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 Cpl. Evan Asa Ashcraft - 24 years old from West Hills, California Upon his scheduled discharge from the Army in January (2004), Evan - a San Fernando native, planned to join the police department. Evan's father-in-law, L.A Police Department Lt. Loren Farell stated, "I would smile when he'd say, "I'm going to be on the SWAT team," like it was something you did by merely checking a box on a form." His father, Asa said that his son was excited about joining the SWAT team. "And he would have made it, too. He set goals and achieved them." Asa remarked. Cpl. Ashcraft was assigned to Company A, 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division based out of Fort Campbell, KY.
Evan was one of three 101st Airborne soldiers killed on July 24, 2003 when the convoy they were traveling in fell under attack from gunfire and rocket-propelled grenades (RPG). His father Asa Ashcraft said, "He absolutely wanted to be there. In his last letter, he said, 'Dad, I've seen an awful lot of stuff. We'll talk about it when I get back." Lt. Farell said, "He was a good soldier; he would have made a great cop." Farrell said, his voice breaking. "As for the rest of us, Evan -- you are a hero to all of us, and you are a hero to your country." Evan is remembered as being a great soldier and an aspiring police officer. He considered himself a protector. He believed in his mission in Iraq and hoped to become a police officer to continue protecting others. Cpl. Ashcraft's widow, 23 year old Ashley wept as she was presented with a U.S flag that had been draped on her husband's casket. The couple had lived in Oak Grove, KY. where Evan had been stationed. Ashley stated that Evan had been recommended for a medal for helping rescue two soldiers after an April attack on a Humvee. "He was a person who really wanted to help other people, to protect them." Said Ashley. |
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