Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Tony
Remember when you pulled Burt's shorts from the restroom? Or he pulled your's I'll miss you buddy
" Lurch" God Bless you and thanks for your service"
Gregory Villarreal of Santee,CA 92071

"I wanted to leave my condolences even though its been so long since all of this happened I could not have asked for a better Uncle Im proud to be able to say I met this man and he is part of my family his stoic actions will be remembered throughout time and no one will forget him (And How tall He was) I remember the one and only time i had the chance to meet him What a day to open up your bedroom door and have a giant standing outside your door (I was like 6 at the time so yeah he was big) But i warmed up to him quickly he was alwas full of jokes laughter and love and i will always remeber him I love you Riposare in pace zio Tony"
Killian Bertolino of Virginia Beach Virginia

"It's been six years today.... I still can't get that day out of my head, everything is still so vivid. I was one of the medics that tried to help that day.... but God had other plans for you. May you rest in peace.

MED TRP SPT SQN 3d ACR."
doc of los angeles, ca

"11/23/2009- A Story of Love

Stephen "Tony" Bertolino was my friend and I first meet his amazing family almost 10 years ago when he was assigned to recruiting duty in San Diego. His boys were a joy to work with in the scouting program and in church as they always called me "Sir".

I had the privledge of attending Boy Scout Camp Chawanakee in the Serrias with Tony and his sons and enjoyed every minute spent with them. At the rifle range Tony was in his element especially when he observed my son Bradley close to tears because he could not quite get his grouping of shots to qualify for the badge. He personally took each young man including my son and made sure they gained enough instruction and assistance to get their rifle merit badge. Bradley will never forget his special "merit badge" counsoler.

It was with extreme sadness when I heard of Tony's death in Iraq. Attending his funeral brought tears to my eyes to see Susan and her 4 children without their beloved "Tony" and father.

Over the years our scout troop continued to have contact with Susan and the children. It was no surprise to us that both Tony and Daniel achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. Jason the youngest son is on his way also and I have no doubt he too will follow in the fine family tradition. Karina has the good heart of her father and always is looking for a way to help out anyone anytime. She is growing to become a beatiful young 13 year woman.

This is where the love of Bertolino legacy continues. When I first set eyes upon the Bertolino's I wished to a part of their lives. 6 months ago I called Susan to see if I could take her boys on a hike to Zion. After 24 years of marriage I had found myself a single man and knew that the only person that I could imagine ever wanting to seriously date would someone like Susan Bertolino. My heart leaped with joy when I asked her if she would be interested in seeing me and she said "Yes".

Susan and I have taken these last 6 months becoming reaquainted with each other, enjoying our time spent at church, in the temple, hiking, and doing fun things with our children.

Tomorrow Susan and I will be wed in the Bertolino home with the picture of Tony looking over us. I have felt Tony's presence throughout these months and know that he is happy for us. I promise to make him proud as the Husband to his wife and the Step Father to his children. Thank you Tony, thank you all, who have sacrificed for our country. God Bless you and your family this Thanksgiving season.

All trials in life are for our good and what we make of hardship makes us a better person. I am a better person because of Tony's sacrifice and am so thankful for the joy that his family brings into my life."
Milo K. Jensen of San Diego, Ca.

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

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

"Bertolino was a strong leader of my platoon here in Hunter Army Airfield. Since day one when we met he always showed transparency and leadership. Bertolino worked with the local community helping others. Gone too soon. My prayers goes out to his family, really hard to overcome his loss.
Bertolino, GOD BLESS YOU."
SFC (Ret) Garcia-Rodriguez, M. of Savannah, GA

"I had the pleasure of meeting Stephen Bertolino's 4 Children and Wife this weekend at a Make A Wish Foundation Event I attended up in Northern California. We spent the weekend togehter. I had a chance to get to know his eldest son, Tony. I cannot tell you how impressed I was with not only Tony, but his siblings too, as they were the most courteous and well behaved children. Stephen would be proud, and probably is standing right over them himself and guiding them! Tony and Daniel are both Eagle Scouts and encouraged my son, who is a Boy Scout to continue his scouting journey.~What an inspiration they are! I have a feeling they will all have bright futures! And my hats off to their mother, who Tony and Daniel said that she has done an amazing job raising them!!"
Georgia Bell of Los Angeles, CA

"SGT Michael Harpe
89th Chem/SPT/3ACR
See you at Fiddler's Green"
Michael Harpe of Colorado Srings, CO

"Tony was and still is one of my biggest hero's! I remember meeting Tony, I had been having a rough day, and although not knowing me, walked up, wrapped his arm around me and asked me if there was anything he could do to help out.
He was always like that, always willing to help out, even if he didn't know you.
A while later, I had been put in charge of a water polo team. This may sound trivial, a water polo team? This was for Marne Week at Fort Stewart. I don't remember if we won, but Tony had been our goalkeeper - Tall and reaching - he kept our goal safe. He was always keeping us safe - that was Tony.
After our games were over, the game organizers had given out t-shirts to all the players, but not the coaches. Tony didn't think this was fair, so he snuck off and acquired a shirt for me. He told me that he was proud to have been part of my team... the fact is, is that I was proud to have been part of his.
I still have the T-Shirt. I showed it to my daughter Abigail at the time of Tony's Death, and told her of my hero. This was the day of the Memorial service at the Sheriff department - where Tony was a hero in other ways.
My younger daughter,Sarah, just found that T-Shirt the other day while looking in my drawer for a paint shirt - she is 5. When she asked her mom if she could use it, mom said she could use it. When Abigail saw the shirt, she started crying that she couldn't wear that shirt, that is daddy's hero's shirt.
I found out several weeks after the Marne Week games of 96, from one of the guys on the team, that Tony had given me his own shirt.
That was the sort of person Tony was, He would actually give you the shirt off his back.
I really loved Tony, as a real brother. I miss him, and I know you all do too."
Mark Compton of Savannah, Georgia

"To the Bertolino Family on behalf of the Davis Family we want you all to know that SSG B is in our hearts and prayers and that he will be truly missed. I'm Sr Drill Sergeant Davis SSG B was indeed a good friend and even better father! You are deeply missed brother!!May God contine to bless this family. Operation Desert Thunder 1998 603D ASB Motorpool!!"
SR Drill Sergeant(SFC) Frankie Davis of Fort Jackson, South Carlina

"September 11, 2008,
Dear Bertolino family,
My husband and I participated in a memorial ride today. Each rider was given a card with three names of our fallen warriors. Stephen's name was on my card. We will never forget the sacrifice that Stephen made for our freedom. Our family will continue to lift your family up in prayer. We take so much for granted everyday. That little card will remind me, that nothing is free and words cannot express the gratitude that I feel for Stephen and all the others that have given the ultimate sacrifice. God Bless you all."
Linda and Jeff Baier of Williamsport, PA/USA

"Bert, just thinking of you makes my eyes water even today, 5 years later. I remember one day in iraq you tried to sell me a gerber, and just days later gave one to me. Well i lent that gerber to somone and they managed to drop a trailer on it and bend it really badly. I broke into tears when that happend, i know its stupid, its just a gerber, but its all i had of you. You are definately my hero. I miss you very much."
Heath Kiser of Metaire, LA

"Hello Tony, It is hard to forget the good deeds of a good man and the sacrifice that your family made. Currently I am still serving in the US Army. I was commissioned to 2LT upon completing Officer Candidate School on 19 JUN 08. Your dedication to service and care for Soldiers have inspired and motivated me to carry the torch well into the Officer ranks. I will always serve with the memory and pride for those who have pass before me. Thank you for taking care of us and for your mentorship on how to be a good citizen, soldier, and husband. Italian Stallion you will never be forgotten. One day I will meet you at the Fiddler's Green. Susan my prayers are still going out to you and your family. mccoycy@comcast.net"
Cyrus McCoy of Augusta, GA

"My sincerest appreciation for Stephen's heroic service. As a Bertolino myself, I feel a special connection to Stephen. I continue to honor his name, and his memory."
Mark Bertolino of Lafayette, IN

"April 23, 2008
To the family of Staff Sgt. Stephen A. Bertolino:
Stephen 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

"It has been a long time since last I saw SGT Bertolino. SGT B was my team cheif when I was a private in the battery shop at Hunter. I later met up with SSG Bertolino once more at Al-Asad in Iraq years later. Your influence is probably why I am still in the army today. I had so many issues when I was new in the Army. I was a hardheaded private. You helped me recover from all of that and made me a better person. You are not forgotten and never will be. May The Lord watch over your wife and children. YOU ARE MY HERO."
SGT Benjamin, Jeremy D. of Savannah, GA / USA

"It's been almost four years since you served with my husband. I never got to know you personally, but I still listen to him tell me stories about you, just as I listened to them by phone when you both served together. He has some very trying days and sleepless nights when he thinks about that day. And even though I never met your wife and children, I was told how nice is was to be able to relate with a family man out there and how proud you are of your family. Staff Sgt. Bertolino...you helped my husband get through alot of lonely days, your name is spoken in our household on a daily basis, your memory is tattoed on his arm, and your photos are part of our albums. He and I both will never forget. I don't think his bitterness has eased and his pain still has never left. However, he smiles when he still tells some of the stories, but finds little peace in his sleep. I asked him to write you a letter, but he still tries to hide from it all. As I'm sure my brother watches us with the hand of a guardian angel, you are doing the same for your wife and children. But, if you have a few spare seconds, could you guide him back to us as you did in Iraq? He is still lost. Remember the old iron horseshoes that you two played? well.....even if you have to throw them at him...one more time!!! :-) You are one of the angels that brought the rest home, and I'm betting you have the gold section. God Bless!!!"
Wife of a Third Cavalry Soldier (S&T) of Fort Carson, Colorado

""Please accept my deepest sympathy to the Bertolino family." I served with Bert when he was stationed at Fort Sill, OK."
Joseph K. Lanza U.S. Army Retired of Lawton, OK

"I was assigned to the same unit as Bert in Camp Eagle, Korea and again at Fort Stewart, GA. I just found out this weekend that he lost his life in the war. My deepest regrets and condoloences to his family. He was a damn good man who took me under his wing over there in Korea when I was a brand new private and was an excellent sergeant who tok his duty seriously. He was a good man and the world is worse off for not having him. Peace be unto him and his family. God Bless his family."
Sgt Aaron Goddard of Colorado

"I just wanted to thank your for the change that you have influenced in my life. I only knew you but for a few months, but seeing your happy face whether it was at the guy at Al Asad or or LDS meetings on sunday was a day lifter for me. I lerned from you that we must live what we Preach. I still remember hearing you say that as LDS members we should not be ashamed to say hi to one another when we saw each other. Yet for some reason it was hard for me, but not for your I can still hear you calling my name outloud in the guy just to say hi and give a hand shake. Thank you. you will always be missed in my heart."
Mauricio J. Uribe of Mission TX

"not a day goes by where i don't think: it's all my fault. i miss you bert... all i ever think about is how the world would have been that much more brighter if you were still here among us.
thank you for everything. you will ALWAYS be remembered."
D of San Diego, Ca

"SSG B was a good friend, a leader, and a mentor. He WAS a true NCO who helped Soldiers like me acheive what they want even when they are going through hardships. I will always charish the time I had serving with him in Camp Eagle, Korea and the little time I had gotten to catch up when we got to do some work together in Iraq. SSG B help guide me as a Soldier and his techings help guide me as a NCO. He will always live in the hearts of his loved ones and commards."
SGT Michael Amos of Hanau, Germany

"i found this site by searching for bertolino's.
i love you tony and everyone else that misses you..........R.I.P."
david bertolino of virginia beach, va

"I had googled Bertolino and came across this website, What a true hero. My prayers are you all."
Jodi Bertolino of Mandeville, Louisiana USA

"I was part of the medical team assigned with the med troop out of Ft. Carson, Co. I was a Physician Asst. with a surgical team attached to the med troop. I live in Minnesota. There were twenty of us from Minnesota, that spent a year with the med troop. At camp Al Asad, Iraq. I would like to let his family know that I am truly sorry, we couldn't save their loved one. When he came to us, there was nothing we could do for him. I am truly sorry.

I would like his family know that they truly lost a great man. I hope that his children understand that their father is a great, and unselfish man. I knew their father, and your husband for less than a year, but still cry when I think about him, and what you guys are thinking about.

I would like you guys to know that I was with the physician who called Stephen dead. When I first saw him, I started balling.

He was a happy man when I met him. He would always participate in running, walking events we had. He always had a smile on his face, and I know if he was a leader of mine that he wouldn't ask me to do anything that he wasn't willing to do himself.

I would like you guys to contact me so I can cry with you, and be there if you need anything, or have any questions.

E-mail me at sparkietech@yahoo.com

Or call me at (612) 860-5916

Love Sean"
Sean Smith of Eden Prairie, MN, United States

"All I can say is WOW. My brother and his family have touched a lot of lives. He is missed by so many at home and those still abroad in harms way. I look back at my life with Tony and it still makes me laugh when I think about all the fun things we have done and the trouble we got into together. As we got older and moved on to start our own lives we would talk from time to time about our service to our country and things to come for our future. We talked about friends made, good times had, foreign soil visited, battles won and dark days. He was my brother, my friend, and my comrade in arms. I love and miss you bro but you live on. I see you in your kids and we still talk every night. The memories that you have given me and others are cherished. Thank you for being my only friend during so many moves as a child. Thank you for what you have given for our country. Thank you for the wonderful children you have brought into this world you must be so proud of them and their strength. Thanks for being you….
Love your little brother, Mark

United States Navy
Chief Petty Officer Retired
Bertolino, Mark P.

P.S. To answer that question I always joked you about when you asked….. Yes you were, are, and always will be a great big brother. The same goes for Joe and Mike. Thanks guys… My thoughts are always with you Susan and please give the kids a hug for me…"
Mark Bertolino of Moyock, North Carolina

"Susan,
I wanted you to know that we think of you and your family often. There are not words that can express how sorry we are for your loss. I cannot begin to imagine the pain your family has been through, and the admiration I have for your strength. I want you to know that we still think of him often, and of your family!"
The Yates Family of From Ft. Carson, Co

"This past memorial weekend I traveled to my hometown, San Diego, for the first time in four years eager to meet up with SSG Bertolino. To my dismay I learned of his passing, a loss to everyone. He was my Army recruiter at the Santee Branch four years ago. His dedication and duty to country has greatly bettered myself and is much appreciated. I owe my sucess in the armed forces to SSG Bertolino and his loving family. May God bless you and your family kind brother. quicksilversurfer@charter.net

SGT YUNIS, TARIQ
A/3/5th Special Forces Group (Airborne)"
of FT CAMPBELL, KY

"Please accept my deepest sympathy to the Bertolino family. My name is Clancy DeVries and I paint portraits of fallen Heroes. I work with Kazeah Hancock as a participating artist on "Project Compassion". Please go to web sight "www.heropaintings.com" and review page 3. All portraits of Heroes are in oils and are free of charge. My address and phone number is on the web sight or on google under my name. Please call me. God Bless you."
Clancy DeVries of Newport Beach, CA.

"Bert,
You will always be my platoon sgt.
You were like a father to all of us in the Avionics platoon. When you left us it hit us hard. But through the strength that you taught us all we pulled each other together. You are the sole person that I most admire. You were a true leader, mentor, and friend. All the troops from Avim Spt 3rd ACR miss you dearly. Take care friend and we will all meet you one day at Fiddlers Green. And to Susan, Our hearts and prayers are with you."
PV4 Phillips, Benjamin of Manchester, TN

"Susan,

I was in your ward in Ft Sill Oklahoma. I also had the opportunity to give Tony a blessing while he was in basic training. I was in the Servicemens Group there with him. Our families lived on the same street on Spaulding. I pray for you and wish you peace. When I heard of Tony's passing I wept. I miss him and although we had not seen each other in years it seems like yesterday. Hang in there.."
Jay Marks of Arlington Texas

"Tony, it has been a year and you are not forgotten. You and your family will always be in our hearts and thoughts."
The Woods Family of Ft. Carson, CO

"Tony,
It has almost been a year since you gave your life for this country. It seems like yesterday when we were stationed together in Savannah. I want you and your family to know that many people still think of you and your family. You will never be forgotten by any of us. I know you can see how proud your family and friends are of you. Take care my brother."
Colin Voveris of Tucson, AZ

"Tony and I worked together at Oglethorpe Mall doing security. He was a hard worker and extremely fun to be around. It broke my heart to find out that he is gone. My prayers go out to his family. The Lord has truly received a great SOLDIER!!!!"
Ransen Y. Daily Sr. of Savannah, GA

"I knew Tony for but a short while but for that short time he made a big impact on my wife and my lives we also spent time with Tony on an "evacuation vacation". My heart and preyers go out to Susan and her children. Tony was a great man and is sorely missed."
Ashley Davidson of Savannah, Georiga

"God Bless you and your family. I was looking for links to the Bertolino family name and found this tribute page. And Thank You."
Steve Bertolino of Lakeville, MA USA

"I have so many great memorys of tony. He was a great man. Are familys spent so much time together it was like we were a one big family. We will never foget what a wonderful man he was. I have great memorys of our families at Christmas Eve partys that i wouldn't trade for the world. My heart is with his family. We love you tony"
Sarah Ray of Dade City ,FL

"I have so many great memorys of tony. He was a great man. My heart is with his family. We love you tony"
Sarah Ray of Dade City ,FL

"Brother Tony,
You were a great friend in High School, and challenging running partner. Tim and I did as much as we could for you in our Air Force roles to keep you and your comrades safe in Iraq. On this Memorial Day, my prayers are with you in heaven, and with Susan and your family you left here for us to continue to protect in Freedom's name."
Dan Nickerson, Lt Col, USAF of Deployed, GTMO, Cuba

"I am sorry for you Jaime Morris.
I know how it feels.I lost my Grandpa.
I know how you feel.
SORRY!!!"
Barker Middl School

"Sad to hear about Stephen. Alas becoming all too common now in what is looking like Vietnam - mark II. My sympathy with his family, and everyone who knows him. Site found via searching for Larry Bertolino... who commented on here."
ian baldwin of Reading, UK.

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

"Dear Susan:

I opened the March issue of the Ensign this morning and was sad to see the news. I shared the news with Teddy. Although your family was only in Savannah for a brief time as I recall, we both want you to know that we thought a lot of you and Brother Bertolino. He always had a welcome smile and was willing to serve others. We are proud to have known such a fine man who would lay down his life to defend ours. May Heavenly Father comfort you and your family and continue to bless you."
Teddy and Kathy Blocker of Pleasant Grove, UT

"Susan, Please know that my heart is with you and your children now and always. I am so glad I have gotten the chance to meet you. You are so much stronger then you think. Never forget he will always be there with you to help you through your life. And if there is anything ever I can do to help I am here."
Melissa, Carson and Dakota Givens of Fountain Colorado USA

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

"Staff Sgt: Bertolino:
Thank your for giving yourself so that those of us at home can live freely and safely. There are not enough 'thank yous' for a gift such as this. Rest in peace soldier."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"I love you Uncle Tony. Take care of Grandma for me. Love always Jaime"
Jaime Morris of Owensboro, Kentucky

"Was searching online, searching for bertolino's in the military. I am currently active duty navy, and was just curious, thus the searching. And found, and read about Stephen. I am sorry you have to bear the burden. My thoughts and prayers are with your family."
Larry A. Bertolino Jr. of Corpus Christi, Texas

"Hey there little Brother I just want you to know how proud I am of you,Your my Hero! I miss and Love you so much! Susan and the kids are doing ok, it will be hard for all of us, but I thank God for the memories, and I know we will meet again on Heavens streets of Gold, watch over Mom for me! Thank you to everyone who has written such beautiful things to my Brother and the Family! Your Prayers are needed and greatly appreciated! May God Bless you all!"
Michelle Bertolino Morris of Owensboro, Kentucky

"SSG B,
As I read an email from one of our friends CW4 Perkins, I can not believe that you are gone. I remember our fun times and our disagreements at work at Hunter Army Airfield and our first rotation to Kuwait together in 1998(Operation Desert Thunder). You were a great individual and father and you will be missed greatly. I would like you to know that I still have the E6B and flight computer that you gave me before I left for flight school. You are forever in my prayers."
CW2 Lorenzo J. Key of Savannah, GA/USA

"Thank you Stephen Bertolino, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios

"From the sands of Iraq I send my condolences. SSG Bertonlino has blessed many lives. I pray for his family and children."
SSG James Woods of Al Asad, Iraq

"TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF SGT STEPHEN BERTOLINO, DEC,2 2003 I RECIEVED A CALL FROM MY SON WHO SERVED WITH SGT. BERTOLINO AND I JUST WANTED YOU TO KNOW HOW MUCH MY SON AND THE OTHER MEN AND WOMEN IN THE PLATOON WILL MISS HIM, HE WAS A FINE SOLDIER AND A GOOD MAN.
I,AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS."
Sam Bonner of San Antonio, Tx.

"I remember Brother Bertolino well as your family and our's always spent time together. Such as our "Evacuation Vacation." I feel so bad for Tony, Daniel, Korina and Jason. And for you, too, Susan. May God be with you all."
Justin Ray of Dade City, FL

"To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Stephen Bertolino:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless Stephen for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Stephen Bertolino:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of Stephen, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia