Honoring Capt. Evans

Courtesy Photo A night view of the EOD Memorial located at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.

Hundreds of people, including friends, family and service members, recently gathered at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. to remember those who lost their lives while serving their country.

Fourteen new names were added to bronze plaques during the 38th annual memorial service held at Kauffman Explosive Ordnance Disposal Training Complex.

“We’re here to honor those 14 individuals who’ve given their lives to the country and reflect on 67 years of EOD joint history,” said Rear Admiral Donald Bullard, Commander Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, Norfolk, Va.

According to http://www.eodmemorial.org, on Feb. 14 1969, the EOD Memorial Committee was formed and consisted of the senior Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force officers of the EOD School.

One of those remembered at the service was Cannon Air Force Base Capt. Kermit O. Evans.

Evans was a U.S. Air Force Civil Engineer Explosive Ordnance flight commander assigned to Cannon.

Evans, 31, was killed in December 2006 while serving in Iraq. He was one of four servicemen who died in a helicopter accident.

The youngest of two boys, Evans was described by his mother, Margaret Evans, as an avid sports fan and athlete who was pleasant and giving.

“I thank the Lord for the 31 years we had with him,” Margaret Evans said.