Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"to the family members..I carry the memory of these two soldiers deep in my heart. I never met either of them, but was in the vicinity of FOB rustimiah that morning. Eight years later, it seems like yesterday. Their memory will live on. I always offer prayers with my family, on this day and make sure their names pass my lips, and hope the burden of your Christmas Day without them can be lessened."
John H of Hatillo PR

"I'll never forget our time on the high school wrestling team together. Although you were our heavyweight, you were also the kindest man I've ever met. You were an amazing athlete and friend, and you are missed dearly by all who knew you."
Kennen MacKay of Claremont, CA

"To the family of:Sergio Gudino
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 didn't know Sergio but I was there when he and Cardinal were killed. I remember seeing the guys on that patrol prep to leave the wire. I was leaving an Intel Brief. My team and I were standing in line at the chow hall when we saw the explosion near the front gate of our base. The base warning siren sounded and everyone ran for cover, my team ran to the Aid Station to offer help. We'd been in country longer than most and knew a little more about what was going on and really wanted to help. The wounded hadn't been brought in yet and the medical staff told us they had it handled and we'd just be in the way. They were setting up triage area outside and were very ready as soon as the guys came in. We got out of their way. Later, I received the KIA and WIA report and talked it over with my team. I don’t know if I should say this but I was the Tactical Psychological Operations Team Sergeant at FOB Rusty when this happened. I don’t know if anyone told you who is responsible. Muqtada al Sadr leads the Mehdi Militia and they were the ones that did this attack. After analyzing the incident we determined they conducted this specific attack to try and demoralize us. For those that don’t know the attack was done on Christmas day after the normal IED morning window and as close to the base as possible. The Militia risked a lot to get this IED so close, honestly if they just wanted to kill they could of set that IED up a thousand different places and not risked losing a good IED or IED team. Several patrols had gone out before this one and no IED was detonated as they drove by. The Mehdi Militia ensured this attack was initiated during Christmas chow hall hours. It was very personal and it hit us all very hard because so many people witnessed it. I want the family to know my deepest sorrow. Believe me when I say we did our best to get payback. I don’t know if this helps. I haven't spoken a lot about that day but every Christmas I think of you more than you’d imagine. God Bless you. Be safe. He did a hard job and on behalf my team and I, we’ve never been the same since that Christmas and we hope life and love heal your scars of war. He did good!""
BOONE

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

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

"Sergio was my little brother, I miss him so much, I will always love him and miss him. He is my hero!!"
Eddie Gudino of Bakersfield, CA

"I will always have you in my heart. I will never forget the last meal we had together before we got deployed. I will always have your family in my prayers. I remember when we were in Basic we called You "Shrek" cause of your big smile that put a smile to everyone around you. To great man, husband and soldier"
Spc Medina, S of Los Angeles, CA

"December 6, 2008
To the family of Spc. Sergio Gudino:
Sergio 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

"Sergio, I am thinking of you today as we have Thanksgiving Dinner at Bethel Baptist tonight. God Bless! I will see you soon my brother in Christ."
Rusty of Guyton, Ga

"Sergio,
I would 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.

"We Pierce"(64th Armor Motto)"

"SPC Gudino, will never be forgoten. He was injuried earlier in our deployment, but returned and was killed weeks prior to his return home to his wife and kids. "Brave soldiers NEVER die. Their memory always live on"."
SSG Eric L. Jefferson of Ft. Stewart, Ga (1/64th AR BN)

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

"My condolences on the loss of your loved one. May God bless you with His strength and give you comfort in your time of need.

Michele Carter
Sister of CPL Gary Walters
Killed in Baghdad on 24 April 2005"

"Thank you Sergio Gudino, 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 Spc. Sergio Gudino:
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 Sergio 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 Spc. Sergio Gudino:
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 Sergio, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia