Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I’ve carried Kurt’s memory on my mind since the day he passed and I’d like to tell you why. Back then I was the Bn S3 NCOIC in 2-6 INF and I had friends in the Scout Platoon that I regularly visited and I worked hard to try and make their life a little better since back then we didn’t have nice trailers with A/C along with other niceties the Soldiers enjoyed as the war continued. Right before Kurt arrived our Scout platoon was doing convoy escort and route security sweeps daily and the IED threats were getting stronger as weeks progressed. Back then our Scouts were using non-armored (soft skinned) HMMWV’s and I drew up a plan to cut steel plates sourced from local civilian suppliers and bolt them to the sides and rear of each of the Scout HMMWV. I made a cardboard mockup to show to the Bn CDR Col Williams but he and the XO decided it was unnecessary at the time. A week later I went on my R&R leave for a couple weeks with my family and that’s when I learned that Kurt was taken from us. I was destroyed for the rest of my vacation time because I felt I could’ve prevented that from happening. I know that the outcome might’ve been the same but it angered me. Of course the moment I returned to Iraq the Commander a[proved the plan and I was able to armor up 1 vehicle a day. Putting armor on their HMMWV’s wasn’t my job or duty, I just knew that I could do something to help so I acted on my own initiative, I wish the Scout platoon Sergeant would’ve cared to make this happen but he didn’t. Then not much later the Army started issuing a small kidney shaped ballistic soft armor panel that connects onto the rear of our helmets to protect the nape of the neck which would help prevent similar injuries in the future. It’s hard for me to explain all this without emotion since losing him affected each of us and we don’t forget the names. I didn’t know how to relay a message to Kurt’s family so I pray this finds them. I was able to bring home all of the men in my platoon and we’ve lost one to suicide since our return in 2004 and I keep in touch with a few of the men if found online over the years and they’re doing well in their lives. Please accept my condolences and please know you aren’t alone in the anguish of losing him."
SFC DeVos, Kevin M (Retired) of San Antonio, TX, USA

"Kurt, and
Joel!!!I truly love you man, I loved you and your brother so much and am honored to be a friend!! I had Pagliais pizza tonight and looked K up for my kids to see his sacrifice, it’s real and I still share his sacrifice. God Bless!!"
Jeremy Van Oort of Johnston

"Kurt,
On today, the 13th anniversary of your death you are still honored and remembered. I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country.

"Regulars!-Unity is Strength"
(6th Inf. Motto)"

"Not a day goes by that I dont think of you my friend. It was an honor to serve with you. My daughter still remembers when you gave her that big cookie. You were so kind with my family. Miss you buddy"
Todd Tuchenhagen of Seattle WA

"It has taken me much too long to post. I trained with Kurt while we were in B Company, 5/15th Calvary, Fort Knox Kentucky. During basic training we lived in the same room. We clean together, worked together, and ate together. I remember going with him to make a few calls. I could tell his family met a great deal to him. He was my friend. After basic training Kurt and I met up at the Baghdad international airport for orientation. It was there we parted ways. A little over a week later I heard some new guys got hit. I had a rotten feeling it was someone from basic training because we all just got in country. Unfortunately, I was right. I only knew Kurt for about 5 months but it long enough to feel a sense of emptiness when I received news of his passing. I can only imagine how his family felt. Even after all this time, you are missed my friend. I would like to send my condolences to Kurt’s Family.
Sincerely,"
Felix Lopez of Walnut, CA

"So many years later and I can still vividly remember talking about starting a band with you. I love you man and I will forever remember you. You are my brother."
John Ludemann of Iowa City, Ia

"To uncle Kurt I miss you alot I wish you could come back but you cant so see in heaven"
Your awesome nephew Colin Lacey

"Kurt Frosheiser, You will never be forgotten by your brothers who served with you, it could have been any one of us that took that hit, were still here today because of your sacrifice, Godspeed and please watch over us from Fiddler's Green."
SGT Furnas of Cloquet, MN USA

""To the family of Kurt R. Frosheiser ,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""

"November 10, 2008
To the family of Pvt. Kurt R. Frosheiser:
Kurt 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

"I saw your funeral kurt and my brother says hi from texas everything was meant for a king man, you inspired me to join and fight..."
PFC Benjamin VanBuren of Mosul, Iraq

"I miss you every day Kurt. Whenever I feel down...I think of what you would want me to do."
Kyle (your best friend) of Des Moines, IA

"Learned about Kurt Frosheiser and his father in the book, Assassin's Gate. I honor his sacrifice for his country. I want to tell his family, too, we will not forget that sacrifice. Thank you, Kurt."
Brian of Pasadena, CA

"Missin you Kurt!! It's been three years since you left us, but we haven't forgot you and we won't. We will be thinkin of you at "Thankgiving at Uncle Pat's""
Your Cous of Storm Lake

"Hey kurt, I didnt hear about your sacrifice till i met up with a friend from Ft knox. you always were a good soldier never gona forget ya man, always keep smilin"
2lt Riedy of Ft. Benning Ga

"God bless your family. I am sorry for your loss.
Love,
a stranger"

"Hey Kurt, Its been awile, we all miss you here. You will be glad to know that Van Buren recovered from his wounds very well and ETSed from the Army. We are getting ready to head back over there tomorrow, but we will never forget our fallen comrades. God Bless."
Spc. Bell of C co 2/502 INF 101st ABN DIV

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

"To the family of Kurt R. Frosheiser:

The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 29 May. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain, LTC Kenneth L. Beale, Jr. will preach a message entitled “Remembering Our Freedom.” A former Soldier and country music songwriter and performer “Rockie” will pay a special musical tribute. At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played.

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Administrative Assistant
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:info@fortsnellingmcf.org
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org"

"I never got to meet Kurt or his family, but I wish I did. T.C.B. Demo Team started a project in January of 2004 and will end in September of 2004 (September 5, 2004). We ask if anyone has any information on Kurt's family please let us know!! (derby_girl_2004@yahoo.com) May those 15 brave souls rest in peace and god bless their families and friends."
Ana Farrier T.C.B. Demo of Washington, Iowa

"Thank you soilder, we will never forget! God Bless you!"
Rick of nd, usa

"Kurt Frosheiser, a brave soilder. Thank you for making our world a better place. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kurt's family and friends. Vanessa and Xander we are sorry for your loss & wish you the best as you move forward with in your life."
Janae & Paul Cantrell of Lowell,MA USA

"May God bless those who give their best for others."
of pa, usa

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

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

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