Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"16 years. Still feels like yesterday. Love you & miss you every single day."
RD of NJ

"Go bless you.It has been 10 years.Still feels yesterday sometimes.I wish you family the best."
john of LaGrange ky

"Thank you to those that have posted that were there in Iraq trying to aid Chris and the others when they were fallen. Your efforts are also admirable and appreciated. Tomorrow will mark 11 years since that fateful day. Time seems to standstill when I think about that day. Some holes in your heart do not heal. I miss Chris each and every day and I hope and pray he looks over us all. Chris was loved by so many and we were fortunate to know his laughter and antics. He was larger than life sometimes."
Aunt Sandy of Point Pleasant, NJ

"I was the squad leader of the MP unit that responded to this ambush. I think of Spc Duffy often and I am thankful for his sacrifice. I didn't know chris personally but from all the wonderful comments on here I wish I had."
Nathan Bellairs of Ewa Beach, HI

"I was the squad leader of the unit that first responded to this ambush. I think of Spc Duffy often and I am thankful for his sacrifice."
Nathan Bellairs of Ewa Beach, HI

"I think about what happened those days often and won't ever forget. RIP Chris, Humberto, Ryan and Frank. Charlie Company 759 forever."
Matt (IraqiMan) Smith of New Jersey

"Veteran's Day 2014
10 years..
xo Chris"
Kellie M

"I don't think there's any need to do., Buy Phen375, clxmuw, Phen375 User Reviews, 05130, Phen375 Reviews, >:-DD,"
Dnkvwrdr

"Christopher..thankyou for your smiles..thankyou for your laughter..thankyou for your hugs.. thankyou for your service and your patriotism..you will never ever be forgotten!"
Kellie M

"Chris,

I think of you so much! Through the years, you and your family have been in my thoughts and prayers. You were such a big part of my life! I will always remember you and all the laughs we had together! I will always love you!!!!"
April Massimini of Burlington,NJ

"Hi Chris,
I'm sorry that I never expressed my gratitude to you here before or my extreme condolences to your family... But thank you. I was sitting here tonight thinking about the 3 guys from Oregon that my company lost that day and I never knew until now, almost 8 years later...who it was that my guys went to help. I cannot even believe it has been nearly 8 years, it still feels like yesterday for me. I was the combat medic with 1st platoon D Co 2-162 INF on QRF that day. I remember hearing our guys calling in on the radio as they were rushing in to help, and then their calls for help, as the next set of IEDs went off. June 4th still haunts my memories to this day and is the saddest day in my life. I am not sure if your family was ever told, but we did catch the guys who did this to you, Carvill and my 3 guys and maybe they can take peace in that.
Anyways, I just wanted to say thank you to you and your family for your ultimate sacrifice. You will always be remembered by those who love and served with you.
kenny_bowman@ymail.com"
Sgt Kenny Bowman 1st Plt medic 2/162 of Portland, OR-Nashville, TN

"Its been years now since you have fallen, I still remember you and the others lost that day. I have all of your names Tattooed on my arm in memorial, I just keep thinking it could have been me. A night does not go by when I do not remember that place. I know you are in heaven with Carvill, Timoteo, and Doltz just waiting for the rest of us. I look forward to the day we meet again."
Soldier 3/112 FA of NJ

"To the family of:Christopher M.Duffy
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"2-12-11"

"On this Veterans Day, my heart is filled with thoughts of you. Thank you for the memories and thank you for the blessings you gave and still give to all of us."
Aunt Kellie

"Dear Chris,
It is hard to believe that it has been 6 years since we lost you in Iraq. You are missed, loved and spoken of often. How I wish so much you were still here... to see how grown your son is, to see how proud of Casey you would be, to be a constant support for them and Rachel and Damian, to see what grown men Alex and Ryan are, for so many reasons...... My heart still aches that you are gone. You are our hero, gone but never forgotten."
Aunt Sandy of Point Pleasant, NJ

"I was trying to find other spc duffys when I found this page. I am sorry to see that he has fallen. I wish his family the best and thank Christopher M. Duffy for his sacrifice."
spc charles duffy of killeen texas usa

"I was actually looking up my good friend Shane Duffy when I found your name. You two are the only Duffy's to have died so far in this war. Stranger thing is that you both died on the same day, June 4th, but 4 years apart. God bless."

"Chris,
I've been thinking of you the past couple weeks. Thank you for always setting the best example you could in the Brick Teen Alliance, you made my job much easier and so much more fun with your great sense of humor. You were a born leader with incredible integrity."
Alysa Fornarotto of Brick, NJ

"May god bless you all and lots of love from the UK"
Nigel (Cruise Critic) of Peterborough England

"November 2008: It is just before Thanksgiving and I am thinking of the time we all wore our Hawaiian Shirts for dinner on Thanksgiving and I made us all sit at the table for a photo with the turkey and all the trimmings. It was so funny. Also, the time when you were in charge of the mashed potatoes on Thanksgiving when I was working and you burnt them. Of course denying that they were burnt the entire time you were eating them... all to convince us. LOL. Chris I love and miss you so much. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of you. I look at your photo every day and ask for your strength as life goes on without you."
Aunt Sandy of Point Pleasant

"chris, I see your face everyday on my fridge,as well as your beautiful son's. I always look forward to seeing Ryan and Casey when I visit N.J. Your Aunt Sandy speaks of you often,as do the Popiel's down the street.We all miss you,and are so proud to have had you as a part of our lives. One of my favorite memories is the Halloween party at the lodge (boy scout ).Thanks to you and the vanilla vodka flask, I avoided clean up duty. I will always remember you,and the sacrifice you made. Love and miss you,(Aunt) Patti"
patti popiel of titusville fl

"I miss you, always.

Love,
Ham"
Amber of Panama City, FL USA

"8-3-08
Happy Birthday bro..you'd be 31 today..
Last week Linden Ave was memorialized in your honor//Spc. Christopher M. Duffy Way..Now your really KING OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD lol
I love you and miss you.


We do not need a special day
To bring you to our minds.
The days we do not think of you
Are very hard to find.

Each morning when we awake,
We know that you are gone.
And no one knows the heartache
As we try to carry on.

Our hearts still ache with sadness
And secret tears still flow.
What it meant to lose you
No one will ever know.

Our thoughts are always with you,
Your place no one can fill.
In life we loved you dearly;
In death we love you still,

There will always be a heartache,
And often a silent tear.
But always a precious memory
Of the days when you were here.

If tears could make a staircase,
And heartaches make a lane,
We'd walk the path to heaven
And bring you home again.

We hold you close within our hearts;
And there you will remain,
To walk with us throughout our lives
Until we meet again.

Our family chain is broken now,
And nothing seems the same,
But as God calls us one by one,
The chain will link again.
~ Author unknown~"
Rachel of Jackson, nj

"Chris,
I was thinking of you all day today and just needed to say how much I miss you and love you. You're in my heart every day and there's not a day that goes by that I don't think of you. I LOVE DUFFY!"
K.S. of Brick, NJ

"Chris
As I think about you today and every day.I would like to thank you for all you have given us.I just got done watching the Yankee game and all the time thinking of you. Miss you more then words can express. love you."
J.R. of Brick, N.J.

"Chris,
Today in June 4 2008 and I can still hear you say to me that I can't make that game winning shot at The Park. Well, I can only wish that someday I get another chance to make that shot and that You will be trying to block it. I miss you and will never forget you. Drum Point Park forever"
Bob Brenner of Point Pleasant NJ USA

"May 31, 2008
To the family of Spc. Christopher M. Duffy:
Christopher 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

"happy memorial day bro"
SPC Heintz

"Happy Memorial Day to my beloved nephew. Your son rode proudly in the parade yesterday in your honor. We salute you and all those who serve."
Aunt Sandy of Point Pleasant

"Hey bro what's happening. Hope all is well up there. Just want to let you know I re-inlisted and went active duty infantry this time and am stationed out in ft. hood tx. We got our orders to go to iraq and i leave jun 13. My son was just born and my wife and I are a little nervous about everything. Watch over me there brother and guide me and give me a steady hand so that i bring truth and justice to that evil place. I want nothing more than just resolution and results in that country for the ultimate sacrifice you made. Not a day goes by where i don't think about you. Hope the family is well and doing good. But I miss ya don't forget that and I'll write to ya while im there.

Spc. Heintz
11B
A Co. 2/12 Cav
4BCT 1CD
Ft.Hood Tx"

"Wherever I am you'll always be.
More than just a memory."
Amber of Panama City, FL USA

"My adopted nephew,
If you only knew how you touched your "cousins". I mean all of them, not just Alex and Ryan. You meant so much to all of them. They talk and laugh about you often. The memories that you gave them will stay with them for their entire lives. They in turn hope to give baby Ryan the same. You left us way too soon, but please know that you are in all our hearts."
Cindy of Pt. Pleasant, NJ

"My Dearest Nephew,

Another Christmas has gone by and you are not here. I miss you more than words can say, the sorrow I feel will never go away. Our lives will never be the same without you. I hope you are watching out over us. You are loved, missed and spoken about often. Much love."
Aunt Sandy of Point Pleasant

"We Love Duffy,
Chris I will never forget you. you filled my childhood with so man memories, memories that I will carry throughout my entire life. From the fish-hook to the deadly snowballs that were thrown, you will always be in my heart. Baby Ryan is absolutely beautiful, I and all of the family love him so very much. His beautiful face sits on my desk at school where I can always see is intoxicating smile...Duffy is always in my heart"
Travis of Point Pleasant, NJ

"To the Duffy Family,

My name is Kenneth J. Williams and I served with Chris. He will always be to me a symbol of what a Soldier is and needs to be, as well as, a symbol of a great father. He loved his wife and kids and spoke of them often. I had the pleasure of playing basketball with him plenty of times (not winning much). He will always be in my mind and a hero in my house hold. My kids and their kids will know who he was and what he fought for."
SGT Kenneth J. Williams of USA

"Duffy, Today and every day I think of you and thank you for everything you have done for all of us. I LOVE DUFFY."
J.R. of Brick, N.J.

"I hear people saying we don't need this war
I say there's some things worth fighting for
What about our freedom and this piece of ground?
We didn't get to keep 'em by backing down
They say we don't realize the mess we're getting in
Before you start preaching
Let me ask you this my friend

CHORUS 1
Have you forgotten how it felt that day
To see your homeland under fire
And her people blown away?
Have you forgotten when those towers fell?
We had neighbors still inside
Going through a living hell
And you say we shouldn't worry 'bout Bin Laden
Have you forgotten?

They took all the footage off my T.V.
Said it's too disturbing for you and me
It'll just breed anger that's what the experts say
If it was up to me I'd show it every day
Some say this country's just out looking for a fight
After 9/11 man I'd have to say that's right

CHORUS 1
Have you forgotten how it felt that day
To see your homeland under fire
And her people blown away?
Have you forgotten when those towers fell?
We had neighbors still inside
Going through a living hell
And we vowed to get the ones behind Bin Laden
Have you forgotten?

I've been there with the soldiers
Who've gone away to war
And you can bet that they remember
Just what they're fighting for

CHORUS 2
Have you forgotten all the people killed?
Yes, some went down like heroes in that Pennsylvania field
Have you forgotten about our Pentagon?
All the loved ones that we lost
And those left to carry on
Don't you tell me not to worry 'bout Bin Laden
Have you forgotten?

Have you forgotten?
Have you forgotten?

This day is for you Duff... i love you.. i miss you, and i cant believe 3 years has almost come.. Ill never believe that your gone.. ur with me.. i no u are..with all of us..
I have not forgotten and I never will...and Ill never let ppl condem this war infront of me..you did not die in vain, for no reason.. you were fighting for what you believed.. you are my hero.. i love you big bro.."
rachel of NJ

"I feel honored to wear your name on a metal bracelet around my wrist. I will keep this bracelet till the day I shake your hand in heaven."
Matt of Ocean, NJ

"miss you more than i can express,
i pray its in peace that you rest,

i think if you throughout the day,
in my heart you will forever stay,

my brother, my hero, my friend,
the break in my heart will never mend.

its almost 3 years,
and i still cant stop the tears.

i love you and i miss you.""
of nj

"Happy St.Patricks Day Duff. I miss you and think about you every day.Love you"
J.R. of Brick,N>J>

"To Duffy my friend my brother ever day that gos by i think of you. when you left this place a part of me left to. you were the greatest friend to all of us, you were the glue that held all of us together. when i see your son i always smile because its like look at a mini you. miss you and love you duffy."
mike apicello of brick nj

""With every friend I love who has been taken into the brown bosom of the earth a part of me has been buried there; but their contribution to my being of happiness, strength and understanding remains to sustain me in an altered world."
- Helen Keller"

"http://www.myspace.com/spcduffy"
of brick nj

"Duffy,
Years go by but i will never forget you. From the first day i got to the unit and you took me under your wing it could have went without the jokes but it was all in good fun. You always were a great guy who would do anything for his friends. I'll never forget all the times we had in the unit and out in the field we truly had the best times. Then do you remember the time we were at the Airport in Newark doing guard duty and we were battle buddies and how much fun we had. That's always how you were bro make the best out of everything. Man I wish you didn't go, I wish everyone and this whole war didn't happen but because it did I honor you so much more for laying down your life so that others may live. I promise i'll write more i'm finally glad i found something where i can honor you and get in touch with you. I hope your wife and kid are doing well I can imagine how hard this still must be. for them. But Duffy YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN AND YOU WILL ALWAYS BE MISSED

Spc. Heintz Det 1 3rd Battalion 112FA
*Cherry Hill Bomb Drop*"
Spc. Heintz of Cherry Hill, NJ

"Duffy,
HAPPY NEW YEAR! I just wanted you to know that there is not a day that goes by that we don't think about you and miss you. You are forever a part of our hearts and our lives and the thought of you not being here never gets any easier. I can't tell you how honored I am that you became a part of our family, you brought so much joy and laughter to our lives and we will love you always!"
Kerry of Brick, NJ

"Dear Chris, As I sit here and ponder the news of the hanging of Sadam I cannot help but think of you and your strong feelings for what you were fighting for. Words can NEVER truely reveal how we missed you again this holiday season. It is almost too much to bare. Please conintue to look over me and the kids and give us your strength and love from above. I see you in the eyes of your child and the faces of your friends as well as the love on casey's face when she talks about you. You were larger than life my nephew and left such a large impression on those you came in contact with. You are loved so much that if our love could build a bridge to reach you we would.xoxoxoxoxoxoxox"
Aunt Sandy of Point Pleasant

"merry christmas duff..everyone lied.. it doesnt get any easier as time goes by.. thank you for the sacfrifice you made for us all ...but i wish it hadnt needed to be done.. it hurts too much with out you here,,"
of nj

"Christopher, I dont know you personally, but I know of you. I'm currently in college, and was recently asked to write your story. Just so you and your family know, your memory lives on. To Christophers family,God Bless, my thoughts are with you."
Marjorie of Virginia

"I am writing this in a state of sadness and shock. As I was watching the news tonight, again, about the war in Iraq, I found myself thinking back nearly six years. to basic training. I was sad to think about loosing contact with the people I met at there. I felt a sense of panic wondering if those friends were safe. I decided to check the list of us soldiers who died in the war. The second name I checked was Duffy. I was stunned to see his name staring up at me from the list. My thoughts immediately went back to all the memories of the time we all shared in South Carolina. I went online hoping it was a mistake that it was someone with the same name from the same state & I saw his picture. I knew it was not a mistake, it was him. To his family/friends & his wife: I am so profoundly sorry for your loss. I am so thankfull for your writings it helped me to read your words about him.
To his son: Ryan, I bet you make a lot of people very happy because you remind them of your dad. I know that everyone will tell you what a great guy he was and I wanted to add my words too. Your dad made an otherwise pretty miserable time better for me and a lot of other people to. His sense of humor kept me a little more sane and I am very glad to have known him even if it was for a short while. He was also kind, fair and determined. I wish you and your mom a happy life with lots of stories and memories of Duff."
harris

"IF I KNEW

If I knew it would be the last time
That I'd see you fall asleep,
I would tuck you in more tightly
and pray the Lord, your soul to keep.

If I knew it would be ! the last time
that I see you walk out the door,
I would ! give you a hug and kiss
and call you back for one more.

If I knew it would be the last time
I'd hear your voice lifted up in praise,
I would video tape each action and word,
so I could play them back day after day.

If I knew it would be the last time,
I could spare an extra minute
to stop and say "I love you,"
instead of assuming you would KNOW I do.

If I knew it would be the last time
I would be there to share your day,
Well I'm sure you'll have so many more,
so I can let just this one slip away.

For surely there's always tomorrow
to make up for an oversight,
and we always get a second chance
to make everything just right.

There will always be another day
to say "I love you,"
And certainly there's another chance
to say our "Anything I can do?"

But just in case I might be wrong,
and today is all I get,
I'd like to say how much I love you
and I hope we never forget.

Tomorrow is not promised to anyone,
young or old alike,
And today may be the last chance
you get to hold your loved one tight.

So if you're waiting for tomorrow,
why not do it today?
For if tomorrow never comes,
you'll surely regret the day,

That you didn't take that extra time
for a smile, a hug, or a kiss
and you were too busy to grant someone,
what turned out to be their one last wish.

So hold your loved ones close today,
and whisper in their ear,
Tell them how much you love them
and that you'll always hold them dear

Take time to say "! I'm sorry,"
"Please forgive me," "Thank you," or "It's okay! ."
And if tomorrow never comes,
you'll have no regrets about today."

"I leave this message to honor you and all of those who sacrificed so that others could be free. Happy Veteran's Day Chris. You are my hero. I miss you so much, please look upon me and give me your strength during these times of struggle. I wish you were here. The song Rachel shared prior to this message really sums up how we all feel. I love and miss you."
Aunt Sandy of Point Pleasant, NJ

"Sunny days seem to hurt the most
I wear the pain like a heavy coat
I feel you everywhere I go
I see your smile I see you face
I hear you laughing in the rain
I still can't believe you're gone

It ain't fair you died to young
Like a story that had just begun
But death ... tore the pages all away
God knows how I miss you
All the hell that I've been through
Just knowin'... no one could take your place
And sometimes I wonder ... who you'd be today

Would you see the world would you chase your dreams
Settle down with a family
I wonder what would you name your babies
Some days the sky's so blue
I feel like I can talk to you
And I know it might sound crazy

It ain't fair you died to young
Like a story that had just begun
But death ... tore the pages all away
God knows how I miss you
All the hell that I've been through
Just knowin' ... no one could take your place
And sometimes I wonder ... who you'd be today

Today ... Today ... Today
Today ... Today ... Today

BREAK

Sunny days seem to hurt the most
I wear the pain like a heavy coat
The only thing that gives me hope ... is I know
I'll see you again someday
Someday ... someday

Duff...this kenny chesney song about sums it up..i know how much you hated country music...but too bad!! i like it!!
I miss you so much.
your sister"
of brick nj

"To Duff's son.

I worked closely with your father quite a few times in Iraq. I arrived with Matt Smith (he has his own comment on this page) shortly after things settled down. I only knew your father was involved because I recognized someone else in his squad. You'll hear from others that his good natured humor was always a light in the darker moments. This, I think, is his defining quality: to bring enough laughter for everyone. But Cris also had a convicted sense of justice, always pointing out the things that seemed somehow unfair. Of course, war itself is, by nature, unfair. It has it's own inherent injustices, but what I remember about your father was that he was always there with his big voice and his big frame fixing what unfairnesses he could. I also remember how much he loved you. I remember the time in our bright yellow barracks hallway, he said "I can't wait to get home and see my wife and my son." I remember the time I relieved him at the CQ desk, I heard him say, "I wanna get home and be a father to my son." I remember this time, and that time and the time after that. He always had thoughts and words for you, a thousand miles away, and because he shared them with everyone he could over there, I'm able to share with you here."
Cpl Tony "Batman" Battaglia of Galloway, NJ.

"We sit beneath the night sky

by the whisper of the windsong...

in the quiet of darkness.

And they are never far.

Those we have loved and cherished,

those who have changed our lives

in some small or profound way

are closer than we know,

because it is their light

that shines in our world.

It is the brilliance

of their souls

that makes

our night sky glow."

"I was SPC Duffy's Supply Sergeant up in Morristown. He was a GOOD man, he was one of my boys. Not a day goes by where I do not think about him and his sacrifice for our freedom. May God bless SPC Chistopher M Duffy. My prayers and heart are always with you, your wife and your son."
SGT Michael Bednar of Auburn, AL

"WE CARRY YOU IN OUR HEARTS,
ALWAYS."
NORA of AMAGANSETT

"Dear Chris,

I think of you all the time and will alway's.You were very kind to me every time you transported me to my doctor's vistor's.You were a very special man and I remember what you said to me when you told me you were called to report.YOU ARE A HERO,MAY GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND WATCH OVER THEM....I MISS YOU very much.Thanks for protecting the USA."
DebMaciasek of Barnegat,NJ

"Happy birthday to my dear nephew. As I sit here in the 100 degree weather and am about to leave to visit the cemetary, I wanted to jot down a small note. It is hard to believe that we have not had you in our lives for this long, your prescence is missed everyday. We all love you and think of you often. Many times we speak your name and wish we had back just one more day with you. Our love for you remains, we move on still heartbroken and sad. It does not seem fair. Look down upon us all and give us strength to go on without you."
Aunt Sandy Grebel of Point Pleasant

"August 3, 2006

"For where the rewards of virtue are greatest, there the noblest citizens
are enlisted in the service of the state."


Missing You Always, Especially Today...

Happy Birthday Duff!

Love Always,"
Ham of Brick, NJ

"My heart and condolences to the family and friends of Pfc Christopher M. Duffy.
May God bless you with his peace and comfort.
Thank you Chris for your willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice for the safety and freedom of this country. May you rest in the arms of the angels till we all are called home."
Judy of Indiana

"With every firework tomorrow... I will think of you! Happy 4th Chris.."
Nicole Coughlin of MA

"My Anger Management tapes got lost with the Connex !"
gary lambert, medic of camden nj

"To all that leave messages on this website that we, the family do not know: Your kind words, words of support as well as thoughts about Chris are so helpful. Thank you so much for sharing them with us. It has been 2 years since Chris was taken from us, time moves on but his loss to us is still very hard. We miss him so much. Thanks again, the postings are a blessing."
Sandy Grebel (Aunt Sandy) of Point Pleasant, N.J.

"Hey Brother, Today it has been 2 years since you were taken from us and I think about you every day. I was on radio watch the day it happened and was sick knowing that I couldn't be there to help. All I can think about is how you used to come up with those one liners to make everybody laugh. And how I was always trying to beat you at College football on play station, which I never did. To your family and friends I say you are a guy that I will never forget. I spend alot of time on the road, so I think of the good times we had and try not to dwell on the bad. Just wanted everyone to know that you have not been forgotten by people other than your family and friends. SSG Kevin Kauffman 1st Plt C-Co 759th MP BN"
SSG Kevin Kauffman of York Haven PA

"chris
we didn't know each other all that well. but when i was over in iraq you would look after my family and to this day i never forgot that. i only wish i got a chance to thank you for that, and let you know how much it meant to have someone who cared enough. i also wish i got to know you better. god bless you and your family."
sgt. anderson usmc of brick, nj

"My three year old son's name is Christopher M. Duffy (the M is for Matthew), and when he is older, I'll tell him about a hero who shares his name. God Bless You, Duffy! You are our hero, as are all those who serve in uniform. My middle name is Christopher."
Kevin Duffy of Clay, West Virginia

"Dear Chris,
Today as I walked down the aisle during my graduation with my master's degree I remember as I started this venture you would come over and check on the boys while I went to school on Tuesday evenings. Now four years later I honored you as I wore "I Love Duffy" on my motorboard. I miss you very much."
Aunt Sandy of Point Pleasant, N.J.

"Hey Chris, It is Matt Smith from C-Company 759 MP's. I will never forget you man. I remember before missions you always had something to do or say that would make me laugh. I always liked to go to your door and see who the girl of the month was. After your memorial we all wrote with chalk on our Humvee's "I Love Duffy" until they made us take it off. I was there right after you were killed but at the time I had no idea who it was. We found out later that day....Miss you dude."
Matt Smith of Balad, Iraq

"Duff: I'm a Bravo soldier. I never knew you, but I've heard you were a good soldier, and a good man. I got to the unit after you left, but you still live on here. Just know that you must have lived a life worth living when people who never met you respect you."
A Bravo Soldier of South Jersey, NJ

"Hey Chris... Unks here just to say hi and thank you again. Can't say it or think it enough. But the reminders are always around me to let me never go a day without thinking of you. The picture hanging in my office, the pin in my car, the stickers on everyone's cars, the latest Seton Hall basketball score, everytime I hear the National Anthem, the look in the eye of your son Ryan. Those are just some of the things that make me think of you... and there are so many more.

I am forever indebted to you and all those that died for this country before you and after you.

Love... Unks."
Alex Grebel of Point Pleasant, NJ, USA

"Chris, I just finished reading the Grebel's Christmas letter and saw this link at the bottom of it. After reading all the posts here, I just wanted to post something of my own to your memory. What I remember most about you is your indomitable spirit, which lives on in all of us who knew you. I'm sure your courageousness has been and will always be a comfort to your family and friends. Best of all, it sounds from other posts that your son is growing up just like you. I humbly ask that God never cease in sending blessings to your family."
Pete of Poughkeepsie, NY

"A second Christmas has gone by without you here. However, your presence was felt in the family traditions that we upheld such as xmas eve weenie tots and having your friends, sister, nephew, wife and son all around. We speak your name often and remember the good times when you made us laugh. A small Christmas tree and decorations were placed at your grave lovingly by Casey and her dad. I added a few new ones too. It is still hard to see your name on the plaque that adorns your grave. We all miss you so much. Alex is growing like a weed and walks just like you. He would have given you a run for your money.He wrote about the day he lost you in his college entry essay. He does not speak of that day but I know it weighs heavily on his mind. Ryan wears fatigues almost daily as a tribute to you. They miss their big cousin very much. I hope you look down from heaven and watch over us all. Merry Christmas Chris."
Aunt Sandy of Point Pleasant, NJ

"Christopher,
I wear a stainless steel bracelet with your name on it every day. I may very well wear it until the end of me. I'm a Vietnam veteran and I know what your sacrifice means and I salute you brother."
Mark Tork of Topeka, Kansas

"Another day, another article, another reminder that I cant talk to you, see you, or even get picked on by you. Aunt Sandy is right when she says we all miss you more than words can ever express..I know you see everything that is going on..good..and bad..I just wish you could be here to experience it all with us..Your son is so big, spitting image of you, everything that he does is you...proof that you live on..
You were bigger than life and you carried that over...
On this Veterans Day I want to Thank You and all of our fallen heroes for sacrificing your life for the freedom of others, for everyting that you did, to make this worls a better place. All of you have touched so many hearts along the way and you are truly appreciated.
We LOVE YOU DUFFY.
Your sister, Rachel, and nephew, Damian"
Rachel of Brick nj

"As Veteran's Day 2005 approaches we would like to say that we miss you more than words can say. We thank God for your life and the laughter you brought to all of us. We are so thankkful to you for serving our country so well and for making the ultimate sacrifce. We miss and love you. Aunt Sandy, Uncle Alex, ALex and Ryan"
Sandy Grebel of Point Pleassant, NJ

"I cannot think you're not alive somewhere.
I think of you just as I did before.
No sudden gust of wind has closed the door
Or made your presence vanish in thin air.
I write you this because I know you're there;
That even after death there must be more.
So does faith one's inner sun restore
After bitter darkness few can bear.
My mind and heart have not yet lost a friend
Even though my senses are bereft,
For you remain the witness of my soul.
No mere accident our love can end
So long as I have will and memory left,
And you lie silent on some unknown shoal.

Miss You and Love You"
Rachel of Brick nj

"Duff,
As many of your friends call you...I wanted to take this time out to let you know that I am one of many on a Comm.that is having a great Country Music Benefit for Ryan..Its called the Honkey Tonk Angel Benefit..all proceeds are going to the Ryan Duffy College Fund..We are here to help out your family in what must be a very tough time...God Bless !"
Mag'ee of Garfield,NJ

"Dear Chris,
Sigghh......Im sorry to see you gone. I say that with a heavy heart. Although I only knew you for a few days, you seemed to be a special character...IM NOT A LIBERAL!!!...i remmeber your laughter and how it made everyone feel. You were a good guy, and i wish we could have gotten to know each other more. Ive achieved my dreams and I wish you could have too. You had alot of life in you and you would have been a great dad. I keep your masscard with me, as a reminder of the life you lead and the positive energy you gave to everyone around you. Please watch over me from heaven and be by my side as I enter battle, and also in persona life give me your strength, and your compassion to help others and enjoy every minute. God Bless you and your wonderful family Chris."
Spc. X of NJ

"Dear Chris,
Tomorrow is your birthday and we will be visiting your grave. It still does not feel right! We love and miss you very much. We are thankful for your life and courage.We see you in the eyes and actions of your beautiful little boy. You would be so delighted with him and so very proud of Casey at the way she is raising him. You would also be proud of Rachel and her courage in this most difficult time and also of your buddies, all of who are there for him and who along with us and Rachel will tell him all about your larger than life personality, laughter, jokes and spirit. We love Duffy! xoxoxoxoxox"
Aunt Sandy of Point Pleasant, New Jersey

"Happy Birthday Duff...I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU MORE THAN WORDS..."
RACHEL of BRICK NJ

"Chris,
Like others, I never knew you. I did, however, happen to know of you. I just wanted to let you know that I visited your boots this morning. Well, probably not yours (they were quite small)but ones that represented you and the sacrifice that you made. I had a moment there, on the grassy hill, In Philly, where over 1700 other boots were laid. I wanted you, your family, your commrades, who ever should choose to read this, to know why I wept. I can not deny it was partially out of sadness. But it was so much more than that. It was gratitude and gratefulness. It was pride. It was the gravity of the notion that you gave the ultimate sacrifice: That one should lay down his life for another.

There isn't much I can say to comfort those left behind. But I want to say Thank You. I say it every time I see a soldier. To the ones I meet in the airport coming home on leave. The veterans at various parades. The guys in your unit you left behind.

I don't care why you did what you did, Chris, why you made the decision to serve your country- But you did. And so I say: Thank You."
Julia Stolzer of Cherry Hill, NJ USA

"I was honored to be given Christopher's KIA bracelet from an acquaintence while deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. I don't remember the relationship between them two but he knew Christoper somehow. I wear it with pride and also with thanks. My prayers go out to the family and friends of Christopher. It is never easy, but God provides comfort in times of sorrow, pain, and loss. He knows what it is like to lose a Son and friend. And to Christopher... thank you. I salute you fellow commrade. I didn't have to know you personally, I knew you by serving with you. See you in heaven one day. :)"
Amy of Janesville, Wisconsin

"To our fallen hero, we miss you dearly even though it has been a year.

Dear Chris,

We thought of you with love today,
but that is nothing new,
We thought about you yesterday,
And the day before that too.

We think of you in silence and
we often speak your name.
All we have now are memories
and your picture in a frame.
Your memory is our keepsake
with which we will never part.

God has you in his keeping,
We have you in our hearts.
We shed a tear for
what might have been,
A million times we've cried
if love alone could have saved you.
You never would have died.

In life we loved you dearly.
In death we love you still.
In our hearts you hold a place.
no one could ever fill.

It broke our hearts to lose you
but you didn't go alone
for a part of us went with
you the day God took you home!

Love ,
Aunt Sandy, Uncle Alex, Alex and Ryan 6/4/05"
Sandy Grebel of Point Pleasant, NJ

"My Dear Chris,
You are a shining star in Gods bright sky. You are the twinkle in your childs eyes, and you are the reason we all stay free, in our hearts you will always be. Love you."
Sandy Reid and Deb Maciasek of Toms River, NJ

"wow,Duff...almost a year.. I still miss you so much...so many things i wanna say that only WE said. I think of you all the time, everyday, wondering what you doing..what your thinking...do you hear me when I talk to you everyday? I still cry so much...still dont understand...why you? It was only us two... I keep replaying that last hug and you telling me that you were coming home and to stop crying...I dont think we have ever gotten that emotional with each other..if only I knew that would be the last time id see you...so many unsaid things...like how much i loved you and looked up to you.. and i couldnt imagine life with out you... but here I am..."

"bought a kia bracelet with this name on it.My hopes and prayers go out to the family of this fallen soldier.I was a recon marine in operation desert storm and lost a comrad.Elgringo@suscom.net"
Cpl.Rhett j Anderson of york,pa

"From one soldier to another, my thoughts and prayers go out to your
entire family. My heart goes out to every fallen hero, although your
family’s hearts are heavy, I know that God has big plans for you. You are
now a soldier in his Fort. You where so young, and brave to make the
ultimate sacrifice, to keep us a safe and free nation , so that people in
another land can enjoy the same liberties we do everyday. To live in the
same town you did means it’s a small world. To know members of your
family and some of your friends and the love you showed for this country
means a lot to me. Everything you left behind will always remain in my
thoughts and prayers. So from this soldier I give the utmost respect to
all soldiers who fight and give the ultimate sacrifice for freedom of
Iraq and freedom of the whole world. With me being in Iraq now means I
have to do my part in this fight for freedom for the people of Iraq."
SFC Ralph Chesney of Brick, New Jersey

"To the Family and friends of Chris Duffy may this poem give you strenght in time of need. My deepest sympathy and condolences to you all. May your memory live on in all of us.
Psalm of Life by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
"...Not enjoyment, and not sorrow,
Is our destined end or way;
But to act, that each tomorrow
Find us farther than today....
Lives of great men all remind us
We can make our lives sublime,
And, departing, leave behind us
Footprints on the sands of time.
Footprints, that perhaps another,
Sailing o'er life's solemn main,
A forlorn and shipwrecked brother,
Seeing, shall take heart again... A Psalm of Life""
Anonymous of New Jersey

"Thomas Lynch, a poet and an undertaker -- and a wise man -- wrote these words about living with loss...

"This is none of my business. I won't be there. But if you're asking, here is free advice. You know the part where everybody is always saying that you should have a party now? How the dead guy always insisted he wanted everyone to have a good time and toss a few back and laugh and be happy? I'm not one of them. I think the old teacher is right about this one. There is a time to dance. And it just may be this isn't one of them. The dead can't tell the living what to feel.

They used to have this year of mourning. Folks wore armbands, black clothes, played no music in the house. Black wreaths were hung at the front doors. The damaged were identified. For a full year you were allowed your grief -- the dreams and sleeplessness, the sadness, the rage. The weeping and giggling in all the wrong places. The catch in your breath at the sound of the name. After a year, you would be back to normal. "Time heals" is what was said to explain this. If not, of course, you were pronounced some version of "crazy" and in need of some professional help.

Whatever's there to feel, feel it -- the riddance, the relief, the fright and freedom, the fear of forgetting, the dull ache of your own mortality. Go home in pairs. Warm to the flesh that warms you still. Get with someone you can trust with tears, with anger, and wonderment and utter silence. Get that part done -- the sooner the better. The only way around these things is through them."

Thomas Lynch, The Undertaking (New York: Penguin, 1997), pp. 198-199.

May all of you who knew and loved Chris know God's presence as you journey through this strange, new terrain called grief."
Rev. Carlos Wilton (pastor to the Grebel family) of Point Pleasant Beach, NJ

"2/9/05
hello to the family and friends of chris. i never met him, but thanks to his sister rachel, i am now in contact with you all. i am the sister of ssg michael mitchell who wall kia on 4/4/04 in sadr city on the first day of the shite uprising. i know the pain you all are going thru, and i can only tell you to stick together, and try to smile. you know thats what our loved ones would have wanted."
christine of atascadero, ca

"All I can say is "thank you Chris". Reading the messages left here I realize how loved you were and how you will be missed. My family deeply appricates what you did for us. We pray the God brings comfort to your loved ones until you are together again."
Jim of Springfield, W. Virginia

"1/28/05
Thank you brave soldier for the gift of freedom you have given us. We pray for your family, may God grant them peace. You are our hero and we will remember you each day we raise our flag in the front yard.
from a very grateful American family."
The Shaw family of Pasadena, Maryland

"This is part of an email from my friend Nelson who is currently serving in Iraq... just reminded me of the good we must be doing over there and how Chris was a part of that, if only for a short while-

"Which brings me to a story: There is this little girl we always saw in a town we drove past, the town's called An Numaniyah. Anyways, she always wore a red scarf, and we always threw candy or food out the window at her whenever we drove past...Well yesterday when we were driving past her town, we noticed her standing in the middle of the road, frantically waving at us to stop. Turns out, she was standing 10 feet in front of a landmine that had been placed there that morning, she knew about it, wanted to protect our humvees from getting hit. You wouldn't believe how many of us had tears in our eyes."

pass it along. the general public could stand to hear a few more stories like this one..."
Lindsay Bayliss of Pt Pleasant Beach, NJ

"This is not at all how we thought it was supposed to be
We had so many plans for you
We had so many dreams
But now you've gone away
And left us with the memories of your smile
And nothing we can say
And nothing we can do
Can take away the pain, the pain of losing you

But we can cry with hope
We can say goodbye with hope
Cause we know our goodbye is not the end
And we can grieve with hope
Cause we believe with hope
There's a place where we'll see your face again

Never have I known anything so hard to understand
And never have I questioned more
The wisdom of God's hand
But through the cloud of tears
I see a Father smile and say, "Well done"
And I imagine you, where you wanted most to be
Seeing all your dreams come true
Cause now your home and now your free

But we can cry with hope
We can say goodbye with hope
Cause we know our goodbye is not the end
And we can grieve with hope
Cause we believe with hope
There's a place where we'll see your face again"

"Chris was like a son to me and my husband Alex. I watched him grow from a cute boy with bright blonde hair who loved "connects" who wanted to know why Santa's watch looked a lot like his grandpa's, to a fine young man with a beautiful wife, a son who looks just like him, and a ton of people who loved him. He was larger than life, the prankster, laughter followed him everywhere. He had the biggest heart and could never win an argument with me, his Aunt Sandy. I still hear his big feet stomping up the basement stairs where his room used to be. It is near Christmas and I remember the fun we had last year in the jewelry store on Xmas eve when he picked out his wife's engagement ring and wedding band, he was so nervous. His hands shook as he held the tiny rings in his hand. I miss him so much that words cannot describe. June 4th was the worst day in our lives. We miss you so much Chris, we are all hanging in there, still eating together each Sunday as you liked, you would be so proud of how your friends have stuck by Casey and Ryan. Your adopted Aunts and Uncles and cuz's from the Point Pleasant Hood (as you would call it) miss you too. Alex and Ryan miss you wrestling with them, although they are pretty big now and would give you a run for your money. But you would gove them heck. We are proud of what you stood for, proud of the way you carried yourself as you left for war and while you were there. You star will forever shine bright in our hearts. Love, Aunt Sandy
Thanks to all who posted.. ytour prayers and thoughts are appreciated by all of the family and welcomed."
Sandy Grebel of Point Pleasant, NJ

"When tomorrow starts without me,
And I'm not there to see
If the sun should rise and find your eyes,
All filled with tears for me.

I wish so much you wouldn't cry
The way you did today,
While thinking of the many things
We didn't get to say.

I know how much you love me -
As much as I love you.
And each time you think of me,
I know you'll miss me too.

But when tomorrow starts without me,
Please try to understand
That an angel came and called my name,
And took me by the hand.

And said my place was ready,
In heaven far above
And that I'd have to leave behind
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,
I didn't want to die.

I had so much to live for,
So much left yet to do,
It seemed almost impossible,
That I was leaving you.

I thought of all the yesterdays,
The good ones and the bad.
I thought of all the love we shared,
And all the fun we had.

If I could relive yesterday,
Just even for a while.
I'd say goodbye and kiss you,
And maybe see you smile.

But then I fully realized,
That this could never be.
For emptiness and memories,
Would take the place of me.

And when I thought of worldly things,
I might miss come tomorrow,
I thought of you, and when I did,
My heart was filled with sorrow.

But when I walked through heaven's gates,
I 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 it starts a new."

"I promise no tomorrow,
For today will always last.
And since each day's the same way,
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 share your life with me."

So when tomorrow starts without me,
Don't think we're far apart,
For every time you think of me,
I'm right here in your heart."

"To the Duffy Family,
I don't know you but we share the same last name so I feel a kindred spirit.My son leaves for Iraq tomorrow morning. I am very proud of him and his choice to defend our country just as I know you are of Christoper.
May God bless and keep you in the palm of His hand."
Eileen Duffy of Orange County,California

"Should fate find you on the battlefield, May your cause be a just one. May your courage not falter. May you show mercy to your enemies. May your efforts bring the blessings of peace. May you be triumphant and earn victory. May your sacrifice be always appreciated. May you endure the conflict unharmed. Should you be harmed, May your wounds heal. Should you perish in the struggle, May God embrace you and find a Place for you in his Kingdom.
. Happy Thanksgiving Duffy.... Its goin to be so hard..you are sopposed to there... eating turkey.. making us laugh.. I cant imagine the holidays without you.. but I no you will eb there in spirit.. I LOVE YOU DUFFY"
RACHEL DUFFY of NJ

"Dear Chris,

Today is Veteran's Day ...

I went to see you today ... I brought Ali along with me this time. She had not had the chance to visit with you yet ... she could not be there for your services either.

I think about you everyday ... I have ever since you left for the desert. I have so much to say to you, and yet so little of it can be expressed in words. Letting someone know how much you love them cannot only be done with words, but in kind gestures, support and hugs. Laughter was your way. Even from a war zone you managed to make me laugh, and just days before I deployed myself ... you comforted me by insisting you knew I was prepared, because I had done this so many times before. I believed you, and you were right, I was prepared ... but not for you to leave. No one was.

I am so proud of you Duff ... proud to have known you and called you my friend. I miss you everyday ... your jokes, endless optimism ... that smile. I will always be there for your family; I would do anything for them. I hope that I can bring them as much comfort, as they have brought to me.

Today your sacrifice is remembered by America...but for me, I know I will never forget.

Love Always,
Amber"
Amber Mans of Brick, NJ

"Dearest Chris,
It has taken me a while to write this letter. I wasn't sure who to write it to. And then I realized that I can still write it to you. You'll always be listening! I just can't believe you're gone. To me, you were invinceable, a rock so tough it couldn't break. Not only are you a friend, but you are my best friend's brother. So much like a brother to me. You were there for me through one of the toughest times in my life, for that I am truly greatful. I promise to you that I will be there for every member of your family, through what I'm sure is the toughest time in their lives. But, I promise to keep a special eye on your sister, I love her so much.
One of the last times I saw you, you reminded me how much money I owe you. Well Chris, I promise I'll pay it back ten fold to you and your family through love and support, and who knows, maybe cash someday!! Can you pull some strings up there, huh?? Rachel and I are waiting to win the lotto!!
I thank you for all that you have done. For me, your family, and for our country. You are the definition of a true hero. I will never forget that.
Love always, Nicole"
Nicole Coughlin of Chicopee, Ma

"I want to thank Christopher Duffy for being my hero. My brother died a day after he did so i want to tell the Duffy Family that i know what they are going through. Just know that they are in heaven and and they will always be our Heroes. Remember they are our guardian angels now. I want to thank Christopher for being my brothers family out in Iraq. He will never be forgotten."
Dina Timoteo of Newark, NJ

"I am Chris's Uncle Alex... many of you know me and Sandy as we played a large part in Chris's later years. The loss of Chris has placed such a massive hole in our hearts. We go on living and working, but not a day goes by without me thinking of Chris somehow. If it isn't a fantasy league with his name on it, it's seeing his beautiful son smile with that same look... that Duffy look. I will forever hear his laugh in my head... I will forever hear him tell me how wonderful the Packers are, or the Florida Gators in college football, or how great Seton Hall will be this winter in college BB, because they had the best recruiting class (they NEVER were as good as he said!). Or his youth CYO team at Visitation. Or his fantasy teams. They were always the best in his eyes. That was Chris. Full of optomism... for everything around him.

Despite his optomism, he feared going away and leaving Casey and Ryan behind. He was afraid this might happen. We all did. yet he left with his head high... never complaining about the duty he swore to his country.

Chris, I hope you rest easily knowing we are all here for your wife and child. The support has been incredible... and I don't see it stopping. We will take care of them for you, or at least make sure they're always ok for you. You desreve that.

You are my hero. I miss you. I will always miss you."
Alex Grebel of Point Pleasant, NJ

"Although I did not know him personally, Chris is a hero and brother to me and all of us from 3/112. He, and the three of our brothers that joined him that day, will never be forgotten. My sincerest condolences to all who know him and especially to his family."
SFC T. Falconer of A Btry, 3/112 FA, NJ

"casey, there are no words that i can say to make the pain any better. i just wanted to say that i hope you are ok. although i never met him, i know how great you are and how great he must have been. i pray for you and your son everyday. your husband is a hero and always will be. i wish there was some way to help you. i will continue to pray for you and ryan everyday. and i will also pray for your husband, the hero and thank him for fighting for our country."
tarah mccann-patterson pryncess28@aol.com of point pleasnt, nj

"We love you Duffy."
The Helfreys of Brick, NJ - Mesa, AZ

"Christopher Duffy was a good person and friend of my family. When I heard he died I was overwelmed with shock. He was too young and too nice to die. If it wasnt for Bush he would still be here with us."
Brett Popiel of Point Pleasant, N.J/USA

"''The Fallen'

Lo, I have stood my watch this day
I have kept our enemy at bay
God and Country I serve, so I swore
For peace today and evermore
A new watch I proudly stand
So glorious and bold, as God took my hand
With shield and armor, I now bear a sword
My comrades and I stand tall with the Lord
My eyes are fixed, my path is sure
My heart and mind so blessed and pure
As my God now dwells with me
My spirit with you will always be"
Amber Mans of Brick, NJ

"at first i didnt believe,
i never thought , for you, id have to grieve

you were more than my brother, you were my friend
how couldthey take you away, bring your life to an end?

you paid the ultimate sacrifice
while fullfilling your mission and not thinking twice,

sometimes i laugh, sometimes i cry,
sometimes i get mad, and wanna know why....


but i know your around, with everything i do,
i look up at the stars, and i know that its you..

i keep you always in my mind
wishing i could say i love you one more time.."
rachel of jackson nj

"Chris was my brother and he will never be forgotton. He was the most genuine person I have ever known. It sounds like a cliche, but I never thought this would happen...he was larger than life. It was the worst day of my life that friday, when we found out. Words can not express the pain.. but more than that.. the absolute respect I have for him for paying the ultimate sacrifice. I wish I couldve said somethings to him before this happenned but I know he is listening from heaven. I no he is watching out over us all. He is laughing with us, crying with us, and most of all watching and protecting us..That was just the kind of person he was.
We love you Duff,
Your sister Rachel and nephew Damian
NJshoregrrl25@yahoo.com"
Rachel of Jackson, NJ

"Thank you brave soldier for sacrificing your today for my children's safer tomorrow. You have our utmost respect and gratitude. May God provide your family with comfort in their time of sorrow. May you forever rest in Heavenly peace. Neither you nor your sacrifice will be forgotten. For the family/friends: May time provide happy loving memories in place of present sorrows. Look to the sky for in the infinite meadows of Heaven the bright shining stars bloom... the forget-me-nots of angels. God bless you and thank you."
a grateful family in Phoenix, AZ

"To the friends and family of Christopher M. Duffy:
We grieve together. Spc Justin W. Linden was my husband, and they all died together. I wish I could just jump across the map and give you all a big hug! I know if it was our guys in trouble, Christopher would have ran to help them. I pray for you every day. Just remember they will live on forever in our hearts and one day we will see them again. Stay Strong!"
Sarah Linden of Portalnd, OR USA

"ODE TO DUFF

He was fighting for us
On that Friday
Under the midday sun
In Sadr City

He had left a young wife
And newborn son behind
To fight for freedom
And a better life

From his laughing blue eyes
To that big, boyish grin
He was a fiercely loyal
Life-long friend

He was a jovial, strong
Big-hearted man
Who was a fanatic for sports
And a huge Yankees fan

He was so full of life
A joy to be around
It was a shock for all to hear
That he would be Baghdad bound

Now the time has come
To pay our respects
To a Solider, Father, Son, Husband
And Friend

Do Chris this honor
While I have all of you here
Share his stories and memories
In each passing year

Keep his spirit alive
And he will always be near.


We love and miss you Duff..."
Amber M. Mans of Brick, NJ

"Dear Chris,
I miss you everyday. The little boy I watched grow into a great young man. You will never be forgotten.
Love
Aunt Kellie"
Kellie Menzel of Brick NJ USA

"Specialist Duffy was a terrific young man with alot of heart. I had the pleasure to work with him for a couple of years at the local deli. He was such a good friend. God bless you Duff! Thank you for helping to ensure that our land stays strong and proud. And to the Duffy family, I wish you all the very best in the future. Be strong. God bless you all!"
Brad Ketcham of Toms River, NJ

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

"To Christopher's Family:
There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for your loss. May God bless you and help you through this time."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, 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, Christopher, will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"To Christopher's Family and Friends:

On behalf of the Blanco-Caldas family, we send our sincerest condolences. We share the same loss ... the same pain. Our prayers are with you in this most difficult time and we thank you for his bravery and sacrifice.

Sincerely,

The Family of Capt. Ernesto M. Blanco-Caldas, 82nd Airborne, KIA Iraq 12/28/2003.
Gloria Caldas (Ernie's mom) of San Antonio, TX
gloria.caldas@banksterling.com"

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