California’s War Dead

    Mitchell A. Lane

    Mitchell A. Lane, 34

    Army, Sergeant 1st Class
    Dai Chopan (near), Afghanistan
    Gender: Male
    Hometown: Lompoc
    I want to go out and help them.
    — Mitchell A. Lane, before his final mission

    According to his obituary on the Arlington National Cemetery website, Lane volunteered for what became his final mission. Lane died while quick-rappelling down a rope from a hovering helicopter during a nighttime assault. He was buffeted by gusty winds and fell to his death.
    Mitchell Lane's page on Arlington Cemetery site
    « Sean A. Silva, 10/09/2003
    Pablo Manzano Jr., 08/25/2003 »
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    Two memories of Mitchell A. Lane

    Had the pleasure of knowing Mitch and calling him a friend. Mitch new know strangers and was friends with all he came in contact with. Mitch you are missed by many and loved by all my brother. Thank you for your sacrifice to this great nation to allow all of us the freedoms we have. We will ever be in debt to you and all veterans past and present. Rest in peace my friend. Mike Leeper

    — mike leeper
    May 31, 2010 at 10:11 p.m.
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    He was my best good friend. We served together in Korea 91-92 and then Ft. Leonardwood, Mo. 92-95. Mitch, you were like an older brother to me. Thank you for your friendship. I will never forget you bro! Buttman

    — Michael C. Button
    January 7, 2011 at 12:04 a.m.
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    Sources: Times research, Defense Department, iCasualties.org
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    California's War Dead is the Los Angeles Times' collection of stories about the 700 California servicemembers and 474 others based in California who died during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

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