Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I was Brett's squad leader when he made the ultimate sacrifice for this country. I remember him on a daily basis. He was one of the greatest soldiers I had ever worked with. I was chosen to escort him home from Iraq it was the longest days of my life. Lost a true friend and brother that day. Miss you and was a honor serving with you."
SSG Shane Harris of Columbus Ms. USA

"Brett,
I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy."
Mike C. of El Paso, Texas

"I come here often to see the ones that I use to hangout with and loved like a brother. Brett was funny and a great guy. I enjoyed the crazy times we had and sometimes it's hard knowing he is gone. He will be missed and always loved. For all that knew Brett, you are the luckiest people for knowing such a great man."
Jack Bartley/ was SPC of West Monroe, La

"Though I have never had the Honor of knowing your Son. My Daughter Kristi did. She is an MP out of Mississippi. Has done tours in Iraq. One in Mosul. I moved to Washington, DC 2 yrs ago. She comes to visit often. Please know, That your Son is not alone. Kristi visits when she is here. I go for her when she cannot. Every Holiday, Every special day. I am not sure how they met or even why he is so special to her. She tells me only "He helped me Momma" So, because of what he did for her, what he meant to her. Her Momma makes sure he is visited often. I owe Him...You are always in our prayers. If you should every wish to see the photo's we have taken here, please let me know."
Karen K of Washington, DC

"I knew Brett for the year he went to Locust Valley High School. We quickly became friends. I remember his humor and how just his smile put me in a better mood. He was always encouraging and sincere. I am so sorry for his passing but when I learned of it and he died defending our country, I knew he was the same guy I met so many years ago. As I read the passages on here, I realize how luck I was to know Brett even just briefly. I know I never forgot him and I never will."
Charlene Wright of Huntington, NY

"It's been years now, and it still brings tears to my eyes. I come to this site, every month or so. I miss him. I don't want him to be gone. It's wrong that he is. He was a good person."
SFC THOMAS C. SCHEBER

"My son was a 101st Airborne medic on that patrol in Mosul that horrible day. He tried to save Brett's life, but it was too late. The letter he wrote to me about that day was heartbreaking, and I don't think he will ever forgive himself because he couldn't help Brett. All of my son's skills and training were useless, and there was nothing he could do but gently hold Brett's head to his chest and fight to keep the curious crowd away. I know your lives were changed forever that day, and I know you will always miss your son, Brett. I wonder if it will help you to know that my son also regrets the loss of your boy. Your son's name is on my son's wrist to this day: he wears a bracelet for Brett even all these years later. I have tried to imagine what your suffering must be, but I cannot. I am glad that my son is alive and well, and I can't deny that truth. But my son will never forget your son, ever, even if he lives to be 100 years old. And I guess I sort of hope that will comfort you somehow. God bless us, every one."
Suzanne of Bloomington, Illinos

"Wondering how your family is doing. I since have lost loved ones as well. Take Care, God Bless
Wayne L Christian"
WAYNE L CHRISTIAN of SPARKS,NV. U.S.A.

"To the family of Brett T Christian ,I am so sorry for the loss of your love one.He died a hero.May you know the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Hopefully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need someone to pray with you or talk to please call or write my pastor at Gateway Community Church,Rev John B Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd. Covington Ga. 30016 phone 770-787-1015""

"You were the first big hit our Batt. sustained, I remember the cold chill I felt,and how it happened. I saw you at Arlington you almost brought me down to my knees. I was a Medic for the 2/502 Inf. at the time,you will never be forgotten.DOC.T"
Eduardo Teran of Seymour,Tn

"Thank you for your wonderful service and friendship during during that first tour of Iraq. I still ask myself who won that coin flip between us."
SGT Jordan Hardin of Arlington, TX

""We "Strike Force" soldiers of the past, remember those who have come after us and have given the ultimate sacrifice. Specialist Hutchinson is NOT forgotten. We never served together, but you were a fellow Screaming Eagle--a fellow STRIKE FORCE trooper--a brother for eternity. Rest easy 'bro.""
Bruce Howard of Atlanta, GA

"May You be with the Lord.
Thank You for defending my freedom."
Joseph of Scranton, PA

"June 9, 2008
To the family of Sgt. Brett T. Christian:
Brett 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

"Brett was my best friend, Not only was he my roommate, he was a fellow soldier and my very best friend. Its taken me years to write this due to the fact that I finally realized that brett was only less then a 100 miles away from me when he left. I miss him so much. I still have a hard time living with it. He was the most wonderful person in the world. My familly was privalleged to be able to spend time with him during Christmas 2000. To this day, they all tell me how much they loved him and miss him. Still to this day I have troubles with this whole situation. But to finalize everything, I will never forget those blue eyes that every women fell in love with. The laughs and jokes we had every day and night. And definately the time you and I took Jerry's teddy bear for ransom. I have to go now because I miss you. Im full of tears and it seems to never stop. No matter how much I try putting everything behind me, it never seems to give up. I miss you more than anything in the world. I will see you in june my friend. I love you. Aaron"
aaron bickal of cortland,ny

"I served with Brett in Iraq back in 2003. I, along with two other guys got to know Brett over a period of three weeks while we trained up Iraqi policeman in Mosul. What a great guy. None of us knew him prior, but we heard through the grapevine that he was squared away and very easy going. That morning he was taken from us, we all heard it happen and knew what had transpired.We were all looking forward to working with Brett and getting to know him better. I've never felt so helpless in my life that morning, it was the first day we all went our separate ways after working 3 weeks together.
To the Christian family, I'm deeply sorry for your loss, Brett was a stand up guy considering the short time that I knew him. I visited his site at Arlington back in 2004. I now live in Washington DC and plan on paying my respects again this July. Rest in peace Brett-
SGT Ruben Glazer 2/502 INF REG 101ST ABN DIV"
Ruben Glazer of Washington DC

"I served with Brett in Iraq back in 2003. I, along with two other guys got to know Brett over a period of three weeks while we trained up Iraqi policeman in Mosul. What a great guy. None of us knew him prior, but we heard through the grapevine that he was squared away and very easy going. That morning he was taken from us, we all heard it happen and knew what had transpired.We were all looking forward to working with Brett and getting to know him better. I've never felt so helpless in my life that morning, it was the first day we all went our separate ways after working 3 weeks together.
To the Christian family, I'm deeply sorry for your loss, Brett was a stand up guy considering the short time that I knew him. I visited his site at Arlington back in 2004. I now live in Washington DC and plan on paying my respects again this July. Rest in peace Brett-
SGT Ruben Glazer 2/502 INF REG 101ST ABN DIV"
Ruben of Glazer

"I sent two terrorists to the grave in Iraq. Consider Brett avenged, His friend Chris Scheber A/4/23 INF/172nd SBCT"
Thomas Christian Scheber of Ft. Richardson, Alaska

"I had the honor to know brett, I searved with him in the 502 while he was a member of the support platoon. I remember his great attatude on life and he was always there to joke with. whenever we worked together he was great he always got the job done and never hesitated to help out He was very well liked and very missed when we lost him. I thank him and every one who was there to support me and the others in our unit when we needed each other."
edward zachary of clarksville tn

"To Brett's Family,
Last year I oredered several bracelets from "herobracelets.org", after watching a news clip on Fox News. I received Brett's bracelet. I just wanted your family to know that I never take it off and every day I pray for Brett and your family. I have recently read the newspaper articles published at the time of his death. Please know that his death was not in vain. There are many people who believe in their cause. He is my hero. I don't know if it helps ease the pain or not, but please know he is in my prayers every day. May God bless you all."
Lisa Smith Lisa Marie1500@aol.com of Columbus, Oh

"FREEDOM FIGHTER
YOUR SACRIFICE IS SEEN
AS IS NO OTHER
FOR YOU LAY DOWN YOUR LIFE
FOR YOUR SISTER OR BROTHER
SACRIFICE COMES IN ALL ITS FORMS
SEPERATION FROM FAMILY
AND WHATS THE NORM
SELFLESS LOVE
THAT DRIVES YOUR HEARTS
TO PRESS ON AHEAD
DODGING FIERY DARTS
DEDICATION TO COUNTRY AND
TO FREEDOM YOU FIGHT
DENYING THE SELF
KEEPING WATCH THROUGH THE NIGHT
NOT KNOWING THE OUTCOME STILL TRUSTING ITS RIGHT
TO SET FREE THE CAPTIVES
AND TURN DARKNESS TO LIGHT"
THE SCHNELL FAMILY of BROOKLYN, NEW YORK

"To the family of Brett,
I served with your son in Korea. I learned so much from him, whether it was how to just smile at the BS, or how to do my job to the best of my ability. While there will never be enough words to take any pain away, please know that Brett has touched so many lives, and in that, made an impact on not only this generation, but future ones to come."
SPC Erik Osterman of Ledward Brks, Germany

"Brett, you paid the ultimate sacrifice for your country, family and friends. May God bless you and your family."
Former Rakkasan of USA

"To The Family of Brett Christian:
I had the honor of serving with him in Korea (2000-2002). I was at one point and time his platoon sergeant. He was a great soldier and had a unique- yet level headed way of looking at all situations. That quality made it interesting to come to work the next day. He is truly missed. I was in 2-187 infantry at Ft Campbell and deployed the same time as Brett, once again serving beside a BROTHER OF MINE. Brett- You are in my prayers each night and I know you are looking down on us all and smiling. You are a TRUE HERO... by definition, word and deed. Rest well friend. To the Christian family: God Bless You."
SFC Scott J. Ball and Family of Ft. Benning, GA...USA

"I never had the chance to meet Brett, but I am from North Royalton as well. To hear of this makes me sad and proud to know that we have hero's among us. I am so sorry for his family. My brother just lost one of his best friends on January 26, 2005 so in a way I know how you must be feeling. Just remember that no one can replace that void in your heart but it lives on in all of us. Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice. I hope to join the Army one day. Only 70 more pounds to lose. God Bless!"
Heather of North Royalton, Ohio

"My, name is Devon Christian and Brett was my great cousin. I am presently thirtenn years old, and I say this with true honesty. Brett was and forever will be a better man than I am. Although the only time we meet was when I was very young, I do believe that you were one of America's finest sons, and forever shall be linked with the great history of this nation. Thank you Brett, for sacrificing your life in the defense of your brothers in the 101st airborne and I thank for sacrificing your life so that we of this country can be free."
Devon C. Christian of Stony Brook N.Y

"I went to Richmond Heights High School with Brett. Thanks to Brett our High School stories are just a little bit more interesting and funny. We sure did have some good times and great laughs. Thanks for the memories Brett ! And to the family of Brett, thank you for your sacrifice. Brett died a hero and we will never forget him.

And a quick note to Brett! Brett, I often keep you in mind as I sit in the desert building up bombs and rigging up explosives. As the long hot days seem endless and the work seems to never end, i see to it that your name gets put on every 2000lb. bomb that we put on target. THIS THUDS FOR YOU BUDDY !"
SSGT. MIKE THRUSH of 180th MUNITIONS (AMMO)

"In Loving Memory..Its been a year..

At the rising of the sun and at its going down, We remember them.
At the blowing of the wind and in the chill of Winter, We remember them.
At the opening of buds and in the rebirth of Spring, We remember them.
At the blueness of the skies and in the warmth of Summer, We remember them.
At the rustling of leaves and the beauty of Autumn, We remember them.
At the beginning of the year and when it ends, We remember them.
As long as we live, they too will live;
for they are now a part of us, as we remember them.
Rest in Peace Dear Soldier!!! We will NEVER FORGET!"
The Grogan Family of Lakeland, TN

"To all that had the pleasure of knowing the "Admiral". He had a funny way of being sarcastic. And yet never harsh. He carried about in a cool non chalant kind of way almost as if he didn't care. That is unless you were one of his buds. I served with Brett in A Co 1/29 INF Fort Benning, GA. I was at one point his team leader. What I remember most about him is the fact that I could never yell at him, do to his ability to make the situations humorous. Also playing that damn grand turismo game for the playstation when we should have been working. All my prayers are with his family. And I'll get a little pay back in DEC."
SSG Luther E. East of 1st UA, 3rd ID, Fort Stewart, GA

"How can I forget Brett? We used to call him the Admiral because he always had his hands in his pockets! I served with Brett at Fort Benning, GA. I was his squad leader for awhile. When I learned of his passing, the reality of the war really hit home. I began to look for others that were assigned with Brett and I. SSG Hemmingway who served with us was also killed.
Brett, I wish your family well! Take care sniper!!"
Dino Ricks of Columbus,Ga

"To Bretts mom and family, I think of Brett often. As my husband is now overseas. I remember all the good times we all had at the loft, a family away from family. Mrs.Christian I have tried to call you , but no answer. I am now in Lisbon Ohio and would love to meet you. I found a few pictures of Brett that i brought with me.Heather and I want to put a plaque up in the loft where we all met, and they would love it.Please contact me."
Kelly White of Lisbon,Ohio USA

"Although it was almost a year ago, i send my continuing sympathy to you and your loved ones.
My fiance is also stationed at Ft. Campbell and just came home in January. Just the other day he started opening up about things... including a story of Brett Christian. What a great guy.
Take care, and may God be with you.
remove_before_flight@lycos.com"
Jammie beamish of Detroit, Mi

"I am very proud for Bretts actions. I know it may be hard for you to understand this but his life is very inportant for are country. With every death of one of our soldiers it makes every body want to work harder for the cause. he will always be remembered. I share my deepest symphathy for Brett and you guys."
Derek Remington of Barker,NY/USA

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

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

"Thank you Brett Christian, 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

"I don't know if I am related to Brett, but I fell the need to send my deppest sympathies to the Christian Family. Looking at his photo, I see a very young, intellegent, and caring person. It looks like the two people pictured got along very well. Brett, I am sure you will be missed greatly, as I miss my father who was lost in war.
May the lord be with you Brett, and your family at such an emotional time of the year for many, including me.
God Bless.
Rest In Peace."
Wayne Christian of Reno, NV

"To Terri, Derek and Sloan, I remember when Brett first came to North Royalton. He came from living (I believe) with his grandparents in New York. I remember having a little crush on him. He did have the most intense blue eyes, he reminded me off James Dean because he wore this leather jacket. I had already known his younger brothers because my mother and his mother were friends. I could hardly believe it when I heard that he had died. Although I hadn't seen or talked to Brett in more than a few years, my mother told me that he had really grown into a great young man when he joined the Army. I know how much his younger brothers really loved Brett. I know how much he is missed. My prayers are with you!"
Jenni Swanson of Las Vegas, Nevada

"My name is Tawnya, I live in Clarksville TN. I did not know Brett personally but I know that his life was not taken in vane. He is and always will be a hero to me! I feel such sorrow for his family and yet with that I feel great pride to know that he believed in his country enough to join its Military forces and serve for her. Thank you for bringing such a remarkable young man into our world. He will NEVER be forgotten."
Tawnya Ackerman of Clarksvile TN United States of America

"I lived a couple doors down from Brett my first year and a half on Ft. Benning. He was a good and decent human being, unlike the savage animals that took his life. I'm afraid I can't put my emotions into words as well as others have. I only hope I'm afforded the opportunity to avenge his death in the near future. SGT Thomas Christian Scheber. Brett's friend from Benning."
Chris Scheber of Ft. Benning, GA

"My name is Billy Suter. I served with Brett at Ft. Benning GA. in Aco 1/29 Inf. There are too many good things to say about Brett. He was a good friend. No matter where we were we allways found humor in our situation. In the field or pulling guard on some ammo. We found time to laugh. I remember the mournings after PT going to his room and the first thing he did was start up his coffee pot. I remember when he bought his jeep and some of us went off roading. He was the only one who seemed to get stuck. I will never forget you Brett. My heart goes out to you and your family. May God bless you all."
Billy Suter of Frederick, MD

"My name is Kelly White I am also a friend and an old co-worker of Brett's. I just heard the news from Heather and can't believe it. My husband Paul White worked with Brett in the Army and at the Loft. I remember when he came to my parents for Thanksgiving dinner, he was so happy to get away from work and be with us when he couldn't get home to see his family. My 3 year old daughter crawled under the table and untied his shoes, she had the biggest crush on him. I remember all the nights after work we had so much fun. I have to mention the coffee cup too, always in his hand. Or the time he snook around the corner, stuck a lollipop to my cheek and ran to hide somewhere. He had the best personality. Those big beautiful blue eyes and that smile. He was one of those guys you could always count on, he'd do anything for a friend. I found some pictures of him and will try to get them to his mom. Brett you will always be remembered in our home and our hearts. Thank you for being such a good friend and hero. I am so proud to have been a part of your life! GOD BLESS YOU!"
Kelly White of Schofield Barracks, Hawaii

"My name is Heather Bradley Scheber. I just found out of Brett's passing today. I am incredibly sorry for your loss. This is a completely devastating loss to us too. I'm sure he mentioned working at a place called "The Loft" when he lived here in Columbus/Ft. Benning. We are the crew that worked with him. We were all in the Army together as well. We were all like a little family who looked forward to each other's company on the weekends. Me, my husband, his ex-roomate and his wife, Brett, and countless others all had some really great times at that bar. After a hard Friday, we would all hang around, work, and unwind, as it was our haven from the Army everyday life. To say that he will be sorely missed is an understatement. He had the most wonderful personality and humor. Half the time we didn't even say hi to each other, we would just look at each other and break out laughing for no real reason and commense to making fun of my husband here and there throughout the night. He's the kind of guy that you want to put in a headlock and give noogies to. Everytime I think of him, I picture him walking around with that coffee mug. Even when working at the bar, that was the norm. Coffee all night long. Amoung us friends, we have hysterical footage of him at one of our weddings, and we are digging up some of our photos of him (mainly at the bar) that we will try to upload to send. We can't believe he's gone. It's quite a shock. We are all saying...."Why him?" We will really miss our little Brett. He will be well remembered and thought of often. As a fellow soldier, he is a fallen comrad and brother who's actions are well respected and admired, for he was a model soldier and individual. We were all better people for having known him. He was, still is, and will always be a special person. God bless you, Brett."
Heather Bradley Scheber of Columbus/Ft. Benning

"To the Family you are in my prayers...May God bless you. I do want to say it was a honor to have him in our military Thanks for serving our country"
Stacey (Proud Army Wife) of Zephyrhills,Florida

"I am sorry to hear of your loss. I am in tears right now. I deeply respect your son and he will never be forgotten. I wish I would have come across you at a different time and under different circumstances. I thank people like your son and honor them as well. Be well and may G-d bestow his blessings upon thee."
Elona Breneman of Richmond Heights, Ohio, USA

"To the family and friends of Brett. Your loss is felt by all of our country.
Anyone who can help me find Brett Christian's mother Terri would be helping me end a long search for my childhood friend, I'm Ken Moser email kscm@kahunah.com"
Ken Moser

"Mr. and Mrs. Christian,
May your heart with-stand the pain of a lost son. We would like to be able to bear some of that heartache with you. Your son had been to our house years ago with his friend Christian, from Richmond Hghts. He shall be remembered forever."
Mark and Patice Slavick

"To the family and friends of Spc. Brett Christian:
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 Brett 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 Spc. Brett Christian:
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 Brett, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia