Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Thinking about you lately. I hope the mead in Valhalla isn’t all gone by the time I get there bro. Save some for me."
Alex Gil of Sailing Vessel Valhalla, Grenada

"I just heard about sgt bascom I'm truly sorry for ur lost. He was a great person I served with him once in camp Pendleton. He was a very energetic person. You will definitely be miss. As soon as I read about him. I looked at the pictures that we took together. U will always be in my prayers. Semper fi. Sgt Arreola."
Felix arreola of Salinas . Ca USA

"douglas and i were recalled back to active duty together 2/5 we became friends fast he was so pissed that he had to be a co sgt he wanted nothing more than to be in the fight with his buddys he jumped at the chance to come out and rescue his buddys he was always there to help us and I am sure he still is by watching over each and every one of us semper fi"
jake mccloskey of nm

"Doug, your were a fellow c/o 1998 Lancer from Lakenheath high school. When I first heard of your passing I was truly saddened. You were a great man. I will always be thankful for your service and ultimate sacrifice."
Lidia Morley of San Antonio, Tx

"To the family of:Douglas E.Bascom
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""

"June 28, 20011
Dear Doug,
I miss you! Today you would have been 32 and I wish nothing more than to have given you all 32 of those birthday punches, right in the arm :) I am about to have a baby boy and it isn't fair that he will never get to meet you, but I will be sure that he knows you. I will tell him stories about us growing up all over the world and about how his crazy uncle Doug always had my back. I think about you all of the time and wonder what you are up to these days. It has been almost 7 years since your passing but I can still feel you around, in the wind, in the sun, you bring me warmth and comfort wherever I am. I hope that you are happy, I hope that you know how much I love and miss you, my big brother, my best friend. Happy Birthday!"
Jennie Allen of Colorado springs, Co

"5 June 2011

Well, it's been a while...I miss you Doug, so much. Not a day goes by, literally, that I don't think of you. But this is for a reason; my son Riley is named after you...Riley Douglas Tietjens. When his momma gets after him, she calls him "Dougie!" or "Douglas!" in a tone of voice only a mother of a full of life son typically has. When she wants to love on him, she calls him "Ry-Dougie" and ends up tickling him after her warm hugs. Heck her little sister even calls him "Douglas" when she's displeased with him for not playing "princess" with her. I fight the tears back when I think of you Doug. Although it was only a "short" time we had together, you have impacted my life that only select few have or probably ever will. I love you and miss you. Memorial Day in the Tietjens household is typically a somber day, a day of rest and remembering why we have the holiday along with grilling steaks (remember how you always asked to have grilled steaks when would come over for dinner?) It saddens me to think there are military members that simply view this day as simply a "three day weekend" when I know true sorrow for a family member lost during Iraqi Freedom. I miss all of you and feel so out of touch as I read the post by Debbie that he would have been 31...I'm now 36 and feel old. But Doug, even at 31 I know would have been younger than most people his junior. My son Riley has your name brother and he's so much like you...can't sit still, curious, infectious laugh, sensitive, charasmatic...I love how mischevious my little "Ry-Dougie" is. My son knows who you are and why his name is Doug and asks me about it all the time. Many times has he wiped the tears from my face as I tell him how he's named after my "little brother."

Debbie & Larry, I miss you guys and hope you know I will always love you guys."
MSgt Jeremy M. Tietjens of Gazeley, Newmarket, United Kingdom

"Your son is great Marine. I didnt hear of his death til about 2 years ago along with another Great Marine Sgt. Conde. we all served together at 2nd FAST Co. The year i found out about two fellow Marines i had served with died just a few months apart, got to me. So Memorial day 2008 i made a Memorial poster for two of my fallen brothers. This got media attention here in my town and i got them on front page of newspaper so that they will never be forgotten. Pleas contact me i got Pics and papers and would love to share some stories with yall. Email-Luckystarr24@hotmail.com Cell/832-414-6462
God Bless
Cpl. Starr, James Ryan"
Ryan Starr of Baytown, TX

"Dough Bascom and I worked for Select Staffing in San Diego, CA. He was always a go-getter type of guy; we got along well in an instant! He was such a happy guy; if you were having a bad day just by talking to him the day would be better. We would always call each other Blue from the movie "old school" 1 week before he left for Iraq he came to our office to say good-bye. I was out to lunch and he waited for me for 1hr until I returned; we shook hands and gave each other a pat on the back; I remembered me telling him to take care of himself and his response was I'll be back JI-menez! May GOD bless Dough and his family; You will never be forgotten!!!

Your Buddy;

David Jimenez (Blue)- SD"
David Jimenez of San Diego, CA USA

"RIP my brother! You are gone but not forgotten forever! I still remember our first day at boot camp, SOI and 2nd FAST company and than on to the fleet! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!"
Adam Meeks of Fort Morgan, Co/USA

"Happy Birthday. You would have been 31 this year. I miss you."
Debbie Bascom of Colorado Springs CO

"I had the pleasure of serving with Douglas two times, once during Marine Corps Security Forces School in Virginia and again about 4.5 years later when we both answered the call to go back on active duty as a combat replacement. He was a great Marine who was always the center of attention. We had a great time as many of the IRR Marines got together and celebrated his 25th Birthday as we played horseshoes, cooked fajitas and played playstation. We were so young and had no worries. It was a great night and Im glad we were there to celebrate our brothers birthday.
Doug we all miss you, and would proudly would take take your place, I know we will see each other again someday. Semper Fidelis"
Cody Bell of Fort Worth, Texas

"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

"A friend told me that time makes things easier when a loved dies. This is almost true. Time creates enough distance to keep the desperate lonliness at bay when odd things come up in the day. But that lonliness never actually leaves. I miss my Douglas. I miss his odd sense of humor and his laugh that filled the whole room. I miss the ceaseless moving of his foot as he watched a movie. I miss the "just because I love you" phone calls. I miss the sharing of adventures and the "mom, how do I get the peas out of snow peas?" questions. I miss the phone calls that told about his great shopping excurtions--"Mom, you won't believe the great deal I found..." I miss the teasing and the yanking my chain that either left me giggling or wanting to strangle him. I miss the restless movements of his hands while he slept--the boy and man who could never sit still. Bottom line---I just miss him. A gift in my life, a joy and a trial. Memories are not a good substitute for the real thing. I miss you son. I'm proud of you but I miss you."
Debbie Bascom of Colorado Springs, CO

"Could someone in the family contact me in regards to a memorial we want to place at Veteran's Memorial in Illinois in honor of Doug. We are trying to reach his parents in Colorado to get information for this. Please email me with any contact information at sunuoow2@yahoo.com, Thank you."
Karen Hauk (Brent's wife) of Illinois

"5 years later and it is still a hard memory. I recently went on a business trip and on the return flight there were a lot of soldiers on the plane. The flight attendent had everyone on the plane clap for the soldiers. The soldiers got off the plane and greeted family members who were waiting for them. It was the most heart warming thing and hardest thing I have seen in a long time. You think and are told that time heals. It doesn't, the wound is always there, you just tolerate it, but move wrong and you rip it all open again and all that pain returns. You will never be forgotten, Doug."
Rebecca Boilini of Colorado Springs, Co

"Doug is my big brother. The hole that he left in my heart is unfathamoble. It is deeper than the ocean and greater than any measurable substance. One can never replace a brother. He always said, "you know i am here for yah right?" well I do still know that he is here for me. I know that he is in a great place right now and that he is helping people their, just like he helped people here. Knowing that he is still mine though is one of the greatest comforts I have ever had. On the nights that I cried myself to sleep it was a warm blanket keeping me safe. I pray that he is safe, I pray that he is happy. My best friend, my brother, you have been an example to me always. Doug was, and is one of the greatest men I have every known. I am proud to be his sister. I am proud to say that my brother Doug was a marine who lived and died for the freedom of this country so that you and I can call this our home, the land of the free. The Home of the BRAVE!"
(SIster) Jennie Bascom of Colorado Springs, Co

"This evening, on Memorial Day, our family and extended family gathered together and remembered Douglas, your son, grandson, brother, and so much more to so many. Most of our family did not know Douglas. My memories of Douglas were when we were stationed with Larry and Debbie in Alaska when our boys were in elementary school.
Today, we watched the video of Douglas and I read excerpts from messages left to your family. We shed tears of sorrow and gratitude, shared our worries and fears about our own sons and daughters in the military, and remembered those who have fallen. We want to thank Douglas and all those who have given their all for our country so that we can gather together as families and live in freedom. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Bascoms and all those who have lost loved ones in defense of our country. Thank your for the opportunity to celebrate Doug and the sacrifice he made for us all."
Melva Gutshall of Fruitland, Idaho

"May 25, 2008
Tomorrow is Memorial Day. What can I say? There are no words to express my feelings and love for my grandson Doug. He was my first grandchild. He was such a beautiful baby and Man. He is dear to my heart. It has been three and a half years since his death. How can I honor him and all our fallen soldiers ? When I get up tomorrow morning I will be thankful for the freedoms that we all enjoy here in the U.S.A. Doug was visiting me in Hurricane, Utah when Sept 11th happened . He was stationed at a Marine Base in San Diego at the time. I knew first hand how he felt when the Towers went down. We all miss him and appreciate his great sacrifice on our behalf.
I can say it no better than Abraham Lincoln: “ It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion, that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain, that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”
Grandmother Patricia Ruth Miller
Hurricane, Utah"
Patricia Ruth Miller of Hurricane, Utah, USA

"You are not forgotten."

"im sorry it has taken me so long to say something its just hard to find the right words i also knew Doug, i met him in england our familys seemed to hit it off. Doug was like a brother, however i dont feel he knew how much of an influence he made i am just glad he knew i was thinking of him. it saddens me a great deal to know it will be a long time before i can see him again. i feel truly honered that even though i hadnt talked to him in years the time i did write to him in iraq he replied the day before he died. i send only my thanks and love to him and his amazing family. "some gave all" with unending gratitude."
Ben Smith of spokane wa usa

"April 13, 2008
To the family of Sgt. Douglas E. Bascom:
Douglas 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

"Wow, I know I'm a little behind the curve with this one, but I just found about Doug Today from a friend we went to school with in England. Doug was a great guy, always had a beautiful smile on his face and laughed all the time. Me and his brother, Josh, were in the same grade and I lived in the same neighborhood as the Bascom family, I am so sad to hear about this, but Doug was a great guy who died for our country and I think anyone would be proud to have had him in their life. God Bless Doug!"
Katie Goodlin of San Antonio, Tx

"I used to live with Doug about 7years ago. I came across this website and his name and to say one thing it has nearly brought me to tears to hear about him paying the ultimate price for freedom. He was a great guy who was nothing but fun when we were roomies in Colorado Springs. Me and my wife ahd so much fun with him we are both very sorry and wish we would have found out sooner. His memory will live on with us forever and he will not be forgotten along with the rest of our countries patriots. God Bless Them All"
Raymond Montoya of Denton, Texas

"I fuoght along side Doug in the city of AR Ramadi. He treated me like a younger brother. He took care of me and I shall never forget him.

SGT. Bascom wanted to serve his country so badly that at the time of conflict he did not hestitate to put his life on the line. And thats exactly why we are here today. To honar a man who did every thing he could just because he wanted to. I realized ever since SGT. Bascom came around that I finally had an older brother. He took care of me he watched over me. He made sure I was ok. He even took the blame for my mistakes. Every thing an older brother should do. And he did all of this because he wanted to.

These are the words I spoke at Doug Bascom's memorial in Iraq."
Brent Hauk of U.S.A.

"2 years later. I'm visiting you all on the same day this year. I don't have the strength to do it on each and every day. 15 guys is too much. You are not forgotten and I'll see you next year."

"Doug you will never be forgotten and will always live in my heart. I thank god for the opportunity that I had to meet such an incredible person like your son.I worked with him in a staffing agency in Oceanside and his strong character and personality were too much for me at first. I am a quite person who just keeps to myself, and as time passed he grew on me. We became great friends. We grew so close and we spoke to eachother about eachother as though we had no one else. We came in early together left late together, and spend every moment together while at work. He wanted to learn from me all about this new position he was giving and he wanted to be perfect at it because that's who Doug was in everything he did he wanted people to acknowledge his effort and his dedication. I wanted so much for his personality to rub off on me. What a great person he was to have around. He will always put a smile on your face. He wanted everyone around him to be happy even though he at times wasn't. I will never forget your son. He really was a wonderful man, soldier, and friend. He died as a hero knowing that his family and friends were proud of him. I think because of that he died happy. Thank you for bringing Doug into this world who in my eyes made it better with all the wonderful times that he gave to me. I look foward to the day I see him again in heaven."
Sofia Rosas of San Marcos, CA San Diego

"I didn't know Doug, but in honor of his courage and those who served our country, I will be wearing his photo for Veterans Day. God Bless."
Leah of MA

"A year has passed -and we send our thoughts to your family -
remembering your loss.
Sandi / Montana"

"October 20, 2005

A year has passed,
And still you are here in our hearts,
Never forgotten, but forever missed,
Always remembered in the life that surrounds us,
Things that never meant so much, and should have mean so much more,
When ever I hear the song of the red white and blue,
It seems I can't hold back that tear for you,
When ever I see the flag that you fought so bravely for,
I can't help but be proud of you even more,
We miss you Doug,
Your infectious laughter, your welcoming smile,
The many dreams you had in life,
Yet you are not far from us because you are forever in our hearts,
You will always have another home with in our family,
Remember that we will never forget you,
You will always be remembered through our memories,
through our thoughts of the life you brought to this world,
Through captured moments of our pictures,
But most of all through the feeling of love you left in our hearts,

We will never forget,
Instead we will celebrate the life you lived,
The family and friends you loved,

We will thank God for letting us have known your spirit,
And we will carry it with us always,


With much love and respect to the Bascom family.

Veronica & Eddie Caoile"
Veronica & Eddie Caoile of Carson, Ca

"I didn't really know the guy but I have the utmost respect for him."
Craig of Westport, CT

"To the family of SGT Douglas Bascom: His 2/5 unit has now returned from its second deployment to Iraq. My "adopted" Marine serving in Fox 2/5 arrived home safely. I believe that Douglas and the 14 other young heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice on this tour were watching from above and helped bring Marc home safely. Please accept my condolences. It is the women and men like Douglas that are willing to serve that have kept this country free and safe. I pray that there will always be those willing to help keep this as the greatest country on earth. Semper Fi!"
Ted Cagley of Pontiac, Illinois

"There is no word to express how sadly I feel for your loss, even though it's been almost 4 months now. I've seen the little movie and it's so amazing. Your Hero will never be forgotten."
Christine of somewhere

"I am writing to express my sincere sadness in the loss of your son, Doug. I found out about his passing away while in Lakenheath. A former high school teacher of mine, Mr. Keegan,informed me of this tragic event while I was visiting the high school. I feel that with the holiday season this devastating event would make it even harder on your family. With Doug gone,there are very few things left of him except memories, which he left many in my mind, I can't say I was the closest of friends with Doug, but we were definitely comrades in respect to wrestling and boy scouts. I had the privilege of wrestling on the same team as Doug my sophomore year in high school and being a Scout in Troop 419 while he was a young leader in the unit. In these activities I remember Doug the best.

To describe Doug, the word character seems to come up; Doug was definitely a character, but not just a character, he was an individual instilled with character. I remember there was an air of confidence that surrounded him, which at times bordered on cockiness; there was something about his personality that carried a swagger to it. He brought this confidence to the mat and he was able to convince most of the team that he would be victorios when the six minutes were up. As a team captain he was somebody we younger wrestlers looked up to. When he wrestled there was always a face of determination planted upon him. It didn't seem like Doug had a submissive mentality when it came to this sport or to life. I have another memory of Doug that is quite vivid when it comes to wrestling; I remeber an incident of him being injured, with an expression of pain coming form his face. One could see the agony of his injury but despite his injury there was feeling of determination and disappointment at that time.

My best memories of Doug were in relation to Boy Scouts. He was definitely an individual I looked up to in the Troop. I thought he had an authority to him which back then I probably attributed to being cool and not being a dork like so many kids in the Troop. When he was a patrol leader I wanted to be in his patrol probably because he was just cool to hang out with. The most vivid recollection I have of Doug is during a camporee on Brownsea Island. This campout was especially wet and cold and the Troop was forced to use a horendously disgusting portable toilet. All through the night it rained soaking sveral tents and the portable toilet in the morning was not an option. Doug and I shared a tent during this camping occasion and it was his joking and anedotes that helped to make a rather cold night a remarkably warm memory. We were joking and gossiping about rather crude and juvenile topics but then again we were in High school so this was to be expected. There are moments where time seems to freeze like a still frame in a movie and this event seems to be one of those moments in my mind.

The news writen about Doug's death shocked me at first, the knowledge that an inividual that I had known and respected had died in a war was very unexpected for a while the war seemed to be a far and abstract event but this tragic event brought me a sense of closness to the conflict. When I read the report on how he died and the circumstances leading up to his death this didn't suprise me. The news report stated that Doug died leading his Troops into danger at the front during a patrol and the fact he was in Iraq was of his own choosing. This was in Doug's character to do tasks that needed to be done; he was also a leader who wouldn't order those under his command to do anything that he wouldn't do himself. In Boy Scouts he always did the same tasks that we junior ranking Scouts were expecting to do. In wrestling, he would insure the practices and conditioning was done right and he would be at the front of the line providing an example for the rest of the team. He wasn't an individual who would lead from or hide in the rear, even as a teenager.

Douglas sacrificed the most precious thing any person can relinquish and I believe that he made his sacrifice knowing it was his duty to do so. In Boy Scouts we learned the importance of fulfilling our duty as we recited the Scout oath and this is something that has stuck with me to this day and there is no doubt it influenced Doug as well. In Iraq, Doug had a mission to accomplish and he certainly did it to the best of his ability. This dedication was imbued within Doug even as a kid.

I can only emphasize about the untimely loss of a son, and brother and say that his death deprived the world of a warm hearted individual. Perhaps the only condolence I can give is that in the short time Doug was alive he was able to leave many positive memories. Doug left me with some warm memories and by me recollecting these events I can only hope that it might help to warm up a very cold season."
Adam Case of San Diego, California

"I have been asked to do a prompt about a hero, and I felt good to do Doug. I have tried to find out more about him, and there is tons that I have because there are hundreds of web sites about him if you look him up on google. I give my support and comfort to his immediate family. God bless the Earth."
Eric Bascom of Avon Ct

"I didn't know him really, but I am very sadend that I hear he is dead. I will remember him always."
Eric R. Bascom of Avon Ct.

"I know there are no words to comfort you in your loss, but I hope you
find some small measure of comfort in the fact that you and your family
are in our thoughts and prayers. Rest assured your son Douglas and the sacrifice he made for his country and for all of us will never be forgotten. Those young men who “ gave their last full measure of devotion” shall remain in our hearts .

Doyle M. Hufstedler JR.
Father of Lt Doyle M Hufstedler III"

"It was good to "rub shoulders" with Doug and his family when they helped us with our yard. It was amazing to see how hard they worked to serve us. We will never forget this act of love."
Spencer and Reta Adams of Hurricane, Utah, U.S.A.

"I knew Bascom from SOI and MCSFTco. He was a character then and when I ran in to him again in July 2002, He still was. He was a good Marine who will be missed"
Phillip of Camp Pendleton, Ca

"My best friend is Doug's Aunt Kathy. I remember Doug when he was 4-5 years old...and just like everybody has already said...he had HUGE blue eyes and a great big smile to match. I was saddened to learn of his death when I came home tonight and my heart goes out to his family. I love you all!"
Jill Prouty of Newnan, GA

"As I read this poem I thought of Douglas and wanted to put it on his site.

FREEDOM ISN'T FREE

I watched the flag pass by one day,
It fluttered in the breeze.
A young Serviceman saluted it,
And then he stood at ease.

I looked at him in uniform
So young, so tall, so proud,
With hair cut square and eyes alert
He'd stand out in any crowd.

I thought how many men like him
Had fallen through the years.
How many died on foreign soil
How many mothers' tears?

How many pilots' planes shot down?
How many died at sea
How many foxholes were soldiers' graves?
No, freedom isn't free.

I heard the sound of Taps one night,
When everthing was still,
I listened to the bugler play
and felt a sudden chill.

I wondered just how many times
That Taps had meant "Amen,"
When a flag had draped a coffin
Of a brother or a friend.

I thought of all the children,
Of the mothers and the wives,
Of the fathers, sons and husbands
With interruped lives.

I thought about a graveyard
At the bottom of the sea
Of unmarked graves in Arlington.
No,FREEDOM ISN'T FREE

author unknown

MAY GOD BLESS US, AND MAY GOD BLESS AMERICA"
Marian Foote of Hurricane, Utah, U.S.A

"We saw your grandson's obituary in the paper. We wanted to let you know how sorry we are for your loss. Our family DOES NOT take for granted the selfless sacrifice Douglas gave for us! We love him and everything he stood for in his short life.
Thank you for raising a great family that would produce such a fine young man. His picture is adorable and we know he will be missed so much.
Your family will be in our personal and family prayers.
Much love to you"
Dave, Sharon, Jason, Tori, Sami, Lexi, Laney & Maddy of St. George, Utah, U.S.A.

"I don't know Doug. However, I cut his name out of a small local newspaper in NYC and I carry it with me in my wallet to always remember the sacrifice he and many others endured to protect our country. God bless him and his family."
Daymion Mardel of Manhattan, NY

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

"I MET DOUGLASS BASCOM AT THE AIRPORT RIGHT BEFORE LEAVING TO BOOT CAMP. WE SAT NEXT TO EACH OTHER IN THE PLANE AN TALKED HOW BOOT CAMP MIGHT BE. HE BACAME MY FRIEND IMMEDIATLY, BY TELLING ME THAT WE WOULD STICK TOGETHER. WE WENT TO THROUGH BOOT CAMP TOGETHER AND THE SCHOOL OF INFANTRY TOGETHER WE WERE REALLY GOOD; UNFORTUNETLY WE LOST TOUCH WITH EACH OTHER WHEN WE DEPARTED THE SCHOOL OF INFANTRY. THE LAST TIME I HEARD FROM HIM WAS ON LAST WEEK WHEN I PICKED UP THE PAPER. MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES GO OUT TO THE WIFE AND PARENTS OF DOUGLAS. I WILL MISS MY BROTHER FOR EVER. SEMPER FI AND GO WITH GOD MY FRIEND WE WILL MISS YOU FOR EVER I WILL VISIT YOUR GRAVE MY FRIEND IT IS THE LEAST I CAN DO FOR YOU."
CPL ATRURO FERNANDEZ of DENVER CO

"The following is a letter that Doug's mother sent to the President of the United State on October 29th. I am printing it here with her permission:
Dear President Bush,
This has been a very sad week in the Bascom household. Our eldest son, Sgt. Douglas E. Bascom was killed in action on October 20th. He has been written about across the country because of the controversy concerning men who do not wish to be recalled when the IRR service contacts them to activate that particular clause in their military commitment package. You see, Sir, he was the first man to die as an Individual Ready Reserve soldier. Mr President, my son was proud to serve his country. He willingly accepted his recall and anxiously awaited the day when he could join his fellow marines as they defend our world against terrorism.
I am writing you because I believe the war on terrorism is important. I believe my son died for a cause that is essential to the welfare of our world. On our way to place our son's body in the ground, we passed a car with a bumper sticker prominently stating: "Iraq is another name for Vietnam". Our hearts ached at such insensitivity. Yet, as we drove past this car, my husband commented that our son died so that the car owner could have the right to state his opinion in such a way.
The Country has been good to my son. California flew her flags at half-mast this week. The Governor of Colorado spoke at his graveside. The marines escorted his body from Iraq to our home without ever leaving his side. When the graveside service was over and it was time to bury my son's body, the Marine Captain quietly, yet firmly stated: "Don't worry, Mrs. Bascom, your son is in our hands now. We take care of our own."
Mail and e-mail service is slow from Iraq to the United States. My brother delivered my son's eulogy. He called me yesterday, when he got home, to tell me a letter from my son was waiting for him in his mailbox. Two days after we were informed of my son's death, an e-mail arrived telling us how happy he was to be serving with his company and how much he looked forward to coming home. He also asked for "manly smelling potpourri" because the latrines were hard to endure. For the next six weeks, we will continue to receive mail from our son because packages we have sent to him did not arrive before his death and will be returned. He also e-mailed that he had written to us but the letters take time to get here. This is a mixed blessing. How does one endure the loss of a loved one as messages of life and the future continue to arrive in the mail?
The war on terrorism is being fought daily in our media. I hate to watch as people who enjoy the right of free press only express the negative things that they think are happening in Iraq. This is not a war that is being properly addressed by the media. I am sorry, Sir, that you have to endure such rhetoric and haranguing by the very people who should be standing beside you, if for no other reason than we have been committed to a plan of action.
I am proud to be the mother of a Marine who served our country and carried out your orders. I am proud to be the wife of a man who has served our country for 25 years as an enlisted Airforce Sargent. I have quietyly kept the home fires burning as my husband served in Desert Storm, the Bosnia Conflict and now with Iraqi Freedom. My greatest fear has been that four soldiers dressed in blue would arrive at my door with news that my husband was killed. It never occurred to me that such an incident would occur for my son instead.
I pray daily for you. I ask God to give you wisdom as you lead our country. I know the action we are engaged in is right. I know that if terrorism is allowed to grow across the world, the freedom we so enjoy will be lost. I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In our Book of Mormon is a history of a people who faced terrorism but did nothing to stop it until the torrorists consumed their country and freedom was held only by a thread. The people waited too long before they acted. The result of this complacency was almost the annihilation of their civilization. Scriptures teach us how to proceed and provide lessons in consequences should we not heed God's warnings. I know you are engaged in a necessary campaign and I am grateful that you recognize the threat as it really exists.
May God bless you in this endeavor; I have given the best I have in support of your administration.
Sincerely,
Debra Bascom"
Lori Jacox of College Station, Texas

"This past Tuesday our nation exercised its God given right to elect our leaders. On October 20, Doug Bascom cast his ultimate vote so we might continue to enjoy the awesome freedoms that are our's. Though we didn't know Doug personally, we know his grandparents. We know that his heritage is one of honor and devotion to a righteous cause. It is because of Doug, and the mydriad like him, we possess these freedoms. Thank you, Doug. Hopefully we'll be worthy of your sacrifice for us."
Dave and Gail Jackson of Hurricane, UT

"I did not know Doug but I want you to know how grateful I am for all the boys who fight for our freedome. God bless them "all ways". I do know his grandparents and they are exempliary people who make all feel loved. They are god fearing and know that they will be with Doug in the hereafter. May we all take a leaf from Doug's life and be more loving and kind to all we come in contact with. Please accept my sympathies for your family."
Lucille Nicholls of Hurricane, Ut

"To all who knew Doug and those who did not; this young man was truly a lover of life. I came to know Doug for all of one week in June 2004. While my niece, his friend, was getting married, Doug came, shared and enjoyed our family love as we enjoyed his sharing and having him become part of the family. I had an opportunity to talk with Doug and I could see that this was truly one of his desires, to have a large and loving family. Doug learned that day that he did have a large and loving family. We spoke of the many people he had personally touched during his lifetime and how his love for life had affected them. Doug and I became friends and family in one week. This is a true testament of what a person’s heart can do when its’ filled with love.
In God’s eyes, we are all brothers and sisters. God bless us all and care for us. May God guide our loved ones safely while they are fighting in this war and in harms way. Your brother in Christ, Albert Reynoso and family in Southern Oregon/Carson, CA."
Albert Reynoso of Medford, Oregon

"DOUG was the greatest man i know & will always be remembered. My family & myself have great memories of him & i'm glad we got to know him! He's the 1 man that made himself at home & it was ok with us all!! =) (doug's mother,& father my condolence to you both)"
DENISE of CARSON,CA.

"The following is from a letter to the eidtor of the Colorado Springs Gazette about a video I created for Doug's funeral. To view the video go to: http://www.e-stream.com/doug

We walk through life today isolated from so much of the reality we hear about. We see stories on the news or hear about them from friends, but most of them never seem to get close enough to truly touch us. Our lives are filled with a distant reality. Before mass media, the distant reality of the news was far out-weighed by that which was truly personal, that which found its way into our soul. To me, it now seems the opposite.

And so there was an article in last Friday’s Colorado Springs Gazette about the death of a young Marine as he lead his men in Iraq… just another one of the almost 1100 so far. I was saddened by the loss, but it did not touch me personally. That was about to change. Sunday evening an acquaintance asked me to produce a video about Marine Sgt. Douglas Bascom for his funeral. This was the most difficult video I had ever produced. How do you comfort, how do you put his death in context… what do you say?

As you produce a video like this, you almost feel like you grow up with the person. By looking at the snapshots of his life and talking to friends and relatives I began to find there were two sides to Doug; one side was the open, friendly, adventurous, and fun loving guy with a beautiful wife. The other was a man that re-enlisted and requested duty in Iraq six months after being discharged from the Marines, because, as his mother would say, “he wanted others to experience the freedom he so enjoyed here.”

During my research for this video, I found a quote on a video produced by the Marines that said, “When you send a person into combat, you are not sending a robot or a machine, you are sending a real person just like you or me.” Doug was a real person, just like you and me, he had dreams and he lived life on both the inside and outside of the envelop. Before he re-enlisted he was behind a desk at a bank, but after six months he decided he had more important things to with his life. He was in Iraq a little more than a month before he was killed.

There has been much discourse over the past several months about whether the war was right or wrong. I believe that Doug would say that it was an honorable and just cause that he fought for over there, and he believed in it enough to make a distant reality his own. I just thought you should know one Marine's story.

I have placed the video online at http://www.e-stream.com/doug to keep Doug from becoming a distant reality."
Frank Keeler of Monument, Colorado

"Although we only passed on a bright, sunny day, your eyes held a message. We shook hands, smiled, and did all the usual things people do when first meeting. But there was something different. Your grandmother's eyes danced with delight ... I could tell how proud she was. You stood tall, strong; your impish eyes betraying a wisdom within. Your picture does not reflect your soul - brave, stalwart, and true. I will say a little prayer tonight; an orison of thanks for touching me life. You will be remembered by many, including me."
Sandra McDonald of Hurricane, UT

"I met Doug and his remarkable family years ago while we were stationed in England. I was his family's Home Teacher for a time, but learned more from them than they ever did from me. That ended when they left for reassignment to Colorado Springs but we stayed in contact from time to time.

The things that have always stuck me about Doug were his tremendous capacity for accepting people as they were, the deep love he had for his family and the abiding respect he held for his father.

He may not have always heeded his parents advice but he knew there was value in what they said. As they say in England, "he may not have been the sharpest tool in the shed", but he was without doubt the most genuinely friendly and accepting person I have ever had the pleasure to cross paths with. At times stubborn and occasionally emphatic in making his views known, he could always coax a grin or a laugh from those around him in any situation.

I know that he died as he had lived: watching over others and putting their needs before his own. Now, from Doug's new vantage point, he will continue to watch over those he left behind... maintaining his vigil over us utill we can once again enfold him in our arms.

Doug has once again been the first to venture into uncharted waters, and the world he left will be that much less colorful with his leaving.

I know Doug was needed to be about his Father's work in another part of His vineyard, so we some how must endure this temporary separation from Doug's bright eyes and ready smile.

Our hearts and prayers go out to his family and friends who, like my family, will miss Doug... often at the most unexpected of times."
Derek Hester of Omaha NE USA

"Doug was a good man, he was a good friend to anyone that needed one. Always Hyper, always Happy and always loved to play with kids.. mostly because when he was around them he was a kid at heart, which is the best way to live life. Doug's honesty was something very rare in life, because people are not always honest, but he felt it was better to be truthful and be a true friend rather than lie. An honest person is hard to find in this world. He was a great Marine, and will be forever remembered as a great man. We will always miss you and we will cherish the good times we shared with you."
Katie of CARSON, CALIFORNIA

"What a firecracker! Doug was such a charmer. I remember shooting portraits of Doug and Josh for Prom in England, both of them decked out in full Scottish Kilts. He was an amazing individual, born into an amazing family of tremendous faith as well as great patriotism. He will be sorely missed by friends and family."
Leni Hester of Bellevue, Nebraska

"To Doug'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 the Bascom Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you suffer the loss of Doug. Our son Jim Douts, spent two years with Doug in the FAST Company and we got to know him when Jim would bring him home for a meal and some time away from the base as we are in Lancaster, PA, which is only about 4 hours from Yorktown. Doug was a lot of fun and truly enjoyed life to the fullest. One of my memories of Doug was when we introduced him to some PA Dutch cooking. We all went down to my mother-in-laws for a wonderful supper consisting of pot pie and shoe fly pie. Doug tried everything, but was a little unsure of the shoe fly pie as he wanted to know what was really in it! We will keep you in our prayers. We loved Doug too. Cathy Douts and Family"
Cathy Douts of Washington Boro, PA

"Doug was my first nephew. I was so proud to show off his beautiful blue eyes and impish grin to my college roommates. I had the opportunity to babysit him many times while his parents went out for the evening. What a handful he was, into everything and everywhere at once! But what a joy to be around, the combination of those blue eyes and beautiful smile could melt rock. We lost touch over the years-something I regret-but Doug called me about a year ago when he was trying to decide whether to go back into the Marines or pursue a civilian career. I was impressed with his enthusiasm for life and his desire to stay connected with his family. My heart aches with pride for my brave nephew, he made the ultimate sacrifice for his family and country. My family will honor him and remember his sacrifice until that day when we are together again, when I can look into his beautiful eyes and see that impish grin and thank him for my freedom."
Lori Jacox of College Station, Texas

""i would like to thank all the fallen brothers and sisters for fighting for the freedom we have...to doug...you have touched and made a connection with everyone here in carson california, you have that outgoing personality that just makes everyone around you feel at home. i wished i have known you a lot longer, hung out more. but even after a few months of knowing u, i feel like i have known u all my life. u have a beautiful family whom we have finally met. you will be greatly missed but will always be in our hearts forever. thanks for taking pictures at our wedding u crazy guy. your everywhere on our wedding video too busting out your moves. to the bascom family, our deepest sympathy. doug was not just a friend, he was family to everyone he knew. I will forever miss you doug!!!"
eddie caoile of carson, ca

"WE MEET THE BASCOM’S THE FIRST WEEK WE ARRIVED IN ENGLAND BACK IN 1995. DOUG MADE FAST FRIENDS WITH OUR TWO BOYS AND THEY SEEMED TO NEVER BE DOING ANYTHING APART, FROM THEN ON SCHOOL, WORK, SPORTS, AND SCOUTS WE SPENT MANY HOURS TOGETHER. DOUG WAS A LOVING, CARING PERSON. WE WILL FOREVER MISS HIM AND MOURN HIS SACRIFICE FOR OTHERS. BUT ARE SO PROUD TO HAVE KNOWN HIM AND HIS WONDERFUL FAMILY. GO WITH GOD DOUG, TELL WE MEET AGAIN."
GREG & ANN SMITH of BOUNTIFUL, UTAH

"I knew Doug in high school in England and I was shocked to hear of this tragedy. He was such a generous soul and kind person, and I will always remember him. His family should be proud of his contributions to his country and the extraordinary person that he was."
JoAnna P. of Boston, MA

"Doug was a great friend, we grew up together during high school, and was always there to help. He always stuck up for others, and was the first to offer a helping hand. He gave strength and courage to those who needed it, and never lacked any for himself, always the first to raise his hand or take a step forward. I will greatly miss him, but am thankfull for the gifts and memories we still have from him. He has affected the lifes of many, making it better for us. I'm thankfull for him, his family, and all he has done."
Christopher A Smith of Elmendorf AFB, Alaska

"I met Doug and his wife about a year ago at a Navy Federal function in San Diego. We became great friends from the start. Here was a vibrant energetic young man, with such presence that you could not help but notice him. He commanded all attention and was the life of the party that night. We saw each other frequently after that. Him and his wife coming over to our place most times. We had a great time at New Year. My family and I left California in March and as happens most often in the military, you lose touch with friends. I knew Doug had come back in the Corps, and I knew he was in Iraq. I didn't find out until a few days ago that he had given the ultimate. I think I can say from such a short time that I knew this brother Marine, and if you know him, that Doug wouldn't have wanted to go any other way. Semper Fi bro. We'll all miss you.
To Doug's parents: Thank you for having and raising him. Without guys like Doug we wouldn't have everything we have in this great country today. My heart goes out to you all."
SSgt Alexis M. Gil of Jacksonville, NC USA

"There are so many great words to say about Doug, but if I had to pick the first one that came to mind it would be "The Energizer". Doug worked part time with me at company called OneBigTeam for the past 2 years. Everyone loved this man because he always made people feel good about themselves and he built them up rather than tearing them down like so many people do. I never once (ever) saw Doug have a bad day. Everytime I asked how life was, he would reply " its awesome". That is how his life was, he was always after the adventure, he was challenging himself and people around him. People plugged into him and they were recharged!!

The one thought that always comes to mind when I think of him was in Orange County, California. We were at a training with our company and we were playing the game Musical Chairs. Well guess what, out of 60+ people Doug and one girl were the last two left. The music stopped and Doug slipped the chair out from under her-sat down in it and won the game. We still laugh about that till this day :) Doug always talked about how successful he was going to be in the future and how many people he was going to help do the same. He did just that!!

Doug, you have been successful since the day I met you. You helped more people than you will ever know and they love you for that. You helped more people start dreaming again, you helped them live a better life, and you left a legacy so many dream about. I Love you like a brother Doug... Thankyou for always being there... God Bless You"
Brannon DeLaughter of San Diego, Ca. /USA

"I did not know Sgt Bascom, what I do know is when a his security team arrived to pick us up to take us back to our camp Sgt Bascom was not there. He was killed on his way; he sacrificed his life in order to make it safer for his fellow Marines to be able to travel the streets of Iraq. I would like to thank him for this. Every Marine was visible upset at the lose of this outstanding young man. You are gone, but never forgotten."
A fellow Marine of Iraq

"I'm only 13. Doug was my neighbor and great friend. He would always let my brother and I play with his dog Jade. He helped me do a 360 on my skateboard. He was always willing to go out of his time to help you do something. Doug was a very fun person to hang around. He was also a great person to talk with. Even if he had no idea what you were talking about, he still listened like he did. When it came time for Doug to go to Iraq, he left us with the best gift a person could get...he gave us his dog Jade. We renamed her Jade D after Doug died. The D stands for Dougs first initial. Doug may be a fallen soldier, but he will never be forgotten. May God bless his family and friends in this hard time."
Nicholas Shoup of Oceanside, California U.S.A

"He was my brother. He was a great guy and just so full of energy. He was loved and will be greatly missed!!"
Rebecca Bascom of Colorado Springs, Co, USA

"We have lost such as Amazing person. Doug was one one a kind. He had so much energy and life. I am blessed to have called him my friend. He was caring and giving and knew how to have a good time !!!He was the best in picking you up when you were down. He had a great laugh!! To the Bascom family:You son was a wonderful human being who created such great memories for us to cherish, I am deeply sorry for your lost, we have all lost."
Apple Nez of Vista,CA USA

"From our familyn to your's. We are deeply sadden by your lost. An our hearts and prays are with you. Douglas has touched many hearts. An truely, is one that is a hero! God Bless! From another fallen soldier family to your's."
leonard wahl of Valley Stream Long Island

"I knew Doug in high school. I was a substitute teacher at Lakenheath High. My sons also went to school there. I remember Doug especially as an art student. I remember always being pleased if he was in a class I was subbing. It's a good thing for Subs to know students they can trust."
Judith Inge of Lakenheath England.

"Doug was my first grandchild and a great joy to me. From the beginning he won my heart with his big blue eyes and contagious smile. He found joy in all the little things and he was a very brave boy. Once, when he was in his teens, he came, by himself, to visit grandpa and me for Christmas in Idaho. One morning, our dog escaped out the front door and was hit by a car. I didn’t have the nerve to go out to see how badly she had been hurt.. Doug said ”Grandma, don’t go out, I will do it.” He then ran out to see how the dog was doing. He only had his jeans on and was barefooted, as he was getting dressed at the time. He stayed out there in the cold Idaho snow and didn’t come in until he was sure of the dog’s condition. I said, “ Doug, come in, it’s too cold out there with no shirt or shoes.” He replied, “ Not yet, grandma.” The little dog was dead. He stayed out there for a while and then he came inside, carrying the dog. He was protecting my feelings as well as taking care of the dog.
When he was sixteen I went to visit his family in England. While I was there he gave me a beautiful picture he drew in an art class. It was of two girls walking in a field, holding hands. It has always had a special place on my wall at home. He loved art and his mother encouraged him with this talent.
Doug made me feel very special as his grandmother and his friend. He loved to give big hugs. He was always very respectful to me. He was in the Marines stationed in San Diego and was on leave visiting at our home in Utah, when the news of 9-11 came over the television. He told me that he felt very strongly that he needed to be part of keeping our country safe. Later he told me he was very disappointed that he was not called to go to Iraq after the 9-11 incident.
Things were never dull when Doug was around. For Spring break this year we all went to visit him in San Diego. He had worked all day but when his mother and I said we would like to go shopping at the mall he was quick to say that he would take us. You know how guys are about that shopping thing. Well, he made it a very fun time for his mom and me. Last year he planted three trees for grandpa and me in our yard. I told him that the holes were dug deep enough and he said,” Grandma if I am going to plant the trees I want to do it right. He didn’t care how hard the soil was, Doug was a very hard worker. Before he left for Iraq Doug and his family came down and landscaped both our front and back yards. Not only did they work in our yard, but they wound up helping our neighbors also. I was really glad that he had this time to be with the family before he left for Iraq.
Before he was called back into the Marines he had a civilian job. He had quite a commute to work. This was lucky for me as he would often call and talk to me while he was driving. He told me that he was very happy and that he had many great friends. Doug was very much a people person. I have been blessed to have had Doug as a grandson and friend."
Grandmother Pat Miller of Hurricane, Utah

"To the family of Douglas E. Bascom,Your loss is felt in the very core of my being.We shed tears with you.Thank you for serving our country may god bless all of those who love him."
Heather Peek of Jacksonville ,Nc

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

"To the family and friends of Sgt. Douglas E. Bascom,

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, Ca

"To the Family of Douglas E. Bascom. I never knew your Son but he is a Hero. I have lost my only son myself, and know right now what you are feeling in your Heart of Hearts. Rest assured that one day I will be with my Son again as you will be with yours. In the Arms of the Lord.
In deepest sympathy
Former Marine (Vietnam) of Golf 2/5"
Tony Cartlidge of Ochlockonee Bay, FL

"I came to know the Bascom family several years ago when they moved to Colorado Springs. Doug was a fine young man and becme a good Marine. I recall how happy his father, a career Air Force enlisted man, was when Doug enlisted - he felt that Doug needed to learn commitment and that the Corps was the place for him. When Doug graduated from boot camp his father went to San Diego to be there. He was amazed at the transformation that had occurred in just 13 weeks - MCRD has a way of doing that. With my son in the Corps too, Larry and I often talked and kept each abreast of where and what these 2 young men were doing. We shared in the joy and now we share in the sorrow. Just the weekend prior to Doug's death Larry shared with pride and excitement the news of Doug's purple heart reciept from a previous action. I'll always cherish these moments of knowing and hearing about him. He will be missed, but we rest easy in our knowledge and assurance of the resurrection when we will again be united with Doug; and we look forward to that day."
Bill Hardy of Colorado Springs, CO

"We want to express our heartfelt sympathy to the family of Douglas. We also have lost some one we love in this war. But like Douglas our nephew loved what he was doing. May time help heal all our broken hearts. God Bless your family."
Sgt Andy Browns ., Aunt Colleen Kelly of Pleasant Mount Pa.

"My deepest sympathy to all of Doug’s Family and friends, I knew Doug for only a few months but if felt like forever, he came into my life and he felt like family. His laughter is contagious and his smile was heart warming. Doug had such a passion for life and he had passion in everything that he did and everyone that he loved. Doug was not shy about expressing himself and for that he is unique, he welcome you with open arms even he just met you a minute ago. The times my family and I shared with Doug will never be forgotten they will be forever cherished in my heart and in there’s as well. We will miss you so much Doug, and our hearts sunk when we heard the tragic news but you touched my heart and there is no one in this world like you. And to Doug’s family, my deepest respects, he had so much love in the stories that he shared with us about you. He had so many great stories about all of you. Doug was a good man; he is a rare treasure that he thanks his family for letting him be who he is."
Veronica Caoile of Carson, california

"To those who have been kind enough to write:
Thank you for your support of our troops. My Son was a wonderful young man who believed with all his heart that freedom was important. More than that, he believed it was crucial that he do his part to insure others had the rights they so much enjoy. He was a man who enjoyed life and loved people. He beleived in taking care of the man on his left and the man on his right. He loved the marines and was incredibly proud to serve with them in fighting for his country. Thank you for your support and prayers"
Debbie Bascom of Colorado Springs, Colorado

"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 Douglas E. Bascom."
Amy & Aaron Monier of Waterford, MI.

"I write this message with deep sympathy and with all the love I have for Doug in my heart. I knew this brave soldier as a small boy and watched him become a man of honor. Doug loved life and served his country with every fiber of his being. Thank you Doug for being you, may our Father in Heaven keep you busy where you are until we can join you someday. I look forward to telling you in person how much I loved you and appreciated you.
The Miller family will miss this brave man."
Barbara Miller of Colorado Springs, Colorado

"Our sincerest condolences for your loss. Douglas is a true American hero and will always be remembered for his bravery and 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

"To Douglas' 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 Douglas Bascom, 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 Sgt. Douglas Bascom:
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 Douglas 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. Douglas Bascom:
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 Douglas, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia