“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 | |
| 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. | |||
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.