Memorial to Alabama's Fallen Heroes

MONTGOMERY – Governor Riley dedicated a memorial in the State Capitol to Alabama’s service members who have fallen in the War on Terrorism during a ceremony on Tuesday.

The memorial, which stands eight feet tall and is 10 feet wide, displays the names and photographs of all 92 Alabamians who have died in the War on Terrorism so far. The Governor was joined at the ceremony by family members of many of the fallen service members. Each service member’s name was read during the ceremony.

During his remarks, Governor Riley said the fallen soldiers are a “new generation of American heroes,” and he compared them to the “greatest generation” that fought during War World II.

“All of them were different but they shared this common: they loved America. They believed in their soul that America was worth fighting for and dying for,” Governor Riley told those gathered at the ceremony. “This memorial we dedicate today will help us to always remember them. It is a powerful reminder of all they’ve done for us. And as thousands of people visit our Capitol each year, including thousands of children, the legacy of liberty won for us by our fallen heroes will carry on.”

The memorial was commissioned by Governor Riley and is displayed in the chamber on the Capitol’s first floor that used to house the Alabama Supreme Court. Additional names and photographs can be added to the memorial as needed.

Governor Riley urged Alabamians to never forget the tremendous sacrifice these Alabamians have made for the American people, saying, “We can never repay that debt, no matter what we do. But we can always remember. And let us vow today that for as long as God gives life to this nation and to each one of us, their heroism, their courage, and their noble sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

Among the 92 names are 14 from the News 5 viewing area:
Bay Minette
Sgt. 1st Class Lonnie Parson (September 2, 2005)

Brewton
Sgt. Tamara Thurman (September 11, 2001)
Staff Sgt. Phillip Travis (December 6, 2005)

Daphne
Spc. Paul Bueche (October 21, 2003)
Spc. Christopher Taylor (February 16, 2004)

Flomaton
Cpl. Christopher Winchester (July 14,2005)

Mobile
Lance Cpl. Bradley Faircloth (November 26, 2004)
Spc. Steven Givens (May 8, 2005)
Sgt. Foster Harrington (September 20, 2004)
CWO Philip Johnson (January 8, 2004)
Pfc Howard Johnson II (March 23, 2003)
1st Sgt. Charles King (October 14, 2006)
Spc. Christopher Mason (November 28, 2006)

Prichard
Staff Sgt. Harrison Brown (April 8, 2007)