In two separate ceremonies Wednesday, 15 Fort Carson soldiers killed in Afghanistan back in October were remembered for their heroism.

The Wednesday morning service at Fort Carson's Soldiers' Memorial Chapel honored the eight soldiers who were killed after a four-hour long firefight with Taliban militants in rural eastern Afghanistan at the beginning of October.

Small laughs and quiet sobs rippled through the chapel as letters were read from soldiers still in Afghanistan recounting the fallen troops' lives and praising their bravery and friendship.

Army Secretary John McHugh attended the services.

"Unless you've been to one of these services it's hard to know the pain and the loss that's experienced," McHugh said. It was certainly evident today."

McHugh is touring Army installations after accepting the position of Secretary of the Army in late September. Wednesday he passed on condolences to families of the fallen soldiers.

"I said to them, and it's always stating the obvious: their loved ones were heroes," he told 11 News.

Maj. Dan Chandler says each of the 4th Infantry Division soldiers enlisted after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. He said, "They were helping to make a difference when they were taken from us."

“Eight men died defending a base in Afghanistan. They died fully knowing the actions they took would cost them their lives. There are many other men and women who are alive today because of their sacrifice,” says Captain Corey Steiner.

Staff Sgt. Justin Gallegos was remembered for his eagerness to be a soldier. His comrades say he was a great father to his son. He enlisted in the Army in 2003.

Staff Sgt. Vernon Martin always had a smile on his face. He was a leader and a family man. He leaves behind three children. “As his sister, I didn’t have a father in my life, but he (Vernon) always stood up and did what he could to help me out” says Vanessa Jackson, Vernon’s sister.

Sgt. Christopher Griffin was a good friend and great brother in arms. He joined the Army in June 2004.

Sgt. Joshua Hardt strived to be the best. He loved to fish and camp. He was killed just before his two year anniversary of joining the military.

Sgt. Joshua Kirk was nicknamed “Combat Kirk” for his constant bravery. His fellow soldiers say he would lay down his life for anyone. He leaves behind a daughter and wife.

Sgt. Michael Scusa was killed just days after his son took his first steps. His comrades say he was one of the most caring and thoughtful friends.

Specialist Stephan Mace was just 21-years-old. His mom, Vanessa Adelson, says her son lived every day to the fullest. When she heard that he gave his life for his fellow soldiers, she tells 11 News, “We all knew he went out like Jesse James. He fought hard.”

Private First Class Kevin Thomson was the kind of guy anyone could count on. He enlisted in the Army in May 2008. This was his first deployment.

Another memorial service was held later Wednesday for seven Mountain Post soldiers, all from the 4th Engineers Battalion. They were killed in October in separate incidents.

Staff Sgt. Glen Stivison was known for his goofy personality and his huge grin. He was described as a gentle giant. He leaves behind two young boys.

Specialist Jesus Flores was an honorable man. He joined the Army in December 2003. His fellow troops say he could rap any song.

Specialist Kevin Hill became a soldier to follow in his father’s footsteps. He was dedicated and had plans to be a police officer after getting out of the military.

Specialist Daniel Lawson had the kindest heart. He loved God, his wife and his three children.

Specialist Kimble Han had an upbeat personality. At age 28, he joined the military after one of his friends died while deployed.

Private First Class Brandon Styer made the world an entertaining place. He died after only serving the country for one year.

Specialist Eric Lembke was the kind of man who would give the shirt off of his back. He leaves behind two children.

Each ceremony will be rich in military tradition, with a roll-call, a rifle squad salute and the playing of Taps.

Fort Carson says 32 soldiers from the post have been killed in Afghanistan. They say 255 of their soldiers have been killed in Iraq.

To see pictures of all of these fallen soldiers,
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