A reverent quiet fell on the land between Lancaster and Bobby Light roads Monday morning — as more than 200 noted dignitaries, military officials and bereaved family gathered to pay homage and respect to the nine fallen 101st Airborne Division Screaming Eagles soldiers who, on the evening of 29 March, died in a two-helicopter, HH-60 Blackhawk crash.
Following an emotional, heartfelt ceremony, Trigg County constituents pulled the veil on an official blue-and-white sign from the Commonwealth — marking the spot where the ultimate sacrifice was paid.
Judge-Executive Stan Humphries, one of many who stood vigil that terrible evening, called the nine “heroes.” Heroes who gave up everything for America’s freedom.
LTC Tyler Espinoza, of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade and 6th Battalion Commander 101st Aviation, was also one of the many who had to be on-site as the crash quickly moved from triage to tragedy.
He commended Trigg County’s unwavering support of the Army’s values and noted that the concept of community has already been, and will continue to be, key in the days ahead.
Major Garrett Kuipers, Commander of Charlie Company and the 6th Battalion Commander 101st Aviation, said the pain of those lost “still lingers” in their hearts, and the void left by those lost “can never truly be filled.”
A sign, however, offers a starting point for support.
Trigg County’s Carrie McGinnis sang the National Anthem and “Amazing Grace,” and as she did, several family members of the soldiers openly sobbed — perhaps aggrieved at their loss.
All family and friends of the fallen in attendance received a fresh yellow rose, passed out by Lucy Oliver Kyler and Karen Oakley. Each family was also given a full commendation and writ of support from the Kentucky General Assembly.
The 101st Airborne Division Honor Guard, as well as the entirety of Charlie Company, were on hand for the ceremony.
And in a moment of privacy after the remembrance, family members were shuttled by ATV to the sites of the crash.
FULL CEREMONY:
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