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“Today, we bury his body, but not his soul. Today we bury his hands, but not his work. Today we bury his heart, but not his love.” |
For the Fallen |
I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live; And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. John 11: 25, 26 | |||||||||
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Cpl. Salem Bachar of Camp Pendleton from Lcpl Chris A. Perez. It seems like it was just yesterday we were at the ball joking and laughing how you were living it up driving your wife's nice car and all, lol. Cpl. Salem Bachar of Camp Pendleton, from Freddie Gonzales. Salem you will forever be missed, I have been waiting 1 year for your call and never got it. You were a true friend and a great hero to the USA. I love you and will never forget you! Freddie Gonzales Cpl. Salem Bachar of Camp Pendleton, California. God bless you. My deepest sympathy to all his family members. Cpl. Salem Bachar of Camp Pendleton, California. He died in Iraq on April 13 2006. Only 20 years old. May he forever rest in peace. Sgt. Corey A. Dan I went to school with Corey, he was a very generous guy. He was kind to everyone and he will never be forgotton. Katie, Norway, Me Scott Q. Larson Jr. I miss you. everyone says you're not a hero till you die, but not you. You led people to Christ while you were here and you were a hero for that while you were here! I know you're not dead though..you're singing with angels! All the brave and great Soldiers in the war on terror who have made the ultimate sacrifice.to all of the families of the fallen and injured,God Bless you all.i hope you all will walk with your heads held high knowing that the Soldiers fought to defend this country and fight for freedom.i can not imagine their bravery.thank you,michael teto
Editor's Note: This tribute was supplied by Cpl. Swain's father, Harry R. Swain, III Lance Cpl. Harry R. Swain IV, 21, of Cumberland, N.J. died Jan. 31, 2005, as a result of hostile action in Babil Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
With full hearts, we say "Thank You" to all our soldiers for your wonderful service to our Nation, You are the defenders of the freedom we enjoy. We salute you. God bless you all. 09/01/2005 Sgt. 1st Class Obediah J. Kolath, 32, of CARLY'S POEM by Carly Sheehan Have you ever heard the sound of a mother screaming for her son? Have you ever heard the sound of a father holding back his cries? Have you ever heard the sound of taps played at your brother's grave? Have you ever heard the sound of a nation being rocked to sleep?
Spc. Casey Sheehan, 24, of Vacaville, Calif.died on April 4, in Baghdad, Iraq, when his unit was attacked with rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire. He was assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. To the family of Edward Lee Myers, of St. Joseph Missouri, the men of weapon squad, 3rd plt. Alpha co., 1/325 AIR extend our condolences on the loss of Eddie. He will be missed greatly. Spc. Edward L. Myers, 21, of St. Joseph, Mo., died July 27, 2005, in Samarra, Iraq, where his unit was conducting patrol operations and an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV. Myers was assigned to the Army's 3rd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga. All those who gave their lives to fight terrorism and to keep our country safe and free. You will not be forgotten. You will live in our hearts forever. To the families of the Fallen....our hearts go out to you. God Bless you.
Thank you for being the best son any mother could have asked for. You have given me everything and asked nothing in return. GOD has gotten another soldier. You will always be in our hearts and prayers. I love you Kenny....INFINITY and BEYOND! I'll see you on the other side. Love MOM Kimberly Zeigler of York knows the whole thing won’t be real for her until her brother’s body comes back from Iraq. Pfc. Kenneth E. Zeigler III, 22, of Dillsburg died in Iraq Thursday, after the Humvee he was driving hit a roadside bomb. Kimberly Zeigler found out about it Thursday night, when she was practicing for a local softball league. She was looking forward to her brother’s visit during his scheduled leave. Originally, he was supposed to be home in time for Mother’s Day. But another soldier needed to get home in time to see his child born, and Kenneth Zeigler volunteered to delay his leave for a couple of weeks. That’s just the kind of guy he was, according to his sister. In fact, that’s why he enlisted in the Army in the first place. “He wanted to give back to the people who were giving to the world,” she said. She figured it would be the same as always when they finally got together. Her brother had that curious mixture of traits — outgoing yet shy — common among artistic types. He’d sit by himself and clam up at gatherings of people until she sat next to him. Then he’d start talking incessantly about his dreams, his plans and his life. That’s what she thought would happen in two weeks. Until her cell phone rang. It was her father, who lives in Halifax. The Army was having trouble tracking down her mother, who lives in Hinesville, Ga., and needed her phone number. They needed to tell her Kenneth Zeigler was dead. Kimberly Zeigler herself wanted to enlist once, but an injury put an end to that idea. Her brother seemed ambiguous about it, anyway. In phone conversations, he sounded enthusiastic about being in Iraq, wanting to share the adventure of it with her. Yet he didn’t want her in danger. “He said, ‘I love it over here. You should be here with me,’” Kimberly Zeigler said. “Then he’d shut up and he’d say, ‘No, you shouldn’t be here.’” A gifted artist The two had stayed in touch through the years, though they were separated geographically. He was born in Camp Hill, two years after Kimberly Zeigler and her twin sister, Katie. Their family lived in Dillsburg for a while. Then their parents got divorced when Kenneth Zeigler was about 7. Their mother took the kids and moved to Ohio. They moved a few more times through the years. Kimberly Zeigler ended up in Pennsylvania, and her brother ended up in Watertown, N.Y., living with their mother. He went to high school, grew his hair long, got into hard rock bands such as Metallica and Pantera and played bass in a local band. He was a gifted visual artist as well. His mother, Vicki Zeigler, said he entered a regional art contest for high-school students in New York and won all four years. He did portraits — one of himself that hung in their home and another one of Kevin Costner for his mom, who’s a big fan. But he could paint or draw just about anything, including landscapes and still lifes. He could just take a look and reproduce it on canvas or paper. He graduated high school in 2001, Kimberly Zeigler said. Not long after that, his mother was diagnosed with cancer. They moved back to Dillsburg in 2002, so she could be close to her family. Kenneth Zeigler helped support himself and his mother by delivering papers, Kimberly Zeigler said. She spoke to him on the phone quite often around that time. He had plenty of friends in Watertown. But during his most recent spell in Dillsburg, he seemed to keep to himself a lot, waking up in the early morning hours to deliver the papers and sleeping during the day. He was trying to decide what to do with his life. College, maybe. Or art school. Ultimately, he decided on the military in 2003. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, based in Fort Stewart, Ga. When he went to Georgia, his mother moved there as well. “He was her baby,” Kimberly Zeigler said. A mournful reunion Vicki Zeigler is now in Georgia, waiting for the return of her son’s body. She said no funeral arrangements have been made yet. An officer stopped by recently to tell her that they caught one of the insurgents who allegedly planted the bomb that killed her son. They expect to catch the others soon. Relatives of the other members of Kenneth Zeigler’s unit have been stopping by to see her. That includes Sandra Thomas, wife of Staff Sgt. Jesse Thomas, who is in charge of Kenneth Zeigler’s unit and who was good friends with him. She told Vicki Zeigler that all of the others thought very highly of her son. She also told her that when they carried Kenneth Zeigler into the aid station after the bomb went off, Jesse Thomas leaned over his body and promised that the other members of the unit would take care of his mother. That doesn’t surprise her. Nor does it surprise her that Kenneth Zeigler gave up the seat that would have brought him home by Mother’s Day. “He would give his shirt off his back for anyone,” she said.
Army Pfc. Kenneth E. Zeigler II, 22, who was from Mechanicsburg and Dillsburg, died May 12 when the Humvee he was driving hit a roadside bomb near Sumarra, Iraq. On Friday, Zeigler's flag-draped casket — covered in plastic to protect it from the steady drizzle — was laid to rest during a service attended by several dozen mourners. After seven riflemen fired a salute three times, and the playing of "Taps," the flag was folded into the traditional triangle for Brig. Gen. Mark V. Phelan, deputy director for special operations, to present to Ziegler's mother, Vicki Ziegler. Phelan presented another flag and medals, a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star, to Ziegler's father, Kenneth E. Zeigler of Halifax. Family members said Ziegler was supposed to be on leave but gave his seat to another soldier whose wife was due to give birth, according to The Patriot-News of Harrisburg. Zeigler, 22, is one 141 soldiers killed during the Iraq war to be buried at Arlington, and the eighth from Pennsylvania. Pfc. Kenneth E. Zeigler II, 22, of Dillsburg, Penn., died May 12 in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his military vehicle. Zeigler was assigned to the Army's 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
It has been a long year my precious son. I long to see your smile and hear your laughter. I am proud of you beyond words, and I miss you every day. Rest well my son and be with God. I pray for him to hold you in his arms. You are gone, but never forgotten. Dad Pfc. David Parker’s quick wit and smiling face earned him many friends in Central Texas even though he lived there just two years. “Every time I was with him there was always something to laugh about,” said his girlfriend, Amy Bolline. “He was such a happy person you couldn’t help but be happy right along with him.” Parker, 20, was killed in Iraq on Jan. 21 when a mortar round exploded near him at his compound near Baqubah. He joined the Army in October 2002 and had been assigned to the Fort Hood-based 4th Infantry Division’s 588th Engineer Battalion since February. Another member of the battalion, 22-year-old Spc. Gabriel Palacios, also died in the attack. A native of Nicaragua, he listed Lynn, Mass., as his home in military records. Although Parker followed his father and grandfather into military service, his family was surprised when as a teen he decided to enlist. “He just felt like he had some calling to do that,” his father, Jim Parker, told the Bryan-College Station Eagle in Friday’s editions. “That was David; He was always concerned about other people. He was a compassionate kid.” While in Iraq, Parker volunteered for ordnance disposal, a highly dangerous job that involved clearing paths of mines and booby traps before other troops advanced. Parker had been back in Bryan on leave as recently as November. “He was just really together,” his father said. “He missed his family and he was glad to be home, but he was really in his element.” Parker grew up in San Diego, where he developed a love for surfing, hip-hop and freestyle rapping. Shortly after he graduated from high school, his family moved to Bryan and he came along. He assembled a crowd of friends in Bryan although he spent most of his time at Fort Hood. David Thomas said he and his two roommates considered Parker an unofficial roommate because he stayed with them so often. “You’d never see him in a bad mood,” Thomas said. “If you met him you loved him.” Friends said Parker saw the military as an opportunity to develop discipline, a chance to make it on his own and a vehicle to someday help pay for tuition at Texas A&M, where he hoped to study engineering. “It hurts, but it still makes me proud to know that he died for his country,” Thomas said. “He’s a hero.” Parker is survived by his parents and two younger brothers. Pfc. James D. Parker, 20, of Bryan, Texas, died in a mortar attack on a forward operating base near Ba'qubah the evening of Jan. 21. He was assigned to the 588th Engineer Battalion (Heavy), 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
'And He Wrote To Me' Spc. Michael S. Weger, 30, of Rochester, N.Y., and two other soldiers, died on Oct. 12, 2004, in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their patrol vehicle.
Sgt. Maj. Barbaralien Banks, 41, of Harvey, La. died April 6 in Ghazni, Afghanistan, when the CH-47 helicopter she was on crashed. Banks was assigned to the Division Artillery, 25th Infantry Division (Light), Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.
"SSGT Shane E. Koele of Wayne, Nebraska who was killed by a land mine while he was bravely serving in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. "Well done, my good & faithful servant." Thank you to Shane's family for giving us your son. God Bless America." Staff Sgt. Shane M. Koele, 25, of Wayne, Neb., died Mar. 16 at Shindand Airfield, Afghanistan, from injuries sustained Mar. 15 in Shindand, Afghanistan, when a land mine exploded near his HMMWV. Koele was assigned to the 212th Military Police Company, Kitzingen, Germany. "I haven't lost anyone, but this is to all of you who have. I fee great sorrow for you and for my closest uncle who just returned from Iraq. He lost many friends and I am so happy he made it home safely. I sympathize for all of you and cry for each of you. Just know God loves you all and so do all the officers and members of the forces. God is with you all and i pray for all of you daily."
You are missed more than can be described. Love you always by everyone that was blessed to know you." "SPC Shawn M. Davies, We all miss you and you will always be remembered. Thank you for defending this great country and also for being my brother and friend" Spc. Shawn M. Davies, 22, of Aliquippa, Pa., died July 8 in Baghdad, Iraq, of a non-combat related illness. Davies was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery, 1st Cavalry Division Regiment, Fort Hood, Texas. "All that have fallen,we prey for you. To All Soldiers- Thank you. To all the men and women, mothers and fathers, friends and family who are out there risking and sacrificing their lives every day. You are not forgotten and are never alone! May the love of God protect and guide you.
Capt. Lyle L. Gordon, 30, of Midlothian, Texas died Jan. 26 when the CH-53E helicopter he was in crashed near Ar Rutbah, Iraq. Gordon was assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif.
"Sgt Nathaniel T. Swindell was taken from so many of us on January 15th, 2005. My heart goes out to his family and new wife Sabrina. Whom I was unfortunate not to have met. Nate was such a wonderful man with such a huge heart. I remember how much he was still like a child himself, he loved to make others happy. And still just the thought of him brings a smile to my face. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said "It's not how long a man lives, but how well uses the time allotted him." I feel in Nate's 24 years, he has touched so many people. I am only blessed to have known him. I love you, still...Christina Abner" Sgt. Nathaniel T. Swindell, 24, of Bronx, N.Y., died Jan. 15 in Mosul, Iraq, from a non-combat related injury. Swindell was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash.
Cpl. Michael D. Anderson, 21, of Modesto, Calif., died Dec. 14 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif.
"As squad leader, Olson was leading a foot patrol on the evening of Dec. 26 when an IED - improvised explosive device - detonated. The reason this unit is over there is to assist with stabilization and security in Iraq. The way you do that is to patrol. They were on such a patrol and, sadly, Staff Sergeant Olson lost his life trying to make Iraq a safer place," said Lt. Col. Tim Donovan, director of public affairs for the Wisconsin National Guard. Staff Sgt. Todd D. Olson, 36, from Loyal, Wis., died Dec. 27 in the 67th Combat Support Hospital in Tikrit, Iraq from wounds sustained in Samarra, Iraq on Dec. 26, when an improvised explosive device detonated. Olson was assigned to the National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 128th Infantry Regiment, Neillsville, Wis.
Pfc. Lionel Ayro, 22, of Jeanerette, La. died Dec. 21 in Mosul, Iraq, when his dining facility was attacked. Ayro was assigned to the 73rd Engineer Company, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash. "All of our Brave Sons and Daughters.
Cpl. Theodore A. Bowling, 25, of Casselberry, Fla., died Nov. 11 as a result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. "In memory of everyone who sacrificed their life in Iraq. God Bless them all and "I send thanks to all those who have and are currently serving.God Bless you all. "Thank you to all the Hero's that gave their life in this war. You were brave and put your own fears to the side and fought this war to protect our freedoms...Thank you to the family for raising such wonderful and brave soldiers. Thank you, God Bless the family in your time of loss.I am proud to be an American and I wont forget every man and woman in the military serving to protect our freedoms. Thank you.
Staff Sgt. Kyle A. Eggers, 27, of Euless, Texas, died Dec. 5 in Habbaniyah, Iraq, when his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device. Eggers was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, Camp Greaves, Korea.
Lu was the son of a former Vietnamese/Chinese refugee family from Vietnam resettled by Catholic Charities of Los Angeles. Lance Cpl. Victor R. Lu, 22, of Los Angeles, Calif. died Nov. 13 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Lu was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. "For our brothers and sisters who died, may your death not have been in vain." "To every fallen soldier... Thank you so much for your sacrifice. To me, you are forever alive. I love each and every one of you." "To my friends and loved ones of the
Lance Cpl. Dimitrios Gavriel, 29, of New York, N.Y.,died Nov. 19, as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Gavriel was assigned to 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
"In memory of Lt Luke Wullenwaber. 1st Lt. Luke C. Wullenwaber, 24, of Lewiston, Idaho, died Nov. 16 in Khaladiyah, Iraq, when he was conducting a security mission and a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near his military vehicle. Wullenwaber was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, Camp Greaves, Korea. "Cpl. Theodore A. Bowling Cpl. Theodore A. Bowling, 25, of Casselberry, Fla., died Nov. 11 as a result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. "Oscar Martinez Pfc. Oscar A. Martinez, 19, of North Lauderdale, Fla. died Oct. 12 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Martinez was assigned to I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
"Arthur Felder I am still grieving the loss. I know the angels are rejoicing to have you with them. Thanks for being my angel while we were at East Texas Baptist University. You made me feel special from day one. I will always remember your basketball games and the Greek shows at Wiley. I love you, Theresa Grant (Mt. Pleasant, TX) Keep an eye on us until we meet again!" Capt. Arthur L. Felder, 36, of Louisville, Ark., and three other Arkansans, "To all the families: my prayers are to you all!!!!"
"He was quiet, very smart and studious, said his cousin Chris Doerflinger. His father, Richard M. Doerflinger, deputy director of the Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, is a well-known scholar and advocate who has written and spoken of such issues as assisted suicide, cloning, euthanasia and stem-cell research to Congress, churches and the media. Spc. Thomas K. Doerflinger, 20, of Silver Spring, Md., died Nov. 11 in Mosul, Iraq, when his unit received small arms fire while conducting combat operations. Doerflinger was assigned to 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.
Cpl. Robert P. Warns II, 23, of Waukesha, Wis., died Nov. 8 as a result of enemy action in Babil Province, Iraq. He was assigned to the Marine Corps Reserve’s 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Chicago, Ill. "My sister and I would like to express our deepest sympathy for those of you who lost loved ones in the war. We pray that each day gets easier with time. We would like to thank the soldiers, men and women, for their heroic actions. God bless all the families and soldiers, they will never be forgotten. To those of you who are still fighting we pray for your safe return.
Sgt. Nicholas A. Tomko, 24, of Pittsburgh, Pa., was killed on Nov. 9 in Baghdad, Iraq. Tomko was the door gunner in a convoy vehicle when his team came under small arms attack. The soldier died of his injuries. Tomko was assigned to the 307th Military Police Company, U.S. Army Reserve, New Kensington, Pa. "Oct. 30, 2004: Seven Marines with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, killed by car bomb in Al Anbar province. Pfc. John Lukac, 19, of Las Vegas; "William we will always love and miss you. You will always be in our hearts forever. Love Lillie, Ricky, William, Kia, Shonda, Perry, Darius, family, friends, and classmates." THE FULL NAME OF THIS SOLDIER WAS NOT PROVIDED IN THE EMAIL
SGT Andrew W. Brown, for who ever submitted the beautiful picture that really shows his true characteristics, I thank you because he will never be forgotten. "SGT Andrew W. Brown, from a father of a son who served with Andrew in the same unit and was injured in the same explosion on Oct 1 2004. Although there are no words to ease your pain, please know that there are people you don't know who share your pain and sorrow. God bless you and please know that we are thinking of you. SGT Andrew W. Brown, 22, of Pleasant Mount, Penn., died October 8 in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained on October 1 when his patrol vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device. Brown was assigned to the Army's 1st Battalion, 509th Infantry, Fort Polk, La. "All who have fallen I send my heart felt sorrow. "PFC Geoffery Perez To all those who have lost a loved one to this unnecessary war I feel your pain and to you Jeff, God it hurts to think that you are gone. I still think you will be back when all this is over but you won't and when I get sad I think about your smile and your laugh and my heart cheers up. Well Jeff good bye. You'll always have a huge part of my heart and you'll always be in my thoughts and prayers I LOVE YOU" Pfc. Geoffery Perez, Los Angeles, CA "My 3 yr. old daughter, Virginia and I went to the Healing Field in Brandon, Ms on Sept. 12th. We prayed for a very special flag and she picked out yours. Even though we never knew you, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the dedication you gave to our country. We will fly our (your) flag with GREAT pride. My husband and I lost our youngest son, Will this past May. Could you please help God take care of him in Heaven? We would be honored! Jeremy, Allison, Barrett, and Virginia Slonaker Brandon, MS" Pfc. Geoffrey Perez, 24, of Los Angeles, Calif., died Aug. 15 from injuries received from enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. "Our hearts and prayers are with the soldiers who are faithfully serving our country and for the families that are left behind. "I am more grateful than I can say to those who have given all to protect this country, both past and present.
Spc. Yoe M. Aneiros, 20, of Newark, N.J., died Sept. 7 in Sadr City when his patrol vehicle came under attack by enemy forces using rocket-propelled grenades. Aneiros was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 70th Armor, 3rd Brigade, 1st Armored Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
"Caleb John Powers, "Caleb Powers I knew when you first joined the Young Marines and I cried when I saw how handsome you were in your uniform that you were going to make everyone who knew and loved you proud, I know you are in heaven still protecting us. I will miss you. Love always (Mrs. Mills)" "Caleb Powers, Over the past ten years, we have had the honor of having you as a friend and classmate. Throughout high school, you gave us many fond memories that will be cherished forever. Your cheerful attitude and everlasting smile will be missed by all. You will forever be missed by us (your classmates), your friends, relatives, your Aunt and Uncle, and Cousins, as well as all of the children around the world in which you have had such a positive impact on. You will never be forgotten. We no longer have a friend or a classmate, we have something much better. We have an American Hero. While we say goodbye for now, we take peace in knowing that you are in a better place and someday we will all be reunited again. God Bless you and your family! Mansfield High School Lance Cpl. Caleb J. Powers, 21, of Manfield, Wash., died Aug 17 due to enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Lance Cpl. Powers was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Thinking of You in Los Angeles Sgt. James C. Kearney, III "Nicholas Perez of Austin Texas Hello 'my little Noah', I just wanted you to know that we are thinking about you today, and always. Thank you for all the wonderful memories. So young, but yet you left so much behind. We will always miss you. I love you honey. Your Uncle Joe misses his 'Nico'. " "In Loving memory of Nick Perez Nick I'm sorry I ever broke your heart! This is probably the last time I can say this to you! I LOVE YOU ALWAYS BABY!! And I send my love to your family!!" "In memory of Nick Perez I can't believe that you are gone. You were such a great friend. I will always remember you. You will be missed by many. 24 September 2004 LCpl Nick Perez Nick Perez "There are so many thing that we all should have said to you. The time that I knew you was great you are such a a great person. You always had a big smile on your face (the braces). Just know that you will be missed in our hearts forever. You have no idea how many people will miss you!!!" Love Always, Lydia Gonzales "In memory of Nick Perez I can't believe that you are gone. You were such a great friend. I know the last time we talked was in elementary school. I will always remember our child hood memories. You will be missed by many. Love Always Nicholas Perez Nick Perez "In loving memory Of Nick, may you be with the angels in a better place, you will never be forgotten and will be missed dearly." Nicholas Perez "You are and inspiration to all may your wings take you high into the heavens. We will miss you eternally and know that the suns rays are you smiling upon us and the rain is you touching us." Love you always, "In loving memory of Nick Perez. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family. May the Lord take him under his wings. He will be dearly missed. May he rest in peace." "Luis Perez, God bless you, you made the biggest sacrifice for your family and friends. I hurt thinking of all the dreams that were cut short that day. May God bless you and your family. Sincerely, Georgette Pena and Natalia Cortez" Lance Cpl. Nicholas Perez, 19, of Austin, Texas, died Sept 3 due to enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Perez was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif. "In memory of all the young men and women that were overseas protecting and fighting for our country that have fallen. And to the families who have gave up so much for us to be free. THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART! I will always remember you. For those still fighting for us-thank you for sacrificing your lives. Come home safe and sound. May God be with you in every step you take."
Cpl. Todd J. Godwin, 21, of Muskingum County, Ohio, died July 20 due to injuries received from enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, Camp Lejeune, N.C. "All our precious sons and daughters who gave all. Freedom has always depended on the sacrifices of a few. To those of us that enjoy the freedom, our hearts break at every death. The heartache of the families is unimaginable. Our gratitude is unable to be expressed. Our only hope is that one day peace will replace war as a solution to man's problems. God Bless you.
Friends remembered Joshua Wilfong as a quiet, reliable person who loved the outdoors. Wilfong, a 2000 graduate of Parkersburg (W.Va.) High School, was assigned to the 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion. “He would do anything for you. He was always there to help out,” said Airman 1st Class Chris Houce, stationed at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas. Airman 1st Class William Lowther II said he learned to drive with Wilfong in an old black Chevrolet truck at Wilfong’s home. Lowther is stationed at Fort Langley, Va. “I really hate to hear that about him. He was such a great guy. You couldn’t ask for anybody better,” Lowther said. Driving all-terrain vehicles and trucks or just riding with friends on muddy back roads were some of Wilfong’s favorite pastimes. “He was a real go-getter. Anytime we’d go out on the back roads and get stuck, he was always the first one out in the mud with a chain,” Houce said. “He’d have mud all over him. He was just that kind of guy who would do stuff like that for you. He was always there with his buddies.” The friends spent many nights sitting on the banks of the Little Kanawha or Ohio rivers, caring little about whether the catfish nibbled or not. There was too much to occupy their time on the riverbank — such as good-natured arguing about their favorite NASCAR drivers — to care about catfish. Wilfong’s willingness to do anything to help his friends will not be forgotten, said Parkersburg resident Larry Owens. “He was always there, taking care of his buddies. He was a real easygoing guy and quiet, but when you got him aside, he would talk your ear off,” Owens said. Wilfong was the honor graduate of his class in July 2001 from the Marine Corps Basic Combat Engineers Course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., the Marines said. "Cornelius Green, Tamika Lafrance really misses you. I wish that you were still here with me and your family. I would like to thank you for everything you did for us in the past. Love you always Tamika Lafrance"
Fernie, you were the friend everyone dreamed and wished for to have in a lifetime. You are dearly missed and so loved by your family and friends. You will be remembered for the smiles you gave to me and for being the great person you are - intelligent, hilarious, humble, caring, friendly, loving, and so much more. Rest in Peace." "In Loving Memory of PFC Fernando Hannon...you are an Angel of God...and you will Forever be missed by your Family, Ruth Your Love, and all your Friends." "Fernando "Fern" Hannon you will be truly miss by your love Ruth, friends, & family.You are a brave soldier and a great man.You will never be forgotten.Our thoughts & prayers are with your family." "Fern" "He was always such a great guy. Able to lend a hand and make you smile. Smart, nice and compassionate. My condolences to his family and to Ruth who I know loved him with all her heart." "Fernando Hannon" "Fern you were a great friend and great person. You will always be remembered by me and everyone who has ever met you. You were the most humble, nicest, and good heartedest friend I've had and you will be missed by me, your family, Ruth, and all the friends and homies. We miss you a lot." Pfc. Fernando B. Hannon, 19, of Wildomar, Calif., died Aug. 15 from injuries received from enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Your Favorite Aunt Tina" Mark Province, a cousin, said Sampler had a big heart. He told a relative recently that he wanted to give away a paycheck so a fellow soldier could buy diapers and food for a new baby. Spc. Sonny G. Sampler, 23, of Oklahoma City, Okla. died July 8 in Samarra, Iraq. He was in the Iraqi National Guard Headquarters when it came under a mortar attack. Sampler was assigned to 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany. "Any that have died. I pray that all the families find comfort. Theresa"
“A second round came in within a second after that, and that round landed behind us,” Eaton said. “While I was still laying on the ground, Sam actually grabbed me by the collar and pulled me away from the building.” The attack killed three soldiers and wounded 25 people, including two civilians. Eaton said Bowen was not seriously injured and helped tend to the wounded. “He was one of the first people to call me after I got out of surgery,” he said. “He wanted to hear my voice because he didn’t believe that I was OK — he called me his ‘battle buddy.”’ "Pvt. Samuel Bowen, I am really going to miss you. God has taken a really great person from me. I will see you again where we both know that there will be peace, joy, love, and fun times. Love Ya, Darla Bailey Berlin, Maryland." Pvt. 1st Class Samuel R. Bowen, 38, of Cleveland, Ohio, died July 7 in Samarra, Iraq, when a rocket-propelled grenade exploded near his vehicle. Bowen was assigned to the Army National Guard's 216th Engineer Battalion, Akron, Ohio. "All our fallen soldiers, thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving up your lives to fight for America's freedom. You will never be forgotten. Lauren/New Jersey"
Donations can be made to Celeste Lawrence at P.O. Box 32880, Tucson, Ariz., 85751. For more information contact Jeffrey Lawrence's cousin, Heather Kuntz at Heather.Kuntz@lennar.com. Cpl. Jeffrey D. Lawrence, 22, of Tucson, Ariz., died July 6 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Lejeune, N.C. "Dear Family of Julie Hickey: As a fellow American, I thank you for the service and sacrifice that Julie and your entire family have made to secure our Freedom. May God grant you peace and understanding for the pain that you are enduring. God Bless you and your daughter Julie. Steve & Carolyn Wright" Spc. Julie R. Hickey, 20, of Galloway, Ohio, was evacuated from Bagram, Afghanistan, on June 30 and died in Landstuhl, Germany, on July 4 of complications from a non-combat related illness. Hickey was assigned to the Army Reserve’s 412th Civil Affairs Battalion, Whitehall, Ohio. "My words could never express my gratefulness for your sacrifices. I also lay my child to sleep at night in comfort and peace because of these brave men and women. I, and all my family, have the utmost respect and heartfelt gratitude for you all. May the Lord God bring you home safely and bless you for all of your days. Thank You. Grace Vickers, Ft Lauderdale, Florida" "May God Bless the one's who have died, the one's who are fighting. And every soldier's family. Angels are watching over all of them Thank you for serving our country." "To Bobby Frazier, Ingleheart, Redding, and Kyle Langemeier. May God Bless You. And know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. Come home safe. And my thoughts are with other families as well and God be with you also. Jennifer"
"To the family of Capt. Chris Cash: I had the pleasure of knowing Chris briefly when I met him at East Carolina University in 1997. I also got to meet his two young sons. He was a man of integrity and honesty. His boys were his utmost priority and he loved them dearly. Dawn, even though I have not met you my heart goes out to you and the boys. May God Bless you and the family. I know you will not forget him but maybe time will heal the heartache. God Bless Chris and all of the soldiers who have gave their lives for their country. Sincerely, Capt. Christopher S. Cash, 36, of Winterville, N.C., died June 24, in Baqubah, Iraq when his Bradley Fighting Vehicle came under attack by enemy forces using small arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades. He was assigned to the Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 120th Infantry, Jacksonville, N.C.
It has taken me a while to think of words to say to you.The thoughts that come to my head when I think of you are nothing but good. I remember my sophomore year in high school there was never a day that I didn't pass you in the halls that you didn't give me that contagious smile of yours or make me laugh.When I noticed that you weren't around as much my junior year I began to wonder, but after that I stopped going to Washington so I didn't really know what you were up against. I just want you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers and I will forever miss your smile, your laugh and the way you treated everyone around you. I know we all miss you your classmate. - Meagan Killeen "R.I.P. LCPL Travis Layfield. 4/6/04. We all love you and miss you. You're my hero Trav. <3 Tiffany " "Travis J. Layfield I love you always and forever. Love your girlfriend "Travis Layfield - a wonderful cousin and a good friend. He died for our country and for his little cousins Gordon and Patrick - the future of our country. A better man and a kinder soul I have never known. I am so proud of you Travis. God Bless you. Love Kerri Webster" "Travis Layfield- you were truly a brave man. I knew Travis from my sophomore history class and he was a really nice and sincere guy. My heart felt condolences to his family. Rest in peace. A.S." "Travis Layfield - no man shall ever be as brave as this man. All my love goes out to his family in their time of need. Just know you raised a wonderful man and he is now in heaven protecting all of who loved him. Lindsay" "Travis Layfield - I dated him for 2 years in high school and he was a wonderful young man who dreamed of being in the marines his whole life. He died doing exactly what he set out to do and we are all so proud of him. We know that he is in heaven looking over all of us. God bless you. I love you, Cassie Ingles Pettus" "Travis Layfield- a young man with charisma, charm and a love for his country. A young man who will never be forgotten. Lauren S. King" Lance Cpl. Travis J. Layfield, 19, of Fremont, Calif. died April 6, due to hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. "To all of those wounded, lost or still at war... prayers and thoughts are with you today and always. LMR" "To the families of those who have lost loved ones during this trying time in our history, May God grant you peace as you live each day with the loss of such a dear family member. As I read these names I am reminded of what a wonderful country we live in and how blessed we are to have men and women who give their lives for our freedom."
"Ryan Dotlz. You will never really know how much you have touched the lives of so many people especially mine! Only for the few times I got to spend with you I was able to see the true passion you had for your friends and family. You were an honest and lighthearted person. You will be missed. Thank you for showing me how to love life and live it to the fullest!! I am glad to say I know a true Hero. Always in my heart and prayers. Angelique Lowry" "Ryan E. Doltz, There are no words to express how truly missed you are. You are a hero, thank you, God Bless, Love, Liz" "Ryan Doltz You are in our thoughts and prayers. You have made the supreme sacrifice so that people can be free. Thank you is not adequate enough. God bless your family. A VMI Mother" Ryan E. Doltz, was a 2002 graduate of Virginia Military Institute and a certified emergency medical technician with the town of Mine Hill, N.J., first aid squad. Spc. Ryan E. Doltz, 26, of Mine Hill, N.J., died June 5 in Baghdad, Iraq, when his vehicle hit an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to New Jersey Army National Guard’s 3rd Battalion, Battery B, 112th Field Artillery, Lawrence, N.J. "May God bless each and every soul lost in this war and their families. I was raised in a military family and have several friends that are fighting now. My heart goes out to each family that has had to suffer loss and I thank you personally for the safety and reassurance each of your loved ones has provided by laying their lives down for the rest of us. May God bless our troops and bring them home safely. "This not only goes out to my brothers in the 5th Marine Regiment, but to all the Marines, Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen that have given their lives for our country. You'll always be remembered and never forgotten. "Pvt. Bradli N. Coleman killed in Iraq by a mortar. You had lots of friends Brad and you will be missed by many people. Pvt. Bradli N. Coleman, 19, of Ford City, Pa., died May 30 in Baghdad, Iraq, from injuries sustained on May 29 in Mosul, Iraq, when mortar rounds hit his living quarters. Coleman was assigned to the 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Lewis, Wash.
"Cpl. Jesse Thiry who died April 5th in Al Anbar Province. He was an outstanding individual and a great man. I had the opportunity to know this hero and I shall never forget what he meant to me. I first met Jesse when I was only 14 years old and he was 17. I feel head over heels the instant I laid eyes on him. Over the years we had an on again off again type of relationship. I was able to be a part of his new found Marine life during his basic training. I was the lucky girl on his arm at graduation. Although things didn't work out between us and we went our separate ways I will always have a special place for him in my heart. He was my first love, my first great loss. He will be missed by all the people he had touched which were many. When I heard that he had passed away fighting for this country I was at first very saddened but then I realized that this was his calling, this was what he was meant to do. I will meet with him once again in the afterlife but until then I celebrate his life and not his death. All of the soldiers that are serving right now have my greatest respect and I pray for them and their families every night. God Bless! Cpl. Jesse L. Thiry, 23, of Casco, Wis. died April 5, due to injuries received from hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. "I will never forget the people who died from the state of Vermont they were doing their duty to protect us Army Chief Warrant Officer 4 Erik A. Halvorsen, 40, of Bennington, VT Marine Cpl. Mark A. Evnin, 21, of Burlington, VT Army Pvt. Kyle C. Gilbert, 20, of Brattleboro, VT Army Capt. Pierre E. Piche, 29, of Starksboro, VT Army Spc. Solomon C. Bangayan, 24, of Jay, VT Army Sgt. William J. Normandy, 42, of VT Army Sgt. Kevin F. Sheehan, 36, of Milton, VT Army Spc. Alan N. Bean Jr., 22, of Bridgeport, VT Sgt. Jamie A. Gray, 29, of Montpelier, VT Vermont will never forget you guys doing what you needed to do to help the U.S.A to be free and when we look up at the sky well will always be looking at hero from Ross Richard vermonthotguy18@yahoo.com P.S the rest of you 86 be safe and come home" 09 June 2004 "My heart goes out to you all. My husband has been there twice serving one full years time and I was lucky enough to have him home safe. Be strong and remember that you were loved and supported. Where there's a fallen hero there is another ounce of freedom. We love you all. First Battalion Fifth marines regiment. OOOH RAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" "Not the politicians, nor the celebrities, nor the executives... The honest workers, the men and women of our military, and their families - YOU make us who we are. YOU MAKE US PROUD. "Land of the free" only because of being "Home of the brave." "All who have given their lives for freedom. My family and I are grateful. I just wish that more people would realize that if the terrorists win, the economy and any other issues won't mean anything. SO TO ALL THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO SERVE AND THEIR FAMILIES OUR HEART FELT THANKS. AND TO THOSE WHO HAVE LOST SOMEONE WE ARE DEEPLY SADDENED AND HOPE THAT YOU CAN FEEL GOD'S LOVE. THANKS EVER SO MUCH THANKS. JOAN D. BURRIS "Though I have never served in our nation's military, I have always had a profound respect and admiration for the men and women who selflessly put themselves in harms way for our country. I would like to say to all of the fallen, injured and surviving soldiers serving us today, my thoughts and prayers are with you every day. May you all come home soon. Rebecca (Oregon)" "All those lost so that we might live free. While we cannot grieve with you in person, we who live free in the U.S.A. give thanks and honor to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. God's blessings upon each of you in the days, weeks and years to come." "In Memory of Sgt. Brud J. Cronkrite...thank you all for your loving and warm thoughts and memories of Brud. He was a loving and sweet young man and our family will miss him dearly. Love to you all, Aunt Shirleen Murray" "Sgt. Brud Cronkrite......Brud or "Sprud" as we called him, was me and Nicks good friend. He will be deeply missed. i wanted to let his family know that you are in our prayers. God bless. We love you Brud , Nick and Daisha Mcgruter (MEHS)" "In memory of Sgt. Brud J. Cronkrite... Brud was a dear friend of mine in high school and will be deeply missed. To Brud's family, You will be in my heart and prayers during this tragic time. The world will not be the same without Brud, but know that he is with God and looking down on us holding our hearts to help us through this time. Brud will never be forgotten. He served his country well, and he was a great man. I love you Brudly! "In Memory: Sgt. Brud J. Cronkrite, I am so sad, another comrade form the same unit from my friend Lee died! So I will give Lee and their comrades and the families and all the friends from Sgt. Brud J. Cronkrite my deepest condolence's. My thoughts are with the family and relatives of Sgt. Brud J. Cronkrite at this time of tragedy and huge loss. I extend my sympathy to his family. My thoughts also go out especially to Sgt. Brud J. Cronkrite battalion and all his fellow men and women who will also be feeling loss and grief at this time. God will take him in his hands. Thank you very much Sgt. Brud J. Cronkrite for fighting for the freedom for other people. God Bless. Sgt. Brud J. Cronkrite, 22, of Spring Valley, Calif., died May 14 in Baghdad, Iraq, from injuries he sustained on May 13, in Karbala when a rocket-propelled grenade fired into a building near him during a security patrol. Cronkrite was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 37th Armor, 1st Armored Division, Friedberg, Germany.
"To CPL Brownfield's family and loved ones. My angel served with Andrew and was deeply effected by his death. Please know that the whole Marine Corps. family, especially the Rhinos, mourns Andrews death and prays for you every day. May you find solace in knowing that the place that Andy inhabits now is one with no knowledge of war and hate. God Bless America and God Bless our Corps." Family of Please accept my heartfelt condolences for your loss. Your son deserves the Highest Honors for his service. He WILL forever be remembered by his Marine Ordnance family as well... Marine Ordnanceman." Mals-12 Japan Cpl. Andrew D. Brownfield, 24, of Summit, Ohio, died March 18, due to wounds received from an enemy mortar attack at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 374, Marine Wing Support Group 37, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, Calif. "Family of CPL BROWNFIELD US MARINE" Please except my deepest sympathies for your loss. Your son's passing has been mourned by not only your family but ours as well. He served honorably and will be remembered as a patriot, an Ordnanceman and a Marine. Semper Fidelis Ordnance GySgt New Orleans,LA "To the family of Keith Maupin, Please know that my brother Joseph is over there with the 724th and they are resolved to find Keith and bring him home with them. "God bless your sacrifice.... and thank you. "In loving memory of Todd E. Nunes, I know Todd's wife Christy Harrington Nunes. We went to church together and I had the chance to get to know Todd and his brother Brian.I remember when Todd and Christy married. I was invited to the wedding, and it was a beautiful event. Todd will be sadly missed but he will never be forgotten by anyone. I am very proud of Todd. Todd was a very nice guy." Staff Sgt. Todd E. Nunes, 29, of Chapel Hills, Tenn. died May 2 in Kirkuk, Iraq, when his convoy encountered an improvised explosive device and small arms fire. Nunes was assigned to 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. "All the Brave Men and Women of the United States of America. I thank you for your service and for giving your all. Bless you and your family. Judy Grimsby Belmont,Ca" "Dear Lord please grant to every family Your Peace. The peace that surpasses all understanding. Comfort them with your loving touch in Jesus Name to God be the Glory forever! I Love you very much and my heart is with everyone of you home and abroad! "In Memory of the all soldiers from the 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiments, 1st Armored Division, Baumholder, Germany, who died on April 29, in Baghdad, Iraq, while part of a dismounted improvised explosive device sweep patrol, when a vehicle approached their unit, and the driver detonated a bomb. As I have read that soldiers from the 1st AD are killed and wounded so my first thought were by my friends who are now longer as a year in Iraq with the 1st AD from Wiesbaden and Gießen. I will give the families and all the friends from Staff Sgt. Esau G. Patterson, Jr., 25, of Ridgeland, S.C. Staff Sgt. Jeffrey F. Dayton, 27, of Caledonia, Miss Sgt. Ryan M. Campbell, 25, of Kirksville, Mo. Spc. James L. Beckstrand, 27, of Escondido, Calif. Pfc. Ryan E. Reed, 20, of Colorado Springs, Colo. Pfc. Norman Darling, 29, of Middleboro, Mass. Pfc. Jeremy Ricardo Ewing, 22, of Miami, Fla. my condolence's. They have given their lives so that there comrades might live and breathe freely. God will take them all into his hands. Thank you very much to them all for fighting for the freedom for other people. God Bless you all. Wilhelmine Aufmkolk, Gross Gerau, Germany A member from Kontakt Wiesbaden e.V." "I would like to say I am sorry for those who have lost a loved one. But they did good for this country, they did their best and we shall not forget them. We should all appreciate the U.S. troops who helped make this country free and what they did for this country. In loving memory to all" "May God Bless all the brave men and women that fight to ensure Justice for All." "In memory of all the men and women who have perished in this war. "All my family can ever say to you is Thank You. My heart is heavy with the news of another life lost. It will not be in vain. We will finish this and history will once again show that our brave men and women did an excellent job. God Bless you "
Pfc. Keith M. Maupin, 20, of Batavia, Ohio, was declared captured on April 16. On April 24t 2004, The Department of Defense announced the death of Sgt. Elmer C. Krause, 40, of Greensboro, N.C., who was unaccounted for since April 9, in Iraq, when his convoy came under attack by individuals using rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire. On April 23 his remains were recovered. Sgt. Krause was assigned to the Army Reserve’s 724th Transportation Company, Bartonville, Ill.
Captain Arthur "Bo" Felder of Lewisville was among four Arkansas brigade members who died in the attack. Felder was 36 years old. The soldiers died on April 24th in Taji, when mortar rounds hit their camp.
"You know the war is going on and it's bad, but when someone walks in and says, 'Arthur Felder was killed,' all at once, that war becomes a lot closer," said Dr. Jim Webb, Felder's former coach at ETBU and now a professor of kinesiology at the university. Webb described Felder as a good student and citizen."Everyone that knew him liked him," he said. "He was quite a leader." Felder transferred his freshman year to ETBU to play basketball. He was the starting post for the beam for two years, Webb said. Capt. Arthur "Bo" Felder, 36, of Louisville, Ark. died on April 24, in Taji, Iraq, when mortar rounds hit his camp. He was assigned to the Army National Guard’s 39th Support Battalion, 39th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Hazen, Ark.
"I want to say that my thoughts and prayers are with his family. He will truly be missed by me and everyone who knew him.I loved him, and it was impossible not too. He was a young, beautiful, caring, smart, funny individual. He made a incredible impression in all the lives he touched.I cannot express how sad it is to lose such a decent person to this disgusting war. My prayers are with all soldiers and loved ones. Lisa Lee, Boston, Mass." Spc. Michael M. Merila, 23, of Sierra Vista, Ariz., died Feb. 16 in Talifar, Iraq, when his convoy was hit by an improvised explosive device. Merila was assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1st Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash. "To all of our fallen troops, their families, friends, and love ones: "For our family and friends of the "Fallen Heroes"- I was not a member of your immediate family, but you are a member of mine. I grieve, I mourn and I cry. I may have not known you, but I will never forget you. I think of you every day, I pray for you, and I hope for you. A soldier is a family's greatest pride----------- a fallen soldier is a family's greatest loss. Our thoughts are with you always. Wendy Vey" "I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the families who have lost so much. I myself have a family friend in Iraq. "I know several Marines in Iraq right now and I know two more that will be leaving for Fallujah in 4 more months. "I am the widow of a soldier who was killed in WW2 and I grieve for every person we have lost in this conflict. And I also grieve for the loved ones who will feel this loss for the rest of their lives. There is no comfort in words from strangers but my hope is that our prayers will sustain you in these difficult days ahead as you cope with the reality of your loss. Clem Roeder"
Spec. Doron Chan, 20, of Highland, New York, died March 18, near Balad, Iraq, when his convoy vehicle was cut off by a civilian vehicle. The military vehicle swerved, crossed into oncoming traffic, and flipped over. Chan was assigned to the Army Reserve's 411th Engineer Brigade, New Windsor, New York. The University of New York has established The Doron Chan Scholarship Fund in memory of its student. "Mere words can not help ease your loss at this time. All that I can say is that my prayers and thanks go toward you. I can only hope that God will ease the pain of your loss and replace with the pride of have given so much to protect us from harm." "All the fallen soldiers My heart and soul reaches out to all who lost their special person(s). For those who are dear to you and still fighting my heart reaches out. I too have a loved one over there and pray everyday for safe return. God bless them! ~Canadian soldier" "To all the families that lost someone very close to their hearts, may God be with all of you for the rest of your lives because you all have had enough pain. "For all our Brave Men & Women who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our great nation. To all the family and friends of loved one's lost, I say this...Each moment of each day I pray for you. I feel the pain of your lose. I have a dear Marine in Iraq and I worry so much for his return, but we must hold faith in our hearts and souls. Keep the faith and know your not alone. Rachel, Fremont, Ca" "Thank you Marines. I love you all. Pray for my son, LCPT Alexander, who is in Fullgha. "Sgt. Gerardo Moreno, Terrell TX, 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. God bless and keep your family during this difficult time. Sgt. Moreno is a hero and is now a guardian angel watching over all of us. Take comfort in the Lord and His strength, wisdom, and understanding." Sgt. Gerardo Moreno, 23, of Terrell, Texas, died April 6, in Ashula, Iraq, when individuals who fired a rocket-propelled-grenade attacked his unit. Moreno was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
Command Sgt. Maj. James D. Blankenbecler Spc. Raphael Davis
"I wish to add my name to those that are praying for our Troops in hostile combat. I spent 12 years in the military.I am a Korean Vet. Also i am a Chaplain. I send my love to all the families who have lost love ones. My son is in the 760th Ord. Co. He is a EOD soldier. He is attached to the 82 Air Bourne. I love all our men and women who are serving in 143 countries.I will be praying for all who have lost love ones. If you would like to send me e-mail I will answer. My e-mail is revbruceburgess@hotmail.com. God bless everyone." "All Soldiers killed in the war in Iraq. As a child of a career Navy man, my thoughts and prayers are with all of the families."
I have a son, about Scott's age, currently serving in Iraq from Brownsville, Texas. I didn't know you Scott, but I thank God for your honorable service, bravery and patriotism. May you be remembered always by all who will benefit from your sacrifice. To your family, may the memory of Scott's life ever remind you of his willingness to serve others unselfishly. To Iraqis who really desire and appreciate freedom... may Scott's sacrifice ever remind you of the debt you owe our sons and daughters who died to give you freedom from tyranny, coercion, and bondage. May God bless America ... and may America bless God. D. Rodriguez Spc. Scott Q. Larson Jr., 22, of Houston, Texas, died April 5, in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained when his convoy was ambushed. Larson was assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade, 1st Armor Division, Ray Barracks, Friedberg, Germany. "In Memory of Today, I have read in the news that Spc. Scott Q. Larson, Jr., from the 37th Armor Regiment had died. So I have thought about my pen pal. He is in the same Regiment as Spc. Scott Q. Larson Jr. l give the family and all the friends of Spc. Larson my condolence's. God bless Spc. Scott Q. Larson Jr., and all the fallen soldiers for their ultimate sacrifice. And, thank you! I am praying for you. Soldiers` Angels Foundation, V.P. Wounded Germany "All of the fallen, brave United States Soldiers who gave their lives so that we may enjoy the freedoms we have today, thank you. My father is currently stationed in Iraq and every day I pray for his and for all of the brave men and women serving us, their fellow Americans and that one day Democracy and freedom all over the world will be the outcome of all of their, and our (families left behind) hardships. Joe Moon son of Major Thomas E. Moon C-118th Medical BN" "The Fallen But Not Forgotten. My family and myself would like to extend our deepest gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice you and your family have endured to guarantee our freedom. Selfless acts by selfless people like you will ensure America's freedom now and forever."
He commanded the Army Reserve's 909th Forward Surgical Team in Afghanistan. The unit he commanded provides medical care on the front lines, and Ratliff's duties included retrieving wounded soldiers from the battlefield and tallying the dead and wounded. Ratliff spent nine months in Afghanistan organizing the medical unit and, when he had to, picking up and carrying soldiers broken by helicopter crashes and land mines. He did his duty. He was decorated eight times. Upon returning home from the war, Ratliff was denied the promotion and pay raise he was promised by his employer before he was deployed. Depressed from his experiences on active duty, hopelessness set in, and on Thursday, March 18, 2004, Lt. Ratliff committed suicide. Lieutenant Brandon Ratliff "I am sorry they failed you, Mom" LIEUTENANT BRANDON L RATLIFF "SERVED IN AFGHANISTAN OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM ONLY TO COME HOME AND FIGHT ANOTHER BATTLE WITH THE JOB HE LEFT BEHIND. MAY HE REST IN PEACE AND LET HIM KNOW HE IS MUCH LOVED AND MISSED. I WILL JOIN YOU SON." Lt. Brandon Ratliff "A great friend and a selfless person. May you find peace and know how much we all miss you." Dear Friends, Not to get political on ya'll, but please, if you are fortunate enough to have a veteran in your life, take a minute to let them know how much you love and appreciate them. I am saddened and ashamed to tell about my friend, co-worker, and American hero, Brandon Ratliff, who gave until he had no more left to give. In civilian life he served the poor in the local health department and in the military, he carried a stretcher around the Afghan hills sometimes only retrieving pieces of comrades. He was decorated 8 times in 9 months. He had only been back home 5 months before taking his life. He was 31, a college grad, charming and a real magnet to the opposite sex. He was a human that I could look to for inspiration, knowing I could never rise to his level, but always being inspired by his example. It took his tragic passing for me to understand what it means when it is said, "some gave all." Thank a veteran for serving our country. Please let the reception the veterans of "In memory of all soldiers who died in this war. God bless you all. Rest in peace. To the Wife & Sons of Staff Sgt. Jorge Molina, My prayers are with you every day. I am sorry for your loss. Think about this: George is with God looking after you guys. Everything will be OK. Don't worry. Mary" Jorge A. Molinabautista wanted to become a Marine since his childhood. "He believed in what he was doing," said his sister, Connie Molina. "He was so proud. He's a hero." Staff Sgt. Molinabautista, 37, of Rialto, Calif., spent 13 years in the Marine Corps and had trained as a drill sergeant at Camp Pendleton, where he was based. He had asked the Marines to change his last name from Molina to Molinabautista to honor his mother, Maria Bautista, and the military accommodated his request. Molinabautista is survived by his wife, Dina, and three sons. Staff Sgt. Jorge A. Molinabautista, 37, of Rialto, Calif.,died May 23 as a result of hostile action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1 Marine Division, 1 Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif "To the families who are now feeling the ache and loneliness due to the loss of a beloved military son or daughter, please know that I and my family ache with you and wish there were something to say or do to ease your grief and pain. To the families who are still on a daily basis worrying and praying for the safe return of their sons or daughters, please know that we worry and pray with you and will continue to do so until every one is back safely in your arms. To the courageous military men and women who are serving this wonderful country in strange, unfriendly surroundings, please know that our love and gratitude go to all of you straight from the bottom of our hearts. We hope somehow you can be aware and feel our loving arms wrapped around you to protect you. You are sincerely loved even by strangers you will never meet. Just expressing our love and gratitude doesn't seem like enough. JAF, Knoxville, TN "I am very proud of the job the military is doing overseas for our freedom. I pray for each and every one of you. I am a Desert Storm veteran of the 2/502 Inf. Reg. of the 101st Airborne Division and my thoughts are with all of you." "My prayers and thoughts to all families who have lost someone in Iraqi Freedom. My son is also serving in Iraq and I can never imagine losing him. He is my world. My heart is in such pain for your loss. I pray you find peace in such tragedy and know how proud we are of your child who gave his/her life to guarantee our future. Thank you. May God bless your family and help you through such hard time. Debbie Chavez" "Dear Spc D.J. Bennett of Ft Campbell, KY, you are my hero. Your willingness to not quit and to keep going fills my heart with pride. You have cheated death twice now. Once in May when shot by a sniper giving the 30,000 to 1 chance that you were standing the way you were when hit. To think a slight turn of your head and I would have lost you. Now its happened again. Suicide bombing 15 ft behind you and everyone killed standing near you, and blowing a 4 ft whole in the concrete. It wasn't the impact of the blast that send you flying 20ft away, it was your guardian angel carrying you. With all the stuff you could have fallen on, you landing on giant sandbags. There's something in this world your meant to do because God has spared your life twice when it should have been taken. I love you with all my heart and I'm glad your finally coming home to stay. Love Always, Jennifer" "My prayers are to all the families that have lost a love one in the service.My prayers are also for the ones that are in the service and that have died in the service.These men and women died protecting us..My friend is serving in Iraq right now so I'm very worried about her.WE LOVE YOU All and Thanks Everyone that is away in Iraq and the ones that we've lost." NICHOLAS D. GOLDING, SGT, U.S.ARMY "Nick was my friend and my co-worker. I served in Hawaii with him and he was a good NCO. He will be missed and I give my sincere condolences to his wife and child that got left behind. Also to his family." SGT STEWART, JODIE Sgt. Nicholes D. Golding, 24, of Addison, Maine, died Feb. 13 in Ghanzni, Afghanistan, as a result of an AT-46 (anti-tank) mine explosion. Golding was assigned to Company C, 2/87th Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y. All of our fighting men and women have made the ultimate sacrifice: Thank you for your Service. You have made this country VERY PROUD. Your death will NEVER BE IN VAIN!! "All our fallen soldiers. I am a military Army Spouse. I pray for you everyday. When one of you falls, I feel the pain as if it were my own. God Bless you all. Elizabeth Mapes" "The sacrifices of your sons and daughters will never be forgotten. How do you say "Thank You" to someone who was willing to die for the freedom and the rights of their beloved country? I am not sure, but please know you are not alone in your grief and you are in many people's thoughts and prayers. Alissa "God bless our fallen and wounded fighting men and women. The American Way would not exist with out the sacrifice of these brave men and women. I pray for the families who are suffering a hard loss, but I know they see it is not for nothing, but for everything! Kevy Rae, Dallas, TX" "I don't have the words that would begin to say how I feel. Every single man and woman who has given me such freedom, liberty and life ... I am truly grateful. Thank you" "The brave soldiers who defend and protect our great Nation will always be in my heart. A more selfless act there cannot be, to offer one's life and health for others. To all the families and loved ones of the wonderful men and women we have lost I give my deepest sympathy and pray for you all. Claire-Rhode Island" |
On Dec. 3, 2006, I was the co-pilot for American Airlines Flight 1904, traveling from Chicago to Miami. We were informed at the gate that the remains of MSgt. Shawn Richardson would shortly be loaded on our flight for the trip to Gary Blied, Pilot, American Airlines Major, USAF (ret) Robert E. Blair Who went to be with Jesus May 25, 2006 He is our HERO, and we will never forget what he has done for his family & country! And to all families who have lost a love one in war...May God bless you & Comfort You. All Our Love, Uncle Danny,Aunt Sue,Lil D & DL May 30, 2006 Spc. Robert E. Blair, 22, of Ocala, Fla. and Capt. Douglas A. Dicenzo, 30, of Plymouth, N.H. died in Baghdad, Iraq, on May 25, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their HMMWV during combat operations. Both soldiers were assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 6th Infantry, 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division, Baumholder, Germany. To CPL.KENNETH D. HESS: May God bestowe his greatest blessings upon you and give you your deserved place in heaven..... for you have been an outstanding, proud and courageous son, father, husband, brother, son-in-law and soldier. You will be missed very very dearly by everyone who had the honor of having you touch their lives during the short time you were with us.God Bless you Kenny...You did a fantastic job my man......we will meet again. Love Ya......Doug Thompson Staff Sergeant Joseph Randall Ray US Army Reserve, 391st Engineer Bn Though I didn't know him well, I knew he was a good person. May God give strength to his family and us friends. I miss him and may he never be forgotten. All of our Soldiers who have lost their lives for us. May you rest in Peace. To Maj. Syverson, MSG Moorehead, SFC Bennett, and SSG Mardis you were all my hereos. I am a better man for having known you guys. My fellow soldiers of the SF I salute you De Oppresso Liber! The Fallen Marines of 2/7, Twentynine Palms, California The Heroes I know I write today, December 12, 2005 from Fallajuh, Iraq to the family members of the fallen heroes. It is with the utmost respect that I give my heartfelt sympathy to the family members that once loved, laughed and felt joy from raising their children and watching them grow into men and women only to see your son or daughter go into harms way not ever knowing that perhaps that kiss you gave them or that smile you shared would be your last. It is from my heart to yours the loss you may feel, the empty gut feeling of losing your loved one. This is my second tour of duty in Iraq and it is my first to lead a squad of marines through the city Fallajuh. I have had the greatest experience of my life growing close to these hard headed, tough, dirty, smelly and most of all rough group of grunts this has all led us to a brotherhood which words can never describe and no one can ever take away from us. I have endured the hardships of carrying my fellow brothers off the streets of Iraq. I have witnessed evil men and seen the destruction which they bring. Here in Iraq, today where your sons, your daughters, your fathers, brothers and sisters have lost their lives, please remember they will never be forgotten for they still have brothers and sisters here this very moment fighting and we will forever remember their smiles and the joy they have brought to us, the ones fortunate to have know them. I have known friends of mine who have become "Heroes" in my heart forever. They are not forgotten and they did not die alone, a piece of all of us will forever be with them in heaven. (John 15:13) CPL CHRIS ADAIR, 2/7 ECHO UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS, FALLAJUH IRAQ The following is a list of 23 Marines assigned to Twentynine Palms who fell in 2005. Lance Cpl. Samuel Tapia, 20, of Cpl. Joseph P. Bier, 22, of Staff Sgt. Daniel J. Clay, 27, of Lance Cpl. John M. Holmason, 20, of Lance Cpl. David A. Huhn, 24, of Lance Cpl. Adam W. Kaiser, 19, of Lance Cpl. Robert A. Martinez, 20, of Cpl. Anthony T. McElveen, 20, of Little Falls, Lance Cpl. Scott T. Modeen, 24, of Lance Cpl. Andrew G. Patten, 19, of Sgt. Andy A. Stevens, 29, of Lance Cpl. Craig N. Watson, 21, of Lance Cpl. David A. Mendez Ruiz, 20, of Lance Cpl. Scott A. Zubowski, 20, of Lance Cpl. Jonathan R. Spears, 21, of Molino, Fla. Lance Cpl. Sergio H. Escobar, 18, of Pfc. Andrew D. Bedard, 19, of Missoula, Mont Lance Cpl. Shane C. Swanberg, 24, of Kirkland, Wash Pfc. Ramon Romero, 19, of Huntington Park, Calif Lance Cpl. Juan C. Venegas, 21, of Simi Valley, Calif., Cpl. Kevin M. Clarke, 21, of Tinley Park, Ill. Sgt. Zachariah S. Davis, 25, of Twentynine Palms, Calif., Lance Cpl. Julio C. CisnerosAlvarez, 22, of Pharr, Texas
You family and friends 09/02/2005
Pfc. Damian J. Garza died in Afghanistan Aug. 4, 2005 after his Humvee slid into the Kunar River northeast of Jalalabad, Afghanistan. Garza, 19, was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. A native of Midland, Texas, Garza deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in July. Garza enlisted in the Army in April 2004 and completed One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning as an infantryman. After graduating from the Basic Airborne Course there, he was assigned to the Ranger Training Detachment, 75th Ranger Regt. He graduated from the Ranger Indoctrination Program in November 2004 and was then assigned to 3rd Bn., where served as an ammunition bearer. Garza’s awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Award, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge. He was posthumously awarded the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal. Garza is survived by his father Jaime Garza, his mother Denise Garza, his brother Justin and sister Jamie. Pvt. 1st Class Damian J. Garza, 19, of Odessa, Texas; and According to an Aug. 5 Department of Defense press release, two other Rangers escaped from the vehicle before it slid into the river. One was treated and released by U.S. military medical personnel at the scene and the other is reported to be in good condition and was expected to be released from a military hospital soon, officials said.
From earth to heaven we salute you and thank your parents and family for such a brave and wonderful son. He gave the ultimate sacrifice for the rest of us. God blessed forever Announcement from the Washington County, Oregon's, Sheriff's Office A Memorial Service will be held for Lieutenant Erik McCrae at 11:00 a.m. on June 18, 2004, at the Beaverton Christian Church, which is located at 13600 SW Allen Boulevard. It is with great pride that the Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard and members of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Reserve Program will take part in the service. Erik was one of the three Oregon National Guardsmen who were killed while on patrol in Sadr City near Baghdad, on Friday, June 4, 2004. He was also an incredible young man who, like the others, died trying to save his fellow soldiers. Erik was a very bright and gifted young man. He graduated from Tigard High School in 1997 with a 4:00 GPA and the coveted International Baccalaureate Degree. Three years later he graduated Cum Laude from Linfield College with a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Applied Physics and Mathematics. He was hired right out of college at FEI Company in Hillsboro as one of their main engineers. While his credentials are undeniably impressive, it’s some of the lesser-known things about Erik McCrae that truly speak to his character and why he was so loved by so many. Among other things, Erik was a member of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Reserve Program. He joined the Reserve Program in January 2003. He wanted to learn more about the Search and Rescue aspect of law enforcement and at the same time serve his community. Deputies and fellow reservists describe him as the man with a ready smile and can-do attitude, the one who was always there to lend a hand or just be there to listen. Following Erik’s death, Sheriff Rob Gordon ordered flags at the Sheriffs Office to be flown at half-staff and that all certified staff personnel wear a black memorial band on their badges until after Friday’s service. Sheriff Gordon also met with Erik’s family and pledged to be of assistance to them in any way possible. The Sheriff’s Office deeply mourns Erik’s death and our hearts and prayers go out to his family and friends. His death is not only an unspeakable loss for everyone who knew him but a loss to the world he gave his life to help make better. Erik believed in what he was doing in Iraq and died as a shining example of a man of courage, compassion, integrity and commitment to his fellow man. Erik McCrae is survived by his wife Heather.
To my 'little noah', I wish you were here with us so that we could celebrate your 20th birthday. But I know you are watching over us, like the Angel you've always been. I can't wait to see you in my dreams, just so that I can see you smile & give me hug. I love you sweetie, Krislynn & Noah will never forget you!........Happy Birthday! Love Christina & Uncle Joe "Lcpl Nicholas Perez Lance Cpl. Nicholas Perez, 19, of Austin, Texas, died Sept 3 due to enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Perez was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif. ALL the men and women in uniform who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country, flag and freedom. There are none like you ANYWHERE in the world. THANK YOU ALL!! No better friend.
One of my best friends was killed in action on 9 Nov 04. I think of him every day. I will miss him greatly, and am proud to have known him. I love you man. Cpl. Tyler Johnson USMC Lance Cpl. Juan E. Segura, 26, of Homestead, Fla., died Nov. 9 as a result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. All the deceased Soldiers serving in this war Thank you for protecting us...You are honored and cherished for you bravery and devotion to this country and to us...May God Bless and comfort your families
Lance Cpl. Travis J. Layfield, 19, of Fremont, Calif., died April 6 due to hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Spc. Ricky W. Rockholt Jr., 28, of Winston, Ore., died died April 28 in Tal Afar, Iraq, along with three other soldiers, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their Stryker military vehicle. Rockholt was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armor Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo. "Pfc. Robert "Bobby" Guy died 04/21/05 Thursday after being shot in the head near Fallujah Iraqi. He was 26. The Town of Willards, Lions Club. Fire Dept. Mourn the loss of our home town hero. Pfc. Robert A. Guy, 26, of Willards, Md., died April 21 as a result of a non-hostile incident near Al Karmah, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C. "GOD Bless our fallen Soldiers. You are the reason that we are the best country in the world. Words can not explain the Courage that you heroes have done for the American people. Adam Levin- Citizen of the United States" "All those who have died serving our great nation. You will live on through all of our hearts. everytime we look up at the sky we will see your smile surround us.
Spc. Travis R. Bruce, 22, of Byron, Minn., died March 23 in Baghdad, Iraq, when an enemy mortar round detonated near his guard position. Bruce was assigned to the Army's 170th Military Police Company, 504th Military Police Battalion, Fort Lewis, Wash. "To all the family and friends of our fallen brothers and sisters I would like to extend my warmest sympathy to you all." Staff Sgt William M. Harrell (Billy) Billy, it's been almost a year now and we are missing you. Keep your eyes on all of us and protect us. You are always in our thoughts, We love you and miss you. John, Julie & Matthew White (his Brother and family) "SSGT William M. Harrell "Staff Sgt William Harrell, a HERO...and like his Marine Father, a true patriot. Where do I begin, I only met you once, 9 months ago at your fathers passing. Yet, I will never forget that one beer we had together as two individuals that have experienced war. Good luck in your tour of duty in HEAVEN, save a bunk by you and your dad (my friend Bill) for a fellow comrade in arms. Your friend, Edward R. Miranda Staff Sgt, U.S. Army, Retired" "SSGT William Harrell USMC Died 4-8-04- You are a true hero, and you will never be forgotten as a friend and a soldier. You died not only for our country but a belief that people should be free. You will be an angel in heaven and always be known as a HERO. God bless you and your family, you will be missed. A Friend" Staff Sgt. William M. Harrell, 30, of Placentia, Calif., died April 8 due to injuries received from hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. FALLUJAH: The Horror of Fallujah This is a strange time in Fallujah. They say the war is over, but there is no peace. Every day there is shooting, and there are still killings going on. There is very little left of the town now, everywhere there are buildings which have been destroyed. There is also a terrible smell. We know what it is - it is the smell of dead bodies. Many have now been cleared away, but the smell does not go away, it will stay with us for a long time. The Americans say they are just finishing off the insurgents, but then they have been saying that for a few days now, so people here ask "who have they got left to finish off?" We hear of things like American soldiers killing wounded prisoners in a mosque, but that news is recycled to us from people outside. It is not possible to go out and find out what is going on. I am not staying in Fallujah out of choice. But I am afraid to try to leave. I am 36 years old, The American troops have been arresting any males between the ages of 15 and 45 who have attempted to leave. They say civilians were told to get out of Fall- ujah, so any man who stayed behind must be in the mujahedin. There are Iraqi men, with their faces hidden by scarves, with the American troops. These are the informers. If they point you out as an insurgent then there is no chance of proving that you are innocent. There are people who are settling personal or tribal grudges like this. You do not know who will denounce you. The reason I stayed behind is the same as many of the other remaining men here, to protect my house. My wife and parents begged me to go with them when I sent them away to Amiriyah, but I would not listen. I now realise what a mistake that was. I am staying with relations, and my house has probably been destroyed. The Americans were shooting everywhere, from the air and the ground, when they came into the town. The house I am staying in was hit by machine-gun fire. Those days and nights were very frightening. Their shells and bombs would make everything shake, and it seemed to go on day and night. That has stopped now. But there is also a lot of damage being caused when they carry out searches of houses. There are very few of us - civilians - left inside Fallujah now, I do not know how many because people do not go out. We are staying in little groups, not really going out much beyond our streets, because it is still very dangerous. I do not know if my cousin's family are all right, although, in a normal time, their home would only be 10 minutes' drive away. Most of the families here have someone who has been injured, arrested, and, sometimes, killed. Things are very bad here, but then they have been bad for such a long time now that one forgets what normal life was like. There is no power or water, and very little food left, and there is simply no medicine left. People I know are very ill, mainly from bad water, but they are not getting treatment. We were told that the Red Crescent and other aid organisations wanted to send food and medicine into the town, but it was stopped on the orders of Allawi (Iyad Allawi, Iraq's interim Prime Minister). This has made people even more angry. It makes them think he is taking the side of the Americans against his own people. The Americans say that they have set up centres for distributing food and medicine. They also say that Fallujah hospital has now been open again for more than a week. This is true in both cases. But the problem is that getting to them is very risky. You can get arrested by the Americans or you might get killed. Two women were shot trying to get food for their families. The Americans say the mujahedin shot them. Most people think it was the Americans themselves who did this. But I do not think that is the case. It probably was the mujahedin. But why is this happening if the Americans are in control of Fallujah? I do not know what is going to happen to us over the next few days. I have news that my family is all right, so a big worry has been lifted. Maybe things will be safer when other civilians start coming back into Fallujah.
"To Gabby and her Children From: Kimberly & Christopher Hubbard Ashley, Jessica, Mark, Erik & Allen & Andrea Stephens with Katy and Annelies. You are in our prayers. When life calls you off the court to a dark and sullen place When the pain is so deep it longs for understanding The darkest night won’t hide the tears flowing down your face And the void in your life is suddenly expanding Lower the flag to half mass, express what is true for you Be still, let love come to you and fill your empty cup Fly your flag at half mass, there’s nothing else to do Stand still, let love flow to you and you simply soak it up." Juan Solorio's, Gabby, with her children, issued a written statement that described Solorio as "an extraordinary son, husband and soldier." "He died with his boots on and we would have had it no other way," his wife said. "Everything he did was done with pride and humor and he was my best friend and the love of my life. We were going to celebrate our 12th anniversary on March 18. We now laugh and cry, because he was a good, fun man, and there is no one who knew him who is not going to miss him." Before deploying to Iraq in October, Juan Solorio served as a sniper instructor at Fort Lewis, Wash., where he was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division. An avid outdoorsman, Juan Solorio used his free time to camp, hike and rock climb with his brothers. He also served as a scout master, which allowed him to share his interests with his sons, 11-year-old Julian and 8-year-old Maxmilian. Staff Sgt. Juan M. Solorio, 32, of Dallas, Texas, died March 4 in Mosul, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his military vehicle as his unit was being attacked by enemy forces using small arms fire. Solorio was assigned to the Army's 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Lewis, Wash.
"Staff Sgt. Ray Rangel. Staff Sgt. Ray Rangel, 29, of San Antonio, Texas, died Feb. 13 while attempting to rescue soldiers from a Humvee that had rolled into a canal in Balad, Iraq. Rangel was assigned to the 7th Civil Engineering Squadron, Dyess Air Force Base, Texas. "May God touch each of your broken hearts. My prayers are with each of you and your families."
"Sgt. Nicholas S. Nolte, 25, of Falls City, Neb., Nick, you are hero to all of us. You will be remembered in our hearts and minds. Thank you for the dedication you gave to serve our country. You will never be forgotten. Brandi, Liberty Falls City Sacred Heart Class of 1996" "Nicholas Nolte-Falls City Nebraska
Sgt. Nick Nolte, a native of Falls City, died Wednesday, November 24, 2004, at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., according to his aunt, Cindy Santo of Falls City. Sgt. Nick Nolte, who married Melina Pepe of Keene Valley, died November 24 at a naval hospital in Bethesda, Maryland. You could trust Nick Nolte with your life. After all, both Bill Clinton and President Bush did.
Staff Sgt. Robert S. Johnson, 23, of Castro Valley, Calif. died Dec. 21 in Mosul, Iraq, when his dining facility was attacked.Johnson was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash. "In memory of the brave men of the 11th MEU who gave their all in the name of
Senate Tribute to Jarrod L. Maher Speaker: Senator Charles E. 'Chuck' Grassley (IA) Cpl. Jarrod L. Maher, 21, of Imogene, Iowa, died Nov. 12 as result of a non-hostile gunshot wound at Abu Ghraib, Iraq. Maher was assigned to 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. "To: All the troops from 133rd Maine Army National Guard who lost their lives in combat. "Of all our fallen hero's may you be at peace away from this cruel world...and watch over your families. And to the families...may God be with you each during your sorrow and pain. May He heal your hearts to remember your loved ones with joy and that their lives were not in vain."
"Cpl. Todd J. Godwin - You gave the ultimate sacrifice for us, your friends and family, so that we may remain free. For that we honor and thank you. Although you are not here with us this Christmas, you are not forgotten. We miss you and love you. Meg" Cpl. Todd J. Godwin, 21, of Muskingum County, Ohio, died July 20 due to injuries received from enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, Camp Lejeune, N.C. "I write this message to all the members of 1st Bn 8th Marine who lost their lives while serving in Iraq. I was a member of the battalion up until their departure in June. My heart goes out to the family and friends of these great men. I have mourned every death and have lost a part of me with every death. I will never forget the men that I have served with and you all will be a part of me until the day I join you in the after life. May you all rest in peace."
Family, friends bid farewell to fallen Maryland soldier "The memory of Spc. Erik W. Hayes will live on forever. Spc. Erik W. Hayes, 24, of Cascade, Md., died Nov. 29 in Al Miqdadiyah, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his military vehicle. Hayes was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, Vilseck, Germany. "To Relatives of ALL who have Fallen: "In memory of all of our fallen soldiers. They fought for our country and are still with us in spirit. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the family members. May God bless you and God bless America! Melissa Andrade and family."
"I would like to say Thank You to all of our bravest. I would also like to thank the families of the soldiers for raising such brave men and women. My heart goes out to all those families who have lost a loved one. Gob bless all." "In memory of Cpl. Michael Cohen of the Marines. Cpl. Michael R. Cohen, 23, of Jacobus, Pa., died Nov. 22 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Hawaii. "I would like to thank all of you for the sacrifice you have made. You and your families will be in our prayers. God Speed." "In Memory of Jose Amancio Perez III and all the fallen troops. Spc. Jose A. Perez III, 22, of San Diego, Texas, was killed on May 28, 2004, in Taji, Iraq. Perez was in a convoy that was ambushed. Perez was assigned to 6th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment, Fort Sill, Okla.
"I hope that God helps the troops put there and that everyone comes home safely. And Mike Rayman, I love you baby. I can't wait till you come back. Please God help all of the hopes and prides to be good for you. And that for the other families, God is with you to help you. Thank You.
Lance Cpl. Shane E. Kielion, 23, of La Vista, Neb., died Nov. 15 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. "It is hard for us all to bear the losses that we have endured. We have lost so many friends. Friends who we've loved and we now cherish. My heart goes out to all the people who have served our country and to all the families who have lost someone. Their bravery is unrivaled and unmatched. We have gone through hard times; watching our friends leave us forever, only time can now heal our wounds. To all who served; You are our hero's. God bless all of you. You will NEVER be forgotten." . "In memory of James P. Blecksmith, "J.P.", Killed in Action by enemy small arms fire in the battle of Fallujah on November 11 2004. Veteran's Day. We will miss you, and you will never be forgotten. Your friends and classmates of 2003." 2nd Lt. James P. Blecksmith, 24, of San Marino, Calif., died Nov. 11 as a result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Blecksmith was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Lance Cpl. Jeffrey Lam, 22, of Queens, N.Y., died Nov. 8 as a result of a non-hostile vehicle incident in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to the Marine Corps Reserve’s 6th Communications Battalion, 4th Force Service Support Group, Brooklyn, N.Y. "In memory of all of the soldiers, sailors, marines, and flyers who paid the ultimate price on my behalf. I am a teacher. I taught U.S. history to soldiers at Fort Irwin for two years. I know what kind of people American soldiers are: Anyone should be so lucky to be in their company. If you have lost someone you love, consider this: Human life is not measured by time, it is measured by what a person gives back. You can live to 100, but if your life is meaningless, then 100 is too soon to die. Some die at 20 to put an end to human brutality in the long run, precluding infinite future deaths at the hands of evil people. That 20 years is a full and replete life. "I don't know anyone in this page... and I am sorry for that. I wanted to thank the families and friends of these brave men and women. I may not support this war, but I do support our soldiers. The only thing I know to say is God never gives you more than you can handle, everything he does is for a reason. God be with you all and any other soldier you may know. Stacey Smith, Oklahoma"
"Billy Gomez, who always had the ability to put a smile on my face. He will be missed. God Bless him and his family. Vanessa" Wolfhounds Pay Respects to Fallen Medic Cpl. Billy Gomez, 25, of Perris, Calif., died Oct. 27 at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Landstuhl, Germany, from injuries sustained when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device on Oct. 20 in Naka, Afghanistan. Gomez was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division (Light), Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. "Know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers throughout this long struggle. The dedication and sacrifice is not in vain. We too grieve your loss."
"A smile that lit many a dark days shall now shine forever in heaven. Spc Richard Jackson, HHC 1-CD (Red-Team)" "Sgt. Pamela Osbourne, Hollywood, Florida May you, and all of your fallen comrades, rest well knowing that you served your country well protecting the freedom of all and that your country and all of her citizens will remember you with great pride as our heroes. Your children can be so proud of you as we all are. Blessed Be... P. Donaldson, Friendswood, Texas" Sgt. Pamela G. Osbourne, 38, of Hollywood, Fla, died October 11 in Baghdad, Iraq, when two rockets impacted her camp. She was assigned to the Army’s Division Artillery, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. "May all those affected by the conflict, both at home and overseas, find peace within their hearts. I extend my love to those families and loved ones of our fallen heroes. I hope everyone will return home safely. We miss you. NYC Paramedic, Shield #6621"
Mikey, Love, Pat and Judy Sgt. Michael A. Uvanni, 27, of Rome, N.Y., died Oct.1 in Samarra, Iraq, he was conducting combat operations and was shot by a sniper. Uvanni was assigned to the Army National Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry Regiment, Morrisonville, N.Y.
Baby, this is your wife. I miss you and love you more than you could ever imagine. I look forward to the day I can join you at the right hand of God. While you are up there, please ask the Lord to heal Wesley. Yours, always, Lisa" "Lcpl. Cates, I didn't serve with you long before you left for the fleet. However, I saw you as a role model, and a leader I wanted to be. My thoughts are with you and your family. Semper Fi, "To my friend, Tyler Cates. I can't express how much I praise you in your battle over in Iraq. I am a little jealous to know you are with our Lord up in Heaven and we are still here waiting. It's comforting to know that your there to meet us on the other side. I will do whatever it takes to be there for your wife. My family loves her so much and she is torn apart by this. We love you as well Tyler and will always shed tears for you until we all meet again. What a blessing God gave to all of us to let us know you. What a blessing you were! Your were so energetic and so willing to help any stranger. We will love you forever and miss you until we see each other again. Love the Hinckley's" "Lance Cpl. Steven C. T. Cates. My son, Brian Hogie, serves in the same battalion. My prayers go out to your family in their time of mourning. God is good even when we don't understand. Stephen Hogie" Lance Cpl. Steven C. T. Cates, 22, of Mount Juliet, Tenn., died Sept. 20 due to enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Cates was assigned to 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. "To all the heroes who have lost their lives and are still fighting for freedom. My God bless and keep you near his chest. I have friends and family overseas and I pray for you all. I'm proud to be an American and I'm proud of its soldiers. Come home safely and my God bless you all. Karen H Horton" "Our deepest sympathies go out to all the families and all the loved ones who have lost someone in Iraq God Bless them all. Please god watch over the the service men and women that are still in Iraq.
Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class (Navy Veteran), Iris Daclan" Spc. Edgar P. Daclan Jr. "We will really miss a friend and a hero! It's really hard to accept the fact that you are gone, but what comforts us is the fact that you are now in the presence of our Lord and Savior. We know you are now in a better position than us. We can never forget you, you will always remain in our hearts. We love you and we will truly miss you! NO GOOD-BYES...JUST SEE YOU WHEN WE GET THERE!" "My deepest sympathy to the family of Spc. Edgar P. Daclan Jr. It's really hard losing a friend like you. You will greatly be missed. You have been a great friend and a hero. I will never forget you!!! " Spc. Edgar P. Daclan Jr. "You will always be in our hearts. A hero, a friend, and a best friend. We will always be grateful for the times that you've made us happy, for the friendship and even for you presence. We will surely miss you. You are now in God's care. Thank you for everything and we love you... God bless you and your family" Your Cebu (Philippines) Friends, Au-au, Abigail, Sheryl, Katkat, Junji, Michael, Denise, Dianne, Cheryl, JohnDo, Gerard, James, John "I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live; And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die" "Spc. Edgar P. Daclan Jr. my deepest sympathy to the family of my best friend. Edgar you are such a great lost to us but we know that you're with our heavenly father right now. your memory will always be with us,we will never forget you,you are always in our hearts...we love you and we cherish the memories we had. "Doc Daclan was a brother to many in the Steel Tigers,” said Lt. Col. David S. Hubner Sr., commander of the 1-77, in remarks made during an earlier service in Iraq and read at Wednesday’s service. “The Tiger medics admired Doc for his work ethic, for he was taking classes in the aid station with the more senior medics to be the best he could be.” The Steel Tigers is the nickname of the 1-77. Soldiers also said Daclan went beyond what was expected of him as a combat medic. “Patrol after patrol, day in and day out, Doc was always there to take care of his platoon,” said 1st Lt. Jon R. Martin, Daclan’s platoon leader, in remarks read from the Iraq service. “This is what you expect from any medic. “But Doc did not just ride along to provide medical support. He lived the life of an infantryman. Boots on the ground, through the brush. And loved being point man.” “Doc led the way in the hunt for the enemy and this is what he was doing when the [improvised explosive device] took his life.” Martin said Daclan also frequently tended to Iraqis. “Doc did not just take care of his soldiers,” Martin said. “He often found himself aiding Iraqis wounded in accidents simply caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. Doc would not discriminate. He came here to help, and he did just that.” Born in the Philippines, Daclan’s family moved to the United States when he was 8 years old. He joined the Army in November 2002 as a combat medic. Daclan was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and was also awarded a Purple Heart. He is survived by his father, Edgar Daclan Sr., of Torrance, Calif. Spc. Edgar P. Daclan Jr., 24, of Cypress, Calif., died Sept. 10 in Balad, Iraq, when his patrol was responding to indirect fire and an improvised explosive device exploded. Daclan was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division from Schweinfurt, Germany. "I am extremely proud of all the soldiers in Iraq. For all the families of the soldiers that are gone, my deepest condolences go out to you. I know how it feels to lose a loved one to the war. Please continue to be strong." "To all the families that have lost a loved one during this war our hearts go out to you. My husband and I were also stationed in Iraq for a year. We have since returned home but not without the loss of very close friends. We have returned home with happiness and sadness. It has been almost a year since we lost our dear friends. Our love and support goes out to their families every day."
I will miss one of the bravest men I ever knew. He was always the one that you could count on to be there no matter what. He would have done anything for a friend. He was my best friend, my shoulder to cry on, my hero. The only thing helping me is knowing that you are still in my heart, and that we will meet again. I will forever miss you Derek! With all the love in the world, KJ" Derek L. Gardner Lance Cpl. Derek L. Gardner, 20, of San Juan Capistrano, Calif., died Sept. 6 due to enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. "To the family and friends of, as well as every Military member ever to serve, whether in peace or any other past, present, or future war. From one veteran to another, Thank You and I was proud to serve along side of the best men and women of this great nation. Semper Fi."
"No words can express right now how deeply sorry I am about the lost of my very close friend and class-mate Carl. When I heard the news on August 29, 2004 I could not get a tear out because mentally I knew that you had gone to a better place. Just sooner than we both expected. We both started out school together in 1988 at Kensington Elementary where we both played in the sand box together. I remember us growing up always having a crush on the same girl. As we grew older we became closer because in our town there is only one middle school and one high school. I remember we both were in the same class during 7th grade I think that was the best year of my education days. That year we became so close, I remember us dating these girls that were best friends so when we got tired of which ever one we was dating we switched off. Even in 8th grade when we were not in the same class but had the same teachers but at different times, we were still close. I remember many days us walking home together because we had stayed after school to get help from the same teacher, Mr. Green our math teacher. Carl was that friend that I always appreciated because when we were younger we walked together so when I became of age to drive, there was no problem giving him a ride because we walked together before now we ride together. Nothing can bring you back here to this wonderful place on earth but I just wanted you know that every time we chilled together it meant something to me. Especially our senior year, how everyday during our early dismissal we would go over to your house and work on our music system or look through car books. Back than we probably paid it no mind but now that is what I have to use as my memories of you. The last time I saw Carl was over the summer when I was home for a few days and I was at the barbershop. I remember us sitting in front of the shop talking about a lot of stuff and reminiscing about things that happened while we were in school. That day we exchanged phone numbers and said that we would keep in contact. Carl will be forever missed and never forgotten. My boy Carl. I love You Man. Your Boy Jestin Gilliard" Airman 1st Class Carl L. Anderson Jr. "Carl you were our son, grandson, brother, cousin, nephew and now you are our angel. We love you and will miss you dearly. Know that you will remain in hearts forever, and that we are all better for having had you in our lives. Love your cousin Melissa and your entire family" Airman 1st Class Carl L. Anderson Jr., 21, of Georgetown, S.C., died Aug. 29 as result of enemy action near Mosul, Iraq. He was assigned to the 3rd Logistics Readiness Squadron, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska.
Pfc. Harry N. Shondee, Jr., 19, of Ganado, Ariz. died on Aug. 3 from injuries sustained in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near the vehicle he was traveling in while on patrol. Shondee was assigned to the Army’s 2nd Battalion, 12th Armored Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. “It’s a sad day for the Navajo people and a sad day for his family,” said Deana Jackson, a tribal spokeswoman. Just a year ago, Shondee was worlds away from the conflict in Iraq, Jackson said. The young Navajo was graduating from Ganado High School and looking forward to a career in the U.S. military as a tank operator. In honor of Shondee, the tribe will fly the Navajo and American flags at half-staff after his funeral next week. About 100 of Shondee’s family and friends gathered Wednesday night at the Ganado Chapter House to remember him. They said he was a member of Ganado High’s golf team and the National Honor Society. Shondee was especially adept at technology and science and was the most skillful player in town when it came to military video games. “His bedroom wall was full of plaques and medals and other things he had won,” said his 61-year-old father, Harry Shondee Sr. Shondee’s aunt, Louise Denetso, said he wanted to major in architectural engineering at the University of Arizona. “He wanted to use the money from the GI Bill to get an education. He didn’t want to rely on his mom and dad for educational expenses,” Denetso said. The family is setting up an endowment to fund the education of one or more students who do not qualify for scholarships. “Now, his name will be revered,” said his father. He and other family members described Shondee as sincere, modest, selfless and brave. Ophelia Shondee, 27, said she will remember her brother for the smile he always wore and for his giant bear hugs. “He was my little brother -- my happy little brother.”
Cpl. Miller 14 August 2003
Staff Sgt. Paul C. Mardis, Jr., 25, of Palmetto, Fla., died July 15 in Washington, D.C., from injuries sustained on May 20 in Mosul, Iraq, when his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device. Mardis was assigned to the Army’s 3rd Battalion, 5th Special Forces Group, from Fort Campbell, Ky. "My deepest heartfelt prayers and blessings for all the fallen heroes and their families. My God Bless you and may we never forget. Stephanie Summers "Thank you is not a strong enough to show you how greatly you are appreciated. May God bless the families of those killed in action." "All the men and women killed protecting our country so we can sleep peacefully at night, We could never thank you enough!!!" "For all who have lost someone special, my thoughts are with you and your families. Anyone in the Armed Forces are brave and selfless individuals who are protecting our way of life. They need to be supported and celebrated at all times. Lisa Mayhew" Pfc. Damian S. Bushart
"PFC Damian S. Bushart, Nov. 22, 2003 Iraq Damian was an amazingly kind, loving, and generous man. Words cannot express how much he meant to my fiancee and I, as well as all of his other friends. It's true what they say, you don't know what you've got until it's gone. Only one week prior to his death, we asked him to be our Best Man, and talked with him about how we couldn't wait for him to come back home. With all my heart and soul, I grieve for him and all of the soldiers we have lost to this conflict. God bless our soldiers. ~Renee of Waterford, MI" "PFC Damian S. Bushart our Son and our Brave Soldier. I always thought of you as my own son. It has been almost 2 months since God called you home. Your Mom and I miss you so much. Your little sister Melissa and your brother Eric will always be taken care of. Melissa still has your letter that you wrote to her hanging on her wall. Your Mom and I will always make sure your little 2 year old boy down in Illinois will always have what he needs. We will always let him know what a wonderful daddy he had. We asked him one day where is daddy is and little Josh said you are in Heaven. You are one of our Angels. The song, "I Can Only Imagine", reminds me so much of you. We Love and miss you Damian. Until we meet again. Vicki, Mom, Eric, Melissa and your little boy Josh." "In Memory of all who died and God Bless all who are still standing. My thoughts and prayers are with each one and with each family. For all families stay strong and know that some part of them are with you. God Bless America!!! Jennifer 25 July 2004 "All fallen soldiers: We know they have courageously given their lives not only for Iraqi Freedom, but for ours freedom here in America. We think of them daily in our prayers, and commend their souls to heaven. God bless all our soldiers, may He keep them close. Katie Ainsworth, AAP Mom" "To all the Warriors who have fallen. Thank you for your sacrifice. I fought in Desert Storm. I wish we would have done it right the first time. Then maybe all of you would be with us. I will be there to salute you one day. God Bless."
Your brave son Patrick and my Husband (SPC Risch) were deployed together. While they were in training camp in Washington and Ft.Irwin, Patrick let Risch use his cell phone to call home - on more than one occasion. It was yet another act of kindness that Patrick gave from his Heart. The 579th is Honored to have served with him. Spc Risch and I will always remember Patrick. God Bless you and God Bless Patrick." Spc. Patrick R. McCaffrey Sr., 34, of Tracy, Calif., died June 22 in Balad, Iraq, when enemy forces ambushed his ground patrol. He was assigned to the Army National Guard’s 579th Engineer Battalion, Petaluma, Calif. "I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to the families and friends who have lost loved ones in the Iraq and Afghanistan war. You have all been in my prayers and thoughts on a daily basis. God bless each and every one of you and may you find peace and comfort knowing that their lives were not in vain. I have a son who has served for 13 years now. Joyce Johnson" "Thank you to all serving in the armed forces for allowing me to tuck my children in bed at night in a safer world. Our utmost respect and gratitude for each of you. To the families of the fallen, thank you for sharing your loved one with us; although we don't know you personally, we mourn for each of your losses and pray for your peace in your heart. Not one of them will be forgotten. To those serving; we do support you and thank you for your sacrifice of life as you knew it. We pray each night for your safe return home to your families. To the fallen: May you rest in peace and enjoy your final Tour of Duty in heaven; where peace is present. Thank you for watching over us all. A very grateful citizen of the US who knows that freedom, though a wonderful liberty, is not free and it is you who give us the liberties too many take for granted. Thank you dear soldiers and may God bless you and keep you until you return home. A grateful US citizen in Arizona." Freedom Is Not Free - Author Unknown "My thoughts and prayers are with my "adopted" soldier, Matt Crawford. "All those who gave their lives, their limbs, their sight, their health to save our country and their families. We thank you." "To all the families of the brave Marines who gave their lives and their health to save our country. God bless you all. "I am extremely proud of all the soldiers in Iraq. For all the families of the soldiers that are gone, my deepest condolences go out to you. I know how it feels to lose a loved one to the war. Please continue to be strong." "My prayers and anguish are for your brave soldiers who gave up their lives and are now terribly missed. They left a world so troubled but now they are at peace. I have a son in Camp Anaconda, Iraq and pray daily for he and all the other remaining soldiers and families. My prayers and thoughts will remain constant for all our men and women serving our country." "In Memory of Justin Linden: I knew Justin as a person who loved to make everyone smile, the only one to act crazy no matter what he looked like to make you laugh. He was one of the best people I ever met. Everyone in the town where he grew up, knew him and loved him. May God take care of you always. We love you Justin-- Linden was driving with two other soldiers through Sadr City, when an ambush began with a roadside bomb destroying the lead Humvee in a column, killing two military police from New Jersey.
05/29/79 to 04/04/04 Casey-boy we are so proud of you and your sacrifice. But we miss your kind and gentle spirit. You were a true soldier to the end. Love Mom" Spc. Casey Sheehan, 24, of Vacaville, Calif.died on April 4, in Baghdad, Iraq, when his unit was attacked with rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire. He was assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
DRAGONS! "Can and Will". SSG Weding, 04 April 2004" "Cpl Forest Jostes Forest was one of my best friends in TX, i am more then proud to say i knew him and he died a hero. I was fortunate enough to say goodbye the night he deployed and that's something i will forever thank God for. He shall never be forgotten and will hold that special place in my heart for eternity. Rest in Peace. Rhonda Davis Cpl. Forest J. Jostes, 22, of Albion, Ill. died on April 4, in Baghdad, Iraq, when their units were attacked with rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire.
Sgt Maruster" "Corporal Matula and Family, You are an outstanding Marine, and mentor to those who served with you. You will always stand out in the memory of those who have known you. I have been affected by your life, as I know so many have, and to your family I offer my condolences. Doc Kirkpatrick" "CPL Matthew Matula I miss you a lot.. You were a good friend and always had a smile on your face. I miss the games we played and the jokes we made. I remember seeing you when you came home for Christmas, but I didn't go say Hi. I now beat myself up because I didn't. Saying good-bye was one of the hardest things I had to do. Something I never thought I would have to do. My heart is with you. Your Friend, Matula was on his second deployment to Iraq. Cpl. Matula wanted so much to hold his infant daughter after her birth, expected in August. He and his wife, Julie, had decided to name her MacKenzie Marie "CPL Matthew E Matula Hey buddie I sure miss yeah and I tell you what, we will go fishing one day on Lake LBJ together in the future. Don't think that I forgot. Your the best, and thanks for all you've done for our great country. "Cpl Mathew E. Matula. My heart goes to the family of this fallen hero. It was the greatest honor of mine, to serve with, and befriend such a fine man. He was dedicated to the Corps as well as his beautiful wife Julie. Cpl. Matthew E. Matula, 20, of Spicewood, Texas, died April 9 from hostile fire in Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. Matula was a field radio operator. He joined the Marines on Sept. 24, 2001. He had the Combat Action Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. Cpl. Matula is survived by his wife Julie, their unborn daughter Mackenzie Marie, brother and best friend, Anthony, parents Toni and Matt, grandmother Alice Macalik, and many special aunts, uncles and cousins.
"In memory of Sgt. Landis Garrison. Sgt. Landis W. Garrison, 23, of Rapid City, Ill., died April 29, in Abu Gharb, Iraq, of non-combat related injuries. Sgt. Garrison was assigned to the 333rd Military Police Company, Illinois National Guard, Freeport, Ill. "All those who serve. You are in our hearts, and our thoughts, each and every day. Thank you for your service. Beth, Alex, and Shelby Francis. Chester, N.Y." "Cpl. Jason Dunham, a true hero. Jason was a good looking, intelligent, outgoing young man, who would have done anything to defend his country. Cpl. Jason L. Dunham, 22, of Allegany, N.Y. died April 22 due to injuries received from enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, at Twentynine Palms, Calif.
Lance Cpl. Aaron C. Austin, 21, of Sunray, Texas, died April 26 due to hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, at Camp Pendleton, Calif. "In memory of all those who gave their lives in the war on terror. I think about their lives, their children, their parents, their dreams, and their service. May those children know how honorable they were. They served our country selflessly and will not be forgotten. Christina Gingrich wife of a soldier in the 101st ABN DIV" "All of those who "gave all". Thank you seems very shallow but the only words to express our gratitude. "He who brings out the starry host one by one, and calls them each by name. Because of his great power and might strength, not one of them is missing." Thank you, to all the soldiers who have fallen now and in the past and all of those still over seas fighting for them, for all of our liberties far too many of us take for granted. Thank you again. RN in AZ"
Spc. Peter G. Enos, 24, of South Dartmouth, Mass., died April 9 in Bayji, Iraq, when a rocket-propelled grenade struck his patrol vehicle. Enos was assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in Schweinfurt, Germany. When Peter G. Enos was a student at Dartmouth High School, other students marched to his beat. "For all the fathers who have children who need them, yet they have never seen one another. Our children are our future, they are who we fight for.I pray for angels to protect each and every one of you. Come home. For Mathen, father of Caitlin" "Thank God for our "ANGELS" who were sent to protect us. Without them we would never live the lives we do. "God Bless You All" "All of our brave and courageous soldiers who served and gave their lives for our freedom. SGT.Bryan and Mrs. Bryan 2-156th Infantry Louisiana Command Sgt. Maj. Jerry L. Wilson "CSM Wilson from 1/502nd INF. You will never be forgotten by the soldiers or families of the 502nd! You are still with us daily!" "Thank you for your sacrifice. You all are in my prayers. "My prayers are with all the families of our lost heroes, and to those families who still wait..... A Vietnam Vet 1969"
"Christopher Mabry I love you so much. You were my first love and i will never forget you. We are all praying for you and i know you are in heaven with God. We all miss you and love you and are so proud. You will never be forgotten. All my love baby. Jesse" Pfc. Christopher D. Mabry, 19, of Chunky, Miss., died April 7 due to injuries received from hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Brent was my boyfriend in Junior High School in Forrest City. He was a sweet guy. I am so sorry for his loss. I am so proud that I knew him. His family and wife are in my prayers. Stacy S." Capt. Brent L. Morel, 27, of Martin, Tenn., died April 7 from hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Family of slain soldier pleads for sisters "In memory of each and every soldier. I pray for all of them and their families and I cry for all of them and their families." "Please know we are all behind you 100%. May God watch over each and every one." "My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I am the mom of a Marine, and I think of all of the proud troops over there serving as my own. I share your grief, but I also share the immense pride in our Marines and Soldiers serving our country. God bless you all. God bless our fine military." "To all those fallen heroes, you will always live on in our hearts and minds. For God blessed us to know you and love you, you will never be forgotten. May this be my prayer, that your smile will never end in heaven and your joy be forevermore. Amen." "My prayers are with all of you. My son is in Baghdad I think of him every day. Let's bring em all home." "To all of the families of the fallen, My heart and prayers go out to you. They are gone but never forgotten. The sacrifice they made for their country and your sacrifice of their life not fully lived will never be forgotten. God Bless you all and to those now resting in God's loving arms. God Bless, Jennifer McDaniel waiting for CPL McDaniel of the 545th MP CO to come home. Come home safe come home soon." "As a wife of a Soldier. I want to send my heartfelt thanks to all these brave men and women. I hope God can take some of your pain away of losing a friend, or family member. You and yours will be in my prayers" "All of your sons, daughters, fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers. Everyone that has given their lives for our country they are all heroes and I give my condolences to everyone who has lost someone. SSG. ANTHONY LAGMAN "TIK! BRO IT HURTS SO MUCH KNOWING YOUR GONE, BUT I GUESS YOUR IN A BETTER PLACE WATCHING OVER US... TO THE FAMILY "MAKIRAME KUPU"... SGT. JOHN SANTOS HAWAII/AFGHANISTAN"
May you rest in peace now., God be with your family.
May you rest in peace. You will always be in my prayers and treasure the memories that we have since our childhood days your cousin STEVEN (PHILIPPINES)" Staff Sgt. Anthony S. Lagman, 26, of Yonkers, N.Y. "Staff Sgt. Anthony S Lagman Yonkers, NY Sgt. Michael J. Esposito, Jr. My son called this morning, from your unit in Afghanistan. He proceeded to share the news, of your brave sacrifice. Hearing the pain and sadness in his voice, he explained how so many of your fellow comrades, were now hurting so badly. I am certain, that those strong and determined men, were reminded of how precious life, loved ones and friends are. My son has been based at Fort Drum, almost three years. The time apart, has been very painful at times. I have been comforted in knowing, that he also has a family, with his fellow soldiers. You will both be missed so much! Our prayers and sincere appreciation are with you, friends, loved ones and most of all, your fellow soldiers. So proudly and bravely, protecting us all! I was unable to find your names, until finding this site. We want you both to know, we all cared! With a heavy heart, I am Diane Caldwell, Mother of your brother, SPC James R. Caldwell" "Staff Sgt. Anthony S. Lagman of Yonkers, NY May you rest in peace. You will always be in my prayers. Love from your cousin, Liza" "In Memory of Staff Sgt. Anthony Lagman I know I speak for all the present and former teachers, staff and students of Roosevelt HS, Yonkers, NY when I express our profound sadness at the loss of Anthony, as well as all the fine men and women who have perished in America's wars and conflicts. May his soul rest in eternal peace along with his brave compatriots. Steve Goldberg" "My son is an army soldier currently stationed in Iraq. It is so easy to let ourselves believe that this war isn't necessary until we force ourselves to remember what has happened here in America and to the citizens in Iraq. Were we wrong to help free the Jews? I am so proud of my son and all who are willing to serve our country knowing it may cost them their lives. When I tried to talk my son out of enlisted he said, "Mom, what if everyone felt that way? Who would protect you..." He continued to remind me of all whom I love. He enlisted when the war had already started in Iraq. He has his priorities right. To those who question the war, please think of those reading your comments. Please remember the hurt our Vietnam veterans feel to this day. We must support our soldiers and their families. We must try to encourage and strengthen one another. We are all hurting and worried. This is a page for families who are suffering the ultimate loss. My heart and prayers go out to all ! of them. May God give them strength and peace. May they always feel and know that their loved ones death was not in vain. May they always be proud of their loved ones sacrifice in the cause to free the people of Iraq. May God grant us the good sense to know that He is in control and we must support each other. Suzette" Spec. Marshall L. Edgerton
US Marine 20 years old from Lubbock Texas. My heart is breaking today as we all mourn the loss of this fine young man as his precious life was ended by hostile attacks. But my heart can't even begin to ache as badly as his parents and brother and sisters are. Ricky was an incredible young man that I had the honorable pleasure of getting to know over the past 8 months. We bonded from the moment we met and I was just so impressed with him and his entire attitude and demeanor. There couldn't be a finer Marine and I take deep pride in being able to say I knew him and his family. I will always remember this great kid and the effect he has had on my heart will always be there. His family is so proud of him, his brother Max is proud and his 2 sisters, Shorrie & Leah are so proud of him and will miss him greatly. Please keep these fine folks in your prayers. I am so proud of all our servicemen and women I am sorry for the loss that so many have suffered. May God! Bless you all. Love, "My heart breaks for the families. The cost of freedom has always been paid by the sacrifices of a few. Geography separates us from our protectors. But every day we remember." "May God bless you all in a quick and timely manner, so your loss will a little more bearable. "I am so sorry for your losses. May God heal your hearts. And hold you r loved one in His Loving arms.
Fern L. Holland, 33, was tough, passionate, leaving a secure job at a Washington law firm to work in Iraq helping local women assert their rights in the postwar political process. In her short lifetime, she worked tirelessly to extend human dignity to women and men in different parts of the world. Her loss to the United States is incalculable. "I want you all to know from the bottom of my heart that we all appreciate the soldiers who fight for us over there. every single one of them. i too have a loved one in the armed forces who is deployed in Baghdad right now, i pray everyday for his safe return home, and for all your loved ones as well. May God protect them with a wall of fire and a hedge of protection. Amanda, CA." "All Fallen Soldiers, God bless you always. Thank you for defending our country and our freedom. We will always pray for you and your family. Lynne Fukuda "To the men and women serving our country: My family and I thank you for giving us the freedom that is not recognized enough. Thank you for your protection and may you return home SOON!!! To the families of those who are away: My family and I know what you are going through and continue to keep the troops in our thoughts and prayers. We hope to see them as soon as possible and pray for their safe return. To all those who have lost a loved one: My heart goes out to you and I admire you so much for your strength to get through your pain. "You breathe, even though it hurts like hell. You eat, even though every bite tastes like dirt. You cry, because you need to. And you sleep, when your body can no longer stay awake." Sunnie0829@aol.com 16 March 2004 "May god bless the families and friends of our soldiers. These soldiers have lost their lives trying to keep us safe. Also lets all pray for the soldiers that are still there and keep them out of harms way so they can come home safely. galenagrl2000@yahoo.com" "Our thoughts and prayers are for the families of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Words cannot fully express our sorrow for your loss suffered." Steve Montgomery somont@skonline.us |
Sgt. Terrance Lee knew there was a chance he would never return from Iraq, but the young soldier put his country above his own life, and left behind a pregnant wife and two young sons. Spc. Terrance D. Lee Sr., died on June 11 in Owesat Village, Iraq, when his armored personnel carrier was hit by an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the Army National Guard's 150th Combat Engineer Battalion, 155th Brigade Combat Team, Lucedale, Miss. Also killed was Sgt. Larry R. Arnold Sr., 46, of Carriere, Miss. On this Memorial Day weekend, as every day, I am so grateful for each of our military heroes who have worked so unselfishly to protect our freedoms and who know the value of spreading freedom and democracy around the world. I worked with Joseph Blanco at Borders Group in Mira Loma, Ca. He left us to go to Iraq. I remember him always as cheerful and we have missed him. I share your sorrow at your loss. May God comfort you at this time. Karen Haley This Easter Day, I think it is especially fitting to remember those men and women who have given their lives for the sake of others. God Bless them all, and give their families comfort. Army Spec. Dustin J. Harris; Bangor and Patten, Maine. Thank you for your service to this great nation, Dustin. You will long be remembered for your bright smile, quick wit and caring nature. May your family have warm thoughts and long lasting memories of you. Rest in peace buddy, this world is a little safer because of what you and your family have sacrificed. Jim Every son, daughter, husband, wife, father and mother who willingly took an oth to deffend the constitution of the United States of America, against all enemies, foreing and domestic, so help them God. They are paying the ultimate price so that you and I could enjoy freedom. God Bless you all, thank you for your bravery, courage, and love. IN MEMORY OF RAMON,RAMERO AND POST 1214 LAPD 77ST
I miss you Ricky, there isn't a day that goes by that I dont think of you !!! Aunt Shell "Sgt. Richard M. Lord, Ricky we love you and miss you. You are in my thoughts everyday.
I will see you when its my time and we will relive the good times in Japan and Korea. Rest In Peace brother. Sgt. Richard M. Lord, 24, of Jacksonville, Fla., died Aug. 18 from injuries received due to enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C. "This is written in memory of Sgt. Richard M. Lord, 24, of Jacksonville, Fla. Ricky was a loving, caring, family-oriented young man. He is one of the few that can say he died fulfilling his dreams. He always wanted to be a Marine and he accomplished that dream. To his family in their time of grief I extend my whole-hearted gratitude, for this son, brother, father, husband and companion is the reason I can leave my house today and have the freedom to worship God. Ricky Lord, thank you for your sacrifice!" Richard Lord, a Marine from North Florida who had dreamed of serving in the military since he was a little boy wearing a GI Joe costume, was killed in Iraq just 10 days before his 25th birthday, his family and officials said. "His mission in life was to be a Marine," said Michelle Walker Crawford, his former teacher at Trenton High School. Lord left for boot camp six weeks after graduation. Lord had two sons in North Carolina, Richard Murle Flash Lord, 2, and Brody Lord, 10 months, and had talked about leaving the service to spend more time with them, his mother said. He wanted to move back to north-central Florida to be near his family, she said. Sgt. Richard M. Lord, 24, of Jacksonville, Fla., died Aug. 18 from injuries received due to enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C. To every mother, father, son daughter, husband wife and relative, Ggod is with your family. Be strong and proud and I thank you for having them keep me safe and giving the ultimate sacrafice for me to have it. Know that one day you will be reunited again
In loving memory of SSG Farrow of the 146th Quartermaster Company in Camp Victory, Kuwait, we, your former fellow soldiers, regret the fact that you are gone and that we will remember your every effort in supporting the war on terror. July 18, 2005 Staff Sgt. Jefferey J. Farrow, 28, of Birmingham, Ala., died July 19 in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, of non-combat related injuries. Farrow was assigned to the Army Reserve's 146th Quartermaster Company, Fort Totten, N.Y. All the fallen soldiers. I proudly support our troops, I just don't want this war. My heartfelt sympathies go out to all the families of our brave men and women. We don't know them, but we miss them. Moms, Dads, Sisters, Brothers, Husbands, Wives and Children..........I am sorry, so sorry for your loss. In a way, we all seem emptier. We must go on, so they will go on. In our hearts forever. Once again, I am sorry. Wendy Vey
Staff Sgt. Shane M. Koele, 25, of Wayne, Neb., died Mar. 16 at Shindand Airfield, Afghanistan, from injuries sustained Mar. 15 in Shindand, Afghanistan, when a land mine exploded near his HMMWV. Koele was assigned to the 212th Military Police Company, Kitzingen, Germany. To all of those who have fallen to save what we live every day (peace prosperity,freedom) we (I) salute you and your families. I, a veteran myself, give thanks.... Tim Collins
“We are here doing the dirty work, and we will continue that to the best we can, even if that means dying for your country,” Cpl. William M. “Bill” Amundson Jr. wrote to his family in March, before he was deployed for a mission overseas. Cpl. William M. Amundson Jr., 21, of The Woodlands, Texas, died Oct. 192004, in Afghanistan when the vehicle in which he was riding rolled over. Amundson was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, Ga. God Bless all of our TRUE AMERICAN HEROES
We all miss you very much, and you will never be forgotten. Look in on us from time to time." Marshfield, MO. February 26, 2005— Mid-day traffic halted Friday and drivers watched solemnly as the funeral procession carrying Spc. Justin B. Carter wound slowly along Missouri 38. More than 200 friends and family members attended services for the 21-year-old Mansfield soldier, and scores of cars joined the procession to Mount Pisgah Cemetery near Strafford. Carter's cousin, Rebecca Denney, also 21, remembered their years together in high school as she spoke at the service. Denney didn't share all the details of their teenage adventures — such as the Mansfield prom they never quite made it to — but as her father later said, details weren't necessary. "He was a little ornery, and everybody knew that," said Doug Denney, a lieutenant colonel in the Air Force. "He always loved to have fun ... and lived life to the fullest."
Memorial Held for Soldier Killed in Iraq ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. Feb. 23, 2005- The father of a soldier killed in Iraq says the Army taught his son leadership and duty. "I was lucky to be his father," Bill Carter said of his son, Army Spc. Justin B. Carter. Carter was a member of the 3rd Infantry Division's 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, based at Fort Benning, Ga. Spc. Justin B. Carter, 21, of Mansfield, Mo., died Feb. 16 in Forward Operating Base McKenzie, Iraq, from non-combat related injuries. Carter was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division (Mechanized), Fort Benning, Ga.
Pfc. George D. Harrison, 22, of Knoxville, Tenn., died December 2 in Mosul, Iraq, when his HMMWV was attacked by enemy forces using small arms fire. Harrison was assigned to the 293rd Military Police Company, 3rd Military Police Battalion (Provisional), 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
"Sgt Barry Meza Sgt. Berry K. Meza, 23, of League City, Texas died Dec. 19 in Shuaybah, Kuwait, when a vehicle struck them. Meza was assigned to the 180th Transportation Battalion, 13th Corps Support Command, Fort Hood, Texas. "All the soldiers that have died, thank you for serving. You are all in my prayers. Heaven has a special place for soldiers.
Sgt. Javier Marin Jr., 29, of Mission, Texas.died Jan. 24 in Mohammed Sacran, Iraq, when his Bradley Fighting Vehicle overturned. He was assigned to the 2d Battalion, 2d Infantry, 1st Infantry Division, Vilseck, Germany.
SFC Kurt J. Comeaux, 34, of Raceland, LA, died January 6 in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device struck his Bradley fighting vehicle. He was assigned to the Army National Guard’s 256th Infantry Brigade (Mechanized), Lafayette, La. "In memory of the six members of the Louisiana National Guard Unit 256th Black Sheep Unit, Houma, LA, who died on 01/06/2005 after an improvised explosive device struck their Bradley fighting vehicle. Killed were:
May your memories burn bright for the sacrifice you all made for our country and our people." A seventh soldier was killed in the same incident. He was Pfc. Kenneth G. Vonronn, 20, of Bloomingburg, N.Y. Vonronn was assigned to the Army National Guard’s Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment, 42nd Infantry Division, New York, N.Y. "My heart goes out to all the families that have lost loved ones in this campaign. I have a son who is in the Marines and is presently based in Falluja. With this last incident of the helicopter crashing I was one of the worried parents due to that being my sons battalion. I was blessed with a email from him saying that he was okay, but he had lost many of his friends. I hope and pray that the fact that my son said that they were his friends brings some comfort in knowing that they were loved by many. I pray to all that your hearts are filled with good memories to help with the pain involved in all of this mess! I pray for all of our continued Faith that this will end soon and bring the rest of our loved ones home! My prayers are with you all at this time of sorrow and always!"
"Spc. Huey P.L. Fassbender "Spc. Huey Fassbender III Spc. Huey P. L. Fassbender, 24, of LaPlace, La. died January 6 in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device struck hisr Bradley fighting vehicle. He was assigned to the Army National Guard’s 256th Infantry Brigade (Mechanized), Lafayette, La.
Cpl. Joseph E. Fite, 23, of Round Rock, Texas, died Jan. 9 as a result of hostile action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to the Marine Forces Reserve’s 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Austin, Texas.
Lance Cpl. Brian P. Parrello, 19, of West Milford, N.J. died Jan. 1, 2004, as result of hostile action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Parrello was assigned to Small Craft Company, Headquarters Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C. "Sergeant Jeremy R. Wright who gave all in Afghanistan 3 Jan 2005. You had so much talent: Degree in Chemistry, World Class runner, Special Forces soldier at age 31. May God bless you as he holds you! Sgt. Jeremy R. Wright, 31, of Shelbyville, Ind., died Jan. 3 in Asadabad, Afghanistan, when his military vehicle hit an improvised explosive device. Wright was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group Fort Lewis, Wash.
Cpl. Jason S. Clairday, 21, of Camp Fulton, Ark. died Dec. 12 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Clairday was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif.
"Andres H. Perez Cpl. Andres H. Perez, 21, of Santa Cruz, Calif. died Nov. 14 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif.
"In memory of Cpl. Ian W. Stewart and all others killed in action. Our heartfelt prayers go out to the Stewart family. Remember John 16:17. Ian is now in the Lord's house. You will always be in our hearts. The Greve's" Cpl. Ian W. Stewart, 21, of Lake Hughes, Calif. died Dec. 12 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Stewart was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. "All of the fallen heroes that gave their life for our country. May God bless them and their families. Thank you for giving the ultimate sacrifice of your life. My heart goes out to the families that have lost their loved ones, I know your heart will heal in time, but you will never forget the great loss you have suffered."
"Subrina, Momma and Daddy Miller, I wanted to say that nobody knows the pain you feel, but we keep you in our hearts and prayers. Billy will forever be in all of our hearts. You have always been great parents, and a great sister. He was blessed with a wonderful family. We were all lucky enough to have known such a wonderful boy who grew into a brave courageous man. We love you. Angela, Chrissy and family" "LCPL William L. Miller. Lance Cpl. William L. Miller, 22, of Pearland, Texas, died Nov. 15 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Miller was assigned 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C.
He left behind two teenage sons and a wife pregnant with their third child. One of the sons, 18-year-old Sean, gave an emotional eulogy for his father, receiving thunderous applause from the mourners. "My dad is the greatest man I will ever know," he said. "I only hope to be half the man he was." He added: "He was brave and courageous all the time, but able to cry over a sick dog." Engeldrum, known to his firefighter brethren as "Drum," was known for his antics and for telling "Army horror stories" each day. He said Engeldrum would smoke a cigarette and begin, "Let me tell you a story ..." The guys adored him so much, they just let him finish and ramble on. No one wants to believe Chris is gone without warning. Sgt. Christian P. Engeldrum, 39, of Bronx, N.Y.died Nov. 29 in Baghdad, Iraq, when his military vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment, New York, N.Y. "To the families of all fallen soldiers.....may God bless and give each of you peace through a most difficult time in your life. Your sons and daughters are the True Americans. I pray they are never forgotten for their sacrifice."
Pfc. Collier E. Barcus, 21, of McHenry, Ill, died July 8 in Samarra, Iraq. He was in the Iraqi National Guard Headquarters when it came under a mortar attack. Barcus was assigned to 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany.
"Sgt. Matteson, Mattie or what I like to call you MEGAMAN because of your stocky build, you always knew how to make me laugh. I will definitely miss your crazy stories of home and watching you put in about half of can of copenhagen in your mouth. I'm still amazed from that!! LOL! You were heroic out in Falluja Mattie! The way you popped smoke when we got in contact at that house, you saved all of us!!! You will always be my BROTHER and to the rest of the scout platoon. I miss you greatly mattie... and I will never forget YOU! I LOVE YOU BRO!!! "James C. Matteson. "SGT James C. Matteson "Sgt. J.C. Matteson 11/22/80-11/12/04 "Sgt. J.C. Matteson. Happy Birthday. "In Memory of Sgt. James "J.C" Matteson, J.C. we will never forget you and what you did for our country. You will always be in our hearts. You were the best friend Andy could have ever asked for. Thank you, We love you and will miss you. Until we meet again. Cathy and Andy Melice" "In memory of Sgt James Charles Matteson. "Teamwork was his passion. He died leading his team in the battle for Fallujah. While in the turret of a Humvee he took a direct hit from a rocket propelled grenade.
Word of Matteson's death devastated students, teachers and alumni at his high school. Football coach Jay Sirianni said the team learned of the tragedy Friday, a day before the Trojans' 12-7 loss to Hornell in a game at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Sgt. James C. Matteson, 23, of Celoron, N.Y., died Nov. 12 in Fallujah, Iraq, when a rocket-propelled grenade struck his Bradley Fighting Vehicle. Matteson was assigned to the Army's 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, Vilseck, Germany. "In Memory of Lance Corporal Victor Lu who died in action on November 13th, 2004. "Victor R. Lu. Lance Cpl. Victor R. Lu, 22, of Los Angeles, Calif., died Nov. 13 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Lu was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. "In Memory Of Brad Parker, Mannington WV. Lance Cpl. Bradley L. Parker, 19, of Marion, W.V., died Nov. 15 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Lance Cpl. Travis R. Desiato, 19, of Bedford, Mass.died Nov. 15, as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Desiato was assigned 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. SGT Keicia M. Hines
Sgt. Keicia M. Hines, 27, of Citrus Heights, Calif., died on Jan. 14 when she was struck by a vehicle on Mosul Airfield in Mosul, Iraq. Hines was assigned to the 108th Military Police, Combat Support Co., Fort Bragg, N.C
Lance Cpl. Wesley J. Canning, 21, of Friendswood, Texas, died Nov. 10 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Canning was assigned to 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Sims is pictured here with his son Colin Patrick in August, 2004. "11/15/2004 DoD Identifies Army Casualty Capt. Sean P. Sims, 32, of El Paso, Texas, who died Nov. 13 in Fallujah, Iraq, when his unit received small arms fire while clearing a building. Sims was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, Vilseck, Germany THANK YOU for my freedom" "Theodore "Sam" Holder, USMC Staff Sgt. Theodore S. Holder II, 27, of Littleton, Colo., died Nov. 11 as a result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. His awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon, the Marine Security Guard Ribbon and the National Service Defense Medal. "Jarrod Maher - Though I didn't know you except through your Aunt Teri, I am grateful to you for your service to our country. Freedom isn't free, but its costs are heartbreaking. There are no words to express the sorrow we all feel. PR " "Cpl Jarrod L Maher, 21, USMC, Imogene, Iowa Died November 12, 2004, In Abu Ghraib, Iraq "To the family of Jarrod L. Maher Cpl. Jarrod L. Maher, 21, of Imogene, Iowa, died Nov. 12 as result of a non-hostile gunshot wound at Abu Ghraib, Iraq. Maher was assigned to 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. Maher’s death is under investigation.
"In Memory of Todd R. Cornell....your wonderful smile and positive attitude will be missed. Staff Sgt. Todd R. Cornell, 38, of West Bend, Wis., died Nov. 9 in Fallujah, Iraq, when his unit was conducting house-to-house combat operations and they were attacked by enemy forces using rocket-propelled grenades. Cornell was assigned to the Army Reserve's 1st Battalion, 339th Regiment, 7th Brigade, 84th Division, Fraser, Mich.
Woodlands soldier dies in Afghanistan Amundson was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart and the Meritorious Service Medal, according to the Army. Amundson had also received Army Commendation, National Defense Service and Armed Forces Expeditionary medals. He was awarded the Combat Infantryman and Expert Infantryman badges and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Award. Cpl. William M. Amundson Jr., 21, of The Woodlands, Texas, died Oct. 19 in Afghanistan when the vehicle in which he was riding rolled over. Amundson was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, Ga.
Spc. Jason C. Ford, 21, of Bowie, Md., died March 13 in Tikrit, Iraq, when his patrol encountered an improvised explosive device. Spc. Ford was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, based in Schweinfurt, Germany. Jason C. Ford's family discuss his life and his death in Iraq.
Lance Cpl. Anthony P. Roberts, 18, of Bear, Del., died April 6, 2004, due to hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
"You will forever be in our hearts and your memory will never be forgotten. You have touched the lives of many and have honored your country. You are a true hero in our eyes. We pray for your family, that they will find peace and comfort in time with your precious memories. Forever with us, PFC Kyle and Brienna Blades" Pfc. James E. Prevete, 22 of Whitestone, NY "I know you don't know me but I wanted to thank you for fighting for my country. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Their hearts are broken right now. In due time god will help them heal. May you fly with eagles wings and may you be in eternal peace with God. You are a young angel who did so much for us. May god bless you. Thank you again. Make sure you fly with angels in the heavens above. From a truly appreciative, Pfc. James E. Prevete, 22, of Whitestone, N.Y., died October 10 in Habbaniya, Iraq, when his military vehicle encountered whiteout conditions and the driver apparently lost control of the vehicle. Prevete was assigned to the Army's 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, Camp Greaves, Korea.
Thank you for your courage and the sacrifice that you made for the all of us. You will be missed. Randy, Annette & Jalys Mabry" Marine Sgt. Timothy Folmar, 21, of Sonora, Texas, died on September 24, 2004, as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
Spc. Trevor A. Win'E, 22, of Orange, Calif., died May 1, 2004, in Tikrit, Iraq, from injuries sustained on April 30 when his convoy vehicle hit an improvised explosive device. Spc. Win'E was assigned to the Army’s 24th Quartermaster Company, Fort Lewis, Wash. "The fallen soldiers with the Army National Guard unit 1544th out of Paris, IL. And all others wherever they are.
Ken Leisten wanted to be the next Bill Gates. Once he visited an Intel plant and tooled around in a Mercedes Benz, learning about the company from an executive. "Pfc. Ken W. Leisten... for your father... Sir, please accept my deepest and most sincere condolences for you loss. I have one son, same age, and I cry for you now. I have been crying for your loss, more than all the other tragedies, for days and I can't stop thinking of how much pain and agony you must feel now. I wish I could say anything to help, but only time starts the healing. My thoughts, and my tears, are with you. Your son is a hero, but the war is a sham. Sooo sorry for this. He will be with you always with you, you know.... Kat in California" Pfc. Ken W. Leisten, 20, of Cornelius, Ore., died July 28, in Taji, Iraq, when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. Leisten was assigned to the Army National Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry, Corvallis, Ore. "To the family and friends of SSG Craig Cherry. Those of us who served with SSG Cherry in Big Rapids, MI will not forget his and your sacrifice. Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to you and all of the families that have given so much. 3BN 126th INF" "Staff Sgt. Craig W. Cherry knew the local Salvation Army headquarters well. He had once lived in the building just behind it and was married in its chapel less than a year ago, just a few days before his third child was born. But Friday, as the clouds that had threatened rain gave way to sunny, brilliant blue skies, Cherry's family, friends and colleagues returned to the brick building surrounded by lush greenery for his funeral. The irony was not lost on Salvation Army Capt. Richard White, who had married Craig and Donna Cherry, as he gave the eulogy. "This day is a very humbling experience for me," White said. "Eight months ago, Craig, Donna and I stood where the casket is and shared that marriage ceremony. Who would've known that eight months later we'd gather here again to say goodbye to Craig?" "I never thought this would happen," Cherry's father, Roy Cherry of Windham, Maine, told the Associated Press. "And it hurts. It hurts bad." Staff Sgt. Craig W. Cherry, 39, of Winchester, Va.,died on Aug. 7, in Ghazikel, Afghanistan, when hisr vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the Army National Guard’s 3rd Battalion, 116th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 29th Infantry Division (Light Infantry), Winchester, Va.
God bless and thank you for all your years of dedication. You will be missed. Staff Sgt. Aaron N. Holleyman, 26, of Glasgow, Mont., died Aug 30 in Khutayiah, Iraq, when his military vehicle hit an improvised explosive device. Holleyman was assigned to the Army's 1st Battalion, 5th Special Forces Group, Fort Campbell, Ky.
"My HERO and son Spec. Jesse Ryan Buryj. KIA May 5th 2004 in Karbala Iraq. You lived a hero's life and died a hero's death. "A COWARD DIES AND THOUSAND DEATHS, A HERO DIES BUT ONCE." YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE, MY ONLY SUNSHINE. YOU MAKE ME HAPPY WHEN SKIES ARE GRAY. YOU'LL NEVER KNOW DEAR, HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU. NEVER TAKE MY SUNSHINE AWAY. LOVE, MOM" Pfc. Jesse R. Buryj, 21, of Canton, Ohio, died May 5, in Karabala, Iraq, when his military vehicle was struck by a dump truck whose driver had been shot while trying to run through a control point. Pfc. Buryj was assigned to the 66th Military Police Company, Fort Lewis, Wash. "My deepest sympathy goes out to the family of Sgt. Harvey E. Parkerson III, USMC. GOD rest his soul. He will always be remembered by the Parkerson's nationwide. Ken Parkerson Sgt. Harvey E. Parkerson III, 27, Yuba City, Calif., died Aug 18 due to enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Sgt. Parkerson was assigned to Battalion Landing Team 1/4, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), Camp Pendleton, Calif. "In Memory of Lance Cpl. Dustin R. Fitzgerald, fellow classmate and best friend. I will never forget his commitment to serving this nation and how he was always able to make the best of every situation. It would have been an honor to have such a brave and lively soul under my command. It is for you and those Marines like you for whom I hope to one day serve with. Midn Patrick de Graaf, USMCR Lance Cpl. Dustin R. Fitzgerald, 22, of Huber Heights, Ohio, died Aug 18, in a non-combat related vehicle incident in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Lance Cpl. Fitzgerald was assigned to Battalion Landing Team 1/2, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
"Michael Woodliff was intense. He sometimes ran through the streets with a pack on his back. He lifted weights with ferocity, and in his junior year at Charlotte High School, he joined the wrestling team. With little experience and not much technique, he willed himself to become district runner-up within a year. But Woodliff's goal wasn't a Division I scholarship; he was preparing himself for the rigors of war. "Everything he did, he did to help him become a better soldier," said his brother, Matthew. "He was very passionate about it." Woodliff joined the Army in May 2000, but his short career ended Tuesday when an explosion ripped through the Humvee in which the 22-year-old Specialist was riding. Woodliff died later in the day in a Baghdad medical facility. "Mike died a happy man because he was doing what he always talked about and loved," said Quinton Williams, 21, a close friend. " Excerpted from the Herald Tribune Spc. Michael R. Woodliff "From the Charlotte High School Family, We morn your loss and respect and cherish the sacrifice you made on our behalf. Freedom is your gift to us forever. Ours can only be to remember you, and the long line you've now joined, who provide the gift. " "In Memory of SPC Woodliff from the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 1st Armor Division, Friedberg, Germany. I was so very sad as my pen pal Lee Bersamina wrote me that this comrade and friend died in Iraq on the 03-02-04. So I will give the family and all the friends from SPC Woodliff my condolence's. God bless SPC Woodliff and all the fallen soldiers for their ultimate sacrifice. Your all loss is my loss. Thank you very much to them all for the great job they have done - a dangerous job, very often not easy to do. I am so sad that he has now paid so much for the freedom for other people - I know this isn't the way he wanted to. Thank you SPC Woodliff! God Bless you and America. Freedom is your gift for us all. Wilhelmine Aufmkolk, Germany" Spc. Michael R. Woodliff, 22, of Port Charlotte, Fla., died March 2 in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device struck his convoy. Woodliff was assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 1st Armor Division, Friedberg, Germany.
"Denise Utt talked to her husband in Baghdad while she was at work Sunday morning.She might have heard the last words 1st Sgt. Ernest E. Utt Jr. ever spoke. "Army 1st Sgt. Ernest Utt I didn't have the opportunity to meet Ernie except for over the phone during the summer of 2003 when his brother, Jordan, visited him in Texas. However, over the years, Jordan had told me many stories about his brother - stories of his selflessness, generosity and sense of humor. It is clear that Ernie was a very good man and will be missed by all that knew him. It is to Ernie and the other men and women like him that I say thank you for the sacrifices they have made for the rest of us. "In memory of 1st Sgt Ernest Utt "Before Army 1st Sgt. Ernest E. Utt was deployed from Texas to Iraq four months ago, he longed to first go back to his boyhood home in central Illinois to see his dad. He never got that chance, and Utt was killed Sunday in a rocket attack in Baghdad. 1st Sgt. Ernest E. Utt, 38, of Hammond, Ill., died June 27 in Baghdad, Iraq, after two 122mm rockets were fired into his forward operating base. Utt was assigned to Battery B, 1st Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. "SPC Sonny Gene Sampler was not only my big brother, he was my best friend. He along with four other soldiers from his platoon were killed In Samarra, Iraq, on July 8, 2004. Sonny was supposed to come home on a two week visit on August 1, 2004. We had already started making plans when we got that terrifying knock at the door. We will always love and miss Love, Vicki Lynn" To the person that left a message saying he served with Sonny, could you please contact us at genesamp@cox.net "This is directed to the families of Sgt. Robert Colville, Spc. Joe Garmbach, Spc. William Emanuel, and Spc. Sonny Sampler. I served with all four of these men in Schweinfurt Germany and I must say that they were some of the best guys I had the pleasure of serving with. All of them were killed in a mortar attack in Samarra on July 8th. My deepest sympathies go out to the families of these great men." Sgt. Robert E. Colvill, Jr., 31, of Anderson, Ind, pictured right; . "The families of all of our fallen heroes. I cannot imagine the pain. I would do anything if I could bring back your loved ones. We will never forget them. We love and respect you."
"Deryk L. Hallal...a best friend to my brother and a second brother to me. There are no words to describe the hole you have left in all our hearts. There is no one else Christian wanted by his side as his best man when he gets married in September, and we all will know in our hearts, you should be up there next to him. I will miss your smile, jokes and hugs. You had such a way of lighting up a room. Thank you for touching my life and making me a better person because I knew you. With Love, "Deryk Hallal we only knew each other through boot camp and infantry training but your outgoing and lighthearted demeanor will not be forgotten. Semper Fi. "Pfc. Deryk L. Hallal, a true friend to my son Pfc. Chris W. Adair. Deryk was someone Chris spoke of often at SOI Training, he wants Deryk's family to know that their son was a true inspiration to him and is very sad about your loss and the loss of a true friend. PROUD MARINE MOM JENNIFER" "Deryk Hallal, As a father of a friend and YMCA/lifeguarding co-worker to Deryk, I extend deepest condolences to the Hallal family. Deryk was a role model for sure, who mentored and respected others with honor and dignity. My daughter who looked up to Deryk as a lifeguard and friend, always spoke highly of him and his high character. Through her grieving for the loss of a good friend, I hold him in the highest regard and will forever be grateful for his positive influence on her. Respectfully, RYoder" "My amazing, loving and selfless nephew, PFC Deryk L. Hallal...24 years just wasn't even close to being enough time to have you in our lives, but my heart and soul are lifted immeasurably by all that you accomplished in your short time here among us. You are brilliant sunshine after months of gray rain. You are the soft, peaceful blanket of winter's first snow. You are the warm, reflective breeze that wafts through life's peaks and valleys. You are the hope, and the heart, of a grateful nation, and you are the sweet song of spring, filled with melody and harmony. I will miss the sound of your voice, the warmth of your spirit, and the sensitivity of a smile that can soften even the hardest of hearts. I will honor you for the rest of my life, and keep you in my prayers forever. Pfc. Deryk L. Hallal, 24, of Indianapolis, Ind., died April 6, due to hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. "The soldiers of the 1ST BATTALION, 21ST FIELD ARTILLERY, 1ST CAVALRY DIVISION, who fell and died honorably for their Red Team and for their country. FORMER SERGEANT JAMES A. COLLIGAN Thank you for your service to our country SGT James A. Colligan and members, past and present, of Red Team Deep Strike. - Judith Haney
You will be missed but never forgoten! To the Ojeda Family we Love you and Thank you for a wonderful young man that you shared with us. God Bless you! Our brave soldier answered his Lords call on May 1, 2004." Spc. Ramon C. Ojeda, 22, of Ramona, Calif. died, May 1, in Al Amarah, Iraq when his convoy was attacked. He was assigned to the Army’s 84th Engineer Battalion, 25th Infantry Division (Light), Schofield Barracks, Honolulu, Hawaii.
BOB YOU ARE OUR HERO! WE LOVE YOU! AND WE ARE VERY PROUD OF YOU! Bob was a plumber in Newport, Oregon when the Sept.11th Attack sanded all of us. That was when Bob decided that his place was to be a part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. I can assure you that even being gone from us now that he has no regrets of being a Marine. We will never forget him or any of the others. Lora Moyer/Shoemaker Lance Cpl. Bob W. Roberts, 30, of Newport, Ore., died May 17, due to hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. "All of our fallen heroes, men and women, young and older, Afghanistan & Iraq & Kuwait & elsewhere. Thank you for protecting me, my family, and our country. My prayers are for your families - that God will guide and protect them. "In memory of STAFF SGT Jorge A Molina Bautista, I know the Molina Family very well His wife Dina and their 3 son's Jorgito, Joey & Carlitos, Our thoughts and Prays are for the whole family. May 27, your truly friend, Marisol" Staff Sgt. Jorge A. Molina Bautista, 37, of Rialto, Calif., died May 23 as a result of hostile action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Sgt. Jonathan N. Hartman, 27, of Jacksonville, Fla., died April 17, in Dwaniyan, Iraq, when his convoy was ambushed. Sgt. Hartman was assigned to the Army’s 2nd Battalion, 37th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Friedburg, Germany. "LCPL Burgess, who was prematurely taken from those who loved and respected him. My boyfriend is assigned to MWSS 374, MWSG 37, 3rd MAW and had know Jeff for some year. They went through boot camp, MP school, OIF1 and OIF2 together before Jeff was killed. My boyfriend told me he would have given anything that day they were attacked to try and change the course of fate. May Jeff's family know peace in the fact that he is with God. May the Lord's arms comfort you until you meet him again beyond the gates of heaven. May we all be so lucky to find love and peace beyond this life. God Bless our Marines. God bless the innocent. God Bless America" LCpl. Jeffrey C. Burgess, 20, of Plymouth, Mass., died March 25, due to enemy action near Al Fallujah, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 373, Marine Wing Support Group 37, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif.
"To all the Families and Loved ones, I will never be able to say enough words to let you know I appreciate the freedom your Loved one has supplied us. Thank you seems so little to say, but THANK YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES. Our continued prayers are with you and your Families......... Connie"
Sgt. Gerardo Moreno, 23, of Terrell, Texas, died April 6, in Ashula, Iraq, when individuals who fired a rocket-propelled-grenade attacked his unit. Moreno was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. Sgt. Edmond L. Randle
Randle was a student at Florida A & M. University (FAMU) when he joined the Army. He enlisted to pay for additional educational costs not covered by his scholarship.
April 16, 1978 - April 6, 2004 "If a man has not found something worth dying for, he is unfit to live." MLK I will always love you my brave warrior, see you in my dreams and as we always said, "We're OK." Semper Fi my love Your wife and best friend Joanna
"2nd Lt."J.T." Wroblewski... In Memory of 2nd Lt. John T. Wroblewski, 25, of Oak Ridge, N.J., 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif, My best friend in NJ, Lynn Zahn wrote me this Easter night that her son Andy`s Driver`s Ed Teacher /Athletic Director and Pal at PK High School lost his son in Iraq at the April 6 due to injuries received from hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. On Good Friday we were in Landstuhl Medical Center and have visited wounded Marines and Soldiers. This was a great thing, to say "thank you to them all" and this brought us tears in our eyes. So many Marines were there! I am so sad that so many young American men and women who are putting their lives at risk in Iraq day after day for other men and women freedom as 2nd Lt. John T. Wroblewski has done. So I will give the family and all the friends from 2nd Lt. John T. Wroblewski my condolence's. God bless 2nd Lt. John T. Wroblewski and all the fallen soldiers for their ultimate sacrifice. Your all loss is my loss. Thank you very much to them all for the great job they have done - a dangerous job, very often not easy to do. I am so sad that he has now paid so much for the freedom for other people - I know this isn't the way he wanted to. Thank you 2nd Lt. John T. Wroblewski! God Bless you and America. Freedom is your gift for us all. Wilhelmine Aufmkolk, Lahnstrasse 20, 64521 Gross Gerau, Germany Soldiers` Angels Foundation, V.P. Wounded Germany Member from the KONTAKT Wiesbaden e.V., German/American Friendship Club" JosephineFS@aol.com 11 April 2004 "Our fallen men and women are not forgotten or taken for granted. My prayers are with them all and their families." "In memory of all. I don't know why I opted to do this except for the fact that my baby brother Sean and friend John are in Baghdad. I feel for you and your families, but have no words of comfort. Are there any comforting words? They are all heroes and for them we all must carry on." "My son returned from there a few months ago. I kept a candle burning for him night and day. When he returned, I did not stop the candle as I now burn it for all the soldiers who are still over there. I am a newly wed, and my husband seems not to understand why I go to bed almost every night crying." My heart is with everyone who has lost someone. Indirectly: 1st Lt. Joshua Palmer Lcpl Michael B Wafford Staff Sgt William M Harrell Lcpl Shane L Goldman Pfc Christopher Ramos Cpl Jesse Thiry Lcpl Mathew Serio These were all men that traveled with my husbands company/battalion and my heart is with you all god bless. Lcpl Lee's Wife with 1st Battalion 5th Marines 1st Marine Division. God bless you all and all the men still alive and fighting. You can now serve the Lord. "To our fallen brothers and those who live to fight another day, You have our support! 4th MAW MP Det" "For my "adopted" son, Sgt. Mark Jalone, who was hurt in an ambush in October in Iraq. I do not know this young man personally, but feel as I do. He has spoken of great courage and I thank him from the bottom of my heart for what he and all the others are doing for us. I received a letter from him stating he would be coming home soon-I am ever so grateful." Andrea Ellison-Cameron, TX aggie57@hotmail.com Major Steven Plumhoff
Major Steven Plumhoff "Our Cousin "Major Steven Plumhoff" who was killed when the helicopter he was piloting crashed in Afghanistan on Nov.23,2003. We all missed him. He was a special person. The time is going on but we never forget him. His big lovely smile is in our hearts forever. Sometimes we are crying and ask,Why? But he loves flying. He is a hero in our eyes. Steven we love you, bye.... Hugs and kisses to you from Mariela & Marc Pforzheim/Germany" Major Steven Plumhoff "In memory of my best Friend Steven Plumhoff, Maj, USAF who died in an MH053-M Helicopter crash in Afghanistan on the 23rd of Nov 03. I will never forget you Plummer! May God and Virgin Mary keep you always and give your family and friends strength to deal with your loss. I will never forget you, cause to me you are still alive!!! Rest in Peace! Love always, Judy" "To all the families of the fallen worriers, thank you for raising such brave soldiers who gave their lives to protect the freedom of our beloved country, and the country's who need help. Don't be upset with the government, or our country, for they gave their lives bravely doing what they probably loved, and also to protect their brothers and sisters of combat. I once again THANK YOU PFC Girouard, United States Marine Corps"
Great friend to everyone. We love you and will miss you always. Your beloved church family. TRINITY WORSHIP CENTER - PHARR, TEXAS Pfc. Dustin M. Sekula, 18, of Edinburg, Texas, died April 1, due to injuries sustained from enemy fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, Calif.
Taylor was assigned to the 782nd Main Support Battalion. Sandri was assigned to Charlie Company, 82nd Forward Support Battalion. "For the families of the soldiers that are over there and those who are waiting, you are the strongest people I know. For the families of the soldiers that were injured or killed in the line of duty, never forget the strength they showed in wanting to protect you. even though I only know a few men over there, I know that each mother, father, sister, brother, son, and daughter is over there fighting their hardest to make sure that you and I stay free! "
"All of the brave young men and to the loved ones, "All the men in women who sacrifice so much to keep us free. HOME OF THE FREE,BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE. Men and women who look in the eyes of danger, so we don't have to. True HEROES. My husband is in Afghanistan and i understand the loyalty, dedication, and sacrifices these heroes make for us all. ONE NATION UNDER GOD. GOD BLESS ALL THE FAMILIES. SSGT Stephen & Helen Workman" "I am a wife who's husband was wounded in Iraq in August 2003. My heart is bruised every time a soldier is wasting his life in a senseless war in Iraq or anywhere else in the world. I hope the families of those brave soldiers can somehow overcome their terrible loss. May God bless everyone in this world!"
Pfc. William R. Strange, a 1st Cavalry Division soldier died of his injuries Friday, April 2, 2004, after an explosive attack was identified Saturday by military officials. "All of our men and women dying for this country, and to all of their families, may God be with everyone through this." "To all soldiers and their families. America can never thank any of you enough for your bravery. We have a very dear Son-In-Law in Iraq. Our prayers are with all of America and the innocent people in Iraq. As a military Brat. I salute you all. Love from Texas. The Martins" "All of our fallen comrades who gave of themselves for the freedom of others. We are praying for bereaved families everywhere that God will strengthen you and that you will find the comfort of his arms to be more than enough. Cheryl L. Dickerson Great Lakes Naval Hospital"
Spc. Christopher D. Gelineau, 23 of Portland, Maine, died April 20 in Mosul, Iraq, when his vehicle hit an improvised explosive device. Gelineau was assigned to the Army National Guard’s 133rd Engineer Battalion, Gardiner, Maine. "To all your soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice, I give my pride and prayers to you. My child came home safely and my prayer each night is to protect those who are still there. May God wrap his loving arms around you all and give you the peace and comfort you need. These heroes gave their lives for people to live free. Their bravery will always be remembered and revered."
"The men and women who have given their lives in Iraq for the freedom of oppressed people. It is an honor to know that I live in a country that has men and women who care more about the LIFE of their fellow man than their own ...that they have the compassion and courage to do what is right. May God grant each family with this tremendous loss of life of their loved one...also that same compassion and courage to continue on for the sake of others." Command Sgt. Major Eric F. Cooke
"To all who have fought (and still fight)and made the ultimate sacrifice for our great country. To all family members, friends and those who knew these brave men and women thoughts and prayers go out. Air Force SSgt. Ovie Reeves and Family Oreeves@konnect.net"
"Brother, I never got to see you again after our platoons split at Viper. The last story I remember that you told me was about the big buck that was hunting you back home in October. The deer was just out of your reach but, you wouldn't trade being out in the woods for anything. I think the only thing you loved more were your fellow Marines. You didn't have to pull rank but, you did. You put yourself in your Marine's shoes and it cost you your life. I'll always remember. Semper Fi. (I'm sure there is an Iowa woods in a Marine's heaven" "Anthony Lagman, may you rest in peace you will always be remembered. God bless your family". Staff Sgt.Anthony S. Lagman 2-22 10th Mountain Division Sgt. Michael Esposito 2-22 10th Mountain Division The Department of Defense announced on Friday, 03/19/2004, the death of two soldiers supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died on March 18, in Dehrawood, Afghanistan, when their team came under small arms fire while clearing a village. Both Soldiers were assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), Fort Drum, N.Y. Killed were: "I have lost a friend in this war, which is hard to accept. I pray for everyone who has been lost and for the families as well. God Bless everyone Josh Currier, Ft. Worth, TX" "Every morning and every night my 5 year old daughter and I pray and the first in our prayers are our Americans that are fighting our war and a prayer for that country that has never had peace and for all the families that are losing family members in this war. My heart and prayers will continue. "All the soldiers who have given so much to make sure that we are all free and can continue with the lives that we know. Mine and my families prayers go out to all the mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, wives, husbands, and children of these brave men and women who have given us so much to be thankful for. Your families will never be forgotten as long as there are people who will pray for them and believe me there is a lot of prayers for you all. God Bless You All "I am so sorry for you great loss. i will pray for you all." "To "ALL" the brave men and women who have been sent into war. Words cannot express the feelings that exist during these dark and stressful days. May all of you be blessed.We all pray for your safe return home. I too await the return of my loving son." "My thoughts and prayers are with all the families who have lost someone that made the ultimate sacrifice for our country! May God give the families and friends strength to deal with their loss. Thank you and May God Bless You!! Laurie" "All those who have fallen or been injured in defense of our country and protecting those who cannot protect themselves. and to all the loved ones left behind who in carrying on their memories and keeping their families together and are heroes in my eyes. Also wishing a safe return for for those still on active duty.... Bless u all." "All U.S., other Supporting Soldiers, Friends & Families: I am a newly-wed military wife, with a 13 month old daughter. My heart goes to all families and friends who lost a dear one in this selfish (president/family bush) battle. As we speak, My husband who was stationed in Kuwait for a year but toured to Iraq; is on his way home for good. I know how hard it is to lose someone special. I lost my dear friend and neighbor in the Gulf War. He was only 19 years old fresh out of boot camp. Although I was 13 when that happened, I prayed that, that never happens again. Our heroes are safe, happy and awaiting our "deployment". Now WE ARE the solider and they the civilians. God bless. Lettie Flores, Los Angeles, CA 17 March 2003 |
To all of our fallen heros who have given the last full measure for the sake of freedom... Thank you. To the families and loved ones of those who have fallen in the defense of others and keeping the world free, my condolences and know that your hero will not be forgotton and your sacrifice is deeply valued by this nation. May God comfort and keep you. Respectfully, Judy D., Indiana. 18 Apr 2006 SFC Stephen J White (Steve) who died on 01/05/06 serving his country. May his soul rest in peace. I would like to send a prayer to GOD to bless his family especially his seven children whom he loved so much and his brothers in Talladega, AL. Steve will be missed and I will forever carry and treasure his memory in my heart for the rest of my life. God bless his family. Charmaine Young Felipe Sandoval In Rememberance of all the Marines who have fallen. I give my most heartfelt gratitude for what you died for. Your devotion to the protection of our country will never be forgotten by me or anyone in my future family. I have never met a better brother than one of my fellow Marines. I fought beside them and would do it anytime. Thank you for what you did, and may god bless you. Sgt Chris DuRant (former) 07 Apr 2006 Pfc. Ricky Salas, Jr. 22, of Roswell, N.M. My heart goes out to this family. I once was a Salas and was married into this family. I still recall Ricky running around laughing and smiling so full of energy and so cute! He was a little younger than my boys, Eddie Don Salas and Bobby Don Salas. My husband, Eddie Salas, was double cousins with Ricky Salas Sr. I was widowed in 1981 but saw the family many times throughout the years. My love for them will always remain. I will be praying for this special family. I send out love and prayers to Brenda, Ricky Sr., Tio Eliseo, and Tia Francis, and all of the family. God bless you all. I am so sorry for your loss. Always, Donnora Salas Caswell
May God forever bless this wonderful young man. He was a blessing to everyone that knew him and was a positive image for all that would follow him. In Loving Memory... Tom Tisdale, Wildomar, CA "Let us do our part. Hope for a better tomorrow. I will hold you in my heart and you will never be alone," he wrote. "In God you're always home. And I will breathe...and I will bleed... And I will strive... And I will fight... And I will try...And I will cry...And I will die for you...all for you....It's all for you." Sgt. Nathan K. Bouchard, 24, of Wildomar, Calif; Staff Sgt. Jeremy W. Doyle, 24, of Chesterton, Md; Spc. Ray M. Fuhrmann, II, 28, of Novato, Calif;
Paul, it has been a year since you left this earth, and yet it seems like yesterday you were recovering at Walter Reed. Your strength and resilience those last few weeks still amaze me. Thank you for giving us those weeks of laughter and tears to help us remember determination means everything! I love you baby brother, and I will see you at the pearly gates one day. Sherri The family of SSG Paul C. Mardis, Jr. has established a memorial to him at http://ssg-paul-mardis.memory-of.com Staff Sgt. Paul C. Mardis, Jr., 25, of Palmetto, Fla., died July 15 in Washington, D.C., from injuries sustained on May 20 in Mosul, Iraq, when his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device. Mardis was assigned to the Army’s 3rd Battalion, 5th Special Forces Group, from Fort Campbell, Ky.
I went to Ait with Eric. He was always smiling, and could make most laugh when they were having a bad day. May God rest your soul, Eric. You will always live in my heart. You will never be forgotten. Spc Morris 612th QM CO. Iraq Spc. Eric T. Burri, 21, of Wyoming, Mich., died June 7 in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV. Burri was assigned to the 623rd Quartermaster Company, 1st Corps Support Command, Fort Bragg, N.C. In Memory of all our soldiers, those who have died for our country and for those who are still working hard to protect us. I honor and admire you all. My prayers go to you and to your families. Please don't ever feel alone, we are all with you every step of the way. Thank you,
Pfc. Ray J. Hutchinson, 20, of League City, Texas, was killed Dec. 7 in Mosul, Iraq. Hutchinson was returning from a patrol when an improvised explosive device hit his vehicle. He died as a result of his injuries. Hutchinson was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.
Lance Cpl. Jonathan W. Grant, 23, of Santa Fe, N.M., died May 11, along with three other soldiers, when their amphibious assault vehicle struck an explosive device while conducting combat operations against enemy forces in Karabilah, Iraq. Grant was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Albuquerque, N.M., "Cpl Bryan J. Richardson, you were an awesome Marine and dear West Virginia friend that we could talk anytime about the Mountains. You will be dearly missed. Semper Fi!!!! "Bryan Richardson, you were one of my dearest students. I will always remember your smile. Mrs. Spinks" Cpl. Bryan J. Richardson, 23, of Summersville, W.Va., died March 25 as a result of hostile action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Moundsville, W.Va.
"In loving memory of Sean Grimes" Capt. Sean Grimes, serving as a physician’s assistant, was one of four soldiers killed Friday. “Our family is very saddened and our hearts are filled with grief,” his family said in a statement released by the Army. “Sean loved the Army and the military and was devoted to his mission of providing the best possible medical care to soldiers.” “He died fighting for what he believed in, and our entire family is extremely proud of his service. Sean will always be a hero to us,” the family said. “His family said he had a strong sense of service to his country and his fellow man,” said Army spokesman Henry Kearney. “He felt he was making a positive difference in Iraq.” Capt. Sean Grimes, 31, of Southfield, Mich. died on Mar. 4 in Ar Ramadi, Iraq when an improvised explosive device detonated near their patrol. He was assigned to the 1st Infantry Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, Fort Carson, Colo. The soldiers are
"Sgt. Jessica M. Housby. Sgt. Jessica M. Housby, 23, of Rock Island, Ill., died Feb. 9 in Route Golden, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near her convoy. Housby was assigned to the Army National Guard's 1644th Transportation Company, Rock Falls, Ill.
Lance Cpl. Darrell J. Schumann had survived fierce door-to-door fighting and was counting down to one more mission before heading home in 10 days, his father said. 31st MEU remembers fallen brothers Lance Cpl. Darrell J. Schumann, 25, of Hampton, Va., died, along with 29 other soldiers, Jan. 26 when the CH-53E helicopter they were in crashed near Ar Rutbah, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Hawaii.
Spc. Jeremy F. Regnier, 22, of Littleton, N.H., died October 13 in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his patrol. Regnier was assigned to the Army’s 4th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
"Command Sergeant Major Steven Falkenburg. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family and friends. You were a true leader, a men among men and will be sorely missed by a Nation who is grateful for the ultimate sacrifice that you have given. Your death was not in vain, we shall free a Nation thanks to the soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen that have paid the ultimate sacrifice. MSG Dan McCraw & Family" Command Sgt. Maj. Steven W. Faulkenburg, 45, of Huntingburg, Ind., died Nov. 9 in Fallujah, Iraq, when he came under small arms fire while conducting combat operations. Faulkenburg was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Pfc. Harrison J. Meyer, 20, of Worthington, Ohio, died Nov. 26 in Ar Ramadi, Iraq, when his unit was attacked by enemy forces using small arms fire. Meyer was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, Camp Howze, Korea. "To all the young soldiers whose lives were cut short and the civilians workers
“He was my brother and role model,” said Gil Nieves, a 19-year-old plebe at West Point. “Those memories will never fade away.” Isaac Nieves was supposed to be rotated back to Fort Hood in Texas in December and wanted to come home. Instead, the Army invoked a stop-loss program and kept him in Bamberg, Germany, with the 1st Infantry Division. Then it sent him to Iraq. Spc. Isaac Michael Nieves, 20, of Unadilla, N.Y., died April 8, in Bani Saad, Iraq, when individuals using an improvised explosive devise and small arms fire attacked his combat patrol. Spc. Nieves was assigned to the Army’s 82nd Engineer Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, Bamberg, Germany. "Sgt. Joseph Michael Ekstam, U.S. Army 12 Years
Cpl. Joseph J. Heredia, 22, of Santa Maria, Calif., died Nov. 20 at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Germany (University Hospital Homburg Saar), from wounds received as a result of enemy action on Nov 10 in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Heredia was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Cpl. Marc T. Ryan, 25, of Gloucester, N.J., died Nov. 15 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Ryan was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif.
"In memory of Sgt. Morgan W. Strader. "With Overwhelming Pride and Deep Sorrow, we will remember Morgan W Strader". Uncle Mike and Aunt Estefana. Morgan was my son Josh's best buddy while growing up. Josh felt lost when Morgan moved away. Now he has only memories of Morgan to carry in his heart. Josh says that these memories are all good and now very precious. That was Morgan, always leaving a warm impression on those he touched. We miss you!" "In memory of Sgt. Morgan W. Strader. I thank God for the privilege of knowing him and for the extraordinary influence he had in my life. I will miss our conversations and friendship. Sgt. Morgan W. Strader, 23, of Croosville, Ind., died Nov 12 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar province, Iraq. Strader was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. "In loving memory of SSgt Sean P. Huey. My heart is broken but I know you died doing what you loved best, serving your country. You will be so missed. May God bless you. Love Aunt Peggy" "Sean Patrick Huey, Killed in Action 11/11/04. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Dana Lehnhardt Pittsburgh, PA" "In memory of SSGT Sean P Huey, I love you and will miss you dearly. I will take care of our son and keep you alive through him. I will see you some day when my time comes until then same me a spot next to you. Just know that you did not die in vain or alone, I was always with you and please watch over us. "In memory of Sean P. Huey. "In memory of Sean P. Huey. Staff Sgt. Sean P. Huey, 28, of Fredericktown, Pa., died Nov. 11 in Habbaniyah, Iraq, when his unit was on patrol and a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV. Huey was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, Camp Greaves, Korea. "The Marines of MAGTF-TC 29 Palms,CA. My heart went with you and not a day goes by that my thoughts are far from you. I am so proud that I was able to call you my friends.To your families and loved ones my prayers are with you. God Bless. Michelle Garcia-Pitts Marine wife SEMPER FI SPC."
Pfc. Oscar A. Martinez, 19, of North Lauderdale, Fla. died Oct. 12 as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Martinez was assigned to I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
"Michael thank you so much for the lessons learned. Thank you for being such a wonderful loving friend and husband to my Little PK. I am so glad that I told you how important you were to me. I am so proud to say that my son in law was and Officer in the United States Army. HOOAH! This all still seems so unfair, please ask God to send comfort to the heart of PK. She misses you so very much. Thank you as well for being so brave!
"In Memory of 2nd Lt. James Michael Goins It's Ariel I miss you so very much more than you could ever know. You were my idol. I never told you though. And even though when I talked to you on the computer I was always a little bit embarrassed to say I love you since you are my brother in law, I wish I wouldn't have been. There was nothing to be ashamed of and I'm glad I got the chance to say good bye, stay safe, and I love you one last time. We will always remember you. Just ask God one thing for me? Save me a spot next to you up there in heaven. Love you and Miss you. 2nd Lt. James Michael Goins, 23, of Bonner Springs, Kan., died as a result of hostile fire on August 15 in Najaf, Iraq.Goins was assigned to the Army’s 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division from Fort Hood, Texas. "Spc Joshua Justice Henry..Josh joined Gods army on September 20, 2004. Our hearts are heavy. We know you are watching over all of us and will be with us forever. We will never forget. Luv u man Spc. Joshua J. Henry, 21, of Avonmore, Pa., died Sept. 20 in Tikrit, Iraq, of injuries sustained when his convoy was attacked by enemy forces using small arms fire in Sharqat, Iraq. Henry was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany.
I remember the first time that I met Woods. He was at first shy, then when he got to know me he opened up and was very funny. He always used to tell me that he took care of my husband while I was away. He and my husband were best friends. I will miss seeing his face when he and my husband would pick me up from the airport. He was always willing to help. He was loved by both of us. He will forever be in our hearts, we love him very much. God bless his family and friends." Julian Woods was a star football player at Ed White High School in Jacksonville. He joined the Navy soon after graduation in 2000. "He was a joy," Woods' mother, Carolyn, tears streaming down her cheeks, told WTLV-TV. "They took my child, but I'm proud." Woods was in the fourth year of a six-year enlistment. He had a 3-year-old daughter, Israel, who is with her mother, also in the Navy, based in Virginia. Carolyn Woods said she wasn't told how her son died. But she said that when he joined the Navy, they both understood the risks and that it wouldn't always be a peaceful job. "I gave him my blessing when he joined," Woods said. "He died for his country and other people." Petty Officer Third Class Julian Woods, 22, of Jacksonville, Fla., died Nov. 10 as a result of hostile fire in Fallujah, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Marine Division Detachment, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaheohe Bay, Hawaii.
Master Sgt. Steven E. Auchman, 37, of Waterloo, N.Y., died Nov. 9 from injuries received when multiple rocket propelled grenades struck his location in Mosul, Iraq. He was assigned to the 5th Air Support Operations Squadron, Fort Lewis, Wash. "God Bless all our Hero's that have paid the ultimate price for our freedom and the freedom of others. To our fellow Marines that have gone to heaven...RIP Tufelhundens! God Bless your family and friends.
Don, thank you for our freedom!!! We just know YOU, JOEY & ZAC are talking about 4-wheelers! WE MISS YOU GUY'S!!!! SEE YA IN HEAVEN!! LOVE BRENNAN & SANDY
Don Clary killed in Baghdad 11/8/04" 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery. On Nov. 8, Staff Sergeant Clinton Lee Wisdom and Specialist Don Allen Clary were killed in action. Both soldiers were members of Bravo Battery, 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery. They died protecting fellow Americans from an attacking vehicle- borne improved explosive device while acting as part of a security team for a convoy. The incident occurred shortly after leaving the bubble around Baghdad International Airport. A vehicle approached the convoy down a merging ramp. It came on very fast and continued to gain speed. Without hesitation and with complete disregard for the their personal safety, they swerved to position their vehicle between the principal they were protecting and the approaching threat as the threat vehicle exploded. This allowed the principal's vehicle to evade the full force of the blast and the principal and three others to leave the scene unharmed. Staff Sgt. Wisdom and Spec. Clary were killed by that explosion. A third soldier was wounded in action, and a fourth soldier was injured in the actions taken immediately after the explosion. All families involved have been informed. The actions of the Bravo Battery soldier on Nov. 8 epitomize the battalion motto, Semper Parvo Meliores, "Always a Little Better." What they did was awesome in the complete sense of the word. In a moment of grace, they laid it on the line and gave themselves in the place of their comrades. Their country could have asked no more, and being what they were, they could give no less. They are heroes in every way. The two field-artillery soldiers deliberately positioned themselves in front of an approaching bomber driving another vehicle, said Joy Moser, the spokeswoman for the Kansas National Guard. The approaching vehicle exploded, killing the two men. "In carrying out their mission - to protect someone in their charge - these men exhibited the greatest commitment a soldier can have to his duty, his country and his fellow soldiers," said Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, the adjutant general of Kansas. "We've got two heroes here. They were willing to do what they had to do in an area that's as dangerous as it gets." The actions of the two men allowed the protected vehicle to survive the attack and leave the scene, National Guard officials stated. Don was part of Battery B, 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery, a unit normally stationed in Atchison, Kan. Spc. Don A. Clary, 21, of Troy, Kan., and Staff Sgt. Clinton L. Wisdom, 39, of Atchison, Kan., died November 8 in Baghdad, Iraq when a vehicle borne improvised explosive device detonated near their convoy. Both soldiers were assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery, Kansas National Guard, Horton, Kan. "All the KBR contractors who have given their lives while preforming vital missions for the millitary they supported." "ALL THE SOLDIERS, MARINES, SAILORS, AND AIRMEN "Edgar E. Lopez, I am deeply sorry for your loss. I am forever grateful for the sacrifice you have made for our country. God Bless you and your family." Sgt. Edgar E. Lopez, 27, of Los Angeles, Calif., died Aug. 28 due to enemy action in Babil Province, Iraq. Lopez was assigned to 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
"Dan the Man" You were my husbands best friend for over 18 years. I can not begin to imagine the loss your presence will be upon all of those who know you. May God wrap his arms around those who feel the pain of your loss." Sgt. James D. Faulkner, 23, of Clarksville, Ind., died Sept. 8 in Baghdad when his military vehicle hit an improvised explosive device. Faulkner was assigned to the 20th Engineer Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
K. Lynn" Eggers loved the military and had always wanted to be a soldier according to a member of his family. He was a graduate of The Citadel, the South Carolina military college, ranking near the top of his class. He was in the Army special forces. Capt. Daniel W. Eggers, 28, of Cape Coral, Fla.died May 29 in Kandahar, Afghanistan, when his vehicle hit a land mine. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), from Fort Bragg, N.C. "In memory of Larry Wells Mt Hermon Louisiana. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Thank you to you and all the soldiers who have fought and are still fighting this long battle for us and for our freedom. God Bless You All!! You are all heroes!!" Lance Cpl. Larry L. Wells, 22, of Mount Hermon, La., died August 6 due to enemy action in An Najal Province, Iraq. He was assigned to Unit Battalion Landing Team 1/4, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Former Sergeant James A. Colligan" Staff Sgt. Don S. McMahan, 31, of Nashville, Tenn., died April 9 in Baghdad, Iraq, when individuals using rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire attacked his convoy. McMahan was assigned to the 1st Battalion, A 94th Field Artillery, 1st Armored Division, in Baumholder, Germany.
Lance Cpl. Juan Lopez, 22, of Whitfield, Ga., died June 21 from hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. "The Marines from Charlie CO. 1/5 You where there from the beginning and will always be there till the end. Charlie Company" "... to all who are serving. I wanted to say thank you to all of you. I'm very sorry for those of you who have lost a family member, or a friend. I don't have the words to express how I feel. Only thank you. A Proud Army Wife" "I am a soldier from the 233rd MP CO out of Springfield Il. I just spent over a year in Baghdad and lost some friends. Sgt. Landis W. Garrison, 23, of Rapids City, Ill., died April 29, in Abu Gharb, Iraq, of non-combat related injuries. Sgt. Garrison was assigned to the 333rd Military Police Company, Illinois National Guard, Freeport, Ill. Spc. Michelle M. Witmer, 20, of New Berlin, Wis., died April 9 in Baghdad, Iraq, when she became involved in an improvised explosive device and small arms attack. Witmer was assigned to the Army National Guard’s 32nd Military Police Company, Milwaukee, Wis.
The world as you know, ended the day our Father called you home. The birds still chirp, the grass and trees still grow, the wind still blows and the stars still come out and shine. Our tears fall, at the slightest thought of your smile, your laughter, or the lingering sound of your voice. How we wish somehow we’d known that you would not come home. How we wish we had one more laugh together, one more conversation – what would you have said? One more chance to shake your hand, pat you on the back, give you a big hug and let you know how much we love you. These days, I spend my time listening to the whisper of the wind, hoping by some chance I could catch the sound of your laughter; or watch the stars, hoping by some chance I can see the twinkle in your eyes. My dear nephew, My Hero, Our Nation’s hero, thank you son for protecting our Nation, our Diné Nation. While we slept peacefully, you spent sleepless nights being in harms way, protecting us from the terrorists who know no passion, no love, no respect and ignorantly imposed pain upon so many, because of whom you went to war. Your unwavering commitment to help restore peace in a land unlike yours, and among those whose hearts you tried to reach can never be forgotten. As we cling to your memory, we remind ourselves of how short life is, how precious each moment is and what it means to reach out and touch someone as you have touched so many lives. The depth of our pain from your commitment and the ultimate sacrifice you made is too deep to bear. The opportunity to share in your short young life is a blessing. We wonder how long before we can smile at the memories you left behind? How long before we can gently recover from your passing? My flag flies in your honor son, on a daily basis even on the gloomiest days, it gently waves to represent the kind gentleman you were. In our hearts you will forever live, Son. "In Memory of Sgt. Lee D. Todacheene, 29, of Farmington, N.M., was assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion, 77th Armored Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany. I was so very sad as my pen pal Kathy wrote me today that a comrade from Tim died in Balad on the 04-06-04, when mortar fire hit his guard post.. So I will give the family and all the friends from Sgt. Lee D. Todacheene and the Navajo Nation my condolence's. I have heard Sgt. Lee D. Todacheene is the nephew of the Vice President of the Navajo Nation. And he is the first Navajo he has paid so much for the freedom in our would. God bless Sgt. Lee D. Todacheene and all the fallen soldiers for their ultimate sacrifice. Your all loss is my loss. Thank you very much to them all for the great job they have done - a dangerous job, very often not easy to do. I am so sad that he has now paid so much for the freedom for other people - I know this isn't the way he wanted to. Thank you Sgt. Lee D. Todacheene! God Bless you and America. Freedom is your gift for us all. Wilhelmine and Rudolf Aufmkolk, Lahnstrasse 20, 64521 Gross Gerau, Germany Soldiers` Angels Foundation, V.P. Wounded Germany Members from the KONTAKT Wiesbaden e.V., German/American Friendship Club" 09 April 2004 Sgt. Lee D. Todacheene, 29, of Farmington, N.M., died April 6, in Balad, Iraq, when mortar fire hit his guard post. Todacheene was assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion, 77th Armored Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany. "SGT. Benjamin L. Gilman. Your son is a hero. He was a good friend of my brothers SGT. Glenn Chamberlain. I am so sorry for your loss, My husband currently serves in Iraq. Your son is unforgotten by many. Many that never knew him. He is our hero. God bless." On Feb. 4, 2004, the governor of Connecticut ordered flags flown at half staff in honor of Sgt. Benjamin L. Gilman., 28, of Meridian, Conn. In is last communication with his mother, Edie Gilman, Sgt. Benjamin L. Gilman wrote: "You are the person that keeps me going. You brought me into a cynical world and taught me everything that makes me the man I am today. I love you for that. I just hope I can keep it up. Even though you are my mother, you are my best friend in the entire world. You mean everything to me. I appreciate everything you have done for me. Now it's my turn to try and do everything for you. I love you Mommy!! I want you to have a wonderful and safe holiday. You will most definitely be in my thoughts and prayers. Merry Christmas, Happy New Year Mom. Love 4 eternity, your son, Ben." Sgt. Benjamin L. Gilman, 28, died on Jan. 29, 2004,in west of Ghazni, Afghanistan. Gilman was assigned to the 41st Engineer Battalion, 10th Mountain Division, based at Fort Drum, N.Y.
"Spc. Charles Odums Jr My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Charles Odums Jr. May God be with you all during your time of loss J Raiter Spc. Charles E. Odums II, 22, of Sandusky, Ohio died May 30 in Baghdad, Iraq, when his military convoy hit an improvised explosive device. Odums was assigned to Headquarters, Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, Ft. Hood, Texas.
While I have not served in the Marine Corps or Armed Forces, I know in my bones that Jason, in a civilian setting, would have done the same for anyone in peril or distress. He would have protected an elderly woman who was attacked or a cashier being robbed in a liquor store. He represents the best of America, and, in a very grim period of our history, has restored my faith and hope in this nation. May his memory be a blessing. "Cpl. Jason L. Dunham, loving brother, son, grandson, nephew, cousin. He cared for everyone as everyone did for Jason. He has impacted so many people's lives. We will always remember his "million-watt" smile and his childish antics that he was always up to. R.I.P Jason You will be missed greatly but never forgotten!!! We love you!!!" "Marine CPL. Jason Dunham - Although I am teary eyed and choked up, I am so proud of the heroic action and death of this young marine. God bless him and his family, comfort them in their time of loss. Semper Fidelis" Cpl. Jason L. Dunham, 22, of Allegany, N.Y. died April 22 due to injuries received from enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, at Twentynine Palms, Calif. "May Lance Cpl. James Casper's family accept my condolences for his untimely death. I had the pleasure to know him briefly before the boys deployed and was so saddened when my boyfriend called to tell me of his death. They served in the same unit and there were nothing but good things ever said about James. May your family find peace in life's small joys and look forward to the day you shall all meet again in heaven. " LCpl. James A. Casper, 20, of Coolidge, Texas, died March 25 due to a non-combat related incident at Al Asad, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 11th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. "Staff Sgt. Stacey C. Brandon, may your family find peace in the years to come, knowing you did not die in vain. May you rest in peace knowing how loved you are. God Bless America and our troops who fight, and those who have died to keep her free." Staff Sgt. Stacey C. Brandon, 35, of Hazen, Ark. died on April 24, in Taji, Iraq, when mortar rounds hit his camp. He was assigned to the Army National Guard’s 39th Support Battalion, 39th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Hazen, Ark. "To the families of the wonderful men and women that gave their lives to protect our country: My heart goes out to you. No words can describe the pain and suffering you endure. Rest in the spirit of the living God that will carry you through this difficult time. They gave their lives so others may live someday in peace. We pray for you!
Pfc. Leroy Harris-Kelly, 20, of Azusa, Calif, died April 20 north of Tallil, Iraq, when his truck went off the road and rolled over because of limited visibility and dangerous driving conditions. Pfc. Harris-Kelly was assigned to the 596th Maintenance Company, 3rd Corps Support Command, V Corps, Darmstadt, Germany. "All of those who sacrificed "EVERYTHING" they had. "In God's Care Brad Shuder" A day after the parents learned of his death, Shuder's dress blues were laid out on his bed. The room was as he had left it: His grandfather's World War II uniform and uncle's Army dress shirt hung on the wall. Nearby were a framed platoon photo and U.S. flag. A Korean flag adorned one corner of his bedroom, a token of his birthplace.
"He told us that he felt he wouldn't be coming back," his father, Glenn, said Wednesday. Shuder wouldn't listen to his family's pleas to try to change his assignment. The 21-year-old El Dorado County Marine felt bound by duty to go, despite his fear. "Brad was very haunted by his experience the first time," said his mother, Rose. "But he never hesitated going back." Born on May 6, 1982, in South Korea, Shuder was adopted at 22 months by Glenn and Rose Shuder of El Dorado County, Calif. "In loving memory of all who have fallen in Iran and Iraq.
Chief Warrant Officer (CW2) Brian D. Hazelgrove, 29, of Fort Rucker, Ala. died when his OH-58 Kiowa Warrior helicopter crashed on its way back from a combat mission near Mosul in northern Iraq. Hazelgrove was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 17th Cavalry Regiment, 10th Aviation Brigade, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) based at Fort Drum, N.Y. "We shall not forget you. We will always love you" "All of the Men and Women we have lost. My prayers go out to each and every family that has lost a loved one. I am so thankful for the sacrifices our men and women are making every day. I pray that God brings you comfort in your time of sorrow. God Bless you all. Josette Fullwood" "Lance Cpl. Gary F. VanLeuven... I knew him from high school and want to send my thoughts and prayers to his family and to thank him and all the others for fighting for our freedom." Lance Cpl. Gary F. VanLeuven, 20, of Klamath Falls, Ore, died April 17 due to injuries received from enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, at Twentynine Palms, Calif. "To the Marines from 1st BN, 5th Marines: There's nowhere on this earth I'd rather be than by your side during this conflict. I know first hand that it takes men of high caliber to endure what you are going through. I pray to God everyday that this all ends quickly and you Marines can come back home to your families. I have you to thank for the freedoms my son will enjoy in his lifetime. God Speed and Semper Fi Former Marine in Coon Rapids, MN"
Pfc. Ryan M. Jerabek, 18, of Oneida, Wis. died April 6, due to hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. My heart is with everyone who has lost someone. Indirectly: 1st Lt. Joshua Palmer Lcpl Michael B Wafford Staff Sgt William M Harrell Lcpl Shane L Goldman Pfc Christopher Ramos Cpl Jesse Thiry Lcpl Mathew Serio These were all men that traveled with my husbands company/battalion and my heart is with you all god bless. Lcpl Lee's Wife with 1st Battalion 5th Marines 1st Marine Division. God bless you all and all the men still alive and fighting. You can now serve the Lord. The above listed Marines died due to injuries received in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
"ALL the marines from 1st bn 5th marines god speed and semper fi A former marine"
Who was killed March 20, 2004 in Iraq. Uncle Mikie, As a child I looked to you as a big playmate As a teenager I looked to you for guidance As an adult I looked at you as a role model As a mother I look at you as the man that lost his life fighting so that my son and I could have freedom and justice ....As your niece I look at you as my uncle, my hero, my friend, and my soldier. God bless you Uncle. I miss you and love you lots!" 1st Lt. Michael W. Vega, 41, of Lathrop, Calif., died March 20 at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, in Washington, D.C., from injuries sustained when his military vehicle rolled over in Diwaniyah, Iraq, on March 11. Vega was assigned to the 223rd Military Intelligence Company, 223rd Military Intelligence Battalion, Army National Guard, based in Sacramento, Calif. Pfc. Jason G. Wright
"To the Family & Friends of those brave men & women who gave their all, their life. Words can't express my gratitude to the courageous service and sacrifice your loved ones gave. May God provide you strength & courage to face each new day. May we never forget these 'bravehearts' who will always be remembered for their love of their family and America. May God bless & comfort you as you mourn the too soon passing of your loved ones. Rick"
"To his family - Ray and I worked at HEB together. I am in the Army also, and I was in Baghdad. I returned from my first deployment in November 2002. I went to HEB and our boss, Corrine, was so proud when she showed me the picture of him in uniform. When I returned this time, she was afraid to tell me about Ray. It just didn't feel right to me that I made it home and he didn't. I will forever feel that guilt and sadness. He was young and he had a lot to look forward to in life. To Ray - I know you will not read this but maybe in some way you will know what I have to say. I will always remember your smile and the way you used to laugh when you teased me and your other co-workers. You loved to play with us. You were truly a good friend to me and others. I feel guilt that I am alive here in Texas when you are not. There are times that I should not have made it out of Baghdad alive. I didn't even know that you were in Iraq with me. I miss you, Ray, as long as I live I will always remember you."
SSG Crockett was my favorite motor sergeant when he was attached to A Company 51st Signal Battalion. SSG Crockett was a great NCO. He was very understanding. During my term in Iraq..I called SSG Crockett for everything and he would help me cope with my problems... I will pray for his family that they will be able to adjust to their loss. He was such an asset to A Co, D Co, and the 51st Signal Battalion... R.I.P SSG Crockett YOU WILL TRULY BE MISSED BY ALL.
God, please be with his Dad and my old buddy. Send your spirit of healing and peace to Jim, his Mom, his family and friends that morn his loss. Give him the wisdom, and strength and courage to lead his family through the days ahead. I ask that he seeks solace in the Prince of Peace, Jesus, your Son. Because you know better than any of us what it is like when a Dad loses his boy. You know how to and have the power to bring the peace that he needs. I pray this in Jesus name, Amen. Jim, find your peace in God. It's been a long time old buddy, but the years and the miles haven't broken the bonds of friendship. JOHN 3:16 STEVE MCMULLEN"
"My love and prayers go to my sister Melissa, and her husbands family who lost Philip Jan. 2004. Vermont" "May God be with you and protect each and every single one of you there !!!!!!!! The Bonilla Family"
Pfc. Ervin Dervishi, 21, Fort Worth, Texas, died Jan. 24 in Baji, Iraq, during combat patrol. He was assigned the Company B, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, based at Fort Hood, Texas. "There is no greater love than a man who lays his life down for his brother." I hope those of you who have lost your loved ones can find some peace in knowing that they died doing the greatest thing a man can do on earth. God has blessed us all with your loved ones and I know I will be forever in their debt. God Bless you all, Colleen (My brother is currently serving in Kosovo)" Sgt. Benjamin W. Biskie
"My flags will fly high till everyone comes home Thank you for what you did. Patti" "Those who have lost there lives , caring for all the Americans and their families. and fighting for what they believe in, now that is a real soldier. America is proud of you all for what you have done for your country." "My prayers go out to all the soldiers and their families!! To any soldiers who were injured. I think of you and can only hope you are doing better. I am the wife of a soldier who just returned to Iraq for the remainder of his tour and I can only wish that he and ALL the soldiers come home safely."
"For a man that is missed and a brave soul who fought proudly for this country, my heart to you and many others over waters and skies. I'm proud to have know that you saved a man so that he may walk another day on this earth. You are truly a hero in my eyes and a great soldier who served with heart and soul. To all the men and women of our armed forces God bless America and may you all come home safe."
Since we were young you have been making us laugh, now we had to let you go entertain the angels. Thank you for being such a great friend while you were here and serving our country so bravely, we are proud to call you our American Hero! Western Branch High School Class of 2001" Pfc. Andrew L. Tuazon, 21, of Chesapeake, Va., died May 10, in Mosul, Iraq, from hostile fire while on guard duty. Pfc. Tuazon was assigned to the Army’s 293rd Military Police Company, 3rd Military Police Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga. "I would like to say that my husband and I know a few of the guys who have been killed. We were stationed in fort riley and we think of all of those people we have left behind each and everyday. We love all of you. "To all the families who have lost a person serving in the military. I'm truly sorry . I know this doesn't even begin to touch or ease the pain. I just want to say I'm aware of the sacrifice. I think of the service personal often and pray for them. Hopefully they have around the clock prayers ,when one heart felt prayer ends, other starts. United in God's love and forgiveness. Karen aa/fa" "As a wife of a deployed soldier, I want to send out my deepest sympathy and regards to everyone who has lost a son, daughter, wife, husband, brother, sister or friend during this horrible war! We have lost many soldiers and these "Heroes" will never be forgotten, and we as civilians will never be able to thank them enough for the deep love they had for us, the American people, and their country! These heroes are in our hearts and minds each and everyday and will never, ever, be forgotten! Jessica Warren, Wife of SSG Christopher Warren B 1-13 Armor Khadimiyah, IRAQ" 25 Jan 2004 "As a nurse working in a Veterans Hospital, I am reminded on a daily basis of the courage, strength and bravery of the men and women in the armed forces. I make sure they (and their families) know of my appreciation for their sacrifice and my enormous respect for their unselfish choice to serve their country. They are the true heroes of America! I know there will always be a special place in Heaven for each and every one of these soldiers. Thanks from the bottom of my heart to each and every one of you!! May God bless you and your loved ones. RN in Virginia" 09 Jan 2004 "To the families of all our fallen heroes...I can not even begin to put together the words that could express what I feel when reading the names and stories of all who are posted here and will continue to be as long as our men and women are fighting in Iraq or any other country that they are asked to go to. I personally don't have family in Iraq but I have a friend that I have lost contact with but each and every day the first I do when I wake is to see if we've lost another soldier. My heart aches and bleeds each time I listen to the news and here that another has fallen. I never knew anyone name until I found this site yesterday. Now to have names, faces and stories my heart is now that more heavier than it was. I wish that I could reach out and hug each and everyone that has been touched by this senseless war and the families that have been left behind. Your sons and daughters have made the supreme sacrifice and there will never be a day that goes by that I will not remember them in my thoughts and prayers. With heavy heart and soul....Sande Lyons" "My nephew, Bradley Harless, is in the Marines and stationed in Iraq. He is 19 and my sister's only son. The possibility of losing him is unbearable, and my heart breaks for you. Our sons and daughters in the military are ambassadors of freedom, overthrowing tyranny and bringing hope to an oppressed people. There can be no more honorable reason for the loss of life. Peace." "Everyone of you who died in this war was one too much! Someone from Austria, Europe" "Every single one of the finest soldiers that the world has known, who have given their lives in support of our country. I would like anyone who reads this to know that, although I don't support George W. Bush, I am proud to the depths of my heart of those who did not hesitate when called to duty. America needs them, every one." "How we feel about or fallen men can be best expressed in the following dedication read annually during ANZAC Remembrance Day. God bless our heroes. 'They shall not grow old, Major Hector Herrera, USA RET." "I just got back from Iraq myself. I thank god everyday that He allowed me to return home. I pray for the soldier's passed away and their families. Stay strong and be proud!" Miriam Watson, miriam.jean.ragan@us.army.mil "I sit here with great anticipation that my little brother will return to us safely. Each and every man and woman who have served this great county of ours not only deserves our prayer but also our utmost RESPECT. THANK YOU!! I'm so proud that I live in a world that the good of a few diminish the evil of a lot. Thanks. My prayers are especially with those who have lost loved ones in this time of war. My heart aches for you and your families. But please rejoice that the honor of your loved one will not be lost if you keep the story and greatness alive of your HERO. Please teach those around you the good and honor that comes from loving your country.--- Tennessee" "My heart goes out to all the families that lost someone. May God bless you all. "The last hour i have read these postings. I do not know any of these fine men and women or their families. Yet i feel as they are all my own. I a 67 year old man here in Palm Springs CA, and can only cry as i read." "I wish to add my name to those that are praying for our Troops in hostile combat. I spent 12 years in the military.I am a Korean Vet. Also i am a Chaplain. I send my love to all the families who have lost love ones. My son is in the 760th Ord. Co. He is a EOD soldier. He is attached to the 82 Air Bourne. I love all our men and women who are serving in 143 countries.I will be praying for all who have lost love ones. If you would like to send me e-mail I will answer. My e-mail is revbruceburgess@hotmail.com. God bless everyone." "It was an honor and a privilege to read those names who died fighting for our country."
Mrs. Kim Smith Pvt. Robert L. Frantz, 19, of San Antonio, Texas, was killed on June 17, 2003, in Baghdad, Iraq. Frantz was on guard duty when a local resident threw a grenade over the wall. Frantz died of his injuries. Frantz was assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 36th Infantry Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Ray Barracks, Germany "So sorry that LCpl. James A. Casper is no longer here with us. We had the pleasure of having him over for a meal one day, and he told my son stories of his war experiences, and had us captivated. My deepest condolences to his family. I know he will be missed greatly from this earth. Life is not fair. Not at all. Sorry, again, to you." LCpl. James A. Casper, 20, of Coolidge, Texas, died March 25 due to a non-combat related incident at Al Asad, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 11th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
We only knew each other by name and face, we spoke occasionally. I remember you were very soft spoken. Never mean. I'm just so proud to say I served in the same unit as you. I lived in the presence of a hero. God bless You Philip. May God grant you Peace. Outlaw 5 Delta Jones" Spc. Philip I. Spakosky, 25, of Browns Mill, N.J., died May 14 in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained on May 13, in Karbala, Iraq when he was shot by a suspected sniper. Spakosky was assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion, 37th Armor, 1st Armored Division, Friedberg, Germany. "(To) all of my heroes, and their families, (I'm) praying for all of you all. Keep the military in prayers. I have two sons, one in the Navy and other in the Army in Iraq, 4th Infantry Division, God bless you all." "God be with you during your pain. May god care for the other men and women serving. May He have mercy on the government for causing this. Thank goodness my brother-in-law is home now. He is a changed man and will forever remember what he did there unfortunately. God bless the Calvary Div. of Fort Polk, LA" SSGT Eddie E. Menyweather
"My prayers and thoughts go out to all the families that have lost loved ones during Operation Iraqi Freedom. My brother is in the 1-32 Infantry 10 Mountain Division in Iraq. May God be with you all. And let us continue to support our troops and pray for their safe return. Cresta Ewton, Dunlap Tennessee" "Though this war has gone on, it is far from over. My best friend is in the 1/63rd; when I don't hear from him for a day or two I check The List. My thoughts and prayers are with all those who have recognized a name on this List. We hold them in our memories and our hearts for defending our freedom, and that is something that will never fade. My thoughts with you all, Tami, S. FL" "My condolences go out to all the families that have lost loved ones in Iraq and Afghanistan. Those that have fallen in defense of our nation have a special place in the hearts and minds of the nation. I never forget that it is because of their selfless service and ultimate sacrifice that we in this country remain safe. May God bless them and all who serve." "My Army SPC son, is serving in Afghanistan. He has been there since Early August and like others, wants very much to come home! I find myself torn in wanting to support his serving his country and honoring his commitment to serve and protect us all, or feel and expose my anger and resentment. I'm realizing day by day, that this war was wrong! I pray for all of our heroes and their loved ones. Seeing these precious and mostly young soldiers, being injured and maimed, not to mention the magnitude of the lost lives, is so painful! I cannot imagine experiencing it first hand and so pray not to! Lord be with us all! Diane Caldwell B'Ham, AL" "Family of CPL BROWNFIELD US MARINE Please accept my heartfelt condolences for your loss. Your son deserves the Highest Honors for his service. He WILL forever be remembered by his Marine family as well... Former Marine Ordnanceman." "My heart breaks for all of you who have lost loved ones. They made the ultimate sacrifice and are all heroes in my eyes. Please know that you're all in my thoughts and prayers. Tina Olson, Tacoma, WA." 24 Dec 2003 "My heart goes out to each one of you. My thoughts and prayers are with you each and everyday. I have a brother in Iraq and I'm praying that he has a safe return. May God bless you and your families" SFC Paul Smith
"Luke James was just a 9 year old kid from Hooker Oklahoma when I met him. I would baby-sit him and his brother and sister. His dad was in the Army Reserves and Luke wanted to be just like his dad. I found out 2 weeks ago that Luke had been deployed to Iraq. It felt so wrong that this "kid" would be in such danger, but he was doing what he always wanted to do. We live on Andrews AFB, and I often see the planes unloading the wounded and the dead. I never wanted to see that happen to Luke, but now I am waiting on word of his last flight home. My heart and prayers go out to his wife and new baby, and to his family who will miss him dearly. Dessie Yates"
The Unnecessary Death of Pat Tillman Spc. Patrick D. Tillman, 27, of San Jose, California, died April 22, in Afghanistan when his patrol vehicle came under attack. He was struck down by friendly fire. Spc. Tillman was assigned to the Army’s 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash "Pat Tillman would probably want to be commemorated by nothing more than the simple hush we devote to other lost infantrymen we didn't know. He no doubt would have preferred that we dwell instead on the photographs of those caskets draped in flags coming home from Iraq. He would surely disapprove of so much attention diverted to a single serviceman, simply because he played football. In the two years since he abandoned his NFL career and enlisted to become an Army Ranger, he steadfastly declined interviews and refused to use his military experience for renown or profit. Just prior to his death, Tillman's friends learned that he no longer considered himself a football player. He was thinking seriously of reenlisting and of making the military his career. He aspired to be an officer. He wanted, he said, to lead Rangers." "To the families of SPC Ford and CPT Kurth, I send my deepest regrets for the loss you both have suffered. My husband is in their company and it has hit him hard. My husband thought so highly of both and really enjoyed their presence's. I wish you the best on behalf of my husband and I. They will be remembered. SSG Jerry Mctaggart and Michelle Mctaggart" Capt. John F. Kurth, 31, of Wis., died March 13 in Tikrit, Iraq, when his patrol encountered an improvised explosive device. Kurth was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, based in Schweinfurt, Germany. "I am a mother of four, and a grandmother of three children. My husband served 16 years in the military serving our great country. There is no way to really thank all our service members for their service and dedication to our countries freedom. I will thank them every day for my freedom, and the freedom of all my children , and grandchildren's freedoms. This is a debt I can never repay to the brave men and women who have given their lives so mine and others can be free. I am forever in your debt, and I thank you forever! Sincerely Yours, Mary Lemm, Lakin, Kansas"
KIA Iraq In memory of my dearest son, "The Big Ern." A son...a brother...an uncle...a friend We miss you, darling Capt. Ernesto M. Blanco "My thoughts go out to the family and friends of CPT Ernesto Blanco. He was killed in Iraq when the humvee he was travelling in was hit by an IED on December 28, 2003. As the wife of one of this man's soldiers I can honestly say he was well respected and looked up to. He is one of the best people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I actually had an email from him not long before this terrible incident happened and to hear him speak of his loved ones back home and the guys he worked with was incredible. This man has touched the lives of so many people and we are all so proud and privileged to have known him. He shall be missed greatly and the strength and leadership he has taught all of those around him shall live on. With Deepest Sympathy Camilla Maki (SGT Maki's wife)"
A son, a grandson, a brother, a fiancee, an uncle, a cousin, a friend.... you were a good boy, and had turned into a good man. We just wish we could have seen you more as that man. We were robbed of so much. The future was bright. Oh, how we miss you. You will live forever in our hearts and thoughts. Love, Sgt. Michael W. Mitchell, 25, of Porterville, Calif., died on April 4, in Baghdad, Iraq, when his unit was attacked with rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire. Mitchell was assigned to the Army’s 2nd Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division, Ray Barracks, Friedberg, Germany. Boy sees father honored, buried
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Lance Cpl. Harry R. Swain
Sgt. 1st Class Obediah J. Kolath, 32, of Louisburg, Mo., died on Aug. 28, 2005, in Landstuhl, Germany, of injuries sustained on Aug. 25, 2005, in Husaybah, Iraq.
"
PFC. Kenneth E. Zeigler II
An honor guard stood at attention, guns were fired in salute and a lone bugler played as a fallen soldier from Pennsylvania was buried at Arlington National Cemetery on Friday, June 3, 2005..
James David Parker
"Spc. Michael S Weger, Houston TX
"SGM Barbaralien Banks:
"SSG Shane E. Koele, You were an idol for us all. You were everything, PLUS of what a real solder should be. The Best of the Best is what you will be remember by in mine and all those in which you served with at Ft. Riley, KS. Our prayers and love go to your family. Thank You. SPC Sullivan, J. + SGT Weber, K."
"Spc. Shawn M. Davies
"Capt. Lyle L. Gordon, USMC
"Sgt. Nathaniel T. Swindell who was a very close childhood friend of mine. I have known Nate since I was 6years old and he has always been such a wonderful person. I am so proud that he got a chance to see more than the rough streets of the Bronx. I am also happy that while he was on this earth he got a chance to feel love, true love. I miss you dearly and Love you much,
"CPL Michael D Anderson Jr, was the bravest man I ever knew. He wasn't just my best friend, he was the man I loved.
"In Loving Memory Of Cpl. Michael D. Anderson, I will never forget him. He was a very good man, and made me and others proud. He wouldn't ever let me down, even through the most difficult times. I will love him forever, and I will always keep a place in my heart for him, and the others that went along with him. I will see you in Heaven Mike. Love always, Melissa Galford, Newport News, Virginia"
"Staff Sgt. Todd D. Olson.
"To the Ayro family of Jeanerette, La---my thoughts and prayers are with you
"Theodore A Bowling
"SSGT Kyle Eggers will forever be in the hearts of those who have worked with him at the Yakima Training Center. My prayers will be with his wife Jenn and their (3) sons."
"LCpl Victor R. Lu,
"My prayers and thoughts are with the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Dimitrios Gavriel who died in action in Iraq Nov 19. He was a brave and courageous warrier, who gave the ultimate sacrifice of his life for his country. He was, and is a true hero."
"In memory of LT. Wullenwaber.
Capt. Arthur L. Felder
"Thomas K. Doerflinger
"In memory of Cpl. Robert P. Warns II, 23, Waukesha, WI. May we never forget the honor and bravery that Bob served his country with. He was a great soldier and an even better friend. To his family........ My heart goes out to all of you and your great loss, but always remember that Bob represented your family in a way that makes us all proud to have known him."
"In memory of Sgt. Nicholas A. Tomko, 307th Military Police Co., US Army Reserve, New Kensington, PA. Killed one year ago today, on 11/9/2003 in a small-arms attack on his convoy in Baghdad. Gone one year... may his family and loved ones find peace and comfort in the knowledge that the loss of this American Warrior is mourned by an entire nation."
"SGT Andrew W. Brown
"Yoe Manuel Aneiros,
"Caleb Powers
"To the family of Nick Perez, I didn't know your son but I too lost someone to this war and someone I love very much was close to your son, so my heart and prayers goes out to everyone who knew and loved Nick. 
"In loving memory of our son, brother and friend, Cpl. Todd Godwin. Five weeks ago today, the bomb that ripped through your body also ripped through our hearts. Our lives are forever changed. We promise we will always remember you and keep your memory alive. You are our hero forever. We are comforted knowing you are safe in God's care now and we will one day see you again. Until then. Love, your family
Cpl. Joshua S. Wilfong, 22, of Walker, W.Va. died April 30 due to hostile action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Wilfong was assigned to 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, at Camp Lejeune, N.C. 
"Fernando Hannon
"In Loving Memory of SPC SONNY GENE SAMPLER you are a wonderful and loving person. I will never forget you. Thank you for protecting us. Thank you to all the soldiers who have given their lives and that are still fighting for our country. You are all heroes! I Love You Sonny!
"Three weeks before his death, Pvt. 1st Class Samuel R. Bowen helped rescue a fellow Guardsman wounded in a rocket attack. Ron Eaton, of Lakewood, Ohio, was carrying a box of Gatorade out of a commissary at a military base about 50 miles north of Baghdad on June 16 when the men came under attack. Eaton, 35, said a grenade knocked both soldiers off their feet and sprayed shrapnel that cut him in the abdomen, liver and arm. 
Jeffrey Lawrence always wanted to be a Marine, and he enlisted after he graduated from high school in 2000. He played quarterback on the varsity team and acted in several school plays. He was a member of the ROTC. This was his second deployment to the Persian Gulf area. He left behind his 22-year-old wife, Celeste, who is preparing to give birth any day to their first child.
"Capt. Christopher S. Cash: I knew Chris as a classmate, a trainer, and a friend. My heart goes out to his family, and my prayers are with them during this difficult time. May God grant you peace and courage - Chris was an amazing individual, and I know his spirit will live on in his sons."
"Lcpl Travis Layfield -
"Ryan Doltz- You were one of the most sincere and caring people I will probably ever know. The loss of such a great person is truly a tragedy. You will always be in my thoughts and in my prayers. You are my hero.
"Jesse Thiry, Thanks man for giving your life so we can be free back home in the United States of America. I'll see you later in the afterlife.
"A true American Hero lost...but never forgotten. CPL Andrew D. Brownfield, the one who could put a smile on anyone's face. As one man said "No one joins to give their life...but there are some things more important than life..." Shwagg we love you.."
"Sgt. Elmer Krause, 40, of Greensboro, N.C. Even though i didn't know you, i have read in dept the story of your convoy. I am so sorry to hear of your death. Please god save Keith Mathew Maupin from the same tragedy i know he traveled with your convoy. God save and help him. Mrs Hesford, England"
"Capt. Arthur L Felder, a father, son and American hero. Your memory lives on. Rest on my friend.
Capt. Arthur L. Felder, who was an East Texas Baptist University graduate and a most valuable basketball player graduated from the university in Marshall in 1989 with Bachelor of Science degree in physical education and a minor in general business. He played basketball for the Tigers from 1985 to 1988 and was named the team's most valuable player during his senior season, according to the university.
SPC Michael M. Merila
Spec. Doron Chan
Holmes, died March 29, near Balad, Iraq, when his vehicle hit an improvised explosive device and fell from a bridge. Holmes was assigned to the Army National Guard’s 744th Transportation Company, Hillsboro, N.H.
"May God be with the families of those who have lost loved ones in Iraq and Afghanistan. Words cannot express my sorrow for your loss. Spc. Raphael Davis was a good friend of mine and I am very sorry about his loss." Katunia from Pickens, MS
Spc. Adam D. Froehlich, 21, of Pine Hill, NJ., died March 25 in Baqubah, Iraq, from injuries sustained when his patrol came under an IED attack. Spc. Froehlich was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 6th Field Artillery, from Warner Barracks, Bamberg, Germany.
Spc. Scott Q. Larson Jr., 22, of Houston, Texas. 
Lt. Brandon Ratliff
In loving memory of PFC Damian J. Garza.
PFC. DAMIAN J. GARZA Died Aug. 4, 2005 Operation Enduring Freedom Recognizing that I volunteered as a Ranger, fully knowing the hazards of my chosen profession, I will always endeavor to uphold the prestige, honor, and high “esprit de corps” of my Ranger Regiment... - FIRST STANZA OF THE RANGER CREED 
Pvt. John M. Henderson Jr., 21, of Columbus, Ga, shown left, died on Aug. 4, in Jalalabad, Afghanistan, when their vehicle left the road and went into a river. The soldiers were assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, Ga. 
Lieutenant Erik McCrae
1st Lt. Erik. S. McCrae, 25, of Portland, Ore. died June 4 in Baghdad, Iraq, when individuals using improvised explosive devices and rocket-propelled grenades attacked his convoy. All of the soldiers were assigned to the Army’s National Guard. McCrae was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry, headquartered in Cottage Grove, Ore.:
LCPL Juan Segura 
"Travis Layfield,
"Spc. Ricky W. Rockholt.
"Travis Bruce You will be missed greatly. You are my hero. My friend. My brother I will never forget you.
"Juan Solorio you may be gone but you will never be forgotten. Thank you for defending our country and being the hero that you are and will always be to everyone in the United States."
Staff Sgt. Ray Rangel
"Sgt. Nick Nolte.
"Staff Sgt. Robert S. Johnson, 23, of Castro Valley, Calif.
"Corporal Jarrod Maher. You were one of a kind. We are so proud of you and what you stood for. The family is strong and will always have our wonderful memories and cherish last Christmas we all had together. And he will raise you up on Eagles wings"
"Todd's mission on earth was to serve his fellowman. May all of us stop and
"Spc. Erik Hayes- a special person, special friend, special brother and a special son. There was something magical about his presence. Thank you Erik for touching our lives and may you continue to watch over your mother and brother's lives in the way you did when you were here on this earth. Your friends in Thurmont, Maryland"
An honor guard carries the casket of Spc. Erik Hayes from Evangelical Bible Church near Thurmont.
"In loving memory of Pfc. Daniel Harrison who was killed Dec. 2, 2004.
Pfc. George Daniel Harrison, 22, of Knoxville, Tenn., was shot and killed on Dec. 2, 2004, by insurgents while he was on patrol in Mosul. He was participating in a joint U.S.-Iraqi government patrol in the eastern part of Mosul when his group was attacked. 
Lance Cpl. Jonathan E. Gadsden, 21, of Charleston, S.C. died Oct. 22 at the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, Fla., from injuries as a result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq on Aug. 21. Gadsden was assigned to 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
"Shane Kielion.
"LCpl Jeffrey Lam, USMC."
"Billy Gomez, the little time that I knew him, I knew he was a great man. He will be missed by many. I wish it was not you, but you believed in something, Billy, and you fought for it. I know your up there where all the Angels are. Take care of your brothers and all your family. God Bless you and all the other soldiers that have died in this war. Rest in Peace, Billy Gomez. - Love Flabia"
Sgt. Pamela Osbourne,Hollywood, Florida
"SGT. Michael A. Uvanni"
"Lcpl SC Tyler Cates. 
"Spc. Edgar Daclan Jr., my fallen brother. You will always be my hero. I will always love and remember you. Although your death is hard to bear, it gives me peace to know that you are safe now - in a much better place than we are. I love you.
"Derek Lloyd Gardner
Airman 1st Class Carl L. Anderson Jr.
In Memory of Pfc. Harry N. Shondee, a member of the Navaho Nation
"In memory of SSgt. Marvin Best. I will never forget the time that we served together in Fox Co. 2/7. You are one of the greatest men that I have ever had the privilege to serve with. I have always looked up to you as a Marine and as a human. You lived the words, 'Honor, Courage, & Commitment' and through these words you will live on through me and all of our brother Marines. You have taught me humility and to always be humble, and I will live my life to the fullest by these traits. Someday I will lead young warriors like you did, and I will instill in them these very same traits as you did me. You will never die my friend. We will meet again someday Staff Sgt. but until that day comes, I have some unfinished business to attend to."
"SSGT Paul Mardis
"PFC Damian Bushart 22yrs, is my son. He was killed in Iraq November 22 when the humvee he was riding in flipped over in the path of an American tank, one of his own. My heart aches for him, my heart is heavy, however, I know this was his decision to join the Army so he could serve the country he loved. I am very Proud of Damian, will continue to love him forever until we meet again at the right hand of God. I love you Bud and Miss you very very much. Hugs and kisses, Love Mom (Pat McLatcher)"
"Dear Family of Patrick McCaffrey,
"Spc Casey Sheehan
"Corporal Jostes and Specialist Sheehan, may you rest in peace for the sacrifice you gave for your fellow soldiers of the Dragon Battalion (1/82 FA) and the Iron Horse Brigade (1BCT), 1st Cavalry Division. We will never forget...
"Cpl Matula, All will know of you and what you are made of. You will live forever and be honored by every Marine past present and future. Semper Fi. 
"Sgt. Landis Garrison Age 23 Rapid City, Illinois and all of the other fallen soldiers in Iraq."
"Aaron C. Austin.
Pfc. Christopher D. Mabry
"Brent Lee Morel
Spc. Michelle M. Witmer, 20, of New Berlin, Wis., died April 9 in Baghdad, Iraq, when she became involved in an improvised explosive device and small arms attack. Witmer was assigned to the Army National Guard’s 32nd Military Police Company, Milwaukee, Wis.
"SSG Anthony Lagman
"Staff Sgt. Anthony S Lagman Yonkers, NY 
"My heart goes out to the Edgerton family. I was his supply sergeant in Alpha Company 82d Signal Battalion and served with him for over three years. He was a hard working and dedicated soldier who answered his nations call. I spoke with him shortly after he returned from the Afghanistan deployment and when he was told that he had to deploy to Iraq, he just sucked it up and drove on. I shook his hand before he left and he was in good spirits. He will be missed. SSG Lanford, Quince A. " 
"Ricky A. Morris, Jr. 
Selfless Spirit Killed In Iraq Ambush March 9,2004
Spc. Terrance D. Lee Sr.
Sgt. Richard Lord
Sgt Richard M. Lord
SSG Farrow of the 146th QM Company
"Cpl. William M. Amundson. Exactly a year ago I met you and less than a year ago we dated. I loved you so much, and still do. Everyone misses you and we can't wait to see you again soon. We love you 'JR'. "I'll run away with you...by my side"(remember our song?) Love you!!-Kaleigh"
"In loving memory of SPC Justin B Carter 
"In honor of George Daniel Harrison, 22, KIA Mosul, Iraq December 2nd, 2004, You live in my heart forever and I know you are up there watching over all of us and that you are your Mom and Dad and brother's strength in this difficult time, and their ROCK...You are AWESOME, and I love you so much Dan, your death will always leave something in my heart with a void but I know you died doing what you knew was your job and you died bravely sacrificing your life so that others may live...To all our heroes YOU ALL ARE NOT FORGOTTEN...May you live on in all of our hearts...I LOVE YOU DANIEL... Love Always, Dez *Toledo, OH*
"Berry Meza
"In Memory of Javier Marin...A very loving cousin. Javier was a very special person. Anyone who knew him knew how kind and noble a person he was. His one love of his life was his mother, who is heartbroken, as we all are. As a cousin, he was awesome. Both my husband and I will always miss him. Anybody who knew him was lucky to know a person as kindhearted as he was. All he wanted was a better life... "
In Memory of SFC Kurt Comeaux
"Spc. Huey Fassbender was a good friend of ours. He was in the same unit as my husband in Fairbanks, Alaska, and was the best man at our wedding on 7/7/2001. Huey could always make us laugh and smile. Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones. I hope this message gets to them and they know how much he was loved.
"Cpl Joseph E. Fite of Round Rock, Tx
"Lance Corporal Brian Parrello
"In Loving Memory of Cpl. Jason Scott Clairday, I will never forget you Jason. You have been such a special part of my life for the past 4 years. Your were my best friend on earth and now you will be my guardian angel that follows me the rest of my days. You had a smile that melted my heart. All the late nights, back roads, and all night talks we shared will be a part of me forever. No one has ever touched my life like you. I thank God every day for bringing you into my life. My memories of you will be with me forever and I will cherish every one of them. I HONOR you, I PRAISE you and I SALUTE you. You are not only my BEST FRIEND but you are also MY HERO. I LOVE YOU JASON!!!!"
"In Loving Memory of Andres H. Perez"
"In Loving Memory of USMC Cpl Ian W.Stewart aka "STEWY".
"LCPL William "Billy" Miller, a man who lived to fill every moment of his life passionately, a brother who thought the world of his sister, who loved his family more than anything, the friend I will thank God for everyday, Brooke"
Sgt. Christian P. Engeldrum
Spc Collier Barcus, this is Sgt Rich.
"James Charles "JC" Matteson
"In Memory of Lance Cpl. Travis Desiato.
"SGT Keicia M. Hines was a very beautiful young lady. She will be missed greatly by all here at Fort Jackson." 
"Lance Cpl. Wesley J. Canning of Friendswood, Texas
"In memory of CPT Sean P. Sims who died in combat 13 Nov 04.
"In Memory of Todd R. Cornell who was killed November 9th in Fallujah. You will be missed by all!!!
"Cpl. William Madden Amundson, Jr. who was killed 18 October 2004 in eastern Afghanistan. He was buried 29 October 2004 in Arlington National Cemetery with Full Military Honors. You are loved and missed."
"Spc. Jason C. Ford, Bowie Md. You are truly a hero. Words can't express my gratitude. I love you and I miss you so much. I know you are in heaven looking down on the family and smiling. Always remember that I have your back 24/7. Your sister Yolanda"
"PFC Jeremy Ricardo Ewing, the time we shared together was special to me. I remember the day we met and the day we said good-bye. You had so many dreams and goals in your life and I know you couldn't wait to come home from a war that you didn't want to fight in the first place. I miss you so much and I hope you are in a better place now!"
Pfc. Jeremy Ricardo Ewing, 22, of Miami, Fla., died on April 29, in Baghdad, Iraq, while part of a dismounted improvised explosive device sweep patrol, when a vehicle approached his unit, and the driver detonated a bomb. Ewing was assigned to the Army’s 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiments, 1st Armored Division, Baumholder, Germany.
"Lance Cpl Anthony P. Roberts I cannot even begin to explain how much you are missed each and every day. I am so very proud of you and all the other men and women that you served so proudly with in your beloved 2-4. my world became so cold the moment I found out you were gone. I know now, many months later, that you are with me every moment of life now. I love you and you are forever in my heart. To the other men and women who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, from the heart of this airman to those of every soldier, sailor, marine and airman alike I want to say
PFC James Prevete, Whitestone, NY
"Pfc. Timothy Shane Folmar-Sonora, Texas
"In Loving Memory of Trevor Anthony Win'E
Pfc. Ken W. Leisten
Staff Sergemt Aaron Holleyman. 
"Pfc. Jesse R. Buryj a fallen fellow soldier we salute you.
"In memory of Michael Woodliff. Mike was an amazing man and a hero. He was a hero not for the way he died but for how he lived. "3JMK"
"1SG Ernest Utt was not only my husband, he was my best friend. He was beautiful both inside and out. Some people go a lifetime and don't get the opportunity to have someone so wonderful in their life. I did. I thank God every day for that opportunity. I love you honey, and I am waiting to be together again someday."
Spc. Joseph M. Garmback, Jr., 24, of Cleveland, Ohio, pictured left,
were in the Iraqi National Guard Headquarters when it came under a mortar attack. Each of the soldiers was assigned to 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany. 
"Our son, Deryk L. Hallal, OUR HERO. The world mourns your loss from this earth. Our family thanks everyone who has said a prayer for us, sent a card, cared enough to grieve with us. It is a difficult road but, the Lord Jesus Christ is giving us the strength to deal with Heavens' gain and our loss. Deryk, you were SO special. You touched everyone you came in contact with. You couldn't help but spread that contagious smile to others. We miss your jokes, your love, your voice, your sweet disposition, and your commitment to family, God, and country is admirable. You have been and will always be our baby who grew into a fantastic man, a dedicated Marine, Christian, and American. We know you are at peace praising Him, our redeemer. Love 4-ever and always, Mom and Dad Your sacrifice saved so many wounded Marines and we are sure that they too are grateful."
"Our Hero Ramon C. Ojeda of Ramona Ca.
"Lance Cpl. Bob W Roberts
"Sgt. Jonathan Hartman, It's appropriate that this site should be headed with the 23rd Psalm. It was Jon's favorite. A great soldier, friend and American. God bless him and his Mom, Judy. You are in my heart and prayers."
"2nd Lt Jonathon David Rozier, KIA July 19, 2003
"In Loving Memory of Sgt Gerardo Moreno "Chito" You will never be forgotten. You are our hero. Watch over us and protect us. You are God's Soldier now. Your children will know the kind of man you were and they too will be proud of who their father was."
"Edmond Lee Randle Jr. Our thoughts and prays are with the Randle and West family in your time of sorrow. The Beard Family, Damian("DAMO"), Natasha, and Edmond's Godson Damian II, love you and we will never ever forget you. You will always be in our hearts and we will treasure every memory and all the great times we all shared." 
Sgt. Edmond L. Randle, 26, of Miami, Fla., was killed Jan. 17, north of Taji, Iraq. Randle was one of three soldiers killed while conducting a surveillance sweep for IEDs north of Baghdad when the attack occurred. Randle was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 20th Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, TX.
2nd Lt. John Thomas Wroblewski's mass card:
"To our Cousin Steven Plumhoff who was killed at 23.11.03 in Helicopter crash in Afghanistan. We will never forget you.You have take your smile so fast in our heart´s, at your visit in August 2003 with your wife and your kind Gavyn here in Germany it was faster than ever.We will never forget you we love you so much.Thank you Steven for all the time that we have with you. In Love Norma from Germany." 30 Nov 2003
Pfc. Dustin M. Sekula
Maj. Mark D. Taylor, 41, a surgeon from Stockton, Calif.,
Spc. Matthew J. Sandri, 24, of Shamokin, Pa., died on March 20, 2004, in Fallujah, Iraq, when their living area at the 82nd Airborne Division's Sainte Mere Iglise camp came under a rocket attack.The camp is being used to house soldiers who are being replaced by Marines. They had been in Iraq since August and were scheduled to return home.
"Pfc. William R. Strange, Know that you did what you had to do for your country. You will never be forgotten. You truly will be missed by your family, friends and classmates. You fought a good fight now God has something better for you."
"In Memory: Spc. Christopher D. Gelineau
"Spc. Christopher K. Hill Your friend Ed misses you and his family sends their condolences to Chris's family, our hearts are saddened by your loss. H. Mikus"
"Dear Dagmar Cooke, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. He was the greatest man I ever knew. I don't know if you knew this, but my father died when I was just a baby. I have and always will feel that if there was ever a man that came closest to be a father in my life, that man was Eric. He knew this as well, the last time we spoke. With Love and Deepest Sympathy, Michael John Lanyon (Hawg7D)" 28 Dec 2003
Sgt.Bradley Korthaus (USMC)
Nathan Bouchard,
SSG Paul C. Mardis, Jr. 3/10/70-7/15/04
Army SPC Eric T. Burri
Spc. Ray Joseph Hutchinson was Killed In Action on Dec. 7, 2003. Not a day goes by that we do not remember his smiling face and his helping hand.
"Lance Corporal Jonathan Grant.
"Sean you were my brother and my hero. Since you left I now realize I wasn't the only one who felt that way. I know that you are watching over us and that your guys in Iraq haven't lost their "Doc" Grimes. We just miss you and the world is going to miss the contribution you would have made. I promise to try to pick up some of what you left, but I know I can never do what you did. I will look after the family.. including Young Doo. She is family just like you wanted. Love and miss you boo. Mary"
"Sgt Jessica M. Housby, I love you Jessie, I will never forget what you taught me. I will always remember you and the good times we had. You were a great friend I wish we had more time to spend together. I am rooting for those darn Vikings and I smile everytime I cheer them on. Rest in Peace Jessie I will never forget you and someday I will see you again!"
"Lance Cpl. Darrell J. Schumann. Thank you for your unselfish and ultimate sacrifice. May the emptiness in your loved ones hearts caused by your untimely loss be healed by loving memories of you. I wish I could have known you better but our paths were not meant to cross. I will forever remember your sacrifice and be indebted to you as an American. Your Cousin, Monica Schumann Pettigrew"
"Spc. Jeremy F. Regnier
"CSM Steven Faulkenburg,
"Pfc. Harrison James Meyer
"SPC Isaac Michael Nieves
"In Memory of Cpl. Joseph J. Heredia
"Cpl Marc Ryan
Cpl. Kevin J. Dempsey, 23, of Monroe, Conn., died Nov. 13 due to enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Dempsey was assigned to 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C. 
"Sgt. Morgan Strader.
Pfc Oscar Martinez
James "Michael" Goins
Michael Goins was a high-school valedictorian from Bonner Springs who was looking forward to coming back from war in Iraq to farm with his father. Goins' father, Jim Goins, said his son was killed when a gunman climbed on top of his tank and fired into its open hatch.
"HM3 Julian Woods. 
"In memory of Steven Auchman. I remember being stationed with Steve in the early 90's. I am truly saddened by this news and would like his family to know that I will be praying for them."
"Spc. Don A. Clary killed in Baghdad on 11/09/2004.
"Staff Sergeant Clinton Wisdom killed in Baghdad 11/8/04.
Daniel Faulkner
"Captain Daniel Eggers. USA Special Forces, 1st Battalion, 3rd Group. Killed in the mountainous Sorie district of Zabul province in southeastern Afghanistan. on May 29th 2004. To his family, we will never forget him or the sacrifice he made.
"Staff Sgt. Don S. McMahan, 31, of Nashville, Tenn, I served with him in Korea, 6-37FA, Bravo Battery, and may GOD bless his family and may we not forget him for the memories he has left us with. He was a kind gentle person and I will never forget him for the conversations we had. To all of those that left 6-37FA, and went straight to Iraq, may God bless you, and keep you safe. Bushmasters!
"Juan Lopez, who was killed in an ambush in Iraq, on June 21st. I didn't know Juan, but I am touched by his death. I pray for his wife and family everyday .. that they know peace in their hearts."
"My Dear Nephew, Sgt. Lee Duane Todacheene,
"God bless you and your family Charles Odums, Jr."
"Belatedly, I have learned of the death of Corporal Jason Dunham who gave his life, protecting his brother Marines.
"Leroy Hariis-Kelly III, may you rest in peace dear friend. We lost contact for a few years and now this is where it ends. I had no idea you had gotten married or had a child, a child who is to grow-up without his father. I cannot believe you are gone Leroy, you are greatly missed."
As he prepared to leave for his second tour in Iraq, his usually upbeat, confident demeanor cracked. 
"CWO Brian Hazelgrove: Helicopter Pilot
"RYAN JERABEK,
Lance Cpl. Michael B. Wafford, 20, of Spring, Texas, died April 8 due to injuries received from hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
"1st Lt. Michael W. Vega of the 223rd Military Intelligence
"Todd, Leslie, Chad, Pat & Corey, Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. May you feel the strength of all friends and family surround you during this untimely and tragic loss. Jason will forever live on the treasure memories we will always share. Love your friends, George, Carol & Kelli Kerschenheiter" 09 Dec 2003
Pfc. Ray J. Hutchinson
SSG Ricky Crockett
"PFC James David Parker, son of my friend Jim. 
Chief Warrant Officer Philip A. Johnson
Pfc. Ervin Dervishi
"To All The Dear Families & Friends of Our Fallen Heroes: We learned on Christmas Eve of the death of our friend, SPC Benjamin Biskie, based in Fort Leonard Wood, MO. He was part of a convoy when his humvee struck a roadside bomb, near Samarra, Iraq. All three heroes were killed. He leaves behind a wonderful wife, Marcie and beautiful 6 year-old son, Ben Jr. Please keep them in you prayers, as well as, his sisters, Andrea Brown and Darlene Biskie of Tucson, AZ. I have had very ambivalent feelings about this war. When "official combat" was declared over on May 1, 2003 and soldiers continued to be killed, it saddened me. But lately, perhaps, I did not pay as much attention. It was not real to me. Now those terrible reports will forever give me pause. I will always think of the spouses, children, parents siblings, many family and friends they leave behind. I think of and pray for all of you daily. Jennifer Armstrong (
Sgt. Sean Cataudella
"ANDY TUAZON
"Pvt. Robert L. Frantz. 1st AD, 1/36 INF out of Friedburg Germany. My son, Robert, was killed in Baghdad Iraq on June 17, 2003. We love him, we miss him, and he will never be forgotten. Nor will his brother's in arms who have also fallen for our freedom. My son got his Infantryman's ring (which he was soooo proud of) in basic training and I just realized that on one side of it, it says BUSHMASTERS, with the snake. He did his basic at Ft. Benning, GA...8/14/02 to 2/27/03...approx. dates. He was injured in basic so he had to repeat, but he enjoyed every minute. God bless him always and God bless all our troops.
"Spc. Philip Spakosky, I know you died saving the life of another soldier in Karbala. I know you saved Sgt. Dull and his crew from a sniper. You put some grenades in the building of the shooter. I know what you did. 
"Veronica..we love you and will keep you in our hearts...in honor of Eddie (Menyweather) ...gone but never forgotten" angela beauregard, killeen texas, 
"To each of you that sacrifice your lives for me, I thank you. I pray that each and everyone comes homes safely. To our friend, SFC Paul Smith, we love and miss you. May god be with you all!! The Hurlocker's."
"Tillman and all the soldiers,and family members:
Captain Ernesto M. Blanco-Caldas 
"SSG Michael William Mitchell
"Thank you to all who serve so fearlessly in our armed forces. Because of you and those who have gone before you, we live in a free country. To my husband who is in Iraq, I love you and am so proud of you for what you are doing to fight the evil in this world. To my friend Allison Bennett whose husband Bill (pictured) was killed in Iraq in September,my thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find peace in your heavenly father's arms and look forward to the day you will be reunited with Bill in heaven." Christy Palmer, Fort Campbell, KY 
"Sgt. Elijah Tai Wah Wong, 42, of Mesa, Ariz.