NEWBY, NICHOLAS

Nicholas “Nick” Newby was born August 25,1990 in Anchorage Alaska and moved to Coeur d’Alene with his family when he was 5 years old. He graduated from the Bridge Academy in 2008 and entered military service at the same time. 

Specialist Newby was assigned to Bravo Company, 145th Brigade Support Battalion as a Mechanic and later deployed in September 2010 as a Rhino Platoon member in support of Operation New Dawn.  

According to his family, Nick would do anything for anybody who needed his help. He'd stick by his friends and never gave up on anybody. He had a great sense of humor, ever since he was a kid. For instance, once when he saw his pregnant mom drinking orange juice, he said 'mom, you're getting orange juice all over the baby!'  

Nick was intellectually curious and an avid reader. He was also a planner - he researched things, planned out and then followed through with all he said. He was a great musician who played many instruments including guitar, bass guitar, saxophone, and drums.  

Nick loved fishing, camping, road trips, learning to fly as a member of the Civil Air Patrol and wrestling with his brother. He loved thrashing his truck and then fixing it.  Nick loved his family, and everybody loved him. 

Nick radiated positive energy and the smile never left his face. His favorite saying was "Quit whining" or "Quit yer bitchin." His laugh was both ridiculous and infectious, and he had a profound impact on everyone in his life.   

Specialist Newby was killed in action as the result of wounds suffered from an improvised Explosive Device attack on their convoy. His awards include the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal with Combat Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Army Overseas Service Ribbon, Idaho National Guard State Service Ribbon, and the Combat Action Badge. 

The Washington State Fallen Heroes Project proudly remembers SPC Nicholas “Nick” Newby for his service, sacrifice, and commitment to our nation. His life continues to inspire all who learn his story.