Memorial Fund for Lieutenant Colonel Eric Kruger's children

Attached is a statement from the family of Lt. Col. Eric Kruger, Deputy Commanding Officer, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, who died Nov. 2 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained when an IED detonated near his HMMWV.

"We are still reeling from the sudden loss of this father, husband and friend. Eric was a passionate man who poured himself into every task, no matter how small, who found a way to laugh in every situation, no matter how difficult, and who strove to do what was right, no matter the cost.

His energetic drive and deep patriotism led him to the Army. It was a deep and natural bond for him—a second family and he gave it all the loyalty and devotion he gave to his natural kin. Eric enlisted in the Army in 1986 while attending SMU. His first assignment after Active Duty commissioning was with the 2nd Brigade, 2ID, and in an amazing symmetry, he ends it, seventeen years later, with the same unit, now 2nd BCT, 2ID. We are comforted to know that Eric loved every minute of his job, and that he died doing something he fiercely believed in -- working to make the world a better place.

Eric was a true patriot who died serving his country and protecting our freedom. He was a loving husband and father, a devoted son and brother. He was the best of the best our country had to offer.

We would like to thank the Fort Carson community for all their support at this difficult time. We would also like to thank Eric and all the men and women who have given their lives for the cause of freedom.

Eric is survived by his wife Sara and their four children: Caitlin (12), Joshua (9), Christian (4) and Elise (16 months), his father Lawrence, mother Carol, brother Douglas, sister Kristy and grandmother Agnes."

We are grateful to Don Addy of Colorado Springs, who has graciously established a memorial fund to benefit Eric's children. Donations can be sent to:

The Memorial Fund for Children of LTC Eric Kruger

4850 Langdale Way

Colorado Springs, CO 80906