Caldwell, Idaho, USA
US Army
SSGT, Boise Recruting Station, Salt Lake City Recruiting Battalion, 6th Recruiting Brigade
11/10/11, Boise, Idaho
Staff Sergeant Biehl received his promotion to the heavenly ranks on November 10, 2011. “You have fought the good fight,” were some of the last words spoken to David by his father shortly before David passed away to be with his Lord and Savior.
From a very young age David had a passion for serving his country to defend the freedom of all of us here at home. He served two tours to Iraq and was particularly proud to serve with the 3rd Infantry Division. He received various awards for being an exemplary soldier, including NCO of the Year, Recruiter of the Year and various achievement awards including the Recruiter Badge (three sapphire stars), and recruiter ring. David was an avid outdoorsman. He loved his family, friends, and his Band of Brothers. His smile and laughter will always be remembered.
David had kept in touch with his high school history teacher, Mr. Kiki, over the years and his teacher asked David one day if he would write about what the American flag meant to him. This is what David wrote. It has since been read at Veteran’s Day high school assemblies.
“I joined the United States Army at the age of 17. I was a junior at Central Valley High School when I joined. I wanted the privilege and honor to represent my flag in a foreign country. I have worn this flag for two years in Iraq. I have worn this flag with pride and honor. This flag has witnessed many wars, but the flag I wore saw only what I saw. It watched on the 15th of March 2003 when I walked into Iraq to bring freedom to a country. It watched on the 1st of July 2003, when I held 1SG Christopher Coffin in my arms as he died in combat bearing the same flag that I wore. It watched when I entered a torture room that held girls as young as 14 years of age, freeing them from their prison. It was a symbol for everyone around me during that time. It has always been a symbol and will always be a symbol. For some, when they witnessed me walk into their village or home wearing this flag, they were filled with hope and the emotion of relief from their fears. For some, when they witnessed this flag, they were filled with terror and fear because they themselves caused so much of same feelings in others. For me, this flag that “I wear” represents a light that pierces through the darkest of countries as a hope that there will be a better life. I have a privilege to represent you! You gave me the privilege to carry this flag into combat so that others will have HOPE. I will not fail you nor will I allow this flag to fall. I have made an oath to protect this flag against all enemies, foreign and domestic, so help me God!”
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