Different generations, similar sacrifices

Spc. Marc Decoteau had not been born when Capt. David Thompson joined the military in 1989. Tragically, the two soldiers died together on Friday in a Wardak Province, Afghanistan, attack that is still being investigated.

According to the New Hampshire Union Leader, NATO officials said an Afghan interpreter opened fire on American troops in an apparent dispute over his pay and other issues. The U.S. military has not confirmed that account.

Spc. Decoteau, 19, and Capt. Thompson, 39, represent different generations of service in a struggle for freedom that will impact many generations to come. Decoteau graduated from his New Hampshire high school in 2008, while Thompson and his wife have two daughters in school in North Carolina. Despite their different backgrounds, they served together in support of the same cause.

Decoteau's parents released a statement, quoted in the Union Leader, saluting their son's passionate faith in a higher power.

"Marc's strong faith in God allows us the comfort of knowing that he is with his Savior and that one day we will join him. We are proud of our son and all that he did and aspired to do for his country. Marc was a rare person who knew very early what he wanted to do and focused on attaining his goals."

The Waterville Valley native, who had been in Afghanistan for just three weeks, loved sports and theater. He is survived by his parents, brother, and sister. Spc. Decoteau will be honored Saturday at Plymouth Regional High School, where he once ran outside playing lacrosse and football.

Nearly 1,000 miles away in Southern Pines, North Carolina, a private memorial service was held for Capt. Thompson on Tuesday at the Episcopal Day School, which his daughters attend. According to The Pilot, Thompson was on his second deployment to Afghanistan, and had served all over the United States, as well as Haiti, during his distinguished military career. He had been a platoon sergeant, chemical officer, battle captain, and rifle platoon leader, and was highly decorated for his accomplishments. When the Special Forces officer was killed, he was commanding Operational Detachment Alpha 3334, Company C, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) in Afghanistan. He is survived by his daughters, wife, and parents.

It is not clear how well these two soldiers knew each other, but it is obvious that they were integral parts of the same team. As Spc. Decoteau's grieving family noted, all American troops share a special bond.

"We ask for your continued thoughts and prayers for our military men and women serving all over the world. We are proud of Marc's 'brothers and sisters in uniform' who devote themselves everyday to protecting us from those who would cause us harm."