COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- Soldiers, family, and friends pay one final tribute to Staff Sgt. Christopher Birdwell and Spc. Mabry Anders Thursday walking past a row of American flags proudly displayed for both men.
The two soldiers playing key roles in the safety and moral of the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.
Spc. Anders, who worked as a wheel mechanic, never met a person he couldn't befriend.
"He helped in a rainy day, that dude could make anybody smile," Spc. Kevin Leaman, of the U.S. Army said.
So, with heavy hearts the company smiles for both soldiers lost while fighting in "Operation Enduring Freedom".
Staff Sgt. Birdwell, who was a combat engineer, was a friendly competitor who always followed protocol.
"One of the best NCO I've ever met he cared more about soldiers then himself which is really rare, it's hard to find." Spc. Leaman said.
After honoring their country for a combined eight years their friends and family honor Staff Sgt. Birdwell and Spc. Anders in death, turning their loss into a reminder to never take life for granted.
"I know when I was there I didn't talk to everybody back her as much as I could I know a couple of guys they've started talking more just because anything can happen and this is a prime example," Spc. Trey Hammett, of the U.S. Army said.
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