Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"May 29, 2008
To the family of Maj. Ricardo A. Crocker:
Ricardo 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

"Rick, hardly a day goes by that I don't think of you and remember what a truly good and decent human being, friend, and fellow officer you were. Your loss is deeply felt but you will never be forgotten. I was on duty the day when Col Tucker called me to tell me that we had lost you; the shock was unbelievable. I will be on duty tomorrow and the pain is still there. You continue to inspire me to be a better person, a better Marine officer, a better police officer. Thank you, my friend.
For Rick's family: I cannot say more than has already been said by those touched by Rick. Please know that he is greatly missed and loved. He was more than a good man - he was the best of men."
Andrew Roberto of Albuquerque, NM

"Remembering a great man and fine soldier on this Memorial Day."
Karen Zumsteg of Sherman Oaks, CA

"Rick, this memorial day is going to be the 3rd year, since you left. I still think you are alive, but it is not true. I love you, and I always will. Your Rugrats are growing and growing, Thank You, for all the things you did for them you were a role model for them. Karina writes you a letter every time she gets in trouble hoping you were there for her to help. I love you more than anything in life, I will always miss you my Soldier, please guide me to be a good mother it is very hard with out you,I still remember your support, I can't understand why the good people always leave us."
Oneida Rodriguez of Rancho Cucamonga

"Rick y u leave i need u

i miss u

everything has changed since u left

love ur rugrat"
Rugrat

"Meu pesar pela morte deste heroi americano.Nossos irmãos do norte,com os quais lutamos lado a lado na Italia contra o nazismo,com certeza nos ajudará contra ,a ameaça comunista que temos hoje no Brasil de Lula,Venezuela e Equador.A liberdade deverá ser mantida.Condolências a familia do bravo Maj.Ricardo.Outra Cuba ,nunca mais."
Manoel Jorge of Belém,Pará,Brasil

"To the family of:Ricardo A. Crocker 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"

"To the family of Major Crocker, I am so very sorry for your great loss and sacrifice. I only knew him briefly, but he made a lasting impression. I met Major Crocker while serving with 3RD CAG in 2004. We had several things in common...law enforcement and talking about Harleys. He was a very approachable Marine Officer, down to earth, with a friendly smile, and a leader's presence. Neither his or the Crocker family's sacrice will be forgotten. May God bless you! Semper Fidelis"
Jerry D. Cowart of Birmingham, Alabama

"To the Crocker Family, I Former Active Duty Sergeant Anthony M. Randall was the Platoon Guide for the then 1stLT Crocker when we were in 1st Bn 5th Marines Heavy Machine Guns. I went on to Hawaii believing that I wouldn't have to worry too much of the guy we all called "Tricky Ricky" not because of women but because he could play BALL so well, I am going to miss him even more because I always thought I could get back in touch with him anytime.
But Our God wanted that smile and that laugh plus he really got a good guy up there in Heaven because he really did know how to talk to people, not down on people being that hard headed Marine that I was back then he put me gently back on track when I got off course and I thank God for just knowing him for being a real MARINE not a pretender. Thanks LT Crocker, God Bless You My Friend and LEADER. OOh Rah and Semper Fi. Anthony Randall, (Razorblade), out!"
SGT. A.M. Randall USMC (RET) of Southbridge, VA

"I cannot believe you're gone! I met Rick during my oneyear-stay in Hermosa Beach. Whenever we were planning to see eachother (in LA or Germany) we talked about the "Red carpet reception" that we wanted to arrange for eachother. I remember your last visit here in Cologne. My family liked you very much.You were such a great person,had a great humor, had so many plans, you always talked about being a teacher for kids, and that this is your dream! You did so much for me and I never had the opportunity to tell you that! I feel sorry for that.
I'll always remember you."
Sabine of Germany

"I first met Rick when he was a recruiter and on active duty(first time around). I interviewed him to become a police officer at SMPD. We waited until he finished his enlistment and held a position for him since he was such an outstanding individual. After joining the department Rick and I became good friends since I had been in his unit many years ago (1969-71) Though he was my subordinate I always addressed him as "Mr. Crocker" out of respect for his loyality and honor for both the department and the Corps. I cried like a baby when learning Rick was gone. He was an outstanding police officer, Marine and, most importantly, a good friend. Semper Fi Rick."
Roy McGinnis of Westlake Village CA

"My thoughts and prayers to the family of Officer Crocker (as I knew him) on this Memorial Day weekend."
Karen Zumsteg of Sherman Oaks, CA

"It has been nearly half a year since you passed Rick. Not a single day goes by without me thinking about your sacrifice. I was Rick's neighbor and CPA for a number of years, and I can't think of another more giving person than Rick. What a true loss!! So many things people probably never knew about you as you were so concerned with others. For example you learned to surf late in life and loved taking a break from the rat race and just float in the water on your board; how you used to travel the world doing marathons on your vacations, how you volunteered your time to help disadvantaged kids; how you would tell every single one of your friends to use me as their CPA till the point I had to turn people away; and especially the year we shared Dodger tickets and you would always say how Dodger Stadium was the most peaceful place on earth. You were a good friend and will be mightily missed. Myself, wife and three boys thank you and all of the fallen soldiers for their sacrifice. God Bless and Good bye!!"
Patrick Hartmann of Los Angeles, CA

"I remember Maj. Crocker when we were going into Ar Rutba day in and day out in order to provide security for CAG. He always found a way to take care of us,2/7 Fox Co.He was always in good spirits. Every time we went on a cag mission and there was chow he made sure every marine got some.Even though it may not seem like much, after months of MRE, hadji food was a welcome treat. He will be missed by all and his work is not going un noticed."
A Fox Company Marine of Los Angeles

"There will be a dedication ceremony in the memory of Major Crocker at the 3D CAG building on Tuesday Oct. 4 at approximately 1400, with his family members in attendance. You are encouraged to join us in welcoming our Marines home and in honoring the memory of one of our own."
Marines from 3rd CAG of Camp Pendleton, CA

"There are no words ... dear Crocker family, my heart is with you. I remember Ricky as a teenager, always an admirable man. Just like his father. I'm so, so sorry. May God comfort you. If there is anything I can do ... birtanem@att.net."
Katie Vereshchaka (Veres) of Alexandria, VA

"To the family of Major Crocker:
When we were in high school, I called him Ricardo. I should have addressed him as Sir."
Troy Minor of Leesburg, Virginia

"To the family of Major Crocker, I offer my condolences. I met the Major on 27 Feb 2005 as we road out to HIT on a convoy. He was truly an inspirational person and cared about making a difference. Well, he did, he always had a positive attitude about what he was doing in Iraq. I will never forget him. I am glad to have met him. I was stationed with him in HIT, and we all felt a void when he was taken. May he always smile down on us."
SSGT Maria Roldan of San Antonio, Texas

"I only knew the Major for a short while, just as he was leaving his first tour and then again just arriving for his second tour...he brought laughter and joy to an otherwise mundane place. Thank you Major!
BU2 Hollman (MEG OICC Al Asad)"
Mike Hollman of San Diego, CA

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

"I had the opportunity to work with Maj Crocker in Western Al Anbar Province - where he was a legend with the local populace. Every time I spoke with a local sheikh, businessman, or civilian official, Major Crocker's name, opinion, and thoughts were either on their lips or in their thoughts..."What does Major Crocker think?" "Major Crocker got us the truck." Going by his team's "house" was always a must when swinging through the area. Major Crocker and his team were literally swamped by the outpouring of support from his home town, friends, and family. It was almost like a supermarket and Major Crocker went out of his way to be generous with all the things he received. To anyone reading this who sent Major Crocker anything - thanks! I undoubtedly ate, read, or watched some of it! One of the last big victories Major Crocker achieved in Western Al Anbar was getting a new hospital built in a local town. When a politician or journalist speaks of a "good news story," they meant Major Crocker. When people think of "helping the Iraqis" they picture someone like Major Crocker doing just what he did. A loss for us all. The world is less for his departure."
Maj. Scott Kinner of Twentynine Palms, CA

"To the family of Major Crocker:

Major Crocker was liked and respected by us all that had the honor to serve with him. May God help you through your pain and loss."
HM2 Sabo of FOB Hit, Iraq

"Major Ricardo A. Crocker, I learned of your sacrifice today from a fellow Marine. You are a true warrior and hero to this grateful Nation. I am honored that I had the opportunity to know you and to serve in a platoon that you commanded, what seems to be so many years ago, WPNS Co. 2/23, HMG Plt. As a Marine and a fellow California lawman, I salute you. “Victory is reserved for those who are willing to pay its price” – Sun Tzu. Thank you for leading us to victory Major Crocker. God Bless"
T.C. Cockrill of Bakersfield, CA

"To The Crocker Family,
Our Family, Our City, Our Country grieves with you. We are so saddened by your loss. Your Soldier is OUR HERO! We will never forget him or the others who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless You and your Brave Marine..Semper Fi!!"
The Grogan Family of Lakeland, TN

"To the family and friends of Major Ricardo A. Crocker,

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

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

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

"Sir, I can't describe the amount of respect that my team and I have for you. We will never forget the contribution you made the unit, the mission, the Marine Corps and our lives. Semper Fi sir! We love you."
Sgt Hendricks of 3rd CAG, Camp Pendleton

"Maj Crocker was a true leader, I served with him from May to July 2004. I worked with him side by side, he was always in a good mood and lighten up everyones mood regardless of the situation we were in. It was an honor to serve with such a great Marine Officer and a great person. I really looked up to him and it's a tragedy to lose such an individual. My love and prayers are with his family."
Sgt Ortega, O of San Diego, Ca

"I am Corporal William M. Howard II that served in Iraq voluntarily from February 2004 until September 2004. Major Crocker taught me alot of things to keep me alive before I actually departed for the dunes. He was the leader of one of my best buddies teams and he meant alot to everyone he talked to and he automatically inspired us all. GOD bless him and his sacrifice and I would without a doubt rather it be me than him. He was first of all a great person and that is what he cared about, he was also without a doubt a fantastic Marine. His sacrifice makes me want to go back and make him proud. I cared about him and will never forget that man. He was one of a kind and I will ALWAYS idolize him."
Billy Howard of Tuscaloosa, Alabama USA

"I was lucky to have served with Major Crocker for the last few months here in Iraq. Major Crocker was a great friend and a true leader. It has been very difficult dealing with this loss.

Major Crocker took charge and ran his operations like every American would want to see. I have learned so much from him. People may never fully understand how he shaped and influenced his surroundings.

I will miss Major Crocker very much. He was a friend that I would need for years to come."
LT Aaron Isaacson of Iraq

"6/3/05 Our deepest and heartfelt sympathy to Ricardo's family. For many reasons you will never celebrate another Memorial Day Weekend without tremendous sadness, yet a great sense of pride. Ricardo is a true hero and will go down in history as a great man who made the ultimate sacrifice for this great nation. May God give you strength to endure this most horrific painful loss.
John 15:13 Greater love than this no one has, that one lay down his life for his friends.""
Webster and Ruth Reed (Father and stepmom of Jonathan Ray Reed who died in Iraq on January 28, 2005) of Krotz Springs, Louisiana

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

""We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Ricardo Crocker will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and yours. God Bless you ALWAYS. We will hold a special moment of silence for Ricardo and his family this Sunday at our Support Our Troops Rally

Duane & Reiko Buckley
Reseda Ca."
Duane & Reiko Buckley of Reseda Ca. USA

"TO THE RICARDO FAMILY FROM THE WAHL FAMILY. RICARDO YOU WILL NEVER EVER BE FORGOTTEN PAL! YOU ARE THE ELITE OF AMERICANS. SO THANKFUL AND GRATEFUL OUR SON SERVED ALONG SIDE OF YOU. NOT KNOWING ONE ANOTHER; YET AS MILITARY BROTHER'S WATCHING OVER ONE ANOTHERS BACK. RICARDO YOU HAVE TOUCHED THE HEARTS OF SO MANY. JUST BY THE MESSAGES'S LEFT. YOU ARE LOVED AND CARED FOR BY MANY! AMERICA OWE'S YOU BIG TIME RICARDO. FOR PROTECTING US AGAINST TERRORISM AND TO GIVEN THE OTHERS A CHANCE TO ENJOY FREEDOM. OBVIOUSLY, YOU ARE A COMBINATION OF YOUR PARENTS. THAT RAISED A VERY ACRING MAN WITH A GENTLE HEART TO HELP OTHERS. YOUR SERVICE SPEAKS VOLUME'S OF YOUR PARENTS. RICARDO MY HEART AND PRAYS ARE WITH YOU!; AND YOUR FAMILY. OUR FAMILY UNDERSTAND THE LOST AND HURT. WE LOST OUR SON GREGORY LAST MAY. PEOPLE IN AMERUICA JUST DON'T IT! NO SOLDIER WANT TO GO TO WAR. SOLDIER'S HAVE A MISSION. TO STAND FIRM WITH THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF. AN SOLDIERS ONLY ASK ONE THING OF AMERICAN'S. TO SIMPLELY SUPPORT THE TROOPS. RICARDO YOU HAVE EARNED THAT RESPECT! YOU ARE A PROFESSIONAL SOLDIER AND A HERO! YOU HAVE MADE AMERICA SAVER! GOD BLESS!"
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"TO THE RICARDO FAMILY FROM THE WAHL FAMILY. RICARDO YOU WILL NEVER EVER BE FORGOTTEN PAL! YOU ARE THE ELITE OF AMERICANS. SO THANKFUL AND GRATEFUL OUR SON SERVED ALONG SIDE OF YOU. NOT KNOWING ONE ANOTHER; YET AS MILITARY BROTHER'S WATCHING OVER ONE ANOTHERS BACK. RICARDO YOU HAVE TOUCHED THE HEARTS OF SO MANY. JUST BY THE MESSAGES'S LEFT. YOU ARE LOVED AND CARED FOR BY MANY! AMERICA OWE'S YOU BIG TIME RICARDO. FOR PROTECTING US AGAINST TERRORISM AND TO GIVEN THE OTHERS A CHANCE TO ENJOY FREEDOM. OBVIOUSLY, YOU ARE A COMBINATION OF YOUR PARENTS. THAT RAISED A VERY ACRING MAN WITH A GENTLE HEART TO HELP OTHERS. YOUR SERVICE SPEAKS VOLUME'S OF YOUR PARENTS. RICARDO MY HEART AND PRAYS ARE WITH YOU!; AND YOUR FAMILY. OUR FAMILY UNDERSTAND THE LOST AND HURT. WE LOST OUR SON GREGORY LAST MAY. PEOPLE IN AMERUICA JUST DON'T IT! NO SOLDIER WANT TO GO TO WAR. SOLDIER'S HAVE A MISSION. TO STAND FIRM WITH THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF. AN SOLDIERS ONLY ASK ONE THING OF AMERICAN'S. TO SIMPLELY SUPPORT THE TROOPS. RICARDO YOU HAVE EARNED THAT RESPECT! YOU ARE A PROFESSIONAL SOLDIER AND A HERO! YOU HAVE MADE AMERICA SAVER! GOD BLESS!"
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"Rick,
You were a warrior for your country
A hero until the end
You will never be forgotten"
Marine Wife of Northridge, CA

"CROCKER WAS LIKE A SON. HE WAS IN MY ACADEMY CLASS (290). I JOINED LASD AND HE WENT TO SANTA MONICA P.D. HE WAS ALWAYS HELPFUL. IF I NEEDED HELP, HE WOULD ALWAYS BE WILLING. HE LOVED THE MARINES. THANK YOU CROCKER FOR SERVING THIS COUNTRY AS A MARINE AND FIGHTING CRIME IN THE STREETS OF SANTA MONICA."
EMMA JACKSON of LOS ANGELES, CA/USA

"Ric,

I welcomed you into the 3rd CAG and new we had joined a man of honor and commitment. I knew what you meant when you said you had to go back to Iraq to finish what had been started. I'll never forget your friendship, assistance, humor and the sound of your voice. You made a huge impact on everyone with whom you had contact. Thanks for all that you did for me, your fellow Marines and the nation. See you some day....I consider you to be on the "advance party" to our collective final duty station. S/F...Al"
LtCol Al Burghard USMCR of Camp Pendleton, CA

"Captain Crocker as I knew him was my platoon commander for a short while when he was attached to the 2nd BAT 23rd Marines, weapons company, Pt. Hueneme, CA. He was a good man and an outstanding officer. I cannot believe someone I looked up to and saluted is now gone. He will be missed. Semper Fi Skipper, and may God be with your family during this most difficult time."
Corporal Paul Molé of Simi Valley, CA, 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, Ricardo will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you ALWAYS. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"Major Crocker: Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. Thank you for serving our country. You will not be forgotten."
Flores. S of San Diego, CA

"To the family of Ricardo Crocker:
I did not know Major Crocker, but I wish I had. Nothing can replace him and I'm so sorry for your loss. But I hope you will take comfort in knowing that your son and brother was a truly great man who lived by the highest principles of duty and sacrifice. He served his people as a Marine and as a police officer. He willingly put his life in extreme danger by doing his duty in Iraq. He devoted his time to mentoring youth in Santa Monica. Those who are brave and selfless are often the first to make the ultimate sacrifice. But without them, where would we be? Thank you all for teaching your son and brother to be so honorable, and thank you for letting him serve. His spirit will live on in your thoughts and memories. The example he set will always inspire others. Deepest respects and condolences."
A Fellow American of Los Angeles, CA

"Rick
You were an inspiration to all and will be deaply missed. Thank you for your courage, bravery, and service to the citizens of the Greatest Country in the World. Your willingness to stand up to the enemy and fight for what is right is an inspiration for all. Thank you for all you have done for your friends, family, community and country."
Mike of Santa Monica, Ca. USA

"Thank you Ricardo Crocker, 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 Maj. Ricardo Crocker:
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 Ricardo 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 Maj. Ricardo Crocker:
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 Ricardo, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia