Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"January 12, 2010

To Derek's Family,

I was a classmate of Derek's at Cabrillo High School, being an Air Force brat from Vandenberg AFB. While we were not close friends, I do remember him. How beautiful and heartbreaking that the boy I remembered grew into such a hero. I don't know how much his brave sacrifice must ease your suffering, I hope it does at least by some small measure.

My God (and Derek) bless you and watch over you!"
Kim of Washington DC

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry. I understand in theory only that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take the families pain away but I can't. I am committed to loving ALL people, myself and our environment. I am committed to working on my happiness everyday because so many have died for my freedom to live my life. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have. All my love and respect. ogersteiner@yahoo.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEjz-wAQLSA&feature=PlayList&p=477CB1585D5551F3"
Scott Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"March 28, 2008
To the family of Capt. Derek Argel:
Derek 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

"AEROMILTEC LTD SALUTES TODAY ALL THOSE WHO PUT THEIR LIVES ON THEIR LINES OF DUTY IN IRAQ & AFGHANISTAN PILOTS ,AIRCREWS, AIRMEN , YOU ARE GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN"
D.ROBERTSON of SWITZERLAND

"To the family of:Derek Argel 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 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew Covington,Ga"

"Capt. Argel,
Sir, I would like to say thank you to you and the other men who were on that plane with you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy."
Mike C. of El Paso, Texas

"Hi Ms. Bastein (I believe): I am a Rotary member in Lompoc. I have heard you speak in the past. I would love to have you speak in Nov. 2007 at the Lompoc Rotary Club. Please contact me. My phone is 588-2767 and my email is patrick_chandler@countrywide.com"
Patrick Chandler of Lompoc, Ca

"To the family of Derek Argel,
I saw his story tonight(6/15/07) at work in a magazine. I'm a pediatric nurse/mother and seeing Logan's little face broke my heart. Thank you is not enough for sending your hero to protect our country. I hope this note finds you all well and that your hearts are healing. God Bless and thank you."
Angie Cobb of Kennewick, Wa. USA

"Thank you just isn't enough. You will be remembered always for serving our country, for keeping us safe, for making this world a better place.

Thank you brave family for standing up to speak truth (CNN). Our soldiers have made the ultimate sacrafice. They gave their life for each and every one of us. God bless you. Find comfort and strength in His great love. From a family who knows your suffering,"
Bela of Woodbury, CT

"Derek - You were a true and great friend. Everyone who had the honor of knowing you is truly blessed. God speed brother...Here's a Toast."
Wes of USAFA '01

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

"We are deeply sorry for your loss. America will forever honor your Hero.
The Courage, Honor, and Valor that your Hero showed will always be remembered.
We are grateful for the sacrifice that was made and we will NEVER FORGET.
God Bless your family and please know that you are not alone.
All of our prayers are with you."
Jennifer and SSGT Larry Mays of Massillon, Ohio

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

"6/3/05
To Derek's family,
We know your pain, and wish to express our deep sorrow for your loss. Your son is truly a hero and will be known forever for his bravery and willingness to protect our great nation. We pray every day for the families of lost soldiers. God bless and keep you.
'My sacrifice, God, is a broken spirit;
God, do not spurn a broken, humbled heart.' Ps 51:19"
Webster and Ruth Reed (Father and stepmom of Jonathan Ray Reed who died in Operation Iraqi Freedom on January 28, 2005) of Krotz Springs, Louisiana

"Derek.....We miss you buddy.....we can never thank you enough for what you did for our country and I thank you for your friendship over the years.....you were a true friend and patriot.....my thoughts and prayers go out to your family"
Brandon Goble of Fort Collins Colorado

"DEREK YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ARE IN OUR FAMILIIES PRAYS. DEREK THANK YOU FOR SERVING OUR GREAT COUNTRY. YOU ARE A PROFESSIONAL SOLDIER THE ELITE OF AMERICANS. THANK YOU FOR PROTECTING US AGAINST TERRORISM AND GIVEN OTHERS IN THIS WORLD A NEW BEGINNING. WE LOST OUR SON LAST MAY. DEREK YOU HAVE NOT GIVEN YOURLIFE IN VAIN. YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN DEREK, NEVER! GOD BLESS!"
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"Thank you Derek Argel, 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 Capt. Derek Argel:
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 Derek 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 Capt. Derek Argel:
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 Derek, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia