Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Ben,

Your military friends were here today. It has been 3 years since your death. It is wonderful to see your friends who travel from all over to come and remember you at your graveside June 9th every year. You touched the lives of so many people. You will always be remembered and always loved. I think of you and miss you every day. I am so proud of you, and I am so proud to be your mother. I just wanted to say I Love You and I miss you. Someday we will be together again, until then, I cherish the wonderful memories of your time with us. Momma"
Judy Huenink of Beatrice, Nebraska USA

"June 9, 2009
To the family of Pvt. Benjamin J. Slaven:
Benjamin 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

"The soldiers do not speak. Nevertheless, they are heard in the still houses: who has not heard them? They have a silence that speaks for them at night and when the clock counts. They say: We are young. We have died. Remember us. They say: We have done what we could but until it is finished it is not done. They say: We have given our lives but until it is finished no one can know what our lives gave. They say: Our deaths are not ours: they are yours they will mean what you make them. They say: Weather our lives and our deaths are for peace and a new hope or for nothing we cannot say: it is you who must say this. They say: We leave you our deaths. Give them their meaning. We were young. they say. We have died. Remember us:"
William D. Taylor Jr. of BONITA SPRINGS, FL

"I remember sitting on base wondering who we lost, and could have never guessed it would be you, your missed by a lot of people, and it's still hard to believe after all this time."
knoop of Lincoln, NE, USA

"I attended Basic Training at Ft. Jackson in March-May 2005 and I remember we would have formations and he would always say something to make us laugh. DS Lara was asking about our favorite drinks and Ben's was different from anyone elses. His answer was 7up Plus...DS Lara is like what?? Thats odd for a guy and when asked why he said, "It's fruity.", and in a voice that just had everyone laughing. He is a great guy and I am currently serving in Iraq and am so much more aware of what total sacrifice means. He will NEVER be forgotten in my mind and is a true American Hero."
SPC Andrea McClanahan of Taji, Iraq

"Ben,
I will never forget you. No matter how many crazy or insane things you did, you were thinking clearly the day you joined. You were an amazing guy and I thank you for just being you. You filled my life with fun and laughter. Thank you for everything."
Joelle of Western, NE

"There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of you. I could not have asked for a better brother. I love you."
Misti (Slaven) Fisher of El Paso, TX

"BEN,
Hey Brother I can't tell you how much I miss you. Their isn't a day that goes by your not with me. You'll never be forgotten and always with us here. I just wanted to drop in and say i miss you brother."
SSG Johnson, Charles K. of Camp Adder, Iraq

"Benjamin,
I would like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy."
Mike C. of El Paso, Texas

"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.
Our nations HERO, Benjamin will be remembered by name.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pat & Sandi Breckenridge / Montana
May we always remember: FREEDOM ISN'T FREE! "

"Thank you Benjamin Slaven, 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 Pvt. Benjamin Slaven:
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 Benjamin 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 Pvt. Benjamin Slaven:
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 Benjamin, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia