Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

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

Marine Lance Cpl. Andrew G. Riedel

19, of Northglenn, Colorado.
Riedel died due enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Died on October 30, 2004.

Riedel had been promoted to Lance Corporal in June just before he left for Iraq.

Please send information, photos, and corrections for Marine Lance Cpl. Andrew G. Riedel.

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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.

Please report inappropriate messages

"i will love and miss you Andrew you never gave up and i loved that see you up there someday"
Raeann

"Andrew,
Thank you for fighting for us. Miss you."
Conrad Holland of Aurora, CO

"I didn't know your son well. We talked once onboard the USS Essex and we found out we were from the Denver area and were both with 1/3. My thoughts are with your family and friends."
Andy Kaplan 1/3 WPNS, CO 2003-2007 of Bozeman, MT

"To the family of:Andrew G.Riedel
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""

"St. Patricks Day, 2011...I live in Northglenn, Colorado and I remember learning about you and the ultimate sacrifice that you gave for God and our country. I am lucky to have my Marine brother who is an end of the Vietnam war non-combat vet is still with me. I am lucky. Your family is not so lucky to lose you. I am sorry you cannot be with your family and that you are gone. I hope that you rest in peace and may the memory of you live on. Thank you and God Bless you!"
Denver of Northglenn, Com USA

"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
A hundred times a day, I remind myself that my inner and outer life depends on the labors of other men, living and dead, and I must exert myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received and am receiving. - Albert Einstein"
Scott E. Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"You are a hero andrew<3"
sydney Phegley of littleton

"Hello brother. I still remember that terrible day when I was stationed in Okinawa and through Marine Corps Times Magazine I saw your picture in the Fallen Warriors section. I could not believe it. We spent three months in boot camp learning how to become Marines. I will never forget you man. You are my hero and your sacrifice will never be forgotten. I remember you at night standing next to your wall locker staring at your pictures and writting letters to your loved ones. Time flies my brother. It has been over six years now. In ten days I leave the military and I just wanted to pass by and pay my respects. I have a picture of you in my wall and when I have my first kid I will show him your picture and let him know that I had the honor of serving with you my brother. Rest in peace Warrior. To Riedel's loved ones, thank you for bringing to this world such a fine young man. He is with God watching over you and guarding the streets of heaven. Semper Fidelis my brother."
Sgt Rocha of San Diego, California/ v1al100@hotmail.com

"Hey there. It's another year and I miss you still. You have been on my mind and in my heart all day (every day, really). Keep sending your love our way, buddy - we can all use it."
Aunt Nancy of Rogers, MN

"Thinking of you today...and how much fun you'd have tonight at the annual halloween bash. We miss you."
Uncle George & Carol of Lakewood, CO

"Well I am very late on this, I have searched places to post tributes and such for Andrew and finally found the right spot it seems. I just remember finding out the news i was in Ft. Drum NY waiting a flight over to the sand box and got word and wanted to help any way i could and it seemed impossible with what circumstances I was in. But I was proud to know you and I along with everyone else here think about you. You will be missed and my prayers have been with your loved ones since I found out way back then and still are."
SPC Chris Weinard of Dallas, Texas

"Hey uncle andrew it me travis. It's hard knowing that you gone and thinking that i would have to grandpa's and not see you or steal your toys and have you make everything in the world just be ok...but im so happy got the chance to have you in my life because wit you being alive and with you being in heaven you still change my life so much and there re a few things that have happened....mom is getting married to a pretty cool guy named conrad and i trust him and i think you would like him too. he has a bunch of land and he let us paint ball its pretty fun up there. Kyle and craig are moving there with her but im staying here. oh and i made it half way through high school i think you would think that would be pretty impressive with knowing me :). we all miss you uncle andrew."
Travis Furlong

"10/30/2008 - Hi Bud. Just a note to let you know you're in my heart and thoughts more than ususal today. I miss you and hope you are well. Please wrap your love around the girls tonight, especially Jules. Love you."
Aunt Nancy of Rogers, MN

"Hey buddy, its been a while. I know all is well up there. I hope you look down on me from time to time. Miss all the good times with you and zach. Thanks for being a true hero and protecting our country as a whole. You are my hero. Miss ya"
Brandon of Thornton, CO

"September 29, 2008
To the family of Lance Cpl. Andrew G. Riedel:
Andrew 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

"Dear Riedel Family,

I and my family are so proud of your son, Andrew Riedel. By all that I've read about him he was an incredible and proud young man.
My heart aches for your loss and my family and I will continue to pray for the comfort of your family.
My son Matthew and my nephew Andrew are both currently serving in the United States military and I pray for them every day.
Semper Fi."
Bob Riedel of Peoria, Az.

"Happy Birthday, my brother Jar. I never met you but while talking with your mom at the first Remembering the Brave rifle match, I discovered that I enlisted on your birthday. Weird.

Cheers!"
Mark Riedl, USMC 1980-1984 of Florence, MT

"Andrew, I randomly thought of you today and realized that me missing you will NEVER go away. I am so proud of you and all of the things you have done for our country. You have had such a strong impact on my life. I will never forget games in the shed or sledding behind mels car and most of all i will never forget you! i love you and miss you more then you will know!"
Katy Neville of Thornton, Co

"Andrew was in the Hulstrom-Stukey After School Program in the early 90's, I was the Program Director at the time. I still remember what a shy young man he was with such a nice smile. I think of him and his family often, they are in my prayers."
Kara Dawdy of Thornton, CO.

"Hi Andrew: just wanted you to know that all of us in Minnesota will be at Taco Bell on the 30th to celebrate you. Miss you so much."
Aunt Nancy of Rogers, MN

"Andrew,

I miss you more than you will ever know. I can't even begin to tell you how much my life has changed. I have tried to block all of this out of my mind because I feel so alone without you. I was listening to the Mest song today, the one i used to make you play on repeat every time we were in your car. I remember when we both heard Here Without You and you said " this is our song." I told you that I knew you weren't coming home ..i know you never believed me, or maybe you just didn't want to . I continually replay in my head our last conversation...the last message you left me when you were in Iraq that I missed while i was in class...i waited for you to call back and you never did. It is so ironic how i just knew that night you were gone. I never got to tell you that I got your letter, and that I love you to. xoxo"
afton of boulder

"Andrew,
I don't know why, but I randomly thuoght of you today and I haven't in a while.

You were always such a sweetheart and you me chad and DJ would have a blast together... going to random places (Wendy's, North Park pool lol)

You are great and I miss you"

"Happy Birthday Baby!!! Sorry I ate all of the chocolate cupcakes Cayla made for you... Thanks for all of the memories buddy, They will last forever with your family and friends."
Dannette (Nette) of Westminster

"Hi Andrew:

Just a quick note to say Happy Birthday, as we approach 7/29. You're never far from my thoughts as we move through the days here. Ellie & Jules ask about you all the time. I tell them to close their eyes and picture you and you will surround them with your love. Miss you, Kiddo!"
Aunt Nancy of Rogers, MN

"Andrew, you are a brother I will always remember you. We didnt talk much in school but as a fellow Marine you are a brother and to lose one in the family is always hard. Thinking of you. My prayers go out to you, your family and friends back home. We will miss you.
CPL. Jessica L. Hurst USMC"
of Camp Pendleton, Ca

"Andrew, you are a brother I will always remember. My prayers go out to your family and friends back home. We will miss you.
CPL. Jessica L. Hurst USMC"
of Camp Pendleton, Ca

"Andrew i will always remember you as the brother i never had! You and Zach were like brothers to me and just remember YOU ARE THE REAL HERO."
Brandon Smith of Thornton Colorado

"we love you andrew."
Micah Greenmyer of Northglenn, CO

"""As a veteren of K Co 3/3 and a very short stint (2 Months with G Co)(1986-1990)MCAS K-Bay it saddens me to hear of the loss of my brother Marine but I know he left us bravley fighting to keep my family safe from the evils of the world keeping with the highest traditions of the Corps. I'm now to old to reenlist but if I could I would."""
Lcpl. Robert Blaylock of Lakeside CA, USA

"""As a veteren of K Co 3/3 and a very short stint (2 Months with G Co)(1986-1990)MCAS K-Bay it saddens me to hear of the loss of my brother Marine but I know he left us bravley fighting to keep my family safe from the evils of the world keeping with the highest traditions of the Corps. I'm now to old to reenlist but if I could I would."""
Lcpl. Robert Blaylock of Lakeside CA, USA

"Hey buddy, I was just thinking of you and thought I would stop and talk to you! I miss you so much and I'm so thankful to have you watching over me. Thanks for helping me get through these hard times. I cant wait to talk to you on Sunday!! Love you and see you soon."
Brianna of Westminster CO

"As we approach the first anniversary of that terrible day, I feel the familiar, deep ache of pain that was with me last year. This year, it is with some solace that I know you are with your Uncle Rick. I like to believe he was there, extending his hand to you when your earthly journey ended and the time came to meet your King.

Andrew, you remain a constant source of pride for me, Ken, Ellie & Julianne. We miss you so much, but are comforted knowing you are up there, watching over us all. The pain will ease over time, but the love will remain forever.

Love ya, kiddo -- be seein' ya."
Aunt Nancy of Rogers, MN

"Riedel, Your might be lost but never forgoton. Thanks for watching my back in the city i know you were there and your the only reason im back alive. DRINK IT UP!"
Chilo of Hamilton Tx

"October 6, 2005

I was thinking about Andrew and what his life was like this time last year...
From what I perceive, I believe Andrew was POSITIVE. He was understandably unsure, yet POSITIVE about his future.

Andrew was PROUD of how he recently had made changes in his young life, and of who he had become. He was comfortable in his own skin, and felt compassionate toward each person in his life that helped him get to that point. He was PROUD, mostly, of his family...individually and as a whole.

Andrew was anxious and WAITING, looking forward to "getting into action" doing what he had been training for.

This time last year...

We(also)were "keeping" POSITIVE thoughts (prayers)...for Andrew.

We(also)were PROUD...of Andrew, what a fine young man he had become...PROUD of his strength and patriotism.

We(also)were anxious and WAITING...for Andrew to come home.

And now at this time...this year...

Andrew is a POSITIVE reminder to each of us how precious life and love are

...and Andrew is WAITING for us..to come home...

Is he still PROUD..of us (how we are living our lives)?

Something to ponder as we live each day!

Thinking of you with much love!

Aunt Carol"
Carol Kennedy of Lakewood, CO

"Nothing Lasts Forever.
That I am sure....
And Sorry.
Thank you for your great work and support. This is why I am free."
Vaughn of Manhattan Beach, Calif. usa

"HAVING BEEN IN BOOT CAMP WITH RIEDEL AS I KNEW HIM I WAS VERY HURT BY THE NEWS OF HIS PASSING HE WAS A GOOD MAN AND MARINE I ALSO LIKE TO PAY MY RESPECTS TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS ON BEHALF OF ALL HIS BROTHERS FROM HIS BOOT PLATOON 1039 CHARLIE COMPANY....REST IN PIECE MY BROTHER"
CPL. SEAN P. NEILON USMC of CAMP PENDELTON, CA USA

"Dear Riedel Family,
Though I did not know Andrew I am a wife of the Military. My husband is serving in Afghanistan and has already done a tour in Iraq. He is also a former Marine. My heart goes out to you and your family in this time of need. I just want to say thank you for your sacrifice for our country. I was also watching the news tonight and saw the fallen heros peice on Andrew and what his step-brother did brought tears to my eyes. He will always be a hero to me and my family. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family."
Heather Neptune (Proud Army Wife) of Yakima Wa

"Well today is the day!!! Happy 20th Andrew!!! I miss you so much, Thanks for helping me get through each and every day that goes by. Thanks for 6 great years of true friendship!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY COWBOY ANDY!!"
Brianna Schafer of Westminster CO

"hey andrew as you see mom left you a message that i gratuated young marines well it's true co denslow and xo reed gave me your patches at graduation i made a fool of myself and cried but,i love u and always think of you uncle andrew"
Travis Furlong of parker denver co

"Andrew, My hero~
I cant tell you how much I miss you and value what you have done for me, our friends, and our country in general! Not a day goes by that I dont think of you, and miss you!! Im glad that we got to make so many memories of us, the seven years we were friends! You are my hero, You will never be forgotten, my fAllen fRiend! Please keep watch on all of us,and keep an eye on Alyssa, as she now is in Parris Island, becoming a Marine because of you! You truely are everyones hero Andrew!!"
Tiffany Pendleton of Northglenn, CO

"Drew -

Thank you so much Andrew for all of the memories and laughter you have left us with. There are no words to describe the love and admiration we have for you. I feel your arms wrapped around me daily and hear your voice telling me your safe now. Please don't ever let that stop. I Love You So Much Baby Brother!!! :)

By the way your nephew made it and is now proud to be a Young Marine. He will always wear your badges with honor."
Dannette Crawford of Parker, Co

"hey andrew u have always been there for me and i'll miss you but i'd love you to be here you'd be so proud of me i'm just about to graduate from the young marines... I love you and I hope i see you later than sooner
love you uncle andrew,
Travis"
Travis k. furlong of parker, denver, co

"Andrew,
You, my friend, are a blessing. At Northglenn High School, you walked tall and proud, bringing laughter, joy, and happiness across all the students' faces. We want to thank you for helping us. You leave this country proudly, in a manner that many people dream of. You were serving your country, protecting the many who have trouble protecting themselves. As a whole, we unite Andrew, in loving memory of the pride and honor you have given us. We know your family will remember you as a HERO, and the rest of the world will too. Thank you Andrew, thank you to our Northglenn High School HERO."
Northglenn High School of Northglenn, CO

"Andrew... where do you begin to describe such a person. Andrew though I only knew you for a short time, the time I knew you was precious. You were funny, kind, and always there when someone was in need. You helped me through the hardest year of high school, and I thank you very much! You will never be forgotten and will always be my HERO. God bless his family!"
Britnay of Northglenn, Co

"Andrew, you are such an unbelievable friend, I will always admire the remarkable things you have done for all your friends, family, and your Country. Although you only lived to be nineteen you achieved such a great amount. I’m truly proud of you, and have never said with such a vast amount of pride that someone is my friend. “Andrew Riedel my true hero, you are and will always be my friend.” I wish there was a way I could repay you for what you have done, nothing I could ever do can compare to what you have done for me.
You will never be forgotten, I love you!
Mandy Brunner"
Mandy Brunner of Westminster, Colorado

"Andrew I know jess and I have'nt seen you for awhile, but have always remembered you. You were a great person and we both miss you very much.You will always be remembered. Love Jess and Dani"
Dani and Jess of Thorton co, USA

"To the family of Andrew Riedel,
I am sorry for your loss. I know words do not really mean anything right now. My husband was with Andrew on Oct 30th. It seems unreal what has happened. I keep thinking he will show up any day now. I think my body is still in shock from this tragedy. Me and my husband were childhood sweethearts and have known each other since 4th grade. We have two wonderful children who will miss him deeply. I just know they are all HEROS and I am glad I have had 12 wonderful years with him and I have our children. We will always remember them. Know that your son/husband/father/brother was a HERO and will never be forgotten."
Cindy Courtney of GA

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

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

"Andrew you are the greatest friend anyone could ask for. I love you and thank you for what you did for me and the rest of our friends. I will always remember that you were at "my camp" Camp Pendleton. It is not really my camp but he always told me that it was. You will never be forgotten. FRIENDS FOREVER!! I love you and miss you!"
Tiffany Pendleton of Northglenn, Colorado

"To the family and friends of Andrew G. Riedel:

I did not know him, but my husband died with him, LCpl Travis Fox. My prayers are with you. They will not be forgotten!
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

FOREVER, PROUD MARINE WIFE! OOORAH!"
Casie Fox of Greer, SC

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

"Pfc Andrew Riedel, although I never met you, you were my neighbor here in Northglenn. Now you are the greatest of heroes to me and my family, made safer by your sacrifice. I pray the Lord's presence with your precious family and His comfort and peace to be with all those that knew you and loved you. You are a better man than so many of us for whom you gave your life."
Charles James of Northglenn, CO

"To Riedel's family: My best friend Chilo Carlson was Riedels roommate in Hawaii, I enjoyed talking to him and it really felt like i knew Andrew even though i had never met him. I know how much it hurt Chilo to loose him, so i know how badly you must be hurting. Just know he is appreciated by people all over the world! I know i care and totaly appreciate everything he did for us and our country! It was a pleasure knowing your son! I'm so sorry for your loss! Sincerly"
Amanda Trammell of Stephenville, Tx

"To Drew's Family: I only knew Drew for a short time he was roommates with my good friend and he was a very funny and wonderful person!Though I only knew him a short time ,he was still my friend and I prayed for him daily! Thank you for having a wonderful son he will be greatly missed!"
Jessica Dackery of Fort Worth,Tx USA

"RIP Tufelhunden...The Taylor's in NC. USMC"

"To the family of Andrew,
I want to let you know that your son impacted my life and my friends lives since the day we met him. He was always a person you knew that you could talk to in a time of need. He was a protector and our nation is greatful for his service. Your family and Andrew will always be in my heart. God bless you and know that Andrew will never be forgotten."
Scott Williams of Westminster,CO

"My deepest sympathy, our family has also suffered the loss of a precious life in this battle for freedom. May God bless you and help you through this time. Forever in our hearts a HERO Andrew G. Riedel."
Amy & Aaron Monier of Waterford, MI.

"To the family and friends of Andrew G. Riedel - please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of Andrew. He will always be a hero. God Bless Andrew, all of you and our country."
Kathi Harju, A Marine Mom of Kettle River, MN, USA

"To the family and friends of Private First Class Andrew G. Reidel,

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, California

"To the friends and family of Pfc. Andrew Riedel,

There are no words that can possibly ease your pain but please know that many across this country are grateful to your son and you. His bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten. Please accept these words as a token of my heartfelt sorrow for your loss.

Respectfully"
Rebecca of Los Angeles

"To Andrew'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"

"To Andrew's Family:
There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for your loss. May God bless you and help you through this time."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"Thank you Andrew Riedel, 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 Pfc. Andrew Riedel:
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 Andrew 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 Pfc. Andrew Riedel:
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 Andrew, 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