Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"We’re still thinking about you everyday. Miss you brother."
Jason harrison

"SSG Horton,
We are thinking about you today on Memorial Day. In fact, we all think about you often. For many years it was about the day you died. That memory has been a hard one to let go of. We all spent many years reconciling what it meant to lose our brothers. Today I choose to honor you, your life, and your families sacrifice to our great Republic. I also choose to honor you by being present in my own life. I realize we have all been given a gift that was taken from you. I will not waste it brother."
Nick Fry, B CO 2/6 INF of Colorado Springs

"Hey bud just wanted to say there is not a day that goes by that I do not think of you. I finally got your BDU top the display it deserves. It hangs in my family room so you and I still watch the football games together. Our time together was short. We became best friends since day one during in processing in Germany. We picked housing next to one another you became my neighbor. Our wife's hit it off and were best friends as well. As painful as it is your memory will always live on. As I share our stories now with my daughter and tell her about fearless men like you. Uncle Jeremy as she says will always be remembered in my house. I just wish things could of been different my friend. Our time together was to short. I have yet to meet a friend like you. I sit back and feel you are with me sometimes and I believe you are. I just wanted to say I love you brother and think of you always."
Shannon Guinn of Texas

"Jeremy, just wanted to say today and like every other day I miss you brother. Your always in my heart and mind. On this Memorial Day."
SFC Harrison of Ft Gordon Georgia

"Jeremy. Many years have came and gone. Still think and remember all the fun times we had. Most of the memories in highschool you were in most of them. . Boy did we cause a lot of trouble together. You were like a brother to me and even better a true friend. Not a day or year goes by that I dont think about you. So glad I had the pleasure of getting to know you. Can't believe all theses yeaes have pasted by so fast. Hopefully one day I'll catch up to you in heaven. Love you brother"
mat ecker of erie pa

"Jeremy I wanted to say that it was a true honor having you in Aco 1-6 Infantry. It was truly tough sending you over to 2-6 loosing such a great, tough and loyal leader in the company. While some Soldiers might not see it, and recognize it because you were hard and fair, your exactly what they needed, I knew that. God bless you and your family, your are missed, and I thank you for being the Soldier and person you were."
Sergeant Major Petrone

"Just thinking about you this Memorial Day weekend. I'll never forget our last day together and what happened over there.You always had the most positive outlook on things. You told me to keep a straight head when we got extended. Not to let it upset me too much.You were a great soldier and friend."
Jon Pallone of Fl

"Just wanted to let you know I'm thinking of you today. I think about our deployment a lot still. I think about your family and friends. I think about all our brothers in 2-6. It's difficult sometimes but I guess that is life. The best I can do now is remember you all and try to live the life you would have wanted me to live."
Anonymous

"Jeremy, you are my true brother! We were together for so many times, nobody can relate! You are soo missed and I'm sorry you are still so misused and misunderstood. WE ARE GREAT FRIENDS AND ALWAYS WILL BE THANK YOU JER JER! Love You!!"
Bonnie K of Erie, PA

"The years have passed, but you have not been forgotten by your fellow Death Dealers and their families! You will forever be in our lives.
2010"

"I still have a piece of 5-50 cord that Horton used to cinch up my duffle bag with. He showed me a lot of little tricks.

He will always be missed!"
Justin Reed of San Diego, CA

"Sergeant Horton,
Its been over 5 years since we stood on Saddam's parade grounds together. I know you are watching over us all, in that big O.P in the sky.
"Infanry Leads The Way""
Joel Sweeney of Fountain, CO

"Jeremy, Airborne,
just wanted to wish you and your family a Happy Veterans Day. Not a day goes by that I dont think about you and your family. You will always have a special place in my heart. Take care and God Bless Brother!
Gone But never Forgotten Airborne"
DS Harrison of Ft Sill. Ok

"My son served with Jeremy. In Pocatello, Id we have an event called the "The Field of Heroes" A local group puts up a cross for every soldier who has passed away in Iraq and Afghanistan...Just want to let you know that we honor Jeremy every year by putting flowers and ribbons on his cross. Thank you for your family's sacrifice for the world's freedom."
Pam Nelson of Pocatello, Idaho

"I'm remembering you this Memorial Day, and I feel so privileged to have had served along side you. You were a great NCO. I remember the day I met you, I was so impressed by your professionalism and the patience you showed me as I learned the ropes. You were kind, conversational, and a great example of what an NCO should be. Thank you, SSG Horton."
Ligaya (Vasquez) Hartman of Honolulu, Hawaii

"Just wanted to let you know I am still thinking about you and remembering you on this Memorial Day. Thank you for your service as a soldier and a friend.

God Bless you and your family
DS Harrison"
DS Harrison, Jason of Ft Sill Ok

"Staff Sgt. Horton-

You and I never met, and to be honest I only came across this page by searching my own full name on google, but I'm glad i did.Though it was a bit sad to read even though I didn't know you, you sound like a courageous, exciting person, and overall a great person. The type of person everyone loves to know and be around. It makes me a bit more proud to know that I shared a name with a good man who gave everything he had."
Jeremy Horton of Massachusetts, USA

"May 13, 2009
To the family of Staff Sgt. Jeremy R. Horton:
Jeremy gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV

"I remember that day cause I was on patrol also. Even though we didn't really know each other that well, We were all together in Iraq. It was hard losing you. I remember the ceremony we had there for you. It was hard for all of us. I'am really sorry for your family's loss. May you look down upon the rest of the soliders fighting. Your never forgotten."
Johnathan Wero of Albuquerque, NM

"Jeremy...its been so long bud.I have waited to write this but not sure what to say.There is not nearly enough space.We met in inprocessing and were inseperable.To jamming with the misfits to late nights of beers and football.We went through the deployment together met up when we could just to see how things were..then the lord took you away.I want you 2 know that there is not 1 day that goes by that i dont think about you.I was able to make it to your funeral in iraq and it made me realize how fragile we all are.I just wanted to say i really miss you bud.You and Kristy both will be forever in my heart.I know you are in a beter place....GOD BLESS you and all your family...MISS YOU"
S.GUINN of IL

"I had the chance to serve with SSG Horton, and a finer man you would be hard pressed to find. I remember seeing the traumatic events unfold from guard duty in the tower, and the horrible feeling in the pit of my gut after the call came over the radio. You are always in my thoughts and prayers SSG Horton, and not a day goes by that i dont think about you and what an amazing friend, human, soldier and person that you were. I didn't understand why God took you from your family, friends and loved ones and i spent a long time pondering over it and being depressed about it. Then one day i figured it out. You got taken to heaven because God knew what a great man that you were and he knew that you could watch over all your loved ones from above better than you could on earth. I wish i would have been able to have more time to hang out with you, but know that you have touched my life and i will never forget you!! You touched my life and i will always remember you SSG Horton, DEALERS LEAD THE WAY!!!"
A fellow soldier who had the greatest pleasure to serve with a great man of USA

"On this veterans day I can think of nothing more important than to honor Jeremy and all of the other troops lost. He was always the strongest, toughest person I knew. But now I think that description has shifted to Christie. Her poise in such a trying time has always been remarkable. I admire your strength so much. It is always hard to loose someone, but more so when the person is Jeremy.
Everything he did and said were always so alive, so colorful, so mad or so funny. There was NEVER a gray area with him. He was so passionate about everything, nothing half way. The people that did not know him missed out on so much. When I am feeling weak or hopeless about something, I travel the bridge in his name or walk passed the star in front of the courthouse or pass by Strong Vincent. It may be silly but I feel like maybe I can borrow a little of the strength he had for a bit. I can't hear the song "the joker" by the Steve Miller Band and hold back the tears but they usually turn into a little laugh, thinking of him. Going by a Taco Bell always gets a chuckle from me.... thinking about Jeremy and some of the band guys getting impatient in Akron and walking through the drive-thru. Boy did they get it for that! He always had that michievous twinkle in his eye. He meant so much to so many people, I guess that shows better than words how great he really was. He was my hero when I dislocated my knee and he picked me up and put me in the nurses wheel chair at Vincent (I had to watch the Veterans Day Parade on crutches that year) and now I can stand and watch the Parade and he is my hero still."
Jen Rider of Erie, PA

"Jeremy was just talking about you and it has been 4 years buddy. Time has flown by. I try not to think of the events that brought about your death. It just makes me angry. Christy I hope you read this. Jeremy and I hung out after that incident in Kuwait when he was moved to my shop. I considered Jeremy my friend after that. I hope you know I went to Jeremys memorial at 2-6IN while we were in Iraq. I wish I could have been there to keep him safe. Jeremy thanks for being a friend. You are remembered daily by me. daniel.ketron@us.army.mil"
SSG Daniel Ketron

"To SSG Horton and all who love him. What a great Soldier and NCO!! I was the company commander in B/2-6 when Jeremy joined the Dealers in Kuwait. He was a great addition to an already great team. We were over strength NCOs when Jeremy joined the team. He did not complain about not getting a squad right away and assumed the duty of training and leading the HQ section that had the job of taking care of me as we traveled the streets of Baghdad. Through his actions, he taught me and the other soldiers in the HQ how to be smart outside the “wire.” I moved to another unit in December 2003 but I know my replacement thought the world of him. SSG Horton did not make it home for R&R during the deployment; I feel awful about that – to his family, I am truly sorry. Dealers for Life –"
MAJ Tim Payment of Fort Leavenworth, KS

"Jeremy,
In 9th grade I had a chance to prepare a veterns day presentation on either someone serving in Iraq or a vetern of any war. I chose to talk about you, at that time you were still serving and I talked to everyone in the family about you. Asking them questions about what you liked to do, and where you were serving. When i presented on Veterns Day I felt like something was missing, because even though i had all the facts about you I still didn't know you. I was looking forward to meeting you when you came back to Erie. Then i as well as everyone else got the news about what had happened. Your funeral is the only one i have been to in my life, and i will never forget it. I feel incomplete because i haven't met you. In 10th grade I went back to my teacher and asked if i could do another presentation that year to honor you. That is what i did. I am now a freshman in college and i have been struggling with some things, but after reading what other people have to say about how wonderful of a person you are, and how you never gave up on anything makes me want to keep going and try my hardest. I put your picture on the desktop of my computer so i could see you from time to time, and you are always in my heart. I wish i could have met you, i really do you seem like you would have been awesome to hang out with and a good friend, as well as a good cousin. a674049e@edinboro.edu"
Amanda Eddy of Erie, Pa

"It is days like today that your memory lives on, when I have to dig deep inside and remember the courage that you taught me to have in the face of adversity and injustice. The time that you took away from your family and friends to help a man, become a soldier. The times you reminded me to pass on what I know to others. Your memory and what you taught me has helped to save someone's life tonight, not my own but another soldier.

I thought you might like to know that. even now in the midst of everything going on what you taught me has never been forgotten and it has been passed on so that another not much different from how I was can pass on your legacy, knowledge and hope.

Forever in your debt,
SSG Griffin, Patrick F."
SSG Griffin, Patrick F. of FT. Lewis WA

"Hi, I just wanted to say, my daughter- Megan, Jeremy's fav cousin and little sister is having a baby. It is a boy! and he is being named, Jeremy- after the most incredible person/soldier we know. Jeremy's legacy lives on. If anyone wants to contact me--- Monica33pa@aol.com"
Cousin Monica of Erie, Pa usa

"Jeremy,
It's been over 2 years and it has taken me this long to write you. First we were friends at bragg and then we served together in Germany where you were my squad leader when I was a SPC. I wear a bracelet with your name on it in memory of you and have been wearing it since two weeks after your death. It kept me safe on my second tour in iraq 05-07 with the same unit and company A 1-6th INF. Words cannot describe how I felt on the day I found out that you had been killed. I was devestated. It hurt, Althought you are gone you will be greatly missed but you will never be forgotten. On the day you were killed 21 May 2004 And Every year after til the day I die I will Always take time to stop and think of you. You will be in my heart forever and I will never forget you.I still remeber when you broke your ankle skydiving in germany.I still think back to all those days when we shared laughs. You were the greatest friend, squad leader, and soldier I have ever known. I am sorry it has taken me this long to write but one day has not gone by that I have not thought of you. In loving memory of
Jeremy Horton Paratrooper, soldier, friend you will be missed and never never forgotten.

SSG Jason Harrison
Airborne"
SSG Jason Harrison of Ft Sill /DSC

"Ssg. Horton, You were my squad leader but only for a brief time in Kuwait. You smoked me for a while but I understand why. Thank you for helping me start my army career off in the right direction. Even when you left the company and I seen you almost a year later. You were still telling new thing and asking me if I still remembered what you had told me before. Thank you for helping me become a great soldier. You will forever be missed. And to your family I'm sorry for your loss."
Spc. Darryl Tiger of A co. 1/6 INF "Raider"

"GODSPEED!!!!! You are an angel among us now and may you give us all the strength to continue to fight for what is right and just. YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!! nicholas.royer@dyess.af.mil"
SSGT ROYER.......USAF of Erie, PA United States of America

"Jeremy was one of my cousins that i have never met it was really sad that he died"
cynthia carnes of Albion

"SSG Horton, I had the pleasure of meeting you in Baghdad when you were guarding detainees at our palace. My room was a circuit breaker room, and your power was out, and the door was locked. I remember my people telling me that an Infantry SSG was angry and about to break down my door. I ran to my room, where instead of being upset, you were happy to find a place to watch some TV and smoke. I tell people every day about how ashamed I was to tell you that I didn't feel like I was getting enough time off, while you had worked longer and harder without complaining. The day you told me that you were extended, you went to check if my unit was as well. I remember you saying you were happy to get your bradley back. Thanks for teaching me what you knew, and being a good friend. To the Horton family I am deeply sorry for your loss, but was priveleged to know your son."
CPL Pete McDermott of Wiesbaden Air base

"SSG Horton,
This letter has taken a long time to get to you there is alot that i had wanted to say to you in life.i remember when you got to A. co. 1-6 inf. and became my squad leader.we had an interesting time getting to know one another. you tought me what it was to lead and stand on my own 2 feet among other things.you mentored me. i wanted you to know that i got out of the army for about 14 month and then came back in this year in jan. im not in the infantry anymore but i still remember everything you tought me.i am passing on the things that you tought me to other soldiers every chance i get. this is the only way i can think to honor your memory and everything that you stood and still stand for."
SGT. PATRICK F GRIFFIN of FT. LEWIS, WA

""Jeremy,
It has been over a year since you have been gone, and to this day it doesn't seem real...atleast I don't want to beleive it's real. With every memorial it sinks in a little deeper and hurts a little more. I sit and think bout all the wonderful times we spent together and I miss them so much. You were the best, I always thought of you and Jason as my big brothers. I miss you so much and I always will. I am so proud of you and to be able to say that you are my cousin. You were such a good person, I can't figure out why something like this would happen to a person like you. I love you so much,Jeremy and I always will. I will never forget you.
Love you cousin,
Megan""
Megan of Erie, Pa

"SSG Horton,
It was a priveledge working with you in OIF, you are a great friend and mentor. I honored my friendship with you and will always remember working together and the great things that we have done. REGULARS, BY GOD!"
SGT Ryan R. Moore of Baumholder, Germany

"To the family of Jeremy Horton, I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one. He died defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Hopefully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need prayer or need someone to talk to, please call or write my pastor, John Pearrell, at Gateway Community Church. 11677 Brown Bridge Rd. Covington, GA 30016, Phone: (770) 787-1015 Your friend in Jesus Christ,"
Pauline Ballew of Covington, Georgia

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

"Hello..I just wanted to take a miniute to post..I never knew Jeremy..but feel I now know what a brave and wonderful person he was from the sentiments posted here.. The reason for my post is that I recently received a bracelet from herobracelets.com..a group that distributes bracelets bearing the names of soldiers that have given the ultimate sacrifice while serving in afganistan and iraq..I was sent a bracelet bearing Jeremy's name...I am an ER Nurse from Louisville Ky..and have a strong sense of patriotism..I will wear his name proudly and tell the many i come in contact with about him..as many ask about the significance of the bracelet on a daily basis..if anyone has anything they'ed like to share that I can pass on..u can email me at julesygirl@aol.com..My deepest thanks and sympathy to those who knew and loved Jeremy for all that he did..may God Bless him and the USA...julie"
Julie Peabody of Louisville, Ky USA

"Jeremy,
I know this is long in coming. It is hard to think of you not being here. I remember the last time I saw you. You and the boys were unloading your gear. It was just after the extension. We laughed and joked, got caught up on the last few weeks. Then I think of the first time I met you. Man, we clashed big time. I am so surprised that we became friends. You taught me a lot about what a sergeant should be. You also helped to get me through some pretty tough times. You were always there to talk to and you really loved to talk!! You treated your soldiers with respect and you looked out for us all. I think most of all I will miss your sense of humor. All the picking and games. You made it not so bad to do what we do. I know Raad especially loved it when you picked on him. He told me he thought of you as a brother. In case you are wondering, Raad and his girl got married. He was always talking about how you introduced them. They are moving to some foreign paradise soon. He misses you a lot as well. We all do. I try not to think of the day we heard about the accident. The shock and dismay was felt Brigade wide. It was the first time I truely felt the impact of what we were doing over there. What we were doing for our country. I was not prepared to lose a friend, not like I thought I was. It is a day I will never forget because I have never felt such grief or such pride in someone. You made the ultimate sacrifice for what you believed in, and I wanted to say thank you. I wanted to let you know that you will always be in my heart. You are a true soldier and friend. Thank you for seving with me, and I know you will continue to watch out for us until we come to visit (just don't watch too closely!).

You are alway in my thoughts, take care..."
SGT Jaime Bowers of Ft Meade, MD USA

""Jeremy,
Sorry it took me so long to write a goodbye, but here it goes. When I found out that you had been killed, I kept praying and telling myself that it had been a mistake, that it wasnt you. Even after reading everything in the papers and talking with the family it still didnt hit me. Then the day of the funeral, it hit me, hard. I remember looking at you and thinking, Why? . It just didnt seem fair, it still doesnt. I kept thinking of all the times we shared, when Megan and I were little and we used to argue over who was our favorite cousin, you or Jay. Christmas times at Aunt Nona's, playing pool, and eating that garlic bread. I remember talking to you when you were in Germany, me, my mom and Monica and Meg, evening planning a trip to come out and visit you . Jeremy I miss you so much, it feels like a part of me is gone. You were such a inspiration to me, and still are. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH. Im sitting here reading all these messages from other people and I see how much you were truly loved, and still are. Your not just our Jeremy, you're Americas Jeremy. I am honored to be your cousin.I wish Jayda could have had the chance to meet you and get to know what a awesome person you were, she would have loved you just as much as I do. We will never forget you and everything you've done for us.
And to Christie, hunnie, I don't know how you're dealing with everything that has happened, you are so strong, I love you too.
Jeremy you rock, we love you!""
Your cousins, Sheena and Jayda! of Erie,PA

"Today, March 22, 2005, I had the privilege of meeting Jeremy's widow, Christie and also the family of Jeremy Horton. My Aunt, Rachel Normandy, and I attended the Faces of the Fallen memorial at the Arlington Cemetery. I heard so many good things about Jeremy. My cousin, PFC Ryan Normandy was in the same bradley when Jeremy was killed. It was very devastating when I heard about the bad news and most especially hearing that Ryan's seargent, Jeremy, did not make it. It was very painful for us when my cousin Ryan was injured and not knowing if he was going to survive. Today at the memorial, I felt very emotional when I realized how fortunate my family and I are, that my cousin Ryan survived the incident. At the same time, I cried, because I could very much feel the pain for the loved ones of the fallen soldiers. It was such an honor to have the opportunity to be a part of the memorial. Thank you, Christie, for including Auntie Rachel and I. May God bless you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Jeremy's family, the other families of the fallen soldiers and also, those of the wounded soldiers. Jeremy, may you rest in peace and thank you for defending our country."
Melanie Avila of Ft. Washington, MD

"I am very sorry for your loss.
"
Johnny of Galt, CA

"Horton Family,
I recently returned to Erie, after four years of active duty in the 82nd. I don't think that you will remember me, but myself and a friend brough Jeremy's motorcyle back to Erie for him before he went to Germany. I just learned of what happened, and wanted to send my deepest regards to the family and friends of Jeremy. If any information could be sent to me about where his resting place is, I would be honored to be able to visit his grave and pay my respects to a fellow paratrooper. abrninfantry82@yahoo.com"
David Kelley of Erie, PA

"To the family of Jermy Horton,
This message will never be enough for the lost of a great man, The last time Jermy and I talked was in Kuwait, you can never take life for granted and never look back to what we said to eachother."
Patrick Coley of Colorado Springs, Co.

"Gretchen, I want too express my sympathy to you on this Veterans Day.

May God bless you and sustain you.

Psalm 116:15 says: "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints"."
Kjell Eriksson of Lowe's #226, Erie, PA

"Jeremy, you are greatly missed! It's taken me too long to leave this. We will never forget the wonderful memeories our family shares with you and Cristie. We have always been very blessed with good neighbors and when Vic mentioned ya'll had moved in, I was nervous about getting to know ya'll upon my return to Germany from a vacation in the states. But your outgoing personalities were no match for my introvert personality. You welcomed a friendship that will be carried in my heart forever. Cristie your strength and courage in all you do is stronger than you know. I noticed it from the first day I met you and continue to feel it everytime we talk. I am grateful everyday to the Lord for the oppurtunity of getting to know the two of you. We love you and your family dearly. You continue to be in my daily prayers."
Marion Hudson of Fayetteville, NC

"SSG Horton,
Hey man I miss you.This is Normandy your driver.I wanna thank you for everything you have done for me.You taught me alot things that Ill never forget.I still can't believe that day happened.No need to worry how I am, I'm fine and on the road to recovery.I give my condolences to your wife and your family.I'll never forget you sergeant.You were a great soldier and a good guy.I'm honored that I got a chance to work with you.GOD BLESS........."
Spc. Ryan Normandy of BAMC,San Antonio, Texas

"We are so sorry for your loss. We lost Army Spc.Joshua Justice Henry on 9-20-04. This was the hardest day of our lives. We honor these guys as our Heroes and hope no one else has to go through with what we are all dealing with. Rest in peace Jeremy, and thank you for serving your country to the fullest"
Henry family of Vandergrift , PA

"Jeremy,

I have to say that when Shannon and I first arrived in Germany and I met you for the 1st time, i thought to myself "OH BOY". Then Shannon had come home from work and told me "hey Jen you will really like this girl that works at the Shoppette on post." So...I went down to the shoppette to "scope" her out and i thought "oh..she is WAY to happy, and she laughs too much." Then we found out you and Cris were our neighbors, and funny how life goes, we were together, the four of us, 24/7!! Wether it was Playstation, golfing, hanging out having a good time, or just to "chat" about our spouses, we ALWAYS had fun. You and Cris will always be a part of us. We will never meet another couple that will have the same bond that the four of us had. We miss you soo.. much Jeremy!! I think back at all the crazy times we all had together, and I end up having a huge smile! :) Jeremy...don't worry, I will never leave Cris's side, and I will help her in any way possible. I will never forget you, you were like the brother I never had. Jeremy..I will take care of Cris, she is my best friend, please just watch over her, k.:) I miss you......... Jen"
Jen Guinn of Tinley Park, IL USA

"To the family of Jeremy Horton. I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Jeremy. I served with Jeremy while he was stationed at 1st PLT A Co 2/504 at Fort Bragg. I remember Jeremy as a real nice guy and a good person to be around. Jeremy will never be forgotten."
Ryan Nostrud of Moore, Oklahoma USA

"Jeremy, Thank you for your sacrifice, I will always remember the good times we had in the 82nd."
SSG Coombs of 1stSFG, Ft. Lewis

"Thank you brave soldier for sacrificing your today for my children's safer tomorrow. You have our utmost respect and gratitude. May God provide your family with comfort in their time of sorrow. May you forever rest in Heavenly peace. Neither you nor your sacrifice will be forgotten. For the family/friends: May time provide happy loving memories in place of present sorrows. Look to the sky for in the infinite meadows of Heaven the bright shining stars bloom....the forget-me-nots of angels. God bless you and thank you."
a grateful family in Phoenix, AZ

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

"I was hoping I would never have to write this type of message, but God so it fit to take SSG.Horton Home. He will be greatly missed by not only his family but the family he aquired in the service. Ssg Horton was always looking out for his soldiers, there were a few time he kept things on the down low for me so i wouldnt get in trouble. He would tell how to fix it and let me be on my way. You dont meet alot of people like him here. He was truly one of a kind. I will miss him alot."
Spc. Tristan T. Reynolds of B. co. 2-6 INF 1st. Plt.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I do not know Jeremy Horton but my nephrew, PFC Ryan Normandy was driving the Bradley when the accident happened. He was notified of your son's death a few days ago and he remembers Jeremy as a kind and good man. Your son told him that he has not seen his family for 14 months.
Ryan was severely injured and still admitted at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas."
Eunice Oh of Stockton, CA

"I want to tell you something, something I know Jeremy believed – that the journey is more important than the destination… even if you don’t arrive where you thought you were headed. The journey is more important than the destination… more important than if you get to where you planned to go because if you don’t get there you’ll get somewhere else and maybe that is even a better place.

I understand the compassion, and the emotion. Though I still do not understand the why of it… but I knew his strong, courageous heart and soul.

Jeremy was a selfless & strong person who desired a complete life. Had he held himself back from what he believed he should do, he would not have had as complete a life as he did. We are sad now that his destination did not come here to be with us, but we could not have stopped him from his journey and we should not want to have stopped him.

I once asked Jeremy what it was like to jump free fall (from an airplane) He said that you know right? I said that NO. I only fell from a static line… I had never experience a total free fall. He said “it is total freedom… the earth stops and you only hear whispers in an eternity".

Does that make sense? I know that Jeremy felt that his life was filled with all that he wanted
to have.

So while we have to mourn now, and we should mourn, we do not need to regret anything. We can be as courageous as Jeremy by having the courage to realize that we will not understand the why of everything now. It is not for us to know the reason why. As time goes by and we look back, if we are lucky and show courage, maybe, just maybe, time will give us the wisdom to understand part of it.

He died in freedom – like in his free fall.

I would like to close with a poem:

Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the Gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the mornings 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.
-Author Unknown"
Jeremy's Uncle Tom Horton -- of Manassas, Virginia

"We were standing around getting ready to step off to Pike Field for the Division Review when we first heard of your death over in Iraq. Word spread quietly through the regiment and people stopped by all day long to see if the rumors were true. We've been through alot over in Afghanistan and Iraq but for the most part we have been lucky. The company has changed alot since you PCS'd to Germany, alot of new faces nowadays and only a handfull of us remember the good 'ol days when you were here and times were simplier. It is always a sad day when we loose one of our own, you may be gone but you will never be forgotten."
From the boys of 3rd PLT, A Co, 2nd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division

"To the family of Jeremy Horton, we offer our deepest condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Your son was so young but so brave. I too lost a son, PFC Bradley Kritzer, age 19, on May 5, 2004. May our brave soldiers rest in peace. They will forever be our HERO's."
Roger and Sharon Kritzer of Irvona/PA/USA

"I am in 8th grade and we were learing about how many people were dying in Iraq. He is included in our prayers. If there is a family member I would appreciate it if you could email me back at RockNRollGrlAA90@aol.com so I can write my report on this hero."
Student at Emmet Belknap of NY

"Even though I didn't know you, you are still a hero to me. I grew up in Westfield, NY, but I lived in Erie for a couple of years. I live in Sandusky, OH now and we lost one the same day that you passed. His name was Charles Odums. You both along with everyone else who have gave their lives are all heroes in my heart. God Bless each and every one of you."
Kimberly Wettlaufer of Sandusky, OH USA

"Only someone like this Defender of freedom could both break your heart with bravery and at the same time make you proud to be an American where such men live. My condolences, and my thanks to a brave Soldier who sacrificed his life to ensure the freedom of the sons and daughters of future generations so they too can live a free and fulfilling life in "OUR" great country.
We who serve Honor His service, love, and loyalty for our Country.
Heroism is the order of the day for this Soldier. He will not have died in vain. We WILL complete your (our) mission. Rest in Peace."
Staff Seargant John R. Vance of Spangdahlem AB Germany

"My Dear Precious Baby Cousin, Jeremy,
I have been trying to write this for several days- this is my final goodbye. I had hoped for days that this was a mistaken identity, but it wasnt, Jeremy. Ohhhhh! how I love/loved respected you! I am writing to you in present tense, for you, Jeremy, will always be with me/us. I remember you being my 'barbage boy'. You were approx 10 mos old when I started to babysit you. I would get you and Jay your baths and you would ALWAYS get into the garbage and knock it over. Hence, my nickname for you- 'barbage boy'. As you got older, that nickname would graduate into 'Jere'meme', for you, Jeremy would sooooo try to sing, but u sure couldnt carry a tune in a bucket. You sure sang ur heart out, tho. I always knew your interest would be music, tho--- I can remember jamming to your parents music (zeppelin, doors, etc....) and watching you sway back and forth in your footie pajamas in front of the speakers at Imperial point. Then, you moved to Porky Rd- Albion. It was then that I saw you growing into a fine young boy, and not a baby. I remember watching you riding your bike and seeing all my dads pups from Daisy live on. Do you remember , Spirit? That was your dog:)))) I remember you and your family moving to VA. Your Uncle Mark and I came down to visit, and low and behold, I was pregnant with little Megan, and didnt even know it:) Our little Megan turned out to be the most influential little girl in your and Jasons life. I have video tapes of all Megs birthdays and how you and Jaybird fought as to who would hand her the presents and her bottles. Ohhh! how you boys loved her! The next thing I knew, Jay and Jerry were growing up(but still afraid of my mom, Babcie:). Jeremy started coming over regulary with his awesome HYUNDAI- HEHEHHE. Then, Jeremy grew into a real car:)) Remember when I called you and Jason to come over and show me how to use a cd player????? hehheheheh-----Next thing I knew Jeremy, you had long hair, tattoes, and were taking the world by storm with your love, determination, and your attitude! I remember you bringing Christie to my house on 9th st and what a lovely girl I JUST KNEW she was. I knew she was the ONE for you, and I told you that! The next thing I knew we were celebrating your graduation from Strong Vincent, and then we had to say goodbye. But, not of course, before the airshow out at your moms with the potato guns!!!! Remember the baby bunny, Jeremy? You then were off as a soldier. You came back so much more confident and disciplined. Your truly were, AN AMERICAN SOLDIER. You were no longer my 'Jere 'meme.' I was sooo proud of you, as I have told you in my several letters and packages I've sent. Your letters and the ability to talk via internet has kept me going. God! how I love you, Jeremy--- I love you as if you are my own, but u were---- u belonged to all of us!!!!! I also remember you and Christie being here Christmas 2002 with us. I remember you calling from Germany to tell me you were sending Megan a Fender bass guitar and bass. Although u didnt say it, I know that u sent it to give your Megan an 'outlet' since she was going thru sooo much with the divorce between her dad and I. Jeremy your heart is golden!!!You simply wanted the best for Megan--- the same as we wanted for you!! But now, we are filled with void, a loss no one can imagine----- but, I promise you one thing Jeremy--- I will be there every step of the way for all of us--- each and every one of our family members that you sooo loved---- You now are not just OUR JEREMY-- YOU ARE AMERICAS JEREMY- A SOLDIER THAT WILL DIED BELIEVING IN WHAT HE DID!!! YOU NOW ARE AMERICAS 'BARBAGE BOY'-- THANK YOU, JEREMY---- I PROMISE I/WE WILL SEE YOU AGAIN AND CHRISTIE AND THE FAMILY WILL BE TAKEN CARE OF!

ALL MY LOVE UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN,
MONICA AND MEGAN
PEACE OUT!"
MONICA- COUSIN of ERIE

"To Jeremy's family, I am so sorry for your tragic loss. Please know that many of us appreciate his service to and sacrifice for our country."
F.Smith of Pennsylvania

"Dear Horton Family, Pennsylvania certainly has sacrificed their share in this war. Thank you for raising a son willing to sacrifice his life for our freedom. We share your pain and lift you in prayer. Aunt of Pfc Bradley Kritzer, killed in Baghdad, Iraq, May 5, 2004."
Laurie Miles of Coalport, PA

"To Tim and Gretchen and the rest of Jeremy's family, Your son will always be remembered as a hero by myself and the rest of the nation. May our minds and hearts never forget that he gave the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom that sometimes we ALL take for granted."
Kevin Sullivan of Erie, Pa.

"To the Family of Jeremy Horton:
I extend to you my deepest and most profound sympathies on the loss of your beloved Jeremy. I also have a son named Jeremy Horton, who was himself wounded in Iraq only a few months ago. I am grateful beyond words that he will recover from his injuries. It grieves me deeply that you won't have that same gift. Please know that I and my family will keep you and yours, and the spirit of your beloved Jeremy, in our hearts and minds and prayers. God bless you all."
Trish Colabine of Corning, NY 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, Jeremy, will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Jeremy Horton:
It's a terrible sacrifice Jeremy has made on behalf of us all. I want to say I greatly appreciate his service and wish he had been able to come back to you safe and sound. While in Iraq, Jeremy served with my brother, who told us of your loss. I'm sure Jeremy was a very fine soldier, my condolences to both his friends and family."
Tracy Fullerton of Westminster, CO

"To Jeremy's Family:
There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for your loss. May God bless you and help you through this time."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"Dear Jeremy,
Thank you for defending me and all of AMerica by fighting in Iraq. Our world is a very dangerous place and your actions have helped to keep us all safer. I wish there was more a person could do to thank you for your sacrifice to us all. I am sure you are in a better place now."
mark reif of winchester, VA

"To Jeremy's Family and Friends:

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

Sincerely,

The Family of Capt. Ernesto M. Blanco-Caldas, 82nd Airborne, KIA Iraq 12/28/2003.

Gloria Caldas (his mom) of San Antonio, TX
gloria.caldas@banksterling.com"

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