Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Miss you brother!"
Ben Farmer of Lake Arrowhead, CA.

"Hey Warrior, just wanted to let you know that you're always in my thoughts and prayers."
Lcpl. Paul Rivera of NYC, New York

"Happy birthday, cousin."
Josh

"Was just thinking of you today as I do often! Living across the street from where you used to live is hard! I just see your sweet smiling face! Your life was never easy but you made a goal for yourself and achieved it!! I guess you probably get to hang out with Pastor Bucy, Jimbo and Brandon! Even though you are not here physically you will be in our hearts and dreams forever! Love and miss you!"
Maggi O of Patoka il

"To think it’s been 17 years and you were 17 when you became my best friend! I think about you daily with you name in both my boys! Love and miss you Torrey!!! I’m in summerfield North Carolina! Finally made it to the country!!!"
Aaron Gordon of Summerfield North Carolina

"Remembering you 17 years later."
Tony Abitz of Lake Orion, MI

"It's been 14 years... I'm in 8th grade its just so hard to think about that you've been gone this long. I miss and love you Uncle Torrey!"
Alexis Gray of Patoka

"Thank you to those who have not forgotten Torrey. He is my nephew and is missed dearly by myself and his father, Joe. Alexis, that was so beautiful he would've adored you! and thank you Kelli and your daughter for carrying his picture. to all of his soldier brothers...we are proud of him for what he did and we are proud of you for doing what you do...thank you all for the wonderful thoughts"
Penny of Indiana

"It's been 11 years and I still think of you all the time I never fail to share your story of your heroic actions I will always remember you Torrey I miss you brother."
Aaron Calderon of Parris Island, SC

"Its 2015 I am 11 years old I am your first niece and I'm proud of what you did for this country of ours I didn't really get to meet you I was almost 1 I would have turned 1 on May 1st I miss you so much I wish you could read this right now I love you with all of my heart and try to visit your grave with grandma often I wish I would have gotten to know you better I love and miss you with all my heart!!! Weeping right now over you in 2015 a little under 11 years ago you spared your life for us and a good friend!!! 😭"
Alexis Rae Gray of Patoka Illinois

"Its 2015 I am 11 years old I am your first niece and I'm proud of what you did for this country of ours I didn't really get to meet you I was almost 1 I would have turned 1 on May 1st I miss you so much I wish you could read this right now I love you with all of my heart and try to visit your grave with grandma often I wish I would have gotten to know you better I love and miss you with all my heart!!! Weeping right now over you in 2015 a little under 11 years ago you spared your life for us and a good friend!!! 😭"
Alexis Rae Gray

"My daughter marched in a Labor Day parade today. She carried your picture. What a honor for her and our family. Thank you to you and your family for your service and sacrifice."
Kellie of Lowell, IN

"Hey Little Brother, I don't know what to say. I think about you all the time. It has been years since I last saw you, and I have beat myself up over and over, wondering if I trained you hard enough, if I trained you too hard, and I just don't know. I got out that January before the April you lost your life, and I was playing ball when I got the phone call...I broke down right there, with everyone there watching, and cried like a baby. I didn't care who saw me, I didn't care about anything else...except you were gone... I got a letter just a couple of weeks after that from the Marine Corps, asking for NCO's to come back in for one more year, with the guarantee of another Iraq deployment. I jumped at the chance to exact vengeance on those who had hurt my little brother...Now this many years later, nothing helps the pain of hearing that your young life ended to abruptly except that song...and knowing that "if the Army and the Navy ever look on heavens' scenes, they will find the streets are guarded by United States Marines." I have wept for you, I have wept for your family, and have tried to live my life to the fullest, knowing that you won't get the chance to experience so much..so I will do my best to live it for you, and one day share it with you. I am confident that you will just laugh this all off, because that's just how your are. Lighthearted, and carefree. Able to make light every heavy situation with your goofiness. Bro, I am so sorry that I wasn't there!!!!!!!!!! I love and miss you brother."
Cpl. Crumbaugh of Kentucky, USA

"I miss you cousin. I love you."
Josh

"Hey Torrey, its been too long. Everyday I miss u more. The times we had when we were younger I wouldn't trade for the world. Even doing some of ur homework in Jr High. Lol. I wish u were home with all of us, but u died fighting for this country and everyone in it. U will forever be loved and missed and will forever be in our hearts. U are my hero and we love and miss u."
Dusty P. of Patoka, Il USA

"Hey Torrey, its been too long. Everyday I miss u more. The times we had when we were younger I wouldn't trade for the world. Even doing some of ur homework in Jr High. Lol. I wish u were home with all of us, but u died fighting for this country and everyone in it. U will forever be loved and missed and will forever be in our hearts. U are my hero and we love and miss u."
Dusty P. of Patoka, Il USA

"Torrey I miss you every second of everyday but especially right now! I need you by my side to fight for justice for myself and your brothers as well an your nieces and nephews you never got to meet! Not to mention justice for what this monster did to you as a child!I am so honored to call you my son! You are and always will be one the most loving,loyal, and courageous people I have ever met! Semper Fi xoxo and snuggles Love Mom"
Mary Krueger of Patoka Illinois USA

"Miss you brother. Hope your family is well."
Z Serad of Washington

"Hey brother its been 13 long yrs this june since we spent my birthday in soi drinkn and being crazy u were a great friend and brother I MISS U AND LOVE U ALWAYS MY FELLOW DEVIL...RACK MATES FOR LIFE...U WERE ONE CRAZY * DEVILDOG..."
michael green of batesville,AR

"Your death still haunts me, I think everyday was there something more we could have done? In your memory and the memory of too many other young men I carry on training young men who remind me of you."
SSgt Whitaker 2/4 81's of Camp Pendleton, CA

"9 years later...I still spend every day trying to live a life that makes you proud, one deserving of the sacrifice you made."
Lima 7 of Springfield, Oregon

"Happy birthday cousin. Love you."
Josh

"Funny memory for all that where there. We  just had our 237 Marine Corps ball and I thought of Torrey's first ball. That year he was the youngest Marine and the classic Torrey was also the drunkest marine at the ball and would always brighten up everything. Wow how times have changed miss you bud alway..."
SSgt Bosch Robert J. of Oceanside

"Thinking about you today. Love you cousin."
Josh

"I miss you cousin. I love you"
Josh

"Hey man. You're the first on a list of names that's way too long. Tomorrow is Memorial Day and I'm remembering those who have given so much more than me."
Joe Fuchs of Oceanside, CA

"You will never be forgotten Torrey. Semper Fidelis Brother."
Sgt Chris Holloway of CLNC

"Hey brother, just thinking about you today. Love you man, Semper Fi"
Josh Garrison of Windom, Texas

"Hey Torrey, thinking about you a lot lately, miss you everyday. Rest in peace brother."
Chris Holloway

"Hey brother! 7 years. My god how the time passes. I miss you more and more everyday. My son will some day know how heroic his middle name really is. I love you Torrey. Cheers!"
Aaron Gordon of Oceanside CA

"Hey brother! & year. My god how the time passes. I miss you more and more everyday. My son will some day know how heroic his middle name really is. I love you Torrey. Cheers!"
Aaron Gordon of Oceanside CA

"Hey buddy! Sure am missing you today man! I know it's been a while since I talked to you but you are on my mind always. You and Dan save me a spot up there my friend! I hope we make you proud!"
Cpl Parick McBride of Portland OR

"Missing you alot today...I wish you could meet Kiera...you two have a LOT in common. She's as rotten as you were when you were 4. I love you so much and I just wish we had you here. Missing you with all my heart...keep looking out! love you cuz."
Erika

"To the family of:Torrey L.Gray
I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart cries out for you in your grief and you have my thoughts and prayers. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need prayer or need someone to talk to, please call or write my pastor: Rev. John Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015.
Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew Covington,Ga" 1-2-11"

"Torrey you got a lot of brothers thinking about you today! Hope your doing well. We miss you"
SSgt Jack Hghtower of Houston, Texas

"Torrey I think of you everyday. I wish that I could only see you one more time. You were an excellent Marine and a wonderful friend. I remember hunting rabbits with our bows just outside of base at Twentynine palms. I promise that I will never forget you. I still have a picture of you in my house here in Texas. I Love you Brother."
Cpl. Garrison of Windom, Tx

"Hi Mary, My son (Olivarez) was with Torry when he was killed. I wrote you a letter about 2 years ago. I got your address from somebody on the 3/4 Yahoo website. I just wanted you to know not a day goes by when Torrey is not on our minds. My son named his baby boy Grayson, in memory of Torrey. I cried when Torrey was killed as if he were my own and I cry whenever I think about what happened. Please feel free to email me if you want, I would like to visit where Torrey is buried some time, if it is OK with you. I am so sorry this all happened. My email is:
Garlandparty@hotmail.com God bless you and your family"
Margie Castro of Dallas Texas

"I am humbled to have the pleasure to wear a " let no hero be forgotten" memorial braclett with LCPL Gray's name on it. As a voultneer with Operation Care Package, we send care packages to those brave men and women who are deployed."
Jen Bakalar of Joliet,IL

"As always, I love and miss you."
Erika

"Hey brother!! Thinking about you all the time bro out here in south florida. very often I sit out by the ocean late at night and just think about you, the last conversations we had together on that OP the night prior. I miss you alot man!!! I'll see you at the gate for shift change. Semper Fi"
Eugene Calonge of Ft. lauderdale FL

"Doesnt it feel weird to say "happy" memorial day ?

Just thinking especially of Torrey this memorial day. 5/31/2010. Mary, if you ever read this I sent you a letter and let you know my son Adrian ("Olivarez")is always here if you ever need to talk to him or just want to talk. As you know he was with Torrey when he died. I dont know if I sent it to the right address (it was in Patoka) but I also wanted to let you know that Adrian and Emily have named their baby Grayson in honor of Torrey. Not a day goes by when I dont think of Torrey and your family is always in my prayers and always will be for the rest of my life.

You can always email me at GarlandParty@hotmail.com

Adrian has an Iraqi flag hanging in his house they all signed the first time they went to Iraq but the only signature I see when I look at it is Torreys."
Margie Castro of Garland, Texas , Dallas County

"I miss you man, I think about you all the time. I wish you were here with us. I love you brother."
Sgt. Chris Holloway of Camp Lejeune NC

"Hey Torrey, I've been thinking about you and Eric Freeman a lot recently. I also had the opportunity to visit Venegas' memorial page. Just know that your never forgotten. Life has a way of moving right along but I know that myself and other Marines constantly think about you. I hope your family is doing well. I miss you buddy. I have a photo of you and Eric at my house. I plan on showing my son and daughter when they're old enough to understand. I will say a prayer for your family."
Serad

"Well Torrey it has almost been 6 years and not a day goes by i dont think of you and miss you. I am in Afghanistan and wish you could be here fighting at my side. I love you and miss you very much bro"
SGT Aaron Gordon of Nawa, Afghanistan

"I am just sitting here thinking of you.
crying.
wondering why you're gone.
I have never been to this website...almost 6 years...
i wish you were here to hang out with me and meet my family. Every day i wonder about how your life would be by now.
I wont see you again until my time comes...but i will think of you every day.
I hope to see you as soon as time permits and thank you for all you have done for my family and i."
Brandon of illinois

"hey bro its been almost 6 years since u passed just wanted to say happy b day again love u and miss u very much love ur bro blake"
blake stoffel of patoka illinois

"Gray Family,
I was researching something on the internet when I came across this website. After reading many messages from Mr. Torrey Gray's family and friends I became overwhelmed with emotions for a man I have and will never know. It would have been a blessing to have met him. I wanted to say THANK YOU to Mr. Torrey Gray, his family, friends and all the other servicemen who are fighting for our freedom. You are all in my prayers daily. I to have a brother in the military and know personally the sacrifice the soldider and his/her family makes. I am deeply sorry for your lost, but please know it is not in vain. Thank you thank you thank you from the bottom of my heart."
Angie Stevens of San Diego, CA

"”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,800 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at Projectcompassion@manti.com or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna"
Project Compassion - Kenna of Manti, Utah USA

"i love you brother. i am missin you so very much."
sgt aaron gordon of kailua hawaii

"On this memorial day, I thank you Torrey, you paid the ultimate sacrifice for your country and family. I miss you every day and you will never be forgotten. I love you brother."
Chris Holloway. Sgt USMC of Camp Lejeune

"Well buddy its been 5 years and still not a day goes by that i dont wish you were here in hawaii with me hang out with these laid back Hawaii marines. I love you and miss you more than words could explain."
Sgt Aaron Gordon of marine corps base hawaii

"March 28, 2009
To the family of Lance Cpl. Torrey L. Gray:
Torrey 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

"Torrey,

I often remember the times we went out in SOI with Aaron Gordon and Daniel Bryant. The four of us doing the best we could to experience the most we could on the short weekends they afforded us in school. I will never forget the cunning smile that was ALWAYS on your face. YOU ALWAYS HAD A PLAN, good idea or bad, it was always a fun one. I expect to see you manning your post as Sergeant of the Guard when I, myself get to Heaven."
Sgt Kurtis R. Bellmont of Camp H.M. Smith, HI

"To all of Torreys family i was just wanting to send a message to you all to inform you that on January 3 2009 my son was born. After talking to my wife in letting her pick his first name i got to pick his middle name. We have decited on Aydan Gray. So i just want to let you know you all and torrey are still in my thoughs. And marry if you ever get on here to check please contact me at Marine10311@aol.com or my phone number is 513-967-1370"
Brian Thompson of cincinnati ohio

"Well buddy. your birthday has come and gone again. I love you brother and i think about you every day as i currently drive by fallujah daily."
SGT AARON GORDON of IRAQ

"Torrey was like a brother to me. We served together in Lima company and fought side by side in Iraq. The friendship that was born during our time together was one that will always be missed. Torrey was every bit as goofy as I was and I loved that about him. When I think about him I cannot help but laugh, but then I cry. I carry a picture of him with a sandbag and goggles on his head, armed with a spear attempting to ward off a sand storm in Kuwait.That was the kind of person that he was, lighthearted and hilarious when he rightfully should have been miserable. I look to him for inspiration on a daily basis as I know he is watching me now. I miss you brother and will never forget the treasured times that we shared. I love you man. Semper Fi"
John Rollins of Jefferson Georgia

"Torrey; I can't begin to epxress to you how very much i miss you. you and Gordon were such goof balls, i think that's why i got along with you so very well. I remember the day that they pulled Kilo company out of Fallujah, I was a squad leader and had just led my Marines half way out of the city when while i was on a roof top, a Marine from your company yelled over to me that you had been killed. my mind left my body and it was all i could do to make good decisions to get my marines safely back to the vehicles that were waiting to extract us. By the time we got back to the vehicles it was dark, the mortar illumination rounds were the only thing lighting up the area there. i was so exhausted and full of emotion, and the word of your passing was too much after we lost Amaya the same day. i sat down and just cried bro, i cried for you and and all of the good times. i cried for your family. i cried for gordon and the other marines of your platoon. and i cried that our country had decided to pull us out of a city that we had fought so hard to take. i am still still very bitter about that to this day. I got a divorce because of how much the war had changed things and am now engaged man, and both her and i are serving with the army right now in Afghanistan. Not a day goes by where i don't think of you and the funny times that we had, especially at Bridgeport. I have shown my daughter your picture and told her your name, but she is still too young to realize that her papa knew such Marines and heros as you. Your story is on my very breath everywhere i go, and your name will forever be on my quivering lip of saddness and loss for the rest of my life. You should have seen the 3/4 logo's that Gordon and i got tatooed on us man. God man...I don't want to say good bye man... I think that i will be able to in this email, but not ever again for the rest of my life. I hope someday that you and i can see each other again in some way, until then try to bribe St Peter into letting me in there with yah. I love you man, and promise that i will never ever forget you. Semper FI, and at the same time...Eat the apple...
SPC O'Leary US Army
formerly CPL O'Leary USMC
3/4 Kilo company
thomas.j.oleary@us.army.mil"
Thomas O'Leary of Morgan City. Utah/ currently in Afghanistan

"well its been for years and i still think of you every day. i miss you so much and love you"
Aaron Gordon of 1/3 c. co Hawaii

"well its been for years and i still think of you every day. i miss you so much and love you"
Aaron Gordon of 1/3 c. co Hawaii

"Well Torrey it's been 4 years today since you left and still it feels like yesterday.I miss you and love you more than anyone will ever know....You are my hero"
Mary Stoffel (MOM) of Salem Illinois

"HI TORREY ITS ME TORI'S GRANDMA I WAS REMEMBERING YOU TODAY I MISS YOU AND WE WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU.WE WILL ALL MEET AGAIN SOME DAY. THANK YOU FOR BEING SUCH A HERO"
VICKI of CORNING AR

"i am torreys aunt and i have just spent the better part of my night reading and remembering. my nephew was and will always be one of my favorite people. i love him dearly and miss him oh so much."
auntie judy of jonesville louisiana

"Today is your birthday buddy and not a day goes bye that i dont think of you. I miss you so very much and love you even more. Happy Birthday. Hope the copenhagen is good here you are."
SGT. Aaron Gordon of Kaneohe, Hawaii

"Torrey,
Well it's almost your birthday and although everyone thinks i'm strong you know i am not.I miss you more and more with every passing second of everyday! Instead of becoming easier it seems to be harder the longer i am away from you. You were the light of my life, my son, my best friend, my hero and I can't wait for the day we are reunited in heaven! I want everyone to know that the sacrifices that the men and women of our military and their families make everyday so that we can all live the kind of lives we do are something we should all give THANKS for, not just on special occasions but everyday!!!To all of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and to those who continue to serve I THANK YOU!!!!!!Happy Birthday Son, I Love and Miss You!
XOXOXO and Snuggles,
Love,
Mom"
Mary Stoffel of Patoka, Illinois, USA

"Torrey, not a day goes by that i don't think of you and wish you were here. I know things happen for a reason but i still can't begin to find a reason for why God took you away from so many people who loved you. Tomorrow is 9-11 and as everyone is taking a min to pray for the ones that lost their life that day I will sit quietly and pray for you. i know in my heart that you are sitting up there and watching the things we do wishing you were here to share those moments but as you do that i'm sitting here wishing I could share my moments with you. i love you and i will NEVER forget you. Love Aspen"
Aspen Garza of Brownstown

"As One of Torreys Best friend. I miss him so much and will not stop loving him as a brother. Torrey is a warrior."
Cpl Aaron Gordon of 29 Palms

"My class is doing reports on 'Faces of the Fallen' and a couple of my friends and I decided to do our's on Lance Cpl. Torrey L. Gray. I can't wait to write our letter to Torrey's family!"
Morgan of California

"Torrey,
Buddy we all miss you!! A great friend, marine, and neighbor I love brother rest in peace I will never forget you!! I know God made a place for you!!"
Landon Moore of Arlington, Tx

"TORREY
Marine,son,friend,grandson,boyfriend,
Soldier,life of the party, and hero.

People who didn't know him might ask,
How can someone be so many things?
People who did know him will say,
It was possible everytime you looked at him.

Fun to be around, trouble or no trouble.
Has your back, fight or no fight.
Funny, joke or no joke.
Hero at heart, war or no war.

Memories,some good and some bad.
Some humorous, some frightening.
No matter what the occasion,
there was surely a party and memory.

He did as his commander told him,
And he did it with pride,courage, and respect.
He fought a war in a foreign land,
So the ones he loved wouldn't have one in our homeland.

He went away always to return,
With a story and a celebration.
However,once he did not return.
No stories,just a celebration of his life and death.

Torrey, words can't say how much i miss you, even after almost three years, everytime i think of you all I can do is cry. The only comfort i can get in all this, is that at least you died doing something you felt was right instead of doing something you didn't want to be doing. You taught me a war isn't fun and games, about blowing things up and playing G.I. Joe but it was much more than that and i thank you for that. I will always know just like God, you are watching down on us and will hear our thoughts and fears, and feel our love and prayers. I love and miss you, good bye for now but not forever T."
Aspen Garza of Vandalia, IL

"Torrey,
I will never forget you and just wanted you and everyone else to know that there is not a day that goes by that I dont think of you. I know that you would do everything over again in a heartbeat, even knowing the outcome. I respect you and all of the men and women fighting for our freedom. You were one of a kind Torrey and I miss you dearly. You will always be remembered as a great man and a HERO!!!"
Tori Bowen of Sandoval, IL

"My name is Cameron Schilling and I have started “Portrait of a Soldier” which donates a portrait sketch of every Illinois soldier who has fallen in Iraq or Afghanistan. All 122 sketches will be on display for a Memorial Day Presentation in Chicago, Illinois on May 26-31 at the James R. Thompson Center in downtown Chicago. After the ceremony the sketches will be given to the immediate families of the Illinois soldiers. I would invite any friends or family members to come and honor these men and women from Illinois who have given their lives to our country. For more information please contact OperationHomeFront.org at 866-417-8889 which is an organization headed by the Lt. Governor Pat Quinn of Illinois who is in charge of the Memorial Day Presentation. Thank You.

Please check out www.portraitofasoldier.org
To contact Cameron email cameronschilling84@hotmail.com
To contact Operation Home Front call 866-417-8889"
Cameron Schilling of Charleston, Illinois

"Hey Tory,
I really miss you around here.I didn't know you that well, but you taught me a really important lesson of life.Your life really changed and for that many people look up to you.I hope that I will be able to see you again one day."
Jessica of Patoka

"I am so sorry for your loss. I heard about your Marine while reading No True Glory, words can't express how sorry I am, he was such a courageous soul."
Margaret of Normal, IL

"My name is Cameron Schilling. I am a college student from central Illinois. I am the first generation of my family not to serve his country. I am extremely grateful for the sacrifice you and your loved one has given for the United States. I am disappointed by the way the news media has covered this war and the deaths of our youth. The media has stopped listing the names of the soldiers killed in Iraq and people only talk about the soldiers when we reach a specific milestone in deaths. If you just started watching the news today you would not even know there is a war going on. Partisan politics have replaced coverage of our young generation who have traveled to a foreign land in the name of the United States. Whether you believe the war in Iraq is wrong, right, justified or not everyone should pay even just a little more attention to what these young men and women are sacrificing. This is what I would like to do. I want to do my part in honoring these soldiers and their memories. Along with being a college student I am also a budding artist. I draw pencil portraits of local people in my community. I want to offer a pencil portrait sketch to the immediate family of every Illinois soldier killed in Iraq. Please contact me at cameronschilling84@hotmail.com."
Cameron of Illinois

"Hey buddy whats going on its ben a long time since i have ben on here but i just came home from the ball i just wanted to say happy birthday it just wasent the same with out you this year and to mary and the rest of the family just wanted to say and let you know that you all and torrey are still in are prayers and thoughs everyday happy 230 birthday torrey"
lcpl brian a thompson of 29 palms ca

"My condolences to the family of LCPL Torrey L. Gray for the loss of their son. To LCPL Torrey, thank YOU for YOUR service & sacrifice to our great country. Rest in peace!"
Anonymous Veteran of Melrose Park, Illinois

"To the family of Cpl. Torrey L. Gray,
I feel your loss and I lost my brother, Cpl. Dan R. Amaya, the same day, at the same time, and at the same place as you did. I feel we have a unique bond and would love to talk with you."
Joe Amaya, joeam@verizon.net of Allentown, PA

"To the Family of LCpl. Gray:
We have constructed a memorial to the service men and women from Wisconsin and Illinois who have died in Iraq which includes, as of 7/12/05, 112 crosses and Stars of David. We would like your permission to put Torrey's name on one of them.
We have called our display "Arlington Midwest" and it is located in Wisconsin Dells, WI.
It is our expression of mourning for the indescribable loss you have suffered for our country.

If you would like us to do this, please email me at ArlingtonMidwest@yahoo.com.

We invite you to visit Arlington Midwest. I can send you directions and some pictures by email.

"As long as we live, they too will live;
for they are now a part of us,
as we remember them."
Marty Preston of Wisconsin Dells, WI

"As Memorial Day only a few days away i wanted to say that I will be thinking and parying for Torrey. We all miss him very much not a day goes by with out something reminding us of him. Bobby misses you Torrey and so do I. I know that you're watching over him while serving in OIF III as you always have You told me that you were coming home and i was there when you did. Now you're able to rest. We'll never forget you."
Kelly of 29 palms ca usa

"Torrey has been a friend of mine since SOI. He was a great Marine, a good man, and an awsome friend. I served with him in OIF I, as well as OIF II. It is because of men like him that we are free. All gave some; Some gave all. Semper Fi-
PFC McBride,
3rd Bn, 4th Mar. Kilo Co."
Patrick McBride of currently serving in OIF III

"I am a retired Marine LtCol who served as a grunt for 22 years. I have a flag on my desk with LCpl Gray's data affixed to it. As long as I am alive this flag in memory of him will be displayed. He is gone but not forgotten! Semper Fi."
Steve Hartley of Vienna VA

"Torrey you will never be forgotten. It was a sad day when we heard the news."
George & Hilda Kidder of Lorain, Ohio

"Torrey,

Today is your 20th birthday, and I'm thinking about you and missing you so much. As Aaron's best friend, you were also like a son to me. I still hear the sounds of your laughter and see your warm smile. I have the picture of the three of us (with you and Aaron in your dress blues on our way to my mom's 80th b'day party) on my desk at work where I can see you and remember you every day. You became a beloved member of our family from the first time we met you, and we love you and miss you. My thoughts and prayers are with your mom and the rest of your family today. God Bless You and Rest in Peace. You are in my heart always."
Christine Gordon of San Diego, California

"My name is Erika and Torrey is my cousin. I just wanted to say that I will miss him every day from now on. Some days all I want is a bearhug from my little cuz. I also wanted everyone to know that Torrey truly believed in what he was doing and given the chance he would do it again. To the 3/4, he loved you guys. Especially you Aaron. Don't forget he will always have your back. And finally to all of our service men and women God Bless You and Godspeed. Semper Fi, Tor!!!"
Erika of Patoka

"Torrey being willing to be a Marine and serve his country is testament enough to the kind of person he was. God Bless you Torrey. For the record the name signed is authentic not a joke."
Torrey A. Gray of Bangor, Maine/ Hohenfels, Germany

"I served with Gray during OIF 1 & 2! Hearing about Gray's death during the fighting in Fallujah was a huge shock. I wasn't in Grays platoon at the time but everyone in Lima Company knew who he was. I think about him everyday. I watched as his best friend Gordon put his dog tags upon the kevlar and rifle that was erected in Grays memory and realized for the first time what my brothers and I were truly going through. We may be heading over their for a third time so we promise to make you proud. Watch over our asses Torrey!!!!!"
Lance Corporal Serad, Zackery T. of Port Orchard Washington

"tory and i went through boot camp and school of infantry together.he was a close and dear friend.we lost touch after we went to the fleet,but i never forgot him.he told me he wanted to come to chicago with me so i can show him around.and he will always be with me.i will never forget you gray.to the gray family i give my deepest condolences. your son was a great man and marine.he will always be remembered."
corporal cerda of chicago

"God Bless you and your family.
God Bless Torrey for making the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

Torrey will never ever be forgotten"
Margie Castro of Garland, Texas

"i just want to say i miss torrey and i think about hin daily he was my best friend my thoughs and prayers are with the family torrey i just want to say you are missed truly ther is not a day that goes by that i am not thinking about you bro i love you and miss you thompson"
Lcpl Brian Thompson of 3/4 Lima 2

"Torrey...Nick...two of my guy friends lost in war already. I miss them both. I don't know what to do if something else happens to anyone else I know. Love you, Torrey! *kisses and hugs*"
Amanda of USA

"GOD BLESS YOU TORREY I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU. YOU WAS A GREAT HERO. WHEN I LIVED IN PATOKA YOU,KARI AND ME ALWAYS HAD SO MUCH FUN. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE.YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTEN.AND TO KARI YOU WILL ALWAYS HAVE THOSE GREAT MEMORIES I WOULD HAVE LOVED TO HAVE BEEN WITH YOU."
TORI JO of AURORA CO

"Torrey was a beacon in the darkness. I had the pleasure of his company before and after his first deployment to Iraq while he visited Lt. Corporal Aaron Gordon and his family in San Diego. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. I think of Torrey often. He is who I remember when life's insignficant things get in the way. He should be a reminder to all of us that life is short and precious. Thank you to Torrey and his family for their great sacrifice. I will always remember."
Angie Stevens of San Diego, CA

"RIP Marine"
Petty Officer Cawthon of RTC Great Lakes, IL

"Hi, I am Kari Atchison and I was Torrey's girlfriend. He will be missed greatly by everyone. I know I am going to miss him coming in my house at 3 o'clock in the morning and all of my great phone calls at 3 o'clock in the morning always asking what I was doing. I am also going to miss him making up stories just trying to make me mad. Torrey loved the Marines so much. In my last letter he promised my that he would come home to me but now he is gone but at least I know now that he is safe and nothing else can hurt him. I would like to thank all the troops for all they have done for our freedom. God Bless You."
Kari of Patoka, IL/USA

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

"Torrey Will never be forgotten.. No matter what he's always going to live on. We're all going to miss Torrey I know I'm going to. I'm going to Miss him busting in the front door. I think about Torrey all the time and how close Gordon and Curtis were to him. He was liked by many in his unit and I know he's going to be missed.... Mary I give you all my support and to your boys to. I thank you for what Torrey did for this country and that he gave up his life so that I can have the freedom to write you this message... As Torrey told me the last time I talked to him, He was in Iraq and he told me "Kelly don't worry i'm coming home and I'll watch over Bob and make sure nothing happens to him and we're both coming home get ready because i'm moving back in." I'll never forget that. I do Believe that Torrey is watching over his brothers and making sure nothing is going to happen to them... Mary you raise a fine young man and I'm so greatful for what he did. Thank you once more for rasing him to be one of the few and proud.... I know that Torrey is with us right now and that he's watching over everyone that he knows. He was a great young man and Bobby and I are going to miss him and so is all of 3/4 Lima.... God Bless You.."
Kelly Curtis of Twentynine Plams Ca/ Chicago IL USA

"hi mary, i am lcpl nicholas kleiboekers momma, you and i graduated nursing school together. you will remember me as teresa heath. please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you, as they were the day you buried torrey. please forgive me that it was just too soon after losing nicholas, that i couldnt come to be with you. just know that i am here if you need to talk, cry or just share your thoughts. im just a phone call away. God bless, teresa clark 618-237-0750. (toll free)"
teresa clark of st francisville, il

"God Bless and God Speed..."
Cheri Clark, TSgt, USAF of Abilene, Texas

"My name is Mary and I am the mother of Lcpl Torrey L.Gray.Torrey believed with all of his heart that the work they are doing in Iraq was of great importance.He was so proud to be a United States Marine and never once questioned whether or not it was the right thing to do.He told me when he returned from Iraq the first time that he never realized just how good we have it as Americans and to never take freedom for granted.I can tell you that I will never take the freedoms we as Americans have for granted and I believe that every man and woman who serves this great nation are all Heroes! I would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayes during this difficult time and to Kacey Carpenter of Texas I tried to get your number but was unable to,sorry I'd love to talk to you."
Mary Stoffel of Patoka, Illinois

"he was my brother and also a great hero, he loved being in the marines and i hope he rests in peace."
Russel A. Stoffel of Patoka,Illinois/United states

"Dear Marine Family,
Please accept my most sincere condolences - I believe my son Cpl. Daniel R. Amaya was with LCPL Gray when they died. Both of our boys were far too young to die but I believe with all my heart that God is still in control and that He loves us dearly. Right is still right whether we suffer for it or not. Please know that I suffer with you. If there is ANYTHING I can do for you, please don't hesitate to ask. I am in the book. God bless you all."
Kacey Carpenter of Odessa,Texas

"To Torrey's Family:
There are no words to describe the sorrow we feel for the loss of your family member. May God bless you and watch over you!"
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"If it weren't for the soldier, would freedom I know this day?
If it weren't for the soldier, would I even be allowed to say?
If it weren't for the soldier, could I sleep peacefully at night?
If it weren't for the soldier, would my children live in fright?
If it weren't for the soldier, would I be a slave to those who rise?
If it weren't for the soldier, a prison life would be, I now realize."
Suzanne of IL

"From one Marine family to another
"Though you cannot always see the bird singing, if you listen with your heart, you can always hear his song.
Though the ones we love may leave life as we know it, in our memory, the love we knew will always carry on." unknown author
Our heart and thoughts are with you at this very sad time. Your precious Torrey will not be forgotten. He was a true American!"
Charles Davis family of Kailua, Hawaii

"To the family and friends of a hero. Torrey made the ultimate sacrific for the freedom of his country. There are not many 19 year olds now a days that would even think of others. By serving his country Torrey showed there is still hope for the younger generation. I salute you and may god bless your family."
L. Fletcher of Melbourne, FL USA

"To the family and friends of LCpl Torrey L. Gray

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.
Please register so we can send you our "Love Stitched Together."

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

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

"To the family of Lcpl Gray.
I served one year and a half with Gray. I am at a loss of words to hear of the tragedy and the loss of a friend. I served with Gray during our first deployment to Iraq. He was a strong individual and will be in my thoughts and memories forever. It is just such a shock to hear that such a young and talented man is gone. I am going to miss you Gray. And to the family I am very sorry to hear of the loss of your son. I thank you Gray for the dedication and commitment you have given our country."
Armando Medina Jr of Hereford Tx US

"Rest in Peace Tufelhunden....Semper Fi"
The Taylors USMC of NC"

"To Torrey's Family:

On behalf of the Blanco-Caldas family, we send our sincerest condolences to you. We share the same loss...the same pain. Our prayers are with you and we thank you for his bravery and sacrifice.

From the family of Capt. Ernesto M. Blanco-Caldas, KIA Iraq 12/28/2003"
Gloria Caldas (his mom) of San Antonio, TX

"Thank you Torrey Gray, 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 Lance Cpl. Torrey Gray:
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 Torrey 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 Lance Cpl. Torrey Gray:
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 Torrey, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia