Updated at 11:23 a.m., Thursday, December 7, 2006
Schofield statement: 'Their sacrifice will be honored'
Advertiser Staff
Col. Tim Ryan, rear detachment commander of the 25th Infantry Division at Schofield Barracks, said in a statement this morning that the news of five Schofield soldiers killed in Iraq strengthens "our resolve to comfort and support these families and our community."The names of the deceased are being withheld pending notification of next of kin and release by the Department of Defense.
The soldiers were assigned to 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division and were killed yesterday as a result of an explosion near their vehicle while conducting combat operations in Kirkuk Province, according to the Department of Defense.
"First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers are with the families, loved ones and comrades of these brave soldiers," Ryan said. "Learning that someone you love isn't coming home is the most difficult news to hear, and this incident speaks to the incredible sacrifice borne not only by our Soldiers but by families across our nation.
"These soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation, and the somber news of their death is especially difficult at this time of year when our thoughts move toward families and loved ones during the holidays," Ryan said. "I know that the commitment and sacrifice of these brave soldiers will be honored throughout our ranks and their loss will be felt across our Army family," he said.
"We will keep the names and memories of all of the soldiers who have given their lives in our hearts, and we must also continue to keep the many soldiers still in harm's way in our thoughts and prayers, as well. It is the noblest of all callings to lay down one's life for another, so it is very humbling to think upon the sacrifice these American heroes made."
