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CH-47 CRASH VICTIMS MEMORIALIZED

Boeing Aircraft's CH-47 Chinook Helicopter   On April 6, 2005 during a supply and transport mission, a CH47 CHINOOK helicopter (similar to the one pictured at left) based in Bagram, Afghanistan crashed during severe weather. The aircraft, one of a two-flight mission, was en route from Kandahar to Bagram Airfield.  All 18 crew and passengers were killed in the crash.
   On board the helicopter were 15 members of the U.S. military of which three were members of the 1st Battalion, 508th PIR.  There were also three military contractors aboard.


Memorial Service
was conducted inside the compound.  Note sandbags used to hold the regimental banner.

[l-r] SSgt Ramones Woodard, Cpl Sascha Struble and Cpl Daniel Freeman
were the three men of 1/508th lost when their chopper crashed

Personal Equipment
of Woodard, Struble and Freeman was displayed in traditional 'Fallen Warrior' fashion.

Bagpipes Drone
brought special music to the ceremony

Final Salute
by an unidentified trooper

Last Goodbye
by an unidentified trooper
1st Battalion, 508th Guidon
flutters in the breeze

Names and Insignia
for the 12 military personnel lost in the crash were posted.  There were also 3 civilian contractors on board the chopper.


Bronze Star Medal
and clothing of one victim was on display as well.

Fond Memories
of SSgt Woodard was evident in the photo display put together as a tribute to him.

Comrades Recognition
as prayers are said in front of the traditional boots and helmet displays.  Black helmets are those of the Ch-47 crew members while the cammo head pieces are those of the 508th men

Final Respects
by unidentified 508ers

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