Army

CPT Stephen John Valent, ARMY

I am very grateful and honored to be a gold star spouse. The privilege and honor is still with me to this very day. We have a beautiful daughter, son-in-law and three beautiful grandchildren. Stephen would be very proud.

Sugar Bear Foundation Honors the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country while we support the spouses and children they leave behind. Please consider making a donation today to help us continue the programs we offer.

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SPC Matthew Jarrod Kocher, ARMY

“Matthew was more than just an honorable man; he was the kind of person whose kindness touched everyone he met. He was the one who would give you the shirt off his back, or stop whatever he was doing to help a soldier get a ride on post. His heart was wide open, always ready to welcome a friend in need, no matter the hour. He wasn’t just a good friend or a father; he was the glue that held us together. His love and devotion were boundless, and he always made sure to fill our lives with memories we’d cherish forever. Together, we explored the world, adventuring through Europe, laughing, and creating moments that now feel like treasures. Every single day without him feels like a piece of us is missing. But in his absence, we are more determined than ever to carry his name forward, to honor his legacy with the same love and generosity he showed us. Until we meet again, Matthew, we hold you in our hearts.”

Sugar Bear Foundation Honors the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country while we support the spouses and children they leave behind. Please consider making a donation today a donation today to help us continue the programs we offer.

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2LT Benjamin Colgan, Army

“My dad was a devoted husband, dad, world class soldier and friend to all. Those who knew him could attest to his generous spirit and ever present smile. His commanding officer described him as "absolutely fearless" and 'the bravest most decent and selfless man" he's ever known.”

Sugar Bear Foundation Honors the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country while we support the spouses and children they leave behind. Please consider making a donation today to help us continue the programs we offer.

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SGT Buddy Hughie, Army

“Buddy loved life, loved his son, and loved the Army. He lives on in his son Cooper who strives to be a doctor and save people in the way his father did.”

Sugar Bear Foundation Honors the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country while we support the spouses and children they leave behind. Please consider making a donation today to help us continue the programs we offer.

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SPC Russell Hercules Jr., ARMY

“Herc was the life of every room he walked into. He had a heart of gold and would do anything in his power to take care of those he cared for and to put a smile on everyone's face. He was the class clown type, always goofing around, dancing, and laughing. He was an avid Xbox player and even got asked to go pro with it but he wanted to serve his country instead. He was married with two children, Cadence and Christopher. He had 2 sisters and a nephew at the time of his death. He was all about his family, being a father was the one thing he wanted in life. He called home every chance he could. When problems would arise he would do everything in his power to find a resolution. He knew when we needed the goofy side of him and when we needed the serious side.

He joined the Army fresh out of high school in 2006. He did basic/AIT at Ft. Benning, GA. He was stationed at Ft. Riley, KS where he was quickly shipped off to Iraq for a 15-month deployment. He arrived back home in mid-2008. In October of that year, he was PCS'd to Fort Campbell, KY. In December 2008, they left for a year-long tour in Afghanistan. September 29th, the Pathfinder unit was headed out on their last mission before preparing to return home. It was on that final mission, on October 1, 2009; that SPC Hercules was shot and killed. The only member lost to the Pathfinder unit since Vietnam. Both his parents and his wife were prior service.

If we learn anything from the sacrifices of our loved ones it is to never take a single moment for granted. Cherish the little things in life & never go to bed upset. Tomorrow isn't promised today - go out there and achieve your dreams today. Live & love like there is no tomorrow...”

Sugar Bear Foundation Honors the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country while we support the spouses and children they leave behind. Please consider making a donation today to help us continue the programs we offer.

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MSG Jeremy Burris, ARMY

“Jeremy was an incredible soldier and leader for the U.S Army. He was devoted to his career and his soldiers. He enjoyed movie nights with his family and making homemade popcorn. There wasn't a single thing Jeremy couldn't do. He was very skillful and handy. He spent his spare time on his wellness and was a Master Fitness Trainer for the Army. He won the Best Warrior competition in the Army and acquired various awards and medals during his 18 years of service. He was a go-getter and ambitious. He casted a large shadow with big shoes to fill and he will always remain in our hearts and will forever be missed.”

Sugar Bear Foundation Honors the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country while we support the spouses and children they leave behind. Please consider making a donation today to help us continue the programs we offer.

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MAJ Stewart McGurk, ARMY

“Stewart leaves behind two boys and they are ages 7 and 11 years old. Stewart was deployed when our first born was born in Germany. He loved singing to them when they were young. Stewart loved telling jokes and it was rare that a day went by in which he did not tell a joke. He started out as an EOD tech and switched to become a Foreign Area Officer when we became pregnant with our first child. He was selected to become a China FAO and learned Mandarin at DLI. He had just started his FAO career when he passed away.”

Sugar Bear Foundation Honors the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country while we support the spouses and children they leave behind. Please consider making a donation today to help us continue the programs we offer.

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SFC Elis A Barreto Ortiz, ARMY

“Elis served in the Army active duty for 9 years. He was an amazing dad and husband. Elis enjoyed playing the electric guitar, working on cars as a hobby and being a dad. While on his second deployment, Elis was Killed in Action by a suicide car bomb while conducting escort security in Kabul Afghanistan. Elis was buried in Arlington National Cemetery.”

Sugar Bear Foundation Honors the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country while we support the spouses and children they leave behind. Please consider making a donation today to help us continue the programs we offer.

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SGT Milton A Gist, ARMY

“My Father was a loving man, who provided for his family. His life was full of service, from his community to his country. His legacy lives through my sister and I.”

Sugar Bear Foundation Honors the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country while we support the spouses and children they leave behind. Please consider making a donation today to help us continue the programs we offer.

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SFC Jess Anthony Brown, ARMY

“In commemorating my father, Jess A. Brown, I remember our shared bond for old music and 80s movies, which created unbreakable memories that I cannot wait to share with my future kids. His infectious laughter and thoughtful gestures made him beloved by all!

My dad was present and hard-working. I hold my dad in a special place in my heart for all the remarkable values he taught my sisters and I. Withal, his passing taught me about perseverance and how to cope with grief, and it gave me a profound appreciation for the sacrifices and things military parents do for their families.”

Sugar Bear Foundation Honors the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country while we support the spouses and children they leave behind. Please consider making a donation today to help us continue the programs we offer.

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SFC Sauron Phe Som, ARMY

“He is survived by his loving wife, Naren Som; mother, Roeung Som; father, Sai Som; mother in law, Puth Ny; sons, Sean Som, Giovanni Som and Sayvin Som; daughters, Asiyah Som, Saroni Som, Sarena Som and Maylene Sok; brothers, Sarann Phe, David Phe and Saroeun Phe; sisters, Sarath Phe, Maria Conrique and many extended family members Saruon was born in Thailand on February 5, 1982. He joined the US Army on April 7, 2005 and enjoyed a distinguished career serving in a multitude of positions both in the US and abroad. SFC Som served with the utmost distinction and received the following awards in the military: Army Commendation Medal Valor, Army Commendation Medal (5 Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Achievement Medal (5 Silver Leaf Cluster), Valorous Unit Award, Army Good Conduct Medal (5 Knots), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal With Campaign Star (2), Iraq Campaign Medal With Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon (3rd Award), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (3), and the NATO Medal, Recruiters Badge, Combat Action Badge, Parachutist Badge and Driver Mechanic Badge.”

Sugar Bear Foundation Honors the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country while we support the spouses and children they leave behind. Please consider making a donation today to help us continue the programs we offer.

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CW2 Joshua M. Scott, ARMY

”CW2 Joshua Michael Scott is a hero. On May 26, 2005 Josh was killed in action when his OH-58 Kiowa Warrior helicopter came under attack from small-arms fire and crashed in Buhriz, Iraq. Josh’s life in the military embodies a commitment to a greater purpose that goes beyond personal gain. He chose a path that prioritized the well-being and safety of others. His willingness to put the needs of his country and fellow citizens above his own is a testament to his exceptional character and sense of duty. It is this commitment to something larger than oneself that distinguishes him and makes him a true hero. From time spent away from loved ones to the physical and emotional tolls of the work, men and women in the service have endured hardships that many cannot fathom. Despite these challenges, Josh exhibited remarkable resilience, pushing through adversity and demonstrating unwavering confidence. His ability to remain steadfast in the face of difficulties is a testament to his inner strength and determination. However, my fathers heroism goes beyond his tremendous sacrifice. My dad was the type of man to stop everything in order to go help whomever he could. When someone was stuck on the side of the road, he would be the first one there trying to help. When someone’s American flag became worn and torn he would go and replace it with a new one. His willingness to help followed him up until the very end, as he sacrificed it all for me, you, and his country. I hope that you take Joshua Michael Scott’s legacy with you and help to keep him alive in our spirits and souls. Next time you see someone in need please go help. Hold open a door, spare a dollar or two for the homeless, smile at people. A simple act can change a life and if I have learned anything from my father’s life, it's to not leave this world without leaving a positive impact on as many people as possible.”

Sugar Bear Foundation Honors the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country while we support the spouses and children they leave behind. Please consider making a donation today to help us continue the programs we offer.

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