Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"FREEDOM FOR A PRICE 


Sleep your time away


Lose the time, it's gone

Forget your yesterdays 

Pass the time, it's done 


You're left standing alone 

Fending for your own

But I'm fighting for you 

But I'm striving for you 


It just took me away 

Nothing I could do 

Remember me today

I will return to you soon 


You're left crying alone 

You must comfort your own 

But I'm crying for you

But I'm trying for you 


Please don't go away 

Say you'll wait for me

Pray for us today 

Accept my apology 


Please release your sorrow 

Let us do our part 

Hope for better tomorrow

I will hold you in my heart

And you will never be alone

In God you're always home 


And I will breathe . . . 

And I will bleed . . . 

And I will strive . . .

And I will fight . . . 

And I will try . . . 

And I will cry . . .

And I will die for you . . .
all for you
It's All for you . . . 

Nathan Bouchard


Nathan Bouchard, who is the author of this poem, was killed 8-18-05 in operation Iraqi Freedom, the war on terrorism, in Sammara, Iraq when a roadside bomb ripped through his Humvee.

I became a teacher in August 2006. That year and every year after on August 18 or the next school day I read this to my middle and high school students to begin the day. This still brings tears to my eyes to read. Mr. Bouchard you are an inspiration to us all. Thank you for your service. May you live in peace in Heaven for all of eternity. God bless you."
John Kane of Ochlockonee Bay, Florida

"Nathan, I posted this on my Facebook account today. I will always miss our times together in downtown Savannah. Thanks for your sacrifice and your friendship. Love, Jordan


"10 years ago this morning, August 19, 2005, I received a call from my friend Kasey informing me that our friend, Sgt. Nathan K. Bouchard, had been killed in action in Samarra, Iraq the evening before, August 18, 2005.

I was 22 at the time. It's sobering to think that 10 years have gone by since his life, at the age of 24 years, was ended far too soon. But that's the nature of war. Nathan chose to be a soldier, and chose to protect the lives of the American people, the lives of people he had never met, and countries, like Iraq, he had never been.

Although the rememberance of his death always brings me back to the sadness of that moment at 2 a.m. when I found out that my friend had become the casualty of an IED thousands of miles from his home soil, I believe his family and friends can find comfort in knowing that he died doing what he believed in. As Nathan himself said "...It is because somebody has to.... Because, as you know, problems do not go away just by closing your eyes or turning your back or burying your head in the sand. This freedom we have was not free."

Thanks Nathan for giving your life for our country and the innocent civilians of Iraq. Thanks for being a great soldier, friend and mostly, a great human being. Tonight I will make sure to find a karaoke pub and jam out in your name. You are not forgotten buddy!""
Jordan Gray of Houston, TX USA

"My Son Nathan, Ten years today you have been dancing with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I miss you dearly. I have spent the day reading your writings today. I love and miss you dearly. Until that day when we shall meet. Love Dad. (jebouchard57@gmail.com)"
John Bouchard of Colorado Springs, CO/USA

"Never forget. Remembering your sacrifice and influence on all the lives you touched, and how your memory influenced me to become a Navy Corpsman and helped me stay motivated through some long days at Corpsman school at Ft. Sam Houston, right next to the Army medics. Still miss you bud- until Valhalla. Love you bro."
David MacLean of Riverside, Ca

"Nathan, Family and Friends,
Today marks nine years since that awful day. It seems like just yesterday that I was standing right there recovering you, Jeremy and Timothy while trying to make sense of why this happened. There’s not a day in my life that I don’t think of that moment nine years ago. Sometimes it’s just a quick thought, or maybe a few seconds of reflection, and on the worst times I’m immersed in a trance of the scene. I can feel the heat, see the sand and smell the odors of that day.
You, Jeremy, Ray and Timothy are always on my mind and in my heart. I’m honored to have served with all of you and will always live in tribute of your Duty and tell of your Sacrifice as long as I have breath.
Rest in Peace Nathan. God bless you, your Family, and this Great Nation!
Miles"
Miles Wilson of Fort Benning, GA

"Love you Nate! Missing you & honoring you this Veterans' Day 2012. SEVEN YEARS already! I love that you keep blessing us all through the memories we have of you!"
Biz of United States

"Nathan,
You wont ever be forgotten. It has been almost 7 years since you passed . I will never forget the sacrifice you have made . You'll always be missed ." Esse quam videri"."
Carrie ditto of Florida

"Hey Nathan, I remember westling practice back in high school. You were aggressive and had a big heart. When I read something on MySpace several years back, I wasn't sure what had happened. It's hard to imagine someone you know passing away. I know you and justin hunt lost your lives out there. You both are missed by many and by me. I thank God for you both. Your lives meant a lot. Thank you for your courage. I am fortunate to serve with individuals like you. I will meet you one day with our Father. Until then, you will be in my prayers."
Joe Castillo of Bremerton, Wa/ Elsinore high

"Nathan, You were and always will be the true love of my life. I miss you so much. You were my best friend, my rock and my world! I read your letters every day and remember the days that we just spent holding eachother on the beach or playing b ball at the park. I love you and I know you are keeping an eye on me and my faith in God. Because of you I am a different person."
Amanda Smith of San Bernardino, CA

"Nathan, Mom and I miss you dearly and look forward to that great reunion with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To all who have been touched by this great man of God. Thank you for your continued prayers. John Bouchard
1738 Sawmill Road
Cottonwood , AZ. 86326"
John Bouchard (Nate's Father) of Cottonwood, Arizona, USA

"Still remembering on this Vet's day-although its the middle of the night-thinking about the sacrifice-God Bless you Nat-YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN-"
Jess Acosta of PDX-OR

"You will always hold a special place in my heart. 6 years have passed so quickly."
Isaac Toomer's Mom of CO

"I will never stop missing you."
Leah of California

"I still cannot believe that you are gone.I will not ever forget the last conversation that you and I had. I will always remember your smiling face.I wont ever forget you Nate . I know you are in Heaven smiling down on us.Until we meet again.I wont ever forget that day that we got the news . Even when I was depressed about being in Iraq , you always managed to put a smile on my face. It was a honor serving in Iraq with you."
Carrie Ditto of hinesville ga

"Nate and Family,

Yesterday was 5 long years since that day. I spent many hours yesterday looking at pictures and stories of you, Jeremy, Ray and Tim. I'm back in Iraq again, but still have never forgotten you and that day. Those memories stay with me every day and not a day goes by that I don't think of the four of you that gave so much. I miss you guys. God bless you and your Family."
CSM Miles S. Wilson of COB Adder, Iraq

"Nate. as i read all these messages people have written, it still amazes me, the impact you have had on so many lives.... i miss you everyday. mom and dad are doing good.... i love you brother and can never ever forget.

your little brother,
Sean
US Army Infantry, 2002-2006
1/30th Inf, 3rd Brigade, 3rd ID"
Sean Bouchard of Cottonwood, AZ

"Nathan, I remember we went to church together in Hinesville GA, you were in another unit and as you danced in flip flops to the praise & worship songs I saw you dancing as David danced, I was proud, and the last time I saw you in the phone center, you made mention of a girl you had been doing a devotion with--your electric magnetic smile brightened those wooden walls & I was so happy for you. When I got back from R&R during OIF3 I couldn't believe it when they said you were gone-yet I KNOW WE WILL SEE YOU AGAIN, cause your up there dancing alongside my dad, praising God & living eternal life to the fullest you California Surfer Dude :)In Jesus name, the saying goes, all gave some, yet everyone who knows the name of Nathan Bouchard knows the truth, Nathan Bouchard is among the exclusive heroes who gave ALL heart. To The Bouchard family, your son's light still emits, your son still is remembered and loved as a brother who lived life to the fullest, you did the world an honor by having him & his legacy lives on."
Jessica Acosta of Portland OR, yet met at Ft. Stewart

"I served with Nate in Iraqi Freedom I...
No one will ever forget that great big smile of his. Bouchard, you will be missed by many. Once a soldier, always a soldier....."
Robert Griffin of McLeansville, NC

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry. I understand in theory only that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take the families pain away but I can't. I am committed to loving ALL people, myself and our environment. I am committed to working on my happiness everyday because so many have died for my freedom to live my life. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have. All my love and respect. ogersteiner@yahoo.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEjz-wAQLSA&feature=PlayList&p=477CB1585D5551F3"
Scott Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"Nate, on this day, September 11th, 2009, we still remember and will never forget the sacrifice that you and so many of our service men have made for America. Josh and I still think of you and we share our memories of your passion for Jesus with our 4 kids. We love you and miss you so much, but know we will see you again, in the presence of our Lord."
Josh, Christin, Ethan, Travis, Josiah, and Natalie Shultz of Temecula, CA. U.S.A

"I represent Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen soldiers, an organization that since October of 2007 has sent over 2,700 prayer shawls to military families who have lost a loved one. We are an organization of over 236 knitting groups from all over the country. We make every effort to reach families. Would a frind of the family knidly send me a contact email/address so that we may send a prayer shawl to the family of Nathan. My email is barbconway@comcast.net and my cell phone is 774 487-8618.
Fondly Barbara"
Barbara Conway of Cape Cod MA

"Nathan always had a smile on his face. I can't remember a time when he wasn't excited about what the Lord was doing in him or in Iraq. He always had a story to tell, adding his personality into every word. I think of Nathan often, even though I was never able to get to know him as well as I wanted too. The one thing that will stick with me is when I first met him at our home church. He came up to me and smiled, introduced himself and instead of shaking my hand, he gave me a huge hug. My little brother is named Nathan, after this fallen hero. Nathan means "Gift from God" which is exactly what my brother, and Nathan Bouchard are. I thank God for the short time I was able to spend with Nathan before he went Home."
Lindsi Luffman (Lounsbury) of Chicago, Illinois

"I was Nathan's First Sergeant on 18 August 2005. I will never forget the sacrifice the he, Jeremy, Tim and Ray gave that day. I personally recovered Nathan, Tim, and Jeremy from that awful site and brought them back to Brassfield-Mora. I flew with them to the morgue and did the final identification of their bodies in preparation for their Hero Flight. It is now exactly 3 years later here in Baghdad as I type this. Not a day has passed the last three years that I don't think of these Warriors. I miss them all very much and I WILL NEVER FORGET and I WILL NEVER STOP telling their story. I am very proud and humbled to have served along side such great Americans. To all Nathan's family, I pray God's blessings on you. To all Nathan's Scout Platoon Brothers-in-Arms from 3-69 Armor, We will all meet again and drink from the cool waters at Fiddler's Green!!"
Miles S. Wilson of Baghdad, Iraq

"Nathan was a light to everyone he met and a witness of our Lord Jesus Christ. His smile is not forgotten and his memory we cherish and will live on in our hearts forever. We pray for you and offer our love, gratitude & friendship."
The Smith Family of Cottonwood, AZ

"April 29, 2008
To the family of Sgt. Nathan K. Bouchard:
Nathan 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

"Nate, It's been two years and two days shy of three months since that day. I still have a hard time. Nate, even though you and I didn't know each other for very long you left an impression on me I will NEVER forget. You love for the Lord was such an encouragement to me while we served together. I miss you man...there isn't a day that goes by where something doesn't remind me of you. Thank you for being the friend you are and brother in Christ. I can't wait for the day when I get to see you again in heaven when we will have all the time in the world to tell each other how much we love our Savior. I love you man. I'll NEVER forget."
Dan Watson (3-69 AR Sniper Section) of St. Cloud, MN

"What can I say? Nathan was amazing, like no one else I'd ever met before. He was so full of life, confident, exciting, always so happy. He affected everyone he met. I don't know how to explain it except that he was magical..I know that sounds weird, but anyone who knew him would agree. He changed my life, I am who I am today because of him. He made me a better person. As much as I wish I didnt have to go through the pain, I still thank God everyday for giving me the chance to experience Nate. I can only imagine how difficult it must be for his family, Just remember, you are all in our thoughts and prayers. John and Alida, you both raised an amazing person, who changed the lives of so many people, You must be so proud."
Christina Gitto of Savannah, GA

"what can i say? bouchard...you are one of a kind. i can remember being together training and falling asleep to your stories of the stars and clouds, surfing and sand. 18 august was the worst day of my life. losing a soldier is like losing a family member. you will "NEVER B FORGOTTEN" no matter how many years go by. miss you man!!"
mike jones of richmond maine

"Nate was a friend and my brother...i miss him as i know you do, im sorry i wasnt there for the services and i hope all is well in your family and god watches over you and blesses you till the time you meet nate at gods gate."
David "Lil Dee" linell of Monrovia, CA,

"Nathan's Family,

God's blessing be yours on your loss. He and all the other men and women who have given their lives for us are truly heros.

May God richly bless Nathans family and friends who will miss him and his bride to be and now will not. I hope the Bouchard family will contact you and make you one of them.

Nathan now rests in the arms of God."
Sarah Bargas of Horsethief Cyn Ranch, Corona, CA

"Not alot of the people whom knew Nate knows me. Him and I met Downtown Savannah in July '04. I loved him with all my heart. Him and I spoke and wrote so regularly whiles he was in Iraq. I'm from South Africa. He asked me to marry him on the 9th May '05 at 02h00. I agreed. I couldn't wait for him to return from Iraq, but he never did. Now, 20 months later, I still love Nate. I find comfort in knowing that he's dancing on the streets of gold. Praising and Worship our King. There's nothing more comforting than knowing that he's in the best place anybody can be. Surrounded by Gods Glory, peace and love. His smiles will never be forgotten, his love will never be lost.

My love to the Bouchard family and all his friends.
Be Blessed in Christ our King.
Love"
Liesl Martens of Johannesburg, South Africa

"It has been a year and a half since our brother was taken home to Jesus. Words can not describe the saddness that we feel. He was not only a brother in Christ he was like our real brother. Nate was not only a Bouchard, but also a Ronda and we all miss him greatly. His family is continually in our prayers. Nate dyed laying down his life for a brother, showing the greatest love a man could have. Thank you Nate for bringing your wonderful smile to our lives."
Shalone Ronda of Wildomar, CA

"To the family of:Nathan K. Bouchard 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"

"Nathan was the first guy I met from the Scout platoon when I got to Ft Stewart. His charisma, laugh, hugs, and overall attitude is what drew people to him. He was all business when the time called for it, and he was all fun the second business was over. He,along with SSG Doyle, PFC Seamans, and SPC Ray "Doc" Fuhrmann, were ripped from us on august 18,2005, but thank God they went quickly. The night before he was killed, Nate, myself, Isaac Toomer, and Jay cupples sat around playing guitar, singing songs and talking late into the night. I will always cherish that last memory together with Nate. He and they will never be forgotten.

one of nathan's favorite quotes was "Esse Quam Videri"- To be, rather to appear. He certain was, and never appeared as anything other than fully himself."
Spc J. Bradley Horton(cavalry scout, 3-69 AR) of Ft Stewart, GA

"Nate.. you will be miss so much.. you always had a smile on your face and put smiles on others.. All of us here in GA will always remember your name and face.. we loved you alot.. you were one of the sweetest guys .. missing you"
Ashley Johnson of Savannah GA

"I had the pleasure of knowing Nathan through the majority of my schooling career. He was a feisty guy with a heart of gold. I will keep you in my daily prayers and thank you for fighting for the future of our children and loved ones. You will be dearly missed."
Stephanie Smith of Murrieta, CA 92562

"Everyone who ever met Nathan Bouchard liked him. He had a huge heart and will always be remembered. I will hold him dear to my heart always."
Laura Baddgor of Las Vegas, NV/USA

"Nate was a good friend. I have known him for several years as a close brother in the Lord. He attended the home Bible study that I lead. The descriptions of Nate found here are accurate. He never changed, even after going through the rigors of military life. Nate always had a huge smile on his face and he loved everyone he met. Nate was not a regular part of our study after he joined the military, obviously. However, when he had a leave, he would faithfully attend every study he could. When he showed up, everyone in the room was his friend, even if he had never met them before. It was almost as if HE was the one who was a regular and the newer people in the group were visiting...he would greet them and introduce himself with a big hug. Nate was a man so full of life, so much more than most I know, and so it just doesn't make sense in my mind that he is no longer alive. Of course, he really is still alive, in Heaven. Nate knew Jesus. No one ever doubted that. He's telling Jesus stories as I write and Christ has a huge smile looking right back at him. I will never forget Nate and the price he paid for our freedom."
Tim Bedley of Murrieta, CA

"Nate, you will be missed. I went to school with Nate and he always had a smile on his face. He was a great friend. Thank you Nate for all you have done. God bless!"
Renee Finley of Wildomar, CA

"To the family of Nathan Bouchard:
I met Nathan only a few times. It was last summer when I was visiting my boyfriend Spc. James Kristopher Taylor who is in the same platoon. Kris was home on leave last week when he heard the news that four soldiers had been killed in Samarra, but it wasn't until yesterday that he learned that it was four buddies from his unit. In my visits to Fort Stewart over the years I remember Bouchard (I never knew his first name) always as the most smiling face in the bunch. The first time I met him was at the barracks when he was trying to tie down his surfboard to the top of his car so that he could move it to a new apartment. I asked him why he had a surfboard in Georgia. With a matter of fact look on his face he said "Well, I'm a surfer!" followed by a huge grin. That face is etched in my mind.

I didn't know your son well, but of what I do know of him through my short interactions and the endless stories from my boyfriend, he was an amazing guy. His friends will truly miss him over there. But they will be filled with great honor and gratitude for his contributions to their common efforts. God Bless"
Amanda Blind of Univ. of Connecticut, Storrs, CT

"From the Warren family,
We are so grateful for Nathan K. Bouchard. What a hero he is to all of us who enjoy freedom! He made the ultimate sacrifice in our place. Jesus said there is no grater love than when one lays down his life for another. Nathan’s love will never be forgotten by this family. We will keep the Bouchard family in our prayers and receive a love offering at our church for the family to show we do care and carry a small part of the great loss they now feel, the loss of a very brave son who paid for our freedom with his own blood."
James Warren of Murrieta, CA

"TO THE BOUHARD FAMILY FROM THE WAHL FAMILY. NATHAN YOU REST NOW ALONG WITH OUR SON. YOU TWO NEVER KNEW ONE ANOTHER. STILL A BAND OF BROTHER'S PROTECTING ONE ANOTHER,AND EACH OTHER'S UNIT. I HAD SUCH COMFORTING KNOWING THIS NATHAN. YOU WILL NEVER EVER BE FORGOTTEN, NEVER, AS YOU ARE REMEMBERED TODAY. NATHAN YOU BECAME APART OF WORLD AND AMERICAN HISTORY. FOR GIVEN THOSE INIRAQ FREEDOM AND FIGHTING OFF TERRORISM FOR US ALL. THANKS YOU ARE A REAL AMERICAN HERO!"
leonardwahl of VALLEY STREAM NY

"We are deeply sorry for your loss. The Courage, Honor, and Valor that your
Hero showed will always be remembered.
We are grateful for the loyal service and sacrifice that was made and
WE WILL NEVER FORGET.
Our cousin LCPL Michael Smith Jr. gave his life on 4-17-04 fighting for freedom.
Please know that this was not in vain and these American Heros will FOREVER be honored.
God Bless your family and please know that you are not alone.
All of our prayers are with you."
Jennifer and SSGT Larry Mays of Massillon, Ohio

"I am deeply sorry for your loss. May God give you the courage and the strength to deal with the days ahead.

Michele Carter
Sister of CPL Gary Walters
KIA in Baghdad, 24 APR 05"

""Not forgetting is like never forgiving"..Jesus christ says " father pls. forgive them..for they did not know what they are doing"..Sir Nathan is gods cavalry..im really concerned about us.servicemen in iraq...my deep condolence."
marlon of philippines

"Although I live in the same small area as Nathan did, I did not know him. But I give great thanks to God almighty for him and those who have given the ultimate sacrifice so that the rest of us may live in freedom. Freedom is not free and the loss of any soul in its defense shall not be forgotten. To the family of Nathan please know that there are many amongst you who have children serving just as you did and we stand alongside you in this tremendous loss. May the Lord bless you and be with you always."
The Ross Family of Wildomar, California

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness,
and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief.
Our nations HERO, Nathan will be remembered by name.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
God Bless you ALWAYS.
Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

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