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'Warrior's Walk' Honors 3ID Soldiers Killed in Iraq

Monday, May 12, 2003
By Specialist Jonathan M. Stack
U.S. Army
Army News Service

"Those killed and injured were from units throughout the division. Headquarters units and line units, infantry, combat engineer, aviation, field artillery, and support units. They were young troopers and old soldiers, private to captain to chief warrant officer 4. Single soldiers and married soldiers, some with large families and some with small, died and were wounded for their country and its values. They fought for their units and most of all for the soldiers standing next to them."

FORT STEWART, Ga. -- ANS
More than 3,000 family members, soldiers and friends of the 3rd Infantry Division (Mech.) attended a memorial ceremony April 30 to honor the division's 34 soldiers killed in action during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

"Forever more, these soldiers will be remembered and most of all they will always be here, marching in every formation on the field of honor. They will be in attendance at our most important events. They will not be forgotten," said Col. Gerald J. Poltorak, the garrison commander at Fort Stewart.

"Today, we solemnly read their names; an honor roll of courageous warriors who gave their all to their country, unit, and fellow soldiers. We will honor them with a living tribute of their great sacrifice," Poltorak said.

Thirty-four eastern red bud trees, native to Georgia, were planted with a granite marker in front of each tree with the soldier's rank, name and Iraqi Freedom engraved on it. The trees will bloom annually in the late spring, which is about the same time Iraqi Freedom was ongoing.
(More: Military.com)
2003 © Army News Service.

Dan