Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I'm not sure if anyone reads these much anymore, I hope someone does. My name is Jason Lilley...I was one of the Recon Marines in Iraq on the day we lost Michael. I'd love to talk to someone from the family. My email is jasonmlilley@gmail.com I hope to hear from you."
Jason Lilley of San Diego, CA

"Thinking about you today as I do everyday wishing with all my heart you would be here to celebrate turning 31 Friday , and that you would be there to raise your daughter ! Mia if you read, this is your birth dads mom , your Grandma I LOVE YOU I MISS YOU !"
Sandra of Amelia Court House Va.

"Thinking of you today on the 4th and I think of all the good times we had. I wish things would have been different and you would have just come home and been able to live your life and we would all still have you around in one way or the other. You gave your life doing something you loved doing and we are all so proud of what you accomplished."
of Virginia

"I wrote a message to my little brother before reading any of the passages from other's like my daddy's and from my other little brother Kris. The tear's have not stopped flowing from my eye's. I want to remind everyone that regardless of what any of us feels or thinks about what someone has said on here or at what time frame in which they have said it, that we all have a right to our memories or feelings; and that as long as they are not hurtful or distasteful in any manner we should respect them. I thank all of you with all my heart for the memories and comments you have left. Because His daughter Mia and I never got to meet him in person and I only knew the sound of his voice from his many phone calls. All of you should be feel blessed with the time you were given with him and the memories that you are left with. I don't have memories like all of you do nor does his daughter. You all have memories to find some comfort in, moments where you can smile and laugh at things that he did or times when he made you proud. I know he is okay. You all may miss him and I know at time's the pain is like a huge weight in your chest that just won't go away. I know what my daddy and Mickey's and Kris's mom and to a point what my little brother go's thru. Kris lost his best friend and his little brother. I may know what it's like to lose my best friend and my little brother but not when it's the same person. I do however know what it's like to lose my child also. Mickey and I both had baby girls in 2004. His daughter and I share the fact that we never met him and know him thru all of you. I share the pain of losing a child like his mom and our dad do. My brother died 5 day's after his little girl was born on the 18th of May 2004 and my little girl only 29 day's old died on the 18th of September 2004. My only comfort is knowing that they are together where ever they are. So, I ask of everyone who post's on here, no matter how much you might have to bite your tongue and dislike another's post, that we respect what another has to say. Yet, if comment's are distasteful or of ill manner where Mickey is concerned, by all means unbite your tongue and don't hold back cause I won't. Each of has regrets and things we would have done differently; but the bottom line is the man who brought us all here to this site lived and died doing something he believed in. I may not know my brother like the rest of you but he is my brother and he has his hands full with my little girl. The chapter of his life may already be written, but he left us with a new chapter; the one with his daughter that is still being written. I ask that he be honored thru what he left you all with as he honored all of us with his daughter Mia. Thank You"
Tanda of Stanwood, Washington/USA

"Wow, can you believe it's been 10 years already. You would be so proud of Kris. He's a wonderful father to our niece's. Dad say's you and I are a lot alike. He claims if you were still here and we had gotten to meet in person that we would have been off the hook. I miss hearing your voice on the phone. But, I know you have your hands full with my little girl. Who would have thought that we both would have girls in the same year? Even though we never met in human form, I know your with me alway's. Please give Koda Rose a hug and kiss from me and tell her mommy love's her and to be good for her uncle Mickey. I love and miss you. Love your SIS...."
Tanda of Stanwood, Washington/USA

"Michael, you dont know me but I know you thru my son Roger Ogden. He talks n talks about you. I know that this message is a long time coming but I just found this sight and I want to tell you that you are missed and loved by every one of your Marine Corps brothers. I am so very sorry that your life ended the way it did my son your friend still has dreams about you . if I could wish for one person that he could talk to again it would be you. I WANT TO SAY THANK YOU MICHAEL CAREY FOR YOUR SACRIFICE. I WISH IT DIDNT HAVE TO BE. I wish I could have , met you and your loved ones. R.I.P Mike I know you are with GOD"
darlene of yorkville ohio USA

"I've been thinking about you alot lately Mikey !
I look outside at all the leaves falling under your
favorite tree in the yard and remember how you used to rake the leaves up in a pile and jump right in the middle of them ! I miss you Mikey ! I
love you ! Mom"
Sandra of Amelia , Va.

"WE ALL LOST YOU 9YRS. AGO TODAY,WE KNOW YOU ARE IN HEAVEN,BUT EVERYONE STILL MISSES YOU EVERY MINUTE,WE WILL BE TOGETHER WHEN GOD CALLS US HOME,LOVE DAD, AND EVERYONE"
DAD of NIKOLAEVSK,ALASKA

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY SCOOTER,GODBLESS YOU SON,LOVE DAD"

"Happy Birthday Angel !!!"
Sandra Rhodes of Amelia Va.

"Hey Mike its Chris it seems like a lifetime has passed since that last day we saw each other in the desert. I miss you man we were like brothers I just wish we would have had more time together you told me when mia was born you wanted me to be in her life I got to see her right after she was born thats it though. If anyone would like to contact me feel free to email me at mcdaniel5265@Yahoo.com"
Chris McDaniel cpl/ usmc of Kent, Ohio

"MIKIE,FROM THE MOMENT I WATCHED YOU BE BORN,UNTIL NOW,INEVERDREAMEDWEWOULDLOSEYOUSOSOON, I KNOW GOD HAS A REASON FOR EVERYTHING, I KNOW YOU ARE IN HEAVEN,WE WILL BE TOGETHER UP THERE SOMEDAY,YOUR LITTLE GIRL MIA LOOKS AND ACTS JUST LIKE YOU,HAHA,LOVE DADDY"
BILLY CAREY of ALASKA,USA

"Thanks for visiting me in my dreams the other night. Hearing your voice seemed like you were here with me. Please do it more often because i still miss you."
<3 of Virginia

"With Memorial Day coming up and the 8th year
of your passing , you have been heavy on my
mind and heart !!! Thank God for selfless men
like yourself who are willing to lay your life on the
line for others !!! Unlike others , I always knew
and saw the potential and abilities you had in you and believed in you !!!
From the father that was there for you in the good times and the bad your Dad in Amelia , Va. Robert Rhodes"
Robert Rhodes of Amelia , Va.

"IT HAS BEEN 8YRS. SINCE GOD TOOK YOU HOME,WE WILL ALL BE TOGETHER IN HEAVEN FOREVER SOME DAY,WE MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU WITH ALL OUR HEARTS,LOVE DAD AND MOMMA DARLENE"
DAD,MOMMA DARLENE of ALASKA,USA

"Mikey I miss you so much ! You were my heart
and it's been gone for 8 years now ! I Love You !
Mia if you read this Happy 8th Birthday ! I Love You Mia , I Miss You Mia , I want to be a part of
your life !!!"
Sandra Rhodes of Amelia , Va.

"Mia this is your Grandma in Va. your daddy's mom . I just wanted to find out if you got your
Christmas presents . Sorry to use your dads memorial page but I know you read this so I
know you will get this . I've sent you gifts before
and you were told someone else gave them to you ! Know that I love you ! I miss you! I want
to be a part of your life ! Grandma Sandra"
Sandra of Amelia Court House Va.

"Thinking of you and the last time we spoke on the phone. You will always hold a special place in my heart and I am glad there are places like this to keep your memory alive. Its crazy that you have been gone for over 7 years. I will never forget what we had and what we spoke about in that last phone call. I will cherish that forever. Love ya :)"
<3

"MIKEY,I WAS SO PROUD OF YOU WHEN YOU BECAME A MARINE,I NEVER DREAMED YOU WOULD DIE IN A WAR,I KNOW YOU DIED BRAVE,I DIED WITH YOU THAT DAY,I WILL NEVER FORGIVE MYSELF FOR SIGNING THOSE PAPERS FOR YOU TO JOIN,YOU ARE MY HERO SON AND I KNOW HEAVEN IS SAFE ,CAUSE YOU ARE GAURDING THE GATES,GODBLESS YOU SON,I LOVE YOU SCOOTER,LOV DAD"
YOUR DAD of ALASKA

"Daddy,
I love you an Im very proud of you! Im in school now an I go to Bennett Venture Academy! I like school it's fun. I tell my teacher's an my friends about you an what you did for us they smile an tell me it take's a brave man to do that so I smile an say that's my daddy! Mommy has picture's of you up in the house I look like you daddy it's funny I got your blue eye's n blond hair mommy call's me mickey jr it's really funny I laugh when she does it!I miss you daddy an I love you! But Im starting to learn why you had to go over there it makes me sad cause I want you home with me! Mommy tell's me about you all the time she tell's me what you were like an shows me pictures! Tangy said she always played with your glasses that's funny, daddy I wear glasses too see we are just alike! Mommy showed me this site an said I could leave you a message whenever I want even if it's to say I love you! an she read some of the stuff people wrote! Daddy you are my Hero an my daddy an I love you an Im making you proud an telling everyone how brave you are daddy! I love you daddy my hero"
Mia Carey proud daughter of PFC MICHEAL M CAREY of Toledo Oh

"To the family of:Michael M. Carey
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"1-15-11"

"My name is Korey Mullins and I was Michael's Plt Commander. I have been out on the USMC for a few years but Michael remains a hero to me. Michael was my driver and I spent everyday no more than an arms reach from him. He was the kind of Marine that every commander wanted. Mike, I love you and I always will. I am sorry that the world had to loose someone like you. If the family ever wanted to know more of Mike's story please contact me at aggieconstructor@hotmail.com."
Korey Mullins of Kabul, Afghanistan

"Sandra, it has been six years since the tragic death of Michael, I remember when our little support group of Marine Mom's got the email of Michael's death, that feeling of losing one of our own. I remember bringing you messages of comfort from our group and holding Mia at the funeral home, seeing the pictures flash up on the screen of a life taken to quickly from this earth. I can't to this day listen to "I can only Imagine" without crying. Never let anyone tell you anything different than Michael was a hero, he paid the ultimate sacrifice. I think of you often, especially on Mother's day, Memorial Day and when I hug my son.... because I know that you would give anything to be able to do that simple task. We mothers, who have sons that have served or are still serving in this war understand that the important things are those that others take for granted... hugs, a conversation with your son, having a meal with him. You are a strong woman Sandra.... I felt that when I first met you.... I know that you bring honor to Michael's memory.
God Bless You, Your Family and Precious Mia. I will continue to keep you in my prayers."
Terres DeVries, Proud Mother of SSGT Andrew DeVries of Jacksonville, FL

"Carey was always an inspiration to me. He taught me to always keep going no matter what. He loved being a Marine. I can say that he will forever be a part of me."

"I still think of you often. I sometimes look up and wonder if you are looking down on me. I am glad we became friends again before you passed and we let the past be the past. Sometimes im sorry things didnt work out the way we had hoped but I hope you are at peace now. Love always."
<3 of virginia

"My husband is D. Michael Carey, he served in Iraq in 2003, we named our son also Michael. From now on I will always remember and honor Michael Carey from Virginia."
Dinet carey of New York, USA

"Kudo's to this Marine! He became a Marine when he should have been in his junior year of high school."
of Va.

"My precious Grandson Mike, its been five years now sweetie and the pain never goes away. You are loved and missed so very much and I think of you everyday, but with much pride for your service to our country! Rest with Jesus and his dear mother and I will see you soon honey!! I love you into infinity!"
Gama Laura.. xxoo. of Bracey, Va.

"I am truley sorry for upsetting Sandra and anyone else who was offended by what I said. I want to point out that Mikey did not receive a dishonerable discharge! He refused to leave the corp so he would not receive one! I begged him to get out, but it was not in his nature to quit! I may have to go back and re-read what I wrote, but I am pretty sure that I didnt say that he got a dishonerable discharge! I love Mikey...so much in fact that I named my first born son after him! I am very proud of the choice he made, and all I was trying to say in that message I wrote was how proud I was at him, and how dissapointed I was in myself for acting so selfishly about his decision to go back. I would never speak an ill word about him because he was the best friend I ever had, and not a day goes by that I don't think about him. Emotions tend to run high when it comes to your kids, so I am, again, very sorry if I offended anyone. I just wanted everyone to know how truly brave and unselfish he really was!"
Becky Amos of Richmond, Va

"My issue with the message that Becky left was the timing of it in light of a situation that I am currently going thru in the community where I live, where my sons service to his country and his death have seriously been dishonered! My son did not get a dishonerable discharge!!! He stepped up and took responsibility for a child that he conceived!!! How is that wrong!!! Far to many men just walk away and don't accept responsibility!!! He loved his little girl, and wanted to be a father more than anything, although he never even got to lay eyes on her!!!
Very Proud Marine Mom Of this Fallen Marine"
Sandra Rhodes of Amelia Courthouse, Virginia

"Still wearing Michael's bracelet from www.herobracelets.org that I received randomly. Been over four years now and I have never taken it off. I think of your hero everyday. God Bless."
debbie kane of philadelphia pa

"I can Still remember the day we first met as if it were yesterday. We were five years old....I was so small compared to the other kids, and for some reason, you felt that it was your duty to protect me! You sat with me all day, and held my hand. you did this for me for many years. I would get hurt, and you were there to pick up the peices! The last time that i layed eyes on you was about a month into our eighth grade year. you told me that you wanted to move in with your dad. I was so crushed, that i decided to do the same. When you came back for me, I was gone. 7 years had passed. I was sitting in my apartment when a strange number came up on my cell phone. It was storming outside due to Hurricane Isabell, and I was not sure that it was you, even though you told me like 100 times! When it finally donned on me who I was talking to, I nearly had a heart attack. I proceeded to tell you of the bad way I was in, and like before, you were there to pick up the peices. We kept in contact nearly everyday, making plans for the future, and laughing about how our parents always knew that we would be "life-er's". I begged you to leave to corp and come home to Amelia with me, but you did not have it in you to quit! You were hesitant to leave because you were worried about being able to support your daughter! We had many talks about the things we would do to spoil her and Haley, and how well they would get along. And you knew that your future for her would not be as bright if you left the marines with a dishonerable discharge. When you told me that you had volunteered to go back for a second tour, I was so selfish. I got angry with you, but when I came back for you, it was too late. You were gone. I think about you every day! I gave that picture to your mom. I knew how much it meant to you, and I kept it safe, just as I promised. I have stopped by to see your mom several times, and it never gets any easier to face the fact that I will never see you again. Despite the last conversation you and I had, I think you were very brave to stay and face the music. I guess it has always been in my nature to run away from my problems, and I am sorry for getting upset with you for facing yours. I will love you until the day I die, just as I have loved you for the past 19 years! I can not wait until I can hold you in my arms and tell you all of this in person."
Becky Amos of Richmond,Va

"8-14-2008 I find myself thinking about you strongly today and felt the need to write a message. I don't want you to be forgotten by the Americans you gave your life for. The family misses you so very much and our hearts still ache. We long to see you again and that silly cute smile of yours. I love you Mikey and I miss you so much. I pray for all the service men and women, those that fought, those that are still fighting and those no longer with us and encourage others to do so as well and for their families. May God have mercy on us all."
Aunt Teresa Irving of Hopewell VA

"My name is GySgt Michael A. Carey, USMC Retired. I served in Desert Shield, Desert Storm (3/9), and OIF (3d MAW). I said a Marines' prayer to Saint Joseph for Mike and his family today."
Mike of Washington, DC

"May 24, 2008
To the family of Pfc. Michael M. Carey:
Michael 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

"Carey, I still think about you every day. You’re my inspiration and motivation to keep training these young Marines. Until we meet again brother, God bless."
1stSgt Hannah, Shawn of Camp Lejeune, NC

"To the family of:Michael M. Carey 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"

"Hey Mikey... I was goin trough some old pics the other day and I found the ones from prom when we all went... I miss you and I am thinkin bout you always... like when I was tryin to teach you how to drive in my car... and I thought you were gonna wreck... but you told me that you had it... and you did... You will always be loved... and never forgotten..."
Jamie Dunbar of Richmond, Va

"HEY MIKEY <3
YOU HAVE BEEN GONE FOR OVER 2 YEARS. NOT A DAY GOES BYE THAT THE RIGGS FAMILY DOES NOT THINK ABOUT YOU. WE LOOK AT YOUR PICTURE ALL THE TIME AND JUST WISH THAT THINGS COULD GO BACK TO THE WAY THE USE TO BE. I KNOW YOU DID A GOOD THING FOR THE COUNTRY AND YOU MADE YOURSELF PROUD, BUT WE BEGGED YOU NOT TO GO. WE CAME TO YOUR FUNNERAL AND SEEN YOUR NEW DAUGHTER. I HOPE SHE TURNS OUT JUST LIKE YOU. OUR PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOUR FAMILY! (DAD AND CHRIS) WE LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU SO MUCH! ONE DAY WE WILL BE TOGETHER AGAIN LISTINING TO TQ. THAT WAS ALWAYS YOUR FAVORITE. LOVE YOU ALWAYS AND CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU AGAIN!! <3 <3 <3"
DONNA, WALLACE, KEVIN, AND AMY RIGGS of HOPEWELL, VA

"I'm still proudly wearing Michael M. Carey's war bracelet that I received randomly from www.herobracelets.org over 2 years ago. My thoughts are with you everyday."
Debbie Kane of Philadelphia, PA

"Hello, I have the same name as him. God bless all of you."
Michael Carey of Austraila

"to the family of Michael. M. Carey.
my name is Phil Carey. ilive in Bedford England.
i am sorry 4 the loss of your a son that died doin what he beleived was right.
i can't know how you feel with the loss of your son. iknow i lost a very good friend 2 this war, aman who serverd like your son.
Alex B. Crackel was his name a staff sargent he was. his name is on the role of hounor as is your son's.
i hope you and your family will find peace and some day come 2 terms with your loss, i try every day.
take care now and please E-mail me if you wish 2. b nice 2 meet another Carey in another country.
god blees 2 you all.
Phil Carey. England."
Phil Carey of Bebford, England.

"From one man who has his roots in Prince George to the family of another....my deepest sympathies for your loss....and to Michael Carey, thank you for your contributions to this country. Your efforts are appreciated and we will see you again."
Mike Novak of Prince George, VA

"Hello friends and family of Michael M. Carey - I'm still wearing your Michael's Hero Bracelet. I received it over 18 months ago and I have not taken it off since. Just hoping to help you realize so many others grieve your loss and remember your fallen hero every single day. Thanks to www.herobracelets.org (which sent me his randomly), your Michael has become a constant part of my life and a sad reminder of the realities of this war. I will wear your (Grandson's, etc.) bracelet proudly and everyday until this mess is over. I will mail it to you when and if that ever happens. You have my sincerest respect and deepest sympathy."
Debbie Kane of Phildalphia, PA

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR HERO AND OUR PRECIOUS BOY! WE ARE FOR-ALWAYS PROUD OF YOU AND WILL LOVE YOU INTO INFINITY.MIKEY YOU LIVE ON IN OUR HEARTS AND SOMEDAY WE WILL CELEBRATE YOUR BIRTHDAY TOGETHER AS A FAMILY AGAIN! I LOVE YOU SWEET BOY!! SEMPER-FI"
LAURA C. of VIRGINIA

"Today my special Grandson you celebrate Christmas with our LORD in HEAVEN. We all miss you and love you more than words can ever say. You live on in our hearts and in our memories for-always so MERRY CHRISTMAS to you honey and tell our LORD HAPPY BIRTHDAY!"
Gama Laura. of Virginia.

"To Laura, Sandra, Michaels's wife and child and the rest of the family of Michael:
Michael, although I did not know you I feel very deeply for Laura's sorrow and your Mother's and your wife's. I am a very good friend of your Gama's and I feel like I know you through her. You were loved you very, very much!
You were very brave to go over there and I know you are up there in Heaven smiling down on your family and just waiting for them to meet you again.
Laura, I am so very, very sorry and I'm crying for all of you.God bless you all.
With my Love,
Edna"
Edna Smith of Chester, Va.

"My sweet grandson, it is the day after Veterans Day, Nov. 12th. 2005 and I am falling apart---everyone thinks grandma is doing fine and outwardly that seems to be so but every day I die inside and keep asking WHY? I miss you so very much and love you for-always, more than words can ever say. I just want to leave this world and come and be with you my sweet, sweet boy, I love you Mike my precious boy!! Sometimes I wish you had not been so brave and loved so much so you could still be here with me. Rest in the arms of God my boy and I hope with all my heart I can be with you again VERY SOON!! Many hugs from your Gama, I love you and miss you so!!"
Laura (Gama) of Bracey, Va.

"This Veteran"s Day--Nov. 11, 2005---I dream of a place where there is peace---Where childrens laughter will drown out the sound of gun-fire, rockets and bombs---Where everyone can worship there God and freedom reins for all---women and men of all colors. I dream of a time when we no longer have to send our precious sons and daughters, sisters and brothers, mothers and fathers to fight and die in wars caused only by hate and selfishness and I dream of a time when we can all live in understanding, trust and most important in love--- Where there is no more fear and we can truly live in freedom---God Bless America and God Bless the World! ---SEMPER-FIDELIS OUR SWEET MICHAEL.I will forever love you and miss you my HERO!!"
Gama-Laura. of Virginia

"Dear Carey family,

I wanted to tell you how deeply sorry I am for your loss. It is never easy. It has been almost 2 years since Michael has been gone and I'm sure the pain still hasn't gone away. I just wanted to tell you that I am in the same shoes. I just recently, June 16, 2005 lost my uncle. He was a Captain in Company C, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines. He had been in the service for 18 years, and no one ever thought he would be the one not coming home. It has been really hard for my family to deal with the pain, especially because he left behind a loving wife, a wonderful 6-yr-old son, and a beautiful 2-yr-old daughter. Please, as Michael will be in my thoughts, pray and keep my uncle and family in yours. Just remember, they died amongst the best...they ARE HEROES!!!"
Becky, niece of Capt. John W. Maloney of Simi Valley, CA

"My precious Mikey, time goes by but the pain and sorry of missing you never fades. Behind every smile there is a tear-drop. I loved you more than words could ever say and I hope you knew that. You will always be my special Guy and yes, always Gama"s favorite!! I will foralways miss you and be eternally proud of you and you will live on in my heart foralways and forever!!"
Laura, (Gama) of Virginia.

"10/7/05
Michael's family and friends:

I now understand your pride in Michael and your grief, for I too lost a son over there. We shall never forget them or their sacrifice.

If I can comfort you at all, 1stSgt. Tolar knows how to reach me.

Richard Linn
Proud father of
USMC LCpl. Karl Linn
KIA 1/26/05 Haqlaniyah"
R. Linn of Midlothian, VA

"Michael Carey Family, My name is Marc Dull, I am a Veteran and an Artist from Illinois. Thank you for your Michael's Honorable Service and Ultimate Sacrifice. His Legacy will endure by God! I found your Son's Memorial page while doing some research for a very important project that I thought you might want to know about. I just returned from Camp Pendleton where I visited the Commanding Officer of your Son Michael's Unit 1/5. I am preparing to sculpt a large monument specifically for the 5th Regiment and the Fallen Heroes in Operation Iraqi Freedom for the Memorial Garden area on Camp San Mateo there. Please e-mail me at dullart7@cs.com if you would like to contribute any input or feedback. I would be honored by your participation on behalf of Michael! Semper Fidelis and God Bless you and your Family."
Marc Dull of Illinois

"I don't think anyone could feel your anxiety on this matter more than I. My name is Michael Carey, I live in Michigan and I served in the United States Marine Corps during Operation Desert Storm (1993-1994). I found your beloved family members' name during a Google search of my own name. I grieve for your loss and offer all my sympathy to your family and loved ones.
To lose a loved one at such an early age is a tragic thing. But to lose them to such an unworthy cause borders on the criminal. You have my heart on this matter. God will hold your son in his arms and judge those who took him from you.
God bless and Semper Fidelis , Mike"
Michael Carey of Michigan

"My Brother in Arms, Mikey, it has been a year since you paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country. One that we all are prepared to pay. We ran around in diapers together, grew up together, but due to reasons unknown, did not meet the same fate. I will always regeret that I was not able to be there with you, that I wasn't able to give you whatever help I could. That you, my little cousin, would'nt get to turn 21 with me. Mikey, even though you were younger than me, you still inspired me to act on the beliefs that we shared in common. I hope that there are more men and women alive like you to carry one the tradition of the United States Military. Nothing makes me more proud of my country than to know that my little cousin, MIKEY, served until the last, and in that I am pround to salute the flag at Reville every morning and think of you. SEMPER FI, Mickey!"
PFC Jeremy Irving, US ARMY 2nd INF DIV of Hopewell, VA

"It's been a little over a year my son since you left, and it still seem's like yesterday, the pain anf grief just as new. If anyone ever earned the right to be a Marine, it was you! You were just barely 17 when you went to bootcamp, and you went in with such a heavy heart because your Pop had just passed away. You loved him so much! There were other issues too, but you got thru all 13 weeks with no setbacks. Sometimes now I wish you had'nt been so fearless, because then you'd still be here with us, but then again if it was'nt for men like you there would be no freedom! I hope and I pray that your daughter will always know what a wonderful and brave man you were, and how much you loved her and looked foward to being a father! I Love You With All My Heart My Son! I Miss You Each And Every Day!
MOM
SweetVaBreez63@aol.com"
Sandra of Amelia, Va.

"Dear Marine Family,
While I am so very sorry for your loss, I am so appreciative of your son. I am so amazed at those who become a Marine. Aaron (my son) was the 4th Marine in my family. They are a different breed and while we cannot always understand them or their instincts, I thank God for them, because without men like them, we might all tuck tail and run home and try to protect in our own little way what we have that God and fighting gave us. While God is our only real hope through loss, your Marine trained for honor, courage, and was surrounded by a brotherhood that we will never fully understand. You can be sure that the Marines there loved him and would have laid down their lives to save him. I know a bad one slips through the cracks occassionally, but not many. Their training is tough and their love is tough. I know that after the Marines grieved your son, they went on and continued to fight--something that not all of us would be able to do.

While I myself am an Army Veteran, one even with a Combat Patch, it is the Marines that I will always hold the very closest to my heart. You must know how proud he was to be one, and I will always be thankful for his service and for the sacrifice of this family. I will never take it lightly and I will always defend those who've defended us, and defended others who had no one. Thank you,"
De'on Miller, Proud Mom of L.Cpl. Aaron C. Austin, USMC, KIA April 26, 2004 Fallujah, Iraq of Lovington, NM, USA

"I want to express my sympathy on this sad anniversary to Michael's family. Never having met him, it is obvious he was greatly loved by many and sadly missed by all who knew him. I still wear the Hero Bracelet I received with his name on it, and haven't taken it off since the day I received it several months ago. I'm very, very sorry you had to suffer this tragedy and may you find peace and strength in your faith.
Most sincerely,"
Debbie Kane of Philadelphia, PA

"Dear Carey Family
This is Cpl. Jose A Salazar of 1st CEB i was with him in iraq and want you all to know that i always think about him and how much i miss him, he was like a brother to me and the rest of the platton and we all loved him so much that i am sure that anyone of us would take his place so that he could raise his daughter. i frequently visit the memorial that we have for him and the rest of the fallen ones of 1st ceb and today i will stop by yet once more to remember and pray and hope that he tells me something like how he is doing and tell him that we miss him. thank you for everything you have done and thank you for raising some one who left a touch on everyones heart
yours truly
semper fi
Cpl. Jose A Salazar"
Jose A Salazar of Camp Pendleton, CA / USA

"My sweet boy today you have been gone from us one year. It still seems like a very bad dream and not a day goes by that I don"t think of you and miss you and it cuts like a knife wound straight to my heart!! I want to tell you though that I will always be so proud of you and will love you and carry you in my heart for-always! I think of how you use to hang on to my leg when you were a baby and I would have to drag you around in the kitchen while I cooked and the funny little things you did that make me smile, even today. Like the time I ut you down for a nap and you slid down between the bed and the wall and hollowered for Gama , I tuck Gama, I tuck, it still makes me laugh or the time you put a rock up your nose and the nursery school called and I took you to the ER and you had the Dr. in stitches-laughing, you were so cute and you never put anything in your nose again! So many precious memories Gama has of you my angel. I miss you so much and there has not been a day since you left that I have not cryed for you! Rest in the arms of our Lord honey and enjoy the company of your Granpa you loved so much and all our departed loved ones and someday soon Gama will see you again and we will have a real family reunion with them and our Lord and his Blessed Mother Mary! I love you so much Mikey! Thank you for blessing us with you presents on earth even for such a short time and thank you for fighting for the freedom of all Americans and thank you for the very special gift of your sweet little daughter Mia whom we love with all our hearts. She is a part of you honey and looks so much like you. I know you would be so proud of her as you wanted her so much!! Take care sweetie and remember to pray for your cousins Jeremy and Donnie who are also fighting for freedom and whom we all love!God Bless you and each and everyone of our young women and men who are serving our country!!"
Gama Laura of Virginia

"To the Carey Family:

As I read the messages already written, it is not hard to see how very loved that Michael is. I'm so sorry for the loss you've all suffered, but I thank you from the bottom of my heart that he was raised with the spiritual eyes to see what is good about our country and to be tough enough to become a Marine and fight for it. You have every reason to mourn, but you also have every reason to be very proud of your son, your grandson, your nephew--and that is so much! I thank you for your sacrifice. As a veteran myself, I can tell you that service itself is not easy, but to go to war, to watch your friends fight and die...it must be so much more than any of us can truly imagine. But I know one thing from burying a Marine. He was surrounded by family when he left you. They will not forget. Nor will we. And now, Michael is with our Father, and too, with many of his brothers. It's left to us now to become warriors, and to fight to make our own little corner of this temporary life better, safer, and filled with more love than it's ever been before. I believe deep in my heart, that is the way they'd want us to be.

My thoughts and prayers are with you on this date, May 17, 2005. Go in peace, dear family. All is well. God is nigh.

Semper Fi,"
De'on Miller, Proud Mom of L.Cpl. Aaron C. Austin, USMC, KIA April 26, 2004 Fallujah, Iraq of Lovington, NM, USA

"Michael there is a place in my home that is very special to me where I go to try in this crazy chaotic world to spend time with God. On the wall I have a cross and a picture of Our Lady and Our Lord. Underneath the cross there is a picture of the Holy Family. A place I can go to submerge myself in the presence of God. Adjacent to that corner there is a newspaper article that my daughter framed and hung up. The article is titled Marine Pfc. Michael Carey. So when I go to my little prayer corner, and when I am quiet and trying to make sense of this world that seems to be heading down the path to utter chaos, I always look up first at the cross and am reminded of the suffering of Christ and the agony he went through. I am reminded of Mary the Mother of God who fell helplessly at his feet and watched him expire and Her own agony that she enjoined with God the Father in heaven. Then I look at that little picture of the Holy Family and notice it's simple but beautiful expression of what the world seems to be in need of more and more. FAMILY. What has this world come to? We take the values of family and toss it aside as if it were nothing. We are all children of God. He is Our Father and Mary Our Mother. We neglect one of the most important institutions given to us by God. We take for granted the most precious of things in this country. Society and Big Government have done all that they can to rip apart the most basic fundamental neccessities in our world.The Family. Yet you found in your short life here on earth, that which most take for granted.The belief that in this world, as crazy as it is, there are still some things well worth fighting for. I thank-you for that fight and that heroic effort that you made for our family. I thank-you for being the brave young man who saw enough of what's right with this world to fight for. I thank-you for being such a joy to so many of us who love you so VERY MUCH! You are my hero, you are my nephew! You will always be that little crooked grin devlish little kid that touched all of our hearts so very very much! Thank-You Mikey, Your Aunt Teresa and I will never ever forget you. And when I go to that little corner of mine, I will always say a prayer for you, and I hope that you will say many, many, prayers for us who are left behind by such a Brave and Wonderful Young Man! We miss you terribly. Give Our Lady a hug for us, and ask her to tell Jesus not to wait too much longer. Love Always Uncle, Doug."
Doug Irving, (Uncle Doug) of Hopewell, Virginia

"I find myself thinking of you every day my precious Grandson! I am forever proud of you and not a day goes by I don"t think of you and miss you and cry more tears!! You will live on for-always in my heart! You rest now my sweet boy in the arms of God!!! (and yes honey, you will always be Gamas favorite) I love you Mikey !!"
Gama Laura. of Virginia.

"I have your Michael's HERO BRACELET. I ordered it randomly from www.herobracelets.com. I want to express my sympathy for your unbearable loss and let you know that I will wear his hero bracelet proudly until and beyond this whole war mess is over. I'm glad I was able to find this site to let you know a complete stranger has your son, husband, father, brother, friend... in their thoughts and prayers. God bless you all and may you know you were blessed with Michael's life. I will wear his bracelet proudly and with great respect and sympathy for you all.
Sincerely"
debbie kane of philadelphia, PA

"Feb.5th 2005 would have been your 21 Birthday my sweet Granson so HAPPY BIRTHDAY I love you and miss you for-always!!! Hope you have a great party in Heaven and when its over that you can rest in the arms of Jesus!!!"
GAMA Laura of Virginia

"Twenty years ago he came into our lives, a tiny baby boy with eyes so full of light...We held him in our arms and took him in our hearts... God must have known he"d always be our precious baby boy...The years they went so quickly, our boy he grew so tall, before we hardly knew it the war would make its call...He answered as he always did with valor and with pride...He kissed our cheeks so sweetly and left to do his part...We never knew our hearts would so painful be ripped apart! I guess GOD said,now he"s my baby boy and I have come to take him home for all eternity!! WE MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU MIKEY. THANK YOU FOR DYING SO THAT We MAY LIVE IN FREEDOM! YOU ARE OUR HERO DARLING !!!!"
Gama Laura & Mom, Sam of Bracey & Amelia, Va.

"My Precious Granson, you will always be my hero and my special Guy! I love you with all my heart,for-always! Rest in the arms of God sweetheart and I hope you have all the love you always searched for! You are Grandma"s angel."
Laura Croom of Virginia

"Mikey, I miss you so much! We had so many great times together...me, you, Tiffany, Dwayne. I spent endless summers in your companionship, and so many great memories to remember you by. Tiff and I try to visit your grave as much as possible, but it still has not quite hit us yet that you're gone. I did not hear of your passing until shortly after your service, so I don't think I will ever have the closure to let you go. I hope to one day meet Mia, I've seen pictures and she looks just like you, she's like an angel to remind us of you for always. I have been wanting to talk with your mother...Sam, if you read this, please e-mail me at crzycuti@hotmail.com. Your "Gamma" Laura stayed with us not too long ago, and you were all she talked about. Your loss has affected us all and left a big emptiness inside Mikey. I will forever love you, and I live on with the hope and prayers that I will one day be able to see you again.

**If anyone has any extra information on this terrible tragedy, please e-mail me at the address listed above. Thank you!**"
Ashley Renee of Midlothian, VA

"To Mike's family: I was at the service for PFC Carey, at Camp Pendelton. I remember because I still have the program, he was in my boyfriend's unit when my boyfriend died. I remember the things that were said about him that day, and I want you to know that from all of us who have lost someone, we will never forget. Every day we remember our indebtedness, and every day we thank God that there are men like Michael, who are willing to serve, when others can't or won't."
laura sage of Cypress, CA

"michael
we think about you every day!!!!!!
we miss you so much!!!!!!!"
the Spears family of matoaca VA

"Mike and Family,
Mike you will be missed. I keep a pic of you in our house. You are apart of the family. I hope you keeping looking down on everyone here. Also take care of our family dog Teddy Bear. He died a coulpe days after you did. But for the family I'm sorry Mike has passed aways. We here horner what he has done for all of us here in the USA. Mike you had a great daughter. I'm makeing something for her to show her how wonderful her daddy is and Proud. We love you and miss you."
Love, Rob,Wanda, Haley,Brandy, and Robbie The La Chapelle Family. of Hampton Va

"Never did I have a Marine of such strong dedication and committment. Your motivation was an inspiration to me, and the memories of you both haunt me and give me joy. It was very hard to discover your loss. I will never forget you."
Edward Beau Ashley of Dallas, Texas

"Mike I tell our daughter how excited you were that you were going to be a daddy! And now between me and your mom and brother's and everyone else in your family will tell her how brave you were. We Love you and your in our hearts forever and always. I love you"
Michelle and our daughter Mia and Montana of Erie, Mi

"Thank you brave soldier for sacrificing your today for my children's safer tomorrow. You have our utmost respect and gratitude. May God provide your family with comfort in their time of sorrow. May you forever rest in Heavenly peace. Neither you nor your sacrifice will be forgotten. For the family/friends: May time provide happy loving memories in place of present sorrows. Look to the sky for in the infinite meadows of Heaven the bright shining stars bloom....the forget-me-nots of angels. God bless you and thank you."
a grateful family in Phoenix, AZ

"Mikey I Love You With All My Heart!
I miss you terribly! Your bravery is beyond words.
Mom"
Sandra of Virginia

"Dear Carey Family,

I am truly sorry for your loss. I don't know if I know your family, for I lived in Prince George for a few years, graduated highschool there in 96'. I just want you to know that I am thinking about you all everyday. I was there in Iraq, though not with Michael. It tears me apart whenever we lose a good American over there. It just hurts more when it's so close to home. I am thankful that my daughter can grow up free because of your son. He became a Marine because of what you must have taught him. The hardest, toughest troops there are. He served the Lord well I think. May he bless him, and you all everyday."
M Jones of Alabama

"RIP Marine"
Petty Officer Cawthon of RTC Great Lakes, IL

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

"To mikeys family...I know yall loved him dearly...And i know you will tell that baby...How brave her daddy was. How he was a wonderful Marine"
Meme of Hopewell,Va

"To Michael's family, I am so sorry for your tragic loss. Please know that many of us appreciate his service to and sacrifice for our country."
F.Smith of Pennsylvania

"To the family and friends of PFC Michael M. Carey

I can't imagine about your loss and how sad you are now, it is such a horrible thing to lose someone so close and dear and there is nothing words can do to make this undone. Though I want to let you know that you all are in my prayers for strength to get through this time."
Nadine Kornetzki of Solms, Germany

"To Family & Friends of PFC. Carey
Especially, the family of Jeff Ratliff

My condolences for the loss of your loved one. Please know that I am grateful for Michael's service to our country and the sacrafice that you all have suffered as the result of his patriotism. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
With Sincere Sympathy,"
Randi Gunn of Prince George, VA

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

"To Michael's Family:
There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for your loss. May God bless you and help you through this time."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"To Michael's Family and Friends:

On behalf of the Blanco-Caldas family, we send our sincerest condolences. We share the same loss ... the same pain. Our prayers are with you in this most difficult time and we thank you for his bravery and sacrifice.

Sincerely,

The Family of Capt. Ernesto M. Blanco-Caldas, 82nd Airborne, KIA Iraq 12/28/2003.

Gloria Caldas (his mom) of San Antonio, TX
gloria.caldas@banksterling.com"

"To the family and friends of PFC Michael M. Carey,

Those we hold most dear, never truly leave us. May you find comfort in love's everlasting connection.

In the Support section of this web site you will find links to many groups that support you at this crucial time. The Marine Comfort Quilt group would be honored to send a quilt to the next of kin. There are many, loving and caring Americans from all over the United States that will never forget the sacrifice that your loved one has made for our Freedom. Please register so we can send you our "Love Stitched Together."

Proud Marine Mom and Proud Member of Marine Comfort Quilts"
Sandra Moudy of Placentia, Ca USA

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