Former FIRST student and mentor dies in a tragic rocket attack in Iraq today.

[shyra1353]

im so sorry for your loss .. while I cannot say that I truly know what you are going through, I do extend my deepest sympathies and condolences on behalf of 771 and 1353 ...

[jessjank.]

Team 103 would like to offer its deepest sympathies to Karl Linn's family and team. We are terribly sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

[JudyVandy]

Deepest sympathy to Karl's family and 'Team Family' from Chuck 84. We all feel your loss.

[JP_1163]

There are no words to express the deep regret felt by every member of the FIRST family at the loss of Karl Linn. His death is another reminder of how precious life is and how abruptly it can be taken from us. While we on team #1163 did not know Karl personally his sacrifice represents to all of us the loss of a friend and a fellow American. May Karl rest in peace and may his family find solace in their abiding faith.

[pyroslev]

People will miss him. Team 616's school recently lost a former student in Iraq. His sister is a senior. Ideas of an inscription on the robot or a button in his honor are being considered. Team 616 sends their best wishes.

[Mr MOE]

On behalf of MOE 365, Karl and his family are in our thoughts and prayers. During this time of the year, we are all heavily in the "FIRST ZONE." It is sad news such as this that reminds us that there is world turning outside of this year's game.

Hopefully, what each of us gathers from our FIRST experience and what we do with it outside the FIRST bubble will help truly make the world a better place, so there is less sad news in the future.

[Rocketboy]

Bravery, Loyalty, Courage, Integrity, Leadership

Those five words are the best way to describe a soldier who would willingly risk his/her own health and safety for our nation. ANY loss is tragic, but to die as an American soldier is not a shameful death. Our military represents the greatest aspects of our people. I have only the deepest respect for your former teammate's sacrifice, and I pray you find it easier to bear his loss as time goes by.

[Dick Linn]

I haven't had time to read all the posts yet, but I will. I thank you all for your concern and sympathy. All that knew Karl feel the great loss. I am busy trying to make funeral arrangements and so forth, but perhaps Tan will post some stuff. I am still in the shock/denial stage.

Dick Linn
(Karl's Dad)

[Dick Linn]

Im Tan, Karls little brother. I appricieate all the posts you've made and i think my parents need the most support. I cant tell you all what it is like, and times being what they are it might be nearly impossible to imagine. This whole ordeal is only going to make me try harder at everything I do and if you are'nt already then I encourage you to do the same. Tan Linn signing off

[trollin1st]

From team 1073 we send our condolences to Karl's team and family. I have many friends over in Iraq and not a moment goes by that I don't think and pray for them. I can't say that I can relate to what you are feeling but I can say that Karl is up there watching over you guys. I know it's not the same as having him here but hopefully it helps some to know that he will always be there for you in spirt. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

[Mohsin]

Though we never knew him, he was part of the FIRST family, and that is enough, for us. On behalf of Team 772, "Club Sandwich", our thoughts and prayers are with the Linn family, and Synergy. We hope the you best of wishes, and hope to see you guys at the nationals.


Mohsin
Team 772
Club Sandwich

[suneel112]

From Team 461 "Westside Boiler Invasion", I express my condolences to the Linn Family. Karl expressed honor, bravery, loyalty, and courage on a level I can only begin to understand, and honorably did his duty in trying to bring freedom and security to Iraq. I, as well as my whole team, offer the deepest prayers for his family.

[jrocket567]

Team 617 in Highland Springs sends its sympathies and condolences.. we had a tragic death in our robotics team last year and understand how hard it is to keep going.. just keep pluggin along
Team 617

[dhitchco]

The posting on this web forum from Dick Linn (father) and Tan Linn (younger brother) are what really rip my own heart out..........

The official DoD release is HERE.

Adding yourself to these DAILY press releases is a very sobering and educational experience if you wish...........

KNOWLEDGE is the strongest tool in freedom and democracy. Get it and share it with others.........

[sammy]

Originally Posted by dhitchco

KNOWLEDGE is the strongest tool in freedom and democracy. Get it and share it with others.........

The VCU School of Engineering pointed us to this article by the Times Dispatch which gives a little more detail about the incident, though is less specific to Karl.

My sincerest condolences as a VCU School of Engineering student, and FIRST mentor. My prayers are with all of our soldiers and their families.

Sam