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Alabama Soldier Remembered

By Associated Press

Published: Sat, July 28, 2007 - 1:07 pm

JASPER, Ala. (AP) - Some 200 mourners said farewell today to Army Specialist Richard Gilmore the Third, Walker County's first fatality of the war in Iraq.

His funeral was held in the football stadium at Walker High School, where he graduated in 2003.

The family and dignitaries took seats on the east side of the field, facing the casket and red, white and blue-themed floral arrangement.

The 22-year-old soldier from Carbon Hill died July 18th in Adhamiyah, Iraq, along with three other soldiers when his unit's patrol vehicle was attacked by enemy forces using a roadside bomb and small arms fire.

Gilmore was on his second tour of duty in Iraq.

All four soldiers were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry, 2nd Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Infantry Division based in Schweinfurt, Germany.

Speakers lined up to praise Gilmore.

"He has proven the integrity placed in him by his good father and mother did not go by the wayside," the Rev. Dennis Farley prayed.

Army Maj. Gen. James R. Myles, commanding general of the Army Aviation and Missile Command, presented the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. Gilmore's family also was presented a certificate and message from Gov. Bob Riley, who called on all Alabamians to remember Gilmore's sacrifice.

A flag flown over the Alabama Capitol in Gilmore's honor was also presented to the family, as well as the Distinguished Service Medal from the Alabama National Guard. A representative of the American Legion presented a Gold Star.

Burial with military honors was in Oak Hill Cemetery.

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)