In Memory of SrA Rachelle Marie Sloan USAF
August 1, 1984 – January 18, 2008
Active Duty / Operation Iraqi Freedom (2007)
Rachelle Marie Sloan was born in Mesa, AZ on August 1,1984. Her mother wanted to name her Star, but decided not to, since there was a dog that lived next door to them that had the name Star, not thinking they would not live there forever. The day Rachelle was born her mother told her often how much she was loved throughout her life and would call her, “her Star” and to this day she is her Star.
Rachelle’s family moved to Elko, NV, in November 1990. In her senior year at Elko High School, she decided to join the Speech and Debate team. She won 2nd place in Nevada for Dramatic Interpretation. She graduated from Elko High School in June 2002 with honors.
In 2003 she joined the Air Force. Her first station was in Cheyene, Wyoming. She was a dental hygienist. She was not thrilled being stationed in Cheyene, because she was hoping to be somewhere that was warm. In 2005 she was granted her wish to transfer to Charleston, South Carolina. The beach was one of her favorite places, as well as her home.
While she was in the Air Force she took Clip tests for college classes. She was passing the tests, which meant she did not need to take the classes. Rachelle was moving through the tests quickly. Her dream was to be a journalist. She started to think being a Dentist might not be a bad idea, since she was enjoying being a dental hygienist.
In 2006 she was Airman of the Year in the 437th medical.
On January 18, 2007 she did a tour to Bagdad for Operation Iraqi Freedom. While she was there, she was a police officer on base. There were things that were said and done that bothered her. She was scared for her life and other airmans’ lives when their Barracks Tents were hit with shrapnel. During her time in Iraq her sleeping was not adequate. Her tour ended on May 18, 2007. She returned to Charleston.
Upon her return she sought help from the Air Force doctors for her insomnia. She became discouraged when they gave her ‘another’ prescription for sleep, instead of addressing the problem – trauma.
In November 2007 Rachelle attempted suicide. Sadly, on January 18, 2008, Rachelle died by suicide.
Rachelle’s family has not been the same since her death. She is missed daily by her family.
Her favorite foods were tacos, spaghetti, and German chocolate cake. Rachelle despised hot dogs. She was creative with her writing and drawing, which brought her recognition. Her favorite color was purple. Rachelle always stood up for those that were the ‘underdogs.’ She could carry on a conversation with anyone. Her soul was beautiful and pure.
God in heaven, God above, please protect my daughter I love. Sent with a smile, sealed with a kiss, take care of my daughter I love.
State she called home: Nevada and Arizona
Final resting place: Elko, NV
