Before I start into what I'm going to say. I have uploaded several photos to accompany this journal. I will list a link to each of the photos at the end of this journal. They seem to speak better than the words I'm about to write ever could.

This past week, we held a memorial service for our Battalion's second fallen brother. On July 1st, 2005, SPC Derrick J. Lutters, Alpha Company - 891st Engineer Battalion, was convoying along MSR Tampa in Iraq when the vehicle he was riding in was attacked by a Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device, instantly killing him and injuring three other soldiers. On July 31st, 2005, SPC James D. Carroll, Alpha Company - 230th Engineer (assigned to the 891st Engineer Battalion), was killed by and Improvised Explosive Device while also conducting routine missions in Iraq. These two soldiers, while from two different units, both gave their life for others and for this their legend will live on in the hearts of their fellow Soldiers for all eternity.

It is hard to explain the emotions felt by a Soldier when a loss such as these two young men. A feeling of regret, hatred, humbleness, love, pride, and joy all overpower you at the same time. While we have questions without answers, you still have peace knowing these soldiers fought with pride and took with them no regret for their actions.

Sergeant Fuchs from Alpha Company, 230th Engineer Battalion put it in great words in his "Remembrance" to SPC James "Dusty" Carroll.

"We live in a world that, too often, doesn't make much sense. Unexpected situations can arise or events turn completely around - all in the blink of an eye. Questions are asked, but have no logical answers. "What if's" and "Could I's" are all that there is. We are left to ponder and wonder, "Why?"

As Soldiers, we share the bond of brotherhood. We feel and experience the other one's joy and sadness. We firmly lean on one another and rely on our buddies for strength. We hold each other up - we do not, must not waiver from this. Together we have strong support. We must tighten and strengthen the bond.

Dusty was not only a brother soldier - he was a friend, a buddy. Remember all the great times we share with him. Remember the summer camps and drill weekends back home. Remember his laugh; his sense of humor. Allow yourself to drift back to the last funny story or joke you listened to him tell. Can you hear him?

Even though our friend is no longer with us in a physical sense - he remains in our memory and our hearts. He is not far away - he is still very much a part of us. Dusty is, and will always and forever be remembered by us. His life touched each of our lives. We will hold on to each other this day - tomorrow, we will rise up and carry on. We will keep our faith in the Lord above - and trust Him to comfort and bless."

It's impossible to describe the feeling that is felt, even after reading those words over and over, the feeling still remains. It is a feeling that ties every Soldier, whether we know each other or not, together. It's the undying love that each Service Member has for their brothers and sisters that stand in unison fighting for a common cause.

As I said earlier, the photo's can speak louder than words, as you look at the following pictures, remember the men and women who have gone before, and those who will stand up and do the same today. Realize that you will never be alone, their spirit will be ridding along with you today, ever ready, always serving.

SPC James D. Carroll Memorial
SPC Derrick J. Lutters Memorial
Formation
Prayer for the Fallen
Soldiers Pay Last Respects to SPC Lutters
Soldiers Pay Last Respects to SPC Carroll
Soldiers Gather After Memorial Service
The Face of Emotions