Bucklin

Photo By Staff Sgt. Zachary Mott | Cpl. Brock Bucklin was remembered as a dedicated Soldier and hard worker who was eager move ahead in his Army career during a memorial ceremony at Forward Operating Base Warhorse Sunday.  

BAQUBAH, IRAQ

06.05.2006

Courtesy Story

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BAQUBAH, Iraq (June 5, 2006) -- Cpl. Brock Bucklin was remembered as a dedicated Soldier and hard worker who was eager move ahead in his Army career during a memorial ceremony at Forward Operating Base Warhorse Sunday.

Bucklin, from Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1-68 Combined Arms Battalion, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Task Force Band of Brothers, died when a link from a chain snapped and hit him in the throat. He was transported to Balad hospital where he died of his wounds May 31.

The Grand Rapids, Mich., native was a member of the Mortar Platoon before assuming duties with the mayor's cell at Forward Operating Base Gabe. His duties consisted of improving the quality of life for those residing there and assisting in closing the FOB after the bulk of 1-68 CAB moved to FOB Warhorse.

"He made sure that every Soldier would always have the comfort necessary to relax after a long mission, have a nice room to stay in during an overnight stay and had the ability to complete daily work on the FOB," said Capt. Sterling Packer, commander HHC, 1-68 CAB.

Bucklin was remembered by his fellow Soldiers for his storytelling ability. One such story, as retold by Staff Sgt. Scott Wesemann, involved Bucklin, his brothers, a bulldozer and a strip mall.

"Now, I've not confirmed the story with family or friends, but I could tell in the conviction in his voice and the seriousness of his face â?¦ you can't help but believe the story," Wesemann said.

Other stories were told -- as many confirmed, Bucklin was a storyteller who enjoyed reliving the experiences whether fact or fiction.

"He could tell some pretty unbelievable stories that were both funny and annoying," said Pfc. Connor Meggitt, HHC, 1-68 CAB. "I am very grateful for having the privilege of working and getting to know as kind and hard working as Cpl. Bucklin."

As many said, Bucklin never met anyone he did not make a friend. As the nods of understanding went around the room, this fact was confirmed by the large contingent at the gymnasium named in honor of another fallen comrade: Sgt. 1st Class David Salie, from the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor, 3rd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division.

"He could make friends immediately with anybody," Packer said. "In fact he would be your friend whether you wanted him to or not. He had that effect on people. He had the uncanny ability to make friends instantaneously regardless of rank, status or nationality. I dare say that every person on FOB Gabe knew him."

Bucklin is the ninth Soldier from the 3rd HBCT, 4th ID to die during Operation Iraqi Freedom 05-07.

"He will forever be memorialized in the Striker Brigade and the Silver Lions for he was such an integral part of this Band of Brothers," said Lt. Col. Thomas Fisher, commander, 1-68 CAB. "Cpl. Bucklin served with distinction as one of the few who had chosen a path of honor demonstrating the highest values of service to this country."

Bucklin is survived by his parents Duane and Dawn, son Jacob Alexander, brothers Brad, Wayne, Shawn, Pete and sister Becky.

• Date Taken: 06.05.2006
• Date Posted: 06.05.2006 13:38
• Story ID: 6675
• Location: BAQUBAH, IQ