Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"On this Memorial day, Patrick, I remember you for being a good hearted person, with a wonderful sense of humor. I will never forget when you came back from boot camp in your uniform. You rightfully walked with a sense of pride and accomplishment. You will always be remembered for your illuminating smile, ability to make people laugh, and your incredible presence. To Angela, Thomas and the rest of the O'Day family, I send my thoughts and prayers because I know how wonderful Patrick is and know that he is greatly missed."
Jonique Hussary/ Cole of Phoenix, AZ

"It's been 7 years since your passing and we're closing in on another heart felt Memorail Day... I want to thank you for your lasting and continuing influence that keeps my heart sincere and service humbled. We think of you always and will remember you forever. Semper Fi Patrick"
SSgt Thomas O'Day of Fort Knox, Ky

"”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to the hero’s Mother, Father and/or spouse. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Almost 2,100 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
This is a gift! We have wonderful sponsors who help with the costs, and want you know that everyone here at Project Compassion does and will always CARE.
Contact us directly at Projectcompassion@manti.com or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
Projectcompassion@manti.com"
Project Compassion - Kenna of Manti, Utah USA

"I had the pleasure of serving with Patrick and going to school with him at Fort Knox Ky. AFter School we went our ways but I will ALWAYS remember Patrick and the day I heard he died. I was not far from the site where he had passed but did not realize it. I miss you alot Patrick and What a beautiful daughter, I wish that you could have seen her. I know you are watching over them and I will see you again someday Brother.
Semper Fi"
Eric Schoville of Cedar Falls Iowa

"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

"I knew and remember Patrick as I'm sure his immediate family does - as a young boy. We went to elementary school together. I knew him in first grade. He was quiet, polite and sweet to me, when most of the other kids were not. We should all remember Patrick this way, in honor and thanks for the sacrifice he proudly made for us. May he rest knowing he is missed by HIS country, even though it was only recognized as such after his death."
Amber Shannon of Santa Rosa, CA.

"Dear Patrick T. O'Day and family, Our son served with your brother and son Thomas. I am thankful for your family and I promise Patrick will always be remembered. He touched the lives of those around him and made others think about the fact that freedom isn't free. Each time I see an American flag I think about the fact that "some gave all" Thank you again and I will always remember."
db of St. Anthony, ID

"Patrick was a kind and knowing person. Thank you for serving your country right. You live on in our hearts every day. This is not a goodbye, this is I will see you in the future..... Thank you."
The Juarez Family of Santa Rosa, California

"patrick...it's been almost 6 years since you have past...and i still think about you more than often...as a fellow marine now, i understand your sacrifice in a way that most people will never understand....i understand now that it is easier to not have an opinion when you are sent into harms way and i thank you for telling my sister to not worry and that you were never scared...because it is your courage that has helped her with your tragedy and helped me be a better marine and a better human being...i have learned a lot from you and i will continue to use you as a tool of motivation and courage to do the right thing at all times because i know thats what you would have done....you've always done the right thing as a marine and as a fellow american....and as your brother in law, i thank you and i love you....semper fi!"
Lcpl Darren R. Hill of 2NDBN 4THMAR Fox Co. Camp Pendleton, Ca

"Having known Patrick from when he was a young man, watching him as he grew into the wonderful man he was when he joined the Marines, it was very difficult for me to come here and read about him through others eyes. Tears streamed down my face as I read the heartfelt tributes, and I cried even heavier when I read the note from the young woman who named her child for Patrick. He was a delight to know, full of charm and wit, and devoted to his family. He is sorely missed by everyone who knew him."
Donna of Forestville, CA

"We are proud of your son and are sorry for your loss. I am half O'Day.Please know I pray for him amd all the soldiers. Erin Go Braugh. Means Ireland forever. Thank You. Terri"
Terri k. Colombini of Sacramento, Ca.

"May 30, 2007
To the family of Patrick T. O'Day. Patrick 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

"thank you for serving our country, i have a website in support of u guys its Operation Caring, but thanks again, u will be greatly missed. god bless the families."
cindy of Galena, Mo. 65656

"Hey Patrick. We has some good times in tank school, and afterwards in 1st Tanks. Your one of the kindest men i have ever met with one of the biggest hearts. Always willing to help anyone out no matter what the cost to yourself. I love you brother. I know you are home, and I'll see you when i get there."
Austin La Turno of Costa Mesa, California

"Patrick,
I would like to say thank you to you and your fellow tank crewmembers for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!"

"I am half O'Day. Thank you for your blood and pride. This O'Day will never forget!!!!! Thank You again."
Terri Colombini

"I think about you from time to time...never met you. But I remember the day you died...I remember reading it in the local paper, and I will never forget how I felt. I learned you were a father to be, and it shook my faith to find a young man who would never have the opportunity to hold his child. I think you will always remain in my memory..thank you Mr. O'day for your service to this wonderful country. I hope (I HOPE) I get the honor to shake your hand some day, sir!!"
Brandon Coulter of Hidden Valley Lake

"Patrick,
You will remain in my heart always!! I'am so grateful that I got the oppertunity to know you. You always had the ability to make me smile. To your family, my thoughts and prayers will be with them forever. I will never forget working at J.C Penneys with you. Till the day we meet again Patrick, Rest in Peace.."
Casie Hansen of Santa Rosa, CA

"http://www.myspace.com/mayodayrodriguezmartinez"
of CA

"I am finished with my rough version of song dedicated to Patrick and our soldiers. You can find the link on my home page. www.jkmusick.net

I am still learning recording, and it is still rough, but tells the story of Patrick.

Thank you Patrick for your sacrifice.

Sincerely yours,
James Musick"
James Musick of Del City, Oklahoma

"I myself am a 1st Tank Batallion wife and I have a framed copy of the news paper heading that has Patricks whole tank crew on it on my wall. Next to it is a picture of Sgt Smith who passed a year and a half ago I want my girls to know who makes the ultimate sacrifices for their freedom. I am sure that I can say for all of 1st Tank Bn. That we stand behind you one hundred percent and we all miss him too. My prayers and love to you. God Bless"
Chrystal Sprague (1st Tank Bn Wife) of 29 palms CA

"I am currently writing a song for Soldiers with Patrick O'day in it. I am not sure when I will get it recorded. But somehow Patrick came to me and this song was written.

When I get it copyrighted and recorded I will ask for information to get copies to his family and friends.

Soldiers like Patrick O'day are forever endearing to me."
James Musick of Del City, Oklahoma

"To the family of: Patrick T. O'Day 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 remember, when his Tank came back to Camp Commando, I never met the man, but I remember thinking, he could have been me. That changed my life. A brother I never knew. Never met. Died for us, for each other. I could have been him and he me, and either way, we would drink for each other. So tonight, on our Birthday, our Marine birthday. I Drink to YOU, for I never met you, and never forgot you. Bro, rest easy.
-LCpl Seto, Camp Commando, 2003"

"Patrick, I miss you very much. Please continue to watch over me, and give me strength through tough times. I love you big bro."
Cpl Thomas O'Day of Haditha, Iraq

"RIP Brother"
LCpl Honeycutt of MCAS Futenma. Okinawa, Japan

"Rest easy brother."
LCPL Brandon G. Garabedian of MCAS Miramar, California

"I didn't know Patrick for a long time, all i know is he was a great man. I will miss hime and all my other friends across seas. My thoughts are always with his family."
Kathryn of Santa Rosa High Graduate

"NEVER FORGET!!!"
Maj. Shawn H. O'Day, USAF of Washington D.C.

"Thank you Patrick for taking the fight to those cowards who would do our country harm. Your brave actions will be remembered each time we raise our flag in the front yard. Semper Fi Marine. God Bless you and may He comfort your loved ones at this time. From a very grateful American family."
Jim and Margie Shaw of Pasadena, Maryland

"Thank you my loving husband for all that you've done. Your daughter, Kylee, is beautiful as I'm sure you know. I know you watch over her from above. We love you and miss you so much. You are always in our hearts as well as many others out there who are so very grateful for your sacrifice. Until I see that beautiful smile and warm eyes again, I love you"
Shauna ODay of Cameron Park, CA

"To the friends and family of Patrick T. O'Day:
There is nothing anyone can say to make the pain go away, and I know because I lost my husband to the war in Iraq. But I would like to let you know that so many people truly do care and respect what your loved one died for. Patrick's sacrifice will never be forgotten and he will continue to live on forever in your hearts. He is a hero!!!"
Sarah Linden of Portland, OR USA

"Patrick you are in my heart. Thank you. The price you paid was what most regular people can not find courage enough to pay. That's what made you far from regular. I can stand tall because of you and say I truly knew a hero. Until we meet again Marine."
SPC Cooper, Christina of U.S Army 334 Sig Co. Ft. Lewis WA, Iraq. Class of 2001 Santa Rosa High

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

"I knew Patrick in Junior High. He was a kind person, and he will be missed."
Todd Brais.. Class 2001 of Santa Rosa, Ca

"I am a 7th grader at Barker Central School. I heard about the loss that you suffered from the sacrifice that Patrick made. I am deeply sorry that Patrick had to die to secure our freedom. My deepest sympathy goes out to the O'Day family."
Aaron Munzel of Gasport, NY

"I knew Patrick from Tank school. We were in the same "cycle". I served in Iraq at the same time. To Patrick, you will be greatly missed. You were a great friend to everyone. To Shauna, I think we met once or twice but I wish all the best to you. Patrick is watching over you. To Patricks family, I knew his bother. He got to Alpha a few days before I left. He is just like Patrick. Wish you all the best."
Cpl Shawn Behrman of Colorado Springs, CO

"Although i didnt know Patrick for that long of a time, my family was friends with Shaunas. To Patrick, may you rest in peace and thank you for making our world a safer place. To Shauna, my thoughts are with you in this difficult time, and although you may not remember me, i remember you and your family, and i'm sure you are a wonderful mother and i wish you happiness, courage and a lifetime of love with your little one. God Bless You and Your Family."
Sarah Palmer of Windsor, CA

"I never knew Patrick personally, but my boyfriend and his family were very close to him. I have heard many stories and feel that I have gotten to know a great man, marine and father. I wish that his daughter had the opportunity to meet her daddy. He is truly a hero and will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers will always be with his family."
Pamela Strong of Redondo Beach, CA.

"Patrick was a best friend of my younger brother, so I saw him quite often. I also babysat him and his younger brothers for years, so I watched him grow up into an amazing young man. He is dearly missed. I pay my respects to him each time I return home to Santa Rosa, give him a salute, and spend a few moments in silence. Always try to say hi to his family as well. I am writing a song with him in it, reflecting back on memories of he and my family. Semper Fi my friend...Semper Fi..."
Lt Nason Shafer, USAF of Redondo Beach, CA (Santa Rosa native)

"To Remember Them..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.

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!!
We will NEVER FORGET!"
The Grogan Family of Lakeland, TN

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

"We Will NEVER FORGET !" As the first anniversary of the death of your loved one arrives;
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering all your family and loved ones in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Patrick will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"I was not going to leave a message but after reading the message below, it made me cry and I felt compelled to say something about this fine young man.

I knew Patrick T O'Day's Tank Commander's father. Don May's dad and I served in Vietnam in Charlie Company, 3rd Tank Bn, 3rd Marine Division way back in 1968. I know what it is like to face "the Hun" in a tank. These brave Marines are the best that America has. They are far too young to have to leave us and to stand guard at the Pearly Gates.

I am proud and honored to have served in such a fine fighting organization that Patrick T O'Day served and fought in. He is in heaven looking down on you knowing that he did the best that he could and he sacrificed his life to help free the world of terrorism.

Semper Fidelis,
.
."
John Wear of New Hope, PA...(it's near Phiadelphia)

"To the family and friends of Patrick O'Day,

I wanted to express my gratitude for your service. I feel a great connection to you and your family. In September of this year my family welcome the birth of our first son, Patrick Thomas O'Day. When reading the article in People, the sight and name of your Patrick hit me hard. I don't know anyone that has lost a loved one during this war but I feel as though I do now. Thank you so much for your sacrifice Patrick so that my Patrick may grow up in a world a little more safe and free of terrorism. God bless you. You will always be in my heart."
Mendy O'Day of O'Fallon, MO USA

"Thank you Patrick O'Day, 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

"Though I only knew Patrick a short time, he never failed to make me laugh. I'm very lucky to have met him and Shauna. He will be greatly missed. I wish the best to Shauna and your child."
Lisa Falch of Chippewa Falls, WI

"I extend my sympathies to the O'Day family. The thoughts of myself and the countless American's in our country are with you. A Marine Mom,"
Valerie I. Smith of Ukiah, CA, United States

"I would like to say that Patrick was a great friend and an awesome Marine. He was always eager to learn more about the tanks all the time. He was a very hard worker and always had a smile on his face, he always knew how to make us all laugh. We would talk every night about how excited he was to become a new daddy, and he was always asking me how parenting was. He was a good buddy and he will never be forgotten by me. May God bless his wife and new child, my prayers will always be with you. I know that there is a special place in heaven for guys just like Patrick, he was a brave man. Thanks Bro. your memory will live on forever."
Cpl. Richard Velasquez(USMC) Former Member of Charlie Co. 1st Tank Bn. of Upland, Ca. U.S.A.

"I was Patrick's first tank commander when he came to Charlie Company. He was a motivated Marine to say the least. I loved listening to him talk about his wife and soon-to-be born daughter. He was so in love and that made him happy. He was a great tanker and awesome gunner. He always paid attention to what myself and the other tank commanders told him to do. We in Charlie Company will never, ever forget him. Semper Fidelis Marine and tell St. Peter we said hello."
SSgt Matthew E. Dordal of Charlie Company, 1st Tank Battalion

"You were a good friend Patrick. My regards to the O'day family. Keep your head up Thomas. Shauna I hope nothing but the best for you and your son. Take care of yourself."Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me." Psalm 23:4"
Junior Aguilar of Rohnert Park, CA 94928

"Dear Brave American Family,I can only imagine your grief, and as a mother I share your anguish. As an American you have my gratitude for raising such a fine son, and you have my deepest thanks for your immense sacrifice. At PeprallyUSA.com, America's # 1 Patriotic On Line magazine, we share your commitment to an America that is forever free, and strong, made that way by citizens who actively work to fulfil our country's promises. Please visit us for a lift to your spirits, and contact us if we can help you in any way. Best wishes"
Dana Johnston, Camillus, NY, USA of http://www.peprallyusa.com

"Patrick,
Our hearts and prayers are with you and your familiy. We are all proud of you and your acheivements in this life you have left behind. Our words and feeling can not change anything, but you and your fellow soldiers have touched our life. You will always be one of the few, the proud, the Marines. May god bless your family and your soul in heaven."
Nick of Redwood City, Ca.

"you are younger than me,i'm a chinese in australia,but i still want to say you will guide us forever"
liu of BRISBANE QUEENSLAND AUSTRALIA

"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

"God Bless you Brave Soldier...
for making the ultimate sacrafice for American freedom. My family and I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU!!!"
The Pawlak's of Santa Clarita, CA

"To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Patrick O'Day:
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 Patrick 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. Patrick O'Day:
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 Patrick, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera, of Powder Springs, Georgia

"Thank you for supporting Patrick and understanding his choice to become a Marine. I know he will live on in the heart of every Marine that ever had the pleasure of knowing him. Patrick and the O'Days will forever be a part of our Marine Corps family. God bless."
SSgt Scott C. Smtih of Santa Rosa, Ca

"Patrick O'Day use to live a cross the street from me on 904 Beaver Lane I was raised with him and his brothers. I will miss him alot. I will pray for him and his brothers and his mother and father and his wife and his baby that is coming. Patrick O'Day was the best friend that anyone could have. It was trule a blessing to be raised with him and his family."
Gary Brown of 904 Beaver Lane, Santa Rosa , CA

"Thank you Brave Marine. RIP"
The Taylors, USMC of NC

"Thank you for allowing your hero to protect our freedoms!"
Holly of VA