Memorial Celebrates the Lives of Fallen JBER Soldiers

Friends and family came together Thursday to remember three Alaska-based soldiers

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By Heather Hintze
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Story Created: Jun 7, 2012 at 7:12 PM AKDT

Story Updated: Jun 7, 2012 at 7:21 PM AKDT

ANCHORAGE - Friends and family came together Thursday to remember three Alaska-based soldiers killed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Afghanistan in May. The men were part of the 4th Brigade, 25th Infantry Division that deployed in November 2011.

“We don't fully appreciate the quality of individuals we have in the Army until they're no longer in our chain of command or until we lose one. Coming to these and being a part of them the best way I can describe it is being close to your family and friends and soldiers and strengthening those bonds,” said 1st Lt. Evan Mize.

Sergeant Brian Walker, 25, was on his second tour of duty when he was killed by an IED on May 13. He’s survived by his parents and his wife, Corporal Ashley Walker.

Specialist Richard McNulty was killed in that same attack. The 22-year-old enlisted in July 2010 and was deployed to Afghanistan last November. He leaves behind his parents, his wife Hannah and his unborn daughter, Ella.

Staff Sergant Thomas Fogerty was on his third tour of duty when he was struck by an IED on May 6 and later died of his injures. He’s survived by his parents, his wife, Vanessa and his two children. His platoon leader, 1st Lt. Evan Mize, said Fogerty was the first soldier from his unit to be killed in battle.

“It's not easy to lose anybody, but to lose someone you worked with on a daily basis makes it even more difficult. He was a personable guy who cared about the Army, cared about the individuals in his command, made my job much easier. It's a big loss for the unit and for his family.”

With a 21 gun salute the men will be remembered as heroes who gave all they had, and sacrificed everything fighting for our country.
 

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