Army Specialist Phillip N. Sayles will be remembered by his family and friends as a loving soul who lived his life with energy and passion. He will also be remembered by his country as a dedicated soldier who bravely answered his nation’s call to service and gave his life in the defense of our freedom. Those who knew Phillip Sayles often spoke of his quiet demeanor and the way he showed determination whenever there was a task at hand, focusing on getting the job done and never complaining. He called the central Arkansas town of Jacksonville home, and attended nearby North Pulaski High School.

In school, he was active in the ROTC program, where his leadership skills and discipline quickly distinguished him with the qualities of a soldier. Spc. Sayles transferred to Cabot High School for his senior year, and upon his graduation in 1997, enlisted in the United States Army. He was a part of the Army’s 25th Infantry Division and spent time at Fort Lewis in Washington prior to his service in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Tragically, on May 28, Spc. Sayles was checking for weapons in three cars that had been pulled over by American troops in Mosul. An improvised explosive device was detonated nearby, killing him and wounding 21 others; including 13 American troops and eight Iraqi civilians. Words can not adequately express the sorrow felt in the hearts of the family and loved ones of Phillip Sayles, but I pray they can find solace in the courageous way he lived his life.

Although he may no longer be with us, his spirit will forever live on in the examples he set and the many lives he touched. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, his friends, and to all those who knew and loved him.