Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Nick,
I keep thinking of you and your wife.
I remember when I used to call on you when you were with Smith's/Fry's in Cottonwood, Az. and how proud you were of Jeremy. He was at the Air force Academy and getting ready to graduate.
Though I never had the opportunity to meet Jeremy, I understand your reason for being proud. What an amazing young man. WOW!!!
To read of the type of caring and genuine person he was, makes you realize how many people he touched for the good while he was alive.
For those who knew him directly and to carry on those qualities is a true testimony. An example of LEGACY!
I pray for you and your family for more strength each day in all you do.
God Bless!
2 Corinthians 1:3-5"
Lee Stensrud/ Kraft Foods(ret.) of Prescott, AZ

"Nick and Sherry,
Seven years later and I still think of Jeremy often and remember the great times we had! Oreos, German chocolate cake, The Highlander movie, and lasagna make me remember him and smile. I still mourn him and think what a loss the world suffered when he left. He was just so good and I was blessed to know him!
I love you and revere you for your sacrifice and grace. You raised a wonderful boy who grew into a strong and courageous man! Hugs and kisses and my eternal gratitude go to you today and always! God bless."
Summer (Ulibarri) King of Colorado Springs, CO USA

"I served with Jeremy in Iraq. I was there when they brought his body to Balad Air Base to begin his long trip home. I particpated in the Patriot ceremony that paid tribute to him and his comrades who perished in the crash. This is tough for me because I was there and was intimately involved in the details. Against protocol, I snapped a picture at the Patriot ceremony of the 4 caskets loaded on the C-141 for the trip to Dover AFB. The image that sticks in my mind the most is of his unit chaplain and his commander weeping while kneeling beside the 4 coffins. I am now serving in the ministry counselling military members returning from combat. To Jeremy's family...I have never forgotten him or the day he left Iraq with his comrades"
Terry Hayes of Kenly, NC

"I just received an email about the person complaining about the "noise" of the F16s from Luke giving tribute to serviceman Fresques. I was appalled at such a shallow and inappropriate comment. My husband and I just bought a home in Sun City, about 6 miles from Luke, and like an excited child I still run outside everytime I hear them coming over in formation or just doing drills. I'm happy and proud of the men and women who sacrifice their time and lives for our freedom, and will always get goose bumps when I run outside to see them fly over. Thank you to the families who support their servicemen and women; and thank you for making my freedom to live where I do a dream come true."
Holly Eickmann of St. Louisk, MO and Sun City, AZ

"Thinking of you and yours and sweet Jeremy this week.....6 years ago today. So blessed to have had him in our lives the short while we did and to know his wonderful family. Love you and remembering."
Turgesen Family of Mesa, Az

"Nick and Sherry, My email crashed and I lost your address. I just want you to know that Jeremy is remembered this day, 6 years ago when he entered heaven. I am so grateful that I got to share in his life at Hermosa Junior High when he was in the 7th and 8th grade.I continue to pray for your family. I will try other ways to contact you today. Lois Weigand elweigand7721@gmail.com"
Lois Weigand of Farmington,NM

"Some give all and to this HERO I say thank you. I live near Luke AFB and every time I hear a jet I am grateful for the brave men and women who protect our freedom. I am so sorry for your loss and pray that you find some comfort in the love of Jesus this Easter."
Molly Mosier of Surprise, AZ

"For the troops coming back to Phoenix,Az we here love you to the point you get free rides here from us at www.bringthetroopshomeinstyle thats just a small way to say thanks!!! So, if any one know of any troops that need transportation call me at 602-653-9340 ask for the only limo service in AZ that does this..Gary THE LIMO GUY"
GARY TENNANT of PHOENIX,AZ

"For Capt Jeremy Fresques, his family, and friends, thank you for your service, your honor, and your sacrifices for the freedoms we share. Having lost over 40 friends and my brother-in-law (USAF Combat Controller, Maj Paul "Panuk" Soomsawasdi) in their service to this country, I have searched for meaning in their lives and in their sacrifice, both for my loss and to share with their families. Though nothing can ever fill the void, I hope you know that there is no greater honor or greater gift than sacrifice for those you love. Of all whom I have known, they lived, flew, fought, and died, not for this country, but for the freedom and honor of those they loved. We are all blessed and honored for having known them and for their sacrifice for their love.
God bless and thank you."
Harvey Vaught, LtCol, USMC (Ret) of Blooming Grove, NY

"It has been so many years since I saw Jeremy at FHS, and many years have passed since his death. But we will never forget. We will never disgrace your memory by giving up in the fight for freedom. Stand down, Captain. your earthly tour is over. Fly high on wings like eagles."
Richard Gilliam of Glendale, AZ

"To the Fresque Family/friends;
I just read the letter from the individual who obviously has forgotten what freedom means and those who are out there defending it. I will pray for that individual and at the same time I want to pray for you and yours for your loss. For such a time is this when our men and women of service need us more than ever with everything that is going on. God has blessed you with a wonderful son who has made a such an incredible, selfless sacrifice. May God continue to lessen your hearts and minds with dread and loss as each day passes and replace it with the love and rememberance you have of Capt. Fresque and remember those who serve and have served along with him!
May God bless you and keep you always; Keep you underneath HIS wings and protect all those serving and their families/friends"
Juanita Carter (US Navy Veteran) of Pittsburgh, PA

"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"
Scott E. Steiner of Worthington, OH

"Nick and Sherry,
I have started to write this message several times over the past few years since first hearing of the tragic loss of your son. I was never able to finish being consumed with grief that I know is only a small reflection of what you and your family must feel. I just want you to know that your old friends are eternally grateful for the sacrifice Jeremy made for us and our country and couldn't be prouder to have known you and your son. Nothing anyone can say can ease the pain of your loss but I wanted you to know that I think about you often and pray for your well being. Your son will never be forgotten and I thank God every day that exceptionally good people like you raise extraordinary heroes like Jeremy. Love you guys!"
Bob Brown of Centennial, Colorado, USA

"Do not fault persons like the one who wrote of the “Wake Up Call” as the USAF mourned for another fallen solider. This person has no fear to pick up a pen and write with free will and say what in on the mind. These types of people demonstrate what freedom cost to live without fear in this great country. I salute Capt. Jeremy Fresques of Clarkdale Arizona for his dedication to Freedom, Country and our safe livelihood. God Bless with respect and prayers from a Marine family with a fallen son. In Memory of Capt. Jeremy Fresques and Lance Cpl Christopher Ramos of Albuquerque New Mexico."
Chuy Ramos of Austin, Texas US Navy

"To the loving family of Jeremy Fresques. As a Marine family, we understand your pain, sorrow and sadness. We share with you the loss that you hold in your hearts, and rejoice with you the pride that you hold in your hearts for your son. You raised a fine man who gave his all to protect and preserve this great Nation. Thank you for your sacrafice."
Marine Family of Wrightwood, California

"On behalf of myself and my family I would like to extend my most heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and brothers-in-arms of Captain Jeremy Fresques upon the passing of another gallant man of honor. I must also pass along my thanks for his service and dedication to his country. After the place I once worked, The World Trade Center was so cowardly attacked, my expectations of a more united nation has been bungled by political hacks that care more about monetary gain than they do about our sons and daughters who serve under the strain of facing death, debt, being separated from loved ones and untold fears."
Brian Pesci of Lackawanna, NY

"Thank you for fighting for my freedom."
Julie of Oregon

"I am the least likely person to say thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice. I will say thank you for serving in the military. I feel that saying thank you for your death is like saying thanks that you died and not me. I too served this country, I was always ready to fight for this country but never too ready to die but that is not a choice we often have while defending and fighting for it. I also like to say to your family a few words. This words are empty phrases from an stranger. I will say thanks to you for supporting your loved family member.
With all respect to you all.
Martin Garcia USMCR. "Semper Fi""
Martin Garcia of New Braunfels Texas

"To the Fresques Family,

What a brave and courageous son, brother & friend. We take for granted that as an Americans we get to live in a country where we are free to live the way we choose due to men like Jeremy and all the other service men and women protecting the USA. Words cannot express your loss. God Bless,"
Barbara of Pgh, PA USA

"Though I have never met Capt. Jeremy Fresques, my prayers and my great respect is given to him and his family. There is no way that I can ever express the way I feel or the respect I have for our military, this includes their families, but know this; I will stand next to your and for you always. May God bless the family of Capt. Jeremy Fresques"
Pastor Robert Rice of Fort Wayne, IN USA

"I received an email today, telling of the fly over during the memorial service. I apologize for the lack of respect some people have. I appreciate everything your son, brother, husband has done and those fighting beside him. He did not serve in vain and will never be forgotten. Thank you for the love and support you gave him and for sharing his story with us. God Bless"
Sonja of Ft. Wayne, IN./USA!!

"I am honored to know that such honorable persons serve in our Military. Giving the ultimate sacrifice for my freedoms and protection. My heart goes out to his family who I know will never be the same without him."
Barbara Antrim of St Joseph, Mo

"WoW! Thank you so very much! Prayers to follow."
Jim Neidel of Imperial, MO

"On behalf of my family, please accept our deepest thanks for your loved one's sacrifice. As a mother/mother-in-law of three 82nd Airborne soldiers, thank you."
Valerie Seamons of Elk Grove, CA

"I havent met this soldier, but I know loss.
Fours years may have passed, for some it makes days easier. For others the pain still and always will linger.
This National Holiday should saluted for our National Family. He is apart of this Family! Peace be with you and your Family."
Rebecca Ansley of Augusta, GA

"Thank you seems too little for the brave service you have given us. As a proud parent of a National Guardsmen,the majority of Americans may never understand the calling to serve and the duty to protect our freedom and liberty. God Bless the Fresques family and all those who serve the USA. Capt. Fresques is now flying the heavens above, still serving us."
Michael McMillan of Williamsburg, OH USA

"God bless you and your family forever, AMEN."
Someone of Seattle

"My sincere graditude to you, Capt. Jeremy Fresques, for paying the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. May God bless your family."
Denise Born of Deadwood, SD

"High Flight by John Magee



Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth,

And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;

Sunwards I’ve climbed and joined the tumbling mirth

Of sun-split clouds – and done a thousand things

You have not dreamed of - wheeled and soared and swung

High in the sunlit silence. Hovering there,

I’ve chased the shouting wind along and flung

My eager craft through footless halls of air,

Up, up the long delirious burning blue

I’ve topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace,

Where never lark, or even eagle, flew;

And, while with silent, lifting mind I’ve trod

The high untrespassed sanctity of space,

Put out my hand, and touched the face of god.


Thank you for your sevice."
James Summarell of Yuma AZ.

"Praise GOD for both FREEDOM and HOPE even in the naivete of the complaint letter. Jeremy's honorable funeral noise cried through the heavens and continues through the nations. I pray that all "letter writers" and the Fresques family has peace in the knowledge of Gods undying love"
Tricia Wilson of Overland Park, KS

"I am too so sorry for the loss of this fine man. I live by an AFB in Ca.Every time I see or hear a jet go over. I am so greatful for my freedom. The noise those jets make are not a bother. They are the sound of freedom. I pray that those who take for granted the freedoms we have in this country will come to their sences and realize that many have given all so that many live free. God Bless all our service men and women. Thank you for your willingness to serve."
FB of Riverside. Ca USA

"I do not know Capt. Fresques or his family but I wouold like to extend my sincerest condolences to his family. As a parent of a former Marine and a current National Gaurdsman who is preparing to deploy to Iraq I want to thank Capt. Fresques and his family for his dedication to this country and our citizens."
Tom Butz of Dillsburg, PA

"Thank You Jeremy Fresques for keeping our USA safe. My prayers are with your family."
Patricia Pippin of Caddo Mills Texas

"thank you Capt. Fresques for serving and protecting all of us back home i am thankful of the things you and all the others over seas do for me every day"
sam of from texas but resideing in arizona

"Just a simple "Thank You" for serving and giving the untimate sacrifice. We will remember."
Paula Mitchell of Bay City, Texas

"Though we are finding out late, all of us at Soldiers Angels mourn the loss of this hero. He sounds like an exceptional young man."
Janet Collins of Tulsa, Ok.

"Dear Jeremy, We have not forgotten you. You will always be our Hero. Stand Down, you are in God's Army of Angels now. Prayers still go to your dear family."
Sherri of Louisville, Ky

"Jesus said... "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." So I wonder what He said to this awesome hero who laid down his life for his entire country. For the millions of people that he didn't even know. Thank you Jeremy for your sacrifice and for protecting our freedom here at home. You will never be forgotten."
M.J. Garcia of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

"To the Family and Friends of Captain Jeremy Fresques,

I want to pass my condolences to the Family and Friends of Captain Jeremy Fresques who died in the line of duty. His honor and sacrifices will not be forgotten by me or my family. Our prayers and thoughts will be with you at this time of need."
MSGT Ed Pacificar and Veronica Pacificar of Sunrise, Florida

"June 3, 2008
To the family of Capt. Jeremy Fresques:
Jeremy 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

"In honor of a fallen commrade I give my blessing to your family. It's a great deal of sacrifice for those who have lost you. I don't know you but am greatful to stand by all my brothers and sisters in uniform to protect our freedom. You gave it your all and for that I salute you Sir."
SPC Raymor of Hawaii

"IN 1970 I WAS A PASTOR AT SHEPHERD AIR FORCE BASE AND LEARNED TO LOVE THOSE GREAT MEN OF THE AIR FORCE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTION AND REST ASSURED OF OUR PRAYERS FOR YOUR FAMILY. WE WILL MEET AGAIN SINCE CHRIST AROSE FROM THE GRAVE AND GAVE SALVATION TO ALL MEN WHO ACCEPT HIM AS SAVIOUR. TODAY IS EASTER SUNDAY, 2008 LOVE IN CHRIST, LEWIS C. PRICE AGE 77"
LEWIS C. PRICE of CONROE, TX. 77301

"To the family of Jeremy,May GOD help you get through this sorrowful time. Everytime I hear a an air force plane go by I look up and remember one of our military guys are up there taking care of us and so evertime I hear one now I will think of Jeremy, God sent him on his last mission on earth, it was complete and now he is home with GOD."
unknown of San Antonio, Tx.

"To the family of:Jeremy Fresques 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"

"I empathize with your family during your loss. God's grace will see you through and will make you stronger.

Today, I received an email from a friend that had the name of Captain Fresques in it. I hope what I read was incorrect, but if not, I will pray for that person so uninformed and selfish. This is what I read:

Subject: A Wake Up Call From Luke AFB, AZ
-----------------------------------
Luke AFB is west of Phoenix and is rapidly being surrounded by civilization
that complains about the noise from the base and its planes, forgetting that
it was there long before they were.

A certain lieutenant colonel at Luke AFB deserves a big pat on the back.
Apparently, an individual who lives somewhere near Luke AFB wrote the local
paper complaining about a group of F-16s that disturbed his/her day at the
mall. When that individual read the response from a Luke AFB officer, it
must have stung quite a bit.

The complaint::

"Question of the day for Luke Air Force Base: Whom do we thank for the
morning air show? Last Wednesday, at precisely 9:11 a.m., a tight
formation of four F-16 jets made a low pass over Arrowhead Mall, continuing
west over Bell Road at approximately 500 feet. Imagine our good fortune!

Do the Tom Cruise-wannabes feel we need this wake-up call, or were they
trying to impress the cashiers at Mervyns early bird special? Any response
would be appreciated."

The response:

Regarding "A wake-up call from Luke's jets": On June 15, at precisely 9:12
a.m, a perfectly timed four-ship flyby of F-16s from the 63rd Fighter
Squadron at Luke Air Force Base flew over the grave of Capt. Jeremy
Fresques.

Capt. Fresques was an Air Force officer who was previously stationed at Luke
Air Force Base and was killed in Iraq on May 30, Memorial Day. At 9 a.m. on
June 15, his family and friends gathered at Sunland Memorial Park in Sun
City to mourn the loss of a husband, son and friend.

Based on the letter writer's recount of the flyby, and because of the jet
noise, I'm sure you didn't hear the 21-gun salute, the playing of taps, or
my words to the widow and parents of Capt. Fresques as I gave them their
son's flag on behalf of the President of the United States and all those
veterans and servicemen and women who understand the sacrifices they have
endured. A four-ship flyby is a display of respect the Air Force pays to
those who give their lives in defense of freedom. We are professional
aviators and take our jobs seriously, and on June 15 what the letter writer
witnessed was four officers lining up to pay their ultimate respects. The
letter writer asks, "Whom do we thank for the morning air show"? The 56th
Fighter Wing will call for you, and forward your thanks to the widow and
parents of Capt. Fresques, and thank them for you, for it was in their honor
that my pilots flew the most honorable formation of their lives.

Lt. Col. Scott Pleus
CO 63rd Fighter Squadron
Luke AFB

*****************
Thank you Captain Jeremy Fresques for serving in the United States Air Force and giving with the ultimate sacrifice. God bless you and your family. You will be reunited with them again with God at your side."
Kathy Valdez of Victoria, TX USA

"Thank you for your service to this country. God Bless you and your family."
J. Dooley of Springfield, MO USA

"I have never met Jeremy or his family and friends, but I must say thank you for your service to this country and the sacrifice you have made. God bless you."
Luke Kimble of San Marcos, TX

"The members of the FBI's "Air Force," salute you and your service."
D. Paul, Special Agent/Pilot of FBI, USA

"Thank you for the ultimate gift for our freedom.

Our prayers and are with you and your family."
Patric Herring of Fort Rucker, Al

"We will fly our 9-1-1 flag at half staff in memory of Jeremy Fresques. It flew daily until it started to fray too much. We will fly it again proudly. Our country is privileged to have such heros serve and defend.
These brave men can fly over my home anytime. I call it the sound of freedom."
Mary Clark of Summit County Colorado

"I want to pass the condolences of the Allen Family to the family of Jeremy Fresques. My wife, children and I have the life we have because of men like your Jeremy. His honor and sacrifice mean more to us than we can know. My Father served in WWII, my brother in Germany, my sister in the US and another brother in Iraq. Our families grieve for your loss, you will remain in our prayers.God Bless you and keep you."
Nelson, Tracy, Zach, Travis and Rachel of Spring, Texas

"I never met you or your fine family, but I also want to say thank you for your service and for all that you gave."
Cynthia Ramer of Phoenix, Arizona USA

"I recently heard the news about the loss of Jeremy. As a Navy Veteran and Jr. High and High school friend, my heart is sore for his family. Jeremy has been in my thoughts over the years wondering how he is doing. Me and Jeremy were not in the same direct group of friends, But played sports together. He was always really nice and respectful to everyone. He always had a smile and you knew he was destined for something great. Just wanted to let people know that I am grateful to know such a great person."
Taric Antonio Vigil of Albuquerque, NM

"Dearest Jeremy and family (Nick, Sherry and Justin),
My heart is so heavy over the news of your passing. For a while, I was in denial, because I had just seen you on 28 May 05 in Al-Udeid, Qatar. The couple of hours that we spent reminiscing over a blizzard at Dairy Queen was a blessing in disguise. When I look back over the memories that we had, I still smile. I don't even remember how we met, but I know that you were a sophomore and I was a junior at the USAF Academy. I'll never forget all the great times we had: working out in the ghetto gym, TCBY, movies at Chapel Hills Mall, DQ, Chipotle, Zio's, your visits to FL (Walt Disney World, the shark pool, getting baptized at Merritt Island Baptist Church, going out on the boss' jetboat and my parents), your mini-BUDs experience (especially when you dislocated your shoulder) and my visits to AZ (your mom's cooking, the hot-air balloon ride over sunrise, Justin's graduation and all those video games). But, above all, you knew that all these things would pass away and wouldn’t matter except the relationship you had with God. I'll never forget in Dec of 2000, when you told me about your salvation. You know how confused I was by this, but I promised to keep an open mind and in Feb of 2001, your prayers were answered! Then, we got baptized together at First Baptist Church of Merritt Island, Florida. I’m still amazed how God worked in our lives through Stacy Boggs and Todd Allison. You blossomed into a true man of God. Knowing you has changed my life and, for that, I am eternally grateful. For those that you left behind, they will certainly remember you for your bravery, honor and courage. Not a lot of people could have taken the leap from Communications Officer to Special Tactics Officer. During the pipeline, all the training and all the deployments, you had a tremendous influence on more people than you could ever imagine. Your prayers were answered again when your parents surrendered their lives to Christ on the day of your funeral. God is good and I was overjoyed when I heard this news!! God works in so many different ways and I know that He had put you in my life for a reason. There is no doubt in my mind that when you entered heaven, the Lord said, “Well done, my faithful servant.” You will certainly be missed and I look forward to the day that I see you again in heaven.

In Christ’s love always,
Dare’ Rapanotti, Capt, USAF
(Stationed at Incirlik AB, Turkey, but currently deployed to Djibouti, Horn of Africa)"
Dare' Rapanotti of Djibouti, Horn of Africa

"I wrestled with Jeremy on the scorpion squad back in high school. He was the epitimy of good faith and a true warrior. The only thing I can say is that he left an image in my head of what a good person is and should be. Im also in the service and headed to Iraq and all I can say is that I will defend good people like Jeremy because without them this world would be worthless. Thanks Jeremy, SWP La Familia Por Vida, SPC Benito Gonzales, US Army 29th sig bn"
Benito Gonzales of Tacoma Washington/ USA

"Jeremy you are the All American Soldier and an awsome person. I know that your family is very proud of what you have done in serving our country. THANK YOU FOR PROTECTING US. THANK YOU for doing what you love. Just know that we stand behind you. And will stand up for the cause that took your life.
Apparently god wanted you more then we needed you and saw what a great angel he has in you, thank you for letting me know you and call you my freind."
unknown of unknown

"Praying for you all. From the sister of a deployed Marine"
A. Burch of Greenville, SC

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

"Capt Jeremy Fresques, USAF,
Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice for your Nation. We, your brothers and sisters-in-arms, honor you, salute you, and now have the watch. We are also humbled by the staggering loss suffered by your loved ones. God bless you. Rest in Peace."
LTC Richard S. Barzelogna of US Embassy-Khartoum, Sudan

"My heart and hat goes out to the family of Jeremy Freques.Ones lose is always hard to bare.I feel he was in contribution of bringing in supplies to me and my soldiers. Be proud of what your soldier has done he has made it easier for the soldier and the people we are tring to save from starvation. His loss is tragic and is just rewarding in the price of freedom and pursuit of happiness. Everyone in America Should be proud to live the life they lead in America.The people here are more unfortunate to have the luxeries Americans have.The price a fellow soldier takes to enssure this freedom is worth it's weight in gold. We will never forget our fallen Commrad nor will we retreat to terrorists. I wish your family The best of luck and may your life bring good. Just as Jeremy's has.Use every day as it was going to be your last because you never know if it is going to be. God bless"
SSG Mcmordie Patrick of OEF

"It's unfortunate that this page has missed part of the story of the "wake-up call" and has fallen victim to the same attitude the "moron" has been accused of; that of unsupportive. The following was his response to the letter written by Lt. Col. Pleus.



An Apology From the Heart to the Airmen of Luke
Jul. 9, 2005 12:00 AM
Regarding "Flyby honoring fallen comrade" Letters, June 28):

I read with increasing embarrassment and humility the response to my unfortunate letter to The Republic concerning an Air Force flyby ("A wake-up call from Luke's jets," Letters, June 23).

I had no idea of the significance of the flyby, and would never have insulted such a fine and respectful display had I known.

I have received many calls from the fine airmen who are serving or have served at Luke, and I have attempted to explain my side and apologized for any discomfort my letter has caused.

This was simply an uninformed citizen complaining about noise.

I have been made aware in both written and verbal communications of the four-ship flyby, and my heart goes out to each and every lost serviceman and woman in this war in which we are engaged.

I have been called un-American by an unknown caller and I feel that I must address that. I served in the U.S. Navy and am a Vietnam veteran. I love my country and respect the jobs that the service organizations are doing.

Please accept my heartfelt apologies. - Tom MacRae, Peoria"
SSgt Anderson, J. of Phoenix, AZ

"I just received this e-mail from my college roommate who is in the Navy and stationed in HI.



A complaint post from a moron, and the reply:

Complaint:

Quote: A wake-up call from Luke's jets

Jun. 23, 2005 12:00 AM

"Question of the day for Luke Air Force Base: Whom do we thank for the morning air show? Last Wednesday, at precisely 9:11 a.m., a tight formation of four F-16 jets made a low pass over Arrowhead Mall, continuing west over Bell Road at approximately 500 feet. Imagine our good fortune!

Do the Tom Cruise-wannabes feel we need this wake-up call, or were they trying to impress the cashiers at Mervyns' early-bird special?

Any response would be appreciated."

The reply is classic, and a testament to the professionalism and heroism of the folks in the armed services. The response:

Quote: Regarding "A wake-up call from Luke's jets" (Letters, Thursday):

On June 15, at precisely 9:12 a.m., a perfectly timed four-ship of F-16s from the 63rd Fighter Squadron at Luke Air Force Base flew over the grave of Capt Jeremy Fresques.

Capt. Fresques was an Air Force officer who was previously stationed at Luke Air Force Base and was killed in Iraq on May 30, Memorial Day.

At 9 a.m. on June 15, his family and friends gathered at Sunland Memorial Park in Sun City to mourn the loss of a husband, son and friend.

Based on the letter writer's recount of the flyby, and because of the jet noise, I'm sure you didn't hear the 21-gun salute, the playing of taps, or my words to the widow and parents of Capt. Fresques as I gave them their son's flag on behalf of the president of the United States and all those veterans and servicemen and women who understand the sacrifices they have endured.

A four-ship flyby is a display of respect the Air Force pays to those who give their lives in defense of freedom. We are professional aviators and take our jobs
seriously, and on June 15 what the letter writer witnessed was four officers lining up to pay their ultimate respects.

The letter writer asks, "Whom do we thank for the morning air show?"

The 56th Fighter Wing will call for you, and forward your thanks to the widow and parents of Capt. Fresques, and thank them for you, for it was in their honor that my pilots flew the most honorable formation of their lives."
of Chicago

"To the Family of Jeremy Fresques:
I was saddened to read about the loss of this Hero. My prayers and thoughts go out to all of the family members and friend that are grieving at this time. May God be with you and rest comfortable knowing Capt. Fresques is now resting in the company of some of the greatest American to ever wear a uniform. May he rest eternally in peace."
MSgt A. James Froewiss, USAF Ret. of Hayward, California

"I was able to meet Jeremy and work with him briefly in the "sandbox" just a few weeks before he died. I had never worked with any STS guys before and was impressed by his professionalism. My sympathies go out to his wife and family."
JTL of Omaha, NE

"Dear Jeremy,
I write to tell you my thoughts as I head out to your funeral tomorrow. Never will I forget our Kokopelli Challenge. 100 mile adventure race with the last mountain that you pushed Chris and I up after giving us water after we had ran out, not knowing that this was the remainder of your water as well. You have been a true Combat Controller even before you started training. You are the quality of officer that keeps USAFA hanging on during these last few years of trials and tribulations. You are the soldier that we hold onto for hope during this war. You are the man that this country holds onto with your professionalism, loyalty, passion and strength... a true American. You are the friend I will always hold in my heart. I hope that Lindsay always knows how much you love her. How your eyes lit up when you told me you were going to propose. She is your soul mate. I hope your parents and your brother know how much you always held them in the highest regard, that your love for them kept you going through the hardest of training. And I hope your friends know, as I do, that you would do anything for them, even this. Jeremy, here's a toast..."
Love, Melanie of Kirtland AFB, NM... USAFA Class of 2001

"We are deeply sorry for your loss. America will forever honor your Hero.
The Courage, Honor, and Valor that your Hero showed will always be remembered.
We are grateful for the sacrifice that was made and we will NEVER FORGET.
God Bless your family and please know that you are not alone.
All of our prayers are with you."
Jennifer and SSGT Larry Mays of Massillon, Ohio

"My buddy, my brother, I miss you more than I can express, I'm a better man for your friendship and Godly example. You won't be forgotten...
Lindsey, I love you sister, and mourn with you. God Bless you."
BC of Ft Walton Beach, FL

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

"6/3/05
To Jeremy's family,
We know your pain, and wish to express our deep sorrow for your loss. Your son is truly a hero and will be known forever for his bravery and willingness to protect our great nation. We pray every day for the families of lost soldiers. God bless and keep you.
'My sacrifice, God, is a broken spirit;
God, do not spurn a broken, humbled heart.' Ps 51:19"
Webster and Ruth Reed(Father and stepmom of John Reed) of Krotz Springs, Louisiana

"One of the finest officers I have had the privilage to work with..."
Roger of New York

"JEREMY MY HEART AND PRAYS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. THANK YOU FOR BEING A PROFESSIONAL SOLDIER. ONE THAT CARED TO PROTECT OUR COUNTRY. YOU WILL NOT HAVE GIVEN YOUR LIFE IN VAIN. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED!"
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

""To the family and friends of Capt. Jeremy Fresques: May God give you strength through this great loss. I pray you will be comforted in knowing Jeremy was a hero and a beautiful example of a remarkable young man. May God Bless you with wonderful memories of Jeremy's life."
K. Montoya of Farmington, NM

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