Casualty Occurrence: This soldier was killed by hostile small arms fire during a combat operation in Hua Nghia Province.

POSTED BY: JEREMY EDGAR MARQUARDT, DAN MARQUARDT SON & GRANDSON, My son & I visited the wall on June 28th. Gaylord served with my father and created a bond- my father visited his family in Hawaii a few times before he passed in 2010. Thank you for your sacrifice.

POSTED BY: JOHN FABRIS, HONORING YOU. Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. As long as you are remembered, you will remain in our hearts forever.

POSTED BY: LUCY MICIK, THANK YOU. Dear Ssgt Gaylord De Fries, Thank you for your service as an Infantryman. It is so important for us all to acknowledge the sacrifices of those like you who answered our nation's call. Please watch over America, it still needs your strength, courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

POSTED BY: CURT CARTER. REMEMBERING AN AMERICAN HERO. Dear Sir, As an American, I would like to thank you for your service and for your sacrifice made on behalf of our wonderful country. The youth of today could gain much by learning of heroes such as yourself, men and women whose courage and heart can never be questioned. May God allow you to read this, and may He allow me to someday shake your hand when I get to Heaven to personally thank you. May he also allow my father to find you and shake your hand now to say thank you; for America, and for those who love you. With respect, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir. Curt Carter, May 19, 2012.

POSTED BY: DAVE KRUGER, 196TH LIB. 66-67, NOT FORGOTTEN. Gaylord, Although we never met, I just want you to know you are not forgotten. You gave the ultimate sacrifice, your life for what you believed in. Sleep well my friend, and thank you for protecting the freedoms we enjoy today.

De Fries, Gaylord Kila, SSG