Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I Know I will see my dad again one day"
Wesley Hollar of GA

"hey Wesley sorry for your loss I will always be at your side."
Brian of GA

"I'm sorry"
Hayden of Georgia

"I am Wesley's friend and I'm sorry for his loss."
Hayden of Georgia

"To Tim, Weston, Crystal, Josh...Steven Reynolds here, and I just learned of this. Bobby and I lost contact and I had no idea. I am so sorry. We all lost a great person in our lives on that day. He was a great friend and co-worker at Quad Graphics.
404.397.8545"
Steven Reynolds of Roswell, Georgia

"I met Bobby when I was 7 years old and he left a lasting impression on me. I'll never forget you!"
Jessica Flowers of Mcdonough GA

"I met Bobby when I was 7 years old and he left a lasting impression on me. never forget you!"
Jessica Flowers of Mcdonough GA

"It is the 8th anniversary of 9/11 and I remember Bobby and I watching the new coverage that very day as he helped me move. I never realized the reprocusions of that day would cut his life way to short only 4 years later. I think of Bobby and remember him every 9/11 anniversary. He was one of the best people I have ever known and I consider him a true heroe and the world was a better place with him in it. He is truly missed. God bless his family and two boys."
Kim Murphy of Thomaston, GA

"”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 1,450 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"
Kenna of Manti, Utah USA

"To the family of Staff Sgt. Robert L Hollar Jr, I'm very sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart goes out to your family. I have a son that has been serving for ten years now and I worry everytime he leaves for Iraqi."
Robert L Hollar Jr of Kathleen Georgia

"I am a member of an organization entitled "Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen Soldiers", who have sent over 2,900 prayer shawls since October of 2007 to the families of fallen soldiers. This group of over 235 Knitting groups throughout the country attempts to contact all the families of fallen soldiers. If you or a member of your family would like a prayer shawl, please contact me at barbconway@comcast.net or by phone at 774 487-8618.
Sincerely,
Barbara Conway"
Barbara Conway of Cape Cod MA

"To the family of:Robert L. Hollar, Jr. 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"

"Don't stand by my grave and weep.
For I'm not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond's glint of snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn's rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there, I did not die."
-Navajo Prayer

Bobby, I can't believe it has been 3 years since you passed away. I'm thankful for the friendship we had. You are great person and you have touched so many lives."
Keith of Front Royal, VA

"August 3, 2008
To the family of Staff Sgt. Robert L. Hollar, Jr.:
Robert 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

"It doesen't seem like it has been two years since that day in 2005 that we received that knock on our door. I spent 32 years with him in my life but it seems like the last two years without him have been the longest. I know that he is in heaven watching over us, helping to guide us along the way just like he always did here on earth. Nudging us back on the right path when we start to go down the wrong one. I would give anything in the world to just hear that goofy laugh one more time and see that goofy smile. Bobby, I love you and miss you very much."
Crystal Smith of Thomaston, GA

"It's been 2 years now and it really doesn't seem to be getting any easier. My husband and I still talk about Bobby and George a lot. In some sort of silly way it seems to work for us. Ricky loved Bobby like a brother and still wishes to this day that it had never happened. Bobby was his best friend, they had gone to a ballgame with our kids when they were home on break. Ricky said that Bobby talked all the time about what he was going to do when he got home. Little did we know that home was an entirely different place. We like to think that Bobby is in heaven watching over all of us and making sure we are on the right track. Bobby was a good man and very good father. We will always love and miss you Bobby. We'll see you again someday but until then we will always remember you and honor you - for you gave all."
Tiffney Flowers of McDonough, GA

"It has been two years since Bobby passed away. Thank you all for keeping his memory alive. Thanks for all the prayers and for signing this page. Amanda Hollar"
Amanda Hollar of GA

"I met Bobby when my husband and I were stationed in Colorado. He was so young when we met him...with so many hopes and dreams. He was funny, nice, caring...very "the boy next door." My husband Shawn said that he was such a responsible and capable soldier and person. I just want to say that I'm so sorry for the loss that the whole family is feeling. I will continue to pray for Bobby's family and kids. RIP Bobby"
Bobbi (Young) Peck of Lincoln, Ne

"To honor the Georgia soldiers who have lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan and their families, the professional portrait artists of the Atlanta Fine Arts League are offering to paint a portrait of the individual soldier for his family. These 16 X 20” original portraits are being offered completely free of charge in recognition of the sacrifices made by these brave soldiers and in condolence for their families’ loss. Please visit our website www.atlantafineartsleague.org or email us at AtlantaFineArtsLeague@Yahoo.com for further information. –The Atlanta Fine Arts League"
Atlanta Fine Arts League

"To Amanda and the Hollar family , please know that you have a shoulder to lean on if ever you need it. I was in the 248th MICO, 48th BCT, George's girlfriend and comrade. Its taken me this long to write, but I have not forgotten the sacrafice that George and Bobby made on September 1st. May GOD comfort you and your family always."
Tracy of Henry County, GA

"Lives changed because Bobby Hollar was on this earth. He lived, really lived. He knew every person he came into contact with from the inside out. He was a hero long before he died. and he will live on as a hero to many forever. He walked in compassion, love and justice, that is Bobby Hollar. I know many who feel like their lives took a different direction the day he died. A better direction, and for all he is I would like to thank him. I know he can hear us all and even one year later many are still grieving his loss like it was yesterday. I say that is a testimony of A great man, not just a good one. He lives on in all of us everyday, every choice we make for the better he is there. We have all learned to live better because of him, and one day soon we will all meet again. Thank you for teaching your friends the biggest lesson anyone ever learns...HOW TO LIVE. Bobby you shine like the stars of the universe.God Be with you all."

"Amanda, It was a joy to get to know Bobby when he would come and get his hair cut. He always had a smile on his face. He was always a bright spot in my day. I thank God every day for allowing me to get to know someone so wonderful. I will continue to pray for you and your family. May God Bless you and keep you. Just remember he is always watching over you."
April Hamrick of Griffin, GA

"To the Hollar family, I send my deepest condolences, I met Bobby while serving as his section sergeant when he was assigned to my platoon at Fort Carson, Colorado. My memories of him have always been good ones, he was a man of courage, conviction and pride. Always willing to lend a hand or share a smile I have nothing but the fondest memories of Bobby. May God be with you all during this time of loss. I am blessed to have known him and will always hold him in the highest regards. Respectfully SSG Shawn Young, NENG."
Shawn Young of Kearney, Nebraska

"I've been sitting here staring at this board for a while, wondering how to start this. I know what I want to say, it's just that I don't know where to begin. So, as it turns out this is how. My sister, Cammie, called me at work a few days ago while I was working, and let me know of these tragic events. I extend my deepest sympathys to Bobby's family. I suppose I have nothing to say that is unknown, but have the desire to say, nonetheless. Bobby, from the time I met him, has just been one of the kindest individuals another could hope to meet. He was always like a big brother to me, being that I met him through my older sister. He was at our house often, making me laugh, helping me torture my sister, and just being a good guy. Man, parents couldn't ask for a more pure intentioned date for their daughter (I think it was prom for them). Don't you just stand in awe sometimes when you think of how guileless he was? He was a truly sincere, honest, giving young man. It's been a hard realization that such a unique man has been taken from our presence. I've had one reoccuring memory of Bobby that, although be it a strange one, I wanted to share. There was this one time back in the day...Cammie was probably in 7th grade, I was probably in 2nd, something like that, and those two got in some big fight. Cammie came rushing home (we walked...or in this case ran...to and from school), and hid in this great tree we had in our front yard. I came home just a bit after her, and as she saw me approaching, she alerted me as to where she was and made me vow not to tell Bobby if he happened to arrive. Being the gentleman he was, at even such a young age, Bobby forewent his bus ride home, and came to our house to make up with his best friend. He meekishly approached me and in a whisper asked if I knew her whereabouts. Forgetting that her bird's eye view kept me in full sight, I pointed upward. Without hestitation, she began tossing loose twigs, branches, birds, what have you (just kidding about those birds) at me. Of course, Bobby scaled the heights of the tree and quickly made good whatever bad it was that had transpired. I know, what a weird memory, right? But, out of all the ones that have been racing through my mind, this is the one that, beyond the silliness, beyond all the laughs (and there were plenty), meant leagues to me. There he was, with his kind heart, ready to make amends, to miss his bus, to walk a mile, to climb a tree....to be a friend. I love Bobby, and it is indeed a tremendous loss, and now I must recognize on the other hand what an exquisite blessing it was to ever know him. May God bless you, as you read this with peace and joy to celebrate the life of such a unique and genuinely good man."
Michelle Brown of Winchester, VA

"I went looking to track down my old high school friend Bobby Hollar this morning, and I found my trail ending here. I can barely see thru my tears. Amanda, I am so sorry for your loss. I've known Bobby since the 4th grade. I remember the day Bobby walked into Toms Brook Elementary School. He turned every head of every girl in school! I saw his outward appearance and he was certainly attractive, but his deeper attractiveness and wonderful personality drew us into an immediate friendship. His little brother had a crush on me. Wes was a great kid. He and another cute little kid used to follow me around the school! Wes and Crystal started school that same year, but they were still in the primary grades downstairs. Our school was pretty small, and everyone knew everyone.
Bobby soon became my absolute best friend all through middle school and we stayed good friends even through high school. He once took me to see his grandfather, and he shared his photos from National Geographic. They were amazing. Bobby was full of life, and was incredibly funny, and he got me in alot of trouble as he would make me get the giggles in class in our younger years. He and Chuck Seal and I sat in more than one corner, and one time we did it together - just to upset a substitute teacher! All we'd done was ask her to spell a word for us ... unfortuately it was during a spelling test, and she absent-mindedly did just that! After realizing in utter horror the mistake she had just made, she yelled, "You, you and YOU (to Bobby,) go to a corner!" So, we did. The same corner. She raised her voice even more and exclaimed, "No, I meant a different corner!" Without a glance or any form of communication, we all did just what she said, we moved as one into a second corner. Frustrated, she called us to the blackboard and drew three circles on it. "Put your noses in those and don't move for the rest of the class!" Unfortunately for Chuck Seal, he was height-challenged and would crazily jump up and down while her back was turned in order to place his nose into the circle. The class was in pure pandamonium at this point. Chuck finally gave her a dirty look and re-drew her circle at a more appropriate height.
Needless to say the three of us ended up in the principal's office that day. We couldn't stop laughing though. It was good to just be "myself" around those two guys. Do you remember the days when girls were your friend one day, and then they were'nt the next? I was not into all that, so I made friends with the boys in middle school. Boys just have a way of taking you as you are. Bobby and Chuck did just that.
I married a youth pastor 9 years ago. He is a wonderful guy. I dreamed 2 nights ago that my husband Craig and Bobby got to meet eachother, and the three of us drove around looking at old familiar sights. I decided this morning to track Bobby down, and see if he remembered the day we tortured that poor substitute teacher.
Bobby was always good for a laugh, often at the wrong time, but that just made it all the more laughable. He asked me to the junior prom (just as friends,) and typical of Bobby, he wrecked his car just days before the big event. I had to drive us to the prom! He wanted to drive my 66 Mustang, and I said "No way Jose!" And to top it off, Crystal had to ride with us in the back seat!
One time SHS received all new bleachers in about a million gigantic boxes that sat in the main entrance area for weeks. Bobby drew a big buttocks on the foremost box and wrote, "Cammie sat here." The whole school made jokes about that for weeks! I have hundreds of memories I could share, but I just wanted to jot down a memory or two and say how much Bobby's friendship meant to me. I am blessed to have met him at such a young age and to have so many memories of a wonderful friend such as your husband. My prayers are with you and your children Amanda."
Cammie (Brown) Cole of Capon Bridge, WV

"I was the C-130 Loadmaster (USAF) who flew his remains out of Baghdad to Kuwait on his journey back home. I will never forget you…"
Cortland Carrington of Abilene Texas

"I never knew Bobby in life, but I now think of him often. I happened to see a newspaper account of his death, and my world stopped for a moment. He and I happen to share the same name, and reading of his tragic loss has really affected me. It sounds like he was a fine man, a cherished husband and father, a beloved brother, and a valued friend by all who knew him. My heart goes out to you all. I am honored to have him as a namesake.

I wish that we lived in a world where things like this didn't happen. Take comfort in the fact that Bobby now lives in such a world."
Robert Hollar of Libertyville, Illinois

"I was friends with Bobby at Strasburg High School. He was kind, funny and the type of person you don't forget- ever. My condolences to his family. My heart is saddened."
Kimm Carlisle Moore of NC/USA

"I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the entire Hollar family. You all have suffered a great loss, and you are continuously in my prayers. I was shocked and saddened by Bobby's death. Just know that he is in a better place now, and he is looking down and smiling at his wonderful family. To Weston, my high school buddy, stay strong. Amanda, I can only imagine the hurt you must feel each and everyday. My heart goes out to you. Just remember, our loss is definitely Heaven's gain!!"
Tara Vaughn Keahey of Williamson, GA

"To the family and friends of Bobby Hollar,

I want to send my prayers to all of you in your time of sorrow. I just learned of your loss and I am so sorry that you are going through these rough times. I will pray for all of you. I met Bobby when he was in High School in Strasburg. He was a friend of my older sister and he always was so great to have around us. To this day, I remember the snowball fights in the Massanutten Manor parking lots. He is a great man and the heavens are lucky to have him. We will all see him again soon. God Bless you all."
AZ3(AW) Kevin E. Richardson, USN of USS George Washington, (CVN-73)

"To Amanda, Brody, Wesley, Tim, Dianne, Crystal, Brandon, Weston, & Josh. I just want to tell you all how lucky we think you were to have had Bobby in your life. I work with Dianne and I have seen Bobby at the office and I remember just watching him watch Amanda & Dianne and it was so beautiful to see someone love two women as much as he did. Amanda I can't imagine how you are feeling just know that you have so many people praying for you and the entire family. In the few years that you had Bobby he gave you more love than most people get in a lifetime and at the memorial service it proved how much he loved you even more. Bobby gave his heart and soul to everything he did...his family, his wife, his children and his country. I don't have the magic words to take away the hurt, pain & anger but just know that one day you will meet again and just think of how beautiful that day will be! I love you all! You are in our prayers."
Shannon S. of Thomaston, GA

"Greater Love has no man than this, that he would lay down his life for his friends. We will forever remember your incredible heart."
Melanee of Strasburg VA

"My brother was an amazing person. He is definetly missed but never forgotten. Bobby, I love you and promise to honor you as long as I am on this earth."
Weston Hollar of Fairfax, Virginia

"We are deeply sorry for your loss. The Courage, Honor, and Valor that your
Hero showed will always be remembered.
We are grateful for the loyal service and sacrifice that was made and
WE WILL NEVER FORGET.
Our cousin LCPL Michael Smith Jr. gave his life on 4-17-04 fighting for freedom.
Please know that this was not in vain and these American Heros will FOREVER be honored.
God Bless your family and please know that you are not alone.
All of our prayers are with you."
Jennifer and SSGT Larry Mays of Massillon, Ohio

"Our deepest sympathys to the family and friends of Robert Hollar, Jr. Our highest respects to Robert for his service, his commitment and courage for the cause of freedom. We will never forget."
Vigil Family of Wheatrdige CO

"To the Hollar Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Your Robert is a true American Hero who will always be remembered and honored. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. May God Bless you all and God Bless Robert."
Mary Ghaney of Brooklyn, New York

"To the family of Bobby Hollar - our deepest condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family."
Nikki and Robbie Albright of Charles Town, WV

"Th U.S. Postal Service has lost a very valuable employee. Bobby was the type of employee that anyone would feel honored to have on there staff. Neither rain, sleet and snow ETC... would stop Bobby from doing his job. He was always there and gave our customers the best service possible. His customers loved him and always ask when was he coming back. He will be deeply missed. I was proud to have Bobby standing up and fighting for my freedom. To Amanda and family, always know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. I was sitting and listen to the funeral service and the more I heard the more honored I felt. Just knowing that I had the pleasure of knowing him. Thank-you Bobby"
Donna Davenport of Jonesboro Post Office

"My thoughts and prayers go out to Bobby's family. Bobby was a GREAT person. It has been many years since I have been in touch with him but I have and will always consider him a good friend. I have lots of fonds memories of Bobby when he still lived in VA. Bobby thanks for being a friend and for fighting for our country."
Keith Bean of Front Royal, VA

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

"Bobby was my friend. I will miss him so much. He will never be forgotten. I will forever be grateful for the ultimate sacriface that he made for me and every other American.

Thank you Bobby. May you rest in peace and know that your family and friends love you more than you ever realized and are proud to call you our American HERO."
Leslie of Williamson, GA

"Thank you for the prayers and kind words. My husband was the most wonderful man that I have ever met and his death has broken my heart. I love him more than life itself and I'd give anything to have him back at home with me and our two year old son. He was the king of my heart and was the most loving husband and father. He was incredibly gorgeous both inside and out and I will never forget him or the sacrifice that he made. All of the money in the world isn't worth the loss of my soul mate. I love you, Bobby! With All My Heat, Your Wife, Amanda"
Amanda Hollar of Thomaston, GA

"TO THE HOLLAR FAMILY FROM THE WAHL FAMILY. OUR HEART AND PRAYS ARE WITH YOU. WILL UNDERSTAND THE HURT! NOT EASY LOSING SOMEONE YOU LOVE DEARLY. AN WE ALL DEAL WITH IT VERY DIFFERENTLY. ROBERT THANK YOU FOR SERVING OUR COUNTRY AND ALONG SIDE OUR SON GREGORY. NOT KNOWING ONE ANOTHER YRT: YOU HAD EACH OTHERS ABCKS. YOU ARE MUCH MORE THEN A SOLDIER AND HERO! YOU HAVE TOUCHED THE HEARTS OF SO MANY. ALL THOSE YOU HAVE HOLD VERY PRECIOUS MOMENTS OF YOU. YOU WILL NEVER EVER BE FORGOTTEN GEORGE! GOD BLESS!"
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"Thank you Robert Hollar, Jr., 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 Staff Sgt. Robert Hollar, Jr.:
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 Robert 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 Staff Sgt. Robert Hollar, Jr.:
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 Robert, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia