Fallen Heroes of Operation Enduring Freedom

"I find it hard to drive 75 North without being drawn to Marc's final resting place. I now know that he is the guardian angel that watches over his friends, past students, and fellow soldiers. Your memory endures my friend."
A Friend of Fort Myers, FL

"To the family of Marc A. Anderson,
No words exist that can offer you comfort for your loss. I have a daughter and I thank Marc A. Anderson and every other service man and women for their sacrifice each day. I wear a KIA bracelet each day that bares his name in his honor and reflect on his sacrifice. My prayers are with you."
CM Statham of Ocean Springs, MS.

"Marc, en la lejania y a través de una foto te recuerdo y te guardo en lo mas profundo de mi corazón."
Alejandra Zambrano of concepcion, Chile

"Hey SPC thank you for teaching me."
Sticks

"Dear Mr. and Mrs.Anderson, when i joined the army my senior year of high school i did to because i have always wanted to since i was little. Ever since i was little and i would see anything about rangers i knew that is what i wanted to be. When i got to RIP and we had to get an airborne ranger in the sky i picked your son. we didnt have time to research him and find out anything about him, but i had a book RANGERS IN COMBAT that told stories of the battles the rangers have fought and your sons was in there. I found a sense of inspiration, and pride to have read about your sons geat risk and ultimate sacrifice. Once i got through RIP and to my ranger battalion, i got to keep your son as my airborne ranger in the sky because i went to the same battalion as he, and now i had a chance to fully research and learn about him. I felt shocked and chilled when i found out his place of birth and were he had grown up in ohio. I am from ohio myself and i found that to be a shocker, but to know he was from alliance, about an hour away from were i lived in stow, OH it sent shivers up my spine. I think of your son everyday and he gives me the inspiration, pride and determination to carry on, he will never be forgotten because he is always in so many people hearts and minds, sinceraly, Michael A. Ulanowski"
Michael, Ulanowski B Co. 1/75 of HAA, GA USA

"Marc and I attended High School together at Alliance High School in Alliance, OH. Throughout our Junior and Senior years, we had many fun times. I remember a specific hotel party that we all got in trouble for. I heard about his death from a mutual friend a few years ago. I am saddened that he is gone but enlightened that he died a hero. We miss you Marc, thank you for serving and paying the ultimate price."
Tom Hammond of Memphis, TN

"i have been in the army for a while and finally got all the paperwork signed and ready to go to RIP which wasnt a easy task. but i jumped out some planes and then passed rip. spc marc anderson was my airborne ranger in the sky. every time i did push ups i thought of you. weeks later i did some reach on the history of the regiment and sall several videos portraying what happened on takur ghar. to this day rangers go out and do there job regardless or what people think or what happened yesterday. my brother i wont forget you. its brotherhood that binds rangers. we r all in this together. the big army knows nothing about our brotherhood. your dedication to service, the 75th ranger regiment 1st battlion aco and your personal sacrifice to complete the mission no matter the mission and sacrifice to country will never be forgotten. i think about you daily. hope you and jesus r having a fun time. and when peter opens that gate i hope your the first one i see.

joshua hays
1st batt 75th ranger regiment"

"To the family and friends of SPC Marc "Big A" Anderson, I will honor Big A tomorrow in my message as the Guest Speaker for Fort Lewis 9-11 Service of Remembrance, as I share my admiration for this truly remarkable warrior, friend, and brother in Christ. I was one of the Army Chaplains privileged to know and serve with Marc there in OEF before and during the tragic mission that he gave his life to recover the remains of a fallen comrade. Our Soldier Creed and Warrior Ethos were never so boldly displayed, as on that day -- by him and others. But I remember his teaching me a new chorus to sing after Bible study together (Ancient of Days) - which still today, anytime I hear it, it touches me to remember him and his buddies singing in a tent in Afghanistan with faith, vigor, and spirit! God bless those that knew Marc and learned from his life, I know I have! - Chaplain (COL) Stice"
Ken Stice of Fort Lewis, WA

"Blue skies ranger. I will never forget you brother."

"thanks again for taking care of my men and I"
-SFC Cunni 04MAR08

"Dear Mr. and Mrs. Anderson,
I am reminded of the words of so many who ask, "where do we find men like these?" when they hear of Marc and others who have given so much for our great country and those fortunate enough to live in it. Know that many share the tear in their eyes with you today, 4 March, and so many other days. We own it to Marc to make the most out of each day.
G.B.U."
Rick Nelson of Wall, NJ USA

"Marc,
Thanks for everything you taught me. I will always remember the good times we had together, like going down to FL with you to eat Thanksgiving dinner with your parents. Brad, Matt and you are my hero's. If any of you Aco 1/75 guys come out here to San Diego hit me up. tfredcommo@hotmail.com"
Geof Killen of San Diego, CA

"Dear Mr. and Mrs. Anderson-
After five years I still cry when I think of Marc, and that twinkle in his eyes when he was making mischief. He truly was one of my best friends, and I would have had a much tougher time on the track and in school if I had not had his continued support and humor. He was always so ready to help out anyone in need. I remember him coming over to my room, my freshman year, to make me chicken soup when I was sick. It was the first time I had been sick away from home. He took pity on me and made me a large batch of homemade chicken noodle soup (on a hot plate, I might add). I will always remember that act of generosity to a sick and homesick teammate.
I was not surprised to hear that he was taken trying to help another. It would have been how he wanted to be known and remembered.
My family has recently had another friend taken in combat...it made me realize that I needed to share this story with you and let you know that five years later, my family still gives a day of memory to Marc, in March. I have not told my children yet of Marc, but I keep all my college momentos of him and newspaper clippings to show them when they get older. I promise that his memory shall live on through me. It is the least I can give to a man who gave me so much love and comfort in life. God's Blessings to your family. You are in our prayers. All my love- Shannon Cook- Ennis (FSU track team)"
Shannon Cook-Ennis of Pembroke Pines, FL

"To the family of Marc A Anderson: Words cannot express the sorrow that was felt that day. I wear his braclett with pride. From the letters on the website, he has left a legacy that will live on forever. God Bless."
CW3 Donald McRae, U.S.Army of East Falmouth, Ma.

"To the Anderson family. At this time I would like to thank you for the services of your loved one you have lost and also for the contribution he has made to keep us free, thank good for our service men and for people like you, god bless you all."
Joshua D. Rodriguez of Garden Grove, California

"May 16, 2007
To the family of Marc A. Anderson. Marc gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV

"“The past and the future meet in the memory of the dead. The sweetest and brightest link in the chain that stretches back over the past, binds us to the dead; and that chain stretches forward to eternity and attaches itself to the living throne of God. In this way death joins on to life; and all that is scared in memory connects itself with all.”
George B. Taylor
A Virginian’s reflection on the battle of
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania 1863."
David Deardorff of Austin TX

"Big A, we will pass on what you taught us. RLTW"
Cunningham of FOB Naray, APO AE 09354

"Miss you very much Brother, A-1-W..."
Greg Walker of Charlotte, NC

"Still thinking about you and the good times we had together. I remember little things like when SSG Rose made us eat chow together or when you had that shitty jump on Ft. Stewart. You are missed greatly."
Kyle Albritton of Houston, TX

"Marc was a great Ranger. I went through basic training, airborne school, and R.I.P. with him and he always gave 100% and then some. Whenever I would see him around the battalion he was always quick with a smile and always wanted to know how I was doing. It didn't surprise me to hear that he died trying to save a fellow comrade, that was the type of person he was and I'm sure he went into the battle willingly and with courage. He loved being a Ranger and was one of the best."
Dean Spicer of MN/USA

"Hey Bro just wanted you to know my litle boy carries your name. Miss you more than ever and I wish my little boy could have gotten to know you."
Mish A-1-W

"I just ran across this site and remember that day in March. I remember when I first met Marc in Bravo Co. 1-38 INF during OSUT in '99. We went through Basic, AIT, and Jump School together. That is when we parted ways and he went on the the next phase in the Infantry evolution...Ranger school. Marc I'm so sorry brother we lost touch during the time we served but on that day my friend; Rogillio, Jarosek and I couldn't help but lock ourselves away and pay tribute to a great american. You will be missed and I know all of your former students are better people for having known you. I have that tape from basic they give all the graduates that gas mask part still makes me laugh. Untill we meet in that Assembly Area in the sky, Rest in peace Bro."
Estrada, Ruben of San Antonio, TX

"marc- you were such a good person, always smiling, with nothing bad to say about anyone, ever. You were a friend to me, always ready with a hug if I needed one. You and Brad were such good people. It's years later and I just found out you were on the track team w/ my boyfriend at FSU. All he had to say were good things about you even then. God Bless you buddy, and watch over us."
meredith brown of jacksonville, fl

"Gary Horton is a very good friend of mine from 1st Batt and he told me many stories about Marc. I later became a ranger myself and was assigned to 3rd Batt. All through my career as a ranger I remembered you marc and even thought of you when I was sitting on a chinook holding on to my SAW about to hit an objective. WE will never forget you brother. RLTW"
Brindley Ben of Baghdad

"Mark, we weren't that close, but I served with you and grew up in the mortar platoon and miss the * out of all you guys. Sua Sponte
Crazy horse said it best... " C'mon men, today is a GOOD day to die.""
Ryan Brown of Arlington VT

"Anderson, AKA the big teddy bear, I had the honor of attending RIP with you many many moons ago. You taught me many lessons, but the most important one you taught me was to never give up. You befriended me when others wouldn't and you were always there for me when I needed you. I always have admired your courage and one day hope to show the same amount of courage as you did. You may be gone old friend but you will never be forgotten. Ill see you in the big link up point in the sky, my friend."
SSG Grant of Fort Campbell, KY

"FOR JESUS IS THE LIGHTHOUSE IF IT WASN'T FOR THE LIGHTHOUSE FOR WHERE WOULD THIS SHIP BE"
THERESA THOMPSON of COLUMBUS GEORGIA

"Hey Ranger buddy, I am now in tears again thinking about all of you guys. You Matt and Crose are all of our heros and know your looking after us, Greg Walker.
Any other Rangers from 1st platoon Aco please contact me, gregwalkerjr@yahoo.com"
Greg Walker of Charlotte North Carolina

"Mark I miss you very much and will always remember the leadership you had taught me in the Ranger Regt. We had good times and will cherish the ultimate sacrifice you gave us. Your wpns sqd member, SGT Walker, Greg.
To the family, I need to get contact with you to talk about some of the things Marc and I discussed before he passed. I have some videos of us training and some stories to share, if anyone can help me, contact me through gregwalkerjr@yahoo.com"
greg walker of Charlotte North Carolina

"Marc, I still think about you and have the letters and cards you sent telling me you would be fine and were "watching your back." There isn't a day that goes by that you aren't missed and thought about. The song "Who'd you be Today" makes me cry, and wonder. I am very proud of you and all you stood for. The kids send their love and are honored to have been a part of your life. Thank you for being the role model you were for all you were... you are souring in the sky! Rangers Lead The Way...All the Way!"
Ames of Jacksonville, FL

"My beloved younger brother is a Ranger from 1/75 1st BN C Co. He is currently on his second deployment and wears a memorial bracelet with Marc's name . When I first saw it after he completed RIP last year, I asked what it was and he told me "someone who watches over me." It brings me a great deal of comfort to know that such a wonderful person is watching over him and the rest of the Rangers, especially while they are deployed. Thank you for your sacrifice, for watching over our boys as well as being a wonderful role-model for them. Rangers lead the way!"

"You are not forgotten, in your name we live in freedome"
Dick Smith of Saratoga, New York

"Marc,
I would like to say thank you to you and the other men who were on that helicopter with you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

"Rangers Lead The Way!"

"Mr.Anderson was my 7th grade math teacher at FMMA and also a friend. He got me to do the talent show for school and he also was at a lot of my dance shows and recitals. I remember I was a jr in HS when I heard he was killed, I didn't believe it, so I went and bought a news paper and there he was. I cried for weeks. I have a big picture frame on my wall in my room with the articles, the email from his brother about the funeral and cards from friends to try and cheer me up. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of him. I'm still having a hard time dealing with his death, everytime I think about him or talk about him, tears come to my eyes. I miss him and love him....Watch over me!!!!"
Melissa Place of Fort Myers, FL

"You were the coolest most down to earth person I ever met while I was in the military. I'll never forget the fun times we had."
Kyle Albritton of Houston TX

"I just wanna say to the family, friends of Marc Anderson you have the sympathies of a grateful and proud nation. Your son was an amazing gentleman who gave of himself in ways we should all strive every day to emulate. God Bless him and his service and that of all those brave men and women serving in defense of our freedom and the freedom of oppressed people's the world over.

P.S. Where can i get those bracelets to honor Marc Anderson and his service? Sanjeevyadav@gmail.com thanks."
Sanjeev Yadav of Shelburne, Vermont

"To Marc, my colleague and friend, and his family:

I want you to know that not a single day goes by that I don't pause and remember the sacrifice that you laid upon the alter of freedom. You made this offer not in vain, but to assure freedom for those who have it, and more importantly for those who wish for it.

Your dedication on the battlefield was only second to your dedication in the classroom. Generations of students will now miss having you as a teacher, and that is sad. For those that you reached while you where here - students, teachers, athletes, soldiers, and friends - we are all better for having had you in our lives. I only hope that we can live up to the challenge of strength, caring, and sacrifice that you have left behind as your legacy.

To everyone who reads this... live your life in the service of others, put their needs before your own, show that you care about others and what happens to them, never shy away from difficulties, always give your best, and wear a smile no matter what... in short, Live your life as Marc did."
David Childress of Fort Myers, FL USA

"You fought a hard fight and it will not be in vain, for we fight your fight now brother, so keep a watchful eye on you fellow Rangers!!!!"
SFC JAMES PHILPOT of 7th SFG(A) Fort Bragg

"I had the pleasure of meeting Marc at a few of our family get-togethers. And although I didn't know him extremely well, I knew him enough to know that he lit up a room with his charisma, and it never took long for him to win people over with his warm smile. I often think about the sacrifice he gave for our country, and I am proud to say that I knew such a great person - however brief... I am touched by the way he has inspired his students and continues to inspire them even today. May God be with all of our soldiers!!!"
Anonymous of Florida

"SPC Marc Anderson
A buddy of mine is a Ranger, in the 1/75 1st BN, and I had asked him to send me a memorial bracelet with your name on it. Even though I do not know you personaly, I am honored to wear the bracelet, for you, for my friend and for all the lives that were lost. May God be with your family, friends and loved ones. But most of all, for you and all those who have fallen."
Jessica C. of Evansville, IN USA

"Hey Ranger buddy! You, Brad, and Matt were awesome soldiers and gave the ultimate sacrifice. Thank you for all that you did. God bless you guys, and thanks for watching over us! RLTW!!!"
Depouli Family of Savannah, Ga

"Your funny, outgoing personality is missed everyday. The smile you used to give even if someone was in the worst of moods. Thank you for keeping us safe and watching over us."
Anna of Savannah, Ga

"Paperwork,
I miss you so much!! Gary and you went from day 1 basic, to RIP, and then batt boys together...I tagged along as his wife and no matter the rough times you always made me smile. I now wear your bracelet to remind me of you and all the times at Benning and Hunter, as I now am in the Army. I thank you for all you have done as a soldier, a teacher, a wonderful man, and mostly as my friend."
Kelly Horton of Mobile, AL...now Ft Drum, NY

"SPC ANDERSON
I too purchased a memorial bracelet with your name on it. It will be an honor having your memory close by as I raise my family in the freedom that your sacrifice helped ensure. May God bless your loved ones that you left behind.
Daren Ranger Class 11-88"
Darren of Cincinnati

"Hey Ranger Buddy, Miss you guys. Keep looking over us."
-Cunni

"SPC Anderson,
As I soon leave for OEF in a few weeks, I got a KIA bracelet with your name on it...inspiring me to serve as you did. May God watch over your family!"
SFC Smith of Germany

"Marc, I remember the first time we met. We were both on profile for injuries we sustained while "rangering". We rehabed together and eventually became very good friends. I remember our outings to Tybee Island and the coolers of daqueries and beers we took with us. Since you have been gone, life is not such a beach anymore. I miss you friend and Ranger buddy and I promise I will never forget."
James Hopper HHC 1/75 Ranger Bn of Nashville, TN.

"i did not know you, i bought a braclet with your name on it and wanted to say you are not forgotten."
SRM !-501PIR of chicago Il

"Marc...Just wanted to let you know that you are a true American Hero...I wear your ID braclet everyday all day with pride. There is not a single day that goes by that I don't pray for you."
Sgt. Mastroddi, C. of HHC 1-15 Scouts, Ft. Benning, GA, USA

"my name is Lloyd Bedford I am an ROTC Cadet at Georgia Southern University, not to far from Hunter Army Airfield. I just wanted to say im proud of what SPC Anderson did for his country. I just bought a black wrist band with his name on it to remind that one day i will be serving with great men like SPC Anderson. i hope and pray i will be half the soldier he was."
Lloyd Bedford of Statesboro, GA USA

"my name is marc anderson to i just wanted to say thank to you for being born and there should be more people in this world like you xx you will never be forgotten"
marc anderson of methilhill

"Spc. Mark " Big A" Anderson" you will be missed by all of your friends. You gave your life for this country and you will never be forgotten. As the old saying goes "for those who have faught for it, freedom has a flavor that the protected will never know.
Rangers Lead The Way!!!"
Your Ranger Buddy, SPC. Mike Gutierrez C CO. 1/75 RGR RGT of Dallas Texas

"Thanks for stepping forward when America needed you. To the family - Thank you for your contribution to our liberty and freedom. I'm sorry for your tremendous loss."
Ronald Carlson of Montrose, MN

"Hey Marc its me Jeff just wanted to let you know that your still the biggest influence in my life."
Jeff Mishler of Bryan Tx

"I was one of Mr. Anderson's beloved students. Myself as well as most if not all of his former students love him and miss him drastically. I will now be attending schooling to become a Middle School Math teacher. Mr. Anderson was my inspiration, and If I can be half the man he was, I will be successful. Recently I saw the movie Fahrenheit 911. This is what has inspired me to do a search for more information or a photograph of my Favorite teacher. Im sure their is someone out their who has the same feelings as I."
Stephanie of Fort Myers

"Thank you brave soldier for sacrificing your today for my children's safer tomorrow. You have our utmost respect and gratitude. May God provide your family with comfort in their time of sorrow. May you forever rest in Heavenly peace. You will not be forgotten."
a grateful citizen in arizona

"May the brave soul of Marc A. Anderson rest in eternal peace.
And may this site continue to remember those who have sacrificed their lives for freedom."
Tom Palaima of Austin, Texas

"To Marc Anderson, my 7th grade math teacher:
I have very fond memories of being in your last math class at Ft. Myers Middle School before you enlisted in the Army. I remember the stock market project we did and the stories you told. You spoke often of your family's involvement in the Army and your desire to serve. You were the direct inspiration for my enlistment in the Air Force. Thank you for the lessons you taught me and your sacrifice you have made for the safety and freedom of others. To the family of "Mr. Anderson" as I knew him growing up, I want you to know that he is loved and remembered by his students."
A1C Keith Gannon of Scott Air Force Base

"Specialist Anderson, goodbye soldier and thank you. You are my hero."
Bill of Houston, Texas

"Dear Marc A. Anderson:

I realize you do not know me personally, but I am with you spiritually. You are a true hero in the eyes of all Americans. I want you to know that all your efforts were not in vain. I appreciate the ultimate sacrifice you paid so that all of us can live in a free and safe society.

The ultimate sacrifice in life is to take action and protect those whom you love. You were there in Iraq because you love this great country and your fellow citizens and you choose to place yourself in harms way in order to protect the sovereignty of our country. In the eyes of God you have given the greatest gift of all for your friends and loveones; you gave your life. I just wanted you to know that you will be in my thoughts and prayers each and everyday. Thank you for giving me the greatest gift in life which is the gift of freedom.

To the family of Marc A. Anderson, please except my sincere condolences on the loss of your son. Your son has a special place in my heart, and in the hereafter with all the rest of the saints. If there is anything I can do please let me know.

Sincerely,

Carol Annino
Newington, CT 06111"
Carol Annino of Newington, CT/US

"To the family left behind by Marc's death I give my greatest condolences. I was the last relationship that Marc had here in Georgia before being deployed. We spent a lot of time together and I cared about him deeply. I just want you to know that he was a great man. He would have made an excellent husband and father if given the chance. He was exceptional with my daughter and he was so excited about his new niece in Florida. I saw Marc just 2 days before he left...he borrowed a corvette and came over to my house...we went for a ride and he was so relaxed about going...he just knew it would be over in no time....he brought me home, kissed me goodbye and as he was pulling out of my driveway he was yelling out the window that he would see me soon....this picture of a kind hearted, free spirited, big ol' teddy bear of a guy is the one that I will always remember when I think of Marc and I just wanted to share it with you. My daughter and I miss him terribly so I can't even imagine what y'all must feel. He was an amazing person. You raised an exceptional son..he had an amazing sense of patriotism and pride in what he did and that is what claimed his life in the end. It wasn't in vain however, because I believe that Marc wouldn't have had it any other way. May God Bless you all and keep you safe."
Veronica Baltimore of Baxley, Georgia USA

"Thank God for men like Marc Anderson. Everything we have in this nation that is good is here only because of soldiers like him. He was the best and I am so very grateful for what he did to defend us."
The Estes Family of Phoenix, AZ

"Our son was serving as a Ranger in Operation Enduring Freedom when Marc was killed. We attended the service for him to show our support and respect. To this day his funeral card is on our bedroom mirror and whenever I look at it I say a prayer of thanks for his bravery and a prayer of support for his family left behind. Our son returned home safe to us and I know Marc is held safely in the arms of our Heavenly Father."
1/04 - Judy & Dennis Perez of Seffner, Florida

"Thank you Marc Anderson, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios

"To the loved ones of Spc. Marc A. Anderson. Im Spc. Aaron M. Rosine of the 333rd Military Police I bought a dedication braclet from Ranger Joes one day and the name on it was his. I wanted to know more of this great soldier so i looked him up on the net to find out more about him, he was a wonderful man and has touched many of lives, Im currently stationed in Iraq and have been for the past 7 1/2 months and im away from my wife and children and sometimes its hard on me. and when i get discourged and depressed and think i can't give anymore for my country i look down at that braclet and i think of Marc and what he endored and gave for his country,So to the family of Spc. Marc A. Anderson though he may be gone, he's not forgotten. Spc. Aaron M.Rosine"
Aaron M. Rosine of Iraq

"To my brother Spc Marc Anderson You will allways be a hero,your fight for our freedom will live for ever in our harts and souls."
SSGT Anderson John D USMC of Brandon FL USA

"Mr and Mrs Anderson,
I had the pleasure of personally knowing Marc not only as a soldier, but as my friend. He truely cared about his family, friends and fellow soldiers. You raised an incredible son. Marc will always be in my heart and mind. He is an American hero and will not be forgotten."
Debbie Redman of Redondo Beach CA USA

"To the family and friends of Spc. Marc Anderson:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless Marc for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of Spc. Marc Anderson:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of Marc, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia