Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Dear Raelynn,
We met once but I just said hi. You asked if anyone can give accounts and stories of SFC Rehn from those of us who served with him for that beautiful little baby girl you had in your arms. I can tell you this much SFC Rehn was the most dedicated soldier and hero to the Army life and standards. He always inspired me to do what was right even if no one would ever know what I did. Great man, great loss. RIP"
SPC Rivera, Noel OEF/OIF Veteran of Sacramento CA, USA

"To the Rehn Family,

I knew Randy from Germany and we served together in Desert Shield/Desert Storm. I will remember Randy as one hillarious guy who kept all our spirits up. I know he is up there keeping the Angels laughing and waiting for us to meet again for one more round. God Bless you Randy, a true hero."
CW3 Dan Macomber of Sierra Vista, AZ

"Sgt Rehn's family...I still remember him. I attended his funeral here in Longmont and am thinking of him this Memorial Day."
Longmont Examiner of Longmont, CO, USA

"randy u were my favorite drunk and u did agreat elvis.And this year will b the 6th anual randy rehn open a golf torney in his honor in slc on june 7th if anyone is interested emial me at deanorojo@gmail.com we would love 2 c some new faces"
deano severson of slc utah/slcounty

"Randy,
Brother not a day goes buy I don't think about you. The times we had while in Korea will always be held close to my heart. Your ability to make everyone laugh, from the Saturday night fever dance, to the Elvis impersonation, you had us all. I will always remember getting to talk to you at Fort Sill just days before you deployed. I will always cheerish your friendship and the fun times we had together. We will meet again as all Soldiers do, save me a place and have a cold one waiting."
SFC Randy Keith of Vilseck, Germany

"Randy
God I will miss you!
I'm so proud of you,and shocked on the other hand,You grew from a misguided boy
to a wonderful man,with a family.Who would have guessed you would settle down!Not me that's for sure,I do know that those lives that you have touched
will be broken now.you touched my heart
in so many ways,you made me laugh when no one else could,you were one of my BEST FRIENDS,and you will never be forgotten,and you will be in my heart and my thoughts for the rest of my life.
You left to early,but the lord called you home.R.I.P I love you, Thank you for all you did for this country.I will pray for peace for your family always."
Michelle Brent Barreto of West Palm Beach, Florida,USA

"Damnd, I thought you would not have lasted after I got out. I'm now sorry you did. We all miss you (Skippy) as coined by Sgt Brent many years ago. I will miss you Buddy. Wait for me there and we will get together again Bro! SSG Dave Bourassa, US Army Ft.Sill OK. back in the day!"
David Bourassa of Spring Texas

"Randy,
Thats how I know you. There is not a day goes by that I do not think of you. I miss you every day. I know now what it means to sacrafice your life for your country. I still remember one time when you were home and I had misbehaved, big surprise right, and unlike josh I would not drop down and give you 20, so you put me up on the shed roof and would not let me down untill I promised to give you 20 pushups. When I first learned that you had been killed Me and my dad were picking up some home supplies at ace on main. I still remember how upset and angry I was that you had been taken from us. I miss you and wish every day that you could be with us. I also have the same love for Bud Light that you had."
Morgan Kidder of Longmont, Coorado U.S.A.

"SFC Rehn;

You're from my home town of Longmont, CO and I am sorry that I never got to meet a true american hero. I'm a combat Medic currently in the Army and spent 4 years as a Redleg Medic. Sergeant rest in peace at Fiddlers Green, we'll meet there one day"
SPC Shockley, Dane of Longmont, CO

"I grew up with Randy and knew him well. I worked with Randy in Longmont Colorado before he joined the service. Randy and I worked for MiniScribe and I will never forget the football game we played at Longmont Jr. High field before he left for basic. We won 21-0 against a bunch of other guys we knew and had a rivalry with. Randy was a GREAT athlete and competitor. He would take a hit or give one and come up smiling. I replay that game many times in my memory when I think of Randy. he will always be my buddy "Dain Bramage" ( That was a nick name we gave him as a kid) I will miss Randy very much... I Thank his Family or Randy's sacarifice to our beloved country. I only knew Randy and Joe but I remeber him Mom that has to be where he got his great spirit!"
Chris Bowers of Tampa Florida

"My son and Randy went to high school together, way back when. I liked Randy very much. They played football and wrestled together, there are fine memories of games and matches. My heart and my prayers are with your family during this difficult time. May God bless you."
Bev Gibson of Columbus, Ohio

"Sgt. Rehn, your friendship and jokes will never be forgotten, we had some good times at Fort Sill, rest in peace brother!"
Chris Rafalski of Chicago, IL

"Randy, we served together in Babenhausen during Desert Storm as privates and made specialist together. It does'nt really hit home until its someone you know or knew. We had alot of fun partying in the barracks and in the towns of Germany. I will be getting a braclet with your name on it and wear it as I go back to Iraq for the third time. You will not be forgotten."
MSG Hollis Champlain of FT. SILL, OK

"December 30, 2007
To the family of Sgt. 1st Class Randall S. Rehn:
Randall 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

"Rehn Family, I served in Charlie Battery 3/13 FA in Vietnam in 1969-70. I was an FO and then in the FDC. I know about combat and I know about losing friends in combat. My heart and my prayers go out to the family of my fellow "Clansman", SFC Rehn. Thank you for your sacrifice to our great nation to protect us. May God's blessing be upon you.
Jack Markham"
Jack Markham of Durham, North Carolina

"Dear Rehn family,

I am proud to be serving with the division that SFC Rehn fought with. SFC Rehn and SSG Lake both put me in the Army in 2002. I was in Iraq when he passed. I found out about our loss from SSG Lake. I am now stationed at Ft. Stewart, Ga. With 703rdBSB 4BCT 3ID. There are many memorials here for him and I will try to get some photos to you of them. May God bless you."
SGT Lane Patterson of Fort Stewart, Ga USA

"I really want to thank you for your service. As a new MLRS specialist I am inspired by wht you have done and it gives me more confidence to serve my country. Hooah!"
PFC. Ivan Frias of Houston, TX/U.S.

"Randall,
I would like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country-not just in OIF, but also for your service in Desert Storm as well. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

"Without Fear, Favor Or The Hope Of Reward"
13th FA Motto"

"SFC Rehn brought me into the ARMY. He led by example, an outstanding leader and mentor. I had the privilege of knowing SFC Rehn, but for a brief period of only 5 months. I remember our talks and the advice you gave me. You are an outstanding soldier and you are missed."
SGT Stuart, Matthew of SLC, UT

"Randy,
I have many great memories with you and your brothers and of course the Eden's.We grew up together here in Longmont where you definatley left your mark in hearts and souls.I pray for your wife,daughter,Joe his family, Jim and your Mom.I know you and Michelle Eden are up there looking down on us and smiling.Thanks for all the laughs and memories,but thank you most of all for defending our country and fighting for what you believe in.God Bless the Rehn family"
Colleen Simington-Craver of Longmont, CO

"I do not know if anyone will get this or if even the Rehn family still visits this site. I am writing this now because I did not know this site existed til now, while I was browsing the web. I new SFC Rehn I was attached to his platoon as an ammunition supply for his firing crews. Just a few days before the incident SFC Rehn came by our vehicle to check on us and make sure we had everything we needed. He was a great guy in everyway, he care about his soldiers. What alot of people do not know, is on that day I and my soldier PFC Wright where the first to respond to the accident. We did everything we could in our power to rescue everyone, but there was so much ammunition and fuel exploding around us. I do not know how we did'nt get hurt. I just truely regret the loss of SFC Rehn, I still wonder if I could have done anything more in my power to have saved his life, for that his family would not have to had dealt with this tradgety. I truely did all I could and i still wish your family the best."
TY of Lawton, Oklahoma

"To the Rehn Family:

I do not have words to convey the sorrow I possess for the loss of Randy. Please accept my most sincere condolences. We were stationed together in Babenhausen and served together in Desert Shield/Storm 15 years ago. I will never forget Randy's indomitable sense of humor and enduring strenght. I'm proud to have know such a hero."
Boe Marshall - boemarshall@hotmail.com of Casselberry, FL

"Sergeant Rehn... I was a young Specialist serving in B 1/39 FA, with whom you were attached. SFC Pittman was my Ops NCO, and formerly my Drill Sergeant at Fort Sill. He was also a good friend of yours. You were his first roommate when he joined the Army. My memories of you consist of playing Horseshoes in the middle of the Kuwaiti desert by our MKT with SSG Johnson and my maintenance team. We were just waiting to go north. Later, I remember the morning you died. I was only about half a kilometer away and saw the whole thing. I remember praying to God that everyone was okay, but knowing in my heart that something horrible had happened. I heard stories about your final brave moments. I heard stories about your outstanding leadership. You are a hero, and so are Oaks and Sgt. Todd and the rest from our battalion that died that month. So are we all. We miss you, and I'm praying for you always."
SGT Travis Van Buren of Fort Lauderdale, FL

"Its been over two years but your loss is still felt everyday. I only hope i can be the kind of leader you were brother."
SSG Newton of Fort Sill.

"To the family of: Randall S. Rehn I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully, we will 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, Gateway Community Church, 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ,"
Polly Ballew of Covington, Ga

"I am hoping someone will see this on this webpage and be able to help me. I am trying to reach the family of this soldier so that I can mail a flag to them that was flown in this soldier's honor. I am forever grateful for the sacrifices that this family gave. Any assitance would be very helpful.
Thank you. emmylou9@hotmail.com"
Emmy of Charleston, SC

"To the family of Randall Rehn:
May God bless you for the sacrifice that Randall made. I served with Rehn in C Btry 6/27FA,Ft. Sill Ok. '92-'94 and remember him as a "squared-away" soldier. Trust God and He will give you peace."
SGT Johnnie L. Cale of Colerain, NC

"SFC Rehn I remember the first time I heard about your death. It was July 16, 2004 and as I was leaving the Talil AB P/X in Southern Iraq something caught my eye at the entrance. It was a sign at the entrance to the P/X dedicated to those that have fallen in honor of our country and your name was one of the many. It caught me by complete surprise and I was stunned. I immediately had flashbacks when we served together for one year in B 6/37 FA at Camp Stanley, South Korea. Although we weren't buddies or real close serving a year with you left a favorable impression as you so did with many others. Your personality and charm are unforgettable. You made a lot of people laugh. That was about five years ago, but I am still deeply saddened whenever I see or hear your name. Take care and if it's within your power please watchover all the other soldiers who are fighting in Iraq. Tell the big man also to keep his eyes on them."
Victor Torres (SSG Medically Discharged) of Camp Arifjan, Kuwait

"God bless. Thank you. Our country owes more than it could ever give to you and your family."
An MLRS brother of Columbus Ohio

"To the family of SFC Rehn. I am not sure if you have received your invitation. Fort Sill has built a Memorium for those Soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. My name is 1LT Garcia and I am leaving this message to inquire if you are coming to the Dedication Ceremony and to see if you have any issues with the casualty assistance office. If you do you may contact me at work at (580) 442-4192 or at home, after 6 p.m. (central), at (580) 351-1953. You have my condolences on the loss of your loved one."
1LT Andy Garcia of Fort Sill, OK/USA

"RANDY
We came up the ranks together and grew as men. I will always cherrish your friendship and the good times we had. I will miss your "ELVIS" dance and your ability to always make me laugh and smile. I will never forget you brother. Save a seat and a cold one for me. I will see you again."
SFC RUSSELL SULLIVAN of LAWTON, OK

"Our hearts go out to you, we will always remember you in Salt Lake City Recruiting BN. God Bless you."
Jo Kinchington of Salt Lake City, UT, USA

"Today I received my Hero Bracelet from herobracelets.org. The Name on it was Randy Rehn. Being 50 I remember the bracelets from Viet Nam I do not remember the name of the soldier who was on that one because as a youth I couldn’t fathom the meaning of it. Today I am older and wiser, I looked at this name and my first thought was this was someone’s son, and then I thought this might be someone’s dad or brother. My thoughts sent me looking, I wanted to know this man and somehow bring some condolences to his family and friends.

To Randy’s family and friends, you could never be consoled from this loss, all I can say is I have an ache in my heart for the sacrifice you have sustained. War is not what we want, it isn’t something anyone takes joy in, and it is hell. How do I know that? Well my dad was in WWII and never spoke of it his whole life afterwards except for a few short anecdotes which were not at all what it was like. It was necessary though and he knew that. So too today I feel people like your son and father and husband knew there was a job to be done and took that responsibility to protect people like , well, me.

Thank you is such an inadequate phrase to use here, my heart groans for your loss. Though I did not know Randy I feel I have been connected to him through this bracelet. I can not ask God why, I can only ask God to comfort you each and every day of your lives and to help others remember Randy like you all will remember Randy. Now I will remember him as well forever. I will wear this bracelet always to remember all of you and most of all Randy. If this helps in lifting a little weight off your shoulders, I am grateful to help. I will be praying for all of you every day.

God Bless you all and all the men and woman around the world who are watching our backs at the risk of losing their lives as Randy did and God comfort all the people who miss them everyday they are away. Please bring all of them home safe God"
Michael Randazzo of NJ USA

"To the Family of SFC Rehn,
SFC Rehn was my first launcher section chief and taught me everything I know. He was a great leader and an extremely great friend and his loss will be felt by many all over."
Sgt. Tommy C. Cutshall tommy.cutshall@us.army.mil of Marietta, GA

"MY heart goes out to SFC REHN family I was stationed with SFC REHN when I was I 2/4 FA "Deep Attack" RIP SFC.REHN"
SGT Michael J. Bowie of Chyenne, WY 2/300th FA

"SFC REHN
You are the meaning a NCO. You were always the coolest SFC even if you were mad you were fair your leader and Friend ship will be missed. I will never forget you"
SGT Michael J. Bowie of Bravo btry 2/300th FA

"To the family and friends of Randall Rehn - Words can't describe the immense pain I feel over your loss. I am so sorry. I am in the 214th Brigade, under which 3-13th is assigned. I arrived to Kuwait to join the rest of the unit two days before we heard of the tragedy that struck the 3-13th FA. Your loss was and still is felt throughout the whole brigade. It hits so close to home to lose a soldier from your own unit. Although many of us never had the honor of meeting this outstanding NCO, his memory will live on in our hearts. On Memorial Day, I placed pictures of Randall and the other two soldiers who died with him on the walls of every barracks and workplace in the brigade. I know it can in no way bring him the recognition he deserves, but he is remembered, and many of the pictures are still there, 4 months later. He has made the Red Dragons proud. May God bless you and be with your family until you see him again."
SPC Jenna Williams of Fort Sill, OK, 214th FAB - "Leaders"

"Dear Raelyn,
It has been awhile and it has been hard,but i have to tell you.My only grandson sgt.Donald S. Oaks Jr. served and died with Randall that fatefull day. He talked often of him and respected him very much. Be assured that they will never know the pain of war again.We know we will be with them again.I pray for you and your family to know GODS peace."
Sam Oaks Papa of Erie, Pa. U.S.A.

"To the friends and family of Randall S. Rehn:
I wish there was something that could be said to ease the pain, but the most I can do is say I am so sorry for your loss. I too lost a loved one to the war in Iraq. I pray that God will help you through this difficult time. Randall will live on forever in your hearts and his courage will never be forgotten."
Sarah Linden of Portland, OR USA

"Randy you were a great friend. we started the military together and with you now in my thoughts and prayers i know you will still finish with me. i loved you like a brother and you are missed...."
Marc Atwell of Lawton, OK

"my school is finding info about the men and women who has died in the war so we can always remeber and say thanks."
Lyle Williams of Comanche ,OK From Comanche middle school

"Today I picked up a newspaper that is over a year old. It reports the death of Randall and his comrades. Again I am reminded of what brave men and their families sacrifice so that we can live in liberty. God bless all who serve with honor in the name of liberty. May the fruit of their efforts be peace and may those who give their lives rest in peace eternal."
Jay Russell of Oklahoma City, OK

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

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

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

"Randy, I will never forget you brother! I'm proud to have served with you and wear your name on a bracelet in memory our friendship. RIP my friend."
SFC James Chandler of Salt Lake City, UT

"Randy, I will never forget you brother! I'm proud to have served with you and I wear your name on a bracelet in memory our friendship. RIP my friend."
SFC James Chandler of Salt Lake City, UT

"Randy, I will never forget you brother! I'm proud to have served with you and wear your name on a bracelet in memory our friendship. RIP my friend."
SFC James Chandler of Salt Lake City, UT

"God bless your family soldier. I pray for their strength. You will never be forgotten..Thank you for sacrificing for our freedom...We will never forget you...your in our hearts always"
Aubrey Emerson of Ardmore, OK

"Thank you Randall Rehn, 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

"I served with you while assigned to Charlie Btry 6/27 FA from '92 - '94. While I don't remember much from way back then, It is with tremendous sorrow that I wish God's Blessings upon your Family and all of those who knew you well and loved you. I am heading to Iraq this Feb to continue the fight that you so bravely died fighting. We will see this thing through to the end so that your sacrifice will not be in vein. Go with God and Rest in Peace Soldier"
SSG Seamus Regan of ACE 312th MI BN 1st CAV DIV, FT. Hood TX,

"Randy, We love and miss you. You will live forever in our hearts."
Julie of Mead, Co

"Thank you, you will not be forgotten."
Daisy of USA

"Randy was a friend of mine many years ago when I lived in Oklahoma..he was always making people laugh and smile!!God bless you Randy and God Bless your family."
Alicia Scott of Maywood, New Jersey

"To the family of SFC Randy Rehn, my deepest sympathy goes out to you. I served with SFC Rehn in 2/4FA between 1998-1999. He was an excellent leader, soldier, and friend to many. He will be deeply missed."
SGT Mark McDevitt of Fort Sill, Ok B 2/18FA

"I appreciate you fighting in the war with Iraq."
Linda of Houston, Texas United States

"Let god be with you,sorry for your loss"
shawn hagen of bowlinggreen,mo U.S.

"Randall is a Hero now a Angel! In ouer Hearts, Soldier, u will be, on our minds til eternity! God bless You and God bless Your Family!!!"
Sandra and Franklin Campbell of Fort Sill, Oklahoma, USA

""SKIPPY" You came to me as a young PVT without a clue. I did the best I could to train you and protect you. Germany we did some wild things together both good and bad. I still have the scars and the wonderfull memories. That darn cat used all its 9 lives. Recruiting we leaned on each other, who whould have guessed you answered the phone when I called. You did all of us proud and touched everyone you came into contact with. You will be deeply missed my brother. God bless you and God bless your family. You will never be forgotten."
Steven Brent of Walters,OK

"We were very blessed to have known Randy and will miss his presence always. Our hearts and prayers go out to RaeLynn, Megan, his family and those closest to him. Lives have been forever changed but Gods grace will comfort us all."
Hillegass Family of Pottstown, Pennsylvania

"Randy, RaeLynn and Megan have made such an impact in our lives. Randy will be greatly missed. Our hearts are with all of you."
Brad & Sandy Geopfert of Lawton, OK

"Our prayers are with your family during this difficult time. Thank you brave soldier, your courage and sacrafice will never be forgotten."
Ken and Maritza Holley of Pembroke Pines, Florida

"Our hearts and prayers will always be with Sgt. 1st Class Randall Rehn and his family. We are so proud of him for his accomplishments in life and for making a wonderful husband/father to a friend I love so dearly. Rae Lynn and Megan - We are always here for you. May God bless you and guide you in the days to come. We love you with all our heart."
Carrie and Cailey Morrow of Tulsa, Oklahoma

""We Are Very Proud Of You For Serving And Protecting America And Others To Be Free! My prayers and thoughts for his family. DAUGHTER OF CW2 DONALD L. WANN (Shawnee,Oklahoma) 158th Aviation Battalion, 160th Aviation Group, 101st Airborne Division Status: (Missing June 1, 1971) MIA Status Updated (In 1973) Killed/Body Not Recovered (Vietnam) **GOD BLESS**"
Shannon Wann Plaster of Yukon, Oklahoma

"To the family and friends of Sgt. 1st Class Randall Rehn:
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 Randall 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 Sgt. 1st Class Randall Rehn:
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 Randall, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera, of Powder Springs, Georgia

"Thank you for sticking up for what you believed in. You have made Oklahoma and US very proud, but yet sad. God Bless!!!"
Robyn of Blocker, OK USA

"RIP SFC Rehn...We shall never forget you."
The Taylors of NC