It’s been 150 days since Pvt. Byron Fouty went missing. His family, including step-father Gordy Dibler Jr., of Oxford, continues to pray for his safe return and has appreciated community support over the past six months.
Last week, the Beaumont Medical Center of Lake Orion paid tribute to Fouty by putting his portrait on display.
His portrait is the third displayed at the center, in honor of all Michigan Freedom Fighters and Fallen Heroes (a project that was profiled by The Review in August).
‘This was a vision placed in my head and on my heart and I just couldn’t sit idle any longer,? said Michelle Schmalz, project coordinator.
‘Our soldiers should be remembered and properly honored and we should help comfort their families. This display is how I can help.?
Schmalz, Dibler and Sgt. Douglas Cann, who has grown close to the family in the past few months, all spoke at the portrait’s unveiling last Thursday.
Fouty’s sister, Sarah, and eight-month-old nephew, Isaac, were also in attendance, as was Louise ‘Desert Angel? Downs.
‘We’re always thinking of Byron,? Dibler said. ‘We want him to come home and meet his nephew. Sarah misses him and I miss him dearly.?
The 19-year-old Fouty is one of four U.S. soldiers listed as missing/captured in Iraq.
He has been missing since May 12 of this year when his unit from Fort Drum, NY, came under enemy attack in Iraq. Spc. Alex R. Jimenez, 25, of Lawrence, MA, also went missing with Fouty that day.
‘It has been an honor for me to work with Mr. Dibler and Sarah,? said Cann. ‘I can’t imagine what they’re going through, but I’ve been with them through it all.?
Fouty spent some of his childhood in Lake Orion, though he attended high school in Walled Lake and his listed address is Waterford.
Dibler said the outpouring of support across Oakland County has been outstanding, especially in the Orion/Oxford area.
‘The support is phenomenal,? Dibler said. ‘I’ve had so much support from the Blue Star Mothers, from the Gold Star Mothers and from my local friends.?
Last month, Fouty’s family was invited to Washington D.C. for the Sept. 21 National Prisoners Of War/Missing In Action Recognition Day.
Both Gordy and Sarah had a chance to meet the President, among other national leaders.
‘We’re very honored by what they’re doing to keep his name and face out there,? Dibler said, adding that there is no evidence that his stepson has been killed.
‘We’re going to hold on as long as we can.?
The Beaumont Medical Center of Lake Orion is located at 1455 S. Lapeer Road. For questions about the display, contact Schmalz at (248)217-0068.