Uncommon valor

Sgt. Jonathan Richardson and Pfc. Jason Kropat have distinct backgrounds, hailing from different parts of the country. Yet they also have a lot in common: they are both beloved sons, brothers, and American patriots who volunteered to serve their country in a time of war. Both men were stationed at Kentucky's Fort Campbell, before C Company, 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd BCT deployed to Afghanistan in January.

According to the Pentagon, the soldiers were killed on Tuesday when terrorists attacked their unit with small arms and rocket-propelled grenadaes in Khowst province. Specific details about the tragic incident have not been released.

Sgt. Richardson, 24, is from Bald Knob, Arkansas. According to KATV-TV, the soldier is survived by his wife, parents, brother, and sister. He worked as a fire support specialist in Afghanistan.

Pfc. Kropat, 25, is from White Lake, New York, where flags are flying at half-staff in his honor. According to The Times-Herald Record, Kropat carefully considered his decision to join the military. He missed his three sisters, parents, and girlfriend while overseas, but had no regrets about serving his country.

Kropat lived most of his life in Smallwood with his three sisters — Kristina, 28, Kimberly, 23, and Courtney, 19. He grew up in Sullivan County and attended Monticello High School.

He loved the outdoors, Kristina Kropat said. Her brother loved to fish and there is a picture of him in the Times Herald-Record from 2008, when he caught a 22-inch trout.

"He really believed in what he was fighting for," Kimberly Kropat said. "He will be missed. He will be sorely missed."

A memorial service for the fallen soldiers is being held by fellow troops in Afghanistan. Tears will undoubtedly be seen falling on fatigues at the service, and the dozens of soldiers attending will never forget the names of their fallen brothers. Sgt. Jonathan Richardson and Pfc. Jason Kropat served for the men and women next to them, without reservation or regret. Their loved ones and fellow troops are in our thoughts.