Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Man... I sure do miss you, brother. 20 years hasn't done much to ease the hurt. I know you and Gina are up there kicking it on a driveway somewhere, just waiting for the rest of us to join you. Soon, my friend. Soon. I love you and miss you both."
Daniel Ahlbrand II of Indianapolis, IN

"Jesse, I've told your story a thousand times to young warriors such as yourself. Thank you for your sacrifice, we all can only pray to be as fearless as you. My prayers for your family continue. Your brother in arms, CPT Rock Gardner (SFC Gardner, 401st 2001-2005) gardnerrock@gmail.com"
Rocknee M Gardner of Ft Leonard Wood, MO

"Jesse,
Just like Col Poirer said in the previous message-it's been 10 years but you are still honored and remembered. I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones I wish to extend my deepest sympathy. You are a true hero-despite being wounded you stayed in the fight and saved your fellow soldiers."
Mike C. of El Paso, Texas

""Jesse,

Ten years after your passing , your fellow Soldiers think about you frequently. We will honor your memory forever. We miss you.

David J. Poirier
LTC (Retired)
Commander
720th MP Battalion & TF Gauntlet"
David J. Poirier of Springfield, VA
5/27/2013"
Dave Poirier of Springfield, VA

"Had to mention yr nephew found yr military plane poster thats framed....he wants it in his room. Miss u little brother"
Kristina of Indianapolis

"we think of you daily, your namesake....your nephew, will be 3 soon and he is starting to learn all about u. He likes to talk about uncle Jesse"
Kristina of Avon, IN

"Thank You Jesse Halling & Your Family for Y'alls Service and Sacrafice so that others may Live! 401st MP Company"
Spc. Gonzalez,Juan of Ft. Hood,Tx US

"was thinkin about ya little brother.....i swear sometimes it is a conspiracy and u will walk through the door....miss you eternally"
Kristina of phoenix, az

"Jesse,

There is not a day that goes by that I do not think of you and the sacrifice you made for all of us. I am proud to wear a silver remembrance bracelet bearing your name each and every day to show you that all of us will never forget. As your commander, it was truly a privilege and an honor to have served with you. God Bless You.

Major Marc C. Blair
Commander, 401st MP CO, 2002-2003"
Marc Blair of Richmond Hill, GA

"If anyone knows the address or an email address for hallings parents i would like to email them.. i was in 2nd platoon with halling. please email me at kfish013@gmail.com"
keith fisher of fort belvoir va

"Jesse, I remember it like it was yesterday when blalack flipped my bed over and told me that our base was being attacked and i went outside and heard that you had been hit. My heart drops everytime i think back to that moment then i think of how much you would always brighten up my day weather it be with you offering me some pringles or just telling some random story or joke. Jesse you will always be missed by everyone who knew you and you changed all of our lives forever. Keep our seats warm up there in heaven for one day our platoon will once again meet and have good times again. miss u buddy!!!"
keith fisher of fort belvoir, va

"cant believe its been a year since I last wrote......time is just goin by and i dont know where it went. Your nephew is growin up and is soooo much like you!!! Strong and strong willed! He shows no fear when he does things that scare the everlivin' daylights outta me!! To all those who have spoke of my brother....thank you. I have yet to really deal with his death. I know he is gone, but somehow fight within my heart to let it go. I just dont understand how and why it was him. Never thought this would happen. I would never wish this on anyone else I dont get some of the senselessness of everything that has happened in the world. But I know he is at peae....this is the only thing he ever dreamt of doing! GOD BLESS OUR SOLDIERS and their families!"
Kristina Halling

"My heart goes out to you on the loss of your son and brother. I am with a group "American Soldier Memorial Project" that hope to cross stitch memorials for all of the fallen soldiers of Iraq and Afganistan. I have stitched 13 memorials and would like to stitch one for Jesse. This is totally free and it would be a honor if you would contact me and let me do this in his memory. Please contact me at nicholsjan@sbcglobal.net or 9949 Sheffield Ave. Dyer, IN 46311"
Jan Nichols of Dyer, IN

"Jesse,

My wife Lynne and I are thinking about you on this Memorial Day. We will always remember your courage and the sacrifice you made for this great nation. We, along with 'Soldiers of the Gauntlet', will never forget you."
David J. Poirier LTC (Retired) Commander, 720th MP Battalion & Task Force Gauntlet" of Springfield, VA

"I have the Fallen Hero's Bracelet that has Jesse's name engraved on it. I hope that the money raised by the sale of these bracelets helped to build the high tech facility for wounded soldiers in TX. I was told that it would really make a difference."
Melissa of Arlington Hts, IL/USA

"I never knew you but was reading about your heroic act and what you did for your fellow soldiers, your friends Jesse... I just wanted to say thank you... you fought for so many people and saved the life of one person in particular that is very important in my life... thank you jesse god bless you and your family... thank you"
Rebecca Hanni of Brownville NY, USA

"Entry Correction: It was brought to my attention today about an entry Angela Wasson (ex sister-n-law) left on here and its not true nor was the information provided her even close to what she put on here. I am sorry for the misunderstanding. Those whom know me know what I am referring to. Sorry Jonesy."
SGT Wasson

"I miss you."
John p. Jones of Waverly Hall,Ga

"well, Jesse, another Christmas has gone by with out you. It still doesn't seem true that you are really gone. You now have a nephew who has your name and will know of your legacy as he shares your name. He is your name sake and will one day know the great respect and honor that comes with it. There was never a doubt in my mind that this was the correct thing to do. I am with mom now. She needed me just as much as I needed her. She still struggles everyday without you, little Jesse has given her some of the pieces back that she lost when you left us. I will never forget the times we had together growing up and the things you taught me even as the younger child. You're always in my heart. Luv u always"
Kristina of PHOENIX, AZ

"Well let me see when you first got the 401st mp co., no one wanted to take in green soldiers at least not in our platoon. Sgt. dee did not want you or jones and sgt. norton did not want you or jones. When i looked at you and jones I saw a warrior mentality in both of you. I saw an eagerness to learn and that you both wanted to be the best. I knew darn good and well I would not be able to split you and Jones up so We did not, and Sgt. cedeno and I had the task of teaching you what you needed to know before we deployed. I think we did a great job. You might have had different team leaders but I was blessed with being able to be your squad leader. I will always remember the night under the bridge on the rail road tracks, Sgt. Cedeno's team members you being one of them nor I showed any fear and we gave the enemy hell. We came out great seeing as though there were only four of us shooting with a whole transportation company hiding under their trucks. You surprised me by knowing what to do and when to do it. One of my Sgts did not know but you with sgt. Cedeno did. You were always brave, respectful, a sponge for learning and just a downright decent person. To your family I am sorry it has taken so long for me to write but I have been angry for not being there when this happened. I was moved against my own will to a different squad. The Army sometimes does not know what they are doing. Your son was a brave, kind, considerate person who loved what he was doing. Be proud of the man he became from what y'all did. He always talked about ya'll and how he knew you would be proud of him. God bless you all and god bless Pfc Halling. Always First."
Sgt. (p) Nunnery Ret. U.S. Army of Killeen Tx

"I apologise to jesse and his family for the last line of my previous message it was a type o and was part of another mesg."
john jones

"Jesse not a day goes by that i dont think of you,and that night.I remember that you and i were fighting the days before and that night we sat there on top the humv and talked and laughed.we couldnt think of why we were fighting, I know you were the most laid back guy, that i ever met. I want to thank you for your sacrifice, you not only saved your teams lives, you saved mine, you are my HERO. the last time i saw you sgt cedeno and glass were taking you to the medavac ao im sorry i wasnt with you. To that guy who tells his family that he was there you know who you are you should clear that lie up."
John p. Jones of Waverly Hall,Ga

"Can't believe its been six years. I still miss u like it was yesterday."
Heather of Indy

"6 years ago today. Still missin' you."
Gina of Indy

"To the family of:Jesse M. Halling 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 was on the roof of our CO TOC the night I saw the gun fire. I wondered what had happened in the city. About an hour after the incident I was awakend to notify the CO of the incident. The Co Commander and 1SG were notified and imediatly set out for LSA Anaconda for that is where he was flown too. From What I understand he was hit while in the gunners coupla but continued to return fire to help his driver and team leader. He was hit and wounded but still was able to reload the 50 cal and return fire. I cant remeber the name of his driver or teamleader but still can picture there faces. I will always rember PFC Halling. He did a great thing for his team because in war thats all you have is the soldier on your right and left."
SSG Treer of Ft Hood TX

"Jesse I'm going to Ben Davis right now and I'm also in rotc when I saw your name on the Vetrans memorial wall I was sad to see a young man like you be killed in the line of duty. God Bless Jesse,family, and country and long the USMC"
AC of Indiana

"Wow, 5 and a half years, even worse."
gina of indianapolis

"Wow. Another Christmas has passed...3 and a half years have passed. I still cant believe its been that long. A lot has changed, and i wish you were around for it all. We still miss you, after all this time. Happy New Year, Jess."
Gina of Indianapolis

"Dear Mrs. Halling,
I have kept a photo of you at Jesse's funeral since the day it was in the paper. I have this picture in my kitchen and every time I walk by it I think of you and Jesse and say a quiet prayer. I will never forget you or Jesse. My heart and prayers, again, to you and your family and, of course, to Jesse.
Susan, September 2008"
susan of albuquerque, new mexico

"Jesse
I will never ever forget the sacrifice you made, or what you did, and I still regret not being out on patrol with you that night,I still remember like it was yesterday how we would read weight lifting magazines, and how you said you were going to get so big when we got back, I wont forget the good times we had in killen before we deployed, When you left us, it broke my heart, I cried so much, to the Halling family I still deeply regret your loss, I know jesse is in a good place and he will always be watching us."
Spc Gorge of Camp Zama, Japan

"Hello Pam,

I don't know if you remember working with me at Guidant, but I remember you and the loving stories you told me about Jesse. I never had the honor of meeting him but I still remember the screensaver you had on your desk. Jesse was kneeling down and surrounded by smiling Iraqi children. He looked perfectly at home with those young adoring faces. That image said so much about the kind of man he was and what an incredible loss his passing must be for you and your daughter. Be strong and know that your friends from Indy still pray for you and your family."
Frances Leath of Indianapolis, Indiana

"Dear Pamela and Kristina,
I sit here and read all the Memoirs about your son, and even though I do not have a son in the military I feel your pain, because I have tears rolling down my face. Jesse may not be here in person BUT he is always with you. Jesse is right there next to you and supporting you. Talk to Him, he is listening. Have you ever read the prayer or poem Foot Steps in the Sand. I'm sure you have.. but just think of Jesse helping God out, taking turns and continuing the journey but with Jesse carrying you too. Jesse is here and he is HELPING YOU.
Jesse, Thank You for your service and Protecting our Country. Thank You for being willing to go to Iraq to help all those people that "Freedom is Worth Fighting For". You were a "Very Brave Man". I know that you are watching over your Mom and Sister. Keep them close to your Heart and Safe from Danger. I know they need it. I know Your Mom and If your sister is anything like your Mom, she must be very sweet too. Take care Jesse, Maybe someday I will meet you too."

"January 28, 2008
To the family of Pvt. Jesse M. Halling:
Jesse 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

"Jesse,
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. You are a true hero-you showed what a true soldier you were by your heroic actions and concern for your fellow soldiers"
Mike Casey of El Paso, Texas

"Jesse,

I Went To High School With You And Was In Your Psych Class. You Seemed Very Smart And Kind. When I Heard You Lost Your Life I Was Shocked. At Least You're In Heaven. Watching Down On Us."
Marisa of Indianapolis, Indiana

"Jesse,

As I finish this 3rd tour of duty in Iraq, I wanted to thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice for this awesome country we protect. I did not know you, but I am very honored to have served in the same battalion as you. My prayers go out to your mother and your family and friends as they deal with your loss. May God grant you your wings so you can protect all the soldiers and canines over here now. Truly, SSG Shuck
chuckandgabe2007@yahoo.com"
SSG Shuck and SSD Gabe of Fort Hood, TX K9 Section

"Halling...i sat on your cot the night before you died. i was hoping you wouldnt be mad at me for messing up your sleeping bag. lol...but i miss u so much and i still think about you. thank you for saving the lives of your team. you are a hero to all of your 401st family. god bless you. hope you are living it up in heaven. xoxo....DOC LOVE"
Sgt. Brandi Love of austin, texas

"Well it's been 4 years now, hard to believe now isn't it. It still doesn't seem like this ever happened. I am still at a loss for words to think of how or why this happened and especially to you. I know that sounds selfish, but I guess you were the chosen one for some special reason. You are my angel and you are what gives me meaning to life. I miss you and love you!!!! One day we will be together but for now you are always in my heart guiding me through all of life's challenges. I LOVE YOU!!!!!"
KRISTINA

"Jesse,

Not a day goes by that I do not think of you and the sacrifice made by you and your family. We will honor your memory forever. We miss you.

David J. Poirier
LTC (Retired)
Commander
720th MP Battalion & TF Gauntlet"
David J. Poirier of Springfield, VA

"Jesse,
I never had a chance to meet you. But because of you my brother in law is alive today. He was there that fateful night. You both were in the same unit that supported my division. I am proud to have served and serve in the military with soldiers like yourself who truly live the Army core values. I'm trying not to cry as I write this. There's so much more I wanted to say, but I'll end with Thank You."
SPC Angela Wasson of Greenfield, IN

"Jesse it was great to serve with you. I still feel guilty that I was not there on that night with you. You did what a well trained soldier needed to do and for that I will never forget your sacrafice or you as a person. I make sure to tell your story to everyone that asks me about my time and how great of thing you had done. I hope that things work out over there and you watch our fellow MP's. God Bless you and your family.
Former Spc. Harden
401st MP Co.
"Always First""
Ed Harden of Millersville, MD USA

"The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.
Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.
My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.
The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,
Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.
My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.
A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.
What are you doing?" I asked without fear,
Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!"
For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts..
To the window that danced with a warm fire's light
Then he sighed and he said "Its really all right,
I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night."
"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,
That separates you from the darkest of times.
No one had to ask or beg or implore me,
I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.
My Gramps died at 'Pearl on a day in December,"
Then he sighed, "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers."
My dad stood his watch in the jungles of 'Nam',
And now it is my turn and so, here I am.
I've not seen my own son in more than a while,
But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile.
Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,
The red, white, and blue... An American flag.
"I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home
I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.
I can carry the weight of killing another,
Or lay down my life with my sister and brother..
Who stand at the front against any and all,
To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall."
"So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,
Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."
"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,
"Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?
It seems all too little for all that you've done, For
Being away from your wife and your son."
Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret, "
Just tell us you love us, and never forget.
To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.
For when we come home, either standing or dead,
To know you remember we fought and we bled.
Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us"
Gina of indianapolis

"i know, im a day late, but happy birthday jess..missing you"
gina of indianapolis

"Jesse, it's been three years now, and it seems like yesterday that this all happened. My life isn't the same now since you were taken away. I'm lost in a deep dark hole and can't seem to get out. I think of you all the time, every single day. People keep telling me that I should think of all the positives you brought into my life. Of course, that goes without saying, but my heart and mind have not healed, and I don't know how to get there. I miss you son so much. I'm so very proud of you as we all are. Your Aunt Terry said that there is a memorial in Santa Barbara and your name is the first on the list.
I know you're in Heaven so please watch over us and especially all of our military that are serving overseas. Keep them safe from harm, that they may come home to their families.
I Love You Son, Mom"
Jesse's Mom of AZ

"The memory of your injury being reported over the radio will remain with me forever as fresh as the day it happened, yet according to time it happened 3 years ago. I only met you once while we were out there, but your fate makes me cry every time I so much as think of it, not only because of how young you were, but because the bravery you exemplified during the occurrence is one that truly makes me proud to say I served in combat with you. I’ll never forget you as the thought of you will continue to touch me for as long as I live. My deepest sympathy goes out to your loved ones and may God continue to bless them with strength and the peace in knowing that you are with Him."

"Hey Jesse! We all miss you so much and talk about you on a daily basis. Love ya"
Heather of Indianapolis,Indiana

"today like many other days I think of you and still think you are someday coming back. I wish so badly that you were here and that we had more time together. There are certain things that I think about all the time and wish I could change (especially how I sometimes treated you). I never ever will forget the things you did for me and the ways you helped me out. I love you :)"
kristina

"Jesse,

Yesterday was a day that I mourned the loss of my father. A man that I knew very well and loved ever so much. It's been 5 years now since his passing. An then today is a day I mourn you... a man that I have never met, someone I only know through other's words. Yet the love I feel for you is just as strong. Growing up my father was my hero.. an now growing older, you are. Without ever meeting you, I know you even more. For what you have done, and did do. You did what others wouldn't, and I love you for it. It fills my heart to say that you are my new little brother."
Cheryl Gregoire of Carthage, Indiana USA

"Well Jess, its been three years, we still miss you and speak of you daily.. Makayla and Makenzi both know of you and are proud of you..

Love Always,
Tara"

"Halling, I remember you from basic. We were in the same platoon. Nothing brought the reality of war closer to me untill I saw your name and picture in the Army Times. I wish I had gotten a chance to see you again but at the time I was in another part of Iraq. I kept running into more and more people we went to basic with and I made sure to tell everyone about you. Not all of us survived the horrors of war. But your memory will sustain life for years to come. I will miss you man. The members of Bravo 795 MP Co will never forget you."
Spc Richard Weeks 363rd MP Co of Beverly, WV

"I was reading about the casualties from Indiana in Operation Iraqi Freedom when I came across Jesse's story. I couldn't even finish the article because my eyes were full of tears. I'm so sorry your loss. I know that nothing anyone says or does can ease the pain you guys face. I want you to know that whatever the news says, good Americans will always support the cause that Jesse fought and died so bravely for. I just want to leave a quote from the Reverend that conducted Jesse's funeral service. I feel that it signifies best what our boys are doing over there and how they know in their hearts that they are doing the right thing.

“Jesse went over to Iraq to help a people have a freedom, to help a people have a peace,’’ Welch said. “If that peace is going to have any chance it has to start with us. If Jesse’s life is going to make any sense to us, we must get in our churches on our knees and thank God for the freedoms we’ve got.’’"
Drew B. of Greenwood, Indiana

"Jesse, I didnt get to know u or anyone of ur family but i know for sure that u will never be forgotten!!!! I´m proud of who u r and what u did to serve ur country!!! I´m no American, but engaged to one and he luckily returned savily from Iraq on his first tour but leaves for the second time Feb. 2006. Please guide him home safely! God bless you and your family!!!"
Jaz of Germany

"Happy Birthday Jess! still thinkin of you..still missin you...."
gina of indianapolis

"Jesse's Family, I am terribly sorry to hear about Jesse. I was a friend/class mate/co-worker of Jesse in high school. I don’t think one day has gone by since the day I heard about Jesse, that I haven’t thought how thankful I am for his dedication and courage. I have so many great memories that I shared with Jesse, and they will live with me forever in his memory. He was an extremely hard worker, a great student, and a wonderful friend. Jesse will never be forgotten. Thank You Jesse"
Christopher Duncan of Greenwood, Indiana (Formally Indianpolis, IN Ben Davis High School)

"Hi Jesse,
you know when I talk about you to other people I am the strongest I can be and am so proud to say that I am your sister. I miss you and think of you everyday. I wish you were still here with us. Everything seems so different. You know how they say with twins that when one is hurting the other feels it. Well you are gone and I feel that loss. I feel like I am constantly forgetting things. I don't know what to do sometimes but cry. I haven't had any dreams lately but the last ones I had were all very good, so I think you are telling me that it's ok and that I should do what you always knew what I would do. I am a nurse now and more than ever do I love what I do. There are times that I sit and think of you watching over me and when I run into trouble with a critical pt. it is you who guides me and gives me the strength to help them. It's like you come into my body and takeover. You always were good in stressful situations and I would fly off the panhandle. I love you and appreciate everything that I have become and will become because of you. You are forever in my heart.......xoxoxo
love
kristina"
kristina of 3697 Smallwood Lane E. indpls IN, USA

"I did not get the chance to talk to you, but I want to thank you for the sacrifice that you made. You will always be a part of my husband's life, and I thank you for that. Is been two years, yet it feels like yestrday. Take care of your loved ones. You are always remembered."
Lopez of AZ

"My wonderful son, how much I miss you. It's been just over two years now but it seems like yesterday. I wish there was something I could do to bring you back...I know it sounds silly, but I often try to figure out someway, somehow, of bringing you back.
My life isn't the same Jesse, it never will be. Part of me is gone and it never will return. I only hope that I can live my life to be worthy of being with you someday.
I'm sorry son, I wish I could have done something to keep you safe.
I love you my angel...you know what I mean by that. :-)"
Mom

"JESSE
MY MOM AND YOUR MOM ARE GOOD FRIENDS THEY MEET IN A SOPPORT GROUP FOR MILITARY FAMILYS. I HAVE ALWAYS HEARD GREAT THINGS ABOUT YOU AND MY MOM TALKED OF YOU OFTEN I FEEL LIKE YOU ARE MY BROTHER. I NEVER HAD A BROTHER BUT IF I DID I WOULD WANT HIM TO BE A RELECTION OF YOU. I AM A IN THE AIR FORCE SPEACIAL OPS DIVISION I TAKE A PHOTO OF YOU WITH ME WHEN I AM DEPLOYED BECAUSE MY SERVICE IS FOR YOU AND WHAT YOU DID FOR ME. THANKS JESSE, FOR EVER IN MIND AND HEART GOD BLESS"
CHIP SUTFIN of DANVILLE IN..STATION @ HURLBURT FEILD FLORIDA RIGHT NOW AFGAN..

"Jesse, I'm a friend of your mom's. I met her in a military support group. Through her I found out what an amazing person you are. Even though I never met you, it broke my heart when you left. You are always with me (on my keychain that is) I carry one of your memorial dogtags. It seems to give me hope and makes me proud to be an American. Thank you for enduring our freedom. I know you are greatly missed and I wish that I could have been able to meet you."
Samantha Blackard of Cartersburg, IN USA

"Jesse,
I'm the MEDEVAC pilot who picked you up that night. It was in the middle of the night and it was in a difficult landing zone.....a small risk compared to what you were faced with. I heard of your heroism that cost you your life, but your actions most cetainly saved others. I think about you often and your image is fresh in my mind, as it will be for the rest of my life. I honor you and your family. Rest in Peace."
CPT Fricks of Fort Bragg, NC

"Jesse, I wished I had met you before deployment. I am a friend of your mom's and she misses you terribly. I have had the privilege of meeting with many who knew you. You are a very brave young man. After reviewing countless articles and speaking with several of your Army comrades about the ambush that night, I can truly say you are a great American and a real Hero in all of our eyes. For reasons unknown, God chooses to take certain people to be with Him in Heaven. May God bless you and your family. We all love you very much."
Paul Schweikert of Phoenix, AZ

"hello jesse,i just wanted to say that i miss you,and i will never forget what you did that night.im so proud of you,we gave them hell.we are going back to iraq,please look after us.jesse,ill never forget you."
sgt angel cedeno of 401 mp co. ft. hood tx

"Jesse,
Well It's been a little over a year and I miss you. You were truly a great friend. We didn't get to know each other that well but I am honored that you went to my junior prom with me. You were the first guy to bring me roses, red roses. I will never forget that. I remember the first day that I met you, you told me you had a twin brother, and you were so scared that I wouldn't like you because you lied to me. Well the only thing I can say is Thank You. I try to visit you once a month, but living in Lafayette sometimes it's hard. God Bless You, God Bless your family, and keep them safe."
Colleen Wynne of Avon, Indiana, USA

"In Loving Memory..Its been a year..

At the rising of the sun and at its going down, We remember them.
At the blowing of the wind and in the chill of Winter, We remember them.
At the opening of buds and in the rebirth of Spring, We remember them.
At the blueness of the skies and in the warmth of Summer, We remember them.
At the rustling of leaves and the beauty of Autumn, We remember them.
At the beginning of the year and when it ends, We remember them.
As long as we live, they too will live;
for they are now a part of us, as we remember them.
Rest in Peace Dear Soldier!! We will NEVER FORGET!"
The Grogan Family of Lakeland, TN

"hello jess, today is june 8th, a day that changed our lives forever, a year ago today a military chaplin came to our house to tell us you were gone, and it seems just like it was yesterday. a whole year has passed and not a day goes by that we dont think of you. i hope everything is good in heaven and i hope you are still watching over us, we love you and miss you and cant wait to be with you again.

"if tears could build a stairway, and memories a lane, id walk right up to heaven and bring you home again""
Sis of Indianapolis, IN

"Jesse,
I knew you only through your mom, her love and honor of you spoke mountains. I will never forget what you gave in service to this country, and what you brought to so many lives. You are an angel amoung us. To your family, I wish you peace, love and you'll always be in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless and always be with you."
Karen Hollandsworth of Indianapolis, Indiana

"To the Family of Jesse Halling
May blessings be to your family in this time of tears.We are also serving proudly in the US Army and pray for a speedy trip to Heaven"
5th Special Forces Group 3rd Batt of Ft.Campbell KY

"Jesse, from the first day I met you in ROTC.....until the last day I knew of you in life....you were something else! Perhaps one of the country's most prolific heroes in this war. I loved helping you, as you were always eager to learn, and always willing to help those who didn't understand. Thanks for pushing me beyond my limits in PT and for being my "sit-ups partner" almost always. You're one hell of a guy, Jess, and I'm HONORED to say that I knew you nd I helped to guide you in your sophomore year....you make me proud, buddy. Our program will never forget your wonderful spirit and beautiful heart. The nation thanks you for your bravery. Miss ya.....GODSPEED, your sophomore XO."
Michelle Heaster of Indianapolis, Indiana

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

"Pfc Halling, you made the ultamite sacrafice. I did not know you but I am proud to have served in the same battalion with you (720th). You represent everything the Military Police Corps is about. You are gone but defiantly not forgotten."
Sgt Kyle R Kuta of Ft Hood, Tx

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

"Jesse

I graduated High School in the seat next to you and I was thankful that we were such good friends. We are brothers in service now and forever. I think about you every day and miss you a lot man. My condolences go out to your family and friends. You made the ultimate sacrifice and we're all proud of you..."
A1C Erik Hanson of Travis AFB, CA

"Jesse, as we face the road home it wont be the same without you. It will be a sad road but a road that you helped pave. I thank you for the ulitmate scrafice that you made. From my heart to the hearts of your family I am truly sorry. Your fellow gunner always and forever, PFC David S. Womack"
David Womack of Tikrit, Iraq

"Thank you Jesse Halling, 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

"Halling, you were a great soldier and a great preson to be around. i will never forget get you. You are a true soldier and a hero for what you did that night. Peace, Love, and Respect."
PFC Anthony Boike 401st mp co of Currently deployed in Iraq

"When the article first appeared on the internet about Jesse's death, I was so moved by it, I saved a copy and came upon it Christmas Eve. What a great person Jesse is! Parents, family and friends should be very proud. I can't imagine the loss you feel, but know that one day you will meet again. My prayers and condolences are with you and all the families who have loved ones serving our country."
Linda of Carlinville, IL USA

"As a former member of his Sister Unit, the 411th MP CO, my condolences to the family and friends of Jesse."
John Herry of Minneapolis MN

"My wonderful son, not too many minutes go by that I don't think of you. My heart breaks at your leaving us. My life will never be the same without you by me. I know Kristina misses you terribly. She's being very brave but I know she's hurting so much.
Jesse, I wish you had not been so brave but at the same time, I wouldn't have expected any less from you. You were always a perfect child, never giving me any trouble. I know that God blessed me with two great children. I am the lucky one to have been chosen to be your mother.
One day my son, we will be together again.
Please watch over your sister as she needs you as she always has. I know you're our Guardian Angel.
I love you son...until we meet again.
Mom"
Pam Halling of Indianapolis, IN USA

"Jesse, What can I say except that I miss you.I am proud of you and hope that you are doing well from where ever you're watching. You were my physics lab amigo. I will always remember those days. This is hard...I miss you, to your family I send my regards and my love. You were loved and will forever be missed. However the cause you died for was a great one and you were very brave. I guess you've always been like that. Viva la clase de physica!! I love you."
Monica of indianapolis/indiana

"TO MAKE THIS SACRIFICE AT SUCH A YOUNG AGE. I DONT THINK I COULD HAVE THE STRENGTH TO GO ON IF SOMETHING SHOULD HAPPEN TO MY DAUGHTER WHO IS IN THE US ARMY. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY."
BEVERLY ARNOLD of CYNTHIANA,KY

"Jesse was my friend, and I will never forget him. Jesse I Love You!"
Heather of Indianapolis,IN

"Military Police Corps Regimental Prayer
By Chaplain Michael Yarman

Heavenly Father - We approach You today because You have called us to be a people of prayer.

We praise You because You are our Creator, our Redeemer and our Provider.

We acknowledge our great need for You as we fulfill our mission as soldiers.

We have been called to serve our nation as Military Police and we are proud of the honored heritage of the Regiment and our motto: Of the Troops and For the Troops.

Whether we are fighting an enemy, securing as area, patrolling the streets, or helping someone in distress, help us, O Lord, to always be men and women of integrity who can be counted on to do the right thing.

Give us the strength to stand for what is right and to oppose those who would do harm to our nation and the people we serve.

May we always be truthful in Word, Deed and Signature, and bring honor through our service to the memory of those in the Regiment who gave the supreme sacrifice for their country.

Guide us now, Father, by giving us wisdom and knowledge from on high, that as Military Police we will always be prepared to Assist, Protect and Defend."
CPT Glidewell

"EVEN THOUGH I'M NOT A AMERICAN BUT A CHINESE IN AUSTRALIA,BUT YOU ARE STILL MY HERO! MISSING YOU."
MENG LIU of BRISBANE QUEENSLAND AUSTRALIA

"Jesse,
You were always talking about being famous in your own ways, I didnt think this would be Gods way to do it. Anyhow, I thank you for your sacrifice and I'll never forget what you fought for. I miss having someone to talk to and staying up til' 3:00 in the morning watching movies. I try to visit you every week but im a busy man now with this business and all. I know that your watching from above and I hope you can help me run this business from time to time like we had planned to do when you got out of the Army.
I miss you alot Bro. keep your head up, cuz we'll see each other again some day."
Dan Ahlbrand II (Best friend/Brother) of Indianapolis, IN

"Jess thank you for your ultimate sacrifice, we are forever in your debt. Not a day goes by that we dont think of you and we miss you like crazy. That goofy grin and beautiful smile you always wore will always be implanted in our hearts. We know you are in the stars watching over us, keep us safe and know that we will be with you again..we love you"
Gina Ahlbrand "Sis" of Indianapolis, IN

"Am very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. May you find comfort and peace with your memories of Jesse."
The Zick Family of Oregon

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