Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"If this is true, that would be a real shame for a company like them. brain memory games"
Ernest of Singapore

"Never Forgotten ! (2015)
From your friend..Sgt Thompson, David R.
Iron Hawk Troop 3/3 ACR"
David R. Thompson of Pueblo, CO

""You will always live in my heart !!
" I will never forget you!" (2014)
SGT Thompson,David R.
IRON HAWK 3/3 ACR""

"In May of 2010 my cousin (CPT Kyle Comfort) was killed in combat. His wife set up a foundation in his honor. Every Veteran's Day weekend a 5K is held to raise funds for the foundation. Last year they partnered with "Run for the Brave." Each participant has the name of fallen soldier on their running bib. This year I was honored to have SSG Bright's name on my bib. I thank you for his sacrifice to our country. God Bless, protect, and give comfort to the family he left behind."
Rachel Bennett of Clifford, MI

""Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends."

Richard Anderson
CPT, FA
CDR, A BTRY, 4-320th FAR/101st AASLT
Ft. Campbell, KY"

"SSG Bright was a man who always stood on principle and went out of his way to look out for the well being of his troops. He represented what it really means to be a NCO and set an example for all to follow. I learned a great deal from SSG Bright while deployed with him on my 1st deployment to Iraq in 2003. I will never forget the sacrifice he and his family made while protecting our country and our way of life."
SSG Marc Wilson of Colorado Springs, CO

"On my third tour to the Middle East, currently in Afghanistan and I sit here struggling with my memory of that day. I miss SSG Bright. Carolyn- my best to you and the kids.

Rich Anderson
CPT, FA
CDR, 4-320th FAR/101st AASLT"
CPT Rich Anderson of FOB Sharana, Afghanistan

"to Scottie L. Brights Family, my heart is heavy for your loss, my Son Barry is now at fort Carson, hope he is connected to someone with the spirit that your youngman had, One Army Mom to another, as we weep we rock for rocking reminds us of the love that we gave to one that gave all to save all of us..My voice goes to the heaven for your son to give a I CAN"T HEAR YOU one more time..HOOOAAAHHHHH"
Ardy Richter, Mom of PCF Barry Roseland of Milwaukee WI USA

"SSG Bright was the first section chief i had when i first got to HWB 3/3 , he was always there for us as a section he was an awesome teacher , soldier and person. he helped and taught me and other soldiers a bunch . SSG Scottie Bright you will always be in our hearts and always be missed !!!!!"
sgt(p) Santiago (TITO) of HWB 3/3 ACR

"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"
Scott E. Steiner of Worthington, OH

"You will always live in my heart !!
SGT Thompson,David R.
IRON HAWK 3/3 ACR"
David R. Thompson of Pueblo, CO (USA)

"May 2, 2008
To the family of Staff Sgt. Scottie L. Bright:
Scottie 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

"To the family of SSG Scottie Bright,
During OIF 1 I was a Spc in scotties unit. I will tell you that he was an outstanding leader, and a good friend. Not a day goes by that i do not think of him, and he will never be forgotten."
Wo1 Steven Badgley of Ft rucker , AL

"Dear Bright family,

I would just like to take this opportunity to convey my deepest condolences and sympathy for your loss. Sergeant Bright was a very integral part of my life during some very trying years. He was a man of honor compassion and wisdom. I learned many valuable lessons regarding life, service, family and honor while serving under him in Alpha batter 4/42. He had the unique ability to make all the individuals he came in contact with feel important, and to take pride in all that they do.

My deepest regards,"
Lysle C. English of Houston, Texas

"To The Bright Family,
It's hard to put into words. When I read the Army Times about SSG Bright's passing, the news hit me harder than anything that can a person imagine. It was in honor to know SSG Bright. SSG Bright will always be one of the people that I will always admire and have respect for. I remember when I first arrived to Ft. Hood, A battery 1-3 FA. He was one of the guys who steered me in the right direction in life. Without him and several other members (NCO's) of the Aztec family, I would have been in so much trouble. I often looked up to him as an older brother. He used to pick on me and my friends. (Jetters, Mack, Jordan, Riley, White, Mendez) and the list goes on. Being around him made you feel great. During work, we used to spend a lot of time playing video games, watching Jerry Springer, and just shamming throughout the day. He will always be in my thoughts and prayers. Mrs. Bright and children, I will also have you in my prayers. The Lord is watching out for each and everyone of us. I hope that we all will find peace and happiness in our journey in life."
Jerome Waring of Bamberg, GE

"My Brother, My Boss
By SSgt Michael Zarate


I was asked this past Friday to write the commentary for this week’s publishing of the Gulf Defender. The topic was to be of one that supports the upcoming Boss’s day on the 15th of this month. At first I thought that this could be a very broad subject to write on. I knew I was told to write a basic outline of what the ideal boss is to me, and possibly one that I know or have known in the past. Simple enough right? The more I tried to pin down the subject, the harder it got. At 6:54 p.m. on that Friday night as I was driving to dinner, it hit me. If there was ever a time that a light bulb clicked on inside my head, this was that time for sure. On June 24, 2001, I had just arrived at my new home, Camp Mobile, South Korea. For those who may not know, this is where the Army’s Second Infantry Division comes through to either in process or out process the Division. As a 3-year Artilleryman, I was a bit nervous to have found out that I was going to be assigned to the Warrior Replacement Company to process troops, rather than sending steel down range. I was told to hit the ground running as soon as I got to Korea, and here I felt as though I was running backwards. This was until just before dinner that early Summer night that I met the first person in my new unit, SSGT Scottie L. Bright, from Montgomery, Alabama. He was one of about three people in BDU’s amongst a sea of civies. He was passing out packets, when he came across mine. He called out my name and as he brought me my packet he asked if I was the same SPC Zarate that was going to stay right there at Camp Mobile with him, as the other’s were shipped off to their respected new homes. I told him yes and he assured me that I was going to love it there, as he was Artillery too, and hand selected for his position as well. Right away I knew I would be taken care of. That was just it though, SSGT Bright had a way of making everyone feel this way, whether you were from the same career family or not. He was not just your everyday NCO among NCOs. SSGT Bright was the guy that took the NCO Creed and raised it even higher. And he did it all in a manner that it seemed he was the only one that didn’t notice. He was a silent leader. The kind that you just observe and wish you could be half of. In the brief year that I did have the honor of knowing SSGT Bright, the thing that stood out the most was his sense of pride for his family. To this day I still remember the name of his wife Carolyn, and two children Breshea and Scottie Jr. He was what a father and a husband are meant to be, and he carried this with him at work. Around the unit he was our friend, brother and father. He never sacrificed his own troops for his own benefit. No matter how tough a situation or task, he was right there guiding and mentoring us, in order to get the mission accomplished.. On July 5, 2005, at the age of 36, SSGT Bright died in Baghdad, Iraq when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during combat patrol operations. Along side SSGT Bright was a 23 year old Corporal named Lyle. J. Cambridge from Shiprock, New Mexico who also lost his life that day. I never did talk to SSGT Bright after he left Korea a couple months before myself in 2002. I do not know if he ever knew of the impact he has had on me, not only in my military career, but in the household as well. As I move up in my career and as I watch my son Joe grow up into a man, I only hope that I can capture a piece of the charisma that I saw in SSGT Bright. He was not only my boss, he was my brother.

Carolyn, Breshea and Scottie Jr.,
I am so proud to have served with your husband and father. He was a great man. I have attached an article that I wrote for the base paper a little while back. I will never forget SSG Scottie L. Bright. God bless you all."
Michael Zarate of Tyndall AFB, FL, USA

"Carolyn and family, I am so sorry, I just found out about Scottie through SFC Eric Andersen on AKO. You know Scottie, Eric, and all the rest of the "Young Guns", they were the ones who use to make our battery go. They were so proud, so sharp, so confident, nothing could stop them. I was always so proud of them. I remember the times we all shared as Aztecs 442. Not just the soldiers, the families as well, I could always count on you. I saw Scottie the last time he was here going back to the states, he had brought some vehicles down from I think Taji. I didn't even know he had came back. I remember so much about times we all shared. Scottie Jr running around the orderly room. Carolyn, I just pray for strength and well being for you and your family. Know that Scottie is always with you. I am proud to have served with Scottie, he was more than just a Gun Chief to me, he touched my life as I know he did many others."
1SG(ret) John Pyles of Ali Al Salem, Kuwait

"The Bright Family,
We have kept in contact since the passing of Scottie, and for that I am grateful. I am also grateful to have known SSG Bright- I had the honor of spending the last few days of his great life beside him and the pain that I continue to feel is certainly difficult to bear. I can only learn from him, and hopefully someday I will have a family of my own that I can love as much as he loved you. I'll never forget him.
With love,
1LT Richard Anderson"
1LT Richard Anderson of Colorado Springs, CO

"To the Bright Family,
I am deeply sorry for your loss, I served in SSG Brights platoon and worked closely with him. He was a great NCO and someone I could always count on. I will miss him and always keep a place for him in my heart."
SPC William Bailey of Ft Carson, CO

": To the family of:Scottie L Bright I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. 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 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew Covington,Ga"

"Carolyn and family,
I know there is nothing that I can say about your husband and father that you don't already know. He was a great leader and friend to us all. His smile stretched from the atlantic to the pacific and that is what I will remember the most. He was proud of his family and talked about each of you with a genuine love. His example of love and dedication was a rock that all who knew him could base their lessons in life from. I am thankful for having the pleasure of working with him. My condolences. Good luck to each of you."
SSG Cureton, Robert of FT. Carson, CO

"To Carolyn, Bre'shay, and Scottie Jr.,
There are many things I would like to say about the incredible person we all have lost. I would like to start by thanking God for giving me the opportunity to have known SSG Bright as a friend and co-worker. I was Scottie's Platoon Leader from October of 2004 until the day he died. Having SSG Bright as a Gunnery SGT was a blessing. He was the most reliable person I have ever met and one of the best friends I ever had. Whether it was going to chow, dropping off laundry, or going to the gym SSG Bright and I were always a team. He always spoke so highly of his family and his love for you all was an inspiration. I know that I have become a better husband because of the advice he has given me and the only way I can ever repay him is to love my wife and kids the way he did. I have so many great memories of him that I could go on forever. I will never forget his laugh and the bond that he and I shared. He and I spent countless hours laughing and talking about everything under the sun. Not a single day goes by that I don't think of him and pray for his family. I wish you all happiness and just know that although it isn't the same, there are many others sharing in your grief."
CPT Andrew Valentin of FOB Falcon, Iraq

"To the Family of SSG Bright,
There is so much to say about your husband/father he was a great man and leader, always there for everyone. There was never a day that would go bye and you didn't see him without a smile on his face. He was always there to joke around with you or to encourage you to do greater things. He is by far the most greatest NCO and friend I have ever meet. He will be truly missed and never forgotten all my condolences go with you all."
Spc Torrez, Brandon of HWB 3/3 ACR, Ft. Carson, CO

"To Carolyn and the children, Your husband and father was a very influential man. He was one of the best NCO's I have worked with. I served with SSG Bright during the first tour to Iraq and this tour to Iraq as one of the battery medics. I knew I could count on him for valuable advice and wonderful lessons in life in general. Although I have never met you I knew you. SSG Bright always included his family in any conversation we had, and he included his love for his wife and children. I will always remember him for the great person he was. My condolences and deepest wishes are with you."
SPC David Barnett (Doc) of Ft. Carson, CO

"Carolyn, Bre'Sha, and Scottie Jr,
Where to start... your husband/father was a great teacher, a great role model, and a great boss, but most important a great friend. Weather he was teaching me something about our vehicle, or just talking about our families, he always had an answer for me. He helped me be more efficiant at my job, and be a better person in gerneral. He was the kind of person that would go out of his way to help me with anything. He always told me that being his driver wasn't going to work, because two lazy people wouldn't be able to get anything done, but he knew that wasn't true. If something needed done, he was out there with me until it was finished. Anyone that knew him will miss him forever. My greatest condolences to you all."
Spc Michael Hamm (michaeljhamm@netzero.com) of Ft. Carson Colorado

"To Carolyn and the Children,
I'm truly sorry for your lost. Scottie will be missed very much. I will always remember the great laughs we had on all those field exercises while sitting in the GUN waiting on a fire mission, until it was time for me to shave with that Magic Shave; he hated that smell. I know that Scottie is in a better place and is looking down on us with that big smile on his face that I remember him by. May God bless and keep you and the children always. Can you believe we are still in Killeen? (Aztecs 4/Life)"
SFC Clark and Carrentha of Killeen, TX

"Mrs Bright and the Children of SSG Scottie Bright, I had the honor to serve with your husband and father during the First tour to Iraq as his Platoon Leader. He was trully a professional NCO and a mentor to all who knew him. He was always there to lend a open ear to all those in need. God Bless, you will always be in my prayers

CPT Thomas "skipper" Owens
Former HWB 3/3 Platoon leader and XO
OIF 2003-2004"
Thomas c. Owens of FT. McPherson, GA

"Dear Carolyn, Bre'Sha, and Scottie Jr., Your Husband and Dad was one of the best things about my time at Fort Hood. I had the distinct honor and pleasure of being his battery commander--and he was a big part of the reason why the Aztec Battery team was so special. I will never forget his sense of humor, his absolute dedication to his country and his duty as a Soldier, and the quiet yet powerful example he set as a leader. Soon after I arrived at Fort Carson, I ran into him one night, in of all places a Wal Mart, and we had a chance to catch up and laugh about some of the old times. I remember thinking that night how good it was to see him again--and how great it was to have served with him. I knew I had a friend at Fort Carson that I could always count on. He was a superb Soldier and leader, a great man, and a brother in arms--and I shall never forget him. I continue to serve for guys like him--and families like you. Please accept my heartfelt condolences...and stay well always. Remember that all of us former Aztecs are here for you if you need us."
MAJ Ted Reich of Fort Carson, CO/USA

"Carolyn,
I pray that you and the children are making great progress in Texas. I know that you have friends that will help in any way.
I know that nothing said here will make missing your "Big Daddy" easy. I want you to know that you have inspired me. When we attended the Nuggets game, I learnd something great about you and Scottie. I know that your husband was your world. I took from our conversation that Scottie is not only your husband, he is your friend, soulmate, lover and partner.
I shared these feelings with Kevin and he had a similiar experience with Scottie in the field. You two meant so much to one another.
Both of you have inspired Kevin and I to be better spouses to one another. I pray for you daily. I know that Kevin does the same. When he returns from Iraq we will take a road trip and come and visit you and the kids.

I love you and stay strong.

Danielle"
Danielle Montgomery of Fort Carson, CO

"To the Bright family,
Please accept our deepest condolences for the loss of your beloved SCOTTIE. He is a true American Hero and will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
SCOTTIE - We thank you for your service and sacrifice for our great country. We also celebrate your life and honor your memory as a Brave Hero. Gods Speed to you young soldier and may the Angels care for your family as they try to heal.
From a grateful family of a US Army Soldier, from Ft. Campbell 101st AVN Regt, now serving in Iraq 10-20-05.""
---The Erwin Family of Oregon, United States of America

"To Carolyn, Breshea, and Scottie Jr.
I constantly keep you, as well as Scottie in my prayers Daily. Scottie was more to me than just a buddy or friend. He was more like a brother to me. We have shared so many laughs and good times together and I think about him every day. He was always there to lend advice or to point me in the right direction. I am truly honored to have served with such an admireable human being. Carolyn, I want you to know that my family and I will always be there for you, as God comforts your heart. I will forever hold a salute to Scottie Bright and his family. Rest in Peace my brother."
SFC Pease, Robert W. Jr. of Ft Sill, OK

"Carolyn , i found out through SFC Pease about Scottie, he is the reason why i a still in the ARMY today, Scottie is a great father and still a great man, I will miss him i used to be his gunner and he taught me alot Carolyn you and the kids will be okay, look to the hills for your help comes from there, God Bless You And Your Family. Rest In Peace Scottie"
drill sgt /SSG(p) Wilson of FT.SILL. OK

"To the Bright Family sorry for your loss, i was in Bravo Battery (Black Dragons) in Fort Hood I knew your husband had a wonderful time with a very special friend that i learned alot from. He will be missed greatly by all. Take Care, he's now with our lord and Savior (A Saint in his Army). God Bless You!"
SSG Thomas, Ottress of Bamberg, Germany

"MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY WE ARE VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOST. SCOTTIE SERVE HIS COUNTRY AND I AM SORRY FOR YOUR LOST AND MY GOD EASE THE PAIN. BECAUSE HE IS WITH US ALL OF THE WAY MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY SMITH FAMILY"
CHRISTINE SMITH of EADS TENN

"To the family of SSG Bright, I'm so sorry for your lost of this great man and Father. As his First Sergeant I was able to watch him grow and knew back then he was going to be a great Solider. We the Aztec's family also feel this lost and hurt and will never forget this great Solider. You and your family will always be in our prayer. God bless you"
CSM Willie B. Jones of Ft. H.ood, TX

"Dear Bright Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. SSG Bright was part of the best times I ever had in the Army. I'll always remember him as an Aztec. Every time I see the clock hit 4:42 I think its time to shoot. I pray that God may find a way to ease your pain."
Mitch Sizelove of Argyle, Tx

"To the family of SSG BRIGHT. I was a section chief with Aztecs back in 2001. I admired this NCO and remember what he used to tell me as a young section chief. He always helped me while assigned in Fort Hood Texas. It was my first time in the training area and he gave me pointers in being successful. He will truly be missed. I am very sorry for your loss as I am leaving Germany and coming back to Fort Hood Texas for another 3 years. May God Bless you and your family as SSG Bright is in a better place in the HEAVENS.....SFC RUIZ-ESTRADA, RICK N. ALWAYS AN 'AZTEC'......"
SFC RUIZ-ESTRADA, RICK N. of BAMBERG, GERMANY

"Carolyn,

My heart goes out to you and your family. Scottie was a person with wisdom above his age. There were times we would see each other in the field and talk pretty much about anything. Then there were times that we wouldnt see each other however, the times we did talk with each other they were heart felt moments that will live with me for ever. Your husband was a true leader and dedicated to what ever the mission was. I met him back when he was specialist Bright in 1/3 fa 2nd armor division, he was a driver for the CSM."
HARRY SMITH of SAN ANTONIO TX.

"To the family of Staff Sgt. Bright,
As a young Artillery lieutenant, Sgt. Bright helped me learn the ropes as an officer in Alpha Battery (Aztecs) at Fort Hood, I remember him as a smart professional and a patient man with a big heart. I remember his sense of humor and I remember his laugh.

My prayers are with you and Scottie will be missed. Know that his is the most noble of professions in serving our great country - I count myself lucky to have served with him."
Michael Arsenault of Austin, TX

"Carolyn, Bre'Sha, and Scottie Jr,
Your Husband and Dad was not just a great man, but the greatest of men. I know I speak for all the soldiers he has touched when I say that he was not just an exceptional soldier, but an incredible family man and role model. Your family is blessed to have had him in your lives. None of us can possibly imagine the pain of your loss, but all of us old Aztecs are proud to say that he is our brother.
Our prayers are with you. God Bless."
Steve Carpenter of West Point, NY

"Carolyn, Bre'Sha, Scottie, Jr.-
I am so so sorry for your loss. Scottie was a great man, he taught me everything I know about being who I am today. Especially about putting the family first, he always did that. As part of the Youngs Guns in Aztec Battery, I say Thank You for allowing him to teach me. He always did the right thing, no questions asked. He was a great American and he will be missed. We love you guys."
SFC Eric J. Andersen and Family of Fort Knox, KY

"The Salute


To those who have died,
And to those who have cried.
We Salute You.

To those who have lost,
Paid the ultimate cost.
We Salute You.

And to those who still serve,
The Red White and Blue.
Our grateful Nation,
Proudly Salutes You."
Tom Balstad of West Warwick RI

"Dear Carolyn, Bre'Sha & Lil'Scottie,
Our deepest sympathy is with you & may He give you strength & hope to meet each new tomorrow.. He said "I will never leave you, nor forsake you"
Much Love,"
Chester & Lois Fields of Killeen, Texas 76543

"To Scottie Bright's wife and children and family, I was sorry to hear of his death. Scottie is a true American Hero and will never be forgotten. God Bless You All, and know that Scottie is safe in heaven."
Mary Ghaney of Brooklyn, New York

"Our prayers will be forever with your family.
Your old Aztec Family - "The Young Guns"
SFC Demetrius R Pugh and Family"
Demetrius R. Pugh of Ft Hood Texas

"I wish to convey my deepest sorrow for your loss. May the Lord comfort you thru these darkest of days.
Thank you Scottie for your service and for your love of our country.
God bless."
Garry Smith of Eva, AL.

"We are deeply sorry for your loss. America will forever honor your Hero.
The Courage, Honor, and Valor that your Hero showed will always be remembered.
We are grateful for the sacrifice that was made and we will NEVER FORGET.
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

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

"To Scottie L Bright's Family"
thank you and i am so sorry for your loss but he was speical you see he left his place in this world and has made a better place for and his choldren. May god bless you. here is a poem i thought you might like:



It’s been a while
Since I’ve heard you’re voice-
That worm comforting voice,
Always offering
Helpful words of wisdom.
You always seem to know
So much more about life than I-
And just what to say to make the world seem like it’s on our side


I miss you
When something really good happens,
Because you’re the one I want to share it with

I miss you
When something is troubling me,
Because you’re the one ,
Who understands me so well,

I miss you
When I laugh and when I cry’
Because you’re the one
Who makes the laughter grow and the tears disappear.

I can’t believe how much I miss you

i hope you like it it reminds me of my best friend who died. god bless you and my prayers are with you."
Kimberly of USA!!!

"To the family of Scottie Bright, especially his widow and children, being a military widow I know how hard this is, but keep your courage and be brave for him. We Remember Our Fallen Heroes and will never let you or them be forgotten. Gold Star Wives of America, Inc."
Rachel Clinkscale of Vincent, AL USA

"Thank you Scottie Bright, 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 Staff Sgt. Scottie Bright:
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 Scottie 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 Staff Sgt. Scottie Bright:
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 Scottie, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia