Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Dale:

Brother, I was just a punk teenager when we served. Hell, I wasn't even in your company but I would always joke with you about leaving Echo company and coming to Bravo, since you were well known to take care of your soldiers. I didn't realize how much you impacted my life until I got older and wiser, your kindness and dedication rubbed off on me.

Till Valhalla..."

"I was in the Brigade S1. (Thats Corporate HR in civilian). I know Panchot, aka "Poncho" very well because it was very normal to see him up before the Sergeant Majors coffee , he already had traveled across Iraq to the headquarters to help a soldier of his. There was many times where he woke me up during my fire watch (LOL) late at night when a soldier of his would be in distress and needed to use resources to call home. Bravo Company was definitely the most cared for because of him. I have many stories of his light humor and his personality as it changed throughout the year of War. One I'll never forget is when mid tour leave was announced. This means that orders came from the colonel , on which days were available for soldiers to return home for 2 weeks.
Poncho was present for the announcement of course. He was there in the morning first thing to here the dates and by night fall had returned with EVERY SOLDIER FROM B CO.'s leave forms signed and dated by Lt. Col. Sassaman in alphabetical order & figured to not conflict with one another... from his Conex box of an office... it was a POG work of art.
I always think of you motivating your soldiers and being a source of motivation to the very last moment before that day. Even in regular conversation it was always about what he can do for Bravo company.
In the military there's a joke that says some of us joined to stay out of trouble, some of us joined because we're Psychopaths and some of us are truly heroes. He was the hero."
Richardtalmaraz@gmail.com of Los Angeles,California

"Dale:

It's been 19 years since we last talked... I will never forget the day we got hit in that Bradley. You were an outstanding Squad Leader and a great mentor. I always think about you and talk to your brother and mom now an again. Please know that you are in my thoughts every day and your memory will always live on with me!!! Until Valhalla...

---VIOLATORS---"
SSG (RET) Stanley Hofferber of Arlington, VA

"Dale, you are not forgotten. To Dale’s family, we served together in Bco 1-8IN during OIF and he will not be forgotten. A good friend and great leader, someone that was always there to help or just make the day a little better."
SFC (ret) Mitchell Bron Call of New Jersey

"Your memory never leaves our home. You gave it all for us, but above and beyond you left an irreplaceable footprint on the hearts of those who knew you well. Their lives will be forever better because each day they push harder for you. Thank you for giving that to Jason. He is the father he knows you would have been and the soldier he knows you would have wanted him to continue to be. Until we all meet again. God Bless."
Korts of Rochester, NY

"Dale,
Memorial day is here yet again and not one goes by that I don't remember you. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten."
Mike L. of Florida

"Panchot Family
I never knew Dale at all but always took the time to read about my fellow fallen Minnesotan service members. I grew up just south east of Northome in another small town Effie, Minnesota. I joined the navy in 1989 and served my country for 23 great years. In Dale's honor as he was the closest Minnesota service member from where i grew up who made the ultimate sacrafice defending our country and providing freedom to us all i wear a memorial braclet every day with Dale's name and date he passed away. Dale i never knew you but you are a commrade in arms and i am honored to wear your a memorial braclet in your honor. Dale you may be gone but commrade in arms you are not forgotten. God bless the entire Panchot family."
Loren Heaton of Minneapolis, Minnesota

"I was there by Dale at his final moments at the field hospital at LSA Anaconda at Balad Air Base. A contingent of us from the 79th MP Co (CS) out of Rochester, MN were at the field hospital for a separate mission and we were outside the ER entrance when the Bradley carrying Dale arrived. We were all saddened to hear the news when the doctors told us Dale didn't make it. It was more of a saddening blow when we found out he was a fellow Minnesotan. His brothers in arms were with him at the hospital, so we knew that we needed to extend to them the "Minnesota Nice" and hospitality that epitomized where Dale came from. We wanted his brothers to know that Minnesota mourned with them. Dale is a fallen brother that all of us still remember, and his name is always on our list of names that we toast with a cold brew to pay our respects when we reunite. I don't know if the family will ever read this, but I shared this in the hopes that they would read it someday and know that his fellow Minnesotans were there. God bless."
SSG Andy Reed (Ret.) of Edina, MN

"SSG. Panchot,I didn't had the privilege to know you, but I just finished listening to any audio book "Warrior King" by Lt Col(retired) Jonathan Sassaman so i learned about you and your ultimate sacrifice,you're a true hero. July 4th 2012 is just 2 days away, so I'll fly the American flag high and proud on your honor, may you rest in peace forever. Thanks for my freedom!"
Jose C. Santos of E. Carondelet,Illinois

"I wish I could correct my previous post...
I had my days mixed up, Thursday, today, is 8 years.

God bless your family, Dale, and thank you for your sacrifice. You are loved and missed."
J Hyde of Texas

"SSG Panchot,
This Wednesday will be 9 years since that day. I will never forget. I remember, every single day, how we all put our lives on the line in that far away place. You gave the ultimate sacrifice for this nation. Words could never express how grateful America is for your service, for your sacrifice.
We love and miss you. You are my hero."
J Hyde of Texas

"I had the honor of reading your name and rank during our National Roll Call at the Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. As a fellow serviceman myself, I appreciate your service."
David Huff of Muncie, Indiana

"SSG Panchot,

Unfortunately I never had the pleaseure of meeting you, but I can tell you that my Husband SGT Dennis Garcia has had many wonderful words to say about you. I am reminded everytime I look at his arm (the Memorial Tattoo in your Honor) how much you meant to him. I know that he, as well as all the Soldiers who were blessed enough to be able to serve with you will hold you in their hearts forever. I want to personaly say Thank you for your service, and for your honorable sacrifice! You are truly a Hero and will forever be missed. I am posting this poem and dedicating it to you.

DON’T CRY FOR ME
by Pearlie Duncan Walker

When I’m gone; don’t cry for me
I am not dead; I’m in sweet eternity
I’ll live forever; I’ll wait for all of you
When it’s your time; it’s what God would have us do.

He called my name; He said come home
I did not die; please do not cry; I will no more roam
I’ll be by our Savior forever; soon, you too
We’ll walk in the light; praising God in all that we do.

Do not mourn for me; I have sweet victory
I’ll walk in Gods’ garden; and glories see
I am not dead; He set me free; an Angel called to me
Its beautiful here; Heavens’ full of cheer; you’ll see.

I did not die my love; I only went ahead
I knew you’d understand; though I know this, you’ll dread
That will pass too; do all God would have you do
Maybe up there God will let me have; a glimpse of you.

I did not die, so do not cry; I’ll meet you here one day
Jesus will send an Angel to bring you to me; all the way
Our love is sure; our hearts are strong
I did not die, so please don’t cry; I AM HOME!"
Mrs. SGT Dennis M. Garcia of Rio Rancho,NM

"Thinking of you and your family that is left behind on this Memorial Day. I shall honor your ultimate sacrifice a little more tomorrow."
Victor Morrow of Renssleaer, Indiana

""To the family of Dale A. Panchot ,I am so sorry for the loss of your love one.He died a hero.May you know the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Hopefully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need someone to pray with you or talk to please call or write my pastor at Gateway Community Church,Rev John B Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd. Covington Ga. 30016 phone 770-787-1015""

"To SSG Panchot and his family ...

We never had the privilege of meeting in person. I was on that airplane with you when you flew between Germany and Dover DE on your way home. I am retired from the military myself, and today I am a pastor. I had some quiet conversation and prayer on that plane with your lieutenant. He accompanied you home. He was by your side the whole way even though he was still in shock himself. I could tell he really loved and respected you as he talked about what you meant to him and to the soldiers in your platoon.

Anyway. I just wanted you and your family to know that you are not forgotten by the nation. I think families understand that the fellow soldiers remember forever, but it is easy to wonder whether the rest of the nation remembers. I want you to know that we do! We remember!

Thank you for the outstanding leadership you provided your soldiers. And thank you for the incredible personal sacrifice you made on behalf of a grateful nation. You are not forgotten. And you, your family, and your fellow soldiers are all deeply appreciated by us.

May God bless your family and your fellow soldiers."
Frank Lengel of West Columbia SC

"Dear Arlan & Karen, A friend sent me a video about an artist that painted a portrait of your son and sent it to you. I cried during the whole video! Again, thank you for the freedom that we have in this country. It is because of Dale and others like him that we are free. I miss waiting on you at the clinic in Bigfork (you made my day), as I am at the clinic in Marcell now. Hope to see you again. You are wonderful people who raised a wonderful son. Thank you."
Lin Lawler of Marcell, MN/USA

"Dale, we had alot of good times, we meet at the welcome center back in aug of 2000. I remember hitting it off cause you where from min and i was from wis, packers/vikings thing! We had alot of good times, went to rockies games, i still remember the first labor day weekend we where out here, went to all three brewers vs rockies games up in denver! I remember dale for the good guy he was, and he would always tell the truth, even if it wasn't what u wanted to hear! I also remember the last time we talked before I left for Iraq in March of 03! dale, I really do miss u, we had alot of good times, i will never forget them!

Chad Kaminski
10th SFG(A)
Fort Carson, Co"
Chad Kaminski of Denver, Co

"i miss our talks outside of the spo shop"
jess of duluth mn

"November 16, 2008
To the family of Staff Sgt. Dale A. Panchot:
Dale gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV

"A friend just sent me a video about Kaziah and her painting of Dale. I just want you to know that my prayers go out to you as you continue to grieve for Dale. My prayer is that he will live on through all of you who met him and loved him. Remember to honor him in your daily lives."
Sue Lee of Rochester, MN

"My mother's maiden name is Panchot born in St. Geneieve MO. It possible we are related. Regardless, my heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your son. I sense you are strong in your faith. God loves Dale and will provide continued comfort for your family."
Mary DiNofa of Dayton, OH

"Thank you."
Jennifer Cooper of Fort Riley, KS

"I hope the family and friends of Dale read this because it's been years since our tour in iraq when he was taken from us and I still maintain a sense of sadness. I hope to whatever god is out there that you all find peace and comfort through this site and the support of all of us who served with and around him."
Lex Windle (Bco 3rd) of a place where nomads settle

"Dear Panchot Family,
I was Panchot’s roommate in Baumholder. He was a great guy. He always made me laugh, but when it came to serving he was always serious. Not everybody puts a Special Forces tat on his arm. He was a patriot. I am glad I got to serve with him and got to be his friend. During the football seasons we would talk trash to each other, he was for Minnesota and I was for Tampa. We even went to Fort Stewart together, different companies, but we still kept in touch. I ended up getting out, while he moved on to Fort Carson, where we would still keep touch. When I heard of the incident of Panchot passing away, it was like all the air got sucked out of me. I still can’t believe this happened. I have so many memories of him. He will be missed always. You guys raised a great guy and he taught me a lot. Panchot you will be missed. Sorry I am late writing, but I just heard about it and am in disbelief."
Phil Leopardi(pleopard@tampabay.rr.com) of Tampa,FL

""To the family of an Outstanding Soldier"
I served in Iraq in the same platoon with SSG Panchot. We deployed together from Fort Carson to Iraq. He was a great soldier and a good friend to all. I remember the day like it was yesterday. It was a day none of us in 2nd platoon will ever forget. SSG Panchot was the type of soldier and NCO that always placed the mission first, never quit, never accepted defeat, and would never leave a fallen comrade. He will be missed by all and "SSG Panchot" if you can hear me "It was a pleasure working with you always and forever"

VIOLATORS
BRAVO CO 1/8 INF.
2nd Platoon"
SGT Garcia, Dennis M., B 1/8 Inf of Albuquerque, NM

"To the loved ones of Dale A. Panchot:
I am so very sorry for your heartbreaking loss. Dale paid the ultimate price and did so honoring his committment to duty and his country. I hope some measure of sadness is eased knowing that so many people are thinking fondly of Dale and you. Dale gave the most he could in the service of America and we owe him a enormous debt of gratitude.

Thank you Dale A. Panchot and thank you to those who know and love you...and will forever miss you.

Sincerly,
Paul Pruitt"
Paul Pruitt of Hudson, Wisconsin. USA

"To the Family of Dale:
Dale was a great guy when I knew him. He will always be remembered as a hero and great guy. God bless you and keep you during this difficult time."
Joy (Carlson) Dale of Fertile, MN USA

"To the family and (other)friends of SSG Panchot, Dale: I served in Iraq with Dale in 2003-2004. We were close friends. Some of the guys that were deployed with him might remember me. Dale was a very important person in my life. He was there for me when my mother was deathly ill with cancer. He'd always help cheer me up and he always worried about everyone. I remember always telling him to be careful whenever he went out on mission. He'd always be cocky and funny, and reply with "Hey, it's me nothing's going to happen to me." He touched a very important part of my life as well as everyone he met. It's hard still to get over his loss this being 2 years later. But you never forget someone like him, and he never quit missing him. You just set it to the side because you have to. Thanks for reading this. Love and God Bless, Dover R. McMullen tinkerbell_drm@yahoo.com or dover.r.mcmullen@us.army.mil"
Pfc. McMullen of Ft. Hood, Texas USA

"To the family of Dale A. Panchot:

The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 29 May. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain, LTC Kenneth L. Beale, Jr. will preach a message entitled “Remembering Our Freedom.” A former Soldier and country music songwriter and performer “Rockie” will pay a special musical tribute. At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played.

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Administrative Assistant
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:info@fortsnellingmcf.org
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org"

"Like Jason Korts, I too served with Dale in Baumholder, Germany and I couldn't have described him better. He loved what he was doing and always tried to make everyone laugh when we needed it the most. I'm sure that Dale was an excellent NCO, caring about his men before himself and always doing the right things. Dale and his family will always be in my prayers."
Michael Lanski (skates51@hotmail.com) of Jacksonville FL

"To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Dale A Panchot:
My name is Jen Bliss. My brother Jeff Burgess was killed last year in Iraq. It was a shock as I am sure it is to all who have lost a loved one. He was only 20 and was only there for 2 weeks. I feel like I died with him. But anyways, I daily check the messeges on his fallen soldier memorial and I came across one from a man who had gone onto HeroBraclets.org and he had received my brothers name on his braclet. I was touched that he wore it with such pride and honor that I deceided I was going to get one. I got Dale's. And like the man who wears my brothers name, I will Honor Dale with pride and I will let no one forget what a great sacrifice he made. I know he is missed so much. Even though I didn't get the privlege to meet him I will always remember him. Thank you Staff Sgt. Panchot.
From the sister of a Marine: Semper Fi"
Jen Bliss of Plymouth Mass

"Dale,
Forgive me for taking so long to leave you this message. I am sickened in my soul finding out that you have fallen. My youngest sister's husband was killed in Mosul on 21Dec04. As I read the messages to Paul, I reluctantly searched the names hopefully not recognizing anyone. I never visited this hallowed place before; please forgive me.
It has been several years since Alpha 2/7. I recall those days of hard infantry training. No matter the pain or trials, that experience will always bring a smile to my face.
I am so very honored to have known and served with such a soldier and friend. My sincere gratitude and thanks to Dale's family for having a son who gave his life that we may enjoy the freedoms of this great nation.
You should be very proud and find comfort in knowing Dale was loved for being a good man, a honorable soldier, and a dedicated patriot.
May the Lord bless thee and keep thee. May the Lord shine down His countenence upon thee. May you rest in peace, Amen.
Your friendship and deeds will be passed on to my children and my children's children. Thank you..."
SSG Gadola, Angelo M. Jr. of Drums, PA.

"I was stationed in Smith Barracks, Baumholder, Germany with Dale. 4/12 and then 2/6 Infantry(M). Dale was a brother to me the entire time we were stationed together. When he left Germany and PCS'd to Fort Stewart, we continued to stay in touch. I remember that Dale was looking forward to possibly PCSing back to Germany when his time at Fort Stewart was over with. We lost touch after I got out of the military a couple of years back. Dale absolutely loved the Infantry and there was nothing more that he wanted to do in life. To my friend, our hero, and fallen brother in arms. Dale, now that I know where you are, you will truly be missed. You served your country well and made us ALL proud. I miss ya brother!!! "What's the good word, eh?" To Dale's family, I am truly sorry for your loss. Dale had a way of lighting any room an easing the tension when we were in the field. He was always quick with a joke. The true "Joker" of the group. My condolences. jkorts@rochester.rr.com"
Jason Korts of Rochester, New York

"Sergeant Panchot, goodbye soldier and thank you. You are my hero."
Bill of Houston, Texas

"I went to Basic Training with Dale at Ft. Benning, Ga back in 1996 with a buddy platoon from Minnesota. Little did we know when we were down there... Dale's father owns a trapping business with my grandfather. Dale's father and my grandfather happen to live about 7 hours/400 miles away from each other. What are the odds?? Dale and I continued to keep in touch after basic training. I stayed in the National Guard, in Southern MN and Dale joined the Army Reserve, in Northern MN. We last talked when he was stationed in Germany. He loved the Army life and he loved what he was doing. Dale was, in every sense of the word, a hero. He layed down his life so we could be free. If it weren't for brave men and women like Dale, there would be NO freedom as we know it. God Bless you and may you rest in peace, Dale. You are missed."
Kevin Spinler of Austin, Minnesota

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Dale, will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

""OUR special chosen words since day one of finding this site last year...have always been......REST IN PEACE BRAVE SOLDIERS/MARINES/WARRIORS We love you and MAY GOD BLESS you each. Your loved ones are in a beautiful place called Heaven now....When you look up to the sky at night and see the brightest star...it's your hero..shining down on you"
The Taylors USMC of NC

"I'm doing a report on Dale. I found him to be a very improtant guy in life. I wish his family the best of luck. He seems to have been a great guy."
amber of vermont

"Thank you Dale Panchot, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios

"My name is Jason Strominger. Dale is a very close freind of my family. He was always there for us, helping every way that he could without being ask to. He was there with me when my son was born, helped my wife coach soccer, and truely compasionate. It is impossible to find people with his character and love. We miss him and he will remain close to our hearts."
Jason Strominger of Olympia, WA

"I worked with Dale when we were both team leaders at Ft Stewart GA in A co 2-7 infantry he was just getting there from buamholder GE. Were I was due to pcs to with my family he was the only person that me and my wife talked to that said it was any good. He was always fun to be around my best wishes to the family."
SSG John S Ugarte of ft smith ar 72903

"My name is SFC Montoya. I had the honor of having Dale as my teamleader last year in Kuwiat. I took him to his promotion board and helped pin on his well deserved rank of Staff Sergeant. My wife and I met his father in Colorado Springs before we deployed here to Iraq. I am still shocked at the loss of and hero and especially a friend of mine. I will always have special memories of my friend and he will truly be missed. God Bless Dale and his family.lawrence.montoya@us.army.mil"
Lawrence Montoya of FOB McHenry, Iraq

"To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Dale Panchot:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless Dale for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Dale Panchot:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of Dale, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia