Homburg, Germany - Final Post

“Let us run the race that is before us and never give up”

Coleman stabilized through the night and Belinda stayed with him as much as possible until around 3 AM. I went in about 6:20 AM, told him we love him and how proud we are of him. While I was standing there stroking his hair, his heart stopped. The doctors asked about reviving him and proceeded to make all efforts, none of which succeeded. I was never more than a few feet from him the while.

A little over a year ago a 17 year old boy sat across from me after saying goodbye to a friend, PFC Cody Carver and said “Dad, he did something” and asked if I would go with him to the recruiter the next day. Some might say that the Army gave me back a man – but I dare say I was looking at one that day. Coleman enlisted, turned down all of his “bonus” money, in exchange for a front row seat in a faraway place as an infantryman. Along the way, no amount of boot camp or hardship could restrain that quality that attracted so many to Coleman since he was an infant – pure, unadulterated joy.

A retired Army Ranger we know called when he heard the news about Coleman several days ago and said “listen to me – don’t ask “why” but ask “what” – what is God showing you in this?”. I would ask the same of each of you who have prayed and supported Coleman, Jordan, and our family. Coleman has forced a multitude to re-evaluate their relationships – with their family, their friends, and with God. But that was Coleman – he had a joy that attracted and changed and challenged people wherever he went. His suffering has done the same.

Coleman had no regrets about the decisions he made – he said so in so many words. He was open and expressive about his true feelings – he spoke his soul – a trait few men master. When Coleman loved you, you knew that you were loved.

Coleman was absolutely certain of his eternal destiny - which gave him true courage in life. We rest knowing that Coleman is now “face to face” with his Savior.

In the end, few men do anything that really matters - and fewer still finish well.

I know a man who managed both.

Goodbye, my precious son.



Father thank you for every second we were allowed to spend with you’re precious gift to us, Coleman. Now Lord, welcome a son, a friend and a soldier into Your loving arms. Comfort the love of his life, Jordan, his mother, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends and the many hundreds he touched.

In the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.