Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Thinking of all veterans this Memorial day."

"I am standing on a mountain I can hear the angles songs I am reaching over Jordan take my hand lord lead me home. I will never forget you"

"I will never forget you Brother!!"
Mikele D Buck of Jamesville NC

"He will be honored on Monday,during our completed rededication.The SC FALLEN HEROES MEMORIAL ,VFW 10420 Murrells Inlet"
Darryl Hammond of Murrells inlet,sc

"I never met Thomas, but we were both engineers. I was with the 411th ECB, a sister unit of his situated adjacent to where he lived on FOB Victory. I remember the day he paid the ultimate sacrifice, clearing roads for others so they may have safe passage, as a Brother in arms, a fellow Engineer I have prayed for him and his family since that day. I held a candle in his honor recently, and will continue to honor him and all Soldiers until the day I die. God Bless you! ESSAYONS!"
Mark Kelliher of Eagle River, Alaska

"Thomas, today is Memorial Day 2012. It has been almost eight years since you were killed. I still miss you so very much and think of you every single day. You have been honored by so many for your life and death, and all these efforts help give us strength and comfort."
Aunt Carol of Atlanta, Georgia

"Dear Caughman Family,
You are one of the dearest families in Lexington. I know the loss of Thomas still hurts 7 years later. It is a great honor to be a part of the last unit into Iraq. I am a member of the 115BSB from 1st Brigade 1st Calvary Division. We will close this conflict and I won't let Thomas' sacrifice be in vain.

1LT Angela Brunson-Buysman Lexington, SC"
Angela Buysman of Fort Hood, TX

"Thomas was my only nephew. Even after more than six years, our family still thinks of him each and every day. We miss him terribly. Thanks to all of you who have written here. We are lifted up by your thoughts, prayers, and gratitude."
Carol R. Caughman of Atlanta, Georgia

"Forever in our hearts. Thinking of you today."
Martin and Mary of Point Marion,Pa.

"Tom and the Caughman Family were in my thoughts on Memorial Day. I think of all of you often and especially on June 9th. My son served with Tom in Iraq and still speaks of him with the deepest of respect. You are a remarkable family and my prayers are with you!!!!"
CMC of Minocqua, WI

"I saw Tom's bedroom in the photography display THE SHRINE DOWN THE HALL. The flag on the top shelf by the window really stood out. My deepest sympathies; I am so sorry for you loss. I want to change everything and let him come back home to that bedroom."
A.C. of USA

"Remembering Thomas Caughman today on Memorial Day 2009, I served with him in Iraq. Thomas was a great person. Thank you for your service and God Bless."
Dan of Eau Claire,WI

"Remembering you on this Memorial Day 2009. Always in our thoughts."
Martin and Mary Hubeaut of Point Marion,Pa

"Travis had to do a paper on a "hero." We thought of Thomas. He always aggravated Travis when he was little. We called him "Flicker." He was constantly flicking Travis' ears. Then Thomas grew up and went to serve our country. He died to protect us and ensure our freedom. You are our hero and LHS will remember you again tomorrow."
The Beavers of Lexington, SC

"Dear Caughman Family,
I wish to give you my deepest sympathies, and would like to thank you for giving this country your son, there was no finer soldier and it was an honor to serve with him."
Spc. Ryan K. McNamara of River Falls, WI

"Dear Caughman Family-
Deepest sympathies for your loss. Thomas continues to live on in my memories and my prayers. He will always be a part of me until we meet again in Heaven. God Bless You Hampton, Jane and Lisa..."
Anonymous

"You will NEVER be forgotten. Always in our thoughts and in our hearts."
Martin & Mary Hubeaut of Point Marion,Pa.

"Tommorow will be 4 years and it seems like yesterday when we lost our hero. We love you Thomas and miss you so much! Can't wait to see you soon! Love you Tom-Tom."
Lisa (sister) of lexington, sc

"Memorial Day, 2008
To the family of Pfc. Thomas D. Caughman:
Thomas 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

"Thomas was my nephew, I would call him at least twice a week while he was serving in Iraq, we always end our phone calls with I LOVE YOU , little did I know on June 7, at about 7:30 am would be the last time I would hear his sweet voice. He always told me everything was alright, though I still worried. I know now that everything is alright with him because he was a Christian and he is now in Heaven and we will see him again. I will never take my freedom for granted again because of the heroes like Thomas. Since his death our family has became very close to several of the soliders and their families that serve with Thomas. Some of them visit Thomas's parents at least once a year and they are now like a part of our family. On a few occasion, we have visited some of them (the Hubuets in Marion PA)have become very close to us, Thomas always called Martin H the Old Man since he was twice Thomas' age) Thomas' Lt. Ryan Strong named his first son after Thomas, they all thought so much of him and it shows with the love that have shown to T's parent. Thank you Thomas and all the ones who have given the ultimate sacrifice. "Do not take anything for granted and always remember freedom isn't free"TCD

love you..aunt jackie"
Jackie Frye of Lexington SC

"To the family of:Thomas D. Caughman 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"

"I have not forgotten, nor will I ever. The ultimate sacrifice he gave, keeps all others safe and sound everyday and night. I miss you Spc. Caughman"
Anon of PA

"Hamp,Jane, and Lisa,
You all are in our hearts and prayers. Not a day goes by that we don't think about Thomas. He will forever be our hero!
Martin,Mary and Bethany Hubeaut"
Martin Hubeaut of Point Marion,Pa.

"you are forever in my heart, Thomas.. not a day goes by that i don't think about you... you were such an amazing person and you've impacted so many lives... we love you, and you'll forever be with me.. i love you tom-tom!"
Tamara Frye of Lexingon, SC

"The three year mark is coming in just a couple of weeks. Just about every day I see or hear something that reminds me of T-LUV. He is my true hero. SSPS always!"
Oneal of Lexington, SC

"To the caughman i am trulley sorry for you loss. i served with Thomas in Iraq. He and I were in the same Humvee most of the deployment. I have never meet or served with any one that that was like your son. He was a outgoing person and he was very devoted to the lord a good person all around. I was with him in the attack. I think of him every day. I am trully soory for your loss."
Cpl Mason Bagwell of al anbar providence, iraq

"Dear Caughman family,
I never had the honor of meeting Thomas even though it seems we had so much in common (hunting/fishing). I found out when Thomas passed, from my granddad(Bobby Beck), that we were cousins. I am truely sorry for your loss, and I don't remember the last time I have felt as much anger as I did when I read about the Solar crosses on his grave being stolen. Please know that Thomas and the Caughman family are in our thoughts and prayers. I know that almost 3 years have passed, but I can't imagine the pain you still feel. If there is anything I can do for you or if you need someone to talk to please feel free to contact me @ ssgbeck45@yahoo.com"
SSG Joshua Beck of Leesville, SC

"Spc. Caughman was a soldier and friend that could touch any sole. I served with Thomas in Iraq as his medic. I had a unique and interestng relationship with Thomas and every soldier there. Thomas was an excellent soldier and friend. He was always good for a laugh when you were down. You could always rely on Thomas. I fondest memory of Thomas was sitting with him talking about how much we wanted to go hunting when we came back home. To that Caughman family, I am truly sorry for your lost. Your son was a great man... I will never forget Thomas, and will honor him until the day I see him again."
Sgt. Greg Renko of Monroeville, Pa

"I met Thomas when I lived with April in 2002. He was very cute and witty. I was dumbfounded and filled with tears when I heard of his passing. I will always remember him and the sacrifices that he made for this country."
Amy Barfield McCutcheon of Denver, CO

"Hello... I neither knew Thomas or his family personally, but stumbled upon this website while searching for information on the two soldiers who lost their lives on Friday (June 16, 2006). I googled the name Pfc. Thomas Tucker and found your website. I just had to stay and read all the entries. I too, just wanted to say Thank You, although it seems so trivial to use those two words to express gratitude for your Thomas' ultimate act. I sit here a 30-something mother of two with a husband who is a civilian and am struck by the sacrifices others make for MY freedom. Amazing. I am so, so sorry for your loss. Although I see it has now been two years since the date of his tragic loss, I know this pain will never completely leave. I am sorry. Please, please know that we civilian Americans are honored to live side by side with the military. People who put our lives before their very own. Thank you Thomas and family for my family's safety and freedom. I mean that sincerely."
Roberta of Virginia Beach, VA

"June 8, 2006

Dear Hampton and Jane Caughman:

Please know that Ann and I think of you often and we share the pain you feel on the eve of the 2nd anniversary of Thomas' death. As you well know, it doesn't get any easier to deal with this as we have wounds that will never heal but we continue to pray that God will give us the courage to go forward and to be strong like Thomas and Kimberly both would want us to be. Please let us know if there is anything we can ever do to help you in any way. You have our numbers and our email addresses. God bless!"
Dale Hampton of Easley, South Carolina

"I knew SPC Caughman a little bit because I was the Supply Specialist for A. CO. 458th engr bn. In Iraq. He was a great guy and I am sorry for his loss. I wasnt there when He died I was on leave, but before I had left I had seen him because I had to do an inspection on peoples gear. He was a great guy and I am sorry for his loss. The Lord took good care of him and he is in Heaven right now smiling down. To the family I just wanted you to know that he was a great guy and my heart goes out to you.

SPC MooreIII, Charles F"
SPC Charles Moore of Iraq and Pittsburgh Pa

"I never imagined something so tragic could happen when T joined the Army. To this day-Jan 07, 2006-the pain has not dwindled, it's really unexplainable. A loss like this can change your life forever. It can especially change the way you view your life and make you cherish every moment of it. I will never again meet a person like Thomas, he is one of a special kind. He is an angel and my hero forever and I am so honored to have held a special place in this soldier's heart.
Caughmans: I love you all and you will forever be in my prayers. I think of you every day and I miss you. You will always be a second family to me-thank you for taking me in! I will never forget the last time we saw Thomas, and I'm so glad that I got to share this and so many other special moments with you. I'm honored to know such a tight-knit, strong and, faithful family.
Sugie Britches: I will always love you and miss you. I will cherish all of the special memories and keep you in my heart and in everything I do. I'm so proud of you. I can't wait to see you again someday - until then, I will always strive to live my life the way that you did."
Lindsey a.k.a. "Snoogs" of Gilbert

"To The Caughman Family:
I just want to let you know not a day goes by that I don't think of Thomas and all the wonderful things he did for me and for everyone else that he ever met. Some days I'll just look up at the sky and it's like I can see him smiling back down at me. He is one the best people I've ever known. When I think of him only one thing pops in my head immediately; laughter! Thomas always knew how to make the people around him laugh. He is forever in my heart and never forgotten. Although he is gone now, the life he had here with us will never be forgotten. I will never forget you T-Luv!"
Anonymous of Gilbert, SC

"I'll never forget you Thomas, you will always be missed."
love always

"My family recently received a "Hero Bracelet" from www.herobracelets.org. Our bracelet reflects the name of the fallen soldier, Pfc Thomas D Caughman of Lexington, SC Army Reserve 6/9/04. He will not be forgotten. In fact, my husband and I plan to pass this bracelet on to one of our four children in hopes that our future generations will not forget the sacrifices others have made toward freedom."
Chris and Laura White of Plano, TX

"Thomas died one year ago yesterday and I still think of him everyday. I thought of him as one of my little brothers and he always kept me laughing till I cried. He was one of the greatest people I've known. He loved the Lord, his family, and his little sister so much. He had so much respect for others and stuck to his convictions even when others didn't. He will always be on my heart and mind. His family has been such a testimony to the community of faith in God even when life doesn't make any sense. Thank you for raising a wonderful son who blessed so many. Thank you for your testimony and for all you do in our community. Thomas will never be forgotton but always remembered and spoken of as a hero."
Kristi Carter of Lexington, SC USA

"One year ago today Thomas Caughman, one of our own, was killed in action serving in Iraq. We all need to take a moment to reflect in remember Thomas for his sacrifice and his family for thier loss. Thomas always closed his letters to his family with: "Freedom Isn't Free". He paid that price for us."
Jerry Frick of Lexington, SC

"its rare that you find a young person who loved the lord, his community, family and friends, and his country more than thomas caughman. he wss always at the church when the doors were open. i regret to this day that i never told him thank you for his service. i feel truly blessed to have known him and my son will surely know who thomas d. caughman was. i hope that my son tucker will grow up to love the lord, family, and his country as much as thomas did. god bless the caughman family and we love you and continue to pray for you."
stephen knight of lexington, sc

"rest in peace thomas . your in my prayers everynite."
Jared Franklin of Lexington,sc

"Additional info for flag/Ribbon. . . I can also be reached at email . . .
TamiShade@msn.com"
Tami Shade of Tooele, Utah USA

"I am looking for an address to send a flag and yellow ribbon with Army Pfc. Thomas D. Caughman's name that flew at our healing field in Tooele, Utah. This flag was purchased by the Family Support of The Utah National guard 1457th ECB A Company that also served in Baghdad, Iraq. Although our unit returned home in May 04 with no casualties and only minor injuries after serving 12 months in Iraq, our thoughts and prayers go out to all that serve and that have given the ultimate for our freedom. God bless you all. .

To the family and friends of Pfc.Thomas D. Caughman, I say a prayer each and every night for you all to stay strong and know that Thomas gave his life as a true AMERICAN HERO.

For Thomas's flag and Yellow ribbon (Family member only please). . contact

Tami Shade/Kelli Branham
1457th Family Support
175 East Vine Street
Tooele, Utah 84074
435-224-6363"
Tami Shade of Tooele, Utah USA

"We are deeply sorry for your loss. Jim was one of the first to respond that awful day and has known Thomas for quite some time. I know he feels blessed to have known someone as amazing as him. Although I never had the opportunity to meet him personally, I know from others that he was one of the few great ones. We send our deepest condolences and prayers for his family and friends. He did a very nobel thing and although gone, he is most certainly not forgotten."
Sgt. James Buchanan (Iraq) & Cameo McNaughton of Clarion, Pa

""Spc. Caughman was a great soldier, you couldn't ask for a better person to serve with. He always had smart remarks to keep ya laughing or a smile on his face to keep you light hearted. I will never forget the day he walked into our barracks in Ft. McCoy, Wi. He had that grin he always wore and that look of oh boy here I am. I was lucky to be blessed with knowing him and my heart goes out to his family and friends.""
Sgt. Allen Pontious of Baghdad, Iraq

"Thomas was a great friend and an even better person. I could always count on him to brighten my day when I would see him. Even though it has been 5 months, I still think about him everyday and miss him more and more as each day goes by. The thing I loved about him the most was his hugs. He could make you forget all of your troubles for a little while with just one big hug. He was a great great friend and I am proud to say that I know Thomas Caughman, a true American hero. I love you Thomas and I'll see you soon. I'm can't wait for my hug."
Nancy Smart of Lexington, SC, USA

"Thomas had a contagious laugh, and a smile that could light the largest of rooms. I could never express the honor I have in calling Thomas, my friend. He once told me that all he ever wanted to do is fish and hunt. I certainly hope he is enjoying that in Heaven now. Even these 5 months later the sting is still very much present, but Thomas's strength and courage helps the long days. It is impossible to express how proud I am of him, how much he is missed, and how very greatful I am to call him my HERO!
All of my love, support and prayers go out to the thousands of lives he touched. And to his family and friends who will never again be quite whole.
THANK YOU THOMAS!"
Cyndy Smart of Charlotte, NC

"Private Caughman and i were in basic tranning in fort lenord wood we would always joke about our drill sgt. s/sgt magnia and he helped through the hard times in basic i want to thank him for his support and im thankfull that we have soldiers like private Caughman they are the true ultimate american hero my heart goes out to his fammily and freinds and would like to thank Caughman for his sacirfice all gave some but private Caughman and others gave all thank you Caughman for the good memmories and your sacirfice"
PFC Brian Crow of Salem Arkansas

"Caughman was a soldier with my Dad in the 458th Engr Bn and also his best friend. From the time they met in Fort McCoy, they were attached at the hip. Even though there was a 20 year age difference, they were the best of friends, as they both shared a deep love for the Lord. I never met Thomas, but I shed more tears than you could ever imagine. I thank God that my family was touched by an angel like him. There is a time and purpose to everything under Heaven. God Bless you Thomas and the Caughman family. Freedom isn't free."
Bethany (SGT Hubeaut's daughter) of Point Marion, PA

"Thomas was one of the sweetest people I knew. He always had a way to make you laugh and brighten your day. He will be missed dearly by all that knew him."
Kelly of Lexington, SC

"Well now that you are gone I can assure you that things will never be the same. I loved you like you were a brother since I knew you my whole life. You were a great friend and one that will never be forgotten. Now when I get asked who my hero is I will actually have one to say, Thomas D. Caughman. I love you and will always have you in my heart."
Megan Jeffcoat of Pelion, SC

"Thomas Caughman...a true hero! We will never again hear the word "soldier" and not think of you and how you unselfishly gave your life to make our lives better. We will never again take our freedom for granted...we will know it is because of your ultimate sacrifice. God Bless you and your family. With our deepest love, respect and gratitude..."
John & Vickie Weaver of Madisonville, LA USA

"TO THOMAS' FAMILY: My heart aches with you, as my son, SSgt Jason Hicks was killed in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan on March 23, 2003. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I had the pleasure of meeting Thomas's Grandparents--The Caughmans, a few days after his death. He truly died an American Hero."
Theresa Hicks of Jefferson, S. C.

"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. "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

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

"To Thomas' 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

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

"To Thomas' 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 (Ernie's mom) of San Antonio, TX
gloria.caldas@banksterling.com"

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