Petty Officer 1st Class SEAL Caleb Nelson paid the ultimate sacrifice serving in Iraq and Afghanistan during operation enduring freedom.
Nelson died on October 1, 2011 after his vehicle was struck by an explosive device.
On Saturday, Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert proclaimed October 14 2017 ‘Caleb A. Nelson Memorial Day at the American Legion Post 331.
“He's not forgotten, his sacrifice is still remembered and still honored,” said Caleb’s father, Larry Nelson.
Both Larry and his wife said Caleb’s choice to join the Navy SEAL was his calling, one they didn’t like at first.
"It's dangerous so as parents you don't want your kids in dangerous places but if you look at who Caleb was you can’t argue that is how God wired him,” said Caleb’s mother, Barb Nelson.
In 2009, Nelson deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and in March of 2011 to Afghanistan for a mission that lasted until October 1st 2011, “The day rolls around and it that kind of bittersweet,” said Barb.
Now just over six years from that tragic day Caleb’s parents know he left an impression not just on the but his teammates on the battle field.
“They felt encouraged, if Caleb can do it I can follow his example and I can do it,” said Larry.
“Those freedoms did not come free, they've been paid for. Paid for by people like Caleb who gave their all,” said Congressman Don Bacon who attended the ceremony.
Nelson earned many awards including the Bronze Star with Valor and a Purple Heart just to name a few.
He’s survived by his wife and two boys.
Nelson also has a post office in Millard named after him.
