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View a eulogy for Tyler Edward Parten, USMA '07, who passed away on September 10, 2009.

Tyler Edward Parten

West Point, 2007

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Lona Parten on September 24, 2009:

September 21, 2009
To Everyone:

On September 10, 2009, a young lieutenant was struck down in the prime of his life in the Konar Province of Eastern Afghanistan. Those who served under him and with him grieved as prayers were said over him at a memorial service in FOB Bostick. The wounded were sent home to heal and the young lieutenant was flown to Dover, Delaware on September 12, 2009. The lone coffin aboard the C-130 military airliner was flag-draped and escorted by a US Army Captain. His body was received with great respect and honor as he arrived back to American soil. White-gloved soldiers prayed then carried him off the plane as Generals stood by in salute. His mother, grandmother, and sister grieved as he passed by being carried by his comrades. On September 16, 2009 he was flown to West Memphis, Arkansas still being handled with honor and respect. Family could now receive him and grieve as Patriot Guards stood at attention, prepared to protect him and the family from any protesters of the war. Military men and women saluted as he was placed in a hearse for his final drive to Marianna, Arkansas, his home town. His military escort, brother, and grandfather accompanied him in the hearse as family and friends followed. On September 17th a memorial service was held for the young 1st Lieutenant in the Marianna City Park with hundreds in attendance. Full military honors were given, which included a 21-gun salute, "Taps" played on a trumpet, the folding of the American flag, and the presentation of medals for Valor by the US Army General in attendance. The 1st Lieutenant was home.

We all knew this soldier as Tyler, Ty, or simply "the kid who went to West Point". He was a boy who grew up on a farm and learned values from those around him. A community helped raise this young man and he impacted many lives across the world.

Thank you, everyone, for coming together to show the respect, love, and support for Tyler Parten, his family, and the military. Words can never express how deeply we were touched by your kindness. The cards, notes, messages, emails, and visits comforted us all. Tyler lived to serve, wanted to serve, and did serve both God and his country -- and you responded so very graciously.

With sincere love,
The family of 1st Lt. Tyler E. Parten

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