The Fallen Soldier Memorial Plaque Program was envisioned by Charles Boatright after the loss of his nephew, Sgt. Michael “Luke” Boatright on December 4, 2004 in Iraq.   Mr. Boatright’s nephew and other members of his unit had made a pact to be buried together should they fall in the line of duty.   Unfortunately for his surviving family members, Luke was buried far from his hometown.   Charles had a headstone placed at a local cemetery for Luke’s parents to reflect on the life of his nephew.   In addition to the headstone, he ordered small plaques with an etching of his nephew’s photo and a brief description of how he lost his life serving our great nation.   He gave the plaques to Luke’s mom, Candace, sons and his dad, Michael Boatright.   After seeing the incredible reaction of the loved ones touched by the plaques, Charles was sure the family members of other soldiers that have lost their lives in this conflict would appreciate this type of tribute.   Charles being only one person enlisted the help of American Legion Post 182 to help bring this vision to a reality.   Charles proposed buying plaques for each fallen soldier in the state of Texas. With the approval of the American Legion Department of Texas, each American Legion Post in the state has been sent a letter requesting a $100 donation, which will cover the cost of two plaques for each Texas soldier who has fallen as a result of this war.   American Legion Post 182 in Little Elm will handle the ordering of the plaques, and the post closest to the fallen soldier will be enlisted to make the presentation.   The vision has become reality and we will continue to honor those who serve, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice defending the freedoms of all Americans.