Fallen Heroes of Operation Enduring Freedom

"you never hesitate to aid your comrades when they called for help...your selfless acts will never be forgotten...after reading the lone survivor you guys are always in my heart...i will always tell your story to my nephews, nieces and would be children so that they may grow up emulating you guys....heaven is so lucky to have great men up there in heaven...hope to see you in heaven when my time on earth is done..."
rasmia of philippines

"Spider was and always will be a name that I speak of to the kids that I teach and coach about what it takes to be great American and a real "Man for Others". Sacrifice is hard. Erik paid the ultimate sacrifice for us, and we will never forget him."
SSgt. Neal P. Owens, US Army Military Police (ret.) of Kensington, MD

"Admiral and Mrs. Kristensen,

Mr. Kristensen I had the Honor of Serving Under Your Command onboard the USS Waddell DDG-24... I remembed Erik and Mrs. Kristensen waiting for You on the peir as we returned from West-Pac in 1983... I knew Erik as a Young Boy and what a Great Man he turned out to be... It was an Honor Sir to know him... You and Mrs. Kristensen raised a Good Man... God Bless You and Mrs. Kristensen... I Thank You Sir and LTCDR Erik S. Kristensen for Serving this Great Country of Ours..."
Lee Garell MM3 USN of Tulsa, OK

"October 13, 2007
To the family of Lt. Cmdr. Erik S. Kristensen:
Erik 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 of Nevada

"Ed, I didn't know of your son Eric's death until reading the "Lone Survivor" book by Marcus Lutrell just the other day. Please accept my heart felt thanks for Eric's service and deep sorrow for his death. I know what you and Sam must be going through.
We haven't seen each other since War
College days at National '80. It seems such a short time ago we were there. So much has happened. God Bless you and your Family, Dan"
Dan Jones (djones@smartronix.com) of Sierra Vista, AZ

"Ed, I didn't know of your son Eric's death until reading the "Lone Survivor" book by Marcus Lutrell just the other day. Please accept my heart felt thanks for Eric's service and deep sorrow for his death. I know what you and Sam must be going through.
We haven't seen each other since War
College days at National '80. It seems such a short time ago we were there. So much has happened. God Bless you and your Family, Dan"
Dan Jones (djones@smartronix.com) of Sierra Vista, AZ

"Erik, never forgotten, always appreciated!"
T.S. of Kentucky

"If you are able, save them a place inside of you and save one backward glance when you are leaving for the places they can no longer go. Be not ashamed to say you loved them, though you may or may not have always. Take what they have left and what they have taught you with their dying and keep it with your own. And in that time when men decide and feel safe to call war insane, take one moment to embrace those gentle heroes you left behind.( "Major Michael Davis O'Donnell 1 January 1970 Dak To, Vietnam.") America has been built on the blood of Heros and Brave Men of Honor who answered the call. A fellow veteran wants to thank this hero for his service, and my cherised freedoms. May you rest well in Gods loving embrace brave hero, and may God bring comfort to your loved ones for their sacrifice. You shall never be forgotten by a grateful nation.""
William Darby Taylor Jr. of Bonita Springs Florida

"God called yet another SEAL to muster at the gates of heaven RIP Brother in arms, Shipmate"
Doc Weaver

"I met Erik at the 60th street Love Shack in virginia beach. I just want to let his parents know he is not forgotten. I think of him and pray for him often. It surprises me. He was a fine boy, you did a great job and i thank God for the time you had together. I hope your memories stay crisp and clear. He had the finest hand shake ever...strong and warm.Thank you for your sacrifice."
Loretta Clausen of Virginia Beach

"Cmdr. Kristensen,
Sir, I would like to say thank you to you and the other men who were on that Chinook with you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. When your fellow SEALs were in trouble, you did not hesitate to go to their aid. And to your family, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy. After reading all the reflections about, you seemed like one hell an officer."
Mike C. of El Paso, TX

"It's difficult to believe it's been a year. Love ya' and miss ya'"
MS of Annapolis, MD

"Kristensen Family,

A fellow English major with Erik from USNA, I enjoyed those moments when we saw a solution/consideration from opposite sides and then gave each other the "how did you come to THAT illogical conclusion?" face. He thought I was weird. I thought he was entertainingly wicked. We were friends, bonded by a tendency to shake our heads at each other in laughing disbelief--and I will miss him. I sure wish y'all well and congratulate you on your wonderful son."
LCDR Mary Anne Tomlin Andrews of Jacksonville, FL

"Dear Admiral and Mrs. Kristensen,
My deepest condolences to you. I knew Erik as a young, aspiring Division Officer when he checked onboard USS Chandler (DDG-996). I was the "Ops" Officer and had the privledge to work with and train him on the bridge as he learned the ropes on his first ship. He was a model sailor and Officer, very respectful, and carried out his duties perfectly - and always with a smile. I know other officers looked up to Erik because of his character and easy-going (yet professional) demeanor. It was an honor to know and serve with him. The United States Navy has lost one our finest. My deepest sympathies and warmest regards,"
LT. (ret). David Rausche of San Diego, CA

"To the Family of Lt Cmdr. Kristensen,
I am a Midshipman at the US Naval Academy and will be attending BUD/S in August. I never met Erik, but think about him all of the time. He is a model for all future officers to follow and I keep him and you in my prayers always. I run past his burial ground almost every day, he will never be forgotten. God bless. "Quelled on the wing like eagles struck in air - Forever they slumber young and fair""
Midshipman Billy Knips of Annapolis, MD

"Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you. It's taken me some time to send you this message because I've also had a difficult time with the loss of Erik and the other fine young men. My brother was with Erik on the same flight. I am so very proud of them all. I only wished I had met Erik, but I'm sure in saying that he had a special love for us all...he gave his life for us and for others. His memory will never be forgotten. -Sister of SFC Marcus Muralles"
Cynthia Swazay of Indianapolis,IN/USA

"Admiral and Mrs. Kristensen,

Admiral, I met you when you came to visit Erik on Guam in 97-98 while he was my OIC at SBU-12. He was hands-down the best officer that I had ever had the honor to serve with. He was a good man and a good friend, and I would have followed him anywhere. His loss is deeply felt by all of the other members from Detachment "India" as well. Erik was one of the most selfless guys that I have ever met and he was there for me and all of the other Det India Boatguys in both good times and bad. We really looked up to him and it is a cosmic injustice for him to have been taken from us so soon. Please consider those of us that served with him as your sons, for he will always be my brother. The world is a darker place without him."
Ken Herbert of Maine

": To the family of:Erik S. Kristensen I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart cries out for you in your grief and you have my thoughts and prayers. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need prayer or need someone to talk to, please call or write my pastor: Rev. John Pearrell Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew Covington,Ga"

"Admiral and Mrs. Kristensen
I served onboard the "Mighty Warship Waddell" under Adm. Kristensen. I remember our tiger cruise coming back from west pac when Erik was aboard for the cruise back home.
Admiral and Mrs. Kristensen, my deepest sympathy and condolences on your loss"
MS1 Bob Ray of San Diego, CA.

"From 'Hearts Touched by Fire' ... Erik we thank you for your devotion; your honor courage and commitment. May the Angels in Heaven greet you with a thousand clarions, and a warrior’s ‘Welcome Home’. Siste Viator."
John & Patti Ferrara of Newbury, Massachusetts

"As a mom of five young children, I am so grateful for the sacrifice of this brave solder Erik S. Kristensen. You are loved by many. Words can not express the emotion. He payed the ultimate price for our freedom and the freedom of so many other people who suffered under the rule of Sadaam. May God be with his family in this time of sorrow and may you find comfort in the fact that we think about Erik's sacrifice for the love of his country. May we NEVER forget! Thank you!"
JILL HUGHES of HOUSTON TX

"A true warrior poet has left us. May God continue to bless his family as they move on."
A Johnnie of Fort Bragg, NC

"Deepest sympathies to the family of Erik. He was a hero and inspiration to all Americans. We are saddened by his loss but greatful for his sacrifice upon the altar of freedom."
Jim C. of Nutley, New Jersey

"May God Bless Your Family"
Dan, Cindy, Tiffany, Eric Dietz of Littleton, Colorado

"I was Erik's first Chief at his first duty station onboard the USS Chandler (DDG-996). He was an awesome Division Officer and did what his Chief said!! He taught me alot as did I teach him. I have always considered him a friend. We kept in touch long after he transferred but as always, not enough. I am deeply saddened by his loss but am extremely proud of him. He is sorely missed. I wish his family the best and want them to know he, and they, are in my and my wife's prayers."
GMC (Ret) Mark Erwin of Winchester, Ca

"My deepest sympathy to de family left behind.
Sincerely
Erik Staffeldt, DK
staffeldt@pc.dk
PS: Might Erik ba in family af John S. Kristensen??"
Erik Staffeldt of Denmark

"There is no way we can repay or thank you and your family enough for your contributions. We all need to make our families and friends know of your great contributions. We are blessed. God Bless you and all that love you"
Doug Murray of San Juan Capistrano, CA

"Admiral and Mrs. Kristensen,

My deepest sympathy on the loss of your son.

Sailor, rest your oar."
Linda Hamlett, Marine Mom, of Georgetown, TX

"Admiral and Mrs. Kristensen,

I heard about Erik on the news this morning and was very deeply touched. You see, Erik and I sat next to each other in the band every day for two years at Kinnick High School in Japan. I knew him very well and he was an intelligent, talented and wonderful guy. I can only imagine what you are going through. I'm truly sorry for your loss, for our country's loss, but I hope that it is some measure of comfort to you that Erik served his country admirably, setting a shining example for others to follow. He is an American hero and his sacrifice will never, ever be forgotten. God bless you and yours."
Michael Hoffmeyer of Memphis, TN

"To Erik's Family, I wish to extend my sincere condolences to you for the loss of your Erik. Erik is a true American Hero, who will always be remembered and honored. May God Bless all of you."
Mary Ghaney of Brooklyn, New York

"Admiral Ed and Sam,
Our hearts are broken for you both and we mourn the loss of your beloved Erik. We're honored with your friendship and love. Your loss is shared by all of us. You're in our thoughts and prayers. Stay strong."
Tammy and John Epes of Roanoke, VA/USA

"Erik I only knew you a short time, but in that time I saw a brave, handsome, smart, witty, loyal and loving man who did not deserve to be taken so soon. You will be remembered always, and as a friend of your girlfriend, Susannah, I promise to help her through this terrible grief and remind her of the plans you had to live your life with purpose and honor, and believe me she will do it for the both of you. Heaven is a better place with you in it, of that I am sure. Condolences to all who knew and loved you."
Steffi K of Eden Prairie, MN

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. -John 15:13

Erik, your sacrifce will never be forgotten. God bless you, sir.

Admiral and Mrs. Kristensen, you were my CO on CG-57. You probably won't remember me, but I'll never forget you. It was the highest honor to serve with you, sir. You have my deepest condolences. May your pain pass quickly and your memories never fade.
God bless you both."
Edward Trigloff (STG3) of Tucson, AZ

"To the Family:

I express my deepest sorrow. My brother 1st Class Petty Officer Brian J. Ouellette was with SEAL Team 2 and he was taken on May 29th 2004. I know he has his brothers with him now. May GOD BLESS you and keep you until then.
Mike Ouellette
Uxbridge, MA"
Michael Oullette of Uxbridge, MA

"Erik will never be forgotten!"
Marine Wife of Ohio

"TO THE KRISTENSEN FAMILY FROM THE WAHL FAMILY. ERIK TIME TO REST, YOU ARE NOW WITH THE MANY THAT SERVED OUR COUNTRY. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. I UNDERSTAND LOSING A SON VERY DEAR TO ME. I AM EXTREMELY; THANKFUL AND GRATEFUL HE SERVED ALONG SIDE YOU SIR. I REALIZE YOU DIDN'T KNOW ONE ANOTHER PERSONALLY. AS GREGORY, TOLD ME OFTEN. DAD NEVER WORRY ABOUT ME. I AM WITH ALL MY BROTHER'S AND SISTER'S. WE WATCH OVER ONE ANOTHER. IT HIT ME RECENTLY; THAT HE WAS RIGHT! ERIK YOU ARE AN AMAZING INDIVIDUAL, PERSON, FAMILY MAN, SOLDIER AND HERO! YOU ARE REMEMBERED TODAY, NOW AND FOREVER; NEVER EVER TO BE FORGOTTEN. YOU HAVE TOUCHED THE HEARTS OF SO MANY. AN ALL THOSE YOUR HAVE TOUCHED IN A PERSONAL WAY. WILL ONLY CELEBRATE THOSE FOND MEMORIES. SERVING OUR COUNTRY IS A CALLING IN ONE'S LIFE. THANK YOU! MY PRAYS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY."
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"To Erik's Family and Friends:

On behalf of the Blanco-Caldas family, we send our sincerest condolences. We share the same loss ... the same pain. Our son returned safely from Afghanistan, only to lose his life in Iraq. Our prayers are with you in this most difficult time and we thank you for your soldier's bravery and sacrifice. Our sons are true heroes!

By His Grace,

Gloria Caldas
Proud Mother of Fallen Hero
Capt. Ernesto "The Big Ern" Blanco-Caldas
82nd Airborne, KIA Iraq 12/28/2003
San Antonio, Texas
gcaldas48@aol.com"

"You were one of the rare ones. A true "Man for Others". We will miss you, Spider."
Mike Brodnik of Washington, DC

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Erik will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you ALWAYS. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"RIP SHIPMATE"
US Navy Sailor

"Thank you Erik Kristensen, 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 Lt. Cmdr. Erik Kristensen:
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 Erik 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 Lt. Cmdr. Erik Kristensen:
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 Erik, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia