This week's blog post looks very different from my usual wedding and engagement posts. It's no news what has taken place across our world these past few weeks. Some have been brought to rage, some to tears, but we have all been affected by the news of the passing of 13 soldiers killed in Afghanistan.
Regardless of our individual political standings, these 13 lives deserve our honor and respect. They have paid the ultimate price for our freedom in America. Each soldier left behind family and friends that now have to face the future without them. Their presence on this earth can never be replaced or forgotten.
As many around the country have strived to do, the people of Pickens chose to honor the fallen in their own special way. A cross has been placed with the name of each fallen soldier, as well as a flag and balloon. The memorial can be found across from Pickens First Baptist, next to McDonalds on Main Street. The citizens of Pickens will also be holding prayer by the memorial on September 11. The meeting will take place at 8:30 am with free coffee and donuts for all active military and veterans. Prayer will be at 8:46 and 9:03 am. All are invited to attend in honor of our country and the men and women who have given their lives for our country.
Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo, 25, of Lawrence, Massachusetts
Sgt. Nicole L. Gee, 23, of Sacramento, California
Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover, 31, of Salt Lake City, Utah
Cpl. Hunter Lopez, 22, of Indio, California
Cpl. Daegan W. Page, 23, of Omaha, Nebraska
Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez, 22, of Logansport, Indiana
Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza, 20, of Rio Bravo, Texas
Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz, 20, of St. Charles, Missouri
Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola, 20, of Rancho Cucamonga, California
Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui, 20, of Norco, California
Navy Corpsman Maxton W. Soviak, 22, of Berlin Heights, Ohio
Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss, 23, of Corryton, Tennessee