Tyler Edward Parten

West Point, 2007

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by CPT Craig Bonham II ('06) on September 15, 2009:

My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to Tyler's family and friends. I was blessed to enough to know Tyler for a short time while at the Academy. He was in my company during his Freshman year and we were both leaders during CBT in the same Company. I can say that I saw greatness in this man from beginning until end and I am deeply saddened to hear that he could not spend more time on this Earth letting that greatness shine through. From time to time I find myself watching the CBT 2005 Talent Show that I have saved on my computer. I like to show it to non-Academy grads to see what they think, hoping they will share in the joy it brings to me to be reminded of West Point. They never and will never enjoy it the way that I do, but they always are drawn to a single performance on that video. It is Tyler up on stage, guitar in hand, and a smile on his face. He proceeds to sing a song that he wrote when he was a young cadet that all of his classmates love. I can honestly say that it is my favorite performance of the show because it displays a very talented individual who makes you feel his passion and happiness at that moment. I feel proud that "I knew that guy". Tyler, you are one of my brothers and I pray that the Lord takes your family in his arms and comforts them, knowing you are home. God Bless You, Tyler. Be thou at peace...

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