21, of Patten, Maine; assigned to the 172nd Brigade Support Battalion, 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Fort Wainwright, Alaska; killed April 6, 2006 when an improvised device detonated while he was conducting dismounted patrol operations in Bayji, Iraq.
To honor SPC Dustin J. Harris, his parents, Mr. Scott Harris and Mrs. Lorna Harris and his brother, Dylan Harris selected this stone from their family homestead in Patten, Maine.  The Harris family found this stone in the potato fields Dustin’s grandfather used to farm on. They chose this particular stone because Dustin and his brother grew up in those fields, picking rocks, picking potatoes, gathering the apples from the near by trees, snowmobiling on these paths, driving the old car and pickup up and down the roads, and playing hide and seek in the pitch black through the trees..
Watch this video to learn why this stone is significant and what it says about SPC Dustin J. Harris.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=bX8kco0XCxQ&feature=youtu.be&rel=0
Spc Dustin Harris
2006/04/06
Â
âThe Turret Gunnerâ
Written by Lorna Harris—Proud Gold Star Mother
Dustin was born in Millinocket and raised in Patten, two small rural communities in Maine. He graduated from Katahdin High School in 2002. After graduation he attended Eastern Maine Community College for two years studying diesel mechanics. Dustin grew up surrounded by trucks, tractors and every piece of equipment in-between. Dustin learned to drive both as a son and grandson of a truck driver and potato farmer. Dustin helped out in the truck garage and barn, learning how to mechanic on everything. He enlisted in the US Army in 2004. Even as a young child Dustin dressed in Army clothes and played âArmy.â Heâd grown up seeing photos and hearing stories of his grandfather and uncle who both had Served.
Spc. Harris was assigned to Fort Wainwright, in Fairbanks, Alaska with the 172nd BSB (Brigade Support Battalion), and 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) as a heavy wheeled vehicle operator. He attended Airborne School at Fort Benning, GA where he qualified as a paratrooper. His awards and decorations include the Army Achievement Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Parachutist Badge, Combat Action Badge, and Weapons Qualification Badge.
Dustin was deployed to Mosul, Iraq in August of 2005 during Operation Iraqi Freedom in support of the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team. During his Deployment he demonstrated personal courage by volunteering to lead Re-Supply Missions, through deserts, villages, and cities in northern Iraq, regardless of increment weather or Enemy Threat. He was willing to sacrifice, to endure physical duress, and joining the one percent of Americaâs ordinary citizens to take a stand for our Freedoms and actively partake in Time of War. As a twenty-one year old Dustin viewed himself as indestructible. He never dwelled on the value of selfless service, the concept of putting the welfare of the Nation, the Army and his subordinates before his own. Little did Dustin realize, his commitment to go a little further, endure a little longer and look closer to see how to add effort, were the basic building blocks of his noble service. His greatest accomplishment was, along with Proudly wearing the Uniform of the US Army, was becoming a Parachutist and referring to himself as âOur Mighty Paratrooperâ to his family & friends.
On April 6, 2006 while serving as lead Gunner during a Combat Logistics Patrol Spc. Dustin J. Harris was Killed In Action by an improvised explosive device in Bayji, Iraq. Due to his concern for others Dustin’s chose to always be the Gunner, a true Act of Heroism. He was well aware of the risk that a Turret Gunner faced on any mounted patrol. He continued to volunteer, to assume this risk because he recognized that the rest of the vehicles and Fellow Soldiers in the patrol depended on his mental alertness, judgment and skill to keep the convoy safe. He also volunteered because of his Love of Family, his Band of Brothers. He did not want the soldiers who were married or had children take on that Risk.
âThe Strength of a Hero comes from not only their personal values but their upbringing as well. Specialist Dustin J Harris is my American Hero because he served our country without thought of recognition or gain. He is a son who lived the Values of the community of Patten, Maine and our entire Nation. These values were instilled in him by his parents, his brother and grandparents, friends and citizens of Patten.â said Col. William Keyes.
59 Comments
We at the Electronic Maintenance Shop will NEVER forget Dustin. Especially me. This was my 1st and only combat tour and I was at the end of my career. You will ALWAYS be in the hearts of the Tyler family my friend. OPAHEY!!!
Being a past “GATOR” myself..my heart weighs heavily on such a profound lost and significant place Dustin Placed in our unit and lives. He truly had no FEAR!!!
He took his duties seriously and respected the uniform he wore dearly..
It is my honor to carry the stone honoring Dustin Harris during our ride to honor the troops. I am a proud member of the Patriot Riders of Maine. I received Dustin’s stone by random pick. I want his family to know that I will hold the stone near to my heart. I have also requested to carry this stone in his memory during The Summit Project Ride in May. What I have learned about this hero will stay with me forever.
Service to one’s country that ends so tragically is the highest form of patriotism. Your son was a true patriot, a fine young man and a credit to the uniform he wore. He is a true hero and his country will long remember his valor. May he rest in peace. He will always be missed.
Dustin,
The words you said to Dylan ( in which he has tattooed on his chest) are very powerful!
You are a True Hero and although we never got the Honor to directly meet you, we feel like we know you through your wonderful family. They are constantly telling us stories and we will never forget any of them, for they are dear to our Hearts.
You GAVE ALL and we WILL NEVER FORGET THAT!
Thank you!!!!
REST IN PEACE
YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN
Love
Theresa, Hunter, Schylar Dempsey
Words cannot explain how amazing of an experience the Summit Project has been for me. Being the younger brother of one of our Fallen Heros, this Project means a lot to my family and myself. The start of this incredible journey started with the sound of the Patriot Guard Riders thundering into the camp ground. Seeing all the stones in their arms made me feel heavy. I felt the weight of the stone already, then the moment I was handed my brotherâs, SPC Dustin J Harris, stone I grabbed a hold of it and didnât want to let go. I felt so much passion about carrying his stone to honor and remember him.
That night as I packed my backpack for the hike, I really felt the weight of his memory as I tried on backpack with his stone in it. I was ready to honor my brother. Thoughts of the two of us ran throughout my mind throughout the whole weekend. Piling wood together, throwing apples at each other when we were suppose to be picking them up for mom. Driving the old pickup and cars through the fields where the stone was found. Picking apples on top of Grampâs tractor, and by the top I mean the bucket that Gramp lifted several feet up in the air! Those were the memories that I thought of with each step of the hike. Not as the wonderful, passionate, strong-willed soldier that he was, but as brothers. Fighting, laughing, getting pick on, those are the memories that I remember about my brother. I want Dustin to be remembered not only as SPC Harris, but also as Dustin.
With each step taken up the Owl Trail I felt Dustin heavy in my pack and my heart. Occasional I would take him out of my pack for a photo or two, on the bridge, in the snow bank, and of course at the summit of the Owl Trail. As I took the stone out of my pack at the summit, I thought to Dustin, look at where we are, there were faint clouds all around, the sun not really appearing, but the view was still breath-taking. I sat and had a private lunch aside from everyone else, I wanted to take a few moments for myself. I like to keep to myself and just admire in the beauty of what is around me in this beautiful state. This was certainly one of those moments, with Katahdin in the distance, and a group of incredible people near.
I cannot express enough thanks to all of those who participated in this event. I felt so much admiration and pride in all of those who selflessly dedicated themselves to honor those like my brother.
To Mom and Dad, I am so thankful to have you as parents. I know as soon as I mentioned this project to you guys you knew this was something that I wanted to have for âmyself.â I love the fact that you participate in Gold Star Mothers Organization and Wreaths Across America. I know that you two are more vocal in honoring Dustin than I am, thatâs why I am so thankful that you let me honor Dustin with this Living Memorial. I may not be as open but donât forgot that I love you two very much, and I love Dustin and miss him each and every day. I am so glad I am able to use my body to honor Dustin. From my artwork that Iâve had tattooed, to the necklace and bracelet I wear each day, and know I have the stone to carry and remember our wonder Dustin. You donât realize how much this Summit Project and participating in it has meant to me. I am looking forward to meeting up with the two of you on top of Cadillac Mountain in September.
Love, Dylan
To the Harris Family,..My name is Zina Lambert. I am a member of The Patriot Riders of America, Maine Chapter One. I was fortunate enough to have the honor of carrying Dustin’s memorial stone twice this year. Once on our Spring Ride, and again on part of the journey to Millinockett for the Summit Project. After viewing your video, reading the posts on here and seeing the memorial video on youtube that was made by his friends I feel as though I know him, at least a little bit. I can tell how much he was loved and admired by so many. I am not have, nor do I come from a military background. What I do with the Patriot Riders is out of respect. Respect for those who have selflessly “signed on the dotted line” knowing that they may not come home. I can only imagine the loss of a child. My heart goes out to all the Gold Star Families, my heart goes out to you. Your son/brother/grandson willingly signed on to protect the freedoms that so many take for granted. Thank you SPC Dustin Harris for your sacrifice. Thank you for making me proud to be an American. I realize that much of what I have written is repetitive from my last post but I wanted to reiterate my admiration for this true American hero.
Sincerely,
Zina M. Lambert
“Family.” That word can have so many different meanings. A while ago I had an idea to share with David Cote. There was a photo shared on the Summit Project’s page of all of the spirit stones. It very quickly hit me that we were missing one. So I immediately sent David a message explaining I felt like we were missing a stone. A stone that says family. I felt we needed this stone for a few different reasons. The first reason was the fact that one of the memorial stones represented my family member, SPC. Dustin J Harris. These stones represent the loved ones of families from all over Maine and some even away from Maine. But these stones are the memories of our family. The second big reason is because of what we all have been creating with the Summit Project. Through David Cote’s mission the families of the fallen soldiers and other individuals and families have been able to be united to share in this experience. I know myself I’ve met so many great people who have no connection to the fallen but what to have a connection. That type of thing means a lot myself and my family so the memory of my brother lives on. As I was carrying the spirit stone for family I thought of these things. I am so grateful that the memories of our fallen are living on and I am so grateful to have met everyone and created an even bigger family then I had before. A Summit Project family!
Thank you Dylan for “Family”.
It’s very fitting that our hike was completed on the weekend before Thanksgiving. I am so thankful to be a part of such a great mission. It means the world to me to meet these people who want to become a part of The Summit Project. Everyone of you is an amazing individual who I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. Thank you for becoming a part of Maine’s fallen hero’s stories. Being able to talk about and carry on my brothers memory is a tremendous feeling. Enough thanks you’s cannot be said to thank each and every one of you who has ever been involved with TSP.
The weekend getaway hike. The whole weekend was just surreal in my mind. The tight bounds that were so quickly made. The sliding down the ice. The walking sideways so the wind didn’t blow us over. The amazing meals that were prepared. The whole weekend was about FAMILY. I cannot express how thankful I am to have an even bigger family through TSP. As I carried my brothers stone on the trail this past weekend I looked around and felt such a connection with everyone that was around. That’s all any of us could think of this weekend I feel. Family. The word has a new meaning to the group of us. Thank you to Ted, Jeff, Betsy, Cathy, Andrew, Andrew, Morgan, and Em, you guys made this weekend such a great time for me. It was so much fun to spread stories about anything and everything but more importantly about the fallen.
So thank you to you guys. Thank you too David. Thank you to the families of the fallen. And a thank you to all Veterans who have ever served. MHANF.
Thank you for sharing your story…Dylan your words touched my heart…your brother is blessed to have you in his life. So true how important family is they may be gone from our sight..But we carry them in our heart forever…It helps to read your story..Blessings to you and your family…
Dear Lorna ,Scott , Dylan and Jim ( James ),
It was great to visit with you at the Run for Heroes Event in Presque Isle.
I had the distinct honor of carrying Dustin’s stone during this 5K event. I was deeply touched by the great turn out and supportiveness of the community. As I reflect back on that day , I am reminded that it was indeed a day for reflection and solemnness. At the same time it was an event to celebrate and honor the memories of Dustin and his fellow Maine Heroes.
It is extremely important that we cherish and respect their commitment and service to this country. Dustin made the ultimate sacrifice in order to help preserve our freedom and way of life. I am eternally thankful for his service.
MHANF
Most Respectfully,
Chris Robinson
05/14/15
Dear Lorna, Scott, Dylan, James, Sandra, Michelle, Todd, and Jett,
From the moment I heard about The Summit Project, I have looked forward to honoring Dustin’s memory in this way. Thank you for allowing me the honor of carrying Dustin’s memorial stone in our hike of The Owl this Memorial Day Weekend. The day I learned we had lost Dustin, I was in New York City and had just visited Ground Zero with my college softball team. Whether coincidence or fate, I was standing very close to an event that had such an impact on Dustin when a moment occurred that had such a profound impact on me. Distance had grown between Dustin and I after graduation, as it had between myself and many of my classmates. When you are so young, you always think there is time. You feel invincible and always believe there will be more moments to connect and to show people you care. Until life shows you that you are wrong. I grieve for the friend and classmate I knew Dustin to be. I also grieve for the man he became that I will never have a chance to know.
In the time I have been involved with The Summit Project, I feel that you have all taught me about the man that my friend became. I have felt Dustin there every step of this journey with you. Lorna and I carried Courage up Cadillac Mountain in October 2014 and through our time together she, Dylan and I became Family. Jimmy and I teamed up to give back to Baxter State Park, and I learned so much from him that day. Nana (Sandra), you will never know what it meant to me when you handed me the scarecrow you had made. It sits on my mantle and brings comfort when the road has kept me from home. Todd, Michelle, and Jett, while I am just beginning to get to know you, I can already see the love you have for Dustin and how much this family means to you. I look forward to spending more time with you, and I feel each time I am with The Summit Project, my family grows a little bigger.
When a hiker takes up a memorial stone, their intent is not only to honor the fallen. Their hope is that in honoring the fallen, they help heal the family of the fallen, as well. I truly hope that knowing that Dustin continues to live on through the lives of his friends and family brings you comfort. Dustin had an impact on me because I knew him. He was my teammate for many games of kickball on the playground. He was my library buddy for many walks through town. We shared bus rides to soccer games and laughs along the way. He was my friend, and though he is no longer with us, he continues to have an impact on me every day. Scott, when I brought you his stone on Sunday and we exchanged a hug, you thanked me and I felt that difference the day had made. I felt it in you, but I also felt it in me. In hoping to help you heal, you helped me heal. Nine years goes by so fast. Life continues at its own pace with no consideration for those living it. We get swept up in the day to day, and itâs not often we pause to reflect. As you let out some of your grief, I let out some of a grief that I didnât realize I was hanging onto. In the quiet moments since then I have noticed myself thinking of Dustin – sometimes with tears and sometimes with a smile. Your son was an amazing man, and I feel so very fortunate to have known him. I feel so very fortunate to know all of you.
Thank you for sharing Dustin with all of us at The Summit Project. Thank you also for sharing so much of yourselves. I love all of you like family.
MHANF
~Ziggy
My name is Taylor Harris and I was honored to carry the stone of Army SPC Dustin Harris. This was the first year the Nokomis JROTC participated in the Summit Project, and as I was researching the names of the fallen to figure out whose stone I wanted to carry, the name Dustin Harris caught my eye. I knew immediately this was who I wanted to carry. I did not know him in life, but the knowledge I learned about him made me wish I did. On May 29th I hiked Bigelow Mountain in Western Maine, as I was hiking I was thinking about what the weight in my pack represented. As I continued hiking, and the mountain got steeper, and I became more fatigued, the knowledge that the stone represented Dustin’s life inspired me to continue hiking. I am far from physically fit, and this was an incredibly challenging climb, but in this challenge I realized that what I did that day is only a tiny representation of the sacrifice SPC Harris made. I am grateful for the opportunity to carry physically carry his stone, and spiritually carry him on my journey up the mountain. I am honored to have been given the chance to learn about Dustin. He inspired me, as I’m sure he inspired his comrades in life. I know he will never be forgotten, the impact carrying his stone had on me will forever be a part of me. Thank you to Dustin for his sacrifice, thank you to his family for choosing the stone, and thank you to the Summit Project for the opportunity.
Sincerely, Taylor Harris
Thank you Taylor!
The Summit Project: A Testimonial
Army Specialist Dustin J. Harris
By: Alain Ouellette
Monday, July 06, 2015
âHonorâ is defined as the respect that is given to someone who is admired, one of good quality and character, one who exhibits high standards of behavior. That word was my first encounter with the memorial stone dedicated in Dustinâs name as I received it, in preparation for an experience that I will never forgetâŚyou see, the stone was carefully wrapped in a dark green pouch with a laced collar and on the pouch was the single handwritten word, âHONORâ. The very word commanded all the respect my three friends since childhood and I duly gave the stone as we carefully unwrapped it and placed it among us. Not a word was spoken for some time.
My name is Alain Ouellette. My wife, Louise and I are the proud parents of five adult children now, yet we still make our home in âthe Countyâ. The County is a special place for usâŚa place an old family farmer often referred to as âsacred groundâ. With certainty, my family and I heartily agreeâŚ
From the moment we removed the stone from its pouch, we agreed Dustin would hold place in all of our activities, whether it was setting camp at Kidney Pond in Baxter, preparing our fly rods attaching our âsecret fliesâ, arranging meals, or enjoying one anotherâs company with stories of old, all of which were shared many times in the past but laughter prevailed regardless. For years, Norm Guerrette, Bob Nadeau, Bob Daigle, and I have made Baxter our annual destination for fun, frolic, and a chance to reconnoiter. This year, however, was the exception, we had a purpose beyond our own interests; United States Army Specialist Dustin J. Harris was with us.
The decision to participate in the Summit Project was purely accidental. For months, I had pondered my physical and emotional state of affairs and wanted to take account of the fact that our home was soon going to return to an âempty nestâ and daily physical training became an integral part of my daily routine to an otherwise hectic home life. Until I came across an article in the Bangor Daily News, my physical conditioning had no purpose other than to gain a sense of personal satisfaction. My discovery of TSP suddenly gave my daily routine a purpose beyond me. It was now a humble attempt in paying the just respect due a fallen hero, a soldier from âthe Countyâ.
Early on the morning of Monday, June 29th, our climb up Double Top Mountain with Dustinâs memorial stone on my back began with the collective promise that we would reach our goal. Little did we realize at the time how difficult that climb would be. While the weather was cloud covered and mist hung from the mountain making the climb somewhat more challenging, we soon learned how much a challenge the south trail would be for three 61-year olds. Regardless, we worked as a team so once we reached the summit, we removed Dustinâs stone from the âHonor Pouchâ and carefully placed it down on the summit peak. Prayers were shared (as well as tears). You see, had we lived in Patten, my eldest son would likely have been a classmate, and perhaps a friend of Dustinâs. Reading Dustinâs bio presented on the TSP website was clear and convincing evidence they would have shared common interests. A zest for life, an occasional âadventureâ, fearlessness, yet the desire to help others, all pointed to personality traits I know and love.
I conclude my brief memorial with a sense of great humility and respect for a young man and his family, a family I have not known, until now. That kindred spirit will most assuredly live on as I continue to pay my just respects for our fallen heroes by attempting to meet new challenges through the Summit Project. Words of appreciation cannot come close to what we experienced that fateful day. Thank you for this privilegeâŚthank you for this âHONORâ.
Alain Ouellette
Fort Kent
Wonderful family-I work with Dustin brother Dillon in the summer.Thankyou for this tribute-our hearts will never forget.
On 26 Aug 2015, Scott Harris wrote —
The Summit Project Comes to Lincoln
My name is Scott Harris, Gold Star Father of Spc. Dustin J Harris. My wife Lorna and I had the Honor of carrying Dustin’s Memorial Stone when the Summit Project came to Lincoln.
I am a self-employed trucker living in Patten, Maine. For the last 4 years in December, I have volunteered my services to carry a load of wreaths in a week long convoy from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery for Wreaths Across America. We also participate in the Run for the Fallen and as many of the Summit Project Events as possible. The support that all of these events gathers to honor our fallen heroes is just simply amazing. As any Gold Star Family can attest that is what its all about, keeping our son’s and daughters memory’s alive.
Dustin was a hard working young man. He held a job at the local NAPA store all through high school. He also was an avid soccer player. When on the field playing it was very evident that he had no fear. Having just entered his Senior year in high school when events of 9/11 struck, he was determined to serve his country.
In 2004, after attending community college for two years Dustin joined the Army. He was assigned to Fort Wainwright in Fairbanks, Alaska with the 172nd BSB & the 101st Airborne Division. Deploying in August 2005 his unit heading to Iraq, Dustin served as a heavy wheeled vehicle operator. His comrades said that he would always volunteer for the dangerous missions as lead gunner. Especially if they were married & had children. Due to his concern for others. So very selfless of him. Dustin died on April 6, 2006 in Bayji, Iraq when an IED exploded while on Patrol as lead Gunner.
I would like to thank Justin & Jessica Cloukey for their time and efforts putting the Lincoln Summit Project Event together to Honor our Fallen Heroes. The turnout was overwhelming.
I would also like to thank David Cote for founding the Summit Project. It’s people like them that make the loss of our loved ones easier to bare with their dedication, love & support of Honoring Maine’s Fallen for their Sacrifices.
Scott Harris
Proud Gold Star Dad
Scott & Lorna,
I so admire your family as you continue on in life with such dedication. My daughter went to school with Dustin. Watching you carry on in life with such dedication and love has set an example for not only Mary, but all who knew Dustin or even those who may not have. Keep on Keeping on, you certainly are an amazing family!
Scott,
We love you guys. Although we never got the privilege and honor to meet Dustin, do know he will be forever in our hearts and will be forever our Hero! You and Lorna do a wonderful job at Honoring His Memory. God Bless you and all the God Star Families.
Thank you!!! Dustin, and all those who Gave Their All for our Freedom! You Will Never Be Forgotten
love
Theresa, Hunter, Schylar
So Sorry for the misspell of Gold Star Families, I deeply apologize! Prayers and Love to you all! God Bless you all
Mr. Harris, I am the daughter of a Vietnam Vet, I am so sorry for your loss, but also extremely proud to have followed your son’s story. Thank you for all you and your family have done to keep your son’s memory alive.
Scott and Lorna,
Dustin, will forever be in our Hearts and Forever be our Hero.! He, a long with many others GAVE THEIR ALL, and for that we can never say THANK YOU ENOUGH! We love you guys. Our prayers and love go out to all the Gold Star Families.
With love
Theresa, Hunter, Schylar
On October 18, 2015 I had the honor of carrying Army SPC Dustin J Harrisâ stone at The Summit Projectâs hike at Acadia National Park. Being able to carry Dustinâs stone was an honor because he was a âbig brotherâ to me.
Growing up, both my mother and Dustinâs mother were best friends, and still are today. There is not a friendship that I could be more thankful for than theirs. It brought our two families together and to me, they are one. Because of their friendship I have my childhood memories of Dustin that will never be forgotten. My memories that I have of him always make me laugh. He was definitely an adventurous and outgoing kid and as he grew older, man.
Through personal experience and stories of his Army friends, I have learned that Dustin was not only adventurous and outgoing, but Selfless and Brave. Perhaps Brave is an adjective that can be used for all of the soldiers who put their life on the line for their countries. However, selfless is the best way to describe Dustin. He was always wanting to impress and make other people smile. When he was serving overseas, in Bayji, Iraq, is when his selflessness showed the most. Before heading out on a mission, one of his friends was supposed to be in the gunner position. Dustin went up to him and told him that he was going to take his place up there because his friend had a wife and children back home. This was the day that Dustin was killed when the vehicle he was in gunner position on, hit an IED. Because of Dustinâs selflessness, he gave his life, so that a friend and fellow soldierâs life could be saved. This shows Dustinâs selflessness, but also his love for family. Back at home Dustin had a family he loved and that loved him back, but to him, his friend being able to return home and be a husband and father was more important than his own life. If this does not show the type of person Dustin was, I do not know what does.
As my team and I reached our second summit of the day, my backpack seemed heavier than it had all day long, it was such an amazing feeling to know that what I had just accomplished was for Dustin. Carrying a stone while hiking up Cadillac Mountain was such a small task compared to what he did for our Country. However, I find it comforting to know that each time I do something in remembrance of him, I can make him proud as he watches over me, and I can share his story. When we circled up to honor all of the fallen soldierâs rocks we had carried, it was emotional, but also rewarding. To hear and share the stories of the soldiers is such a great thing. To hear about how brave, they all were, to hear personal stories about them, to tell stories and learn about the stone you carry, and to always let their legacy live on.
I am honored and thankful that I was able to carry Dustinâs stone and I was able to be part of the Summit Project. Hiking up Cadillac with Dustin with me was incredible, especially because I was able to have our brother Dylan hiking with me. I will forever be grateful that I was able to honor Dustin and I hope to have the chance to do so again.
Tori Hanson
Proud Little Sister
My name is Karen Lawless. I went to School with Dustin briefly in Patten (8 & 9thgrade). Immediately upon graduating (2002) I joined the Airforce. I moved back to Maine in 2009 and began receiving medical treatment at TOGUS VA hospital. On one of my many trips there I was in extreme pain and stopped for a minute to rest. When I looked up I saw Dustin ‘ s picture on the wall and was excited to know someone else from my grade had joined the military. I remembered that he was always so nice to me even when no one else was. (I was the new kid). Anyway it didn’t take long for me to realize that he had passed on and my excitement quickly turned to sadness. I couldn’t believe it! I think about him often.
Today was the 1st day I got to witness the Summit Project in my hometown and all I could think of was Dustin and how he should have a stone. So when I got home I searched his name and found this and I am so incredibly happy that all of you have done this in his name. To his family, I am so very sorry for your loss. One day I would love to honor him and hike with his stone!
Sincerely,
Karen H. Lawless
Kare4kidslaw@yahoo.com
On October 16, 2015, I carried the tribute stone of SPC Dustin Harris up Cadillac Mountain with four friends. It was a spectacular fall day, and we hiked against the backdrop of the vivid red, yellow, and orange foliage that blended into the ocean below. We had the mountain virtually to ourselves.
During the early parts of our hike, I was saddened by the heavy truth that Dustinâs life was cut way too short. But, as we ascended above the tree line, I became energized by the view and being in the Maine woods, on a Maine mountain â my favorite place to be. My sadness melted away and I began to think not about how Dustin died, but about how inspired I am by the way he lived. So many Americans â myself included â revere the sense of service-over-self our men and women in uniform embody every day. Dustin didnât just have this trait â it was part of his makeup. He didnât think about it often. He didnât necessarily strive for it or look for ways to demonstrate it. It didnât require effort. It was just who he was.
By all accounts, Dustin was a special young man. I have read his bio a number of times since Iâve become involved with The Summit Project. But, it is because of the infectious smile and energy of his brother Dylan, who has become a friend to me over the past year, that I was drawn to Dustinâs stone. As brothers, they shared a very special bond. Kids who grow up in Maine have a kind of toughness that comes from working the fields, chopping wood in sub-zero temperatures, and doing farm chores. But many of us also knew and loved the simple pleasures of a quiet rural Maine afternoon or evening outdoors, and all the adventures we could get into. Siblings make those adventures so much more special. That is why I have always been touched by the image of Dustin and Dylan running through the family potato fields as boys, playing hide and seek in the dark, and by Dylanâs memories of their special adventurous â and perhaps rambunctious â relationship.
I had that child-like feeling again myself as the woods opened up and fall enveloped us while we climbed Cadillac. I thought about how Dustinâs playful spirit and sense of adventure followed him into adulthood, where in the Army he pursued his paratrooper wings. I thought about how this Maine boy who picked apples and played soccer in Patten grew into a young man who saw the world â the best and worst it has to offer â and always took the high road. Sometimes that was the riskier path, but Dustin traveled it anyway, knowing that his sacrifice would help his Army brothers avoid the dangers that lie ahead.
I felt during the hike, and continue to feel, a sense of global ownership and pride over Dustinâs life and the man he became. Dustin is âMaineâ to me. He is âhome.â It seems as though he took those Patten fields with him wherever he went â that sense of wonder and adventure, the delight in playing games in the dark Maine woods with his brother. All while protecting the many new brothers he welcomed into his life as a soldier.
I canât say enough how much my hike with Dustinâs stone meant to me. In a way, he gave me a message Iâve needed to hear for a long time â that I too am Maine. As I find myself journeying back home after 15 years away, Dustin makes me so proud to be from this place that both toughens and softens us â and at its very best, shares with the country Dustin Harris and his legacy.
I hope it brings some comfort to Dustinâs family to know the incredible mark he has left on so many lives, even for those of us who didnât know him in life. His memory inspires me, challenges me, and makes me work harder to live up to his legacy of service.
To Dylan, Lorna, Scott, James, Sandra, Michelle, Todd, and Jett, thank you.
Love,
Boots
Thank you Boots! What a wonderful tribute!
I felt very honored to carry the stone and the story of Dustin Harris. We walked 4 miles though South Portland. It was really fun to be with friends and do it with them. I was respectful to carry the stone for his family. It was awesome to walk with 25 other people carrying stones and hearing their stories. When my bag got heavy I remembered Dustin and what he went through and that kept me moving. I was an honor to have his mom and dad here at the South Portland Clubhouse. When we got back from the walk I got a big hug from his mom. I will remember Dustin forever.
Sincerely,
Brady Kirk
Dear Lorna, Scott, Dylan and the rest of the Trout/Harris
Family,
I have been shown another example of there being no
coincidences. As I sat between Lorna and Dylan at the Honor Case Event in
Newport on April 16, 2016, little did I know that, at the end of the event, I
would be asked to take Dustinâs stone home with me and be guardian of his stone
for a few weeks. Once again, a stone found me. Not one to let an opportunity
pass, two days later just before dawn, I packed Dustinâs stone into my pack and
off to Acadia National Park we went. You see, Monday, April 18th was
the birthday of a service member from CT. This other service member was an ROTC
cadet that my older brother trained at UConn and he died in November 2014. I
felt the pull to honor both of these boys that morning by hiking up the North
Ridge Trail up Cadillac Mtn. I had not hiked that particular trail in over 20
years and even those had been night hikes. This was my first daytime hike up
that trail.
Every time I have carried a TSP stone in the past, I have
made some sort of connection to the fallen. Maybe we have the same birthday or
have a similar sense of humor or we grew up in the same small Maine town. It always helped me to relate to them. In
some weird way it made me think âDude, I totally get you!â That small
connection made the endurance event all the more meaningful. I struggled to
make that connection with Dustin. The closest I came to was that we were both
born in May. I honestly worried this would not be enough of a connection. Why I
worried, I will never know. With everything I have witnessed through TSP over
the last year and half, I should know better.
The morning dawned partly cloudy down on the coast and a wee
bit chillier than I was expecting. It was late April. It should have been
warmer by then. But, I forged onward and upward knowing that once I got moving
I would warm up. Itâs a bit embarrassing to admit (and I will admit this
because it was all part of my experience) I didnât give the boys too much
thought on the hike up. I took in the beautiful views that I missed 20 years
ago, skipped around muddy spots and braced myself for the cold temps I realized
I would meet at the summit. The top of Cadillac was pretty quietâŚas in I was
the only one up there. I walked over to the marker indicating the actual summit
and plunked myself down. I took Dustinâs stone out and toasted each of the boys
with a Monster Energy drink. (This was the other service memberâs favorite
drinkâŚand disgusting I might add.) Then we just sat there and looked out over
the vast expanse of ocean for a bit. We didnât linger too long because the sun,
at that point, was completely blocked by the clouds and the wind had picked up.
I had a spring in my step as the hike back down began
unaware of how that would change. And while there were a few tears at the
summit when I toasted the boys, my emotions were still in check. I talked to
Dustin on the way down. I asked him to help me make that special connection. There
was no immediate response. My worry over it increased and I kept thinking, âhow
will I ever be able to write my reflection letter without that emotional pull?â
I felt like I was failing all of you, but Dustin especially. All the while, my
left knee started to ache, then throb, then the throb turned to painâŚsharp
pain. Every step was difficult. I slowed my pace realizing I had thoroughly
overworked it. When I was almost back to the trail head, the pain was
excruciating. Just putting weight on my foot was bringing tears to my eyes. And
then it happened. That connection I was searching for. It happened in a split
second when a phrase popped into my head. A common phrase that I have heard
many people say and that Iâve probably said myself without even realizing it. âMan,
getting old sucks sometimes.â As soon as I said the words in my head, I stopped
in my tracks. I couldnât have moved if someone had told me too. Emotions took
over at that point and I let the tears steadily flow. It hit me hard that
Dustin never had the chance to grow old. Never eventually maybe have a family
of his own. Right there on that trail, time stopped and I apologized. I made a
promise to Dustin to never utter or think that phrase again. To never take
advantage of the gift of life Iâve been given. To never utter one complaint
about any ache or pain I get as I get older. Because even with aches and pains,
every new day I get to grow older is a day he doesnât.
Iâd like to say that I collected myself and merrily went on
my way but, that wouldnât be the truth. Due to my knee, it took way longer to
finish that last little stretch of trail back to my vehicle. And I cried the
entire wayâŚall 20 minutes of it. There were moments when I thought I was going
to have to sit and scoot the rest of the way, but somehow I didnât need to. Iâd
like to think it was Dustin and Garvey there with me on that trail encouraging
me.
In the end, that connection was made and a lesson learned.
Until we have to hand it off, Dustinâs stone has a place of honor in the center
of our table where our family gathers every night for supper. I make a point to
reach out and touch it every time I sit down at the tableâŚthankful for him
answering my request for a connection, for reminding me that life is precious
and to never take advantage of it. Rest easy DustinâŚyou are NOT forgotten!
Much love and respect,
Heather âGraceâ Audet
Dear Scott, Lorna, Dylan, Jim, Sandra and the entire Harris and Troutt families,
I want to thank you all for the distinct honor and pleasure of carrying Dustin’s stone with me during the hike up The Owl on May 29, 2016. However, I do not believe there are enough words in the dictionary to express this. The moment I received the confirmation that I would be blessed with his presence during this hike, knowing Dylan would be my assistant team lead, my entire life changed.
Meeting each of your extended family and being able to be present for the balloon release was such an honor. Listening to everyone reminisce about Dustin and be in the presence of all of his memorabilia at the house was beyond compare. It was so hard to keep the tears from pouring down my face that day. I was also fortunate to attend the Quilt Show and see many of the beautiful works Mrs. Troutt has created with her amazing skill and art talents. I was so afraid I would not do his memory justice climbing to the summit as his life, accomplishments and sacrifice are so great. His selflessness was incredible.
I was sitting at the NEOC waiting to hear the Patriot Riders had made it through Millinocket, and my girls were in Millinocket watching for the very first time – waiting to see Dustin’s escort and the “parade”. The magnitude of the event itself turned my daughters to tears, and for the first time my seventeen year old was speechless – all I received was a text that simply said “wow”. Sitting there waiting for the convoy at NEOC with Dylan by my side gave me goosebumps and it was hard to control the range of emotions I was feeling.
When the stone transfer was complete – Dave instructed us to pick up our assigned stones – they were in our custody from here out. Heavy, smooth, and beautiful – I just couldnât get enough of the inscription “DJH SPC USA 1984-2006”. I replayed the video from the TSP interview and envisioned the pictures in my head of how the stone was chosen. Returning to the cabin to prepare for the next morning, I placed the stone on the bed, rested against the pillow, as if to provide comfort and maybe, just maybe, to provide me with a deeper sense of being team leader by leaning on his strength and unselfishness he showed through his life and service.
Sunday morning was cool and cloudy, and we expected rain. Somber in a sense, but it made for excellent hiking weather. Our team was all walks of life, all abilities of physical fitness, and blessed with not just Dylan, but another Gold Star family member, veterans, and active duty as well. It was raining at times, sometimes hard, and the climb itself was much more physical than I expected. Each time one of us felt the weight and maybe that we couldnât get to the top – I found myself fighting back tears looking ahead at my team to see the comraderies and family we were becoming through the common bond of these heroes and their sacrifices. Our pain and struggles were insignificant in comparison to the heores in our pack, and no one ever lost sight of that mission. It was awesome to watch as we all supported and pushed each other over the rocks and slippery climb – after all it was “just 10 more minutes” away -a saying that became a team joke and provided some lighthearted times as we finally found the true summit of The Owl.
We sat our packs down and the wind picked up, the rains fell hard and the clouds and fog rolled in as we all prepared ourselves for the Summit Circle Ceremony. After a few laughs and sharing of some interesting items that climbed to the top with us all, the mood shifted as the flag was placed and we all gathered our heroes from our packs. I was already choked up and feeling that lump in my throat as your son Dylan started us off – you have raised some incredible young men. Each and every team member had amazing words to speak of their heroes that included funny stories and nuances that made each fallen member special not just to their family and friends, but there seemed to always be a connection to the stone bearer. Every time someone would begin to speak, the winds would shift, and the clouds would part for a minute, giving us a view of the magnificent area below us. At times, the sky behind us brightened almost as if the sun was giving us a sign each hero was around and thanking us.
It came to my turn, and I immediately couldnât speak. My voice cracked and the tears rolled, and I could barely get through my words to honor Dustin. I feel so lucky to have listened to your family talk about him, how his choice to enter the service came about, and to laugh about his personal confidence and antics and just what he would have been like today. I thanked him for allowing me to feel his presence through a message delivered to me that only him, Dylan and I know about and will share forever. I expressed to him my extreme gratitude for connecting his brother and I at the ANP event in October, and I promised to be there for him always and ensure he will be part of my family’s life forever. Setting his stone on the Summit Project flag while whispering my gratitude and embracing his brother is a moment I will cherish always. Dustin was with me and his brother that day – and my life is truly changed because of his life and sacrifice, for this I am forever grateful.
Being a part of the TSP family now for a short time has given me a renewed outlook on life in so many ways. I have said to anyone who asks me – we do not pick our stone to carry – the stone picks us; and had it not been for this experience I would not have your family in my life. The bond we create to ensure these memories are not forgotten is unexplainable unless you have experienced it. I forever will be thankful for all I have in my life and all that I experienced because of Dustin James Harris. I will continue to ensure his memory is not forgotten and that it is passed along to my friends and family. Nothing makes me more proud than to watch my children ask questions and speak of Dustin as they place his memorial decals on their vehicles and other precious items. There is no better way to ensure this Maine Hero is NOT Forgotten – thank you for allowing me this honor.
With utmost respect and love,
Jackie Carter
To the family of Dustin Harris –
My husband, Joe, and I were honored to each carry stones of to the top of Borestone Mountain on 7/31/16 with a group of Foxcroft Academy alumni. Prior to our hike, we sat down with our three children to talk about these brave men, to share a little about what we knew of them, and the sacrifices they made. I didn’t know Dustin Harris personally, but had learned that he was a friend to all, a hard worker , and was proud to serve our country. Reading over the comments and posts here illustrate how well he was admired and loved. I know he was an amazing person, and I am so honored to be able to carry his stone.
During the hike I thought about you, his family. How you must have been so proud when he enlisted, both proud and terrified when he was deployed overseas. As a mother, I can’t imagine how hard that must be. You truly made the ultimate sacrifice, as you are left to carry on in this world without him, and to keep his memory alive.
I was not familiar with The Summit Project prior to this, and I am so happy to have had this experience. It is a wonderful and touching way to honor the servicemen and women and their families, all of whom have given so much for our country. I look forward to being able to do it again.
With warmest wishes to you all –
Hillary Caruso
My name is Caitlyn and I recently had the chance to carry the stone of SPC Dustin J Harris. My boyfriend Dylan is the surviving brother of Dustin and through my relationship with Dylan I have come to know of Dustin’s service and sacrifice. Dustin has become someone very important to me even though I never had the chance to meet him. I learn more and more about him the more time I spend with Dylan and the whole Harris family. If there is one thing I am sure of, it is that Dustin was and is still so very loved. Every moment I spend with his family I feel so much love and I am so honored that they have allowed me to be a part of their lives and that they have shared Dustin with me in this way. Dylan brought Dustin’s stone along with us one afternoon when we hiked Mt. Chase. It was a very humid day and I wasn’t sure I would even be able to manage the climb which was very disappointing because I really wanted to carry Dustin’s stone. It was important to me that I carry his stone because even in this small way, I wanted to pay my respects to him and honor him and thank him for his sacrifice, so it was decided that I would carry his stone on our climb down. As Dylan and I climbed we talked of Dustin as if he was right there with us, and in a way I feel like he was. Learning about Dustin has been such an honor for me and I’m so glad I was able to honor his memory. To be able to carry a stone that holds the memory of someone who gave their life for their country is such a humbling experience. The TSP program has been such a blessing for so many families. I know that it has been a tremendous blessing for Dylan because it allows him to heal and to honor and remember his brother and to honor other soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice. I am so blessed to have been able to honor Dustin in this way and I am so blessed by the Harris family that they have allowed me to not only honor him but to learn about him and remember him with them.
â¤ď¸ Beautifully said â¤ď¸
Dear Scott, Lorna and Dylan,
Once again I would like to thank you for allowing me to honor Dustin’s story and memory on Oct. 1st. When my daughter Clare first asked me if I’d be interested in getting involved with TSP I knew right away that I did. I also knew that it was something that would be a bit of a challenge for me. Although I’d done some hiking in my younger years, it had been some time since my last. I had also recently put on a few extra pounds and have smoked cigarettes since the age of 12. I knew that if I was going to be able to manage the hike, I’d better do something to improve my health. Quickly. 2 months prior to the hike I quit smoking and started walking 4 to 5 miles a day. It wasn’t easy but I told myself, if a young man like Dustin can sacrifice his life for me, and our country then I can certainly try to salvage some extra time in my life for his memory. I am certain that without making those changes in my life, the hike would have been extremely difficult if not impossible. I continue to be smoke free and walk most days. Dustin continues to be a major motivator for me and I am committed to not smoke, no matter what, in his memory. I hope that when I reach the afterlife I’ll get to thank him.
It was a special journey to learn about Dustin and get to share about him that day on top of Cadillac. It is incredible for me to think of that young man sacrificing his life for his family, the people of Patten Me. and for me. He was a rare and special person. I have thought of a special way to keep his memory fresh in my mind and allow me to share his story with frequency throughout the rest of my life. I will share this with you in the near future. You too are very special people and words cannot express the gratitude I have for the sacrifice you’ve made. Dustin would not have taken the direction he did if he hadn’t grown up in a family that reflected the love of country and values that he’d learned from you.
I am hopeful that we will meet again. Perhaps at a future TSP hike. God bless you all and please know that the one percenters like Dustin are the ones that have always made our country great.
Respectfully
Chuck Peaslee
To the family of Spc. Dustin J. Harris,
I had the privilege of carrying the stone that Mr. Scott, Mrs. Lorna, and Mr. Dylan Harris had picked out. I hiked Mt. Streaked with my class and other classes from Edward Little High School. I read a lot about Dustinâs life and he reminds me a lot of myself. And since he reminded me a lot of myself it made the hike that much more meaningful to me.
Just like Dustin, I work on a potato farm. I know what itâs like to pick potatoes, pick rocks, and be around trucks and tractors. Also Dustinâs grandfather and uncle had served, just like both of my grandfathers and great-grandfathers.
Dustin lived a life where he saw a lot of the world. From growing up in Maine, to being assigned to a fort in Alaska, to qualifying to be a paratrooper in Georgia, to finally being deployed in Iraq. Dustin has seen, and has lived a fuller life than most people on this planet.
His sacrifices, courage, and his willingness to preserve Americaâs freedom are the reason that every person in this country is alive today. I am forever in debt to Dustin and the other soldiers that sacrifice their livesâ everyday to protect us.
With the utmost respect,
Grant C. Hartley
I was assigned to the Combat Support Hospital and was there when he died. I wear a KIA bracelet in his honor and have the Stars and Stripes article noting his passing.
Ever since I “joined” the Summit Project family I have heard of how brave and amazing Dustin Harris was. I wanted to learn everything about him, and everything I hear about him truly hits home. Brave and selflessness have new meanings to my life now that I have carried Dustin’s story. The similarities between the our two families is amazing, and I am honored to have carried someone so selfless and someone who seemed to be just like my brother.
As I said at the top of the mountain, the Harris family is an amazing family, and anyone who knew Dustin Harris should feel honored to have someone like him in their lives. This was an emotional roller-coaster of hike, especially with Dylan on my team! The thing I believe to be the most important thing I took away from carrying Dustin was; to not take any day for granted, to be the best you can and have confidence. From what I learned, Dustin had a lot of confidence in himself and the ladies!
Dustin seemed as though he was a great family man, and family meant everything to him. He sacrificed his life for the men and women who have made their own families. I wish I could have met Dustin, but through the stories of his parents, his brother and grandfather, I feel as though I do know him.
I want to thank the Harris’ for all their support they have given me and my family through our hard times, and I want to thank them for everything they did for me during this hike. Dylan- an amazing brother, and an amazing person. All the stories about your job as a teacher and a coach are amazing. When I get finish school I am going to be a teacher and a coach and I truly hope I can half the teacher/ coach you are. Lorna and Scott- You are amazing parents! The love you have for your children is touching and inspiring. The support and encouragement you have given my mother through her project is outstanding and can never be thanked enough. Thank you so much the the opportunity to learn about your son. Jimmy- you’re just all around amazing. I can feel the love for your grandchildren every time we meet. You tell me stories, and even though you had me carry that huge flag during the 5k, I was honored to do so!
The Harris family is an outstanding family, thank you so much for everything you do!
On the 5th adversary of TSP at BSP, I carried the stone and the story of Army Spc. Dustin J. Harris. I had never carried Dustinâs stone before but his name was the first one that I had ever learned about when I originally heard of TSP, 3 years ago. While serving as the Unit Director of the South Portlandâs Boys & Girls Club, a wonderful coworker of mine told me about the organization and the Harris family.
After doing some more research and seeing the connection between the Clubhouse and other fallen heroes. It was a no brainer to try to host the honor case as part of a project meant to teach a group of young boys about something bigger than themselves. It was a big success and I was shocked on how many Gold Star families attended the ribbon cutting ceremony. I also could not believe that the Harris family made the drive down from Patten for the event that day.
Lorna, Scott and Dylan, it has felt like Iâve became a part of your family sine that very day. From that day we have hiked together on occasions, ate together, plus always checked in with one another at events. After our daughter was born, you all asked repeatedly how she was doing and that meant a lot to us, I know Iâve told the story a ton but I was screaming at my TV when you all were honored with the new truck at the Army/Navy game. I was yelling âI know themâ over and over again, alone in my basement. I honestly can say that I love you all and care for your family deeply.
Iâve sat in on a few stone ceremonies in which someone has carried Dustinâs stone. I have heard his story the most over the years. I did not request a stone on this yearâs hike and I let Andy assign one to me. When I saw the list go out and I read Dustinâs name next to mine, I was so honored. I felt like I was on his turf all day. Knowing that he grew up looking at these mountains, it was as if we were in his backyard. I thought a lot about Dylan as well during the day. Knowing how much he enjoyed being on the TSP hikes but also knowing how much joy he was feeling at that moment, just days after welcoming a new baby girl to their family. I carried a picture of little Miss Amelia in my chest pocket all the way to the top. I figured it would be fitting to welcome her into TSP family on such a special weekend.
I spoke about Dustin in our stone ceremony on top of Owl but truth be told, I talk about him a lot. Dustin is my hero, he showed such courage day after day and from what Iâve learned over the years, he was doing what he was born to do. His picture has been on my desk at work since the day, Lorna mailed it to me. The Harris family has taught me a lot about love, sacrifice and family. I know that is why Dustin turned into the man he was. Spend 5 minutes with the group of them and youâll know what I mean.
Lorna and Scott, your son will not be forgotten. Dustinâs story and your family are something that I treasure and keep close to my heart. I am overjoyed for Dylan and Caitlyn with the birth of Amelia. Congratulations to you all and I canât wait to meet her. Thank you for allowing me to honor your son and know that it doesnât end with this hike.
Sincerely,
Ray Ruby
Dear Lorna and Scott and Dylan and the whole Harris family,
It was my great honor and privilege to carry Dustinâs memorial stone in Acadia national Park with The Summit Project and hike Cadillac Mountain. Words cannot express the feelings and the emotions of having this Honor. You have invited me into your home, your hearts and your family. By sharing some of the greatest memories that you have. Some good, some bad, some happy and some sad. It is a great honor to be part of something thatâs so small yet so large in our hearts. I know it doesnât take away the pain of losing a loved one but I hope and pray that by Carrying Dustinâs memorial stone and by educating people about The Summit Project and especially your son it will help lessen it. It was a beautiful Saturday morning I had set my alarm clock for 6 oâclock but by 5:30 I was wide-awake with the anticipation and excitement to leave for the hike. I had my eight-year-old son Scott with me to hike that day Scott was also was carrying a memorial stone for another fallen hero which I educated him on Both. As we went to the registration area I was met by your dad smiling face as always, happy to see me he gave me a big hug and Dustinâs flag to carry to the top of the mountain, which my son Scott insisted that he carry. As we gathered our things to get onto the bus the clouds disappear and the sun shined upon us. It was a beautiful day from start to finish as we hiked up one of the mountains we were supposed to turn left halfway up to continue to Cadillac Mountain, as a group we stayed right and continued up the first mountain to the Summit and then turned around and continued to Cadillac Mountain. At the remembrance circle it was very hard for me to talk about Dustin and the memories that you have shared with me, but all the sudden it was like a weight was lifted off me like Dustin was there helping me through and I was able to finish talking about Dustin and his courage to protect others and get them out of harms way and I am forever grateful and I will continue to educate people on your sons heroic efforts to save others and keep them out of harms way. I am also forever grateful for you, for opening your hearts, your home and your stories to share with me which I will carry-on for the rest of my life.
Sincerely
Shawn
I have been wanting to leave a quarter at SPC Harris’ since the first day after deployment one. On that fateful 6 Apr he landed at our CSH where we worked tirelessly. From the moment he landed, until he left, he was never more that 5 ft away.
Oh, where to begin…
The reflection letters, first and foremost, are for the families of the heroes we carry. But itâs also for the future hikers, a way for them to learn about the hero that they will carry. And itâs for us, the hikers, itâs a way to process everything â and there is always a lot to process. This letter wonât be for the hikers. This letter is from me to you: Lorna, Scott, Jimmy and Dylan.
First, I want to say thank you.
Thank you Jimmy for being that first friendly face back at the Medford rest stop last year. And thank you for telling me about Dustin at that same rest stop this year. Thank you for wearing your heart on your sleeve, the vulnerability and love evident to see, I admire you greatly for that. Thank you for your words of encouragement and appreciation, and your dedication to preserving Dustinâs memory. And thank you for getting the poem to me.
Thank you Lorna for the long telephone conversation, your words created an image not only of the man that Dustin was, but of the son you raised. Thank you for answering my unending questions about Dustin and your family and friends. Thank you for bringing me into your family and sharing so openly with me. And thank you for just being there.
Thank you Scott for the stories! You put character and life into that image that Lorna created for me. The way you reminisced about the past, with a smile and a laugh brought joy into my heart. It made me feel as if I must have known Dustin, for the heaviness I felt at realizing he was gone. Thank you for that.
And thank you Dylan. Your words in particular held the weight of a thousand stones. Iâm not sure I can put into words what it meant to me to have you there on the hike. But I think you must know.
Second, I want to say how much I admire each and every one of you.
Lorna, you told me that you wanted to âcarry on Dustinâs mission to serveâ. I can think of no better way to keep the memory of Dustin alive and to truly honor his service and sacrifice. All of you are greatly succeeding in that mission with everything that you do. Simply by being part of the Summit Project you are accomplishing this. By being present at the hikes, your contribution is even greater. You ensure the success of this program, which you know is doing a great service to so many – to the Gold Star Families, to the Veterans, to the hikers and volunteers. I have been thanked so many times for hiking with the stones. We, the TSP family, are a very diverse group but we share a common thread. One that is difficult to put a name on, but it is there just the same. I know I am speaking for most, if not all hikers when I say: It is an honor to do this hike, I am thankful to be part of this, thank you for being here, I canât begin to tell you how meaningful all of this is to me, it is I who am grateful for the privilege of carrying these stones and stories.
Lastly, my reflection on the hike.
I talked to you all after the hike and shared my experience, so I donât want to take up a lot of space here with reiterating what has already been said. But I do want to share a moment with you. Near the beginning of the hike, we came around the corner and I was greeted with the beautiful sight of a lake with the grey and misty backdrop reminiscent of a painting. Standing what appeared to be on top of the water was Dylan. Looking out at the lake, lost in thought. It fit perfectly with what was in my heart. The silence, solitude, and weight of grief. The wonder and longing of what might have been. And the raw beauty and peace that comes with acceptance. I imagine he was thinking of his brother. I thought he should have Dustins stone. I put down my pack and unzipped it. By the time I reached the stone, the scene had changed. The rest of the hikers had arrived and Dylan was no longer on the water. I wondered for a moment if Iâd imagined the the whole scene, and repacked my bag. The moment had passed, but I understood that Dylan always carried the weight of Dustins memory. The stone wasnât necessary.
At the circle, we were an intimate eight. There was a particular closeness, not only physical, but emotional as well. We all took our turns, but we shared in the process. We asked questions, shared thoughts, discussed. Although I had the stone in front of me, I felt as if Dustin were beside me, as if he were part of this circle of friends, silently waiting to hear what I was going to say about him. After I took my turn to share Dustin with the group, it occurred to me that Iâd forgotten the poem. So once everyone else was done, it was the last thing to be read at the circle ceremony, a very fitting conclusion.
And not to be forgotten, the post hike.
Here we are almost two weeks later. I have placed the gold star on a necklace with a small antique key that my mom gave me. It greets me every morning, and is with me when I need a little extra strength for the day. I have this dragonfly tattoo, that although it came years before, will always remind me now of Dustin, a man, a brother, a son I never knew, but feel as if I had. And without his sacrifice I would never have met such a wonderful family. Iâm sorry. I wish weâd never met under these circumstances. But Iâve truly never seen such wonderful example of making the best of such a shitty situation. Iâll say it again, I admire you for that. I know you are making Dustin proud.
Much love to you all,
Red
Thank you Red sending you a “God Wink” from the Harris and Troutt family God Bless MHRNF
Dear Lorna,Scott and Dylan,
My name is Scotty and I had the honor of carrying Dustinâs memorial stone at Cadillac Mountain with the summit project. We had a great day and a great hike up the mountain I got to spend the day with my dad who is also caring a memorial stone I really enjoyed learning about Dustin and all the things that he liked from hanging out with his friends to playing soccer and having the favorite soda that I have Mountain Dew. I enjoyed talking with you about Dustin I also enjoyed hanging out with Dustinâs grandfather at the campground.
Love,
Scottyâs
Dear Harris family;
I had the honor of carrying Dustin with me on my trek up Mount Katahdin on 10/12/19 with a small but mighty group from TSP. The conditions werenât great for a variety of reasons, but we were a determined crew. We all knew that the heroes we were carrying in our packs and in our hearts would march on, and so should we.
It was a cold, bitter early fall morning when our group of 12 met at the Roaring Brook Campground gate. After a team huddle, final check-list of gear, and a few outhouse breaks, we were off. The weather was raw and damp, but we were feeling determined. It was a 3+ mile journey to our first stopping point and by that time we were soaked. All layers wet to the core. A short break for snacks, photos and videos, and we were off again. From here the trail is steep and steeper. We had a team member not feel well and the difficult decision was made for him to return to camp, for his safety. We were lucky to have a nurse in our hiking crew so they both turned around to head back to safety. It was hard to watch them go. Hard because as a hiker with a purpose, I know how hard that was to have to turn around, but it was the right decision.
At this point we started passing hikers on their way down from the mountain. We asked each one, âdid you summit?â And the consistent answer from each one was âno.â Each hiker, probably about 20 hikers in total, said the weather was too harsh and they werenât prepared. The trail was too slick and dangerous. By the time we got to the portion of the Saddle Trail that required scrambling, we were feeling the pressure, and the slippery rocks. We were cold, wet and behind schedule. At this point another hiker in our group decided she couldnât continue. She didnât feel safe and the conditions of the trail made her increasingly uncomfortable. She turned back, along with a volunteer hiker on the team, and our initial team of 12 became 8.
If I am to be completely honest, if the sky wasnât so covered in low clouds, fog and rain â I am not sure I would have been able to continue myself. Those conditions, as dangerous as they were (wet rocks and reduced visibility) helped mask the dangers for me. But there was something else. There was an inexplicable calmness for me and I think that calm was Dustin.
Lorna something you said to me on the phone about Dustin makes me think of him every day. You told me that in high school the teachers would tell students who were struggling emotionally to go see Dustin because that Dustin had a calmness about him. That he was always able to help calm them down. As a mom of a little girl with special needs, this hit home and stays with me. I think about it literally every day. I feel like Dustinâs presence brought a calmness with him and helped ME that day on Mount Katahdin.
Finally, we did reach the summit. In fact, as soon as we climbed out of that basin the rain stopped and we were able to dry out. There were a lot of tears shed on the Mountain that day. Tears of remembrance, tears of gratitude and tears of appreciation of each other.
Let me close by saying âthank You.â Thank you for sharing Dustin with The Summit Project so we can all learn about what an amazing young man he was and so we can help to carry forward and preserve his memory. Thank you, Lorna, for taking the time to speak to me prior to the Katahdin hike to share your memories of Dustin. And a special thank you to Jimmy. Thank you for being at the Saw Mill Bar and Grill for the 150-Miler after party. I didnât know that anyone from Dustinâs family would be attending so it was a wonderful surprise. I think we were both surprised. Dustin now keeps me company in my daily commute, thanks to the photo you gave me. <3
Thank you Andrea Welcome too our TSP family so glad to have walked with Greg on his 150 mile hike. MHRNF
To Dustinâs mom, dad and brother,
On Saturday, November 9th I had the honor of carrying Dustins stone up Blue Hill Mountain, in Blue Hill Maine. It was a brisk but sunny morning with a dusting of new snow, actually quite beautiful. I had woken up in the middle of the night thinking about your son / brother, so I got on the site to try to learn more about him and I came across more letters, one from Dad, and in it found that Dustin was a Soccer player. I instantly felt even more connected. As a soccer mom of 2 boys, I canât imagine your pain and grief over the loss of your beloved son. I must thank you for taking part in the Summit Project and letting perfect strangers love and learn about Dustin. It truly sounds like you gave him a wonderful childhood growing up in Patten. The fact that Dustin was young, yet so brave and caring is a testament to you, you must be so proud. To put soldiers with wives and children, before his own safety on the dangerous missions really struck me as so mature for a 21 year old young man. I read a short verse on the mountain top that day, John 15:13- Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. Dustin did lay down his life for his friends (fellow soldiers) and all of us stateside back in the USA. Dustin will not be forgotten, through tsp we will keep his memory alive and people like me that never knew him will shed tears for him, learn about him, and be inspired by him. Thank you for your service Dustin. My son had a soccer playoff game later that night after the hike, and I felt so lucky to have both my sons yet so devastated for you, that you donât. I hugged them a little longer, and said I love you a little stronger because of your amazing son. God bless you.
With deepest sympathy and honor, Robin
I had the honor and privilege of carrying the stone of Army SPC Dustin J. Harris for The Summit Project at the Veterans Remembrance 4 Miler in Ellsworth, Maine. The 4 mile run provided me with plenty of time to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice that this hero made in service of his country. He is an inspiration to us all and we we should all strive to be as selfless and brave as Dustin was in our daily lives. He was an amazing young man.
I would like to start by saying that I am truly humbled by having the opportunity to carry the weight of Dustin’s stone. The memories and stories that I have had the opportunity to read about your family and Dustin in particular made me wish that I had known him.
I am fortunate to know Dylan, who both of my boys (Alex and Ben) had as a teacher while he was in Baileyville. Lorna and Scott I had the opportunity to meet in Cherryfield at the concert on the blueberry grounds. It was a true pleasure to have met you all and to see how you are carrying on Dustin’s memory.
I have shared Dustin’s story with my family and friends and all who will listen. Being a prior service member myself, I can grasp the extent of your pride for Dustin and the ultimate sacrifice that he made.
Again, thank-you for providing me with this opportunity to keep Dustin’s memory alive.
Sincerely,
Wayne
Time spent with family. Thatâs how my day was spent honoring my beloved brother this year. I was saddened when I heard the news that TSP was going to be a no go. I was looking forward to hiking with Dustinâs stone again. I was looking forward to feeling the weight of his precious stone in my pack. To honor him and his fellow fallen heroâs at the summit of the owl.
But none of that was able to happen. So I thought, family. Spend the day with family honoring him. So we loaded up the pickup and headed out together, my beautiful wife, myself, and our curious and energetic two year old Amelia. We started driving and we could not have asked for a better day for it. It was sunny, cool breeze, perfect weather.
We first stopped at a sight that Dustin had passed a million times in his youth. Beautiful Mt Katahdin. The snow still covered most of the mountain sides. I took in the view and wondered if Dustin ever stopped to take in this view. Iâm sure he had before. It was never a conversation we had in our time together but Iâm sure he had.
After that we traveled north bound again. We arrived and the gravesite and Amelia knew exactly where to go. And wouldnât you know it, one of the first things her curious hands go for was the nip of Captain Morganâs that someone had left out for him. I took in a few quiet moments, in between the chasing around of Amelia and shared a drink with Caitlyn and you. I wish so much that you could have met the two beautiful girls in my life today. I know you would have made an amazing uncle to our little peanut. And I will leave it at that. Love you brother.
On September 26, 2020, I had the honor and the privilege to carry the stone and the story of SPC Dustin Harris up Cadillac Mountain with team TARN. It was an overcast fall day, and we hiked among the beautiful colors of the fall.
Prior to our hike, I was saddened as I wrapped Dustin’s stone up to safely secure it in my pack. Thinking of all the things he had missed out on in life where it was cut way too short at the young age of 21. Once packed safely in my pack my thoughts drifted to our team brief prior to the hike and how different this year’s event were compared to past years due to COVID.
I guess it was meant to be that I was randomly assigned Dustin’s stone for this hike. Earlier in the year I had arranged for the Summit Project Honor Case to be displayed at my office as well as celebrate its heroes by having a “Blessing of the Stones”, ruck and pot luck. The case was displayed for a few months, but unfortunately all the events we had planned were canceled due to COVID. Dustin’s stone was one of the 20 stones that I had selected to be displayed. I was so happy when I was assigned his stone as I had always felt that I had some unfinished business where our celebration of those heroes never got to take place.
The days before the hike I had time to research Dustin and read the many things that had been written about him. How he was known for his big smile and his gentle ways. How he loved bombing around the potato fields of his family farm with his brother and cousins to the tinkering on the cars and trucks. How he had a great sense of humor and at 5 foot 9 inches with his size 13 feet he provided so much comic relief to his friends and family in his inability to stay upright. How he would have rejoiced in his niece and the new one on the way and how they will miss out on a very kind and loving uncle Dustin would have been.
By all accounts, Dustin was a special young man. I have one word that sticks out to me more than any other for Dustin and that is – selflessness. By all accounts this is the one word that I feel sums up Dustin best. His wanting to take the high-risk jobs in place of the soldiers that had families buy sometimes playing rock, paper, scissors to taking the time to convince others to allow him to take the high-risk missions because they had families to return home to.
I guess I was the most touched by a letter that I found that had been posted to one of the military websites a few years after Dustin had passed. The letter was written by Joshua Simmons. Joshua was a fast friend that Dustin had made while stationed together at Fort Wainright, Alaska. They played together in Alaska and then were deployed together. In Dustin’s last selfless act, he had convinced Joshua to let him take his position as lead gunner on patrol operations on a mission about 150 miles outside of Bagdad. Dustin was killed by an IED while on dismounted patrol that day.
Lorna, Scott and Dylan, I am so very sorry for your loss. Thank you, Dylan, for taking the time out of you day to share the stories about your brother with me. I am so sorry we never got to meet up at the hike. Maybe next year!
Thank you for your service SPC Dustin Harris
I was part of team Gold with SPC Dustin J Harris’ Stone. Started from home to Honor a few of our fallen Heroes, with Dustin’s stone and a stuffed bear Sandra had made out of Dustin’s BDU’s. First stop was Dustin’s resting place in Patten Maine. Then up the road to CPL Dustin J Libby at Haystack mountain trail. Off to 1St Class Aaron A Henderson’s grave outside of Houlton. It is out in the back country of the Henderson farm land. Now a little ride to Lee Maine where Sgt Blair William Emery and SGT Joel A House lay to rest, both young men were from this small town. On the way to Lincoln saw this kneeling soldier at cross grave stone. It was only fitting to see this happen. I think someone was giving me a sign. I know Dustin’s stone and the bear beside me can’t talk but they gave me a look. Now to Medal Of Honor MSG Gary Ivan Gordon of Lincoln. Then a bit of a ride to Newport where my last stop at CAPT John R Brainard AKA “Jay.” Dustin had a nick name in Iraq too, his buddies called him “Harry.” All of these Heroes may be gone but will never be forgotten. Thank you Summit Project for keeping our Heroes alive and going. Sending all a “God Wink.” God Bless. For a Gold Star family every day is a Memorial Day to them. Wish everyone who is carrying a Heroes stone to remember what they stand for. Freedom is not Free. “Fly High Our Mighty Paratrooper.”
Notes
Take a trip out through the woods. On the old farm road out towards the old rolling fields. Many potatoes were grown under that dirt. Many rocks were taken from that dirt and put in neat rows away from the good soil.
Thatâs where the stone was found. The stone that would memorialize my greatly missed brother Dustin. The stone was there, and had probably been there long before either one of us were even born. Back when grampy Rodney and his father plowed and filled the land to support their families.
The stone was there when Dustin and I would take the old pickup or the âTellyâ out for a spin or two. It was there the infamous day that the Telly got stuck in at least 3 feet of muck and mud. It was there the summer we got paintball guns and would target practice on one another.
It was there when Grampy Rodney taught us to drive on the tractors. Or the times that he would lift us up in the tractor bucket to the highest parts of the Apple trees to pick the best apples.
It was there when Dustin and his friends hung up roadsigns that they stole. It was there the day mom and I had to tear down the roadsigns from the trees because the policemen thought that I had hung them up and not Dustin three or four years earlier.
That land will always be a memory of the times we spent out there together. Thatâs what I will remember when I see the stone. The land, the memories, my brother.
To the Harris/Troutt family,
It was my absolute honor to have carried Dustinâs stone for my first TSP event at BSP for Memorial Day 2022. It being my first event for The Summit Project and truly just signing up late & on a whim, I really had no idea what I was getting into. I feel immense gratitude to have had this experience with Dustin and your family.
I was nervous in the days aheadâconcerned I would say the wrong thing or not enough of the right things. Once meeting you all Saturday before the hike, I felt welcomed and much more relaxed. I was so appreciative of the care you took to talk with me, introduce me to others, and share more about Dustin with me. Dylan, it meant a lot to me to have you hand me Dustinâs stone as we prepared for the next morningâs hike.
The day of the hike was amazing. The type of day you describe when someone asks your perfect hiking weather (minus the bugs!) I enjoyed having Dustinâs stone with me. Every time our group removed them from our bags for a good picture, I used the opportunity to keep our mission at the top of my mind. I kept going back to how brave Dustin was. I think we all have at least little brave in us, tucked away for when you need it most or reserved for your most passionate platform. Dustinâs bravery was demonstrated daily. During our circle ceremony up on The Owl, it was clear that this was a trait all of the heroes we carried had in common.
As we made our way back from the hike, I found myself looking forward to seeing you all again. I could have definitely used more time with Dustinâs stone and spirit but I was happy to return him to you and getting to spend a little bit more time with you all that afternoon was wonderful. Thank you for sharing so much about how Dustin lived with me. Thank you, as well, for all you do to keep Dustinâs spirit alive. The many ways you have taken even a sliver of your grief and turned it into action has inspired all of those around you.
I look forward to the next time our paths cross. In the meantime, please know I will carry Dustin and his story with me and share it as often as I can. He will never be forgotten.
With great respect and admiration,
Erica Underwood
Dear Scott, Lorna, and Dylan,
I am sorry my letter is late. It has been difficult describing the impact of the ANP hike. Obviously, no way near as painful as losing your son and brother. I am also sorry I did not get a chance to reach out prior to the hike to learn more about your brave and selfless son and brother.
Time was limited. I heard about The Summit Project back in 2015 and since then I had wanted to be a part of it, but have never been able to make it work, other than donating a spirit stone to the organization. The ANP hike was another event we didnât think we would be able to participate in. I was booked with a prior commitment. But last minute that event was cancelled. I reached out a few days before the ANP to see if there were any openings for the ANP hike, but Greg said it was full and it was too close to the start to do any last-minute sign-ups. But the night before the ANP hike, I received a call from Greg asking if we were available. Doubting my ability to get everything ready on such short notice I said, âNo.â and sadly hung up the phone. But Bruce, my wonderful husband said to call back, and weâd make it happen. And we did.
I only tell this story because I think, Dustin was reaching out to me to teach me a lesson about selflessness. While I had wanted to be a part of the Summit Project for several years, when the opportunity arose, I declined because it was going to take a lot of effort to complete, and I initially chose the easy way out.
After, our call from Greg, my husband and I went to work reading all the letters on TSP about our heroes. Dustin was mine. Bruce had 7 pages and I had 23 pages for Dustin. Wow, I thought to myself, thatâs a lot of reading to do so late. My lazy brain was wondering why I couldnât have gotten off easier.
Having a soft spot for our military, I couldnât get through the letters without crying and I havenât even met you. I am so grateful for the dedication and sacrifices our service men and women give to make our country what it is. Without them, we would not have the freedoms we all enjoy and take for granted.
It was a short night and before I felt worthy of the task of carrying Dustinâs tribute stone, I found myself standing in front of the tables holding all the stones with an ID card of the Hero being honored. It was a little overwhelming. Who was I to be entrusted with such a task. I was being a slacker and wanted to be a part of this great event but wanted the easy way out. Then I saw Dustinâs stone. I had mixed feelings. I was sad for you and your loss. The letters I read the night before flashed in my head. The stories of the farm, from his classmates, and from his co-workers brought a smile to my face. And Dylan, the saying you have tattooed on your chest, all reminders of the great young man I was going to honor. Then I picked up the stone and thought again, why me, why do I have the heavy burden? And as clear as day in what my soul believes was Dustinâs voice, I heard, âWhy not you!â
The morning briefing was done and all us hikers had our stones safely tucked into our packs and we were off. I had done the trail before that we were doing this day. I didnât remember it being too difficult but that was several pounds earlier. But I was up for a good hike, so I thought. To make things even more challenging, we were dropped off at the wrong trail head and had to hike up and over a smaller peak before getting to our true start. My extra weight and out of shape frame was feeling worn out before we even commenced the real hike.
Team Blue trudged on. The extra distance gave us that much more time to get to know each other and share stores about our heroes. But part way through our designated trail I really didnât think I could go on. To add to the piling-up of burdens, our trail was also the most difficult one. I was struggling and holding everyone back. But I heard Dustin encouraging me. The added weight of his stone was a reminder of the burden you carry every day as you carry on without your beloved Dustin. My burden seemed light in comparison, in fact, it went from being heavy to pride that I could do this. In fact, at one point, the extra weight in my backpack helped to balance my center of gravity on a certain part of the trail.
Our team made it to the top of Cadillac for circle time. Here we shared stories about our heroes. Throughout the hike I was filled with emotional moments, not really understanding the gravity of this whole event. Circle time was no different, not just for me but my fellow hikers as well.
Back at the field, we were lined up in our respective teams waiting to walk to the gathering circle with the families. I didnât know if any of you would be there. I had learned that Dustinâs grandfather had died the night before. My heart was broken in more ways than you could know. I ached for you all.
As the four hiking teams approached the family circle the families and guest started clapping for us. It was way too humbling and I began to cry. The emotions were too great to contain. Here we were carrying stones in honor of your familiesâ fallen children, siblings, grandchildren, and cousins and you were cheering us on. We should have been cheering you on. How selfless of you all.
While I didnât have a lot of time to delve into Dustinâs life, what I ended up sharing with the group was what I extrapolated from the letters and from messages Dustin whispered in my ear during my selfish moments. Yes, we shared that he was a specialist in the US Army. Yes, he died in an explosion. But my take-away was that Dustin, and all our heroes are so much more than that. They are sons and daughters, grandsons and granddaughters, brothers and sisters, cousins, classmates, teammates, friends, hard workers, jokesters, and encouragers. Dustin loved life and was selfless â thinking of others before himself. While all the hikes TSP do to honor Dustin and all the other Fallen Heroesâ will not bring them back, their memories will live on and will impact the lives of the hikers who get the honor of carrying a tribute stone and sharing the heroâs stories with others. Itâs a ripple effect.
I read in Dustinâs letters that someone said, âWe do not choose the stone to carry, it chooses us.â Your Dustin chose me. I am a hiker but due to poor choices lately I have let my health slide and this hike was one of the hardest I have done in a long time. Iâve had a long bout of me-me-me. But after honoring Dustin, a selfless young man who gave his life for others, I was able to get out of that rut and remember that âItâs not about me.â I thank him for that.
Nothing can replace your loss, but I hope you know the influence Dustin is having and will continue to have in the lives of those who are a part of TSP, no matter how briefly, that it will bring you peace, joy, and pride, knowing that Dustin lives on.
Thank you for allowing TSP to honor Dustin. Thank you for entrusting me with Dustinâs tribute stone. Thank you for your sacrifice.
Blessings,
Emily M. Leonard
To the Harris Family,
It was my honor to carry the stone and learn the story of US Army Specialist Dustin J Harris for this yearâs 10th anniversary BSP hike.
There is always some connection you feel to learning about one of TSPâs heroes. Dustin was a remarkably selfless man, volunteering to be the turret gunner knowing the risks involved and willing to take that risk to potentially save someone else. That selflessness and sacrifice is common with so many of the heroes.
This connection was special to me for the family connection. I know that my mom has known Lorna for quite some time through their mutual involvement with Gold Star Mothers. And my mom specifically requested Dylan to carry my brotherâs stone on its first journey with TSP. I canât thank you enough for being there and carrying his stone and story. Being a gold star sibling is a tough thing, it was comforting to read about Dylan choosing to participate in TSP as a way to honor his brother. It has been a similarly healing experience for me since I have been involved. Itâs not always easy to talk about, but just meeting other gold star families and siblings has been healing. Sometimes itâs not even that you say something in particular, but just knowing that the other person knows what it is like to feel the loss and the grief.
Thank you for letting me sit with you at dinner. It seems none of us are big talkers, but just hearing what you shared about Dustin and knowing that you miss the same things, like having him missing as the fun uncle that would come and stir up his niece and nephew and then leave at bedtime.
I truly appreciate you sharing Dustinâs story with me and sharing your time. It is so appreciated and I will continue to carry his story with me going forward.
I have one last thank you for Amelia, for the best hug at the end of dinner. It was the perfect ending to another great day with TSP.
Sincerely,
Amy Lilley
Gold Star Sister.
Your son stone was chosen for me..1st time ever doing this hike..didn’t know exactly what to expect..from what I was able to see..was that Dustin put his life over many..especially at a young age..most people wouldn’t ever put their life in jeopardy..as Dustin knew that volunteering for his role could lead to his death..but didn’t want any one married or with kids..to die..that is someone who is a true hero and warrior..if only we had more people like Dustin..I truly am saddened learning of his passing..just know that your son died a courageous person…I hope to continue to carry on with honoring the fallen..thank you Dustin Harris for your service..Til Valhalla
I chose Dustin because your son has been my gym teacher for 4 years. He has been a great teacher to me. I find Dustin to be interesting. It has been an honor to carry the weight of his stone and to honor your son.
On my tenth BSP at TSP hike I was conflicted for which stone I was going to take. Greg messaged me one day asking if I wanted to take Dustinâs stone or not. Again, I felt conflicted. I hadnât carried his stone in a long time and I also really enjoy the experience and healing power that learning about the various other soldiers has. So I left the decision up to my oldest, Amelia. I asked her âShould dad hike with Uncle Dustinâs stone this spring?â She said YES with a big smile! So it was decided.
Flash forward a couple months and myself accompanied by 5 honorable gentlemen embarked on our journey up Doubletop Mt. in Baxter. It was a buggy day but cool enough as to where it wasnât too hot of a hike. On the climb up I could feel the weight of Dustinâs stone digging into my shoulders. I carried on because thatâs what Dustin would have done along with all of the other stones and soldiers that we were there for that day.
Once we got to the top we were amazed at the 360 degree views that Doubletop provided us. Katahdin on one side, the western maine wilderness on the other. It was breathtaking. As we relaxed and took our packs off an eagle even made an appearance as if a sign from our six soldiers, brothers, commrands, and strangers.
The group talked about the good times the soldiers had, their great qualities such as selflessness, comradery, and dedication just to name a few. I discussed those same qualities about Dustin as well. I talked about where the stone came from, the connection it had with our grandfather and his potato fields. I had no real direction with my thoughts, they were just coming out as I felt fit.
I am so thankful for the opportunity to have carried the stone of my brother Dustin J Harris. I am honored to have had such great company with me on this beautiful hike as well. Thank you to all that are involved with TSP, signed, a Grateful Gold Star Brother.
Scott, Lorna, and Dylan, I chose Dustin’s rock because as I was given one, I asked, “please give me a heavier rock,” thinking mine should at least have a greater weight than the one my wife Kim was carrying. I was honored to discover that Dustin was with the 172d Stryker Brigade. Our brigade, the 4th of the 25th (Airborne) from Anchorage, was the sister brigade to Dustin’s. We thought of the COL Mike Shields’ Stryker Brigade often as we readied ourselves to deploy upon their return. We knew that like the 172d, we would be extended to 15 months, because the mission demanded it, and there were only so many of us, like Dustin, available to tackle the mission. I commanded a unit of the 4/25 and paid my respects to too many of our fallen heroes, heroes like Dustin: young, brave, selfless Warriors who like Dustin, lived the motto “Send Me”. As I said, it was a heavier stone, and I imagine it’s heaviest for your family and the comrades who respected and loved Dustin in the 172d. As I crossed the line, I raised Dustin’s stone high overhead in salute to him and your family. If there’s anything I can do for Team Harris, please contact me and I’ll be glad to help. Or, if you’re down here by us flatlanders in Kennebunkport, please contact me, I’ll buy you a beer, and you can tell us more about Dustin and your family on the front porch. Thank you to the Harris Family for your support to Our Country. God Bless the USA.