Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"There has not been a day that goes by that I don't recall my tour in Mosul. I was not with you Carl, I was the convoy commander of 2nd platoon. I was off the road that night of 29 Aug 2004 when we all got called into the TOC to learn what happened. From that period on my life was changed.
I was fortunate though to be TDY at Camp Bullis, Texas for the dedication and honor A1C Carl Anderson and SSgt Dustin Peters. I had the honor to meet Carl's father and shake his hand.
I am currently deployed again at Kuwait and this Vetran's Day there is a 10K run to which you can honor a "Fallen Hero" and of course you are the first person to come to my mind. So this Wednesday when I am chugging down that path every step is for you bro. Road Warriors forever!

494 Truck Company
Mosul "Diamondback", Iraq
2nd Platoon
Convoy Commander

MAC"
Boyce G. McPherson of Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ

"Carl was a good friend of mine. I remember crying so hard when I heard the news. Then I thought all of the jokes he would tell to make me laugh. You are truly missed. Love you!"
Shanen Grate (Class of 2001) of Georgetown, SC

"”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,750 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Mothers of our heroes, please be aware that the Project Compassion sponsors will now help cover the costs of the portraits for you to have one - regardless if the spouse of the hero has one or not!
Contact us directly at Projectcompassion@manti.com or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
Project Compassion
P.O. Box 153
Manti, Utah 84642"
Project Compassion - Kenna of Manti, Utah USA

"It has taken me a long time to speak on how I feel about my friend. For all those who knew me know that Cj was my best friend. We were together everyday and it hurts that i wake up and I will not see my friends face or hear his laugh. When he died i was in possesion of alot of his thing. Though I gave some things back to his family like his car, I chose to keep somethings for myself. I am doing this to help ease some of the pain I feel. CJ, i love u dog. Im still goin ride old school cuz"
Z of DC

"It has taken me a long time to speak on how I feel about my friend. For all those who knew me know that Cj was my best friend. We were together everyday and it hurts that i wake up and I will not see my friends face or hear his laugh. When he died i was in possesion of alot of his thing. Though I gave some things back to his family like his car, I chose to keep somethings for myself. I am doing this to help ease some of the pain I feel. CJ, i love u dog. Im still goin ride old school cuz"
Z of DC

"For a longtime I've read the blogs and wanted to leave one myself. I never meet Anderson, I just knew of him. My husband, at the time SSgt Salonga, was on that same convoy mission. I remember the calls, I remember going over to Melissa Helmick house watch the sea blue leave her house. I and other went over to comfort her and hear the news yet again. A1C Anderson didn't make it, he’d passed away. I went to the service at Elmendorf AFB, AK at the base chapel. It was packed and the church was busting at the seams. They had people flooded the rows and aisles, there was people even outside the church as well. Tissues were being passed around for the flood of emotion that would soon follow. As I sat there with the 3rd LRS and seen A1C Anderson face on the wall I began to cry. I cried with his fellow airmen, co-workers, his home away from home, his family and friends. It's been 4 years and yet this memory is still with me. He was so young and full of life. It looked as if his smile could light up a room and his personality was even better. Jeff talked about him but in very few words. I know he misses you deeply as well as Jason. After the events happened I had gotten my first tattoo with the one word of "ALWAYS". I will ALWAYS remember the fallen, ALWAYS remember there sacrifices, ALWAYS remember to LOVE, ALWAYS remember to hope and ALWAYS remember to live my day to the fullest. My little ring finger tattoo had deep meaning to me and on many levels. With that being said, my deepest sympathies go to his family. Your son’s spirit has touched my life and I thank him for that, ALWAYS……"
Stormy of Grand Forks AFB, ND

"From one Air Force family to another, Just know your son and your family will be in our thoughts forever.
My son is in Basic Training right now. We leave for graduation in the middle of August. When I watch the Airmen's Run on the first morning, I will think of your boy. A fallen Hero.
God Bless"
An Airman's Mom of Circleville, Ohio USA

"To CJ's family and loved ones ~
I am honored to wear CJ's Fallen Heroes bracelet that I received this week. Although he's gone now for nearly 4 years, know that he his honored and remembered not just by the people who loved him and knew him, but also by strangers never met. I will be wearing CJ's bracelet every day ... and remember. Blessings and comfort to you for a loss that is so deep."
Pam of Philadelphia area, PA

"March 18, 2008
To the family of Airman 1st Class Carl L. Anderson, Jr.:
Carl 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

"CJ, it has been a few years since your death and there hasn't been a day that goes by that I don't think about you and the day you were taken from us. I wish there could have been something I could have done to have helped you and I am sorry that I couldn't. You were a model Airman and you will forever be missed. To CJ's family, I am truly sorry for your loss. I am at a loss for words. I had the honor of meeting you at the street dedication at Elmendorf. Your son will be remembered by all those who were in his life and by those who hear the stories about him. Thank you for allowing me to have the special times that I had with your son."
Chris of rapid city South dakota

"I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Airman 1st Class Carl L. Anderson, Jr.
I couldn't help but notice Airman 1st Class Carl L. Anderson, Jr., gave his life for our freedom on my own son's 18th birthday. Senior Airman Shane L. Ward was in Tech school at that time.He is stationed at Seymour Johnson Airforce Base in Goldsboro, NC at present, but deploys to the middle east in January.
I cannot imagine your pain and sorrow you have felt.May God bless and comfort the hearts of the family & friends of this brave soldier who gave his life for our freedom. Thank you Airman 1st Class Carl L. Anderson, Jr. from an airforce dad. bwward@alltel.net"
Barry W. Ward of Summersville, Ky.

"Damn. I was stationed at Elmedorf with Carl and we used to chill and go out. Then i got orders to cali and dipped out. i was at my next base and looking through Air Force Times paper and saw my homeboy pic and read he died. To your family Carl, sorry. He was a good dude and wish we could chill and talk about good times we have back home. your homeboy Jason Moomaw A.K.A. Moo"
Jason of Detroit

"To my dude Carl Anderson Jr..... Your a true Airman homie. I remeber the old times during St. Stephen Sunday School on Sunday mornings, to the times we had at Beck Middle School. Even when we joined the Air Force, we always kept in touch, and kept it brotherly. We had some good times, and it was great to have known you. From one Air Force airman to another, I miss you, and thanks for making the ultimate sacrifice."
SSgt JL

"CJ man I don't know really what to say. That missed phone call still gets to me. I went out to check a vehicle and I came back inside and they told me I had a miss call. I check my messages and it was you. I never heard from you again. The air force will never see another like you. I feel real lucky to be able to say I personally knew a True American Hero. Til We Meet again.


Elmendorf Nov 02-06"
atkins riddick of Grand Forks, North Dakota

"I am part of Air Force ROTC Detachment 490 located in Newark, New Jersey. I am also part of Arnold Air Society which is a Professional, Honorary, Service Organization. AAS is all about remembering POW/MIA and our fallen comrades. Each AAS member across the country is wearing a bracelet with one of our fallen hero's name on it...to remember. I have A1C Carl L. Andersons, Jr. I wear it with pride and thanks...and sorrow for your sacrifice. I never knew him personally, but as I wear the bracelet, I imagine it is him following me on my life since his was taken so abruptly. We should not and WE WILL NOT FORGET YOU. God Bless."
Duffy of Newark, NJ

"CJ,
Well it has been over two years since you gave your life for your country, and for the freedom of others. Life has gone on with out you, but things will never be the same. Times have been tough with out you, that is for sure. I will always remember the times when you and I had Holt on the ropes thinking he was in trouble, you were standing behind him cracking up, as I chewed him up and down for no reason. I had the honor of being your supervisor from the time you arrived at Elmendorf through that terrible night we lost you. Even though I was your supervisor, I looked to you for support though your humor. And for that I will always be grateful. If you had never entered my life I doubt Jake and I would have become as close of friends that we have become. Please look over him as he rides through Afghanastan. I wish I was rolling with him. You are missed CJ, and always will be remembered by all that knew you.

To your family, I am truly sorry for your loss. I really am at a loss for words. I had the honor of meeting you at the street dedication at Elmendorf, and I want you to know that the people that knew CJ at Elmendorf put together our own memorial rock at Vehicle Operations. Your son will be remembered by all that try to walk in his boots, though they will never fill them. Thank you for allowing me to have the special times that I had with your son. If ever I am in in SC I plan on contacting you. I would love to talk to you.

Michael Steffen
494 Truck Company
Mosul, Iraq
July 04- Jan 05
Elmendorf AFB Jun 01 - Jun 06"
TSgt Michael Steffen of 12 Combat Training Squadron Ft Irwin California

"It is hard to believe that you are gone bro...I was with you to the end bro. There are times i wish i was driving that night and you were gunning instead...but i know we never saw any of what happened coming... We spent a lot of time just talking about life and what we were going to do when we got back to Elmendorf AFB, AK. Its hard to believe that you were taken and not me or Helmick. We feel so lucky cause it really should of been all three of us... Not a day goes by that i dont think about 29 August 2004, the night we got hit. You were my home boy from the day i got to Elmendorf and you'll be my boy till the day i die. I know you'll always be in our hearts and watching over us when we least expect it. You were not only a great friend CJ but and amazing person and i am honored to have served with you. Your missed greatly bro and i still talk about the crazy stuff we use to do when we lived in the dorms and hung out. For your mother, father, and two sisters...I had the honor to meet you all at Elmendorf, and sit down and talk with you all at our shop when you came up for the Anderson Circle Street Sign Dedication Ceremoney. Myself and TSgt. Helmick were honored to meet the family of our good friend who was taken from us. My wishes and support go out to you and it was a honor meeting you all. I'm so sorry for you lose but know that Carl was a great person and amazing friend. When i return from Afghanistan I plan on coming up to S.C. to meet with CJ again at his grave. I at least owe him that. CJ bro, you'll never be forgotten...I'll know you'll always be watching over me...You were a amazing guy and a great friend bro...Your missed greatly by all of us...luv you bro...Road Dogs 4 Life
Jacob Sutton
494 Truck Company
Mosul, Iraq
July 04-Jan 05
Elmedorf AFB, AK
Nov 02-Nov 05"
Jacob Sutton of Eglin AFB, FL

"I first saw this soldier's picture in late 2004. I was in college on my computer looking at fallen soldiers on CNN.com. When I saw his picture, something in my heart just died. A soldier so young had lost his life. I couldn't believe it. We were about the same age and now he's gone, I thought no, not him, I bet he's a character! He looks to cool for him to die. Today is May 3rd, 2006. I still can't forget his face. His smile is so comforting I could just imagine he was the boy next door or the class clown. On April 28th, 2006, I finally looked at his picture again and went to google to find out more about him. He was exactly like I thought he would be, "Prom Prince", "Most Popular" and always smiling. I don't know why I feel such a strong connection to this person, but I do. I don't even know him and yet I cried for days and grieved for his family's loss. I never even knew he existed in this world until 2004 and I have cried many nights and days over never being able to meet him. So this message is to Carl L. Anderson Jr. I think of you often,I wonder what would you be doing in your life if you were alive today? Your smile is a memory that will never be erased from my mind. I feel like I have known you for so long just reading about the person that you were. You are a true hero and I thank you for dying for me and my children. My prayers go out to this family. I feel such a pain in my heart for this stranger. I can't imagine how you must feel actually knowing him. I'm only 21 years old. I now have a husband in the military. I pray to God everyday that if the time comes when he has to go to Iraq to never let me feel pain like this. May God continue to bless your family. Please pray for mines."
Tamara S. White, wife of Pvt. Philip White US Army of Dallas, Texas, USA

"Carl,
I would like to say thank 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

"CJ, you will always be our hero here at Elmendorf AFB, AK. Your memory will live on. Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice. May God continue to keep your family and friends. Amen."
On behalf of the Boyd Family of Elmendorf AFB, AK

"I often tell my children of the sacrifices men like AMN Anderson make for the betterment of others. There are no words to describe how grateful we are for his service. His efforts will never be taken for granted.
TSgt Gordon & family, Charleston, SC."
TSgt Gordon & family of Charleston, SC

"CARL WAS,AND IS A HERO.. I AM WEARING HIS K.I.A. BRACLET.. SO I DO THINK OF YOUR SON EVERYDAY.. GOD BLESS YOU.
AND GOD BLESS AMERICA..."
TINA NOPPENBERGER of SMITHS ALABAMA

"I was stationed with Carl at Elmendorf and at Tech School at Ft. Leonard Wood. I didn't know him that well but he will be missed. I was serving in Baghdad when he left us and I am proud knowing that I served with someone like him. Carl we miss you and love you and we know that you are watching us up there. We will always remember you."
SrA Allyson Hayes, 3 Civil Engineering Squadron of Elmendorf AFB, AK

"i am sorry for your loss. my uncle shawn m. davies died too."
Kim Davies of eagle river,alaska

"To the family and friends of Airman 1st Class Carl L. Anderson, Jr.,

Those we hold most dear, never truly leave us. May you find comfort in love's everlasting connection.

In the Support section of this web site you will find links to many groups that support you at this crucial time. The Marine Comfort Quilt group would be honored to send a quilt to the next of kin. There are many, loving and caring Americans from all over the United States that will never forget the sacrifice that your loved one has made for our Freedom. Please use our link and register so we can send you our "Love Stitched Together."

Proud Wife of an Air Force veteran and MCQ Member"
Kim Woodard of Richmond, VA

"I was station with Carl, or(Anderson thats what i called him)in Alaska, and as a matter of fact when I got back from Iraq he was leaving, i didn't get a chance to see him, but other friends that where in Iraq saw him and talked to him.

IT WAS HARD FOR ME TO SWALLOW CAUSE WE WHERE COOL, WE KICKED IT AND CHILL, I ALSO ALONG WITH OTHER(I'M SURE) MADE SURE HE STAYed OUT OF TROUBLE, (NOT THAT HE WOULD BE IN TROUBLE), BUT JUST WATCHING OUT FOR HIM, THEN THIS HAPPENS, I WAS AT MY MOTHERS HOUSE IN CHICAGO WHEN I GOT THE MESSAGE OF WHAT HAPPEN I CRIED AND CRIED, BUT STUCK MY CHEST OUT KNOWING I WAS FRIENDS ANDERSON, AND HE WILL ALWAY BE A HERO TO ME!"
DEVON MILTON of CHICAGO, IL

"a thought and a prayer to a soldier who served our country with courage and bravour. all my condolences to this hero's family."
hayley of saint louis, MO/USA

"Rest in peace sweet hero, thank you!"
Violet Sepulveda of San Diego ca

"God Bless you Amn Carl Anderson Jr. You will always be a hero to America and the people of Iraq that you helped to liberate. My husband was over there doing the same job as Carl only at a different FOB. Other Amn from my husbands shop served with CJ. He will be missed. God bless you. My deepest condolences to his family. May God be with you and comfort you always."

"I really don't know how to start this off, I went to High school with Carl and I still can't believe it. I went home and attended the funeral for closure but the hurt is still there. I'm in the navy, and it hits so close to home because you never imagine that someone you know would die in this manner because you believe it won't happen to you. But because of this it is proven that God has a plan and everyone will play their part in it. It was Carl's chance and he has proven himself. I am forever grateful to him the ultimate sacrifice has been given and no one can take it away...Love you Carl and I miss you!!!!!
"A Coward dies a thousand deaths, A Soldier only once""
Sheana Robinson, ITSN USN of Norfolk, VA US, Georgetown, SC US

"To the family and friends of A1C Carl L. Anderson,

On behalf of the Davies family, our deepest condolences to you. We share in your pain with the loss of our brother/son, Spc. Shawn M. Davies. Carl will never be forgotten."
MSgt Richard A. Davies, 3rd Wing Inspections of Elmendorf AFB, AK

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

"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, Carl, will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"To the family of Carl,
Our sincerest condolences for your loss. Our family has also suffered the loss of a precious life in this battle for freedom. Carl is a true American hero and will always be remembered for his bravery and sacrifice he gave to our country. May God bless you during this difficult time."
The McClain family--azquail@att.net of Tucson, AZ

"To Carl'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 prayers are with you in this most difficult time and we thank you for your soldier's bravery and sacrifice.

Sincerely,

The Family of Capt. Ernesto M. Blanco-Caldas, 82nd Airborne
KIA Iraq 12/28/2003.
Gloria Caldas (The Big Ern's Mom) of San Antonio, TX
gloria.caldas@banksterling.com"

"To Carl's Family:
There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for your loss. May God bless you and help you through this time."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"Carl has touched my life. I am an ex Vietnam era Airman who served my Country from 1964-68 (although not nearly as gallantly or unselfishly as Carl). The city that I am employed by is sponsoring a "Healing Field" which are more than 4000 flags flying in Northglenn, Colorado. These flags are in solemn honor of those who have died in the war against terrorism. I randomely picked out Carl's flag to sponsor. My family and I are forever indebted to Carl for his sacrifice. I will fly this flag proudly and when doing so will think about how Carl and those like him have made my Country safer and better for my children and their children and on and on. GOD bless you all and thank you Carl!"
Bill Fernquist of Brighton, Colorado/USA

"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. Neither you nor your sacrifice will be forgotten. May time provide family and friends with happy loving memories in place of present sorrows. In the infinite meadows of Heaven the bright shining stars bloom...the forget-me-nots of angels. God bless you and thank you."
a grateful family in Phoenix, AZ

"Thank you Carl Anderson, Jr., 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 Airman 1st Class Carl Anderson, Jr.:
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 Carl 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 Airman 1st Class Carl Anderson, Jr.:
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 Carl, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia