David A. Hartman

Fallen Hero’s Hometown and State: Akron, MI

Branch of Service: U.S. Army

Rank: Sergeant First Class

David Hartman was a 21-year veteran of the Army. While serving with the 401st Transportation Company, he was killed by an I.E.D. in Bayji, Iraq. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. He had also been awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, and so many other awards and decorations, that they cannot all be listed here.

“Dave was a great guy. I never met anyone who didn’t like or respect him. I served with him in Desert Storm. There was nothing he couldn’t drive. He had a great attitude and just got stuff done. He always cared for his peers and subordinates, earning their trust and faith with his genuine leadership,” recalled friend and comrade William Weber.

Hartman was also a veteran of the first Gulf War. His brother said he developed Gulf War Syndrome and could have asked for a medical discharge. “But he didn’t try to get out,” Bill Hartman said. “When he saw all the people who were going over there, he told me he wanted to join them, and lead by example. He had a sense of duty to his country, when they called, he went. He didn’t hesitate.”

Age: 41

Date of Death: December 30, 1899