The following are stories, accounts
and photos from the brave men and women of Illinois who are proudly
serving our country. Their sense of duty, honor and commitment are
outstanding. Take the time to look through and appreciate what these
brave warriors have done for us.
If you know or are a member of the
armed forces and would like to have a story or picture included, please
send it to
DanRutherford@DanRutherford.com.
Please have them be 'first person' and from the soldier personally
along with their hometown in Illinois.
I received an e-mail from my
friends Judy and John Dudek telling me that her son, Electronics
Technician 1st Class Petty Officer John Dudek, was named 2007 Naval
Surface Combat Systems East Coast Sailor of the Year. John was
chosen over the West Coast Sailor of the Year and will now compete
against Sailors of the Year from the remaining naval organizations.
We are all very proud of John and wish him good luck at the next
level of competition.
East
Coast ET Takes First Step in Quest for Sailor of the Year
Story Number:
NNS071025-04
Release Date: 10/25/2007 9:24:00 AM
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman
Christopher Dollar, Center for Surface Combat Systems Public Affairs
DAM NECK, Va. (NNS) -- An electronics technician assigned to
Center for Surface Combat Systems (CSCS) Unit Great Lakes was named
the 2007 CSCS Sailor of the Year on Oct. 16.
Electronics Technician 1st Class (SW) John Dudek, representing the
East Coast, was selected for the award during a head-to-head
competition with Sonar Technician Surface 1st Class (SW) Michael
Durel of Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Center in San Diego.
"What started out as a nomination by my command evolved -- to my
surprise and delight -- into Sailor of the Year for CSCS," said
Dudek.
Dudek, a native of Canton, Ill., enlisted in the Navy in 1999. After
attending Electronics Technicians "A" School in Great Lakes, Dudek
served aboard USS Valley Forge (CG-50) until her decommissioning in
2004. Currently, Dudek is an apprentice technical training
instructor at CSCS Unit Great Lakes.
CSCS SOY begins with a competition at the local level and the
selectees from the detachments compete for CSCS SOY East and West by
sending their packages to CSCS Unit Dam Neck to be reviewed by a
board, explained Command Master Chief Charles Hardin, CSCS. The
board chooses two Sailors to compete as the CSCS SOY East and West
for the opportunity to be the CSCS SOY.
The selectees go through a rigorous process of performing basic
military drill and answering a series of questions in front of a
board of master chiefs.
"After all the interviews and before the individual scores are shown
to the board, a vote takes place to see how well the board thought
each Sailor did," said Hardin. "It was amazing to see how well the
votes reflected the scores."
Dudek and Durel were selected from a group of 11 finalists that also
included Gunner's Mate 1st Class (SW) Tere Patterson of CSCS
Detachment West, San Diego; Mineman 1st Class (SW) Brandi Jimenez of
CSCS Ingleside, Texas; Operations Specialist 1st Class (SW) Chris
Witkemper of CSCS Detachment Pearl Harbor; Operations Specialist 1st
Class (SW) Raymond Graves of CSCS Detachment Yokosuka, Japan;
Operations Specialist 1st Class (SW) Christopher Rowan of CSCS
Detachment Mayport, Fla.; Fire Controlman 1st Class (SW) Alan
Middeker of AEGIS Training and Readiness Center, Dahlgren; Fire
Controlman 1st Class (SW) Mikel Grandey of CSCS Detachment Wallops
Island; Boatswain's Mate 1st Class (SW) Kwon Johnson of CSCS
Detachment East, Norfolk; and Operations Specialists 1st Class (SW)
Edward Suders of CSCS Unit Dam Neck.
Dudek is scheduled represent CSCS at the Naval Personnel Development
Command level in December.
Rod Hieronymus
Hi,
I’m not
a soldier, but instead an Air Traffic Controller doing contract work
helping to train Iraqi controllers to take back their own control
towers and Air Traffic Centers. I retired from 25 year at O’Hare
this past June.
I can’t
hold a candle to what these true soldiers are doing over here,
although I did just live through my first few rocket attacks
yesterday. I would not want to take away anything from the real
soldiers over here who are putting their butts on the line for me.
You’re
more than welcome to use any image of me but be sure to mention that
I’m not with the military.
I can
probably get a better picture in the next few days … one that has a
clearer shot of my “No Hillary” collection of shirts. (I’ve got a
few!)
Just a short note to brag a little. My son John ( you meet
t him in East Peoria at the TV station last year) just called to
let me know that he was chosen Sailor of the Year at the Great
Lakes Command. Very proud of him and all he has accomplished in
the last year.
In the Chicago Tribune, I recently
discovered a couple of websites about U.S. service members. I think
that you will find them of great interest.
The first website allows you to
watch the soldiers from Bonecrusher Troop’s 3rd Platoon,
who are serving in Iraq’s most dangerous area. Click on the
following link to watch:
Unfortunately, one of the realities
of war is that brave men and women die. At this website, you can
learn more about the men and women who have given their lives to
protect our freedoms and this great country. The address is:
http://www.legacy.com/chicagotribune/Soldier/Home.aspx?track=ctpromobar
I hope you find the stories about these heroic men and women
informative.
This little excursion to Djibouti in
support of Enduring Freedom is almost complete. The
plane arrives Friday to take several of us back to Norfolk where we
will begin Active duty outprocessing.
I want to thank each of you for your
support throughout this period. The e-mails, letters, packages, and
phone calls to Kim have been most welcome. During this deployment,
I have developed a high regard for what members of active duty go
through every day to protect us at home. I also can appreciate that
those of us here in Djibouti do our part so that those on the front
lines in Iraq and Afghanistan can do theirs. After all, Djibouti is
full of activity, but daily mortar and IED attacks simply don't
happen here at this time. The hardest decision we face around here
is what kind of ice cream to go with following chow.
Working as an information analyst
has been extremely rewarding out here. While some guard the
perimeter and others work to supply the base, I've been able to
explore the stories behind the story here on the Horn of Africa and
for that I'm grateful.
As you may know, I've been working
the "country" of Somalia, just 15 miles south of where we are in
Djibouti. The political, economic, and health crises so pervasive
there really were'nt on my radar before, but are now old hat.
Enclosed is a picture taken yesterday with Admiral Hart, the
one-star I've been briefing three times a week on the various tales
of woe coming out of Somalia. As an aside, nothing has really
changed in Somalia in 17 years so a case could easily be made
for eliminating a few of them for this poor man! But it is his
unrelenting interest in topics large and small that has made working
under his command so enjoyable. Also, a side project I managed
resulted in a greater understanding of the 'insurgency' or
'insurgencies' in the country and served as the impetus for an intel
sharing program with the Ugandans on the ground in Mogadishu. The
poor Ugandans have been the only country in the African Union to
have peacekeeping forces on the ground since early this year. The
Burundians are expected to deploy next but they have been delayed
several times due to shortfalls in funding and equipment.
Kim and I will be taking a little
vacation in the coming weeks and then it's back to the bar exam.
Again, I can't begin to express my
appreciation enough for your support on this deployment. I hope to
talk to each of you soon.
Patti Welander
STREATOR -- Families of Central Illinois National Guard members
serving in Iraq have gotten some good news. About 170 soldiers from
the 1744th Transportation Co., Streator, are expected home in
mid-September from their year-long deployment in Iraq, said Guard
spokesman Stacey Rieger.
This afternoon our executive officer asked me three questions. He
asked, “Is the war winnable? Are we winning? Is it worth
winning?” So I answered him . . .
When our team arrived in Baghdad, we decided that our efforts
needed to focus on achieving the following objectives. First, the
community needed to be secure, dominated by combined forces
(Coalition Forces and Iraqi Security Forces) and free of enemy
control. Second, the community needed to be able to conduct daily
routines. And third, Task Force Patriot needed to be fully combat
ready and prepared to assume a different mission. In my mind, for
our team to “win” the war in Iraq, we are responsible for
accomplishing these goals.
Yarmouk and Hateen are relatively secure, dominated by a
significant and capable combined force and compared to other parts
of Baghdad, free of enemy control. The winning stops here.
To win the war in Iraq, Iraq must transform a populace, oppressed
by decades of dictatorship and years of war, into a functioning,
committed and selfless community led by a legitimate government
capable of providing for basic needs and economic growth. That is a
hell of a leap! The average Iraqis that our men meet on patrols
everyday are good individuals who want to take care of their
families and achieve some acceptable quality of life. Despite
tribal ties and religious affiliation and an acknowledgement that
life in Baghdad is NOT GOOD right now, there is little incentive or
desire for individuals to unity the masses. We regularly comment,
“Where is their George Washington?” We are searching for men to
write newsletters, control work forces, join neighborhood watches
and report criminal / extremist activity. We cannot find a single
man ready to fairly help other individuals form a united community.
American Soldiers are tired. Tired of deployments away from home
and family, tired of political leaders pointing fingers rather than
creating solutions and tired of Iraqi people complaining about their
problems, but doing little to improve their plight. Our Army is
equally tired. Equipment is worn. Specialty skills, like those of
our artillerymen, are lacking. Units continue to operate in one of
three phases of service . . . preparing to deploy, deployed or
redeploying. The deployed phase grows longer while the other two
phases continue to lose predictability and length. I acknowledge
that soldiers in previous wars served longer tours, in harsher
conditions, with fewer resources. They served in a different Army .
. . different size, different demographic, different society and
different global threat.
Ultimately, the United States Army possesses the manpower, skill
and equipment to secure our area of operations and train the Iraqi
Security Forces to prevent enemy domination in Baghdad. Without the
full compliment of American Might involved in the war in Iraq, we
simply come up short on the greater effort. Other elements of
national power, especially from the diplomatic realm, and kings of
industry, experts in business and veteran civil servants owe this
war effort their talents, skills and experience. Finally, a serious
look at our future war fighting and defensive structure demand
serious thought and revision. So yes, this war is winnable. And
no, we are not winning . . . “we” needs to mean more than just the
Army.
This war is completely worth winning! Our nation’s reputation,
security and future are at stake. Additionally, the fate of this
part of the world and the evolution and expansion of the extremist
agenda everywhere hinges on us winning or losing the war in Iraq.
This problem demands a solution developed, resourced, implemented
and executed by the full force of AMERICA.
Without a solution that leads to the growth of a community
capable of conducting daily routines and a long term plan to defend
our nations interests worldwide, this winnable war, will be lost at
great cost to everyone.
Jill
and I enjoyed a terrific vacation in early July. After a couple of
days in Washington DC visiting LTC Gadson and his family, we flew to
Chicago and saw family and friends at my parent’s Fourth of July
party. We spent a week in Riviera Maya, Mexico pretending to be big
shots at a wonderful all-inclusive resort before ending the trip at
our house doing little projects. What an incredible break! Thank
you for your continued prayers and support. I am a lucky kid.
Erin Zweigart was sworn in as a
First Lieutenant Wednesday July 25 to the USAF Judge Advocate
General's Corps. She will be stationed in Charleston, SC.
"I'm honored and grateful to have the opportunity to serve my
country in the Air Force JAG Corps," Zweigart commented.
Zweigart also announced her engagement to Michael Dixon on Saturday
July 28.
I am writing to
you about a young man that was killed in action June 2,2007, he was
22 and left behind a 4 yr. old daughter, a mother, brother and many
friends, all who which are having a very hard time dealing with his
death. We are so very proud of him, he was doing what he thought was
right, he wanted to make a better future for his daughter Lilian. He
is dead now and she has a future with no daddy. I don't know much
about politics nor this war other than it is killing our young
people and our future. I have great pride for what our men and woman
are doing and fighting for. Why can't we protect them better, like
the trucks or something that can detect these roadside bombs. I just
don't understand, he was like a son to me, he called me mom, and
believe me it hurts as if he were of my blood.
He was full of
life, enjoyed every moment of it, he was my son's best friend and
bro, they did everything together, when Jeremy was home in Feb,2007
he and my son went and got matching tatoos, they were gonna get
brothers but decided to get friends. Please help us to understand
and give us hope that this will be over soon. Also he has a brother
in Iraq, Joel.
Air Force Chief Master Sgt. John Gebhart, of the 332nd
Expeditionary Medical Group at Balad, Iraq, cradles a young girl
as they both sleep in the hospital. The girl's entire family
was executed by insurgents; the killers shot her in the head as
well. The girl received treatment at the U.S. military
hospital in Balad, but cries and moans often. According to
nurses at the facility, Gebhardt is the only one who can calm down
the girl, so he has spent the last several nights holding her
while they both sleep in a chair.
I
have been home and am already back in Iraq. Unfortunately I did not
have enough time to do every thing that I wanted to do. I didn’t
even get to T-off, fish, or go see the Sox loose. The entire time
was running the miles up on my truck and Harley trying to see the
family.
Don’t know if
I told you or if you already found out but our Unit did get
extended.
Thank you
again for everything Senator and I look forward to seeing you when
we ALL return.
Tom Kelly (left) and his buddy Harris
Tom Kelly (bottom left) and his platoon
Dan Rutherford,
My name is Specialist Tommy Kelly
and i am a Paratrooper in the 27th Engineer Battalion out of Fort
Bragg North Carolina. My unit just got back from a year deployment
in Afghanistan and are stateside now. My job is a Combat Engineer
and over there we did route clearance, which is clearing the roads
for bombs. I have alot of pictures if you would like them. Attached
are my favorites because they were taken after long missions.
I am from Chicago in the
neighborhood of Beverly and my Parish is St. Cajetan. It is a very
Patriotic neighborhood and there are alot of young men who serve
that live there. A lot are my close friends and twin brother who is
in the Marines. Our Priest also joined to be a Chaplain and is in
Iraq now on his second tour of duty.
JACKSONVILLE -
State Rep. Jim Watson announced Friday that he has re-enlisted in
the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.
"I thought about
two decisions - about doing it (re-enlisting), and announcing it
without making it a bigger deal than it is. I thought I needed to
let my constituents know," the Jacksonville Republican said.
Watson, a
veteran of the Gulf War, re-enlisted in May as an E-6 staff
sergeant, USMC Reserves, attached to the Civil Affairs Group (CAG)
at Camp Pendleton, Calif. He is attending one weekend a month there.
"We are at an
important point in our nation's history," he said. "The war on
terrorism is being fought on many fronts. My old unit is currently
serving its third tour of duty. There is a general sense of duty
that does not end when you take the uniform off. For some time now,
I have felt the call to again serve my country."
Watson was a
member of the Marine Corps and Marine Corps Reserve from 1985-1991,
and served in war zones in Iraq for seven months during Operation
Desert Storm 1990-91. "My experience in the first Gulf War and as a
legislator give me a unique skill set which can help the CAG," he
said. "Right now, the same individuals are being asked to carry the
water over and over again. I believe I can make a difference and
help support our troops that have already given so much."
Watson, who is
divorced, has three children, ages 8, 12 and 15. He said the
decision was not an easy one for his family, either.
"It was tough on
them, for my children, my mother and brother. But, again, it's not
any different than any other soldier, Marine or airman," he said.
Watson said he
does not feel his military duty will adversely affect his
legislative obligations.
"It's one
weekend a month," he said. "If something should happen and we are
mobilized again, we will cross that bridge when we come to it. My
job right now is to get a budget passed and take care of my
constituents' needs."
Watson has been
a member of the legislature since 2001.
Jeremy decided to enter the service
his junior year of high school. He felt that this could be a
stepping stone to becoming an Illinois State Police officer. His
daughter, Lilly, was born in October of 2005. Jeremy worked at
Jerseyville Wal-Mart and attended school. He later worked for a
telemarketing firm in Alton and then at Rent-A-Center for one year.
It was then he decided it was time to join the military and wanted
to make a career of the Army. He was a truck driver in the U.S.
Army. His hobbies included pool and basketball. He played football
his freshman year in Carlinville. He was a member of Vaughn Hill
Church of Christ.
He was preceded
in death by his father in January 1999.
Surviving are
his daughter, Lillian Angel Costello of Alton; mother, Debbie
Costello (fiance, Bob Hughes) of Bunker Hill, and Steve Springman of
Tishamingo MS; four brothers, Joel (Terrie) Rhodes of Colorado
Springs, Colo., Darrell (Tina) Titus of Marshall, Yancy Costello of
Carlinville and Ken Costello, formerly of Carlinville; grandparents,
Amelia Burger of Greenfield and Donald and Mary Jane Wilson of
Hamburg, Barry and Donna Lakin of Carlinville and several aunts and
uncles; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.
Remains are at
Davis-Anderson Funeral Home in Carlinville, where friends may call
from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, June 10, 2007. Services will be held at 10
a.m. Monday, June 11, 2007, at Carlinville Southern Baptist Church
with the Rev. Coy Siddall officiating. Burial will be in Mayfield
Memorial Park Cemetery, Garden of Valor, in Carlinville.
Memorial
contributions may be made to a trust fund for his daughter's needs.
FROM SENATOR RUTHERFORD: My
deepest condolences to Barry and Donna Lakin. My prayers are
with the family.
As and undergraduate political science major in 1983-84, I recallparticipating in discussions of the then-pending Iraq-Iran war
at Global Review events. Never in my wildest imaginings did I
suspect that some 21 years later I would find myself in the midst of
another war in Iraq. But on the 4th of July in 2005,
after being called from my civilian job as an associate judge in
Bloomington to active duty with the Army Reserve, I was deployed to
Abu Ghraib, Iraq. I served as a Judge Advocate officer assigned to
Task Force Medical344 (TF MED 344).
My duty in Iraq was to serve as the Army’s legal officer overseeing
medical treatment of detainees throughout the country. I was
responsible for advising the medical command on issues such as
confidentiality of records, medical ethics and end-of-life issues,
and standard of care issues for detainees. I advised our medical
staff on all issues relating to their care of detainees, as well as
providing legal services to all soldiers housed at Abu Ghraib. I
had the opportunity to meet with and advise the presiding judge of
the Saddam Hussein trial on due process issues, as well as come
face-to-face with Hussein himself on several occasions.
I am extremely proud of the small contributions I made to the
success of the very difficult mission given to TF MED 344 in Iraq.
I am convince that the development of a reputable court system and
respect for the rule of law is fundamental to eventual peace in that
country. But perhaps the most gratifying experiences I had there
had no connection to my legal assignment. With the help of my wife,
Traci (Skelley) ’86, and children back home, box loads of toys,
school supplies, and hygiene items were sent to me. I, along with
other soldiers in my unit, regularly distributed these items to
impoverished children in the area around Abu Ghraib.
The environment at Abu Ghraib was harsh and dangerous. The heat was
oppressive, the accommodations Spartan, and the installation was
frequently attacked by rocket and mortar fire. The separation from
my wife and children was almost unbearable. Having now safely
returned home, and being able to sit in the stands again and watch
the Redbird football and basketball teams, has truly taught me to
appreciate the many blessings in my life.
Camp Le Monier
is the base of operations for U.S. forces in the Horn of Africa.
Chris Winslow will be giving us periodic updates while stationed
there. I truly appreciate his contributions.
Chris Winslow
Dear Senator
Rutherford,
Greetings from the Horn of Africa.
Terri Winfree, whom you know through Community College and Chamber
lobbying, was recently married to my Uncle Rick Seeley. Below is an
e-mail from her suggesting I include you on my distribution list for
a bi-monthly e-mail I
send out regarding my experiences etc. here at Camp Lemonier in
Djibouti.
As I understand from your website, you have been to some of the
better
areas in Africa. Djibouti is not among those so luckily dubbed.
I am a graduate of Mary Washington College and Thomas Jefferson Law
and
between those degrees worked as Rob Bell's campaign manager and then
Delegate Bell's (R-Albemarle) legislative assistant in Richmond, VA.
Please feel free to use any portion of the distributed e-mail as you
wish.
Thank you for your service. It seems as though Illinois needs it
more
than
ever.
SPC
Gebur was killed in action while serving in Iraq, the following
are letters from friends and pictures of Ron, his wife Bethany,
and his son Gage:
Mrs. Boswell,
My name is Craig Osborne and I was Ron's Battalion Commander in
Iraq. My friend Bob Babcock forwarded me your recent email to him
and I felt compelled to write you. I hope that you do not think
that a response via email is impersonal - it truly is not meant to
be.
I cannot fathom the depths of your loss, but can only tell you
that my thoughts and prayers are with you and will always be.
There
isn't a day that passes that I don't remember Ron, Bethany, and
Gage and pray for them. His picture is on the wall in our
headquarters and I see him over and over each day. I know he will
never be forgotten.
When he was killed, I went to the hospital in Baghdad to be with
him but arrived too late. I knelt next to his body and prayed for
God to comfort you and your family in the days ahead and to take
care of Bethany and Gage, in particular. When the time came, I
personally escorted his body to where it needed to be. It was
where I was supposed to be that morning and nothing was more
important to me. I then went to the site where the IED detonated
and I walked about attempting to comfort those who were with him
and knew him best. More than anything, we shook hands, put our
arms around each other and hugged one another, and nodded as tears
filled our eyes. Words were inadequate.
I called Bethany the day after Ron died but she was already on a
flight back to you. We were able to speak the following day and I
told her how special Ron was to us and how sorry I was for his
death. I am sure she only vaguely remembers talking with me but it
was important to me that I call her. When I confirmed where you
lived, I wanted my family to
represent me at Ron's funeral since I could not be there myself. I
was fortunate enough that some were able to attend. Ron was one of
us and I wanted to pay our respects in an appropriate manner and
ensure that you knew we had not simply forgotten him when he left
our midst. I also know that my wife Lois was at the service at
Fort Hood that honored Ron. When I return to Decatur after the
deployment, I will visit Ron's grave and pay my respects.
I felt many emotions that day and have felt even more since. I
felt a great sense of sorrow for having lost one of our own, I
felt proud of him for never shirking his duty for his nation and
brothers here, I felt selfish for feeling the loss while knowing
how much it would effect
you and your family even more, and I felt like I had let your
family down for not bringing him back alive with us. I will always
be sorry that I was unable to do so. Unfortunately, we have lost
men both prior to and since the day Ron passed away, but none have
been so widely mourned as Ron. He was unique - but you already
know that.
I am old enough to have teenage children and many of our Soldiers
are not much older than my own daughters. In so many ways, I view
our Soldiers as my own sons and daughters. When something happens
to one of them, it is very personal to me. I am certain that the
loss I have felt and continue to feel for Ron pales in comparison
to the devastation that you have endured, but please know that
countless people also grieve with you. I wish that there was
something I could say or do that could ease your pain. I would
eagerly do it if I could or knew how.
You
and your family remain and will always be in our thoughts and
prayers. You have sacrificed for the nation just as other families
have done and I want you to know that Ron and his life will never
be forgotten. He was too important to us for that to ever happen.
As long as I live, I will always be there for you, your family,
Bethany, and Gage. I owe that to you and to Ron.
May God bless you and give you comfort in these days and the days
ahead.
Craig Osborne
Message by Dr
Kevin Marsh - Battalion Surgeon 1-22 Infantry
To the family of SPC Ron Gebur,
As the battalion surgeon, I do not always have the opportunity to
meet every soldier in the battalion. For SPC Gebur, I had met him a
few times when he came to the aid station and I noticed how he had
an upbeat attitude. I did not know it at the time, but I later
learned that this was an extension of his faith in God.
Occasionally, I would hear his name in conversations and learned
that he had become a good friend with one of our medics (and that he
was a good example of model behavior).
On May 8th, I was beginning a 4 day class designed to teach more
medical skills to the line soldiers. I was pleased to see that Ron
was in the class, knowing that he was a leader amongst the men.
After a few lectures, he informed me that there was an upcoming
mission and that he might not be able to finish the course. I let
him know that he would be welcome at future classes, but to let me
know what the decision was. He expressed a desire to be with his
unit, and let me know that he would rather finish the course another
time. The next day, he left with his men.
In the early morning hours of May 13th, I was informed that our
battalion had suffered casualties. When the hospital called me
for
an update, my heart sank to learn that it was Ron. This information
was passed to the men in the operations center and everyone stopped
what they were doing when they heard his name. We all knew that we
had lost a great man.
It is a lasting tribute to a man's character when it can
consistently be said of him that he was a leader, kind, and
dedicated. Everyone that I have talked to has said this of him. In a
wartime environment, he exuded an attitude that only comes from a
Christian faith.
For his wife and family, I pray that you will find comfort with the
LORD during this time. For his son, Gage, you can be proud that your
father was a man of courage and character. Know that all the men who
served with him loved and respected him.
FROM SENATOR RUTHERFORD: I attended
the wake of LCPL Holzhauer from my Senate District. I know the
family and his grandmother is a friend of mine. My prayers are
with the family.
‘Always one to serve'
Holzhauer honored
Monday for a life of service and faith
By Jo Ann Hustis Herald
Reporter
Tuesday, March 27, 2007 3:00 PM CDT
U.S. Marines
bear the casket of Lance Cpl. Raymond J. Holzhauer during the
commital service Monday at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Dwight.
(Morris Herald Photo/Jo Ann Hustis)
DWIGHT - From the
church to the cemetery, hundreds of people showing American flags
lined up Monday in tribute to the life of the late Marine Lance Cpl.
Raymond James Holzhauer.
“The thoughts and prayers of the people of St. Patrick's Catholic
Church, and the people of Dwight, are with you,” church pastor, the
Rev. Jim Rickey, said to the family during the funeral for the
19-year-old Marine.
“We are all here because we have faith.”
He recognized Illinois Lt. Gov. Patrick Quinn, who arrived about 20
minutes before the service began at 11 a.m. Monday.
“We're honored he is here,” said Rickey. “We know of the great work
he does in respect to those who died in the service of our country.”
The son of Lori Fraher and Raymond
Holzhauer, the Marine was found dead on Thursday, March 15, in the
Armory in Al Anbar Province in Iraq where he was assigned to duty.
The military announced he died from what was described as a
non-hostile incident. The death remains under investigation.
Placing a white pall on the coffin in remembrance of the baptismal
garment, the pastor prayed for “Your son Raymond, whom You have
called from this life, welcome him into the company of Your saints,
in the kingdom of light and peace.”
During the eulogy, the pastor recounted the story of the rabbi whose
son was murdered.
A Marine escorts
the family of the late Lance Cpl. Raymond J. Holzhauer to his
funeral Monday in Dwight. Holzhauer died March 15 in
non-military combat in Iraq. (Herald Photo/Jo Ann Hustis)
“He knew the Bible well,” said Rickey.
“He said, ‘Always be grateful to the One who gave you the gift of
the Lord. We repay the loan when it is demanded.'
“The rabbi's wife said, ‘Today, God called our only son.' The rabbi
said, ‘The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away.' We thank God for
the gift of Raymond James Holzhauer.”
The pastor recalled the Marine's vibrant, yet quiet personality, and
his willingness to help others.
“You could count on Ray. He listened, and he cared. He loved cars,
racing, and fishing. He loved his country. It's called service,”
Rickey said. “He went to serve all people. He was a Marine - always
faithful.”
The pastor recounted the serviceman's
early life, from his first communion at St. Patrick's Church, to his
graduation from the local grade and high schools, and his enlistment
in the Marine Corps.
“He was always one to serve,” said Rickey.
His gaze on the flag-draped casket before him, the pastor spoke to
Holzhauer.
“Thank you for your generosity to all of us,” Rickey said. “You
returned your life to the Lord through your service to us.”
“He was there. And then when the Lord called him, let it be said,
‘The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away.' Blessed be the name of
the Lord.”
Rickey told the congregation to live, and cherish and respect life,
giving of it generously and freely in service to others.
“Semper Fi,” he said, quoting the Marine Corps motto to be ever
faithful. “Always be faithful and be ready for when the Lord calls.
Jesus said, ‘Love one another.' The people who are important to you,
show them by your actions you love them.”
Lastly, the pastor reminded the congregation to not forget the wake
for the Marine, and his funeral and burial.
“The family will need your help and support,” Rickey said. “Share
his memory - keep him alive. And help us be ready to go home
whenever You call us.”
The communion bread and wine were the gifts of the Marine's
godparents at baptism, Rick Stevenson and Bonnie Kelly.
Internment followed at Mt. Olivet Cemetery at Dwight. The service
was conducted with full military honors by members of the United
States Marine Corps, who also served as pallbearers at the cemetery.
Pallbearers at the church service were Jonny Biswell, Sean
Cleveland, Zach DeLong, Kristen Feddersen, Elliot Gernantz, Scott
Oswald, Rick Stevenson, and Garret Tripp.
About 50 members of the Patriot Guard Riders were present to protect
the services from a Wichita, Kansas, church group which demonstrates
at military funerals.
Arrangements were by Martin-Burke Funeral Home of Pontiac, and Hager
Memorial Home in Dwight.
Senator Rutherford, I appreciate you taking the time and energy to put a place
on your website to show special recognition to those who are
working hard to protect our great nation. I grew up in
Fairbury, IL, graduated Prairie Central in 2002, and I'm
currently a Junior at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD.
After graduation, I went to Monterey, CA and went through the defense
language program there to learn Arabic. Afterwards, I applied to the
Academy, and to all of you interested, the process isn't as
challenging as it may initially seem. Congressman Johnson was very
helpful in getting the Congressional recommendation, and it
turned out to be a surprisingly smooth process. I've never
regretted my decision to attend the Academy, even though it's not
even close to the normal college experience. The classmates and
company mates I've been lucky enough to have are closer than any
fraternity brother anyone could ever have. We do a lot together,
whether it's traveling across the world or working together to
organize the Saturday morning training regiment for the Plebe
(freshmen) class.
As a junior, things are a little better, because I can finally have a car,
wear 'civilian' clothes, and have at least one weekday evening free
to enjoy in town (Tuesday evening). I usually have weekends free, so
I can explore the DC/Baltimore area, and go back home or up to NYC
and elsewhere. I was just accepted to go to the early
interview for the nuclear engineering program for my post-graduation
career selection. While getting the early interview doesn't ensure
me to get into the program,
it's still an exciting prospect. If I get accepted, I'll spend a year and
a half in Charleston, SC to go through the Navy's nuclear power
school after my graduation and commission in May 2008. Afterwards,
I'll be assigned to a submarine in either Kings Bay, San Diego, or
Hawaii.
Fehr on a navigation training mission with a
British sailor
I want to take a moment to recognize those who are on the
front lines servicing our great country at this time. While
I'm at the Academy, we're often required to wear our uniforms into
Annapolis, at airports, and other locales throughout our nation. As
a freshman and sophomore, we aren't allowed to wear normal
clothes at all, and this leads to many opportunities to wear
our uniforms into public. We hear a lot of 'thank yous' as we walk
around in our uniforms, and as a student at the Academy, I feel this
distinction is misleading. What they mean to thank is the
service of those who do wear our uniform all over, and hopefully
someday I'll have a chance to really deserve their thanks. But for
now, when they thank me, I remember their thanks is an expression of
appreciation to everyone who serves the United States. So, I
want to forward all those thanks to everyone serving--whether you're
spending long hours on watch in the desert, time on a ship's bridge
in the Pacific, protecting our coast lines, or flying sorties
against enemy targets, your efforts are kept in the minds of
Americans everywhere, as I'm constantly reminded of our nation's
appreciation.
If any of you are interested in the Academy (whether Navy, WestPoint, or
Air Force), please email me at m082118@usna.edu and I'll be happy to
answer any questions. I've made friends at each of our sister
academies, and the rigorous lifestyle and regimency has changed me
in ways I never imagined. This is an oft-felt sediment by cadets and
midshipmen at each of the three service academies, and most
will agree it's a highly rewarding and worthwhile experience. It's
been a great ride, and I look forward to finishing up my time here
as I prepare to go lead the best our country has
to offer.
Senator, thanks again for the opportunity to share my story to everyone
out there. I wish you a successful Spring and look forward to seeing
you on my next trip home.
State Representative Ron and Lisa Stephen's Family
Greenville
Tod Stephens
Ron and Lisa's son, Army
Ranger and Captain, Tod Stephens, currently stationed in Iraq on his
third tour of duty there. He is so dedicated to following through
with what he feels must be done and for staying with his unit, he
actually volunteered to go on his third tour of duty.
Greg Cueto
Ron and Lisa's son in
law, Army Spc. Greg Cueto currently stationed in Afghanistan. As a
married college graduate, he was spurred to join the military after
witnessing the 9/11 attack on our citizens at the World Trade
Center. He considers it an honor to serve and his duty for his
generation.
SPC Zwettler, son-in-law of Donna and Victor Linas, was recently
awarded the Purple Heart and the Combat Infantryman Badge.
Zwettler also just recently re-enlisted.
She
wasn’t deployed to Iraq. She didn’t fight in Afghanistan. The
battles she waged left a different kind of scars. She died at age
27 while in the service of her country. She was my daughter,
Airman First Class Julie Marlene Chattler.
In the spring of 2000, Julie called me and said “Mom, sit down.
I’m joining the Air Force”. To say I was struck speechless is an
understatement. Since no one in recent history except her paternal
grandfather who fought in World War II and passed away before she
was born, has served in the military, enlisting in any branch of
the armed forces was a very foreign concept. I had very serious
concerns because in my estimation, my beautiful daughter, whom I
loved dearly, was the laziest young woman on the planet when it
came to the mundane of daily life. Making her bed or washing,
drying and putting away a dish didn’t even approach her list of
1,000 top priorities. I just hoped that her paradoxically strong
work ethic would carry her through.
Just as there “must have been some magic in that old top hat” that
Frosty the Snowman put on, the BDU’s that Julie donned, likewise
had mystical powers. Much to my surprise and extreme pride,
Julie’s star shined ever so brightly during her tenure in the Air
Force. In basic training, her flight was honored at graduation and
she personally received recognition for leadership and commitment.
In October, after basic, she was stationed at Sheppard Air Force
Base in Wichita Falls, Texas where she worked at the Family
Advocacy Center. During her first months at Sheppard, Julie was
required to study for her Career Development Course to become a
mental health technician. This involved 10,000 pages of
independent study in the mental health field. She took her exams
and passed on her first attempt. with an exceptional score of 90
and was recognized with two separate certificates for this
achievement. Shortly thereafter she was promoted to Airman First
Class and was then selected as Airman of the Quarter of the 82d
Medical Operations Squadron, then Airman of the Quarter of the 82d
Medical Group and finally the Airman of the Quarter of the 82d
Training Wing. She was Number One out of 3,500. Could I have been
more proud of my little girl? It is my understanding that
immediately following her promotion to Airman First Class, the
package was being compiled for her promotion to Senior Airman.
Sadly, this promotion was never to happen. On Wednesday, May 23rd,
2001 Julie woke up feeling ill, achy, dizzy and had a rash. She
did not go to work but did go in to sick call at Sheppard. She was
seen by a physician’s assistant who gave her a shot to relieve her
achiness and sent her home to recuperate. When I spoke to her on
Thursday, she sounded groggy but coherent which I assumed was due
to the Benadryl she was taking for the rash. Friday I called and
could not reach her at all. I contacted her office to see if she
had gone to work but she had not. Sgt Pat Dwyer went to her
apartment to check on her and found her unconscious on the floor
and immediately called an ambulance. I was on the first flight I
could get to Dallas where I rented a car and drove to Wichita
Falls. When I got to the hospital at about midnight, there were at
least a dozen officers and friends, both civilian and military,
that Julie worked with, standing vigil. Julie was comatose and in
intensive care. She briefly responded to my voice when I walked
into her room and said “Julie, honey, I’m here now and everything
is going to be ok”. She opened her eyes and they quickly darted
around the room looking for me. I will never know if she saw me
but I am certain and grateful she knew I was there.
So, for the next 4 or 5 days, I spent 100% of my time between the
hospital and the few hours I slept, at the local Holiday Inn.
During the waking hours, I was never alone. Julie’s friends and
superiors made sure I had the support I didn’t know that I needed.
Miraculously someone would just show up at lunchtime or dinner to
make sure I ate. I could not have been less interested in eating
but they knew the importance of my being able to keep my strength
up. Major Kirk Martin of Julie’s chain of command, was a very
frequent visitor as was Colonel Dennis Marquardt. Major Martin and
his wife both had great affection for my daughter. It seemed that
at any hour of the day or night, there was someone there to stand
vigil with me. The friendship and respect she had garnered was
very gratifying for me as her mom. In the middle of the week,
probably Wednesday, it all sort of runs together in my mind, Julie
and I were flown by Med-evac plane to San Antonio where she would
be cared for at Wilford Hall Medical Center at Lackland Air Force
Base. It was there on Saturday, June 2, 2001, almost exactly one
year after her entry into the Air Force (May 25th, 2000) Julie was
removed from life support and quietly slipped away. It would be
months before I would ever know that encephalitis was the villain
that took her life. I will never know for sure how she contracted
it.
We brought Julie’s remains back to Chicago where she grew up and
her funeral was planned by the Air Force. Julie was buried at
Shalom Memorial Park in Palatine where she was honored by the Air
Force with an honor guard, color guard and 21 gun salute. She was
also presented, posthumously, with an Air Force Commendation Medal
for Meritorious Service. The accomplishments listed on the
certificate read as follows:
Airman First Class Julie M. Chattler distinguished herself by
meritorious service as Mental
Health Technician, Family Advocacy Program, 82nd Medical
Operations Squadron, Sheppard
Air Force Base, Texas. During this period, 10 October 2000 to 2
June 2001, exemplary diligence
and devotion to duty increased customer satisfaction to an
astonishing 99.4 percent ; her superb
actions aided in achieving a 30 percent reduction in family
violence and significantly contributed
to Sheppard Family Advocacy receiving the best Health Services
Inspection rating in over 6 years.
Airman Chattler, in completion of her Career Development Course
testing, achieved one of the
highest scores in her field. Frequently assuming the role of
Noncommissioned Officer in Charge
of Family Advocacy, Airman Chattler easily exceeded the most
challenging performance expectations of that position, ensuring continuous care for as many as
60 family members per week. In
recognition of her leadership, energy, and dedication to duty,
Airman Chattler was selected as the
82nd Medical Operations Squadron Airman of the Quarter, the 82d
Medical Group Airman of the
Quarter and the 82d Training Wing Airman of the Quarter. The
distinctive accomplishments of
Airman Chattler in the dedication of her service to her country
reflect credit upon herself and
The United States Air Force.
This medal was awarded by General Sharla Cook who personally told
me that my baby girl had been “the finest troop” she had ever
seen.
The story of my daughter does not end there. Because of the
respect she received for her obviously amazing achievements, the
Family Advocacy Center at Sheppard Air Force Base underwent a name
change. On Friday, January 18, 2002 a dedication ceremony, which I
attended as a guest of the Air Force, took place. I am proud to
say that the center is now known as the Chattler Family Advocacy
Center. Her picture is on the wall along with a brief bio. The
extraordinary number of people that she touched, the families that
she helped to stay together, the domestic violence she helped to
stem, the children who will grow up in healthy families may not
remember her and the role she played in their lives, but I know
the extent of her dedication and accomplishments . For sure she is
an unlikely hero but in my eyes, a hero still.
The following individuals are Illinois State
University graduates who have served or are serving in support of
Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom.
1st Lt. Trevor Conrad, M.S. '04; Missouri Army National Guard
1st Lt. Joe "Friday" Barker, '01; U.S. Marine Corps
1st Lt. Terence Bacon, ’99, U.S. Army
Capt. Doyle Bedwell, ’04, Illinois Army
National Guard
Sgt. Joseph E. Bierbrodt, ’00, Illinois Army
National Guard
1st Lt. Matthew Buck, ’01, U.S. Army
Staff Sgt. Jame Buol, current student, Illinois
Army National Guard
1st Lt. Jeff Burchfield, ’98, U.S. Army
Lt. Michael A. Cap, ’01, U.S. Marine Corps
2nd Lt. Nicholas A. Carbone, ’02, U.S. Army
2nd Lt. Michael J. Cotovsky, ’03, U.S. Army
IS2 (SEAL) Ryan P. Crowley, ’00, U.S. Navy
Maj. Eric Dailey, ’90, U.S. Marine Corps
Reserve
1st Lt. Nicole Danca, ’03, U.S. Army
Capt. Terrance D. Deuel, ’98, U.S. Army
Maj. Kelly P. Donna, ’91, U.S. Army
Maj. Austin Elliott, ’91, U.S. Army
Maj. Norman Emery, ’89, U.S. Army
Lt. Ryan L. Francis, ’01, U.S. Army
Maj. Robert Freitag, ’84, U.S. Army Reserve
Maj. Marvin Fuller, ’75, U.S. Air Force
Staff Sgt. Michael Galassi, ’00, Illinois Army
National Guard
Maj. Donald Gardiner, ’89, U.S. Army Reserve
Lt. Col. David R. Gault, ’81, U.S. Army
Sgt. Joseph D. Goff, ’03, Illinois Army
National Guard
Sgt. David B. Goode, ’92, U.S. Army
Sgt. Benjamin T. Gracey, ’94, U.S. Army Reserve
Lt. Col. Anthony E. Haager, U.S. Army
1st Lt. James D. Hannigan, ’03, U.S. Army
Capt. Denise Hatcher, ’99. U.S. Army
Sgt. Mark Hocker, current student, Illinois
Army National Guard
Cpt. Jason Horn, ’95, U.S. Army Reserves
Lt. Col. William B. Hughes, ’87, U.S. Army
Lt. Col. Mark Jackson, ’87, Illinois Army
National Guard
Capt. Erik Jaspers, ’94, U.S. Army Reserve
2nd Lt. Cory M. Jones, ’02, Illinois Army
National Guard
Capt. Nicholas Karch, ’99, U.S. Army
Maj. Kelly Kilhoffer, ’89. U.S. Army Reserve
Capt. Robert Kus, ’02, U.S. Army
Maj. Thomas M. Lawicki, ’80, U.S. Air Force
Lt. Col. Timothy R. Lemmons, ’86, U.S. Army
Reserves
Lt. Comdr. Chris Long, ’89, U.S. Navy
Capt. Michael Mannion, ’97, U.S. Army
Airman 1st Class Daniel E. Maslowski ’02, U.S.
Air Force
Maj. Shawn McConnell, ’89, U.S. Army Reserve
Spec. Alan M. McCubbin, ’02, U.S. Army
Maj. Robert McGuire, ’89, U.S. Army
Lt. Col. Raleigh Meiser, M.S. ’93, U.S. Marine
Corps
Sgt. Chris Murdoch, M.B.A. ’01, Illinois Army
National Guard
Col. Yvette Nonte, ’83, U.S. Army
Capt. Troy O’Donley, ’02, Illinois Army
National Guard
Maj. Timothy J. O’Neil, ’84, U.S. Army Reserve
Sgt. Christopher J. Ohlsen, ’92, U.S. Marine
Corps Reserve
Lt. Col. Craig Osborne, ’89, U.S. Army
Capt. David A. Peterson, ’94, M.S. ’98, U.S.
Army Reserve
Capt. Glen R. Petersen, ’93, Illinois Army
National Guard
Spec. Michael Pyburn, ’01, Illinois Army
National Guard
Maj. Cory K. Reid, ’94, U.S. Air Force
2nd Lt. Stephen Rice, ’02, Illinois Army
National Guard
Lt. Cdr. Suzette Robinson, ’85, U.S. Navy
Reserve
Lt. Col. Turner A. Rouse, ’80, U.S. Army
Reserve
1st Lt. Christopher Rozhon, ’00, U.S. Army
Staff Sgt. Michael F. Sass, ’03, Illinois Army
National Guard
Lt. Col. Charles Schlom, ’84, U.S. Army,
Afghanistan
Spc. Megan Schukar, ’02, Illinois Army National
Guard
2nd Lt. Lynn Scott, ’04, U.S. Army
Sgt. Joni L. (Snyder) Sefton, ’96, U.S. Army
Reserve
Sgt. Michael R. Sharrard, ’96, U.S. Air Force
Capt. David O’Neil Singley, ’94, U.S. Marine
Corps
Nathan Slider, ’95, Lt. U.S. Navy Reserve
Lt. Col. Dirk Spanton, ’82, Illinois Army
National Guard
Lt. Cmdr. Linda M. (Choe) Szot, ’89, U.S. Navy
Reserve
The following are stories, accounts
and photos from the brave men and women of Illinois who are proudly
serving our country. Their sense of duty, honor and commitment are
outstanding. Take the time to look through and appreciate what these
brave warriors have done for us.
Hi,
Hello
everyone,
Jill
and I enjoyed a terrific vacation in early July. After a couple of
days in Washington DC visiting LTC Gadson and his family, we flew to
Chicago and saw family and friends at my parent’s Fourth of July
party. We spent a week in Riviera Maya, Mexico pretending to be big
shots at a wonderful all-inclusive resort before ending the trip at
our house doing little projects. What an incredible break! Thank
you for your continued prayers and support. I am a lucky kid.
SPC
Gebur was killed in action while serving in Iraq, the following
are letters from friends and pictures of Ron, his wife Bethany,
and his son Gage:
There
isn't a day that passes that I don't remember Ron, Bethany, and
Gage and pray for them. His picture is on the wall in our
headquarters and I see him over and over each day. I know he will
never be forgotten. 
o
represent me at Ron's funeral since I could not be there myself. I
was fortunate enough that some were able to attend. Ron was one of
us and I wanted to pay our respects in an appropriate manner and
ensure that you knew we had not simply forgotten him when he left
our midst. I also know that my wife Lois was at the service at
Fort Hood that honored Ron. When I return to Decatur after the
deployment, I will visit Ron's grave and pay my respects. 
ffect
you and your family even more, and I felt like I had let your
family down for not bringing him back alive with us. I will always
be sorry that I was unable to do so. Unfortunately, we have lost
men both prior to and since the day Ron passed away, but none have
been so widely mourned as Ron. He was unique - but you already
know that.
You
and your family remain and will always be in our thoughts and
prayers. You have sacrificed for the nation just as other families
have done and I want you to know that Ron and his life will never
be forgotten. He was too important to us for that to ever happen.
As long as I live, I will always be there for you, your family,
Bethany, and Gage. I owe that to you and to Ron. 
for
an update, my heart sank to learn that it was Ron. This information
was passed to the men in the operations center and everyone stopped
what they were doing when they heard his name. We all knew that we
had lost a great man.
She
wasn’t deployed to Iraq. She didn’t fight in Afghanistan. The
battles she waged left a different kind of scars. She died at age
27 while in the service of her country. She was my daughter,
Airman First Class Julie Marlene Chattler.