Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Even though it has been 20 years today since Maj. Taylor and Sgt Sandri were killed, I will never forget them. I was a contract paramedic and was posted at Camp Fallujah. I had met and worked with both of them and was a short distance away from the surgical unit when the rocket impacted.

Never Forgotten"
Josh Horne of Conroe, TX

"Rest in peace, Brother.
You saved my life on the operating room, two days before your faithful day. I can only vividly remember what happened to us as I just now putting the pieces together. The physical pain is incomparable to the emotional pain that I’ve been carried of knowing the missed opportunity to give you the simple salute. “Airborne!, All the way!”
…until our next LGOP.
Thank you, brother Taylor. Rest easy."
X. Ninh of Cary, NC USA

"I was 1/24's Battalion Surgeon in 2006-07. I passed through that side door scores of times during my tenure in Iraq with 1/24. I can still see the plaque's photos of Major Taylor and the Air Force Sgt who left this world that fateful day. I never met either one but I'll never forget them."
J. Lee White, MD of Charlottesville, Va

"My Navy Unit; Bravo Surgical Company part of the 1st Marine Exp. Unit were in transition with Mark's Company. I was getting supplies from the supply building across from the hospital. I walk pass Mark Taylor and Matt Sandie was they talk on the Sat. Phones. As I entered the operating room, the two rockets hit that back of the hospital. They we both killed,...I had seen them 30 seconds before that. You will never be forgotten as a steadfast surgeon, grand humor and warm. Rest my friend."
CDR Peter Charest, Nurse Corps, USN (ret.) of La Mesa, California

"When ever I hear the "Star Spangled Banner", I think of you with tears in my eyes. You said you would be home in a week. We laughed because you were finally coming home. I have not forgotten you my dear friend and I never shall."
Julia Kuberski of Newport Beach, California

"I had the distinct honor of wearing your name today on my race bib for the 7th Annual Christopher G Scherer Memorial"I Did the Grid" Run in Northport NY. I wanted to look your name up and read about you. I am not surprised at the tributes and I believe you were a truly special individual. Your spirit lives in the lives you touched- mine included. I too am a military physician- flight surgeon with the 106th RESCUE WING New York Air National Guard. Praying for you and your family today and always."
Kerry Murphy of East Moriches, NY

"I miss you and all that you've done for me. you were the first doctor at the WAMC to make me feel like a real person and not some bothersome "case." Dr.Taylor performed a life changing surgery that saved my life and now because of that my husband and I have our wonderful little miracle baby and in honor of you her middle name is Taylor. thank you for always being kind to me and my husband Manny. most of all thank you for being a wonderful person."
Carolyn Fortes of fayetteville, NC

"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

"Then Maj Taylor was part of the Army team that my company relieved. They only had a few days left in country. My work space where I did my job was 8ft from where the rocket impacted, albeit on the other side of a couple layers of concrete. The rest of the year I spent there was a constant reminder. Going through the back door or in the supply area, you could always see the shrapnal and blast scars on the walls. I stepped up the step Maj Taylor was standing on almost every day for a year.

All gave some, some gave all.

Rest in peace, Sir. You are not forgotten."
HM2(FMF) Ben Trnka of Maine, USA

"Mark was an intern during my residency at Madigan Army Medical Center. He is truly missed. May our prayers continue to be with his family and son."
Clinton Beverly, MD of Lynchburg, Virginia/USA

"March 21, 2009
To the family of Lt. Col. Mark D. Taylor:
Mark 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

"Mark- I miss ya!! I think of you often my friend! May god continue to watch over your family and precious son."
M. Teske of Anaheim, CA

"I met Mark the very first day he arrived at Fort Bragg. He had such a sense of humor. We had so many long talks over amberbock beer and multiple bottles of wine. Mark truely cared about his patients. I worked with Mark as a Surgical Tech and there was never a moment he did not put his patients first. Mark was a true Army Surgeon. I called him hawkeye because he was so cavalier about the little things. Rest in peace Mark. Connor, know that your dad was a true hero both in combat and at our beloved General Surgery at WAMC."
Kristi LaPerche of Fort Carson, CO USA

"Four years after Mark's death, his memory is fresh with me. Mark was a great and noble man, very committed to caring for the sick and wounded. He was also a great person. He had an easy manner and an infectious laugh. As my room mate for 7 months in Iraq, he always kept me upbeat. Mark was friends with everyone within a day of meeting them. In our short time together, we became great friends. He was and is an inspiration to me. I still miss him deeply. I will always keep his memory close. May God bless Roberta, Conner, and his family!"
Major Sean Montgomery of Atlanta, Georgia

"To the family of Dr. Mark Taylor: Before his deployment, Dr. Taylor performed surgery on me that saved my life. He was such a good man and missed by anyone who ever met him. I am thankful to have been his patient. You are all in my thoughts and prayers."
Tina of Ft. Bragg, NC

"To the family of Dr. Mark Taylor: Before his deployment, Dr. Taylor performed surgery on me that saved my life. He was such a good man and missed by anyone who ever met him. I am thankful to have been his patient. You are all in my thoughts and prayers."
TIna of Ft. Bragg, NC

"I served with LT COL. Taylor both in Iraq and on the 82nd FST as a nurse. LT COL. Taylor was a man that any soldier, nurse, or person for that matter could look up to. He was smart, funny (boy did he have some joke.) The hardest thing I ever had to do in my life so far was have to take care of him as a patient. Though I had to do a double take when he came into us, the training that he helped me with allowed me to overcome my emotions and do my job. I will never forget you. You will always be a great friend and I will see you in heaven my friend"
SPC JACOBS, CHRISTOPHER A of Manhattan, IL

"The first time I met Doc Taylor was three days before he died. My vehicle had been hit with an IED and I took shrapnel to my face and hand. Doc Taylor removed the shrapnel and when he died a few days later I was crushed. He was a good man and I wish that I had gotten to know him. Thanks Doc... I owe you one, rest in peace sir."
Jordan Ray of Colorado Springs , CO

"LTC Mark Taylor and I were 2nd Lieutenants together in 1-143 Field Artillery, California Army National Guard. I am currently serving in Baghdad, Iraq and just recently, Mark's name was mentioned during a memorial service for our fallen heroes. I remember hearing about Mark's death, and immediately thought of the wonderful times we had as brand new Lieutenants. Mark, I had the opportunity to get to know your parents, and we had such great conversations about your achievements and what an inspiration you are to our Country. You will always be in my thoughts as I continue my mission here, and upon my return to the United States.

Respectfully,"
LTC Robert Spano of (Currently in Baghdad Iraq), home is Elk Grove, CA

"To the family of:Mark D. Taylor 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 met Mark while I was an Anesthesiology resident at UCI. Anesthesiologists work hand in hand with surgeons to provide care. Mark was an excellent surgical resident; moreover his compassion was something to be admired and emulated. Such a terrible loss. The cost of freedom is paid by the blood of heroes. May he rest in peace."
Anthony M. Gonzales, M.D. of Fullerton, CA

"To the Taylor Family;

I severed under the command of Captain Doug Taylor, (Retired California Highway Patrol) during his tenure as commander of the California Highway Patrol's air operations program. Although I never had the pleasure of meeting you, it is without question that you were a man, father, and mentor of the highest caliber.

Mark, thank you for your service to our country and to the sacrifice that you made. You and your family will always have a place in my heart and I will never forget you.

With my deepest respect,

John H. Alexander, Sergeant
California Highway Patrol (Retired)"
John H. Alexander of Redwood City, California, USA

"Mark- Missing you during the holidays... thinking of you and Connor and your Folks. It seems like just yesterday you were around... god bless you praying for your family today and always."
Mily Teske of Anaheim, CA USA

"TAYLOR FAMILY,
I had the pleasure of doing an inspection with DOC in Fallujah, Iraq. I was a member of 82nd FSB. He was a very humble man and the passing of DOC is still with me until this day. Remember GOD know what he is doing and I keep you all in my prayers.
russell.wall@us.army.mil"
1SG WALL, R of Fort Bragg

"To the Taylor family. I served with LTC Taylor on the 782nd FST in Falluja, as one of the Nurses. Mark was my friend, a mentor, a talented leader, and an wonderful Physician. He was never ill tempered, and always had something to say or do even in the darkest times to keep everyone going. Words cannot express the loss of Doc Taylor. Please know that the soldiers he served with loved, respected, and admired him. The people whose lives he touched are better for it, and he will never be forgotten. Mark thank you for being you, we all miss you Hollywood."
CPT Michael Fisher of Ft. Sam Houston, TX

"This past Saturday my young daughter and I went to the airshow at Jones Beach here on Long Island, New York. As we walked into the park there were a few veterans handing out dogtags -- "They're free," we were told, "you just have to promise to wear them today." I was given a tag with the name of Ronald Winchester and my daughter was given a tag with the name Major Mark D. Taylor. My voice broke as I explained to her that these were men -- sons, husbands, brothers, fathers -- who gave their lives for our country and for us. We proudly wore our tags that day. The name Ronald Winchester was vaguely familiar and the next day I understood why when I saw his name listed among Long Island's own fallen heroes. And for Major Taylor, my heart was especially heavy because when I saw the "major" before Mark's name, I knew he was a man of experience and years, probably a man with a family of his own. And as I promised those veterans I would do, I looked up both of these men on the website and that is how I came to leave this message for Mark (I also left one for Ronald Winchester's family). To the family of Mark Taylor, I want you to know that here on Long Island, in the shadow of the World Trade Centers (I stood on top of them more than once myself), where so many hearts are still broken and so many lives deeply wounded by the events of that terrible day in September, there are fellow americans who say "thank you for your sacrifice." My daughter and I marched in our village's Memorial Day parade yesterday with our church. I wore the tag with Ronald's name and my daughter wore the tag with Mark's name. They are forever now "our soldiers" and you are forever in our thoughts and prayers. Martin Luther King Jr. said "The past is prophetic in that it asserts that wars are poor chisels for carving our peaceful tomorrows." He continued with the thought that we must come to see that peace is not a distant goal we seek but a means by which we arrive at that goal. And so we say "thank you" to the brave men and women who give their lives for us, for our freedom, and we pray for peace. Oh, how we pray for peace, how we long for peace, how we yearn for peace on earth. Your are forever in our hearts. love, Karen & Scarlett"
Karen Palmieri of Babylon, NY

"To the family of Col. Mark D. Taylor...my deepest sympathy for your loss. I want you to know that there are many, like myself, following in Dr. Taylor's footsteps through the Army HPSP program and rest assured, that his sacrifice and yours will NEVER BE FORGOTTEN among us. I will remember his commitment to our nation and to the soldiers he aided. He is the epitome of what this country stands on - strong individuals giving everything they have, selflessly, for others. Dr. Taylor is an inspiration to us all.

Sincerely,
2LT Mike Cheezum
US Army Reserve, HPSP
Boston University School of Medicine"
of Boston, MA/USA

"I served with Mark when he was a 1st Lieutenant, in the California Army National Guard, with the 146th CSH. He and I were friends and I will never forget him and our times together. I pray for his family and those who he left behind, knowing that he is in a higher place now."
MAJOR Scott Harrelson of Danville, CA, USA

"Dr Taylor, It has been months since we lost you but still I think of you often. I wish I had gotten to tell you just one more time thank you so much for helping me make changes in my life for better health. I feel so lucky to have known you for even the little time that I did. You will always be my angel and I will never forget you."
Hollie of Ft. Bragg NC

"This old paratrooper will never forget the brotherhood of the greatest division in the world. Although I never ran across Taylor, my heart hurts for my brother. May you rest in peace."
Anthony of Denver, CO

"To Lt.Col Mark Taylor's Family
My deepest condolence for your loss. Mark was my senior surgical resident at UCI Medical Center. It had been a honor and a priveledge to have known Mark. Please remind young Conner that his father was truly a well respected colleagues, surgeon, friend and HERO! Sweet dream my friend.
sincerely,
Andre C. Nguyen M.D."
Andre C. Nguyen of Long Beach, CA

"Mark and I knew each other from working together at UCI Medical Center in California. He was a very special man and a tremendous surgeon. He always did whatever it took to take care of any patient, even if it meant staying at the bedside all night long. I am truly blessed to have known such an incredible man. There are no words that can comfort you (his family) during this time. There are only tears....tears of sorrow, tears of pride, tears shed knowing that others will never know how wonderful he was. However, we also remember and honor him forever by sharing those qualities of his that made him so special. Connor, I know you will miss your dad forever, but I hope you can take comfort in the fact that so many people have been touched and blessed to call him a friend. You so more than any because you can also call him your dad. Doug and Roberta, I wish for you peace and serenity knowing that God has called his son home and he is now our angel in heaven watching over those he loves. Mark, you can know that all those left behind realize and value the sacrifice you and every soldier in Iraq and Afghanistan has made. We are so proud of you and you will be missed forever. I loved you once as a great friend and I will love you forever as such. We will never forget!! God bless your family in this time of sorrow."
Lisa McAllister of Tustin, CA

"Mark~ I was blessed to have known you during your residency at UCI. I got to know you for your caring bedside manner and your wonderful heart, and your great laugh and sense of humor.
Thanks for standing up for what you believed in. You are our hero and my deepest sympathy goes out to your family and your beautiful son, Connor. May god give give them comfort during this hard time. It was an honor to have known you. You will never be forgotton, because you will always be in our hearts."
Mily Teske of Anaheim, CA

"Dear Sir-

Thank you for your service, and for the sacrifice that you made for this great nation. May God grant you peace.

May your family take comfort in knowing that there are future military physicians who hope that they will be able to display even a fraction of the courage you have displayed.

You will be missed, but never forgotten.

Respectfully,
ENS Mark S. Douglas
Medical Corps, USNR
2nd Yr Medical Student- Drexel University College of Medicine"

"Dear Doug, Roberta and Conner,

Our families’ prayers, thoughts and sympathies are with you, Roberta and Conner and we send our deepest regrets for the loss of Mark. The measure of admiration and respect for Mark is apparent; his dedication to duty is without question; no greater sacrifice than this, his last full measure of devotion to his county’s service. As you grieve Mark’s loss, consider that Mark was able to set a rewarding career path and establish tangible goals because of the personal and family values you and Roberta provided. These values sometimes go unnoticed, but are translated into the proud legacy of our core Army values; loyalty, duty, respect, selfless-service, honor, integrity, and personal courage; all values that Mark lived day to day.

Doug, your wisdom, leadership and concern for family and friend alike, provided me with the character traits and values senior Army leaders can only aspire to attain. It was because of the strong bond of friendship between my dad and you, that I chose a similar career path; Officer Candidate School, then into the CHP. I will always remember the day I was called out of formation to report to the Commandant’s office because COL Taylor wished to speak with Cadet Roach. That one event sustained me through to graduation; thanks for being there.

Roberta, there are few words that can be said to express how we feel about your loss. Mark was a true humanitarian, caught up in today’s war on terror. Mark’s mission in Iraq was to provide the best care to every patient, regardless of whom or why they were there. And, it’s important to note, that the soldiers with whom he served, respected him for his faith, compassion and skills.

Conner, I only met your dad briefly, when we were all so young, but I have great respect and admiration for him. Your dad was among men of a rare caliber; men who put their lives and loves on hold so freedom could continue to ring true both here and abroad. We share in the blessings of a free nation because of the great sacrifices of our service men and women, both past and present. There is no better place to live in the world because of what we guarantee every individual, regardless of whom they are or where they came from.

We pray that you all will be comforted by God’s grace, and that your spiritual faith will give you continued love and understanding and comfort with your sorrow.

COL (Ret) William D. & Mary Roach and Family, Loomis, CA
Bill, Marge & Linda, Placerville, CA"

"I'm blessed to have had you in my life, even if it was just a brief one yr. Mark was an amazing man. From the minute I met him to his e-mails from Iraq. ALWAYS given his best, no matter the situation. I will forever carry your smile in my memories and the great person you were in my heart forever. Thanks for all the memories!
Lots of love and missing you always,"
Maj S. Hill of Ft. Bragg, NC

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

"Mark, you were a role model for me and a good friend. The Lord has decided to take you early because of your goodness. I enjoyed working with you at UCI where I witnessed a bedside manner and caring that you only see from time to time. You always made me laugh. We miss you greatly. You are a hero to all Americans."
JC JImenez of Newport Beach, California, USA

"From your friend Mikala who loved you
God's speed"
Jack Convery of Benicia,Ca

"To the Family of Mark Taylor,

Mark was a pharmacy classmate, fellow resident, and a friend. Although, my recent contact with Mark has decreased over the years I have heard of his continued accomplishments and work. I know from the time I was privileged to spend with him years ago, that he was a man of high character and integrity. His family and friends are in my prayers.

Sincerely,"
Stephen L Harris, Pharm.D. of Pacifica, CA 94044

"To the Taylor Family, Mark was a classmate, house-mate, and co-resident of mine. I am deeply saddened by this news. I will always remember his friendship. May peace be with your family."
Iris Tam of San Francisco, CA

"To the family of Maj. Taylor,
Our nephew, Army Sgt. Matthew J. Sandri, died with Maj. Taylor in Fallujah on March 20. From all we are hearing from members of Charlie Co, your loved one was an awesome surgeon and well-respected. We are sorry for your loss."
Dave and Debbie Sandri of Paxinos, PA

"To Mark's Family,
Mark and I were in surgical residency together at UCI. Mark was a wonderful surgeon and physician as well as a kind and caring human being. All of the UCI community grieves for his loss and send our deepest regrets and sympathy to you his family. We have all lost."
Lydia Vaias, MD of Los Angeles, CA

"To Mark's Family:
There are no words that can express our deep sorrow for your loss. May God bless you."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"Jim and I (Cyndi), met Mark and his former wife (Gina) when Mark was in Medical School. He was one of Jim's best friends throughout their medical school experience and his wife and I were very good friends. He was a wonderful person and we will never forget him. He was so dedicated to being a good doctor. He and Jim helped each other through the tough Medical School experience.
Our love and prayers go out to everyone.
Jim and Cyndi Schmitt"
Cyndi Schmitt of Yorktown,VA

"Mark and I served in Charlie Company 782d MSB together for about two years before I was sent to Iraq attached to one of the infantry battalions. Since I was a soldier in his unit, I can tell you that he had the utmost respect and admiration of all his fellow soldiers. Since I am also a physician, I can tell you that he had the repuatation among his peers of being a superb physician. I will be missing him for the rest of my days."
D.J. Doyle of Ft. Bragg, NC

"Dear Doug and Roberta, I am so sad to have read about Mark being killed. I just read it last night(3-31-04)on a web site(http://lunaville.org/warcasualties/Details.aspx)I check on from time to time. My dad and you(Doug)were in the Nat'l Guards together. I remember Mark was a very fine boy. My heart goes out to you and Connor. May God be with you all at this time of such heart break.
Love always,"
Sheila Howell Schukert of Henry, TN

"REST IN PEACE BRAVE WARRIOR
May God Bless your family and friends"
The Taylors USMC of NC

"To the family of Mark Taylor,
We are very sorry to hear of your loss. We lost our son in Iraq December 8,2003. Please let us know if we can do anything for you and your family. Our prayers are with all of your family."
Loretta and Sheldon Bridges of Tracy, CA

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
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, Mark, will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"Thank you Mark Taylor, 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 Maj. Mark Taylor:
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 Mark 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 Maj. Mark Taylor:
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 Mark, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia