David L. Herrera, 26

It is an honor to be able to say, I went to school with him (Class of 97) and I am very proud of you and you will always be remembered at every class reunion.

It's so sad to see him go, but he's at a better place. Thank you for serving our country as you will always be our hero.

I was David's Platoon Leader in D/2-502 during Operation Joint Guard (Kosovo). I KNEW how old he was, but I didn't KNOW how old he was. He was wise beyond his years. Technically and tactically proficient; a model Infantrymen. I paired him with a Staff Sergeant that I considered weak because I knew that at the end of the day David would do the right thing, he always made it happen. He and I used to listen to Neil Young and talk about our families. Our fathers were Vietnam Veterans and we were immensely proud of them. After we returned to FT Campbell David would come over for dinner and sometimes babysit my son. I briefly lost touch with him while I was enrolled in the Degree Completion Program. I ran in to David at the OB/GYN clinic a few months later. Our wives were pregnant with our daughters. By coincidence, we planned to name out daughters Emma. They were born a few days apart. I am deeply saddened to learn of David's death. He was a consummate professional and he was my friend. Tonya, CSM and Mrs. Herrera and Marcus, I will never forget him.

I whas in david class room at oceanside high i had lots of nice memories whit him he's whas nice good hart funny my lost go's out to his family and wife and his 2 childeren..

To the Herrera family, Recently a man who is walking across America putting out flags for our fallen soldiers came through our small town. Our family picked up David's flag. I have that flag that was posted on a mile marker between Sterling, Co. and the Nebraska state line. If anyone in his family wants this flag I would be glad to mail it to you.We all need to honor and respect the soldiers who keep our freedom. Thanks to david and all those I do not know.

I don't know this soldiers as I'm just visiting the website. I thank him and his family for his dedication to our county. Thank you for keeping America free and protecting our beliefs. It's because heroes like you my very young daughter will be able to live freely in this wonderful country. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! Many your memory never be forgotten. RIP

I didn't know David. But I learned of his ultimate sacrifice this week, by meeting his father in San Diego. His father introduced himself to my son, David, who was with 101st Airborne, 502nd, before transferring to Ft. Lewis. His father gave my son a pep talk and a gift, a Challenge Coin. He told us about his son, David. I gave him a hug and thanked him for his sacrifice. I continue to pray for our troops and their families. We will never forget our Fallen Heroes. Thank you David Herrera and continue to watch over your brothers and sisters in harms way.

I've gone to school with David ever since we were in the 3rd grade. He was like a brother to me. He will always be missed