Fallen Heroes of Operation Enduring Freedom

"Thanks again for taking care of my men and I -RLTW Ranger buddy"
-SFC Cunningham 04MAR08

"CN,
I just visited your exhibit in the Enlisted Heritage Hall today on Gunter AFB. They have a life size mannequin with your uniform and kit on it. It really made all those memories come rushing back. I am extremely proud to be able to stand by your exhibit and brag about you and your heroism to everyone that passes by. I miss you bro. You set the standard for all of us!"
DD 19 Jan 08

"John, I was there when they brought you to Ramstein/Landsthul. When I heard that the first service-members killed in the war on terror were arriving, I quickly formed an impromptu honor guard to meet your aircraft. In the days afterwards, I found out not only was there an Airman that we honored but a hometown boy that I knew...I was filled with pride and sadness.

I understand your service to country and will never forget your sacrifice.

I’m proud to say that I’m from Windsor Locks, Class of ’79, and that I’m retired, United States Air Force.

God Bless"
Tony Bertussi, CMSgt, USAF (Ret) of Henderson, NV/USA

"May 16, 2007
To the family of John A. Chapman. John 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

"Sergeant Chapman,

Many thanks to you for the sacrifice you made in serving your country. Today is 3/22/2007. Five years have gone by since your passing but your legacy will never be forgotten. Because of men like you I am proud to say that I am from Windsor Locks (W.L.H.S. Class of 1986)."
Gary M. of Windsor, CT

"Chappy - Another March 4th has passed. Lots of memories, Bro. You and Jason have since been joined by other members of the team - SD, Duff, Argel, Fresques, Crate, Servais. You will always be remembered. A Hero. Thanks for being here for us, and serving. You'll always be in my heart."
BA of 24 STS/720 OSS

"John - Scott Duffman joined you on the other side last week and today he was honored in a similar manner as you were. You were mentioned in the ceremony several times and I still think about you bro!"
JR of NC

"It's been nearly five years since you left us and part of my heart was taken away. Sure do miss your hugs. I wrote a poem -- hope you like it.

TREASURE THE MEMORIES

There are so many stories
About this little boy
Although you were a rascal
You brought your family joy
From bikes in trees, and lightning bolts
And giggles in the dark
Little league and soccer games
And picnics in the park

God blessed you with the gift
Of a tender loving heart
There are so many stories
I wouldn’t know where to start
You touched so many lives
With your caring gentle ways
You helped so many people
And brightened many days

Green giant, Mame and diving boards
Some high school things to do
Tried college, cars and tow trucks
Then Air Force time for you
You branched to special forces
And wore a red beret
Proud parents, friends and you
Did celebrate that day

The love of your life was met
On a trip that you took with Joe
You made her a wife, then mother
And your family began to grow
A dog, little girls and Barbie dolls
And splashing in the pool
You loved your cutie patooties
Your heart they soon did rule

You went to war for freedom
And there you gave your life
You leave behind your treasures
Your daughters and your wife
These precious three live on
As special parts of you
We’ll love them and protect them
As we know you would do

Scrapbooks and snapshots
Home made movies too
Help to keep the memories
That we have of you
Scrapbooks and snapshots
They will have to do
Until the day will come again
When we can be with you
Love, Mom"
Terry Chapman of Windsor Locks, CT

"It's been nearly five years since you left us and part of my heart was taken away. Sure do miss your hugs. I wrote a poem -- hope you like it.

TREASURE THE MEMORIES

There are so many stories
About this little boy
Although you were a rascal
You brought your family joy
From bikes in trees, and lightning bolts
And giggles in the dark
Little league and soccer games
And picnics in the park

God blessed you with the gift
Of a tender loving heart
There are so many stories
I wouldn’t know where to start
You touched so many lives
With your caring gentle ways
You helped so many people
And brightened many days

Green giant, Mame and diving boards
Some high school things to do
Tried college, cars and tow trucks
Then Air Force time for you
You branched to special forces
And wore a red beret
Proud parents, friends and you
Did celebrate that day

The love of your life was met
On a trip that you took with Joe
You made her a wife, then mother
And your family began to grow
A dog, little girls and Barbie dolls
And splashing in the pool
You loved your cutie patooties
Your heart they soon did rule

You went to war for freedom
And there you gave your life
You leave behind your treasures
Your daughters and your wife
These precious three live on
As special parts of you
We’ll love them and protect them
As we know you would do

Scrapbooks and snapshots
Home made movies too
Help to keep the memories
That we have of you
Scrapbooks and snapshots
They will have to do
Until the day will come again
When we can be with you
Love, Mom"
Terry Chapman of Windsor Locks, CT

"The story of how he gave his life is amazing and makes me proud that he was from CT to."
Dan of CT

"John, We love spending time with Val and the girls. They are so beautiful. Your girls are so proud to talk about their daddy and show us pictures and awards. It's so hard to look at Bri without seeing your face. We all miss you very much. I'm always proud to tell people about you when they ask me who my "hero" is. Thank you for reminding me why I signed up."
Megan Fetzer (Lt, USAF) of Phoenix, AZ

"John,
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."
Mike Casey of El Paso, Texas

"Dearest John, I just spent a week with Val and the girls. I am so comforted with the healing they have done in the 3 short years. Everywhere in the house are plaques, signs, awards, coffee cups and a huge lifesaver from the ship that now bears your name. My favorite photo displayed is the one of you with the Afhganistan child on your lap...I'm sure she had a little crush on you just like my daughter did when we first met. John, you are so loved and very missed and it's an honor to know you as a hero now as well as an awesome combat controller, husband, Dad, and friend. Thanks for the great laughs and through the tears as well. We live on being better people for having known you.....and don't you worry about Val and the girls as we will always be there for them. We love you dearly and miss you much. C'ya later...."
The Works Family of Chandler, Az

"hey chappy whats up u probally dont remember me but for the people who look at this website chapps was my bros best friend for life they grew up together and when my bro needed help chapps would help them well i luv u amd we miss u lots chapps u helped us a bunch"
jordan and paul

""Chappy" I think about you often buddy..."
MSgt Dwayne Lowes of RAF Mildenhall, UK

"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

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

"John, you and your sacrifice are not forgotten on this Memorial Day Weekend 2004. You are always in our thoughts and prayers, as well as the many countless other soldiers who go go unnoticed in the war on terror worldwide. This weekend, we pay special tribute to those who have left us in defense of our freedoms and our nation."
Brian of Long Island, New York

"It is an honor to leave a message of thanks for a man like John Chapman. He did more to make this country safer in his years than the vast majority of his fellow citizens ever will. His family should know that there are so many Americans so very grateful for what their loved one gave to make them free."
The Estes Family of Phoenix, AZ

"Thank you John Chapman, 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 family and friends of Tech. Sgt. John Chapman:
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 John 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 Tech. Sgt. John Chapman:
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 John, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia