4 October 2011
Duck and Cover - Fate Fairies - book version
This entry was posted on 10/4/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Fate Fairies:Fate Fairies - book version.
Periodically in grade school, we were herded into the basement of my three-room Wisconsin country school for "Duck and Cover" drills. Some drill! Sit under a table for what seemed like hours and tell jokes and giggle. My wife's little school did not have a basement. She was ushered into the hall way. They were to huddle near their respective rooms as so if the "big one" dropped, the recovery crews could link the bodies to names and ages. Like there would be a recovery crew and if there was one, like they would have time to check on one of hundreds of schools.
When the Cuban Missile Crisis happened some 50 years ago, for us kids, it was hard to tell if it was "drill," or a real alert. We were sent home early one day during the Crisis. The buses waited as we exited the school in regimented columns. Through the open door, the lady bus driver gave me an impatient glower as she sat with her hand on the door lever - she wore a well-worn off-white sweater with gold glitter. Her cat-eye-rim glasses had like glitter. Now in retrospect, what an odd silhouette she portrayed while the world came rather close to becoming a scorched moon-scape.
"Run Bobby, run!," my teacher yelled to me from the school steps. "You are not taking this serious."
"Why? We would be incinerated soon enough. No need to rush." I was six years old.
It was collective child abuse on a macro scale. A few years later, in high school we had to take a class called "Medical Self Help." It taught us how to treat wounds and burns from a nuclear blast. I am told we were the last class to take it in my school. It was determined that it so depressed the students, the cost benefit analysis dictated it be canned. Besides, we all hounded the math teacher with comments like, "So why study for the algebra exam, we are all going to be incinerated anyway soon enough, right?."
Long before the long and odious "Cold War" fizzled away around 1990, nuclear fallout shelters were no longer maintained. There became a quiet collective consciousness that the notion of trying to survive a war where the combatants could easily destroy the greater world several times over, was folly, silliness, and probably..., insanity.
There never was any type of "official proclamation." Something like, "Oh, fuck it people; if the bombs start a'flying, just bend over, reach up, and kiss your citizen asses goodbye." No, instead, symbols of the mighty silent war quietly began to fade. The odious and ubiquitous yellow signs above the basement doors to heavy steal and concrete buildings became collector items.
We weren't obliterated in a fiery implosion. The world survived. The paradigm that insists we are too smart to incinerate ourselves stands tall. And, we take great comfort in our clever survival.
Society smugly proclaims, "We must be smart, see, we are not shadows on the sidewalks. We ain't blowed ourselves up at all!"
I see it as a date-with-fate on a colossal scale. Millions of people were not incinerated. At least so far. The fate fairies were otherwise preoccupied for the last 60 years.
But again, regardless of fate - you know what "They" say? You know those slippery and Orwellian "They" us rabble always refer to as experts. The same creepy "They," Stanely Milgram determined guides the darkest recesses of our psyches. You know, that "They" we all so willingly defer obedience to.
You know what "They" say?
"We as a people, are too smart to blow ourselves up."
...right? ...right?
Note: This blog "Fate Fairies" - book version Category is a work in progress. The original vignettes are being edited for book form. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Fate Fairies Page for an ordered chronology of the book vignettes (chapters).
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Monday, October 3, 2011
Pipe in the Stomach; "Walk it off Punk!" - Fate Fairies - book version
3 October 2011
Pipe in the stomach; "Walk it off punk!" - Fate Fairies - book version
This entry was posted on 10/3/2011 2:00 AM and is filed under Fate Fairies:Fate Fairies - book version.
I must have been in First or Second Grade. John F. Kennedy was still President. A heavy set kid named Jacky who was in the Fourth Grade was a bully of sorts. He and his thin and lanky red-headed neighbor Dave would chuck rotten apples at us little kids as we rode our bikes home. The three-room school we peddled to and from was in the village of Lima Center, the type of place that struggled to maintain a population of 90 even in a better economy. There were about 60 kids in the six grades. We did not have kindergarten in those days.
Some of the kids came from the village proper. A few more lived in rural houses; usually old farmstead houses that no longer supported farm buildings. The lion's share of the kids came from a plethora of family farms. There seemed to be a distinct demarcation line in the personality traits of the village kids versus the farm kids. The village kids and especially the boys, were tough cigarette smoking children of factory working parents. They seemed to play the roll of perennial pranksters and relentless purveyors of shenanigans. The farm kids however, often came to school wearing their barn chore work cloths. They were usually more preoccupied with all things agriculture in nature.
One interesting, or perhaps better described as mysterious village family, lived across from the school in a basement of an unfinished house. A recent drive back out to the old village, revealed said lot is now abandoned with brush and trees growing up through that old basement foundation; the house never did get built. The school still sits across the road now functioning almost half a century as a ruddy apartment. At the property line, an old heavy iron swing frame still sits firmly anchored in with the same cement poured probably now well over a century ago.
Jacky came from a humble house on the edge of the village. He and his confederate Dave firmly fell into the village kids' category.
One day, Jacky manifested his brand of chicanery on the playground. It was basically an old farm field. The baseball backstop was some chain-link fence stretched between a couple of old telephone poles. There was a couple of rusty swings, a creaking merry-go-round, and a couple of monkey-bar climbers. The skeletal framework of one of the climbers looked like the capsule of the Mercury space vehicles. We were after all in the "space race".
The monkey-bars always mysteriously had some parts missing. During recess on the day in question, I looked up from a game of tag with pals to see a monkey-bar pipe spinning through the air right at me. The three-foot length of pipe rotated through the crisp fall-of-the-year, Wisconsin air, like the blades on a Huey helicopter. As the pipe seemed to be hovering closer and closer, in slow motion, I froze in my tracks. In the background of the ever approaching projectile, was the laughing square face of..., Jacky. His bulky torso heaved with each, "Ha, ha, ha." His face had an incredulous gleam of hopeful expectation. Accomplice Dave stood in the background with a supportive grin of approval, white teeth standing contrast to his freckled complexion.
The pipe hit me crossways in the stomach. Thank God! If it had hit me like a javelin it would have impaled me. I remember Jacky running up to me and saying with a snarl, "Don't cry kid, and keep your mouth shut, tough it out, you little punk!"
My stomach hurt for a month. I didn't cry, I walked it off; and, I have kept my mouth shut for over 50 years...
..., of course, until I needed fodder for this vignette.
Note: This blog "Fate Fairies" - book version Category is a work in progress. The original vignettes are edited for book form. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Fate Fairies Page for an ordered chronology of the book vignettes (chapters).
Pipe in the stomach; "Walk it off punk!" - Fate Fairies - book version
This entry was posted on 10/3/2011 2:00 AM and is filed under Fate Fairies:Fate Fairies - book version.
I must have been in First or Second Grade. John F. Kennedy was still President. A heavy set kid named Jacky who was in the Fourth Grade was a bully of sorts. He and his thin and lanky red-headed neighbor Dave would chuck rotten apples at us little kids as we rode our bikes home. The three-room school we peddled to and from was in the village of Lima Center, the type of place that struggled to maintain a population of 90 even in a better economy. There were about 60 kids in the six grades. We did not have kindergarten in those days.
Some of the kids came from the village proper. A few more lived in rural houses; usually old farmstead houses that no longer supported farm buildings. The lion's share of the kids came from a plethora of family farms. There seemed to be a distinct demarcation line in the personality traits of the village kids versus the farm kids. The village kids and especially the boys, were tough cigarette smoking children of factory working parents. They seemed to play the roll of perennial pranksters and relentless purveyors of shenanigans. The farm kids however, often came to school wearing their barn chore work cloths. They were usually more preoccupied with all things agriculture in nature.
One interesting, or perhaps better described as mysterious village family, lived across from the school in a basement of an unfinished house. A recent drive back out to the old village, revealed said lot is now abandoned with brush and trees growing up through that old basement foundation; the house never did get built. The school still sits across the road now functioning almost half a century as a ruddy apartment. At the property line, an old heavy iron swing frame still sits firmly anchored in with the same cement poured probably now well over a century ago.
Jacky came from a humble house on the edge of the village. He and his confederate Dave firmly fell into the village kids' category.
One day, Jacky manifested his brand of chicanery on the playground. It was basically an old farm field. The baseball backstop was some chain-link fence stretched between a couple of old telephone poles. There was a couple of rusty swings, a creaking merry-go-round, and a couple of monkey-bar climbers. The skeletal framework of one of the climbers looked like the capsule of the Mercury space vehicles. We were after all in the "space race".
The monkey-bars always mysteriously had some parts missing. During recess on the day in question, I looked up from a game of tag with pals to see a monkey-bar pipe spinning through the air right at me. The three-foot length of pipe rotated through the crisp fall-of-the-year, Wisconsin air, like the blades on a Huey helicopter. As the pipe seemed to be hovering closer and closer, in slow motion, I froze in my tracks. In the background of the ever approaching projectile, was the laughing square face of..., Jacky. His bulky torso heaved with each, "Ha, ha, ha." His face had an incredulous gleam of hopeful expectation. Accomplice Dave stood in the background with a supportive grin of approval, white teeth standing contrast to his freckled complexion.
The pipe hit me crossways in the stomach. Thank God! If it had hit me like a javelin it would have impaled me. I remember Jacky running up to me and saying with a snarl, "Don't cry kid, and keep your mouth shut, tough it out, you little punk!"
My stomach hurt for a month. I didn't cry, I walked it off; and, I have kept my mouth shut for over 50 years...
..., of course, until I needed fodder for this vignette.
Note: This blog "Fate Fairies" - book version Category is a work in progress. The original vignettes are edited for book form. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Fate Fairies Page for an ordered chronology of the book vignettes (chapters).
Semi vs old four-door Ford - Fate Fairies - book version
3 October 2011
Semi vs old four-door Ford - Fate Fairies - book version
This entry was posted on 10/3/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Fate Fairies - book version.
It must speak to the passing of reaching 50 years old. I never pondered it much 20 to 30 years ago - that slide into mortality consciousness one realizes with age. It happens one day without fanfare. You suddenly have an epiphany on some fateful moment as you step back out of an intersection to avoid a car and say to yourself, "Woe, I could of just died here." There have been so many of these instances in my life, I feel it begs revisiting them.
Hence begins, "Fate Fairies." You know the fate fairies. Those little spiritual troublemakers that answer to what ever god you carry with you. If you are lucky they are preoccupied with minutia like hiding your car keys and wallet and other such nonsense. Mine, however seem to act as if they smoke pot and party all night - then only to show up for work and spend a great deal of intellectual resources figuring out ways to almost kill me but never quite succeeding. My fate fairies seem to bask in orchestrating perennial near misses for me with the afterlife - or what ever you would like to call the place one goes after your services are no longer needed here on earth - make up your own name for it.
One of my first vivid memories is of Mom and Dad heading home as we drove out of Janesville, Wisconsin, on the way back to the farm. The four miles or so of Highway 26 north of Janesville has always been notorious. It must have been around 1960-61 or so. It was long before that short jaunt between Janesville and Milton had been rebuilt into a smooth, four-lane divided boulevard. The busy vehicular and overwhelmed commerce artery was so inadequate and dangerous back in the day, by the 1990s, local ambulance services began to put up crosses along the route where drivers had died over the years. As a vehicle came over the hill into the more open stretch of country heading toward Milton, drivers and passengers could see the route was peppered with the little white pieces of wood.
Dad had to get back home to do the never ending farm chores. We had probably been to Janesville to see my Mom's mother. Grandma lived alone in the house my grandfather had started building on the near north side of Janesville. He had died in the mid-1930s back in the days of 14 hour work days at the General Motors plant; and, there was none of the modern medicine we all take for granted nowadays. Mom's brothers, my uncles, had to finish the project. My Dad headed out of town on the then narrow, two-lane, hilly, State Highway 26 - known as Milton Avenue in the built-up part of town. The old house was just a couple blocks off said avenue.
All I remember is Mom hollering at Dad to, "Look out, Dearie!"
"Dearie," is what she called my father when something discussed was serious, such as money, the farm, Dad's quirky brother, or in this case..., barreling down on an eighteen-wheeler.
The old truck roared up the hill into town right at us.
Dad always got hyped up when it neared chore time. He was a stickler for punctuality and taking the cows seriously - they were our proverbial bread and butter - those beasts' milk was the only source of our monthly paychecks. So, much of my memory of my father is of him working with and for, the meticulous tending of those animals. Having the chance to work along side my father on the farm afforded me the unique perspective of knowing things about his work ethic even my mother was not privy to. But, I also got a glimpse of his more temperamental sides as well. In his predictable late afternoon hast regarding the pending "chore-time," Dad sped up to pass the slow car in front of us. But as Mom so noted, there before us was the on-coming grill..., of a big ugly, faded-white..., Mack truck.
In those days the trucks and cars were built like tanks - iron welded to iron. Wrecks often looked like film footage from old World War II news segments - heaps of iron and steel with a tire or two sticking out. Also, in those days the road shoulders did not always exist like today. Dad flung the old Ford four-door (we never owned a new car) into the opposite side ditch to our left. Some of those old ditches were deep. The old Ford held, the semi passed within inches, and Dad slung the car back out into the on-coming lane and then quickly veered us back into our correct lane.
I do not remember the conversation on the rest of the 14 mile ride home to the farm. In fact, I never remember the instance ever..., and I mean ever, being brought up again as long as either one of my parents were alive.
Note: This blog "Fate Fairies" - book version Category is a work in progress. The original vignettes are being edited for book form. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Fate Fairies Page for an ordered chronology of the book vignettes (chapters).
Semi vs old four-door Ford - Fate Fairies - book version
This entry was posted on 10/3/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Fate Fairies - book version.
It must speak to the passing of reaching 50 years old. I never pondered it much 20 to 30 years ago - that slide into mortality consciousness one realizes with age. It happens one day without fanfare. You suddenly have an epiphany on some fateful moment as you step back out of an intersection to avoid a car and say to yourself, "Woe, I could of just died here." There have been so many of these instances in my life, I feel it begs revisiting them.
Hence begins, "Fate Fairies." You know the fate fairies. Those little spiritual troublemakers that answer to what ever god you carry with you. If you are lucky they are preoccupied with minutia like hiding your car keys and wallet and other such nonsense. Mine, however seem to act as if they smoke pot and party all night - then only to show up for work and spend a great deal of intellectual resources figuring out ways to almost kill me but never quite succeeding. My fate fairies seem to bask in orchestrating perennial near misses for me with the afterlife - or what ever you would like to call the place one goes after your services are no longer needed here on earth - make up your own name for it.
One of my first vivid memories is of Mom and Dad heading home as we drove out of Janesville, Wisconsin, on the way back to the farm. The four miles or so of Highway 26 north of Janesville has always been notorious. It must have been around 1960-61 or so. It was long before that short jaunt between Janesville and Milton had been rebuilt into a smooth, four-lane divided boulevard. The busy vehicular and overwhelmed commerce artery was so inadequate and dangerous back in the day, by the 1990s, local ambulance services began to put up crosses along the route where drivers had died over the years. As a vehicle came over the hill into the more open stretch of country heading toward Milton, drivers and passengers could see the route was peppered with the little white pieces of wood.
Dad had to get back home to do the never ending farm chores. We had probably been to Janesville to see my Mom's mother. Grandma lived alone in the house my grandfather had started building on the near north side of Janesville. He had died in the mid-1930s back in the days of 14 hour work days at the General Motors plant; and, there was none of the modern medicine we all take for granted nowadays. Mom's brothers, my uncles, had to finish the project. My Dad headed out of town on the then narrow, two-lane, hilly, State Highway 26 - known as Milton Avenue in the built-up part of town. The old house was just a couple blocks off said avenue.
All I remember is Mom hollering at Dad to, "Look out, Dearie!"
"Dearie," is what she called my father when something discussed was serious, such as money, the farm, Dad's quirky brother, or in this case..., barreling down on an eighteen-wheeler.
The old truck roared up the hill into town right at us.
Dad always got hyped up when it neared chore time. He was a stickler for punctuality and taking the cows seriously - they were our proverbial bread and butter - those beasts' milk was the only source of our monthly paychecks. So, much of my memory of my father is of him working with and for, the meticulous tending of those animals. Having the chance to work along side my father on the farm afforded me the unique perspective of knowing things about his work ethic even my mother was not privy to. But, I also got a glimpse of his more temperamental sides as well. In his predictable late afternoon hast regarding the pending "chore-time," Dad sped up to pass the slow car in front of us. But as Mom so noted, there before us was the on-coming grill..., of a big ugly, faded-white..., Mack truck.
In those days the trucks and cars were built like tanks - iron welded to iron. Wrecks often looked like film footage from old World War II news segments - heaps of iron and steel with a tire or two sticking out. Also, in those days the road shoulders did not always exist like today. Dad flung the old Ford four-door (we never owned a new car) into the opposite side ditch to our left. Some of those old ditches were deep. The old Ford held, the semi passed within inches, and Dad slung the car back out into the on-coming lane and then quickly veered us back into our correct lane.
I do not remember the conversation on the rest of the 14 mile ride home to the farm. In fact, I never remember the instance ever..., and I mean ever, being brought up again as long as either one of my parents were alive.
Note: This blog "Fate Fairies" - book version Category is a work in progress. The original vignettes are being edited for book form. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Fate Fairies Page for an ordered chronology of the book vignettes (chapters).
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Army National Guard Specialist Eric U. Ramirez - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afganistan/Iraq
20 September 2011
Army National Guard Specialist Eric U. Ramirez - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afganistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 9/20/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army National Guard Specialist Eric Ulysses Ramirez, 31, San Diego, California (family connections in Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin), was killed on Thursday, February 12, 2004, in Abu Ghraib, Iraq. Abu Ghraib is about 30 miles west of Baghdad. Ramirez was on patrol when attacked by small arms fire, a rocket propelled grenade, and an improvised explosive device (roadside bomb). Specialist Ramirez was assigned to the 670th Military Police Company, California Army National Guard, out of National City, California.
The Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs Web site indicates Ramirez's wife Tracey has resided in Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin.
The Orlando Sentinel notes Eric Ramirez was married in August 2001. Ramirez's father is a paster and schoolteacher in Mascotte, Florida, and officiated at the wedding. Ramirez had a daughter and an infant son at the time of his death. The Orlando Sentinel article went on to say Ramirez had been living in southern California since he ended his active-duty Navy service in the 1990s. He was working as a deputy sheriff in San Diego County when recalled to active duty in early 2003. The Sentinel also mentioned Eric Ramirez was born in Greensboro, North Carolina in November of 1972. His family moved to Orlando, Florida in 1973 and then to Sorrento, Florida, in 1977. Both Ramirez's parents have worked for the Lake County, Florida, school system for around 25 years. Eric Ramirez graduated from Mount Dora High School, Mount Dora, Florida, in 1991. Ramirez's wife Tracy's hometown is Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin. The Web site policelink.monster.com notes Ramirez's wife was also a veteran of the Navy.
The Los Angles Times notes Eric played soccer, baseball and football in school. After graduating he joined the Navy and was stationed in Texas; Europe; and, San Diego. After leaving the Navy, Ramirez enlisted in the California Army National Guard, and went to work for the San Diego County Sheriff's Department. He met his future wife in San Diego. Ramirez had only a couple months left in his National Guard obligation.
At the time of his death Army National Guard Specialist Eric Ramirez was survived by his wife Tracey Benson Ramirez; daughter Isis; son Chase Eric Charles; parents Felix and Maria Ramirez; brother Adel; sister Xochil Elmore; and, maternal grandparents, Juan and Juana Gutierrez. Specialist Ramires was buried at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell.
Information for this short biography about Army National Guard Specialist Eric Ulysses Ramirez was pieced together from the following sources: orlandosentinel.com, "Army Sgt. Eric U. Ramirez," February 15, 2004; Los Angles Times, articles.latimes.com, Obituaries | MILITARY DEATHS, "Army National Guard Spc. Eric U. Ramirez, 31; Killed by Gunfire, Bomb," February 29, 2004; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death. ( If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ).
Army National Guard Specialist Eric U. Ramirez - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afganistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 9/20/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army National Guard Specialist Eric Ulysses Ramirez, 31, San Diego, California (family connections in Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin), was killed on Thursday, February 12, 2004, in Abu Ghraib, Iraq. Abu Ghraib is about 30 miles west of Baghdad. Ramirez was on patrol when attacked by small arms fire, a rocket propelled grenade, and an improvised explosive device (roadside bomb). Specialist Ramirez was assigned to the 670th Military Police Company, California Army National Guard, out of National City, California.
The Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs Web site indicates Ramirez's wife Tracey has resided in Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin.
The Orlando Sentinel notes Eric Ramirez was married in August 2001. Ramirez's father is a paster and schoolteacher in Mascotte, Florida, and officiated at the wedding. Ramirez had a daughter and an infant son at the time of his death. The Orlando Sentinel article went on to say Ramirez had been living in southern California since he ended his active-duty Navy service in the 1990s. He was working as a deputy sheriff in San Diego County when recalled to active duty in early 2003. The Sentinel also mentioned Eric Ramirez was born in Greensboro, North Carolina in November of 1972. His family moved to Orlando, Florida in 1973 and then to Sorrento, Florida, in 1977. Both Ramirez's parents have worked for the Lake County, Florida, school system for around 25 years. Eric Ramirez graduated from Mount Dora High School, Mount Dora, Florida, in 1991. Ramirez's wife Tracy's hometown is Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin. The Web site policelink.monster.com notes Ramirez's wife was also a veteran of the Navy.
The Los Angles Times notes Eric played soccer, baseball and football in school. After graduating he joined the Navy and was stationed in Texas; Europe; and, San Diego. After leaving the Navy, Ramirez enlisted in the California Army National Guard, and went to work for the San Diego County Sheriff's Department. He met his future wife in San Diego. Ramirez had only a couple months left in his National Guard obligation.
At the time of his death Army National Guard Specialist Eric Ramirez was survived by his wife Tracey Benson Ramirez; daughter Isis; son Chase Eric Charles; parents Felix and Maria Ramirez; brother Adel; sister Xochil Elmore; and, maternal grandparents, Juan and Juana Gutierrez. Specialist Ramires was buried at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell.
Information for this short biography about Army National Guard Specialist Eric Ulysses Ramirez was pieced together from the following sources: orlandosentinel.com, "Army Sgt. Eric U. Ramirez," February 15, 2004; Los Angles Times, articles.latimes.com, Obituaries | MILITARY DEATHS, "Army National Guard Spc. Eric U. Ramirez, 31; Killed by Gunfire, Bomb," February 29, 2004; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death. ( If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ).
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Army Specialist Robert J. Cook - Wisconsin Miltary Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
13 September 2011
Army Specialist Robert J. Cook - Wisconsin Miltary Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 9/13/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Specialist Robert James Cook, 24, Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, died on Thursday, January 29, 2004. He was killed in in an explosion in the village of Dege Hendu which is west of Ghazni, Afghanistan. The area is about 90 miles southwest of Kabul, the capital of the county. Specialist Cook was an Army Ranger and Scout Sniper assigned to Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, based out of Fort Drum, New York. He was one of eight soldiers killed in an accidental explosion of rifle ammunition and mortar rounds at a weapons cache.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel noted Robert was a 1997 graduate of Sun Prairie High School. Cook loved to fish, play football, and golf. He is remembered as being a member of the1995 Divison I state football champion playing defensive tackle. Cook had worked for three years in construction and carpentry after graduating and then joined the Army in 2000. He was deployed to Afghanistan in August of 2003. The Journal Sentinel went on to mention Specialist Robert Cook was the first Wisconsin military service person to die in the war in Afghanistan.
The Web site afghanistan.pigstye.net quoting from an unnamed source said Cook was training to become a medic when he deployed to Afghanistan. He hoped to someday become a nurse when he got out of the service.
An obituary posted on findagrave.com noted Robert Cook was born on May 1, 1979. At the time of his death Army Specialist Robert Cook was survived by: Mother Sandra L. Selheim; step-father Robert M. Selheim; birth father Douglas Cook; sister Jennifer R. Cook; half-brothers Tristan and Kyle Cook; grandmother Wanda Barden Williams; grandfather James Williams; step-grandmother Chris Barden; aunts and uncles Judith Judd, Joan Prinzing, Richard Barden, and David Barden
Information for this short biography about Army Specialist Robert James Cook was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Mother's fears borne out in soldier's death," January 30, 2004; afghanistan.pigstye.net, "Robert Cook," October 11, 2004; findgrave.com, "Specialist Robert J. Cook," March 31, 2006; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Army Specialist Robert J. Cook - Wisconsin Miltary Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 9/13/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Specialist Robert James Cook, 24, Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, died on Thursday, January 29, 2004. He was killed in in an explosion in the village of Dege Hendu which is west of Ghazni, Afghanistan. The area is about 90 miles southwest of Kabul, the capital of the county. Specialist Cook was an Army Ranger and Scout Sniper assigned to Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, based out of Fort Drum, New York. He was one of eight soldiers killed in an accidental explosion of rifle ammunition and mortar rounds at a weapons cache.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel noted Robert was a 1997 graduate of Sun Prairie High School. Cook loved to fish, play football, and golf. He is remembered as being a member of the1995 Divison I state football champion playing defensive tackle. Cook had worked for three years in construction and carpentry after graduating and then joined the Army in 2000. He was deployed to Afghanistan in August of 2003. The Journal Sentinel went on to mention Specialist Robert Cook was the first Wisconsin military service person to die in the war in Afghanistan.
The Web site afghanistan.pigstye.net quoting from an unnamed source said Cook was training to become a medic when he deployed to Afghanistan. He hoped to someday become a nurse when he got out of the service.
An obituary posted on findagrave.com noted Robert Cook was born on May 1, 1979. At the time of his death Army Specialist Robert Cook was survived by: Mother Sandra L. Selheim; step-father Robert M. Selheim; birth father Douglas Cook; sister Jennifer R. Cook; half-brothers Tristan and Kyle Cook; grandmother Wanda Barden Williams; grandfather James Williams; step-grandmother Chris Barden; aunts and uncles Judith Judd, Joan Prinzing, Richard Barden, and David Barden
Information for this short biography about Army Specialist Robert James Cook was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Mother's fears borne out in soldier's death," January 30, 2004; afghanistan.pigstye.net, "Robert Cook," October 11, 2004; findgrave.com, "Specialist Robert J. Cook," March 31, 2006; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Army Major Christopher J. Splinter - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
6 September 2011
Army Major Christopher J. Splinter - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 9/6/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Major Christopher Jon Splinter, 43, Platteville, Wisconsin, died Wednesday, December 24, 2003, near Samarra, Iraq. He was killed when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device (roadside bomb) on Highway 1 outside Samarra which lies north of Baghdad. He was one of three soldiers killed in the attack. Major Splinter was assigned to Headquarters Company, 5th Engineer Battalion, 1st Engineer Brigade, based out of Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel notes Major Splinter had indicated he was confident. "Iraq would one day be a model state in the Middle East." And he believe, "The war was a just cause." The Journal Sentinel went on to note Splinter had seven sisters and four brothers. He was the third-oldest child and second-oldest son. Splinter graduated from Platteville High School in 1979. He had been named All-Conference in football and track. After high school he earned a degree in business administration from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and had been in the ROTC program. The Journal Sentinel noted Splinter married his high school sweetheart, Penny (Barton) Splinter in 1985. They had been married for 18 years. Splinter graduated from UW-Platteville and earned his military officer commission in 1990 as a second lieutenant; and, had remained on active duty in the Army since that time. Splinter had left for Iraq in July of 2003.
The Web site iagenweb.org posted articles from the Telegraph Herald out of Dubuque, Iowa that indicated that when he was younger he had worked as a mechanic for a time at CB&C in Cuba City. Christopher Splinter was born on October 9, 1960, in Dubuque, Iowa. Splinter first enlisted in the 389th Dubuque Reserves while he trained to became a commissioned officer in 1989 as a second lieutenant. He had been in he military for 14 years. The Web site went on to quote that Splinter enjoyed fishing, hunting, card playing, and spending time with his children and family. Splinter had made his home in Waynesville, Missouri near Fort Leonard Wood. The Web site also noted Splinter's Battalion was attached to the 4th Infantry Division in Iraq and razed obstacles and helped the division's mobility during hostilities by laying roads and bridges. The Battalion also helped in the rebuilding Iraq. Major Splinter was the battalion's S-3 - its operations officer, in charge of plans. The Web site noted Splinter was interviewed in an Army News Service published September 5, 2003 and was quoted as saying the 5th Engineer Battalion was forming a company of the Iraq Civilian Defense Corps. Splinter was helping with the Iraqi effort. He also led combat patrols and weapons searches.
Wisconsin 2005 Assembly Joint Resolution 62 notes Major Splinter was awarded the 4th ID combat patch, the Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart for his meritorious service and bravery and ultimate sacrifice during combat operations.
At the time of his death Army Major Christopher Jon Splinter was survived by his wife Penny; two children Mitchell and Rachel; parents Virgil and Barbera Splinter; brothers Tim, Michael, Daniel, and Mark; sisters Cathy (Brian) Beck, Cheryl Splinter, Ann (Gary) DeFore, Janice (Jim) Withrow, Therese Splinter, Rose Splinter, and Karen (Mike) Paulus; and, father and mother-in-law Richard and Mary Barton. Army Major Christopher J. Splinter was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart; he was buried with full military honors at Calvary Cemetery, Platteville, Wisconsin.
Information for this short biography about Army Major Christopher Jon Splinter was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Army major believed Iraq would become stable, model state," December 26, 2003; iagenweb.org quoting the Telegraph Herald, "Platteville man dies in Iraq," December 26, 2003, "Teacher recalls fallen soldier," December 27, 2003, "Christopher J. Splinter," December 31, 2003, and, "Platteville mourns one of nation's 'great warriors'," Jan 3, 2004; Wisconsin 2005 Assembly Joint Resolution 62,, "Relating to: the life and military service of United States Army Major Christopher J. Splinter," October 25, 2005; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Army Major Christopher J. Splinter - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 9/6/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Major Christopher Jon Splinter, 43, Platteville, Wisconsin, died Wednesday, December 24, 2003, near Samarra, Iraq. He was killed when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device (roadside bomb) on Highway 1 outside Samarra which lies north of Baghdad. He was one of three soldiers killed in the attack. Major Splinter was assigned to Headquarters Company, 5th Engineer Battalion, 1st Engineer Brigade, based out of Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel notes Major Splinter had indicated he was confident. "Iraq would one day be a model state in the Middle East." And he believe, "The war was a just cause." The Journal Sentinel went on to note Splinter had seven sisters and four brothers. He was the third-oldest child and second-oldest son. Splinter graduated from Platteville High School in 1979. He had been named All-Conference in football and track. After high school he earned a degree in business administration from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and had been in the ROTC program. The Journal Sentinel noted Splinter married his high school sweetheart, Penny (Barton) Splinter in 1985. They had been married for 18 years. Splinter graduated from UW-Platteville and earned his military officer commission in 1990 as a second lieutenant; and, had remained on active duty in the Army since that time. Splinter had left for Iraq in July of 2003.
The Web site iagenweb.org posted articles from the Telegraph Herald out of Dubuque, Iowa that indicated that when he was younger he had worked as a mechanic for a time at CB&C in Cuba City. Christopher Splinter was born on October 9, 1960, in Dubuque, Iowa. Splinter first enlisted in the 389th Dubuque Reserves while he trained to became a commissioned officer in 1989 as a second lieutenant. He had been in he military for 14 years. The Web site went on to quote that Splinter enjoyed fishing, hunting, card playing, and spending time with his children and family. Splinter had made his home in Waynesville, Missouri near Fort Leonard Wood. The Web site also noted Splinter's Battalion was attached to the 4th Infantry Division in Iraq and razed obstacles and helped the division's mobility during hostilities by laying roads and bridges. The Battalion also helped in the rebuilding Iraq. Major Splinter was the battalion's S-3 - its operations officer, in charge of plans. The Web site noted Splinter was interviewed in an Army News Service published September 5, 2003 and was quoted as saying the 5th Engineer Battalion was forming a company of the Iraq Civilian Defense Corps. Splinter was helping with the Iraqi effort. He also led combat patrols and weapons searches.
Wisconsin 2005 Assembly Joint Resolution 62 notes Major Splinter was awarded the 4th ID combat patch, the Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart for his meritorious service and bravery and ultimate sacrifice during combat operations.
At the time of his death Army Major Christopher Jon Splinter was survived by his wife Penny; two children Mitchell and Rachel; parents Virgil and Barbera Splinter; brothers Tim, Michael, Daniel, and Mark; sisters Cathy (Brian) Beck, Cheryl Splinter, Ann (Gary) DeFore, Janice (Jim) Withrow, Therese Splinter, Rose Splinter, and Karen (Mike) Paulus; and, father and mother-in-law Richard and Mary Barton. Army Major Christopher J. Splinter was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart; he was buried with full military honors at Calvary Cemetery, Platteville, Wisconsin.
Information for this short biography about Army Major Christopher Jon Splinter was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Army major believed Iraq would become stable, model state," December 26, 2003; iagenweb.org quoting the Telegraph Herald, "Platteville man dies in Iraq," December 26, 2003, "Teacher recalls fallen soldier," December 27, 2003, "Christopher J. Splinter," December 31, 2003, and, "Platteville mourns one of nation's 'great warriors'," Jan 3, 2004; Wisconsin 2005 Assembly Joint Resolution 62,, "Relating to: the life and military service of United States Army Major Christopher J. Splinter," October 25, 2005; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Army First Lieutenant Jeremy Lee Wolfe - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
30 August 2011
Army First Lieutenant Jeremy Lee Wolfe - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 8/30/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army First Lieutenant Jeremy Lee Wolfe, 27, Menomonie, Wisconsin, was killed on Saturday, November 15, 2003, in Mosul, Iraq. He was one of 17, 101st Airborne Division soldiers killed when two 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters crashed in mid-air over the northern city of Mosul, Iraq. Wolfe was assigned to 4th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel noted that two other Wisconsin soldiers were also killed in the crash: They were Army Sergeant Warren S. Hansen, 36, of Clintonville, and Army Specialist Eugene A. Uhl III, 21, Amherst, Wisconsin. At the time the incident was the single worst loss of life to that point in the Iraq War.
An obituary posted On-line by Olson Funeral Home of Menomonie, Wisconsin notes Wolfe was flying one of the UH-60 helicopters transporting soldiers from Tall Afar, Iraq to Mosul, Iraq. According to information from the funeral home posting, Jeremy was born on August 16, 1976 in Menomonie, Wisconsin. He graduated from Colfax High School near Menomonie, Wisconsin, in 1995 where he excelled in academics and track and field. He then attended the University of Wisconsin, Stout, in Menomonie for a year. He progressed up the Army ranks first enlisting in the National Guard in October 1993 while still in high school and served until August 1996. The obituary went on to say Jeremy enlisted for active duty in the U.S. Army in 1996 as a Specialist (E4) in the 25th Infantry Division out of Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. At this time he began his career with the Army Rangers. During his time in Hawaii he met and later married Christine Tadeo. In 1999, he received a scholarship to attend Hawaii Pacific University. While in college he graduated from Airborne School, completed US Army ROTC education, and took helicopter and aviation training.
The Olson obituary posting also notes that in May 2002, Wolfe earned a Bachelor of Science and Business Administration Degree from Hawaii Pacific University. His first duty station was in Fort Campbell, Kentucky with the 101st Aviation Regiment in August 2003. Later that year Second Lieutenant Wolfe deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and served as Platoon Leader in Alpha Company, 101st Aviation Regiment, Tall Afar, Iraq.
The Olson Funeral Home obituary also noted: "While dedicated to his career, he always found time to share his life with [family and friends]. His passion was aviation. Other interests were scuba diving, running, shooting, coin collecting, movies, music, fishing, hunting, electronics, swimming, basically life itself."
Second Lieutenant Wolfe was posthumously promoted to First Lieutenant. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart. Wolfe's other military awards and medals include, but at not limited to: The Ranger Tab; Air Assault Badge; Excellent Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Rifle Bar; Overseas Service Ribbon; Army Service Ribbon; National Defense Service Medal; Army Good Conduct Medal; Army Commendation Medal; Army Lapel Button; and the Army Aviation Badge.
At the time of his death First Lieutenant Jeremy L. Wolfe was survived by wife Christine; father David (Butch) Wolfe; mother Jane Utpadel; stepfather Randy Utpadel; and, sister Sharla Utpadel and her children Cara and Devon; grandmother Goldie Wolfe; and, grandmother Betty Utpadel.
Information for this short biography about Army First Lieutenant Jeremy Lee Wolfe was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Crash killed three from state," November 17, 2003; funeralplan.com, "Olson Funeral Home Jeremy L. Wolfe Obituary"; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia ]
Army First Lieutenant Jeremy Lee Wolfe - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 8/30/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army First Lieutenant Jeremy Lee Wolfe, 27, Menomonie, Wisconsin, was killed on Saturday, November 15, 2003, in Mosul, Iraq. He was one of 17, 101st Airborne Division soldiers killed when two 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters crashed in mid-air over the northern city of Mosul, Iraq. Wolfe was assigned to 4th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel noted that two other Wisconsin soldiers were also killed in the crash: They were Army Sergeant Warren S. Hansen, 36, of Clintonville, and Army Specialist Eugene A. Uhl III, 21, Amherst, Wisconsin. At the time the incident was the single worst loss of life to that point in the Iraq War.
An obituary posted On-line by Olson Funeral Home of Menomonie, Wisconsin notes Wolfe was flying one of the UH-60 helicopters transporting soldiers from Tall Afar, Iraq to Mosul, Iraq. According to information from the funeral home posting, Jeremy was born on August 16, 1976 in Menomonie, Wisconsin. He graduated from Colfax High School near Menomonie, Wisconsin, in 1995 where he excelled in academics and track and field. He then attended the University of Wisconsin, Stout, in Menomonie for a year. He progressed up the Army ranks first enlisting in the National Guard in October 1993 while still in high school and served until August 1996. The obituary went on to say Jeremy enlisted for active duty in the U.S. Army in 1996 as a Specialist (E4) in the 25th Infantry Division out of Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. At this time he began his career with the Army Rangers. During his time in Hawaii he met and later married Christine Tadeo. In 1999, he received a scholarship to attend Hawaii Pacific University. While in college he graduated from Airborne School, completed US Army ROTC education, and took helicopter and aviation training.
The Olson obituary posting also notes that in May 2002, Wolfe earned a Bachelor of Science and Business Administration Degree from Hawaii Pacific University. His first duty station was in Fort Campbell, Kentucky with the 101st Aviation Regiment in August 2003. Later that year Second Lieutenant Wolfe deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and served as Platoon Leader in Alpha Company, 101st Aviation Regiment, Tall Afar, Iraq.
The Olson Funeral Home obituary also noted: "While dedicated to his career, he always found time to share his life with [family and friends]. His passion was aviation. Other interests were scuba diving, running, shooting, coin collecting, movies, music, fishing, hunting, electronics, swimming, basically life itself."
Second Lieutenant Wolfe was posthumously promoted to First Lieutenant. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart. Wolfe's other military awards and medals include, but at not limited to: The Ranger Tab; Air Assault Badge; Excellent Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Rifle Bar; Overseas Service Ribbon; Army Service Ribbon; National Defense Service Medal; Army Good Conduct Medal; Army Commendation Medal; Army Lapel Button; and the Army Aviation Badge.
At the time of his death First Lieutenant Jeremy L. Wolfe was survived by wife Christine; father David (Butch) Wolfe; mother Jane Utpadel; stepfather Randy Utpadel; and, sister Sharla Utpadel and her children Cara and Devon; grandmother Goldie Wolfe; and, grandmother Betty Utpadel.
Information for this short biography about Army First Lieutenant Jeremy Lee Wolfe was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Crash killed three from state," November 17, 2003; funeralplan.com, "Olson Funeral Home Jeremy L. Wolfe Obituary"; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia ]
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Army Specialist Eugene A. Uhl III - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
23 August 2011
Army Specialist Eugene A. Uhl III - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 8/23/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Specialist Eugene August Uhl III, 21, of Amherst, Wisconsin, was killed on Saturday, November 15, 2003. He was one of 17 military service members killed when two 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters crashed in mid-air over the northern Iraqi city of Mosul. Specialist Uhl was assigned to Battery C, 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel noted that two other Wisconsin soldiers were also killed in the crash: They were Army Sergeant Warren S. Hansen, 36, of Clintonville, and Army Second Lieutenant Jeremy L. Wolfe, 27, of Menomonie. At the time the incident was the single worst loss of life to that point in the Iraq War. The Journal Sentinel said Uhl and Hansen had grown up only 30 miles apart in east-central Wisconsin. Eugene Uhl III's father, Eugene Jr., served in the Vietnam War and was awarded a Purple Heart for wounds received in 1968. His grandfather Eugene served in World War II and the Korean War.The Journal Sentinel also mentioned that, "Uhl was his family's only son, the youngest of four children, and the last male family member likely to pass on the Uhl name." He joined the National Guard in 1999, then entered the regular Army in June 2002. Uhl had arrived in the Middle East in February of 2003. Eugene would have turned 22 on Thanksgiving of 2003. He had planned to get married in June of 2004.
The Chicago Tribune mentioned that Amherst is a small central Wisconsin community with a population of around 1,024. Being the only male sibling in the family, Uhl could have opted for combat exemption under the Sullivan Act. But, Eugene's interest in the military was strong and he signed up for the National Guard at 17 years old. After graduating from high school he worked as a bank teller in Stevens Point and served weekend duty with the National Guard. He joined the Regular Army with a friend on the "buddy system" in mid-2002.
The Portage County Gazette notes that Eugene Uhl III was born on November 27, 1981, in Waupaca, Wisconsin. He graduated from Amherst High School in 2000. In high school he participated in track, cross country, basketball, and the student council.
Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 74 says that Uhl enjoyed hunting and angling since his youth. Wisconsin 2003 Senate Joint Resolution 68 includes horseback riding as one of Eugene's interests. Two of Uhl's military awards include the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.
At the time of his death Army Specialist Eugene Uhl III was survived by his parents Eugene and Joan Uhl Jr.; three sisters Cheryl (Marty) Andersen, Chastity Uhl, and Charity Uhl; his fiancee Emily Groshek; and, his paternal grandmother Mildred Uhl.
Information for this short biography about Army Specialist Eugene August Uhl III was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Crash killed three from state," November 17, 2003; Chicago Tribune, "A destiny fulfilled leaves hearts broken," November 23, 2003; Portage County Gazette, "Sgt. Eugene A. Uhl III"; Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 74, "Relating to: the life and service of Sergeant Eugene A. Uhl III," March 9, 2004; Wisconsin 2003 Senate Joint Resolution 68, "Relating to: the life and service of Sergeant Eugene A. Uhl III," March 9, 2004; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Army Specialist Eugene A. Uhl III - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 8/23/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Specialist Eugene August Uhl III, 21, of Amherst, Wisconsin, was killed on Saturday, November 15, 2003. He was one of 17 military service members killed when two 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters crashed in mid-air over the northern Iraqi city of Mosul. Specialist Uhl was assigned to Battery C, 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel noted that two other Wisconsin soldiers were also killed in the crash: They were Army Sergeant Warren S. Hansen, 36, of Clintonville, and Army Second Lieutenant Jeremy L. Wolfe, 27, of Menomonie. At the time the incident was the single worst loss of life to that point in the Iraq War. The Journal Sentinel said Uhl and Hansen had grown up only 30 miles apart in east-central Wisconsin. Eugene Uhl III's father, Eugene Jr., served in the Vietnam War and was awarded a Purple Heart for wounds received in 1968. His grandfather Eugene served in World War II and the Korean War.The Journal Sentinel also mentioned that, "Uhl was his family's only son, the youngest of four children, and the last male family member likely to pass on the Uhl name." He joined the National Guard in 1999, then entered the regular Army in June 2002. Uhl had arrived in the Middle East in February of 2003. Eugene would have turned 22 on Thanksgiving of 2003. He had planned to get married in June of 2004.
The Chicago Tribune mentioned that Amherst is a small central Wisconsin community with a population of around 1,024. Being the only male sibling in the family, Uhl could have opted for combat exemption under the Sullivan Act. But, Eugene's interest in the military was strong and he signed up for the National Guard at 17 years old. After graduating from high school he worked as a bank teller in Stevens Point and served weekend duty with the National Guard. He joined the Regular Army with a friend on the "buddy system" in mid-2002.
The Portage County Gazette notes that Eugene Uhl III was born on November 27, 1981, in Waupaca, Wisconsin. He graduated from Amherst High School in 2000. In high school he participated in track, cross country, basketball, and the student council.
Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 74 says that Uhl enjoyed hunting and angling since his youth. Wisconsin 2003 Senate Joint Resolution 68 includes horseback riding as one of Eugene's interests. Two of Uhl's military awards include the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.
At the time of his death Army Specialist Eugene Uhl III was survived by his parents Eugene and Joan Uhl Jr.; three sisters Cheryl (Marty) Andersen, Chastity Uhl, and Charity Uhl; his fiancee Emily Groshek; and, his paternal grandmother Mildred Uhl.
Information for this short biography about Army Specialist Eugene August Uhl III was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Crash killed three from state," November 17, 2003; Chicago Tribune, "A destiny fulfilled leaves hearts broken," November 23, 2003; Portage County Gazette, "Sgt. Eugene A. Uhl III"; Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 74, "Relating to: the life and service of Sergeant Eugene A. Uhl III," March 9, 2004; Wisconsin 2003 Senate Joint Resolution 68, "Relating to: the life and service of Sergeant Eugene A. Uhl III," March 9, 2004; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Army Sergeant Warren S. Hansen - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
16 August 2011
Army Sergeant Warren S. Hansen - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 8/16/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Sergeant Warren Scott Hansen, 36, Clintonville, Wisconsin, was killed on Saturday, November 15, 2003, when two UH Black Hawk helicopters collided in mid-air and crashed in the northern city of Mosul, Iraq. He was one of three Wisconsin solders killed in the incident. Sergeant Hansen was assigned to the 9th Battalion, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel notes the other two Wisconsin soldiers killed in the crash as Army Specialist Eugene A. Uhl III, 21, of Amherst, and Army Second Lieutenant Jeremy L. Wolfe, 27, of Menomonie. Seventeen 101st Airborne Division soldiers were killed in the crash. Hansen's late father had served in the military and his stepfather was a Marine in the Vietnam War. Hansen had been manager of his high school's basketball team. The Journal Sentinel went on to mention Hansen worked in maintenance and handled inspections for his aviation unit in the 101st Airborne Division.
According to Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 72 Sergeant Hansen was was born on May 2, 1967. He was the crew chief on his helicopter at the time of his death.
An obituary posted by Clintonville VFW Post 664, notes Sergeant Hansen had been in the military for 17 years and had served in Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Desert Storm in 1991. He also had served tours in Korea, Germany, Kosovo, Bosnia, and Egypt. The posting also notes Hansen was born at the US Army Hospital in Heidelberg, Germany. He attended St. Martin Lutheran School, Clintonville. At the age of 15, Warren received the Ft. Howard Paper Foundation Medal of Valor Award for saving a person who had fallen through the ice while ice fishing at the Cloverleaf Lakes near Clintonville. He was single and joined the military soon after gradating from Clintonville High School in 1986. His hobbies included golf, football, baseball, volleyball, ice fishing, water skiing, deer hunting and darts.
Some of Sergeant Hansen's military awards include: Bronze Star; Purple Heart; Air Medal; Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Medal; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; Southwest Asia Service Medal With 2 Stars; Iraq Campaign Medal; Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal; Korean Defense Service Medal; Armed Forces Service Medal; NCO Professional Development Ribbon Basic Level; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; NATO Medal - B; Multinational Force And Observers; Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia); Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait); Presidential Unit Citation; Valorous Unit Award; Meritorious Unit Commendation; and, The Army Superior Unit Award.
At the time of his death Army Sergeant Warren Hansen was survived by: his mother Beth (Hempel) Karlson; stepfather James Karlson; brother Matthew Hansen; stepbrother Peter Karlson; paternal Grandparents Rose Thoyre and Evelyn Karlson; aunts Margo Hempel, Terry (Jerry) Stollfuss, Gail Schindler, Lillian (Eldon), Judy Schroeder, Nancy (Harold) Blum; uncles: Scott (Pam) Hempel; Charles (Dixie) Thoyre; and, niece Leah Karlson. He was preceded in death by his Father (James Hansen in 1972 while in the military).
An Associated Press release found on afwmf.org mentions that in honor of Hansen, his home town of Clintonville officially renamed River Street in his memory. It is now called Staff Sergeant Warren Hansen Drive.
Information for this short biography about Army Sergeant Warren Scott Hansen was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Crash killed 3 from state," November 17, 2003; Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 72, "Relating to: the life and military service of United States Army Staff Sergeant Warren Scott Hansen"; Clintonville VFW Post 664 Obituary Posting, "Life Member SSG Warren S. Hansen"; afwmt.org, Associated Press release, "Street renamed for fallen Wisconsin soldier"; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Army Sergeant Warren S. Hansen - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 8/16/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Sergeant Warren Scott Hansen, 36, Clintonville, Wisconsin, was killed on Saturday, November 15, 2003, when two UH Black Hawk helicopters collided in mid-air and crashed in the northern city of Mosul, Iraq. He was one of three Wisconsin solders killed in the incident. Sergeant Hansen was assigned to the 9th Battalion, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel notes the other two Wisconsin soldiers killed in the crash as Army Specialist Eugene A. Uhl III, 21, of Amherst, and Army Second Lieutenant Jeremy L. Wolfe, 27, of Menomonie. Seventeen 101st Airborne Division soldiers were killed in the crash. Hansen's late father had served in the military and his stepfather was a Marine in the Vietnam War. Hansen had been manager of his high school's basketball team. The Journal Sentinel went on to mention Hansen worked in maintenance and handled inspections for his aviation unit in the 101st Airborne Division.
According to Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 72 Sergeant Hansen was was born on May 2, 1967. He was the crew chief on his helicopter at the time of his death.
An obituary posted by Clintonville VFW Post 664, notes Sergeant Hansen had been in the military for 17 years and had served in Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Desert Storm in 1991. He also had served tours in Korea, Germany, Kosovo, Bosnia, and Egypt. The posting also notes Hansen was born at the US Army Hospital in Heidelberg, Germany. He attended St. Martin Lutheran School, Clintonville. At the age of 15, Warren received the Ft. Howard Paper Foundation Medal of Valor Award for saving a person who had fallen through the ice while ice fishing at the Cloverleaf Lakes near Clintonville. He was single and joined the military soon after gradating from Clintonville High School in 1986. His hobbies included golf, football, baseball, volleyball, ice fishing, water skiing, deer hunting and darts.
Some of Sergeant Hansen's military awards include: Bronze Star; Purple Heart; Air Medal; Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Medal; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; Southwest Asia Service Medal With 2 Stars; Iraq Campaign Medal; Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal; Korean Defense Service Medal; Armed Forces Service Medal; NCO Professional Development Ribbon Basic Level; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; NATO Medal - B; Multinational Force And Observers; Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia); Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait); Presidential Unit Citation; Valorous Unit Award; Meritorious Unit Commendation; and, The Army Superior Unit Award.
At the time of his death Army Sergeant Warren Hansen was survived by: his mother Beth (Hempel) Karlson; stepfather James Karlson; brother Matthew Hansen; stepbrother Peter Karlson; paternal Grandparents Rose Thoyre and Evelyn Karlson; aunts Margo Hempel, Terry (Jerry) Stollfuss, Gail Schindler, Lillian (Eldon), Judy Schroeder, Nancy (Harold) Blum; uncles: Scott (Pam) Hempel; Charles (Dixie) Thoyre; and, niece Leah Karlson. He was preceded in death by his Father (James Hansen in 1972 while in the military).
An Associated Press release found on afwmf.org mentions that in honor of Hansen, his home town of Clintonville officially renamed River Street in his memory. It is now called Staff Sergeant Warren Hansen Drive.
Information for this short biography about Army Sergeant Warren Scott Hansen was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Crash killed 3 from state," November 17, 2003; Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 72, "Relating to: the life and military service of United States Army Staff Sergeant Warren Scott Hansen"; Clintonville VFW Post 664 Obituary Posting, "Life Member SSG Warren S. Hansen"; afwmt.org, Associated Press release, "Street renamed for fallen Wisconsin soldier"; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Army Private First Class Rachel K. Bosveld - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
9 August 2011
Army Private First Class Rachel K. Bosveld - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 8/9/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Private First Class Rachel Krista Heather Bosveld, 19, Waupun, Wisconsin, was killed Sunday, October 26, 2003, in Baghdad, Iraq. She was killed during a mortar attack on the Abu Ghraib Police Station. Private First Class Bosveld was in the Army's 527th Military Police, V Corps, out of Giesen, Germany. Bosveld went to boot camp at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, right after graduating from Waupun High School in 2002. She had also spent two yeas in high school in Oshkosh. She arrived in Iraq in March of 2003. Bosveld's father is an Army veteran; her stepbrother, Aaron Krebs, was in the Marines; and her older brother Graig had also been in the Army.
The Web site channel3000.com notes Bosveld was a military police officer training Iraqi officers when she was killed. She was on night patrol where she thought she would be safer, but had recently switched to day patrol. She had sustained injuries in an earlier attack in September when the vehicle she was in was destroyed. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel notes Army Private First Class Rachel K. Bosveld was the state's first female soldier to die in war since Army Sergeant Cheryl LaBeau-O'Brien, of Caledonia, was killed in a helicopter crash during the 1991 Gulf War.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel went on to say Rachel had hoped to at some point go to college with an interest in law enforcement. Or, perhaps be a graphic artist. She had played the violin since the fourth grade, done oil painting, and had been an "innovative and reliable" student director for the drama club. She played soccer and sang in the choir at Waupun High.
Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 57 notes Rachel Bosveld was born on November 7, 1983, in Neenah, Wisconsin. The Web site iraq.pigstye.net with information gleaned from The Fond Du Lac Reporter notes Rachel was just under two months old when she was adopted by the Bosvelds. They had been serving as foster parents when Rachel came to them as a neglected baby.
At the time of her death Army Private First Class Rachel Bosveld was survived by her mother Mary Bosveld; father and stepmother Marvin and Julie Bosveld; older brother Craig Bosveld; stepbrother Aaron Krebs; stepsister Jamie Krebs; and, maternal grandmother Marion Swonger.
The Post Crescent out of the Appleton area notes Rachel's mother Mary is in the process of gathering support to create a Wisconsin Women Veteran's' Memorial for the Afghanistan and Iraq Wars. She hoped the site might be near the Fox Cities of Grand Chute or Appleton.
Information for this short biography about Army Private First Class Rachel Krista Heather Bosveld was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Her heart had been set on Army, but now she longed to come home," October 29, 2003; channel3000.com, "Wisconsin Soldier Killed In Baghdad Was 'Chosen Child,'" October, 28, 2003; 2003 Wisconsin Assembly Joint Resolution 57, "Relating to: the life Army Private First Class Rachel Bosveld"; iraq.pigstye.com (Fond Du Lac Reporter), "Rachel Bosveld," November 3, 2003; The Post Crescent, "Daughter's death sparks idea for war memorial," May 29, 2011; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Army Private First Class Rachel K. Bosveld - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 8/9/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Private First Class Rachel Krista Heather Bosveld, 19, Waupun, Wisconsin, was killed Sunday, October 26, 2003, in Baghdad, Iraq. She was killed during a mortar attack on the Abu Ghraib Police Station. Private First Class Bosveld was in the Army's 527th Military Police, V Corps, out of Giesen, Germany. Bosveld went to boot camp at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, right after graduating from Waupun High School in 2002. She had also spent two yeas in high school in Oshkosh. She arrived in Iraq in March of 2003. Bosveld's father is an Army veteran; her stepbrother, Aaron Krebs, was in the Marines; and her older brother Graig had also been in the Army.
The Web site channel3000.com notes Bosveld was a military police officer training Iraqi officers when she was killed. She was on night patrol where she thought she would be safer, but had recently switched to day patrol. She had sustained injuries in an earlier attack in September when the vehicle she was in was destroyed. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel notes Army Private First Class Rachel K. Bosveld was the state's first female soldier to die in war since Army Sergeant Cheryl LaBeau-O'Brien, of Caledonia, was killed in a helicopter crash during the 1991 Gulf War.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel went on to say Rachel had hoped to at some point go to college with an interest in law enforcement. Or, perhaps be a graphic artist. She had played the violin since the fourth grade, done oil painting, and had been an "innovative and reliable" student director for the drama club. She played soccer and sang in the choir at Waupun High.
Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 57 notes Rachel Bosveld was born on November 7, 1983, in Neenah, Wisconsin. The Web site iraq.pigstye.net with information gleaned from The Fond Du Lac Reporter notes Rachel was just under two months old when she was adopted by the Bosvelds. They had been serving as foster parents when Rachel came to them as a neglected baby.
At the time of her death Army Private First Class Rachel Bosveld was survived by her mother Mary Bosveld; father and stepmother Marvin and Julie Bosveld; older brother Craig Bosveld; stepbrother Aaron Krebs; stepsister Jamie Krebs; and, maternal grandmother Marion Swonger.
The Post Crescent out of the Appleton area notes Rachel's mother Mary is in the process of gathering support to create a Wisconsin Women Veteran's' Memorial for the Afghanistan and Iraq Wars. She hoped the site might be near the Fox Cities of Grand Chute or Appleton.
Information for this short biography about Army Private First Class Rachel Krista Heather Bosveld was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Her heart had been set on Army, but now she longed to come home," October 29, 2003; channel3000.com, "Wisconsin Soldier Killed In Baghdad Was 'Chosen Child,'" October, 28, 2003; 2003 Wisconsin Assembly Joint Resolution 57, "Relating to: the life Army Private First Class Rachel Bosveld"; iraq.pigstye.com (Fond Du Lac Reporter), "Rachel Bosveld," November 3, 2003; The Post Crescent, "Daughter's death sparks idea for war memorial," May 29, 2011; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Army Specialist Paul J. Sturino - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
2 August 2011
Army Specialist Paul J. Sturino - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 8/2/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Specialist Paul Joseph Sturino, 21, Rice Lake, Wisconsin, died on Monday, September 22, 2003, in Quest, Iraq. Quest is south of the northeastern Iraqi city of Mosul. He was assigned to Battery B, 2nd Battalion, 320 Field Artillery Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Initial military reports noted Sturino died from a non-combat accidental weapons discharge from another soldier. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel mentioned Paul was originally with a tank unit based in Lawton, Oklahoma and then transferred to the 101st Airborne in Fort Campbell, Kentucky to be a paratrooper. He went to Iraq in March of 2003. The Journal Sentinel went on to say Sturino had re-enlisted in the 101st for another year but his tour of duty was also extended due to the war. His older brother was also in the Army and has served in Iraq. His father was in the Navy during the Vietnam War. His grandfather served during World War II and, his great-grandfather served during World War I. Paul graduated from Rice Lake High School in 2001 and was on the wrestling team. He also attended Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College. He had talked about perhaps becoming a teacher after his Army service.
The Web site iraq.pigsty.net via information from twincities.com notes Sturino, "...hoped to return home, go to college and eventually become a history teacher, policeman, or game warden." Sturino joined the Army in 2001 after graduating from high school. Family is quoted as saying, "He loved tinkering with his car and 1/2-ton pickup. His goal when he got home was to finish restoring his 1969 Chevy Nova." He also had a fishing boat which he had built.
Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 58 notes that Paul Sturino was born on in Cumberland, Wisconsin, on September 14, 1982. The Web site cbsnews.com noted Paul had often spent summers in Kenosha where he had spent three summers on the Barracuda Swim Team. The Web site militarytimes.com using a compilation of Associated Press articles mentions Paul’s grandparents, George and Gloria, ran a family restaurant in Kenosha for years, so Paul spent time in that Wisconsin city.
An article about Paul on the Web site chippewa.com mentions Paul told his family he wished to get home and go hunting and fishing.
At the time of his death Army Specialist Paul Sturino was survived by his mother Chris Wetzel and father Dino Sturino; brother Alonzo Sturino; sister Amy Sturino; uncle Duane Sturino; maternal grandparents Arnold and Marilyn Peer; and, paternal grandmother Gloria Sturino.
Army Specialist Paul J. Sturino was laid to rest with full honors at Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, Wisconsin.
Information for this short biography about Army Specialist Paul Joseph Sturino was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Rice Lake soldier dies of gunshot wound in Iraq," September 24, 2003; iraq.pigsty.net, via twincities.com, "Paul J. Sturino," September 25, 2003; Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 58, "Relating to: the life and public service of Paul J. Sturino," December 19, 2003; cbsnews.com; militarytimes.com via information from The Associated Press,"Army Specialist Paul J. Sturino"; chippewa.com, "Wisconsin Soldier Killed in Iraq," September 23, 2003; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Army Specialist Paul J. Sturino - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 8/2/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Specialist Paul Joseph Sturino, 21, Rice Lake, Wisconsin, died on Monday, September 22, 2003, in Quest, Iraq. Quest is south of the northeastern Iraqi city of Mosul. He was assigned to Battery B, 2nd Battalion, 320 Field Artillery Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Initial military reports noted Sturino died from a non-combat accidental weapons discharge from another soldier. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel mentioned Paul was originally with a tank unit based in Lawton, Oklahoma and then transferred to the 101st Airborne in Fort Campbell, Kentucky to be a paratrooper. He went to Iraq in March of 2003. The Journal Sentinel went on to say Sturino had re-enlisted in the 101st for another year but his tour of duty was also extended due to the war. His older brother was also in the Army and has served in Iraq. His father was in the Navy during the Vietnam War. His grandfather served during World War II and, his great-grandfather served during World War I. Paul graduated from Rice Lake High School in 2001 and was on the wrestling team. He also attended Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College. He had talked about perhaps becoming a teacher after his Army service.
The Web site iraq.pigsty.net via information from twincities.com notes Sturino, "...hoped to return home, go to college and eventually become a history teacher, policeman, or game warden." Sturino joined the Army in 2001 after graduating from high school. Family is quoted as saying, "He loved tinkering with his car and 1/2-ton pickup. His goal when he got home was to finish restoring his 1969 Chevy Nova." He also had a fishing boat which he had built.
Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 58 notes that Paul Sturino was born on in Cumberland, Wisconsin, on September 14, 1982. The Web site cbsnews.com noted Paul had often spent summers in Kenosha where he had spent three summers on the Barracuda Swim Team. The Web site militarytimes.com using a compilation of Associated Press articles mentions Paul’s grandparents, George and Gloria, ran a family restaurant in Kenosha for years, so Paul spent time in that Wisconsin city.
An article about Paul on the Web site chippewa.com mentions Paul told his family he wished to get home and go hunting and fishing.
At the time of his death Army Specialist Paul Sturino was survived by his mother Chris Wetzel and father Dino Sturino; brother Alonzo Sturino; sister Amy Sturino; uncle Duane Sturino; maternal grandparents Arnold and Marilyn Peer; and, paternal grandmother Gloria Sturino.
Army Specialist Paul J. Sturino was laid to rest with full honors at Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, Wisconsin.
Information for this short biography about Army Specialist Paul Joseph Sturino was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Rice Lake soldier dies of gunshot wound in Iraq," September 24, 2003; iraq.pigsty.net, via twincities.com, "Paul J. Sturino," September 25, 2003; Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 58, "Relating to: the life and public service of Paul J. Sturino," December 19, 2003; cbsnews.com; militarytimes.com via information from The Associated Press,"Army Specialist Paul J. Sturino"; chippewa.com, "Wisconsin Soldier Killed in Iraq," September 23, 2003; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Dan H. Gabrielson - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
26 July 2011
Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Dan H. Gabrielson - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 7/26/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Rerserve Sergeant First Class Dan Henry Gabrielson, 40, Frederic, Wisconsin, was killed on Wednesday, July 9, 2003, in Baquba, Iraq. His convoy came under hostile fire and attack. Baquba is about 45 miles northeast of Baghdad. Gabrielson was a 22 year veteran of the Army Reserve. He was in the Army Reserve's 652nd Engineer Company based out of Ellsworth, Wisconsin.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel said Gabrielson was a specialist in repairing construction equipment. He worked as a mechanic and machinist in the unit's motor pool and was in charge of bridge building equipment. Gabrielson had taken over the role of platoon sergeant for his unit and was studying to become a warrant officer. He was promoted from staff sergeant to sergeant first class after his bridge building unit was sent to Iraq. The Journal Sentinel also mentioned the 652nd shipped out to Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, on February 13, 2003, and was sent overseas by April of 2003. The unit had 179 members activated for the war. The Journal Sentinel went on to say that In civilian life Dan was a CNC machining programmer for Nexen a manufacturer of industrial clutches and brakes. He joined Nexen Group, previously called Horton Manufacturing, not long after graduating from technical school. Frederic, Wisconsin, is a small town of 1200 located about 75 miles northwest of Eau Claire.
A Minnesota Public Radio article notes Dan Gabrielson was laid to rest in Spooner, Wisconsin, where his parents lived and where he grew up. Some of his military awards and medals include: The Bronze Star; Army Commendation medal; Meritorious Service medal; and, the Purple Heart. Gabrielson's nephew Specialist Scott Parker was also serving in his platoon.
A Baltimore Sun article said Dan had met his wife while still in high school. They had lived in Frederic for many years. The story went on to say, "He was a deer hunter, collected Remington Model 600 rifles, and was active in 4-H with his children." The impetus of the article from the Maryland paper was to gain some understanding of how one local soldier's death impacted a small town; and, at the time it was thought the Iraq War was generally over. Sergeant First Class Dan H. Gabrielson was the first military reservist from the state of Wisconsin, and the third military service person from the state to be killed in Iraq. The war was still only a few months old; although at the time, Saddam Hussein was still yet to be found, President George W. Bush declared major combat operations over with on May 1, 2003, just shortly before Gabrielson's death. The town of Frederic, friends, and family were taken by surprise by the continuation of hostilities and Dan's death.
Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 48 says Dan was born on September 24, 1962. At the time of his death Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Dan Gabrielson was survived by: his wife Peggy Gabrielson; his son Dustin; two daughters, Audra, and Vanessa; and, his parents Henry and Ella Gabrielson.
Information for this short biography about Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Dan Henry Gabrielson was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "State Army reservist killed in ambush on convoy in Iraq," July 11, 2003; news.minnesota.publicradio.org, "Wisconsin soldier laid to rest," July 23, 2003; Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 48, "Relating to: the life of Sergeant First Class Dan Henry Gabrielson," September 29, 2003; baltimoresun.com, "Wisconsin town awakens to reality of Iraq," July 17, 2003; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Dan H. Gabrielson - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 7/26/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Rerserve Sergeant First Class Dan Henry Gabrielson, 40, Frederic, Wisconsin, was killed on Wednesday, July 9, 2003, in Baquba, Iraq. His convoy came under hostile fire and attack. Baquba is about 45 miles northeast of Baghdad. Gabrielson was a 22 year veteran of the Army Reserve. He was in the Army Reserve's 652nd Engineer Company based out of Ellsworth, Wisconsin.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel said Gabrielson was a specialist in repairing construction equipment. He worked as a mechanic and machinist in the unit's motor pool and was in charge of bridge building equipment. Gabrielson had taken over the role of platoon sergeant for his unit and was studying to become a warrant officer. He was promoted from staff sergeant to sergeant first class after his bridge building unit was sent to Iraq. The Journal Sentinel also mentioned the 652nd shipped out to Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, on February 13, 2003, and was sent overseas by April of 2003. The unit had 179 members activated for the war. The Journal Sentinel went on to say that In civilian life Dan was a CNC machining programmer for Nexen a manufacturer of industrial clutches and brakes. He joined Nexen Group, previously called Horton Manufacturing, not long after graduating from technical school. Frederic, Wisconsin, is a small town of 1200 located about 75 miles northwest of Eau Claire.
A Minnesota Public Radio article notes Dan Gabrielson was laid to rest in Spooner, Wisconsin, where his parents lived and where he grew up. Some of his military awards and medals include: The Bronze Star; Army Commendation medal; Meritorious Service medal; and, the Purple Heart. Gabrielson's nephew Specialist Scott Parker was also serving in his platoon.
A Baltimore Sun article said Dan had met his wife while still in high school. They had lived in Frederic for many years. The story went on to say, "He was a deer hunter, collected Remington Model 600 rifles, and was active in 4-H with his children." The impetus of the article from the Maryland paper was to gain some understanding of how one local soldier's death impacted a small town; and, at the time it was thought the Iraq War was generally over. Sergeant First Class Dan H. Gabrielson was the first military reservist from the state of Wisconsin, and the third military service person from the state to be killed in Iraq. The war was still only a few months old; although at the time, Saddam Hussein was still yet to be found, President George W. Bush declared major combat operations over with on May 1, 2003, just shortly before Gabrielson's death. The town of Frederic, friends, and family were taken by surprise by the continuation of hostilities and Dan's death.
Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 48 says Dan was born on September 24, 1962. At the time of his death Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Dan Gabrielson was survived by: his wife Peggy Gabrielson; his son Dustin; two daughters, Audra, and Vanessa; and, his parents Henry and Ella Gabrielson.
Information for this short biography about Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Dan Henry Gabrielson was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "State Army reservist killed in ambush on convoy in Iraq," July 11, 2003; news.minnesota.publicradio.org, "Wisconsin soldier laid to rest," July 23, 2003; Wisconsin 2003 Assembly Joint Resolution 48, "Relating to: the life of Sergeant First Class Dan Henry Gabrielson," September 29, 2003; baltimoresun.com, "Wisconsin town awakens to reality of Iraq," July 17, 2003; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Army Major Mathew E. Schram - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
19 July 2011
Army Major Mathew E. Schram - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 7/19/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Major Mathew Earl Schram, 36, Brookfield, Wisconsin, was killed in Haditha, Iraq, on Monday, May 26, 2003. Major Schram was attached to Headquarters Troop, Support Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, out of Fort Carson, Colorado. Haditha is around 100 miles northwest of Baghdad. He was in a resupply convoy which came under enemy attack via rocket-propelled grenades and machine guns. Mathew was a native of Brookfield, Wisconsin, and born on January 25, 1967. He graduated from Brookfield Central High School in 1985. Mathew had played football and tennis in school. He also was a runner and played guitar.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel mentioned that Schram was in ROTC while at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater before joining the Army in 1989. He graduated from UW-Whitewater in 1990 with a degree in political science. Schram was a veteran of the first Gulf War in Kuwait 12 years prior to his death. He was also a veteran of America's mission in Somalia, as well as serving two tours in Croatia. The Journal Sentinel went on to say people that knew Schram said he had a long interest in the military. His father had served in the Korean War. Schram received his master's degree in organizational management in 2002 during his assignment to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
At the time of his death Army Major Mathew Schram was survived by his father Earl; brothers, David, Phil, and Bob; sisters Carol Barr and Sue Kuske; stepmother Audrey; and, eight nieces and nephews. His mother Sarah Schram died of cancer in 1991.
Information for this short biography about Army Major Mathew Earl Schram was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Soldier's ideal never wavered," May 28, 2003; findagrave.com, ""Maj Mathew Earl "Schrambo" Schram""; 2003 Wisconsin Assembly Joint Resolution 36, "Relating to: the life and military service of Major Mathew E. Schram," May 29, 2003; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Army Major Mathew E. Schram - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - Afghanistan/Iraq
This entry was posted on 7/19/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Major Mathew Earl Schram, 36, Brookfield, Wisconsin, was killed in Haditha, Iraq, on Monday, May 26, 2003. Major Schram was attached to Headquarters Troop, Support Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, out of Fort Carson, Colorado. Haditha is around 100 miles northwest of Baghdad. He was in a resupply convoy which came under enemy attack via rocket-propelled grenades and machine guns. Mathew was a native of Brookfield, Wisconsin, and born on January 25, 1967. He graduated from Brookfield Central High School in 1985. Mathew had played football and tennis in school. He also was a runner and played guitar.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel mentioned that Schram was in ROTC while at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater before joining the Army in 1989. He graduated from UW-Whitewater in 1990 with a degree in political science. Schram was a veteran of the first Gulf War in Kuwait 12 years prior to his death. He was also a veteran of America's mission in Somalia, as well as serving two tours in Croatia. The Journal Sentinel went on to say people that knew Schram said he had a long interest in the military. His father had served in the Korean War. Schram received his master's degree in organizational management in 2002 during his assignment to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
At the time of his death Army Major Mathew Schram was survived by his father Earl; brothers, David, Phil, and Bob; sisters Carol Barr and Sue Kuske; stepmother Audrey; and, eight nieces and nephews. His mother Sarah Schram died of cancer in 1991.
Information for this short biography about Army Major Mathew Earl Schram was pieced together from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Soldier's ideal never wavered," May 28, 2003; findagrave.com, ""Maj Mathew Earl "Schrambo" Schram""; 2003 Wisconsin Assembly Joint Resolution 36, "Relating to: the life and military service of Major Mathew E. Schram," May 29, 2003; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Marine Corps Sergeant Kirk A. Straseskie - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation Afghanistan / Iraq
12 July 2011
Marine Corps Sergeant Kirk A. Straseskie - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation Afghanistan / Iraq
Marine Sergeant Kirk Allen Straseskie, 23, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin died near Hilla, Iraq on Monday, May 19, 2003. He died while participating in the rescue of the crew of a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter that crashed in Shat al-Hillah canal. Four Marines on the helicopter also died. Sergeant Straseskie was assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division based out of Camp Pendleton, California. Hilla is about 60 miles south of Baghdad.
Wisconsin Assembly 2003 Joint Resolution 23 notes that Kirk Allen Straseskie was born on November 19, 1979, in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel mentioned Kirk graduated from Beaver Dam High School in 1998. During his school years he played linebacker on the football team, wrestled, and ran the 400 meters in track. He was also remembered as enjoying playing the violin. Straseskie also had volunteered with disabled children. He joined the Marines after high school.
The Journal Sentinel went on to say Kirk Strasekie was the youngest of four sons in his family. Kirk's father had served with the Army National Guard for 26 years and retired as a first sergeant. His grandfather was in the Army during World War II. Strasekie's next older brother was in the Army National Guard as a lieutenant and was also in Iraq. Kirk's mother had died a few years before his death in Iraq.
Family is quoted as mentioning Kirk had considered a career in law enforcement. The Journal Sentinel also mentioned Kirk had been pictured in an April, 2003 Los Angeles Times story about American troops stationed in post-invasion Iraq.
At the time of his death Kirk Straseskie was survived by his father and stepmother John and Barbara Strasekie; brothers John Jr., Christopher, and Ryan; maternal grandparents Ken and Janice Helmer; paternal grandmother Yvonne Straseske; and, his fiancee Kate Klossner. He was preceeded in death by his mother Dianna Straseskie.
Marine Sergeant Kirk Straseskie was the first Wisconsin military service person to be killed in the Iraq War since it began in March of 2003.
Information for this short biography of Kirk A. Straseskie was pieced together from information from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "A Native Son Lost in Iraq," May 21, 2003; iraq.pigstye.net, "Sgt Kirk Allen Straseskie," Posted May 29, 2003; leatherneck.com, "Marine 'died as he lived'" via Post-Crescent information; chippewa.com, "Wisconsin Marine drowns in Iraq rescue attempt," May 21, 2003; legacy.com, "kirk-allen-straseskie"; 2003 Wisconsin Assembly Joint Resolution 34, "Relating to: the life of Marine Sergeant Kirk Allen Straseskie," May 28, 2003; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Marine Corps Sergeant Kirk A. Straseskie - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation Afghanistan / Iraq
Marine Sergeant Kirk Allen Straseskie, 23, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin died near Hilla, Iraq on Monday, May 19, 2003. He died while participating in the rescue of the crew of a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter that crashed in Shat al-Hillah canal. Four Marines on the helicopter also died. Sergeant Straseskie was assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division based out of Camp Pendleton, California. Hilla is about 60 miles south of Baghdad.
Wisconsin Assembly 2003 Joint Resolution 23 notes that Kirk Allen Straseskie was born on November 19, 1979, in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel mentioned Kirk graduated from Beaver Dam High School in 1998. During his school years he played linebacker on the football team, wrestled, and ran the 400 meters in track. He was also remembered as enjoying playing the violin. Straseskie also had volunteered with disabled children. He joined the Marines after high school.
The Journal Sentinel went on to say Kirk Strasekie was the youngest of four sons in his family. Kirk's father had served with the Army National Guard for 26 years and retired as a first sergeant. His grandfather was in the Army during World War II. Strasekie's next older brother was in the Army National Guard as a lieutenant and was also in Iraq. Kirk's mother had died a few years before his death in Iraq.
Family is quoted as mentioning Kirk had considered a career in law enforcement. The Journal Sentinel also mentioned Kirk had been pictured in an April, 2003 Los Angeles Times story about American troops stationed in post-invasion Iraq.
At the time of his death Kirk Straseskie was survived by his father and stepmother John and Barbara Strasekie; brothers John Jr., Christopher, and Ryan; maternal grandparents Ken and Janice Helmer; paternal grandmother Yvonne Straseske; and, his fiancee Kate Klossner. He was preceeded in death by his mother Dianna Straseskie.
Marine Sergeant Kirk Straseskie was the first Wisconsin military service person to be killed in the Iraq War since it began in March of 2003.
Information for this short biography of Kirk A. Straseskie was pieced together from information from the following sources: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "A Native Son Lost in Iraq," May 21, 2003; iraq.pigstye.net, "Sgt Kirk Allen Straseskie," Posted May 29, 2003; leatherneck.com, "Marine 'died as he lived'" via Post-Crescent information; chippewa.com, "Wisconsin Marine drowns in Iraq rescue attempt," May 21, 2003; legacy.com, "kirk-allen-straseskie"; 2003 Wisconsin Assembly Joint Resolution 34, "Relating to: the life of Marine Sergeant Kirk Allen Straseskie," May 28, 2003; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Army Lieutenant Colonel Dennis M. Johnson - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - September 11, 2001 Attack
5 July 2011
Army Lieutenant Colonel Dennis M. Johnson - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - September 11, 2001 Attack
This entry was posted on 7/5/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Lieutenant Colonel Dennis Michael Johnson, 48, of Port Edwards, Wisconsin, died Tuesday, September 11, 2001. He was killed when hijacked American Airlines flight 77 was crashed into the Pentagon during the September 11 terrorist attacks. Johnson was assigned to the Army staff at the Pentagon. Lieutenant Colonel Johnson was an Adjutant General Corps Officer. He was on his second tour at the Pentagon, with his most recent assignment being the Chief of Personnel Services.
Dennis Johnson was a native of Port Edwards, Wisconsin. He was born April 1, 1953. Port Edwards is a town with adjacent Village of Port Edwards with a combined population of around 3500. They are located near the center of the state along the Wisconsin River just south of the city of Wisconsin Rapids. Johnson graduated from John Edwards High School, Port Edwards, Wisconsin in 1971. He began his military training in the ROTC program at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, Wisconsin. He graduated there in 1975 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. Johnson was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Adjutant General Corps in December of 1975.
Among Johnson's earlier career assignments were tours of duty at Fort Knox, Kentucky; then, Mainz, Germany. He received training in Military Club Management and served as the Area Club Manager at his duty station in Germany. In the mid 1980s he attended Florida International University in Miami, Florida, graduating with a Master’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management.
He spent assignments at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, and there also served as the Installation Club Manager, and later as the Chief of Personnel for Headquarters Company. In August 1988 he was assigned to Fort Richardson, Alaska, to head the Command for 203rd Personnel Service Company.
After Alaska, Johnson attended the Command and General Staff College as a staff leader at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. After a year there he was assignment to the Pentagon in 1991 as a Program Budget Officer; later, as the Executive Officer to the Director of Operations and Support for the Army Budget Office.
After the first Pentagon tour he was sent to Wheeler Army Air Force Base on Oahu, Hawaii, as the Chief Resource Management Officer for the Defense Information Systems Agency, Pacific. His next orders brought him to Alexandria, Virginia, in 1998 where he worked at ATEC/OPTEC in the Operational Test and Evaluation Command as the Deputy Chief of Staff-Personnel. In May of 2000 Johnson accepted what was to become his last assignment and it was as the Chief of Personnel Services for the Deputy Chief of Staff at the Pentagon.
Lieutenant Colonel Johnson was remembered as a loyal and dedicated soldier. Co-workers said he treated people in his department like family and made it a point to speak with people as often as possible.
Johnson met his wife Joyce in college in 1973 and they married in 1979. He is remembered as an honest, loving husband and father.
Lieutenant Colonel Johnson’s military awards and decorations include: Legion of Merit (with Oak Leaf Cluster); Purple Heart; Defense Meritorious Service Medal; Meritorious Service Medal (with Oak Leaf Cluster); Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Armed Forces Reserve Medal; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon (3rd award); Joint Meritorious Unit Award (with Oak Leaf Cluster); Army Superior Unit Award; and, the Army Staff Badge.
At the time of his death Army Lieutenant Colonel Dennis Johnson was survived by his wife, Joyce; two children, Dawn and Cassie; parents, Bob and Elva Johnson; and, his three younger siblings, Diane Czlapinski, Richard Johnson, and Gail Lindner.
On September 29, 2001, Army Lieutenant Colonel Dennis Johnson received full military honors and was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.
Information for this short biography about Army Lieutenant Colonel Dennis Michael Johnson was pieced together from the following sources: penagonmemorial.org, "LTC Dennis M. Johnson"; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs, "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com, "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
Army Lieutenant Colonel Dennis M. Johnson - Wisconsin Military Casualty Compilation - September 11, 2001 Attack
This entry was posted on 7/5/2011 1:30 AM and is filed under Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation.
Army Lieutenant Colonel Dennis Michael Johnson, 48, of Port Edwards, Wisconsin, died Tuesday, September 11, 2001. He was killed when hijacked American Airlines flight 77 was crashed into the Pentagon during the September 11 terrorist attacks. Johnson was assigned to the Army staff at the Pentagon. Lieutenant Colonel Johnson was an Adjutant General Corps Officer. He was on his second tour at the Pentagon, with his most recent assignment being the Chief of Personnel Services.
Dennis Johnson was a native of Port Edwards, Wisconsin. He was born April 1, 1953. Port Edwards is a town with adjacent Village of Port Edwards with a combined population of around 3500. They are located near the center of the state along the Wisconsin River just south of the city of Wisconsin Rapids. Johnson graduated from John Edwards High School, Port Edwards, Wisconsin in 1971. He began his military training in the ROTC program at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, Wisconsin. He graduated there in 1975 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. Johnson was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Adjutant General Corps in December of 1975.
Among Johnson's earlier career assignments were tours of duty at Fort Knox, Kentucky; then, Mainz, Germany. He received training in Military Club Management and served as the Area Club Manager at his duty station in Germany. In the mid 1980s he attended Florida International University in Miami, Florida, graduating with a Master’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management.
He spent assignments at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, and there also served as the Installation Club Manager, and later as the Chief of Personnel for Headquarters Company. In August 1988 he was assigned to Fort Richardson, Alaska, to head the Command for 203rd Personnel Service Company.
After Alaska, Johnson attended the Command and General Staff College as a staff leader at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. After a year there he was assignment to the Pentagon in 1991 as a Program Budget Officer; later, as the Executive Officer to the Director of Operations and Support for the Army Budget Office.
After the first Pentagon tour he was sent to Wheeler Army Air Force Base on Oahu, Hawaii, as the Chief Resource Management Officer for the Defense Information Systems Agency, Pacific. His next orders brought him to Alexandria, Virginia, in 1998 where he worked at ATEC/OPTEC in the Operational Test and Evaluation Command as the Deputy Chief of Staff-Personnel. In May of 2000 Johnson accepted what was to become his last assignment and it was as the Chief of Personnel Services for the Deputy Chief of Staff at the Pentagon.
Lieutenant Colonel Johnson was remembered as a loyal and dedicated soldier. Co-workers said he treated people in his department like family and made it a point to speak with people as often as possible.
Johnson met his wife Joyce in college in 1973 and they married in 1979. He is remembered as an honest, loving husband and father.
Lieutenant Colonel Johnson’s military awards and decorations include: Legion of Merit (with Oak Leaf Cluster); Purple Heart; Defense Meritorious Service Medal; Meritorious Service Medal (with Oak Leaf Cluster); Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Armed Forces Reserve Medal; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon (3rd award); Joint Meritorious Unit Award (with Oak Leaf Cluster); Army Superior Unit Award; and, the Army Staff Badge.
At the time of his death Army Lieutenant Colonel Dennis Johnson was survived by his wife, Joyce; two children, Dawn and Cassie; parents, Bob and Elva Johnson; and, his three younger siblings, Diane Czlapinski, Richard Johnson, and Gail Lindner.
On September 29, 2001, Army Lieutenant Colonel Dennis Johnson received full military honors and was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.
Information for this short biography about Army Lieutenant Colonel Dennis Michael Johnson was pieced together from the following sources: penagonmemorial.org, "LTC Dennis M. Johnson"; Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs, "Fallen Heroes Page"; and, CNN.com, "War Casualties Page."
Note: This "Wisconsin Military Casualties Afghanistan Iraq Compilation" Daily Dadio blog Category is under construction. Go to the Cooldadiomedia Web site and the Wisconsin War Casualties Page for a list of names noted by date of death.
[ If readers know of other military service persons with Wisconsin connections that are not on the Web site comprehensive list of fatal casualties, or notice errors, please email Bob Keith at keithrg13@cooldadiomedia.com ]
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