Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I met Carrie briefly in 2005, as her unit had replaced mine, 1-27INF 25th ID. While our conversations were brief and short lived, she always sticks out in my mind as the only women that has ever called me a pretty boy. I have never forgot that. A wonderful human being that the world had lost."
Justin Klosky of Saltsburg, PA

"I think of you often and remember what a great Soldier your were. You will not be forgotten in my heart. Rest easy Soldier"
CSM Michael Winstead (RET) of Modesto CA

"Still today looking back to 2005, I remember Carrie playing guitar at the Chapel in Kirkuk just the day before she was killed. I was a Protestant Chaplain for the 1-148 FA Unit of the 116th BCT. Before she went on to be with the Lord I presented the last gospel message she heard and served her Holy Communion along with her fellow soldiers and airmen in arms. She was ready for whatever might come! God bless her family during this Memorial holiday 2017."
The Rt. Rev. William Nicholson, former Chaplain 1-148 FA, 116 BCT, 42nd ID of Anchorage, Alaska

"Carrie you are so not forgotten. It has been almost 11 years and I think of you often. I remember the day you were called home. My heart broke for your family and friends. Every year on the day you left this world to be back with our Heavenly Father I pray for your family. You are so very missed. I met you but one time and you were all smiles. I know you are safe and patiently awaiting for the day we too are called home. "Always in our hearts and Always on our minds""
Spc Mel Jones of Twin Falls, ID

"Spc French was a wonderful person who glowed for everyone she touched. She was always so kind and sweet to everyone and I remember June 5th everyday. It was the day right after my birthday that we all got the sad news about Carrie. I was attached to the 216th MI CO on FOB Warrior. She came from FT Bliss TX along with all us other fillers. She was a excellent soldier and touched so many people in positive ways and will always live on in our memories. RIP Spc French."
SGT Russell Daigneault (Retired) of Florida

"I remember this day, I think about it quite often. She was just hitching a ride with our convoy to get back from McHenry to Warrior. I can still picture her during the convoy briefing. It happen about 300 meters after a I.P check point. Right before fob gains mills. Tonight as I sit on my porch enjoying adult beverage was the first time I decide to type her name in many years later and I came up on this site.. I ask myself many times what if, what if this. everytime I hear the phrase not on my watch . This day comes to mind. Moving forward.... I just want to say God speed and r.i.p comrade . Your parents should be so proud of you. det 4 Spc klinger"
Spc Klinger J of Lehigh valley ,Pa

"June 5, 2015

This is just to let you know that you are not forgotten. Like so many soldiers before you, you too made the ultimate sacrifice so others may live. Thank you Carrie."
Kristi M. of Portland

"I have never forgotten you Carrie, I didn't know you personally, but have never forgotten you and your families sacrifice made that day in Iraq. I could not and still can't get past the thought of my own daughters and how this family must feel in there loss. This tragedy and many others during my time sharing the same ground as you with the 163rd INF out of your Battalion in the same deployment, have shaped me into the person I am today. The unrealistic thoughts, the good ones... I will never forget you Carrie, you are one of the people that drive my life today!"
SSG Hall, MTARNG of Great Falls, MT

"I remember exactly where and what I was doing when I heard Carries vehicle was hit with an IED. We had just arrived at FOB Warrior in Kirkuk not too long before this took place. We were out doing PMCS on our route clearance vehicles getting them ready for our runs for the day. It is gut wrenching to think that we may have missed the one that took Carries life way too soon, or maybe if we had been an hour earlier we could have prevented it. I am very sorry for your families loss and wish I could have gotten to know her a little bit better."
SSG Thompson of Brighton, IL

"June 5, 2014

Sometimes I wonder what I should write here. There are no words that will ever replace the loss of anyone. Maybe the words are more for us that are left behind to help remind us that life is fleeting and to spend as much time with our friends and family as we can while we live. Carrie cannot be replaced by words, but the time she spent among friends and family are priceless. Cherish those memories. She made such an enormous sacrifice, the greatest anyone can give, let us never forget. Thank you Carrie for your service and your sacrifice."
Kristi Martin of Portland, Oregon

"There is seldom a day that goes by that I do not think of Carrie French or her parents. I was an Air Force Chaplain in Kirkuk and on the day she was injured I helped carry her litter from the helicopter to the medical tent. I prayed, we all prayed for her. She was too young. Everyday I am trying to do something to encourage Vets as a VA chaplain and honor the memory and life of Carrie French. Her loss affected all who knew her or tried to save her. As the anniversary of her loss draws near, I pray God will continue to comfort and strengthen her parents. For Carrie, you paid the highest price to serve our country. We will never forget. You are are now with a loving and gentle God. Rest, dear one. Rest."
Chaplain USAF (Ret) Vic Toney of Memphis, TN

"You are never forgotten... I came here after I came across your name on Facebook " women on the terror statue I Google you name and came here to show my respect and thank you for you service.."
SGT Santos of 248th norwich Ct

"To Carrie's family, she was like one of my girls in basic . She wasn't much older then my oldest, she made life easy for me being away from my kids for so long. We went our separate ways after basic but I had pictures of her and others that I kept close to my heart during my military journey. I was deployed in kuwait and pushed her unit through at the time I didn't know it was the last time I would see her.. She was a bright spot in my life for the time I got to spend with her. I will forever be honored to have severed with her and been part of her life. Thank you for the time I got to spend with her. She will always be in my heart."
Michelle Roman Leese of Ft Hood, Texas

"Hi Carrie, friends & family,
I just wanted to say thank you for your service to our country on this Flag Day 2013. I was one of the medics that helped work on you June 5th. Truth is, for some reason that day I connected with you. I too was young, 20 & my first time at war. Scared out of my mind, but doing what I loved. I have a 4 leaf clover like you & I can still see yours in my mind. I never had the chance to meet you personally, but you have touched my heart forever. I think about you a lot & also the reason why I am still in healthcare. I just want you to know that we tried our best for you & it was tough on all of us medics/doctors/RN's that day. For whatever reason, you were put into my life for a brief time, but you will be with me emotionally/spiritually forever. Blessed to have served with you. We need more heroes like you! God Bless!"
Nicole McAllister of Lake Stevens, WA

"June 6, 2013 - today I come to give my respect to Carrie to let her know that I have not forgotten the sacrifice she made."
Kristi M of Portland, Oregon

"As I sit here on Memorial Day 2013 I remember many faces and names. Yours was the first. You are not forgotten and your family is not forgotten for what they endured."
SFC Michael Mangan 44th Airborne MEDEVAC Kirkuk of Smethport Pa

"French,
Happy birthday. I think of you often and all the fun times we had with our platoon in AIT. You were an amazing person and I'm thankful for the friendship we built. I miss you."
Diamond of Florida

"Hi Carrie. As every year, this time a candle burns in Germany for you on your birthday.
I unfortunately never got to know you, but read a lot about you - always good.

I wish I could learn more about you. Eventually we will get to know us, perhaps, but not in this world.

I wish there where you are now a wonderful birthday, and your family and friends after all these years, all the comfort of the world.
I am sure you will never be forgotten, and in the hearts of Thy love to live forever.
Wishing you a happy birthday Carrie - a friend"
Bernhard of Germany

"Carrie today is your birthday and I wanted to wish you a Happy Birthday. I know it would have been a lot nicer to be able to celebrate your special day with you right here but I know that in reality you really are here. You will always be HERE because you are in our hearts and minds. You are with us always as long as we love you and remember you. Thank You for being the wonderful, happy, sweet lady that you always are and for making the world a better place. You will ALWAYS be remembered."
db of Saint Anthony, Idaho, USA

"its so nice to know that as many people as there are that care about my sister are out there i will miss you everyday carrie"
her sister of caldwell idaho

"she was a great sister i try not to think about her not being her anymore i just try to think about all the good times she and i spent togther before she deployed to iraq-
her sister"
mikala hylinski of caldwell idaho

"God Bless you in Heaven, and your family and friends here on Earth. I didn't know you but i miss you dearly."
Samuel Bull of Mount Vernon, WA

"June 5, 2012

Here to tell you Carrie that you are not forgotten. I hope you are finding peace and happiness. A lot has changed and I only hope we American's earn the gift you sacrificed for us."
Kristi Martin of Portland, Oregon

"To the friends and family of Spc. Carrie L. French. On my way through Warrior while I was out there I happened to snap a picture of the mural they painted for her on the FOB. If anyone hasn't seen it yet and would like a copy of it shoot me an email at jkobylarz@hotmail.com. I will more then happily send it off to you. God Bless."
SPC Kobylarz of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA

"I still think about you often, Carrie. I will never forget that day. I am honored to have had to privilege to call you one of my soldiers. Although you joined our section later in the deployment, you fit right in. I could always trust you to take pride in your work and complete it to standard. You were a great person and a great soldier."
2LT Shaun O'Connor of Seattle, WA

"I only met you acouple of times but you were a sweet girl and you were taken at such a young age. I served with Carrie in 04-05 I remember when she got to Kirkuk and then to Mchenry. out of all the people that have lost their lives you name i will never forget for the rest of my life. they say the war is over and troops are coming home but it never will end for us and the family that lost love ones in that hell hole they call Iraq I will never forget you"
SGT MIDDLETON of CHICAGO

"June 6th, 2011

Just stopping by to let you know that you are still in my thoughts and will never be forgotten Carrie."
K. Martin of Washington D.C.

"Hi Carrie. I saw you today in the Meridian Walmart Fallen Heroes display. I miss that beautiful smile and twinkling eyes. I remember chatting with you most of freshman and sophomore year at Middleton High. I remember playing with your soft beautiful hair in a few classes. Never got in trouble for it. LOL! You will never be forgotten. May God bless you and your family always."
Jessica Dyson of Meridian, Idaho

"Carrie was my cousin, And I will always miss her and love her, and I'm sure my uncle Rick will to but I'm sure she's in a better place right now and she'll never be forgotten... I love you Carrie Lee French!"
Savanna F. of Caldwell, Idaho

"6/5/2010
Hello Carrie, thought about you a lot the past few weeks. I hope you know you are still in our thoughts and prayers."
Kristi of Washington, DC

"I served as a healthcare professional, 506 EMEDS, FOB Warrior/Kirkuk AB 2003 and 2007. Although I was not deployed when Carrie L. French fell, my heart goes out to her family even at this late date. My condolences. Sincerely, Charles Thie, LtCol, 506th EMEDS, FOB Warrior, Iraq."
Charles Thie of Burlington, Iowa

"10/25/09 Carrie and Dustin are two of a select group of Heroes I use in a power point to teach children what Heroes and veterans are. I only met Carrie once at FOB Warrior but I think of her often. She was and is a credit to our nation and will never be forgotten. God bless and keep her family safe."
Ssg J.D. Walker of St Anthony, Id. USA

"Carrie you and your family are in our thoughts. You will never be forgotten."
db

"Hi Carrie. Just stopping in to say that you are not forgotten and that your sacrifice will not have been in vain as long as there are people like me that remember what you have given to us. Thank you so much."
Kristi of Washington D.C.

"Carrie French was an inspiration to all soldiers of the 148th from Boise, ID.

I arrived at Kirkuk Air Base, Iraq on May 14th, 2005 as a medic assigned to the 506 Emergency Medical Squadron. Just a mere 3 weeks later was an experience that I will never forget. June 5, 2005 we were called in "All EMEDS staff report to EMEDS."

Tears immediately filled my eyes as Spc French was brought in. I remember like it was yesterday after 30 minutes of CPR; the physician touching my shoulder saying we have to call it. My heart literally broke. I walked outside tears streaming down my face. I knelt down next to our cement barriers that lined the hospital and began asking my Father in Heaven why he had to take her from this world, why couldn't we save her. The response I recieved from my Heavenly Father was almost immediate as I felt his answer: Carrie has touched many people in this world; it is time for her to touch the many souls who are in need of her sweet spirit in heaven. She is now safe, no more fears, no more tears, no more pain; awaiting the day that she will see her wonderful fiance and family again."

Although it has taken nearly 4 years to deal with the grief of not being able to save Spc French; I can now say that it was an honor to be able to be one of the last to see her; Carrie's amazing spirit lives on in everyone that ever came in contact with her.

I also had the opportunity to be at her memorial on Kirkuk Air Base as she boarded the plane for the United States. I was proud to be able to offer a final salute to her as well as learn of her life and meet the fiance that had been mentioned by the holy spirit the day before.

I can't hardly wait for the day that I can actually meet Carrie in heaven and thank her for the spiritual experience that I was given in her absence.

My thoughts and prayers will always be with your family.

AJ Whittaker; SSgt Retired, US Air Force of Logan, UT"
AJ Whittaker; SSgt Retired; US Air Force of Logan, UT

"Carrie, I love you and I miss you more every day. I remember playing at your house after school every day in the third grade. I remember your mom taking us to the movies, and I remember playing with polly pockets in your basement. I remember fairs, dances, pools, and countless dollar store days with you. I will love you forever and miss you always. Best friends forever."
nicole kern of caldwell, idaho

"Carrie,
I always wonder why God chose me. Out of all the other Idaho medics in Iraq, God chose me to be with you on that day. Sometimes I think it was just fate. But after 3 ½ years I finally know why. God wanted someone else to be able to see the Angels and hear their trumpets sounding while our Father was taking you home. It is very bittersweet, but I am glad that I was able to be there to help usher you Home. You will always be in my heart and apart of my life. I anxiously wait till our Father calls me home. Cus I can’t wait to meet you, hang out, drinking some Living Water and walk the Streets of Gold."
of Idaho

"today more than 3 years after you are gone...i thought about you and how much we all love you... you live on in all of are hearts forever. love Adam your lil cousin in florida"
Adam Matuszek of Winter Springs FL

"June 6th, 2008

Just stopping in to let you know that I have not forgotten the sacrifice you made for me and the rest of our country. I have come to this web page every year since it was created to honor you and will continue to do so as long as I am able too. Thank you Carrie."
Kristi of Minneapolis, Minn

"Your daughter is a brave women and a hero, I never meet her. However my sister was there with her. It was the longest year of my life when my baby sister got deployed, as it was the hardest. Carrie is a hero and loved by all that knew her, and we all love her,even us that never met her. I have said many prayers for your family. God bless you and your baby girl."
Brandy Johnson of Spokane

"June 3, 2008
To the family of Spc. Carrie L. French:
Carrie 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 Cihlders
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV

"carrie was a good friend of mine in ait and she introduced me to the father of my child. everytime i see her smile i think about carrie. she was a great girl and i have many fond memories of her that i will never forget. she was taken way too soon. i miss you carrie."
spc diamond of killeen,tx, us

"Cheese cake will never taste the same knowing you're not here to enjoy it with me, i will keep my promise. i will never forget you!"
SPC Cancel of Germany

"Paula, my heart goes out to you and your family. Having just met you, I know Carrie must have been a wonderful young woman. She lives forever in your heart and in the heart of those who loved her. I honestly wish we had no gold star families. Please know that I am always just an email away. We have a shared kinship. While we are not family, we are part of a greater family unit, the military family. We won't forget Carrie or any of her brothers and sisters in service.

an Army wife"
Mary Louise Lawhorn of Killeen/Justin, TX

"Hi Carrie. Been awhile since I posted but I have been thinking about you lately. Just stopping in to late you know that my prays are still with you and your family."
Kristi of Minneapolis, MN - formerly from Boise, ID

"I NEVER HAD THE HONOR OF MEETING CARRIE AND WANT TO WISH HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. SHE IS GONE BUT WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. MAY SHE REST IN PEACE."
MIKE TANNER, VETERAN OPERTION IRAQI FREEDOM of POB 389 ROCKY POINT, NY 11778

"Till this day I remember your smile when your convoy went out the wire but I'll never forget the lives you touched within our hearts."
SGT Escamilla, David of San Diego, Ca

"Carri I just wanted to tell your family that you are not forgotten. Your family is always in our hearts and prayers."
Debbi Birch of St. Anthony, Idaho/Fremont

"Happy birthday carrie jeez i mis you. No family get together is the same now. you were my favorite cousin and you live on in all of our hearts."
sam Matuszek of portsmouth, RI

"i know this is late but happy birthday carrie.. i haven't been on in awhile and i thought it being her b-day last month. i love u and i miss you!!!!"
Erika Schroeder of Caldwell,Idaho

"Happy 21st Birthday Carrie! The beautiful memory of you lives on and on in our hearts and lives.

We love you and miss you!"
Becky Harvey & Family of New Plymouth, Idaho

"Today (February 28, 2007) would have been Carrie's 21st b-day. She is still remembered, still missed, and her sacrifice still appreciated.

Happy birthday, Carrie."
Robbie of Austin, TX

"Hey Lady, Its feels so strange to write. Can you beleive that youre 21st birthday is coming up. I remember the promise and James got my tickets to keep that promise. Lifes not the same Frenchi, I miss you and wish for so many things to have been different. You are my hero, you showed me so much, I just dont know why it had to be you. I miss you lady and send my love."
spc Marisa Mcarter (mcsmith) of kailua Hi, HIARNG, prior IDARNG

"Spc. French I never got to know you, It was a shame when we heard about what happened. I had just joined up with 116th engr (rear) while the unit was deployed and am saddened by the tragedy that befell you and our other soldiers and wish your family the best of luck , and God bless all of you

RIP SPC FRENCH AND SPC WOLF(11-6-03)"
Pfc. Zachary A Wolf of 145th support battalion post falls idaho

"carrie i cant even begin to discribe the impact you have made on my life dad and papa and i miss you so much! we send our love as high as you are...please watch over us and know we are always thinking about you and missing you daily! our prayers are with! i love you and missyerface"
kayla guinn of meridian,id

"SOLDIER, FRIEND
CPL FRENCH THANKS FOR THE SMILES, THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES THAT YOU SHARED WITH THE SOLDIERS AND AIRMEN OF FOB WARRIOR. THE 145TH BATTALION WASNT THE SAME, DAYS AND WEEKS AFTER WERENT THE SAME. YOU ARE A ROSE, YOU ARE THE LIGHT, WHY DID YOU AHVE TO GO, I DO NOT KNOW. WE MISS YOU! THANK YOU.
"WHY DO THE GOOD DIE YOUNG""
SPC CAJES of FORT WADSWORTH(FOB WARRIOR)

"SOLDIER, FRIEND
CPL FRENCH THANKS FOR THE SMILES, THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES THAT YOU SHARED WITH THE SOLDIERS AND AIRMEN OF FOB WARRIOR. THE 145TH BATTALION WASNT THE SAME, DAYS AND WEEKS AFTER WERENT THE SAME. YOU ARE A ROSE, YOU ARE THE LIGHT, WHY DID YOU AHVE TO GO, I DO NOT KNOW. WE MISS YOU! THANK YOU.
"WHY DO THE GOOD DIE YOUNG""
SPC CAJES of FORT WADSWORTH

"To the French family and friends, I never had a chance to meet Carrie, but I worked with C-Med, 145 when we lost her. I had just met her boyfriend, sorry I forget his name, a week or so before we lost her. I attended her memorial in Kirkuk and the song played by Yellowcard became one of my favorites. Carrie was a beautiful girl who I will never forget."
Spc Kate Czerwinski of 313 Med Omaha, NE

"Carrie was our cousin and we are saying to are aunt Paula we wish her best of luck
From Sam and Adam Matuszek"
Adam Matuszek of RI Portsmouth

"You are not forgotten Carrie. I posted a message here last year in your honor and I am back again. Over the last year I have prayed for you and your loved ones and all the other men and women who have or continue to fight on foreign soil.

You will be missed, always, and once again Carrie - I, our nation, can never ever thank you enough. Thank you so much."
Kristi of Boise, Idaho

"Thank you Carrie for all that you have done. I dont know you but what a great experience it would have been to meet you. I guess I will just have to wait until we all see you in heaven.
May you rest in peace.

And to your family-
Just remember that she is busy up in heaven with her spirit. Her body may be barried, but her spirit is up in heaven rooting for u guys to get their.
May God bless you.
I will pray for your family.
Thank you again Carrie, what a great person you are and were and will be forever."
Kody of Boise, Idaho United States

"To the family Carrie French left behind: I am the ID State Coordinator for the Home of the Brave Quilt Project. It is our group's goal to make a memorial quilt for each fallen soldier from Idaho. We are a group of volunteers that are part of a nationwide organization of volunteers who are making Civil War Reproduction Quilts for the families of Fallen Soldiers. Our hope is that the quilt we are making for your family will be a small token of our deep appreciation for your ultimate sacrifice and serve as some comfort in the many years to come. Please contact me at czelus@hotmail.com"
Cheryl Zelus of Home of the Brave-ID State Coordinator

"Dear Carrie,
I had no idea what happened to you until today, I found out from Cancel. I'm just so shocked that this really happened, I mean I went to AIT with you, I just didn't expect one of us to die this soon. I remember school like it was yesterday, we used to party at the hotels almost every weekend. I'll never forget you or who you were. I just hope that someday when I die I'm remembered and loved as much as you are. I'm gonna miss you carrie, I just wish there was more I could say.
Love always
PFC Byron, Jonathan"
Jon Byron of Fort Bragg, NC

"Even though I knew you only from Basic Training, I feel you were like a sister. We laughed and joked all through Boot Camp. I found out from Palmer just tonight. To me this happened recently...I wish you the world. Battle Buddies for ever"
PFC Chelsey Morris of California

"Carrie's family: Words aren't enough and I really don't know where to begin or what to say. I will keep you in my prayers. Carrie thank you for your service. May you rest in peace."
jack benitez

"carrie was a very good friend of mine kinda like a cousin and i will never forget her. she will always be in my heart no matter what. sometimes i think she is still in iraq but to know she isn't kills me inside. i love you carrie and i miss you!!"
Erika Schroeder

"We used to live in Caldwell. We just want to say "thanks". What a wonderful person you must have been!"
Karl & Peggy Uppiano of Ferndale, WA/USA

"Thank you. Godspeed."
John Kanca III,DMD of Middlebury CT

"French Family:
I am a total stranger, but never the less I would like to offer my condolences.
I would like to express my gratitude. The freedom we enjoy in this nation is only possible by the sacrifice of true heroes like Carrie.

God Bless Her"
Ramon Zuniga of San Diego

"I never met you. I just felt compeled to come here today to honor you. Thank you Carrie."
Kristi of Boise, Idaho

"FRENCH!! I MiSS U SO MUCH GiRL,i CANT BELiEVE THAT WE ARE NOT STiLL TOGETHER LiKE WE ALWAYS USED TO BE iN AiT.. i DONT THiNK i WOULD HAVE HAS ANYMORE FUN iF U WASNT THERE iN OUR ROOM TO FORCE ME TO LiSTEN TO COUNTRY MUSiC.. i LOVE U FOR THAT THOUGH CAUSE i ENJOY iT.. i GUESS iM JUS A LiL UPSET WiT MYSELF BECAUSE i JUST FOUND OUT ABOUT THE TRAGEDY LAST NiGHT FROM DiAMOND!(12/04/2005)i REALLY WiSH i WOULD HAVE KEPT iN TOUCH A LiL BETTER... BUT YOU WiLL ALWAYS BE REMEMBER iN MY HEART.. YOU WERE THE BEST ROOMiE A SOLDiER COULD ASK FOR ESPECiALLY WHEN i NEEDED A BATTLE TO SPEAK WiT D.S "D" THANKS A lOT FRENCH.. i REALLY DO LOVE U AND MiSS YOU!!

"AMMO DOGS!""
PFC WOODARD of SACRAMENTO, CA 483RD TRANSPORTATION BN REAR DETACHMENT

"Carrie was (is) a wonderful woman who impacted each person that was lucky enough to have known her. I was the Air Force's AMMO Team Leader while we were in Iraq and got to work with our Army AMMO counterparts (Carried) quite often. She was always smiling and happy. What a day-brightening smile. My prayers go out to her family and friends..hopefully the dying will end soon."
Craig Ahrens of Hill AFB, Ut

"Dear Family and Friends of Spc. Carrie French,

My heart goes out to you as you mourn the loss of Carrie. I know how proud you are of her. I don't know what it it would be like to lose a child in any situation. My son is in Iraq now and I pray for his safe return. I know that many friends, family, brother's and sister's she served with are praying for you daily.

In Honor of your daughter's sacrifice I created a Memorial for her. You may keep it private or share it with those who visit.

It's an Honor to create this Memorial for Carrie. My prayer's are with you all.

God Bless

www.aherostribute.org"
Cheryl Polk of Sanford, FL

"SPC French was an extremely intelligent and ambitious student that displayed great leadership skills among her peers during AIT (Advanced Individual Training) for the 89B Ammunition Specialist Course at Redstone Arsenal, AL. We could see that she was one of the Army's rising stars. She gave her life in the line of duty and service to her country, doing her job, accomplishing the war-time mission of her unit and setting the example of courage for the rest of us soldiers to follow. SPC French, we will continue the fight, remembering you always. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends."
SSG E.A. Aguilar, Instructor of Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, Alabama

"I didn't know this young woman. I wish that I could have. Although I never met her, I'm so very proud of her---and of all our troups.
She was able to do what so many women before her were not allowed to do---fight for her country.
There are so many misguided people in our country, who don't seem to realize that our freedom in the USA was fought for on the battle fields. They can protest this war all they want; but the fact remains. If our ancestors had not shed their blood for this country, these people wouldn't even have the right to protest this war.
God bless Carrie and her family. My prayers go out to all of them. She was a true patriot."
i love my country of PA

"Carrie was not only my room mate, but one of my best friends on this deployment. Words can not express how much I miss her smiling face everyday. She always had a positive attitude, and she made it easier for me to be away from my family. To her family, I am so sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathies are with you, she talked about you often. The section misses her, and so does the whole 145th Support Battalion."
Mallorie Staley of 145th SPT BN Ammo Section, Kirkuk, Iraq

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

"I talked with Carrie on a few occasions. She always seemed to be smiling and happy when I saw or talked with her. She was such a sweet girl. Everything has now become so much more personal. Thank you Carrie for your sacrifice! I will never forget; and may God bless your family."
SPC Brubaker of 148th FA Kirkuk Iraq

"To Carrie's Family, I remember the first time I saw Carrie's picture and obit on anysoldier.com I could not stop crying. You have such a beautiful, nice and brave daughter. I know she is in heaven now safe and at peace. She is truly an Ameican Hero, and will always be remembered and honored. You have raised a great daughter, you should be proud. God Bless You all."
Mary Ghaney of Brooklyn, New York

"Thank You Carrie for your heroism. May you rest peacefully at last. You are finally safe. My heart aches with your family for their loss."
Melissa Macchi, (cousin of PFC Mark Barbret from Shelby Twp., MI, killed 10/14/04,) of Roseville, MI

"To the French family...although I didn't hang out with her much, I did meet Carrie in Kirkuk on numerous occasions dealing with my job, and then it became a habit just to stop in and say hello. If I remember correctly, she was just a few weeks away from coming home for leave. I'm sorry she never made it home. She left us, the day we left the AOR. I will always remember her and the rest of the ammo troops. She will never be forgotten."
SrA Angela Olguin, USAF of Cannon AFB, NM

"My family and I all thank you for your support. She had a beautiful funeral minus the protestors that held banners...."god bless ied's"

Thank you all
Sara (carries sister)"
Sara Gillman of Kingman, Az

"I honor you, Carrie. You are such an inspiration to me. Your parents truly raised a hero, and I strive to do that with my daughter too. Thank you, French Family."
Heather Lee of Nampa, ID

"To the family of Carrie French. I am truly and deeply saddened for your loss of a special loved one. My heart aches for you and I pray that you will find peace in all of the wonderful memories that you have of her. It is very difficult to get through some of the pain but please know there are many of us who share your grief and we are so very proud of Carrie and the role she played in allowing us to keep our personal freedom. We too have lost a loved one (PFC Jerrick Petty)to the cause of restoring freedom in Iraq and know what you are feeling. Please know that we are proud of her and your family for the strength to endure this tragedy. God Bless you and keep you. I will not forget Carrie and her sacrifice for others. Nor, will I ever take for granted the sacrifice that you have made."
Stacy Humpherys of Pocatello, Idaho

"never knew you brave soldier...heard of your service from a friend in kuna...as a vietnam combat vet who has lost a 19 year old soldier who called me "uncle" and "god father" in afghanistan on aug. 29th 2003...i want to commend you for your service...and extend my condolences to your family..."
thomas connolly of andover, massachusetts

"I attended your funeral today. I did not know you, but I will always honor what you gave us all...your sacrifice, your courage will always be rememebered. Through your selfless deeds, my son who is only 8 months old will know a better tomorrow and he will know the freedom that you gave him and us all. His grandfather is laid to rest not far from you..we will visit you both and all the others who gave to us and our nation the ultimate sacrifice...and we will remember and never forget........we thank you"
The Sauceda Family of Caldwell, Idaho USA

"A true fallen hero in these latter days. We've done our best to prevent this, only the Lord knows his ways."
Doc Jawbone, 91W of The 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, NY

"such a beautiful girl - such a hero"

"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

"To Carries family and friends, The words I say right now will not bring you comfort. Your hurt is deep and your hearts are heavy. As parents you ask how can we go on. Yet, you will find a strength inside of you that pushes you. I too have lost a soldier and lost some of my dreams too. It's hard to digest and at times you just wish it will all end. Know that you are not alone. There are many of us who are waiting to hold you up when you feel weak. We will listen to you at all hours of the night and cry with you and embrace you. This community is called taps. www.taps.org I would be lost without taps. It's a place to see hope again in others who have lost children and loved ones. When you're ready we will be there for you. Know that your being hugged right now and our thoughts and our hearts break for you also. May God get you through this tough time and strengthen those around you.
Carrie, know that your family is in our hearts and in our prayers. Thank you for serving unselfishly."
Brooke,Christopher, Tristan, our soldier spc baker kia 11/15/03 of Franklin,Tn,USA

"Our family is so sorry for your loss. Our son served with Carrie. He called to express to us his sadness. He said Carrie was such a nice girl. We want you to know that our family has you in our prayers. We appreciate Carrie's and your great sacrifice. There is a lot of pride in having a child desire to serve, but a lot of fear also. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful daughter."
The Brubaker Family of Camino, Calif by way of Rexburg, Id

"To The French 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 her 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 Soldier.."
The Grogan Family of Lakeland, TN 6/9/05

"Carrie was a very good friend of mine she has been in my life since i was born.my family and i will always remember her no matter what. my mom has known her all her life.We love her and will miss her."
Erika Schroeder of Caldwell,Idaho,U.S.A.

"6/8/05 Our deepest and heartfelt sympathy to Spc. French's family and friends. We understand your tremendous sadness, yet a great sense of pride. Carrie is a true heroin and will go down in history as a great woman 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 Baghdad on 1/28/05) of Krotz Springs, Louisiana

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

"I am so sorry for the loss of this young lady and so proud of her. Thank you, Carrie for doing your part to take care of us here at home."
Sharon Stanger of Idaho Falls, ID USA

"RIP Carrie. Your an Angel in the big beautiful Sky"
J and T USMC

"I didn't know Spc. French personally but I did meet her the night before she was killed. She was running the internet cafe here in Kirkuk so I only talked to her breifly while she took down my information, and I remember cracking a joke about her last name to my buddy in line. With each soldier killed around me reality hasn't hit until now. Because now I have a face to match up with the name and I can't help but feel a loss in my heart for her. I consider myself lucky to have met and served with her. She will always be remembered as long as I live."
Spc. Chellis Dodge of Kirkuk, Iraq

"To the French family, I am very sorry for your loss. I am praying for your family, may you find comfort in God's grace and in your wonderful memories of Carrie! I know how you are feeling, my brother, SSG Sean Huey was KIA on 11 Nov 04. Please know that Carrie did not die in vain, she died a hero. I salute her serving this country and I salute you for raising such a fine daughter. With respect and honor..."
TSgt Colleen Garra of Ft Bragg NC

"TO THE FRENCH FAMILY FROM THE WAHL FAMILY. WE ARE DEEPLY SADDEN OVER THE LOST OF CARRIE. AN OUR HEART AND PRAYS ARE WITH HER AND YOUR FAMILY. CARRIE HAS NOT GIVEN HER LIFE IN VAIN. SHE WAS A VERY SPECIAL INDIVIDUAL. THAT HAS TOUCHED THE HEART OF SO MANY. aMONG HER FRIENDS, NEIGHBOR'S, LOVE ONE'S, HER MILITARY FAMILY OF BROTHER'S, SISTER'S,THOSE IN HER COMMUNITY, UNIT AND THE PEOPLE OF IRAQ. CARRIE YOU WILL BE REMEMBERED TO ALL AMERICAN'S. FOR PROTECTING US AGAINST TERRORISM. FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY HAS MADE AMERICA ALOT SAVER SINCE 911. THIS IS NO ACCOMPLISHED WITHOUT LOST SON LAST MAY 2004. AN I ALWAYS REMEMEBER MY MANY CONVERSATIONS WITH HIM. DAD I DON'T HAVE SOLDIER'S NOR BUDDIES: I HAVE BROTHER'S AND SISTER'S: WE WATCH OVER ONE ANOTHER AND EACH OTHER'S UNIT FOR WE ARE FAMILY! SO IT'S A COMFORT TO ME THAT HIS SISTER (CARRIE). SERVED ALONG SIDE EACH OTHER,AND SADLY DIDN'T REALLY KNOW ONE ANOTHER. STILL GREG: DESCRIBED IT FOR THE TRUTH! CARRIE YOUR HIS SISTER AND YOU BOTH ARE NOW TOGETHER. THANK YOU FOR SERVING OUR COUNTRY! MY HEART AND PRAYS ARE WITH YOUR FAMILY. CARRIE THE PERSON YOU ARE IS BECAUSE OF THOSE IN YOUR LIFE! YOUR LOST BRINGS TEARS AS ALL THE FALLEN DO! YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART AND PRAYS, NEVER EVER TO BE FORGOTTEN."
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"Thank you Carrie French, 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 Spc. Carrie French:
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 Carrie for the sacrifice she has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of Spc. Carrie French:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. She 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 Carrie, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia