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Soldier's message finds an audience

Nov-27-2007 » Filed Under: 3/2 SBCT , Tributes

Jerry Brewer has posted a post-race update of his column on David Hardt. Congrats to David on finishing the race in honor of his fallen comrades.

By Jerry Brewer, Seattle Times

David Bruce Hardt had never run a marathon like this before. He usually hates the day of a race, because he's too focused or too sore, and his competitiveness overwhelms his joy.

On Sunday, however, everything felt different for the Iraq War veteran. Eighteen miles into the Seattle Marathon, his tribute to 48 of his fallen comrades, Hardt recognized just how widespread his message of remembrance had become.

The crowd began cheering him loudly. People extended their hands to offer thanks. Others wanted hugs, and Hardt was happy to break his stride to give them. A little girl even kissed his cheek, just as an Iraqi girl had done several months ago in an alley in Baghdad.

As a soldier, Hardt has become adept at anticipation, so he felt this atmosphere before he ran into it.

"It was pretty electric, pretty intense," said Spc. Hardt, a Fort Lewis soldier who has done two tours in Iraq serving with the Army's 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry C Company, 2nd Platoon Reapers. "I knew I was going into it. I could sense it. It was inspirational. It was emotional.

"I can't even properly express what it meant, and I'm a talkative guy."

So many cameras flashed Hardt must've thought he was escorting Jessica Alba on the red carpet. He was a hero. He also represented heroes.

Now the average citizen understands this war better. Real people, not faceless troops, are dying, many more than the 48 names written on the shirt Hardt wore Sunday.

[...]


Comments For "Soldier's message finds an audience":

Many Thanks to you David for honoring the 48 fallen in the Stryker Brigade. We will never forget these brave soldiers that have gone on before. GOD Bless you and much success in the future
Gale Poindexter
Tulsa, OK
Proud mother of Sgt Joel W Lewis, KIA 5/6/07Baquebah, Iraw 3-2, 5/20 SBCT

Posted by: Tulsaok1nurse [TypeKey Profile Page] | November 27, 2007 12:37 PM

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