Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Still not forgotten, brother. 09.11.21

Ride or Die. 2F3."
Brian Tagliaferro

"I found a Memorial Bracelet on Satelllite Beach a while back which reads, "In memory of my son Kenneth Conde Jr". There is a nickname in ( ) that I am keeping off of this email for verification purposes. If you know the nickname and are missing this treasured memory. Please contact me at blldavis0@gmail.com I am a former Marine Sgt myself and know that you are missing this if it is yours."
Bill of Satellite Beach, Florida

"Your nephew is finally here! He is so strong just like you. Please look over him. Love you and miss you more than words."

"We miss you everyday! Nothing has been the same since you left us...Stay close by. Love Always and Forever!"

"Just missing you.....with love always"

"I can't believe you won't be here for this big moment in my life. Missing you more and more everyday! Please stay by my side. Love you forever and ever"

"Always all heart Conde !
2nd FAST company Yorktown"
Azuara of Austin TX

"Happy Birthday in Heaven....You are missed sooo much! I Love you and will never forget your sacrifice!!!!"

"Happy birthday Brother! I love you, keep a spot for me"

"Wow, nine years ago. It seems just like yesterday. Missing you each and everyday. Continue to rest in peace. Much Love and Gratitude for all you've done for us. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten.... I Love You!!!!"

"Thank you for watching over me every day....
alot of LOVE and Big Proud of you kenny.

RIP My LOVE."
Yuri of Tokyo,Japan

"I Love and Miss You So Much My Hero!!!"

"Happy 32nd Birthday!!! I Love and Miss You Every Second of Everyday.....Thank you for everything, especially for watching over us. Continute to Rest In Peace My Hero."

"I wrote on here before, But i was talking to a friend and i thought of your son!!! The toughfest, crazy, hardcore HERO I've ever known!!! I served with you son and we were really good friends I'm from NY, and we just clicked!!! I haven't had a chance to see the huge memorial they made him, because of my own problems from Iraq!! I WOULD FALLOW HIM ANYWHERE! I'd like to leave my email address so maybe we could get in touch?? I don't have a family, its just me im all i have.... etniesrider250@yahoo.com once again we lost a HERO, BROTHER, SON AND MAYBE A FATHER. Thank you for raising a very strong minded son along with his take no **** Attitude!! I have also moved from NY, now in Georgia...."
SGT Michael Peddycoart of Waycross, Georgia

"Dad is at CONDE HALL filming in a Documentary today. Love and Miss You."

"Happy 30th Birthday...We Love You and Miss You Everyday."

"WE ARE HONORED AND PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS HAS CHOSEN TO NAME THE NEW STAFF NCO ACADEMY "CONDE HALL” THIS HISTORICAL DEDICATION WILL BE ON FRIDAY, MAY 13, 2011 AT MARINE CORPS BASE IN QUANTICO, VIRGINA"

"To the family of:Kenneth Conde
I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart cries out for you in your grief and you have my thoughts and prayers. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need prayer or need someone to talk to, please call or write my pastor: Rev. John Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015.
Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew Covington,Ga"3-11-11"

"Pride And Pain"
One late night I awoke; don’t know if it was from a dream or the movement of my wife turning. My mind felt clear like I hadn’t been asleep, my throat felt dry, so I got up and went to get something to quench my thirst like many nights before. But tonight there was something different, something strange. As I closed the frig and began to walk back to my room, unconsciously I stopped in the living room and sat on the couch, my eyes fixed on an object on the wall unit. I sat there stuck, the object started to slowly blur away and my mind began to wonder off, it went back to earlier that evening when I was on the computer reading about a young man, a Marine that had displayed his courage in Iraq which caused him to be seriously wounded but continued to fight and lead his men for days until he could no longer. This young man refused to be sent home to recover and chose to mend his wounds there. He fought for a couple of more months until one early morning mission he was struck by an IED and was killed. This young man was so familiar in character but a man I didn’t know. A fire burned inside me as I continued to read comments of people who posted remark of how this man had inspired them and had changed their lives. I read on from men that had served with him and how his leadership had taught them so much and how he impacted them forever. This man I wish I knew. As my mind began to wonder back, and as my eyes started to clear from the tears that glazed them, I realized that the object my eyes were fixed on was an urn that sat below a shadowbox on my wall unit, the fire that burned inside me was pride and the man that occupied my mind was my son. The kid that called me dad. A smile came to my face as I wiped the tears from my eyes…..a peaceful calmness came over me, I got up and continued to my room and laid back down.....As my mind cleared and faded into emptiness, silently I thanked the lord for the kid that called me dad, I thanked the lord for that man I wish I knew, I Thanked The Lord for My Son."
Kenneth Conde, Sr. of Orlando, FL

"We are Proud and Honored to announce the United States Marine Corps have chosen to name the new SNCO building, located in Quantico Marine Corps Base, the "SGT. KENNETH CONDE JR." Academy"
The Conde Family of Orlando, FL

"FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS....WE LOVE AND MISS YOU VERY MUCH."
YOUR FAMILY

"My Son, My Hero...I Love you and Miss you everyday. I'll keep you close. Mom"

"Keeks,

We're having the Grand Opening for the Community Center today. I hope you're watching over us. Missing you terribly...."

"Dear Kenny,

Words can't express how much I miss you. You are truly my hero and I am so grateful to have had you in my life. Not only were you a brave hero, but you were the epitome of a true gentleman! One of the most amazing men I've ever known and I am so happy that I was able to tell you this before you passed on. Until we meet again, my loving friend. I love you!"
Marilyn Pabon Soler of Orlando, FL USA

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry at times. I understand in theory only that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take your families and friends 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
A hundred times a day, I remind myself that my inner and outer life depends on the labors of other men, living and dead, and I must exert myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received and am receiving. - Albert Einstein"
Scott E. Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"We Miss You and Love You...."

"Merry Christmas!!!"

"THANK YOU SON!!!! NO AMOUNT OF WORDS CAN EVER EXPRESS HOW PROUD OF YOU I AM. LOVE AND MISS YOU VERY MUCH...."
MOM

"”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,800 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Mothers and/or Fathers, of our heroes, please be aware that the Project Compassion sponsors will now help cover the costs of the portraits for you to have one - regardless if the spouse of the hero has one or not!
Contact us directly at Projectcompassion@manti.com. or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and bless you.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
Project Compassion
P.O. Box 153
Manti, Utah 84642"
Kenna- Project Compassion of Manti, Utah USA

"LIFTING MY HEAD WITH PRIDE
HEALING MY HEART INSIDE
THE TEARS MOISTURIZES
MY BRITTLE SOUL

EYES OF MY CHILD NOW SEALED
HIS BODY NOW COLD

DRESS BLUES HIS EXIT ATTIRE
PUSHING HIS CASKET INTO THE FIRE

OPENING MY EYES TO THE MORNING LIGHT
CRYING THEM CLOSED
AT THE END OF THE NIGHT

LIFTING MY HEAD WITH PRIDE
HEALING MY HEART INSIDE
THE TEARS MOISTURIZES
MY BRITTLE SOUL

HARD DAY, MISS U SOO MUCH
DAD"

"I would like to send my condolences to the Conde family. A true warrior and person in every aspect imaginable. You are greatly missed ! Semper Fi"
Anthony Crutcher of San Diego Ca

"Tomorrow I will be speaking at the Orlando Rotary about two fantastic young men whom I will look up to and admire for my entire life. I never met either of these heroes, but I can tell you that they were cut from the same cloth. I say this because I have met those folks who love and raised both Larry E. Smedley and Kenneth Conde Jr and their qualities surely rubbed off on these Marines.

Tomorrow I will be asking the rhetorical question, “What causes men like these two to do the things they did, to charge a machine gun, or to pass on a “golden ticket wound” home and to instead to remain with and continue to lead a Command?” I know all of the stock answers, “It’s what we train for” or “it’s a Marine thing” and as a Marine I know those comments are true, but at the same time it’s not enough, there is something more, there is something they had that just makes me so damn proud to know their families.

Ken, at this time, just after Ken Jr’s birthday and just before the anniversary of his passing, I want you to know how much it means to me to be asked to speak about both of these young men and of our future together honoring them."
Dan Mills of Orlando, FL

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SWEETHEART. I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU WITH EVERY OUNCE OF ME. MAY YOU REST IN PEACE ALWAYS....THANK YOU FOR THE BEAUTIFUL BIRTHDAY GIFT....YOU!"
LOVE, MOM

"On this day, April 6th 2004, changed our lives forever. May you rest in peace always. We will be thinking of you always, keeping you in our hearts daily and praying for peace. I love you very much. Mom"

"The soldiers do not speak. Nevertheless, they are heard in the still houses: who has not heard them? They have a silence that speaks for them at night and when the clock counts. They say: We are young. We have died. Remember us. They say: We have done what we could but until it is finished it is not done. They say: We have given our lives but until it is finished no one can know what our lives gave. They say: Our deaths are not ours: they are yours they will mean what you make them. They say: Weather our lives and our deaths are for peace and a new hope or for nothing we cannot say: it is you who must say this. They say: We leave you our deaths. Give them their meaning. We were young. they say. We have died. Remember us:"
William Taylor of Bonita Springs, Fl.

"I Miss You Son...I'm thinking of you always.....I love you very much!!!

Mom"

"To the Family of Sgt Conde,
I rode in Sgt Conde's Humvee and was medivacted along with him on july 1st, As i will never forget that day, i lost a friend and a great teacher. I always had told Sgt Conde to come back and pay a visit, that he was always welcome,
Not to my suprise 4 years later Sgt Conde did come to meet for a visit, and a great reconection it was for i know his spirit and his presence was with me for a breif time, we got to reconect.

Also to let you know as Sgt Conde wont be forgot with you he also will not be forgot through me. in Appleton, Wisconsin I also keep him alive through me and make sure everyone i meet has met him as well."
Cpl William Nackers 1st squad, MAP 3, 2/4 wpns co of Appleton, WI

"Son, next week four years have passed, tomorrow is another birthday you missed, but it seems like yesterday. My heart leaks again as my wound opens, I miss you very much. Its something how you spend most of your life looking up to me and I will spend the rest of mine looking up to you. Love Dad"
Kenneth Conde Sr of Orlando Florida

"Happy Birthday To You, Happy Birthday To You, Happy Birthday Dear KiKi, Happy Birthday To You..........We Miss You So Much, Our Hero....Love Mommy"

"June 9, 2008
To the family of Sgt. Kenneth Conde, Jr.:
Kenneth 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

"John 15:13"
Sgt. Endito, M.R. - 2/4 SSP

"I'm so very sorry for your loss!! He was a great Marine and tranined me when i was in 2nd Fast company. Semper Fidelis........"
Sgt Michael Peddycoart of Shoreham, NY/USA

""Well, I am almost out of Fallujah. My time is short but as I have said before, there was or is never a day I dont think about Sgt Conde. I still feel really guilty about leaving 2/4 when I did, I would have been in his squad, I would have been there with him, Fighting. Even though I fought harder than every here with other marines, I still feel empty but for every one I got, or thought got, It was one for Conde and his family and all his friends. Still I feel I havent done enough. All our Jr Marines have grown and moved on. I am still here tryin to make sense of it all. I find inspiration and motivation still in Conde. I remember a joke he told me and few others about him being a govener, he would say "Vote for Conde, I can either hurt you or I can help you!" and we would all laugh. I can say that he did more than hurt the enemy, and for all of us that knew him, he did more than help us, he blessed us and touched us, all. I wasnt a close friend like some but I was a friend none-the less. I have said it a million times that I will never forget him, and I wont. Ryan landis, a close friend of mine, as well as a friend of Conde sends his condolances and his prayers. You may have gone to a better place my friend but, it just aint the same knowing you are gone. It was an honor to know you as a man and a friend. One hell of a Marine. A bad-*, hard-core marine, you will live on in me and ryans memories..."Vote Conde, He could either hurt you, or He could help you." Godbless you, and Godbless your family and all our brothers in the corps.

Semper Fi
Sgt Norris Kevin
USMC,
Fallujah, Iraq 05/01/27"
Sgt Norris of Fallujah Iraq"
Sgt Norris of Fallujah Iraq of Fallujah, Iraq 05/01/27"

"To Mr. and Mrs. Conde,
I wish you both and your beautiful girls a wonderful (Blue and White) Holiday Season. May you have a Peaceful and Healthy New Year!
I think of you often, and pray for Kenneth Jr, and all the soldiers still fighting for our freedom. Your book has been an amazing reminder of our soldier's unconditional sacrifices. I hope everyone enjoys your poems since they reflect all the Pride and Love Kenneth Jr. has left in your hearts."
Selbym Andino of Orlando, Fl. USA

"To Mr. and Mrs. Conde,
I wish you both and your beautiful girls a wonderful (Blue and White) Holiday Season. May you have a Peaceful and Healthy New Year!
I think of you often, and pray for Kenneth Jr, and all the soldiers still fighting for our freedom. Your book has been an amazing reminder of our soldier's unconditional sacrifices. I hope everyone enjoys your poems since they reflect all the Pride and Love Kenneth Jr. has left in your hearts."
Selbym Andino of Orlando, Fl. USA

"Teresa, I am so so sorry. I saw Kenenth, S.r. on the news yesterday morning and I just sat there stunned after learning what happened to your son. It has been a long time since you and I worked together in Lake Mary, FL at Southern Security. I think Kenneth was only 13 or so and you had just had Kenesa and I Brandon. I remember Kenneth as being a very polite and kind young man. My heart goes out to you and your family."
Catherine "Cathy" Dalzell of Orlando,FL

"Happy Birthday Kik...I Love and Miss You with all my heart and soul. You are one of the bravest men I have ever met and I am constantly proud of you and always will be. Love Mom"

"Mr. and Mrs. Conde,

I didn't know Conde but I also served at 2nd FAST like he did and also at 5th Marines. No one will ever understand the pain and worrying that our parents go through. I just want try to give you some comfort. We are made differently. I didnt know him but us 03's are all the same. I know he died the way he wanted. I know this because that is the way I would want to go.So dont be sad. He his still here. His memory will live with every jarhead out there. They might not know his name and face but they know his bravery. This will bring out their honor and bravery, forever keeping your son alive. We have no choice this is the way GOD made us. We are the ones that make the difference. That is the reason we dont live long but our actions live forever. Look at every jarhead out there and you will see your son. Take care and GOD bless."
of texas

"I knew Kenny for along time we went to middle school and high school together. I lived in the next neighbor hood over from him we played some video games together he was a good friend. We were in the pulley system together he wanted to be in recon I thought he was crazy for that but that's what he wanted. Seeing that made me have the drive i needed to get thru boot camp so I got him to thank for on that. We ran into each other a few times in the Orlando reserve station while I was home for Humanitarian reasons. It shocked me to find out what happened to him it made me feel that I came home from Iraq way to early. To the Conde's if you need any help with anything you can reach me at sleepy32822@yahoo.com and I mean anything. Semper Fi"
Cpl. Torres, Jason of Miami, Florida

"TO MY SON,

TODAY I RELEASED A BOOK I WROTE IN YOUR MEMORY - JUST ANOTHER BROKEN HEART - AS I'VE ALWAYS TOLD YOU, I WILL NEVER LET YOU BECOME JUST ANOTHER STATISTIC. THIS IS A BIG STEP TOWARDS KEEPING YOUR MEMORY ALIVE. I MISS YOU SO MUCH....CONDES WAY INC IS MY FIRST STEP IN NEVER LETTING PEOPLE FORGET YOU AND THE SACRIFICE YOU'VE MADE. LOVE YOU, DAD"
KENNETH CONDE, SR. of ORLANDO, FL.

"I served with you in 2nd Fast 2nd Plt, we shared some good times and some bad, through all the fun we had and places we saw, I always knew you were one of the toughest marines I had ever met. Your story is one of a true hero. I heard about your death from a mutual friend who came back to NY after he was wounded. When I heard I sat in my car and went through all the memories in my head of the good times we spent. Sempre Fi and you will never be forgotten."
Sgt Thomas Rilling...civilian now of Manorville, NY usmcfast2000@yahoo.com

"I'll Love You Always...I'll Miss You Always....."

"To the Conde Family,
I have never had the pleasure of meeting Kenny Jr. but I have known the family for years. I know words can not express your sorrow,but you have my deepest condolences. God Bless"
Lynn (blg #48) of New York, NY

"Dear Ms. Conde,


Kenneth was a great man and a great marine. He was like a brother to me. I would like to write you more later but, right now I don't know what to write. I was looking his name up and found it on zaba search engine, I wish I could have told him just how much he meant to me. I lost his email when I left fast co. and when I went back to see him he had already gone to California.
Sincerely,
Damon Logue"

"After reading the story about your son i must say he like all that have passed away in this war are truly heroes.I am sorry to hear about the tremendous loss and pray that you and your family make it through this rough time.I have lost 2 great friends in this war and this is a war we should not even be in,may they all come home.May god gless you and your family.Your sone died a Hero."
Jorge Picos

"As a Former Marine I get chills to think of your loved one's dedication to the Corps and his Marines. Your loss will not be forgotten by us. I pray for you all. Semper Fi Ken!!!"
Frank of Moriches, NY

"I want to thank you for your sons' sacrifice to this nation. I saw your Sgt. Condes' name in the Miami Herald under Floridas fallen, and I used his name in a poem that I wrote. Please look at the poem, and if you would like for me to remove his name, please let me know. The poem is titled "The Patch," and it is at: http://blog.myspace.com/snootchie_b
ootchies"
PV2 Eugene Garcia of Miami, FL

"THANK YOU FOR YOUR SONS SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY AND OUR MARINES; MY SON ANTHONY WAS WITH HIM DRIVING THE HUMMER THE DAY THEY HIT THE IED;MY HEART BREAKS FOR YOUR LOSS, A PARENTS WORSE NIGHTMARE. NO WORDS CAN COMFORT A PARENT WHEN THIS HAPPENS. MY SON SPOKE WELL OF YOUR SON, AND STILL CARRIES A LOT OF GULIT WITH HIM BECAUSE OF HIS DEATH. WHEN HE RETURNED FROM IRAQ, AND BROKE DOWN, AND STILL DOES AT TIMES, HE CRIES "IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN ME, WHY WAS IT NOT ME." YOUR SON WAS SO LOVE BY HIS WHOLE PLATOON AND VERY RESPECTED. MY FAMILY AND I ARE SO SORRY FOR THE LOSS YOU HAVE HAD, BUT WE ARE ALSO GRATEFUL FOR THE LEADER YOUR SON WAS TO MY SON THAT HELPED BRING HIM BACK HOME TO US
SINCERLY,
L SYFRETT"
Lori Syfrett of Trinidad, TX

"October 26, 2005
Kenny & Theresa, I heard on the news this morning that 2,000 soldiers had lost their lives in Iraq and I thought of Kee-Kee. I hadn't seen him since he was about 4 (Theresa, I still have pictures of your baby shower) but I know that you must be very proud of him. God blessed you guys with a wonderful son and you raised him to be the man he was. He was a hero! May God continue to give you strength and the courage to go on. Kee-Kee will always be remembered and I pray that one day we will all be be together living in a place where there will be no more sickness and sorrow. I love you guys and will always keep you in my prayers.

Love
Wickie"
Dorothy Parks of Knoxville, TN

"My condolences to the Conde family.
Kenneth may you rest in peace. Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom. You have earned your golden halo and wings. May you continue to soar in the heavenly clouds up above."
Pat Canfall of Woodbridge, VA

"August 22, 2006
To the Conde Family, thank you for serving our country and may Kenneth rest in peace. From a former Marine. Semper Fi"
Angel L. Torrado of Orlando, FL

"To Uncle Rodney,

God bless you and your nephew. I heard about your nephew's bravery several months ago. I didn't know until a couple of minutes ago that he died. What can I say to you, but that I recognized his heroism and I now know he is gone-- and I know we're all poorer for it.

I am crying right now because I know he was a big person with a big heart and big dreams who loved his marines-- marines from places like Missouri and Arkansas and from all over this country.

I remember fondly from the article about his heroism in Fallujah how much his marines believed in him and idolized him. He was a tough and brave man. He led marines and showed them how to be marines. He saved the lives of his fellow marines.

I hope we win it over there. I don't want to think a man like Kenneth Conde Jr. died in vain. He died for his country. He died for his marines. We must win it. We have to earn his sacrifice.

God bless his family. God bless his marines. God bless you. And God Bless Kenneth.

Love,

Cam"
Cam

"My name is Rodney Conde' one of the Uncles of Sgt. Kenneth Conde' Jr. I would like to express my thanks to each and everyone of you ,who posted a message in memory OF my Nephew. I know he is looking down smiling knowing he did his job to the fullest,But still mad he wasn't still here to finish it all.But He had a bigger mission.. He was called to...God called him home...thank you again..GOD BLESS RODNEY CONDE'"
Rodney Conde of Atlanta, GA

"I just read that Sgt Conde was killed in action.
Just DAMN!! I have no words to express my grief and outrage"
Pam

"It is guys like Sgt Conde that make us, as a country proud. I hope he gets recommended for a decoration, probably the Navy Cross, for displaying courage and devotion to his fellow marines and the mission, above and beyond the call of duty."
Sid

"Marine Fought for Several Days, Despite Gunshot Wound
By U.S. Marine Cpl. Paula M. Fitzgerald / 1st Marine Division

CAMP HURRICANE POINT, Iraq, April 21, 2004 — Marine Sgt. Kenneth Conde Jr. didn't even realize he had been shot until someone told him.

<...>

Conde, McKenzie and Cox kept searching for the enemy. They exposed themselves to fire because it was the only way they could get a good look at enemy's firing positions. As they pushed forward, Conde was able to take out two shooters, but then things took a turn for the worse.

"I was running, and I watched as I got shot in the left shoulder," Conde said. "I remember seeing a red mist coming from my back."

Even though he saw himself get shot, it didn't occur to Conde to quit fighting. "I didn't really realize I had been shot until one of the Marines said something," he added.

According to McKenzie, Conde fired several shots, killing a combatant, before falling to the ground. He then managed to get back to his feet and fire a few more rounds at the enemy before falling again.

"We helped him up so he could get to the corpsman to get bandaged up," McKenzie, a 22 year old from Bonaqua, Tenn. "We made sure to kill the guys who shot him."

The corpsman treated Conde, who only wanted to get his gear and get back to the fight. Conde's Marines were out there and he knew his place was alongside them.

"We stayed and fought until every one of the insurgents was dead," Conde said. Before the day was through, 3rd MAP also raided the house of a former Baath Party member and seized a large weapons cache.

Over the next few days, Conde's unit participated in several other firefights until the violence died down. All the while, he nursed his wound, not giving into the pain and refusing to leave his Marines.

Only when his arm went numb, making it difficult to hold his rifle steady, did he finally give in and step out of the fight.

Back at the camp here, Marines asked Conde why he chose to stay and fight even after being shot.

"I told them that I couldn't just leave the fight when I still could keep going," he told them.

But it his actions didn't surprise his fellow Marines.

"He always told us that he would lead us from the front, and that we would never do anything if he wasn't doing it too," Cox explained. "After being in that firefight with him, I will always know that he is true to his word.""

"1. Oliver North: Semper Fidelis
www.townhall.com/columnists/ollienorth/on20040423.shtml
Published on: 4/26/2004 Last Visited: 4/26/2004

Sergeant Kenneth Conde, a squad leader with the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, was leading his platoon in a nighttime raid this week when insurgents tried to ambush the platoon, fighting broke out and he was hit in the shoulder. The enemy didn't last long, however, because Marines own the night. Their remarkably sophisticated night vision equipment and training give them a significant strategic advantage. During nighttime missions this week, Marines have made significant progress de-arming the enemy. They've collected ordnance, mortar rounds, and artillery rounds and improvised explosive devices.

After Conde was hit, he continued fighting and ultimately, in addition to the weapons, six terrorists were captured and taken off the streets of ar-Ramadi. Conde, because of his grievous wounds, could have had a ticket home, yet he decided to stay with this battalion as a squad leader. I asked him why. "There was no other choice for a sergeant in the Marine Corps," Conde explained."

"A WILLING HEART

If I could make just one lone wish,
A wish that would come true.
I'd wish for peace throughout the world,
but especially for you.

We walk our lives from day to day,
Hear snipits in the news.
But never grasp the pain that lays
In the hearts of friends who do.

I make my wish for peace on earth,
But know it can't come true.
Too much has passed, too many died
For an end to come in view.

So today I make a promise true,
That I will do my part
To help all those who labor there.
They Live within our hearts

I'll send the things they need the most.
They'll know how much we care.
A small thing in the scheme of things,
But our wish is just to share.

I proclaim today a day to breathe,
The air of "Willing Hearts".
Today, tomorrow or next week,
Any day's the day to start.


Written by: Toni Zufelt"
Toni Zufelt of Orlando, FL

"To Ken's Family,

I have never met you, but I have had the priviledge of meeting and serving with your son. We were friends and squad-mates in 3rd Plt, 2nd FAST in 2000-2001. All of the fondest memories that I have from there, from Thailand, Japan, to Virginia Beach, have Conde in them. We were all young LCpl's and hell on wheels, we thought we were on top of the world. He was a great friend and an even better Marine. He was the guy you could always go to for anything, and the guy that could make you laugh at anytime. He is truly one of the great Marines of our great country, and he is truly missed by all of us. I am very sorry for your loss. The Marine Corps lost an extrordinary Marine and brother.
Semper Fi and you are always in our prayers!"
Sgt Jared Fears of Marine Forces North, New Orleans, LA

"Conde was one of the few truly dedicated leaders. The Marine Corps wasn't a job to him, it was a way of life and those of us that were lucky enough to have known him have walked away a better person.
You will never be forgotten...
Sgt. Leckrone
2F3"
Leckrone of Baghdad, Iraq

"Although I never met you, I worked with Ken Sr. and he always told me how proud he was of you. Rest assured that the world is a little better because of you and every service man and woman. Good bye Devildog"
Joel Feliciano of Orlando, FL

"Conde, its me Garza. I regret not going to Iraq with you guys so much. I know you all went through hell. I will always remember the times we had as roomates in Oki. I will never forget how many times you gave me advice with my personal issues. That meant alot to me. I miss you deeply, and will always think of as a hero. And by the way I finally got a divorce! Rest in peace brother. "RIDE OR DIE""
Sgt. Jason Garza of houston,tx /mk19_gunner@yahoo.com

"Today is Sgt. Kenneth Conde's birthday and his mother Teresa's birthday also. We only met you briefly, but it was easy to see that you could raise a hero! I continue to pray for you and your family and for all of the heroes who are fighting for us. We are truly grateful for your supreme sacrifice."
Jeannie and Buddy C of ocampbel@rochester.rr.com

"We met the parents of Sgt. Kenneth Conde on a trip this weekend. Two truly wonderful people still able to smile and love while enduring the worst thing that could ever happen to a couple, losing a son/daughter. It is no suprise that they raised a son the likes of the man written about here.
We were glad to see you at breakfast, we knew you survived the wave runner trip. Tell Kenny thanks for the sunny days, I am sure he had a hand in that! He makes a great guarding angel. Our prayers and thougths are with you."
Jeannie and Buddy C of Victor, NY

"My family ate dinner at the restaurant you had Kenneth's celebration of his life. We were very moved by all the love in the room. I wanted to let you know we keep Kenneth's picture from the memorial on our refrigerator. We thank him everyday for fighting for our freedom. My young children have a better understanding of the war because of your son. My six year old brought me his picture yesterday and told me this is why we have memorial day. My families thoughts and prayers are with you.

The Fowler Family"
Fower Family of San Clemente, CA

"Kenneth,I cant tell ya how much I miss ya man!! We did it all...we hated each other at one time,we fought each other on ship,then we became great friends that constantly challenged and made fun of each other. Traveled all over the world together and fought like Warriors. Im glad we became good friends. We all miss ya!
"the white boy"..(as you called me)..haha Wpns Co. 2/4"
Reagan Hodges of Huffman,Tx

"TO SGT. KENNETH CONDE JR. (KEE KEE) I AM HONORED TO HAVE YOU AS MY COUSIN. A DEDICATED MAN & SOLDIER. I LOVE YOU ALWAYS."
COUSIN MITZI of NEW YORK, NY

"I will forever remember your words "I will not Duck" "I will not Hide". These are the words of a True Soldier and a True Man. I love you and will always miss you, Your Aunt Jackie"
Jackie Carter of Severn, MD

"CONDE WAS A GREAT LEADER!! AT THE TIME I KNEW HIM HE WAS LCPL CONDE MY FIRST TEAM LEADER IN 2ND FAST COMPANY. HE TAUGHT ME THINGS THAT HAVE SAVED MY LIFE!! I KNOW HE LOVED HIS FAMILY AND WOULD TALK ABOUT THEM ALL THE TIME. I WILL FOREVER REMEMBER HIM AS A STRONG AND BRILLANT LEADER, THAT TAUGHT ME TOOLS AS A YOUNG MARINE THAT I CARRY WITH ME NOW! THANK YOU CONDE!!! 2F3!!!"
CPL. LOUIS M POPE of CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C.

"Family of Kenneth Jr.

I'm so sorry. I miss Ken Jr and Sr, since I haven't seen them since our time at VMA(AW)-224. I am so proud of Ken Jr for who he became. I am also so sorry for everyones loss."
GySgt Daniel L. Quintero of Cherry Point, NC

"I posted a message on one site already. I knew conde well. I re-enlisted and went to another unit. When I found out, it was on the 4th of July. Sgt Conde was a damn good friend, all of us in IFAV miss the hell out him, I am currently in Iraq, fallujah, and everytime there is indirect fire or small arms, I always think of him and his ultimate sacrifice. I spoke to some of our brothers, he will never be forgotten, not ever. Godbless the Conde family, and Godbless Weapons Co, 2/4, IFAV PLT."
Cpl Kevin Norris of Fallujah Iraq

"To the Parents of Sgt. Conde:

My son served with "Conde" in Yorktown on 2nd FAST. We often allowed the marines to gather in our home and on several ocassions we were fortunate to have your son present. He was an outstanding, courteous young man. It was an honor having him in our home and we were blessed by having the chance to meet him."
Al & Joyce Tagliaferro of Chesapeake, Virginia

"To the family of Sgt. Conde,
I served with Sgt. Conde (then Cpl.), in Second Fast Co. He was truly a credit to our unit and the Corps. I remember watching him read the NCO creed in front of company formation the day of his meritorious promotion to Corporal. Many people are praying for you, and miss Ken.
To Sgt Conde, Semper Fi Brother"
Tom of Upper Darby, PA

"The real hero doesn't come home.
The world is a darker place without you,
but while you were here you did what you could to brighten it."
Cpl Jankovich of Mi

"Sgt Conde, was a great Marine to have served with as well a good friend. He will be missed."
Cpl. Brian Wilson of Det. Berlin

"Sergeant Kenneth Conde, Jr, USMC...
Was one of the finest, shining examples of a Marine Noncommissioned Officer that I have ever had the honor to have read about. His funeral services were beautiful, which were held at the Aloma Baptist Church on 09 July 2004. I was in attendence wearing the Marine Corps League equivalent of Dress Blues Delta.

The loss of this extraordinary Marine affected me deeply. I, too, once held the rank of Sergeant in the Marine Corps, and I am a Vietnam-era Veteran. I was dismayed that the Bugler who played Taps was not an active-duty Marine Bugler, or at least, not a Marine wearing Dress Blues. Had I known one was not available, I would have been honored to provide that service myself.

Since that time, I have been practicing every day on my Cornet, which was silent for many, many years. I purchased an instrument for a brother veteran Marine, who played Trumpet many years ago. And we will make ourselves available to render final honors to any brother fallen Marines.

Sgt Kenneth Conde Jr, you continue as an inspiration and as an example to Marines everywhere - even this old Sergeant.

You did not die in vain. You will never be forgotten. I regret that I did not have the honor of knowing you personally - but I will renew my efforts to know more Marines, thanks to you.

TheFifthAce at aol.com
Semper Fidelis"
Steve "SgtWookie" Wilke of East Orlando, FL, USA

"MY FAMILY WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS OUR DEEP APPRECIATION FOR ALL THE COMFORTING WORDS AND PRAYERS SENT FOR MY SON/BROTHER, SGT. KENNETH CONDE JR. PLEASE CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR THE BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN FOR THEIR CONTINUED SERVICE.

KENNETH SR, THERESA, KIMBERLY AND KENESA CONDE"
Theresa Conde of Orlando, FL

"To the family of Sgt. Conde, I never had the chance to meet you but I did have the chance to meet your son. He was a good Marine and a good person he'll be missed by many. My respects to Conde and his family. Semper Fi"
frank of dallas, tx

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

"Kenneth Conde, Jr.
You are a true friend and you will never be forgotten. From all your friends from Colonial High. Thank you for serving and may god bless you and your family."
SrA Ricardo Garcia, USAF of Orlando, FL

"Conde, a Marine and a true friend that I will always be grateful to have known and served with. You will never be forgotten."
Brandon Hoehne of longview, Washington\ riskk9@aol.com

"Conde, Thank you for the time we spent w/ 2nd plt 2nd FAST. We've had a lot of great times. You are one of the most genuine people I have ever known. God Bless and Semper Fi."
Michael Johnson of Cromwell, CT mpj0311@sbcglobal.net

"On behalf of me and my family i want to thank everybody for all their kind words in our time of pain and sorrow. My name is Rodney Conde and I am the Uncle of Sgt. Kenneth Conde' Jr. (to his family and friends we called him Kee-Kee). Words could never express how uplifting and comforting these words are from so many of you who never knew him personally, but share in our pain for him and each and everyone of those men and women that have fallen and those who are still out there fighting for our freedom..Thank You All God BLESS..Rodney Conde and Family.."
musicfame@aol.com of Atlanta ga.

"To Kenneth's Family and Friends:

On behalf of the Blanco-Caldas family, we send our sincerest condolences. We share the same loss ... the same pain. Our prayers are with you in this most difficult time and we thank you for his bravery and sacrifice.

Sincerely,

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

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

"Thank you brave soldier for sacrificing your today for my children's safer tomorrow. You have our utmost respect and gratitude. May God provide comfort to your family in their time of need and sorrow. May you forever rest in Heavenly peace."
a grateful citizen in arizona

"To the family and friends of Sgt. Kenneth Conde, Jr.,

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

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

Proud Marine Mom and Proud Member of Marine Comfort Quilts"
Sandra Moudy of Placentia, California

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

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

"To the family and friends of Sgt. Kenneth Conde, Jr.:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless Kenneth 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 Sgt. Kenneth Conde, Jr.:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of Kenneth, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia