Every two weeks, My Edmonds News will publish a portrait made by Edmonds artist Michael Reagan, through his Fallen Heroes project, to honor a fallen U.S. solider and the loved ones they have left behind. This week, we feature Army Sergeant Nicholas Patterson, who died on September 10, 2007 while serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Patterson was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C. and succumbed to injuries sustained in Baghdad during a non-combat-related vehicle rollover.
He came into this world full of life on Feb. 26, 1983. He attended Rochester High School where he was a vital part of the baseball and basketball programs. He was blessed to become a father to a beautiful son, Reilley Nicholas Caden Patterson, whom he adored. He married his long time love and high school sweetheart, the former Jayme Saner of Akron, on Dec. 27, 2006. They dreamed of a long and loving marriage.
Sergeant Patterson joined the Army on May 18, 2004. After basic training, he was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division, where he served with 3-505th Parachute Infantry Battalion and 1-73 Cavalry. He deployed as a member of C Troop 1-73 Cavalry as a scout in support of Hurricane Katrina and deployed twice in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards and decorations include: Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, two Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Ribbon, Iraqi Campaign Medal, The Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, The Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and the Parachutist’s Badge.
After receiving the portrait of her husband, Jayme Patterson sent the following message to Michael Reagan:
“I have been trying to think of a way to express my deepest gratitude for you and the amazing work you do. There are truly no words to thank you enough! I received the most beautiful surprise in the mail from you. An amazing drawing of my son and I holding my late husband’s flag. I was not expecting it and was overwhelmed with tears when I opened it. Speaking as a widow, you are doing so much more than you will ever know. I will cherish your giftedness in my heart and treasure your kindness forever. Thank you. May God Bless You!”
You can make a donation to support Reagan’s work (he receives no payment for these portraits and covers materials and shipping costs himself) here.
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