U.S. Army Sergeant Daniel L. McCall exemplified the honor and sacrifice of today's soldiers serving overseas in the Iraq Conflict. Born in Flint, Michigan in 1982, McCall moved to Pace, Florida as a toddler to live with his grandparents, Marvin, Duke, and Liane McCall. He graduated with honors from Pace High School in 2001. During his high school career, McCall demonstrated his athleticism and discipline by setting numerous track and field records.

In June 2004, McCall followed his grandfather's example and joined the Army. He completed Basic and Airborne Training at Ft. Benning, Georgia before transferring to Special Forces Training at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina, where he met his wife Brittnay. He returned to Ft. Benning and served with the Third Infantry Division before his deployment to Iraq in March 2007.

McCall died in action on October 30, 2007, in Salmen Park, Iraq alongside two of his fellow soldiers. His family received a Bronze Star and Purple Heart on his behalf. Those who attended his funeral service on November 9, 2007, remembered McCall as a compassionate and charismatic individual with a great sense of humor and a smile that would brighten any room. Those he left behind truly miss him, but understand the sacrifice he made for his country.

Researched and written by Kathleen Zielinski.