Yates Uniform
This memorial day, Semper K9 continues the tradition of remembering those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. We remember US Army OIF Combat Veteran CPL Nyle Yates III, our service dog Yates is named in his memory. Nyle joined the Army right after graduation in 2002 from Lakewood High School in Lake Odessa, MI. He was stationed at Ft.Campbell, KY and served with B Company, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team (Iron Rakkasans), 101st Airborne Division. During his second deployment on March 16, 2006, Yates was killed in action in Samarra, Iraq,  “when he came under small arms fire by enemy forces during combat operations” according to a release by the Department of Defense.

14390859_10205377135508412_1515225952681367696_n Nyle served as a rifleman, M249 gunner, M203 gunner, platoon and Company RTO, and training room clerk during both deployments. “Because of his strong values and dedication to the Army values, Nyle rose through the ranks and jobs within the company to finally become the Commander’s Radio Operator.” stated fellow Soldier Sgt. Jameson Smith-USA Ret.

Nyle’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Iraqi Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and the Air Assault Badge.

Yates“Nyle is loved…he is missed…and he is our Hero.” said his mother Jami Edgecomb. “We absolutely love what Semper K9 is doing for our Veterans and for rescuing dogs who would otherwise face a very different future. I am a firm believer in the healing powers of dogs.” **Ms. Jami organized an event in Nyle’s memory to benefit Semper K9. Thanks to her dedication,  hard work, and the generosity of others who knew Nyle she raised over $6,000. Plans for the Cpl Nyle Yates III Memorial Golf Outing 2017 have already begun with Semper K9 again being chosen as the beneficiary. Semper K9 is thankful for this amazing Gold Star Mother and it is our hope that Nyle’s love for helping others will live on in his namesake.

 

Please remember to keep all of our fallen heroes and their families in your thoughts this weekend.