Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"To the family of MSG Fernandez,
For the last four years I have been wearing a memorial braclet for MSG Fernandez and I would like to send it to his family. If someone from his family could e-mail me with an address to send it I would really appreciate it. You can reach me at shannonmjones09@aol.com. I want to let you know how honored I have been to wear this braclet in memory of MSG Fernandez. I have family members who have and one that is now in the military and I want thank him for his service to our wonderful country."
Shannon Jones of Columbus, OH

"Recently spent the night on a Cub scout campout with big Will. Had a great time. Had a big campfire, hotdogs, hamburgers then cooked marshmellows and made smores. Had to chase the raccoons out of the tent area. Big Will toughed out a chilly night with no complaints. Went to Ft Pulaski the next day and had a good time looking at all the sights. Will spotted a deer while standing on the upper walls of the fort. Will can't wait to go camping again.

We visited Andy yesterday (V day). Cold and wet but all the new flowers were a warm bright spot.

Thanks for all the notes left."
Walt Haines of Richmond Hill Ga.

"Hey bro, Smitty here. Thought I'd drop in to let you know you are not forgotten on this Veteran's Day 11/11/2009. Think about you every day bro. I will be back....RLTW!!"
Steve Smith of Lynchburg, Va.

"To the family of George A. Fernandez
I was in Savannah GA this past weekend and had the opportunity to talk to a soldier who wore a remembrance bracelet in honor of Andy. I had thanked him for his service and the conversation continued. I don't remember exactly what was said but at the end of the conversation this soldier gave me Andy's remembrance bracelet. After reading about Andy and his sacrifice for his fellow soldiers and all who live in this country, I am deeply moved and grateful for his service. Kathy, I am so sorry for your loss. You and your son will be in my prayers. May God give you strength and peace"
Tanya of Phoenix, AZ

"Wow, where do I start. I also served with Andy, like many others, in Aco 2Plt 1/75 as Ranger Privates. Andy was one RIP class ahead of me, he was one GREAT guy. I have so many great remembrances of him. Of course we all went our different ways after we got our tab, but I always remember how much of a great leader he was, always putting his guys first. He was a true inspiration. I learned of his death many years ago, looking on line to see if any of my bro's died; when I saw his name my heart just dropped. I never knew how he died till yesterday when someone told me where this site was (9/10/2009) one day before the 11th. So I'm writing this on the 11th because I know in my heart this day really meant something to Andy, you are truely missed bro; just looking at all of the messages people have left you. My condolences to your wife and son and the rest of your family, sorry it took me so long. IF Andy's son reads this, know that your dad was a great man who did everything right and lived to the Ranger Creed every day. See you in the Patrol Base Bro! RLTW!!"
Steve Smith (1/75 92-99) of Lynchburg, Va.

"Kathy - We miss you here at Fort Bragg - I have not spoken to you since Andy's funeral but I must tell you that I think of you often - I love getting the Christmas picture of you and Will each year and keeping up with you that way. I am on facebook so if you have a page look me up some time- I hope that you are doing well. God bless you and Will.
My best, Alicia Thomas"
Alicia Thomas of Fayetteville NC

"We all went to the park Saturday. Met uncle Walt and his friend DJ. Kathy, Will and I went out in the waterbug boat and Will outfished us all. He caught 3 bass then took off with Grandma Haines. He, G/Ma, uncle Walt and DJ played Basketball while Kathy and I tried to catch up with fishing. We then all met at the archery range and chunked a few sticks at the targets. Will has his own compound bow and can really shoot a good group. We got rained out by a real heavy T/storm in the afternoon. That saved us from a round at the baseball field, whew!

Thought about Andy and talked about how we missed him on his birthday Sunday."
Walt Haines of Richmond Hill Ga

"Thanks very much for serving the country. Thanks very much for giving us the opportunity to live another day. We owe you."
John of San Francisco, CA

"Walt, you have no idea how much your updates on Will mean to me. What a kid! Plays baseball like his Daddy! When I heard he told y'all "Go Gators" I almost cried. By the way, I'm Boo's cousin Helen. I miss him very much. Tell Kathy I said "hello and God bless both her and Will""
Helen Freeman of Texas

"Will was the star player in his last baseball game. Team came back after the 4th inning down 7 zip to win 8-7. Man on 1st and 3rd, Will caught the ball at first for out 3 and game won. 6 years today. Kathy and Will are doing fine. Grandpa and Grandma Fernandez made a surprise visit last week to Will's delight. We all miss Andy very much."
Walt Haines of Richmond Hill, Ga

"Hardly a week goes by that you're not in my thoughts in some way, Andy. I wish I would have gotten to know you better, but even still, what an impression you made - more than you could know. You were a special person, soldier, and a hero to everyone. With absolute respect, I salute you."
Matt K. of AL

"Andy, you are truly missed. I served with Andy from 1/95 to 5/01. I was in B/CO 1/75 but later worked with Andy in Battalion operations. Andy was always well respected and we had many good times playing golf and working together. Truly a Great American. RLTW Andy. God Bless."
Ben Peat of Savannah, GA

"Merry Christmas Andy. We miss you."
Walt of Richmond Hill, Ga

"Appreciate everything Boo, you taught us a lot and will be sorely missed."
Tom A. of NC

"Will went to the Florida, Georgia game in Jacksonville with Mom, Grandpa and Grandma Fernandez. He had a ball. Hair painted blue and orange and wearing a Gator shirt. Called us during the game to say "Go Gators". He is no doubt Tim Tebows number 1 fan. As Will puts it, "I predict the Gators will go to the SEC playoff". Turns 7 this w/end. Will is wide open. Just found out he is number one in class standings. No surprise to us. Kathy is doing well. Busy keeping up with Will-bow. I pass on all new comments about Andy on this site to Kathy. She appreciates all comments and memories. Thanks."
Walt Haines of Richmond Hill Georgia

"i served with Andy from 92 to 96 in wpns sqd Aco 1/75. He was and still is an inspiration to me. I can never forget all the fun we had running around Savannah, you and Treader keeping me out all night. You will never be forgotten. RLTW"
Danny Drake of Nashville, TN

"i miss you so much boo, i wish i could talk to you one more time. i'm so sorry i didnt make it up to pinehurst before you deployed.
love you always bro"
buddy fernandez of jacksonville

"Hey Andy, had the family over this weekend for a big Memorial Day BBQ and the whole bunch was asking who the 2 guys on my office wall were. Needless to say we had a very long conversation. Your legacy along with Langmacks will be with me forever."
DAVE ZAMORA of LOS BANOS

"Its been just over 5 years since you left us. I think about you very often, and all of the good times we had together. Boy, we sure had some good laughs..that is what I will remember most about you. The way that you always made me laugh, even when times were bad. Even today, I laugh out loud when I think about you and those dang groundhogs in Ft Knox! I learned a lot from you. You taught me things that I needed to know in order to succeed with a military career. Most of all, you taught me never to take someone for granted! Never take for granted that they will be here tomorrow! For that I am sorry! Andy,I am a better person for knowing you! Rest well Ranger! I love ya, brother! See ya soon!"
Chris Jernigan (1/75 Jul96-Jul05) of Lake Waccamaw, NC

"5 years today. Will just finished basketball season. Great to see him dribble up the court and make a shot. Played his first practice game of T-ball for this season. He plays 1st base. Tagged out 6 of the first 8 batters. So excited he danced around with both hands in the air every time he made the play. Reads all the time. Way ahead in school.

Does not like butter beans. Has to wash them down with whatever is available to drink. Loves fried mushrooms and yes fried okra.

New kick is Star Wars. He is usually Luke Skywalker and I have to be Darth Vader. Man, the never ending light sabre battles. Both Kathy and Will are doing well."
Walt Haines of RH, Ga

"I served with George at 1/75, He was always a top notch Ranger, and human being. He will be missed."
Jeff Sauerwine Aco 1/75 87-95 of Salem Alabama

"Andy, just stopping by to say hello.

Dave Zamora"
Dave Zamora of Los Banos, CA

"Hey, Boo. I think about you everyday and never take my bracelet off. I tell my class about you, and your picture is in my class. You are the only real hero I've ever known, and I'm so very, very proud to be related to you. I love and miss you."
Durdo of Texas

"I Knew Andy for many years in Aco 1/75 He was one to always find the humor in the most trying situations(even when a carefully constructed charge failed to do what it was supposed to heh). Brother you are missed."
Frank Park of Lansdale, PA

"Remembering you on this Veterans Day, Boo. I will never forget you or your sacrifice."
Lisa (Joyce) Hazlett of Washington, DC

"I served Andy in Aco 1/75... I still tell the story of Andy in Belgium and the frost bitten toes. My sincere condolences to his family."
Dittman of Rochester, NY

"July 4, 2007
To the family of George A. Fernandez. George 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

"We eat, sleep and live in freedom thanks to you. Continue to watch over us, as you did so proudly for our country."
Lamonde of El Paso

"George,
You are true soldier and NCO, you put the lives of your fellow soldiers ahead of your own-that is the mark of a true professional. I am proud to be able to say that I am from the same city as you-El Paso, Texas. I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

"Rangers Lead The Way!"

""SINE PARI" that's what this man was. Without Equal."
One of Hall's Henchmen

"Andy, I recently pulled out some pictures of us in Antwerp and New York with Coco, McClure, Michaud, and some others. What great times we had. What a great life you led. Not only are we proud of what you did but in the way you lived your life. Always thinking of other before yourself. Remember the time you got "frost bite" on your toes in the Ardennes and Michaud warmed your feet with his stomach, that's what people would do for a person like you. Always self assured and confident, you were a good friend and I was fortunate to have served with you. Your picture as well as Langmack's hang on my wall in my office as a reminder of what sort of people have inspired me. Thank you and God bless you and your family. Now you are my Ranger in the Sky."
David Zamora A Co/92-93 of Palo Alto, California

"I REMEMBER THE DAYS WITH YOU AND TREADWAY AND HAMMOND AND TAYLOR. THE RED JEEP AND ALL THE BEER. SEE YOU ON THE OTHER SIDE."
SFC FRIENT of OHIO

"God Bless" Andy and his family,

I would really like to know did Andy received the "Medal Of Honor" NOH; for giving up his life to save all those troops.

An according to the article, because of his action not only did he gave his life but nobody else lost nothing that day because of his quick thinking and action.

Please keep me inform as to whether or not, Andy receive the MOH. If anyone deserved it, he certainly does, and I will alway keep this in mind about his brave action which save the day for many other troops lives on that day.

Thank you, Jimmie L. Scott, Springhill, Florida 5/23/2006"
SSgt. Jimmie L. Scott USAF (ret) Vietnam Vet of Springhill, Florida

"served with MSG as privates Aco 1/75 - upsetting to hear this news...Fernandez and Treadway on college gamedays on Saturday mornings -- will always be a memory with me......God Bless his family"
Ruiz,Henry of San Antonio

"I wore the Green Beret in a war long ago. I have lived my name proudly for many years. To see that another has raised that name and immortalized it, I know that I have more to live up to now. May God bless you my brother and always hold you close. May he always bless your family and friends for they are little more filled with love in their lives for having known you."
George E. Fernandez of Tallahassee, Fl

"Andy, you were the best Platoon Daddy I ever had. I am proud to have served with you."
Ben Agee of Houston

"I was in Basic Training with Andy way back in '92....God Bless the Fernandez family....RIP Andy....."
Chad Robinson of Montana/Arkansas

"I served with Andy in Aco. 2nd platoon 1/75. Andy was a squad leader and I a private, we also managed to turn some double plays together on the softball team. He was a great leader as well as a friend and is in my thoughts daily. Hey Sgt. Fernandez, got any chew? God Speed to Kathy and Wil, and the rest of the family. RLTW"
Willy of Missouri

"May the Lord be with you and your family. God Bless America!"
SrA Andres Gutierrez, USAF of El Paso, TX

"I served with Andy for a while in A Co 1/75. It his service that allows us all to live in freedom. I will never forget him, nor forget his sacrifice for me and my family. It was not easy to hear of his death, and I will pray for his family. I will always remember as SSG Fernandez, and him telling me my assets were always broke. Godspeed SSG Fernandez."
SFC Austin (1/75 93-01) of Raleigh, NC

"To the family of Msg. George A. Fernandez. I am a Sgt. in the West virginia national guard. I just read how he died. I wear his rememberence braclet everyday.I'm sorry for your lost and he will always be a hero to me.

Sgt. Fred E Campbell"
Fred Campbell of Charleston, WV

"I am an active duty Staff Sergeant currently serving with 3d Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga. preparing for an upcoming deployment to Iraq, and aspiring to serve with SFOD-D. I purchased a KIA bracelet to wear for inspiration and motivation, and decided to do some research on the man who's name is inscribed on it. I am even more proud now to wear his name on my wrist...MSG Fernandez continues to inspire soldiers, like myself, who never even met him, to this day. May God grant his family and all who knew him peace."
SSG Patrick L. Smith of Fort Stewart, Ga

"I served with Andy, Aco 1/75 2nd Plt. Andy was a gret soldier and great friend. Andy, Treader, and myself would load up Andy's red Jeep and head down to Fla. to watch the Gators play football. We played on the company softball team, he played 2nd base just like he did at Tech. I have alot of memories of Andy, he had a great laugh, and I'm not sure if I ever saw him lose his cool. I know his family and freinds are proud of all that he accomplished. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family."
Quinn Hammond

"To the family of Andy Fernandez,

I apologize for taking so long to send this out. Andy was a guy who I'll always remember. There is hardly a day that goes by that I don't think of him. I was extremely fortunate to have had him for a Fire Team Leader and Squad Leader. His leadership stlye was exceptional, and at times humorous. No matter how stressful a situation could end up being, Andy always had a way of making things fun. To this day I find myself, when given a difficult task, reflecting on his past strengths and attributes. Thanks so much for bringing Andy into this world. Trust me, the impact he left on the people around him and the world as a whole was substantial. May God Bless you during these uncertain times."
1LT James D. Ryan of FT Benning GA

"To the friends and family of George A. Fernandez:
I am so sorry for your tragic loss. My husband, Justin Linden, was KIA in Iraq on June 4, 2004. It's so hard sometimes to hear of these soldiers who leave children behind, but just remember, you will always have a peice of George through him. You will all be reunited in heaven one day."
Sarah Linden of Portland, OR USA

"I was a private with Andy in A2W. He helped me alot and was definitely a good friend to have. Im also to understand he was helpful to my mother when I was comatose in '94, which means so much to me. I am very confident that we are all better people to have known him. RLTW"
Brett Jacob of Jersey

"So many people don't really understand, Boo. I do. You are a hero, and we are all so proud of you. Know that your sacrifice, and indeed all our sacrifice has not been in vain. You are gone so that your Brothers can fight on, so that your Son can grow up with less fear, and so that we all can have, do, and be better. You will always be all that is right, and all that we should fight for in this great nation. Thank you."

"Every day I think of you, I wear a bracelet in your honor, I never take it off. You are in my memory, a gentle, sweet, kind, funny, good man. Most of all I remember you with love. I will miss you always."
Aunt Cookie of Austin, Texas

"As a struggling new Ranger in '94, Andy saw some potential in me and took me under his wing. He was Specialist Fernandez at that time, a machine gunner in 2nd platoon, A Company, 1st Ranger Battalion. He made me his Assistant Gunner and led me to success in my time with the Rangers. He exemplified quiet professionalism and always led by example. He was and ramains a powerful example in my life."
Sam A. Zimmerman of Apache Junction, AZ

"I had the priviledge of serving with George and am better for it. Thank you and your family for your sacrifice, honor, and bravery."
Dave of A Co 1/75 95-98

"I'm proud to have known and served with George Fernandez. He was a good man and he was always kind to those around him.

My deepest gratitude to him for his sacrifice, and my deepest sympathies to his family.

He is not forgotten......"
Josh K, ( A. Co. 1/75 '92--95) of HBG. PA.

"Here is something we used to play when we were children:

I would say "Where oh where has my Underdog gone? Where oh where can he be?" and Andy would run up and save me from Simon Bar Sinister. He was my Underdog. I've been singing that song for over a year in my head....I miss him so very, very much."
Durdo(Boo's Cousin) of Texas

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

"Will is two years old now. He can tell you his name, address, and how old he is. He can hit a ball that is pitched to him. He can kick his soccer ball like a seasoned pro. He, like his dad can run all day long. He has to have his books read to him every day. He loves to look at the photos of his dad. I hid Easter eggs for him this past weekend and he had a ball looking for them. I wish, if only for a few minutes I could trade places with you. Andy, you would be proud of your son. Will will always know who you are, and what you stood for. To us, you were more of a son than son-in-law. We love and miss you. You are our Hero."
Walt Haines MSgt USMC (ret) of Brooklet, Ga

""Remembering them..Its been a year..

At the rising of the sun and at its going down, We remember them.
At the blowing of the wind and in the chill of Winter, We remember them.
At the opening of buds and in the rebirth of Spring, We remember them.
At the blueness of the skies and in the warmth of Summer, We remember them.
At the rustling of leaves and the beauty of Autumn, We remember them.
At the beginning of the year and when it ends, We remember them.
As long as we live, they too will live;
for they are now a part of us, as we remember them.
Rest in Peace Dear Soldier! We will NEVER FORGET!""
The Grogan Family (USMC) of Lakeland, TN

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

"Thank you George Fernandez, 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 a loving cousin-- you are truly missed."
Matthew William Walker of Warrenton, VA

"As a member of the Minnesota Army National Guard for the past 25 years. my thoughts,prayers,and my heart goes out to all our heroes who have gone before me and to those who have paid the ultimate price.To Master Sgt.Fernandez, his family and friends.May god grant you peace,love and hope.YOU DESERVE ALL THREE! THANK YOU."
SSG. Rory Chavez of St. Paul , MN.

"Although I never knew Master Sgt George Fernandez, it will always bring great sorrow to my heart when any of our brothers in arms is put forth by our nation to give the ultimate sacrifice. I am writing this to give tribute to his courage, loyalty, and honor, and to let it be known that I will always wear the KIA bracelet around my wrist stating: George A. Fernandez USA 02 APR 03 Iraq. You will be remembered."
C/CMSgt Ben Norbrothen CAP of Acton MA

"Andy left a lasting impression on all who had the honor to serve with him. He will be truely missed."
Matt of Indiana

"My deepest sympathies to the family of George Fernandez. I had the privilege of serving with George in 1st Ranger Battalion and am better for knowing him. He always wore a smile, had a sharp wit, and had a twinkle in his eye. I've just returned from Iraq and know the pain of losing a friend. I can only imagine the pain of losing a son, husband and father. God bless you all in your time of grief."
Vern Tubbs of Fort Benning, Georgia

"Our prayers are with your family during this difficult time. Thank you brave soldier, your courage and sacrifice will nerver be forgotten."
Ken and Maritza Holley of Pembroke Pines, Florida

"To the family, friends and loved ones of Master Sgt. George A Fernandez: Words cannot express the gratitude I feel for this young man. I am proud that he was my fellow American. May God be with you during this time of grief."
Terri Curtis of Green Forest, Arkansas

"To the family and friends of Master Sgt. George Fernandez:
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 George 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 Master Sgt. George Fernandez:
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 George, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera, of Powder Springs, Georgia

"Your mission here has been completed. The Lord took you for a new special mission. We shall never forget you. You served with honor and dignity. RIP Brave Warrior..

I AM A SPECIAL FORCES NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER.
I WEAR THE GREEN BERET;
A SYMBOL OF EXCELLENCE,
A BADGE OF COURAGE,
A MARK OF DISTINCTION.
I WILL NEVER DISHONOR THE REPUTATION OF THOSE BEFORE ME.
THEIR IMAGINATION, RESOURCEFULNESS AND SPIRIT
WILL BE WITH ME IN MY EVERY CHALLENGE.
COMPETENCE , RESPONSIBILITY AND LOYALTY
ARE MY WATCHWORDS.
EXCELLENCE, MY LOWEST STANDARD.
I AM A STUDENT, A TEACHER, A WARRIOR AND DIPLOMAT.
I AM UNIQUE, ONE OF A SELECT FEW,
A QUIET PROFESSIONAL IN ALL THAT I DO.
I AM A SPECIAL FORCES NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER."
The Taylors, USMC of North Carolina