Soldiers mourn fallen comrade [Image 1 of 5]

TAQADDUM, IRAQ

09.04.2006

Photo by Cpl. Ryan Tomlinson 

1st Marine Logistics Group

On 4 September 2006 seven soldiers with Able and Headquarters Companies, 2nd Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment, fire one of three shots in a 21-shot rifle salute in honor of Army Staff Sgt. Joshua R. Hanson, a fire team leader with Able Company, during a memorial held at Mainside Chapel here September 4. The Dent, Minn., native lost his life August 22, 2006 from wounds sustained while engaging in operations in the restive Al Anbar province. The memorial consisted of the playing of our national anthem, prayer; a scripture read by Justin D. Knopf, a 24-year-old squad leader from Detroit Lakes, a photo slide show, a 21- shot rifle salute and the playing of "Taps". An inverted M-16A2 rifle was placed in Hanson's homage, with a Kevlar helmet resting on top. Engraved identification tags and a crucifix hung from the rifle's pistol grip. Immediately in front, an empty pair of boots was positioned, while behind the display, the national ensign and battalion colors were displayed. Along the sides were two ammunition cans containing keepsakes from fellow soldiers. The battalion, an Army National Guard unit out of Detroit Lakes, Minn, is currently attached to 1st Marine Logistics Group (Fwd). Able and Headquarters Companies, 2nd Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment, 1st Marine Logistics Group is deployed with I MEF (FWD) in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in the Al Anbar Province of Iraq (MNF-W) to develop the Iraqi Security Forces, facilitate the development of official rule of law through democratic government reforms, and continue the development of a market based economy centered on Iraqi Reconstruction. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Corporal Ryan L. Tomlinson)

• Date Taken: 09.04.2006
• Date Posted: 09.17.2006 10:15
• Photo ID: 30047
• VIRIN: 060904-M-6065T-001
• Resolution: 2160x1532
• Size: 2.73 MB
• Location: TAQADDUM, IQ