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Medic from NH killed in Iraq
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By SCOTT BROOKS
New Hampshire Union Leader Staff
Monday, Mar. 24, 2008
A 27-year-old EMT from Littleton who went to Iraq to heal the wounded was killed Saturday by a roadside bomb, family members and the U.S. military confirmed.
Spc. David "D.J." Stelmat was a former U.S. Army infantryman who fought on the front lines in Afghanistan. He later traded his gun for a first-aid kit as a medic with the New Hampshire Army National Guard in Iraq.
"All he wanted to do was help people," said his father, David Stelmat of Centerville, Ohio. "That was his whole purpose in life."
Spc. Stelmat was traveling in a Humvee with two other soldiers when a roadside bomb exploded, according to the National Guard. All three soldiers were killed.
Spc. DAVID STELMAT
Family members said a plane carrying Stelmat's body was set to land at Dover Air Force Base last night at 10. The funeral will be held in New Hampshire, they said.
A 1998 graduate of the Profile School in Bethlehem, Stelmat was a life-long outdoorsman who, as an adult, gave up the comforts of a family home so he could live in a tiny shack in the remote woods of Franconia. He spent three years in the shack, denying himself the convenience of electricity and running water, his mother said.
"I swear, he was born in the wrong century," said his mother, Maryanne Rennell of Littleton. "We lived in a nice house, and he knew he had a bedroom here. But he preferred to live in the wild."
His stint in Iraq was a second chance to serve his country after a harrowing tour of duty in Afghanistan in 2003, his mother said. Stelmat left Afghanistan two months early with a general discharge -- "neither honorably nor dishonorably," his mother said -- after laying down his gun in defiance of a superior's order.
A sense of remorse propelled him to rejoin the service, this time as a medic, Rennell said. This time, she said, "he did not want to carry a gun to kill people. He would rather fix what happened."
His girlfriend, Joanna Fekay, 27, said Stelmat described his work in Iraq as rewarding. "It made him feel very needed," she said.
A photograph taken last December shows Stelmat comforting a crying Iraqi baby at the al-Alwiya Iraqi police station in Baghdad.
Stelmat was expected to return home from Iraq in June, 15 months after his deployment.
His plan, Rennell said, was to resume his studies at the New Hampshire Technical Institute in Concord and become a physician's assistant.
Stelmat was deeply affected by the violence he saw in Afghanistan, Rennell said. At various times, she said, she pressed her son to talk about the experience.
"One night," she said, "after a couple of beers, he said, 'Look, Mom. This is what it was like, and don't ask again.' ‚"
Stelmat told her he was given directives to "point and shoot," she recalled. "The bombs would go off, and he would hear the screams," she said.
"And that was it. 'Absolutely, positively,' he said, 'no more. No more.' He had had it," Rennell said.
He signed up with the National Guard two years later, determined to "make his record right," she said.
Stelmat was born in Hartford, Conn., the youngest of three children. His parents divorced when he was young. Rennell and the children moved to Littleton in 1994.
Stelmat's father was a Marine during the Vietnam War. An older sister, Carisa, served in the Air Force.
Over the years, Stelmat held several jobs at the Cannon Mountain ski resort, his mother said.
Spc. David Stelmat comforts a crying Iraqi baby during a medical mission with Headquarters Company, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment at the al-Alwiya Iraqi police station in Baghdad on Dec. 12, 2007. (SPC. NICHOLAS HERNANDEZ/JOINT COMBAT CAMERA CENTER)
For a time, she said, he made his home in a 10-by-10-foot cabin about a mile into the woods in Franconia, earning his keep by chopping wood and doing other chores for the landowner.
He liked to ski and hike. He and his friends were sometimes known to hold "jam sessions" at the top of Artists Bluff, banging on their bongos and "howling at the moon," Rennell said.
Stelmat spent many summers with his father and two half-siblings, either in Illinois, North Carolina or Ohio.
The elder Stelmat said his son "was very brave, and he paid the ultimate sacrifice."
Family members expect to begin planning the funeral today. Rennell said she would like to hold the service in the Littleton Armory.
"We can't even think of a church up here that could possibly accommodate the number of people that are coming to pay their respects," she said. "It's going to be massive."
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YOUR COMMENTS
David,
you truly were the nest medic a squad leader could ask for. I know, cause I was one of your squad leaders. I love you and miss you friend. I know you are up there right now looking out for everybody down here. Soon, we shall see each other again. WD 1-3 Out!
- SSG Brian Williamson, Wilmington, NC. previously Baghdad, Iraq
I'm very sorry to hear about your loss. But i would like to help, i have a very large collection of different beanie babies that i would like to give you. Maybe they'll help, i don't know but they're yours to help. And again I'm very sorry for your loss. Stuff like this hurts us here at home too, but our prayers and thoughts are with you today and everyday.
- Anne, West Lebanon,NH
I offer my heart felt condolences for your loss and thank you for your sons service to our country. God bless and take care of you.
- Jason Creamer, NREMT-P, Boise, Id
David was a wonderful man. I worked with David as an interpreter here in Iraq. I will miss him greatly. Each time he was at the station with me, he would take the time to treat the Iraqi people and I would translate for him. I also exercised with David after work. David moved bases and when I heard of his death, I was shocked. My prayers are with his family.
- Brando, Iraq
You will always be missed DJ !! You will always be rememberd
Tiff
- TIFFINIE, Bethlehem nh
My sincerest condolences to the family of one of Americas' greatest heroes. Our thoughts and prayers are with you
- Stas, Whitefield, nh
Dave:
I will miss you brother. You were a special man and an awesome medic. I appreciate everything you did for the platoon. I will remember you always and never forget the gift that you were to me and the rest of the guys here in 1st Platoon. We will never get accustomed to not having you around. We continue to struggle, but we will carry on in your name and in the names of SGT Thomas C. Ray, SGT David B. Williams, and the two interpreters also lost that day. I know now I have another angel watching over me and the rest of the platoon. As a matter of fact, as we go out on mission we all feel your presence and are comforted knowing each of you are pulling 360 degree security as we continue to roll outside the wire. Love you brother. Miss you brother. I will never forget you brother. My heart aches for you brother. Enjoy the riches of heaven and continue to watch over us. I will see you soon one day in the Kingdom of Heaven.
See you soon,
1LT Robert Santiago
Platoon Leader, 1st Platoon
1132nd Military
Police Company
Baghdad, Iraq
- 1LT Robert Santiago, Baghdad, Iraq
I remember DJ checking on me one day when he walked through the house. After I had my turbanatroplasty. I also remember him making me laugh at supper one night--ouch--broken nose and laughing--bad combination. but that was just the way he was. I also remember DJ telling the story of helping to find the rabi in the woods. I too did not know DJ long but I did get to meet him. Instead of saying I am sorrys I am going to say, "See u later" because good byes are forever and some day soon I will see all of my families. I vow from this day on to stop feeling sorry for my life and instead of concentrating on how my life sucks i will find reasons my life is great. I vow from this day on to give more onto others without expecting anything in return and I vow from now on to do what is right even if it scares the crap out of me.
See You later DJ!!
to the mom and dad and step family....your all family no matter which way you cut the pie and it may be hard but i know that parents in littleton and i know that they are tough because they taught their kids to be tough and to do what is right....I love you guys and i know that somehow you will get through this....it seems inappropriate to say sorry for a life lost because DJ is still here....I am sorry that his body is gone but his spirit lives on...when his mom laughs, when she comes up with sayings that just stick with you forever even if you disobeyed it....i didn't know djs real dad but i know his mom....and even through my own mistakes she is strong and i know that she is suffering, i only hope that you will remember he is with YOU where ever you go.....You took great care of all of your kids....now he will take care of you.
R.I.P David "DJ" Stelmat.
- Tammy LeCuyer, Claremont, NH
As a friend of DJ's from the "good ol' days" I can only be absolutely heart broken over this loss. I feel for his family, I feel for his friends...I feel for those who served with him.
I am lucky to be among the many who had the chance to see DJ through the changes in his life that he was so proud of.
I know we all have different opinions on the war...but as many of you have pointed out - this is not the time or the place to make political statements. This is a time and a place to recognize an amazing person who wanted nothing more than to make his mark on the world. I always thought it would be through his sense of humor, but it turns out that was just one tiny piece of it. We all grew to understand DJ's want to serve his country, to help all who where in need.
All I have are a head full of wonderful memories of good times... and the knowledge that DJ left this country to proudly serve. I just wish he could see the HUGE mark he has left - the honor and respect that is coming from around the country...the world.
I sure will miss you DJ, I sure will miss you.
- Josie Partridge, Laconia NH / Franconia NH
Heavenly Father, please except the sacrifice of David Stelmat as a man who laid down his life for us and the Iraqi people. May You bring peace and comfort to his family. I ask You Father, in Jesus name. Amen.
I offer my heartfelt thanks for him, from our family who are safer because of his and others sacrifice.
God rest and bless the Stelmat family.
- Gary, Weare
Sergeant J,
I have read Thomas' comments and they are nothing like what you are trying to insinuate. Not anti-American, not anti-military, and certainly not laced with resentment towards soldiers.
Being frustrated with the decisions that hurled us into, and indeed keep us perpetually entangled in, a morally gray war does not mean that one doesn't appreciate and support the efforts and sacrifices of our troops.
This was a brave young man that disobeyed a direct order because he found it to be immoral. Would you call him unpatriotic for questioning the will of a superior officer? You seem so intent on doing this to anyone who questions the motives behind the war that it would be very hypocritical of you to respond with anything but a "yes."
I support our military but not the war.
- RBD, Manchester
Your family is in our thoughts. We lost our best friend, Sgt. Zachary Tellier, in Afghanistan this past October and are still devestated and confused. Please know there are others out there praying for David and your family. He sounds like such a wonderful young man. Am sure he is still helping others- and is working to help you through this! Peace and love to you.
- Karen and Shawn, Manchester, NH
My sister was a friend of this young man, all of those around him should be proud of his service and fortitude. It is not always easy to do the right thing, but it seemed as though he could do nothing else. My sincerest respect for his family, as well as an offer of gratitude for his service to something other than himself.
Regards,
The Hamiltons
- Todd, Boston, MA
My thoughts go out to the family of David, even though I didn't know him, he sounds like he was a remarkable young man. My son is also an Army Medic due to go to Iraq and another son in the Air Force due to go at some point. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family. May they find peace in the memories of who he was and his courage to defend his country.
- Julie Smith, Lyndonville, VT
DJ, I am overwhelmed at the infinite number of lives you had touched in your time here. Everyone misses you so much! You are a hero. I know that you are smiling and laughing from up above.
- Lindsay, Bethlehem
D.J. was kind and always friendly. Going back a second time to "help" speaks volumes of his integrity. To D.J.'s parents, I am deeply sorry for your loss and thank you for teaching your children to give instead of take.
- Becky, Lyman
My thoughts and prayers go out to D.J's family and friends. I had the honor of knowing him a few years back...he was an amazing man with a great heart. It is a sad day when a good man like that is taken from this world. R.I.P D.J.
- Kim, Florida (from Littleton, NH)
God Bless you
- Eric, Belmont
My heart goes out to your family. Your son is a hero.
Thank you David, for your ultimate sacrifice, may you rest in peace.
Prayers and thoughts are with the family.
- Parent of a Medic, serving in Iraq, NH
My heart goes out to the family and friends of the brave and compassionnate being described in this article, and to all those on both sides of the war who have lost loved ones. Let's put our resentment aside and make peace and reconciliation our objective. David's comforting of an Iraqi baby so clearly show us the way.
- Jim, Ohio
David you touched my life in ways that can never be put in words. I miss you buudy.
- Mike Powers, Center Barnstead
Stelmat will be greatly missed both stateside and over seas.... The family of all fallen soldier and all the servicemen and women oversea are in so many people thoughts and prayers. 1132nd will be home soon, however missing a part of thier family!
- Sarah Miner, Concord, NH
Thank you Stelmat. It was an honor serving with you.
- Spc. Doucette, Adam, Webster, NH and Baghdad, Iraq
I appeal to my fellow veterans and patriots- let's ignore the remarks of those heartless people who exploit this forum to spread anti-American and anti-military prejudice. I believe many people who resent soldiers are motivated by the realization that they'll never be man enough to sacrifice their lives in order to save and protect others. It's been said that if there's nothing you're willing to die for, you have nothing to live for. I agree. More from me later.
- Sergeant J., Hampton
We would like to wish David's family our most sincere condolences he was a brave man and made a difference in this world.
From the family of Spc Christopher Merchant kia in Ramadi Iraq 3/1/06
- Gary & Janet Merchant, Johnson Vermont
Brian, Farmington .. you left something out in your posting .. the good reason, the reason we are in Iraq. Since I lack the "wisdon" and "foresight" to "understand" why the US is in Iraq, how about you tell me. Is it the weapons of mass destruction? We looked, they aren't there. Is it Saddam Hussein? He is dead. Oil? Have you bought gas lately, it is up. So, what is the reason? Terrorists? I read that Osama bin Laden is in Pakistan, why don't we invade Pakistan. Let's face it, the only reason we are in Iraq is because of G Bush. Our blood and guts president; always someone else's blood and guts. Why doesn't he send his daughters to Iraq? Are they too busy partying? But why am I asking when you know the answer, now please tell the rest of us.
- thomas, Manchester, NH
As a long time friend of D.J. and fellow medic i would like to express my condolences to DJ 's family. The hardest job is not that of the soldier but that of his/her loved ones back home. I will always remember DJ for the perpetual smile on his face and the tremendously level head on his shoulders. He has made the ultimate sacrafice and should be rememberd as a true american hero.
- SPC Aaron T. White, Ft Bragg NC/Lancaster NH
As a long time friend of D.J. and fellow medic i would like to express my condolences to DJ 's family. The hardest job is not that of the soldier but that of his/her loved ones back home. I will always remember DJ for the perpetual smile on his face and the tremendously level head on his shoulders. He has made the ultimate sacrafice and should be rememberd as a true american hero.
- SPC Aaron T. White, Ft Bragg NC/Lancaster NH
My heart goes out to the Stelmat family, I didn't know DJ, but I know and love his older sister who I've worked with for years as a fellow Air Force Nurse. I've served in Balad AFTH and have seen too much death. It breaks my heart that every soldier, marine, sailor and airman that dies over there is a brother, a son, a husband, a wife, daughter or sister, a friend and a terrible loss to their communities, their loved ones, and their country. They are heroes. I have the greatest respect for our nations sons and daughters that answer her call, right or wrong, to serve in the armed forces.
God bless.
- Andrew, Rockville, Maryland
First and for most, I am terribly sorry to hear about this loss. He sounded like an outstanding solider and all around human being. It will definitely be our loss.
Secondly Thomas of Manchester, Get a backbone, you spineless, self centered, bacteria. You like to sit in the comforts of your little room in your mom's basement, typing away on your computer, while others are fighting for your freedom. You make me sick!!!
- John, Manchester
Stella was a great person that everyone loved to be around. We had the best medic anyone could offer and that was him. He knew any medical question we had to ask and that was because he was a professional at his job. Stelmat, you will be missed and you will NEVER be forgotten.
- SPC Gurganus, Baghdad, Iraq
I did not know this kid..but live in the same area! This kid had a heart,,and a conscience..I am overwhelmed by the arrogance and ignorance of the Bush Adminstration... Such a waste of a bright young man..only one of many!!!
- Eleanor R. lovett, Franconia,N.H. 03580
r.i.p. soldier medic!
- yancey, former army medic, oif 3, deerfield
that is sooo horrible.
i can't believe that...
he was my friend's brother
RIP David and this definitely gives me more respect for EMTs and the soldiers
- christina c, ohio
Thomas in Manchester - you're outnumbered, in the minority, flying solo, alone in the corner. There's a good reason we're in Iraq. Apparently you do not have the wisdom or foresight to understand.
- Brian, Farmington
My thoughts and prayers are with David's family and loved one.
I am a member of the Pease Greeters, Portsmouth, NH.....I am so proud of our men and women who serve to keep us ALL Free. God Bless them All and keep them safe.....
- JoAnne Schottler, Stratham, NH
Our heart goes out to the family of this brave warrior, as well as to the rest of the 237th over in Iraq. Those of us that remained home are keeping you in our prayers.
Sgt T
- Stephanie Gustafson, Concord, NH
My heart goes out to their family. He paid the ultimate sacrifice to our country. He his a hero in my eyes and his venture out into Iraq will never be forgotten. Our country would not be what it is without these heros in our lifetime. Thankyou and godbless.
- Michelle, Manchester
Listen up .. - American, Dover .. what we don't need is some jingoistic nonsense from the likes of the armchair patriots who are all too willing to send young folks off to some senseless war. Go visit the "wall" in Washington, DC. Ask yourself, why. It is easy to say "sorry" .. hard to say "why".
- thomas, manchester, nh
I went to middle school with "DJ". He was a good friend, very caring and smart. Though I have not seen him for many years it is very upsetting. My deepenst condolences for his family.
- Robin, Andover, NH
David, the short time I knew you, you were an inspiration and a friend. Thank You
- PFC Kim Whittemore, Weare
we all miss you stella and you will always be family in my eyes. you were the best medic i will ever know. i wish you family the best and we are all trying to stay strong... love you bro
- Spc. Duke, Michael, Rocky Mount NC
I am an old Vietnam Vereran and take great pride in these young service members today. They are a new breed of soldiers. We all should give thanks to them and their loveed ones. He now walks with God. remember all gave some & some gave all. Your in our prayers.
- Robert E. Williams, Gloucester, ma
"A 27-year-old EMT from Littleton who went to Iraq to heal the wounded was killed Saturday by a roadside bomb..."
The world is a lot less kinder and a lot more violent since his passing...
We need to stand firm against those that would kill those that seek to heal the sick and injured among us and the world over.
Spc. David "D.J." Stelmat, the state of NH and the USA have lost a great son. Rest in peace. Let God from this point forward heal and comfort you.
Hats off to you sir, from a grateful and forever indebited American.
- Rick, Manchester
Dj will never be forgotten his Passion was something I will always remember!!!
Its just too bad that he had to lose his life for such a silly war, but I thank him for his commitment and devotion!
-Jeannie :)
- Jeannie Lehouillier, Concord, NH
Rest In Peace David Stelmat. You will be missed by many.
- Becky, Concord
RIP warrior.
Prayers are out for his family and his compatriots.
- Harvey, Temple
Stelmat was a wonderful human being. He inspired those around him and kept up morale with his smile and upbeat happy nature we will all miss you and know you will be watching over us.
- Spc David Taylor, Baghdad, Iraq
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of this fallen solider...May you rest in peace and know your sacrifice will NEVER be forgotten!
Whether we agree with the War or not, the reality is our troops are there fighting for our freedom and protection and DESERVE our support. They are there to bring hope to the people of the Middle East, so that some day they might be able to feel safe, protected, and free in their home country.
God bless ALL of our troops & their families and may they all know how grateful we are for the sacrifices they make every day for us!
- Elizabeth, Manchester, NH
I also served with Dave while I was in Iraq. I had to leave early because I was hit by an IED in Dec. Just like Ben said Dave was a great man. He was funny and great at his job at the same time. As a unit we lost 3 this day that will never be forgotten. It was an honor to have served with such a great man. God bless his family.
- Cpl Jeff Walton, Mocksville, NC
Godspeed David, and my condolences to a U.S. soldiers family. His passing was too soon and I'm sorry for your loss.
- James, Derry
What a beautiful human being... I am greatful to him and his family for their sacrifice. God Bless you.
- Sheana, Manchester
Get some class Thomas in Manchester. Not the place for your rants, and not what this hero's family and friends need to hear right now.
Thank you David Stelmat, you are a true hero.
- American, Dover
First I would like to say God Bless David and his family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Second, to Thomas of Manchester do you have no shame? He sacrificed so you can sit at home and complain, do some research into history and currant events and you might be able to understand (maybe) the historical and political importance of instilling a modern Islamic democracy in that part of the world. This is what the brave men and women of the US military are trying to do right now in Iraq and Afghanistan. This conflict has been building for decades and now honorable men and women have been called to arms to bring about change in the Middle East, to try to end tyranny and oppression at the hands of dictators and mad men that use a religion to justify their homicidal extremism and to bring some sort of freedom to a disparaged people. For the love of God man……think!......don’t just feel.
- Anthony, Troy NH
you where the best room mate ever best friend! you will be missed and know that your family over here will miss you...and NEVER FORGET YOU!
- PFC Haapanen, Alton Bay
Every time I read a story like this, I ask myself "what are we doing in Iraq"? Why are we still there? The whole thing is NUTS! My tax dollars for this? American soldiers dying for what. What exactly is in Iraq that is so important? Another life which should have lasted many decades, a life of someone who wanted to do good, help people, give back, lost for what. What...
- thomas, manchester, nh
This is a heart wrenching story of dignity and compassion and the photo of the good soldier medic and the child speaks of David's love.
Easter has just passed and the famous statue of the Pieta, Christ being handed down from the cross to the waiting arms of his mother is etched in my heart and mind and the family of David should also draw comfort in the knowledge that Christ is holding their son in his arms.
Thank you David and may you rest in peace in the mountains you so loved.
Jim Mitchell
- jim mitchell, rockingham vt
God bless David and his family.
Thank you for his courage and service to humanity.
- kt, lyme
dave was truly a great person he was the type of medic you could set the standard by and right now there is a great void in us all that knew him, but we are all better people for knowing him, when we recieved the news at the other fob it was like a sledge hammer had been slammed into our chests, they were our brothers and they will be missed.
- sgt benjamin parrish, baghdad iraq
As an EMT here in the states, my prayers are most definitely with the family of this soldier. I wish them the best.
- Mike, Londonderry
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