Monday, June 26, 2006

Pfc. Devon Gibbons, R.I.P.

Port Orchard Soldier Dies of Injuries from Iraq War
By Kitsap Sun staff
June 24, 2006

Army Pfc. Devon Gibbons, a former Port Orchard resident and soldier who was critically wounded in Iraq, died Friday afternoon.

For the past 10 weeks, Gibbons had fought for his life in an intensive care burn unit at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio.

He had suffered burns over 90 percent of his body when a roadside bomb detonated under an armored vehicle he was driving April 11 in Iraq. Doctors were forced to amputate both his legs and part of his right arm because of the burns.

Gibbons' parents have been in Texas since their son was transferred to the Texas hospital.

"Devon is a true Calvary Scout and a Valiant Man. His determination and strength kept him with us long enough to be an example to all of us and for him to turn his heart to the Lord," they wrote on a Web site, set up to keep family and friends updated.

"He loved much, he loved life, he fought a great fight and finished the course. Devon returned to the loving arms of the Savior about 3:30 pm on Friday, June 23rd, 2006, San Antonio time. He went peacefully, his heart stopped suddenly so he did not suffer and he is no longer in pain. ..."


You fought the good fight, now it's time to join the others at Fiddler's Green.

To Devon's parents and love ones, thank you for sharing your brave son, and supporting him in serving his country.