5 years ago
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Bikers from all across the country took part in a memorial motorcycle ride to the state capitol to honor the state's 16 fallen heroes. Once there a special memorial service was held as way for the public to say thanks to the soldiers' families left behind.
Lt. Col. Allen Hargis of Hot Springs says, "I think it speaks to the great way that Americans and the state of Arkansas supports the American soldier."
Speaking to the crowd, Brig. Gen. Ron Chastain, announces, "This is a day to both mourn and express our appreciation for what they did." On the steps of the capitol, a special place for family members of those killed in action. Brig. Gen. Chastain says, "In every case there's a family left with a permanent scar - a family left with unfulfilled dreams." Families like Staff Sgt. Stacey Brandon's of Hazen.
His widow, April, says, "I keep thinking - I just wish he was here to see it." Sgt. Brandon was killed one year ago during a rocket attack on the 39th. April was left to raise alone a two-year- old and five-year-old who are still dealing with the pain.
April Brandon explains, "[My son] just got through asking me if this is where we're going to get a new daddy so, he puts me through loops all the time." A bell rang out in memory of all the men who died in Iraq and soldier after soldier thanked the families for the service of their loved ones.
Col. Mike Ross says, "Every one of them will remain in our hearts and a piece of us will remain in Iraq."
Jennifer Legate who lost her father, Chief Warrent Officer Patrick Kordsmeier of North Little Rock, says, "To see all those people stop and remember that there are families out there who are missing their loved ones - just to recognize that sacrifice it just means a lot to all of us." For all of the survivors it was a day of healing and for the state, a day of honoring the 16 men from Arkansas whom this country owes so much. The 39th arrived home from Iraq last month. The 3000 soldiers were deployed for 18 months. That is the longest in the brigade's history since World War II.
