Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Every year this is a day that haunts my memory. It happens without me even thinking about it. This day and my birthday are the same and it’s the only time in Iraq I can tie anything that happened to an actual day. It’s easy to pretend the rest isn’t real. I was friends with Johnathan. I had a car so I’d take him and Nelson places to get off base for a bit. We all deployed together to Iraq. We were all straight out of basic and met up with our unit who had already been there for a while and already formed a bond. We were all added later. That made it hard. I’m sure not for Johnathan though because he could get along anywhere and he was good at doing what he needed to do and keeping his eyes on the mission. When we got to Iraq we went our separate ways I to HHC Johnathan and Nelson to Alpha. I will never forget that day, it was during Ramadan. It was the first time we had been attacked since I had been there. It was the first time I experienced being mortared and it was the last time I really thought twice about it. After that it just became the way it was. I remember after they stopped, hearing the radio squelch over and over at the battalion TOC. Panicked voices on the other end. It was Nelson that told me he was gone. It was a nightmare but it was all real. I know just like the rest of those who knew Johnathan and were there that day felt that way too. It didn’t make sense none of it did. We had just got there, and then he was gone. In the army you form a bond with your fellow soldiers like no other. But for me 17 years later I still remember like it was yesterday even as hard as I try to forget. So this year instead of running from it and trying to push it away I will remember him this day and make an effort to remember him. Thank you for your sacrifice that I’m sorry you had to make. To your parents they will always be in my prayers. Prayers of comfort and of peace beyond understanding during the reminder of this tragic day. I know you don’t need my prayers because I know your in a better place, that your up there with the king receiving your blessings you earned here."
of Maryland

"Its been thirteen years since I met this Soldier...Jonathan I. Falaniko. Rest in Peace, Brother. You have been with me for many a nights bud, we had some talks, and some walks. I have Peace within my heart Jonathan. However, I want to let you know that the best part of you will always remain with me, my friend. Your day will never be forgotten as long as I'm here bud. I frequently think of You and Your Dad. God Bless and May You Rest In Peace Brother."
SSG (Ret) Christopher S. Pettit, 3rd Bulldog Brigade, 125th FSB, C Company of Spencer, Tennessee

"God Bless you PVT Falaniko. I remember the 27th of October like it was yesterday. You were brought in to our aid station at Camp Payne. I was one of the medics that was working on you. I often see you in my dreams. You will forever be in my thoughts. I had never experienced anything like that before you came in that day to the 125th Bulldog aid station. I also transported you, along with your dad,CSM Falaniko, to Baghdad International Airport. I just want you to know that we did everything we could for you buddy. I know you are in Heaven now brother, but remember that you will always be remembered down here. GOD Bless YOU and your family. Peace be with you always!"
SSG Chris Pettit, Combat Medic, Ft Riley, KS 125th FSB, Bulldog BDE of Spencer, TN

"Jonathan,
I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones,!i wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Sappers Up!"

"To our Soldier", Falaniko,
You are thought about often. Thanks for all you done for us. Best wishes to your Family."
CSM (R) Ray Houston of San Antonio

"Jonathan and I were only friends for a couple months of AIT at Leonard Wood before his passing. I miss you bro. I still think about you all the time. To his family, I hope that seven years tomorrow has started to heal your pain. I'm very sorry for your tremendous sacrifice."
Jeff Jones of Berwick, PA

"**FOEREVER MY HERO** I love u miss you bro!! still think about you everyday!! as tha years go on theres not a day i dont think about you! R.I.Paradise bro until the day we meet again forever n always in my heart!!"
ur baby sis Lia of Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri

"What a great young Soldier whos' Father, CSM Falaniko and Mother, set such a great example for you and all of us. Bless you and your Family.This memorial day, 2010 and every day belongs to you, our hero."
CSM Ray Houston,R7 of Ft Sam Houston

""To the family of Jonathan I.Falaniko ,I am so sorry for the loss of your love one.He died a hero.May you know the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Hopefully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need someone to pray with you or talk to please call or write my pastor at Gateway Community Church,Rev John B Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd. Covington Ga. 30016 phone 770-787-1015""

"Dear Jonathan,
I know its been over 10-15 years since we last saw each other. We were little kids at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri. The Falaniko & Amituanai Family, always getting together for something fun! Family meant so much to us and we were fortunate to have such great parents and brothers & sisters in our lives. We will always remember you this Christmas season and never forget your patriotism. I will pass your legacy on to my son, Bryson Litteral. His grandpa, Command Sgt. Major Litteral, is currently serving in Iraq this Christmas season and so I ask that you watch over him. We love you and your family. From the Litterals in Alaska."
Ida Litteral (Amituanai) of Anchorage, Alaska/USA

"August 30, 2008
To the family of Pvt. Jonathan I. Falaniko:
Jonathan 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

"A true Iron Sapper! Your memory loves on. OIF 2003-2004, Commander, C/203rd EN, 1AD"
Gerald H Green

"HEY JONATHAN,
just wanted to let you know that i am your 1st cousin AJ and we never met before, i wish we did. BUt i know that your in heaven right now with god...and may god bless you and your family.....

P.S.
while you are up there if you get a chance....i did a portrait of you that up at the Library back home in Samoa...i took it to new york wit me and they loved itl..check it out and let me know when i meet you there in heaven"
Silao AJ afano Jr. of American Samoa

"HEY JONATHAN,
just wanted to let you know that i am your 1st cousin AJ and we never met before, i wish we did. BUt i know that your in heaven right now with god...and may god bless you and your family.....

P.S.
while you are up there if you get a chance....i did a portrait of you that up at the Library back home in Samoa...i took it to new york wit me and they loved itl.."
Silao AJ afano Jr. of American Samoa

"God Bless! And see you on the other side!"
Martin of Orem, Utah

"I still think of you every day... I'LL NEVER FORGET"
Sha of Tacoma, WA

"This is A1C Tremaine IV, Clayton D. Just want to pay my respects to my cousin, uncle kimo and his ohana."
Clay of Malmstrom AFB, MT

"Every Soldier knows that gut feeling when you are told that you're being deployed to another hostile overseas location. The fear of the unknown, the uncertainty of your future, the realization of the fragility of your life. Every Soldier knows what is like to not know what your morning is going to be like… or if it ever will arrive. Every soldier knows the fact that your next mission might be your last; that you were Blessed to come back from your last one. Every Soldier knows….. and still continues with the mission. The loss of any Soldier’s life is always a shock to everyone; family, friends and Brothers in Arms.
I am crying for this loss, I heard rumors about it, and was in denial. I refused to believe that such a wonderful young man could be gone from our side, from my greatest friend’s home. My tears are for the man who raised this SOLDIER with the moral fortitude that comes from the Falaniko family. My tears are for the mother that supported this family’s military tradition for more than two and a half decades.
I served under CSM Falaniko while stationed at Ft. Lewis, WA and can say, without hesitation, that he is the epiphany of the True Combat Engineer, The Soldiers talked about in every war story…. The Soldier everyone wants to become. I will never be able to express with words the depth of my sorrow for this family…. So I cry.
To my dearest friend CSM Falaniko….. to all your family I say, “I cry with you”.
To every Soldiers who read my words, remember ….. CHARLIE MIKE!!!!"
SSG(Ret.) W.F.Torres of Ft.Knox, KY

"To the Falaniko Family, I was with CSM Falaniko on the evening that this occurred, and spent time with him on numerous other occasions. I didn't know Jonathan, except through his father, I have spoken of Jonathan at churches and organizations all around Georgia, since returning home. I grew strength from the true patriotism and love exemplified by the Falanickos. Thank you for what your strength and dedication continue to do for my Soldiers and I. I will never forget the name FALANIKO and I will always honor your sacrifices. "Iron Soldiers""
COL. John A. Heath, Cdr. 265th EN GP of Dawson, Georgia 39842

"My condolences to the family… His father was my CSM at 14th Eng. BN @ Ft. Lewis, WA and is probably one of the best CSM’s I have ever worked for. I am very sorry about your loss! Your family is in my prayers!"
SFC Dennis G. Wilburn of Fort Knox, KY

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness,
and we are continuing to remember your family in your loss and your deep grief.
Our nations HERO, Jonathan will be remembered by name.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
God Bless you ALWAYS.
Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"Jonathan we will miss and love you always, your memory will be held in our hearts forever. You were one of the best friends that T ever had and I know he misses you from the bottom of his heart. I am currently working on a memorial DVD in memory of Jonathan so if anyone has pictures or video of Jon please email me at cds15@u.washington.edu"
Talalele and Chantal of Lakewood, WA

"With every passing day I think of you more and my heart wants you even greater... I miss you"
Sha of Lakewood, WA

"To jon's family i send my prayers out to them and niko keep your head up because we know he is in a better place, i knew jon since the first day of my highschool years and it seems like only yesterday we would play ball, hangout and do what boys do, i heard this suddenly today and it hurts alot but he will always be remembered in my heart, jon i know you hear this and your friends Terrance Thomas,Dennis Randolph and me send our love out to your family, the time we had was muched cherished. eternal friends always and you won't be forgotten!"
parnell neal of spanaway, washington

"Jonathan,
Although I didnt get to know you very well you are still somewhat family to me. Your Dad was my CSM at Ft. Lewis. And I know if you were half the soldier he is then you were a great soldier. To CSM Falaniko and your family my deepest sympathy for you loss, my heart and prayers go out to you.
SSG Swanson"
Scott Swanson of 1st Inf Div, Bamberg GR

"It was sad 2 say good-bye, but now 2 learn you are in a better place.Your Cuz"
Nikolao F. Manu of Seattle,WA U.S.A.

"Still thinking of you always... I will see you again someday till then my wife and I will always remember you eventhough she never met you... I always tell her of how great a person you were and still are... love you always brother.."
SPC Mathis, Shawn of Ft. Bliss, TX

"I just wanted to let Jonathan and his family know that when ever I get a chance to talk to soldiers, I share the story of Jonathan written by, LTC John Kem. I do this in a Warrior Ethos format. I have been doing this ever since his untimely death. I use it for NCODP, or when ever I get a chance to talk with soldiers. This Friday once again I will speak to a Graduating class of young soldiers from AIT here at Fort Bliss, TX. My purpose is two fold. One is to to keep Jonathans memory alive, and second is to share a heart felt story of a soldier who embodied a strong sense of family values, Army values and also a fitting tribute to our Warrior Ethos.
Rest in Peace Jonathan, we'll take it from here."
MSG(P) Robin C. Nagele of Fort Bliss, Texas

"MY NAME IS JAMIE DREW AND JONATHAN AND I WENT TO HIGH SCHOOL TOGETHER IN FORT LEONARD WOOD, MISSOURI. WE WERE A COUPLE FOR ABOUT 8 MONTHS AND I TRULY CHERISHED OUR RELATIONSHIP EVEN THOUGH WE WERE JUST KIDS. JONATHAN'S BROTHER NIKO WAS ALSO A VERY GOOD FRIEND OF MINE. I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT THE LOSS AND I SEND MY CONDOLENCES TO THE FALANIKO FAMILY. JONATHAN WAS ALWAYS SMILING AND I KNOW HE IS STILL SMILING DOWN ON HIS FAMILY AND LOVED ONES. JONATHAN, THANK YOU FOR THE EXPERIENCE. I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU."
JAMIE DREW of BALTIMORE, MD/USA

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of this fallen soldier. The reality of this war hits hard when I see my fellow samoan brothers dying out there. I never knew Jonathan or Farao Letufuga but I'm pretty sure by all the hearts that they've touched, that they were special men. Their families are lucky to have these brave soldiers as part of their families.
Until we meet again...rest in peace my brothers. WE'RE ALL PROUD OF YOU GUYS!!"
Mona Tuialuuluu-Lualemana of Monterey, CA

"I never had the pleasure of meeting either Jonathan or his parents, as I wish I had. I would like to extend my condolences to his parents on behalf of my family and to let them know that our prayers are with them."
Arlene Afano-Chen of Kaohsiung, Taiwan

"Thanks for the service to our country. You gave it all. May Lord bless your family especially your Dad, he's a good man."
SGT Fili, Puletua of Baghdad, Iraq

"Jon my soilder boy! It's been over a year since I last saw you but I think about you every day that passes. I'm so thankfull to have known you and spent so much time with you before you joined. I truly believe that you are wonderfull. Even though I cant physically hold you or see you again your face and smile is something I will remember forever. I miss you so much. Niko and family I know your loss is far greater then mine when it comes to him all he did was talk about you and his nephew you guys meant everthing to him.Every time he called or wrote that's what he'd talk about. I will keep you all in my prayers."
Sha Quinney of Tacoma, WA

"I had the pleasure of meeting Jon in High School. He was always so sweet. It brightened my day every time I saw him. I wish I had been home for his memorial. There are very few people that I would consider a friend in high school and Jon was one of them. He always made me laugh and I was in shock when I heard that god had taken such a wonderful person of this earth. I want to send my prayers to his family (his brother Niko) and friends. He was a very special person. He will be missed."
Carmen of Lakewood, WA

"I had the pleasure of meeting John in High School. He was always so sweet. It brightened my day every time I saw him. I wish I had been home for his memorial. I want to send my prayers to his family and friends. He was a very special person. He will be missed."
Carmen of Lakewood, WA

"I met Jonny when we went to Reid Ross Junior High in Fayetteville. My sisters and I had the biggest crush on him. He was a great friend and helped me out when I needed him at school. When I found out that he had passed I was deeply hurt. I thank him for defending our country and for his friendship. My husband and I are expecting a boy in February, and we're going to name him Jonathan. My family's prayers are with the Falaniko family. We miss you Jonny!"
Tiffany Craig of Fayetteville, NC USA

"Our people in American Samoa speak often of Jonathan and the legacy of pride, bravery, service and sacrifice he'd left behind. For that he shall always live in our hearts. It is always my belief that A hero gets called to heaven only when there aren't enough saints to carry out the work. I do believe Jonathan is working with the saints now. CSM Kimo and Mrs. Falaniko, you must believe that Jonathan is doing the work of the saints. We will go to him eventually. God bless you and your family. Praise God for Jonathan. With our love from the motherland."
Togiola Tulafono of For all of us from American Samoa

"I'm sorry I never got to say good bye, I'm glad that we got to spend the time we did. Will love you always, Sha"
Shawntella of Tacoma, WA

"John, We love you and miss you! Sad to see you gone. Love Andrea & Sha"
Andrea & Sha of Tacoma, WA

"Thank You"
Keala of Fresno, CA

"To the Falaniko Family,
I did not know Jonathan, but I know his Dad, CSM Falaniko, we graduated from the USASMA together. Having a father like the CSM, I know PFC Falaniko is in heaven. Rest in Peace."
CSM Vera F. Harris (Muleskinner 7) of Al Kut, Iraq

"To Jonathan's family, I am Capt. John R. Teal's Mom. He is buried next your Son at Arlington. Just wanted to let you know that we put flowers on Jon's grave at Easter when we put them on our Son's grave. I hope you folks are beginning to heal. We will never get over their loss, but it will get easier to deal with as time goes on. But they will never be forgotten -- I promise you this."
Louise Teal of Montpelier, VA

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

"To the family of PVT Falaniko I wish to offer my condolences I know he is greatly missed.
I only knew PVT Falaniko a short time I attended Basic Training and AIT with him at Fort Leonard Wood.
I often use to joke with him and call him Sargeant Major Falaniko because I found out that his father held that rank and I also would tell him that I bet he would become a Sargenat Major one day to.But sadly we know that will never happen but if he were alive today I know he would advance straight to the top."
PVT Arnulfo Daroy Jr of Baltimore, Maryland

"I was a freind of Jon's and I thought that I should at least say to the family that he will be deeply missed. I can't tell you how much his death has impacted me and my reflection on life. I knew him and his brother from Lakes and can't imagine the pain Niko must be feeling. My sister and I are friends with the Falaniko brothers and are very close like them. I can only think of the pain I would feel if I lost her. Niko, you and your family will be in our prays! Much Alofa!"
Imoana of Lakewood, WA

"I don't even know where to begin. My dad and Jona's dad were like brothers so that essentially made me feel like Jona's cousin. We knew eachother as kids and as we grew up throughout the years. I didn't get to spend as much time and hang out with Jona as I so wish I could have. It had been a while since i had seen Jona because i was living in a different state at the time and i only came to visit every now and then. Growing up with the Falanikos I always considered them family and i always felt as though i was part of their family even to this day. I haven't seen them in a while because i joined the army a little over a year ago and lost contact with everyone. It was when i was in airborne school that i heard of Jona's death and my heart sank and i began to cry, becuase i couldn't believe that such a great person had left this world. I know he has gone to a better place and that he will be watching over all of us because that's the person he is. He was one the coolest person i had ever met in my life. To see someone so tough and hard yet gentle was amazing. I think about him everyday because of the sacrifice he made and the scrifice that everyone has made losing him. It hurts me now to write this and think about him. I know i have left a lot of things out, but that's only because there will never be enough words to describe how great of a person Jona was and still is. My heart will always be with and his family. He is my hero and an inspiration to all who know him. "Jona...you're the brother i never had the privelage of having, but i always considered you my brother and i will always....I love you man""
Shawn Mathis of Camp Humphreys, South Korea

"To Pvt Falaniko's Family:
Though we are strangers, we want you to know how sorry we are your Jonathan was taken from you. He is our hero. You are in our hearts. We will never forget."
Carol & Larry Miller of Tampa, Florida (2/24/04)

"My heart goes out to CSM Falaniko. The CSM probably doesn't remember me but I was COL Peabodys (3id EN BDE Commander) driver in Iraq and had the chance to speak with the CSM on several occasions when 1AD EN BDE co-habitated with us in Baghdad. When I had rotated back to the US from Falluja and heard that his son had been killed, my heart sank. I know that no words of mine can ease your pain but please know that everyone here of the EN BDE at 3id offered prayers for your family. May God continue to watch over you and your family in your time of bereavement. God Bless."
Jason Hare of Ft. Stewart, GA

"I'm heartbroken to receive the news of my cousin Jona so late. Jona, Niko, and I were old friends in Fayetteville and I loved and respected the Falaniko family as my own. I remember my auntie would take all us kids to the pool and we'd stay the whole day just clowning around. And it breaks my heart because that's the last memories I have of Jonathan; we were just some wild kids, but I never forgot him or his family, because they meant that much to me. I am so proud to have known Jona, and he will forever reside in my heart and the hearts of the Maseuli family. May you rest in peace little cousin."
Lenny Maseuli Jr. of Concord, NC

"To the family and friends:
Army Pvt. Jonathan I. Falaniko's life will not be forgotten!
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you in your sorrow.
May God's love and peace be with you."
Pat and Sandi B of Montana

"This is a copy of the email I received 20 October 2003 from my son CSM Eric F. Cooke, 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division. My son was killed 24 December 2003. The words he had written about CSM Falaniko's loss was a model for me when I participated in the burial of my son at Arlington National Cemetery.
"Mom,
I'm fine, although. This evening was not much fun.
Couple of days ago, 70th Engineer Battalion assigned to the 3rd BDE,
1AD from Fort Riley had a patrol out that got hit by an IED. Once the patrol
stopped to check things out, they were hit with small arms automatic weapons
fire and RPG's. Several soldiers were injured in the exchange of gunfire and
one was killed. The soldier killed was PVT Jonathan Falaniko.
What makes this soldier special to me is who his father is. CSM Niko
Falaniko is the Division Engineer CSM stationed in Giessen. PVT Falaniko's
Memorial Ceremony was held tonight, 2000 hours at the 3rd BDE HQ's. I think
every General Officer in the Theater and CSM were present to support Niko.
It just seems like too much to ask of one father. He has spent 27
years of his life serving his country, he's here doing the Lord's work, and
now he has given his son. Sad, so sad, PVT Falaniko had only been in the
Army since May of 2003 and arrived from Basic Training after his assignment
to the 70th Engineer Battalion in August. He had barely been here a month.
Jonathan always wanted to be a Combat Engineer like his father.
What I found truly amazing was the way Niko handled himself. No one
on earth would have blamed him a bit if he had broken up during the
ceremony. Not only did he not do that, he did the unusual of getting up and
eulogizing his son. He had the crowd laughing talking about the particular
quirks his son had. I was so proud of him. He leaves tonight to escort his
son's remains back home for burial. What a price to pay? My heart and
prayers are with him during his arduous journey.
It is events like these that bring crystally clear reality home.
What we do here is not easy; it is dangerous. Our enemy is cleaver and
resourceful and has the advantage of attacking us by surprise and at a time
and place of his choosing. This will be a difficult fight, but we will win.
For Jonathan, and those like him, we must.
love ya,
eric...""
Mrs. Georgia F. Cooke of Molalla, Oregon

"Thank you Jonathan Falaniko, 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

"CSM Falaniko and family,
I am terribly saddened by the news of Jonathan's death. Chaplain Kopek who is also stationed here in Hanau informed me. This news really hit home for me and is a personal reminder of the sacrifices being made by the Army Family. Your son represents the best in all soldiers. CSM Falaniko and Maliana, my wife Stella and I send our deepest condolences. God Bless your family! Rugged!"
SSG Armando E. Ramos of 5-7 ADA BN, Hanau, Germany

"Jon...What words can I spill that will do justice to the way your life has impacted so many people? First, you were one of the coolest, laid back Samoan boys at our school.. you had this ambience-- so much character, you could make people laugh and you loved life. The last time I spoke to you was my birthday, but as soon as I found out there was a sudden rush to look for pictures of you. Like you could ever be forgotten. I pray that your family finds their way through such tragedy. I hope you understand how much you were loved and appreciated. You were a good friend and a great all around person. God bless the Falanikos."
Faatuiese Sesepasara of FakeHood, WA

"I met Jonathan online four days before he was shipped out. We talked a lot and he was the sweetest guy you could ever hope to meet. He was amazing. I'm not sure if he told his parents about me, but his best friend James wrote me. We knew a lot about each other and I noticed he hadn't written me in any sort of way for four days. I was home alone and went searching online and found out that he'd been killed. I've never cried like that for anyone!! He had a picture of me and he told me that he stuck one inside of his helmet (which one I have no clue!!) He was always the topic of my discussion as was I to him (or so I've been told)...I miss him dearly and I'm deeply saddened from losing the greatest person in the whole world. May he rest in peace and I think of him every single day. He was everything that I'd hoped for and soooo much more. He was doing what he loved and I know he's doing GREAT where he's at now. I miss you tremendously Jonathan and I think about you constantly. I'm trying to get ahold of your family, but nothing seems to be working!! Maybe James will help me!! **crossing fingers**

PS. If anyone knows anything, I would really appreciate an email of some sort! Arabian2003@hotmail.com"
Carolyn Fischer of Carlisle, Indiana USA

"Just wanted to speak on the Short time that I did know Jon. He and I worked at McDonalds, here in Lakewood together. He was a hecka Koo person, I had met him previously before working at McDonalds, but never really spoke to him till we met at work. I remember talking to him one night on break and asking him what was he gonna do after School. He responded, that he didn't know but had thought about the military. I told him I thought that was koo, and that McDonalds was for everybody. He just laughed. But the few times we did talk, I began to realize that he was a young Samoan guy who had his head on right, and it was just a matter of him accomplishing what he wanted to do. So when a mutual friend had told me he joined the Service. I remember telling her, now there goes a fella who wants to make something of his self. I mean my father was in the Army as well as a few Siblings, and they all said it takes alot to be dedicated to the military, as well as sacrifice, and I bet being apart from family was proably the hardest for him. But I just want to say to the Parents, "You've raised a fine young gentleman". To be able to serve his country and die at for it, just leaves me in "AWE". To his siblings, Hey, I can't really say I know what your going thru cause I have never had a sibling die, but however, I can feel your pain. And his life will not be mourned by us, family and friends, but to be celebrated on what he stood for and just sit and think about the good ol' times we got to share with him. and Last but not least, Remember that God put us here on earth to fulfill what he had planned for us from the very beginning. And to know that Jon had IMPACTED all of our lives in so many ways, just goes to show, God's will has been fulfilled for his life here on Earth. So JON, from a SAMOAN Bro. to another, I LOVE YOU MAN, and "Ia manuia lau malaga". Take Care and God Bless!"
Simon S. Sea of Lakewood, Washington

"Jonathan you were a true friend , we went to school with jon and his brother niko when they were here in waynesville, when they left it was hard to contact them or keep in touch , I was suprised to see him 2 months ago doing trianing at Ft.Wood when he recieved a pass he came over and saw us it was really nice of him to come visit us . And after i heard about what happened to him over there it was heart broken. Well rest in peace, and to your family you had a great son and brother . He will be missed"
chad and sunshine of waynesville missouri

"Hey brother!! Though you are gone, you will never be forgotten.. heaven has only only gained an angel.. we miss you A LOT, but we know that you are doing good up there... I love you and think about you everyday.. rest forever in peace til the day our family is together again. I love you!!!!"
love always your lil sis, Adeline of Giessen, Germany

"I am a friend of PVT Falaniko's father, CSM Falaniko. I am a retired Army 1SG who has served with CSM Falaniko during the past 20+ years who also has a young son serving with the Army Infantry. I wish the Falanikos nothing but peace. It is a terrible day when you lose your son, but in our way of life we always know that is possible. PVT Falaniko did not die in vain, he died a hero, which is the most honorable way a soldier can die. Peace to you by brother in arms."
Scott A. Hildenbrandt 1SG, Retired of Waynesville, MO

"HEY JONA IT'S US LETTING YOU KNOW WE MISS YOU DEARLY, AND YOU WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED IN OUR HEARTS AS A TRUE CHARACTER THAT YOU WERE. USO 4 LIFE! MY BROTHER, MY HERO, I LOVE YOU! YOUR LIL' NEPHEW WILL KNOW HOW STRONG OF A RYDER YOU WERE. ROCK STEADY AND REST IN PEACE."
Niko and Lisa of lakewood, WA

"My name is Chely A. Lizardi and I'm writing this to the family of Jonathan Falaniko, I knew him in high school and was very good friends with his brother, Niko Falaniko. I'm so sorry for your loss. I will never forget you all, The Falaniko Family. I miss you all dearly and you will always remain in my heart always. Jonathan will be in my payers as well as his family and he will always be our hero."
Chely A. Lizardi of West Palm Beach, FL. US

"My name is SFC Lewis Trivett, and I just wanted to share my sorrow with the family of Jonanthan Falaniko, I was blessed to have been one of his drill sergeants at Fort Leonard Wood,he was a fine young man, and there is not a day that goes by that I do not think of him,to his family I am very sorry for your loss,you are in my prayers.God speed."
Lewis Trivett of Fort Lee, Virginia

"No greater gift is there, than to lie your life down for another..." and thats just what you have done. I don't know who you are, but i would like your family to know, that you have touched my heart. You and your family have offered the ultimate sacrifice. Your service has been a blessing to me in a way that you'll never know. God bless."
emma. of Honolulu, HI

"Our condolences to the family of Jonathan Falaniko....e manatua pea outou i o matou tatalo. Ieova i lo tatou va...."
Angel Gatoteote-Claiborne and family of Camp Casey, Korea

"Though we've never met, my condolences to Pvt Falaniko's family. May God embrace you in your time of need. Ia faamaise atu le Atua ma faamafanafana atu i matua, faapea foi aiga ma uo."
R. Leilua of Carson, CA

"From a Soldier to another, I thank you for your service & for defending our freedom. To the family & friends of Pvt Falaniko, my condolences & deepest sympathy."
A1C FEPULEA'I of PATRICK AFB, FL

"Its amazing how life treats you sometime. I met PVT Falaniko here on FT Leonard Wood were he came through to go to basic and the crazy part about that was I just left Germany were I drove his father for about a year in Engineer Brigade. Pvt Falaniko was just like his father to me. He love to laugh and when it was time to get to work thats exactly what he did. To the family members of Pvt Falaniko I end this message with this. Johnathan Falaniko will always be remembered in my resident not only for me serving my country and knowing his father, but because he dided for his country tring to make another one like it! God Bless!"
Smith, Demetrish of FT Leonard Wood Mo USA

"Our condolences goes out to the family of PVT. Falaniko, Jonathan as they're going through the lose of their loved one, especially to his father CSM Falaniko also serving in the military. We wish that we could meet Jonathan. He sure did served his country, as well as the people of American Samoa... Ia alofa le Atua ia fa'amafanafana i le aiga loto fa'avauvau ua ufia i le lagi pogisa.... Alofa'aga:"
Ronald and Lani Eseroma Leuma of Killeen/Fort Hood, TX/Leone-Vailoatai, Am. Samoa

"We met a few times and I was so sad to hear about your death. I;m writing this as if you are here because you still are...just in a different place...with God. My prayers are with your family whom you will be with again. You made us all smile. God bless you and thank you for what you gave up for all of us."
S. Taylor of Kansas

"To the family and friends of Pvt. Jonathan Falaniko:
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 Jonathan 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 Pvt. Jonathan Falaniko:
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 Jonathan, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia