Memorial Donations
The freedoms we enjoy today are a result of the brave men and women who have fought to protect our liberties throughout history. The Arkansas Freedom Fund honors veterans of the past with this memorial dedication page, expressing our deep gratitude for their service and sacrifice during both peace and war. We extend heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones in service to our country.
Consider making a memorial donation in honor of a veteran to help us continue supporting Arkansas veterans.
Mail donations to:
Arkansas Freedom Fund
RE: Memorial Donations
PO Box 411
Atkins, AR 72823
We also invite you to watch a touching memorial video, and we thank Freedom Remembered for their dedication to preserving the stories of those who gave their lives during OEF, OIF, and OND.
Consider making a memorial donation in honor of a veteran to help us continue supporting Arkansas veterans.
Mail donations to:
Arkansas Freedom Fund
RE: Memorial Donations
PO Box 411
Atkins, AR 72823
We also invite you to watch a touching memorial video, and we thank Freedom Remembered for their dedication to preserving the stories of those who gave their lives during OEF, OIF, and OND.
In Memory of and Memorial Donations
Ray "Bampa Bear" Tandler – US Marine Corps. An optical repair technician specializing in weapon scopes. After service, he worked 30 years at GM in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Active in the AFF Freedom Hunters Program, Ray attended many events, sharing stories with younger generations. He will be deeply missed.
William Meyers – US Army, AFF Member.
Kenneth Mueller – Hot Springs Village. Thank you for your service.
Tanya Spillane – US Army. Wife of AFF member Mickey Spillane, a leader and mentor as Cabot Schools Principal. Her ‘Never Quit’ attitude was an inspiration. She will be missed.
Ralph Garner Rogers III – US Navy, AFF Member. A passionate volunteer who rode in the 2017 Arkansas Challenge and was active in various sports. His smile will be missed.
Andrew AJ Genco – Lt Col USAF, AFF Member. A dedicated father who rode the Arkansas Challenge with his son on a tandem. Loved by many, he was a proud member of the Major Taylor Cycling Club of Little Rock.
Bill Permenter – USAF Veteran. Remembered by the Hawkens.
David Dubois – USMC, Member of Marine Corps League. Thank you.
James Sheeham – North Little Rock. Thank you for your service.
Charles R. Dixon – US Army, Lead Hill, AR. Loved and respected.
Ike Covert – US Army. Honored by Connie Scott and Walter Yahn.
Paul Palmer – Bentonville. Thank you for your service.
Harold Steelman – Cammack Village. A great patriot and champion of America.
CW2 Eulas R. Wiggs – Romance, Arkansas.
Bill A. Sims of Sherwood. Memorials can be made to Bayo Meto Baptist Church.
Sgt 1st Class Ricardo Young, 34, Rosston, AR.
Sgt Jamar A. Hicks, 22, Little Rock, AR.
Sgt Joseph A. Richardson, 23, Booneville, AR.
Sgt Jason M. Swindle, 24, Cabot, AR.
Sgt Michael J. Strachota, 28, White Hall, AR.
MSGT Gregory Childs, 38, Warren, AR.
Staff Sgt Jerry D. Reed II, 30, Russellville, AR.
Sgt. 1st Class Benjamin B. Wise, 34, Little Rock, AR.
Sgt. 1st Class Wise passed away after being wounded in combat in Balkh Province, Afghanistan. He was injured on Jan. 9 and died from his injuries at a medical center in Germany. His brother, Jeremy Wise, a former Navy SEAL, was also killed in Afghanistan in 2009. Sgt. Wise's bravery and sacrifice, along with his family's service, will never be forgotten.
Senior Chief Petty Officer Thomas A. Ratzlaff, 34, Green Forest, AR.
Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) Thomas A. Ratzlaff died on Aug. 6, 2011, in Wardak Province, Afghanistan, when his CH-47 Chinook helicopter crashed during combat operations. He was a member of an East Coast-based Naval Special Warfare unit. His bravery and dedication to service will be remembered.
Cpl. Loren M. Buffalo, 20, Mountain Pine, AR.
Cpl. Buffalo died on March 9, 2011, in Kandahar, Afghanistan, from wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, KY. His service was honored with multiple awards, including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Cpl. Buffalo joined the Army in May 2009, and his dedication and sacrifice will always be remembered.
Staff Sergeant Danny Owen Halstead, USMC, of Redfield, AR.
April 9, 1928 – March 7, 2011.
A proud veteran of the Korean War, Danny served his country with honor and dedication. His legacy of service and love lives on in the hearts of those who knew him. Thank you for your service, Danny. You are deeply loved and will always be remembered.
Sgt. Ethan C. Hardin, 25, Fayetteville, AR.
A graduate of Fayetteville Christian School and member of Mission Boulevard Baptist Church, Sgt. Hardin enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2006. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan, earning numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Sgt. Hardin died on January 7, 2011, in Logar Province, Afghanistan, from wounds sustained during an insurgent attack. His bravery and sacrifice will always be remembered.
Cpl. Chad S. Wade, 22, Bentonville, AR.
Cpl. Chad S. Wade was serving his third combat deployment as a rifleman when he was killed during combat operations in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, on December 1, 2010. He enlisted in the Marines on October 16, 2007, and had previously served in Iraq. His commendations include the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, and Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, among others. Chad is survived by his wife Katie, his mother Tami and her husband Terry, his father Terence L. Wade and his wife Crystal, along with his siblings. He will always be remembered for his courage and dedication.
Spc. David S. Robinson, 25, Fort Smith, AR.
Spc. David S. Robinson had served tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan, demonstrating remarkable bravery and commitment to his country. He passed away on November 20, 2010, in Qalat, Afghanistan, due to injuries sustained in a non-combat-related accident. David is survived by his wife Heidi, daughter Madison, sons Jerimy and Tyler, and a large extended family, including his parents and siblings. His awards include the Army Commendation Medal and the Iraq and Afghanistan Campaign Medals. His devotion to service and love for his family will never be forgotten.
LCpl. Irvin M. Ceniceros, 21, Clarksville, AR.
LCpl. Irvin M. Ceniceros, the youngest of four children, died on October 14, 2010, during combat operations in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. A 2007 graduate of Clarksville High School, Irvin enlisted in the Marines in August 2007 and quickly proved his dedication. His commendations include the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal. Irvin leaves behind his parents Ignacio Ceniceros and Maria A. Armendaniz, as well as his sister Karla and brothers Ivan and Abraham. He will always be remembered for his bravery and service.
Spc. Bryn T. Raver, 20, Harrison, AR.
Bryn enlisted in the Army in 2008, serving as a military policeman at Fort Campbell. He loved the outdoors, spending time camping, fishing, and hunting. He leaves behind his wife, Pvt. Kellie Raver, daughter Elisha, father Charles, and two brothers. He died on August 29, 2010, in Nangahar, Afghanistan, when his military vehicle was struck by a rocket-propelled grenade.
A1C Jesse M. Samek, 21, Rogers, AR.
Jesse was an Air Force airman who served as a flight engineer on an HH-60 Para Rescue helicopter. He loved the outdoors and was an avid Cardinals and Blues fan. He died on October 21, 2004, in Kandahar, Afghanistan, from injuries sustained in a helicopter crash during a medical evacuation mission. Jesse is honored at Nellis AFB with the Jesse M. Samek Airmen’s Center, a recreational facility named in his memory.
Sgt. Bradley W. Marshall, 37, Little Rock, AR.
Bradley began his military career in the Army from 1990 to 1994 and re-enlisted as a paratrooper in 2006. He enjoyed outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking, which allowed him to bond with his family and friends. He leaves behind his wife Gina, sons Wesley and Tanner, and his parents. He died on July 31, 2007, in Tunis, Iraq, from wounds sustained by enemy fire.
Pfc. Rodney L. McCandless, 21, Camden, AR.
Rodney was a role model, committed to setting a positive example for children by avoiding smoking, drinking, or drugs. He enlisted in the Army in 2005 and served in the 82nd Airborne Division. He was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, among other commendations. Rodney leaves behind his parents Lynn and Rhonda, a sister, and two brothers. He died on April 7, 2007, in Zaganiyah, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his unit.
Staff Sgt. Stacey C. Brandon, 35, Hazen, AR.
Staff Sgt. Stacey C. Brandon was a National Guardsman who joined in 1990 and served with dedication in various units, including the 39th Infantry Brigade. Outside of his military service, he worked as a prison guard with the Arkansas Department of Correction and later at the federal prison in Forrest City. Known for his steadfast loyalty, Stacey deployed for active duty in 2003, continuing his commitment to the nation. His awards and decorations include two Army Achievement Medals, four Reserve Components Achievement Medals, and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal. Stacey was killed on April 24, 2004, in Taji, Iraq, during a rocket attack on his camp. He leaves behind his wife, April, two children, Jonathan and Brianna, and a brother, Jeffrey. His service and sacrifice are remembered with deep respect.
Capt. Arthur L. Felder, 36, Louisville, AR.
Capt. Arthur L. Felder, known as "Bo," grew up in Flint, Michigan, and attended East Texas Baptist University. He joined the Army while still in high school, continuing a family tradition of military service dating back to World War I. Over his nearly 20-year career, Bo served in peacekeeping missions in Bosnia and Honduras and was the commander of Headquarters Company. A man of deep faith, he prayed frequently, leading prayers at family dinners and before every mission. His strong devotion to God, family, and country was evident throughout his life. His commendations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and numerous other awards, as well as posthumous honors of the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. Bo was killed on April 24, 2004, when mortar rounds hit his camp in Taji, Iraq, during an 80mm rocket strike. He leaves behind a legacy of service and commitment.
William Meyers – US Army, AFF Member.
Kenneth Mueller – Hot Springs Village. Thank you for your service.
Tanya Spillane – US Army. Wife of AFF member Mickey Spillane, a leader and mentor as Cabot Schools Principal. Her ‘Never Quit’ attitude was an inspiration. She will be missed.
Ralph Garner Rogers III – US Navy, AFF Member. A passionate volunteer who rode in the 2017 Arkansas Challenge and was active in various sports. His smile will be missed.
Andrew AJ Genco – Lt Col USAF, AFF Member. A dedicated father who rode the Arkansas Challenge with his son on a tandem. Loved by many, he was a proud member of the Major Taylor Cycling Club of Little Rock.
Bill Permenter – USAF Veteran. Remembered by the Hawkens.
David Dubois – USMC, Member of Marine Corps League. Thank you.
James Sheeham – North Little Rock. Thank you for your service.
Charles R. Dixon – US Army, Lead Hill, AR. Loved and respected.
Ike Covert – US Army. Honored by Connie Scott and Walter Yahn.
Paul Palmer – Bentonville. Thank you for your service.
Harold Steelman – Cammack Village. A great patriot and champion of America.
CW2 Eulas R. Wiggs – Romance, Arkansas.
Bill A. Sims of Sherwood. Memorials can be made to Bayo Meto Baptist Church.
Sgt 1st Class Ricardo Young, 34, Rosston, AR.
Sgt Jamar A. Hicks, 22, Little Rock, AR.
Sgt Joseph A. Richardson, 23, Booneville, AR.
Sgt Jason M. Swindle, 24, Cabot, AR.
Sgt Michael J. Strachota, 28, White Hall, AR.
MSGT Gregory Childs, 38, Warren, AR.
Staff Sgt Jerry D. Reed II, 30, Russellville, AR.
Sgt. 1st Class Benjamin B. Wise, 34, Little Rock, AR.
Sgt. 1st Class Wise passed away after being wounded in combat in Balkh Province, Afghanistan. He was injured on Jan. 9 and died from his injuries at a medical center in Germany. His brother, Jeremy Wise, a former Navy SEAL, was also killed in Afghanistan in 2009. Sgt. Wise's bravery and sacrifice, along with his family's service, will never be forgotten.
Senior Chief Petty Officer Thomas A. Ratzlaff, 34, Green Forest, AR.
Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) Thomas A. Ratzlaff died on Aug. 6, 2011, in Wardak Province, Afghanistan, when his CH-47 Chinook helicopter crashed during combat operations. He was a member of an East Coast-based Naval Special Warfare unit. His bravery and dedication to service will be remembered.
Cpl. Loren M. Buffalo, 20, Mountain Pine, AR.
Cpl. Buffalo died on March 9, 2011, in Kandahar, Afghanistan, from wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, KY. His service was honored with multiple awards, including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Cpl. Buffalo joined the Army in May 2009, and his dedication and sacrifice will always be remembered.
Staff Sergeant Danny Owen Halstead, USMC, of Redfield, AR.
April 9, 1928 – March 7, 2011.
A proud veteran of the Korean War, Danny served his country with honor and dedication. His legacy of service and love lives on in the hearts of those who knew him. Thank you for your service, Danny. You are deeply loved and will always be remembered.
Sgt. Ethan C. Hardin, 25, Fayetteville, AR.
A graduate of Fayetteville Christian School and member of Mission Boulevard Baptist Church, Sgt. Hardin enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2006. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan, earning numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Sgt. Hardin died on January 7, 2011, in Logar Province, Afghanistan, from wounds sustained during an insurgent attack. His bravery and sacrifice will always be remembered.
Cpl. Chad S. Wade, 22, Bentonville, AR.
Cpl. Chad S. Wade was serving his third combat deployment as a rifleman when he was killed during combat operations in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, on December 1, 2010. He enlisted in the Marines on October 16, 2007, and had previously served in Iraq. His commendations include the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, and Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, among others. Chad is survived by his wife Katie, his mother Tami and her husband Terry, his father Terence L. Wade and his wife Crystal, along with his siblings. He will always be remembered for his courage and dedication.
Spc. David S. Robinson, 25, Fort Smith, AR.
Spc. David S. Robinson had served tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan, demonstrating remarkable bravery and commitment to his country. He passed away on November 20, 2010, in Qalat, Afghanistan, due to injuries sustained in a non-combat-related accident. David is survived by his wife Heidi, daughter Madison, sons Jerimy and Tyler, and a large extended family, including his parents and siblings. His awards include the Army Commendation Medal and the Iraq and Afghanistan Campaign Medals. His devotion to service and love for his family will never be forgotten.
LCpl. Irvin M. Ceniceros, 21, Clarksville, AR.
LCpl. Irvin M. Ceniceros, the youngest of four children, died on October 14, 2010, during combat operations in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. A 2007 graduate of Clarksville High School, Irvin enlisted in the Marines in August 2007 and quickly proved his dedication. His commendations include the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal. Irvin leaves behind his parents Ignacio Ceniceros and Maria A. Armendaniz, as well as his sister Karla and brothers Ivan and Abraham. He will always be remembered for his bravery and service.
Spc. Bryn T. Raver, 20, Harrison, AR.
Bryn enlisted in the Army in 2008, serving as a military policeman at Fort Campbell. He loved the outdoors, spending time camping, fishing, and hunting. He leaves behind his wife, Pvt. Kellie Raver, daughter Elisha, father Charles, and two brothers. He died on August 29, 2010, in Nangahar, Afghanistan, when his military vehicle was struck by a rocket-propelled grenade.
A1C Jesse M. Samek, 21, Rogers, AR.
Jesse was an Air Force airman who served as a flight engineer on an HH-60 Para Rescue helicopter. He loved the outdoors and was an avid Cardinals and Blues fan. He died on October 21, 2004, in Kandahar, Afghanistan, from injuries sustained in a helicopter crash during a medical evacuation mission. Jesse is honored at Nellis AFB with the Jesse M. Samek Airmen’s Center, a recreational facility named in his memory.
Sgt. Bradley W. Marshall, 37, Little Rock, AR.
Bradley began his military career in the Army from 1990 to 1994 and re-enlisted as a paratrooper in 2006. He enjoyed outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking, which allowed him to bond with his family and friends. He leaves behind his wife Gina, sons Wesley and Tanner, and his parents. He died on July 31, 2007, in Tunis, Iraq, from wounds sustained by enemy fire.
Pfc. Rodney L. McCandless, 21, Camden, AR.
Rodney was a role model, committed to setting a positive example for children by avoiding smoking, drinking, or drugs. He enlisted in the Army in 2005 and served in the 82nd Airborne Division. He was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, among other commendations. Rodney leaves behind his parents Lynn and Rhonda, a sister, and two brothers. He died on April 7, 2007, in Zaganiyah, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his unit.
Staff Sgt. Stacey C. Brandon, 35, Hazen, AR.
Staff Sgt. Stacey C. Brandon was a National Guardsman who joined in 1990 and served with dedication in various units, including the 39th Infantry Brigade. Outside of his military service, he worked as a prison guard with the Arkansas Department of Correction and later at the federal prison in Forrest City. Known for his steadfast loyalty, Stacey deployed for active duty in 2003, continuing his commitment to the nation. His awards and decorations include two Army Achievement Medals, four Reserve Components Achievement Medals, and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal. Stacey was killed on April 24, 2004, in Taji, Iraq, during a rocket attack on his camp. He leaves behind his wife, April, two children, Jonathan and Brianna, and a brother, Jeffrey. His service and sacrifice are remembered with deep respect.
Capt. Arthur L. Felder, 36, Louisville, AR.
Capt. Arthur L. Felder, known as "Bo," grew up in Flint, Michigan, and attended East Texas Baptist University. He joined the Army while still in high school, continuing a family tradition of military service dating back to World War I. Over his nearly 20-year career, Bo served in peacekeeping missions in Bosnia and Honduras and was the commander of Headquarters Company. A man of deep faith, he prayed frequently, leading prayers at family dinners and before every mission. His strong devotion to God, family, and country was evident throughout his life. His commendations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and numerous other awards, as well as posthumous honors of the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. Bo was killed on April 24, 2004, when mortar rounds hit his camp in Taji, Iraq, during an 80mm rocket strike. He leaves behind a legacy of service and commitment.
