I think it's important to start off with this, not once during this article will you hear me push my beliefs about gun control. Not once will I blame any politician, past or present. Nor will you see me turn my attention to the Middle East and spew hatred. Now, while I do have my opinions on how this tragic day could have been prevented or what we must do as a country going forward — I understand that my political beliefs have no place in this article. For it is strictly dedicated to the four lives lost in the Chattanooga shooting on Thursday, July 16, 2015. May they rest in peace.

Staff Sgt. David Wyatt

Above David is shown with his wife, Lori Wyatt, and their daughter. David was a father of two as well as a loving and dedicated husband from Russellville, Arkansas. His career started in 2004, and he has received many medals and honors during his tours. He served in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

Sgt. Carson Holmquist

Above Sgt. Holmquist is pictured with his wife and son. He is from Grantsburg, Wisconsin and enlisted in 2009. He has done two tours in Afghanistan. Holmquist received numerous recognitions for his work. "There are few people I would say this about, but I would have trusted him with my life,and my entire family's life without a single hesitation," a friend wrote on Facebook about Sgt. Holmquist.

Petty Officer Randall Smith

Originally from Paulding, Ohio, the Navy Petty Officer was a logistics specialist and was actually the one to warn others about the shooter. Unfortunately, he was not able to get away. He was shot three times in the liver, colon and stomach. His step-grandmother was quoted saying, "It's hard to understand how somebody can hurt somebody that's serving for you — for your freedom, for your safety."

Gunnery Sgt. Thomas Sullivan

A two-time Purple Heart recipient and Iraq War veteran, along with many other honors, from a suburb of Springfield, Massachusetts. Springfield has lowered the flag outside of city hall to half-staff. Sullivan graduated in 1994 from Cathedral High School. A post on Facebook notes, "He was our hero, and he will never be forgotten." He is remember as a "beloved son and brother."

Lance Cpl. Squire Wells

Those who best knew him called him Skip. A Georgia native, he graduated from Sprayberry High School in 2012 and become a marine in 2014. He received a National Defense Service Medal. A family friend was quoted saying, "Skip is the kind of kid you want on your team. If you had a team, you wanted 20 Skips,"

May our heroes rest in peace.