NewsChannel 8 - Hometown Heroes

Is your family member currently serving in the military in Iraq, Afghanistan or elsewhere? We want to honor their service here on KTUL.com. Just send us their name, photo and a brief statement on their service and we will post it here on KTUL.com. To submit a serviceman, click here.

Kyle Barcus
Hometown: Bartlesville

My nephew is currently serving in Iraq. He is with the D Company 2- 27 Infantry Battalion. He is 21 years old and I just want to thank him for all that he is doing. He is very brave considering he is so young. He is supposed to be coming home at the end of the month for two weeks of R&R and we can't wait to see him. He has gone through some tough times because he has lost a some fellow soldiers and kinda had a rough time dealing with that. But he just keeps his head up high and looking ahead. He is missed and loved by many including his cousins. They can't wait for cousin Kyle to come home. So I think he along with all the other soldiers deserve a big THANK YOU! We love you Kyle. Stay safe and come home soon!!

Aunt Amy, Uncle JR and Shylo, Colton, Cody

PFC Josh Berner
Hometown: Tahlequah, OK

This is our son Josh Berner. He graduated from Tahlequah High School in May 2006. He joined the Army at 17 as a PFC and is currently deployed in Iraq.

Josh is with the 3-1 CAV out of Fort Benning, Georgia. We couldn't be more proud of him! We are more than ready to have him back home safe and sound with all his loved ones.

He's a loving son, brother, uncle, grandson and a wonderful young man.

We keep them all of our servicemen/women in our thoughts and prayers. We love you Bubba and can't wait to have you home with us.

Love, Mom, Dad & Amber

Corye & Codye Black
Hometown: Canadian, OK

These are my two sons. The one on the left is Corye Ott Black, 19 years old from Canadian Oklahoma, and the one on the right is Codye Brandon Black, 22 years old from Canadian Oklahoma. The little girl in the middle is Ms. Kiley Black, daughter of Codye Black.

Corye is stationed at For Carson, CO, A Trp, 3-61 Cav. He is currently serving in Iraq. Codye is stationed at Fort Campbell, KY, with the 163rd MP Detachment, 101st Airborne Division. He has been to Iraq twice. He is the father of Ms. Kiley Black, 2 1/2 years old and Ms. Katlyn Black, 2 months old.

I know as their mom, that I am partial, but these guys are really special. We all need to remember each and everyone of our service people over there and the civilians. Pray that God's will be done.

LCpl Chris Blotevogel
Hometown: Mounds

This is my son, Chris. He is currently doing his part in protecting his family and country in Iraq. We are very proud of him, as well as all the other young men and women that have made that choice to serve their country! May God bless them and bring them all safely home soon. His sister cherishes every letter from him! We miss him and are counting the days when he is back safely with us!

Nancy Blotevogel
A very proud Marine Mom

SPC Michael D. Boyle
Hometown: Adair, OK

Spc. Michael D. Boyle, son of Gary & Ima Jean Peper of Adair, Oklahoma, is with the 3rd Infantry Division, Camp Cook, Taji, Iraq. His home base is Hunter Army Airbase, Savannah, GA. His wife Melissa and son Mikey, Jr. are stateside still living in Savannah.

Michael joined the Army Reserve the summer of his junior year in high school in 2000. He took his basic training in Ft Jackson, SC and his AIT in Aberdeen, MD after graduating from Adair High School in spring 2001. He transferred to Full Active Duty in September 2003 and was assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division. He is a generator maintenance mechanic. He left for Iraq on January 22, 2005 and will be there for 12 to 18 months.

We love you and miss you very much and will be looking forward to your return in July 2005 for R&R and your brother's wedding.

God be with you, Love Mom & Dad

Just an update on our son SPC. Michael D. Boyle. He is now back home in Savannah, GA. His unit returned on the 25th of January. It was like the world had been lifted off our shoulders when we saw him and we knew he was OK. He will be transferring to Ft. Riley Kansas on May the 10th. It will be wonderful to have him and his family closer. We want to thank everyone for thier thoughts and prayers.
Welcome home Michael.

Love you,
Mom, Dad, Adam, Stephen, and C. W.

SGT Kyle Brinlee
Hometown: Pryor, OK

This is my nephew Kyle. He was killed on May 11 while serving with the Oklahoma National Guard 120th Eng. Bat, co B. I wanted to post his photo on here to keep his memory alive. He was such an important part of my life, there isn't a minute in a day I don't think about him. He was so funny and fun loving, didn't know a stranger, anyone who met him liked him. He was such a joy to have around, always the life of the party. His family is so proud of him and we miss him dearly.

(Aunt)
Melissa Davidson-Yount, Tulsa, OK

Specialist Holly Broomhall
Hometown: Wetumka, OK

My wife Holly (pictured with daughter Baylee and I) has been with the National guard 120th Engineer Battalion in Okmulgee for 6+ years. She has been in Iraq since February 2004 she is now seving at Camp Fallujah with the 120th Engineer Battalion, Company A. Our house in Wetumka is nearing completion and can't wait for you to see. We all love and miss you very much. Both sides of our families are waiting for another child of ours.

Love ya always - Your Doug

Kenny Brown
Hometown: Fort Gibson, OK

Kenny is the Son Of Willis and Bonnie Brown of Muskogee. Kenny attended school in Fort Gibson and afterward went into the Army. After 9/11, Kenny re-enlisted and is now in western Iraq with the 82nd Airborne, Unit A Co. Physycological Operations battalion. Kenny was promoted to Sergeant on July 1st, 2004. Kenny's wife Tammy and Son Justin are in Fort Bragg North Carolina awaiting Kenny to return in October. Kenny has recently re-upped for another five years. We are very proud of Sarge Brown, and all look forward to his return.

Joseph C. Buford
Hometown: Pryor, OK

This is my husband, Joseph C. Buford. He is from Pryor, OK through Thunder Bird. He is with the 120th Engineer Battalion Co. B. He is in Iraq. One of the pictures is his squad: On top: Joseph Buford, bottom left to right is: Goodwin, Ketcher, Bryant and Kent. One of me and him from his AIT in Gulfport, Mississippi. The other is Joe in Kuwait City drinking a Pepsi. I ask everyone to keep these men in prayer. They've been through a lot. My best wishes to Kyle's family!!! Thank you for your support. I love you Joe.
Michelle Buford

SSGT Daniel Burruss

SSgt Daniel Burruss returned to Iraq in May of 2005 and is currently stationed at Camp Bucca, Iraq near Umm Qasr. He performs patrols and convoys in the Iraq area. SSgt Daniel Burruss' duties include trainer for the 22nd Security Forces Squadron, McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. SSgt Burruss trains squadron personnel to ensure knowledge of related duties. He oversees all training for all personnel on techniques and procedures unique to the career field. He has been stationed in Wichita, Kansas at McConnell Air Force Base for the past four years. SSgt Burruss is the son of Homer and Shirley Burruss of Chelsea, brother to his four sisters, Susan, Cindy, Laura and Rosemarie, and an awesome uncle to his eleven nieces and nephews.

SGT Brandon Buttram
Hometown: Tulsa, OK

This is my son, Sgt. Brandon Buttram. He is a crew chief on a Blackhawk helicopter with the 507th Medical Co. attached to a Marine unit doing his second tour in Iraq.

We are extremely proud of him. He joined straight out of high school after four years of JROTC at East Central High School. This is his sixth year in. He has a wife and two sons in Texas not far from where he is based.

We love you Brandon and await your safe return home.

Pam Williamson

SPC Brian Cagle
Hometown: Claremore

SPC Brian Cagle of Claremore, OK is with the 10th Mountain Division, 210 BSB. Brian is a 2002 graduate of Claremore High School. His basic training was completed at Fort Jackson, SC. After spending a year at Camp Kyle in South Korea, he came back to the US and was stationed at Fort Drum, NY. He recently deployed to Iraq in August 2006. He is stationed at Camp Strider in Baghdad as an Automated Logistics Specialist. This is Brian's first tour and is expected to be there for one year. Brian, your entire family, including your grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins in Claremore, as well as your aunts, uncles and cousins in Pennsylvania are proud of you and pray for your safe return.

We can't wait for you to come home. We love you, miss you and are extremely proud of you.

Love.....Mom, Robert, Kyle and Quinn.

SPC Rickey Gene Clinton, Jr.
Hometown: Tahlequah, OK

My brother is in the natonal guard 120th Engineer battalion of Tahlequah, OK.His name is specialist Rickey Gene Clinton J.R. He is he is 26 years old and was deployed to Iraq in Feb 2004. I am very proud to call him my brother and love him very much. And not to mention a huge family that loves him also. He is the son of Rick Clinton S.R and Lavina Elsey.
Thank You,
Melanie Clinton

Lance Corporal James G. Conditt
Hometown: Bartlesville, OK

This is a picture of my husband and son right before he deployed to Iraq. We are currently stationed at Camp Lejeune, NC with the 8th Engineering Support Battalion, Charlie Company. James left for Iraq August 7, 2005 and was attached to the Combat Logistics Battalion 2. Alex and I can not wait to have him back home with us. We expect him home no later than March. We love you Daddy! Be careful over there. We can't wait to see you!

Austin Eugene Constuble
Hometown: Bartlesville, OK

My Boyfriend/soon to be husband Austin Eugene Constuble is serving in the 891st engineer battalion. Austin is my hero and the love of my life. Austin come home safe to me and our family! I pray for you and all the soldiers, thanks to all of you for keeping our country safe!!!! Austin I love you and miss you so much be safe and I will be here when you return home. I'm never gonna leave or stray your my one and only!! I love you and I think about you every second of the day, you're always in my dreams and you're even here when I close my eyes. You're my shadow on the ground, you're the beat in my heart. I'll be here till the end I promise!! come home soon so we can get married!!! I love you.

Love You Always And Forever
Heidi Rena Roach/ Constuble

Austin Eugene Constuble
Hometown: Bartlesville, OK

My soon to be husband is Austin E. Constuble and he is in the National Guard serving in Iraq. He is a combat engineer in the 891st Alpha Co. He is from Bartlesville, OK. He left from Fort Sill on Jan. 2, 2005 to go to Iraq and that was the hardest thing I've ever had to do. I just want him to know that he is my Hero and that me and the girls are praying for him, and all the men and women over there. Plese God, watch over him and everyone else and bring them home safe and soon.

LOVE, Nina, Alyssa,and Madison. 1-15-2005

PFC Austin Eugene Constuble
Hometown: Bartlesville, OK

Austin is from Bartlesville and is currently at Fort Sill awaiting deployment to Iraq just after Thanksgiving. Austin just turned 18 in May and it has always been his dream to defend his country, so at age 17 he got his GED and joined the National Guard. He volunteered to go to Iraq. In fact, he transferred to another unit just so he could go. Of course we as his family are very scared and concerned, but we know that God will take care of him. Austin is with the 891st Engineering Battalion out of Pittsburg, Kansas. We want him and all the soldiers to know that we are praying for their safe return, and we love you.

Bub, Lewis, Cissie, Jennifer, Shelby and Vicky Constuble

Sgt. Roger Cote

This is my husband, Sgt. Roger Cote. He is currently in Iraq. He was deployed on July 3rd of this year. Shortly after graduating from high school, he joined the Coast Guard in Maine, which he hopes to go back to one day. He is now serving with the Army 758th Maintenance Company.

He is the son of Ron and Patricia Cote, older brother to Julie and David and an awesome dad to our son Matthew. He is a wonderful husband and friend to me. His whole family and all his friends miss him very much and cannot wait for his safe return home. We are very proud of all he has done and continues to do.

We love you Roger.
Melissa Cote.

USMC PFC Jonathan D. Cotner
Hometown: Locust Grove, OK

Jonathon graduated from Locust Grove High School in 2003. He then went to boot camp at Camp Pendleton and is based at 29 Palms. He was deployed to Iraq in February where he is stationed at Al Asad Airfield, just west of Fallujah. Jonathon's family is very proud of him and are very anxious for his safe return. Jonathon's younger brother, Philip Garcia, attends Owasso Public Schools, and is also waiting anxiously for the safe return of his brother.

Thank you, Mark Cotner

Major David Cowan

I am so proud of my husband who is serving with the 45th in Afghanistan. He has been deployed since late August 2003. It has been a challenge for our entire family. But, he has our unending support. He has left his family and life on hold for a year to proudly serve his country. We are truly blessed to be his family.

We love you Dave. Hurry home safe. Love Jill, Lizzie and Allie.

SGT Christopher Dart
Hometown: Stilwell, OK

My brother is part of the 1st Maintenance Support Battilion for the 1st Infantry Division out of Fort Riley, Kansas. He has been deployed to Iraq since September 2003. He graduated from Siloam Springs High School in 1988, joined the Army in 1990, spent basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky and has been to Germany, Italy and Georgia, but always seems to return back to Fort Riley. He has chosen to make the Army his career, and all his family are so very proud of him for it. Our oldest brother also spent several years in the Army, and went through Desert Storm, as well as Chris. This is his 2nd major combat mission in the 14 years he has been in the service. He is currently stationed at Camp Ridgeway, near Al-Ramadi, Iraq. We are anxiously and prayerfully awaiting his safe return home.

Parents are Ronnie and Sue Dart. Siblings are Joseph & Michael Dart, & April Rietman, brother-in-law James Rietman, neices Shelby, Emma, and Chelsea Dart, Kendra, Kelsey, and Alexis Rietman, Nephew Jonathon Dart. Granny Lucille Ketcher

We are all praying for all the troops, and their families.

SGT Robert S. Edens
Hometown: Tulsa, OK

Robert attended Tulsa Public Schools from 1990-1998. He participated in the JROTC Program at East Central HS. We moved to Silver City, New Mexico and he graduated from Silver High School in 2000. Robert went into the Army right out of high school and was stationed at Ft. Bragg, NC in the 82nd Airborne Division. When he came home from the Army he joined the Army National Guard. The Army recalled him in April and Robert served in Bagram, Afghanistan with the Central Command before being sent to Kabul, Afghanistan. Along with his wife, Grace Edens of Silver City, NM; His brother and family, Michael and Deeanna Edens of Owasso, OK; His sister and family, Stacy and Jeff Wilson of Coweta, OK; and His sister and husband, Sarah and Jeremiah Barris of S.Tulsa, we are very proud of Robert and pray for his safe homecoming. Bob and Sandra Edens, Tulsa, OK. We love and miss you very much Son!!

UPDATE: Robert Edens has been promoted from Specialist to Sergeant. Congratulations Robert!

UPDATE (May 26, 2005): I am elated to be writing you today. Around 2 a.m. this morning our Son, Sgt. Robert Edens, arrived in Boston after a 13 month tour in Afghanistan. He will be going to Ft. Benning to start his outprocessing before coming home. We are so proud of all of his accomplishments while serving in Afghanistan. We are so thankful to God for his safe return!

Sandra Edens

PFC Taylor Elliott
Hometown: Sand Springs

Pfc. Taylor Elliott is the son of Michael and Sandy Elliott of Sand Springs. He graduated from Charles Page High School in May 2004. He joined the Army in June of 2004. He went to boot camp at Fort Knox, Kentucky. He graduated boot in December 2004. Immediately following graduation, he was stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado with the 1st Platoon, Killer Troop, 3rd Squadron of the 3rd Armored Cavalry Unit. His MOS was a calvary scout.

In March 2005, 3/3 ACR was sent to Iraq. They have been there since. He has been promoted to Private First Class and he is now the driver of a Bradley Fighting Vehicle. He has been involved in many missions in southern Baghdad including one in which they captured one of the famous 52 cards. He has seen tragedy and devastation as well as comapssion and great leaps forward for the Iraqi people.

We are very proud to have Taylor as a soldier and a wonderful representative of America.

Thank you,
Staci (sister)

Larry 'Joe' Fenton, Jr.
Hometown: Bristow, OK

Joe is serving in Iraq with the 120th Eng. deployed in February of this year. As of this week, Joe has 148 days remaining on his tour of duty, and should arrive in the States in February 2005. Joe is special to all who know him, and especially everyone aware of the near fatal car crash he survived three years ago. His recovery was long and difficult, but it taught us the strength of the human spirit, and how special each day is.

Joe is the son of Larry Fenton of Bristow, the late Lisa Holderfield Abraham of Bristow. His grandparents are Willis and Betty Fenton, Doye Holderfield, and Wayne Angel, all of Bristow, and Great-grandmother Sylvia Burgett. Joe is dearly missed by all of us, and is certainly a hero in our eyes. Pictured with Joe are his young cousins, Emilee and Taylor Spencer.

His favorite aunt,
Sheryl Fenton

Christopher J. Fimpel

Christopher J. Fimpel is a two-time veteran of the War on Terror. He is currently stationed in Baghdad. He is a loving son and devoted husband and father. His welcome home ceremony is Friday, November 10th, 2006. He will be home one year before returning to fight for the country he loves. He has received a combat award while carrying out duties overseas.

Jeff Dale Fisher
Hometown: Stilwell, OK

Jeff Dale Fisher, 17 years old. Jeff is stationed in Maryland, where he works on the Army's trucks, Hummers, etc. He is pictured here with his sister, Angela Thruber and niece Maddee Lynn Thruber at his graduation at Fort Jackson. He is our hero. We wish all the soldiers the best. Good luck and God bless.
Gina Henson

SGM Leon Fowler, Jr.
Hometown: Tulsa, OK

SGM Leon Fowler Jr. is a graduate from Tulsa McLain Class of 1979. He has been in the service since June 1979, and is getting ready to deploy with his BN soon. His family loves him and God bless our sons and daughters in uniform.

PFC Levi and Chance Gibson
Hometown: Afton, OK

These two cousins are currently in the military. Levi is in the Marines and just finished boot camp and is now in California finishing his MCT (Marine Combat Training). Chance is in the Oklahoma Air National Guard 138th and will be deployed May 18th to Qatar. Chance is a student at OSU.

They are pictured here with their little cousin, Natalie Gibson. Both of these boys are 2003 graduates of Afton High School. Levi's parents are Doug and Lora Gibson, and his siblings are Macy and Jesse Gibson. Chance's parents are Vearl and Leslie Gibson and his brothers are Heath and Kody Gibson.

We are so proud of these boys and hope they come back safe.

Specialist Jeffrey Gregory
Hometown: Tulsa, OK

Jeff is currently serving in Tikrit, Iraq with the 1st Infantry Division, 101st Military Intelligence BN out of Wurzburg,Germany. He went to Basic at Fort Jackson, SC in 2002, and has since been stationed at Monterey, California's Defense Language Institute, Goodfellow Air Force Base, TX and Fort Huachucha, AZ.

He is a great father to our daughter, who misses him very much and a wonderful husband to me for seven years. I'm very proud of Jeff and all his accomplishments and can't wait for him to come home. Unfortunately, there are necessary evils like deployments, but we have the best. God Bless the USA and its soldiers! Hurry home safe & sound! Hooaahh!

LaFonda Gregory

SPC Sarah Gregory
Hometown: Tulsa

Sarah graduated from Edison High School in 2004 where she served as Battalion Commander for the Army JROTC group 2003-2004. Sarah is currently serving our country in Kandahar Afghanistan where she is a medic with the 10th Mountain Division from Ft. Drum, New York.

Sarah's parents are Tami Stefansson and Allen Gregory. She also has a brother at home, Jake Gregory. We are all very proud of Sarah and miss her very much. Sarah will be home in the spring of 2007.

SPC Lacy Guinn-Romero
Hometown: Claremore

Lacy is the daughter of Travis Setters and Linda Williams. She is currenly stationed in northern Iraq. She has been in the army for 3 years and has 3 left. She is in the 82nd Airborne Division, CAB and works on the Apache helicoptors. She will be coming home in March for a 2-week visit, then going back to Iraq. She's a country girl that loves Garth Brooks. She enjoys camping and fishing. She is married to Vincent Romero, who is also deployed in Iraq at the time as well. This is his second time over seas.

We all just want to say that we love you and we miss you guys and can't wait till you come home.

Most love, Mom, Dad, Pip-skweek, Stan, Barney, Kiddie, and all the family.

WE LOVE YOU GUYS
PS - Sis, you're my hero.

Andrew Hall
Hometown: Tulsa, OK

Andrew Hall is a Tulsa native. He graduated from Memorial High School in 2000. Andy is stationed in Afghanistan with the U.S. Air Force. His proud parents are Huey and Danylene (Danny) Hall. Andy stay safe! We love you and will be anxious to see you home in the U.S.

John Hamling
Hometown: Pawhuska, OK

Unfortunately, my brother passed away Sunday, May 14, 2006. I believe even in his death, he is still a hero. He fought in Iraq in 2003 and came home in March 2004. He came home on leave to Pawhuska, Oklahoma in April. That's when he learned he had leukemia. He continued to fight, but a different type of war. He fought bravely in both.

Even though he was quite ill himself, he was constantly thinking of others. He kept a smile on his face and hope in his heart. He always did his best to make everyone laugh and that everyone around him was okay. He remained strong to the end. He is the best son, brother, husband, uncle and nephew anyone could ever ask for. He set a wonderful example with his strength and courage. He will always be a guiding light for all who knew him and will remain in our hearts.

Sincerely,
Opal Slater

Billy Harris
Hometown: Skiatook, OK

Our son Billy Harris from Skiatook, Oklahoma is in Tikrit as part of the 3rd Infantry Division out of Georgia. He is a husband and father of two beautiful children. We all miss him more than we can say and pray daily for his safe return. He is a hero to us all. He has asked us to help him provide children in a school there with supplies, toys and clothes and we have sent over 2,000 lbs. for him and his unit to distribute. We are so proud of him for thinking of others in the situation he is in and hope that his efforts can make a difference. Billy you are a good son. Come home safe. Love Mom and Dad, Glenn and Connie Clement.

SSGT Earl Heck
Hometown: Morris, OK

My husband, SSGT Earl Heck, is a 1995 graduate of Morris, OK. He is the son of C.E and Mary Heck. Earl is assigned to the 13th Military Police Company stationed out of Vicenza Italy with his duty station being Camp Darby, Italy near Pisa.

Earl is a military working dog handler who is currently deployed to Iraq working with his bomb sniffing dog name Ronnie. This is Earl's 2nd deployment since Aug. 2004. Earl has been in the Army for 12 years and has loved every minute of his military career. He attended boot camp and A.I.T at Fort McClellan, AL. immediately after high school. He and I were married on Oct. 14th 1995. We were stationed at Fort Hood, TX. he spent a year at Camp Hialeah, Pusan, S. Korea, we spent 3 1/2 years at Fort Stewart, Ga. and the last 3 1/2 years at Camp Darby, Italy.

We share two beautiful girls together who are very proud of their daddy!!! I am so proud to be married to Earl, his self-less service and commitment to his country and his family speak very highly of his character!!

Love,
Erin Heck
Military wife

SPC Jeffrey Stewart Henthorn
Hometown: Choctaw

This is my brother, Spc. Jeffrey Stewart Henthorn. We lost Jeffrey on February 8, 2005. He was stationed with 24th Transportation co. Ft. Riley, Kansas. When he died, he had been deployed for a second tour to Iraq. He served six years with the 1345th Army National Guard in Midwest City, OK and then in 2003, he decided to make the Army a full time career. Jeffrey always made me laugh. He used to sneak out my mom's car with his buddies until one morning (about 5 a.m. or so) Jeff and Chad got picked up by Choctaw police because my moms headlights quit working. I still laugh about that one. The officer said, "Well Mrs. Henthorn, at least your son did the right thing by pulling the car off the road, he could have tried to keep on driving." Our family has MANY memories similar to that one to tell about Jeffrey. Jeff was 25 and has left behind 3 boys, Chance, 6; Brenden, 4; and Josh 2. "Jeffrey, we love you and miss you very much. We will always be proud of you, our soldier, our parents only son, and our only brother. May your sweet, precious soul rest in heaven until we one day meet again."
Shannon Austill
skylerblue30@yahoo.com

Lance Corporal Jeremy Huff
Hometown: Muskogee, OK

My husband and I are both from Muskogee, and both 2002 graduates of Oktaha High School. I live at Camp Lejeune, NC and Jeremy is currently deployed to Iraq with 5/10, 2nd Marine Div. I am very proud of him and all the other service members risking their lives and spending time away from families for our country. We have a son, JJ, almost 2 and another baby on the way due in February. I love you Jeremy, and we all miss you back in the states. Come home safely, and soon.

Julie Huff

SPC Jamie Hyslop
Hometown: Porum, OK

This is my wonderful, sweet husband of one year, SPC Jamie Hyslop; he is currently serving our country in Iraq with the 120th Engineer Battalion, HSC company, out of Muskogee, OK. Jamie graduated from Porum High School in 1998, then from Northeastern State University in 2003. When he is not protecting our freedom with his fellow soldiers, Jamie is a Park Ranger for the Corp. of Engineers on Lake Texoma.

Jamie received his orders in November of 2003 and left for Iraq in February of 2004. I am so proud of Jamie and all the soldiers who are making such awesome sacrifices for their country. I love and miss you, Jamie.

Melissa Hyslop
Eufaula, OK

Lance Corporal Nicholas Ingram
Hometown: Skiatook, OK

Lance Corporal Nicholas A. Ingram is the son of Keith & Joanie Ingram of Skiatook, OK. Nick joined the Marines his senior year in high school, graduated in December 2004 and left right away for Boot Camp. He is currently stationed in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. His platoon, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines 81's Weapons Co. is set to leave for Afghanistan January 9th, 2006. His time there is undetermined at this point.

Nick and his platoon will be in our prayers and thoughts each day. We will miss him tremendously.

Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the plans I have for you declares the LORD, plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans for hope and a future.

We love you so much,
Mom & Dad, Josh, Erica, Cory & Nikki

MM3/SS Robert J. Johnson
Hometown: Tahlequah, OK

This is my wonderful husband MM3/SS Robert J Johnson. He is currently stationed onboard the Ballistic Missile Submarine USS Louisiana SSBN 743. He is a Machinists Mate and has been in the Navy for just about two years now. He graduated from Tahlequah High School in 2000, and joined the Navy on November 3rd, 2002 with his friend OS3 Justin Blewett from Broken Arrow. He is stationed on the USS Kitty Hawk out of Japan. Robert has a beautiful baby girl that is 1 year old and has another on the way.

Lance Corporal Justin D. Jones
Hometown: Claremore, OK

Justin is currently doing his part in protecting his family and country in Iraq. He has been at camp Foster in Okinawa Japan. We are very proud of him, as well as all the other young men and women that have made that choice to serve their country! May God bless them and bring them all safely home soon. We all cherishes every letter and phone calls from him! We miss him and are counting the days when he is back safely with us!|

Roger & Janette Jones
Very proud Marine Parents

James Keener
Hometown: Tahlequah, OK

This is my son, James Keener. He is a U.S. Marine deployed in Iraq since April of 2005. He joined the Marines in May of 2001. He has a wife, Elizabeth and three small children -- Elliott, Jamie, and Kalahnee. They are anxiously waiting for his return back at his home base at Camp Lejuene, NC. We all miss him and love him very much and can't wait for him to get home. He has a large family that misses him also. He is the son of John and Betty Sly. His sister misses him very much also.

SPC Chadd Keener
Hometown: Hulbert, OK

This is my brother, who is with the 120th Engineering Battalion out of Tahlequah, OK. He graduated in May of 2002 from Hulbert and joined the National Guard right out of high school. Chadd was activated in December 2003 and was deployed to Iraq in February.

I love my brother and I am also proud of Chadd. He has a two-year-old neice who he loves and misses very much. She loves and misses him very much, too. He has a very large family that is very proud of him, that loves and misses him also.

He is the son of Johnnie and Leta Keener, also from Hulbert. We all are anxiously waiting for his safe return home.

Thank you,
Amanda Keener

Sgt. Michael D. King
Hometown: Jay, OK

This is my son when he was serving in Iraq last year. He was there for a year and returned back to the states September 19, 2005.

Michael and his wife Joy and 2 children Mikala and Colter are currently stationed in Fort Knox, Kentucky. He graduated from Jay High School and diesel mechanics at the VoTech in Afton, OK. He has been in the Army for six years now.

As a Mother, I am very proud of him for defending his country.

Michael is the son of Larry and BJ King from Jay, OK

Lance Corporal Simeon Lee, Jr.
Hometown: Henryetta, OK

This is my husband Lcpl Simeon Lee Jr. He is a Marine who is with the 15th MEU out of Camp Pendleton. They are currently deployed to the areas affected by the tsunami. He is from Henryetta and went to high school at Wilson. He is a member of the Muskogee Creek Nation and has a 19 month old son.

SGT Jamos Loghry

This is my husband SGT Jamos Loghry recieving his promotion from Specialist to Seargent. He is currently deployed for his second tour of duty to Iraq, with 4/1 FA. We are very proud of him and hope for his safe return home.He has two sons Jonathan and Jacob and his wife Brandy, all currently in Fort Riley, KS. His parents are Vernon and Becky Bias from Chouteau, OK. We love you Jamos and come home soon!!

Clinton Wade Makalena Dooley
Hometown: Pryor, OK

Clint is a graduate of Thunderbird Youth Academy. Upon graduation, he entered the US Army and served two years with the 3rd infantry in Ft. Stewart, Georgia, and is now serving as a specialist with the 120th Engineer Battalion, Company A in Iraq. Clint is 20 years old and has been serving his country since he was 17.

All of Clint's family would like everyone to know how very proud of him we are and that we love him and anticipate his arrival home. WE LOVE YOU CLINT!!

Clint is the son of Leeshawnette McBride, Grandson of Lewis and Maryalyce Moore and Great-Grandson of Alberta Williams, all of Pryor, OK.

SPC Joshua Martineau
Hometown: Mounds, OK

Martineau is currently serving with the 2nd Infantry Division that has just deployed to Iraq from Korea. Joshua had been serving his country at Camp Hovey South Korea. His parents say they are very proud of their son.

UPDATE: An update on my son Joshua Martineau. He has been promoted to Spc, and his Unit has returned to the States and are now stationed at Ft Carson, CO.
Greg Martineau

Specialist Patrick Matheny

This is my handsome husband Spc. Patrick Matheny, Jr. He is currently deployed to Al Asad, Iraq with the 249th Guntruck Company. I am so so proud of him. He works really hard every day and is so brave. I miss my man and can't wait for him to come back home to Ft.Bragg, North Carolina. Please pray for all of our troops.

SPC Patrick F. Matheny
Hometown: Broken Arrow, OK

Our son/brother/grandson Patrick F Matheny is a 2000 graduate of Broken Arrow Senior High. He is now serving in Iraq and is a specialist with the 249th PLS Co. Patrick began his military career in the reserves and loved the military life so much he decided to join full time.

We miss Patrick, but we know this was his calling and God will protect him and bring him home safely. Words cannot express how proud our family is of Patrick.

We love you Patrick and pray daily for the safe return of you and your fellow troops. May God bless each and everyone of you and keep you safe in the palm of his hand. And remember Patrick, Poppy is watching over you too. :o)

We love you,
Mom, Kenney Dad, Ty and Meme

SFC Steven Mayhew
Hometown: Sapulpa, OK

SFC Steven Mayhew of Sapulpa, OK is currently stationed at Ali Air Base near Nasiriya, Iraq. His co-workers hope and pray for his safe return.

Michael (Gene) McNally
Hometown: Guthrie

This is my boyfriend, Michael McNally. He is a member of the 511th Military Police Company out of Fort Drum, NY and has been serving in OIF since November of '05.

Michael, I love you and miss you so much! Stay safe and come home to everyone back here who loves you! We can't wait for you to come home and are so proud of you!

Love you always,
Paige

SSG John "Christopher" McVey
Hometown: Fort Gibson, OK

SSG. John "Christopher" McVey is the son of James and Pam McVey of Fort Gibson, OK. He has one sister, Ashley McVey-Smith.

Chris is currently serving in Iraq. He is from Fort Gibson, OK and attended Fort Gibson High School and graduated from Thunderbird Youth Academy (National Guard Youth Challenge Program) Sept. 5, 2001. He immediately enlisted in the Army as a MP (Military Police). He loves being an MP. Chris is now a E6 and is 23 years old.

He is married to Misty McVey (McCarthy of Beggs OK) and they have two boys Zander and Cason that he adores. His wife Misty and the boys are in Germany and recently got to see Chris during his R & R. But he is back in Iraq now and we can't wait till he comes home! We love and miss him so much! We are so proud of our son!!!!

James and Pam McVey

PV2 Michael R. Meyer
Hometown: Broken Arrow, OK

This is a picture of our son PV2 Michael R. Meyer upon graduating from Army AIT. He is currently stationed in Heaven. He was a 2003 graduate of Broken Arrow Sr. High School where he lettered in Cross Country. Michael shipped out to Basic training 1 week after graduating from High School. He was awarded Expert classification on handgrenades and Marksman on the M-16.

While in Basic he was selected to be a squad leader. In addition to his Basic and AIT training (as a Combat Engineer) he was selected to receive additional training - driving some of the Engineering group's heavy equipment. Michael was part of the 41st Engineering Battalion, 10th Mountain Division. While at Fort Drum New York awaiting deployment to Afghanistan Michael was certified in the use of several automated weapons and with the hand gun.

Michael was killed in a civilian automobile accident 12/27/2003 - two weeks before being deployed to Afghanistan. He was posthumously awarded the Army Commendations Medal for meritorious service and the Army Good Conduct Medal for exemplary behavior. In adddition, his "Commander to be" in Afghanistan sent a flag to us that flew over the Engineers base in Kandahar Afghanistan. This flag now flys daily (weather permitting) in front of our home.

Roger and Shelley Meyer

SPC Jesse W. Mitchell
Hometown: Muskogee

My son is proudly serving our country and family in Afganistan. He grew up in Muskogee, OK and graduated from Hilldale High School. We are proud of him and all the other soldiers serving overseas and protecting our country. I know that without soldiers like my son and all the others we would not have the wonderful life and country that we live in today.

I would like to say "Thank you" to all the soldiers serving proudly. May God be with you all and bring you all home safely.

Proud Mom of Army National Guard Soldier
DeAnn Garrison

SFC Steven Modesto

This is SFC Steven Modesto, My fiance. I live in Grove, he has just been deployed to Taji, Iraq. He has a son, Andy, that just graduated from Tuttle, OK. He is going into basic training for the Army June 15th, and my youngest, Michael, will not graduate from Grove until next year, but will start basic this summer as well on the 21st of June. My oldest son Chris just came back after serving one year in Iraq. I am very proud of all!!!!! I hate being away from them, but we do what it takes to keep America SAFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I MISS THEM ALL.

SPC David Murray
Hometown: Grand Lake, OK

This is my husband, Spc. David Murray. He is currently in Iraq. He serves with the Army National Guard 254 Engineer Company out of Haskell. He has been in the military for 13 years.

He lived and graduated from the Owasso school district. David now lives on Grand Lake with me and our two boys. His parents are Jack and Kay McClain of Owasso and Pat Murray of Chicago, Illinois.

We are all very proud of him. We wish him well. Hurry up and come home we miss you.

Kristi

Billy Norman
Hometown: Wagoner, OK

Billy Norman is our son, presently stationed in Iraq. He is with the 120th Engineering Co. B stationed at Camp Ridgeway. He lives in Wagoner, OK with his wife and 3 children (daughter Kathleen pictured).

We are so very proud of Billy and love him very much. I pray for his safe return home and for all the troops in Iraq. He has been deployed since last February. We are ready for you to come home Son.

Parents Joan and Bill Norman

Steve Osterhout
Hometown: Berryhill, OK

Our son Steve signed up in 2002 while still a junior at Berryhill High School and spent the last two summers at Fort Benning, GA. He shipped out to Fort Carson, CO then on to Afghanistan on Friday the 13th, February 2004, as part of the Oklahoma National Guard's 279th INF. He looked forward to the mission. We look forward to him coming home. Excellent young man. We are very proud of him and all he stands for!

SPC Jay Patton
Hometown: Okmulgee

This is Specialist Jay Patton, U.S. Army. Specialist Patton has just retuned in August from a year stay in Mozul, Iraq. Jay is with the motor vehicle operations where he was involved in driving convoys to distribute supplies. During his stay he was also chosen to be body guard for the chaplins. He is now stationed at Fort Campbell, KY with the 101st Airborne "Screaming Eagles". Jay will be continuing his stay in the Army for at least three more years where soon he will be stationed at Fort Sill, OK. Jay is my hero and I am very proud of him. God Bless America!

Panda Patton
Army mom
Okmulgee, OK

SGT Matthew Wesley Peeper
Hometown: Bristow, OK

Sgt. Matthew Wesley Peeper, serving in Balad, Iraq Camp Anaconda. The proud parents are Mark and Della Peeper.

Robert Alan Pineiro
Hometown: Inola

Age 22
A graduate of Inola High School in 2002 and attended Rogers State University until called up for active duty in November of 2003.

Currently fighting for our freedom as a Specialist and a "saw gunner" for the Oklahoma Army National Guard, HSC company, of the 120th Engineering Batallion providing support for the 1st Marine Division near Fallujah, Iraq.

Oldest son of Tulsa native Robert Pineiro, who graduated from Charles C. Mason High in 1979.

Justin Pruitt
Hometown: Broken Arrow, OK

The picture is of my daughter and my son-in-law. His name is Justin Pruitt of Broken Arrow, OK. He is in the Army and is based out of Ft. Richardson, Alaska. He has been in Afghanistan since October, 2003, a couple of weeks after he and my daughter were married. We are all very proud of him for serving and protecting our country. We all await his safe return home.

Jaimie Walton and Family
Tulsa, OK

SSGT Jan Rachels
Hometown: Broken Arrow, OK

This is SSGT Jan Rachels. She is back in Ir

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