Monday, December 1, 2008 at 2 PM

Emotions were strong in the 800-square-foot game room, with four 50-inch high-definition screens for television-watching or video games - Xbox, PlayStation and Nintendo Wii - and a giant screen for movies.  Part of the room’s cost was funded with $18,000 that David Donica of Houston collected in a fund in memory of his son, Dustin Donica, the 3,000th U.S. service member killed in Iraq. “I had no idea where this room was going to end up,” said Donica, whose son had asked him shortly before he was killed to visit a wounded comrade at Fort Sam.  -Scott Huddleston Express-News

http://www.mysanantonio.com/military/Fort_Sam_opens_community_center_for_wounded_soldiers.html

Judy and David Donica attended the dedication of Dustin’s Game Room and were delighted to greet some of the 3/509th PIR soldiers and families who served with Dustin in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Dustin’s squad member and very good friend, Logan, who was severely injured three weeks before Dustin was killed and was a patient at BAMC for 18 months, was in attendance to see his buddy honored.  See Dustin’s Friend Logan post on this site.

Logan was married in San Antonio on Saturday, so it was quite a weekend for him.

“The center is awesome!!  Everything from the building, landscaping, which is so very Texan, to the interior design, of course the game room, computer center for teaching computer skills, the fully stocked kitchen, the two story great room with fireplace, the covered barbeque outside area and the walking paths is absolutely fantastic, so well deserved, and we just love it all.  Les Huffman, one of the developers, told me it is obvious that the gaming room is going to be the most popular room in the center.  In fact, they will probably have to set one hour time limits.  One of the soldiers asked if there would be any way the gaming room could be open 24/7.  Lots of luck with that request!  I don’t think we could have picked a more fitting benefactor for Dustin’s memorial fund.  I think Dustin would have approved wholeheartedly with the way the funds have been used.   This place is simply amazing.”  -Judy Donica

David and Judy with the 3/509th PIR Geronimos

Click on all images to enlarge.

The Center For The Intrepid in the distance.

“Looking back, it is hard to believe that a little over a year ago, when I first contacted Les Huffman, there wasn’t even a game room in the plans.  I told Les of Dustin’s, and many of his friend’s, avid interest in gaming and asked him if a corner of the TV room could be set up as a gaming area in the new center.  I told him that I would like Dustin’s fund to be used to outfit the area with gaming systems, games and televisions.  After meeting with the planning board, Les contacted me and said, “we’re going to do better, as we are now adding a gaming room.”  WOW!  My simple request was turned into a state-of-the-art gaming mecca which will give the wounded warriors immense pleasure.  Dustin would be proud to have his name associated with such an incredible project.  Our sincere thanks to the three wounded warriors who helped with the design of the room, and most especially to Erika and Les for their continued follow-through with our family, while making this tribute to Dustin a reality.”  ~Judy

“Cory Birdsong told me that he kept something when he packed Dustin’s belongings to ship home from Iraq after Dustin was mortally wounded.  He hoped that we wouldn’t mind.  He opened his uniform sleeve pocket (above in photo) and showed me Dustin’s Army name patch from his uniform.  ‘I have Dustin with me every day,’ said Cory.  Kristin Birdsong (designed the KIA bracelet for Linck, Gifford & Dustin - see post & tab on this site) told me that Cory still talks about Dustin.  When I gave her an engraved Christmas ornament with Dustin’s name on it, she just held it and lightly rubbed her finger over the engraving saying, ‘Dustin used to call me Lady Bird, Lady Birdsong.  I miss being called Lady Bird.’  Of course I teared up at that point.  They were good tears, from good memories.  We also talked about some of Dustin’s other antics in AK and Kristin is going to look for more pictures of Dustin from his visits to their home in AK before the deployment to Iraq in 2006.  The Birdsongs are now stationed in Texas.  They are really sweet.  Maybe I should hand out disclaimer cards before talking to Dustin’s friends, warning them that anything they say, or any acts of kindness will appear on this blog.  Our family is so grateful to all who were a part of Dustin’s life, and we treasure the memories shared.”  ~Judy

Memorial plaque installed

January 2009

Returning Heroes Home

The Entertainment Room is dedicated in memory of

Dustin R. Donica

July 11, 1984 - December 28, 2006

Operation Iraqi Freedom

3/509th Army Airborne

“Dustin will be the heart-beat of the entertainment room.”

Returning Heroes Home, the nonprofit organization that raised the $5M for this project, is now collecting additional money to pay off a $500,000 debt for the building and also plan for the creation of a $1 million green Recreational/Therapeutic Garden park next to this facility.

http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/11/ap_warwounded_112708/

The Donicas would like to express their sincere gratitude to all of their family, friends and neighbors who contributed so generoulsy to Dustin’s BAMC Memorial Fund.  December 28, 2008 will mark the second anniversary of Dustin’s death.  Dustin will be the heart-beat of the game room, and this facility is a perfect way to help keep Dustin’s fun-loving memory alive.

If you would like to make a donation to the center in Dustin’s name call 210.241.0811.

See BAMC Returning Heroes Home Project Plans blog post for additional information and photos.

Armistice Day

The 11th month, 11th day, 11th hour, 11minute

Click on images to enlarge.

Today at Klein Memorial Cemetery  in Texas, Dustin’s mother placed the newly acquired bronze flag holder which matches his military gravemarker.  It is made by The Flag Guys in New Windsor, NY.  The commemorative flag holder is just like the the ones at each of the veterans’ graves, placed by the local VFW, in the cemetery in Wisconsin near the Donica summer home.  The Donicas, because of cemetery regulations, will display this holder just on special holidays.  Dustin’s Dad attended the Veterans Day Parade in downtown Houston where he and Judy were invited to sit with the Gold Star Mothers & Fathers.  This day of remembrance still remains a very emotional day for Dustin’s entire family.

Dustin’s Intermediate School, where he attended grades 6 - 8, also pays tribute to veterans on November 11th.  The students take U.S. government and history classes, in addition to studying Texas history.  For Veterans Day every year, each student creates a poster to honor a veteran that they know. 

The posters include the veteran’s name, their relationship to the student, when and where the veteran served, medals of honor and a biographical sketch.  The posters are then displayed at the front of Kleb Intermediate School and in the hallways.  Less than ten years ago, Dustin and Courtney Donica made posters in memory of their maternal grandfather.  Now Dustin is also honored on one of those posters, too. 

The Veterans Day Weekend began for Judy & David at the bridge by Seabrook Shipyard in Texas where Dave worked on their boat.  In the brisk wind, the unfurled flags were a reminder of the approaching day that our nation remembers our veterans.

At Arlington National Cemetery in Virgina, Dustin, his squad leader SSGT Henry W. Linck, and CPL Micah S. Gifford, all who served in the same 3/509th squad in Operation Iraqi Freedom and were KIA in December of 2006, were honored.  Those who were wounded and are still serving from that squad were remembered, too.  Another great Texan, Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, visited Section 60 and walked right in front of this site as he paid tribute to the veterans all across this country.

“Forget me not.”

Paradise Valley

at the corner of 52nd Street and Thunderbird Road

Scottsdale, Arizona

This is a memorial to remind others that there are soldiers who served and gave their lives on America’s behalf in Operation Iraqi Freedom.  To the organizers, each yellow ribbon symbolizes an actual person who said, “I’m going to go and fight for you so that you can have your freedom.”  They felt it was important that citizens not forget and remind them to show respect and gratitude to those who sacrifed their lives to protect this country.  Fifteen volunteers joined in the effort to have this fence of remembrance completed by July 4, 2008.

Each yellow ribbon has the first name and age of a fallen warrior from Operation Iraqi Freedom.

My Aunt Grace and Uncle Ron used to live in Scottsdale, AZ.  They still receive and read the local newspaper where they found out about the Yellow Ribbon Fence.  They drove to Scottsdale to see the memorial fence and add Dustin’s picture to his ribbon. 

At first they couldn’t locate Dustin’s yellow ribbon, but just as they were to give up finding it and head back to their car in the sweltering 106 degree heat, Uncle Ron said, “Let’s just look one more time.”  And sure enough, there it was, “it popped out—Dustin, 22—I swear it was placed in my hand,”  he said.  I am so thankful that they took a second look so that there is now a face to go along with Dustin’s name.  Aunt Grace said that they will go back occasionally to see if anyone else has added pictures to ribbons on the fence which pays tribute to our nation’s fallen warriors.  Thank you, Aunt Grace and Uncle Ron, for always being on the lookout for articles and memorials that remember America’s finest.  -Judy

Jimmy Daley

“If Dustin would have been at Jimmy’s birthday party, I can guarantee there would have been a third frosting mustache in this picture.”  - Judy

“Dustin’s birthday is July 11th and his wonderful friend Jimmy Daley celebrates his birthday on July 13th.  Jimmy’s wife Shawna, another of Dustin’s extra special friends, and I have decided that with those two birthdays so close in time, it’s no wonder that Dustin and Jimmy were so similar in character and best of friends.  

It is a tradition in the Daley household for Shawna to bake cupcakes for Jimmy’s birthday party.  This past July was no exception. 

The Daley’s invited their Alaska friends over for a celebration and lighted a candle on a cup cake just for Dustin, too, as they all felt it was only right.

Happy Birthday, Jimmy, and thank you for being such an extra-ordinary friend to Dustin!”  -Judy

 Willow Tree by Susan Lordi

“I recently received a beautiful pillow from someone that I hold dear to my heart.  The sentiment on the pillow is one felt by both of us and it couldn’t be more appropriate.  In memory of CPL Dustin Donica (KIA December 28, 2006) and CPL Toby Olsen (KIA January 20, 2007), who both served in the Army 3/509th Able Company during Operation Iraqi Freedom, thank you, Lis.  Our sons are forever in our hearts.”  -Judy

KLEIN MEMORIAL PARK NEAR HOUSTON, TEXAS

Judy, David and Courtney Donica placed flowers and flags at Dustin’s site in Texas in remembrance of their son and brother, honoring him on the Final Day of Run For the Fallen.  Dustin is loved forever and will not be forgotten by his family and friends.  A grateful nation honors this soldier for his service and ultimate sacrifice in Operation Iraqi Freedom, December 28, 2006, Al Anbar, Iraq.

Click on all photos to enlarge.

FORT RICHARDSON, ALASKA

More than 80 3/509th paratroopers at Fort Richardson, AK each ran a mile to remember their fallen.  Jimmy Daley ran for Dustin and the run ended at the Spartan Brigade Memorial that was dedicated on May 16, 2008 to honor the 53 members of the Spartan Brigade Killed In Action during their 2006 - 2007 deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.  Our thanks to the 3/509th paratroopers for remembering and participating in the Run For the Fallen Final Day Event which honored the 4,139 fallen of OIF & also the military KIA in support of OEF.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXSb6uC4faI

19 paraptroopers representing the 19 fallen of the 3/509th PIR run at Fort Richardson, AK.

Old Glory proudly waves, unfurled as the 80 runners approach the Spartan Memorial in AK.

Flags with photos and names of each of the 19 3/509th fallen were posted at the Spartan Memorial.

The 80 paratrooper runners of the 3/509th and families at Fort Richardson, AK.

“After the run, the runners were told that they could keep their shirts, the runners’ flags and gift cards to Subway.  Most of the runners took the items with them when they were leaving.  The Able Company Soldiers, however, did not.  I was walking back from the run and noticed some movement close to the ground by the entrance to their Company.

 I walked up the sidewalk and came upon this:

The runners had each placed the memorial flags carfully into the ground at the front door of Able Company, of which Dustin and eight other fallen 3/509th paratroopers were  members. 

Maybe that was their way of telling their fallen brothers that although they’re not able to walk through that Able Company door anymore, they’re still very much a part of that amazing Company.”  Angie

“What a special group of men!” - Judy Donica

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

“On August 24th, 1,000 American soldiers in Baghdad, Iraq  each ran 4.2 miles to remember the almost 4,2000 American militatry members who gave the ultimate sacrifice in Operation Iraqi Freedom.  In Baghdad, we have a banner with all the names of the fallen on it that is posted in remembrance of each and every fallen service member.  I am very grateful for the sacrifices that they have made to our country as we all go through the rough times here in Iraq.  Everyone that has passed will never be forgotten by me or any other Service member serving.” - SPC Sage

Dustin’s runner in Baghdad was US Air Force, MSGT Beate Kinzel from Theresa, NY.  Here are two e-mails MSGT Kinzel sent to the Donicas:

“Dustin - I didn’t know you, but I picked your name today and ran for you for the Run for the Fallen here in Baghdad.  I was just looking down the list and, somehow, your name just jumped out at me.  Thanks for keeping me going.  We finished!  I will always remember you and the sacrifice you made!”

Judy Donica thanked MSGT Kinzel for honoring and running for Dustin in Baghdad and he replied:

“There is no need to thank me, it was my pleasure.  I am not joking when I say that Dustin helped me finish that run.  It was hot that day and I wanted nothing more then to quit.  But how could I quit something so simple knowing that Dustin did not quit?!  I am so very sorry for your family’s loss, but I assure you that he will always be on my mind.”  Very respectfully, Beate Kinzel, MSGT, USAF 

ACROSS THE USA 

75 Soldiers at Fort Lewis, Washington run for their fallen of OIF.  Photo by D.J. Koepfler

Citizens and military across our beloved nation held runs to remember the fallen of Operation Iraqi Freedom & Operation Enduring Freedom. 

10K MEMORIAL RUN IN WASHINGTON, DC ENDING AT ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY

Memorial Bridge in Washington, DC leading into Arlington National Cemetery.

Jon Bellona leads the 150 runners from the Pentagon, around the War Memorials of Washington, DC, over the magnificent Memorial Bridge which crosses the Potomac River and onto Memorial Drive at Arlington National Cemetery where the 70-day cross-country run came to a close in Section 60, where 450 fallen of OIF & OEF rest with valor.

Heidi (center with runner’s bib showing the 19 photos and names of the 3/509th PIR fallen & 3 photos  and names of the 2/3 fallen Marines, 2008) ran for the 3/509th Battalion and the 2nd Regiment, 3rd Battalion Marines serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Runners come across Memorial Bridge into Virginia.

Runners cross Memorial Drive at ANC to get water after the 10K run.

SGT Andrew Hillstrom of 3/509th PIR, Able Company, wounded in OIF, placed the flag and Dustin’s photo at the Arlington National Cemetery grave of Dustin’s squad leader, SSGT Henry W. Linck. 

SPC Peter Shoemaker’s sister was honored to run the 10K, remembering the 3/509th nineteen fallen warriors, their wounded and those who continue to serve.  In honor of  Peter’s friend, David, she also ran for the 2/3 Marines serving in OIF who had 3 KIA during their 2008 deployment.

SPC Peter Shoemaker’s dad presented thank you posters to Jon Bellona.

Runners and families walk the final symbolic mile into Section 60 together.  SPC Shoemaker’s family and the family of fallen SSGT Henry W. Linck who is buried at ANC, carried American flags, stones of remembrance and flowers as they walked for the 19 fallen of the 3/509th PIR.  The remembrances were placed at the sites of SSGT Henry W. Linck and SSGT Jamie D. Wilson, Able Company,  honoring all 19 fallen warriors of the 3/509th PIR and the 2 fallen of the 1/501st PIR buried at ANC, all fallen from the Spartan Birgade, AK.

Jon Bellona, organizer of Run For the Fallen, places the final flag in Section 60.

Flags and photos were placed for Dustin, Toby Olsen, Micah Gifford, Henry Linck, Jamie Wilson and the 19 fallen of the 3/509th PIR at the graves of Henry and Jamie in Section 60.

Flags, photos, flowers and remembrance stones were placed at the graves in Section 60 in honor of Dustin and the other eighteen fallen of the 3/509th PIR.

The 19 fallen of the 3/509th PIR were honored  with flags, photos, flowers and remembrance stones.

The leaving of a stone is to honor the memory of the dead.  It is a custom that evolved from an ancient method of marking the graves.  It is simply a way of saying, here lie the remains of a person worth remembering, while letting others know that someone did come and remember.  Symbolically, it suggests the continuing presence of love and memory which are as strong and enduring as a rock.  Clear glass round stones and scarlet red heart-shaped glass stones were laid at the 400 graves of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom in Section 60.

The Donica Family requested that their names be signed (right side, second from bottom) on the thank you poster presented to Jon Bellona, organizer of Run For the Fallen. 

With the final mile flag in place, everyone stood in remembrance of the fallen of OIF & OEF for taps.

The 4,100 mile journey from California to Arlington National Cemetery ended in Section 60 where over 200 runners and family members paid tribute to the fallen warriors on this day of remembrance as taps were played.

(Darlene and Dick, in bright yellow polo shirts with flags and red flowers, photo above the bugler, are the proud parents of David who served with the Marines in Al Anbar Province, Iraq where Dustin was KIA.  Their son Steven is in the process of joining the Marines.  This most kind and supportive family silk screened all of the Run For the Fallen shirts for the 3/509th paratroopers and their families for the run on August 24th.  The logo and names at the top of this post are on the back of each shirt, airborne wings on the front.)

View Final Event Day video, 51 photos and article:

http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=56972

http://www.stripes.com/08/aug08/fallen/

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=50918

http://pickupthepen.com/2008/08/26/run-for-the-fallen-final-days-event/

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2008/08/25/natpkg.run.for.the.fallen.cnn

See videos under MEMORIAL VIDEO TAB above.

See 3 additional posts on this site regarding Run For the Fallen.

www.runforthefallen.org

Run For the Fallen 3/509th PIR Memorial Video - “Gone but not forgotten.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XjyM1PCtFxI

AUGUST 2, 2008

Terri and her daughter Vanessa drove over 350 miles from Indiana to Tennessee to support the national runners for their son and brother CPL Joseph Strong (run on August 3rd) who was KIA in Iraq.  Terri took along Dustin’s runner’s bib to place at his flag and mile on August 3rd near Dickson, TN. She is also placing a sign of support along the route to remember the 19 KIA from the 3/509th.

National runners with Joey’s Aunt Joni, sister Vanessa, and mom Terri near Ft. Campbell, KY.

“We are done with Day 49 for the Run For the Fallen.  It seemed to go very well with a lot of supporters and enthusiasm.  Some local people ran today for Joey because they could not run tomorrow.  You can view the newspaper from Clarksville, TN to see the story at www.theleafchronicle.com.  Today’s run included 3/509th soldiers SSG Linck, CPL Gifford, SGT Gibson, SPC Ford and SPC Murphy.  I talked to serveral people today who ran and are running the entire run.  They are amazing.  They kept thanking me for coming and supporting them, but they did not seem to realize that they are the ones supporting us.  I just can not thank everyone enough for their efforts when it comes to supporting our troops.  The troops are the reason that we are here in a free country and I am glad that people realize that.  I will send you another update tomorrow after the run.

Runners & Ft. Campbell, KY soldiers with national organizer of Run For the Fallen, Jon Bellona (flag).

The runners are starting the run at 6:30 in the morning on August 3rd.  Here are August 2nd pictures of the stop at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds, and also of the stakes that I made that I am going to literally pound into the ground where they place the soldiers’ flags.  The ground is so hard down here in KY and TN.  Take care and love always.”  ~Terri, mom of CPL Joseph A. Strong, KIA December 26, 2007, OIF.

Click on images to enlarge.

Flowers were placed at the Arlington National Cemetery Section 60 grave of SSG Henry W. Linck in remembrance on the day of his run and flag placement by Run For the Fallen in Tennessee.  Our most sincere thanks to all of the runners who honored Henry through this kind and meaningful gesture.

Run For the Fallen was featured on the NBC Nightly News on August 2, 2008 and it will also be on the CBS Evening News on Sunday, August 3, 2008.  Go to the MEMORIAL VIDEOS TAB above to view.

AUGUST 3, 2008

“It is Dustin’s Day for Run For the Fallen 2008. I am on my way out to walk my mile.”  -Judy Donica

DUSTIN

Still missing,

Still wishing,

You were here.

Never forgetting,

Always regretting,

You left us too soon.

Hearts aching,

Hearts breaking,

Our lives will never be the same.

When tears fall only once a day,

The pain will still be here to stay,

It’ll be progress…Not there yet.

Miss you. Love, Mom

~ ~ ~

Along the TN route, from CPL Joseph Stong’s mother, Terri:

Day 50 run for 3/509th paratroopers Dustin Donica, Joseph Strong, Douglas Tinsley & Jeremiah Johnson.

“I had a good time with the run on Day 50 which bagan at 7 a.m.  We loved being with the great people who are dedicating their summer to running for the fallen soldiers.  It was a very emotional day, but it was worth the time and effort that was taken to drive down to TN and be a part of this amazing event.  It was not quite as organized as we thought it would be, but it was as good as could be expected.  The runners are not familiar with the route as most of them are from California or Colorado, and it is hard for them to determine where they will be placing the flags for the fallen.  We originally placed our bibs that I had put on the stakes for the ground where we determined the miles would be considering the starting point, but we ended up being almost a mile off of their calculations, so we had to go back and pull up our markers.  Then there ended up being 5 soldiers between Joey and Douglas Tinsley instead of two.  So again we had to pull up the markers after placing them a second time.  It was a lot of driving and a lot of stress.  I did not get pictures of the flags for Dustin Donica or Jeremiah Johnson because they could not determine where they would be placed in the towns.  We also had to drive all the way back to IN yet.  The national runners are, however, taking pictures of each flag that they put up which will be used in their documentary that they are making.

There was a group of people in the small town of Dickson, TN where Dustin Donica’s flag was placed and they joined in with the national runners.  The local people were really excited to join the run.  I met a family whose boy was killed on Christmas Eve 2006, the day before Joey and Douglas.  They were from Wisconsin and came down just to support their son’s runners, also.  It is hard to believe that at least 15 soldiers were KIA between Christmas Eve and the day after on that year during the holiday.  I am so glad that all of our nation’s fallen are being remembered with this run.”

Jon Bellona reads the names of the fallen before the run on August 3, 2008.

Joey Strong’s sister, Vanessa, and mom, Terri.

AUGUST 4, 2008

Day 51 near Nashville, TN, running for 3/509th fallen paratroopers, Jeffrey Bisson, Sean Fennerty, Phillip McNeill, Toby Olsen, and Jamie Wilson.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/runforthefallen/sets/72157604240315898/

Aloha ALL,
I am Lis Olsen and Toby was my oldest son. I too am so very grateful for those who will not let the memory of these young men and women fade. “The greatest casualty is being forgotten.” To the organizers, to the parents and the families of these fine young men and women, I say, “Thank You” from the bottom of my heart . Respectfully, Lis

Since Lt. Col. James Olsen and his wife Lis are stationed in Germany, they were unable to be along the runner’s route in TN for Toby’s mile and placement of his flag.  Lis’ co-worker’s son Jason and his wife were in Nashville to represent them today:

AUGUST 5, 2008

Day 52, TN, Mile 3125

SGT Russell A. Kurtz

CPL James T. Lindsey & CPL Clifford A.Spohn, III

AUGUST 10, 2008

Day 57, TN, Mile 3409

SGT Ryan J. Baum

AUGUST 12, 2008

Debi and Rick (their son, SSGT Henry W. Linck, was KIA in OIF on December 7, 2008 with the 3/509th PIR and was Dustin Donica’s squad leader) are cross-country truckers.  Several days ago, Debi e-mailed me saying that they would be in Christiansbug, VA on August 11th to drop off a delivery.  I told them that the runners for Run For the Fallen would be following the same route up Interstate 81 and would end that day in Christiansbug, VA.  Yesterday I noticed on the DOD site that a soldier from Christiansburg, VA was KIA on August 10th in Iraq - SGT Kenneth B. Gibson, 25, assigned to the 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 25gh Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.

Jon Bellona makes a sign and flag for SGT Kenneth Gibson of Christiansburg, VA.

Debi Linck, Henry’s step-mom, and Jon Bellona place the flag for SGT Gibson.

Debi said, not only did they meet up with the runners along the highway, but Jon Bellona let Rick and Debi post the flag for SGT Gibson, only then to discover that their son Henry Linck had served in Afghanistan with SGT Gibson with the same unit out of Hawaii, before both of them served in OIF at separate times with different units.  The Lincks and the Run For the Fallen runners were interviewed by the Roanoke TV station Channel 10 http://www.wsls.com/sls/news/local/new_river_valley/article/runners_remembering_fallen_soldier_from_our_area/15569/

Jon Bellona (with flag), runners and Rick Linck being interviewed by the news crew.

“I will say this much, these runners are awesome!  They were full of hugs and thanks for our son’s sacrifice.  When I first met John Bellona, he opened his arms and gave me a big hug and all I could do was cry.  Rick and I  both thank all of the members of Run For the Fallen and for what they are doing to remember the sacrifices of our military.  It means more to us than anyone could ever describe in words.  After we posted the flag for SGT Gibson and talked with the news crew, John Bellona decided to go ahead and run an additional mile in honor of SGT Gibson, right there in his hometown of Christiansburg, VA.  I was in tears just knowing that Henry had a hand in all of this.  All of this coundn’t have been planned.  It was simply meant to be. “  -Debi & Rick Linck

Running the mile for SGT Kenneth Gibson, Christiansburg, VA.

Rick Linck, dad of SSGT Henry W. Linck, Jon Bellona, and Allen, Run For the Fallen in Christiansburg, VA.

AUGUST 14, 2008

SGT Shawn G. Adams

AUGUST 24, 2008 Final Day Event

Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia

Family members of the 3/509^th will be at Arlington National Cemetery for the final event in Section 60 with flags, name signs, photos and flowers, representing the families of the Army 3/509th PIR who honor the memories of the nineteen fallen warriors who served in OIF 2006 - 2007.

A run has been organized and sponsored by the 3/509th paratroopers at Fort Richardson, AK on August 24th as they help keep alive the memories of their fallen brothers-in-arms.

SGT Brennan Gibson’s mother is putting together a 1K in Euegene, Oregon where Brennan grew up. God Bless all families that have lost someone. Thank you to all the people that have organized this event and are running/walking in honor of all our heroes. -Mindi, girlfriend of Brennan’s brother

Photos from August 24^th will be posted that evening on this site.

ONE MILE FOR EVERY SERVICE MEMBER KILLED IN OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM.

Also see RUN FOR THE FALLEN and RUN FOR THE FALLEN BIBS posts on this site.

Print all 19 runners’ bibs for the 3/509th fallen under the RUNNERS BIBS TAB above.

www.runforthefallen.org

July 13, 2008

Memory Lane

Click on images to enlarge.

Our family has been coming to Green Lake, Wisconsin for many years.  Dave has visited here for over 45 years, I have come for 37 years and it is here in this idyllic setting that Dustin and Courtney spent their summers since they were born.   This is the place where Dustin learned to walk.  Dave’s mother has volunteered at the Green Lake Conference Center (GLCC) for almost 25 years.

The GLCC holds many happy memories for our family.  Dustin and Courtney covered every inch of this place biking, hiking, swimming, riding paddleboats, playing ping pong, painting ceramics, working in the lapidary shop, buying penny candy from the country store, climbing the many towers, enjoying S’mores around the campfire, attending the Children’s Center and Camp Grow when they were young, all of which created a blissful and carefree summer that they wanted to return to year after year.  Another highlight, not to be forgotten, was our drive to the Ripon Cookie Factory  for tours, savoring samples and, of course, making purchases.  I sent Dustin the chocolate covered mint cookies when he was stationed in AK and he said they were thoroughly enjoyed by the soldiers in his barracks at Ft. Richardson.  Courtney and Dustin also used to go with Dave when they were young to the Experimental Aircraft Association or EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in Wisconsin.  To this day, it is a huge convention for avid fliers and Dave and I will attend on August 2nd for my birthday.  The air show is opened by a group called the Liberty Parachute Team and they descend to the American Anthem.  It is always spellbinding to watch the parachutists float downward, unfulring a 34′ x 59′ American flag.  Needless to say, it now reminds me of going to Dustin’s airborne graduation ceremony at Fort Benning, GA. 

http://www.airventure.org/2008/performers/liberty.html

As the culmination of the observance of Dustin’s birthday weekend, on Sunday, July 13, 2008, our family members gathered to attend the Memorial Plaque Dedication on Memory Lane in honor of Dustin and three others.  Dustin’s grandmother, Elaine Donica, made a donation to the GLCC for the plaque that was dedicated in honor of her grandson.  After the church service, we all walked over to Memory Lane to see the plaques. 

Here are the lyrics to the song by Mark Harris that was played at the dedication service.

The Line Between The Two

A beginning and an ending, dates upon a stone

But the moment in the middle is how we will be known

Cause what defines us can be found within a line

Finding reason for our time.

CHORUS:  And the years go by, how they seem to fly

They’ll all be over soon

When our life is done, did we live and love

The way we wanted to

Cause everyday that we leave behind

Goes on to tell the truth

Of how we lived in the line between the two

The line between the two.

Will I walk straight, will I be true

Will I finish strong

Will I stand up for the moment

When I could right a wrong

Because the legacy we LEAVE will never change

It’s how we spend our days.  CHORUS

I could live a life for just myself

Or I could live a life for someone else

But I’ll live and die just to hear you say

Well done my son come and be with Me.  CHORUS

After the walk to Memory Lane, our family proceded to the point by the lake and released red, white, and blue balloons.  We also launched two extra balloons representing Dustin’s friends in Alaska and Texas.  Courtney was unable to attend the dedication as she is in graduate summer school, but she requested that a pink balloon be released to Dustin just from her.  And in that silent moment, we simply watched as those balloons soared high above the peaceful waters of Green Lake, ascending through the lofty clouds to our loved one whose spirit is always with us.

 We then attended a wonderful reception where a memory collage of Dustin was on display.

We would like to thank our family who came to honor Dustin.  Having all of you here with us on that day was truly appreciated.  Dustin will be in all of our hearts forever.  We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to Kathy and Ken from the GLCC for the beautiful memorial dedication, the poster tribute to Dustin and for choosing such a perfect song for the occasion.   -Judy Donica  

The family of Dustin Donica at the Memory Lane Dedication.

“DUSTIN, FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS!”

DECEMBER 1, 2008 at 2:00 PM

Also see Dustin’s Game Room Dedicated At Fort Sam post on this site.

Returning Heroes Home Project at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas.

This is the site where the DUSTIN DONICA MEMORIAL GAME ROOM will be dedicated.

To make a donation specifically for the Dustin Donica Memorial Game Room, go to www.dustindonica.com MEMORIAL FUND.

See Dustin Donica Memorial Game Room at BAMC post on this blog.

RHH Construction Updates sent to Judy Donica.

I am proud to inform you with good news about the Returning Heroes Home Project.  Construction is coming along very well as you can see by the photos below.  The framing work is up, the roof was started last week and the window installation will be started this week.  We are still looking at mid-October for completion and late October for move-in, assuming that weather, materials and construction coordination all go smoothly.

We have recently been approved for additional land for green space in efforts to construct a Recreational/Therapeutic Garden area, however, there are administrative and funding stipulations.  The field of therapeutic horticulture has established that there are significant therapeutic benefits for patients, caregivers and family members from well designed landscape and garden areas in relatively close proximity to areas where care is rendered.  In order to accomplish this goal, the board has placed a request through the Fort Sam Houston Base Commander to allow us to extend the reuse water line to provide a sprinkler system.  The plan in the future is to have Teresia Hazen, the Healing Gardens lead designer from Portland, Oregon, come to San Antonio, Texas and assist with the design of our therapeutic garden.  The therapeutic components are critical to the facility providing the best possible environment for healing for those who deserve so much.

http://www.portlandnursery.com/community/community_partner_legacy.shtml

http://www.ReturningHeroesHome.org<http://www.returningheroeshome.org/>

AUGUST 5, 2008 Update From Judy

It looks like the ribbon cutting ceremony will be held in the beginning of November.  The gaming room has developed into a world class gaming room with input from many injured servicemen.  The soldiers suggested that a projection unit be used to project the games on a specially treated wall.  It was decided to have four stations in the room with each station accommodating four players, for a total of 16  players.  There is also a choice of XBox 360 or Sony Playstation 3 systems available.  Microsoft called the other day and agreed to donate the XBox 360 systems and all the games.

December 1, 2008

$5M OASIS FOR WAR WOUNDED TO OPEN AT FORT SAM HOUSTON

http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/11/ap_warwounded_112708/

Airborne In Spirit

Dustin’s Memorial Decal on JohnnyD’s motorcycle.

Click on image to enlarge.

On Friday, July 11, 2008, which would have been Dustin’s 24th birthday, our family received an e-mail from JohnnyD of the Southeast Texas Patriot Guard.  JohnnyD is the Patriot Guard Rider who gave me the In Memory of a Fallen Texas Hero PGR pins (see TX Patriot Guard Riders post) that I sent to the soldiers of the 3/509th Able Company stationed at Fort Richardson in Alaska that Dustin served with during Operation Iraqi Freedom.  I had mailed JohnnyD a Battle of the Bands t-shirt (see The Donica’s Support The Paratroopers Of The 3/509th post), an Angel In My Pocket token to help protect him as he rides, and Dustin’s 3/509th Geronimo Memorial Decal (see Memorial Decals tab above and additional post).  In his e-mail to our family, he thanked us for the remembrances and attached the above photo.  “I have the token on my key ring,” he said, “and as you can see, Dustin will ride with me on every mission and everywhere I go.” 

JohnnyD, thank you for honoring Dustin.  He would be proud to ride with you.  -Judy Donica

                  

DUSTIN ROSS DONICA

July 11, 1984 – December 28, 2006

Dustin while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

 We celebrate the mystery and miracle of life. 

Dustin, we thank God for you! 

On the day you were born

the round planet Earth

turned toward your morning sky,

whirling past darkness,

 . . . while high above the North Pole,

Polaris, the glittering North Star, stood still,

shining silver light into your night sky . . .

spinning the night into light.

On the day you were born the Earth turned,

the Moon pulled, the Sun flared, and, then,

you slipped out of the dark quiet

where suddenly you could hear . . .

                                                           a circle of voices familiar and clear

                                                            whispering as they held you close,

                                                              “We are so glad you’ve come!”

                                    -Debra Frasier                                                 

Dustin lived with such joy and passion on earth, but his life was all too short for his family and friends.

Gravity’s strong pull will never let Dustin float away as he will be “always loved and remembered.”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

July 11, 2008

Happy 24th Birthday to the best son, brother, and friend that anyone could ever have asked for.

We love you.  Mom, Dad and Courtney

Dear Dustin,

Twenty two years was not long enough,
When your child dies young, life becomes tough.
You question the reason, the timing, the motive,
You still had so much life to live, so much love to give.
You had dreams, you had goals but with a twist of fate,
You now stand tall and proud at Heaven’s gate.
I long for the family we used to be,
Our family of four is now a family of three.
An infinity ring upon my finger,
In my heart, thoughts of you will always linger.
You touched our hearts, you touched our soul,
With you gone, our family is not whole.
We miss your touch, your smile, your laughter,
All we have now, are our memories hereafter.
To hear your voice, see you walk through the door,
We’d give all that we have and so much more.
Our hearts were broken when we got the news,
For an American soldier you paid the ultimate dues.
Life would not be the same after that knock on the door,
We loved you then, we love you now, we miss you even more.
We’ve shed tears we know won’t end,
On that fateful day we lost a son, a brother, a friend.
We long for what we will never know,
A degree in hand, a family in tow.
They say life’s not always fair and we now know what they mean,
With a twist of fate, we saw the end of your dream.
We’re proud of the man that you had become,
Our only regret is that you died too young.
Twenty two years wasn’t long enough….

Love,
Mom, Dad, Courtney

Painting by SGT Scott Stephenson’s mother, Luana.

“War drew us from our homeland

In the sunlit springtime of our youth.

Those who did not come back alive remain

in perpetual springtime - forever young -

And a part of them is with us always.”

-Author Unknown

Click on images to enlarge for printing.

www.runforthefallen.org

See RUN FOR THE FALLEN and Reports - Run For the Fallen posts on this blog.

See RUNNER’S BIBS tab above for all nineteen 3/509th fallen heroes.

“When my country, into which I had just set foot, was set on fire about my ears, it was time to stir.  It was time for every man to stir.”  -Thomas Paine

“I will be taking Dustin’s runner’s bib from Indiana down to Tennessee for August 3rd when I go for the run for Joey on that same day as Dustin’s run.  I have recruited serveral of my friends who have family members stationed at Fort Campbell, KY/TN to also come to cheer the runners on.  Our son Joey was KIA in Iraq on December 26, 2007, and we know just how much the caring and support of the American citizens means to all of the families of the fallen.” 

-Terri, mother of Fallen Hero, CPL Joseph A. Strong, U.S. Army, 3/509th PIR

July 16, 2008 update from Terri:  I am working hard on getting people to come with me to TN to support these runners. I am very fortunate that Joey’s runner is so close to my sister’s home, and to Indiana. So far, I think I have about 20 people to stand there with flags. Plus, I have the bibs ready for the runners. I am so excited. I will get a lot of pictures for the website.
Run, America, run! 

Run for the fallen, the wounded and our serving military who have given so much for you!

The Avenue of 444 Flags

Hermitage, Pennsylvavia

This peaceful memorial honoring the military who gave their lives while fighting the war on terror since 1975 is set among the proud American flags which commemorate the four hundred forty-four days of the Iranian Hostage Crisis.  Dustin’s name and the names of the U.S. Army, 3rd BN, 509th PIR KIA are etched into the 12 feet tall glass panels.  The names of the fallen are engraved in chronilogical order and the panels are updated on a weekly basis.  Additional panels are placed as needed.  The January 6, 2007 edition of The Record-Argus, the local newspaper of Greenville, PA, reported that a small group gathered at the site in a gentle rain to honor the 3,000th soldier killed in Iraq.  That soldier was Dustin Donica from Texas.  The solemn tribute began with prayer.  The glass panel containing Dustin’s name and the names of the most recent fallen was then lovingly installed on the base.  In the center of the now eight towering dark glass panels is a fountain and the circular memorial is further surrounded by American flags.  This impressive memorial site is so full of symbolism and provides a place for quiet reflection. 

Click on the links below for additional information about the artist, the index of names and the history of this stunning tribute to our nation’s finest.  Additional photos are on Dustin’s website.

http://www.waronterror.org

http://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WM1H4V

http://www.dustindonica.com

“THIS IS HALLOWED GROUND.”  -IL Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn

In the Heartland of America, in a phenomenal setting on the banks of the Illinois River, a magnificent granite memorial wall has been dedicated, commemorating the soldiers who have died in Operation Desert One, the Lebanon Barracks Bombing, Operation Desert Shield/Storm, the USS Cole, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.  The memorial was conceived by the Illinois Motorcycle Freedom Run founders and built and paid for by volunteers to honor these valiant warriors.  The Freedom Wall  was built in 2004, and on August 1, 2007, a tri-color waterfall fountain was dedicated in the center of the Middle East Conflicts Wall.  The fountain spays water from the back of the memorial into the Illinois River from pipes located directly behind the curved Freedom Wall.  The stream of river water projects about 20 feet into the air, spaying over the wall in an arc, and on back into the channel.  Laser lights at the base of the fountain  light up the sprays in patriotic red, white and blue colors.  The waterfall fountain is appropriately named, “Tears For The Fallen.”  See additional photos and articles in the Morris Daily Herald by Jo Ann Hustin.

Click on the links below for additional information about the memorial wall, the index of names of the fallen, including Dustin’s name and those of the Spartan Brigade (Casulaties), photos and a June 21, 2008 video.  The GWRRA has graciously offered to make their “Dog Tag” for Dustin, ride with it to the memorial site, take photos of his name on the wall and then make a rubbing of his engraved name.  Everything will then be sent to the Donica family in Texas.  What a lasting tribute this memorial is to our nation’s heroes who gave their all in these Middle East Conflicts.  May each and every one of us never forget those who have served our nation throughout the ages, thank the brave who are in service today and support those who will answer the call to serve our country in the years to come, upholding our precious freedoms. 

http://www.ilfreedomrun.org/history/index.html

http://www.ilfreedomrun.org/Casualties/index.html

http://www.ilfreedomrun.org/

GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS!!!

Remembering American service members lost in Iraq and Afghanistan.

You are invited to visit http://www.legacy.com/GB/GuestBookView.aspx?PersonID=20508198 to view Dustin’s profile, view and sign the Guest Book, and see additional photos of Dustin and his Army friends who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom together.  Also see the About This Blog tab above for the other names of the 3/509th PIR fallen with entries on www.Legacy.com.

“The heart hath its own memory, like the mind.  And in it are enshrined the precious keepsakes, into which is wrought the giver’s loving thoughts.”  -Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

CPL Dustin Donica, CPL Toby Olsen, and SPC Brian White were all great Army buddies at Fort Richardson, AK, even before they deployed together as members of Able Company to fight in Operation Iraqi Freedom, October 2006.  The three friends even shared a storage locker in Anchorage, AK during their deployment.  Although Dustin and Toby were KIA in Iraq, the bond between the three Geronimo paratroopers will never be broken.

Brian’s mom, Brian & Peter Shoemaker (on leave from OIF) at WRAMC. 

On January 20, 2007, an IED explosion hit the Humvee of SPC Brian White, CPL Toby Olsen, SGT Sean Fennerty, SGT Phillip McNeill and SPC Jeffrey Bisson.  Brian was the only survivor of that horrific explosion.  He was in a coma for weeks, hanging on to life itself, and he would be a patient at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and the VA Hospital in Tampa, Florida for 13 months going through surgeries and recuperating from his severe injuries.  His recovery is nothing short of miraculous.  He was awarded the Purple Heart for his service.  This valiant soldier answered the call of duty for his country because he thought it was the right thing to do. A grateful nation thanks you for your service, Brian!

Brian’s Purple Heart Ceremony in Florida.

Brian is one terrific human being with a strong moral compass.  He loves his mother’s spaghetti casserole and his grandmother’s Southern banana puddin’.  Before his OIF injuries, Brian had a passion for bowling and running.  Brian has now been admitted to the University of Southern Mississippi where he will continue his college education in computer science.  He is already enjoying his new apartment in Hattiesburg, settling in before the fall semester begins.  Congratulations, Brian!  We are all so proud of you and wish you the very best in all of your endeavors.

If you ask Brian about Dustin, he just throws his head back and laughs with absolute delight and mischief in his eyes.  “Dustin was always the instigator,” Brian says.  “He could rile people up, and with merely a word, bring everything back into order.  I’ve never seen anything like it.”  Brian wears Dustin’s Battle of the Bands t-shirt that Judy Donica sent to him, almost all the time.  He will tell you, “If it isn’t in the wash, it’s on my back!”  Brian will forever miss his great friend and comrade, Dustin.

Brian and his new “Fire Chicken.”

Last fall, Brian was asked if there was anything he would really like to do again in life.  His answer was, “I’d like to jump out of a perfectly good airplane once more.  There’s nothing like it!”  The probability of that ever happening again is unlikely, but, who knows.  In spirit, Brian is a paratrooper through and through.

All the way, Whitey!

Logan Curtis!

June 20, 2008

 Logan with Toby Olsen’s mother and aunt in San Antonio, Texas.

 One of the amazing members from Dustin’s squad in Able Company is CPL Logan Curtis, who is recuperating from severe wounds from an IED explosion in Iraq on December 7, 2006.  Two other squad members were killed that night, SSG Henry Linck and CPL Micah Gifford, from the same explosion. After being at the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas for the past 18 months, Logan’s courage, spirit and great sense of humor remain truly amazing.  He has had more than 30 surgeries, is miraculously walking again and other wounds are healing, too.

 Logan arrives home in Tampa, FL on con leave from BAMC.

However, earlier this week, Logan became an in-patient again and thought he would have to spend his birthday on June 20^th in the hospital for the second year in a row. With determination, Logan was able to return to the barracks and will happily spend his special day away from a hospital room this year.  The Donicas and many of the members of the 3/509^th military family would like to give a big shout out to Logan on his 26^th birthday. 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LOGAN!  Our prayers and best wishes for a good recovery are with you. 

All the way, Geronimo!

The Center For The Intrepid, Fort Sam Houston, Texas

January 2007, the Donicas and Shoemakers visit Logan

Losing A Friend
Dustin Donica was Logan’s best friend in the Army. Donica’s mother would send caramel apples from Texas, and Logan would steal them at night. When he was finished eating them, he would throw the apple sticks at Donica while he slept. About two weeks after Logan Curtis’ life was forever altered, Donica’s life ended when he was hit by sniper fire in Iraq. Donica was the 3,000th U.S. soldier killed in the war in Iraq. “That really affected Logan a lot,” Logan’s mom, Jan Curtis said. “It was the first time I ever actually saw him cry through this whole thing.”

Logan said Donica had a personality “like no one else I’ve ever met.”  “Dustin enjoyed kind of just staying in his house, playing his games and going out on weekends,” he said. “He enjoyed soccer a lot and loved to work out. But he was a very funny guy.  He was 22 when he was killed.”

While Logan was first hospitalized at BAMC, Donica’s mother, Judy, brought him caramel apples. She was supposed to visit again the day after her son died. Instead, at Logan’s request, Jan Curtis attended Dustin Donica’s funeral. Since the explosion that nearly killed him, Logan Curtis has been awarded a Purple Heart and Combat Merit Badge, and additional medals are a possibility.  Logan realizes he is fortunate to be alive, and he doesn’t complain about his situation. 

– From an interview with the Tampa Bay Tribune

 See additional photos of Logan on Dustin’s Memorial Website at www.dustindonica.com.

August 3, 2008

http://www.flickr.com/photos/runforthefallen/sets/72157604240211394/ 

ONE MILE FOR EVERY SERVICE MEMBER KILLED
IN OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM.

Beginning Flag Day, June 14, 2008, a dedicated team of runners will run across America from Fort Irwin, CA to Arlington National Cemetery, one mile for every soldier, sailor, airmen, and marine killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom. For ten weeks, team members will mark each mile with an American flag and signcard in an apolitical reflection of remembrance of each service member.

Click on the links below for further information and videos.

http://www.runforthefallen.org/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080616/ap_on_re_us/fallen_soldiers_run

 Pencil drawing by Dustin’s friend Toby Olsen, also KIA, OIF, January 22, 2007.

“ I’m going to keep watching the runners’ progress. The day they are running for Dustin is August 3, 2008.  My birthday is August 2nd and placing his flag the next day will be such a wonderful tribute.   I wonder where they will be in the run when they place the flag for Dustin?”   -Judy

Click on link below, then on the Toggle Day Markers for dates and places for the runners and flags.

http://www.runforthefallen.org/map.html

Click on link below, pink dots will appear to show the day’s course (one dot for each runner), click on the pink dots or Dustin’s thumbnail photo at the bottom of the map (far right), and a white star burst will appear for Dustin’s flag placement by relay runner #24 that day near Dickson, TN.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/runforthefallen/sets/72157604240211394/map/

 3/509th PIR Memorial Run For the Fallen Video - “Gone, but not forgotten.” 

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XjyM1PCtFxI 

See RUN FOR THE FALLEN BIBS post and tab  for printable runner’s bibs for Dustin and the 3/509th.

Also see post for REPORTS - RUN FOR THE FALLEN.

The Military Order Of the Purple Heat

Houston, Texas

June 7, 2008

CPL Dustin R. Donica, KIA December 28, 2006, OIF

Invitation

“ON BEHALF OF THE MILITARY ORDER OF THE PURPLE HEART, CHAPTER #723 We cordially invite you to attend the Dedication Ceremony of the Afghanistan/Iraq War Memorial Portrait Mural. This Ceremony will be held on Saturday, the Seventh of June, Two Thousand and Eight, at 12:00 noon at the Omni Houston Hotel Westside, 13210 Katy Freeway, Houston, Texas 77079. The Memorial Dedication will be to honor all the Military Fallen Veterans from the State of Texas who were killed in action in the Afghanistan/Iraq War.  Sadly, at present the number of Patriots killed in action from the State of Texas is 386. The concept of the Memorial Mural is that for the first time in history, the technology is now available to be able to create a Memorial Mural Wall that not only shows the Veteran’s full name but also his or her color portrait. For generations to come, not only will the names of the fallen Patriots, who paid the ultimate sacrifice, be inscribed, but also their portraits will be seen. Never before has this been possible, and the Memorial Mural Wall which will be dedicated at the Omni Houston Hotel Westside, as described above, will be the first of it’s kind in our great State.”

Afghanistan/Iraq War Memorial Portrait Mural

For Immediate Release

The portable Wall was constructed in panels so the unit could be taken down and transported. After the initial unveiling, the MOPH will transport the Wall to every town in Texas where a fallen heroes’ family resides. After Houston, Tx the Wall will be travelling to San Antonio, TX. The final and permanent destination will be the Rotunda of the State Capital in Austin, TX.

The Wall bears photographs etched on tile of the 386 Texans who were killed in action in Iraq and Afghanistan as of 2007. Those killed since will be added at the end of the year.

“We all shed our blood on the world’s battlefields and it is only proper that we pay homage to those proud young Texas men and women who gave their all for America. A high price to pay for freedom,” said Cook (MOPH National Commander Henry Cook of Diamondhead, MS).

~  ~  ~

David and Judy Donica graciously accepted this kind invitation honoring the service and sacrifice of their son Dustin.  See the Texas Patriotic Guard Rider post regarding the tokens given to them at this event by a Southeast Texas PGR who rode for Dustin the day of his funeral on January 8, 2007.

Fort Hood, Texas

May 16, 2008

The 1st Cavalry Division

The Iraqi Freedom Memorial Rededication Ceremony took place on May 16, 2008 at Cooper Field, Fort Hood, Texas. The rededication ceremony was in honor of the 469 Fallen Warriors who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2006 - 2008. Fort Hood is the home of the Army 1st Cavalry Division. Dustin’s Able Company of the 3/509th PIR was honored to serve with the 1st Cavalry Division in Iraq and the 3/509th paratroopers are now invited to wear the 1st Cavalry patch on their uniforms. Judy was unable to attend this memorial rededication ceremony as she was in Alaska for the dedication of the Sparatan Warrior Memorial at Fort Richardson on that same day.  On June 26, 2008, the Donicas gratefully received a package from Fort Hood with a video and program of the ceremony, and a rubbing from the memorial wall of Dustin’s name.

Click on the link below for the names of the 3/509th PIR, OIF 2006 -2008.

http://www.first-team.us/fallen-defenders/

The arrow designates CPL Dustin R. Donica’s name.

James Dietz Print “Turning The Corner”

Click on the link below for addtional memorial dedication photos.

http://www.1cda.org/Division_memorial.htm

The Memorial’s foundation is formed in the shape of the 1st Cavalry Division patch and is approximately 32 feet wide and 45 feet long. The foundation floor replicates the 1st Cav’s desert patch – tan tiles with a black granite stripe and horses head. Under illumination the patch duplicates the “official” yellow and black patch.

The Memorial’s panels are of black granite from Bangalore.The names are listed in chronological order, according to the date of casualty, within each day the names are alphabetized. The list starts on the left side and ends on the right, beginning with SFC Gregory B. Hicks who was our first casualty and was assigned to B Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Cavalry and ending with SPC Adam N. Brewer, who was assigned to C Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry, and was the last Division casualty in Iraq. Engraved on the right front entrance is the Purple Heart and on the left front entrance the Bronze Star. The “Soldier’s Cross” – boots, with a reversed rifle with helmet - is also engraved on the inside. The National Colors are embossed on the back panel on the inside and a 1st Cavalry Division patch and National Colors are on the reverse side. Etched into the black granite is a copy of the oil painting of the 1st Cavalry Division’s Iraqi mission entitled “Turning the Corner” by well known military artist Mr. James Dietz and commissioned by the 1st Cavalry Division Association Museum Foundation.

The Memorial entrance contains a ‘Mission Plaque’ with a brief mission history along with a colored map showing the 1st Cavalry Division and its assigned/attached unit’s area of responsibility during its deployment. Black granite donor plaques will be installed at a later date to commemorate the very generous donations that helped build this memorial.

Memorial Funding

Our initial estimate indicated that we needed approximately $250,000 to construct this granite memorial and to provide funds for maintenance, upkeep and possible future expansion if/when the 1st Cavalry Division returns to Iraq. The $23,000 statue was purchased with contributions from the Troopers and donations received in Iraq. We have raised an additional $280,000 toward the cost of the Granite Memorial Wall and the Cavalry Patch foundation. Your generous contributions have helped us exceed our funding goal and are greatly appreciated. All funds donated for the Memorial will be were used for construction of the Memorial and are currently being used for the additions to the Memorial. Plaques recognizing the generosity of our donors are being emplaced adjacent to the Memorial.

Live the Legend!

242 Patriot Guard Rider bikes rode for Dustin on January 8, 2007. 

http://www.sjhr.org/dustindonica/dustindonica.htm

http://motorcycle.meetup.com/32/photos/?photoAlbumId=129248&photoId=1025394

http://www.bigjolly.com/patriot_guard/donica/

www.dustindonica.com for additional photos and videos of the Patriot Guard Ride for Dustin.

Click on the link below to read the Texas Patriot Guard Rider’s Guest Book with their heartfelt messages and entries for the Donica family.  We thank each of these riders for their sacrifices and service to our country. We are most grateful for their missions to ride with such enormous respect as they honor America’s fallen warriors, while supporting their families, friends and communities.

http://www.patriotguard.org/Forums/tabid/61/postid/366842/view/topic/Default.aspx

Patriot Guard Riders Mission Statement

   The Patriot Guard Riders is a diverse amalgamation of riders from across the nation. We have one thing in common besides motorcycles. We have an unwavering respect for those who risk their very lives for America’s freedom and security. If you share this respect, please join us.   We don’t care what you ride, what your political views are, or whether you’re a “hawk” or a “dove”. It is not a requirement that you be a veteran. It doesn’t matter where you’re from or what your income is.  You don’t even have to ride. The only prerequisite is Respect.

Gold Star Father

As the nation pauses to celebrate Father’s Day, we pray for the fathers in our country, asking God to strengthen and encourage them as they provide nurture, support and love to their children, regardless of their age and stage in life. We pray especially for God’s grace to be powerful in those fathers who have lost a soldier-son through death, that they may find hope, and solace in God’s never ending love.

Wishing Dustin and Courtney’s dad, David, a most Happy Father’s Day, full of wonderful memories knowing that you have been the love and strength behind such extraordinary young adults.

 “The flag case pictured above, front and back views, was made for us by Darrell to display Dustin’s interment flag. Darrell is the son of our neighbor, Vicky, and many of you reading this have met her. Darrell brought the flag case from Mississippi to Texas this past weekend and presented it to our family. As you can see, it’s absolutely beautiful! We are not experts on types of wood, so we had Vicky call Darrell, the master craftsman, to inquire about the woods he used in the flag case that he designed and handcrafted. The case and pedestal are made of solid Santos Mahogany. The inlaid Texas star is crafted out of Lacewood and Tiger Maple. Inset in the front of this extraordinary case are three bullet casings from the gun salute for Dustin at the cemetery on the day of his funeral. The case is heavy! After taking the above pictures, we lifted it onto the scale and the case weighed in at 23lbs. without the flag! Darrell, we can’t thank you enough for honoring Dustin, for the treasured gift of the heirloom flag case and for being so very thoughtful.”�
-Judy, David and Courtney Donica

How very appropriate that this stunning flag case was presented to the Donicas during the week that our nation celebrates Flag Day, June 14th, commemorating the adoption of the flag of the United States of America.  Old Glory, with her stars and stripes, is the flag that Dustin served so well.

Army Cpl. Dustin R. Donica

Dustin R. Donica loved ham-and-pineapple pizza and Dr. Pepper. Sushi, he wrote, scared him. He dreamed of meeting Peter Griffin, Ed Norton, Brad Pitt and Rusty Shackleford. Donica, 22, was killed Dec. 28 by small-arms fire in Karmah. He was assigned to Fort Richardson. Born and raised in Houston, Donica was a 2002 high school graduate and enlisted in 2003 after a stint at the University of Texas at Austin. In April 2005, “Double D,” as he was known to his friends, was sent to the brigade’s home base at Fort Richardson. On his MySpace site, Donica, 22, noted, tongue in cheek, the incongruity of the posting. “The Army finds it prudent to condition me to the cold in preparation for my Iraq tour,” he wrote. On the website, he talked about his future plans, his likes and dislikes. “I like to play a lot of sports — soccer, basketball, racquetball and ultimate frisbee are my favorites,” he wrote. In a written statement, his father, David Donica, said, “Dustin had a tremendous sense of duty, both to his family, and his country. He will be missed by his family, and all those that knew him.”

-2006 USA TODAY

“I have to smile every time I see the article posted above - A Glimpse of DD. At the time of Dustin’s death, we declined all interviews. When ABC announced Dustin’s MySpace account, the news reporters jumped on it as they thought they could capture the essence of Dustin. They picked up on his tongue-in-cheek comment about the Army sending him to the snowy Arctic blast of Alaska to train for the arid desert heat of Iraq. The press, however, totally missed it in regard to who he would like to meet. Peter Griffin is a fictional character from the animated TV series Family Guy and Rusty Shackleford is the alter-ego of Dale Gribble, a fictional character from the animated TV series King of the Hill. That was my son, and his unique sense of humor was showing itself once again. I guess Dustin has the last laugh on this one.”
-Judy Donica