Stinson, Shane Mikel

Location: 3548

Date: 6/23/2007

Rank: Private 1st Class

Branch: U.S. Army

Operation: Operation Iraqi Freedom

Shane was born May 22, 1984 in Artesia, CA. He moved to live with his father and stepmother in Boise, ID. He lived in Boise between the ages 9 and 14, attending Taft Elementary and Hillside Junior High Schools and played on an Optimist Football team for NorWest Mortgage. Shane then moved to Fullerton to live with his mother, earning his diploma in 2001. He wanted more for his future and told his friends and family that he was joining the Army to serve his country and to earn money to go to college. He planned to earn his degree in Business and open his own sporting goods store. Shane was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division from Fort Benning, GA. On June 23, 2007, Shane volunteered to drive on a search and rescue mission. Their Humvee was hit by an IED and drove him and two comrades out of the vehicle where they were gunned down by small-arms fire. Shane’s comrades nicknamed him “the silent soldier” because “he was quiet and direct to the point”. Shane was an outstanding soldier in whom everyone found comfort and confidence. His devotion to duty placed him in a very special category – guardian of the Nation. Shane’s loss came in selfless service to make our country and the world safer. His dedication to his country was invaluable, and he will be remembered for his generous spirit and devotion to duty. In his death, we have lost a true hero.

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