We sadly add a new name to the list of soldiers with ties to Maine who have fallen in service to the United States in Iraq.

Sgt. 1st Class Shawn C. Dostie was killed Dec. 30 by an explosion while on patrol in southern Baghdad.

Dostie was a member of the 101st Airborne Division, based in Fort Campbell, Ky., and has family in the Lewiston area.

There is no good time to learn of a death, but if it’s possible the news is even worse when delivered during the holidays. While many of us were planning a celebratory New Year’s Eve, Dostie’s family and friends were learning of his death. For them, the dates will forever be linked.

Dostie joins a too-long list of others from Maine who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Maj. Jay Thomas Aubin of Waterville; Spec. Daniel Francis Cunningham Jr. of Lewiston; Spec. Jeremiah J. Holmes of North Berwick; Spec. Christopher D. Gelineau of Portland; Spec. Joseph Alan Lucas, who grew up in Monson; Sgt. Lawrence A. Roukey of Westbrook; Spec. Beau Beaulieu of Lisbon; Sgt. Lynn Robert Poulin Sr. of Freedom; Spec. Thomas John Dostie of Somerville; and Sgt. 1st Class Michael D. Jones of Unity.

We remember them all and their families and pay tribute to their lives.