Army Specialist Dustin C. Fisher 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. Dustin Fisher was born in the Northwest Arkansas town of Fort Smith. He spent his childhood as many children do; hanging out with his friends, playing sports, and making life difficult for his sister. He was a fun-loving person who had a gift for story-telling and was always quick with a sarcastic remark to lighten a conversation. If looking for him, he could often be found cruising around town in his pink pickup truck, a gift from his father that he used to draw attention and meet girls. Upon his graduation from Van Buren High School in 2001, Spc. Fisher tried a year of college but found it was not for him. It became apparent that he wanted to make something of himself, so he followed his father and brother into military service. Shortly after joining the United States Army, he was sent down to Fort Stewart, Georgia. At Fort Stewart, he not only seemed to find his niche in life, but he also met his soul-mate, a young woman named Alicia. Her presence made him truly happy and two were married just days before his deployment to Iraq in late January.

While serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Spc. Fisher’s mission often entailed escorting dignitaries across the war-torn country. Although it placed him in ever-present danger, he downplayed its significance to comfort his family and friends. Although he had originally thought of re-enlisting, he now considered returning home to be with Alicia and potentially become a firefighter. He had last been home for Christmas, and was looking forward to returning for a two week leave in late June. Tragically, on May 24, while escorting a high-ranking Iraqi official, Spc. Fisher was one of three soldiers killed when a car bomb exploded near their convoy. Words can not adequately express the sorrow felt in the hearts of the family and loved ones of Dustin Fisher, 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.