Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I was lucky enough to go to Fairhaven high school with Glenn. And asfate would have it end up in the same company as him out of Baumholder, Germany and deployed to Iraq May03-Aug04. I remember Aron, and always looking up to him as a squared away young NCO. I proudly wear the remembrance bracelet that bears his name and Robert Sheetz. You always be remembered and loved.
Regulars by God"
Daniel Mayka of Northampton, MA/ US

"The last time my son SFC Glenn Lowell was home he was looking for a silver bracelet that had Erin's name on it. I remember he would wear it sometimes. Sadly I know the pain of losing a son. I hope they are together raising a little cane and joking as friends do. Rip Erin and Glenn."
Gloria Lowell of Benson Vt

"SGT Jacob Rapier Passed away the other day and will now always be with Aaron and SGT Lowell. We have now lost three men from the 1-6 Platoon we will see you all at Fiddlers Green"
1SG Dilcher of Colorado Springs

"Mr. and Mrs. Elandt: I held Aaron'a hand as we tried to discern what was wrong with him. I had worked out with him 3 days earlier at our small gym. I wish you peace and understanding in this most difficult of times. SGT N. Morgan, 912th FST"
Nick Morgan of Middleboro, MA

"For Paul and Linda Elandt, the parants of Aaron Elandt.
I was searging my last name on the internet and i saw the name of Aaron and his last name Elandt... , that was the same name as i have because my name is Leonard Elandt and i am from the Netherlands so we are family. His death feels like as i lost a family member its so stupid but it feels so.........strange,i whis you luck whit the lost of your son be pride on him


Regards Leonard Elandt from the netherlands (living in Italy now)
noce56@hotmail.it"
leonard elandt of fossombrone

"To the family of:Aaron C. Elandt
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"1-11-11"

"TO PAUL & LINDA, AARON'S PARENTS AND THE REST OF HIS FAMILY , KNOW THAT WE ARE THINKING OF YOU AS THIS SAD ANNIVERSARY APPROACHES AGAIN. I CAN'T BELIEVE IT WAS 6 YEARS ALREADY. WE APPRECIATE THE SACRIFICE THAT HE MADE, AS WELL AS ALL THE OTHERS WHO HAVE GIVEN ALL ALSO. AARON AS WELL AS YOU ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS & PRAYERS"
CON & SHEILA of FILION, MI

"Just saw your site. My deepest simpathy to the family. Aaron was doing the most dangerous job in the army. He paid the price, so that others could live.

The SCOUTS of the army, have always been, and always will be, the first there, and the last ones out. They close with, and monitor the enemy. If things go bad, they have to fight and run to fight another day. They have to operate on or behind the enemy lines. They dont carry enuff ammo for extended firefights, so they have to master escape and evaision.

All SCOUTS are warriors, trained with there own weapons and those of the enemy. They came into there own in Viet Nam, when recon units where sent to monitor enemy positions and strongholds. Please read books by Gary Linder and others who survived those encounters. You will see Aaron was a true HERO. He was doing what he was supposed to do. EX-SCOUT."
paul cooper of bartow, fla.

"”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,800 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Mothers and/or Fathers, of our heroes, please be aware that the Project Compassion sponsors will now help cover the costs of the portraits for you to have one - regardless if the spouse of the hero has one or not!
Contact us directly at Projectcompassion@manti.com. or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and bless you.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
Project Compassion
P.O. Box 153
Manti, Utah 84642"
Project Compassion, Kenna of Manti, Utah USA

"Aaron, I only knew you for a few months before what happened. I think it every day. I remember trying to give you strength, holding your hand as we waited for the chopper. You were not only a good soldier but a good friend. Rest in peace brother."

"May 31, 2008
To the family of Sgt. Aaron C. Elandt:
Aaron 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

"Again, Baumholder has deployed to Iraq, I've been out a year now, and today like all others, you remain in my thoughts and prayers. "I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU." May God Forever Bless You And Your Family.

SFC Michael Norwood (Ret)"
Michael Norwood of Chicago, Illinois USA

"Still today, you are forever printed in the memories of those who said that they would never forget you. Even though I'm retired, your name will always be spoken."
SFC Michael Norwood (Ret) of Chicago, Illinois

"I am very thankful for this man's service. I too served in the Army (1-121 11B 48th) as well as the USCG. I am proudly wearing a hero bracelet with his name engraved on it! Ooorah Sgt Elandt"
Randy Deitsch of Buford, Georgia

"My prayers are with you"
Heather V of Wyoming Mi.

"My prayers are with you"
Heather V of Wyoming Mi.

"Well I'm sorry it has taken me so long to write. I guess for selfish reasons I couldn't bring myself to say anything. Aaron was a very good friend of mine. We hung out from Germany to Amsterdam and back. Spent many a days talking and many a nights thinking we were invincible. On May 30th we realized we weren't invincible. We all of the scout plattoon lost a friend but more importantly a brother. I'll never forget the feelings that overwhelmed all of us, horrible they were. I was one of the 4 who placed him on the bird with hopes of seeing him soon. Guess we'll see each other another day. He was a great man, and an even better friend. Not a day goes by that I don't miss him. See ya in Fiddler's Green. Love Ya"
Eric Samarron of Amarillo,Tx USA

"Elandt Im sorry it took me so long to get here. I guess it was hard for me to write anything. I want to send my best wishes out to the Aaron's Family and know you are in the hearts of many of Aaron's Friends. Elandt was always in good spirits. I can still remember the last time I saw him he was smileing. That Last New Year's I spent hanging out with him was great I couldnt have asked for a better time with him. I miss him alot and I think the same is felt by many of my friends. It is still hard to talk about. I wish my prayers to the friends of Aaron's in Iraq and serving in the army, you know he watches over you! Elandt wasnt only my best friend but a partner in weirdness. He brought out the side of me that wasnt so uptight. I wish I could have got to thank him for that. When he was around we would laugh about dumb stuff and always have a great time. There was always and occasional Elandt CRAZY laugh to go with a funny comment. I miss you BUD."
Aaron Kriewall of Harbor Beach MI

"Sergeant Aaron Elandt, I have the picture of you standing in your Hummer in the bright blue sky of Iraq. I will always remember you and your sacrifice like so many others that responded to the call to arms after 911. Truely the heros of any war are the one's that don't come back. God bless and keep you."
Tom Pokora, cousin of Flushing, Michigan

"Elandt was my gunner for about a year and a half in fort hood, Tx. He taught me everything that i know today, when it comes to my job. Nobody could ever replace him, i'm gonna miss his smile and his jokes. I miss you Elandt, i'll see you later, man."
Ivan Fierro of Fort Hood, Tx (HHC 1-12 CAV , 1ST CAV DIV)

"It will soon be two years since Aaron made the ultimate sacrifice for his country while serving in Iraq. I just now finished reading all the kind thoughts that were shared by men who served with him, respected him, and loved him, as well as those from other friends and family members. I was blessed by each one. I deeply regret the great loss of his life and so many others, but am proud that I had a nephew who humbly served and gave everything he had. Thank you Aaron. I love you.
--Uncle Ronnie"
Ronald Hazzard of Chesapeake, VA

"My name is Scott Morgan and I live in Atlanta, GA. I served with HMLA-773 with the 4th Marine Air Wing. I purchaced a fallen soldier bracelett a week ago. Turns out the inscription reads: SGT. AARON C. ELANDT; ARMY 30 MAY 2004 IRAQ.
To all the family and friends of Sgt. Elandt, thank you. His death is not in vain, and as long as I have a wrist, his name is still spoken.
From a Marine to an Army Sgt.: You are not forgotten! Thank you!
morgangrafixx@hotmail.com"
Scott Morgan of Atlanta, Georgia USA

"Aaron you were a good cousin and freind."
Cody Elandt of Hampstead,NC United States

"To the family of SGT Elandt,

My name is Sam Winslow, I served with the 1-6 Scout Platoon in Iraq with your son. I will never forget the 30th of May for the rest of my life. Every day I think about the sacrifice that he gave for our country. I am still haunted by that painful memory when we were told of his passing. I cannot thank you, his family, enough for raising the good man, and leader that your son was. I am sorry for not writing sooner, as it is very important to me that you know how I will always remember SGT Elandt with the utmost respect, and pride that I was able to know him. I hope that you know that he will never be forgotton!"
Sam Winslow of Norridgewock, ME USA

"I was Sgt. Aaron Elandt's room mate for 1 year. He was the best room mate I ever had. He would put up with me and when I would get out of hand; he was there. I learned alot from him and I thank him. I will always miss him and miss his smile. Thank you very much Elandt. I'll see you later."
Abel Pena Jr. of LAREDO,Texas/956-236-2855

"SGT Elandt, is about to return with me to Iraq for a second time however only in spirit. I know he will be watching over me and having my 6 just like last time he is greatly missed. Best wishes go out to the Elandt family"
SSG Dilcher, Matthew of Colorado Springs, CO

"Thanks to all who have left their kind thoughts here for Aaron and for us. It's nice to know that he has so much love for him out there. To the many others that have lost their loved ones as well, especially the family of Captain Sheetz...my heart aches for you. Every time I hear the news of another the same feelings flow through me and I wish that there was something that could be done to end all this.

It is also nice to hear from all you scouts. It's great to know that he had become even more than a great guy to be around, that before he left us he had the satisfaction of being truly great at something and making a difference in the world. It only makes it harder to put away the grief however because Aaron had grown so much in the last few years. What more would he have done? What uncanny wisdom would he have for me next? He was really a great source and I quote him often, one favorite being, "only break one law at a time, guy" and many others that I don't think I can print on this site. He was one colorful cat, that's for sure.

Thanks so much for everything. Peace be with you all.
Sincerely, Matthew Elandt
mattelandt@hotmail.com"
Matthew Elandt of Chelsea, MI

"Any body that ever knew Aaron, knew how funny and cool he was, I served with him for about 2 years before he went to Germany, I was in HHC 2-7 CAV with him, i lived 2 doors down in the barracks, I loved him like a brother, Although i am very deeply saddened by you leaving, i remember the good times, and your legacy lives with me, I wish every one knew about the time we went to South Padre Island, we weren't supposed to be that far away from post, but we all went anyways, lol, We saved this kid that was drowning You, Me, and Clayton, all three of us almost died trying to save him, but none of us quit, then we went to Mexico, and Aaron had to carry me back into the U.S. because i got to wasted, lol, I wish i had you here to drink a beer with me and remenice about the good times. You were always a good friend though thick and thin and you will never be forgotten. Much Love from the Scout, Mortors, Cooks, Medics, S&T, and all of us that served with you, brother if you could see this, i hope it brings much joy to you. Later from your brother, Sgt Duran, Jorge"
Sgt Duran, Jorge of Fort Hood, TX

"Scouts Out Sgt. Elandt!
Remember “Fiddlers Green”."
SSG Dan Bieling of Owasco, NY

"Family and loved ones...
I served with aaron in Korea...he was an outstanding soldier then and i am sure he only improved...while in Iraq when i received word of his death it was a horrible blow...my deepest sympathy for your loss.."
SSG Shon VanCleef of Fort Knox, KY

"to my good friend Aaron Elandt,
I will never forget the day we lost you. It was tragic day that everyone in the scout platoon wish it never happened. You were always strong mentally and an upbeat individual that who ever had a chance to meet you, and gotten to know you, will never forget who you are. Your as good friend on and off work, a guy i can relie upon to make me laugh when the place or time just brings you down. I will never forget the first time we went out and had some crazy times at germany, buddy. I will forever miss and remember you. to the good times and the best of times, a drop for my homeboy. To the Elandt family, know that Aaron affected our lives in a positive way. He's a friend like no other. I'm sorry we lost him."
Spc. Nonaillada, Cary of Scout Plt. 1-6 INF, Baumholder, Germany

"Whats up SGT Elandt how you doing? I'm doing good thanks for asking. I served under SGT Elandt for 15 months while we were in Iraq. He wasn't only my leader but he was also my friend. We had our good times while out in sector and we had our bad. He always had a smile on his face no matter what the mission. We would go out on mission and he would have a smile on his face and when we came back from mission dripping with sweat in the 120 degree heat, he would still have a smile on his face. Our clothes would be stained with salt and boy would we smell, but SGT Elandt never complained or griped. He was an awesome person and a good freind. I will never forget you SGT Aaron C. Elandt. My Wife just had our 4th child on June 1 2005. His name is Tanner Aaron Steward. He weighed in at 8lbs 1oz and he was 20 and a half inches long. We gave him his name in memory of SGT Aaron Elandt. You, your family and friends will always be in our hearts and prayers AND NEVER FORGOTTEN!!
SCOUTS OUT!!!!"
SGT Dustin Steward of Baumholder Germany

"I hardly knew Aaron. I was a roommate of his older brother Matt in Mt. Pleasant, MI in 2000. I only remember Aaron, fresh out of high school and a week before entering the Army, coming up to visit his older brother and hanging out. He seemed like a quiet, shy kid but seemed eager to go off and see the world. Another one of our roommates from that year called me to tell me of the sad passing of Aaron after seeing his picture and article in the Detroit Free Press. Although I never knew Aaron at all, it still deeply saddened me to learn of his death. My condolescenes to Matt and the rest of the Elandt family. I just wish I could have expressed it sooner than now. God Bless."
J.W. of Mt. Pleasant, MI

"Your loved one was remembered on 27 May 2005 in Bicentennial Memorial Chapel General Protestant Worship Service in Fort Gordon, GA. His life and your sacrifice are not forgotten. Thank you. We are praying for you.
Chaplain (Major) Alva Ray Bennett"

"Thank you to everyone who has shared their thoughts on this web page about my little brother, Aaron. Sgt Jacob Rapier, thank you for being with Aaron in his last moments. It is a comfort to know that he had a friend by his side. He was loved by so many. Be strong."
Paula Blanchard of Bad Axe, Michigan

"Aaron was not only my good friend, but a great leader. For me, memorial day will never be the same. I was with him till the chopper lifted and I trully believe he is with me always and forever... I have had a letter written to his parents but have never had the nerve to send it off...It states simply that I cannot imagine the pain felt by the parents of such a wonderful person who's life was short lived. I knew when I first met Aaron and served with him side by side, that he was something special. Not only as a person but as a leader to the young soldiers whom looked up to him. I cant put into words the pain I felt when I couldnt help him. He told me not to worry and that everything would be alright, he was a good fibber. That night I cried the first tears I had shed since I was a child and I still shed tears today. Aaron touched not only my life, but the lives of all who knew him and loved him. Aaron, you will live on with me forever."
SGT Jacob Rapier of Mason, OH

"To Aaron's family and friends.
I as well as some of the guys in Aaron's old unit, the HHC 2-7 Scout Platoon out of Ft Hood, knew Aaron before he moved to Germany. We want to say that it was a sad day to hear about the loss of his life. He was a great guy to be around and the few who are still left of his platoon that knew him will miss him dearly."
SGT Flores, David of Ft Hood, TX (currently in iraq)

"On behalf of the Soldiers from HHC 1-6th Infantry. Baumholder, Germany. We would like to say to the family of SGT Elandt and CPT Sheetz, that they will forever live on in our hearts."
SUPPORT PLATOON of Baumholder, Germany

"SGT Elandt, I can still see your face as you were sitting in the hatch of the hummer while you were getting your picture taken. We would always run into each other while I was headed to the first sergeant daily meetings. If I wanted to locate SPC Owensby, I knew that I could find him in your room. I'm very thankful that I knew you and thankful that we served together in the same company. I always remember giving you the thumbs up sign before going on the countless logpacs. I know that everyone always think of you and CPT Sheetz daily. Remember we are "REGULARS BY GOD". God Bless you."
SFC Michael Norwood of Baumholder, Germany

"On this Veterans' Day 2004, as every day since May 30th, my heart breaks for you and your family. Though I have never met you personally, our families will be forever joined in sorrow. Rob Scheetz, my son-in-law, served and died with Aaron. Please know that I pray for you and that with time your hearts will be healed. God bless you and be with you."
Doreen Vidal of Enterprise, Alabama

"SGT Elandt,
I grew up with you. I have partied with you. I couldn't believe it when I heard that you passed away so far from home. Not to worry, buddy, we are still serving in Iraq, your sacrifice will not be in vain. I am headed there in October and I promise you that I will make you and everyone else who made the ultimate sacrifice proud. Rest in Peace. I wish you could be here to see me go. Thanks for all you did."
/////////////////////// of Bad Axe, MI

"Aaron is my cousin and I miss him greatly! But he will be forever remembered as my fallen hero and an amazing person! I Love You Aaron!!"
Rebecca Elandt of Sterling Heights, Mi

"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

"Aaron was a wonderful person. He came from a military family. His father served in Vietnam and his three older siblings were also in the military. Aaron wanted to go back to school, so now a scholarship has been established in his honor.

Aaron Elandt Scholarship Fund
C/o Chemical Bank
112 N. Huron
Harbor Beach, MI 48441"

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

"To the Family of Aaron C. Elandt - please know that as time passes, Aaron's sacrifice (and yours) will not be forgotten. We are indebted to Aaron for his bravery and love of country. May God comfort you as only He can and please know that you are in our prayers. We will not forget."
The Kimbel Family of McBain, MI

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

"Aaron's family, I am so sorry for your tragic loss. Please know that many of us appreciate his service and sacrifice for our country."
F.Smith of Pennsylvania

"To Aaron'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

"To Aaron'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 Aaron Elandt, 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 Sgt. Aaron Elandt:
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 Aaron 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 Sgt. Aaron Elandt:
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 Aaron, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia