddie D. Tamez, 21, of Galveston, Texas.
Pfc. David A. Kirkpatrick, 20, of Upland, Ind.

Pfc. Nicholas E. Riehl, 21, of Shiocton, Wis., died Apr. 27 in Fallujah, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his unit during combat patrol. He was assigned to the 5th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

Pfc. Richard P. Langenbrunner, 19, of Fort Wayne, Ind., died Apr. 17 in Rustamiyah, Iraq, of injuries suffered from a non-combat related incident. His death is under investigation. Langenbrunner was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

Staff Sgt. Harrison Brown, 31, of Prichard, Ala., died April 8 in Baghdad, Iraq, when his unit came in contact with enemy forces using an improvised explosive device and small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

Pfc. David N. Simmons, 20, of Kokomo, Ind., died April 8 in Baghdad, Iraq, when his unit came in contact with enemy forces using an improvised explosive device and small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

Sgt. Adrian J. Lewis, 30, of Mauldin, S.C., died Mar. 21 in Ramadi, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his unit came in contact with enemy forces using small arms fire during combat operations. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

Pfc. Joey T. Sams II, 22, of Spartanburg, S.C., died Mar. 21 at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, of injuries suffered when he was pinned between two vehicles. His death is under investigation. Sams was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

Spc. Forrest J. Waterbury, 25, of Richmond, Texas, died Mar. 14 near Ramadi, Iraq, when his unit came in contact with enemy forces using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

Sgt. William J. Beardsley, 25, of Coon Rapids, Minn., died Feb. 26 in Diwaniyah, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. Beardsley was assigned to the 260th Quartermaster Battalion, 3rd Sustainment Troop Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
To  sign Sgt. William J. Beardsley's online Memorial guest book click here

Pvt. Kelly D. Youngblood, 19, of Mesa, Ariz., died Feb. 18 in Ramadi, Iraq, of wounds suffered during combat operations. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died Feb. 2 in Ramadi, Iraq, of injuries sustained when they came in contact with enemy forces using small arms fire.
Killed were:
Spc. Alan E. McPeek, 20, of Tucson, Ariz. He was assigned to the 16th Engineer Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Giessen, Germany.
Pvt. Matthew T. Zeimer, 18, of Glendive, Mont. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced Dec 4th, 2006 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. John L. Hartman Jr., 39, of Tampa, Fla., died Nov. 30 in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during combat operations. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced Nov. 27th, 2006 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pvt. Reece D. Moreno, 19, of Prescott, Ariz., died of injuries suffered in a non-combat related incident in Balad, Iraq, on Nov. 24. Moreno was assigned to the 92 Engineer Battalion, 3rd Sustainment Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced Sept.25th, 2006 the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
1st Lt. Ashley L. (Henderson) Huff, 23, of Belle Mead, N.J., died of injuries suffered in Mosul, Iraq, on Sept.19, when a suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near her mounted patrol during combat operations. Huff was assigned to the 549th Military Police Company, 385th Military Police Battalion, Fort Stewart, Ga.

ALTON W. KNAPPENBERGER
Medal of Honor Recipient
Dec. 31, 1923 - June 9, 2008

 ALTON W. KNAPPENBERGER (1923-2008 )
CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT

Alton W. was born 31 December 1923 in Cooperstown, Lehigh County, PA and died 9 June 2008. He was the son of Frank J. Knappenberger (1887-1928) and grandson of Clinton W. Knappenberger (born 7 August 1857) of Lehigh County, PA. He descends from Johan Michael Knappenberger (original immigrant) through his son Johan Henrich (Henry) Knappenberger who fought in the Revolutionary War. Alton was a Private First Class with the US Army, 3rd Infantry Division fighting in Italy on 1 February 1944 when his acts of bravery lead to receiving the Congressional Medal of Honor.

From his obituary:
Won Medal of Honor for WW2 valor, but lived quiet post war life in Earl Township, PA.
Alton W. Kappenberger, who was born in Coopersburg, worked on a pig farm and received the nations highest military honor during WW2., died of natural causes Monday at Pottstown Mem. Hosp. He was 84.
Pfc. Kappenberger, an army draftee, was awarded the MOH for acting with "conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in his first and only combat experiences after the Allied landing at Anzio, Italy, in 1944.
He picked up a Browning automatic rifle, ran alone to a knoll and held off a German attack for more than two hours near Cristina di Larina, 30 miles from Nazi held Rome, on Feb. 1, 1944. The field was littered with 60 German dead.
Kappie as he was called, was a member of C company, 30th Inf. Regiment, 3rd. Inf. Div. His general called him a one man army. He went home in Aug. 1944 amid wide acclaim and pitched war bonds.
Throughout the rest of his life he shunned publicity and seeked a return to obscurity he drove a truck, laid blacktop and ran back-hoes.. He lived in a trailer in the woods of Earl Township.
Internment will be in Arlington National Cemetery.
 

Knappenberger, Alton W.

Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, 3d Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy, 1 February 1944. Entered service at: Spring Mount, Pa. Birth: Cooperstown, Pa. G.O. No.: 41, 26 May 1944. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action involving actual conflict with the enemy, on 1 February 1944 near Cisterna di Littoria, Italy. When a heavy German counterattack was launched against his battalion, Pfc. Knappenberger crawled to an exposed knoll and went into position with his automatic rifle. An enemy machinegun 85 yards away opened fire, and bullets struck within 6 inches of him. Rising to a kneeling position, Pfc. Knappenberger opened fire on the hostile crew, knocked out the gun, killed 2 members of the crew, and wounded the third. While he fired at this hostile position, 2 Germans crawled to a point within 20 yards of the knoll and threw potato-masher grenades at him, but Pfc. Knappenberger killed them both with 1 burst from his automatic rifle. Later, a second machinegun opened fire upon his exposed position from a distance of 100 yards, and this weapon also was silenced by his well-aimed shots.

Shortly thereafter, an enemy 20mm. antiaircraft gun directed fire at him, and again Pfc. Knappenberger returned fire to wound 1 member of the hostile crew. Under tank and artillery shellfire, with shells bursting within 15 yards of him, he held his precarious position and fired at all enemy infantrymen armed with machine pistols and machineguns which he could locate. When his ammunition supply became exhausted, he crawled 15 yards forward through steady machinegun fire, removed rifle clips from the belt of a casualty, returned to his position and resumed firing to repel an assaulting German platoon armed with automatic weapons. Finally, his ammunition supply being completely exhausted, he rejoined his company. Pfc. Knappenberger's intrepid action disrupted the enemy attack for over 2 hours.