Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"To the Family of Capt. Eric Das "Boot":
I am a former fighter pilot, USAFA Class of '77. Recently, I read of your son, and the effort to honor him by a start-up called Steel Hearts (https://steel-hearts.org/). I bought a bracelet with Eric's name on it, with his class crest and DOD. It resembles the POW/MIA bracelets of my early era, but is of higher quality. I wear Eric's bracelet to honor the fallen. My son was 3d. Batt, 75th Rangers, both invasions, wounded in Tora Bora between those invasions. We pay the price daily for our support of these wars. God bless you in your loss. May God grant you a measure of grace in knowing where Eric is now. The curve of the earth is beautiful at 50,000' (I've seen it regularly in my service to our Republic)...and Eric is much higher than that, in the Arms of a Great and Mighty King."
John C. Buckley III, Lt.Col., USAFR (Ret.) of Colorado Springs CO

"Captain Das, I just read your memorial at the Texas Panhandle War Memorial in Amarillo today, Memorial Day 2017.

Your fate reminded me of the fate of my great Uncle, Wilbur Chapman, who was killed in combat in a B-29 bomber mission over Japan in World War II. His name is etched in granite at the same site.

I am in awe of your bravery and ultimate sacrifice for our country.

"All gave some, some gave all.""
Collin Hays of Amarillo TX USA

"I just saw your story on a documentary! I'm in tears! Your bravery, honor, and patriotism has humbled me. I pray for you and your loved ones, may God bless you throughout eternity for your sacrifice. Because of brave men & women soldiers like Eric B. Das I can put my baby to sleep every night because of our peaceful free country. He never met me or I him, yet he loved me ,my family, and all other Americans enough to give the ultimate sacrafice. God bless all the men and women her serve our country! Thank you for your service! God bless America!"
Ralph Salmon of Deltona, FL

"Captain Das and family:

I was in the Air Force from August 28 1996 to June 27, 2002. The last 2 years of my service were at Seymour Johnson AFB where I worked as a Physical Therapy Assistant in the clinic there. I was struck with a deep feeling in my stomach a while back as I was scrolling though the webpages of Honor the Fallen and Fallen Heroes to see your photo and realize we knew each other. You were one of my patients.

I remember seeing you in the clinic, pulling your card, and treating your knee with the iontophoresis (and perhaps the ultrasound as well). While I can’t recall the exact content of our conversations I do remember you left a very positive impression on me. I certainly don’t remember all my patients let alone their names (and even their treatments!) so I know that’s credence to what others have said in their comments about you and what kind of person you were.

You know, those Air Force and PT memories don’t really seem so long ago and I can’t believe it’s been over 10 years now. I feel ready, and it would seem perfectly natural to me, to walk back in the waiting room of the clinic, call your name, and start your treatment.

Thank you for your service to our country. I’m proud to have served with you and others like you. Perhaps our paths will cross again on the other side.

“Here's a toast to the host
Of those who love the vastness of the sky,
To a friend we send a message of his brother men who fly.
We drink to those who gave their all of old
Then down we roar to score the rainbow's pot of gold.
A toast to the host of men we boast, the U.S. Air Force!” - The U.S. Air Force Song
message left on 12/15/13"
David Blatt of Pittsburgh, PA

"Hey Eric, I served with you at the academy...I used to come to 6th squadron to visit our mutual friend, Phil Stewart, but I saw you often. You were the first sergeant of 6th squadron your 2nd class year. I just learned of your fate recently (09/07/2013). I want you to know that I have very fond memories of you. May you rest in peace, brother."
David Ferrari of Seattle, WA

"I wear your tattoo and bracelet everyday brother!!! I'm not a pilot but I am a retired F-16 Crew Chief. If my Pilot didn't ever come home....May he be beside God in Heaven and fly with the Angels above. Love you always brother - SSgt George Gutierrez Brother first / Maintainer 2nd!!!"
George Gutierrez of Phoenix, AZ USA

"Capt. Das,
On today, the 10th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you to you and your WSO 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

"One of the things I remember well about Eric is his strong grip. He was a pole vaulter and I was his first pole-vault coach in junior high. He was a hard worker and was very determined to learn. He also had a strong grip on life, enjoying each day and seizing on every opportunity to improve. He was a diligent student, an outstanding athlete, a courageous airman and he comes from a fine family. I will never forget our last visit. His sister Melody (who I adore for her wonderful love of others and her charming personality) told Eric that I was a principal at Austin Middle School. He came in on leave and was getting ready to leave Alaska and come back to the lower 48. He also told me that he was getting married. We visited for almost two hours and rehashed old times. I was deeply impacted when I heard the news of his final mission in Iraq one year later. Though I did not know his new bride, my heart throbbed in pain for her loss. For a family who loved him, and especially for Melody, who so admired Eric, I grieved. Time has past and such wounds heal, though the scars are still there for all who knew him. Let us never forget the sacrifice that so many have made for freedom, not only for our country but for the oppressed the world over. Eric, I will always keep you in my heart. Your are one of America's best. I visited the AF Academy in Colo. Springs to show my family your name on the wall at the chapel. You are to all of us a fallen hero, but you will never be forgotten. To Eric's family...may God bless you and be with you in all things."
Fred Rutherford of Fort Worth TX

"Boot,
I am the new "Craps" at the 90FS in Elmendorf. I just thought I should update you that the old maple bar with yours and many other Dicemen's names burned into it is back in action. A special section is reserved for you and our fallen. Your picture hangs proudly above it, and your mug will never be empty at a 90FS Roll Call. BTW if you see Bong tell him he has a mug there as well. Blue skies bro!"
Patrick Pottinger of 90FS, Elmendorf AFB

"Even after 8 years, I still miss you so very much my precious brother. You will always be my hero! I love you."
Melody Das-Neumann of Amarillo, Tx

"I was part of the 333rd FS deployed to Qatar with the 335th FS when this happened. I worked the duty desk when "Boot" stepped for his mission along with "Salty" Watkins. That was a very sad and unique day for everyone involved. Can't forget stuff like that. I hope his wife and family are in a better place with themselves now and that we remember Capt Eric Das as he was. Man, Pilot, American. To his family and the rest of the 333rd FS, cheers Boot."
Kyle Johansen of San Antonio, TX

"d comfort you and give you peace In the name of Jesus. Cynthia"
cynthia of cape coral florida

"I am so sorry about your loss he is in the loving arms of our creator may the Almighty Go comfort you and give you peace In the name of Jesus. Cynthia"
cynthia of cape coral florida

"Boot,
I just came across this link while looking at some SJAFB items. I remember first meeting you as a young student in the 334th. I was an instructor in the 333rd and was told to look you up after meeting your sister at church in Winston Salem, NC. You had just received your assignment to Elmendorf Ak to become one of the 90FS "Dicemen". I ran into you again 3yrs later in the 333rd FS. I knew you were an outstanding pilot and had the honor of flying with you multiple times teaching the future fighter pilots and WSOs of the F-15E community. As previously mentioned, you always had a smile on your face and always willing to go the extra mile to help that struggling student grasp the concept of BFM or ACM. I remember you as a young Capt going to the finals of our squadron "Top Gun" BFM competition. I can't remember if you won but was impressed with how great of an aviator you had become. I also remember on one of my final cross country trips, prior to going overseas to a Joint Staff job, my jet had broken down in San Antonio and you offered to stay behind so that I could get home for my sons' birthday. Unfortunately, the squadron didn't allow it and neither would I since you had to get back for a relatives funeral. I remember you and Nikki stopping by the house the next week to give my son a birthday present which was not expected. It is that act of compassion and kindness that you portrayed which has stuck in my heart over the years and how I will always remember you. Nikki, God bless you. We will never forget his ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
"Once a Dicemen, always a Dicemen" 90FS 95-98, 04-07.
333FS Lancers 98-03."
Maj Sleepy Floyd of Palmer, AK

"To the brave Family of Captain Eric Das,

Your family and the memory of Eric will ever remain in my prayers and in my heart.

Eric was my son Chris's friend and Bull 6 Squadron mate at USAFA.

I remember well the dawn they were pinned as Commissioned Officers and later when they proudly threw their hats in the air as the Thunderbirds flew overhead.

I remember too, with a heavy heart when the jets flew over that sacred ground at the Air Force Academy.

You were so brave that day and I know that your words touched many. Your unshakable faith at such an unbearable time is a testimony of your rock solid trust in our Lord Jesus.

Eric's life shall ever be an inspiration and Christian example of America's finest.

I thank him and all brave service men and women who have given their lives for our Freedom and Peace.

May God comfort and bless You,"
Catherine Tyler of Colorado Springs, CO/USA

"Capt. Das,
Sir, I just want to say thank you for serving our country. I came across your photo and this website while I was looking up pictures for Seymour Johnson AFB. I am an A1C currently stationed there and I'm in the Munitions Flight or AMMO as we call it. Again, thank you Sir for your and your family's sacrifce. You and every other fallen hero will not be forgotten.

A1C Brown, Cody

4 EMS/ AMMO"
Cody Brown of Seymour Johnson AFB, NC

"January 3, 2008
To the family of Capt. Eric B. Das:
Eric 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

"Nikki,
I remember that day well, I have never forgotten it. I have not forgotton Capt Das, nor Maj. Watkins. I remember his smiling face, and how happy he seemed, that he called you his bride. I remeber standing in formation for their memorial service and crying for your loss for all of our loses. I know that he is in heaven with the Lord now, that he is in the greatest place a person could ever be. I know that it was not in vain but for the fight of freedom. Thank you so much Capt Das, for everything you have done. I still miss your smiling face from the Rockets. Take care stay strong and continue the fight."
SSgt Holly Gibbs of Westerville Ohio, currently stationed with 74 ARS LIfe Support, Grissom IN, formerly with 336 FS Life Support, Seymour Johnson

"I was a life support technician for the 333rd FS, and I was also at Qatar as an augmentee with the 335FS when the tragedy occured. I just wanted to say that Capt Das was a wonderful man and it was my priveledge to have worked with him on a regular basis. In the 3 years I was in the 333FS I NEVER saw him without a smile on his face. I NEVER heard him say anything but kind words to everyone. I will never forget the sacrifice he and his family have made. God bless you all."
Ashleigh Burton of Spokane, WA

"Bulls 6 misses you Eric, the entire Cadet Wing including Group 1 and Sqaudron 6 honor you for your bravery and courage. You are an example to all cadets and members of the USAF."
Matthew of USAFA, Colorado

"Capt. Das,
Sir, I would like to say thank you to you and your WSO 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

"My Precious child, I love you! I miss you! I am so grateful to have known you and privileged to have called you my own. Thank you for your love, thank you for your edifying personality and support. We will see you in heaven. Much love! Auntie Vicki, Scott, Rachel, Emily and all who love you and have grown to know you through us."
Auntie Vicki of St Cloud, Minnesota

"Hi Nikki and Das Family - Nikki I hope you are doing well. We think of you often and hope you you are doing well. To the Das family - we did not know your son, but we attended his funeral service to thank him for his love and service to our country. We pray every day for our service men and women - both currently serving and those who have served. God Bless You for sharing your son with our country."
Charlotte and Mike McAlevey of Mission Viejo, CA

"Eric, Thank you for your sacrifice. You were a man of morals, ethics and a clear purpose. You brought many a laugh to the Wayside singles group. We have not forgotten your service to our country. We miss you. Your family is still in our prayers."
Miles and Lori Enzor of College Station, TX

""As I sat at my computer again today I popped open my CD Drive and put a CD in with the writing QATAR 2003 on it. I clicked on the icon I've been opening for these past three years named Baghdad. I sat back and watched the video once again of the wooden plaques I made for Maj Watkins and Capt Das. The only difference today from other days was that I watched it with my son of 17 months. As I held him tight I felt a since of pride. The pride you feel when you serve your country and feel your really truly doing it for a reason. That day back in 2003 when I was presented with the assignment of constructing a memorial plaque for both of these heroic men I never thought I would still be reflecting back and felling a deep since of pride. Today was the first time I did a search for these two heroic individuals and when I saw there pictures I was overcome with tears. I wanted to say thanks for doing what you did and allowing all of us to be free. I never had the chance to meet either of them while stationed in Qatar during those 9 months, at least I don't believe I did. But the days I stick that CD in and watch the video I feel as though there right with me. I have served my country for over 12 years and I continue to do so because of what these men have given up. To the family of both Maj Watkins and Capt Das, you should feel great pride of what both of these men stand for and what they mean to this country. Thanks"
Jason Kessler of Patrick AFB, FL"
Jason Kessler of Patrick AFB, FL

"A person who was always so kind to me in high school - it saddens me to hear of this news. To the Das family, words seldom can remedy a loss of a loved one, but find comfort in the fact that God has a greater plan for Eric, and you have gained an angel to watch over you."
Talese Hall of Grapevine, Texas

"This memory hits hard even today. I am at a lost for words. I was an F-15E Crew Chief assigned to the 335th Chiefs. I was unable to deploy with the Chiefs due to a PCS move to Kadena AB, scheduled for May 2003. When I received the word of what happened from a fellow crew chief deployed, I was devastated. The lost of ones life in combat is never forgotten. What hit home was the fact that I had crewed 88-1694, the F-15E lost that day, for the past 5+ years while stationed at Seymour Johnson AFB. The fact that two amazing pilots had gone into combat with this remarkable machine and did not return to base hits me still to this day. This is something I will never forget. Unfortunately I never had the honor of meeting Capt. Eric "Boot" Das, nor Maj. William R. "Salty" Watkins III. They were assigned to the 333rd Fighter Squadron. Both names will forever be with me. I want to thank the family and tell them how proud each and every one of us are for the bravery in stowed in these two men who took that plane into combat. These are two great warriors never to be forgotten."

SSgt Chad A Calahan
DCC Aircraft 88-1694
Seymour Johnson AFB
1998-2003"

"May Eric be with the "Chiefs" now and forever!
As they are still in harms way, watch over them from above with your never-ending courage, strength, and resolve. Pray that they keep the peace on "eagles wings" and watch over the ground troops with their sharp eyes and mighty talons. Help them accept willingly the commands of a higher power.
I am a spouse of the deployed "Chiefs", and as I walk by their uniforms in the Watkins-Das building here on base, I am comforted. I believe that he is still watching over the "fly boys" so that they may return safely.
Thank you for the comfort and warmth that you provide me daily.
Godspeed to Eric and his lifetime achievement...so others may sleep in peace with the hope of a brighter future.
Thank you and your family for your sacrifice for our country,
WE WILL REMEMBER!"
Amy Graham of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, Goldsboro, NC

"To all those praying and supporting,
thank you! You have now, officially, helped carry us these past three years. I am so grateful for the intercession and unending love that has been shown to me and my family. Your words of encouragement are bittersweet reminders of a precious gift gone...but most certainly not forgotten. Please continue to pray and support or troops. Thank you so much!"
Nikki (in 2006) of Alexandria, VA

"Dear Nikki
You have blessed our family in so many ways. We really wish we could have known Eric. He gave the ultimate sacrifice and we will be eternally greatful. Stay focused on the day you two meet again! We love you very much."
Melanie Hurst of Cameron, NC

"It's been just over 3 years now and you are still in my thoughts. I'm sure by now you have relaxed into the comfort of the Lord's hand. I look forward to seeing you again some day my friend."
Capt James McAlevey of Little Rock AFB, AR

"I served with Eric "Das" Boot at Mt Home and in AK.. He was a great guy, he treated everyone the way he wanted to be treated.. I am saddened by such a great loss, and will never forget his sacrifice...

BD"
Brian Davis of Fallbrook, CA

"Dear The Das Family,

To remember the fallen is something that everyone in the country should do. However, since the war has commenced, this action has been neglected by much of the country. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Das for sacrificing himself in return for freedom. This gift he has left us will forever be remembered. Although I never knew this wonderful person and I will never get the chance to, I want to let your family know that he will always be a hero in my heart and I share my condolences with you. I am a student in High School and I have always thought that to be a part of the Air Force would be an awesome experience and for Mr. Das to be a pilot for the Air Force was an amazingly courageous action. He, along with all other fallen soldiers will always be in my prayers and may God Bless your family.

- "Once a hero, always a hero"

Yours Truly,
Anita Cheng"
Anita Cheng of O'Fallon, MO

"To the Family of Eric Das,
My daughter Emma was a member of your unit at Seymour Johnson and likewise a fellow cadet at the USAFA. I served 24 years with the US Army and like most Americans grieve for every serviceman and woman lost or wounded in the defense of our nation. I write many letters to various periodicals and one that I wrote a year or so ago got a lot of comment. I have enclosed it and hope it gives you comfort.

It was a beautiful day at the cemetery of the United States Air Force Academy. I paid my respects to Capt. Eric Das, my daughter's friend and comrade in arms. His F-15 went down over Iraq along with his Wizzo in April 2003. As I approached the brass nameplate, I noticed many nickels sprinkled on the gravesite, indicating many fighter pilots had made this pilgrimage before me. I left a nickel as tribute to a gallant man who had so much to live for, but gave his all so his fellow citizens might sleep peacefully tonight. This was the second time I had come to Colorado to bring my youngest son to an institution where he will learn the ways of a warrior to defend our nation. He does so willingly knowing full well what may be asked of him. I pray God our nation still has the moral backbone to support our young men and women as they go into harm's way to stop the “wolves” running amongst us. If the “war on terror” isn't carried to the enemy then the scenes of Baghdad, Bali and Madrid will be duplicated on our streets by a merciless adversary who think we’re weak.
Philip Stanley Col. USA Ret.
Horseshoe, NC"
Philip Stanley of Horseshoe, NC

"I was an F-15E crew chief assigned to the 90th FS (1998-2002) and was deployed with Capt. Das on 2 occasions (Korea and Turkey). I am at a loss for words...only one thing comes to mind...
"I know not why God’s wondrous grace
To me he hath made known,
Nor why, unworthy, Christ in love
Redeemed me for His own."
Proud to have served with your son!"
SSgt. James Bode of Beale AFB, CA

"Eric,
Civil Engineer, pilot and Great American. You are missed by all."
Lt Col Mark Bednar, USAF of Base Camp Adder, Iraq

"Captain Eric B. Das

Adventurious
Brave
Courageous cousin
Dedicated
Excelling
Faithful
Genuine
Heroic
Intellegent
Joyful
Kind
Loving
Magnanimous
Nifty nephew
Observant
Pacesetter
Quality
Resourceful
Steadfast
Trustworthy
Unique
Valant
Wellbeloved
Xn.,
Yokemate
Zealous

July 4, 2005
Eric, We can't express our love for you. You have given your all....we continue to miss you. Thank our Heavenly Father that we will see you again. This is our greatest promise.
Love, "The H Gang", Aunt Pattee & Uncle Elroy"
Tricia Hillmann of Congress, Az.

"Sorry Das Man. All my best to your family. I sincerelly hope they are coping as well as can be. A thank you is not enough for the sacrifice you hae made, so farewell my friend. There are many on this earth who will miss your selfless presence."
Lee Adams of Audubon, NJ

"Das man,
I'll never forget ya buddy! I'll always remember having dinner with you a couple nights before the incident. Talking about your wife and my soon-to-be wife. I had not chatted with you since UPT but I am so glad we ran in to each other that evening and caught up on old times. I'll never forget you bud!I'll always pray for your family!"
Capt. Delphin Gantt F-16 Pilot of McEntire ANG Station, SC 157thFS

"Captain Das: Thank you for your sacrifice.
To the family: May your pain be somewhat lighter knowing there is a special place in heaven for Capt. Das and those like him. I am writing this because I wear a hero's bracelet with Eric's name on it. I have printed his picture and it is up in my office so I may NEVER forget."
Jan of Iowa Park Texas

"Thank you Eric for defending the freedoms we all cherish. God Bless you. From a very grateful American family."
The Shaw family of Pasadena, Maryland

"Thank you, Captain Das, for your sacrifice. May God be with you and your family. We won't forget."
Sabra Crowe of Lubbock, Tx

"To Nikki-
How beautiful that you loved so deeply, if only for a short time. Both you and Eric are true American heroes for your service to our country.

Frankfort IL"
VIckie and Kellie Burch of Frankfort, IL

"Captain Eric B. Das,
You did not know me nor did I know you. I was a classmate of yours at the United States Air Force Academy. As Freshman I was in 37th squadron and you were in the 23rd squadron. We both had similar goals, to be successfull cadet and become to become a pilot in the U.S. Air Force. I understand the tremendous effort, sacrifice, and determination you went through to graduate and ultimatly become a fighter pilot. You represent the best and the brightest I truly hope your family understands and my prayers go out to you and your family."
Alfonzo Lopez of Tucson, Arizona

"I had the honor numerous times of enjoying Capt. Das "Boot"'s contagious humor and laughter while working in the 333 AMU maintenance debrief section. Every time Capt Das flew, he'd ALWAYS come in after his sortie in a good mood, cutting jokes, and head straight for the Code-1 Laffy Taffy. I will never forget you or Lt. Col Watkins - everytime I'm near the education center on base, I go out of my way to stop in and look at your uniforms on display. You are as missed today as you were the day we'd found out you'd gone down -- somedays, even more so. Thank you for your faithful service to your country."
MSgt Gail Kristev of SJAFB, NC

"Your memory is passed down from us "old" dicemen crew chiefs to the new ones coming in. You will always be remembered, especially for treating your crew chiefs like they were human beings.
Once a Diceman Always a Diceman
Fly Code One Forver Sir
Dedicated Crew Chief
90th Aircraft Maintenance Unit"
Crew Chief of EAFB AK

"hi my name is dwayne snell id like to say thateric and william will forever be in my thoughts and heart.i did not know them but,i was fortunate to be put on the rescue and recovery mission in iraq to pick up what they left behind,at the time i was trying to put together faces of these to pilots and what kind of people the were as i was going through looking at the crash site or what made them go down. my biggest mission there was to look for a wedding ring that 1 of the pilots had that was not recovered unfortunatly we did not find it but i can sayt that we all as soldiers gave it 110pct commitment to finding it although we did find other small personal things like a bible coin dogtags and a burned up american flag that was schriveld up from the fire but was still red white and blue im sorry if i got i little deep but anyway these two pilots remain in my heart forever and i hope to tell my 2 children something about them someday god bless em both.i would like to get addresses of the families of the pilots i have a certifacate of authenticity id like to send them off a flag i donated to that was flown in there name to childrens collage fund of our fallen soldiers sailors and marines along with the airforce.my e mail is snelldwayne@yahoo.com"
dwayne snell of windsor pa 17366

"Thank you."
Kimberly Mull of Amarillo, 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, Eric, will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"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 (4/7/04)

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

"Thanks to the men of the 418th Civil Affairs Battalion that found Eric B. Das. They have still gone unrecognized for finding the remains and aircrafts of the pilots, but we in KCMO know the real truth. Thanks to all of the men and women who helped find the "missing" men. Without Major Camara and Spc Cavallo (and the Iraq men) the remains would still be buried in Iraq."
Peggy of Kansas City, MO

"Thanks to you, thanks to all those that have fallen before you and to those yet to fall...we will forever be in your debt. Thank you, also, for bringing so much joy to one of my best friends, even for the short time you shared on this earth."
Katie Lechwar of Schaumburg, IL

"Thank you Eric Das, 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

"While I don't know you or your family, my heart goes out to all of you. As an AF brat, I am deeply moved by the commitment and sacrifice made by Eric and his family both before and after his untimely death. My father was ranking NCO at SJAFB in the late 70's and part of the Avionic Maintainence Squadron.

May you find the strength to get through the days and may the knowledge that he will not be forgotten by grateful Americans help you somewhat."
Lea of Hamburg, PA

"I wish all his family and loved ones peace. I was so saddened to learn of Eric's death this Christmas day 2003. I knew Eric from AHS '91. He stands out in my memory for his kindness, humor, and sense of purpose. I regret that while in Winter Park, CO last January 2003 over MLK weekend, I swore that I saw Eric in a restaurant, but I didn't approach him. Eric, if it was you, you seemed happy. That's a nice memory to have."
Aisha Nawaz Hagen of St. Louis,MO/ Austin, TX

"To Eric's wife and family - I was shocked and saddened to learn of your great loss. I immediately prayed for the Holy Spirit to comfort you in this time. I want you to know that God purposed friendship with Eric in San Antonio to plant seeds in me that later grew into saving faith. The first time I read the inside of Das' ring I asked him "Who's Phil?" and by the time he left Texas (Del Rio), I knew Christ. He taught me how to two-step, fed me his mom's chicken pazoli (that I still make to this day) and introduced me to BSF (I'm in my 6th year). It comforts me that Eric died defending the country he loved, performing the duty he loved, but most of all, that he is now with the One he loved. God bless you. Ps 48:14"
Lisa (Gevry) Hilsden of Littleton, Colorado

"I will miss you forever Eric! I will never forget your sacrifice brother!"
Capt James McAlevey of Ramstein AB, Germany

"Our prayers and thoughts are with you in this ultimate of sacrifices"
Rick of Pensacola, FL

"As a member of the Minnesota Army National Guard for the past 25 years.15 of those in the field of aircraft maintenance. And as a fellow American. My heart and prayers go out to all the Military men and women who have gone before me and to those who have paid the ultimate price.For Eric, his family and Friends. I wish you peace, One love, and may God keep and bless you. Thank you."
SSG. Rory Chavez of St. Paul , MN.

"Boot, it was an honor to serve with you at Elmendorf. Your sacrifice to protect our way of life against those who threaten it deserves our nation's gratitude. God bless you and your family.

Once a Diceman, always a Diceman."
Major Duncan Stewart of US Air Force Academy, Colorado

"Eric - I loved you like a brother. I will never forget you! Nic - I pray that God will continue to give you strength. Always remember how much Eric loves you."
Janice Gagnon of Goldsboro NC

"As an Iraqi-American I salute you and thank you. Its individuals like Eric that remind us how precious freedom is and what a terrible price it carries.

May God rest his soul in eternal peace."
Mazin Enwiya of Chicago, IL

"war is an ugly thing, but not the ugliest of things. the decayed and degraded state of moral and patriotic feeling which thinks that nothing is worth war is much worse. a man who has nothing for which he is willing to fight-nothing he cares about more than his own safety-is a miserable creature who has no chance of being free, unless made and kept so by the exertions of better men than himself. john stuart mill
later rather than sooner dasman, can't wait to see you again."
jesko of amarillo, tx

"We will always remember Eric as our friend and neighbor, We love Eric and Nikki, and will not let Eric be forgotten. A true Hero."
The Marchant's of Anchorage, Alaska, USA

"I am truly sorry for your loss. May God Bless our World. I have read articles on Eric and he was truly a fine person, God be with your family, he has made the ultimate sacrafice and that is never easy for those that are left behind."
Zenda R. Eby (Aunt to 1st Lt. Therrel Shane Childers USMC) of Lubbock, Tx

"My thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of Eric Das. May God give you strength and peace during these times. It has really made me aware of what it takes to live in such a free country. Thank you for your sacrifice."
Terri Curtis of Green Forest, Arkansas

"We thank you for the sacrifice Eric made for us. Our prayers are with your family during this time. Thank you Eric, for your sacrifice and courage. May God always keep you in His care."
Ken and Maritza Holley of Pembroke Pines, Florida

"To the family and friends of Capt. Eric Das:
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 Eric 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 Capt. Eric Das:
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 Eric, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera, of Powder Springs, Georgia

"Capt Das. You are flying on a special mission now with the Lord and the Angels above. We shall never forget you. God Bless your loved ones."
The Taylors, USMC of NC