Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"9/2/08

The security of Al Anbar was handed over to the Sunni tribes this Labor Day, September 1, 2008.

Thanks and love to our Marines, to all of our troops!

Aaron, I love you. Will forever be proud of you and yours!"
Mom

"YOU GO GIRL!!! Don't ever let anyone rob you of that!"
De'on

"Deon,sorry about the hot water !!!!!!
i never new how much my little graddaughter would effect me,But she has really gotten into my heart and i love her so much,she has already got me wrapped around her little finger.
God has really blessed me in so many ways Aaron,for having 3 great sons and now a really cute graddaughter, i only hope i can be the best grandma for her and be there when she needs me.I have always wanted alittle girl that i could love and spoil,now i have her.........
I guess i can say i did something right in my life,cause my boys love me know matter what.They are my big accomplishment, i think i did a great job,pat pat. noone can ever no take that away from a parent,the love we have for our children,even though you and chris aren't here to share in our joy with Hailey, i know your watching from up above. Yes that's where my son is in HEAVEN.God Bless all our troops,i pray for each one of you that give so much to us everyday.Donna"
Donna of Lovington,NM

"Your message brings tears to my eyes, Donna. I'm sorry I couldn't hang ... I'm very proud of Hailey and her parents. She's beautiful like them and I will always love your son.

There are so many times I wish they were teenagers again. Now, does that explain what a silly old woman I am??? No mother in her right mind would wish that.

And there's another little girl on the horizon. Zach is in a bit of a panic. No doubt, she'll teach her dad the true meaning of "Princess"--Kayla tried, but this one will succeed!

I will enjoy watching Hailey grow, though I know it will mostly be by photos, etc.

You are a trooper, Ms. Donna and I'm glad God has blessed you with this baby girl.

I have my fuzzy babies and sure wanted to make that 2 year old Pit one of them! Isaiah reminds me so much of Hen at that age.

My cousin, Jamie, left for Iraq today. SgtMaj Ploskonka is there. Please keep them in your prayers.

Cruz, wherever you are son, I know you're keeping the wolves at bay. Fight on, Marine! We need you in the hotspots and appreciate each of those who serve to the very depths of our soul.

Sgt. Rett, we need the good ones you bring and we need the precious hearts and bravery of our Docs.

We need the warrior. I thank God my son was one of them and lived out his life for that purpose. As much as anything, I'm thankful for those of you who visit here to love and encourage.

I know Aaron fights in a different way now. With fully spiritual eyes he understands the many wars we face on many fronts. I know he wants us there with him someday, and that is my life's mission now. To give as much of myself as humanly possible to fight the evil in this world and to encourage those who think they don't deserve the mercy of God who so wants to generously pour it out on all who suffer. Who fight bitterness, addictions, depression, those who fight hopelessness ... to all who hurt and maybe don't even understand why.

I know I don't understand everything. I don't have to. I just have to stay in the fight until God calls me home, and dear Donna, that is what you do every day.

I like you best as a Princess. Though you are a good housekeeper, you make me a little nervous with it all, and by the way, you took the remainder of the hot water there when I was taking a shower to wash those clothes at the wrong peak hours!! ;)"
De'on

"I thought of you when Hailey was born and how proud you would of been of Jerrod, We missed you there Aaron.She's beautiful, I couldn;t be prouder of my son right now.Thank you Deon for making the trip with me,Jerrod wouldn;t of had it any other way.I know it must of been really hard for you,I am glad you were there to share that moment with Jerrod.You have done alot of good in this world, just your smile and your presence lights up the whole room when your in it. God Bless you and we all love you,Donna"
Donna of Lovington NM

"8/15/08

There is a new beautiful baby girl in Arizona with Jerrod's fingers and toes. I just left her yesterday and she's a treat with lots of company!

I missed you there, Aaron,(almost desperately--very little has been as hard as that, perhaps the Silver Star ceremony was the last) but as turns out to be the norm, I feel you here at home more than any place. I can't hurt like that much anymore. There's nothing to be done about it except try to do some good where and how I can.

I gave her your Bible that you'd written in the back: 'Important Dates' underlined as if a slew of them would be there, but you'd recorded only one: '10/25/99--Jerrod Sneed got saved.'--I added another to the list; the birthdate of little Hailey Nicole.

God bless everyone!"
Mom

"It's been awhile since I have last left a message but I still come here daily it helps keep me in touch with the real world. As recruting life seems like you live on repeat. Your always on my mind brother.
Semper Fi
R/S
Sgt.Rett"

"7/30/08

I’ve just read an article in our newspaper titled “Suicide Hot Line Got Calls From 22,000 Veterans.” It is an AP writer y the name of Katharine Euphrat who wrote it. The figures are startling and come from the VA and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline evidently.

I just want to take this time to echo a thought and a message I left on Aaron’s message board on May 29, 2006 copied below.

I have to go to Heart’s Desire right now, but this afternoon I’m going to try and get in touch with the VA or the suicide hotline to see if there’s any way I can help from where I sometimes feel stranded. I would be honored to volunteer in this capacity.

If someone knows a connection off-hand that I could speak to, I’d appreciate the info. I called the VA and the nearest regional office near me is in Albuquerque, 5 hours away. But I will check further.

Meanwhile: VETERANS: I LOVE YOU MORE THAN ANY PEOPLE IN THIS WORLD. YOUR SACRIFICE IS FOREVER. THAT IS THE TRUE AND UNSELFISH SACRIFICE.

AND WE STILL NEED YOU. MORE THAN EVER—WE NEED YOU. HANG ON. YOU ARE WORTH SO MUCH—MAYBE YOU ARE THE LIFELINE FOR ONE OTHER, ONE OTHER GENERATION, ONE OTHER SOUL IN TORMENT, ONE OTHER BROTHER!!

Much love,
Aaron’s Mom

--the old message follows—it is still true today!


May 29, 2006

Thank you for your sacrifice, son. Everyone in our country, as well as other countries, owes you and those like you such an enormous amount of gratitude. Some don't realize it at all, and others of us can only speculate, but spending five days in our nation's capital, admiring the portraits and statues of those before you who stood for freedom as well-- and not once was the cost small. Korea-54,000 names (imagine the number of families this sorrow reached out and devastated in the clutches of sorrow). Vietnam-50,000. The white crosses of soldiers and infants killed in the Civil War. Presidents, Lincoln and Kennedy, slain in their prime. Other bodies, unknown, unidentified. Blood, tears, blood, tears, over and over.

The haunting portraits of the Holocaust. The young Jewish boys in the museum with their heads covered by the fabric of their faith. America, at first hesitant to get involved, did involve themselves in Hitler's country and affairs. Thank God we went to save the few, fight for their inch of freedom and discover the atrocities of somebody else’s business. Nosed into a terrorist business and put those on trial for their horrible crimes against the persecuted.

So many cultures filled D.C. to visit the memorials of all that has been given to stroll in the land of the free. Koreans, Pakistani, Panamanians, nearly every race in our free world walked those avenues, snapped digital photos of the cost, and enjoyed the benefit of it all, hopefully a tiny bit more at those solemn moments, perhaps stood still a moment and reflected on something about this country that they were thankful for. That they, with me, were not able to find a precious moment in our history to stop and say, There, there. This is where we should have stopped fighting for our freedom as well as the freedom of those we do not even know. Here is the point where we should have stopped caring for humanity and shouted at Washington, no more...we've had enough. No, there was no point in the tours that I thought to myself: I don't care what all you did before, for us, I just care about me. Damn the future generations.

No, I thought none of these things. In awe, I was thankful and I wanted every tourist there, every free South Korean, every free Panamanian and Pakistani, and especially every American there in D.C. and Virginia to know that, My son has joined those who stood for something.

Thank you, Aaron. From the bottom of my heart, on this third Memorial Day without your laughter to fill our homes, I find it in the wind chimes and birds, and I find it on the streets before my home as young men race in their cars down the street, play their music loud and free, and I look at those kids and I think, you don't know how fortunate you are that so many people cared enough about you to die for you. And then I think that in a way, that too, is a great thing. That so many of us have always lived in freedom.

I will never quit missing you. And I will always be proud of you. Semper Fi, Marine,"Mom" (De'on Miller, Mother of Aaron C. Austin KIA, April, 2004)"
Aaron's Mom

"7/22/08

To Koci:

Doug just called. He asked me to tell you that he was supposed to go on a fishing trip to Alaska for Marines and their dads. As it turned out, he wasn't able to make it, but he'd like to put your name in to go. It'd be a while before he could find out for sure, but I think December is the time frame. He said the only thing you'd have to pay for is your drinks.

Leave a message here if you need his number.

We love you and always will love you.

P.S. Take nose mittens if you go. I went to Alaska in October once and my nose hairs froze then. Of course, that was Fairbanks. Not sure where this is at."
De'on

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY AARON,I DIDN'T FORGET YOU,I MISS YOU SO MUCH,
I KNOW YOU WOULD OF BEEN A GREAT UNCLE TO LITTLE HAILEY,I KNOW THAT'S WHAT SHE WOULD CALL YOU..THANK YOU AARON FOR EVERYTHING I HAVE IN MY LIFE.LOVE MOM"
DONNA of LOVINGTON,NM

"Hi Aaron, De'on, Sgt. Rett and all you echo Marines. I just wanted to say a quick , hello... You all are always in my thoughts and prayers.

Diane"

"Aye Aye Ma'am,
I will let you know when we get there!
Semper Fidelis
"DA SGTMAJ""

"Aaron..It has been so long since I have been on here and I am sorry for that..but there is never a day that goes by that you are not thought of. I miss you dearly and I know now that you are "my shining star". I miss you so much..

Happy 4th of July!!! I stand so proud of you and honored to have been loved by such a courageous Marine like you!!!

All my love,
Tiff"
Tiffany of Phoenix, AZ

"You are all so gracious, beautiful, and red, white and blue through and through. I love you each with a heart that is so sappy I'm sure I make all of you sick! And I certainly love Diane's new Marine! He is ours too!

Koci--man, I wish I could just hug you.

And the SgtMaj too! Please let me know when you're back in the sand! I say this with purpose and you should NEVER deny the Gold Star of a Silver Star!!! Huhh?!

Much love, and yes, the babies won't come out for love or money. I'm betting not even food, though we'll see on that one!

Semper Fi!"
De'on

"Happy 4th of July Aaron!"
Rick Koci of Utah

"FREEDOM, FREEDOM, FREEDOM! Thank you so much, Aaron, De'on, Sgt. Rett, Doc Duty, Polanski, Zembiec and all you Echo MARINES for my freedom! I will always honor and treasure it. I know the price you all paid for my freedom. While I was on my vacation, I met a Marine. His name is PFC Jed Carlson. It was such an honor meeting him and his beautiful new bride. He did two tours and is 100% disabled. He told me his story. He and his best friend took turns carrying each other back to safety. He was Motor T attached to a recon unit. His unit was hit by IED's. All 5 trucks were bombed. Jed had pneumonia so he was only at 50%. His best freind was carrying him to safety and was shot in the leg. Jed told his friend to just leave him and run for safety... As you know Marines never leave Marines. They took turns carrying each other to safety. Jed was kept back and his friend went back out. His friend was KIA. Jed relives this every night. My heart just broke for this Brave Marine. I must have hugged him and his wife 100 times! It was such a pleasure to meet and spend time with these two beautiful souls. I was able to buy him a whisky and coke! I've been wanting to do that for Sgt. Rett so bad! It was so nice to be able to hug and talk to one of you guys! I hope you all can celebrate and have peace this wonderful weekend! I love all of you so much!

God Bless You,

Diane Adame"

"Well Aaron,
Once again it has been quite a while since I last left a message on here. Independence Day finds me at Mojave Viper and getting ready to go over again to finish up the great work that Echo started all those years ago. This time I will be with 9th Engineer Support Battalion from the Marine Logistics Group side of the house. The unit builds COP's and does route repair and such. Another pretty impressive group of Marines and Sailors that I again have the great priviledge of serving. It is about 113 degrees today and a good day for a BBQ. Actually we will do ours this evening as, we have lots of Marines down range training. In any event it will be another family gathering of Marines doing what Marines do best....cuss,tell war stories, complain and all the while having a ton of fun while defending the great freedoms that you and many other Marines of your caliber created for us and we are honored to maintain. So it will be a great Marine Corps time as usual. Other than this being a meritorious day since I last wrote we have done a very large turnover of personnel in prep for our departure soon. A bit green...but, very eager to go and do their part just as every Marine before them. Things have calmed down tremendously over there these days and I feel all of our efforts have prevailed to show yet another nation that America is the model for freedom and success. It is an incredible honor to be from this nation and to be able to put on this "fabric" of America every day beside these incredible Warriors of the next greatest generation! I guess that I should stop babbling once again and let people reading this get back to other duties and responsibilities. We all still miss you lots you old War Dog!


As a side note...if any Marine from Echo wants to get in touch with myself they may do so by contacting me at john.ploskonka@USMC.mil It is always awesome to hear from you and know that you are still doing the same incredible things that you did back in the day. It was an incredible honor to be your Company Gunny!!!

So I hope everyone out there has a great Independence Day this year and I thank all of you Warriors for making freedom count.

Semper Fidelis
SgtMaj John Ploskonka
9th ESB Okinawa Japan"

"7/4/08

Happy 4th of July to all our troops and veterans. And also to Aaron's family and friends near and far.

Hello Las Vegas family. A big hug to Jacob. He was so handsome the last time I saw him (at Aaron's funeral) so I can only imagine how gorgeous he is now.

I will always treasure that week he spent with me in Lubbock while Aaron was home on leave. He even called me "Grandma" by the end. We loved having him and I'd love to see him again.

Derek: You are precious for signing the blog photos. I will always hold you accountable for making fun of Aaron and causing him to throw his blanket away! ;)

But you made up for it when you came with Eric and picked Greg up at the airport so he could drive the "fixed" truck home that Aaron wrecked in Vegas.

Memories! Of course, the first years of Aaron's life he was scared to death of the noise of fireworks, so I'd have to sit in the truck with him while he sucked his blanket.

Good to hear from you all and Diane, I hope you're on the mend. I know this is a tough time for you (as it's a little tough for me too) but I know God will see us all through the hard times and the good times.

My love to you all. And my many, many thanks to our troops and veterans.

All my thanks to Jesus Christ who gives us all freedoms. Many in our country are trying to take those freedoms away and trying to remove God from America. That is not what my son died for. But too, God's Word tells us these things will come.

And that they won't be easy. So hold on all and keep your faith. It can't be about what many Americans are saying and doing to and against the morals and God we fought freedom for. Religious freedom was bought and brought for Christianity and in "our fairness" I watch it dwindle.

There is more to fight for now than ever. So keep fighting for all that we still hold. And God willing, to get back some of what we've lost.

And if that doesn't happen--get your heart and mind right, cover yourself in the blood of Jesus and then, look up.

Aaron, Shane, Dad, Uncle Mickey, all my family and friends there in heaven, I love you. I thank God for you, and I will keep working, praying and fighting in my own way until that precious day I hold and see you all again.

Let Freedom Ring!"
Mom (De'on)

"Hey Uncle Aaron just wanted to say i love you and miss you everyday oh yea i saw you on tv the other day too well happy birthday love you and thank you"
Derek Lowe of Las Vegas NV

"Happy Birthday, Aaron! I have so much to tell everyone but have been so sick. I will return when I feel better. These antibiotics(spelling) should kick in by Thursday. I love all you guys!

Diane"

"Aaron,my little brother, my Hero, I just wanted to say Happy Birthday. I miss you so much. Jacob reminds me of you every day. A smile, a laugh or even a movement, I will just hug him and tell him how he acts like you, his idle. Happy Day Little Bro, I Love You"
Pam of Las Vegas, NV USA

"7/1/2008

God gave me one of the biggest blessings in this world, twenty-six years ago tonight. I love you and I know that April 26, 2004 turned out to be your very real birthday.

I will miss you until I'm with you.

My love always,"
Mom

"Oh wow... Diane, you've said it all... here, and Jimmie, I think I have the same photo of the one you left on Gunz Up--and what you wrote--well, like Diane, you said a bunch. Thank you so much and I hope you will visit again.

I love you all so much and can only echo what Diane wrote. You all do so much for us, and if I can ever give back just a part of the love and honor you each share and shower on me, if I can share and do share part of the pain, then I will know my life has not been in vain.

God has blessed me in so many ways. You ALL are a huge part of that, and I will never forget it!"
De'on

"PS. My Daddy ordered the military channel to see the documentary. He knows about all you Marines. I talk about all of you all the time. My Dad was a Marine."
Diane

"June 11, 2008

Hello My sweet Aaron, De'on, Sgt. Rett and the rest of echo 2/1. I'm so sorry it took me so long to respond after the documentary. I had to take time to soak all that in. I am so proud your platoon was honored and Aaron was the honoree. I have the same feelings as De'on...It was 60 minutes and I wish all of your stories were told. I really feel SPECIAL that I know the whole story, from the book "No, true Glory" and from this site. This site has given me the whole story. That is why I come so much, all of you are my Heroes! I know how Zembiec ran from house to house checking on his Marines while being fired at. I know how Doc Duty brought Aaron back to life more that the human person would think possible. I know how Sgt Rett carried Aaron across a long stretch of land while being fired at, I know how all you echo Marines ran out in the open to get your injured Marines into hummers to get them to medics. You all fought like Lions...I really do get prouder by the day. You MEN move me in ways I cannot explain. I pray for you daily as I do De'on. I talk to Aaron everyday... It truly is the highlight of my day. I have never seen that big azz grin in person, but I see it when I talk to him. Sgt. Rett, I love you so much and will forever be praying for you. I hope you are doing well. I know the documentary had to throw you through the ringer again. Please remember you are in our hearts and daily prayers. I am your personal little cheerleader.... Remember when you look in that mirror every morning, you're a Marine among Marines, A man of honor, a man who gives his life to keep people free, a man who never gives up, A man that has so many people whom he has never met that love and pray for him, A hero to me! De'on, I love you so much... I am so sorry I haven't written or kept up with my emails. I am still fighting that depression. I'm going on a cruise this Sat and will return on the 24th. I promise to email you and respond to your emails before I leave. I truly am sorry I wasn't there after the special, It just threw me back to that dark whole. I had no words, I knew there were no words...But again I know there were words I could have typed. I could have just typed (((((((((((((((HUGS)))))))))))))))))))). All of you mean the world to me. Aaron, I will talk to you daily on my vacation. De'on I will email you when I get back and will be praying for you every morning and through out the day. Sgt. Rett, You too will be in my daily prayers as you always are.. You don't know it, but in my heart, I have adopted you. I am SO VERY PROUD and HONORED to know of you. You're truly my HERO. Love and peace to all you echo Marines, De'on, Aaron and his family and friends. I will forever remember....

Love,
Diane"

"i served with austin from the time he came into the fleet up until i left for another duty after iraq, aaron was always a gung ho marine, he was an outstanding marine and will always live on forever in the hearts of his friends, semper fidelis"
Jimmie J. Sparks of Richmond, KY

"7/6/08

We love your prayers, Shelly. And we always love our time with you. God is good to give us those like you in our lives.

I love you so much!"
De'on

"Just wanted to say I love you sweetheart and I am thinking of you, but then again not a day goes by that I don't think of you. The documentary was so powerful and moving. Thank you De'on and Greg for letting me watch it with you. I pray that you are blessed as much as you are a blessing."
Shelly of Lovington

"I love you more ;)"
De'on

"THANK YOU DEON !!
I LOVE YOU !!"
DONNA of LOVINGTON NM

"7/2/08

Thank you both for such beautiful messages. This board means so much to me and I know to others.

To come here and read the words of those people I know, and those I'll never meet, means the world to me.

I'm sure Aaron is using the talents in Heaven that God equipped him for here on Earth. I bet he is with so many like him. I know they pray for us all even more there than they did here, and I'm so thankful for him, for all of you, and most certainly for the God of Heaven and Earth.

I look forward to being with them all someday, but at last, my heart has been made glad to be here on Earth until I'm through with my work and talents here. I pray that the time I have remaining here will be used to continue in my love and support of our awesome troops and to give our Father in Heaven the whole heart He has so graciously given back to me.

I love you all, and thank God for those you've shared with us in the service of this country. It is the nation I love, the nation I sometimes fear for, and it is still the nation in which we can grow and prosper in Freedom.

May God draw us all back to His ways and His will, so that He can look down in favor upon us for yet a while longer. We have much to fight for!

Even in the darkest hours of hurt and anguish, I remained proud of my precious son, and I know so many parents are proud of theirs.

Even when children don't die in honor, I know it still hurts just as much, if not more.

But I do believe a broken heart is something that can draw us to our Father, and one day we will see in full what we only see in partial now.

God bless you for visiting!"
De'on Miller--Aaron's Mom

"To the family Aaron..I was going through the men who have fallen and came across Aaron's name "Austin." I am an Austin and my Daddy just passed away a year ago, from cancer however, but he too was and is a Marine. It just makes me wonder..did they meet in Heaven yet? My Daddy used to tell me, "The Gates of Heaven are guarded by a Marine in his dress blues!" Anyway, I just want to say I'm so sorry for your loss and I'm sure we will all meet again someday...God Bless you and your family."
Lisa Austin of Cocolamus, Pennsylvania

"I recently learned of your loss and Aaron’s great sacrifice when I met Richard Windham while he was out in CA teaching at the Seabee Base in Port Hueneme last month. It was with pride that he talked of Aaron but also sorrow at your loss. He told me about your website and of course, I just had to logon. It sounds like you raised a wonderful young man. :) May your memories of him carry you through.

My loved ones returned - my brother was deployed three times and a cousin returned two months ago from his second deployment – so I have no way of knowing what you have gone through. But there is One who understands – One who can comfort like no other – May you always feel the loving arms of our Savior around you. We mourn, but not as those who have no hope. May His love draw you close and may you find peace in the knowledge that your son is safely and lovingly held in the arms of God."
M of California

"Aaron,I watched the documentary,WOW,
I AM SO PROUD OF YOU !!!!!!!!
KEEP ALL OUR TROOPS IN OUR PRAYERS !!"
DONNA of Lovington,NM

"5/27/08

It was a beautiful Memorial Day. Such an honor to our veterans and our fallen where Aaron's precious body is buried.

You all are precious to us and I can't thank you enough for your messages of love and dedication.

Koci, I called Doug. He was moved to tears and he does love you so much.

We all do and pray for God's healing for each of you.

The documentary was so good and as they promised, 60 minutes cannot possibly tell but a part. So many of you out there with so much to tell. And I hope someday each story can be told. But no matter what, I thank God for each of you in the battles you've fought and those we each still find ourselves in.

Don't give up the good fight.

Marilyn, your post was so powerful. Thank you.

God bless each of you and keep you safe in the journey you each travel.

Love,"
De'on

"I remember...I was waiting until after the special about 2/1 to write today. I just finished watching the show. I need to gather my thoughts before I write. I love you, Marines! Thank You. I wish I could hug all of you and De'on.

Diane"

"Happy memorial day brother!

My sis got on here and left a message for me, its been very hard for me to communicate with anyone that we knew from our company. I figured it would get easier as the years went by but it hasnt.

To your father,

I'll never forget the time i got to meet you. And you pulled me aside and asked me to protect your son and bring him home safe. Meeting you was a special experience only because i knew how close you two were and still are. He would call you from time to time and i would over hear the conversation thinking it was aaron talking to a hometown buddy. And he was, his father.

I will call you Doug. Trust me.

Cpl. Richard D Koci"
rick of slc, utah

"Today in church we sang "O Beautiful for Spacious Skies" and when we sang the 3rd verse I thought of Aaron. The words go...."O Beautiful for heroes proved, in liberating strife. Who more than self their country loved, and mercy more than life." Aaron...you are not forgotten! Your memory lives on!
I have posted a Memorial Day Tribute to Aaron on my blog at: http://marilyn-nogreaterjoy.blogspot.com/2008/05/blog-post-memorial-day-tribute.html

May we all remember the heroes who have loved mercy more than life as we celebrate Memorial Day this year!

God bless you...."
Marilyn Harrell of Mississippi

"5/25/08

Duh, yes, make the date below this 5/25/08!! Bedtime! I said "happy" not smarter!"
Mom

"1/25/08

I love you, Aaron Cole! Thank you! I know you're happy and I am too!!!"
Mom

"For Aaron and all of our Fallen Heroes,

"Soldier, rest! Thy warfare o'er,
Sleep the sleep that knows not breaking,
Dream of battled fields no more.
Days of danger, nights of waking."
Sir Walter Scott"
Aunt Karen of Brownfield, Texas, USA

"May 14, 2008

I will be happy to receive and distribute anything about this brave soldier you'd like to share, Diane.

And silly girl, the three pages you have of a book that will be about 350-400 pages are yours! Though I did tell you the structure and how the parts are set-up. Cool, huh?

You are one fantastic lady and you've been places of your own. We all have a story to share, huh? Guess God made us that way and I'm thinking He doesn't want us to tuck it away in ourselves so much. We might go around thinking too little of ourselves or too highly of others.

It is God who gives the tests and they are for a testimony. He's the One who gets us through and the military is a great place to witness God in action in so many ways. I've never watched prayer over a meal in a restaurant much, but in the 'ole Chow Hall, yes. Maybe that food needed more prayer! LOL!

But I've never been on a battlefield like these guys and I bet if they'd never prayed before, they did then.

We love them and we love you.

You are truly Semper Fi, Diane. And you are the Mom of a Marine yourself.

Much love and nighty night. Better get this up so I don't have to change the date.

Did you know if this was printed out, it exceeds 140 pages?!?"
De'on

"Dear Aaron, De'on, and Sgt Rett,

Today I recieved a copy of a little bit of your Mother's book. It has stirred up so many emotions. Things I have never dealt with nor wanted to. I just want to Thank you three and the other's who post here for being here and just sharing. We are all in a healing process and it is just so awesome to have all of you. Donna, thank you for responding and praying for Chris, it means a lot. I will not post much more about him here but will send his progress and hopefully some pictures of him and my Family to De'on and she will share them with all who wants info. (if, she doesn't mind) Aaron, I see why so many people are drawn to you, it is because of your Mother and I hear your Daddy's pretty awesome as well. It's so weird speaking to you here when I speak to you everyday just in normal conversation. Bonni, Please let your brother know there are so many people who read the book "no true Glory" and think of him and his brothers everyday. That's how I learned of Aaron, it is because of that book and Aaron's site that I come here and pray for all of them and their families. They are all my heroes and I will forever remember and pray for these strong brave men for the rest of my life.

Love to All

Diane
~xo"

"Give him a hug for me to Diane,I hope his family will get in touch with him even though they are not close,this is a time to heal all wounds and be here for him,God Bless him,He is in my prayers,Love Donna"
Donna of Lovington,NM

"Mother's Day 2008

It has been a very special day. I'm a blessed Mom.

Diane, how good of you to care for this soldier. I will pray for you and for him.

There will be so many in heaven who will care for him and all his pain and loss will be replaced with a joy we can never fully appreciate here. I believe that so very much.

Give him a hug from me!"
De'on

"Dear De'on,

The emotion's you pull out of my soul with your writing, just blows my mind away. The gift you have touches so many souls and captures hearts all over. You're truly an inspiration! I love you too. Happy Mother's Day!

To everyone who reads this memorial for Aaron, I ask that you pray for an Army Hero named Chris. I received his name from the Military Moms. He wasn't injured in combat but has cancer and isn't expected to have much more time here on earth. He is in great pain and all alone. He is to arrive here in San Antonio at BAMC around the 14th. I will soon get to know this young man and be with him while he goes through his surgeries
and hopefully be able to maybe bring him into my home on the weekends. Apparently his Family isn't close to him and his girlfriend broke up with him. He said he feels very alone and is very sad, and does not want to leave the Army. So, I ask all of you who read this to please keep this young man in your prayers. I will keep
you updated so you know exactly what to pray for as he goes through the phases of cancer.

Thank You,
Diane"

"5/9/08

Sweet Diane, Marine Mom with a heart the size of the state you live in and the state Aaron loved:

The beautiful floral bouquet arrived today. They touched me nearly as deep as the card. I wept. Not out of sadness but out of the love of your heart and the love I know Aaron STILL holds in his precious heart for me.

Thank you and have a beautiful Mother's Day.

I do love you so and I treasure the friendship of a woman I've never met in person but continually meet here and through the mail.

Paints, flowers, scrapbooks. My goodness woman, I hardly even know what to say. (A rare moment in history!)

May God pour out his richest and most merciful blessings on you, sweet Mother of Loss and certainly of GREAT GAIN!

Always, Always,"
De'on

"Hello sweet Aaron,

They will arrive today as the company does not deliver on Sunday.

Love,
Diane"

"Deon,Happy Mother's Day,Love Donna"
Donna of Lovington NM

"5/7/08

Hello all,

I read most every day even though I don't always post right back. It warms me through and through to be able to read here and then just think for a while on all that is said.

Donna: You sweet girl. I know you think of Chris and Aaron every day, just as I do. They know how much they are loved and it's good for us to tell them here too.

Shelly: Well, we have known each other for years and still spell each others names wrong! Well, I got yours right this time!

Aaron loved the times you were in high school teaching all those little warts and I know he drove most of them crazy but for some special reason, you kept your sanity along with your love for him.

You gave me a cross to put into his casket when you could not make it to his funeral. The cross lies underneath the pillow of that sweet head that I cradled so many times.

You gave the benediction at the Silver Star Ceremony held for him in Amarillo. I know he smiled as his short teacher and buddy prayed and gave thanks for that day there.

You were one of those he always had to look up when he was home on leave and for all these things I will always be thankful for you.

But mostly I'm thankful for you in that you've remained a true friend during the easy times and the hard times. Your smile and your words never fail to bless us little Miss "Blessed". When anyone asks how you are, this is always your answer. You are a woman after God's heart and a treat for all of us. And you got Tony Dungy's autograph for my husband, so that shot you way up on my short list for a future wife for my husband that I guess he won't be needing now!! ;) Oh well, there's still those handsome firemen from Arizona that helped us out on May 3rd when we were painting on the future home of Heart's Desire!

I love you, "Blessed"!!

Aaron loved you so very much and he enjoyed picking up your little short self and twirling you around or holding you up in the air--just as he did me. He used to pick me up and hold me over his head and say, "Well, what are you going to do now? Huh?"

I'd point my finger down at his face which was about even with my shoulders and say, "You're grounded!" Of course, that was always harder on me than even on him, so it never lasted long, but most of it was for fun when I'd say that while I was being held up in the air. True "groundments" as he called them, were given across the room as he was trying to make his way out!

Bonnie: I'm so glad you found us here and your words were a true blessing to me. I do try to encourage on this site as I know this is the place many precious Marines have found themselves. One of the most important things I have left to do here on this earth is to be here for them and for family. You are part of that family now and I hope you visit often.

I have photos of the guys and when things slow down some, maybe I can get some sent to you. There are also quite a few on the following sites:

http://gunzup.blogspot.com

http://ramosmiller.blogspot.com

Give Koci our love. Aaron loved him so much and I regret that I didn't get to meet him, but I'm glad Doug and Robbie, and Juanita (Aaron's grandmother in California) got to. They enjoyed his visits and all of us appreciated him so much when he drove Aaron to them when Chuck (Aaron's grandpa) was taken to the hospital right before he passed away after a heart attack.

Your brother is a very handsome young man and SgtMaj Ploskonka loved Aaron and Koci. More than one of his powerful messages is on this board and I enjoyed so much the one time I got to meet him in D.C. He is in Japan now and I know loves all his Marines but I think 2/1 holds a special place in his heart.

Take care of yourself and my email is deonmiller7@hotmail.com if you or Koci should ever need it for any reason. My phone number is 505-704-8451. No matter what, we are here for you all in spirit and prayer. We certainly understand if we don't hear from the guys as we want their lives to become so full of good and busy things. Every person reflects and works it out in their own way. At first we wanted to hurry it all along and reach out and be reached out to so quickly, but I believe peace has settled in on both Aaron's parents and the main thing we want now is for everyone to know that we care and we want them to live without regret. Though that must surely be a part of it for the guys who've seen what we (the families) have not (in the fire fights and in Iraq itself)--I hope and pray that as each day here passes that it will not be the biggest part. The fact that each one of them served to the best of the ability God put in each precious heart is important. Today is important and the future is important. They will always be loved and prayed for and we do not want them burdened beyond what is healthy. But in the end, it is only God Who can and will heal and for each person that may be in a different way. While we will always miss Aaron here, we are filled with pride and love not only for our precious Marine but for each of the Marines, Docs and all the troops and their families who serve us all in ways we cannot even imagine. But we can show our appreciation and share in sorrow and joy here when and if we can.

I will always be thankful for this message board and I hope it's here as long as the earth is, but should it ever fail, our love and appreciation for all of you will not.

God bless, (and yes, I'm Mom)"
De'on of Lovington NM

"Aaron,I love and miss you,Tell Chris i love him and miss him everyday of my life,Donna"
Donna of Lovington NM

"This will be the first time I have left a message here for you Aaron sweetheart, but I promise you not one single day has gone by that I do not think of you. I am so proud of you and I loved you like my own, more than words could ever express. You have always and will always hold a special place in my heart, just as you D'on and the rest of your family. I talked to a group of soldiers at the Dallas airport in March and my heart swelled with love and respect for each of them and for all of you who serve in our Military (not that is wasn't already because of my love for you, Aaron, but these men took the time to talk to me and with tears in their eyes assured me that your death sweet Aaron would not be in vain). May God our Father bless each of you(them) abundantly and exceedingly more than you(they) ever thought possible. Jarred may God bless you and your precious little family too! Aaron if you can please tell Brooke she too is loved and yall have fun worshipping the Father together. In God's time I will see you both.Karen I Love you and Gary, please know you are both in my prayers, God is sosoosoo good. Love Always, In His Grip (thank you Lord) Shelly"
Shelly of Lovington, NM - Lea

"Dear Doug & De'on...& Karen,
Thank you for your kind & uplifting words-it means so much to me-words cannot adequately describe how I'm feeling (but I'll try). I will be sure to pass the message on to Ricky (KOCI)-I know he'll be happy to hear what you have to say & I hope he responds-not through me this time. I told him about the page & he was happy for me to post something for him...I'm sure he'll do it himself soon.
Thank you for the spiritual uplift as well-you don't know how much you've touched me, and inspired me tonight. God truly is mysterious (like you said), and certainly does have a plan for all of us. The goal is the same, reaching heaven, but the paths are different-our challenges, strengths, weaknesses-all give us advantages & moments of strengthening & overcoming disadvantages.
I am so inspired by the way you've taken this experience, this challenge & risen above it-kept your faith & let it strengthen you-let it make you a better person. You are reaching out and blessing others, and in doing so you are allowing God's atoning sacrifice work in you-God's pure love, his charity for us all-you're embracing it & then sharing it with others... everyone who posts on this blog is doing that. Sharing with each other, uplifting one another-that is Godlike behavior. Thank you. Thank you for sharing your light with me... thank you for helping me heal & helping motivate me in making this world a better place. God bless all of you.
PS. God bless that young hispanic man who is putting his life back together (and you too "mom" is that you De'on?) -that takes real courage & faith to face your weaknesses head on. I applaud him. I pray God gives him the strength to endure through the tough times ahead & gives him the encouragement to press forward. I pray that he gives all of us that same motivating peace."
Bonnie Koci of SLC, UT

"May 3, 2008

My precious Marine son,

Four years ago today your precious body was committed to the earth. Should God delay His coming for long enough, someday your dad will be buried next to you. I never thought the day would come where I could laugh and be merry on such an anniversary as this one. But today was just such a day. I spent half the day at “Heart’s Desire” or rather at our new building that we’ll be moved into by the first of August.

I know you know all this already as I do know you’re there beside our Father, beside the God of Heaven and Earth Who came in the physical form to live among us and be tempted as we are, and then even doubted upon the cross. For that time that God turned from His Son, from Himself as it were, because God the Spirit cannot look upon sin, and it was the first time, the only time, the Son was separated from the Father and Jesus cried out and asked His Father, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” and then Jesus died on the cross so that your mother can live with you and Shane and your Grandpa in Eternity. I’m so anxious to live with all of you there and meet others of my family I’ve never met before. And as you know, as short as two months ago I was more than ready to join you. But God had other plans for me and rather than just heal my body, He healed your Mother’s heart first. And you know my Warrior son; He healed me by showing me how strong the fight is still on this earth.

Like you Aaron, I’ve always HAD to have something to fight for. You told me once that your switch only had an ON and an OFF. Nothing in between and no volume control. I guess I’m a lot like that and I see the fight in our tiny community here for FREEDOM. While your Warrior Brothers fight for our freedom I volunteer here for freedom from addiction.

Heart’s Desire is a medium-sized thrift store with a huge vision of someday providing a Safe House for those fighting to recover from addiction. Meth is a huge problem here and I thank God you’re not here to be tempted by it. You come from a family that has fought addiction problems for as long as I’ve lived among them and though it’d be nice to believe that you’d not ever be involved in that, I have no way of knowing for sure. Your heart was always so full and maybe your pain might have pushed you further into this dark world that is ruled by that arrogant devil who already knows he’s defeated. He fights a bitter fight right now for the lives of our children and for the lives of future soldiers. This war affects us all, just as the War on Terror does. Like the War on Terror, we must stand up and call it what it is. It is Light against Dark and the fight is fierce.

I’m just a little clerk four hours a week at this store. On Monday nights they hold a program and it is a Christian Recovery Group. I don’t attend these meetings and I’ve never joined Alcoholics Anonymous. Your life and death bestowed so many Honors on our family and everyone always said how well I was doing. Many just saw me in the daytime before Happy Hour began. And even then, those who saw me at night either looked away or forgave me or who knows what.

There are times I wished I hadn’t abused such a thing as wine that the Father gave just as He gave us food, but I did and without His intervention and the hope and prayers of the beautiful family He gave me, I don’t know how it may have finally turned out. Thank God, I don’t have to know that today. Thank God for July 8, 2006—the night of my last glass of wine thus far.

I know wine is not Meth or Crack, but addiction is addiction. Though I might not have stolen outright from someone else’s home, I stole from my own family for over two years. I stole their peace and many times I broke their hearts with my words and actions.

One day Aaron, on a day that I worked at Heart’s Desire, we got a call from Adult Protective Services. They were sending someone to us who’d called and begged for someone to help him stop. To stop the drug that was destroying his life and the lives of his children. You can’t imagine my surprise when in walked the most beautiful Hispanic boy, well, not a boy really, and certainly not as handsome as Cruz, but a beautiful young man that went to school with you. He’s one I’d seen baptized in Dr. Bob’s swimming pool and one I’d watched full of the Spirit in church. His three kids waited out in his vehicle while he spent an hour in the office with our Director. He told Debi that the drug he’d experimented with years ago was now cut in such a way that the user is immediately drawn into the dark side. When they went with him to his home, the home of his children was covered with KISS posters and the air was thick with the dark this group of ‘Knights in Satan’s Service’ pays homage to. For that long hour he’d cried out for help and then we’ve never seen again.

It broke my heart. Absolutely. And it took me two weeks to figure out what happened that awful day that turned out to be the start of the day that God’s manifestation of the healing he’d been doing all along brought me to. For just a short hour or so, he lifted the veil and showed me how absolutely fierce was the work left here on this earth. The fight against the Dark.

I’m not in Iraq or Afghanistan. I’m the only Gold Star Mom in all of Lea County (thank you, Lord!) and so most of the organizations and functions are held hours from my home. But the fight, like the freedom, comes in many forms, and at last, my time, God’s time came for me on a day that is not even recorded. It happened so gradually I didn’t even realize it was happening, but by the time I got the diagnosis that confirmed I wouldn’t be joining you quite as quick as I’d hoped, I was happy enough for it. I don’t want us to lose one life to Evil if I can help in some way, even if it means being away from you for a little while longer.

So today, son, while I painted on a big old building, I did think some of that 21-gun salute four years ago. But this year the tears didn’t stream. I just lived and loved and laughed and watched the teenagers drive down the road. I thought of you all day long just as I have every day since God gave you to me, but I mourned for nothing. I didn’t even mourn for the teenagers that drove past me or wonder if they were free or slave. I just thanked God for your safety and His Miracle of Life.

Thank you, Aaron and the many like you who continue in the fight before us all. And may the God of Heaven and Earth strive with us yet a while longer so that all those we love can be filled with His Mercy and His Grace.

I love you, more…"
Mom

"May 2, 2008

Man! I love you all. God is so good. So faithful. He made the Marines and the Docs and the Seabees and the families and I'm just overwhelmed with His tender and powerful mercies.

He watches. Like you all, but even better. God watches.

I love you Karen and Diane. The 24th MEUs are in my prayers.

Thank you to all!"
De'on

"For Aaron,Rett,Cruz,Liotta,Koci,Doc Duty,Gomez,Harrell,Skyles...everyone in the 2/1

II Timothy
Chapter 2
Verses 1-4
Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.

This is late, but never are any of you forgotten. Thank you all for "keeping the wolves at bay" for all of us. I love, think of, honor and pray for everyone of you and that will never stop. Thank you again, my beloved nephew. The words "thank you" can never be enough.
Love you always"
Aunt Karen of Brownfield, Texas, USA

"Hi Aaron!

I know your watching over the Marines who are fighting the good fight against the taliban. I wanted to come pray for the 24th MEU parents, wives, and families. May God give them the strength to make it through this deployment. I pray they get a call soon.

Love,
Diane

PS.
De'on and Sgt. Rett, you two sound like your having some good days! I am so HAPPY to see that! I just LOVE, LOVE you two!"

"April 29, 2008

Donna,

You know how happy I am for Jerrod, Nicky and the baby daughter that will bless all our lives late August. Thank you always for your friendship and your words of encouragement. I know they come from your heart and too, I know that you have suffered much loss in your life and so I accept your love and friendship as not only the 2nd mother of Aaron, but too, as a sister in sorrow. However, my sorrow has turned to joy and I’m grateful for not only the life of my son that will be with me throughout all eternity, but I’m grateful for the lives he saved and for the problems he has missed on this earth. My mother once told me that her mother told her that there comes a day in which we wouldn’t call our loved ones back, even if we could. That day came a couple of months ago for me. I won’t expand here, though I will in the book I seem to hit and miss on but will still keep cranking out.

And to Bonnie:

Thank you so much for such a beautiful message. I hope you come here often and too, with all my heart, I hope Koci does too. I feel that in secret he must. But if I’m wrong, then please relay this message to him. We love him and wish only his heart be healed. I know that’s much to ask, but if it can happen for Aaron’s Momma, I tell you this, it can happen for anyone. We are so proud of all those Aaron fought, partied and suffered alongside. There are few that capture our attention and prayers as much as they.

I called Doug, Aaron’s dad. I knew he’d want to hear your message as Doug loves Koci like no other. He wanted me to relay this message to your brother:

Doug said: ‘Tell him I’m proud of him. I was proud of him before and I’m proud of him now. I hope I get to see him again someday and I’ll always be glad for the time he was with Aaron. He was there beside him and in front of him and I’ll always be grateful for that. Tell him too, my work number is 806-948-4555 and my home number is 806-948-1724. He is welcome to call anytime, but if he doesn’t, that doesn’t change how I feel for him.’

So Bonnie, we love your brother and those like him.

God’s ways are mysterious, but they are perfect. That’s just all there is to that. And not Aaron, Koci, Cruz, Rett, Liotta, no one … Not one of us can escape what God has in store for us. Even the bad He turns to good. Aaron believed that. I believe that, and even our unbelief makes it no less true.

To all. Stay strong. We’re all in this together and we all have much to hold on for and to fight for. Let us help and encourage one another when we can. When we can’t, may the God of Heaven and Earth rest our weary souls and bodies and bring another to intercede in our behalf.

Our love and respect always,
Aaron’s mom De’on
and Aaron’s dad, Doug"
De'on Miller of Lovington NM

"Aaron,I didn't forget you,I will always remember you with such love and admiration,You were a tough young man,and you were always taking care of Jerrod,For that i thank you,I love and miss you dearly.Me and Dan had a drink and toasted our BRAVE MARINE.Deon you are always in my prayers,,,,,,,,You will never forget,But at least you can go on,He;s in a great place and surrounded by such great people,Love Donna"
Dpnna of Lovington NM

"Dear Aaron,
I stumbled on your page today...I'm Ricky's little sister...I just wanted to thank you for being there with him. I know he loved you, he considered you his best friend. He would tell me some of the crazy and funny things you guys would do together-I even have a picture of you guys on the first MEU. I'm sure you know all of this already, but maybe I'm writing this more for your mom...you're lucky to have such an amazing woman for a mother! She loves you so much, it's so obvious in reading her posts. I hope she knows how much you were loved by your squad, and your squad leader-my brother. If this were him writing he'd tell her that he loves her very much and thinks about you and your family all of the time. I know he'll contact her in the future, when he feels ready. God Bless you, and thank you so much for your valiant service-for sacrificing your life to protect my brother, your squad, and your country. You will never be forgotten. We love you.
Bonnie Koci
CPL Richard D. Koci's little sister-Aaron's squad leader and best friend"
Bonnie Koci of Salt Lake City, UT

"4/26/08

Precious Sgt. Rett: Your words continue to take my breath away. I don't know that I've ever known anyone who writes with such expression and emotion (and that comes from a writer who happens to know a few pretty good ones!)

Marine, Marine. You are that through and through. I love you so.

You sound better and for that I am thankful. Aaron's death was not in vain and I know he wouldn't want us suffering forever. What's the point in that? He died so that others can live and for those he loved he would certainly expect a little down time, but after a while, he'd want us up and at it to finish the race each of us has to complete.

It is many times a weary world, but it is God's world and until He comes to take it back and evil is finally destroyed in full, then we must all become a warrior in some way, fight our battles and yes, help fight the battles of our brothers and sisters, our sons and our daughters and we must continue to fight for those weaker than ourselves.

And too, we have to rest and to encourage each other. I pray we always do that here at this wonderful message board.

To all of Aaron's brothers: I love you. Thank you.

Diane, I knew you'd be here. You little elfy upstart--you never fail to make me smile!

To my family: My goodness how I love each of you. Thank you for refusing to give up on me.

And Father God: Thank you for Your mercy and Your healing! And most especially for the blood of Your Own!

Semper Fi,
Aaron's very proud Mom"

"April 26th we shall never forget
it was an early morning four years ago the air was as sticky as the back of a yellow post it note. I still think about looking down for the rooftop and seeing all of 2nd platoon all formed up and taking off that early morning in fallujah. It was so calm that morning. How quickly things changed and in an instant as a former CO of mine said "we fought like lions" Aaron you are a true example of that statement. Still to this day I still think about that day and I used to try to figure out what I could have done different but now instead I just think about you and how brave you were. Your sacrifice saved the lives of many of our brothers. There can never be enough thanks said for your actions and I will continue to tell your story to inspire the youth and let them know that in this world during troubled times there are real heros like you brother, who will always be there to keep the wolf at bay. SEMPER FI BROTHER I LOVE AND MISS YOU.
R/S
Sgt. Rettenberger
P.S. i will never stop shooting"

"Dear Aaron, Another year has passed that I've been blessed to know you, your Mother, Sgt Rett, and some of your Marine Brothers... It is because of all of you that I live each day with a purpose. I will always remember all of your sacrifices. I truley feel blessed to know of all of you and your heroric efforts to bring freedom to those who do not have what "we" have in America. There are no words to describe how much you all mean to me. God Bless you all.

Sincerely,

Diane

"we shall never forget""

"April 26th I remember."

"4 years ago to the hour we set out on patrol. All i can say is i remember and thank you. I will see you in time."
brother.

"April 22, 2008

My precious son. Wow. Nearly 4 years. As you may well know, your Momma is much better. I will miss you all the days of my life, but I thank God you are in a safe and rather conservative place.

I love you more and more and I will always be so proud of you!"
Mom

"thank you Deon,Her name will Haley Nicole,Jerrod,Michael & Nicky are moving in together in a new house they have found,I am excited,Me and the little mother have been sending messages to each other and she has told me Jerrod has gone to every doctors appointment,I am so proud of him,He is so excited,They are having 2 baby showers for her,One in Phoenix and the other in ElPaso where her dad lives.
It's hard to believe i am finally going to be a grandma,but i am and darn proud of it,,,,,,,,she will be spoiled,i will make sure of that,I will share her with you,just like you shared your baby with me.........Take Care Deon"
THE PROUD GRANDMA of LOVIINGTON NM

"4/5/08

I love you too, Donna. I was more than happy to share Aaron with you and I will be Nomi to your granddaughter.

Thirty-five years ago on April 2nd is when we lost Shane. We never forget our babies, and too, we are very thankful for the new ones in our lives.

I had the greatest pleasure to meet Major Zembiec's parents last night. They are wonderful people with hearts full of admiration for our Marines. I saw pictures of their granddaughter, Fallyn Justice, who has her daddy's eyes and from what I hear, his independent spirit. It was a joy to meet them and they are strong people.

Much love to all."
De'on

"I love you to Deon,Your something special to me and i have to admire you for all you have done since Aaron has been gone,Aaron will never be forgotten has long has you have a breath in you,He touched so many lifes while he was on this earth,i will remember him with love and all my memories that i have of him and Jerrod,It;s hard to believe that my baby will be a daddy.
He has grown to be a remarkable young man.Aaron is watching over his best friend and i know that he is smiling up in heaven,wishing Jerrod the best.Sgt Rett,thank you from the bottom of my heart for carrying Aaron and staying with him,You are a reamarkable man,God Bless you,Please be safe,Aaron's second Mom that loved him like her own,he was one of mine to,Deon thank you for sharing him with me."
Donna of Lovington,NM

"4/3/08

Oh, I love you all so much. God keeps my heart and eyes filled with so much from so many.

I will post the date and time when I know, Diane.

Donna and Fonzie and Diane, I adore you all.

Sgt. Rett, I can't even begin to tell you how much I love you, honey. God does heal. I know that. But we don't want you so healed as to lose that heart you share with us. Broken hearts are for something. I love you and will always be grateful to you dear Marine!"
De'on

"Hi Aaron, De'on, and Sgt. Rett, I am listening to my "pink" MP3 player (I'm a girlie girl with a marine mouth) I guess I get that from My Marine Dad and Son. Any who when I listen to it (it's all Christian songs.) I always think of all of you. It's is so odd that people you never met are so close to your heart. All of you have changed my life in so many ways I couldn't even begin to type. I wish I could write like De'on, and convey my thought so eloquently with such passion as she does. Sgt. Rett, You're an awesome young man, A real life Hero. I wish the world would take the time to get to know you awesome Marines and other Military members. Sgt. Rett, I pray everyday that one day you will wake up and the pain you live with you slow down and soon you will know you did EVERYTHING and more in combat. You're a true warrior, a Hero among Heroes, A Marine among Marines. My wish for you is that from this day forward every morning you will look in the mirror and see what I, De'on and the rest of your Marines see and that's a Hero, a man who has given his all. A man who devotes his life to his country and his brothers. I want you to know everyday you walk out that door to do your job you have angels surrounding you and people praying for your strength everyday. We love you, Sgt. Rett and always will. I promise you, I will always wonder how your doing and be praying for you. I want you to have some peace. You did your job, son. You carried your brother to safety and when you got him there God had a plan for him. God needed Aaron with him. I can just hear Aaron yelling ORAHHH when God calls you home and he meets you at the gates. I know Aaron wants you to live your life to the fullest so let go and let God. You earned it, son! You will forever be my HERO.

Diane

PS. DE'on, let me know when that special about 2/1 is going to air on the military channel."

"Hi Aaron,I haven't been here in so long,Just wanted you to know Jerrod will be a daddy Aug 29th,Yes we are having alittle girl,I am so excited to be a grandma,Watch over him Aaron has he makes this new journey in his life,She is going to change his life,We miss you alot,We are so very proud of you and always will hold a special place in our hearts for you and Deon,Love Donna"
Donna of Lovington,NM

"hey aaron, just wanted to stop and say i miss you bro. i think of all the crazy things you got me to do when we were younger.lol... only you could take me into things i never did. now your partner in crime seems to do that now. jerrod is something else.lol.. well love you bro and please watch over me and my family..."
Fonzie of Phoenix, Az

"Thank you so much Peggy. We need support from people like you and I do appreciate it so much.

Sgt. Rett, I love you and call me if you ever want to. No matter the time, sweetie, no matter the time.

Semper Fi"
De'on

"March 28, 2008
To the family of Lance Cpl. Aaron C. Austin:
Aaron 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

"just couldn't sleep tonight but it always helps to come on here and read all the posts. Semper Fi brother

r/s

p.s. its always helps to know that people shall never forget...."

"PS. Good to see you Sgt. Rett!"

"Hi Aaron,

Just wanted to stop by and sit with you again. I always get goose bumps when I think of you and your fellow Marines. I would have never thought I could be any PROUDER of you and your Marines than I was the day I read about your story. It's amazing how big I smile when I think of all you echo Marines. I get PROUDER and PROUDER by the day! Thank you again for every thing you do for me and My Family.

Love,
Diane"

"3/23/08

Happy Easter my precious perfect son. It's been a beautiful day but we'll always miss you in line at the luncheon buffet.

I love you."
Mom

"I'd love to dream of you. It's only happened once, but it was the best dream in the world.

You were in your long blue shorts, barefoot, bare-chested.... I could see your feet and above all, I could see you were laughing and running around. You weren't running away, nor were you in a race. You were playing. It was on a Easter Sunday that I dreamed. It seems forever ago, but I loved the dream. It reassured me, and perhaps any dream after that would not touch what that one meant to me on that day and the many to follow.

I love you, Aaron, and I miss you so much. My heart longs to be there with you and I become so impatient with the process of living here without you, but I know I must until I'm through here. Sometimes I think, maybe if I hurry....

But it's not in my hands and not up to me. And as much as is heavenly possible, I must seek the joy of life here on this earth. It's hard and it doesn't happen until we step out of ourselves and into the needs and lives of others.

We all miss you desperately, Aaron.

And Sgt. Rett, we never quit loving and thinking and praying for you and the others. You are all so very, very important to us. Thank you for sharing here with us and Aaron. It means so much.

Semper Fi"
Aaron's Mom

"IN MY DREAMS TONIGHT IT FELT LIKE YOU WERE THERE WITH ME. ITS ALWAYS GOOD TO SEE YOU BROTHER.
SEMPER FI

R/S"

"Hello all. Im writing to let all of my Marines of my ne email address. It is gabrielmoral@aol.com. I am looking foward to hearing from all of you. Semper Fi and God bless you all!"
Big Mo of detroit

"1/23/08

Love you, Sgt. Rett!"
De'on

"hey brother
i miss you man, please watch over us as we deal with our day to day battles

R/S
Sgt.R"

"Kaika!! Email us at deonmiller7@hotmail.com. We have emailed you but never heard back. We love you so much!!"
De'on

"hey aaron i just thought i'd stop by and let you know i'm doing good i finally got into massage school i'm getting pretty good. i miss you so much. i remember you used too yell at me too get out of your room when we were kids, i miss those days i'm praying for you and dad and de'on too i hope you two are ok i'll check back in bye for now"
kaika of Olympia, WA

"Thank you so much and please keep us updated. You and yours will be in our prayers and we need good Marines!

0331!!!

Much love and Semper Fi from Aaron's Mom"
De'on

"hey brother, i still think about you and your love for life and i think about your family. i am sorry i haven't written you or your family in almost a year and a half, but i will never forget you and your sacrifice. i miss the marine corps and i haven't had anything stable or of worth as far as a job so i am coming back in to the marine corps. right now i am working construction just hoping it will hold me until my package gets signed off to get back in. i hope to go back to everything same platoon and the whole nine yards. i also hope to run into some of our old comrades while back in. that is what i am praying for. i will treat the marine corps like gold this time. i just want to be a good husband and father to my baby zadrian and a good marine for those that i may influence. take care brother. former corporal burkhead 0331 guns up. love everyone."
beau burkhead of beaumont texas

"Merry Christmas!

WOW! What a present I received yesterday, Sgt Rett's was here, so I know
he's doing good and an Email from your Mom last night with which might turn
out to be the best news EVER! GOD IS GOOD! I know you have been working
over time up there and boy does it show! Another mission complete!

God Bless You"
Diane

"I love you, Sgt. Rett and Diane, I am doing well, very well. I hope both of you, all of you are the same.

Gunz Up has an important link up for you guys from 2/1. It is narrated by Rick Loomis.

You must please know Sgt. Rett how thankful we will always be to you. We love you with all our hearts and wish the very best for all of you. We know you love Aaron and always will think of him. You tried to save him. You'll never forget and neither will we.

Please have a safe and wonderful holiday.

12/24/07

Aaron Cole: I love you and will dance with you again some future Christmas Eve. And I dance with you always Precious and Perfect Son, United States Marine. I love you with every cell in me and I always will."
Mom

"I'm not sure were to start.... so many thoughts. There are many men who will sit around a Christmas tree this and be thankful for the greatest gift of all something that you never wrapped and no amount of money could ever equal its value. Thank you for giving me the gift of life, not only from me but from everyone that was on that rooftop and in that house that day. Semper fi brother and Merry Christmas and we shall never forget you. And to De'on I wish there was something I could do or say to tell you how much your son and my brother will always mean to me. I hope you and your family have a safe and happy holiday. God Bless.
R/S
Sgt. Rett
Always a 2/1 Echo marine at heart
P.S. And thank you to all of you who keep me in your prayers and worry about me I truly don’t have the words to express how much it means to me."

"Hello My Handsome Marine!

It's almost Christmas and you are on my mind more than usual, I know you know why.
With tears streaming down my face, I wish I could fix the hole in your Mothers heart.
Your loving Family holds her so close to their heart and I know that's how she makes
through each day. I came to pray with you to give her and your Family strength through
this time and that she would have some peace. I also wanted to wish you and all your
fellow Marines a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! It is because of all you strong
men that I get to enjoy this Holiday season with My Family and for that...I will always be
Thankful. You all are my Hero's and I will never forget what you gave for me, my family,
and my Country. I love you, Aaron.

PS. Sgt. Rett, I hope you are well, you are always in my prayers."
Diane

"12/8/07
aunt karen, I think the puppy is Dad's spiritual Bonray. Bonray stayed with Dad and Dad was relaying to you that it was just fine because his skin wouldn't be damaged.

I love you so much, Karen. Thank you for sharing that with me. It means so much. I know they're okay and I'll see them soon."
De'on

"December 7, 2007
For Aaron and Grandpa

Harvey, I dreamed of you two weeks ago for the first time since you left us. In my dream, you, Gary and I were sitting on a big wooden patio. We were just relaxing and visiting like we had done so many times before. You were leaned back on a bench, wearing your blue jogging suit. I was amazed and so happy because you had no scars, no shingles, you were healthy and laughing, you looked so content. Snuggled up next to you was a small puppy, so little and cute. I asked, "Harvey, where did you get that puppy?" You looked at me and said, "Aww, he just took up with me." At this point, the puppy, excited, started to jump up on you. I reached for him and said, "Oh, Harvey, don't let him scratch you," You picked him up, held him in your lap and said, "He's just fine."
And then I awoke. What a wonderful and comforting way to see you again.
Aaron, when I think about this dream, I wonder if the puppy represented you. So young, cute, excited, full of life and spirit, full of love, snuggling in next to Grandpa like you knew you belonged there. I know that you and Grandpa are together now and I wish I had a small glimpse of what it must be like for you two in Heaven, with our Saviour and other loved ones. I hope it's like a party, a huge patio, for I know both of you loved that.
I love and miss you both so. It's hard to get used to life without you here physically, but I thank my dear Lord for memories, dreams, our family and our faith. I know you are both close to us, just on the other side of the veil. Keep watching over us until it is our time to join you.

I love you both forever."
Aunt Karen of Brownfield, Texas, USA

"I love you."
Mom

"I am thankful for all the Military members past and present and their Families. All of you have changed my life and the way I view it. Happy Thanksgiving and God Bless You."
Diane

"11/22/07

I am thankful to each and everyone of you who visit here. Even if you never leave a message, I want this for you always.

Aaron, I miss you. That is nothing new. We all do and we always will, just as we will always count you as a true hero warrior.

For Aaron's friends and family: God bless and keep us all."
Mom

"Sweet Diane...

It always touches me to see your name here! Thank you!"
De'on

"Hi Aaron,

I went to go pay tribute to Zembiec. He doesn't have a fallen Heroes Site. When I googled him to try and find it, I found this. I'm not sure of it's proper to put a link here or not but I think you and your Mom would approve. It's a tribute I found on youtube honoring Capt. Doug Zembiec. It is about all of you Echo Marines.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=Zc9gliUfgfw"
Diane

"Hi Aaron! I came to pay tribute to you and your fellow vets. I'm still in awe of all of you, I always will be. Sgt. Rett, Thank you, thank you, Marine. America stands proud because of you, Aaron and your Brothers. God Bless you All.

PS. De'on, I love ya!"
Diane

"November 10, 2007

Happy birthday to the best people in the world! Thank you, USMC!"
De'on

"Yes, I have the photos... and a beautiful hand drawn portrait is made out of one of them by Michael G. Reagan. I just recently had it framed. It's beautiful.

Hope you are well. I love you and hug that son of yours for me!"
De'on

"Hello to Deon, and to all of my Marines of 2/1. It's been a while since i have been on the computer. I wanted to know if you recieved the pictures of Aaron that i sent about a year ago. My son Aaron Austin Morales is going to be three this December. I can't believe it's been that long. I read the book No True Glory and i somewhat got a grasp. Rettenburger...... if you read this I commend you for your efforts. I am trying to get in contact with the Marines that I had the honor of serving with. I can be contacted at (313) 457-3176. I am looking foward to hearing from each and everyone of you. GOD BLESS and SEMPER FI to all."
Big MO E 2/1 3rd June 2000- Nov 2003 of Detroit, Mi

"Honor,

Of course I remember you. Yes, my phone number is different now. I think of you and Joey often and I pray for both of you just now.

All of our hearts will always be full with so much loss, but too, I will always be proud of and thankful for all of those who have served our nation before and since the huge loss of 9/11.

I'm sorry for the delay in replying. I haven't been on the computer much at all for a couple of months.

My love and thankfulness for all of you never changes.

Semper Fi,"
De'on

"Dearest De'on,
I have been trying to track down the phone numbers you gave me to reach you a year or so ago. The only number left on my cell phone has a message that "it" is no longer connected. My son is Joseph D. Vaux Joey served with your son Aaron. In fact, he considered Aaron one of his very best friends. I am not sure if Aaron and Joseph were in Boot camp together or not. I DO know that they were together from the "Float to Kuwait in Task Force Tarawa". I am sorry for the loss of your father De'on... but grateful that you shared many precious moments together before he went home to be with The Lord. You are in my prayers each and every morning and evening De'on. I am Blessed as are many others you may not ever 'meet' by the Grace in which you carry your sorrow for the ultimate sacrifice Aaron, your wonderful baby boy, gave for our country. I am gratified by the fact that you keep the lines of communication open with everyone whose lives were touched by Aaron in ways great and small. I am hopeful that there may be some kind of reunion one day for all of Weapons Company 2/1. As for me...The biggest reason I moved back here to Ohio was to be closer to my parents; especially my mother whose health has not been it's best for several years. Mother had open heart surgery in June of 2002. I was glad to be here to aid in her recovery. Both of my sons served in the military. My oldest, Jared, will be 30 yrs old in October was in the Air Force. Both of them were in the service when the Towers were hit in New York; Their main concern was that their little sister would grow up far away from Grandpa and Grandma hardly knowing them at all; so plans were made to relocate here within the year. I think of you often De'on and have picked up a couple of treasures that I pray will further comfort you and Aaron's Dad. I also humbly ask that any men and women that knew my son Joey ("Vaux") PLEASE let me know. He is currently in a VA Hospital White City, OR. I would gratefully give "you" an address and or phone number to communicate with him. He is still struggling with PTSD and nightmares from his life's experiences in Iraq. Any light you could put on those experiences for this proud mother of a US Marine could only serve to benefit his continued recovery. I send him any and everything to further instill his pride of being a Marine and proudly serving his country for all of us. It is no small thing to attach the words "Courage, Honor, Commitment" in the same breath as "Marine". I "Thank" all of you Brave Men and Women for your deedicated service for the safety and security of our great county.
I remain... Honor Carter, proud mother of TWO United States Servicemen. GOD BLESS AMERICA... HOME OF THE FREE BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE! hcarter2001@go.com"
Honor Carter of Columbus, OH / USA

"Another Brother of yours Aaron, Platoon 3026, India Co. I will never forget you."
2nd Lt Nekvinda, K L of Brandon SD

"A MESSAGE FROM MY DESK
I HAD A FEW MINUTES BEFORE THE NEXT YOUNG MAN AND MAYBE THE NEXT NEW MARINE WALKS THROUGH THE DOOR SO I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW YOU ARE ON MY MIND FRIEND.
SEMPER FI
R/S"

"There is absolutely nothing to forgive precious Marine! You carried my son in your arms and you loved him as he loved you. I don't doubt for one moment that if the situation had been reversed that day that you would have done the very same thing for Aaron and the other Marines. You are precious to me, and that will never ever change. You might as well ask me to forgive God and life... it would be just unthinkable for me to ever have anything less than the highest regard for you and the others who have lost a part of yourselves along the way. I owe so much to all of you and I realize that more with each setting of the sun. Because of you, I have the freedom to work in my yard, care for Aaron's grandparents, watch his cousins grow and smell the sweet fur of kittens and feel the bristles of an American Pit who was never fought, but was loved by the best, and without all of you, without our all knowing and blessed Father, I would not be able to experience this.

I consider myself honored and blessed among women. I know where my sons are and I thank God for them. And for the sons of others who would lay down their lives for me without hesitation. God bless you, hold you, comfort you and prosper you, Rett. I will always, always, love you and yours."
De'on

"A marine asked me the other day what was the hardeist thing you have ever done.Right away he went to, was it having to pull the trigger face to face with the enemy and i told him this, no it was telling a fellow brothers parents i did everything i could do but it wasn't enough. I failed them and a fellow marine but yet they found it in there heart to forgive me. It was the first time in the marine corps i ever failed. god forgive me for i did everytrhing i knew how to do yet it wasn't enough. i know you live and watch over my shoulder and i thank the lord for your wisdom every day. peace be with you brother
R/S"

"7/14/07

I love you, son. As you may have noticed, I'm outside thinking about you these days
I love it when your wind chime plays.

And to your buddy, Diane; I love her too.

Always,"
Mom

"Hi Aaron,

I just needed to come and sit with you for a while today. All of you 2/1 warriors are on my mind. I may not know you guys personally but I love you guys as if you were my own sons. There truly isn't a day that goes by that I do not think of y'all or Aaron's Mother. Sgt. Rett, if you read this, I hope you are doing well. If you lived closer, I'd come bug you at the recruiters office and buy your lunch and a beer as often as you would let me : ) You Marines represent everything that's good about America. God bless you brave Marines."
Diane

"Hi Aaron,
Happy 4th of July! Thank you so much for my freedom. Thank you to your Family, Friends and Marine Brothers. I so appriciate everything you guys do so I may live in the land of the free. God Bless you all."
Diane

"7/4/07

Happy 4th of July son! Happy 4th to everyone who visits here. Thank you for our freedom, dear precious troops!"
Mom

"Happy Birthday Aaron! You're in our hearts all the time.

PS. Sgt. Rett, good to see you! You are always in my heart and prayers as well. I will forever remember what you and your Marines have done and given for this great Nation. You have given and done so much in such a short time in your life. Please remember to love yourself for you are so loved and appreciated by so many people you don't even know. Be well sweet Hero. (hugs)"
Diane

"7/1/07

Happy birthday, my Precious Perfect Son. I love you with everything."
Mom

"6/23/07

Precious Rett:

You always say it perfectly. I love you, son. We're always here for you.

Semper Fi"
De'on

"Dear Arron,
Ah what do I say?Aaron you were a protector here on earth for marines and for me even after you left us here though I haven’t written in a long time I still check the site all the time. My dreams haunt me yet again. Forgive me brother for not being able to do more. Today didn’t make it much better I had a mother tell me today that she wasn’t going to let her son sign his life away to go die in Iraq. However afterwards her son came to me as I left the house and said to “I don’t want to be a marine to be a hero or anything I just want to make a difference can I make a difference in the marine corps” I smiled and thought of you and told that young man “a difference you can impact the lives of others for an eternity “ that young man told me he would see me in a week when he turned 18.. My brother I just want you to know that there are still a few and proud willing to step up to the challenge. You my friend have made an impact on so many lives and through that you shall live forever. I just miss you so much I’m not sure what to say. Until we meet again.

R/S"

"6/1/07

I love you. Both you, David, and Aaron. And don't you worry about me. I am a tough old bird!"
mom

"It seems like forever ago that I heard that extremely LOUD voice for the first time. It was a simple but loud and at the time annoying shout "MACHINE GUNS!!!" I have to give him three exclamations because one just doesn't justify his voice. All I remeber thinking was "Holy cow, whats this guy's problem?" I soon found out what it was, for lack of a better word or term it was shear MOTIVATION! That was the spring of 2003, about a week later we actually get to talk to each other and thats where time stops in my head. Simply becuase I want it to last forever. We find out that we both had Pit's, and from there on out, a friendship was struck. We wasn't all that close up until Kuwait on our first deployment but I could always count on him to have smokes in the field, beer in the fridge, and a smile on his face. He had the most contagious smiles of anyone that I know. He could make a man that has just lost everything and more smile and have at least a chance of hope. I miss you brother! It's as simple as that. From that tragic day to now, to the future, Your always going to be in my mind, and I just want to thank you. Because of you always being there, you help me keep me in line with my goals. Mainly becuase when I get discouraged I think "What would Aaron say?" and then it comes to me, LOL, and you know what I'm talking about. I still enjoy our longs talks, even though now there in my head instead of out in the field on opp's. Don't really know what I wanted to accomplish with this, but you do! Well brother your mom is doing a great job with all that she's got going on! Now I see where you get your determination and drive from! Till next time brother............."
Cpl Bryant, David W. "Dave-O" of escondido, california

"Marilyn, you are always so faithful. Much love to you and the family. And thank you."
De'on

"De'on, Greg, Doug, and all of Aaron's extended family:
You have all been in our thoughts and prayers during the Memorial Day weekend. We can never know what your family has gone through. Please know that we care about you and appreciate the sacrifice that Aaron made for his country and for his brother Marines. Last night our family met together for a meal and as our son John asked God's blessing on our food he also thanked Him for all the men who had given their lives in the line of duty in the years past. I know he was especially thinking of Aaron....his best Marine buddy. He will always be a part of John I know. We will never forget Aaron C. Austin and the Hero he was...and IS.
May God bless all of you!"
Marilyn Harrell of Falkner, MS

"Thank you. All. You've each given me so much."
De'on

"Dear Mrs. Miller,

I am sorry for your loss. Please accept my gratitude for your son's service, and your perseverance. As a former Marine, I follow as many Marine stories as I can. I am sorry that you are in the political environment that you are, but please know that my family and I are praying for you and for Aaron.

Semper Fi,

Rob"
Rob Lobello of Lafayette, LA

"5/28/2007

For Aaron

Star

You are our star,
joined forever to a pride
of others, shining on,
before and after you.
Borne into a wide, vast milkyway
of selfless heroes
high above us,
lighting our skies
with the warm, twinkling
glow of freedom.
Thank you, our star among stars."
aunt karen of Brownfield, Texas USA

"Dear Aaron & De'on,

I want to Thank you both for your sacrifice. There isn't a day that goes by that I do not think about you two or the other 2/1 Marines. You all are Heroes. I also want to thank you all for making me a better person. I live my life with more purpose because of all of you. IF just half the world took the time to know any of you, this world would be perfect. Aaron, I have the honor of doing Maj. Doug Zembiec's condolence book. I promise to put as much heart and soul into it as you 2/1 Marines did in Iraq. De'on, you are the most insperational person who has walked on this earth. Just as the 2/1 Marines prevailed. so will you. For you have the truth, honor, and courage on your side. God Bless and keep you both.

With Love,
Diane"

"My heartfelt sympathies for you and your family. Evey soldier remains in our prayers, as do you all. Please know that his sacrifice and yours is not unappreciated, or in vain. My God Bless you all."
Lt. J G Goebel - CCFD of Vinings, GA., USA

"5/28/07

I can't thank all of you enough. You have all done so much in the way of spirit lifting today!

And Sweetness and Light; I loved the post and comments at your site! Thank you.

Have a safe and blessed Memorial Day."
De'on

"Thank you, Aaron for your bravery, and for looking out for me and my family. We appreciate your strength and heroism.

Mrs. Miller, I am so sorry that you lost your son. I hold you in my heart today."
Cheryl

"He bravely fought the good fight, and died a hero. I regret that I never was privileged to meet him.

Rest in peace, LCPL Aaron C. Austin."
Ken of New York

"http://sweetness-light-forum.com/cgi-bin/readart.cgi?ArtNum=228

Mrs. Miller...I posted about you and your son at Sweetness & Light. S & L is a very pro-military blog. The link is posted above. I would be honored if you read it."
MCPO, USN, Retired of Bellingham, WA

"May 28, 2007

Thank you all so much for your messages. It means so much, so very much. Especially with all the craziness of this week.

None of what Bill Richardson says is true and I have laid out the truth in a post "WHY AM I ON TRIAL?" and in the comments area too on http://gunzup.blogspot.com

I hate that it has all come to this and I hate that our politicians lie and then have the voice to cover themselves, but I am proud of Aaron and of those who have the empathy and sensibilities to know and understand that a mother who has lost a child would never do what Richardson claims I have done. He put no thought into this at all.

The standard amt. is 12,000. How hard is that to look up?

Sorry, this thing has had me upset all week and couldn't have come at a worse time.

Semper Fi to all supporters of our great nation and military."
De'on Miller

"Thank your family for this heroic man.
He has fought for us all, like many before him, a better man would never walk on this earth
words fail me
God bless him and the family members"
Darren of Mesa, AZ

"May God bless you and keep you in Heaven for all eternity. May the Lord keep and protect your family and friends on this planet earth until you meet again."
DAVID MENDELSOHN of PHOENIX AZ

"Many thanks for the ultimate sacrifice your son and your family have given to our nation's citizens. Words would never be enough."
Lori Craig of Columbia, SC

"I too have come to this site from Michelle Malkin's Memorial Day Tribute.

To LCPL Austin's family, please accept my heart felt gratitude for your sacrifice. May God Bless you and continue Bless our Great Nation."
Joseph Bshero of New Castle, Pennsylvania, USA

"May God bless the Family of Aaron Austin"
Jim Noble of Taylorsville, Ga

"TO THE FAMILY AND MEMORY OF LCPL AARON AUSTIN,YOUR SACRIFICE AND HEROISM WILL ALWAYS BE REMEBERED.YOUR ACTS OF SELFLESSNESS HAVE HELPED PRESERVE THE FREEDOM WE AMERICANS ARE SO BLESSED TO HAVE."
JIM SNELL III of Cherry Hill, NJ

"To the Family of LCPL Austin....

I have just learned of your wonderful Warrior Hero by reading Michelle Malkin's site this morning.

On this Memorial Day, when our Warriors are still in harms way, fighting the right war without the support of many in our country, I just wanted to say that there are many of us who do remember Heroes like Aaron, and think of you, their families left behind. Reading of your son's service brought tears to this old Master Chief's eyes. And like Maj. Doug Zembiec, another Fallen Hero, I am unashamed.

May this Memorial Day find you and your family with peace in your hearts.

Semper Fi"
MCPO, USN, Retired of Bellingham, WA

"Today being Memorial Day, I am struck by the simple selflessness of Marines like Lcpl. Austin. I will hang my flag today with a prayer on my lips for him, his loved ones and his brothers in arms. God Bless."
Jeffrey W. Farley of Dover, De

"Today I honor Lance Cpl Aaron Austin and his loved ones for their treasured gift of hope that his life brings to the world. His indomitable American spirit flows though our hearts illuminating the light on the shining hill reminding us all that freedom is not free but given in sacrifice by America's finest sons and daughters. God Bless you."
Susan of New York, NY

"What a wonderful message for you to leave, Nick. Thank you for it, for loving Aaron and for serving. We need awesome Marines, so re-enlist!! It happens all the time! I just know that if Aaron came to it, he would've gotten out, but gone back in. See Sgt. Rett!! Just kidding on that. He's in Iowa, but really, how good of you to leave a message. We've just returned from Amarillo tonight, from his grave. It has been really hard this time.

Please visit http://gunzup.blogspot.com where there are a great many pictures down at the very bottom, in the slide show from OIF 1. And I am about to start posting his scrapbook I made him for OIF 1.

Semper Fi"
De'on

"It has been a long time since I have thought about my time in the Marine Corps. I served alongside Aaron during OIF 1. I was a Sgt in his platoon. I am not sure what sparked my memory but sitting in my cube at work, I started looking for information on the members of Echo I had known who were taken too soon in Iraq. I had been discharged before Echo's second deployment to Iraq but hearing of the loss of Aaron hit me hard. Every day from now until I am no longer on the earth I question my decision to leave the Marine Corps and Marines like Aaron are the reason why. His infectious spirit and attitude were one of a kind and something I will always remember. I am sure you have heard this from countless others but I will reiterate, Aaron was the picture of what a Marine is supposed to be. Selfless, spirited and a true Warrior. Although I did not have the honor of serving alongside him in Fallujah, I will never forget the affect he had on me. Gone but NEVER Forgotten. Semper Fi."
Nick Jenkins of Cary, NC

"May 17, 2007

SgtMaj,

You could go on forever as far I'm concerned.

Train them hard. They can't train enough right now. And then love them as you loved my son.

Semper Fi"
De'on

"Well Aaron,
It's been a long while once again since I have written. This time I write after hearing the painful news that Maj Zembiec has left us and joined you. It really bites that I am in Okinawa and cannot make it back there to his funeral but, I know that the Marines of Echo will represent well, as they always have. I will be there in spirit. As I write from here in Oki it is about 0600 back in Md. where they will be starting from. Our Country and Corps have lost yet another true warrior. I remember the first time I met him was on the parade deck back at Horno after I had left the company for 3rd LAAD Bn. You warriors were in a formation receiving your Combat Action Ribbons for OIF and the pride was blowing me over as I watched the greatest men I have ever known get what they deserved. Then Capt Zembiec walked up to me and not knowing who I was said "You have got to be GySgt Ploskonka. Thank you for giving me such a great company of Marines." That told me right from the start that he was the right man for the job. That he cared more about you then himself. And of course it was and is true. So that briings me to the last time I saw him. That was when your mom and him came to a parade at the barracks last year. He autographed my copy of Bing West's book because I told him I only wanted real warriors and there families to sign it. I find myself speaking of all of you often when trying to get Marines to give just a bit more. You are the yardstick that I judge Marines by all the time. You guys set the bar higher than I could ever have imagined and it hurts allot everytime I hear something happens to any of you. Well I better stop babbling as usual and let people get to other things in their lives. As always I wish everyone the very best that life has to offer and thank all of you for being great Americans!!!
Semper Fidelis

SgtMaj John Ploskonka
3D MLG, 9th ESB, Okinawa, Japan
jpndc04@yahoo.com"

"Oh, Diane... It is all so much. He is there with Aaron. His funeral will be where he married his beautiful wife less than 3 years ago.

I so wonder what he and Aaron are doing.

Thank you. As always, you are one supportive lady."
De'on

"Dearest De'on and Aaron, I just recieved the news about Maj. Douglas A. Zembiec. I knew the name but wasn't sure. I googled his name and yes, it was Aaron's leader. My heart and prayers are with you both and all of the 2/1 Marines, the new Marines he was with, and his Family. My heart aches for you.

God Bless"
Diane

"5/13/07

Precious Perfect Son:

You still have a way of making me the proudest and happiest Mom in the world. I will always be thankful that God blessed me with you. I love you with everything in me.

Soon, son ... soon...."
Mom

"4/28/07

Your words and the poetry from your soul has brought many tears. They are tears of love, honor and a true humbleness within.

I pray God blesses each of you in a mighty way for taking the time to lend comfort to those who visit here.

Thank you for loving Aaron. And his mom.

Much love,"
De'on

"To Aaron and his loving family:
I cannot begin to put into words how much the American soldier means to me.
Aaron has helped to preserve the world for us and our children and protected the ideals of freedom for all the generations to come. It is because of brave men like Aaron that we can live in the fervent hope that our grandchildren and THEIR grandchildren will be able to live in democracy.
We will NEVER forget his valor, his courage , his honor is service, and his ultimate sacrifice defending the freedoms that the United States of America stands for. America is proud to call Aaron one of her "own". We keep you in our hearts and lift you and your entire family up in our prayers that the loving memories you have left them provide comfort. From the bottom of my heart and the reaches of my soul, I will ALWAYS be grateful for your service and hope that you can rest in peace FOREVER in the loving arms of God."
Debra Cappel of McCook NE

"For Aaron

Threes

The spring winds blow through the sunlit days,
reminding me of you.
The anniversaries come that before your passing were unwanted...
now grasped onto as a way to hold on,
to just hold on to you.
Time does heal wounds, pain,
but it never takes away the scar that is left behind.
Everything will be threes now...
a way of measuring the time until we see you again.
You are missed three times as much,
thought of and loved by three hundred more.
Thank you once more, brave Marine,
beloved nephew."
aunt karen of Brownfield,Texas,USA

"My prayers and thoughts are with you all at this time and always. God Bless and Thank you"
Teresa of Port Arthur, texas 77640

"WELL AARON IT'S BEEN 3 YEARS SINCE YOU LEFT US,WE MISS YOU SO MUCH,JERROD IS HAVING A PARTY AT HIS HOUSE IN YOUR HONOR,HE MISS YOU SO MUCH AARON,HE GOT A NEW CAR YESTERDAY,YOU WOULD LOVE IT.
YOU WERE SUCH A RAY OF SUNSHINE,WE ARE ALL PROUD OF YOU AND WILL WAIT FOR THE DAY WHEN WE WILL JOIN YOU IN HEAVEN,I LOVE AND MISS YOU BABY,YOUR SECOND MOM,DONNA & YOUR BEST FRIEND JERROD,& MICHAEL"
DONNA,JERROD& MICHAEL of LOVINGTON,NM

"Well Aaron..Baby..it has been 3 painful years and there are many more to follow but I am so proud of you and I always will stand by your name and what you did for all of us here! I miss you so much that the words could never explain how much. I know that you look upon me and my family and I know you are around me in spirit. I drive past where are wedding would have taken place and our reception and I get overwhelmed with sadness,unanswered questions and I imagine what that day would have felt like. I know you had a part in Allen my husband now and He is so good to me Aaron and is understanding too. I never thought I would ever find True love again. Things had happened so fast with us and I am just so glad that I had you in my life at all!! I have memories of you that will take me to the end of time and thats all I have to hang on to. I love you always and forever. Rest in peace "my crazy Marine" XOXO

I love you De'on and soon I will come visit and spend some quality time with you and the Family..I miss you guys alot!!"
Tiffany Bradshaw of Phx,AZ U.S.A.

"4/26/07

You guys are the greatest! Diane! You are an amazing, vibrant and fun fun person. I know Aaron must adore you.

The Marine Moms you've come to know and have blessed me by today touches me so very much. Thank you. God bless each of you as you enjoy the beauty of the day He has sent. I love you."
De'on

"Hi Aaron,

It's been three years to date since you laid down your life for your Brothers in arms, your Family, me, my Family, the Iraqi people and all of America. I'm here to sit with you and give thanks to you and your family. I brought Cake batter (your Mom said you liked the batter the best), an energy supplement drink and some cigarettes. I'm going to cook the cake after we talk a bit and share it with my family and neighbors in your honor. I feel very honored to know your story, it is because of men like you that I am free and for that, I will forever be grateful. Your Mom put a letter on her blog that Tiffany wrote on her my space page. It was wonderful to put a face with her name. You are so loved and missed by so many. Your Moms doing an awesome job with her blog "Gunz Up" Your Grandma is a HOOT and a Hollar! I could spend hours reading what all they write. I'm so happy I had this time with you, You truly are an American Hero. I will always remember you and your Family. God bless you, son.

Sincerely,
Diane"

"ANYTHING WORTH STARTING, IS WORTH GIVING IT YOUR ALL, DOING YOUR BEST AND FINISHING, your goal is to MAKE YOURSELF PROUD IN ALL THAT YOU DO...DONALD DOOLEY NAVAL HERO ON THE PACIFIC WWII 1926-2001 I think all military people live by those words every day of their lives, so did Aaron. God bless"
marine mom donna of hampton, virginia USA

"4/26/05

My love and prayers are with each of those who fought alongside my son or have reason to remember him with love or with laughter.

May God bless each of us, and Aaron, thank you. But I miss you terribly."
Mom

"Hi Aaron,

I just wanted to come and say a little prayer with you. You and Rett have been on my mind. I'll be back in two weeks...with CAKE!

Love,
Diane"

"4/6/07

Much love to all of those who visit this site out of love for my son and his family.

I hope your Easter weekend is blessed and is spent with those you love.

For those who've lost someone they love, I hope the day warms you and brings you some comfort as you reflect on the sacrifice first made for us and for our salvation and hope.

And to my son, I love you as much as ever.

No, more.

I miss you and I'll never quit missing you until I'm with you again. And I'm thankful for that hope. That we will be with you again, Aaron.

Semper Fi"
Mom

"3/30/07

Precious Marine: Yes, it's so wonderful to hear from you. It's very good of you to leave a message. I check every day.

I smiled reading about the swim qual thing. I'll never forget it ... he had me praying for him. I have it recorded in my Bible or perhaps a God Calling book I've since given away.

It's true. Aaron wanted nothing more than to be an infantry Marine. When I had tried to talk to him about other MOS's (I was in the Army), he absolutely would not hear of it. He was Gung Ho.

We also honor Aaron and other military at http://gunzup.blogspot.com

I spoke with your Senior Drill from Boot Camp as it neared time for the Silver Star presentation. He called me (I had met his dad at an event in Albuquerque who is a retired Marine) and when I let him know that Aaron was receiving this, he contacted his son. His son called me and we must have talked for a half-hour or so. By this time, he was a Gunny Sgt.

Did you know about Staff Sgt. Bland? He was one of your drills. Bland died when the CH-53E helicopter he was in crashed near Ar Rutbah, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Died on January 26, 2005.

Aaron was an 0331, a very good one. A team leader. He is missed sorely everyday, but I want you to know that this Mom is so full of love and prayers for each of you. I support both you and your mission and I will always be grateful for your service ... and for your sacrifice. You each give it in some large way. God bless you and keep you and all the brothers you serve with.

Semper Fi,"
De'on, Aaron's Mom

"I met Aaron in boot camp. He stuck out because he intentionally loved to piss of the D.I.s, and spend more time on the quarterdeck then anyone else in the platoon.
I remember during training week 5, swim week, he was especially concerned because he couldn't get past Swim Qual 3, and the recruiter had told him he had to have swim qual 2 to be an infantryman.
That was his biggest worry in all of bootcamp.... would he get to be an infantryman.
Well he made it, and I saw him again in School of Infantry, Infantry training Battalion. Because we were in sepperate platoons throughout the first half we rarely talked, and even less once MoS's were given (however now I can't remember if he was an 11 or 31, I think 31).

The next time I got to think about him was in fallujah, 2005. A debrief for early returns due to EAS. They showed a video that terrorists had made of the clearing of Fallujah. In it they showed a shot up HMMV and the gear of several Marines..... when I saw the name "Austin" on a flak jacket my mind went blank.... I lost the rest of the entire debrief and after it was over went to the memorial wall there to find him. I was standing with JR Colby, another boot camp brother, when we found his picture.
That was the end of my third combat tour, and the first two had no KIA's my 2/8, who I was with. So I guess the truth of losing someone I personally knew to the war never sank in until I saw that Aaron had died, because it stacked on top of a fresh wound of a friend from home dieing 30 miles from me (Lcpl Chad Maynard).
So from your brothers of 3026, you will be missed."
Lcpl Hight, Kymball L. of Grand Junction, CO

"Hi Aaron,

Just wanted to let you know I'm thinking of you and I promise to watch out for your Mom a lot closer these days."
Diane

"Happy Valentine's Babe and all."
Mom

"Aaron,It;s been awhile since i have posted anything here,I still miss you everyday and wish you were here calling me mom.Jerrod is doing good,i don't really think he knows what he wants in this world,But he;s got a good head on his shoulders and i am sure he will find his way.Michael is okay to,They lost there baby,But i am sure God had a reason.I try not to question the reason for him taking you and Chris and my grandbaby away,But i know he had other plans for ya,I know you watch over us daily Aaron.We are so proud of you and will always miss you so much.Your always in my thoughts and prayers.Donna"
Donna of Lovington NM

"February 8, 2007

Congratulations are in order for our SgtMaj Ploskonka. He was promoted today.

Semper Fi"
De'on

"Congrats 1stSgt Ploskonka (soon to be SgtMaj) and OOOH RAHHHH!!!"
Diane

"Oh, how good to hear from you and about your promotion. It is always good to hear from you and I like it when you talk on and on as if he were there with you; I believe that he is.

If you can get any photos of your frocking, can I have one? Can we post it on our blog?

You and your writing will always remain so very important to me, so please don't forget us when you make Sgt. Major!

We love you and thank you and your Marines. And they are the greatest people in the world.

Semper, Semper Fi!"
De'on

"Aaron and of course everyone else,
Here we are finding ourselves in a new year and ready to face it's great challenges. It has been a long long time since my last writings so I will have to babble on and on again. I have been moved from Company B at 8th and I and am now at Naval Support Facility Thurmont, Md. since Aug of 2006. It has been so long that now I am leaving here as well. Due to getting promoted, I must leave yet another company of great Marines behind as I head to Okinawa, Japan to work with 9th Engineer Support Battalion (ESB) at Camp Hansen, as their SgtMaj. Of course the Marines of 2/1 are there right now deployed with the 31st MEU. So I will be able to see the old unit when I check in on March 15th. I am very happy to become a SgtMaj but, it is getting tougher and tougher to leave good Marines behind every couple years. Lots of tears these days. It must be the old age or, as I say, "It's tough being Polish" I am sure that I will fit in over there just fine though. That is because there will be a common denominator there as well. They are called Marines! The greatest people on the planet. This family gets stronger and stronger every year that I am in it and, I am not looking forward to departing these ranks at the end of my career. So Aaron I am sorry for not writing in so long. I was greatly missing your smile the other day when I was planning my "Post and Relief" with this unit. But, as luck would have it, I have a couple Marines here with great smiles and a sense of humor like yours as well. So they lifted my spirits. We are having a "Mess Night", actually 2 of them, one this Tuesday the 6th of February and one on the 13th in Gettysburg, Pa. (I cannot think of a greater place in our nations history to have it) at an establishment called The Dobbin House Tavern. It was built in 1776. Not quite 1775 or Tun Tavern but, a tavern just the same. No better place to have a mess night I think. So I was going over the toast to "Our Fallen Comrades" and of course I help but to think of you very much during this. I will try not to cry during the actual reciting of the traditions behind our Fallen Comrades Table. I will of course shead a tear for you and the many other Marines that are represented by it. Last year we had it on the USS Constellation in the Baltimore Harbor. That was a tough one too. We have tasked our NCO's to put these ones together and you know what? they have done an outstanding job just like NCO's do when you tell them what to do, not how to do it! I was also thinking of what I am going to do as a SgtMaj at my next command. You know, I have never been one of those before. So I better not screw this one up because I only get one chance to make it right. I will be there for 2 years and will not deploy it looks like until Aug of 2008. That is because they are in Iraq right now doing what all Marines do best. Defend this great nation of ours! So wish me luck when I get there, as I try to do the right things for those Marines. I am going to get promoted this Thurday the 9th of Feb. Actually I am getting Frocked. And, am going to do 2 ceremonies because I want to do one at the Marine Barracks, as that was the place that I received my first promotion to PFC in 1985 and I would like it to be the place for my last pomotion as well. We are still part of the barracks up here at this unit, so I am glad for that. Then I will do it all again in the afternoon for the Marines of my current unit because they will not be able to make it to that one. I wish we could have more than 2 people pin this rank on. Since we only have 2 collars I have decided to pass the SgtMaj chevrons through the ranks before getting them pinned on by my current Platoon Sergeants; who are actually Sgt's not SSgt's. That way it will feel as though they all pinned it on. What an honor for me!!! Well I shall get going and let those reading this get off to doing better things at this point. I miss you very much Aaron as does everyone that knows you. You continue to help me get through some tough days warrior. And I thank you for that!
Semper Fidelis
1stSgt John Ploskonka (soon to be SgtMaj)
NSF Thurmont Md (soon to be in Oki)
email jpndc04@yahoo.com"
1stSgt Ploskonka of Cascade Maryland

"That's a great idea, Diane. The messages are great. Really great.

And you are the one who works so hard!"
De'on

"Hi De'on,
Yes, please share. I told Sgt. Rett if the book helps him to please let me know and I will get all the Moms in different States to make one up and take to their local recruiters office.

PS. The new site is awesome, I had a chance to read some today.

Keep up the great work that you do for our Military!"
Diane

"No, Diane, it was an earlier email, I think to a different email address than the one I got last time from you. But I was inquiring because I had orignially asked to post some of these letters as to why the mother's sons wanted to be Marines. Semper Fi Mom wants to as well on Lubbock Marines Parents, so if it's okay with you, then that will be some posts for the near future.

Thanks, Diane

PS I copied the entire poem you sent me and Blogger let me down after I had completed it, so will try again, maybe tomorrow.

It is a beautiful poem and I greatly appreciate the thought. I bet others will too.

Semper Fi,"
De'on

"Hi De'on,

The last email I recieved was the address, Is that the email you are referring to? Tell the Lubbock group that would be awesome. I will visit the new site today when I get back home. I hope you have a wonderful day!

Diane"

"Will do Diane. Did you get the email I sent you?

Ref: "Why My Son ..."
Lubbock Marine Parents would like to post some on their blog too.

The new site won't be completely up for a bit yet, but yes, it's going to be awesome.

Love you, and take care!"
De'on

"Hi Aaron,

I have been working on a very special project for one of your extraordinary brothers in arms. The whole time I've been working on it, I can see that smile everyone talks about. I hope to finish tomorrow and get it in the mail tomorrow as well or the following day. I'll be back to check on you soon.

Diane

PS. De'on, I seen the new site! It looks awesome! I have not had the time to go in and check it all out yet, but I will this weekend. I really want to read the article you were telling Sgt. Rett about. OH and I have some pictures from Pearl Harbor someone sent me. I'll get those to you too. Take care of you!"

"Precious Sgt Rett,

There is an essay by Karen up on the blog. The title is: THEY SUSTAIN

Please read it. The post date is Jan. 23, 2007.

Maybe Aaron was wanting to tell you how very much you mean to us. If you ever get the chance, please come visit us. Maybe you could come when Doc does and bring your beautiful wife.

We'll always be here in this house. My memories are here and I think you'd feel Aaron here too. We all do.

I love you,"
De'on

"late last night i had a dream. we were on the cat walk in horno. I was walking aimlessly around the third deck until i ran into you. i will never forget your smile. you looked like you wanted to tell me something before i woke. what was it?"

"Sgt. Rett,

Hey, can you email me your mailing address? deonmiller7@hotmail.com

I love you!"
De'on

"I saw your message, Diane, and I hope you visit often. Soon, we'll have a new site up, www.gunzup.com

Thank you so much for your support of our Sgt Rett. He has a world of people who love him and he'll get the bullets of scared parents figured out, and if their sons or daughters are prone to do it, they will.

It's a call that comes from within. The recruiter will simply do the paperwork to get the born Warrior in.

I hunted and tracked my recruiter down! Of course, a 33 yr. old woman was not at the top of the list, but I made them let me in anyway!

Semper Fi

and Sgt Rett, I LOVE YOU!!"