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Barbaralien Banks Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Barbaralien Banks
Lashuwnta
July 8, 2025
Mima, i love and missed you so much..
EM
October 14, 2024
I think about you a lot ...I think about different life scenarios that have come up and what advice you might offer. You are missed.
Lashuwnta Kelly
October 13, 2024
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you Mima. I LOVE YOU MA
Lashuwnta
November 2, 2023
Hey ma, i love you an miss you so much
Escarlata Dominguez
September 10, 2022
It took me some time to learn about SGM Banks' ultimate sacrifice for this country. I feel sad that such an intelligent, caring soldier with a bright future in the Army is no longer with us. I met SGM Banks while assigned to Division Artillery, 25thh Infantry Division, Scholfield Barracks, Hawaii. As seniors NCOS in an all-male combat arms unit, we clicked and supported each other in dealing with some male soldiers' attitudes towards females in The Army. I remember our time in Pohakuloa Training Area on the Big Island, Hawaii. I will forever remember her and be grateful to have shared space on this earth with her. To her family, I give you all my deepest condolences. She was a great soldier, peer, and mentor to many during her Army career.
SFC (Ret.) Dominguez
Tay kelly
June 21, 2022
Hey, Mima I missed an love you so much. i felt your presence at Kent's wedding it was filled with love. so i know you was there. Mima grandma was there your sisters was there even one of your nieces was there your cousins was there Mima you would have loved it. you know your grandson have to show out lol it was really nice. i've lost my sister and My daddy mima i'm trying to hold it down for everyone but sometimes the strong get weak.. but i always think about you on how you motivate me to get up an do it .. nothing is going to get done without will power an Mima you taught me that .. thank you for pushing that in me .. love you so much.REST EASY MIMA ...
H.A.M
February 24, 2022
It took some time, but I can share now. I first met SGM Bank at FT Irwin CA (95/96). I was a young PV2 ans was SSG and later got promoted to SFC. She took me under her wings as a young Food Service Specialist (94B). As a true professional, she quickly be became a mentor even though she didn't know at the time. As only she could, she showed how to hone my craft OJT and what a Soldier should be. I was in Maryland when I got the news and broke my heart and still bothers me to this day. Enough can't be said about what Profesional she was. Over the years I'd fashioned my career after and interact with each Soldier I come in contact with the very way she showed me. The Army and I were better to have had the pleasure of having grace the presence of SGM Banks.
lashuwnta kelly your only (Baby girl)
February 23, 2022
Hey Ma, i miss you so much.. i keep saying i wish you were here but i know you are in spirit... i know alot of things happen for a reason an that God needed you to help out in Heaven thats what i keep telling myself. Ma I just need a hug .. I love you soooo much wholeheartly ....(TEARS) see you soon MIMA...
Charlie Gili
October 28, 2021
Hello,
We apologize for being so late in expressing our deepest condolences to you and your family. We want you to know that we will be sending Care Packages to deployed troops this holiday season and several of these will be dedicated to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo, service branch, rank and hometown of Barbaralien Banks US Army Sergeant Major
.
We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community, their families, friends and others who support our mission.
We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of our US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
lashuwnta kelly
September 17, 2017
hey ma, i love you miss you so much ....
shawnta kelly
January 4, 2017
hey ma, i know you are here with me i think of you often.. you are so missed.. love you mima...
SAHWNTA KELLY
August 7, 2014
hey ma, just sitting in tears thinking bout all the good times we had together I miss u so much I knw that u are hear holding me.i miss u ma.....LOVE U ALWAYS AN FOREVER SO UNTIL I SEE U SOON UR WILL ALWAYS B IN MY HEART.... LOVE SHAWNTA...
kenysha
April 11, 2014
Feel your spirit all around....the moments I spent with you were always sacred and special...I never understood at the time but I understand more and more everyday...we miss you here in the physical but I know you are with us...I miss you...and thank you, for believing in me..for loving on me...for trusting me and being there for me...I love you dearly...I know im going to get that degree and I know youd be proud..i know youre proud of Kent too:) never met anybody who loved him more than me, except you:) love you
Hubert MIller
January 28, 2014
You are the reason I continue to take care of soldiers and do do what I do. You were truly a blessing and an outstanding leader.
Brian Washington
July 17, 2013
There's so much sadness n hurt n my heart now, for u played a big part n my life as a friend n wife, I'm sure u are going to b miss by everyone u touch but none more then I. RIP.
July 16, 2013
I really miss you so much
Lynn Gilbert
July 16, 2013
Hey my friend just setting here thinking about how much fun we had when you were here. God knows if I cloud turn back the hands of time everything would so good again we would be laughing and talking. I Miss U
I Love You
Brian Washington
July 15, 2013
R.I.P sgt major Barbaralien Banks the hurt that has covered my heart when I found out. For you were a never give up, never give in person.
My heart goes out to her family n friends and you will always be remembered........
E M
June 1, 2012
Dear SGM Banks,
I have thought of you often and am reminded as to what a pilar of strength that you were. Your lifes achievements continue to inspire me. You are truly missed and were taken from us to soon. I am so thankful to have met you and to have had the opportunity to serve with you in Hawaii. You and your family are forever in my thoughts and prayers, dear friend, teacher, and mentor.
May 12, 2012
Thank you hero for your tremendous service to our nation. My sorrow for the hardship her family has endured. God Bless.
Peggy Childers
April 7, 2012
April 6, 2012
To the family and friends of Sgt. Maj. Barbaralien Banks:
Always remembering Barbaralien. "Some gave all."
H. P.
April 5, 2012
R.I.P. SGT. BANKS
The reward for sacrifice is HEAVEN where you are now. Live good along with other comrades of you who have already been there. May God bless you and your family for what you have done.
SGM Evans (ret)
April 5, 2012
SGM Banks,
I often think of you. Remembering our long runs preparing for the Honolulu Marathon. We finished with excellent time for first timers. We laughed and talked along the way, you pushing me when I became tired and I for you. It has been seven long years, and I finally have the strength to write to you. You were an exceptional Soldier, teacher and mentor. Gone to soon.... I miss you Battle.
SFC Jerry Caligiure (Ret)
March 1, 2012
I Miss You, My Mighty S1 NCOIC and Awesome Friend!The world Is a Better Place Because of the Time Spent here and Heaven Has been Blessed with another Angel!
Lynne Neibert
October 20, 2011
Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen Soldiers ([email protected]) is an organization with groups throughout the country who strive to send handmade prayer shawls and/ or lap robes to families who have lost a loved one in service to our country. Members of Trindle Spring Lutheran Church in Mechanicsburg, PA would like to honor your mother and daughter’s sacrifice and memory by sending our prayers and comfort through a shawl which we will mail to you. If you are interested, please contact me at [email protected] with the names and addresses and what they would like to receive. We will send them as soon as possible. Also, if you know of any other families who are grieving the loss of a loved one who died serving our country, please pass along my e-mail address, as our organization can no longer get family contacts through the military. May God bless you and comfort you in the days ahead. Sincerely, Lynne
Julio Rodriguez
September 1, 2011
To the families of our American Heroes,
I want to thank each of you for your personal
sacrifices on behalf of my family and America.
May God comfort your souls and bring peace in
your hearts that your loss is not in vain.
God Bless our valiant warriors families in the
ages to come.
RIP courageous ones!
Psalm 25:20
A greatful Veteran
MSgt USAF (Ret)
Vietnam 64,65,66,68-6
Ajoua Williams
July 29, 2011
SGM Banks,
I had the pleasure of meeting you in Hawaii. You were not just my NCOIC, but my mentor!!! Even though I am out of the military now...I find myself always thinking of you. SGM Banks you will always be an inspiration to me. I will always admire you and how you lead from the front! You taught me various things...like how to never give up, and how I have the authority and power to control my destiny. SGM Banks you provided such great leadership beyond measure!
I miss you and love you always,
Ajoua Williams
Kent Kelly
May 22, 2011
Hey ma, Alot as happened since the last time i wrote you. Im a father now and all the lesson you taught me growing up are really coming in handy now. But i guess you know that, you knew it all along. You will continue to be motivation in life and i will love always and forever.
H. P.
April 16, 2011
Rest in peace SGT. Maj. Barrbaralien Banks
Those who sacrifice their lives for the freedom of others will never be forgotten. God bless you in heaven.
Ginger Mankowski
April 6, 2011
To the family and friends of Sgt. Major Barbaralien Banks:
Please accept our remembrance of Barbaralien on the anniversary of her passing and know that she will never be forgotten.
Ginger Mankowski/Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Sandra Brasselmon
April 4, 2011
Hey Sis. Six years ago today, I received an e-mail from you, telling me about the hotspot you were preparing for on 04/05/2005. We both prayed for your safety. You were so full of faith during such a critical time in your life. I will always remember you, the day you came into our lives, as well as the day you left. Today is my birthday and am thinking of you right now. I miss you so much. You are resting and I am still here missing you and wishing you were here with me. I love you Sis and there are no words that can express the feelings in my heart for you. RIP my Sister. We shall meet again.
L Neal
April 3, 2011
To the family of Sgt. Maj. Barbaralien Banks:
Please know that just as your loved one remains in your hearts and minds; her sacrifice, and that of your family, remains with the people she died defending. Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for her bravery and selflessness, or the heartache we feel for your loss. God bless and keep you always.
Paul Farrell
March 6, 2011
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Elizabeth Raab
January 15, 2011
Your legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew you and shared in your struggle to protect our country and the ultimate sacrifice you gave so that we can be grateful for what we have. Your family, friends, loved ones and fellow soldiers will stay in my thoughts and prayers.
A Proud Military Mom.
LASHUWNTA KELLY
December 6, 2010
I MISS U SO MUCH MIMA,, RIP MIMA
July 31, 2010
sometimes i really wonder how things would be if you were still here....but your ability to push out of the destiny life wanted to give you,has given me a whole new outlook on life...i told you i would always love him and i still do...i know you understand and you always will...miss you so much
shawnts kelly
July 12, 2010
hey mima even tho it been so long i still miss u u are always n my heart mima i wish u was here with me i love u so much
Peggy Childers
April 5, 2010
To the family and friends of Sgt. Maj. Barbaralien Banks:
Remembering Barbaralien on the anniversary of her passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
February 1, 2010
I have just found out that dear Sgt. Banks has given the ultimate sacrifice. I give the family all my deepest condolences and wish to thank you for sharing your beautiful daughter, sister and mother with so many. She was one of those people that drove you to be all that you could, she allowed you to dig deep and find that spark within to keep you going. At times through basic when so many of us felt defeated, lost or unable to cope you could talk to her freely even if at times you lost your military bearings she would embrace your feelings...if not for her there were times I would not have made it. She spoke to me about alot and those words I will keep in my heart forever. I am proud of Sgt. Banks and may she now rest knowing that in death she proved how she lived in life...selfless. I will be forever grateful. God bless your family and may the angels shine their perpetual light amoung Sgt. Banks always. Erica Carr Veteran US Army Delta Co. 82nd Chemical Battalion
Ed Penafiel
November 11, 2009
SGM Banks was my 1SG in Schofield Hawaii. She always made sure she took care of us no matter what it took. You will always be missed. We will always be grateful.
October 30, 2009
to the family of sgt maj banks
i did not know her but i am crying uncontrollably reading about her sacrifice and the entries of her children and grandchildren. god bless you all, her passing was not in vain, please know that there are millions of citizens grateful for her service.
we love you all
Lizardo Quinones
veteran
82nd Airborne Division
1971-1973
lashuwnta black
August 7, 2009
mima, u r missed very deeply i love u and will always love u love your daughter shank
July 4, 2009
Hey,Barbara im a grandmother now. I just still can't beleive that you are gone.My heart is still hurting. Sometimes,I thing about the silly things we use do Ilove and miss you. Your friend Lynn
Kenna Larra
June 30, 2009
”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,600 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
shawnt black
June 29, 2009
hey mima, i miss u so much
Peggy Childers
April 6, 2009
To the family of Sgt. Maj. Barbaralien Banks:
Barbaralien gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
shawnta black
March 8, 2009
hey,mima i miss u so much love u always
Joseph Sandel
March 3, 2009
I express my deepest sympathy to the family of SGM Banks. I had the pleasure of working with her. She is one my Drill Sergeant in 1st BN, 40th FA at Ft Sill Ok. She is indeed one of the best Noncommissioned officer I have worked with. I will always remember her as a Drill Sergeant who never get tired training her Soldiers.
donaven,marcus,shtundra kelly
December 11, 2008
hey grandma we miss you so much love you from the kid's
LASHUWNTA BLACK
July 25, 2008
HAPPY B-DAY MAMA, I KNOW YOU ARE WATCHING DOWN ON US AN KNOWING THAT WE ARE DOING VERY WELL HAPPY B-HAPPY MAMA, JULY 26.......LOVE FROM YOUR KID'S
Deanetta Thompson
May 29, 2008
Hey Barb
It still hurts....
Deanetta
the Buck family
May 17, 2008
To the family and friends of Sgt. Maj. Barbaralien Banks, our thoughts and prayers are with you in your loss. What she has done for our freedom will not be forgotten. May God comfort and bless your family.
May 3, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Sgt Maj Banks!
kenysha girdner
April 25, 2008
WOW...my heart and my prayers are still with you Shawnta and Kent--you both hold such a special place in my heart--be strong--have no fear..Both of you had such a strong and beautiful woman to learn from and i know that you both know that...I am so amazingly proud of you Kent Kelly...in this time of grieving, know that you my love are in all my thoughts...Be everything you are and everything will be okay.I miss you ms.barbara--so much..there are times i just want to talk to you one more time--or hear you laugh just one more time--you always told me to look out for Kent..you always told me to tell him that you love him..that i will do...shine down on us like you been doing...i love you and miss you dearly
kenysha
Debra Estep
April 6, 2008
To the family and friends of Barbaralien.
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers today.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know Barbaralien, but she is my hero.
Please contact me and I will email you back
a copy of the Angel drawing I have posted
here.
xo xo
Deb
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Lynn Lavigne
April 2, 2008
May God keep and bless your family.Ilove Barbara(big head) so many things i want to say but i will tell you when i visit you . Love Lynn friends forever
lashuwnta black
March 27, 2008
hey,ma things have change since we last spoke but you are always on our minds we talk about the times we had together an the times that i got in trouble for the things we use to do.. ya crazy stuff but now we realize that your punishments made kent an i better. but ma we miss you an love you. you are one of god's angel's looking down on us love you ma always
Lashuwnta Kelly
January 25, 2008
hey mother i miss you so much i need you here i need you to talk to mima i love you
Marcell Banks
September 3, 2007
Today is labor day for earthly folk. Your labor is over,you can rest from the cares of this world. We love and miss you but God needed you to come home. Love Mom Marcell
Teresa
August 31, 2007
To the family & friends of SMAJ Banks,
Thank you all for your service and sacrifice for our country. May God continue to hold you in His arms. I believe all of our fallen heroes are guarding the gates of heaven and watching over us all.
"Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13
Proud aunt of LCPL John T. Sims, Jr KIA 4/10/2004 and member of We Remember, Inspire, Cherish & Honor (www.werich.org)
Marcell Banks
August 8, 2007
Hey Barb, i will always remember you and miss you. I think of you often, Nath will be here this month and that helps bring back memories.I have your voice on my answering machine and you sound so close. hope to see you again one day. Love Mom Marcell
August 7, 2007
I don't pretend to know what to say or do that would bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON (KIA on 07/06/07) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
lashuwnta kelly
July 23, 2007
love u mima from your daughter..shank
July 16, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Sgt Banks and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses her! May God bless all of you!!
Marcell Banks
June 28, 2007
Hey Barb i still miss you as much as ever, it's still hard. Whenever i think of you i get all welled up inside. Thanks for the little time we had together. WE all love you. (MOM) Marcell
kenysha girdner
May 8, 2007
I know you are watching down on Kent..you see him when I dont...I know you protect him..There are days when I get so sad because we miss you so much...there are days when i wish I could hear you tell me and kent everything is gonna be okay..But on those days stand in the sun and feel the breeze..I hear you saying everything...we miss you..we love you...
Susan Constable
May 7, 2007
Family & Friends of SGM Banks,
We were saddened two years ago to hear of the passing of SGM Banks. My husband served with her in basic training at Ft. Sill, Oklahoma and had nothing but respect and admiration for her.
She treated me kindly, made us feel welcome, and it meant so much. She is fondly remembered.
wife of MAJ Thomas Constable
Garnet Jenkins
April 5, 2007
In Remembrance of Sgt. Maj. Barbaralien Banks, with a Multitude of Thanks, for this Brave Young Heroine's Courage, Dedication and Service to our Country and for Freedom.
May Barbaralien Rest Safely in God's Loving Care and may the Peace of God continue to be with the Banks family.
Those who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice, So Many and So Young, shall Never Be Forgotten, my brother among them. Killed in action in Vietnam in 1967.
"I will lift up my eyes to the hills-
from whence comes my help?
My help comes from the Lord,
Who made heaven and earth."
Psalm 121:1-2
I am sincerely hoping that you continue to feel the thoughts of Caring and Support that surround you each day, as this Country Remembers Someone Very Precious to you, who is a Hero to all of us.
I am So Deeply Sorry for your loss.
lashuwnta black
April 3, 2007
MiMa it's been two year's almost on the 6day of this month God know how i miss u i know that i you are there for me mama i love you mama..shauwnta
( MSG RET) DORIS PEGRAM
April 1, 2007
To The Family and Friends of SGM Banks, Barbara. I want to express my deep heartfelt sympathy, to each and everyone of you. I was station with Barbara in Hawaii, I Thank GOD I had the pleasure of meeting and knowing one of the most kindest and humblest human beings I have ever known, she was a meek, gentle, kind soul. Barbara was a special soul who loved people and especially loved her family, the many Blessful conversation I had with her in Hawaii were often about her children and family.
"MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS, KEEP AND COMFORT EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU.
Deanetta Thompson
March 16, 2007
Barbara, I miss you with all my heart I pull up your emails sometimes and read the letter you gave me before you left and somedays I do not know left from right when I look at our picture over my fireplace. I will miss you always and love you dearly.
Your Sister in Christ, Thompson
Farewell my sis--- farewell.
Kenysha Girdner
January 29, 2007
Kent sweetie, you are amazing..hold your head up...You were your mothers pride and her joy...I know I can be such a handful but when you lay your head down at night, know i am kissing your picture and praying God's angels around you..I love you and no matter what, i'll be here...I miss you so much Mz.Barabara...when me and Kent had any problem, you never got on sides..you always believed in your son and you always believed in what we had..I learned so much from you in the short time i knew you...Thank you for your son--my breath of life...
kent kelly
January 29, 2007
Hey ma, alot has changed since you've been gone. It still gets harder and harder everyday without you because I literally think about you every single day. But I still feel it in my heart that everything will be ok. But that seems so unrealistic to me, I don't know, life in my eyes is a has taken an 360 degree turn, but I'm still going to work at being a better person like you always taught me to be. I love you
Your son kent
lashuwnta kelly
January 24, 2007
Hey mimma i know that you are looking down on us yes our life's change since you been gone but you are always here in our heart's mimma love you always love Lashuwnta
Sonia I Rodriguez
January 21, 2007
To the family of Sgt. Banks, I want to let you know I am reflecting on that tragic day and how the two year mark is coming up. You are not alone, my prayers are with you and know that I too know your deepest pain and your void, my son was CW2 David Ayala and he was the co-pilot of that Chinook on that day. Your life and mine and many others have been changed forever. All I can say is that prayer is powerful, and I pray that you find comfort in God's Word and that you allow the Lord to heal your heart. The void will always remain. Sgt. Banks is a lovely woman, a super fine soldier and now she is your angel looking down from above. I pray you find peace in your heart.
God bless our troops
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
January 20, 2007
My heartfelt sympathy to the Banks family in the loss of Barbaralien. I did not know Barbaralien, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. Barbaralien in April it will be 2 years since you were taken. Please know that you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
Carolyn Allen
January 7, 2007
To the family of SGM Banks, I send my deepest condolences. I was just thinking about her and decided to do a online search for any info on her and ran into this website. I didn't know this site existed but I am glad I found it. There are a lot of untold stories about SGM Banks. A lot!!! This woman set a lot of standards..........A LOT!!! She broke a lot of barriers.........A LOT!!! Where do I begin. I was a Drill Sergeant at Fort Sill Oklahoma with SGM Banks. I am glad to see someone else who was also a Drill with us posted also. We all were the first FEMALE DRILL SERGEANTS SELECTED TO DO BASIC TRAINING AT A FIELD ARTILLERY POST AT FORT SILL. People don't realize how huge of an honor that was but we made history. We set the standard. However. SGM Banks broke barriers which lot of us didn't. That's the difference. You see, She was the First Female Senior Drill Sergeant we had in that environment. I will confess, I didn't reach for that title because I thought it was unachievable. But word got around real quick "Hey did yall hear 1/40th got a female Senior Drill Sergeant". I was like "You kidding". At that point I was motivated to accomplish more than I set out to. Then I heard she made te E-8 list.......... I was like WOW!!! She showed us we can make E-8 pulling this duty for real. Im going to go out on a limb and say she was the first one of us to make E-8 because I knew all the female drills and she was one of 2 that made it first. My best memory of SGM Banks was one sunny day me her and another friend was outside talking and she was telling us how the army household transportation system (not purposely)busted up some of her household goods during a move she had and they owed her over $3500 for the damage. I remember this because she was so calm and had a "Oh well, that's not important attitude". She was not a materialistic person by far. I was standing there in awe of how she handled that. This woman was on her way to be our first Female Sergeant Major of the Army. I know I am wrong for this but I ask GOD "Out of all the people in the world, how did she end up on that flight". I will never get that answer. It hurts me more that she is gone because we both were also Quartermaster soldiers and she would have been the first Quartermaster Sergeant Major I personally knew. The Quartermaster Corps has suffered a huge and I mean huge lost with this one gone. She will definatley be missed.
SFC ALLEN
Enrique Incle
January 2, 2007
Denial and disbelief first took a grip, what horrific news. SGM Banks was one of my drilled sergeant in basics and made a lasting impression on me as a young soldier. I will never forget her and all my fellow soldier's sacrifice. God bless.
Marcell Banks
December 17, 2006
Today is December 17, 2006 another year is almost gone and i still miss you as much as i did in the beginning. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I know you are at peace and having a glorious time. I miss you so much Barb love you. Mom Marcell.I'll talk to you later
Renee Edwards
October 6, 2006
I met Barbaralien Banks when she was an E-5 and I was an E-6 stationed at Fort Irwin, CA. She was an outstanding person to work with and a wonderful human being. I remember her hunger to learn everything in our field and her thirst for knowledge as she attended college classes after duty hours, graduating with a bachelors degree then later a masters. When I made E-7 and she made E-6, I was her NCOIC of the NTC dining facility and she was my assistant, who also became a true friend. Barb didn't stay E-6 long; she made E-7 fast and continued to climb the ranks. We shared many laughs and lots of girl talk. We gave each other encouraging words when times were rough. I could not have asked for a better person to work with. She always had my back, as I had hers.
I received a call from an associate from Ft Irwin about the tragic incident a year ago, but for some reason I couldn't fathom it to be true. I kept thinking that sooner or later I would get a phone call or email from Barb as she would periodically do. But, as I sit here tonight thinking back on those days at Ft Irwin, never hearing from her and seeing this web site with Barb's obituary for the first time, I realize my friend is really gone. I send my deepest, dearest condolences to her mother, father & her husband; my heart goes out to her son Kent, her daughter and grandkids, for I am a Mom & Grandma too. My dearest condolences to Barb's other family members and friends.
Barbaralien was my girl!!! She will truly be missed.
I know she is in the company of the Lord.
Renee Edwards, SFC Retired
Lashuwnta Kelly-Black
September 9, 2006
mimma, miss you so much i need you .. but i know you are watching out for me. I know some way you know that am here for kent yeah the little tank head your son..well mimma i love you an miss you love always ...
ROBYN GARSIDE
August 13, 2006
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HER BEAUTIFUL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR THE CHILDREN. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI
A PROUD MARINE MOM
Marcell Banks
May 19, 2006
Hey daughter,you are missed so much.I still have your voice on my answering machine and you sound so close. You were wishing me a happy Mother's Day,2004. I hope and try not to delete it by mistake. It is so hard to except the fact that you are not with us anymore i guess because it was so sudden. I will never forget you it's like you have a close conection to me. Love you MOM MARCELL
lashuwnta black
May 17, 2006
MIMMA, I MISS YOU SO MUCH THERE ARE TIMES WHEN I NEED SOMEONE TO TALK TO I CAN"T WAIT UP ANY MORE WAITING FOR YOUR CALL"S MIMMA.THE KID"S MISS YOU TOO MIMMA I LOVE YOU SO MUCH I PRAY TO GOD TO KEEP YOU SAFE IN HIS ARM"S AN THE DAY WE MEET AGAIN MIMMA I LOVE YOU A MISS YOU OOH SO VERY MUCH MOTHER'S DAY WAS SO HARD FOR ME. NOT HAVING YOU HERE WITH ME AN KENT I KNOW I HAVE TO LOOK AFTER HIM NOW YOU ALWAY'S TOLD ME TO TAKE CARE OF HIM NOW THAT YOU GONE I HAVE TO BE THE BIG SISTER FOR HIM YOU KNOW THAT I WILL ALWAY'S LOOK AFTER HIM BUT MIMMA YOU ARE MY ANGEL FROM UP ABOVE AN THERE IS NO OTHER MIMMA LIKE YOU ...... LOVE YOU ALWAY'S YOUR SHANK ....
Kenysha G
May 14, 2006
HEeey MOMMA B...Happy Mothers Day...Thank you for your beautiful son...I am going to take great care of him...
lashuwnta black
May 14, 2006
happy mother' day mima love's alway's your daughter
lashuwnta black
May 11, 2006
hey mima, i miss you alot.there are time's when i cry to my self not wanting anyone to see me when my mother is gone there is nothing i can do but cry. mother's day is coming an you are not here with me but you are in spirit.mima you are my best friend an my sister. love you always....lashuwnta
Sandra Brasselmon
April 8, 2006
Hello Sis,
It's been a year and 2 days, I can't believe it. It was the day before my birthday when I heard from you last (April 3). I was so excited to see what we were going to talk about this time, but there was concern in your e-mail. I responded quickly, but never heard from you again. My heart still aches when I'm thinking of you. You were such a wonderful sister-in-law, we mixed so well. I think back on all the laughter we shared and the joy that you and I were sisters. I miss you Barbara, I can't say that enough. I know the day will come when we meet again, and I'm looking so very forward to it. I'll keep holding on to the things we shared until we see each other again and I can't wait to embrace you. My love for you is constant and unconditional. You were a joy to me. Luv you always, Sis
lashuwnta black
April 6, 2006
Today is the day , when i got the call mima ,you know that today is the day that i will never forget. mima you have touch so many people mima. in so many way's. mima i can't get you out of my mind mima i love you. last year was the worst year of my life mima i look at your picture's an smile cause i know that you are here beside me saying it's ok ...mima i love you so much an we will meet again love alway's love your,, Shank.........
marnica jeanpierre
April 3, 2006
Its almost been a year since your death,boy is time going by fast.I attended your dedication and it was really nice.I still think about you alot and I just thought that you should know that all of your fellow soldiers are too!
lashuwnta black
March 28, 2006
hey, mima how are you doing fine i know mima there are alot of thing's that i should have told you that i didn't do but mima I LOVE U well you know that already love you always 4- ever...... your daughter SHANK'''
lashuwnta black
February 15, 2006
hey, mima valentine's day passes an i wanted to let you know that we love you an are truly missed love you mima... your daugther Shank.... LOVE YOU
lashuwnta black
February 8, 2006
hey mima, i miss you i think about you all the time's i close my eye's an see your face i hear you in my ear telling me stop knuckle head i just laugh. an say to my self ok mima i know that you telling me to stop .. mima i love you ooh so much mommy i never forget the laugh's an cry's mommy i love you so i will see you soon love you alway's,,, shank the name you call me ....am so proud of that name mommy...
Rodney Walker
February 5, 2006
thank you
lashuwnta kelly-black
January 30, 2006
mima, i love you and miss you so much just sittting here thinking about you love you mima alway's
Vangi & McKaLyne Lunsford
January 10, 2006
Psalm 23
1
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
3
He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6
Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
This is a verse that I have found to be comforting to me during my husbands death. Remember that when it seems that no one else is round, God is still there with you! And he will be your rock!
My daughter,McKaLyne, and I send our heartfelt sympathy for your loss! God Bless this warrior, God Bless those whom serve freedom's cause! They are our true HERO's!!!!
If you need anything, please feel free to contact me!!!
Wife & Daughter of the Late
Sgt. Audrey Daron Lunsford
KIA May 23, 2005
Lashuwnta Kelly,Black
December 29, 2005
Mima, The New Year is coming i know that you are watching out for us.... i know that you are God's angel' touching everyone with your blessing an keeping people out of bad things you are that type to make sure that everyone smile an work hard at the same time .... i think back when you use to wake me up at 5am an say let go about 8 mile around the block... i went but when came back i just fell out on the couch... dripping in water an you still was ready to go again...i kept up with not running but walking.. but mima i know i could keep up now .. mima i love you an i miss that....Happy New Year's......love you alway's
Marcell Banks
December 8, 2005
Hey Barb, I miss you an awful lot i Awake some night thinking of you. Edward and i were just talking about you a few days ago.You impacted our liv es so much I am sure you were an inspiration to your soldiers.Its hard to beleiv e you are not here with us.Lov e you and it will be a glorious day when we meet again. Lov e Mom Marcell
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Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
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The Five Stages of Grief
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Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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