Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I knew Marencoreyes and I better for knowing him in the little time i knew in the corp. I so happy for his family and the courage that they show. I have never forgotten my Motor T brothers who with them life would of been boring in Iraq. I know I will never forget the smile Marencoreyes had in dog town and the excite of knowing we were there. As crazy as it was it is still an unbelievable concept to realize that that we were part of something big. Bigger than us. That was the moment we shared the last time I saw him. I can't wait to see what your kids do when they grow up bro just look at your wife she strong just like you..Just keep smiling brother."
hernandez (comm plt) of pacoima ca

"12/28/09 @;~ @;~ @;~ @;~ @;~ @;~ @;~ @;~

Thank you for all your support and love you all still have for My Brother Douglas!.. Love his sister Fatima. And a special thank you to the creaters of this website and technical support. :) Your Awesome. :) THANKS A BUNCH!.."
Fatima G. Marenco of Anaheim, CA / Orange County

"I was searching for anything to do with 4th LAR, much like you do for your husband. My husband is with 4th LAR and currently in Afghanistan. I am looking for just a glimpse of him, through any kind of news report, just to see him and know that he is ok. You run across a lot of memorial web-sites, but yours touched me. Maybe because our husbands are linked by a common bond (4th LAR). Maybe because even though my husband is still alive, I am searching for much of the same things you are, because he is so far away. I found it very odd that your last post was today, December 8th as well. I know birthdays, and holidays must be hard for you and your children. My 8 year old and 21 month old daughters and I are going through a very hard time, since this is his first deployment, and all the "what if's" we are constantly reminded of. I hope you find peace in all of the wonderful messages that have been posted. Even though they can never fill that void in your heart, I hope they make it feel a bit less empty. Thank you for your sacrafice, along with Douglas'. As a Marine wife I know it isnt only our Marines that makes those sacrafices, it is us too. Happy Holidays, and thank you again for sharing..."
- of So Cal

"Hello everyone! This is Alicia Marenco, otherwise known as Alice by my late husband, Douglas.
Every now and then, while I’m on the computer doing research for work, I find myself googling Doug’s name. You see…my job is to find resources for clients to assist them with basic needs. I guess sometimes unconsciously I’m looking for my basic need and my hopes of finding him through the Internet are always high, but met with the unfortunate reality that he is gone.
Gone, but not forgotten.
Instead I am taken to sites dedicated to fallen soldiers like this, where anyone can write a little note about Douglas or share an experience they had with him.
It’s been about six years now, since Doug’s passing, and I wanted to share a few updates with all of you. Those that knew Doug, know that he wouldn’t leave without a plan. Well, I’m happy to report that through will power and support we’ve met the plan and exceeded it!
I went ahead and purchased a beautiful, reasonably priced home for our two children to have room to grow with stability. I decided to go to college (even though I always hoped that Doug would go instead- he was much brighter and I was extremely intimidated by it) But I went. And graduated in 2009. With honors! (who knew?). His presence was with me throughout the graduation ceremony. I knew he had on a BIG smile and was proud of me!
With education came empowerment and I fought through our kid’s school system to enroll our children in the best academic schools our city had to offer. Our son and daughter have received numerous awards for writing, math and reading. They both received student of the year (2 years in a row!!!).
When our son entered high school, I thought I was going to crumble into a million pieces. But, with the help and support of Doug’s Marine brothers, we got through the first year. Thank you! Thank You! Dorazo, Espinal, and Sanchez for being there for our son with your encouragement and support. It means the world to Doug and I!
Our family unit is strong and pure without judgmental or negative people. We have an enormous family of close friends who we love and cherish as if we share the same blood.
And even though, now and then, I still search for Doug via internet, I get to go home and get a piece of him through our children. That smirk from our son, that funny sarcasm from daughter, that ever lasting knowledge from our son, that creativeness from our daughter, those big eyes and eyelashes, that stance……HE IS THERE. What a wonderful gift.
Again, thank you all for your kind words and an opportunity for me to find Doug every time I google his name.

P.S. Today is December 8, 2009. It is our son’s 16th birthday. =)"
Alicia Marenco of San Bernardino, CA

"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

"@;~ @;~ @;~ @;~ @;~ @;~ @;~"

"11/09/09"

"another year without you'... :( you would of been 35 this November.. i know were ever your at your watching and looking' out' unfortunately things ain't going the way you wanted them to be' i'm praying for good changes':) and for things to work out like you said you wanted them to be.. like when we spoke the last time over the phone' which is engraved in my head'... I truely miss you Doug' you've left a big whole in my heart that will never be filled; Mom & Dad & Glen' miss you dearly! @;~ @;~ @;~"
Fati'... sis'... of some where' in CA..

"Semper Fi brother!!!!! I'll never forget you."
Cpl Omoto of pasadena ca

"Doug,

I remember talking to you the day you where taken from us. We where talking about what you guys where going to do that day.I never would have imagined that days events would unfold as they did. It's all so vivid in my memory.I remember putting you on the bird. That's the last time I would ever see you again. I made sure the crew chief knew who you where so I told him your name. "Coporal Marenco, Douglas Marenco is his name" I said to him. I walk about 400 yards from the take off and just balled my eyes out. I'll never ever forget you brother. I was glad to visit you on May 30th. Me and the guys had some good talks and laughs about you and it was good to come visit you. God bless you brother and thanks for watching over us all. Semper Fidelis Desert Doug!

Gunny Lopez"
Martin Lopez of Santa Clarita California

"May 25, 2009... You are always remembered..Semper Fi.."
MSgt Camacho of Camp Pendleton, CA

"March 24 2009
It has been a long time since you have pasted, but you still remain in our hearts and your picture still hangs above my fireplace. You always made me laugh in formations and were a great brother and Marine to work with. I hope peace and saftey for your family, rest in peace "Desert Doug"."
SSgt Phillips, Shawn G. of Camp Lejuene, North Carolina

"Rest in peace Doug. You were a great marine and a wonderful role model to all. You will be missed."
Kyle of Costa Mesa CA

"Doug,
It's been 5 years since you have passed and yet it seems like it happened yesterday for some of use. Over the years it has become easier to deal with the lose of a truly great person but I feel that what gets use through the hard times is always keeping in focus the fact that you are in a better place watching over use. It's been 3 years since I've stopped by your resting place so my wife and I will be stopping by in July. We miss you!! Semper FI"
Sgt. Manning of San Francisco, CA

"As we come to the fifth anniversay of Dougs passing. My family and I would like to express our condolences and we want to let you know that hardly a day goes by where I don't think of him. He was a good man and I am sure that your family is making him proud as he looks down upon you. I hope that all is well and my offer of any help still stands. Sincerely, Sgt. Miguel Partida"
Miguel Partida of Fountain Valley, Ca

"It's been a long time brother. Know that you are still missed and remembered within 4th LAR. SEMPER FI!!"
GySgt Camacho of Camp Pendleton, CA

"January 19, 2008
To the family of Cpl. Douglas Jose Marenco Reyes:
Douglas 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

"So saddened for this loss.
Rest in peace.
10/29/07"

"Devil Dogg ,the Day you left us Our platoon lost their right to fail in Life.... how i wish i could turn back the hands of time I was supposed to be there with you ,yet i wasnt coulda shoulda woulda runs through my mind daily, your death seem like yesterday and the memorys of that day i struggle with day in day out...I know deep in my heart that if anybody was going to have to go fromour battalion you would be the first to say take me, that was your heart from day one when i checked onto 4th lar you took me under your wing its because of you i have become the Marine i am today i now lead Marines and have assumed the role you once upheld so well...i will allow you to live through me i will suceed in life have a beautiful family just like yours... i have seen your wife and kids several times since your passing their spirits are high they are so strong...your so looks just like you,and that smile isabella has melts your heart, MANY OF YOU ARE NOT AWARE BUT AFTER DOUGLAS ACCIDENT THE NAVY SEABEEZ AND 4TH LAR BUILT THE FIRST ELEMENTRY SCHOOL IN IRAQ BUILT BY AMERICANS IN THE CITY OF JUSAN MY SELF AND SEVERAL OTHER HAND PICKED MARINES ATE DINNER WITH THE FATHERS AND POLITICAL HIGHER UPS FROM THAT CITY IT WAS NAME MARENCO ELEMENTRY THE SCHOOL HAD FANS IN EVERY ROOM GLASS WINDOWS CEMENT WAS AND DESKS IN EVERY ROOM, MANY LIVE A LIFETIME WONDERING IF THEY HAVE MADE A DIFFERANCE OF LEFT A MARK IN THIS WORLD DOUGLAS HAS DONE JUST THAT ITS BEEN A PLEASURE TO SERVE IN COMBAT THEATRE WITH YOU,YOU AN OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUAL
SEMPER FI
YOUR BROTHER .FELLOW MARINE
SANCHEZ"
SAND CHEESE of BUENA PARK CA

"Douglas,
I would 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. After reading all the reflections left here by your fellow Marines all I can say is that I wish that I had the privilege of serving with you when I was in.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!"

"I served with Doug, during my first tour to Iraq in 2003. he was a great Marine that had a lot of respect from his peers to include myself. Doug was the first marine i met, when i checked into 4th LAR. I remeber him asking if i knew where I was going?(i was pretty lost) he stopped what he was doing, and took me around, introducing me to all the motor-t bubbas. he became a great friend to me, always cracking jokes to keep the spirits up. i keep him in my thoughts, and his family in my prayers. Desert Doug, you are truley missed brother, Aloha Nui Loa (with lots of love) rest in peace"
Sgt. Lopez, Marc 4th Force Reconnaissance co of Kane'ohe Bay, HI USA

"It has taken me a long time to write a message here, however, after reading the messages of others from our unit I feel honored to be in their company once again. I knew Doug for many years,not as closely as those fine Marines in Motor T but longer than most. He was a fine man, with a quiet strength and confidence. I remember the way he seemed to always smile, regardless of the circumstances, he always seemed to have an inner strength that inspired others. When I recieved news of his passing it was surreal, it wasn't until later, during a messnight when they played taps that I truly felt the power of his passing and let myself give in to the emotion which it brought me. I live each day in thanks for his sacrifice, not the sacrifice in which we feel his loss but in the multitude of sacrifices he made throughout my years of friendship with him. Every Marine I have served with has been my brother and he exemplified that, always reliable, always optimistic, always faithful. He was a man and a Marine to be proud of and thankful for. God Bless, Semper Fidelis."
Patton, Patrick R. Sgt. USMC of Pomona, CA

"You were an outstanding marine and a loyal friend. I still remember meeting you when I first came into the unit. You took me in like a true friend would and made me feel like a brother. I'll never forget talking to you the night before, praying we could just go home. You have given everything for our freedom and I will never forget...Rest in Peace Desert Doug and I will see you soon."
Sgt. Sharaby, Fateen of 4th LAR, H&S Co., Motor T platoon

"I met Doug in the last two weeks of boot camp, and we went to Motor Transportation school together too. He was a great man, who cared a lot for the well being of his family. I miss him a lot. He was like a brother to me. He was a great father too. I send my deepest regards to all of his family and friends. I always regret that I didn't go to his funeral, "I'm sorry about that Doug." Oooorah Devil Dog rest in Peace! mimg1978@hotmail.com"
Isaac Medina of Hayward Ca.

"Hi Doug, you know my brother Isaac, and although I never met you my heart goes out to you and your family, and I thank you for fighting for the freedom that I and my family enjoy.I am an elementary school teacher and I plan on keeping your memory alive by sharing your picture with my class and making them aware of the importance of Veterans Day and remembering people like you who lost their lives fighting for our freedom. Thank You"
Caroline Sanchez of Hayward, California

""Desert Doug"

I think of you to this day. I can never forget what happened that day and the deep sadness all of us felt when we heard of your passing. You always would tell me things would be ok and not to worry. I really do miss you brother and your name and memory will live forever in the hearts of those who love you. Semper Fi Desert Doug We Will Never Forget!

Sgt. Marijanovic H&S Co. 4th LAR M.T."
Sgt. Marijanovic of Seal Beach CA

"My dearest friend, Dougie. If only you knew how very much I think and miss you. Although we only spoke 3 or 4 times we became good friends. I can still remember the day your sister called to informed me of you no longer us, but with the Lord I was so sadden that I did not enjoy my visit to Las Vegas. I received the call while waiting in line to pick up a rented motorcycle. While riding on the Strip I remember crying and crying like big baby. This is from your fellow Marine, Sam Atherton.

Dougie, my dear friend, I miss and I pray for you. While in the hands of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, please say a prayer for us. In a way you're lucky, you made it to Heaven before most. The Lord will now have someone to smile with.

Goodbye my friend.

Sam Atherton
of IPP"
Sam Atherton of Torrance, CA. USA

"It's been a long time since I have spoken to your family and you may not remember me.My name is Sgt. Partida I was the A Co Armorer. Not a day goes by that I don't think of Douglas. I had only spoken to him a handful of times but he seemed like a kind soul. The day that they were scheduled to deploy I noticed that he was nervous and so was his best friend that was deploying with him.His sleeping bag was stuffed in this huge bag that made his pack look ten times bigger than it was and he just kept adjusting it. I went back in the armory and gave him my sack and a couple of other things and told him that it would be fine.I also spoke to his parents at length and told him that he would be fine as long as he was careful.I am so sorry that Douglas did not come home and for all the pain that your family has suffered.For 2 1/2 years I have wondered if I could have told him and your family something else maybe done something to make life easier.If there is ever anything that I can do feel free to contact me at my email, Partidam1@aol.com. Lcpl Navarro I hope that you and all your family is fine and know that you are alway's in my prayers. Semper Fi."
Sgt Miguel Partida of Fountain Valley, Ca

"I would like to Thank' all of you out there for leaving beautiful messages' in Honor & Memory of my brother "Douglas" 2nd child of 4. Me and my Family "Thank you" all for your words of wisdoms and loving thoughts in honor to my Big "Brother" Douglas' ("DOUG") who I for one looked up too very much and miss dearly. He also too was and still is my hero! I Love and Miss You.."Devil Dog""
Fatima Marenco of Anaheim, CA / USA :)

"To the family of Marine Cpl Douglas Jose Marencoreyes, I represent a group of women "Moms of Military Riverside Ca., Chapter" This group of women are made up of blue and gold star moms and wives. We want you and your family to know how deeply sorry we are for your loss.
As a group women we vow to help keep your son memory a live. There is a organization called America Hero's Tribute across America, that will place a banner with your son name and picture on it, in your city. This banner is 3'ft wide and 9'ft long, when the banner is completed, they will hang it from a street light in your city, to remember and give tribute to your son, "Our American Hero". There is no cost to you, we just want to help keep the memory of all our fallen hero's alive, and wish to have a banner made in honor of your son. If you feel this is something you wish to
participate in, please e-mail me @ badswife1@sbcglobal.net, and I will pass this information on to the American Hero's Tribute. God Bless you and thank you for your sacrifice, we will never forget."
Mary, of Riverside Ca.

"I just want to thank everyone for their kind words, touching memories and loving support. Julian and Isabella are proud of their father and have read all the nice comments that have been written about him. He is our hero and our guardian angel. We love him and miss him dearly."
Alicia Marenco of San Bernardino, CA., USA

"To the family of Douglas Jose Marencoreyes I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. He died a hero defending freedom. May you know the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Hopefully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need someone to talk to or someone to pray with you please call or write my pastor at Gateway Community Church Rev John B. Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd. Covington Ga. 30016 phone 770-787-1015 Your friend in Christ Jesus"
Polly Ballew of Covington, Ga. U S A

"To the family of Cpl Douglas Marencoreyes:

I just wanted to express my sympathy for your loss, and to let you know that Douglas' name is on my herobracelet. I have not taken it off since the day I received it, nor do I plan to take it off any time soon. I wear it with a great amount of pride."
Amy Schlock, 20 of Acton, CA

"I just wanted to share a memory I had of Doug. We were in a convoy to Al Kut when we had a breakdown. While waiting for a couple hours for the guys to try to repair the vehicle, I see Cpl Marencoreyes off to the side with all his gear on and a darn SKIMASK over his head!! Mind you, it's over 120 degrees! I walk up to him and ask,"How can you wear that mask in THIS heat?!" He looked me in the eyes and simply said,"Cause i'm hard like that Doc."
God bless you Doug. And may God bless all your family. Semper Fi!"
HM3 Dave Sulentic of Fredericksburg, Va/USA

"Desert Doug,
We miss you brother. I will always remember how I looked up to you. You always had your family first. I remember when we left for Iraq. You kept telling me to "Be safe Brother." I really miss you. Knowing you has changed my life. You had a way with touching people. I miss you Brother. Peace"
Cpl Waldron of Murrieta,ca

"God Bless you Douglas ~ You are a true
American Hero."
The Redrow Family of Pine Hill, NJ

"Douglas was a childhood friend of mine and I just recently found out of his passing.I'm deeply saddened. He was a great, funny, articulate, extremely artisitc young man...I, as many others will miss him.GODSPEED Brother...
Robert, If you or the Family ever need anything contact me at cory_gilleland@hotmail.com"
Cory Gilleland/SSK of Orange County,CA

"RIP Marine"
Petty Officer Cawthon of RTC Great Lakes, IL

"4TH LAR SUPPLY WAS HONORED IN KNOWING YOU. YOU HAVE BEEN MISSED. SEMPER FI!!!"
SSGT CAMACHO of CAMP PENDLETON, CA

"In Loving Memory..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 Marine!! SEMPER FI!! We will NEVER FORGET!!""
The Grogan Family (USMC) of Lakeland, TN

"Douglas died in a truck accident.Douglas was a great man and I know that his family had a very hard time to get through when they found out that he had died.After reading the messages left by everyone I can tell that Douglas was a person cared about by many people."
7th grade student of Barker Middle School

"4th LAR Motor T will always remember you brother. As a friend i will never for get you, we all miss you."
Lcpl Elizalde, Cesar of 4th LAR Las Flores, Camp Pendleton, CA, USA

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Douglas, will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

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

"At this moment, febr04, Dutch soldiers do their duties in As Samawah. As an officer in the Royal Netherlands Army, I feel it's my duty to pay my regards to those who were fallen during OIF, especially for those fallen in "our" Area of Responsability. A moment of silence"
Royal Netherlands Army Captain F. van Rosendaal of Holland

"Mere words cannot adequately express the sorrow and pain we feel on the loss of Douglas. Our prayers for his family, loved ones and friends. We are forever grateful."
The Delgado Family of New York, NY

"Thank you Douglas Marencoreyes, 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

"Semper Fi brother. You will always be remembered."
Sgt. Michael Watson, A Co., 4th Lar of Los Angeles, CA

"To the family and friends of Cpl. Douglas Marencoreyes:
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 Douglas for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"This is one fallen soldier who will truely be missed. He was loved by all he came in contact with.. I want his family to know that even the people he worked with he made an impact on their lives. Doug, was a very special person and he lightened up every room with his smile,jokes and his love for life. He was a guy who loved his family and his business. He Will Be Missed ..

If there is anything in my power I can do please let me know or contact Glenda so she can contact me at Excel."
Jeanette Trujillo of Ontario, Ca

"It is so difficult to accept the fact that you are no longer with us. I'm still thinking I'm going to see you walking through the office looking for Jim!:) I see your face and remember your smile. You were always taking care of business...so when you told us you were leaving to protect and defend our country and our freedom...I knew you were going to make us proud. You gave the ultimate gift-your life. I will never forget you."
Cynthia of West Covina, CA

"To the family and friends of Cpl. Douglas Marencoreyes:
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 Douglas, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera, of Powder Springs, Georgia