In Remembrance of LT Mark Daily

LT. Mark Daily was an exceptional Officer, soldier, man, husband, son, brother, friend, leader, and motivation to many. In January of 2007 at the young age of 23, while serving in Mosul, Iraq he was on a mission and his life along with three others in his vehicle were lost. Sadness and heartache swept over his family and friends in California, FOB Marez, Fort Bliss and many other locations in the world to those of us that had the pleasure in knowing him. Left behind was his wife, Snejana Daily, his parents, siblings and many others. Throughout the past four and a half years I have spoken to Snejana on a couple occasions, always letting her know that she remains in my families thoughts and prayers, as well as the rest of Mark's family. To many Mark was and still in a true hero, an inspiration, a mentor, a family man, someone that wanted the best for everyone that he came in contact with. He was a hero for more reasons than selflessly putting his life on the line and giving his life for our country. His beliefs and morals made him a hero. 

Over the years of my husband being in the army I have come in contact with more soldiers that I can count or remember. Amongst those soldiers, I have met many Officers that walk around arrogant and take advantage of the rank they hold. They could care less about the soldier as a person or the soldiers families that are holding down the homefront. Mark was different in many ways. His focus was truly based on his soldiers and leading them the right way. When Mark first walked up to me during a time that my husband stood in formation, I was real hesitant to talk to him. However, after our introductions and conversation, I realized that the unit was incredibly lucky and blessed to have someone like him on their side. It was an honor to have the opportunity to have Mark as my husband's Lieutenant.

In January 2007, a true hero was lost. Words can never express the emotions I have towards Mark's family. Memorial Day is a day to honor true heroes such as Mark. I know that it doesn't take a day like today for my husband and I to think about Mark and his family. We learned things from him and have taken things from our conversations with him and his actions in the short time we were blessed to know him, as did many people. Snejana, Mr. and Mrs. Daily, Mark's siblings, you are all in our thoughts, prayers, and hearts. Today and everyday we honor and remember Mark. Today as we remember all those that we have lost in war, we also honor the ones left behind. Mark's selfless sacrifices never go unnoticed, nor do yours. Thinking of you today and always.

Snejana emailed me a video that I want to share with all of you. A very good family friend of hers put this video together for Memorial Day to honor Mark. In the email that I received, Snejana left me with this comment; "I really am fond of this video because it portrays a side of Mark, a very personal side, that many people did not get a chance to see. He was a soldier, but he was also a loving husband and friend" 

As you watch it, take a moment and remember all those that have been lost. Thank you Mrs. Daily for allowing all of us the opportunity to view this video and see the love between you and Mark. May he never be forgotten.

Thank you to all those that have selflessly given their lives for our country and freedom.

~Brittney Biddle

FOV, Community Blog Coordinator