Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

Remembering the servicemembers who died in the service of their country.

Marine Lance Cpl. Derek L. Gardner

20, of San Juan Capistrano, California.
Gardner died due to enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, California. Died on September 6, 2004.

Please send information, photos, and corrections for Marine Lance Cpl. Derek L. Gardner.

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Contributions to the Families of the Fallen

Messages:

Leave a message in memory of this servicemember, and/or to the loved ones left behind.

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"Joy and laughter ate gifts from God. May Jesus fill you with them once more as you endure these days and holidays ahead which will remind you of your loved Marine family member. Semper Fidelis"
Matthew of CORONA,CA

"To the family of LCPL Derek Gardner; I had the pleasure of serving with Derek in Truck Company. He was a great Marine and an even better person. We will always remember him and the infectious smile that he carried with him. R.I.P. Semper Fi"
Jake Dingess of Omaha, NE

"I am the mother of a Fallen Marine who served with 2/1. We are trying to locate the final resting place as well as the next of kin as the date of our ten year reunion approaches. I have read that your Marine was cremated. Do you mind sharing with me if his ashes are spread somewhere that might one day be visited? My name is De'on Miller and my email is deonmiller7@hotmail.com. My Marine, Lcpl Aaron C. Austin was KIA April 26, 2004. God bless and thank you!"
De'on Miller of Lovington, NM

"LCpl Derek L Gardner you are a true friend. To the Family of Derek L Gardner I bow my head today with a tear in my eye as I give a Moment of silence for the passing of LCpl Gardner. He is a hero and will always be remembered by myself and those that where part of 1st Platoon Truck Company."
GySgt Robert Burghduff of Camp Pendleton, Ca

"I can't believe its been 7 yrs since this tragic accident. I remember meeting him at Knott's Berry Farm and from the start he would express how excited he was that after high school he was going to join the Marines just like his father and grandfather did. I also remember seeing him in his Class A uniform before he was deployed and he was so happy. He was such an awesome person and I will miss him."
Shannon Cowen-Day of Orange, CA USA

"To the family of:Derek L.Gardner
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""

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry. I understand in theory only that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take the families pain away but I can't. I am committed to loving ALL people, myself and our environment. I am committed to working on my happiness everyday because so many have died for my freedom to live my life. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have. All my love and respect. ogersteiner@yahoo.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEjz-wAQLSA&feature=PlayList&p=477CB1585D5551F3"
Scott Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"May God Bless you all."
Leila Shipman of Texas

"I can still see you coming in sleepy and tired, especially if there was a football game the night before, to attend your first period class as my aide in the front office of Laguna Hills High School. You were always so helpful and good natured. I recall how excited you were when you came in to show me your dog tag, camouflage uniform, boots, and close shaved head just a few days before being deployed to Iraq. I am now retired but I still think and pray for you."
Pilar Hoegi of Laguna Niguel, California

"My deepest sorrow goes to the friends and family of Derek Gardner. I cherish the friendship between Derek and I, and Derek will never be forgotten. Derek, if you are reading this. Thank you for everything bud."
A. Yu of Laguna Hills

"August 3, 2008
To the family of Lance Cpl. Derek L. Gardner:
Derek 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

"Derek was a great person. He was a true sportsman. I will dearly miss him."
Matin Sedigh of mission viejo, ca

"This message comes from Rochester Hills Mi on Memorial Day. I never did meet Derek but did know his mother and worked with her at MGE UPS Systems. Today my family will be part of the Memorial Day parade in a military jeep and will be in honor of Vicki's son Derek. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Derek's family as times have been challenging. A special message to Vicki and her son - be strong and proud of what your son sacrificed for us all here in the USA. Take care and best wishes always."
Patty Griffis of Rochester Hills, MI

"This is a message to the family and friends of Derek L. Gardner. Today, First Baptist of Orlando, honored the troops that has died in Iraq. A Flag for each troop that has fallen ( over 3,000 )was placed on a large open lot adjacent to a main thoroughfare near our church. There is a large sign saying "We will Remember" over these flags which denotes their reason and purpose. They will remain until July 4, 2007. Each flag had a name and date on it. It was my honor and privilege to be the one to place Derek L. Gardner's flag. We are grateful for the ultimate sacrifice for his county and the people of the USA. Yes, We will Remember."
W. D. Gibson, Jr. of Orlando, Florida USA

"This message is for Derek LLoyd Gardner's parent's: I wanted to let you know that your son was a great person and Marine. He always knew how to put a smile on your face, that's what made him a fun person to be around. I met Derek in M.O.S. school all the way through Truck Company. We didn't go to OIF the first time so we stayed in Camp Pendleton working for Division Schools, there he and I became better friends. We played handball at Cerritos College since I live down the street by Alondra Blvd. and Norwalk Blvd. I truly do miss Derek, he was a great person and will be missed but he will always be remembered as a heroe who layed down his life for his country and for us. I'll see you one day bro. And to his parents, God blessed you with a great Marine. Thank You."
Jesus Parra of Norwalk, CA

"TO THE PARENTS OF GARDNER, I WAS ON GUARD WITH HIM AND WE WERE ON POST FOR A LONG TIME HE TOLD ME HIS LIFE STORY AND I TOLD HIM MINE. I REMEMBER THIS ONE DARK NIGHT WHEN WE WERE GETTING READY TO GO ON POST HE WAS MAD FOR SOME REASON,LOL SO HE THREW HIS M-16 IN THE BACK OF THE HUMVEE WITH A MAGAZINE OF 30 ROUNDS IN IT AND SAID " * THIS * I WON'T NEED IT" HA HA IT PUT A SMILE ON MY FACE. AND THAT WAS THE KIND OF PERSON HE WAS OUT THERE, HE WAS ALWAYS LOOKIN FOR SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT. I SAW HIM THE DAY HE GOT INTO HIS SEVEN TON, AND TO THIS DAY I CAN STILL HEAR HIS VOICE CALLING ME, I LOOKED AND SAW HIM WE TALKED FOR A BRIEF MOMENT, BUT HE HAD TO GO AND DRIVE OUR MARINES TO THEIR OP'S

AND THATS THE LAST I HEARD FROM HIM, BUT TO THIS DAY I KNOW HE AND I WOULD STILL TALK AND BE FRIENDS.

SO REMEMBER HIM AND TELL PEOPLE THAT HE GAVE HIS LIFE FOR THIS GREAT COUNTRY."
TERRILL NAKAI of VISTA, CA

"To the parents of Derek Gardner, I'm sorry for your lost, I Knew him since boot camp, he had a huge heart, never once did I ever hear him say, I wish I never got into this. He was a great marine. Derek will never be forgotten."
Cpl. Guillen, Raymundo of Fort Worth, Tx

"TO THE PARENTS OF LCPL GARDNER I JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW THAT YOUR SON WAS A HELL OF A MARINE AND IT WAS A PLEASURE TO HAVE KNOWN AND WORK WITH HIM OUT THERE IN TRUCK CO. HE WAS A ONE OF A KIND TYPE OF GUY WHO WILL BE MISSED."
CPL MAUSTELLER WARREN of 8TH & I MARINE BARRACKS WASHINGTON DC

"Lcpl. Gardner was a definatley a great friend and fun to talk to during those days in Iraq. Though I did not know him long, he was a kind person and a good Marine. -Doc Finch"
HM3 (FMF) James Finch of Fayetteville NC

"Dear Ken & Family
We are saddened by the loss of such a fine young man. My son Sean played football with Derek at LHHS. They had a monthly ritual of watching pay per view wrestling together with his dad Ken. He was a Marine through and through. We will always have fond memories of "Pimp Daddy" as he liked to be called. He loved the Dodgers, Marines and his country. We pray for your family and think of Derek daily.
God Bless you all."
Sharon Koon of Laguna Hills, CA USA

"To Dereks Family, I am one of his platoon members. He wasn't just your average Marine. He went above and beyond all standards. He wasn't just a Marine but he was a Great Friend. There were so many days and nights in Fallujah that he and I were put on missions together. We use to talk about home, life, and just whatever came to mind. Derek was one reason why I even stayed sane out in Iraq. He was someone I could go to, to talk about anything. He will NEVER, EVER, be Forgotten. Rest In Peace Brother. I'll be sure to make it to that Dodger game we planned on going to."
Cpl Anthony Cruz of Orlando, Fl

"MAY YOU REST IN PEACE. YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. YOU WERE ALWAYS THE JOKESTER IN HIGH SCHOOL. OUR THOUGHTS & PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU & YOUR FAMILY. LHHS CLASS OF 2002"
JACKIE FERNANDEZ of RENO,NV

"I knew Derek for three years in high school when we played on the football team together. The last time I saw Derek we had both graduated and were standing on the sidelines watching our former team play. He didnt have to say it but it was obvious as he stood there in his USMC uniform that he had found his calling in life. Rest in Peace Derek"
John Sedigh

"To Dereks Family, i was in his platoon when he pasted, he was a great person and he has not been forgetten. All gave some, but some gave all. R.i.p. my friend."
jake vedder of phoenix, az

"My name is April Ornelas, Derek Lloyd's fiancee, I would just like to thank everyone for their unwaivering support. Derek is in a better place now, he is in peace, and watching over us. I know that this is what he wanted, to be remembered for being such a wonderful person with a big heart, but mostly a great Marine. He loved the Marine Corps so very much. He loved life and everything about it. His mother and I are doing are best to make it through the ominious days, everything has it's challenges. Certainly, the out pouring of support that has come from this has been more than great. Thanks again for everything."
April Ornelas of Mission Viejo, CA

"I had just heard of Derek's passing. I was in bootcamp with him, Plt 3105, K Co. He was a good man; motivated, trustworthy, hard worker, and just a good all around person.

I can't even describe what I am feeling right now. My deepest condolences go out to all his friends and family. Semper Fi brother, and godspeed."
Cpl David Hazlett of Glendale, AZ

"Rest in peace Marine .. you served your country and yourself honorably. You will be missed."
Bob USMC RET of Dayton Oh

"Please accept my deepest sympathy for the Gardner family. My name is Clancy DeVries and I paint portraits of fallen Heroes. I work with Kaziah Hancock as a participating artist on "Project Compassion" Please go to web sight www.heropaintings.com. Please go to page 3 to review my paintings. Portraits of Heroes are painted in oils and are free of charge. My phone number and address is available on the web sight or on google under my name. Please call me. God Bless you."
Clancy DeVries of Newport Beach, CA.

"While I was attending training in Ca, I met Derek's mother, who works for the same company. It is so hard to put into words, the feelings that are felt when you lose someone you love. Derek will be sorely missed by his fellow Marines and loved ones. Having lost my brother on the first day of the war, I can relate to your feelings and emotions. Having seen how many lives were touched by Shane, I know that Derek has touched alot of lives. Those people who's lives he has touched, will forever remember and love him. Our country's soldiers will forever be saviors and heroes to us. Semper Fidelis Marine."
Sam Childers of La Salle, IL

"My condolences to your family on the tragic loss of Derek Gardner. I hope for the best of the Gardner family. God Bless."
Diego Ornelas of Bonita, CA

"To Derek's family: I am saddened by Derek's loss. While I did not know him, I want you to know how I appreciate his bravery and courage and love for his country. I am an artist participating in the Faces of the Fallen project, a memorial exhibition of portraits to every fallen soldier. These will be exhibited in Arlington National Cemetery from early March until May 31, 2005. With your permission (the Department of Defense may have already contacted you), I will be doing Derek's portrait in a photograph, which will be given to you afterward. I would appreciate your emailing me if possible at tberkeley@att.net. Blessings, Taisie Berkeley""
Taisie Berkeley of Washington, D.C.

"To the family of Lcpl Derek Gardner.. I share in your loss from here in the east coast as I also lost my Marine Lcpl Jeff Burgess. Jeff was a friend of one of Derek's football team mates. While visiting Laguna Hills in Sept of this year I learned of your loss. Please know that I share in the sorrow of losing such fine young sons. Derek will never be forgotten and his legecy will stretch all the way here with me in the East Coast. Know that he is with you in spirit each and every minute. Always know that we stand strong in knowing our boys will forever be together."
Michelle Shea of Sagamore Beach, MA USA

"To the Family & Friends of Lance Corporal Derek L. Gardner

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of grief and sorrow. We as a country are lucky to have men like Derek fighting for our freedom. We too have lost a loved one, SSgt William M. Harrell, KIA April 8, 2004, and therefore we know your pain and loss. May you find comfort knowing that Derek is in the Lord's hands and with his fellow fallen soldiers. Remember that this is not the Land of the Free without the Brave. May God's Grace bring you comfort."
The Lanksbury Family of Yorba Linda, California

"To the family and friends of Lance Corporal Derek L. Gardner,

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

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

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

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

"To Derek'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"

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

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

"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

"Thank you Derek Gardner, 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 Lance Cpl. Derek Gardner:
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 Derek 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 Lance Cpl. Derek Gardner:
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 Derek, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia

Honor them by remembering... Freedom - is their gift to us But his soul goes marching on