Army Pvt. Randol S. Shelton
Operation Iraqi Freedom

Army Private Shelton was a graduate of East Leyden High School in Franklin Park, Illinois.

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Shelton leaves behind his parents, Brian and Darlene, a sister and a brother, aunts and uncles, grandparents and countless friends.

"This is a very sad day for all of us," said Laurie Warfield, family friend. "Randy was really special and a hero to all of us as all of our soldiers are. We all loved him. He was a sweet, happy boy. He just wanted to do his job for his country."

Killed along with Shelton were Sgt. Joel L. Murray, 26, of Kansas City, and Spc. David J. Lane, 20, of Emporia, Kan., were assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kansas.

Shelton's high school alma mater, East Leyden in Franklin Park was deeply saddened at the news of Army Pvt. Shelton's death.

In a show of honor, and respect nearly the entire school came out and stood on the street as Shelton was escorted home.