Body of soldier who died in Afghanistan returns home
The body of U.S. Army Master Sgt. Gregory Childs who died in Afghanistan on May 4 returned home to Southeast Arkansas on a small jet Friday morning. Childs, 38, of Warren died of a non-combat related illness in Kabul, according to U.S. Rep. Mike Ross.
Childs’ flag-draped casket arrived at Monticello Municipal Airport at 9:30 a.m. Family members were waiting at the airport along with numerous area residents, veterans, servicemen and women, and law enforcement officers.
Master Sgt. Gregory Childs
“Our state and nation lost a true patriot in the passing of Master Sergeant Childs,” Congressman Ross said in a news release. “His passing comes much too soon and he will be deeply missed. All Americans owe Master Sergeant Childs their eternal gratitude for his service to our nation. There is no way we can ever thank Master Sergeant Childs or his family enough for his service, but we can honor his legacy and life and pledge together to support all of our men and women in uniform who heroically serve this great country of ours. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with his family during this extraordinarily difficult time.”
Childs was assigned to the Defense Logistics Agency at Fort Belvoir, Va.
2 Comments
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This is a sad thing that has happened, for the family, fellow soldiers and America. I have never met Master Sgt. Childs but I could tell that he was a good person and a Hero. As I was there awaiting for the plane to land at the airport and escorting this Hero to the Bradley County line I could see that he was loved by many. It was a very sad moment but as we were escorting through this great town of Monticello and Drew County I was very pleased to see the people who were standing on the sidewalks with American Flags showing support to this Great American Hero and his Family. I know me and a couple of other officers took great pride in helping with this escort. To the family, friends and all other service men and women I want to Thank You for all that you sacrifice to protect us. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
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I now live in Oklahoma, but am originally from delta country in SE Arkansas, so this strikes close to my heart. It’s often said that a soldier is a person who “writes a blank check to the people of the United States, payble with and up to my life.” MSgt Childs paid that price for us all so we can continue to enjoy our freedom. God bless him and his family, and may you all know we share in your loss.
Rolling Thunder Oklahoma
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