PGR September 14, 2006

The Department of Defense announced the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Hannah L. Gunterman, 20, of Redlands, Calif., died on Sept. 4 in Taji, Iraq, from a non-combat related cause. Gunterman was assigned to the 542^nd Maintenance Company, 44th Corps Support Battalion, Fort Lewis, Wash.

This incident is under investigation.

There was an article in today's local newspaper about Hannah McKinney (aka: Hannah Gunterman) and her family.

http://www.sbsun.com/ci_4303657

After reading this story, it will became apparent that we need to mention Hannah was not only a nation's hero, but a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend to many...I would like to offer my condolences specifically to Hannah's parents; Matt & Barbie Heavrin, Hannah's husband; Chris McKinney and to her very young son; Todd Gunterman.

The loss of this wonderful young woman will be very difficult for the many lives she touched during her very short time here.

I left work this morning at 8:30 am, I arrived at the Church in Riverside at about 10 am. The service was just beginning. We waited until the services were over and the family came out with Hannah in her flag-drapped casket, the 50 PGR's that were there lined the walk way with flags held high.

Following the church service we had a police escort from the church to the Riverside Cemetery, 30 miles away.

This was a beautiful service, and once again the Patriot Guard Riders did an excellant job.

God Bless Pfc Hannah McKinney. Rest in Peace American hero.