Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Remembering Our Nate.. ❤️"
Walt and Debbie of Fallsington

"Still missing you baby brother. God has his reasons; I have to accept that and be thankful for the time I was allotted with you. Till I cross over, keep watching over us. It is 2023 and I still break down in tears at times over you all."
Reginald A Green of Carlisle

"We will remember "Our Nate" for the rest of our lives. Please watch over all of us Nate, Thank you for your service, We Love You."
Walt and Debbie of Fallsington, Pa

"Thinking of you on this day as well as many others."
MB

"Today, my son Harry Weissberger, won the Nate Detample Outstanding Citizenship Award at Eleanor Roosevelt. I spoke to Harry at great length about Nate (the life he led and the sacrifice he made). Harry will continue to live his life with honesty, hard work and good citizenship. He will carry forth this message. God bless the Detample family."
Keri Weissberger of Morrisville, PA 19067

"My son wrestled with you Nate. Now tonight 2 of my grand children get to wrestle for the first time. Because of your sacrifice we have our freedom! Thank you Detample family"
Bramwell of Fairless Hills

"A picture still hangs on the fridge in my parent's kitchen of Nate and me the night he earned his Eagle Scout.We were just two young kids at the time with big toothy smiles. Our arms are wrapped around each others shoulders and our faces exuded a type of young innocence that's been lost in passing years. Every time I'm over to visit I see that picture and I'm reminded of the friendship I shared with Nate for so many years. Nate was the bravest young man I ever knew and its a shame that men like him tend not to stay around on this world longer.

You'll always be remembered, Nate. How could you not be?"
McGair Valois of Willow Grove, PA, USA

"You were gone way too soon.. I remember the morning I heard the news. You had only been deployed a few months. Ill never forget seeing your face on occasion and having small talk with you. Thank you for your courage and fighting for our freedom. May peace be with your wonderful family. Youll forever be missed."
Gretchen Rudloff of Yardley Pa. Us

"Damn man still feels like yesterday, I miss you I cant remember how many times you made me laugh in wrestling practice and how many times you drug me around the mat. You are my hero. Gone but never forgotten RIP brother"
George Redner of Tullytown PA

"Today 05-30-11 we say THANK YOU to Nate. Also we send our love to Nate's family. We keep Nate's picture on our refrigerator so all can remember the sacrifice he made."
Buskett Family of Trenton NJ

"our family's hero.... rest in peace Nate. You're always in our thoughts!"
Vagnozzi family of Morrisville, Pa

"Today, 5/2/11, I'm thinking of you! You were stolen from the world and justice is finally being served. I truly believe you are smiling down on all of us!"

"It's hard to believe 8 years ago Nate and I were sweating it out together at Ft. Benning, GA...

6 years now after your IED, everytime I see the flag or hear the anthem, my salute goes up or hat comes off to you, buddy.

Always will."
Nate Hartenbach of Charlotte, NC

"From the fog... I only recently became aware of that last patrol. He will not be forgotten. Nor will his brothers in arms."
Gerard Bessenaire of Middletown, CT

"Dear Detample Family,
Four years ago I chose at random the name of a serviceman from a long list of those who gave their lives in Iraq. I wanted to know and carry with me the memory of who that person was, where he was from, what he was like. That man was your son, and although I never knew him personally, I think of him often and his name will always be with me. I too have a son who is currently 19 and my thoughts are with you on this day.
5/31/10"
Mark Brown of Webster,NY

"I still think of you every day Nate. I'll never forget drilling with you and you showing up to PT with a pirate hat on."
Bill of Fort Wainwright, Alaska

"Dear DeTample famly,

I went to school with Nate for his last 2 years of high school and I still remember the kind of person he was and the impact he had on me. I have since highschool joined the Army in 2007. As I prepare to deploy very soon I will use him as strength and will remember him always. I will always hold his memory close to me, he is a hero. Essayons."
PFC Correia of Ft Stewart, GA

"My son went to high school with Nate's brother, and lived on the same street for many years. I never had the honor of meeting Nate but his sacrifice has touched our family very deeply. Time passes but I still think of the man who looked like a little boy, and Nate's Mother and want her to know that we will never forget Nate, or his sacrifice. I have made a donation in Nate's memory to the MS City to Shore 2009 75 mile Bike Ride. I will ride those 75 miles with the Detample family in my heart on October 3rd."
Patty Huff of Holland, PA,

"To the family of Nathaniel Detample, Your son has had a hugh impact on my life and yet I have never met him. My Son Eddie Lipinski was Nat friend in school and graduated with him. Ed is now serving in Iraq and before he left He gave me all the articles that were printed about Nat and what a hero he is and he wanted to be like him. Thank you for making a perfect hero and hopefully ed will get to write on this site as well. I don't know know your angel but I bless him daily with my prayers."
Christine of Levittown, PA

"July 1, 2008
To the family of Pfc. Nathaniel E. Detample:
Nathaniel 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

"I also went to school with nate and graduated in 2004 with him. Nate was a small guy, but had the courage of a lion. He did what many of us wont do and fought for our country. His life has impacted many and he will never be forgotten. My prayers and thoughts go out to him and his family. Rest peacefully my friend."
Anthony Barrett of Morrisville,PA

"Nate Detemple was a great inspiration..
My brother Ryan was bestfriends with him.. Theres not one day that goes by that the robertson family doesnt think of him ....Nate will NEVER be forgotten!=[ R.I.P"
Chloe Robertson of levittown, pennsylvania

"Thank you so much for doing what you do. I have a son who will turn 20 in March of 2007. I never dreamed when he was born that he could be so far away. I admire what all of these young men and women are doing for our country. God bless them for their sacrafice. Thank you is not enough."
Karen of O'fallon,Missouri

"Nate touched so many people so deeply- he will never be forgotten. I did not know him, but what I have just read about him has struck me deeply. May he rest in peace and may his family find strength to carry on. 11/28/2006"
sheila

"Nate, I didn't know you but my brother had worked with you. He is a very quiet person and he has difficulty making friends but he would come home from work and tell my mom about the funny things you would do during your shifts together. He was devastated when he learned of you death and could not believe it. My brother does not show emotion but when I would see him in the house after your death, he was so depressed. You had such a large impact on him that it has ended up affecting my life. You were obviously a great person if my brother had been so affected by your death that I feel in a way I had known you as well. I take time on the anniversary of your death every month to remember you and pray for you, your family and all those affected by this war. Thank you for bringing a smile to my brother's face when you had worked together and thank you for being his friend. RIP and God Bless you and your family."
A grateful sister of PA

"DeTample family: Please know that we think of Nate every day - especially today on Veterans Day. Your son and brother had a lasting impact on so many in the short time he was here - you should know that he continues as an inspiration. We are proud to live as neighbors and friends here on "Nate's Way". Your message of forgiveness is not forgotten and resonates still as a remarkable demonstration of faith and love. Nate would be proud of the strength and faith of his family - he is missed by many and will never be forgotten. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you always."
The Lubeys of Penns Grant, Morrisville, PA

"To the family of:Nathaniel E. Detample 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"

"It is now Easter 2006, but we are not fogetting a wonderful young man, Nate. My daughter and I took flowers to Nate's resting place in respect to him. American flags and flowers are placed all around him to show honor and love for this young man. My prayers are always with Nate. Every time I see a young man or woman in uniform or know that they are pursuing the military - I show my pride as an American by shaking their hand in gratitude. Nate came from a wonderful loving family. My prayers are always with them to get through this difficult time of sorrow."
Stich Family of Morrisville, PA

"I had the privelage of working with Nate at Ockanickon Scout Reservation several years back. I will always remember him doing push-ups and sit-ups in the heat of summer to prepare for the upcoming wrestling season. I think some of his military ambitions rubbed off on me- I am now in the Army Reserves. America lost a true soldier and a righteous person in Nate. I will never forget his sacrifice, and keep him in my thoughts forever. Nate had a positive impact on many people during his short life- let this continue today through remembrance. Nate, RIP."
John Geracitano of Tabernacle, NJ

"I graduated Pennsbury in 2005 and my sister graduated with Nate in 2004. I knew Nate from class and he was gung ho about everything including his military service. The DeTample family will be in my thoughts and prayers for the ultimate sacrifice their son made for his country. Thank you and God bless."
Chris Crook of Yardley, PA

"My brother, SPC Charles Fassano, met Nate through the National Guard. They became close during their training and time spent in Iraq together. They were "Battle Buddies". Chuck, (my brother) spoke only good things of Nate, and was devastated after losing his good friend. I wish I had the chance to meet this wonderful young man my brother thought so highly of. My thoughts are with you guys. Rest In Peace, Nate."
Linda Fassano of Philadelphia, PA

"My daughter goes to Shippensburg and was on Nates floor in Naugle, your son is such an inspiration and a fine example for people his own age and older. HIs courage is what gives the rest of us our freedom and I think we really forget that sometimes, and take out freedom for granted. You should be so proud of the son you raised. I don't know if I could be so strong."
Naugle parent

"Nate i will never Forget you. its going to be hard with out you hear allways looking out for me. I looked up to you so much as my older brother. I am going to miss all those good time wrestling with you in the living room floor. I still cant belive you are gone , i miss u so much, love you bro"
Staten Detample Yonger brother to Nate of statex87@aol.com

"I graduated in 2005, and my brother graduated with Nate in 2004. We both knew that awesome kid named Nate DeTample. The kid who was not embarrassed to go up to his mom, Mrs. DeTample and give her a hug and a kiss even if it was infront of people. That right there, is truely a loving son any mother deserves to have. I saw Nate the day before he was finding out whether he would be shipping out to Iraq. And he told us to not worry, because he would be coming home. Nate was the example of a well brought up kid. Such mannered and so polite. Not a day goes by that I do not think about Nate and the impact he has made on all of our lives. You will certainly be missed. We love you Nate. Thank you for fighting for our country."
Chaslin (05), Trey (04)-The Hultquist Family of Yardley, PA

"I am an infantry paratrooper based out of Ft. Bragg NC. I served in FOB Summerall outside of Bayji Iraq from Nov 2004 to Oct 2005, I recently left Summerall to prepare to return home. I remember that night very well. I served with A co 111th on numerous raids and patroles and made friends with many of the soldiers of A co. I did not know Nathaniel by name but by face and served with him on several raids and patroles. I can only give my heart felt sorrow to the family of PFC Nathaniel E. Detample. I know this though, we who survive the brave heros lost fighting in Bayji will all be brothers for life. We served together, we fought side by side, we fought for each other. I atleast know now that Nathaniel is watching over his family from up above and he will never be forgotten. Never be forgotten.
Spc Robert S. Herring
F Co 51st Inf LRS 519th MI BN 525th MI BG Ft. Bragg NC
rshfl75th@aol.com"
Robert Herring of Longwood Florida

"Detample Family,
I truly can say that your son has made a lasting impression on me. He truly was a hero and there is not a day that goes by that I do not think of him. He will always be in my heart as will your family... I miss you nate"
Sara Ivey of Levittown

"Mr/Mrs Detemple, again I want can not begin to tell you, I know how you feel. I do not not. I can tell you of the wonderful job you did with "BABY BOY"!! You are to be commended on that his life was a tribute to that he left his mark in a positive way. He will remain forever in my memory as well has others. Thank you for your gift to this world and our lives."
111 Green of Philadelphia, Pa

"I am Truly sorry for your loss. I know the pain that comes from the loss. Our son Mike March 7, 2005 Ramadi. They are heroes & our family will never forget. Our thoughts & prayers are with you."
Tina Franklin, Mike's Mom of Coudersport, PA, USA

"To the family and friends of Nathaniel, I am so sorry for you loss Nathaniel is a true hero and will never be forgotten. Our family shares in your sorrow. We lost my brother SPC Shawn Davies 7-8-04. May God be with you during your time of sorrow. You will meet with Nathaniel again."
Toni Peters (toniannp@sbcglobal.net) of Concord, OH

"i miss you nate. phonebooth is ours. you'll always be my best friend"
dan vagnozzi of west point, NY USA

"Nate I can't believe your gone. You were deff. the nicest person I ever met. I loved our long talks about us both wanting to become police officers. I am entering the police acadamy in May, and everything I do will be in your honor! I miss you but I know your watching down. I'm praying for your family. PHS Class of 2004 misses you! *gone but never forgotten*"
Sarah Bray of Yardley, PA

"So much to say, but not enough words to describe how saddened everyone is to here of this tragic loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to the DeTample family."
Jess Porter, 2003 PHS Graduate of Yardley, Pa

"Nate was a fine young man and was proud to serve his country. He always had a smile on his face. People who did not even know him have a place in their hearts for him. What an honor for Nate to have so many people lined up along streets and highways to say goodbye to him. They waved flags along the route and held their hands over their hearts. Nate is a hero. Our prayers are with him and his family."
Stich Family of Morrisville, PA

"I'm very sorry for your loss. 19 is too young.. this war is mad."
desBarres of Miami, FL

"nate i love you!!!! you were such an amazing older brother!!!!!! you inspired me in may ways!!!!!! i have so many memories of us that i will never forget!!!nate i will miss you soo much!!!!!!! Love you!!!!!!!!! R.I.P"
Vicky DeTample nate litle sister!!!!! of morrisville PA

"Not many people have the privilege to say that they have met a hero, but I can and I have. It was an honor to know Nate. Everyone who knew him could tell you that his courage and wisdom exceeded his age. May we never forget his tell-tale smile and his never ending humor. We have lost a hero, and we have gained an angel. Thank you Nate, for your bravery. It will never be forgotten. May you rest in peace and honor."
A co-worker of pa

"We are deeply sorry for your loss. The Courage, Honor, and Valor that your
Hero showed will always be remembered.
We are grateful for the loyal service and sacrifice that was made and
WE WILL NEVER FORGET.
Our cousin LCPL Michael Smith Jr. gave his life on 4-17-04 fighting for freedom.
Please know that this was not in vain and these American Heros will FOREVER be honored.
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

"Nate you were a great friend all throughout high school. You always kept my head up and always made me laugh. You were a tough little guy with a heart bigger than imaginable. IM SO PROUD OF YOU> so long friend....Ill never forget you........class of 04"
Matthew Brown of Fairless Hills Pa

"ARMY PFC NATHANIEL E. DETAMPLE
You are an American Hero whose ultimate sacrifice will not be forgotten by a grateful nation. Rest well brave soldier.
Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Nathaniel and may memories comfort you during this most difficult time and always.
AMERICA SALUTES ARMY PFC NATHANIEL E. DETAMPLE"
Brad & Dorothy Burt of Portsmouth, RI

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

"Thank you Nathaniel Detample, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios

"To the family and friends of Pfc. Nathaniel Detample:
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 Nathaniel for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of Pfc. Nathaniel Detample:
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 Nathaniel, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia