Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

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

Army Sgt. Nicholas A. Tomko

24, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Tomko was the door gunner in a convoy vehicle when his team came under small arms attack in Baghdad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 307th Military Police Company, U.S. Army Reserve, New Kensington, Pennsylvania. Died on November 9, 2003.

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"Brother the times we shared and the heart felt conversations we had about life. It was an honor to serve side by side with you on the field and off. It has taken me years to write something on here, I never wanted to believe you were gone. I am sure we will meet again soon little brother. take care and God Bless."
Michael Antonini of Harrisburg, PA

"Sgt. Tomko,
I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country-not just in OIF but also when you served in Bosnia as well. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy."
Mike Casey of El Paso, Texas

"Wow Nick I can't believe how long it's been. Hearing of your passing broke my heart. It was such a shock. You were a great man, and a good friend. Working with you at the armored truck company was a blast. You made it a pleasure to come to work. Your sense of humor was unmatched. The Hawaiian girl on the dash everyday cracked me up. When I go to visit my mom, I stop to see you too, and another good friend. I know you impacted many more lives in a positive way, like you did for me. I miss you bro. I pray our God has forgiven you for your sins and allowed you to live in eternity with Him and your loved ones who have passed before you. I love you bro and I hope I will see you again. God Bless You!!"
Brian of Pittsburgh, PA

"hey buddy... another Memorial Day is upon us and honoring you by remembering how you lived and not how you died. I thank God every day for men like you... see you at the Final Countdown !!"
Sgt. Joseph M. Tomko U.S.M.C of Pittsburgh, PA

"Thinking of you again today on this Veteran's Day 10 years later. You will always be remembered by your comrades. We had our annual toast to you Saturday night and told stories of better times. I'll be praying for your family today."
SSG KR Forringer of Norvelt, PA

"RIP Sgt Nicholas, you will never be forgotten!"
Ted Spain of Aiken, SC

"Miss u thinking of u everyday! U ll never b forgotten!!!! Love u nick ~corrin~"
Corrin Tonkin of Pittsburg pa

"Nick,
You and I hung out in high school and you were a year or do behind me. I joined the Army in '96 as a cav. scout. I heard if your passing and it hit hard. I think about you often and you are dearly missed.. Thank you for your service and friendship."
HS1/E-6 Brian Maksin, Coast Guard of Anchorage, Alaska

"Still miss you brother. 8 years later and it seems like it was yestarday. Keep heaven streets save. We will be on patrol again together one day.

Armstrong"

"8 years ago today Nick. It is because of you I am thankful for every extra year and breath God provides me, and beause of you I know just how blessed I am. I wish you could share in what He has brought to me since Iraq, have it all for yourself too. But I can only sleep each night hoping you have far greater rewards & peace beyond. You will never be forgotten friend."
SSG Hamilla of Pittsburgh, PA

"Tomko I still show people your pics from basic and overseas. We served every step of the way. You were such a good soldier. One day soon we will meet again. I just wish that a people could truly under stand your worth. Anyone that ever met you would of been influnced. I know how much you loved the MP core I just wish of be as good as soldier as you. Love you RIP"
Sgt Fox of Phila

"November 23, 2008
To the family of Sgt. Nicholas A. Tomko:
Nicholas 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

"Nick,
It was an honor and a privilige to serve with you in Bosnia while I was assigned with the 29th MP Company. You were always motivated and willing to learn and always had a smile on your face which was contagious even to a grouch like me. I still remember the day in Iraq when CSM Satterfield told us that you had passed away. It was a sad day for everyone, because we had not only lost a brother, but a outstanding soldier who we called friend. I am sure I can speak for everyone in the 29th that served with you Nick. We love you and miss you."
SSG Bruce Alexander of Ft Meade, MD. USA

"On this Veterans Day, 5 years & 2 days removed from when God rewarded you for your bravery & courage in defending us, please know that we thank you always for your service to our country. Just as your great-grandfather Pfab, grandpap Pfab, your dad, cousin Jason & his dad had done, you put your country ahead of yourself in this nation's time of need. God bless you always Nick and may we always thank you for your service to us & our country."
Uncle John Brian Pfab & family of South Park, PA, USA

"Still mis ya bro...."
Josh Boylan of Pittston, Pa

"Nick,
I remember coming into the Toot-N-Scoot to get a coffee while I was on duty. I never knew what color your hair would be on any given day! We talked about the Police force & the Army. Over that time I saw you grow from a boy into a man. I'm proud of having known and served with you, visiting those memories often. We will see eachother again my friend....."
Major Jodie Snider of Pittsburgh, PA

"I am very sorry to hear about your child’s death through the website Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. We would like to invite you to join us at noon on this Saturday, May 17 at the Homewood Cemetery located in Squirrel Hill (1599 S. Dallas Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15217 – phone for directions 412.421.1822) to honor the fifth anniversary of the death of Gary G's (former WEDO disc jockey) daughter, Cathy, who died in a fire. Upon Cathy's death, Gary started Cathy G Charities to carry on her work with the local homeless (on streets and in shelters), Veterans Administration, anyone who has a need etc. I do pro-bono work as the charities Public Relations Representative.

Since Gary is a disabled veteran, he especially wanted to invite the relative/friends of fallen heroes to our memorial. We have invited others who lost their sons and daughters and Gary will be stocking the beautiful cemetery pond with 900 goldfish and releasing doves after reading the names of the sons and daughters who have passed on.

Thank you for your interest. You can reach me immediately by phone at 412.673.9443 or Gary at 412.583.8560 or 412.373.5687. Please let us know if you can attend and the name of your loved one. Also please inform us if you cannot attend, but want your son or daughter’s name mentioned at our ceremony."
Janet Fabyankovic of Monroeville, PA, USA

"To those left behind....
I believe I can speak for the entire 29TH Infantry Div (L) Military Police Company that served with you in BOSNIA, WE LOVE YOU NICK... COL. STARK always said that there was something SPECIAL about you but she just couldn't place it. You are a damn good soldier and I am proud to have served with you. When you volunteered to go with me "OUTSIDE THE WIRE" on SEPTEMBER 11, 2001 in Bosnia, some thought you crazy, but you always wanted to learn and help. You were there for me...thanks Nick."
SGT. BRIAN MOSER of HAGERSTOWN, MARYLAND

"I felt my heart gasp when I heard today's date. I've been wearing your name on my wrist for years. (Everyone asks me about it.) I last saw you four years ago at the chow hall at ... dogwood? You were in a really good mood; really smiley. I'll never ever forget you. I'm looking forward to seeing you again in Heaven and laughing about good times."
rba of Germantown, MD

"Nick, four years ago today you left this world. It seems like so much longer than that. I think about you all the time and I wish I could see again, even if it is for just one day. You were an inspiration to everyone you met. If anyone knew you for as long as I have, they would say the same. I love you, brother."
Dane Winkler of Cranberry Twp, PA

"Hey Bro! Itll be 4 years on friday since i last saw you, and not a day goes by that i dont miss you!"
Joshua Boylan of Pittston, Pa

"Nick, not a day goes by i don't think bout you. I miss you bro. All these songs make me think of you. Thank you. Sgt johnson..."
walt johnson of coraopolis pa us

"I don't know if we were related, but that really doesn't matter...Thank You!"
Bob Fitzurka of Rogers,AR

"To the family of:Nicholas A. Tomko 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"

"We were in Iraq at the same time and share a similiar last name, my mom nearly had a stroke when she heard the name "Tomko" on the news. I can scarce imagine the anguish your family feels. I can only offer them my deepest sympathy and regrets."
Bill Tompko of Latrobe, PA

"Thank you Nick for the greatest of all sacrifices. I am Airman Justin Dornetto's Mom - you were like another son to me - I miss you and that great smile and your "hog call" on weekend mornings -- We all miss you. You were a wonderful / delightful / generous and funny young man."
Jan Dornetto of Gibsonia, PA

"To the family and friends of Sgt. Nicholas A. Tomko, I was just looking for some information on Black History month for my home schooled kids about the Nicholas Brother on the net. However, this site came up. I'm so glad that I found this site and took the time to read some of the posts. I love this country and what is can stand for.... Freedom!!! I know "Freedom Has Never Been Free" as the slogan says on my Army Reserve shirt my Bro. (Army Sgt J. K. Mines) gave me last year, but today, I found a new Hero, his Name is Sgt. Nicholas A. Tomko. God Bless Him and grant him life everlasting.

With the hope of God's peace on Earth for his loss people. Pray for us all....


Respectfully Yours,
The Mines Family"
c.e. mines of Cumberland, Maryland

"To the family and friends of Sgt Nicholas A Tomko, I just wanted to tell you that with much pride I am wearing a Hero Braclet with Sgt Tomko's name on it. I am thankful for men like him. I am glad that I found this page and can read what others that have known him feel. I can see that he was well loved and a great friend. When I am asked about my braclet I can now share a little of what Sgt Tomko was like. We hear everyday that soldiers have died but we never know who they are. I think it's improtant that we do. I will make sure other's know about him. Thanks"
Sandy of Hudson, NH

"To the family of Sgt Tomko--I was the chaplain who provided last rites for your fallen soldier and family member--I have not forgotten him. You should indeed be proud of him even as we were that night in the desert in DOGWOOD when along with the medical staff and the Brigade Commander we surrounded your soldier and prayed that final prayer. Thank you for your sacrifice and his life. Please write me for more information if you wish at william.c.mccoy@leavenworth.army.mil."
Chaplain (Major) William McCoy of US Army Command & General Staff College, Leavenworth KS

"Nick I am going to miss you. God had bigger plans for you. I will never forget the fun times we had in Bosnia...."
SSG Reuben Layton of Warfordsburg Pa

"A brother from another mother. Working alongside you at Toot n Scoot was probably the most fun any 2 people could have at a job. My whole family could count on you as a weekend alarm clock. Driving by and giving us a hog call at the top of your lungs. As much as that aggrivated us all, I miss it. I can't put into words how much it hurt when u died. Your in my thoughts every day Nick."
Justin Dornetto of Tinker AFB, OK

"Nickeeeeeeeee, it's Jimeeeeeeee! We were "brothers from different mothers". You were the best friend anyoune could have. Everyday was an adventure. Playing Zephyr ball, skating through Wildwoods Festival of Lights, Cliff diving, sleeping at your house and having to be super quiet because Granny would freak out if any one was in the house, and even working at Toot N Scoot was a blast if you were there. You lived life the way everyone should live it. Being friends with you changed my life, you infected me with your care free, fun-loving ways. I will never forget you brother."
Jim Bleil of Stroudsburg, PA

"We are so sorry for your loss. We lost Army Spc.Joshua Justice Henry on 9-20-04. This was the hardest day of our lives. We honor these guys as our Heroes and hope no one else has to go through with what we are all dealing with. Rest in peace Nicholas, and thank you for serving your country to the fullest"
Henry family of Vandergrift , PA

"Nick, I just wanted to let you know that your family was fabulous to us when my brother, SSG Edward Carman, recently died in Iraq. I've been trying to talk my mom into going to the support group, as I think it would do her good to talk with others who understand her loss. I try to, but I lost a brother, not a son. This is difficult and I can't imagine what our parents have gone through. I hope that you have a chance to meet my brother wherever you two are, and that you find comfort in each other. We miss all of you. Please come back and visit once in a while to say hello and give us hugs and kisses. Rest in peace...have fun...Love always"
Joanna May Carman of Painesville, OH

"I still remeber the day that Nick moved next door and we all sat outside and played some PS2.Nick was a great guy and losing him is a great loss. He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten."
Steve of McKees Rocks, PA

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

"To Nicholas' famliy: Your sacrifice will not be forgotten. I read your Nicholas' name at a rememberance vigil in Denver...you are in my prayers."
Oren Briese of Castle Rock, Colorado

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

"OUR words from day one to each hero here have always been...REST IN PEACE BRAVE WARRIOR....We love you..God Bless you"
The Taylors USMC of NC

"Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you in your sorrow. May God's love and peace be with you."
Pat and Sandi B of Montana

"Thank you Nicholas Tomko, 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

"The war has claimed many, but none as close to me as this one. My 'brother from a different mother' as we so often called each other during our 9 month stay in Bosnia, was one of the few people I could call a true friend during my 6 years (and counting) in the army reserves. He was always there for me when I needed a friend, someone to talk to, or just to goof off and have fun with. He has touched many lives and brought smiles to many faces. I will always miss my brother, but I am confident that I will someday see him in heaven when my work here on earth is done. I will go on fighting for my God, my country, and my brother who has fallen."
Sgt. Richard K. Ochoa of Martinsburg, PA

"To the family and friends of Sgt. Nicholas Tomko:
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 Nicholas 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. Nicholas Tomko:
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 Nicholas, 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