Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"http://www.oxnard-journal.com/espiritu.htm"
Frank Lopez of Oxnard CA

"Side by side we trained as children. Side by side we grew into men. We met in the middle and were born on opposite sides of the country. We marched tall and proud together at Great Lakes and shipped out to the call of protection and glory to never speak words again after a hand shake, a proud and eager smile, and a brotherly embrace. Ten years passed when I learned that we had shared quarters yet again in the heated sands of Ramadi. I fired upon an evil with skill and accuracy that we learned side by side. You rendered aid and protection to the wounded whom were inflicted by that evil. I am proud to call you Brother yet I wish it were over pilfered peanut butter from the mess hall while other shipmates slept. May your spirit live through your loved ones and your sword lay lonely on the mantle Brother Espiritu."
Sgt Randy Durett of Eden, Vermont, United States of America

"HM2 Espiritu,
Yesterday was the Corpmen Birthday and I watched a video of the fallen HM's. I saw your photo. I had known you were killed in action, but had not thought about you in a long time. For that, I am sorry. We were stationed together in Port Hueneme. We had many talks together. I was a DT2 back then and I will never forget your smile. You were so caring and helpful to all. Well, I did cross over to the "dark side" and became an officer, but my heart will always beat that of an enlisted. Rest in peace my dear Shipmate!"
LCDR (sel) Silva of NWS Earle, NJ

"I would always look at this website and not know what to write in it. I have served with HM2 Espiritu in 7th ESB. I remember when I first checked in. He had told me he wanted nothing but 110% from me in everything I did. And expected nothing less. Looking back he gave more than that percentage in uniform and out of it. He emulated everything I wanted to be. He was just so dedicated. He always saved my butt, always looking out for me. HM2 taught me a lot of things about being a corpsman. It was these skills that kept me alive when I pushed out to Iraq. His death was a tremendous loss not just to me but to the FMF community. He was someone I looked up to, someone I admired. Thank you for everything HM2. I know you are up there looking after the Marines and Fellow Corpsman. My prayers are to his family, our FMF community. Hoorraah! Semper Fidelis."
John Nikolai "Doc Cruz" of San Diego, California

"HM2, I never met you but I was handed dog tags with your name to run with at NSB Kings bay's run for the fallen(21AUG14
Allen thank you for your service to this country and thank you for paying the ultimate sacrifice.
ALLEN'S family, thank you for your son, I will pray for you and your family I know how hard it is to lose a loved one.
MK3 Larsen
MFPU KINGS BAY."
Roy Larsen of Kings Bay Ga

"Allan, I have never outwardly expressed my sorrow for your passing until now. You are always on my mind and forever in my heart"
HMC(ret) Jose Nicola of Virginia Beach, VA

"I constantly think of the lessons Espiritu taught me. I was his junior corpsman and he lead me to be a senior corpsman and teach others as I was taught by him. There are many of us that know him and miss him. I see a lot of our friends and fellow corpsman and our marines still pay tribute to him. I still look at the pictures (and miss the pictures, that I lost from our first deployment in 99 and the many others we had together). For his family and brother, I still have a lot of pictures from OKI, the Sand Box, 29, Pendleton, etc. for his family if they want copies. I wish I could talk to him again. I wish his Family well and he is remembered by all. Allan was a great man and a great friend. If it was not for him I would have not achieved the goals he help me set. I owe him my life and gratitude. God Bless,"Pagpalain ng Diyos ang aking kapatid na lalaki at guro""
Doc Allman of San Diego, CA

"My name is Dennis Frank Trias Gorrez. I Was one among whom have carried Allan's casket. I have repressed memory of the event . but now i remember. His story... it is what legends are made off."
Dennis of California

"HM2 Allan Espiritu " spirit fingers", i remember you as my big brother and the our last talk before we leave to our combat outpost in Ramadi..."Perez be safe all the time, do not try to be a hero but go far and beyond if you have to safe an american's live, keep your rifle clean and gear ready all the time, study to get your FMF pin when you have time and keep your head up and always look forward, I will see you there" I will never forget your words, and that's what i do everyday. I keep your family in my prayers. I will see you up there..."
Byron Perez. of San Diego, CA

"Semper Fidelis, Doc Espiritu. You are not forgotten."
HM3 (FMF) CGN of Overseas

"Allan,
I remember standing in from of the BAS going over gear and training deploying corpsmen with you just before your deployment to Iraq. I remember joking with you and the infamous “Spirit Fingers”. I think of you and your family all of the time, especially during holidays and celebrations for our Armed Forces. Most of all, I think of what might have been for you and your family. My prayers always for you and your family…until we meet again! Semper Fi Doc!!
Very Respectfully."
Gil Barrera, HMC(Ret) of Waddell, AZ

"I'm sad to say that I just learned of my good friend HM2 Espiritu's sacrifice to our nation. Yesterday while attending the 2011 Navy Corpsman Ball I saw a video illustrating the names and pictures of Navy Corpsmen Heros who'd made the ultimate sacrifice. As I watched it I saw HM2 Espiritu's name and picture. I cannot put into words the pain, sadness and sense of disbelief I felt. I had the privilege and honor of serving our great nation beside my good friend Allan while stationed in NBVC Port Hueneme, CA. He and I were both members of the command's Special React Team (SRT) and often worked together on training exercises. At the time we were both E-5's and had served for a similar amount of time. Upon concluding my tour of duty at NBVC I transferred in mid 2005, after which we lost touch with one another. Mainly, I thought due to the distance and operational commitments, but never due to his passing. We often shared personal and professional goals and issues with each other. He was a phenomenal Father, Sailor, Man and Friend amongst other things. He was a man who valued family, friends and life. I'd often wondered what he was up to these days. And now I know, he's serving God in the heavens while looking over us. Thank God we all had the gift of knowing Allan, a true hero. God bless Allan and his family!"
Miguel of Los Angeles, CA

"Thinking of you on this day. Thank you for your service and making the ultimate sacrifice."
Micah Gaines of Gulfport MS

"01 Nov 2010

To the Espiritu family, friends and fellow Marines: Know that Allan is not and will not be forgotten. 01 Nov 2005 is seared into my memory, and the memories of those that served with, loved and respected Allan. He was always there for his Marines and his actions saved many lives. He is greatly missed. It breaks my heart that he did not come home. He is with the Lord now, I am sure still watching out for others as he did when he was with us. I will continue to tell people about the hero Allan Espiritu.
God Bless the Espiritu family for your sacrifice.
Very Respectfully,
LtCol Rob Kurowski
Iraq 2005"
Rob Kurowski of Smithfield, VA

"Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice. I received my Memorial Bracelet in the mail today. It will be my honor to wear it in memory of your service to our country."
Angela Angeles of Fairfax, VA

"I love and miss you daddy!!!"
Melanie Espiritu

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry. I understand in theory only that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take the families pain away but I can't. I am committed to loving ALL people, myself and our environment. I am committed to working on my happiness everyday because so many have died for my freedom to live my life. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have. All my love and respect. ogersteiner@yahoo.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEjz-wAQLSA&feature=PlayList&p=477CB1585D5551F3"
Scott Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"Hoorah HM2, rest in peace. You made me the motivated doc I am today. You're always remembered and never forgotten. 7thESB misses you.

Always, HM2(FMF)Alonzo, DeAndra"
DeAndra Alonzo of Oceanside, CA

"I have never forgotten you. I think of you and your family often. Erica, know that you are always in my thoughts and prayers."
Leah Brown, LCDR MC USN of San Diego, CA

"From this day to the ending of the world,
But we in it shall be remembered;
We few, we happy few, we band of brothers;
For he today that sheds his blood with me
Shall be my brother; - HENRY V

Allan, You were my brother 'cause we chewed on the same dirt of 29 palms and tasted the same salty air of Port Hueneme. You will alway be remembered and I will tell your story to anyone who will listen. Vio Con Dios"
Gueillermo Mendez (former HM3 ) of Phoenix, Az

"Thank you HM2 Espiritu for your sacrafice. It completley humbles me and I often get choked up to know you Marines and Corpsman have paid the ultimate price for the rest of us. My children are to young to understand what is going on now. I VOW to you all in time they will hear me tell them stories of these Awesome men who fought for their freedoms. The incredible sacrafice they made, and how proud I am of them.
I love all you guys and your in my prayers every night!
Semper Fi!"
Brett USN HM3(FMF) 93-99 of SAN DIEGO, CA

"I luv my daddy allan. I am her daughter Melanie. I am 10 Now.I wish I could see him again."
Melanie E. of Oxnard, CA

"November 1, 2008
To the family of Petty Officer 2nd Class Allan M. Cundanga Espiritu:
Allan 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

"Al, its taken a while to write this. I remember when we were at March Airforce Base getting ready to get on the plane and you had all of your gear and you looked like a kid on christmas, you were so excited. I know the ones you saved once we were there are forever greatful. You were incredible at what you did. It just didnt seem right going home without you, I kept hoping you would step on the plane with us, it was very hard. To Erica and your three beautiful Girls, know that your husband and daddy was a true hero and he will be greatly missed. Semper Fi Al
HM1 Victoria Tomat, Jacksonville, FL"
Vic of Jacksonville, Fl

"I am still here, Doc. I miss you, Brother. I wont ever forget you."
LCpl Arrey, Inez of LA, Cali, USA

"Doc, I got ibuprofen for my back and leg pain. Got anything for my tears??
They wont stop."
LCpl Arrey of Pacoima, Ca

"Doc, here I am again. You were our corpsman, my corpsman. Your medkit treated our injuries, but now my pain is emotional, remember Murdoch and Schumacher? Remember Doc Allman and Doc Polk, and Doc Hansen?? Of course you do, thats dumb of me to ask. YOu only worked with them everyday. I still have a pic of you from Oki. I miss you terribly. Doc you've healed me before, this time I dont know who will. Corpsman up, was your call. I will never forget you. How could I? You were my Doc, my corpsman, my friend. Doc, I am hurting bad. I dont know whats hurting me. But I know you would know. You always knew. You were a better Corpsman than I was a Marine. Remember that pic we took me, you, Doc Allman, Cpl Lewis, Cpl "Hotrod" Rodriguez, Sgt Kroeger, holding beers, while Lewis kept chewing my * out?? I was wearing that DI smokey?? Doc, you save Marines. But who saves Corpsman?? Doc, I am in pain. I think this time, I must learn to heal myself. But how do I do that?? How?? You were always with us Marines, Doc, Doc, you were my Doc.
Semper Fi Doc, you were always one helluva Corpsman. When I caught pneumonia, you took care of me. You took care of us all."
LCpl Inez Arrey, USMC of In tears, Pacoima Ca.

"Doc, many times I called you Doc. You prescribe zyrtec and benadril for my allergies. I remember the laughs we all had. Remember when Gun 3 would "roll" Gun 6? Cpl lewis gun?? I miss you."
LCpl Arrey, 3/11 1stMarDiv India Guns Plt. of Los Angeles Ca. USA

"Doc, many times I called you Doc. You prescribe zyrtec and benadril for my allergies. I remember the laughs we all had. Remember when Gun 3 would "roll" Gun 6? Cpl lewis gun?? I miss you."
LCpl Arrey, 3/11 Guns Plt. of Los Angeles Ca. USA

"To Doc's family,

It took me a long time to write this but just wanted you to know that Allan was and is a hero. The hero word is used too many times, but in Doc's case it is certainly warranted. He was loved by his EOD team because of his loyalty, courage, drive and enthusiasm. His death was truly a tragedy. Please know that he is still thought of, and my prayers will be forever with those he left behind."
MGySgt Alan Higgins of Camp Lejeune, NC

"I was there Brother!!! I'm SORRY!"
Kilo Delta of Texas

"Doc Espiritu and Family,
I thank you for your ultimate sacrifice. Words cannot express the gratitude and the deep sorrow we feel for the loss of one of our own. He will be remembered amoungst us..ALWAYS. God bless you all and Semper Fortis."
HM1(FMF) Edward Telles of 1st MLG, Camp Pendleton, Ca

"My condolences to the Espiritu Family. I had the pleasure of meeting Allan a few years back for a short period of time during one of our exercises in 29 Palms, Ca. The weather was hot and dry, the water was warm, the food cold and the days long. I would complained constantly about the conditions we were training in. He would said every time I complained about anything, - "It'll be al'right". Pretty much his standard response for just about anything that would come out of my mouth. Here I find myself almost seven years later browsing through a website and come accross his picture. Needless to say I was in shock. The impression he made in my life has been of such a great impact. I can testify that my motto has been - "It will be al'right" ever since. I am sorry I did not kept in touch with such a wonderful person, but I do have to thank you at the same time for allowing me the honor of meeting him and have him made an impression so lasting in my life."
HM1 Cruz of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina

"You are a true hero Doc Espiritu.
I was truly saddened when I found out that a Doc, esp. a Filipino-American, was fatally wounded. All Pinoy Corpsmen were saddened when we heard about the news. Although I do not know Doc Espiritu, my respect goes out him.
Salamat sa iyo, ang bayan natin ay lalong mapayapa. My condolences to the family. God Bless You, My Brother."
E. Jimenez, USN

"Doc Espiritu Family,
The human race is forever grateful for Allan's ultimate sacrifice. We will continue to pray that God will watch over your family and give you courage to be strong. We ask that God will forever remind us of Doc Espiritu and all those that have given their lives for our country and we ask that God give them eternal rest until we all muster on that last day together."
Chief Marroquin of Sheppard AFB, TX

"To the family of:Allan M. Cundanga Espiritu 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"

"HM2 you made the ultimate sacrifice as a Corpsman. You will always be remembered. To the family, know that he is in a better place and he is well. SEMPER FORTIS!!!"
Navy Doc of Expeditionary Medical Facility Kuwait

"WHERE MARINES AND ANGELS FEAR TO TREAD THERE YOU'LL FIND A CORPSMAN DEAD....JOHN"DOC"CANNELLI KILO 3/1st MARINES 1 MAR DIV(80-81) OOH RAHH SHIPMATE......"
JOHN"DOC"CANNELLI of HARRISON EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE , W.C. N.Y.

"First of all, I would like to extend my condolences, sympathy, and prayers to the entire Espiritu family. Yes we lost HM2 Espiritu but we gained another angel to watch over us. His passing made me more proud of being a sailor and a Corpsman. You are now and inspiration to me HM2 and I promise you that i'll continue the tradition you left behind. I'll continue to "represent the fighting spirit of the Navy and those who have gone before me to defend freedom and democracy around the world" -Sailor's Creed". Mabuhay ka HM2 and I can't thank you enough for the ultimate sacrifice you gave. God bless, rest in peace, and Semper Fortis!"
HM2 Alegre, John of I MHG GAS Camp Fallujah, Iraq

"HM2 Espiritu, to your family, my deepest condolences. Thanks for everything you taught me about being a better sailor, and through that, being a better person. 7th ESB Sailors and Marines will miss you and remember you."
Robert Cooper of Camp Pendleton, CA

"To Allen's Family, I am so sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers. Allan, you sir are a true American Hero. Allan, thank you for all you have done in Iraq and in your life. God Bless you Allan and God Bless your family."
Mary Ghaney of Brooklyn, New York

""Only the dead have seen the end of war."

My head is still screwed trying to grasp the news of you not being here anymore. We only met twice and I only heard nothing but good things about you while I was in Hueneme in Jan-Sept 03.

It hits home when people you know have to go through on what you went through.

Your in a better place now man, among those select few that have done it, been there, and did what you were asked to do.

Be at peace my friend, be at peace.

To Erica and Baby,

I'm sorry. Allan and Dad is watching over you.

To The Corpsmen Out In The Line,

Stay safe! Remember those that we've lost in this Fight and remember your Oath as a Corpsman. Keep your Honor Clean and take care of your Marines.

Corpsman Up!

Semper Fi!

Kill Them Muj!

NavyDoc
1st Marines, RCT 1
Al Fallujah Aug 04-Apr 05
Operation Phantom Fury/Al Fajr"
NavyDoc of Phoenix, Az

""Only the dead have seen the end of war."

My head is still screwed trying to grasp the news of you not being here anymore. We only met twice and I only heard nothing but good things about you while I was in Hueneme in Jan-Sept 03.

It hits home when people you know have to go through on what you went through.

Your in a better place now man, among those select few that have done it, been there, and did what you were asked to do.

Be at peace my friend, be at peace.

To Erica and Baby,

I'm sorry. Allan and Dad is watching over you.

To The Corpsmen Out In The Line,

Stay safe! Remember those that we've lost in this Fight and remember your Oath as a Corpsman. Keep your Honor Clean and take care of your Marines.

Corpsman Up!

Semper Fi!

Kill Them Muj!

NavyDoc
1st Marines, RCT 1
Al Fallujah Aug 04-Apr 05
Operation Phantom Fury"
NavyDoc of Phoenix, Az

"Your legacy will go on. SEMPER FORTIS."
Navy corpsman of San Antonio, TX.

"From the Piniol family, our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Espiritu family. I served with Allen's brother while stationed at 2/4 in the late 90's and have had the distinct honor to get to meet and know Allen. His generosity to life and to the Navy will be missed. Fair Winds and Following Seas, Shipmate."
HM2(FMF) Jason O Piniol of Bonsall, CA

""Non sibi sed patriae" Corpsman up."
HM3 Jolivette of Jacksonville FL

"HM2 You are not forgotten. We will continue to fight for our country, and in your name we will pray.SEMPER FORTIS"
HM3 Quinton Brown of AL-HADITHA, IRAQ 3rd BN/ 1ST MAR

"thank You Allan M. Cundanga Espiritu!!!! You are a true Hero. I am proud of all the troops over in IRAQ and elsewhere fighting for the rights of others. They know the true meaning of an AMERICAN. I am a Navy wife and my husband was called to Iraq two months ago. But his unit was stood down and they got to come home safely. I pray that someday soon there will be peace over there. So our soldiers can come home. Please know that my prayers are with you and your daughter. Let her know her daddy was a real HERO. He is still with you and her in spirit. Please be blessed thru the holidays and thru out the year."
Jeff, Renae, timbyr, and taylor of Jacksonville, fl/USA

"Erica,
I offer my condolence to you and your daughter. Allan will be missed. I will always remeber him as the guy that always took care of us when it came to being the goto guy. While stationed with him he always helped out with any problems and he always lent me an ear when I need to blow off some steam. He may have left us physically but I know he is watching over us like he always did when he was here."
Q of Fallujah, Iraq

"To HM2 Erica Espiritu,
Condolence to you and your daughter and HM2 Allan Espiritu's family and relatives. I'm sorry to hear what had happened to him. He will always be remembered. He's a hero who died serving his country and fighting for the freedom we have right now. Thank you for all your services and God bless you all. We'll always pray for all of you."
HM1 Baluyot and family of Camp Pendleton, CA

"To the family and friends of Petty Officer 2nd Class Allan M. Cundanga Espiritu,

Those we hold most dear, never truly leave us. May you find comfort in love's everlasting connection.

In the Support section of this web site you will find links to many groups that support you at this crucial time. The Marine Comfort Quilt group would be honored to send a quilt to the next of kin. There are many, loving and caring Americans from all over the United States that will never forget the sacrifice that your loved one has made for our Freedom. If you're not certain that your loved one's next of kin is registered, please use our link and register them for a quilt so we can send our "Love Stitched Together."

Proud Marine Mom and Proud Member of Marine Comfort Quilts "
Sandra Moudy of Placentia, California USA

"My thoughts and prayers go out to the Espiritu family. I too had the honor of serving with Allan when with 2/4, and have to say that his delightful attitude, motivation, and steadfast dedication to his coutry will be impregnated in the minds of those who admired him. Thank you for all that you did for our country Allan. Rest in peace my friend, for we will meet again..."
HM3 (ret.) Shane Henry of Carlsbad, CA

"My deepest sympathy and condolences go out to the family and friends of HM2(FMF/PJ/EOD) Allan M. Espiritu. You will be missed my friend but only temporarily, until we meet again.
"SEMPER FORTIS""
Navy Corpsman of Oxnard, CA., USA

"My prayers are with you no one know what you are going through but god so all I can say is that you are in my prayers."
SH2 Scott of Hemet CA 92544

"To the Espiritu Family. All our prayers are with you in your time of need. As a Hospital Corpsman, and from someone who knew him, it hurts to hear a fellow Corpsman go down. HE'LL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED BY ME AND BY THE CORPSMAN RATE! God bless."
Hospital Corpsman Second Class of Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, CA

"You will never be forgotten Shipmate!

Semper Fidelis/Fortis"
NAVY CORPSMAN of Garden Grove, CA

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

"ALLAN THANK YOU FOR SERVING OUR COUNTRY. HELPING TO FIGHT OFF TERRORISM AND GIVE THOSE IN IRAQ HOPE. YOU HAVE NOT GIVEN YOUR LIFE IN VAIN! YOU ARE AN AMERICAN HERO. MY TEARS NEVER STOP FLOWING FOR OUR SON GRGEORY. YET, TODAY THOSE VERY TEARS ARE YOUR'S. THANK YOU FOR SERVING ALONG SIDE OUR SON. YOU ARE SOMEONE'S SOMEONE AND YOU ARE SOMEONE TO THE WAHL FAMILY. MY HEART AND PRAYS ARE WITH YOU ALLAN AND YOUR FAMILY! GOD BLESS!"
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"To the family and friends of Allan Espiritu. You have my deepest sympathy and respect. I had the honor and pleasure of being Allan's Basic Hospital Corps School instructor. I also had the honor of serving with his his brother while I was with 2/4 in the late 1990's. Allan was one of the best students I had the pleasure of instructing. He will be remebered by me always, my heart and prayers go out to his family."
HMC R. J. Lewis of Oceanside, CA

"RIP SHIPMATE"
US Navy Sailor

"Thank you Allan Espiritu, 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 Petty Officer 2nd Class Allan Espiritu:
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 Allan 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 Petty Officer 2nd Class Allan Espiritu:
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 Allan, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia