05/25/2026
“It’s our duty to remember the sacrifices of those who paid the ultimate price. They gave up two lives - the one they lived and the one they would have lived.” - Retired Marine General James Mattis
Today is not about our Active Duty Military.
Today is not about our Veterans.
Memorial Day is about remembering and honoring our Military Servicemembers who lost their lives for our country.
This morning, we were able to do that.
Thank you so much to all that joined Councilman Devin Byrd, City of Thornton and me this morning for our coffee meet-up, including Mayor Jan Kulmann, City of Thornton. We not only enjoyed conversation together, but we also took a moment as a community to honor and remember the 8 fallen Military Servicemembers from Thornton.
This morning was even more special because Tom Wykstra, father of fallen soldier, PFC Jake Wykstra, joined us and shared stories about his son. Grateful to have had him with us.
Thank you to Thornton resident, Tim Hardy, who played the bagpipes for us as well.
Today, as we remember them and speak their names, let's renew our promise to live lives worthy of their sacrifice.
To be better citizens.
To be better neighbors.
And to be a stronger, more united community.
From the Vietnam War:
Specialist Five Bruce Bowman
Warrant Officer Larry Branaugh
Private First Class John Simmons
Sergeant Frederick Vigil
Specialist Four Louis “Arthur” Yugel
From Operation Iraqi Freedom:
Lance Corporal Thomas J. Slocum
From Operation Enduring Freedom:
Corporal Larry Harris, Jr.
Private First Class Jacob Wykstra
