wpe55.jpg (4379 bytes)

“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.”
-  Col. Alexander Webster, chaplain for the 29th Division of the Virginia Army National Guard, at the funeral of Sgt. Bobby E. Beasley, of Inwood, W.Va., who died on 08/07/2004, in Ghazikel, Afghanistan, when his vehicle struck a roadside bomb.

For the Fallen
The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name' sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: For thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; Thou annointest my head with oil; My cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the House of the Lord forever. -  23rd Psalm

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
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.
You're truly a unique individual and you carried yourself in a way that we would be ever so lucky to achieve. You had class Bachar, something that a lot of people today don't even know what it means. I just wish you would've been on this earth a little bit longer to show them, but I know you have bigger responsibilities up there with the big guy.
Just don't forget, when you get a chance, try to drop by and let me know how you're doing, because you'll be in my prayers. Take care of yourself, because I know deep down in my heart that God is taking care of your family, so do not worry, for good always triumphs over evil.
You're one of God's fallen angels and we could only ever be so lucky as to ever fill such big shoes as you did. God bless.
May you rest in peace.
28 May 2006


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
16 Apr 2006


Cpl. Salem Bachar of Camp Pendleton, California.

God bless you.

My deepest sympathy to all his family members.
16 Apr 2006


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.
16 Apr 2006


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
21 Mar 2006


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!
13 Mar 2006


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
20 Feb 2006


wpe133.jpg (7536 bytes)Lance Cpl. Harry R. Swain
Swain, a Millville native, enlisted in the Marine Corps shortly after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attack, with the hope of eventually becoming a member of the FBI’s Hostage Rescue Team.
Harry R. Swain IV was a former employee at the Holly City Deli on 10th and Broad Streets in Millville, where he got to meet a lot of Millville residents, and worked with one of his best friends. He worked there through high school and right up until the week he left for boot camp. He was a voracious reader, and was a member of the Bowling Club and Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD).
He had a real passion for life, and cared about his Family and Friends. He was committed and gave everything his all. Harry had that magic about him, and a unique sense of humor that just made you laugh.
He was very clear about how he felt about things, and if he disagreed with you he would let you know, but he was always respectful about it. He always had a smile, and a big wonderful heart.
Harry had that Special gift, he could walk into room and meet you for the first time. By the time he left, you thought you have known him for a lifetime. He truly knew how to make you feel comfortable.
A true Friend to all.
01/12/2006

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.


wpe126.jpg (4135 bytes)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.
He was my son's good friend after meeting each other in 1998 at Ft. Lewis and going to Ranger School together.
My son said OB is a fighter so he struggled on life support for 3 days until they pulled the plug on the 28th of Aug. How can we ever pay the debt we owe to America’s warriors? Our hearts ache for the fallen warriors and their families, brave young people cut down in their prime.

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.
Proud Mother of a Green Beret

09/01/2005


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, where an improvised explosive device detonated near his position.   The incident involved three other soldiers whose deaths were announced on Aug. 27, 2005.  Kolath was assigned to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, N.C.


CARLY'S POEM
A Nation Rocked to sleep

by Carly Sheehan 
Sister of Casey KIA 04/04/04
Sadr City Baghdad

Have you ever heard the sound of a mother screaming for her son?
The torrential rains of a mother's weeping will never be done
They call him a hero, you should be glad that he's one, but
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?
He must be brave because his boy died for another man's lies
The only grief he allows himself are long, deep sighs
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?
They say that he died so that the flag will continue to wave
But I believe he died because they had oil to save
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?
The leaders want to keep you numb so the pain won't be so deep
But if we the people let them continue another mother will weep


wpe123.jpg (1725 bytes)"Spc Casey Sheehan
05/29/79-04/04/04
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.


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.
08/01/2005


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.
08/03/2005


wpe11D.jpg (7004 bytes)PFC. Kenneth E. Zeigler II

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
07/17/2005


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.


wpe11A.jpg (1248 bytes)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..

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. 


wpe111.jpg (3319 bytes)James David Parker

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
06/21/2005


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.


wpe111.jpg (3484 bytes)"Spc. Michael S Weger, Houston TX
KIA October 12, 2004
Wonderful father, husband and friend

'And He Wrote To Me'

And he wrote to me, because I did not know that he was heading off to where the heroes go off to war, fighting the enemy men, enemies, who are heroes to their wives and their friends.
And he wrote to me to tell me he was finally there. He told me to pray.
He was really quite scared of the bombing all night, the guns and decay. Nine of his troops were all killed today.
He wrote of these sand fleas that buried in deep into the soldiers; their legs and their feet.
And I was so scared as I held our son. Would his daddy come home? He was so very young.
And then he wrote to me to tell me he’s doing fine - he is helping children now, and detonating land mines.
I felt a little relief and a bit more at ease then I heard a knock on my door and I felt my heart freeze.
A man in uniform stood there before me he asked me my name and announced what I feared then all I remember was my sea of tears."
05/26/2005


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.


wpe10D.jpg (1814 bytes)"SGM Barbaralien Banks:
It was year ago today I picked you up from the airport, now a year later I write this tribute to you I will always love you Barb and you will be missed by me and my family. Best Friend for life SFC Deanetta Thompson, Ft. Lewis Washington."
05/09/2005


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.


wpe108.jpg (2435 bytes)"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."
03/27/2005


"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."
03/20/2005


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."
04/27/2005


wpe107.jpg (2056 bytes)"Spc. Shawn M. Davies

You are missed more than can be described. Love you always by everyone that was blessed to know you."
04/15/2005


"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"
03/07/2005


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.
Sgt Kenneth Howell(Medically Ret)"
03/07/2005


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.
04/03/2005


wpe107.jpg (3658 bytes)"Capt. Lyle L. Gordon, USMC
was killed along with 30 other soldiers when their helicopter crashed in Iraq on January 26, 2005.  We will never forget your kindness, faithfulness and generosity in everything that you did. We know that you are with Jesus now and we rejoice in that fact.   May God continue to bless you as well as your family & friends.
The friends and residents of your hometown, Midlothian, Texas. 
GOD BLESS AMERICA."
02/11/2005


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.


wpe102.jpg (2805 bytes)"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,
Shakira T. Gibbs"
01/26/2005


"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"
21 January 2995


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.


wpeFE.jpg (1588 bytes)"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.
Not a day goes by when I don't think about you. I know we'll be together again, not in this life but in paradise. You used to always say "I love you sweetheart" and when I go to sleep at night, I know you whisper it to me. I miss you so much.
My heart goes out to the family who suffers just like me. I know you are in better place because you died protecting our country. I will never forget you. You will always be in my heart. I love you baby and I can't wait to see you in heaven
Kendell Lucas"
09 January 2005


wpeFC.jpg (6033 bytes)
Cpl. Michael D. Anderson is shown on duty in this photo.


wpeF8.jpg (6044 bytes)"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"
20 December 2004


wpeFA.jpg (6538 bytes)
Fallen Modesto Marine hero of Fallujah battle


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. 


wpeF8.jpg (1543 bytes)"Staff Sgt. Todd D. Olson.
Loving husband, father and excellent human being."
03 January 2005


"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.


wpeF8.jpg (1792 bytes)"To the Ayro family of Jeanerette, La---my thoughts and prayers are with you
and all the families that have lost loved ones."
27 December 2004


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.
God Bless these families with such heavy burdens to bear. Thank you for your sacrifice."
28 December 2004


wpeFB.jpg (6993 bytes)"Theodore A Bowling
Andrew, because of you and the other men on this page, I truly know what the word hero means. The half of me that is dead is not hollow, but instead filled with respect and pride. I love you baby and I can't wait to see you in heaven.
Your girl, Patricia"
03 December 2004


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
their families."
03 January 2005


"I send thanks to all those who have and are currently serving.God Bless you all.
We support you 100%. Valerie Peters"
23 December 2004


"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.
BJ Kendrick,Ches,Va"
17 December 2004


wpeF7.jpg (2686 bytes)"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."
07 December 2004


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.


wpeF8.jpg (3282 bytes)"LCpl Victor R. Lu,
We will always remember your life as a dutiful son, protective brother, and a caring friend. You served your country with honor, courage, and integrity, you are true hero, our Hero. We are extremely proud of our son and brother for the courage and patriotism that he demonstrated. You will forever be remembered for your sacrifice and never will you leave our hearts and mind, to always remember your wonderful laughter, humor, smile, and most precious of all, your huge heart. Victor, we love you. Love Dad, Mom, brother & sisters"
06 December 2004


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."
13 December 2004


 "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."
02 December 2004


"To my friends and loved ones of the
29 Palms Marine Corps Base.
The world will be less now without you . Thank you for all you sacrificed. My heart and prayers are never far from you. God bless you and your families. You are my heroes."
24 November 2004


wpeF5.jpg (1711 bytes)"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."
23 November 2004


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.


wpeF5.jpg (1969 bytes)"In memory of LT. Wullenwaber.
I had the privilege of being in LT. Wullenwamber's first ever platoon; Baker Co. 1-506th IN 1st Platoon. He was a good leader and an even better man. My prayers are with you and your family. God Bless you. Stands Alone Sir!"
21 November 2004


"In memory of Lt Luke Wullenwaber.
God Bless his family and watch over them at this time of need. Luke went to VMI with my husband and its a great loss to our military and to god's army of sisters and brothers that are here on earth.Thank God we had you there protecting our rights,and there are many others out there that are beside Luke fighting for our rights. God Bless his soul.Thank You again LT. Wullenwaber for your dedication."
19 November 2004


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
I only met him once and he was such a sweet man. He is a good friend to many. He will be missed."
16 November 2004


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
Man we were good friends sometimes and I remember when we used to go to the movies and then to dinner and grub "the grinch who stole x-mas" lol. I can't believe it man. I hope that you are where you deserve to be papo. I love ya alot. Jessica Lugo Ya #1 girl"


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. 


wpeF4.jpg (2771 bytes)Capt. Arthur L. Felder

"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!"
13 November 2004


Capt. Arthur L. Felder, 36, of Louisville, Ark., and three other Arkansans,
Chief Warrant Patrick W. Kordsmeier, 49, of North Little Rock, Ark.,  Staff Sgt. Billy J. Orton, 41, of Humnoke, Ark., Staff Sgt. Stacey C. Brandon, 35, of Hazen, Ark., died on April 24, in Taji, Iraq, when mortar rounds hit their camp.  The four Soldiers were assigned to the Army National Guard’s 39th Support Battalion, 39th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Hazen, Ark.


  "To all the families: my prayers are to you all!!!!"
26 November 2004


wpeF6.jpg (3781 bytes)"Thomas K. Doerflinger
Hey Tommy, We want you to know we love you and we will forever remember your sacrifices.
Springbrook IB Class of 2002"


"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.

Richard and Lee Ann Doerflinger released a statement through the Archdiocese of Washington: "Our son Thomas was a smart, dedicated, wonderful young man who volunteered for the Army to serve his country and protect innocent people. He understood the risks of his chosen path and gave his life doing what he had committed himself to doing -- standing against those who have no respect for human life. Even as we grieve for our loss we honor the ideals he stood for and ask others to do the same." Silver Spring Man Is Killed in Iraq


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.


wpeF4.jpg (1344 bytes)"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."
11 November 2004


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.
Love, Allison and Angela Austin, TX
We miss you Matt Acosta!!!!!!!!!
BE SAFE!!!!"
12 November 2004


wpeF1.jpg (4056 bytes)"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."
09 November 2004


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;
Lance Cpl. Andrew G. Riedel, 19, of Northglenn,Colo.
Lance Cpl. Jeremy D. Bow, 20, of Lemoore, Calif.;
Lance Cpl. John T. Byrd II, 23, of Fairview, W.Va.;
Lance Cpl. Travis A. Fox, 25, of Cowpens, S.C.;
Lance Cpl. Michael P. Scarborough, 28, of Washington, Ga.;
Cpl. Christopher J. Lapka, 22, of Peoria, Ariz.."
05 November 2004


"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."
01 November 2004

THE FULL NAME OF THIS SOLDIER WAS NOT PROVIDED IN THE EMAIL


wpeF2.jpg (1393 bytes)"SGT Andrew W. Brown
From a friend of Sgt. Brown who served in combat in the same company and worked with him very often. I send my most deepest blessing. He truly was a great leader and his soldiers will never forget him. Our loss was a great one he was like all our members a family member. Mostly like an older brother. He will be always in my memory. And his death will give us strength to keep fighting. Sincerely
SPC Villasenor German"
19 October 2004


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.
SPC Villasenor German


"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.
Steven G. Adams, Father of SGT Steven Christopher Adams, LaGrange Georgia"
16 October 2004


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.
I know no words can ease your pain but my thoughts, prayers and sympathy are with you.
May God bless you all.
Rebecca Outlaw, Military Mom"
24 October 2004


"PFC Geoffery Perez
US Marine Corps

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"
10 November 2004


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"
10 October 2004


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.
Julie Wagman in Cloquet, MN"
29 October 2004


"I am more grateful than I can say to those who have given all to protect this country, both past and present.
And to their families, I can never know what grief you must endure.
I can only tell you that I am humbled by the gift of your loved one's service, and I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers."
11 October 2004


wpe1D40.jpg (1293 bytes)"Yoe Manuel Aneiros,
Yoe we miss you and love you so much you will always be with us."
10/01/2004


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.


wpeEC.jpg (1626 bytes)"Caleb Powers
We failed keeping you safe, while you lost your life keeping us safe. The Lord is with you now. You are in our hearts forever and ever. Love
Patty June and family"
23 August 2004


"Caleb John Powers,
Your smile will shine upon us forever. Thank you for blessing us with that! We love you and miss you so! August 17th 2004"
03 September 2004


"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)"
23 August 2004


"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
Class of 2001"
23 August 2004


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.


wpeEE.jpg (2174 bytes)"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.

Thinking of You in Los Angeles

Sgt. James C. Kearney, III
B.Co. 1BN 168th INF.
Hard hearts win wars"
10 November 2004


"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'. "
11 November 2004


"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!!"
10 October 2004


"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.
Love Always
Letty Lopez
09 September 2004"

24 September 2004


LCpl Nick Perez
"My deepest sympathies go out to your family, Nick what a sacrifice you made! You will be loved and missed by so many people, but we know you are in a better place, and may the lord help us deal with the loss of a wonderful man. With love and many prayers, PFC Carmelita Melecio"
13 September 2004


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
12 September 2004


"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
Becky Zamora"
09 September 2004


Nicholas Perez
"In Loving memory of a Long time childhood friend, Nicholas Perez, 19 of Austin Texas.
Thank you for being a great friend, you will be missed dearly.
D. Lamont Schuler"
05 September 2004


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."
Tina
09 September 2004


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,
Jennifer Martinez & Christina Perez
09 September 2004


"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."
07 September 2004


"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"
07 September 2004


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."
08 September 2004


wpeD8.jpg (1545 bytes)"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
24 August 2004


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.
People of the United States"
01 September 2004


wpeDA.jpg (1451 bytes)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. 

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"
26 August 2004


wpeD8.jpg (3533 bytes)"Fernando Hannon

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."
29 August 2004


"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."
08/20/2004


"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."
23 August 2004


"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."
26 August 2004


"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."
28 August 2004


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.


wpeDA.jpg (1686 bytes)"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!

Your Favorite Aunt Tina"
02 August 2004


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.

In December, Sampler called from Germany to tell his family he didn't have the money to return home for Christmas. After hearing his mother cry, he sold all his belongings to buy a ticket home and surprise her.

He didn't want his family to worry about him, telling them little about dangers he faced, Province said.

When Sampler telephoned his mother from the war zone, he let other soldiers talk to her, too, so they could also hear a friendly voice from home.


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"
17 August 2004


wpeDC.jpg (3689 bytes)"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.

“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."
22 July 2004


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"
21 July 2004


wpeD3.jpg (9398 bytes)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.

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"
08 July 2004


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"
14 July 2004


"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."
12 July 2004


"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"
12 July 2004


wpeCF.jpg (1531 bytes)"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."
05 July 2004


"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,
Michelle V. Jacksonville, NC"
28 June 2004


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. 


wpeB2.jpg (1508 bytes)"Lcpl Travis Layfield -

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
19 October 2004


"R.I.P. LCPL Travis Layfield. 4/6/04. We all love you and miss you. You're my hero Trav. <3 Tiffany "
22 September 2004


"Travis J. Layfield

I love you always and forever.

Love your girlfriend
Dana Elam"
01 July 2004


"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"
08 April 2004


"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."
12 April 2004


"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"
10 April  2004


"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"
08 April 2004


"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"
09 April 2004


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"
01 July 2004


"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."
28 June 2004


wpeCF.jpg (5887 bytes)"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.
Maria Botero"
23 June 2004


"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"
18  June  2004


"Ryan E. Doltz, There are no words to express how truly missed you are. You are a hero, thank you, God Bless, Love, Liz"
12 June 2004


"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"
09 June 2004


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.
Christina Kirkland
Troy, NY"
24 June 2004


"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.
Cpl Fogg 1/5 USMC"
14 June  2004


"Pvt. Bradli N. Coleman

killed in Iraq by a mortar.

You had lots of friends Brad and you will be missed by many people.
I love you forever and always and you will always be in my heart.
Love ya always.
Sadly missed by your sis Jane"
04 June 2004


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.


wpeCD.jpg (1627 bytes)"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.
Your Cousin,
Zak Agamaite


"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!
A.L."
01 May 2004


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!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
13 June 2004


"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."
31 May 2004


"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
TEXAS
31 May 2004


"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)"
31 May 2004


"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."
30 May 3004


"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"
21 May 2004


"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)"
20 May 2004


"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!
Wendy Stafford
MEHS"
18 May 2004


"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.
Wilhelmine Aufmkolk, Germany"
JosephineFS@aol.com


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.


wpeAB.jpg (6616 bytes)"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.."
07 May 2004


"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."
07 May 2004


Family of
CPL ANDREW D. BROWNFIELD
US MARINE ORDNANCEMAN

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

25 March 2004


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
24 March 2004

"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.
Sincerely,
Joann Bertone"
04 May 2004


"God bless your sacrifice.... and thank you.
All my love , an American mother of two boys...."
07 May 2004


"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."
06 May 2004


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"
04 May 2004


"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!
Rhonda Mitchell and Family
Louisville, Kentucky"
04 May 2004


"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."
02 May 2004


"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"
11 May 2004


"May God Bless all the brave men and women that fight to ensure Justice for All."
04 May 2004


"In memory of all the men and women who have perished in this war.
I pray daily for the ones who are still over there and the families who are over here waiting and wondering,
I hurt with all of you.
May God strengthen and comfort all, and our nation."
03 May 2004


"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 "
02 May 2004


wpeC2.jpg (1428 bytes)"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"
01 May 2004


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.


wpeC5.jpg (2574 bytes)"Capt. Arthur L Felder, a father, son and American hero. Your memory lives on. Rest on my friend.
Thomas Messer"
29 April 2004


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.

Cheryl Felder-Stuart says she last spoke to her son Wednesday, "His last words to me were 'I love you Mom.'"

That was just days before her son's National Guard unit became the target of enemy fire, which ended the life of Captain Felder and his 20-year military career. Felder is also survived by a fiance, two children, and four