He returned home with a parade.

People stood on the street, got out of their cars to salute and honor him.

Casualties in Iraqi Freedom are remarkably small in this the early stages of the war.

He did his duty, he wanted to be a part, he went out of love of country, to help others have the freedoms we enjoy, deliver them from a cruel tyrant.

Missing in action...horrible words, endless waiting, praying, displaying of yellow ribbons and buttons with his picture on it.  Hope and support from friends and others helped the family get through the ordeal.

Finally the words that ended the wait, but began the grief process.

Killed in action, positively idnetified, no hope left.

A native son came home, with a parade of honor, a tree planted in living memorial tribute to him.

A city felt the pain, he was honored, he will be missed.

To parents:  a Son

To Lexie:  A Daddy

To All Americans:  A Hero

Thank you Jonathan Gifford