Perspective: In Army’s Locker Rooms, War’s Toll Hits Close to Heart

David Fraser

WEST POINT, N.Y. — The words echoed through the mess hall: “Please give your attention to the first captain!”

Standing at attention at their dining tables, the 4,300 cadets at the United States Military Academy braced for bad news. From a balcony above the cavernous room, the top-ranked cadet addressed the corps.

“I regret to inform you of the death of First Lt. David Fraser, class of 2004. First Lieutenant Fraser was killed 26 November in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle.

“Please join me in observing a moment of silence for this fallen graduate.”

At several tables, cadets on the track team exchanged teary glances, again. For the second time in about two months, a former teammate had died in Iraq.

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