Bright, funny, and outgoing, Technical Sergeant Scott E. Duffman never met a stranger. He had a gift for making people smile. He had a gift for making people smile and an energy that seemed to follow him wherever he went.
Scott was born into a proud Air Force family and grew up moving from one military assignment to another. From an early age, Scott was fearless, endlessly curious, and determined. Whether climbing trees, scaling cabinets, or daily adventures on the roof, he embraced every challenge with enthusiasm.
Those qualities would shape the man—and the service member—he would become.
A Fearless Spirit From the Beginning
As a teenager, Scott’s determination and competitive spirit flourished when he discovered a passion for wrestling. That tenacity led to following in the family’s tradition of military service. After graduating from high school in 1992, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. He earned one of the Air Force’s toughest qualifications by becoming a Pararescueman, dedicating his career to saving the lives of others.
A Pararescueman Dedicated to Saving Lives
Scott served with several Special Tactics and Rescue Squadrons before joining the 24th Special Tactics Squadron at Pope Air Force Base in North Carolina in 2001. During his service, he deployed multiple times to Columbia and Afghanistan. 
While stationed in North Carolina, Scott met Mary, the love of his life. They married in December 2004, and their daughter, Sophia, was born in October 2006. Sophia instantly became the center of Scott’s world. Just four months after her birth, Scott was again deployed to Afghanistan.
February 18, 2007
On February 18, 2007—only five days into the deployment—while providing Combat Search and Rescue coverage, the MH-47 helicopter carrying Scott and 21 other personnel crashed. Eight courageous service members, including TSgt Duffman, lost their lives.
His teammate, best friend, and final escort from Dover, Ryan Stanhope, remembered him this way: “Scott made everything better, even when things were tough. He had an infectious personality and lit up any room. He embodied the Pararescue ethos, ‘These Things We Do, So That Others May Live.’ He lived–and died–by those words.”
Preserving Their Stories for Future Generations
Today, Scott rests in Arlington National Cemetery alongside the helicopter’s pilot and copilot.
His mother, Rose, who now serves as an Arlington Lady, remembers him simply: “He was a warrior, and he loved what he did and why he did it.” Though Scott’s life was cut short, his legacy of courage and unwavering commitment continues to inspire those who hear his story.
Scott’s name is forever engraved on Panel 6, Row 57 of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial, joining more than 7,000 Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines who gave their lives in service to our nation in the 25 years since September 11, 2001.
Each name represents a life of courage, devotion, and sacrifice. Together, they remind us that the freedoms we enjoy today were secured by extraordinary Americans who answered the call to serve. As the conflict endures, so too does our commitment to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in its defense.
With your tax-deductible gift to the National Infantry Museum Foundation, you help ensure that Scott’s story—and the stories of every hero honored on this memorial—continue to inspire future generations. Your generosity preserves a place where their service is remembered, their sacrifice is honored, and their legacy lives on.
