Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Marc,

You were the first friend I made when I transferred to our high school. It was the worst time of my life and I felt more alone than I ever have. I’ve thought about writing to you for years and have thought about you more often than I can count. You were the first person to make me smile in a long time and an amazing friend, no matter what happened. You made more of an impact to my life than you will ever know. I cry and mourn for you every time I think about you. I still don’t have the right words to say, but thank you with all of my heart are some of them. I hope you are looking down from heaven and know how much you are loved and missed."
Amanda of Tampa, Florida

"Marc,
I think about you so much, but especially this time of year. Not a single Thanksgiving has passed that I don't spend my day thinking about you. You were an amazing person and truly someone with a spirit I admire. I will never forget the memories I have of you!"
Melissa C of Tampa, FL

"Marc,

As the 4th of July draws closer I remember the good times we shared in basic training, the bad times, I always remember your strength in spirit and body. I always remember your sense of humor. Now that nearly six years has gone by since the day you were taken from us it now dawns on me on what this holiday is about. It's not just about honoring our freedom, but the men and women who sacrificed their lives for the freedom that so many take for granted. Marc, you are still deeply missed my dear friend. I still cry around Thanksgiving. Remembering your strength of character and amazing courage. Marc was a son, a brother, a friend, a listener, a warrior, a Dragonslayer, and will for ever be...a hero."
Lucas Centeno of Chicago, Illinois

"It has been four years since the day Marc was taken and yet the wound still feels fresh in my heart. His bright spirit and funny personality will always be in my memories when the world becomes dark and cold. I knew him when we were in basic training together. Marc you are and will forever be missed. My comrade and brother in arms. God bless you and may the light and joy of your memory and sacrifice be an inspiration to us all. We Love you Marc."
Lucas Centeno of Chicago/Illinois

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry at times. I understand, in theory only, that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take your families and friends 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
A hundred times a day, I remind myself that my inner and outer life depends on the labors of other men, living and dead, and I must exert myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received and am receiving. - Albert Einstein"
Scott E. Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"November 9, 2008
To the family of Spc. Marc A. Delgado:
Marc 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

"The Third Floor
All generations unfold,
and time seems to stand still,
as it waits for another fallen soldier
up here on the third floor.
For some life just seems to fade away slowly,
while others just slip away in a moment.
Then there are those who are fortunate to go home,
and those who have made this their home
up here on the third floor.
And yet!
We also see comrades,
Even if their paths cross for the first time,
Prove that the bond which only soldiers share,
Can still hold strong
Up here on the third floor.
Then when we see in amazement,
an aged unfortunate soldier,
appreciate his life,
and then feel bad for those who are less fortunate.
We cannot compare ourselves,
for the true meaning of a soldier's heart
is deeply shown
up here on the third floor.
When we see these fighting soldiers
set aside their dignity,
Accept the help they need,
without the feeling of defeat,
they define the true meaning of a soldier's inner strength
up here on the third floor.
When an almost helpless soldier who just seems to shine
throws a glowing smile your way,
it is meant for you to catch.
If you catch it with your heart,
You are beyond blessed,
For this is a true gesture of one's pride given to you,
From someone so very special
Up here on the third floor.
Even now when age and health issues are catching
Up to these brave soldiers,
and they share unbelievable stories with us about
past experiences,
we cannot help but have deep emotions of respect.
For they show us the true meaning of courage
then and now.
Up here on the third floor.
We see fully aware but cannot move,
we see some staring into space,
we see some who are just ready to go.
We see some who are just function with routine,
and those who really don't know what's next.
We see those who are terminal, but enjoy each day they have.
We see those who just deal with the situation,
we see those who display how proud they are of themselves,
we see those who seem happy all the time
and those who, plain and simple, love seeing others has fun.
We see all sorts,
so we shall continue to serve them,
as we are honored and proud
to be part of their lives
up here on the third floor.
When we are with these wounded soldiers day after day,
and share kind caring moments together,
we develop so many small relationships,
So many different relationships,
for these times are treasured.
We hope and look forward to having another moment with them
up here on the third floor.
Sometimes we will see soldiers that are very concerned
about themselves while hanging onto the new day they have.
They really do not want to be alone,
so they reach out to others.
If we are paying attention,
This should remind us how being close to the ones we love
Is so very important,
For no one really wants to be alone,
Not even
Up here on the third floor.
Once in awhile we have the privilege of meeting that
Remarkable soldier,
who through his cheerful good nature and
Endless unconditional thoughtfulness toward others
seems to capture our attention and
throughout the entire hospital,
Brings contentment and joy to everyone he encounters
up and beyond the third floor.
When we see those who pass on,
our hearts glorify them for their bravery and commitment,
they gave for our freedom.
So with faith and hope we pray that they, themselves,
Find freedom in heaven, after leaving
the third floor. Amen."
SFC OTERO of FLORIDA

"To the family of: Marc A Delgado 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"

"marc you where like a brother.. i am glad i met you... the game of football will never be the same with out you"
stephen stone of mulberry

"Marc-
This is my second message to you, I'm just hoping that SOMEHOW you can know what this says, or can see it from up there on that cloud you are sitting on. I know I'm gonna come face to face with one of these people sooner or later, and I just want you to be on my shoulder helping me to do the right thing. I found out that there are people who will show up at hospitals and military funerals with signs that read "Thank god for IED's" and sh*t like that. I don't know if I'm going to be able to not go after them... I won't be able to think about anything else besides you and SSG Reynolds. I miss you, if I could find a way to bring you back man, I would."
Marissa of Silver Spring, MD

"Marc~ I will never know why I made it out and you didn't. All I know is that I fall asleep every single night wondering if there was something I could do and if I could have stopped it. There is not a part of me that doesn't want you back here on this earth to give me s**t like you used to. I know everybody tells me not to blame myself but I can't help it. I was up there to keep you guys safe and I didn't or couldn't do it. I miss you man, there isn't a day that goes by without thoughts of you and SSG Reynolds on my mind. When I get out of the hospital I am coming down to see you to drink a beer and smoke a ciggarette ok? I miss you man."
PFC Marissa Strock of Washington, D.C.

"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.
Our nations HERO, Marc will be remembered by name.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pat & Sandi Breckenridge / Montana God Bless you ALWAYS. "

"To the Delgado Family, I am so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Your Marc is a true American Hero who will always be remembered and honored. May God Bless you all and God Bless you Marc."
Mary Ghaney of Brooklyn, New York

"If tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not here to see,
if the sun should rise to find your eyes are filled with tears for me;
I hope you will not cry the way you might that day,
just thinking of the many things we didn't get to say.
I know how much you love me and you know that I love you,
and each time that you'd think of me, please know I'd miss you too;

If tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand,
that an angel came and called my name, and took me by the hand.
The angel said my place was ready, in heaven far above,
and that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love.
But as I turned to walk away, a tear fell from my eye
for all my life, I'd always thought, that I would never die.
I have so much to live for, so much left yet to do,
it seems almost impossible, that I'd be leaving you.

I thought of all the yesterdays, the good ones and the bad,
the thought of all the love we shared, and all the fun we had.
But then I walked through heaven's gates, and felt so much at home.
When God looked down and smiled at me, from His great golden throne,
He said, "This is eternity, and all I've promised you,
today your life on earth is past, but here life starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last,
and since each day's the same, there's no longing for the past.
You have been so faithful, so trusting and so true.
though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do.
But you have been forgiven and now at last you're free.
So won't you come and take my hand and live in peace with me?"

So if tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far apart,
for every time you think of me, I'll be there in your heart.
Author David M. Romano

Gone – but not forgotten.
Thank you for sharing your loved one with us,
and for the sacrifice made by you and your family on our behalf.
Proud mom of Lcpl Alex. Currently serving in Iraq"
Patricia of Bishop, CA

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

"THANK YOU MARC FOR BEING A MILITARY BROTHER TO OUR SON. AS I ASSURE YOU HE FELT OF YOU. OUR FAMILY DEEPLY SADDEN BY THE NEWS. LIKE LSOING ANOTHER SON. SOMETHING YOU ARE TOGETHER AND NEVER KNEW ANOTHER. STILL IT'S A COMFORT YOUR TOGETHER WITH ALL YOU FALLEN BROTHER'S AND SISTER'S. YOU ARE SOMEONE'S SOMEON AND SOMEONE TO OUR FAMILY. AS I HOPE YOU ARE TO EVERY AMERICAN. AFTER ALL YOU UNSELFISHLY; RISKED EVERYTHING FOR US ALL. AMERICA IS ALOT SAFER SINCE 911! AN THE PEOPLE OF IRAQ GIVEN HOPE TO LIVE IN PEACE. YOU PLAYED A ROLE IN ALL THIS MARC. YOU HAVE TOUCHED MANY MANY HEARTS. ALL REMEMBERING THOSE PRECIOUS MOMENTS SHARED WITH YOU. I PRAY THAT YOU REST AND YOUR FAMILY HEALS. GOD BLESS!"
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"Im gonna miss you Marc. Thanks for being such a good friend to me. See you later."

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