Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I first met Maj. Crocker in 5th Marines and when I went on recruiting duty at RSLA there you were motivated as always! Sir thank you for the ultimate sacrifice you will never be forgotten. Rest peacefully Marine! S/F"
MGySgt Fulton of Los Angeles, CA

"Thinking of you my friend I gave a speech in your memory last week. I have thought of you often especially on this 17th Memorial Day since we lost you. Looking forward to seeing you once again my Brother.

SgtMaj Scott Baker USMC RETIRED"
Scott of Baker

"We will salute you and send smiles along your coastline here in Redondo Beach tomorrow. Your friends miss you everyday and write about you often. xoxo"
Charlie W Melwing of Torrance, California

"10/31/2020
May we honor the lives of those who have fought for our freedom with the way we choose to live our own, I was chosen because of a very close friend who served with the 48 Marines and Corpsmen who sacrificed it all; to read each story, to get to know a small piece of their lives through families and friends. I chose to honor each of them with a bible verse:

Ricardo A. Crocker 5/26/05
"Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us." - Titus 2:7-8 (Teacher)"
Haleigh Kilgore of West Virginia

"Missing you so much today. I wish we could do the 2018 LA Marathon together, think of you so often and miss your official visits to the SM UCLA Emergency Department. I always loved seeing your smiling face coming through the door to say Hello and brighten my day."
of Los Angeles

"It was an honor to know and serve with Ric in 3/25. This country lost a lot when we lost you. God bless your family. You will never be forgotten.
Semper Fi"
LtCol Duffy Woodford of Ohio

"Honoring Rick this Veterans' Day. Ever grateful."
Karen Zumsteg of Sherman Oaks, CA

"My Rick 10 years has passed and it feels like it was yesterday. It hasnt been one moment that we not think of you. Thank you for all the good memories you created with the Rugrats as you named the kids. We will always love you and honor your memory. You are happy next to Jesus you are our Angel."
Oneida Rodriguez of Corona CA

"God bless Major Crocker, today his fellow Marines run in his memory as part of the Wounded Warriors Memorial 100. Marines do not die they live on in our memories forever."
Michael Coggins of Northport NY

"Next Monday (May 26, 2014) will mark the 9 year anniversary of Maj. Crocker's death. Many of the former 5th CAG marines are planning on raising a beer and giving a toast to his memory at 7 pm Eastern US time, wherever they happen to be at the time. Any of you who see this, please join us in a toast to our fallen brother."
Jacob Pereira of Austin, TX

"I served with Ric in Desert Storm in 1/5. I think he was the youngest lieutenant in 1/5, and he was the most cheerful guy I knew in the battalion. I ran into him again several years later in Santa Monica where he served with SMPD and we went shooting and hung out together several times. He told me how great it was being in the reserves, commanding a heavy guns platoon because all they did was go to the range and shoot .50 cals! After I moved away from So Cal, we lost contact. In 2005, after returning from a veteran's cemetery on Memorial Day, I was reflecting that I felt fortunate that none of my friends had been killed in Iraq or Afghanistan. I opened the paper to see his name. Ric, I think about you most days, and wear a bracelet memorializing your death and service. I am honored to have been your friend. I am sure you family misses you very much. Semper Fi, devil dog."
Fred Rudolph of Huntsville, AL

"Another year Rick! I miss you a lot Thank you for your love, and all the things you still do for my family."
Oneida Rodriguez of Santa Monica CA

"Still thinking of you and your service to our Country. I was a better man knowing you.
God bless you Ric and we haven't forgotten. It seems you left a hole that cannot be filled."
Larry Horn of Santa Monica , CA USA

"Ricardo Crocker,
You have displayed the same character in combat that you dispayed in boot camp and BOOST! I am not surprised.> Hoorah!!"
George Rappard of Los Angeles, California

"Love and prayers to Rick's family in memory of his service, generosity, humor, and humanity."
Karen Zumsteg of Sherman Oaks, CA

"Rick was my friend in high school at Bishop McNamara in Forestville, Maryland.

I remember Rick as being kind, funny and such a genuine friend. I miss you Rick."
Mike Collins of Groton, MA

"Rick, Here I am trying to survive everyday, with out you in our lives. Your Rugrats as you called them are growing, and we always think about you. Specially this time of the year, I have to thank God for gave me the opportunity to met you. I love you Rick I will always do and the kids we will always love you too.
Thank You, Rick"
Oneida Rodriguez of Rancho Cucamonga

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry. I understand in theory only that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take the families pain away but I can't. I am committed to loving ALL people, myself and our environment. I am committed to working on my happiness everyday because so many have died for my freedom to live my life. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have. All my love and respect. ogersteiner@yahoo.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEjz-wAQLSA&feature=PlayList&p=477CB1585D5551F3"
Scott Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"I am in total shock. I just learned of Rick's death from ant ROTC buddy of ours. I had not seen Rick since he first got commissioned. I remember as freshamn in ROTC, his smile, that big smile, and Rick was always sooo cool. My heart aches for his family and my prayers are with you. Rick, thanks for being a small part of my life. Knowing you was great. I'll see you in heaven one day.

P.S. Vince Kapral and I are gonna have a beer for you on November 16th!

Peace Bro."
Bernard Williams of Baltimore, MD

"With sincere gratitude to everyone who helped my son become the man, the marine and the son I lost. This is the first time I've had the courage to read these messages."
jeanette garcia, Rick Crocker's mom of redondo beach, ca

"Rick, It's been a long time since we talked. As a fellow Captain, you always knew the right thing to say to your fellow commanders in their all-too-lonely position at the top. You never forgot that our strength comes from those on the lower rungs of the chain-of-command, and you never let me forget that we exist for the solemn duties of leadership and selfless sacrifice to those splendid footsoldiers called Marines. I will never forget the morning coffee and evening discussions on Iraq and where the country was heading. Rick, when you look over heaven's parapit and see Iraq now, I know you are smiling. Because of men like you, John, Doug, Jamie, Kevin, and so many others, we're all the better for having served in the company of heroes. Because we remember, the legacy of your service will live forever in the hall of Vahalla. Save a seat, a cup, and cigar for us...
Semper Fidelis, my Friend..."
DIGLER of Afghanistan

"Rick Crocker was my friend. I love him like a brother and I live my life thinking of him as always being with me. As a Marine, I met Rick as a Lieutenant and we crossed paths through out our careers. He was always first to recognize me in a crowd. He never failed to greet me like a brother and to ask how I was. He wanted specific details and he was always positive and affirming. We always shared a good laugh and I too was amazed by and with the leadership that he had!

Rick was someone you wanted to follow and all that knew him knew that he was going to do great things because his qualities were far and away above his contemporaries. He was sharp! He was caring! He was a true motivator! He gave more than he received and he did not mind giving you or a perfect stranger 150% in exchange for less. He found joy in being there for others. He was the stuff that makes men who dare to do great things heroes.

I was fortunate to be in the 5th CAG with Rick. The news tore into the CAG the day the world lost him. We all swore never to forget Rick. Even today, he is not only remembered he is thought about and valued as a friend, a brother, A Marine, and a true example of what all should strive to be.

I keep the program from his memorial service on my desk. I laminated it when I got back from our tour in Iraq and (it) and he greets me everyday. I have made a vow to take pause every May 26th to light a candle and keep it lit all day in honor of Rick. I also share with my kids (three sons) that if they want to be like anyone they should listen to me tell them about the life of this extraordinary man and be smart like him, caring like him, honorable like him, and patriotic like him.

I miss my friend.

Semper Fi Rick !

We will join you soon enough Brother."
Major Frederick L. Mickle Jr. (USMC Ret) of Elk Grove, California

"Hi! Rick I am still here thinking about you, it is so hard to deal with this pain. I need you by my side, you were my light in life, you were the one who would always, believed in me and in my dreams. I will always love you I ask God to put on my way a man like you. Rick help me to deal with your loss. I love you."
Oneida of Rancho Cucamonga CA

"Maj Crocker's family, I am so sorry I couldn't do better. Not a day goes by I don't think of that day. You have my sympathy and deepest regret for your loss. I did everything I could, God's speed Maj Crocker. I will never forget your sacrafice, had you not pushed Marines inside just before the RPG hit, the losses would have been greater. You are a true hero. Semper Fi"
HM2 FMF Shawn Kendrick of Sissonville WV

"May 29, 2008
To the family of Maj. Ricardo A. Crocker:
Ricardo 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

"Rick, hardly a day goes by that I don't think of you and remember what a truly good and decent human being, friend, and fellow officer you were. Your loss is deeply felt but you will never be forgotten. I was on duty the day when Col Tucker called me to tell me that we had lost you; the shock was unbelievable. I will be on duty tomorrow and the pain is still there. You continue to inspire me to be a better person, a better Marine officer, a better police officer. Thank you, my friend.
For Rick's family: I cannot say more than has already been said by those touched by Rick. Please know that he is greatly missed and loved. He was more than a good man - he was the best of men."
Andrew Roberto of Albuquerque, NM

"Remembering a great man and fine soldier on this Memorial Day."
Karen Zumsteg of Sherman Oaks, CA

"Rick, this memorial day is going to be the 3rd year, since you left. I still think you are alive, but it is not true. I love you, and I always will. Your Rugrats are growing and growing, Thank You, for all the things you did for them you were a role model for them. Karina writes you a letter every time she gets in trouble hoping you were there for her to help. I love you more than anything in life, I will always miss you my Soldier, please guide me to be a good mother it is very hard with out you,I still remember your support, I can't understand why the good people always leave us."
Oneida Rodriguez of Rancho Cucamonga

"Rick y u leave i need u

i miss u

everything has changed since u left

love ur rugrat"
Rugrat

"Meu pesar pela morte deste heroi americano.Nossos irmãos do norte,com os quais lutamos lado a lado na Italia contra o nazismo,com certeza nos ajudará contra ,a ameaça comunista que temos hoje no Brasil de Lula,Venezuela e Equador.A liberdade deverá ser mantida.Condolências a familia do bravo Maj.Ricardo.Outra Cuba ,nunca mais."
Manoel Jorge of Belém,Pará,Brasil

"To the family of:Ricardo A. Crocker 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"

"To the family of Major Crocker, I am so very sorry for your great loss and sacrifice. I only knew him briefly, but he made a lasting impression. I met Major Crocker while serving with 3RD CAG in 2004. We had several things in common...law enforcement and talking about Harleys. He was a very approachable Marine Officer, down to earth, with a friendly smile, and a leader's presence. Neither his or the Crocker family's sacrice will be forgotten. May God bless you! Semper Fidelis"
Jerry D. Cowart of Birmingham, Alabama

"To the Crocker Family, I Former Active Duty Sergeant Anthony M. Randall was the Platoon Guide for the then 1stLT Crocker when we were in 1st Bn 5th Marines Heavy Machine Guns. I went on to Hawaii believing that I wouldn't have to worry too much of the guy we all called "Tricky Ricky" not because of women but because he could play BALL so well, I am going to miss him even more because I always thought I could get back in touch with him anytime.
But Our God wanted that smile and that laugh plus he really got a good guy up there in Heaven because he really did know how to talk to people, not down on people being that hard headed Marine that I was back then he put me gently back on track when I got off course and I thank God for just knowing him for being a real MARINE not a pretender. Thanks LT Crocker, God Bless You My Friend and LEADER. OOh Rah and Semper Fi. Anthony Randall, (Razorblade), out!"
SGT. A.M. Randall USMC (RET) of Southbridge, VA

"I cannot believe you're gone! I met Rick during my oneyear-stay in Hermosa Beach. Whenever we were planning to see eachother (in LA or Germany) we talked about the "Red carpet reception" that we wanted to arrange for eachother. I remember your last visit here in Cologne. My family liked you very much.You were such a great person,had a great humor, had so many plans, you always talked about being a teacher for kids, and that this is your dream! You did so much for me and I never had the opportunity to tell you that! I feel sorry for that.
I'll always remember you."
Sabine of Germany

"I first met Rick when he was a recruiter and on active duty(first time around). I interviewed him to become a police officer at SMPD. We waited until he finished his enlistment and held a position for him since he was such an outstanding individual. After joining the department Rick and I became good friends since I had been in his unit many years ago (1969-71) Though he was my subordinate I always addressed him as "Mr. Crocker" out of respect for his loyality and honor for both the department and the Corps. I cried like a baby when learning Rick was gone. He was an outstanding police officer, Marine and, most importantly, a good friend. Semper Fi Rick."
Roy McGinnis of Westlake Village CA

"My thoughts and prayers to the family of Officer Crocker (as I knew him) on this Memorial Day weekend."
Karen Zumsteg of Sherman Oaks, CA

"It has been nearly half a year since you passed Rick. Not a single day goes by without me thinking about your sacrifice. I was Rick's neighbor and CPA for a number of years, and I can't think of another more giving person than Rick. What a true loss!! So many things people probably never knew about you as you were so concerned with others. For example you learned to surf late in life and loved taking a break from the rat race and just float in the water on your board; how you used to travel the world doing marathons on your vacations, how you volunteered your time to help disadvantaged kids; how you would tell every single one of your friends to use me as their CPA till the point I had to turn people away; and especially the year we shared Dodger tickets and you would always say how Dodger Stadium was the most peaceful place on earth. You were a good friend and will be mightily missed. Myself, wife and three boys thank you and all of the fallen soldiers for their sacrifice. God Bless and Good bye!!"
Patrick Hartmann of Los Angeles, CA

"I remember Maj. Crocker when we were going into Ar Rutba day in and day out in order to provide security for CAG. He always found a way to take care of us,2/7 Fox Co.He was always in good spirits. Every time we went on a cag mission and there was chow he made sure every marine got some.Even though it may not seem like much, after months of MRE, hadji food was a welcome treat. He will be missed by all and his work is not going un noticed."
A Fox Company Marine of Los Angeles

"There will be a dedication ceremony in the memory of Major Crocker at the 3D CAG building on Tuesday Oct. 4 at approximately 1400, with his family members in attendance. You are encouraged to join us in welcoming our Marines home and in honoring the memory of one of our own."
Marines from 3rd CAG of Camp Pendleton, CA

"There are no words ... dear Crocker family, my heart is with you. I remember Ricky as a teenager, always an admirable man. Just like his father. I'm so, so sorry. May God comfort you. If there is anything I can do ... birtanem@att.net."
Katie Vereshchaka (Veres) of Alexandria, VA

"To the family of Major Crocker:
When we were in high school, I called him Ricardo. I should have addressed him as Sir."
Troy Minor of Leesburg, Virginia

"To the family of Major Crocker, I offer my condolences. I met the Major on 27 Feb 2005 as we road out to HIT on a convoy. He was truly an inspirational person and cared about making a difference. Well, he did, he always had a positive attitude about what he was doing in Iraq. I will never forget him. I am glad to have met him. I was stationed with him in HIT, and we all felt a void when he was taken. May he always smile down on us."
SSGT Maria Roldan of San Antonio, Texas

"I only knew the Major for a short while, just as he was leaving his first tour and then again just arriving for his second tour...he brought laughter and joy to an otherwise mundane place. Thank you Major!
BU2 Hollman (MEG OICC Al Asad)"
Mike Hollman of San Diego, CA

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

"I had the opportunity to work with Maj Crocker in Western Al Anbar Province - where he was a legend with the local populace. Every time I spoke with a local sheikh, businessman, or civilian official, Major Crocker's name, opinion, and thoughts were either on their lips or in their thoughts..."What does Major Crocker think?" "Major Crocker got us the truck." Going by his team's "house" was always a must when swinging through the area. Major Crocker and his team were literally swamped by the outpouring of support from his home town, friends, and family. It was almost like a supermarket and Major Crocker went out of his way to be generous with all the things he received. To anyone reading this who sent Major Crocker anything - thanks! I undoubtedly ate, read, or watched some of it! One of the last big victories Major Crocker achieved in Western Al Anbar was getting a new hospital built in a local town. When a politician or journalist speaks of a "good news story," they meant Major Crocker. When people think of "helping the Iraqis" they picture someone like Major Crocker doing just what he did. A loss for us all. The world is less for his departure."
Maj. Scott Kinner of Twentynine Palms, CA

"To the family of Major Crocker:

Major Crocker was liked and respected by us all that had the honor to serve with him. May God help you through your pain and loss."
HM2 Sabo of FOB Hit, Iraq

"Major Ricardo A. Crocker, I learned of your sacrifice today from a fellow Marine. You are a true warrior and hero to this grateful Nation. I am honored that I had the opportunity to know you and to serve in a platoon that you commanded, what seems to be so many years ago, WPNS Co. 2/23, HMG Plt. As a Marine and a fellow California lawman, I salute you. “Victory is reserved for those who are willing to pay its price” – Sun Tzu. Thank you for leading us to victory Major Crocker. God Bless"
T.C. Cockrill of Bakersfield, CA

"To The Crocker Family,
Our Family, Our City, Our Country grieves with you. We are so saddened by your loss. Your Soldier is OUR HERO! We will never forget him or the others who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless You and your Brave Marine..Semper Fi!!"
The Grogan Family of Lakeland, TN

"To the family and friends of Major Ricardo A. Crocker,

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 use our link and 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

"Sir, I can't describe the amount of respect that my team and I have for you. We will never forget the contribution you made the unit, the mission, the Marine Corps and our lives. Semper Fi sir! We love you."
Sgt Hendricks of 3rd CAG, Camp Pendleton

"Maj Crocker was a true leader, I served with him from May to July 2004. I worked with him side by side, he was always in a good mood and lighten up everyones mood regardless of the situation we were in. It was an honor to serve with such a great Marine Officer and a great person. I really looked up to him and it's a tragedy to lose such an individual. My love and prayers are with his family."
Sgt Ortega, O of San Diego, Ca

"I am Corporal William M. Howard II that served in Iraq voluntarily from February 2004 until September 2004. Major Crocker taught me alot of things to keep me alive before I actually departed for the dunes. He was the leader of one of my best buddies teams and he meant alot to everyone he talked to and he automatically inspired us all. GOD bless him and his sacrifice and I would without a doubt rather it be me than him. He was first of all a great person and that is what he cared about, he was also without a doubt a fantastic Marine. His sacrifice makes me want to go back and make him proud. I cared about him and will never forget that man. He was one of a kind and I will ALWAYS idolize him."
Billy Howard of Tuscaloosa, Alabama USA

"I was lucky to have served with Major Crocker for the last few months here in Iraq. Major Crocker was a great friend and a true leader. It has been very difficult dealing with this loss.

Major Crocker took charge and ran his operations like every American would want to see. I have learned so much from him. People may never fully understand how he shaped and influenced his surroundings.

I will miss Major Crocker very much. He was a friend that I would need for years to come."
LT Aaron Isaacson of Iraq

"6/3/05 Our deepest and heartfelt sympathy to Ricardo's family. For many reasons you will never celebrate another Memorial Day Weekend without tremendous sadness, yet a great sense of pride. Ricardo is a true hero and will go down in history as a great man who made the ultimate sacrifice for this great nation. May God give you strength to endure this most horrific painful loss.
John 15:13 Greater love than this no one has, that one lay down his life for his friends.""
Webster and Ruth Reed (Father and stepmom of Jonathan Ray Reed who died in Iraq on January 28, 2005) of Krotz Springs, Louisiana

"We are deeply sorry for your loss. America will forever honor your Hero.
The Courage, Honor, and Valor that your Hero showed will always be remembered.
We are grateful for the sacrifice that was made and we will NEVER FORGET.
God Bless your family and please know that you are not alone.
All of our prayers are with you."
Jennifer and SSGT Larry Mays of Massillon,Ohio

""We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Ricardo Crocker will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and yours. God Bless you ALWAYS. We will hold a special moment of silence for Ricardo and his family this Sunday at our Support Our Troops Rally

Duane & Reiko Buckley
Reseda Ca."
Duane & Reiko Buckley of Reseda Ca. USA

"TO THE RICARDO FAMILY FROM THE WAHL FAMILY. RICARDO YOU WILL NEVER EVER BE FORGOTTEN PAL! YOU ARE THE ELITE OF AMERICANS. SO THANKFUL AND GRATEFUL OUR SON SERVED ALONG SIDE OF YOU. NOT KNOWING ONE ANOTHER; YET AS MILITARY BROTHER'S WATCHING OVER ONE ANOTHERS BACK. RICARDO YOU HAVE TOUCHED THE HEARTS OF SO MANY. JUST BY THE MESSAGES'S LEFT. YOU ARE LOVED AND CARED FOR BY MANY! AMERICA OWE'S YOU BIG TIME RICARDO. FOR PROTECTING US AGAINST TERRORISM AND TO GIVEN THE OTHERS A CHANCE TO ENJOY FREEDOM. OBVIOUSLY, YOU ARE A COMBINATION OF YOUR PARENTS. THAT RAISED A VERY ACRING MAN WITH A GENTLE HEART TO HELP OTHERS. YOUR SERVICE SPEAKS VOLUME'S OF YOUR PARENTS. RICARDO MY HEART AND PRAYS ARE WITH YOU!; AND YOUR FAMILY. OUR FAMILY UNDERSTAND THE LOST AND HURT. WE LOST OUR SON GREGORY LAST MAY. PEOPLE IN AMERUICA JUST DON'T IT! NO SOLDIER WANT TO GO TO WAR. SOLDIER'S HAVE A MISSION. TO STAND FIRM WITH THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF. AN SOLDIERS ONLY ASK ONE THING OF AMERICAN'S. TO SIMPLELY SUPPORT THE TROOPS. RICARDO YOU HAVE EARNED THAT RESPECT! YOU ARE A PROFESSIONAL SOLDIER AND A HERO! YOU HAVE MADE AMERICA SAVER! GOD BLESS!"
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"TO THE RICARDO FAMILY FROM THE WAHL FAMILY. RICARDO YOU WILL NEVER EVER BE FORGOTTEN PAL! YOU ARE THE ELITE OF AMERICANS. SO THANKFUL AND GRATEFUL OUR SON SERVED ALONG SIDE OF YOU. NOT KNOWING ONE ANOTHER; YET AS MILITARY BROTHER'S WATCHING OVER ONE ANOTHERS BACK. RICARDO YOU HAVE TOUCHED THE HEARTS OF SO MANY. JUST BY THE MESSAGES'S LEFT. YOU ARE LOVED AND CARED FOR BY MANY! AMERICA OWE'S YOU BIG TIME RICARDO. FOR PROTECTING US AGAINST TERRORISM AND TO GIVEN THE OTHERS A CHANCE TO ENJOY FREEDOM. OBVIOUSLY, YOU ARE A COMBINATION OF YOUR PARENTS. THAT RAISED A VERY ACRING MAN WITH A GENTLE HEART TO HELP OTHERS. YOUR SERVICE SPEAKS VOLUME'S OF YOUR PARENTS. RICARDO MY HEART AND PRAYS ARE WITH YOU!; AND YOUR FAMILY. OUR FAMILY UNDERSTAND THE LOST AND HURT. WE LOST OUR SON GREGORY LAST MAY. PEOPLE IN AMERUICA JUST DON'T IT! NO SOLDIER WANT TO GO TO WAR. SOLDIER'S HAVE A MISSION. TO STAND FIRM WITH THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF. AN SOLDIERS ONLY ASK ONE THING OF AMERICAN'S. TO SIMPLELY SUPPORT THE TROOPS. RICARDO YOU HAVE EARNED THAT RESPECT! YOU ARE A PROFESSIONAL SOLDIER AND A HERO! YOU HAVE MADE AMERICA SAVER! GOD BLESS!"
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"Rick,
You were a warrior for your country
A hero until the end
You will never be forgotten"
Marine Wife of Northridge, CA

"CROCKER WAS LIKE A SON. HE WAS IN MY ACADEMY CLASS (290). I JOINED LASD AND HE WENT TO SANTA MONICA P.D. HE WAS ALWAYS HELPFUL. IF I NEEDED HELP, HE WOULD ALWAYS BE WILLING. HE LOVED THE MARINES. THANK YOU CROCKER FOR SERVING THIS COUNTRY AS A MARINE AND FIGHTING CRIME IN THE STREETS OF SANTA MONICA."
EMMA JACKSON of LOS ANGELES, CA/USA

"Ric,

I welcomed you into the 3rd CAG and new we had joined a man of honor and commitment. I knew what you meant when you said you had to go back to Iraq to finish what had been started. I'll never forget your friendship, assistance, humor and the sound of your voice. You made a huge impact on everyone with whom you had contact. Thanks for all that you did for me, your fellow Marines and the nation. See you some day....I consider you to be on the "advance party" to our collective final duty station. S/F...Al"
LtCol Al Burghard USMCR of Camp Pendleton, CA

"Captain Crocker as I knew him was my platoon commander for a short while when he was attached to the 2nd BAT 23rd Marines, weapons company, Pt. Hueneme, CA. He was a good man and an outstanding officer. I cannot believe someone I looked up to and saluted is now gone. He will be missed. Semper Fi Skipper, and may God be with your family during this most difficult time."
Corporal Paul Molé of Simi Valley, CA, 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, Ricardo will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you ALWAYS. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"Major Crocker: Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. Thank you for serving our country. You will not be forgotten."
Flores. S of San Diego, CA

"To the family of Ricardo Crocker:
I did not know Major Crocker, but I wish I had. Nothing can replace him and I'm so sorry for your loss. But I hope you will take comfort in knowing that your son and brother was a truly great man who lived by the highest principles of duty and sacrifice. He served his people as a Marine and as a police officer. He willingly put his life in extreme danger by doing his duty in Iraq. He devoted his time to mentoring youth in Santa Monica. Those who are brave and selfless are often the first to make the ultimate sacrifice. But without them, where would we be? Thank you all for teaching your son and brother to be so honorable, and thank you for letting him serve. His spirit will live on in your thoughts and memories. The example he set will always inspire others. Deepest respects and condolences."
A Fellow American of Los Angeles, CA

"Rick
You were an inspiration to all and will be deaply missed. Thank you for your courage, bravery, and service to the citizens of the Greatest Country in the World. Your willingness to stand up to the enemy and fight for what is right is an inspiration for all. Thank you for all you have done for your friends, family, community and country."
Mike of Santa Monica, Ca. USA

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