Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"🌹"
Jeni Burdick

"I miss this man more than I can put into words. he worked under me at ft Campbell. took my position as I moved on. he was one of the good ones.a friend. a brother, and one hell of a man"
Karl W Beaucamp of wapakoneta ohio

"It feels like just yesterday that Richard was behind the plate catching for the battalion softball team. He was a hell of a man, a strong leader, and a great friend. He might of been a jokester and sometimes hard to read, but he always had your back; and definitely made things entertaining from Nashville to Kosovo."
Bulldog 2-1(2000-2004) of Phenix City, AL

"I still miss you so much it hurts."
Jeni

"Jeni this is Jeff Miller. I remember Richard very well, and he was a decent man. I think of the loss you all suffered, and it amazes me how you've found strength in it. You've grown as a person and I've always admired you, even when you weren't looking. It was a privilege to grow up with you and I'm hoping you'll find me. Things are so different now for me. Please give me a call at 818-284-8990. You've always been one of my very best friends, and always will be."
Jeff Miller of Tarzana, Ca

"Hey, I'm thinking of you on this weekend. The memories of kicking it with you and the rest of boys always makes me happy. Life was fun and simple then and I'm glad I had you in my life for that short time. I heard you joined the Army too and was always hoping to see you. I asked Erizen about you and he told me the news. I still got mad love for you from our high school days and I respect and honor you for your military service and giving the ultimate sacrifice."
Jessica Espinosa of Long Beach, CA

"I found out out about Richies death about a month after it happened, I just found this site though. He was the first person that actually befriended me when I got to C Co 3/505 PIR. Ill never forget right before our deployment to Suadi, when our squad wrestled another squad, on my second day there, and him and I were made to hug trees upside down, he looked at me and said, "Bowerman, youre alright, you dont even know us and you stood up for your squad". He truely was a great man. You will be missed.

AIRBORNE!"
Chris Bowerman of Dallas, TX

"Its Memorial Day Weekend 2011, and your sacrifice is remembered today (and everyday), as is the sacrifice of your family."
CAM of FLW, MO

"Rest peacefully my freind"
mikelilli of Baltimore,MD

"Rest peacefully my freind"
mikelilli of Baltimore,MD

"Hello Jennifer....

I came across this site while looking for fallen heroes. You would not remember me, but I was at your wedding in Ridgecrest some years ago. I believe I videotaped it. When I learned of Richard's death, I was heartbroken. I know Richard's mother, Teri. The day after I heard of his death, I decided to devote that day's entire radio newscast in honor of Richard. I wanted to make sure no one ever forgets our fallen. I am retired and living in Texas near Ft. Hood. My son-in-law served a tour in Iraq and is now in South Korea for two years. I have several friends who are in the Army. God bless Richard and all our brave men and women in uniform."
Ray Watters of Killeen, Texas

"Happy Birthday, Rich. Try not to cause too much ruckus up there. Then again, I remember how rowdy you & E can get. The two of you are very much loved & missed."
Jeni of Santa Rosa, Ca.

"1/02/10

Dear Jeni, Thank you so much for contacting me, as well as putting me into contact with Tari. I am so happy to have heard from you both, and I am thrilled to see what beautiful people you are. I have alot of admiration for you and the lengths you go to in order to keep Rich's memory alive and respected. I was heartbroken to hear about Erizen. I am comforted knowing that Rich and E are together now, as unfortunate and tragic as their deaths were, but now they have each other.. until the rest of us get there! Thank you for being who you are. See you on FACEBOOK!!! Lol!!! Fondly, Kymberly"
Kymberly Morgan of Imperial Beach, CA

"Hi Jeni and children,

I have been searching for you for a very, very long time! I have left emails, not sure if you received them or not. I have searched the ends of the earth for you, and Richard's Mom Teri. No luck. I found this site and I am so happy to read the letters from all of the people who knew and loved Rich. I lived on "H" street by his Mom Teri in Chula Vista when he was still in High School. Richard & Erizen used to babysit for me, and hang out with my husband and I at times. Richard was so in love with you, Jeni! He would never accept any money for babysitting...he would just always ask for our advice...he always wanted to know ways he could do romantic things for you, and impress you. That boy loved you with all of his heart! He was so cute talking about you all the time, and would tell us that he wanted to make you his wife, and have lots of children with you. Richard was an awesome kid, and he worked really hard to impress you in order to "win" you over! Lol!!! I remember one time I drove him to get chinese food for the two of you. He was gonna have you over, and feed you chinese food by candle light that evening. He was the cutest thing ever. I am so happy that you both married and had a family. And I am so happy to hear that you have moved on and remarried, and had another child! That is so special, Jeni. Richard would be happy for you. He loved you so. I am so proud of you for keeping his memory alive, he is our hero, and we all miss him dearly. I lost touch with he & Erizen after I moved, and his Mom Teri moved as well. I was always worried about her, due to her "issues" ( I will leave it at that!), and I have always wondered how she was doing, and if she ever "recovered". I couldnt bear the thought of her finding out about Richard and having to deal with his passing. I am so sad for all of you. I know it has been a while since he passed away. But it is on my mind EVERY DAY. One of my daughters that Richard used to babysit passed away 7 years ago. I never got to tell Richard that (unless Stephen told him). NOw they are together, and I know that Breanna is being looked after VERY WELL!!!! She was disabled, and Richard and Erizen were always helping me with her. I would cook dinner for them, and give them rides to National City where Richard's Dad lived. I am sure you dont remember me Jeni, but I just wanted to tell you how special of a person you were to Richard. He loved you so very much. Don't ever forget that. He would be so proud of you. And your beautiful children. And boy, are they beautiful! I read something that you wrote about Erizen...PLEASE don't tell me that he has passed away too..... although I think I already know the answer to that just by the wording of your letter on this fallen herows memorial site. What happend? When did he die? God, I can't beleive I am writting this. I hate death. I hate when people I love pass away. I am so sorry Jeni. Those guys were a part of mine, my husband, and my childrens lives for a few years. We were not family, or related in any other way. Yet I am so proud to have known Richard and Erizen, and I am so proud of you and your children. Please contact me if you are up to talking, Jeni. It would be very comforting to know how Teri is doing, and to find out what happened to Erizen. I just have so much to tell you. I hope you know how much you were loved. Take care, Please keep in touch. kymberlyamorgan@yahoo.com and my phone number is (619) 934-9292. God bless you."
Kymberly Morgan of Imperial Beach, CA

"Six years ago, today, Angel, Mike, and I lost a part of our souls and our whole world changed forever. It was the hardest thing I ever had to do, to tell our two precious children that their daddy wasn't coming home.

As time passed, we learned that the pain really never goes away, but we adapted, learning to live and love despite the hurt.

Six years later, you are still so very much alive in our hearts & home. The kids & I refuse to let you be forgotten.

Every so often, someone who once knew you will find me & share a story, a photograph, what you meant to him/her. It does take me a moment or two to respond b/c suddenly it all comes back & I have to muster the strength to face it, but you know what? It's OK. You have absolutely NO idea how many lives you touched, people who loved, and still love you. Their love for you keeps them looking for us to share their memories, and the children & I are so thankful that they do.

This weekend Kyle & I are taking the kids to Sacramento. There is a Wall of Honor there, where your name it rightfully placed. We love you so much, and miss you more than words can express. Thank you, Hun, for everything. Loving me, blessing me w/ two wonderful, loving children, being our hero, meaning so much to so many people, for just being who you where. Even for the short time you had here w/ us.

Rest peacefully, Richard. You'll never be forgotten, I promise you that."
Jeni Roarick of Santa Rosa, Ca.

"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

"Hello Jennifer,
My name is John Stoner. Your husband and I were in Iraq together in the
same company.
I want you to know how honored Iam to had served with such a great man. Ric
hie and I became close over in Iraq. I guess because we were both hard
squad leaders. He was in second platoon with SSG Gasten and I in SFC Heater
s platoon in third. I spoke with your husband on a regular basis. The last
time I was able to talk to him I was leaving on mid tour leave and your hus
band had just returned. I asked him if there was anything I could get him w
hile I was home. He said that he had never asked me if I wanted anything wh
en he went home. I told him that was because I was a better man than he w
as. We both shared a laugh. I knew SSG Burdick was one heck of a man. He be
ing on gate guard with his squad went an opened the gate and the truck I wa
s on departed. Before leaving sight I waved at my friend not knowing it wou
ld be the last time I would see him. I learned of Richie's death while on m
id tour leave at home. I took it really hard. My friend will always
be on my mind and in my heart. I hope to raise my son to be just half the leader SSG Burdick was. GOD BLESS you and the children."
SSG (R) john stoner of nashville tn

"Thinking of you on Memorial Day & every day. Thank you, Hun, for more than I can put into words."
Jeni of Ca,

"thinking of "Dick" and his family on this very special day. I live the day we lost him every day and will NEVER forget his sacrifice!!"
Regulator 7 of Ft. Polk la

"Happy Birthday, Hun. We love & miss you."
Jeni of Ca.

"I never knew of this site or I would have written sooner. I was in Richard's platoon while we where deployed in both Kosovo and Iraq. He was a good leader, he taught me a lot, especially while he was my squad leader. I still remember being his scribe once he found out how well my handwriting was. Every time he had to teach a class he would have me sit there with him and write out all the class lectures on the butcher block while everyone else was off. Being how Richard was though I did not have to sit through the class since I already knew what it was about, so it all worked out in the end. He was a good man, a good soldier, and a good friend. I will always remember him and the sacrifice he made. He was my mentor. We will meet again."
Donald Anderson of Amarillo, TX

"I'm sorry that it has taken me five years to hear of Richie's death. I was with him when we went to Saudi Arabia in 2000. I hold many cherished memories of our time together and am saddened to hear that we are without Richie...I will remember you always, promise. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family."
Dustin Cronin of Columbia, MO

"Richie will always be remembered and will always have a place in our hearts. The bond that he had with my hubby, whom he called Teddy ;-), was an amazing bond, and Teddy still holds their friendship very close to him. We love you Dick Dick, and you are remembered each and every day...See you when we get there ;-)...."
Maria of Windsor, CT

"There is discipline in A Soldier
you can see it when he walks,
There is honor in A Soldier
you hear it when he talks.
There is courage in A Soldier
you can see it in his eyes,
There is loyalty in A Soldier
that he will not compromise.
There is something in A Soldier
that makes him stand apart,
There is strength in A Soldier
that beats from his heart.
A Soldier isn't a title any man
can be hired to do,
A Soldier is the soul of that man
buried deep inside of you.
A Soldier's job isn't finished after
an 8 hour day or a 40 hour week,
A Soldier is always A Soldier
even while he sleeps.
A Soldier serves his country first
and his life is left behind,
A Soldier has to sacrifice what
comes first in a civilian's mind.
If you are civilian -
I am saying this to you.....
next time you see A Soldier
remember what they do.
A Soldier is the reason our land
is 'Home of the free',
A Soldier is the one that is brave
protecting you and me.
If you are A Soldier -
I am saying this to you.....
Thank God for EVERY SOLDIER
Thank God for what YOU do!"
Taylor and Ella Wichman Small of Manteca, California USA

"Thinking about you on this Independance day!

Thank you for the great sacrafice you made so that my children can enjoy peace and this awesome world!

Thank you Jeni for being the best cousin in law anyone could ask for. We thank you too, for the loss that you endured.

Richard, your memory will always live on in our hearts!

De, Trevor, Taylor and Ella Wichman Small"
De Wichman Small of Manteca, California USA

"We're thinking about you this Memorial day, Rich. We love and miss you."
Jeni of Santa Rosa, Ca.

"May 11, 2008
To the family of Staff Sgt. Richard A. Burdick:
Richard 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

"Okay I hate when people say this to me and I wanna say I am so sorry and this actually made me stop and think My hubby is I think in the same thing as your hubby was and he drives a truck my heart stopped and this scared me ALOT! I will pray for you and again I am sorry for you loss!"
Sunshine of Columbus, Ohio

"It is January 31, 2008. Nearly 5 years since your passing, and the love and compassion for you, through your wife and children, is still alive and well. You truly are still living through Jennifer, and have a beautiful, happy family. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. You are a Hero, SSG Burdick."
Anonymous Army Wife of Fort Bragg, NC

"In time of War, they heeded the call
They took up arms "FREEDOM For ALL"
They went to serve in a far away land
In battles they fought, they took a stand.


In honor of Country, their duty they performed
For those who died, our Country sadly mourned
There were many who fell and gave their lives
Leaving behind children, mothers, fathers and wives.


They fought the fight to "Let Freedom Ring"
In honor of that, their praises we sing
To those who died, we salute you all
And give our thanks for heeding the call."
De Rita, Trevor, Taylor and Ella Wichman Small of Manteca, California USA

"Happy Veterans Day, Hun. The kids & I are so proud of you and look forward to the day we see you again. Kyle & I bought a house!! We move in next month & as soon as the kids & I agree on a tree, we'll plant one in our backyard in your honor w/ a stone plague. It will be nice to walk out & place a rose anytime w/ think of you.

We love you, Hun.
God, we miss you."
Jeni of Ca

"I found your Myspace site, And I started to cry... I just wanted to thank Richard and his family for their sacrafice that they have made for this country of ours... I know Jeni, you and your children will be alright! I am a true believer in things happen for reasons, even if it's at an unexpected time... Keep your head up, Mama... If you put it down you might miss a quick glance of Richard...Muah"
Alicia Fernandez of Palmdale,CA

"GOD BLESS

PUT UR HEAD ON SHOULDER...BABY GIRL IMMA SOLDIER

~ONE LOVE ! REST IN PEACE"
MILTON ~DA ONE~ of LONG BEACH CA.

"MY PRAYERS ARE WITH U TONIGHT,WORDS CANT EXPLAIN YR LOSS.GOD BLESS YOU AN YR FAMILY."
J.PALEGA of RICHMOND,CA

"My prayers go out to his entire family, I was in Iraq 2 times and lost soldiers myself, he gave his life for freedom."
Sid of Las Vegas, Nevada

"The kids and I were at Kyle's parents this labor day weekend. Mike and I drove down to the gas station to check the tire pressure & fill up for the long ride home. The streets were lined with American flags. It was beautiful. Mike and I looked at each other, he reached for my hand and held it, & said "Happy labor day, Mommy." We felt you there with us. Thank you for letting us know you're still here. I still love you. We all do. Happy Labor day, Hun. Keep watch over us and guard those gates 'till we get there. =)"
Jeni of Ca

"To lose a love of life, to me would be undescribable. But, to read your words of sincerity and warmth in memories of your love one, can only be described as in you and your children. Your forever thoughts are reason for this hero to have fallen in love with you. Stay strong, keep faith and use those memories in the way you raise the gifts that you 2 have. My daughter and I our, hearts go out to you and yours. Mellisa/Shane Friend Dave"
Dave Albalos of Lacey, Wa America

"I'm just web surfing & encountered the love that this man gave and received from his family & he lives on in your soul and mine. Thank You for sacrificing your life Richard. Life is precious"
Jennifer of Sacramento

"What I woke up to this morning:
*Mike gives Aden a Nooggie* "Yo, what's up Muh brother from anudda father."

lol he is your son all the way, hun. His humor reminds me of you everyday. Thank you for making me a their mom, Richard. I can not imagine my life w/o them, or you."
Jeni of Ca.

"Hi Jeni - I am so sorry for you and your familys loss. I wish i would have stayed in touch with him since i moved away in 2002. I knew him since 7th grade and his mom did my braces. He always made me smile to make sure his mom was doing a good job :-D

take care doll - you are all in my prayers!"
Cristina of Las Vegas, NV

"http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v285/Sweet_Jeni/ssgrburdick.png"
Jeni of Ca.

"Hey Jen, just dropping by to say hi... we have Richard's picture up and think about him every day. Take care and much love Tina"
Christina DeMara of McAllen, Texas

"Happy Father's day, Hun. I know you and Erizen are shoulder to shoulder watching everyone. I thank you both and we miss you greatly.

Losing E, has really forced me to deal with your passing in ways I never realized I've pushed away, and hid. I'm really hurting for you, E, and those he live behind."
Jeni of ca

"http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v285/Sweet_Jeni/ssgburdick2.gif

Remembering you on Memorial day, and every day. We love and miss you always."
Jeni, Angel, & Mike of Ca

"Happy Birthday, Hun!"
Jeni of Ca.

"Jeni,
I just found this site, great tribute. I really enjoyed working with Rich at the 101st. He was a great NCO that lead from the front, by example, and did it well. More importantly he loved his family. You are a superstar to handle all this the way you have, never forget the past but don't let this tragedy define you. LIVE life every day, be happy and remember him through your beautiful children. Me and Leann wish you the best and are always here if you need a friend. See ya when I check out brother...RLTW"
1SG Tony James of 4/10 Mtn Ft Polk, La

"A hero thinks of others before they think of themselves
A hero will die to protect
A hero can be of any age, any colour
A hero can be man, woman or child
A hero is courageous, loving and brave
A hero will never complain
A hero can be made in one act of compassion
Or years of tender loving care
Some hero's are remembered, whilst many are left forgotten
Hero's are angels in disguise, saving precious innocent lives


(Dedicated to the memory of ARMY Staff SGT. Richard A. Burdick & All fallen Heroes"
Kambez of Alamdea, CA, Alameda

"Hi Honey,
You were on my mind today. Although I talk to you often, writing you is what I need. Must be the song I'm listening to. Heh..

Mike started counseling two weeks ago. He loves going, and I couldn't be more thrilled. You know how protective he is of me and tries not to come to be when he hurts for you, for fear of seeing me cry or hurt for you too. He remembers what you told him before you left and takes it to heart. I wish you hadn't have said that, he is/was far too young to be "the man of the house" and expected to care for his mother and sister. I know you would take that back if knew what would happen. You would take allot back, and so would I.

Kyle is taking time off during the children's spring break and we are driving down to see you. Mike needs to see you. I'm not sure why, but the way he has been asking/acting tells me not to question and just go.

I love you, Hun, and I miss you terribly. It's not easy keeping you alive. It would be allot less painful to me to just try and forget, to leave you unspoken and forgotten. To just not deal. That wouldn't benefit the children, would it? It would do more harm than good. I thank god everyday for the time and life I had with you and I thank you for Kyle. I know you had a hand in our meeting. His love and support gives me the strength to keep you here with us.

Funny, writing you does make you feel closer.. I haven't done this since you were deployed.

Keep watch over us, my love.
Jeni"

"Hey Jenni, I know this is kinda late but I just found this site. I was stationed with Sergeant Burick in the 502nd under Sergeant Rollins. I cought some of the flack from him when somebody whistled at you from the barracks. Sergeant Burdick was an awsome man and he will be missed."
Timothy J. Murray of Corinth, TX

"I want to thank everyone who has left messages on this site, as well as others. I would like to ask all who knew my late husband, and have pictures to please send a copy to jenifferburdick@yahoo.com I'm putting together a video for the kids and Richards mom and I would greatly appreciate your help. Stacie, aka Kylie, aka Lydia, yes I am remarried and I we had a child this year. I am not ashamed nor should I be for allowing myself to be happy again and making sure my children are as well. Angel and Micheal are extremely proud and happy children b/c of thier father, myself, and their step-father. I know Richard would be proud of the job I've done and will continue to do at raising our children and is looking down w/ a smile. I still and will always honor Richard and keep him alive in our home, in the children, and everyone I know. That being said, I've read all your messages. I ask you to stop being petty and dare I say, jelouse? Sites such as these are meant to honor Richard, not stir up anger in others. Which, by reading your other posts, is what you are intending. To all, thank you in advance for your help and have a safe and wonderful holidays. Jeni"
Jeni Roarick of Santa Rosa, Ca.

"Jenni,
I am so sorry for your loss. I am glad to see that you are remarried and had another baby last year. It seems so very soon but we are happy for you. God Bless you and your new family. We are glad that you have made your home Santa Rosa."
Stacie Boyer of Santa Rosa, Ca

"I could never have asked for a better friend. I enjoyed all of the good times we shared together. Airborne All The Way!!!!!!!!!!"
Jeff Prosser of Arlington, TX

"To the family of Richard,

I attended Rice Elementary in Chula Vista with Richard, although I never saw him after our 6th grade ceremony, I never forgot Richard and the person that he was. He was always smiling and genuine. I learned about his death from Candy, another classmate of ours, it broke my heart. I send my deepest condolences to his family, wife and children.

We'll never forget you Richard.
Thank you."
Giselle Meza Reyes of San Diego, CA.

"On your birthday,

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y216/jeni27/happybday.jpg

I will never let them forget you..."
Jeni Burdick of Santa Rosa, Ca.

"Its hard to write this. Most of you don't know me but Richard was like a brother to me. We grew up together. In 1993 he accidently shot me in the face. I lost my eye. I never got to tell him it was ok. Many years I thought about talking to him and let him know I don't hold anything against him. And to his family he was a great friend and I grew up missing a bro.. Someday I would like to pay my respects to him and let him know it was ok. Sorry for your loss heres my email jhonda619@sbcglobal.net."
Justin Holahan of San Diego

"I had the honor of serving with Richard at both Fort Bragg and Fort Campbell. As I left service nearly 3 years ago, Richard was the last soldier I saw as I left the Strike Brigade area for the last time. We instantly recognized eachother from our days in the 82D Airborne. I also had the honor of visiting the memorial at the 2D Brigade HQ a year ago and had the opportunity to reflect on our time together. There is not a day that goes by that I do not think about my fallen brothers. Thank you for the freedom. Your sacrifice is our reward. You will never be forgotten."
Jeffrey Barnello of Wilmington, DE

"To the family of an American Hero, Richard Burdick,

There are no words that can help to ease your pain, but my family would like to extend our prayers and thoughts to yours. And we would like to Thank You for Richard's service and sacrifice. He gave all so that we are able to live in a free world. His life will always be celebrated and his memory will not be forgotten.

Although we have never met, my family is originally from National City, and our son is now serving at Ft. Campbell in the 101st Avn division, currently in Iraq.

I found this poem and thought I'd share it with you. It is about a US Marine, but I think the author would have included our brave Soldiers too.

He Belongs To Us
In Honor of US Marine Zack Everett

Our soldiers are so brave and true
Always defending the Red, White, and Blue
Today I'll tell of one who is special
I've just met him, he is a quiet vessel
His call to go to a foreign land
Reached the family, it's almost too much to stand
Many emotions we now will share
Remembering to always keep him lifted in prayer
God is the one on whom us and he will depend
As he carries out the duty, our nation to defend
We know not what the future may bring
But pray God will return him safely by Spring
His Mom, Dad, and Grandparents too
Are all feeling helpless and very blue
Their loved one who's always been close to the nest
Is now leaving to serve with the best
A Marine is what he has chosen to be
It's ok if he still wants to sit on our knee
Many soldiers will ride the same bus
But this one is special, he belongs to us
Copyright ©2005 Alma Katherine Powell"
Sharon & Craig Erwin of Oregon, United States of America

"I was in Richard's unit in Iraq. I didn't know him well but he was still a brother. All of us that were there will remember him. I am sorry for your loss, Jennifer. He won't be forgotten."
SGT Smith of Ft. Benning, GA

"Dear Jeni,
I'm am so sorry about Richard. I have often thought about the two of you through the years. I was devastated to hear of what happened. I can't Imagine what the last year and a half has been like for you. Angel has grown to be so beautiful and your son looks just like Richard did when he was younger.
Richard was always dear to my heart and will continue to be in my thoughts forever. I would love it, if you emailed me: purplesparkles79@aol.com

Love, Candy"
Candy Tancil of San Diego, CA

"In Holliston, MA we remember all of you who have given your lives for us in the name of Freedom!"
Maura of Holliston, MA

"Jenny,
Richie, Angel, Mike, and you are always in our thoughts. Ted really misses his buddie and was really devistated that he couldn't make it to the funeral. Richie was a great guy and he sacrificed himself for every single one of us. God only knows when our time is up. Richie, you and the kids will always remain in our hearts and mind. We have really good memories that will last a lifetime. Please email me and let me know how you are doing, mjefferson77@cox.net."
Ted and Maria Jefferson of Manchester, Connecticut

"Happy Birthday, hun..

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v285/Sweet_Jeni/bday004.jpg"
Jeni Burdick of Imperial Beach, Ca

"Jenny,
I think about you all the time. I have not spoken with you since we were in Kentucky. We had such a wonderful time together and I am always wondering how you are doing. I have some things I would like to talk to you about! A lot has happened since the last time we spoke. Please email me and I will give you my info! tjampet@netzero.net"
Tiffany Petty of Inkom, Idaho USA

"To the family of Richard A. Burdick,

My deepest sympathy goes out to you. I served with your husband for a few years in c co 3/505 82nd Airborne Div. Richad and I were not close, but he is a brother forever. I am saddened by the loss of a great man, you and your family are in our families prayers. "Via Con Dios" Richard"
N.C. Wayman of Redlands Ca USA

"I would like to express my deepest sympathies to the family of Richard Burdick. I cannot imagine the amount of pain you have felt over the past year. Please know that his sacrifice will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are forever with your family. God Bless."
Melissa R. Medina of Columbus, GA

"To the loved ones left behind remember one thing if God brings you to it, He will bring you through it. God bless you all!"
Amanda Lambert of Hattiesburg, MS USA

"Jeni...I know this is a hard time in your life. I hope u know I'm here for you...anything you need I'm here and I'll try my best to give you what u need...I love you girl..just keep your head up...Love you ...cousin Amanda"
Amanda Conner of Deltona, FL USA

"Jenifer
I have been trying to contact you since this unfortunate incident. Of all the soldier that ever worked for me he was special and I loved him as only another soldier could. He and I were close we were friends. I will never forget him. I try to remember the good times with him otherwise I would hurt more deeply then I already do. I wish I could do something to help with your grieving. I do have some pictures of him that I would feel honored to send to you. There were of some of the good times. I truly did love him as a brother and close friend.
If you would like the pictures please let me know at abnranger@ctvea.net"
Karl Beaucamp of Phenix City, Al

"Dear Jennifer Burdick & Family,

Please accept my deepest sympathy for the tremendous loss of your husband and the father of your children. I write this letter out of a debt of gratitude for the sacrifice your husband and you have made to our country.

Although I did not know Richard personally, he does share our family name and, because it is rare, there is a good chance that we are distantly related. Because of this, I submitted his name to be honored on the Burdick web site (http://www.burdickfamily.org/). If you go to that web site and click on “Military,” you will find his name prominently displayed as one of America’s heroes.

I understand that there is little consolation in a letter of condolence. Only God and time can heal a deeply wounded heart. It is God who knows what is in your future. Understanding that He is the one who has given you your past provides you the knowledge that He is also the one who will give you your future. Once over this pain that seems to never end, God does have peace and a future for you.

Please forgive me for presuming to take liberties in discussing these issues. I do it in Richard’s honor and what I hope is beneficial to you and your family. Although Richard is gone now, it is important to understand the legacy the he has left behind and how his heroic actions can have a positive impact in the future of you and your children. Your joint sacrifice has immense value to you, your children, and your country.

Regardless of your future course, Richard will always remain a prominent part of your life, and rightly so. Although he cannot be here in person, his legacy – faithfulness to family and country, honor, patriotism, dedication, courage, manliness, love of family and country, willingness to accept the tough job of being a citizen soldier in the likes of those who won our own country’s independence – can all be used as a foundation to guide yourself through the tough course you have in front of you personally and in raising your family. I know, these things do not pay the rent, but they are much more valuable than that.

We can draw encouragement from the fact that his sacrifice was for you and your children, as well as the USA. This same sacrifice can lead you as you move into the future and raise your children to understand that the qualities that made your husband and their father great can also make them great if they are made a part of their lives. Richard, through his example of heroism and love for others, has left all of us a great gift.

Richard and you have my deepest respect and gratitude. Thank you for your sacrifice.

The Bible says in John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”


With my deepest sympathy, James R. Burdick, Jr., Lieutenant Colonel, USA (Retired)"
James R. Burdick Jr. of Mesa, AZ

"Tony and I once again want to thank you Jennifer for You and Richards sacrifce for our nation. we love you and are praying for you and your beautiful children daily. He was such a special person and we will miss him terribly."
Leann James of Fort Polk, LA

"I have just been informed of Richard's tragic loss. Rich, you made the world a better place and touched all who were blessed to know you. You will be sorely missed. Gone but not forgotten. Thank you for what you gave us brother, and we will all see you in a better place one day."
Mike Lewis of Camp Greaves, Republic of Korea

"THANK YOU RICHARD BURDICK. I HAVE JUST BECOME AWARE OF YOUR INCREDIBLE LOSS JENNIFER AND I AM DEEPLY SORRY. I WAS IN Cco 3-505 with richard for about 3 or 4 years and it is indeed a very sad thing to see hime gone. we had alot of good times and he will always be remembered. We also went to Saudi Arabia together before he went to Campbell. I am truly grateful for his incredible contribution and his role in the war on terrorism. THANK YOU!!!"
DAVID (REDCELL) BRYANT of SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA

"This message is to the family of Richard A. Burdick - The Mayor and City Council of the City of National City, CA would like to pay tribute to Richard over the Memorial Day week. If you are out of state, we would like to send you pictures of the event. I see that Jennifer has a note posted on the website so I am hopeful that she checks the site periodically. Please email me

Thank you very much. This is a wonderful website!"
Leslie Deese of National City, CA

"I want to thank you all for your kind words and prayers. It means alot to my chidren and myself to know that we are not alone in this very difficult time. Richard IS my high school sweetheart, my best friend,husband,and my hero. Again, from the bottem of my heart, THANK YOU."
Jeniffer Burdick of clarksville tn usa

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

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

"Staff Sgt. Burdick:
Thank your for giving yourself so that those of us at home can live freely and safely. There are not enough 'thank yous' for a gift such as this. Rest in peace soldier."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"Richard rest in peace kid, you will be remembered forever, you were a excellent friend and a model soldier.
Airborne all the way..."
Hector Gonzalez of Boston, MA

"Thank you Richard Burdick, 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

"Dearest Family of Richard,

My deepest sympathies are with you in this most difficult of times. I was there to see him graduate at Ft. Benning, and I am proud to say that by marriage, I am related to a hero. Our country is what it is today because of proud, upstanding, men as Richard was. Kevin & I are here should you ever need us. May God bless you and may God bless America.

Much Love,
Lisa"
Lisa of Yorktown, VA /USA

"To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Richard Burdick:
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 Richard 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. Richard Burdick:
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 Richard, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia