The tragic passing of Staff Sgt. Dante Bell has left an indelible mark on the 85th U.S. Army Reserve Support Command, as his fellow Soldiers and loved ones gathered to commemorate his life and service. This poignant ceremony not only honored Bell's memory but also highlighted the unbreakable bond that had formed within the unit, a testament to the profound impact he had on those around him.

Celebrating the Life and Service of a Beloved Soldier

A Soldier's Smile that Brightened Every Day

Those who knew Staff Sgt. Dante Bell described him as a Soldier with a sweet and loving demeanor, whose infectious smile could brighten anyone's day. "All those who knew Sergeant Dante Bell knew he was a Soldier who was sweet and loving and a Soldier of faith," said Carolyn Davis, Bell's mother. "He wore a smile that would brighten your day." Bell's wife, Cordelia, echoed these sentiments, recalling his ability to lift spirits and prevent anyone from going to bed angry. "I just want him to be remembered as being that person who every time you look at him, he's smiling. You can't get mad at him because he's not going to let you go to bed angry," she said with a chuckle.

A Dedicated Soldier and Mentor

Despite having just recently joined the unit, Bell's impact was already being felt. Maj. Ricardo Delbrey, Team Chief of the 3-347th Training Support Battalion, spoke of the unit's newfound closeness in the wake of Bell's passing. "With the unfortunate passing of Staff Sgt. (Dante) Bell, it did bring our unit and team members closer together, and it gave us confirmation on things that we already knew about each other," he said. Bell's commitment to developing future Soldiers was also highlighted by Brig. Gen. Michael Shanley, Commanding General of the 85th USARSC, who described him as an "exemplary (non-commissioned officer)" who "did the most to develop future Soldiers."

Honoring a Legacy of Leadership, Character, and Courage

Shanley's remarks during the memorial ceremony underscored the profound impact Bell had on those around him. "Staff sergeant Bell began his service 21 years ago, shortly after the events of 9-11 and deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan," Shanley said. "He was an exemplary (non-commissioned officer) and did the most to develop future Soldiers. He left behind a lasting legacy based on his leadership, his character, his courage, his competence and his commitment that still lives on with us today."

A Daughter's Wish to Remember Her Father

Kaiya Bell, the daughter of Staff Sgt. Dante Bell, shared her wish for how her father would be remembered. "I would like my father to be remembered as someone who's kind, patient and very joyful and also a hard worker," she said. "I'd like his laugh, his smiles and his hugs to be something that people go back to remember."

A Family Bonded by Tragedy and Resilience

In the aftermath of Bell's passing, the 3-347th Training Support Battalion rallied around his family, providing support and assistance during a difficult time. When the community was hit by hurricanes Helene and Milton, the Soldiers quickly mobilized to help the family with their move and home projects. "We had about 25 Soldiers meet (the family) with a moving truck and got (them) moved out in about five hours," said Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel Hudnet, Command Sergeant Major of the 3-347th TSBN. "We returned a few days ago and assisted with (home projects) like new lights and installing ceiling fans, and things like that. We've had liaisons with the family and invited them to our upcoming events because they are now a part of our family."This outpouring of support and the formation of a new family bond within the unit is a testament to the lasting impact of Staff Sgt. Dante Bell. As Maj. Delbrey eloquently stated, "The family and the brotherhood and sisterhood that we have is strong. And I just want every Soldier to know that, especially the family members of each Soldier."