Garrett McLead

Fallen Hero’s Hometown and State: Rockport, TX

Branch of Service: United States Army

Rank: Sgt.

Garrett McLead wanted to become a model or actor, but decided to join the United States Army after the attacks of September 11, 2001. After graduating from Rockport Fulton High School in 2002, he joined the Army, completed training and was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, based at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.

That assignment was fine for Garrett, an avid surfer. After serving a tour in Afghanistan from 2004 – 2005, Garrett deployed to Iraq in 2006. He was one of 14 soldiers who died when the UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter they were flying on went down in northern Iraq. Garrett had a free spirit, an adventurous nature and an intoxicating laugh. He was never quiet, but always enthusiastic.

He was a fun-loving kid who grew to be a dedicated young man. In high school, he played soccer, tennis and the saxophone. Garrett was active in Young Life and the First Baptist Church of Rockport, where he helped establish the annual Big Kahuna Surf Trip. Garrett left an impression on those he met. His friend, Kallie, summed him up this way: “To meet him once was to remember him forever.”

Age: 23

Date of Death: August 22, 2007