Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I'm so sorry I just heard. April, I remember pushing you on a swing at Delta Company family day for D co 3/187. He was my Platoon Sergeant with Burr Miller and some others. Please know how sorry I am to hear of your father's passing, and how honored I was to serve with him."
Hunter Everett of Dayton, Ohio (currently Shanghai, China)

"You will never be forgotten by me. Rangers lead the way!"
Scott of Afghanistan

"November 9, 2008
To the family of Command Sgt. Maj. Steven W. Faulkenburg:
Steven 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

"Hey CSM, just wanted to let you know, I finally got married, she's a great girl and I know you'd approve, I'd say I wish you were there, but I have a feeling you were.... Ramrods!!"
Bill Hight of Ft Carson

"Steve, I miss you.

Your "Little" Brother Jerry"
Jerry Faulkenburg of Pomaria,SC USA

"Ill miss you steve."
james of ky

"I was the Chaplain for 2-2 INF and was honored to not just serve CSM Faulkenburg as his chaplain but called him friend. He left not just an example but a legacy. One of my fondest memories was driving CSM Faulkenburg to An Najaf on Easter Sunday morning of 2004 and saying to him as we were being fired at on both sides, "This is not quite what I planned for Easter Sunday." Thank you CSM for your friendship. My prayers continue to be lifed up for Tanya and their girls."
CH (CPT) Richard Brown of Fort Lee, VA

"Served with in 1980 - 1982"
Brian Baar of Grand Rapids, MI. USA

"I served with Steven Faulkenburg in the 2nd Bn 21st Inf 24th ID (Mech) CSC Company Anti-Tank Plt, Also Faulkenburg, John Pence, James Swann, David Yoeman and I (Brian Baar) all lived off post in Hinesville GA, at Floyds Trailer Park Lot #124, we used to reach out the kitchen window and get Pecan leaves and make tea, We each paid $40 a month rent, We had a great time.
At that time Sgt Faulkenburg built his own Motorcycle while at the tailer. What a great "Gimlet" he was, always on top of everything, he only R&R'd after job was done and equipment cleaned, repaired. We started with Jeeps, Then APC's with pop ups and finally we had ITV's, We sometimes sang "We all live in a Green ITV" to the tune of Yellow Submarine. He was America's best and always gave 100% and then some. Steven Faulkenburg I miss you and hope to see you on the other side!
To the Family, I hope to contact you and let you know personally, How much, so many soldiers owe a debt of Gratitude to such a fine family member of yours. May God keep you safe and watch over you until you are all together again!
Brian Baar
BeanRule62@juno.com"
Brian Baar of Grand Rapids, MI. USA

"I served with SGM Faulkenburg in D 3-187 during 1989-1991. I served as his driver during many exercises at Fort Campbell as well as his driver during a large portion of the time that we were in Desert Shield/Storm. I was extremely sad to learn of his loss. He was the most influential leader that I have ever had during my 18 years of military service. I fondly remember him banging on our room door every morning getting daily status and performing inspections of our room, or him showing me some ranger trick to rig up a warning device while on exercises in the field. As his driver during Desert Shield/Storm I was able to directly see the way a true NCO takes care of soldiers and units. We were always on the move, as he executed his duties of platoon sergeant. He was a constant presence to his platoon always ensuring soldiers were taken care of and our mission was executed to his exacting standards. I have many wonderful memories of this man from training in Panama to our long drive to use the MARS station in Saudi Arabia (the short trip that lasted all night!). I am honored to have known and served with this great man."
MAJ Burr Miller of Fort Belvoir, VA

"I am sitting here not knowing what to type. There is so much racing through my mind. I knew Sergeant Major Faulkenburg only slightly, but i knew his family pretty well. Ever since that fateful day in November, he has always been in my heart and mind. My dad constantly talked about him, how appreciative of him and what a great man Sergeant Major Faulkenburg was. I know that he was there for everyone, including my father until the very end. I never really got to say thank you. Thank you Sergeant Major, I miss you beyond words can describe. You will always be in my heart, and I will never forget you."
Ian Newell son of LTC. Peter A. Newell commander of 2-2 Inf. 2003-2005 of Hohenfels, Germany

"CURAHEE !!!!!!!!! CURA-*IN-HEE"
1/506 4 LIFE of THE WORLD

"Sad to hear we lost you SGM, you were a great leader, you we good to your soldiers and we all respected you, I have some good memories of being under your command......."
Pitbull 1D elta of Gallup, NM

"I served with CSM Faulkenberg also known by the 2-2 Scouts as "SMAG". He was a great man someone we all strived to be like. CSM was tough as nails. He never got down on us because we weren't infantry he united the battalion into one big family. He will be greatly missed. He is the most loved and respected CSM i have and will ever work for. Scouts Out! Ramrods!"
SSG Kristopher Van Beveren of Manhattan Beach, CA USA

"Thank you all for the support you have showed my family during this time of hardship. I know daddy would say that he was just doing his job but in my eyes he will always be my hero. Hooah!"
April Faulkenburg of Columbia, SC

"I also knew CSM Faulkenberg from my days with the "wolfpack" D Co 3/187 Inf. he was always a caring and strict platoon Sgt. who loved his 3rd herd, I seen him when he was my branch manger he was transitioning us from 11H to 11m at Ft. Hood he never forgot me and I will never forget him he was a true warrior in every since of the word and he died doing what he loved best being a soldier, my condolences goes out to his family."
Terrell R Porter of Crockett ,Tx 75835

"CSM Faulkenburg was a truly a great soldier. I worked for him at Ft Belvoir when I was a brand new sergeant. To me he was everything the army should be and he was the NCO I want to be. Although he may not be here in body, his spirit lives on in every soldier that he has molded, forever."
SSG. Harrison of 463rd ENG

"The Army has truly been touched by the contributions of CSM Steven Faulkenburg. While I served as the commander of Delta Company (Destroyers), 1st-506th Infantry "Currahee" in Korea, he provided a get inspiration to both the officers and soldiers assigned to the company as our First Sergeant. Many men have been inspired by his tough; yet, caring attitude in taking care of soldiers and focusing on mission accomplishment. My condolences to the Faulkenburg family and friends."
MAJ Kelvin M. Rankin of Vicksburg, MS

"Well done. Be thou at peace."
LTC David Johnson

"CSM Faulkenburg was a true leader. Before we went to Falluja he had the battalion out at the range testing our weapons out on the differant barriers we would later encounter in the city. He was also always testing out our equipment, like shooting at used bullet proof glass or armor plating to see if it was "good enough" for his soldiers. He cared deeply about us all and tried to make fob normandy the best it could be. Ill never forget how he (respectively) spoke his mind to the Division CSM in defense of us sucking it up at Normandy. When we heard he was killed it shocked everyone. However he died doing what he obviously loved and for all of us. His leadership undoubtedly helped us lucky enough to, make it home safely. I wish the best to his family."
SGT John Sabo of Norristown, PA

"Thanks CSM Faulkenburg, My thoughts and prayers are always with you and your family. God Bless you and yours CSM. Hooah RamRods 2-2 FIST"
SSG Matthews of Houston, TX

"CSM Faulkenburg, A great man both on and off of the battlefield. One of the things that I remember about him the most is the week before he passed away he was sitting with a group of young soldiers and he looked al all of us and said "Boys I think this is gonna be my last Hoorah," it makes me sad to think how true he was but also happy to have served with such a great man.
we all miss you 'Sneaky Steve'"
Spc Troy Langley of C co 1-77 AR Schweinfurt, Germany

"How do you describe a great man? It is never easy to describe the greatness of a man who epitomized leadership, for true leadership is not made up of sexy, fantastic acts. It is made up of hard work, compassion, long days and a dedication to your soldiers that is not common. Steve Faulkenburg is the epitome of what true leadership is all about. I was the Task Force Fire Support NCO while Steve was the TF CSM, he showed me what true leadership was, and what it was to be an NCO. He was the standard that we all measured ourselves against, and a high standard it was. To quote CSM Bohn, Steve was the type of leader that, "always had a smudge of dirt on his face, a weapon in his hand, and a soldier at hand...". CSM Faulkenburg's death to me was like a death to my family, he was such a fantastic leader and man, I owe any future success to him. I wish his family peace and healing, vaya con dias, Pura Vida"
SFC Hight, William of Ft Drum, New York

"Hello, my name is Jonathan Brooks, but I was born Jonathan Faulkenburg. Steve was my uncle through my mom. It makes me happy to see the respect that people have for him and the rest of the heroes who have given their heart and souls for this country. My uncle came was one of six siblings (James, Walter, Terry, Jerry, Steve, and Mary my mom.) and all but Walter served in the military. The only reason Walter didn't was he had high blood pressure. But anyways it hurt my whole family when we learnt that he had been killed. I still remember waiting for the school bus when I saw a Military jeep pull into my Grandmas (Steve's mom.) They told us he died in a ambush but died saving a younger soldier who froze. But through the seventeen years that I knew him he is the man I grew up idolizing. He is what I consider to be the ideal man, strong and tough, but caring. A combination easy to say but hard to be. But I think all who have sent there wishes to us and just ask all to continue praying for the soldiers over there. For that is what all the soldiers here gave their lives for. And on a closing note I am hoping to follow in my Uncle's footsteps, for in twenty days I leave for Fort Benning on my way to becoming the next soldier in the 82nd airborne division. I hope that I can be half the man Steve was. Thank you."
Jonathan Keith Brooks of Lebanon Junction, Kentucky, United States

"CSM Faulkenburg was my Sergeant Major in Iraq. I too served in 2-2 Inf. I was there the night CSM Faulkenburg fell. To me he was more than the leader of our Battalion. He was like a father. He truly cared for every soldier he came in contact with. I remember seeing him in the distance with that limp of his and his weapon. The years of service to his country he loved so much taking a toll upon him. Yet he never complained. He never faltered. He was always there to motivate us. To scold us. To keep us focused. It's your time to rest Ramrod 7. Don't worry.....the country you loved so much is in good hands. Thanks to you and the thousands of soldiers that your life touched. You just relax and let us take it from here. Till we meet again."
Ramrod for Life

"I didn't know CSM Faulkenburg however, it is men like him through history who have allowed this nation to remain free. May God Cradle You In His Loving Arms. C CO, 1ST BN, 2ND INF RGT, 1 INF DIV 77-79. http://www.ramrod7.com"
Robert Jackson of Midwest City, OK ,USA

"I knew CSM Faulkenburg while we were stationed as Rakkasans. The time of knowing such an exceptional man was but a brief moment in time, but that moment has always and will always effect everyday of my life. He was also my branch manager and enhanced my life and those who he touched everyday. Rest Easy now CSM your loss touches the entire military community and especially those of who "Always did more with Less" 11H lead the way CSM, you are amongst the best. Thank you for being a part of my life, I will never forget. God Bless the entire Faulkenburg Family."
SFC (Ret) Kevin L Fritz of Westland, Mi

"I'm honored to have served with CSM Steven Faulkenburg. He was my PSG at Dco. 3/187 IN. In the late 80's & early 90's. During Desert Storm He was always about standards and doing the best we could for the unit. Through all the good times and bad, he was always a leader of soldiers. I was truely heart broken to find out we lost a true leader of soldiers, (A WARRIOR!) To the family of CSM Steven Faulkenburg may God's love and comfort give you peace of heart and mind, for he now looks down on us to still help. I will always remember how he taught myself and other young and older soldiers how to lead by example and be willing always to be out front. CSM Faulkenburg was a soldier`s soldier and in my heart his methods, leadership and standards shall live on. he will be surely missed but never ever forgotton."
Styles E. Underwood Jr. SFC (retired) of Fort Benning, Ga.

"I had the distinct honor of serving in the 82d Airborne Division with CSM Faulkenburg when he was a PSG and I a wet behind the ears platoon leader and later his company XO. He was one of the hardest men I've ever known - there were some as good but none better. Looking through the messages here its amazing to see how many lives he touched in such a positive manner - no more fitting legacy for such a great man. Our nation mourns and feels this loss. Other may take his place but none can replace his love of country, his fellow Soldiers and his Army.

Rest in peace Soldier."
MAJ Arnold of Ft. Monroe Va

"I too knew CSM Faulkenburg in D Co 3/187th Inf 101st Abn Div. He was my Platoon Sgt. We called him "Ranger" ... and he tought me much. He was a hard, honest and fair man ... and my time working as his PL as some of the best. We trained, deployed to Desert Storm and did honor guard funerals together ... I counted him as a true friend. We were always bult and honest with each other. We talked about the Ranger creed and the need to do what is right, even in the face of fire. I know that is how he was kill ... brave and true to the end. He is missed."
Major Coyt Hargus of US Central Command

"I knew CSM Faulkenburg way back when he was a PSG in D Co. 3-187 IN at Fort Campbell in the 80s, and he impressed me then as one of the few "ultimate leaders" in the Army - always right & always tight. His example is an integral part of who I am as an Army leader today. I hope, when all is said and done, that I can say I have served my country as well as he did. CSM, you are sorely missed - God bless."
1SG Gary Johnson of D / 2-502 IN FTCKY

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

"To the Faulkenburg family,

I had the honor and privelage of serving with CSM Faulkenburg when I was assigned to his unit. He was an outstanding soldier and human being. His loss will be great to us all and to his unit. He paid the ultimate price for us all. May God bless his family and help them through thier time of loss."
Lawrence Henning of Fort Irwin, CA

"To Steve'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 your soldier's bravery and sacrifice.

Sincerely,

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

"The hearts and love from the Soldiers of the 2-130th Field Artillery, Baghdad, go out to CSM Faulkenburg and his family."
SSG Travis McClain of Baghdad, Iraq

"I had the honor and priviledge of working with CSM Steven Faulkenburg when he served as the acting Sergeants Major at Fort AP Hill, VA. He was a superb NCO and an even better person, always placing the needs of his soldiers first. As my Seargeant Major, I relied on his input on a daily basis and he always told me the way it was. He was a leader that practiced what he preached and led from the front. I was shocked to learn of his death and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family."
Craig Wonsidler, LTC (RET) of Perkasie, PA

"I worked as a Police Officer for Lebanon Junction Kentucky. There I met a young Girl Who worked in a small Restaurant in Lebanon Junction. She Spoke of her Dad all the time. You could tell she loved, and was very Proud of her Dad. Her Name is April Faulkenburg. I did not meet Steven, However I did Know Him"
David Johnson of Stuart, Fl

"(Then, E Co 1/31st) SGT Faulkenburg was one of the first NCO's who set an example for us. He was firm but fair, something I have tried to emulate. During our time in S Korea, he mentioned a daughter and my prayers go out for him and his familiy. One of the finest Infantry soldiers I have ever known."
MSG Mark Birdsill

"Rest in peace and god bless. The finest NCO we have ever had the priviledge to serve with. From the brothers of D Co 1-506th, Camp Greaves, Korea. "Currahee!!""
DELTA Co 1-506th "Currahee"

"FIGHTING A WAR NO ONE CAN IGNORE,YOU WILL DEFEND TILL THE END.YOUR SACRIFICE WILL NEVER SUFFICE.YOU CARRY PRIDE ON YOUR SHOULDERS FOR YOU ARE A SOLDIER.TO SAVE LIVES YOU DONT THINK TWICE TO SACRIFICE FOR THOSE WHO HAVE DIED YOU HAVE CRIED WITH GREAT PRIDE I WILL STAND BY YOUR SIDE.YOU ARE THE HEROS IN MY LIFE,I LOVE YOU GUYS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SACRIFICE! BY SAMANTHA SKINNER"
DORIS HAYES of KAISERSLAUTERN GERMANY

"To the family,
I had the great pleasure of serving with CSM Faulkenburg, "Steve" at U.S. Total Army PERSCOM (Infantry Branch). He was an outstanding soldier and a great man. Our prayers are with his wife and daughters. "God Bless""
Terry and Joy Boddie of Springfield, Virginia

"Condolences from New Albany, IN. I am proud that Mr.Faulkenburg, served in our nation Armed Forces. The torch of freedom burns bright, and it takes courage, service, and optimism. God Bless you Mr.Faulkenburg, God Bless the Faulkenburg Family, God Bless the Armed Services, God Bless those who strive for freedom, God Bless the Iraqi people, God Bless America, but above all let us bless you Lord. Amen"
Clint Smith, jr of New Albany, IN, USA

"To the Faulkenburg family from the Wahl family. we are deeply sadden by the lost of Steven. Six months ago we lost our son Gregory. An he was assigned to Veslick along with Steven. Not sure one another knew one another. But, his lost is more personal to our family. An now both are resting. As a citizen and a veteran. I'm extremely, proud of Steven. For he is truely, one of the elite AMERICAN"S! He was a professional that enjoyed his job. An our heart and prays are with your entire family."
leonard wahl of Valley Stream Long Island

"To the friends and family of CSM Steven Faulkenburg,

There are no words that can possibly ease your pain but please know that many across this country are grateful to CSM Faulkenburg and you. His bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten. Please accept these words as a token of my heartfelt sorrow for your loss.

Respectfully,"
Rebecca of Los Angeles

"I want to convey my condolences to your friends and family for your loss. I know what unexplainable pain you are going through; I as well just lost my husband PFC Stephen P. Downing II on 10-28-04. The only thing positive that I have found to tell my children is that these soldiers are dying as heros and doing their best to make our lives and the lives of others better. As you know, they leave this world as heros but will forever remain in your hearts and memories."
The Downing Family of Mooresville, IN

"Thank you brave soldier for sacrificing your today for my children's safer tomorrow. You have our utmost respect and gratitude. May God provide your family with comfort in their time of sorrow. May you forever rest in Heavenly peace. Neither you nor your sacrifice will be forgotten."
a grateful family in Phoenix, AZ

"MAY TIME COMFORT YOU AND EASE YOUR PAIN. STEVEN IS A TRUE AMERICAN HERO. I PERSONALLY KNOW YOUR LOSS AND IT HELPS TO KNOW THAT OUR FALLEN HAVE MADE A DIFFERENCE. GOD BLESS."
B.WALL of WOODBURY,CT USA

"To the family,
I had the pleasure of serving with CSM Faulkenburg in Kosovo and Iraq. He was a great Soldier and mentor. He will be missed. My prayers are with you all. He was an honorable man and he will never be forgotten."
MSG Dan McCraw of El Paso, Tx

"CSM Faulkenburg was the best NCO I ever had the privelege to meet or serve with, he always lead from the front and took care of "his boys", the Army has lost a great hero with his death. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and daughters."
2-2 INF alumni and brother in arms

"To the family of Steven;
Our sincerest condolences for your loss. Steven is a true American hero and will always be remembered by us for his bravery and ultimate sacrifice he gave to our country. Our family has also suffered the loss of my nephew in this battle for freedom. May God bless you during this difficult time."
Vic and Tammy McClain--azquail@att.net of Tucson, AZ

"Thank you for the gift of Freedom. I will honor it in your memory."
P Bell of Macon,Ga

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

"To Steven'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

"To Steven'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 your soldier's bravery and sacrifice.

Sincerely,

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

"You will not be forgotten."
SGT Quinton of Vilseck, Germany

"My deepest sympathy, our family has also suffered the loss of a precious life in this battle for freedom. May God bless you and help you through this time. Forever in our hearts a HERO Steven W. Faulkenburg."
Amy & Aaron Monier of Waterford, MI.

"To Stevens family, I want to express our deepest sympathy in your loss. We also lost our nephew Sgt. Andrew Brown on Oct 8, 2004. So we know the heart ache your feeling. Just know that he and your family are in our thoughts and prayers."
Colleen Kelly of Pleasant Mount, Penna.

"Thank you Steven Faulkenburg, 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 Command Sgt. Maj. Steven Faulkenburg:
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 Steven 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 Command Sgt. Maj. Steven Faulkenburg:
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 Steven, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia