Ian P Weikel

West Point, 1997

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Scott Leblond on April 24, 2006:

Wendy- You probably don't remember me from our time in Iraq in 2003-04, where I met you and Ian while serving in 1-10CAV. I was in Command of Easy Troop (the Kiowas) and we would talk about how tough it was leaving family but we felt it all had a purpose; ironically you were a big boost for me during those rough times as I sat thousand of miles from my wife and children. When I finally met your husband (right before he moved again to 1st BDE) it was incredible seeing the two of you together and made me that much more anxious to get home to my own family. I can say that just reading about Ian's death hit me hard- not because I knew him well, because I didn't get to know him well in the short time he was with us, but because what little time I spent around him you could tell what a dynamic person he was and sense he would be a great commander. I cannot stress how deeply sorry for your loss that I am. I know that Jonathan will never be allowed to forget the memory of his father, and if he were to ever ask me what I thought of Ian, I would simply say that he was "energizing" in every sense of the word; he was compassionate, embracing, and always smiling. His enthusiasm for every mission and the soldiers involved was contagious- even on the desolate Iranian border at Camp Caldwell. Wendy- The thoughts and prayers of my entire family are with yours as you go through this sorrowful time. Please know that if you are ever in need, my family and I are there for you. God Bless. -Scott (Easy 6)

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