Daniel P. Cagle, 22

Daniel died of injuries sustained along with his squad leader, Sgt Steve Butcher while leading a patrol in area north of Ramadi by an explosion that was set as a trap by terrorists in the area. Daniel was fire team lead under Butcher as a PFC - a position meant for Soldiers in the rank of E5(Sgt). He was chosen to be that leader above other soldiers that clearly outranked him. He was bright, quick to learn...and more than that knew people and how to talk to them to accomplish a task. Although it was his first deployment - he was well respected as a soldier and truly loved by all in the platoon. Daniel was killed while he was doing what he wanted and loved to do...leading the team....he went to investigate with Sgt Butcher and made the rest of the squad wait. Butcher was killed instantly, Daniel died of injuries in the helicopter evac to Balad.

We had the great fortune of having Daniel home three weeks before he was killed. During that time we had many serious talks, even those about the possibility of him not returning. He gave us all specific directions to remember him with laughter and all the good times before and not sorrows. He knew the risks, but he also knew that he was needed in Iraq. He would be incomplete without his men, and they without him. We are doing our best to honor his life, not his death. My grief is deep and great,and still not a day passes that there are not tears, but my pride for my son is greater yet and I thank the good Lord in the blessing in having Daniel as my son.

God Bless
Gail Johnson

Daniel died saving my sons' life, PFC Palm, Corey. We will never forget and will always honor Daniel.

Loved and never forgotten by everyone he touched!!!

Mother Johnson, I know my words are too poor to honor your son,but let me try. He, knowingly, lay down his life for his buddies. His honor , bravery, was unquestioned, and we'll never forget his sacrifice. We all must pass from this life, but to do so, as your son did, has certainly been engraved in the roll of honor forever. This country, and Iraq, thank you for this fine young man.

4 yrs ago today Daniel led his infantry team in search of insurgents in the al anbar province. Killed in action. I still expect my son to walk through our front door with that big smile and bear hug. Never forgotten. Daniel believed in what he was doing, and I believe I him. He fought for those who could not or would not. God bless America! Land of the free.