Joshua Todd Byers

West Point, 1996

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Mike Enos on February 24, 2004:

I had the remarkable fortune to work with Josh at West Point, and again when we both found ourselves in the 3rd ACR. I flew missions with him just a few days before he was killed, and I stood with his friends and Soldiers at his memorial in Iraq. I can't remember a time I didn't see Josh without a smile on his face, and a passion for what he was doing. He is simply the finest person I have ever known. I am a better person for having known him, even for a short time, and I am honored to have served with him. He truly loved being the commander of Fox Troop, even if it was only for a short time. I will never forget the last time I saw Josh - at a rock drill for a big mission. He couldn't contain the smile at finally getting to maneuver his troop across the desert, looking for bad guys. He also couldn't stop saying "You're my boy Blue!" - he had just seen the movie Old School, and loved that line. Josh, I hope your family reads this. I'm sorry I haven't contacted them. I feel bad for not being a better friend, for not getting to know you and your wife better. I can only say again, that you have made me a better person. I can think of no higher compliment than that I hope when I have children, that they grow up to be like you. I will miss you.

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