Charles L. Milam
 |
| Age: |
|
26 |
| Hometown: |
Littleton, Colo.
|
| Date of Death: |
9/25/2007 |
| Incident Location: |
Afghanistan |
| Branch of Military: |
|
Navy |
| Rank: |
Corpsman 2nd Class |
| Unit: |
2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion |
| Unit's Base: |
Camp Lejeune, N.C. |
|
During a lengthy tribute at his Littleton service, the Columbine High School graduate was honored for being a "warrior" who fought bravely in Iraq and Afghanistan. Those who spoke said Milam was both an exemplary Navy corpsman and an excellent combat fighter.
They also said he was an exceptional human being, driven by compassion.
In Iraq, where he had served earlier, Milam received the Bronze Star for bravery after his platoon came under attack. He pulled injured soldiers from burning vehicles, arranged a defense perimeter and fought off attackers.
On April 20, 1999, Milam, then a senior at Columbine High School, lost his close friend Isaiah Shoels in the school shooting rampage. Milam was devastated by Shoels' murder and vowed to go into the Navy, become a corpsman and prepare himself to help others so "he would never be in that position again."
"Luke was an ordinary kid who fell in love with the Navy as an 8-year-old," said his father. "He early enlisted at 17 years old, left for boot camp two weeks after high school graduation and never looked back."
11/11/2011Steve Goetz
My wife and I met the proud father of Luke a couple weeks ago. He talked with honor and love of his son. I am glad we met Michael and had a chance to hear about his son. I just want to say today, on Veteran's Day, that my hat is off for Luke and his family. God Bless all of you.
28/03/2011Ayron Ulmer
Luke was like my brother. he was was my cousin and i miss him soo much. when i was a kid i thought he was an angel and now he is one. i love you luke and i will be seeing you in the near future.
10/03/2011Jon
From time to time I take a day and read up on all the men who had fought and died for our country. Today I spent a good chunk of time reading about Charles Milam. He sounds like a remarkable person. I would have loved to have known him. Today- my thoughts and prayers are with Charles and his family.
30/05/2010Diane Burda
I had the honor of meeting Luke only once, but he will remain a part of me forever. I speak of him to anyone I can whenver the subject of those serving in the military comes up. He looked like a movie star and lived like the hero that he was. May his memory always be for a blessing.
30/12/2009D.Y.
Two years gone, not forgotten, talk about you every day to someone about how special you are.
01/09/2009Carrie Ates
Luke Milam was the most exceptional person I have ever met. My son and I will never forget him, and will always love him.