Omaha.com

Remembering the fallen

A tribute to troops killed in Iraq and Afghanistan

They came from the region's biggest city and from no-stoplight rural towns. They served their nations honorably in war zones halfway around the world. In fulfilling their duty, they lost their lives. We salute the men and women with Midlands ties who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. We invite you to join us.

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Jon Tumilson - Saying "thank you for serving our country" isn't adequate for the ultimate sacrifice you made to keep me free. May God surround you with his love and comfort your family until you are united in Heav

Posted by Eric Kros on Jan. 23, 2012, 6:20 p.m.

I Am His True Blood Brother And I See How Much He Mint To Everyone Else Now Shawn Was Everything To Me And Sorry To My Brother That No One Even Remembers Him After All I Got Was Nothing To Remember Him By Besides Memories That's Sad And It Shows That Everyone That Was All About Him In 2007 Should Still Be Today And I Miss You Shawn And I Love You Alot And I Will Never Forget You And When It Is My Day To Go To Where You Are Now I Will Meet You There Love You Always Brother I Am Doing Better Now 5 Years Later Charlie

Posted by charlie on Jan. 20, 2012, 2:19 p.m.

Thank you sir for my freedom.

Posted by Joe kunza on Dec. 4, 2011, 11:20 a.m.

We remember you on this Veterans Day. Thank You Travis, you are greatly missed.

Posted by Brandon Muensterman on Nov. 11, 2011, 12:21 p.m.

Barb & Larry, It is with a saddened heart that I heard about the death of your son. The service these young people give for their country is very much appreciated by my husband and me, and I would hope our Nation appreciates their service. Our sympathy to you and your family. We will continue to keep you in our prayers.

Posted by A Lois Whitesides-Stille on Oct. 22, 2011, 8:27 p.m.

Caleb's life has inspired me. Though few,his days on earth were well spent. I hope to live for God as strongly and be a testimony that shines as brightly. I picture him rejoicing in heaven now.

Posted by Amy LeGrand on Oct. 14, 2011, 8:46 a.m.

Brent- you are not forgotten. Not a day goes by that you are not in our thoughts and prayers. We love you and thanks for giving your life so that we may have our freedom. Love you-Sandy and Darwin

Posted by Sandy Bugg on Sept. 3, 2011, 11 a.m.

Thank you for being the greatest mentor I've ever known... never forgotten.

Posted by SGT. Phillip Fryar a.k.a. Jack-a-lope on May 30, 2011, 2:32 p.m.

Debro was a very kind hearted man who loved his family and friends. While on patrol in Bosnia a local town leader noticed his name badge and commented on how his last name "DEBRO" meant "GOOD" in Serbo-Croation. Debro was truely a good man. I also think of you often, I am honored to have known and served with you. We miss you DB.

Posted by Brandon Ehlers on May 15, 2011, 9:24 a.m.

Although I don't personally know any of the soldiers, I have the utmost respect for their courage and commitment, they are what makes America the Greatest. "They will mount up with wings like eagles" Isa.

Posted by lynda on May 12, 2011, 11:45 a.m.

This note is coming way too late and I hope his wife April understands as I pay respect to Shane everytime I hear of another fallen hero. I had the priviledge of meeting Shane and April before Shane Jr was born. I was doing clinical trials using 3D ultrasound at CUMC, April had heard that I was looking for pregnant couples as volunteers for 3D ultrasound imaging. I received an imploring phone call from her late one afternoon if please could I do one for her and Shane since his deployment to Iraq was imminent and she wanted him to have this chance to meet his baby boy prior to departure. We all met at the end of the day and the 3D US images were made and I know he carried some of the pictures with him to Iraq. Fast forwarding to the day of Shane's untimely death and Shane Jr's birth. When I heard the tragic news I immediately knew I had met the three of them before. Even though our paths may not cross again, this experience will always be one of the most dramatic in my career and when I repeat this story to this day my voice chokes up and a tear comes to my eyes when I think of that day and a little boy growing up without knowing his daddy! May God Be Blessing April and Shane Jr.

Posted by Mark Muilenburg on May 8, 2011, 10:35 p.m.

He was a great guy, avid Hawkeye fan and a dedicated Soldier. Juice will be missed by many and remembered for a long time. Juice lost his life not just doing his military job but coming to the aid of of fellow Soldiers that were in danger. We are only left with the memories of James now, we were blessed to have him in our lives while we could. SSG James (Juice) A. Justice RIP

Posted by Wayne on May 5, 2011, 11:02 p.m.

I am sorry for your loss. I am friends with Doug. I look up to him very much and Doug seems exactly what James was. I support your loss and your families loss. Thank you for your time

Posted by Peyton Schlater on May 5, 2011, 7:08 p.m.

A thanks to you and your family for your service. Now you may rest. Farewell and God bless...

Posted by Sgt. Koan Nissen on May 5, 2011, 8:37 a.m.

I met Mark through my nephew Brian who brought him along on our family vacation on a houseboat in Arkansas. We helped him learn how to waterski and was such a kind and respectful young man. I had no idea we were in Afghanistan at the same time and believe I attended his ramp ceremony. I am thankful for the short time we did spend together and respect his selfless sacrifice.

Posted by Michael Bockman on May 3, 2011, 3:49 a.m.

Never Forgotten and Much Loved! We think of you often. Love you, Kenny!!!

Posted by Becca Thomas on May 2, 2011, 7:36 p.m.

Rob was the best brother friend dad everything to me he will always be my hero.

Posted by natalie yllescas on May 2, 2011, 3:50 p.m.

God Bless our Protectors & their families. “Always remember, there have only been two defining forces that have offered to die for you: Jesus Christ and the American Soldier. One died for your soul, the other for your freedom.”

Posted by Jessica on May 1, 2011, 5:43 p.m.

Juice is a true hero. He will always live on in our thoughts. We will all remember his ability to make anyone and everyone smile. We are all in great debt to him and his entire family. RIP

Posted by clark on April 30, 2011, 9:51 p.m.

It has almost been six years since we lost CJ to the war in Iraq. We think of him often and still remember the good times we had together in the short time that we knew him. May he rest in peace and we will see him again some day in the near future. God bless you for the sacrifice you and so many others made for us all.

Posted by William B. York & Joanie on April 26, 2011, 6:30 p.m.

Thank you Brent, for making the ultimate sacrifice so that we may all live in freedom. I never met you or knew you personally, but I know in my heart, that God needed a special Angel, and you were it. God Bless you and may he help your family get through this sadness.

Posted by Sandy Faust on April 13, 2011, 1:27 p.m.

Brent was my brother-in-law but like a fried or just a brother. He brightened people's days and was a funny, loving,caring brother. I still can't beleave that he's acually gone. He adored his wife and his kids. On his wedding day he said to me "Thank you for exepting me into the family so easily." but I don't know who couldn't. He was so smart and just like his own light and if he was around he shared that light. He is a real hero and will be missed by everyone that knew him even if it was only for a day or even less. He thought of everyone else 1st and was so polite. I love him and miss him so very much. It is not enough but it is all I can do and say.

Posted by Shelbie on April 12, 2011, 10:22 p.m.

Thank you soldiers for all you've done. And rest in peace. Your missions are all now complete. And you have all taken pieces of my heart. Thank you for what you've done. And you have made the ultimate sacrifice. Rest in peace. and thank you.

Posted by Brenna on April 4, 2011, 11:01 a.m.

I'm doing a report on terrorism but this hit me harder than any bullet could

Posted by John on March 8, 2011, 1:20 p.m.

I never knew you. Your funeral was a profound tribute to the kind of man you were. In 2007 an IED training lane was dedicated in your name at Camp Anaconda where you spent the last few months of your life. Your sacrifice lives on in your friends and battle buddies. Thanks.

Posted by CH (CPT) Jon Wymer on March 1, 2011, 2:22 p.m.

We served simultaneously not many miles apart, in a land far away from home. You didn't come home. I did. Your sacrifice will not be soon forgotten.

Posted by CH (CPT) Jon Wymer on March 1, 2011, 2:20 p.m.

SPC Muhr was always active in our unit in Korea. I played flag football with him our first year there after we both left Basic Training and AIT Training. His friends posted a note on his facebook page stating that he would give you the shirt off his back. I actually still have a shirt he gave me. I am saddened that he is gone but will never forget his friendship and the times we had together. Rest in peace, Shawn, and God be with your Family.

Posted by Barrett Van Wagner on Feb. 1, 2011, 11:31 a.m.

I do not personally know the fine men and women that have passed. All I can say is I am proud and honored that you put your life up for each and every American in the United State. God BLess!

Posted by Jennifer L.Larsen on Feb. 1, 2011, 11:30 a.m.

I first met Mark in ROTC at Creighton, (I was a few years ahead of him) and he was also in the same National Guard unit and tracked the same degree program as me from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Mark always brought a smile to everyone's face even in the worst of times and conditions. Mark truly cared for his friends and Soldiers and always put their needs above his own. I met back up with Mark in early 2010 at Fort Carson, CO where I found he was assigned to my same Brigade and was deploying with me to Afghanistan as well as a few other friends from our home area of Omaha. My unit had 5 KIA the same day Mark was taken from us and it hit me hard. I traveled to Kandahar to lead the pallbearers in carrying his casket onto the C-17 that was enroute to the United States......(it was one of the most difficult moments in my life). I will never forget Mark and his zest for life. To the Noziska family, I'm sorry for your loss and will always remember your son. If you ever want to talk or hear some funny stories of how I will remember him just let me know. Edwin Pierce CPT, MS 1BCT, 4ID(M) Brigade Medical Planner Afghanistan

Posted by CPT Edwin Pierce on Nov. 24, 2010, 5:55 a.m.

I remember this day well....June 28th, 2007...my wife Gwen had just passed away that morning from the ravages of Ovarian cancer when we also got the word that Dustin had been killed in Iraq. To say the least it was a tragic day. Dustin was a classmate of my son Evan, and was hit particularly hard as this was the first person he has known personally to have died. Evan always commented on how Dustin always took the time to stop and talk with him, how he was pulling practical jokes and how he talked about always wanting to be in the Army and to serve his country. Dustin and his fellow soldiers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice have done so not because they wanted to, but because they knew they might and did so without reservation or hesitation. I know that Valerie his mom is very proud and that the Anderson household is very proud too. We are inexorably linked together Dustin's family and ours not only with the passing of my wife Gwen, but that of a genuine American Hero...Dustin Lee Workman II Rest in peace soldier and stand down...your mission is complete.

Posted by Matthew Anderson on Nov. 19, 2010, 5:05 p.m.

Josh you told me in your final letter you died for something greater than yourself, you found out what true patriotism really means while serving our great nation. I miss you but know that you are in a better place and that you will be there to welcome me home when it is my time. Love you always Dad

Posted by Lonnie Ford on Nov. 16, 2010, 1:54 p.m.

Michael worked for me for a couple of years. He definitely was a jokester but on the other hand he was a very compassionate person. It is with great pride and honor to have had him as a friend and is missed dearly. Think of you daily mike. Until we meet again

Posted by Marvin Scribner on Nov. 15, 2010, 9 p.m.

Michael made friends wherever he went, a big change since he was a very shy toddler. He worked very hard to get into the Marines and was turned down twice before getting a medical waiver with help from Mom and friends. He loved the Camaro Club, cars, shooting, paintball, movies and time with friends. Michael was a jokester and could really brighten someone's day. On a horrible day he would smile and tell me "Have a wicked awesome day mom!" and my day would be better. Loving son, friend, brother, uncle. You are deeply missed. Thank you for your love and sacrifice, Mom and Jack

Posted by Debbie Scholl Chandler on Nov. 14, 2010, 10:14 p.m.

I was honored and humbled to pay tribute to Sgt. Lonnie Allen after his death three days before I left Iraq to come home. It didn't strike me that he was from Bellevue, until I got home and saw all of the news about his upcoming funeral. Although I didn't know him personally, it was my honor to not only help say goodbye to him from the combat zone, but also at his funeral. Thank you all for your service and sacrifice, and to the families. Will

Posted by Will Ackerman on Nov. 14, 2010, 9:15 p.m.

To my dear sweet son... you are missed so terribly by me and everyone who loved you. Life moves forward but you remain in our hearts and souls forever. you have a nephew born after we lost you, named in your memory- Randy Jay Matheny II. Thank you for always being near me and for giving me my "Randy Miracles". Love MOM

Posted by Jan Collins, Mom on Oct. 25, 2010, 1:54 p.m.

My hat's off to you son, you indeed are a swell guy, pops

Posted by Gary Avery on Oct. 12, 2010, 8:26 a.m.

I have lots of amazing memories of my brother! I remember when he was snowboarding down our ditch onto the ROAD....this wasn't one of his more popular days with the neighbor lady! I remember the day he was trying to pull the dent out of his car with the four wheeler. I remember my last birthday I got to spend with him. He knew how much I loved my birthday & how I hated when Thanksgiving fell on my birthday so he bought me a Thanksgiving card & crossed out Thanksgiving & wrote "Birthday". From your "favorite brother" was the last line in the card. My favorite brother & my hero --- my heart aches to see him again. To share a shot with him at the 5 Point Pub in Seattle. There are so many things I want to share with him now, so many days I wish he was here to talk too. I miss you every day of my life... Denae

Posted by Denae on Oct. 11, 2010, 1:11 p.m.

Rob was truly a hero--we will never forget him or the countless others who have sacrificed so much for our often taken for granted freedom. God Bless them all and God Bless America!

Posted by Jackie Fjell on Oct. 10, 2010, 5:59 p.m.

Drew was an amazing son and brother. He had a great personality...always smiling and making others laugh. He lived life to the fullest, and we are better people because of him. We are very proud of him and miss him dearly. He loved being a Marine and serving his country. "Semper Fi" Diane Spaulding Proud Mother of LCpl Drew Weaver

Posted by Diane Spaulding on Oct. 8, 2010, 4:23 p.m.

From one Outlaw to another...it was never the same after we lost you. A lot of Outlaws changed the way they thought and did their jobs. Your sacrifice saved the lives of several of our brothers and sisters at arms. Thank you for your sacrifice, and for teaching so many of us some of life's hard lessons. God lead us to it, Faith will get us through it. Third Herd.

Posted by SSG Richard Bates on Sept. 14, 2010, 11:31 p.m.

Scott, we are approaching 4 years since you were taken from us while doing what you loved, serving our country! You are in my thoughts daily, as I try to live up to the ideals that you believed in, you have set the bar high for all of us. I will do my best to attain the high standards that you always set for yourself. You get me through my days!

Posted by Rich Cecetka on Sept. 13, 2010, 8:21 p.m.

It is a great honor for me to be allowed to learn about Joshua's life and his death. Joshua's family, like my family, live everyday to keep the memory, of their son and brother, and his Legacy of Love alive. Joshua made the Ultimate Sacrifice for his Country and for the memory of all who lost their lives, right here in America on September 11, 2001! In my heart I believe that Sergeant Joshua Ford and Firefighter Michael Roberts, FDNY are friends in a better place and watching over us with love! Gratefully, Veronica Roberts, Rockaway Point, New York

Posted by Veronica Roberts on Sept. 13, 2010, 10:32 a.m.

I just want to say thank you for what you did for us and serving our country it means alot to me. I take care of our older vets. And I love each and one of them and what you did for us I am grateful for it. Thank you again.I know you will be missed. Thanks again.

Posted by Katie Brungardt on Sept. 13, 2010, 5:01 a.m.

Jacob was the last Soldier to be killed under my leadership of the Nebraska National Guard. He will always hold a special place in my heart. His death came at the time when the al Queda terrorists back had been broken by the surge. I pray for his wife Lisa and think often of his parents Rod and Patricia.

Posted by Lt Gen (NE Ret) Roger Lempke on Sept. 12, 2010, 10:51 p.m.

A regret of mine as Adjutant General was that I could not attend William's funeral because my own daughter was graduating from basic training. But I recall talking with his brave wife Deanna. I wish her and their family all of the best--I think of William often.

Posted by Lt Gen (NE Ret) Roger Lempke on Sept. 12, 2010, 10:43 p.m.

Randy was the first Nebraska Army National Guard killed during what has become known as "The Surge". From a patriotic family his sister Karen was also serving in Iraq at the time of Randy's death. My heart goes out to the rest his family--especially, his dad, Gary, and Kay; and his mother, Jan.

Posted by Lt Gen (NE Ret) Roger Lempke on Sept. 12, 2010, 10:39 p.m.

Germaine is remembered as a "kind, gentle soldier". He served during perhaps the most violent time period of the Iraq conflict after the Phase III invasion. I think of him often. I hope that his brothers Alvin and Maurice are carrying his legacy proudly for his parents Alvin and Priscilla.

Posted by Lt Gen (NE Ret) Roger Lempke on Sept. 12, 2010, 10:29 p.m.

Think of you almost everyday Josh. You were always there whenever I needed a laugh, a smoke, or just someone to shoot the bull with. You were like one of my kids, all of the 2nd Plt. was. I wish I could have brought you back with us, you were one hell of a special person. It was an honor and a privilege to have know you and served with you. Keep a shot of captain morgan waiting for me and one day we'll drink it together. Old Daddy Belt

Posted by Mike Belt on Sept. 12, 2010, 10:27 p.m.

I was humbled to stand at the site of the tip-over accident that took Jeff's life. A confluence of circumstances as is always the case in war led to this unfortunate occurence. Later, the Army developed special training to deal with losses from HUMVEE tip-overs in water. The bravery displayed by Jennifer, Jeff's wife, and his father, Robert, speak the sturdy stock Nebraskans are made of. I think of Jeff and those he left behind in Cairo every day.

Posted by Lt Gen (NE Ret) Roger Lempke on Sept. 12, 2010, 10:11 p.m.

I never had the honor to meet Josh--but he came alive through his family and community. Lonnie and Linda perpetuate his legacy. Lonnie, in particular, has done so much to help others who have lost loved ones to war. I hope he knows that I grieve with him.

Posted by Lt Gen (NE Ret) Roger Lempke on Sept. 12, 2010, 9:56 p.m.

Jeremy was a fine young Soldier taken from us far to early in his career. His wife Sarah and mother Kathy bravely dealt with the loss and the hurt. I want them to know that I think of Jeremy every day.

Posted by Lt Gen (NE Ret) Roger Lempke on Sept. 12, 2010, 9:48 p.m.

What I recall about Linda is how she appears in a photo of her squad. Without question she is the leader. Her professional demeanor is apparent, even from a photo. I want her husband, Doug; parents; and sister, Vicki to know Linda is remembered fondly.

Posted by Lt Gen (NE Ret) Roger Lempke on Sept. 12, 2010, 9:41 p.m.

Tricia stepped forward to fill a needed position in the 313th. She is remembered as dedicated, professional, and compassionate Soldier. I want her mother Pat to know that we think of Tricia every day.

Posted by Lt Gen (NE Ret) Roger Lempke on Sept. 12, 2010, 9:31 p.m.

I was blessed to have Jeremy has my son he touched the lives of so many during this short time here. He's with God now and watches over his family growing up and how AJ and Mackenzie are so much like him love Dad

Posted by scott on Sept. 12, 2010, 10:24 a.m.

Really heartfelt, genuine, considerate guy...always there to make you smile or laugh, to make the best of any situation. Never was a doubt in his mind that serving his country was the highest honor he could dream of achieving...he spoke of it with a seriousness and passion few people can ascribe to. Thinking of you Matt-----lots of love

Posted by anon on Sept. 11, 2010, 10:50 p.m.

Joel was the finest Soldier I have ever had the pleasure of serving with. He was a great man and a true hero. He is greatly missed every day and I will never forget him.

Posted by MAJ Kyle A. Moulton on Sept. 11, 2010, 8:24 p.m.

We'll never forget you, Tricia. You are missed each and every day. You are in our hearts forever.

Posted by Mary Jo and Frank on Sept. 11, 2010, 6:06 p.m.

SSGT Nisely, Never forget you brother, you were always a friend and a great man. You will never be forgotten. I will always carry you and Kampa with me.

Posted by Dan Morse on Sept. 11, 2010, 12:34 p.m.

Remembering all soldiers today, but especially yours. God Bless you all

Posted by Mark and Sally Sup on Sept. 11, 2010, 8:14 a.m.

We remember and think of all of you and others who have made this sacrifice for our country. God Bless you all!!

Posted by Mark and Sally Sup on Sept. 11, 2010, 8:11 a.m.