Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Capt. Aitken, I carried your remains from Kuwait City to Dover Delaware. I made it a point to remember all that I brought home on that mission. May you rest in peace"
Terry L Soule of Applegate CA

"Hello, my father was a friend of CPT Aitkens and they had served in the same unit in the invasion, I am named after CPT Aitken and recently enlisted in the FL Army National Guard as an infantryman, inspired to do so by my father and CPT Aitken. Not a day goes by where I do not think about the sacrifice made by him and other service members, thank you for what you have Given."
Tristan of Tampa, FL, USA

"Memorial Day 2023 Sir. Thinkin bout you. RIH and I'll see you on the Highground."
1SG (R) Phillip L Manville of Bonaire, Ga USA

"Thinking about you today, see you on the high-ground, Headhunter-6.

ROCK OF THE MARNE….Tigris and Euphrates!!!!!

Strike-6, out."
John Cole, LTC, USA (retired) of Madison, Alabama

"Thinkin bout you Sir....Memorial Day 2022. Keep resting...I'll see you on the "Highground"."
1SG (R) Phillip L Manville of Bonaire, Ga USA

"Thinkin about you Sir on this Memorial Day 2021. It was an honor serving with you...and until we meet again....One Fine Day....Rest In Peace. "Glory's Guns!!""
1SG (R) Phillip L Manville of Bonaire, Ga USA

"Golf Clash has been part of the top grossing sports game in the Play Store alone. golf clash download"
Stanislav Riley of Massachusetts

"God bless and God speed sir."

"I was stationed with Tristan in 1996-1997 at Fort Hood, TX where we were assigned to 4th Battalion 42d Field Artillery. He was a young Fire Direction Officer in Bravo Battery and I was an FDC Chief in Alpha Battery. I often worked with the young lieutenants getting them spun up on their FDO duties. Tristan was a great guy, very personable and bright, cared genuinely for his Soldiers and loved his family deeply. His death hit me hard when I heard about it. I am very thankful to have known him and I am still deeply saddened by his loss."
Robert Seamster of Seattle, Washington, USA

"Sorry for this message being so late. I got the honor to serve under your command during OIF i was part of HHB maintenance and I was in your convoy I will never forget what type of person you were all ways with a smile and treating you soldiers with respect even in combat have time to come around to say hi and ask how we where doing. You are the best officer I server with NEVER FOGATEN SIR

GLORY GUNS (HEAD HUNTERS)"
SGT.COSME of tampa fl

"Today, September 20, 2014, at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, an Eternal Flame was lit to honor all who have served in our military. A paver stone around the flame was dedicated in memory of Captain Aitken, by the members of Pennsylvania DeMolay, a youth fraternity sponsored by the Masons in which our Bro. Tristan took part in the State College Chapter. We will NEVER forget his service or his sacrifice."
Thomas R. Labagh, Executive Officer for DeMolay in PA of Elizabethtown, PA

"CPT Aitken you will never be forgotten I remember when you re-enlisted me back in 2002 HHB 1/41 FA Thanks for your service Sir. Head Hunters"
1SG(Ret) Tracy Turner of Fayetteville, GA

"I was in Service Battery, 1-41 FA. I remember this day all to well. I was a petroleum supply special attached to your unit. It has been a honor to serve with you Sir."
SSG ( Retired) Patrick Hartsfield of Dinwiddie, Virginia

"Sir, CPT Aitken
“I apologize for taking this long to remember you here. You have been a part of my life in one way, shape and form since I met you. You made a lasting impression that colors my memories with that lasting smile you have. As hard as it has been for everyone, I have tried to bring that smile to the front of all my memories when my memories take me back. I hold onto that smile to help me through those times of memories. Thank you for always being there even over these years and leaving me with that smile.”
on site Combat Medic.."
SFC Clark, III William F. of Yongsan, Korea

"Tristan, thank you for serving and the sacrifice you ultimately made. You are remembered always! Rock of the Marne!"
Boom Minto LTC (Ret) of Bristow, VA

"my hunt for CPT Aitken's driver, (canady i'm looking for you) has led me here. my husband (SFC William F. Clark III) was the medic on this convoy. i will let him know i found this, as i'm sure he will want to say something to the family. this day plays heavy on his mind even after all of these years"
julie clark of universal city TX

"I miss you bro! You are not forgotten!"
John Belew of Fort Lewis, WA/USA

"CPT Aiken I miss you Bro. We had the toughest time in Iraq during the surge. Today it is even tougher to serve without you here in uniform. Since your depature we have lost a few other members of our team (SPC Pavlokowski & SGT Preston). You may be gone but you will never be forgotten. God Bless You and Your Loved Ones."
CW2 Ferman Barnes of Fort Bliss, Texas USA

"Capt. Aitken though I did not serve with you I too was in HHB 1/41 FA and served under Capt. Anderson in 1999. I wanted to thank you for your service Sir, and your sacrifice. I looked up to my Capt. In the way only a 20 year old private would understand. Complete trust and admiration, I'm positive your troops did as well. I heard of your passing many years ago and it bothered me a great deal. Rest in peace Sir. Rock of the Marne, Glorys Guns, Mission Accomplished"
Specialist (former) Mangum of Benson, North Carolina

"Sir, years later, I still remember you. My best wishes to you an yours. God's speed."
Brandon of Ft. Hood, TX

"I am privileged to have a bracelet with the Captains name on it, in memory. RIP Captain ."
Cindy of Mayfield, KY, USA

"Both CPT Aitken and I are Horned Frogs, graduates of Texas Christian University. Though it has been several years now, I wrote this story in our school paper which still resonates today:
http://www.skiff.tcu.edu/fall2003/100303/al.html"
CPT Eugene Chu of North Richland Hills, TX

"Tristan,
As I am back in Iraq remembering the eighth anniversary of the fall of Baghdad. You, your service and efforts are not forgotten. You were a great friend and officer. My hope is we can close out this mission with "Honor and Success" as tribute to your service and your sacrafice."
MAJ Scott Pendell of Baghdad, Iraq

"I wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas, Sir. I still remember you to this day and I want you to know that you have had a huge impact on my life. You will always be with me in my thoughts and prayers. God's speed Sir."
Brandon of Ft. Hood, TX

"Captain aitken,
I was in bravo 1-41fa and was there the day of your death i was one who actually helped pull you out of the hummv with medic Pfc Bouie. You were a great leader and it was great to have served with you in kosovo in 2001 and iraq 2003. You will always be in my memories and i wish your family the best and all blessings."
Spc Beaubrun of miami, Florida

"Captain aitken,
I was in bravo 1-41fa and was there the day of your death i was one who actually helped pull you out of the hummv. You were a great leader and it was great to have served with you in kosovo in 2001 and iraq 2003. You will always be in my memories and i wish your family the best and all blessings."
Spc Beaubrun of miami, Florida

""It has and will always be my honor to have served with you Sir. You were more then just my Commanding Officer you were also a great leader and friend. You will never be forgotten Sir "Glories Guns"."
SSG Uballe, Ruben N of Fort Stewart, Ga

"Sir, thinking of you as always at this time of year...Memorial Day 2010. I know God is taking care of you as only HE can."
1SG(R) Phillip Manville of Bonaire, GA USA

"I served with Captain Aitken at Ft. Stewart, GA., 1/41 FA. He was a compassionate leader, and all around good guy who loved his country, and put his soldiers first. I did not have the honor of serving directly under him during combat operations in Iraq due to my attachment to A CO 3/7 Infantry, but still we fought together. I will always vividly remember the way I felt upon hearing the news of your passing from this life. The pain of that fateful day lives on for me, but so does my fond memories of you, and your leadership. Thank you for your bravery sir, and thank you SSG Canady for your bravery, and care of our fallen hero.
GLORY'S GUNS!"
Sgt. Richard Sharp of Charleston, SC

"Cpt Aitken,

I carried your body from where you were struck down, to a medical hospital outpost along a lake in Iraq. I was flying Medevac that day, and had the duty to carry you from the field of battle to the nearest care facility. As you wounds would attest, I never saw your face until years later on a newspaper in my hometown. I recall vividly your tattered Body armor and your nametag and rank affixed. It has had a deep impact on my life and many others I was with. Rest in Peace, Sir. I will never forget you, or your sacrifice."
Brandon of Ft. Hood, TX

"CPT Aitken, Sir, I think of you often, along with SPC Cunningham, PFC Bellard, and PV2 Jones of C Btry 1-41st FA especially during Memorial Day. American Flags are flying high in your honor down here, but God wanted you with him. Rest In Peace. I'LL NEVER FORGET"
1SG (R) Phillip Manville of Bonaire, GA USA

"I am very sorry for your loss and his death will not be in vain. He is a true American Hero."
Hunter Swick of Huntersville

"Cpt. Aitken...Though I left the Glory's Guns shortly before you and the rest of my brothers left for batlle..You have been in my thoughts often. A composed, intelligent , compassionate leader that put the mission first. You pinned the Seargent rank on me at Camp Bondsteel in Kosovo and had to sign off on that promotion which means allot to me. Godspeed Sir..I wish I could've marched into battle with you..Sgt. Bussey"
Marquis Bussey of Montclair ,New Jersey

"Sir,
You are truely one of the most influential officers I have ever worked with. You menotorship and devotion to the mission is impecable. It was an honor to have served under your leadership."
SGT Steven Key of Naples, Italy

"Thank you. Our world shines brighter because of you. Thank you."
Scott Schammel of Texas

"December 30, 2007
To the family of Capt. Tristan N. Aitken:
Tristan 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

"he was my lt when i was station at ft. hood hhb 4-42fa he was cool and always trying to keep moral up. sorry for your loss, he was a good man."
mike sterling of bollingbrook ,il,usa

"May your soul rest in eternal peace and God bless you and your loved ones for serving your country"
S.J of Nairobi,Kenya

"Capt. Aitken,

Sir, 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 Kosovo as well. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy. After reading all the reflections left for your, all I can say is that I wish that I had had a chance to have served for an officer such as yourself.

"Mission Accomplished"(41st FA Motto)"

"I have received many coins for various reasons over the years, but the one I treasure most is the "HEADHUNTERS" coin given to me with a firm handshake by CPT Tristan Aitken, CMDR, HHB 1-41st FA. I cannot put into words the honor and priviledge I feel in my heart of having served with him. God bless his family, and all that he held dear, for you will surely meet again."
1SG(R) Phillip Manville of Bonaire,GA

""Let us solemnly remember the sacrifices of all those who fought so valiantly, on the seas, in the air, and on foreign shores, to preserve our heritage of freedom, and let us re-consecrate ourselves to the task of promoting an enduring peace so that their efforts shall not have been in vain.”
--Dwight D. Eisenhower""
Veteran's Day...2005

"I am a spouse of a glory guns soldier,I send all my prayers and thoughts to the family of Capt.Aitkens. The day I found out about one of our men being killed all I could do is cry in sorrow.I was pregnant at 32 weeks when I found out, I had my child 3 days later.I am truely sorry for the family of this great man. He was a leader and believe me I have heard great things about him from my husband. Sorry about the loss of a great soldier!"
Brandy Christy of Fort Stewart GA

"When you go into combat you want the best there is to offer, as a HeadHunter, my unit had the best and he will always be remembered. My deepest sympathy goes out to HeadHunter 6's Family and Friends. God Bless"
SSG Michael Turner of Fort Wainwright, Ak

"I did not serve Directly with LT Aitken, but as an Alumni of State College class of 1983, A Veteran of the 4th ID, FT Hood and served in Iraq from April 2003-September 2003, I feel I knew him. He was one of us as we were one of Him. My deepest sympathies go to his family and friends. Anyone who raises his hand to defend, wears the uniform, bears the burden and carries the honor what of this country was founded upon, will live forever with Honorand dignity. I salute you, LT Aitken! May we sip from the same canteen when we meet."
Rusty of Lancaster,PA

"AUG 20, 2005
ARMY CAPT TRISTAN N. AITKEN
You are an American hero whose ultimate sacrifice will not be forgotten by a grateful nation. Rest well brave soldier.

“SOLDIER”
By
George L. Skypeck , RegTM
All Rights Reserved
(No reproduction without prior permission
By Mr. Skypeck)

I was that which others did not want to be.
I went where others feared to go,
And did what others failed to do.
I asked nothing from those who gave nothing,
And reluctantly accepted the thought of
Eternal loneliness…should I fail.
I have seen the face of terror;
Felt the stinging cold of fear;
And enjoyed the sweet taste of a moments love.
I have cried, pained, and hoped…but most of all,
I have lived times others would say were
Best forgotten
At least someday I will be able to say that
I was proud of
What I was…
A SOLDIER"
D. Burt of Rhode Island

"Tristan, you are remembered especially today by the Jimeson family of State College, Pennsylvania for the dedicated service you and your family has given to this nation over the many years."
Tom Jimeson Sr. of State College, PA. U.S.A.

"Tristan,

As we approach to 2 yr. mark of that terrible day, my heart is still heavy and I will not forget you and all that you meant to me. You taught me so much while you served as our S-3A. You included me in the BN orders process and made me look good.

I remember how you would always ask me, while we were in the field, when I would come to your area and have a field service. I don't believe in the 3 yrs. I served with you, that you ever missed a field worship service that was in the area, if at all possible. The same goes for weekly chapel services in Kosovo, too.

Your silent professionalism was a model to me and many others in the BN. You set the standard for what an SOP should look like and insured the battery was "Fit-to-fight."

I remember the time the 2 of us with our drivers enjoyed a special meal hosted by the teachers of the little school in Nikka, Kosovo.

I remember how you were looking forward to returning from Kosovo to marry. You would make that big Ultrabrite smile that always got a positive response from others in the room.

I remember the time you caught me laying the wrong way in the fighting position of your perimeter at stand-to. I was enjoying the stars and praying. You looked down at me and said, "Chaplain, we call it 'the prone position for a reason'" You didn't dimed me out in front of others, but I got the message.

That long long day to Baghdad seems like only yesterday. It's been almost 2 yrs. and only now am I able to put into words my grief.

You served/lead honorably from the front. You took care of Soldiers. I lost a friend that day as I waited at the airport for ya'll to arrive. Truly our Glory's Guns colors seemed a little darker that day. The Corps lost one of its brightest redleg sons, April 4, 2003.

Tristan, you and our other fallen Glory's Gunners remind me of the high cost of freedom. Thank you for your sacrifice that you gave willingly for us.

Glory Hallelujah... Ancient, Out."
Chaplain (CPT) Tim Stiers, USA of Ft. Riley, KS

"You are a true hero!"
Violet Sepulveda of San Diego CA

"To the parents of Tristan Aitken: my right wrist is adorned with a black bracelet bearing the name of your son. I didn't know him, but the older of my two sons is named Tristan. He will be 5 years old on January 26, 2005. As he grows up, he will know of your son - how he died and why. Perhaps my precious Tristan will some day want to start wearing the bracelet himself, in solemn and respectful remembrance of your precious Tristan. Our paths will probably never cross, but I wanted you to know that there is at least one person in this country who talks to his two boys with reverence about your beloved son. May God bless you."
Thomas R. Turnquist of Englewood, Colorado

"Tristan was my best man at my wedding in 1996. I don't know what to say other than I am sorry. I think of you often. Save a spot up there for me.

For his family and friends--please know that there are others that mourn his loss."
CPT William Peterson of Fort Sill, OK

"CPT. Aitken, I have never had the pleasure of meeting you, but have heard many, many great stories about you. You were a dear friend and fellow officer of my husband. I know he misses you deeply and thinks of you often. He keeps your memory alive as he is back in Iraq now with 1-41FA. God bless to you & your family."
L. Gouvaia of Savannah, GA/United States

"Tristan,
Becca and I will never forget the times we spent in Killeen, TX. The football games, the BBQs, and just making fun of people on TV and movies. My buddy LT Brandt Moore also send his respect and admiration. My dogs, your cat, and all the follies made 4213 Breckenridge a house of good friends and good times. Do us a favor and put in a good word for us when we come to see you in heaven.

Your former roomates and friends always,

LT Julian and Rebecca Gonzales"
Julian E. Gonzales III of San Antonio, TX

"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 Tristan, and thank you for serving your country to the fullest"
Henry family of Vandergrift , PA

"Along with CPT's Miranda and Frost I served with CPT Aiken as part the artillery unit in Ft Hood. the computer I bought from him got me through my first 2 years of college. He made me smile often, often at his own expense, often knowingly. One of my clearest memories of him was him coming in all banged up after falling on his rollerblades -- seems that the nightly roller-hockey game he and another officer on his block held for the local kids got a bit rough. he was a good man all around. I also know his troops respected and trusted him -- and knew he was going to be fair. sorry to hear he's gone."
SPC Alek J Osinski of Buffalo, NY

"I recently joined the 3d Infantry Division. I was shocked to find out that CPT. Aitken was one of our fallen soldiers. CPT. Aitken was my FDO in 4-42 FA FT.Hood,TX. He was a great officer and a great person. The country and the Army has lost a great American. Tristan you'll be missed, God Bless......"
CPT. Ivan & Cindy Miranda of FT. Stewart, GA

"I am a junior high student in New York. I am so sorry for your loss. I feel your pain. Tristan sounds and looks like a guy who you would love to hang out with, that lots of people would like to meet too. My thoughts and prayers are with you and with Tristan.I am very sorry for your loss. Tristan died serving his country. You must be very proud of him being so brave and having a kind heart. Tristan has so much courage in his mind and in his heart. Tristan will never be forgotten. Again, I am very sorry for the loss of your son."
7th grade student

"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, Tristan, 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 (4/4/04)

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

"We are richer for having known you, but poorer for your passing. God's blessings on your family,and my they find the peace that only He can grant."
Steven Schammel, TCU '95 of Edinburg, TX

"Sir,
Your caring leadership for us will never be forgotten. You live in our memories every day. God Bless you and your loved ones."
SGT Ian McCarty of HHB, 1-41 FA BN, Fort Stewart, GA

"To know CPT Aitken was to know what the standard of the officer corp is, as he far exceeded that standard. I was his driver on that fateful day on highway 8 leading to Bagdad. You learn alot about someone when your life is in their hands. I am proud to say that as a Battery Commander leading his troops into battle he clearly led from the front and not the rear. I only wish that i could have done more. I know that he is smiling down on us from heaven. My deepest condolences go to his wife Margo, as he spoke about you often. He truely loved you. His strength is what i draw on to this very day. I know he would not accept me giving into to the disability i sustained, but instead be defined in spite of it. CPT Aitken thank you for being my leader as well as my friend. God bless."
SSG Rashaan Canady of Fort Sam Houston Texas

"You will not be forgotten. Even though I did not know you, I thank you and your family for the greatest sacrifice every made by an American"
Pat Walters of Cross Plains, WI

"What a little cutie…just look at that smile – His picture brings tears to my eyes as I think of my son who’s home with me. What a Hero you have to remember. I hope that I can follow your footsteps in raising my child. To the family and friends of this young man – Thank You!!"
Kittie Burleson of Oklahoma City, OK 02-2004

"Thank you Tristan Aitken, 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

"It's hard for me to sit here with my family this holiday season, just having returned from Iraq. I served with the 3rd ID, and came back. My first son was born while we were in Baghdad; I can't express in any words what it's like to have to know that some of the men and women I served with will not be able to do the same. I know, even though the 'news' doesn't show it, how much good we are doing for the cause of liberty. The peoples of the Middle East may not yet be prepared for the difficulties of freedom, but I HAVE to believe that the soldiers died for a serious and worthy cause. We can't let the media or the rumors of corporate greed tarnish this. I am very proud to have served my country, and I am very, very sad to know that I have friends that will not be able to see all the good they have done. God speed and may the peoples of this crazy world one day realize what a serious contribution, those who are not with us now, have made. With profound sorrow I write this and may God look after those in uniform this holiday season. For the family, I am truley sorry for your loss. LT from Fort Stewart - "Rock of the Marne""
LT of Stewart

"I was honored to have served with CPT Aitken at Camp Page in 97-98.I was so shocked to hear of his passing. I will always be proud to say that I served with him and he will never be forgotten."
SGT Shannon Simon of St. Petersburg, FL

"Tristan, I learned of what happened while I was in the Karbala Gap. I have recently just returned from Iraq and wanted to say how deeply saddened I am. I think back to FT Lewis and OBC and how you always had a smile on your face. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Thank you for so much. May God continue to bless you and your family. You will never be forgotten. Rest well my brother."
CPT Brian E. Anderson of FT Sill, OK

"My thoughts & prayers go out to all the Military men and women who are at war and especially those who have lost their lives. May God bless you forever. Thank you for everything, you are my hero! Rest in peace"
Amanda K Casas of San Diego/Corpus Christi, Texas

"CPT Aitken,I first would like to say that I miss you very much. I will never forget April 4th as long as I live, and I will honor that day as the day that you gave me a new chance at life. You told me personally that you would get us to Baghdad, and you did. I owe my life to you and I thank you for giving me the courage to go on. You are such an inspiration to me and I will never forget the impact that you have had on my life. Your family is blessed to have you watching over them today, and as we all are, very proud of you."
SPC Daniel Russell of Walter Reed AMC, Washington DC

"Tristan you will always be in our hearts and minds. Ian and I keeping talking about all the good times we spent together. You and those coordinated outfits! It always makes us smile. Rest assured that we will all do our best to support Margo. Blessed be."
Becky Venne of Concord, NH

"I think Tristan looked like he was a lot of fun to know. I am sorry for your loss. Please accept my condolences."
Michelle of Canada

"we are the Harrisons we lost our son Ron Allen Aug25,2003 in Iraq .Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers thank you the Harrisons"
Derek Harrison of Mitchell IN.

"May the God of peace give you comfort in the days ahead. My family and I would like to thank you for allowing your husband/son to be our HERO. We are so proud of all our servicemen and women. I read of your husband/son on the Presidential Prayer Team website. I know that Jesus welcomed Tristan, and he will be waiting for you all when you arrive home. May all your memories be the best ones. God Bless -- Psalm 23"
Kim and Mary Milner and Sons of Waynesville, NC/USA

"I had the honor of serving with Tristan at Fort Hood, TX and was shocked to hear of his passing. Tristan always had a positive, upbeat attitude and was truly a good and honorable person. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family."
CPT Frank Lewis of Fort Hood, TX

"Tristan you were taken from us too early. I remember our last time talking at ST Barb's Day in Savannah, trying to convince each other who's battery was harder to command, your's or mine. I've known you since Fort Lewis, nearly 10 years, and your loss has left a giant hole in all of our hearts. Mandy, Ian, Mike, Linda and I were dumbfounded when we learned what happened. Please know that you will always be remembered by all of us and we will all meet up again. Hold the position until we get there, Brother!"
CPT Jason Bender of Fort Rucker, AL

"CPT Aitken, I can not begin to express my emotions, after serving personally for you for more then a year, there is a deep sadness and lose in my heart. You truely are the meaning of insperation, hope, and a hero. You will always be missed, always respected. and always be loved. My prayers go out to Margo and your family. I thank you for my time with you at 1-41 it will always be remembered..."
SPC Vincent Green of Northampton, PA

""I would like to donate a canvas portrait to the family of Captain Aitken. I have been donating these portraits to Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom because they last forever and no-one will be forgotten. You can see what our donation portraits look like at http://lionheartcreations.net/honorfallen.htm I have wrote a poem called Fallen and we put this on the canvas portrait along with name rank and branch of service. We will ship the portrait right to your home. This cost you nothing. This is our way to serve and honor our fallen. Please let us serve you. You can email us to make arrangements for your portrait and this can all be done over the internet or US mail. Making the portraits only takes a day or so. Our email address is on our website or you can email carlosshelter@aol.com Thank you and God bless""
Carlos Kathy & Ashley Jones of Middletown Ohio

"Our prayers are with your family during this difficult time. Thank you Tristan, for your courage and sacrifice. May God bless you and keep you in His care."
Ken and Maritza Holley of Pembroke Pines, Florida

"Tristan, I will always remember the good times we had at Fort Hood. My heart goes out to your family. As a fellow soldier you will not be forgotten."
CPT Chris Griffiths of Maryland Army National Guard

"To a Hero:

Thank you so much...God Bless your family and friends!"
sarah of forestport newyork

"Tristan, I will not forget our time together at Fort Lewis and the Officer Basic Course at Fort Sill. I will always remember you as a good person and a friend. You will be missed by all."
CPT Scott Pendell of Fort Sill, Oklahoma

"To the family and friends of Capt. Tristan Aitken:
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 Tristan 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 Capt. Tristan Aitken:
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 Tristan, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera, of Powder Springs, Georgia

"From one comrade to another...you are a hero. See you on the other side and rest easy Brother. Was hoping to run into you over here...but reckon that meeting is on hold. My thoughts are with your family, especially Margo and your parents."
CPT Ian S. Bennett of CENTCOM AO

"My brother served and was a roommate with Capt. Aitken in Ft. Hood. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Thank you for protecting our country."
Jennifer Gonzales of San Antonio Tx

"No words can truly express the gratitude we as Americans feel towards our servicemen and women. A place in my heart will be reserved for those who paid the ultimate price for preserving the wonderful way of life we enjoy as Americans. God bless the Aiken Family."
Terri Curtis of Green forest, Arkansas

"I had the honor of meeting Capt. Aitken just before he deployed. His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. May God bless and comfort his family and friends."
W. Scrogham of Savannah, GA

"Tristan, I have great memories of our time shared at TCU through Beta Upsilon Chi. You were one of those men of God who uplifted everyone around you with your kind and tender spirit. Brother, I "grieve with hope," and I am so proud of the way you served your God and your country during your time on this earth. Blessings always."
KB of Dallas, TX

"CPT Aitken you will be missed. There is a deep sadness in my heart for your family's loss. You were a great leader and mentor."
SSG Jason A. Tarrant

"CPT Tristan Aitken was a true patriot and a great American. I had the honor to serve with Tristan at Ft Hood, Tx. Tristan was not only my FDO, but a great friend. He will be missed."
CPT Geoff Frost of Dallas,, Tx

"Tristan N. Aitken, may God bless your soul. May his family know that he will be truly missed as a serviceman of this country, and may we all be reminded each day the sacrifice he gave so that we may live each day as free Americans."
Courtney of Dallas, Tx

"RIP Capt Aitken....Thank you. We shall never forget you"
The Taylors, USMC of NC

"Thank you for allowing your hero to protect our freedoms!"
Holly of Charlottesville, VA

"Thank you for your sacrifice"
Ginger Smith & Family of Hillsboro, In

"As an artilleryman, I am saddened when one of ours is killed in combat. A young man who was my daughter's best friend in high school graduated from West Point and served with Capt. Aitken in Iraq. He is still there. May God be with Capt. Aitken and with his family here on earth. He was truly a GREAT hero."
COL. Mabry E. Martin, NCARNG of Winston-Salem, NC

"My brother served with Capt. Aitken. Our hearts, minds,and prayers are with his family. Thank you for all he gave to his men and his country."
Gina Sanders of Lake Mary, FL.