Army Sergeant Major Robert D. Odell, 38, of Manassas, VA, was assigned to Army Intelligence & Security Command based in Fort Belvoir, Virginia and served during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. On December 21, 2004, SGM Odell and 24 others were killed when a suicide bomber attacked the dining facility at the base in Mosul, Iraq.

SGM Odell graduated from Apple Valley High School in California in 1984 and joined the Army in September 1985. After completing Ranger school, SGM Odell decided to try for the Army Special Forces – the Green Berets – in 1989. Not only did he succeed in this endeavor, but he scored in the top 5% of his class. His high score, determination and professional manner allowed him to perform many secret missions during his 19 years of service.

“He strove for excellence in everything he did,” said his sister, Jeannie Taylor. “Such an accomplished man with so much humility. He was known for his moral integrity and was loved for his sharp wit, but, most simply, he was the most beloved husband and devoted father one could ask for.”

He is survived by his wife Cynthia, and their three children, all of whom are Folds of Honor Scholarship recipients.