| SFC Brent Adams April 29, 1965 ~ December 1, 2005 Sgt. 1st Class Brent Allen Adams, born April 29, 1965, in Lancaster, PA. Killed in action in Ramadi, Iraq on December 1, 2005 at the age of 40. He was a member of the Army National Guard, 2nd Brigade Combat Team deployed to Iraq in June of 2005. He is survived by his wife Marilyn and a 4 year old son Daniel living in Pittsburgh, PA. He was the son of William A. Adams III (wife Pamela Adams) of Millersville, PA and Barbara E. Benard (husband John (Jack) L. Benard Jr.) of Columbia, PA. Additional survivors include sister Melissa A. Nalevanko ( husband Steve Nalevanko) of York, PA, step-sister Lisa Anderson (husband David Anderson) of East Petersburg, PA, step-brother John (Doug) Benard (wife Lisa Smith) of Mashpee, MA, step-brother Brent Benard (wife Jody Ritzman) of Lebanon, PA, and ten nieces and nephews. Brent is the Godfather to niece Alexandria Nalevanko. He is also survived by a maternal grandmother Arlene Wimer, Lancaster, PA, and step-grandparents Dale and Pat Martin, Hanover, PA, and numerous Aunts and Uncles in the Lancaster, PA area. Brent was born with a head full of dark hair and plump little cheeks. He was a happy baby with a smile that followed him into adulthood. That smile became know by his friends and fellow soldiers as the "Adams' Smile." His entire life he was forever curious and developed a love of books and a thirst for knowledge. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying backpacking, hiking and camping. He loved music of all kinds from heavy metal to big bands and symphonies. He was an avid Penn State, Pirates, and Steelers football game watcher. He knew the bible well and was active in his church. Brent was President of his Church Council prior to his deployment to Iraq. Brent also enjoyed trips to the beach with his family and loved being on the water fishing or watching the sunset. He waited a long time to marry and become a father. In 1999 he married becoming a father in 2001 to Daniel Louis Adams. Daniel was the center of his life and completed Brent. I have never seen him as happy as the years he spent with Daniel. He was a very devoted hands-on father, doing everything for his son from changing diapers, to staying up with him when he was sick. On the day that Brent was killed we found out that he volunteered for this particular mission to give his men a break from all the work they were doing. He was assigned to the Marines for the day to help build a new base for the Iraqi Army. On the return trip his vehicle was struck by a rocket fired by insurgents. We were told that God was merciful in that Brent probably died instantly and did not suffer. We have heard stories from his fellow soldiers about how he conducted himself while in Iraq...so selflessly helping others, being a great leader to his men. His character, his sense of humor, and his knowledge of God and the Bible and always sharing it with anyone who would listen has brought us comfort and made us even prouder than we already were. They call him a Hero (a man admired for his achievements and noble qualities) - to his family , he already was and forever will be. Brent, your responsibility to your men, your loyalty to the oath you took, your unwavering commitment to duty, and your honor make you our shinning star. All our lives have changed forever and you Brent will always hold a special place in our hearts that no one else could ever replace. We will move forward knowing that you are now our Angel and will look out for all of us. We will help raise your son and tell Daniel about his wonderful father, and continue the great job you had begun. We will relive each memory we have with each story we tell him throughout his life. God gave us this gift named Brent Adams. The gift that even his death cannot take away will be the wonderful memories we all have of this precious baby who turned into a man that we will be proud of forever. God will give us strength to get through this, to the point that we can once again smile at a memory of Brent rather than tears that flow so easily now. Missing you terribly, YOUR LOVING FAMILY **************************************** The Story of Brent Our Sweet Miracle: You were born at 3:39 A.M. on the morning of April 29, 1965 to Bill and Barbara Adams both 18 years old. You weighed 8 lbs 1 oz and were 21 ¼ inches long. The first thing I saw as I was handed this small bundle to love and to cherish were your chubby little cheeks and a full head of hair. You were my little chipmunk. As we gazed at each other and our fingers entwined my heart was filled to the brim with love for you. From that day forward I knew you would forever be a part of me. I watched you take those first wobbly steps at your first birthday party. Some of your first words after dad dad and mom mom were “what’s that” and “oh pretties” as you gazed at all the Christmas lights. You loved to watch fireworks too. You were fascinated with the brilliant colors and were never afraid of the loud booms. When you were three we were blessed with the arrival of your sister, Missy. You were so patient and loving with her even when she tried to push all your buttons and believe me she was good at it. I remember one particular time she was still in a walker and she sat back a short distance for about a half hour watching you and a little friend pain stakenly set-up your army men. The two of you wanted everything just so and when you had it just right you paused for a moment and surveyed your job. Within a second with a little gleam in her eye she took off in that walker, swooped down and knocked over all the army men. Needless to say you were extremely upset but you never laid a hand on her, you just yelled, “mom get her outta here”. As a young child you loved to laugh and play and many were the stories I would read until I couldn’t speak at all. Curious George and Dr. Seuss were some of the many books we would read. When you were older you were always reading National Geographic and even read the bible several times. You were very intelligent and inquisitive as a small boy and would always question people as they passed by our porch while playing outdoors. Where are you going, what are you doing, where did you get that , how do you do that, were just some of the things you asked. You were kind and generous even then, would shout to the other kids as you were playing together outdoors and got thirsty – “hey, my Mom’s got Kool-Aid, Kool-Aid everyone. Next thing I knew there were six or more kids standing there waiting for a drink of kool-aid. You loved to go on hikes and backpacking trips as a family. Your sister was the one always lagging behind sitting in the middle of the trail saying you she couldn’t walk anymore. One day we were on a hike in the woods and you had to go to the bathroom so you asked me what you should do. Since there aren’t any bathrooms in the woods I told you to sit on the end of a little log and go. You said “but Mom I feel like I’m pooping on mother natures head.” Already you were showing your deep respect and love of nature and the outdoors. Your father and I were divorced when you were around 11 yrs old and your sister was 8 yrs old. We both remarried and then you had four parents but there was always a common thread between us all and that was the loved we shared for you and your sister Missy. You and Missy stayed with us during the week an every other weekend you went with your Dad and Pam. You always loved music ranging from heavy metal to the symphony. You even took a Beatles album to nursery school for show and tell. Rocky Raccoon was your favorite song on the album. As a teenager you were always blasting your music behind your closed bedroom door. When Jack and I took you out to IUP your freshman year on check-in day, your first order of business was to set-up your stereo to listen to “your tunes”. That was the first order of business. Sometime during your period In Indiana, PA you joined the National Guard. At the time we didn’ t think much of it. After graduating from IUP you later obtained a job in the Pittsburgh area. We didn’t get to see you as much but you always came home for holidays and special events sharing your time between the two households or we would make trips out to see you. You loved Pittsburgh because of all the sporting and cultural events and embraced their football and baseball teams. You were always a Penn State fan, Philadelphia Flyers fans and then became an avid Steelers and Pirates fan. One year you took Jack and I and Uncle Jim (who was a Steelers fan for a long time) to see a game at Three Rivers Stadium. What an experience that was tailgating in Pittsburgh. I have never seen anything like it. Steeler’s fans definitely know how to have fun. You also enjoyed symphony music and one year for my birthday you took Jack and I to the Pittsburgh Symphony. We had a great time together and afterwards we had dinner at the Top of the Triangle. That night we were on top of the World. You lived in Pittsburgh for awhile and eventually married Marilyn Kuder on September 5, 1999. When you found out you were about to become a father you were thrilled. Daniel was born on September 29, 2001. When you became a father the pride and devotion and the gleam in your eyes were so apparent every time you looked at Daniel. Daniel became the center of your universe. After Daniel was born you purchased a Baby Beatles CD for him and he loved to listen to it, in fact it was his favorite music. You were always reading to him too. You were passing on your love of knowledge and your love of music. Shortly after Daniel’s birth you called and told me you were going to except the nomination at your church to become the President of the Church Council. You told me that you thought God was calling you to do this job. We were so proud of you for accepting that challenge. You knew for awhile before you told us that your unit was to be deployed to Iraq because you didn’t want us to worry. You said I have been called to serve my country that’s my duty and I will do my job to the best of my ability. Your only regret was leaving Marilyn and Daniel for so long. You would always tell me when you saw the worry and concern and the tears on my face – Don’t worry Mom I’ll be OK. You told Jack and I you wouldn’t be home on leave around Christmas because there wasn’t enough time for everyone and you wanted your men to go first. You called on November 30th to tell me everything was OK. Oh, I was so happy to hear your voice. After a brief conversation and you said I have to go Mom – I love you. I tearfully replied I love you too and please be careful. The next day to give your men a break, you volunteered for your final mission. Since this is the Christmas season it brings to mind one of your all time favorite Christmas movies “It’s a wonderful Life” with Jimmy Stewart and this year it will take on a very special meaning. On December 1, 2005 a bell rang and my angel got his wings. I was the first one to say I love you on the day you were born and the last to say I love you the day before you were killed. Thank God for That! You always knew how we worried about you being over there in Iraq and because you always thought of others first and would want to comfort me these are the words I think you would say: Mom, please don't feel guilty It was just my time to go. I see you are still feeling sad, And the tears just seem to flow. We all come to earth for our lifetime, And for some it's not many years I don't want you to keep crying You are shedding to many tears. I haven't really left you Even though it may seem so. I have just gone to my heavenly home, And I'm closer than you know. Just believe that when you call my name I'm standing next to you, I know you long to see me, But there's nothing I can do. But I'll still send you messages And hope you understand, Through my sweet and precious boy To bring you much joy. And when your time comes to "cross over," I'll be there to take your hand. By Joy Cumutt and modified by me, Barb Benard, proud and loving Mother of Brent. You will always hold a special place in our hearts that no one else could ever replace. Some people’s lives can truly make a difference and the lives of those they touched are so much richer and the love they shared lives on. Jack and I miss you terribly and love you very much. You are our Hero: A man admired for his achievements and noble qualities. Until me meet again in eternity son. Love, Mom and Jack ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ A DARK DECEMBER MOMENT A sunny Winter morning A cold December night Began with love and hopefulness And ended with shock and fright As we learned and we found out About the few short hours before The shock set in; the grief began And we still feel it more and more The anger at those who caused this And at those who didn't care Has been replaced with sad acceptance That your young life could not be spared How different would our world be Had this event not occurred The grief we never would have felt The crying never heard You left us with the greatest gift Your special four year old son We will help guide him through this and Continue the great job you had begun Your family will love you always and miss you forever Your loving step-mother Pam -------------------------------------------------------- The Gift I Was Given The first time I met Brent …. Well, it was quite awhile after I had met Bill, who waited a long time before bringing me into his children’s lives. He said he didn’t want to have them meet me until and unless our relationship was going somewhere – the protective father. When I finally was allowed to meet his children, it was from the back of an auditorium and Bill proudly pointed out his son on stage “he’s the one playing the bass clarinet”, he proudly announced. I remember the instrument seemed bigger than Brent himself. He was 11 years old. Missy was 8. A long time after that night, we officially became an extended family. I was the one given the true gift as it turned out children of my own were not to be. To be honest, with Brent and I it took awhile and he didn’t “let me in” easily at first…..but I quickly found out that the way into Brent’s heart was to make him Kraft Macaroni and Cheese every time we saw him as well as learning how to make macaroni and brown butter the way his Grama Adams did! It eventually happened, the bond was there and the love grew until there seemed to be no distinction between “real” and “extended” families. Ever aware of the bond between Brent and his mom, I never tried to replace her in his life – not that anyone would have been able to, I felt my job was to be his friend, his supporter and yet another person in his life that he could trust and come to during good times and bad and to love him. Since it’s close to Christmas I want to share with you two memories that stand out. One almost became a ritual for Bill and Brent for many years while he still lived in Lancaster. Bill and his son shared a love of music that ran the gammit from symphonies to Jimmi Hendrix. For many Christmas’s after all presents were opened, our bellies full, everyone else gone home, they would get out the beer, the music, turn the volume up full blast and lie on the floor in front of the stereo and listen to music for what seemed like hours. They literally had to shout at each other to speak – it was like their own personal and very private concert. I was never “invited” into this “session” (not that I wanted to be as my ear drums would feel like they were about to burst). It was strictly a father/son moment. The other is the Christmas a long time ago when Brent bought me a gold cross necklace – now what you have to understand is this was particularly special because for years before he always made his sister pick out the presents, not trusting his own judgement I suppose… This year he made all his own decisions for presents. I can still see him sitting on the floor in front of me, with the excitement of a little boy, his face two inches from mine, saying “do you like it, do you really like it”. I put it on that day and have worn it ever since – Yes, Brent, I think you could say I like it! I wanted him to get out of the reserves so badly once he got married and had Daniel and especially when there was talk of an impending war. His response was always the same – that he wasn’t the type of person who would be in the reserves 17 years and then quit right on the verge of possibly being called up. He felt he had a job to do, would go do it and retire soon after. I had to be proud of that, even if it wasn’t what I wanted for him. When he was deployed, I received a freedom bracelet which I put on and told Brent that it would stay on until his time in Iraq was over, which would have been June 26, 2005) and he could take it off of my wrist himself once home. He laughed and said he would do that but I should keep it until everyone was “home”. Sadly, upon hearing the news on December 1st, in my pain and, yes, anger at all of it, I ripped it off and threw it in the trash. I will get a new one, and wear it proudly until all the men and women who are still serving are brought home to their anxious and awaiting families. I told him in each e:mail or phone call how proud I was of him and always ended with “be safe today”…..with his response always being “Pam, please don’t worry so much just look at it as I’m on a long vacation”. Well, Brent, I now have no more need to worry about you but I never ever imagined that this vacation of yours would last forever. The memories of Brent I will take with me are many but first and foremost that Adams’ smile that almost everyone else I talk to references. I will remember how his hugs were strong and long, his kisses wet, his gentle ways, his always wanting to help, the look of concern and the sincerity in his eyes when you were telling him something, his love and devotion to his family, his never-ending patience and love for his son Daniel. I have never seen Brent as truly happy as he has been since the birth of Daniel – he completed him. The night after we received the news of Brent, Bill and I were sitting on the sofa staring out into the darkness. We both saw the biggest, brightest, longest shooting star we ever saw. It was huge and so bright we couldn’t believe it and it seemed to land right in our back yard. We both shouted “did you see that?” we are convinced it was Brent saying “it’s OK Dad and Pam – I”ve arrived “home” and I’m ok. So I end as I began…the gift that I was given. It is this man named Brent, who let me into his life almost 30 years ago, but more importantly let me into his heart to love each other all these years. But the best gift, is the one that not even his death can take away – it is the memories of him and of our years together – they will remain with me the rest of my life. I thank God for bringing Brent into my life. He will always be my shining star as well as the empty space in MY heart that will never be filled. Your loving “other mother”, Pam Adams ---------------------------------------------------------- A Poem In Honor Of My Son From His Father Love, Dad God’s Promise I’ll lend you for a little while A child of mine, He said For you to love the while he lives And mourn for when he’s dead It may be six or seven years Or twenty two or three But will you, till I call for him Take care of him for me? He’ll bring you charm to gladden you And, should his stay be brief You’ll have his lovely memories As solace for your grief I cannot promise he will stay Since all from earth return But there are lessons taught down there I want this child to learn I’ve looked this wide world over In search of teachers true And from the throngs that crowd life’s lanes I have selected you Now will you give him all your love Nor think your labor vain Nor hate me when I come to call To take him back again I fancied that I heard them say Dear Lord, Thy will be done For all the joy this child shall bring The rash of grief will run We’ll shelter him with tenderness We’ll love him while we may And for the happiness we’ve known Forever grateful stay But should the angel call for him Much sooner than we planned We’ll brave the bitter grief that comes And try to understand! By: John Greenleaf Whittier <<LETTERS TO FAMILY FROM BRENT'S FRIENDS >> Hello, I want to tell you how truly sorry I am. Brent was a really great friend even though we did not know each other all that long. There is nothing that I wouldn't have done for him and nothing that I won't do for Marilyn and Daniel. I loved to tease Brent about his taste in music. I would never see him so happy as when he was listening to some symphony. I really will miss him a lot. Yesterday we had Brent's memorial service. I know he would have hated it because it was beautiful and many tears were shed. I had the entire ceremony video taped and will be bringing a copy with me when I visit Marilyn. Like I said, it was beautiful. 5 of us spoke about Brent. Normally only 2 are allowed. Another thing was that one of the soldiers, SGT Zyke, sang a song for Brent. I have never seen that before at a military memorial. The most amazing thing was the number of people who came. As part of my job I have gone to every memorial so far and that was the most people I have ever seen attend. Even I never realized how popular he was around here. Everyone will miss him very much. After the ceremony we had a cookout in his honor. We all drank near beer and laughed about the fun times we had with Brent. It really was nice. I will start to send you some of the pictures I have. I will tell you what I remember about each one, but please be patient as it takes about 30 minutes for each picture to be sent. The Internet here is painfully slow. If you have any questions at all, I will be more than happy to answer them. Once again I am truly sorry. My and my families prayers are with you and the rest of Brent's loved ones. If there is anything at all we can do, please ask. The memorial service for your son went well. I have been to a couple of these over here (unfortunately), and I can honestly say that this one had the largest crowd by far. You need to know that Brent was well liked by many people. He had the ability to influence soldiers in a very unique way.....a way that you rarely see in the military. He would "develop" his team by working side by side them. He was not afraid to laugh and joke with his soldiers. The constant theme throughout the service (brought up by many) was his smile.....the Adams' "Smile." The mission that he went on that day could have been assigned to any one of his soldiers. Brent knew that his crew had been working very hard that week, so he decided to give them a break and take the mission himself....now that is leadership..... looking after your men and not giving them a task that you would not do yourself. We can all learn from his example. You should be receiving a CD of the ceremony shortly. Once a gain, I am terribly sorry for your loss. To all who care about Brent Adams, I want to share a story about my friend Brent Adams. You have to understand that even after 15 years of Catholic education that I am still not a very religious person. I never really believed in the afterlife, but an event happened on the night we said goodbye to Brent that has me re-thinking my stand on religion and the afterlife. When a Soldier is lost, the army sends a helicopter to retrieve the remains from the base the same night. This flight is dubbed “The Angel Flight.” What happens is all of the friends and fellow Soldiers of the fallen will gather at the helicopter landing pad to say their final goodbye. We did the same for Brent, but things did not go exactly as planned. The Angel flight took 3 attempts to finally get to our base. We all joked that this was Brent messing with all of us as he had done the entire tour. I laughed with everyone else but still did not believe that Brent had anything to do with it. After the Angel flight had finally arrived, Sgt. Dami and I headed towards our Hummer. I had parked it in a separate area so we kind of headed off in the opposite direction as everyone else. As we got about half way to the Hummer I noticed a 5-Ton truck (The same kind of truck that Brent was driving when he was lost) just kind of appear out of the darkness. The truck stopped as I looked. There was no reason for a truck that size to be in that area so I tugged Sgt. Dami on the shoulder and told her “Check that out.” When she looked over the truck shut down and turned off its light. We both just stood and stared for a good minute or two before the truck started back up, made a right hand turn and drove away from us back into the darkness. You can argue that the driver was just lost or a number of other things but the whole event was just too coincidental. As I said I am not a very religious person but even to me that was Brent saying goodbye and also letting both of us know that he was still around and watching out for us. I hope that anyone who reads this will take the same comfort in this experience that I do. Hello again, Here is another picture of Brent. In this one he was receiving an award. The title of the certificate reads "Hero of the Rotation." He got it for doing such an outstanding job during our time at NTC (National Training Center in California). Thanks to his efforts and the efforts of his team, not one training mission was delayed because of maintenance issues. I can tell you that this is an almost impossible achievement. The conditions at NTC play real havoc with all of our equipment. He really did an outstanding job and we were all very happy that the command recognized how hard he and his crew worked. The award was presented here in Iraq by Captain Fisher during a meeting of all of the senior NCOs in the company. To be honest I think he was a little upset that the award had his name on it. He told me just after that it should have been made to the maintenance section. I told him to be quiet and learn to take a compliment. :-) He really was very proud of his crew and could never stop talking about something that they had accomplished as a team. I will continue to send more pictures. I hope they are helping. I know it is helping me to remember some of the fun that Brent and I enjoyed so thank you all. I wanted to share this picture with you first. I am responsible for the memorial pictures for all of our lost soldiers. It is always hard and I > never like doing it. Putting this one together was obviously the hardest on me and others offered to take care of it, but I wanted to make sure that it was done right. I think it is a great picture of Brent but there is a little secret about the picture. If you noticed on Brent's wrist there is his Pittsburgh Pride Bracelet. I can't tell you how many time he was told to take that bracelet off by the command here. To be honest, it really is against regulations to wear a non-religious bracelet. It was the one order he refused to follow so I made sure that it was in his final picture. I did it for Brent but also thought it would bring a smile to my face every time that I looked at it. It does and I hope it does the same for all of you. I will send more pictures tomorrow. It was both my pleasure and honor to be part of Brent’s service. Brent always liked to make things fun. I will treasure the memories of the fun times I had with Brent. Long into my retirement years I will be telling the stories of the goofy things we did. I will surely miss my friend. My thoughts and heart are with you and your family in this time of sorrow. I served with Brent while in Company A, 2/110th Infantry, Ford City. I joined the unit upon discharge from the USMC in 1992. Brent was a well-liked and respected soldier. I want to extend my gratitude to you and your family for Brent’s service and let it be known that he is not forgotten outside of your family circle. “Thank You” for his service. Our freedoms are founded and maintained through such dedicated service. God Bless Brent and your family. Here is another picture of Brent with Sgt. Bobby Cumpston. I don't know what the conversation was about, but what I love about the picture is the concern you can see on Brent's face. When someone, anyone, had a problem it instantly became Brent's personal mission to help fix whatever was wrong. No matter how large or small the problem, Brent always had that same look of concern on his face when talking about the situation. If Brent had a selfish side at all, I think it was he never really wanted help from anyone. He would drive me crazy because he would help me get some things done but when I offered to help him out, he would tell me not to worry about it. I mean the guy could be trying to construct a skyscraper with nothing more than a hammer and he wouldn't willingly accept help. :-) Eventually I learned to stop offering help and just jump in and lend a hand. When he realized I was helping he would always stop, put his hands on his him and give me that look of his when he was trying not to smile. I would look at him and give some sort of remark like... Are you going to just stand there?One day he was loading a truck full of equipment. He was loading the truck for a mission that was leaving in a convoy early in the morning. It was starting to get late and I was just getting done work. He knew I was also going on a mission early the next morning and got seriously mad at me when I started to help him.He kept telling me that he could get it done and that I needed to get some sleep. I told him that I already had a mother and if he wanted the job he would have to go call her. I said but before you do, I wish you would help me get this truck loaded. :-)His argument was that he could sleep in so it was no big deal. Brent never slept in. He was out of the room by 8am no matter what was going on that day. I didn't say anything else and continued to load the truck. Brent gave me a dirty look and than we loaded a few more things. He said that was everything and we both headed towards the room. The next morning I went by the truck and there had to be twice the amount of stuff on it as when he said "That's Everything." The sneak waited for me to fall asleep and than went back down to finish loading the truck himself. I was so mad at him that I wanted to unload the truck just to get back at him for tricking me like that. :-)When I finally saw him later that day he just started walking in the opposite direction laughing like a clown. He got me good that day. :-) I will be sending more tomorrow. I hope everyone is sleeping well. Take care. I am very much aware of the events that happened yesterday. I wanted so very much to give you a warning, but we are limited in our ability to share details before families are notified. Yesterday, SGT Adams was driving a truck on a very dangerous road. I had traveled on this very road (past the very same spot) less than an hour earlier. He volunteered for the mission to go out and help with an Iraqi army camp that was being developed. The mission went well until the drive back. His convoy was attacked by a rocket...in fact, his very truck was struck. The truck flipped over after impact. SGT Adams survived the attack. Medics rushed to the scene and tried very hard to stabilize him. His upper pelvis was shattered, and he was bleeding extensively. Unfortunately, he died of wounds on the way to the aid station. We were all stunned. He was very well liked by all here. I had personally talked with him on numerous occasions about Sally...and you. Everytime I passed hi m, I called him "cousin" because of the special relationship you two had. Last night, as his body was being carried out to the helicopter (we call it the "Angel" flight...flight of the dead back to the States), we all formed a line of respect and saluted with tears running down our faces as he was being carried to the helicopter. All of us were a mess. I want to let you know that I am terribly sorry for what happened. I told you that I would look after him, and I feel as if I did not do a good enough job. The company is having a memorial service on Monday for him. I will be there, and I will be sure to get a program for Sally. I feel terrible....and wish I could have told you sooner. Please tell Sally that he died doing a very important job in a very dangerous place. He volunteered for the mission, and his brave duty as a soldier was performed with the utmost sacrifice. A number of the soldiers here are taking it very hard...including myself. We will continue to d o our jobs in his honor. I first want to tell you how very sorry I am. I can't begin to imagine what you and Daniel are going through right now. Brent was such a great guy. really don't know what to say. I still really can't believe that he is gone.As you know Brent and I have become very close friends in a short period of time. We worked in separate parts of the base but roommates and we got together for lunch and dinner just about every day. After dinner we would usually watch a movie or sit around listening to music and talk about different things.I would always get on his case about his choice in music. It was just a few days ago that he told me he had season tickets to the symphony. I asked him if he was kidding and he told me no. He said he loved to go drink beer at intermission. He said that everyone else was drinking some sophisticated drink and would look at him sort of strange because he was drinking beer. :-)What I loved most about Brent was how simple things would make him so happy.A package from you was enough to put a huge smile on his face for days no matter how tired or overworked he was. He loved to share the Tastykakes with me because he knew that I loved them almost as much as he did. And the stuff you would send from Daniel... I am just surprised that they held up by the time everyone was done looking at them. He was so proud of the artwork and other things that you would send.A funny story... A couple of days ago one of the other guys around here gave me a ton of music for my computer. Brent called me on the radio a dozen times and stopped by my office twice just to see if I had finished transferring all of the music so he could look through it. After it was done he stopped by and spent about 3 hours picking out different songs. You would have thought that every song was his all time favorite by his reaction. He would look and go "oh... Oh... this song is great!" and than he would play it. This lasted about 3 nights. :-)I did not see much of Brent the last 2 nights. He spent most of the time after chow down in his office. He wanted to get his Christmas shopping done. I have the newsletter due so I was busy in my office. The night before he was lost, I got back to the room around 11. He was not there so I headed over to his office to check on him. He was sitting in his chair and had music blasting as loud as it could be played. I just had to laugh. Did he always love music so much? He was kind of celebrating getting all of his shopping done. :-)His last morning he came into my office around 10am. He wanted to yell at me "Guess what my dad and mom saw on the web-site today?" He was "mad" about some pictures that I put on the web-site of him from Thanksgiving. This was after the whole Newsletter picture that you saw. :-)He yelled at me for a few minutes than I told him it was his fault that he didn't look good in pictures. He told me that he knows he doesn't look good in pictures but that was no reason for me to use them. Most of our conversations were like that. We spent a lot of time poking fun at each other.I didn't go to lunch with him that day. I was busy and needed to get some things done. I did see him just after he got into the truck before he left. I asked him where he was going and he told me. I asked him why he was going and he said that he needed to give his guys a break. There have been a lot of missions lately and his section was working a lot harder than normal to help get the missions done.He than asked me to make sure a key got to SGT Jones that he had forgotten to give her. So I took the key and shook his hand. I told him to be careful and watched him drive off. He spoke about you and Daniel every day. I know he couldn't wait to get home and be with the both of you. I asked him one time if he was going to do a tour in Afghanistan with me when this was done. He told me "not on your life." He wanted to get home to his family and would never leave them again.I have some things that Brent wanted you and Daniel to have. If it is alright with you I would like to deliver them in person when I am home on leave during the week of Christmas. I know it will be a very rough time you and understand completely if you would rather I didn't. I just want to do what I know Brent would have done for me. Once again I am very sorry. I wish there was something I could say that would help. Please convey my condolences to his parents and the rest of his family. If you would like to talk some more or if there is anything I can do, please, please let me know. <<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>> 2-19-06 I feel unfortunate that I didn't have the pleasure of knowing such a Hero. My cousin (like brother) was killed in Mosul November 19,2006. His name was Anthony Yost, his family called him Andy. He was a MSG Special Forces and was KIA after 19 yrs in the Army. My heart goes out to the loved ones of Brent Adams. After reading the comments posted by his friends,commrads and family, I know a great man has been lost. But, the memories he has left all of you will never be lost. After seeing his picture I can see why everyone remembers his smile. I was especially touched by the post left by Pamela Adams ( I believe may have been his stepmother) how fortunate to have had a stepson who obviously cared so much for his stepmother. I could visually picture this grown man setting on the floor watching her open a cross and being just as excited to give that gift as she was in getting it. I not only feel the sadness his family and son must have with his loss, but we as a country definitely lost a brave and experienced soldier, and our country is that much less safe because he is gone. I want to thank the Adams family for the sacrifice they have made for our great country and most of all, THANK YOU BRENT FOR DYING TO KEEP AMERICA SAFE AND FREE! YOU COMPLETED GOD"S MISSION ....YOUR FIGHT FOR IRAQ'S DEMOCRACY GAVE THE PEOPLE OF IRAQ THE FREEDOM TO PUBLICLY READ A BIBLE.... YOU GAVE AN OPPURTUNITY TO THOSE WHO MAY HAVE EVER KNOWN HIM. WE THANK YOU AND GOD THANKS YOU. Dana Whitehead Mt.Morris MI. dsw101863@aol.com <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>> 2-23-06 LIVES OF GREAT MEN ALL REMIND US WE CAN MAKE OUR LIVES SUBLIME AND, DEPARTING, LEAVE BEHIND US FOOTPRINTS ON THE SANDS OF TIME. To the family and friends of Brent. I pray that your memories of this handsome man with the beautiful smile will ease your pain and sorrow. He was a brave hero who left his mark in this world. God Bless you and comfort you. Linda Whitehead ( MSG Anthony Yost KIA, Mosul 11/19/05.....my nephew) <<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>> 2-23-06 Brent was not only my brother but, a friend. We were not as close as i would of liked, and for that i will always be sorry. Brent was my stepbrother. Stepbrother, why do we always use this term of step? It is a very insenitive word. He was and will always be my brother, just as his sister is my sister and his mother is my mother. And it's always to late to realize how much you love someone, when they are gone. Brent accepted me for me, even thought I did'nt know who me was. He helped me with school work and listening to diffentent kinds of music, and just listening. I remember just talking at times about coming from seperated families. I was mad at that time, he said you'll get more gifts at holidays. How true. brent you may be gone but you will never be forgotten. your bro, doug <<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>> Thank you for the service of Brent he like my son answered the call to duty and both made the ultimate sacrifice. Dan Kimmett, Denver, CO 2/24/6 <<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>> It was 2nd grade when I met Brent, he was new to the school and the teacher Mrs Klemer asked for a volunteer to show Brent around. I raised my hand and was picked, this was one of those defining moments we have in life that makes us who we are. By raising my hand that day, I have happy memories of growing up, and experiences I would not want to change for the world. Brent and I tended to gravitate to the type of activities that when we look back now we have to ask ourselves what the heck were we thinking. Which of course is what our parents said to us at the time. A few examples: Boa’s Fruit market sits on the Little Conestoga on Columbia Ave. There were some heavy storms that caused the creek to flood out Boa’s parking lot. At the time they had watermelons stacked outside and the washed away down stream. Well Brent and I decided we were going hunting for watermelons. Against our parents wishes (they said they would rather us not…which wasn’t a no) we set out on our bikes during thundershower warnings in search of watermelon. When we got to the creek we left our bikes on the road and crossed over the creek which was very high and moving quickly, just about this time it starts thundering and lightning, and then one huge crack and it started pouring. We ended up making it to a little church near the creek that Brent went to, we used the phone to call home just to find out our parents were out looking for us. Needless to say there were some consequences to pay for this venture. We use to play war in the neighborhood growing up, we would run around trying to shoot each other, with BB guns, we had one rule, no shooting above the waste. Well I had Brent in my sight and went to take a shot, just as I shot Brent dove for the ground catching the BB in his mouth. Well actually it was right above his tooth causing him to lose the tooth and needing a false tooth. I don’t know why his mother Barb ever let me back in the house after that. The spelling tests we took in middle school were extremely tough, especially when you don’t study for them. Well our 8th grade teacher would make us get our tests signed if we got less then a C on it. Brent’s mother had told him that he would be grounded if she had to sign anymore of his spelling tests. Well it wasn’t long before he needed another signature; we came up with the great plan that I would forge his mother’s signature. We spent some time practicing and then I signed the test. The signature looked great and when Brent showed his test to the teacher she thought it looked great, except for one thing, we spelled her name wrong. I could go on and on about these type of stories. Over the years when my girls were younger they would not go to bed until I would tell them a life story, which always consisted of something dumb Brent, and I did growing up. By raising my hand that day in 2nd grade I was invited into one of the most loving families I have ever met. Brent brought me into his family and they have always treated me with love. I use to have a closet at the Benards house with pillows and a blanket, I didn’t have to ask if it was OK to sleep over, it was an open invitation. This special family is made up of four loving parents, a sister, aunts and uncles, step brothers, and step sister, grandparents, cousins, nephews and nieces. This family is what made Brent who he is. Brent was truly blessed for all the love and support the Adams, Benard, and Wimer family has given him over the years. As we got older our lives went in different directions, Brent stayed in Western Pa, and I returned to Lancaster. There were times when we wouldn’t talk for over a year, but when we would connect you wouldn’t know it, that is how you know you have a special friendship. The last few times we spent time together we would be talking about family, I wish I had gotten to know Marilyn his wife and Daniel his son better. Brent was so proud of his family, and the excitement talking about his son could electrify a room. He loved to tell me the story about how he was, I believe, dry walling and it wasn’t going well. He was using some choice words and very frustrated when Daniel walked into the room, looked up at him and said “Dad you look like you need a beer”, and hand him one. Brent liked to say that was the proudest day of his life. Since the terrible day of December 1st the family has been sharing with me emails from some of the men Brent worked with in Iraq. We have always joked about how stubborn Brent could be, and reading these letters confirmed he hadn’t changed. But this quality that could seem like a less then desirable trait showed up in all the stories I read as a genuine positive trait. Brent would work side by side with the guys he commanded and let them know he wouldn’t have them do anything he wouldn’t do. He would not take a leave until all his men had gotten theirs. And on that faithful day when we lost Brent he was not scheduled to go on that mission, but felt his guys needed a break and went in there place. It hit me as I read these letters that Brent was more then a friend to me, he was a hero to his fellow soldiers. I want to thank Brent for 33 wonderful years of friendship; I loved him very much and am so proud of what he stood for. I want to thank the Adams, Benard, and Wimer family for taking me in and letting me be part of your lives. And of course Missy who has been like a sister to me forever. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Brent had a lot of roles in life, a son, a husband, a Daddy, a brother, a nephew, a cousin, an uncle, and a friend. The most important role to me was that of a brother. Brent and I became extremely close as children when our parents divorced. We both were very upset, but he took care of me. He took his role of big brother very seriously. At night when I was scared he would tuck me in, read to me or sing to me and wait till I fell asleep. He also in his own words had to cart me everywhere. One such memory stands in my mind. Halloween and Brent took myself and friend to Scream in the Dark. I was extremely frightened and Brent told me it would make me feel better if I swore at all the people. So there we were and eight year old cursing at the people and an 11 year old yelling at them to stay away from his sister because she was scared. We did enjoy a lot of fun times too, ringing Minny’s bell with Mark, water fights up the flight of stairs to our room, listening to music in my room with the black light and strobe light going, eating spaghettios in the basement, because we ate like pigs, spending nights at our grandparents with our cousin Jamie, going to Maple Grove swimming pool. We then became very blessed to add two additions to our lives, Jack and Pam. Brent and I spoke many times about the loving we were able to have with four parents. We also spoke that when we were in trouble we had double the people to face. Christmas will be especially hard this year, every Christmas morning I would wake him before dawn and beg him to get up. He would play mad, but finally get up with me. We would love to sing Bing Crosby’s Santa Claus is coming to town and Mele Kelikimaka. In our teenage years Brent was very self-conscious and all I would have to say is are you wearing that? And he would be running up the steps to change. He made music tapes for my friends and me. Take me for rides on his motorcycle. As we grew into adulthood, he still kept the protector role. Visiting him one time at college all his fraternity brother kept saying hey you cant be Scratches sister, he said you were ugly. He said he did this because then if they knew the truth they would try to go out with me and he did not want that. When I dated no one was ever good enough. I met my husband Steve in college and Brent was very leery of him at first. Brent and Steve grew to have a great relationship. I remember one Christmas with a foot of snow. Brent and Steve were in the hot tub for six hours with snow pouring down and music blaring. They would call on a cell phone wrapped in plastic when they needed more beer. Tired of being a maid I stopped answering the phone, well they just switched to calling my cell phone. When we both had children a new relationship cemented. I could think of no one better to be my first born Alex’s godfather. Brent was very religious and led his life that way. When we visited each other we enjoyed giving the kids baths together and talking. I can still see him playing with our kids and telling them not to drink dirty butt water. Time to get the ear cheese out of your ears. Daniel was the joy of his life, and he once told me he could not imagine never having the joy of having children. Brent told me before our parents he was going to Iraq. I immediately became upset and as usual he told me not worry. Christmas before he left we spent a wonderful time together. When he left he hugged me so tight and took my face in his hands and said you know I love you so much Miss. For once I was the one who stopped hugging first. With tears streaming down my face, I said Brent please can’t I take a crow bar and just mess up your knees so you don’t have to go. He told me no of course and told me it was his duty to go. He said Miss it is not a death sentence, don’t worry about me just see that you take care of Marilyn and Daniel. I will forever miss that sparkle in his eyes, and the bounce in his step. In the last couple of weeks people have been telling me now your brother is a hero, well in my heart and eyes he has always been my big brother the hero Brent, not a day goes by that I do not think of you or miss you terribly. I would give anything for just one more minute to be with you. I just want my big brother back. Love your little sis, Miss <<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>> Ma'am, I recently saw a post you had made to a family that lost a soldier. I wanted to write you to let you know I had the pleasure and honor of knowing your son, as I served with him in Ramadi.. I know there are no words that I or any of us can give to ease your loss, but my Mother thought I should share the attached message with you: it is the email I sent out to my friends and family after I first learned your son was killed. Rest assured that those of us who served with your son will never forget him. My deepest sympathy, Mark Subject: A Fellow Soldier's Award I don’t know how long it has been since my last update. I imagine quite a while. For about two months now I have been moving around the country almost continuously. Although I technically moved to Balad (LSA Anaconda) a month ago, I haven’t seen it in a month. Between that and the fact that I try to never write when I am depressed or angry, I know it has been quite a delay. I decided I should probably write now to tell you about one of our sergeants, who earned the Bronze Star yesterday. Sergeant First Class Adams, headquarters company of 2/28th Penn Guard, is close friends with our chief paralegal and has spent quite a bit of time around the legal offices. A great guy, a great soldier…. He has always joked that he was glad that he was my friend… in case he ever got in trouble, he already had a lawyer.... of course, not the type of soldier to actually ever need my help. He has volunteered to drop me off and pick me from the landing zone in Ramadi a number of times. He even volunteered to teach me how to drive a HUMVEE, a true sign of his bravery… one of those rare positive people you always are happy to see cause he always seems to be upbeat about life. Yesterday, Sergeant Adams was killed by an IED while doing a routine parts run to another base. Sorry to have share this with you rather than the positive holiday message I had hoped to send and will hopefully send next week. As the numbers of dead climb well past two thousand, I just want everyone to remember that there is still a name behind every number… the name of someone’s friend, someone’ s parent, someone’s child. There is laughter silenced, a lifetime of potential sacrificed. Sometime this week you will hear on the news about number two thousand and something. That number belongs to hero that gave his life; he answered his country’s call to serve. That number belongs to Sergeant First Class Adams, and he will be missed. Mark <<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>> "To everyone who sees this page: Happy Birthday son! April 29th Brent's birthday was a mixture of sadness, joy, pride and tears. That morning Brent's 4 year old son Daniel had a t-ball game and before the game started they played the National Anthem and we all were reminded of how proud we were of Brent and how much we miss him as the tears flowed silently down our cheeks. As we watched Daniel play t-ball that morning all we could think of was Brent and we knew he was watching over Daniel as he hit the ball, fielded a ground ball, and ran the bases holding onto his helmet. The best was yet to come later that evening when the Pittsburgh Pirates held a tribute game in memory of Brent and all the Fallen Heroes and all our courageous men and women who have served and are serving in our Armed Forces. Daniel showed so much poise and dignity for a four year old as he throw out the first pitch to his mother to pay tribute to his father's memory and to all soldiers everywhere. The Army National Guard sent a color guard to participate in the opening ceremony and as they played the National Anthem, Jack Wilson of the Pirates took Daniel's hand and held it tight. Daniel told us he drew two crosses in the dirt and later on he presented Daniel with a signed bat. It was a very emotional day for all of us but a positive way to spend the day together with family and friends to help us get through the first birthday without him. Thanks to The Pittsburgh Pirates organization and all the many wonderful friends of Brent who spent a lot of time and engery to help make this day possible. We are forever grateful for your efforts and thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Brent's family was overwhelmed at the support and outpouring of love that day to help make the celebration of Brent's birthday a little easier and to remember all the sacrifices all our soldiers have made. We know Brent was watching from heaven that day and saw everything as Daniel opened the game with the first pitch and we know he said, "THAT"S MY BOY", as he threw the ball. We miss you so much son and are very proud to have been a part of your life and not a day goes by that we don't think of you. You are forever in our hearts and minds and always were our Hero. Your loving Mom, XXXOOO Barb Benard <<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>> To all who read this page: April 29, 2006 is Brent's birthday. This was the first birthday spent without him and needless to say it was difficult. What helped to make a sad day a bit brighter was the fact that the Pittsburgh Pirates dedicated their game on this date to Brent and had his 4 year old son Daniel throw out the first pitch. Daniel did his job that day with both excitement and pride and his family was so proud of him as we know Brent was too. It was also broadcast to Brent's unit still serving in Iraq so they got to see this game and tribute as well. The Pirates tribute to Brent as well as all soldiers everywhere was so touching and to have Brent honored in this way is something his family nor his son will never forget. When things like this happen, not only for Sgt. Adams, but for all the soldiers everywhere, it reminds us once again that these courageous men and women will truly never be forgotten. To the Pirates, his friends, his commrades, who had a hand in this event and who made it happen - THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS. And, of course, the fact that the Pirates won this game was the icing on the cake! Happy Birthday Brent - it was a good way to try and celebrate April 29th in a positive way. Love, Your Step-Mom Pam <<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>> To all who read these pages: In a few weeks our nation will be observing Memorial Day and for me the true representation will be realized this year more than ever before. I came from a family of military men and yet this holiday never "hit home" like it will this particular year or all the years going forward. That is not something I'm proud to say, it just is the way it is. Brent served his country and unselfishly sacrificed his life. It reminds that this day is not just an extra day off of school or work nor just a day to party with friends. It also reminds me of the thousands of other families that will be feeling just a bit "differently" this particular holiday. It is still extremely difficult to grasp the reality that he is one of the fallen heroes, but, I know that this holiday will be my time to reflect on the sacrifices and the acts of bravery displayed by so many who serve this nation. I will be thinking of Brent as well as all the other men and women who have served or are still serving our country and I will also recall all the Memorial Day picnics that we shared together as a family as I remember his childhood, his teens, his adulthood, or any number of our adventures together. He has given me a treasure trove of memories on which to draw. In Loving Memory Your Other Mother (Pam) <<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>> Hello Brent, It's been awhile since I've said hello to you. When I think of you, or see your pictures I can feel the warmness of your sweet soul. You are special Brent. Diana ----------------------------------------------------------------- "Yesterday (10/21/06) we attended a Re-Dedication of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 28th Infantry Division, Fallen Warriors Memorial at Fort Indiantown Gap, Annville, PA to honor our son Brent A. Adams and 83 others. This Memorial stands 21 feet tall, echoing the 21- gun salute. The damaged steel represents the unique war the living fight and the fallen leave behind. Steel plates cover all four sides, acting like up-armor and holding the names of the fallen. Inside, ID tags for each fallen soldier are suspended from chains. A light shines on them from the base of the structure skyward through the obelisk cap. As the wind passes through the structure the tags move with a wind chime suspended below them, creating a subtle sound, like the quiet whispers of the Fallen as they continue to speak to us. I will hear Brent speak to me everytime I visit this Memorial as I did yesterday - a sound I found very comforting. To those who created and constructed this Memorial, originally in Ramadi, Iraq, only to break it down and bring it home and reconstruct it at Fort Indiantown Gap --- my heartfelt thanks and gratitude go to you all. It is yet another reminder that none of our soldiers will ever be forgotten and their spirit will live on. Your Loving "Other Mother" Pam Adams --------------------------------------------------------------------- On Saturday October 21, 2006 we too attended the Rededication Of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team 28th Infantry Division Fallen Warriors Memorial at Fort Indiantown Gap, Annville, PA with many other parents, husbands, wifes, and brothers/sisters of our fallen heroes. The orginial Memorial was designed and constructed in Ramadi, Iraq and was fabricated from iron material available at the Forward Operation Base in Ramadi symbolizing Iron Soldiers from the Iron Brigade. It was erected in front of the 2/28BCT headquarters and dedicated on Easter Sunday April 16, 2006 to honor 76 Fallen Warriors. It was then disassembled, reassembled and shipped to the US for rededicated to those 83 Fallen Warriors who gave their last full measure of devotion for all of us. Unfortunately one of those fallen warriors was you,our son SFC Brent A. Adams KIA Ramadi, Iraq 12/1/2005. We were awe struck at the simplicity and beauty of the Memorial and as we gazed at the Memorial a gentle wind blew making the dog tags softly jingle and we heard the quiet whispers of all those voices forever sealed inside our hearts and minds. Especially your voice. The next time we have your son Daniel we will be sure to bring him to Fort Indiantown Gap to see this great tribute to you and the other soldiers and encourage him to listen for your voice. We personally got to meet 1LT Colleen McGarry and thank her for her vision and design of this unique Memorial only to find out she knew you and attended church with you in Ramadi. She said the two of you got Sgt Dami to church too. We also had a chance to meet your chaplain and he couldn't believe how knowledgeable you were about religion and especially the Lutheran religion because you would always tell him "that's not the Lutheran Way". He had a deep respect for you and you faith. We went up to Sgt Irving Addiison to thank him for his beautiful version of the song he sang "Amazing Grace" and to tell him we knew it came from his heart to find out once again that he knew you too. We also got to see your roommate Sgt Scary again, what a great guy he is. We were standing looking at the Memorial after the service when someone tapped me on the shoulder and here it was some of your men from the motor pool. Brad Minda, Randy Danser, Kerry Vaughn, 1SG Paul Dunlap and your commanding officer Cpt Rich Howett. They had one thing in common to say about you and that was their respect for you and how you never asked your men to do anything you wouldn't do yourself and that is ultimately how we lost you. They said they will never ever forget you and your smile and your dedication and hard work and your love of swedish fish, tastykakes, twizzlers and skittles. A special thanks to all who had a hand in making the Fallen Warrior Memorial a realitiy so our Fallen Heroes will never be forgotten and you can be sure we will reivist this site often to remember and honor all our heroes. Love, Mom and Jack (Proud parents of SFC Brent A. Adams KIA Ramadi, Iraq) --------------------------------------------------- It was a year ago today that our whole world was shattered upon receiving the news of Brent’s death in Ramadi, Iraq. At that moment in time our hearts were broken into a million pieces and the pain was so intense we thought our hearts would burst. In a matter of seconds your whole beautiful life played before me from the moment the doctor first placed you in my arms until the last time I heard your voice on the phone the day before you were KIA. We still feel that pain today and wonder does it ever go away? We are still angry, not at God but with the circumstances that have brought about your death and still can’t believe that you are gone. I know that there are many others who share this pain, agony and sorrow over the terrible loss of all of our brave and courageous soldiers who have made this ultimate sacrifice. You are our heroes and we will never let you be forgotten. There is no greater gift than for one to lay down their lives for another. You Brent were one of the greatest treasures we ever received. I know you were a good and faithful servant of the Lord and you served him well but on December 1, 2005 he called you home to join his Army in heaven. All though we didn’t like God’s plan we have no other choice but to accept it and believe in his promise of eternal life and that we will meet again some day. Not a day goes by that Jack and I don’t think about you and miss you terribly. This past year has been a hard one on all of us but one thing we have learned is that they are many wonderful and compassionate people out there who have helped us on this journey. We have met and spoken to the families and friends of other soldiers and have tried to help each other through this difficult process called grieving. Without the love and support of our families, friends and the Lord we would not have made it this far. So many people have written and sent their condolences on line through Legacy.com, Militarymagnets.com and Fallenheroes.com. I can not find the words to express our thanks to each and every one of you for your love and support of Brent. He is and will be forever be in our hearts and minds. A Death Has Occurred A death has occurred And everything is changed. We are painfully aware that life can never be the same again, that yesterday is over, that relationships once rich have ended. But there is another way to look upon this truth. If life now went on the same, without the presence of the one who has died we could only conclude that the life we remember made no contribution, filled no space, meant nothing. The fact that this person left behind a place that cannot be filled is a high tribute to this individual. Life can be the same after a trinket has been lost, But never after the loss of a treasure By Rev. Paul Irion Love, Mom and Jack ________________________________________ Every Christmas Morrill Worcester of Maine donates 5,000 wreaths to be placed on the graves at Arlington National Cemetary in Washington DC. For the past few years, Larry Ross, a schoolteacher in Maine, along with his 5th grade class have been traveling to Arlington to help lay the wreaths. In October of this year Mr. Worcester had a vision of expanding his efforts by also having a wreath laid at National and State Veteran’s Cemetaries in every state. He contacted Mr. Ross and his students; enlisted their help in accomplishing the major effort. Not only did Mr. Ross and his students readily accept this challenge, they met their goal by successfully contacting a family member of a fallen soldier in every state. To represent the Fort Indiantown Gap National Veterans Cemetary , I was contacted by the students and asked to participate in helping them achieve their goal by laying a wreath today to honor all our service men and women who gave their all for our country. Like the students, I readily accepted this honor as well to participate in this event. All wreaths were placed today at 12:00 noon in all states following a moment of silence and a small ceremony to remember all our veterans. Today, for me, was yet another testimony to the fact that you will always be remembered Brent by those who knew you AND by those that never got the opportunity. I know I speak for all families who have lost sons and daughters to this was as well as any war, when I say it means everything to know our courageous young men and women will truly be remembered always. Love Your StepMom Pam ------------------------------------------------------------------- I remember that I was told that I would have to learn to drive a tank when I was in the unit. I didn't want to. I was sure I would wreck the thing. All of us in the unit had to do it and Sergeant Adams was the one who instructed us how to do it. He kept coaxing me to be next and I kept saying, "No way, I'll wreck it." He promised me he wouldn't let that happen. Finally, I was the only one left who had to do it yet, and he persuaded me to finally get me to climb into the tank. That was no easy feat for him to do, believe me. I was terrified of that thing but Sergeant Adams was so patient and kind and was there with me every step of the way. He gave me confidence to do something I was sure I would never do successfully. I remember him telling me "Don't be afraid. I'll be right there with you every step of the way. You can do it and you will do it." And I did do it! When we first got into the tank I was fearful, and when we got out we were smiling and laughing. "See, I told you you could do it!" He said. That was Sergeant Adams, a true soldier and leader, right there with his troops every step of the way. And I will always and forever have this fond memory of his patience and determination as a leader, and of his kindness and character as a person. Lori Skocik, former Specialist in the PARNG, 2nd BDE ............................................................................................. To all those who read this page: On Saturday, October 27, 2007 a Remembering the Fallen ceremony was held in Lancaster, PA where the names of all the fallen were read at town square. The Mayor began the ceremony by asking for a moment of silence and read the first block of names. The first name was read at 1:00 p.m. and the last at 5:07 p.m. I was both humbled and proud to have been a part of both the planning and execution of this day of remembrance and am so very happy that the community came together to volunteer to read names and participate. Brent, the medic who was with you at the time of your death, took the page with your name on it as well as so many others that he knew whose lives were taken while he was serving. It was his honor, he said, to do this for us and them. Nothing deterred us on this day - not the pouring rain that somehow stopped right before the ceremony began and gave us sunshine the rest of the day. Not the fact that one speaker fell in the wind and broke and not the fact that with 11 more pages to read, the other speaker stopped working! A young man appeared out of nowhere - he began reading names in a commanding, booming voice - almost like a military roll call. Turns out this man is Navy, served in Iraq and was not going to let the fact that our speaker system failed stop people from hearing the rest of the names of the fallen. It was an amazing day of remembrance and pride Brent. You were in my heart and my thoughts all day long as each name was read and each bell rang. In loving remembrance Your "other mother" Pam |
HONORING SFC Brent Adams
MilitaryMagnets.com
