Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Remembering…today most of all. Thank you, Luke."
Terry and Kristen Lockhart of Fort Gibson Ok

"Thinking of you and the man your son is becoming."
James Basinger

"We remember!

And today especially I remember...I knew that at age 5 when we played together, that you were destined for Army Life, the you would protect and lay everything on the line to keep us safe!

I had a dream on Jan 25,2004 that you got off of a plane at the airport in your fatigues. I was the next in line to get on the plane. I didn’t know where it was headed or if there was danger when I landed. But you saw me and hugged me and then told me, “You stay. I got this.” And then two days later on Jan 27. I learned that you had died in the line of duty.

I remember that dream like it was yesterday. I remember that look of confidence in your face. I knew that you went and I stayed.

I am forever grateful for your sacrifice. I will ALWAYS remember!"
Kristen Campbell Lockhart of Fort Gibson, Ok

"I think of Luke and the James family often. I read today that Bradley is graduating HS...I can’t believe it. I am so thankful for your sacrifice, but I wish you were here with your amazing family."
Sarah Heil of Dodge City, Ks

"I miss you and think about you often.
I hope your wife and family are doing fine.I still remember the last time I cut your hair and we talked and talked. God Bless you my sweet friend and your loved ones."
Susan Chamblee of Stillwater Ok

"Lt. James
Sir you will always be missed and may God forever hold you in his arms. H-Minus."
SFC Tucker, Lance of South Carolina

"I will keep you and your family in my prayers today."
Brice Chaffin of Okemah, Oklahoma

"We remember you everyday that your gone but especially today, thank you for your sacrifice."
Kirsten Campbell of Stillwater ok

"This page says it all,so much love and admiration by so many. Brad and Arleen I know you are so proud. Luke was raised by a wonderful, loving and giving family. I remember cutting Luke's hair one day, years ago, while he was still in high school and he told me he wanted to serve his country. He talked like an old soul and he knew his purpose at such a young age. Thank you Luke, I too think of you often and the ultimate sacrifice you gave. You will always be remembered and in our hearts forever."
Tammie Mouser of Oklahoma City, Okla.

"Dear Luke,
I think of you often. I think of Bradley and Molly often as well. I can only imagine how handsome and wonderful Bradley is now. Now that I have 4 children of my own I can honestly say that Molly was such a Super Mom; I am sure she still is! You all were friends of ours and as our memories of the Army grown faint you three will not. Cliff has never taken off your bracelet, never. Although he does not talk about that day, I know he feels a deep sense of responsibility and loyalty to you...and forever will. We miss you. I love you Molly and Bradley! Sincerely, Karen Kyle and Maj Cliff Kyle"
Karen Kyle of Houston, TX

"To the family of:Luke S. James
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""

"Luke I was the PLT LDR from 1st Plt Aco 1/152nd INF. I think of you and your men often. You were our relief at Camp Kalsu. God bless you and your family"
James Basinger of Shelburn IN

"Dear James, I think about you often and tell the story of meeting you in ROTC at OSU. Even 7 years later it feels like yesterday. I am still haunted from our last conversation standing there at dinner telling your wife that she has the hardest job in the Army. I knew when I met you that you would be a fine officer. Reading the praises on here from your soldiers I see it was true. I hope your wife and son are well. Always thinking about you. Take care."
SGT Chris Long 82nd ABD of Fort Bragg, NC

"It has been nearly 6 years since I went with Chaplain Lucky to your house in Hope Mills in my dress greens and spit shined jumpboots. I have never felt more afraid or more unwilling to do my duty than i did that night. I think about seeing Molly that night all the time, I remember that she almost did not answer the door because the porch light was burnt out. Sometimes I wish she had not answered the door and that somehow in doing so everything would have been ok.
I am glad to have known you Luke, you were a good LT. It was an honor to speak at your funeral, to be there in Arlington and to do my part to honor your service and your sacrifice. Molly, if you ever read this, I still think of you and Bradley and I hope that you are happy and leading a full life. I hope Bradley will know what a fine man his father was. All the Way Sir."
Mr. Frank Collins of Salwa, Kuwait

"Not a day goes by I don't think about that night. My prayers are with you."
Sgt. Jason Dudek of 1st Platoon B co 2-505

"”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 the hero’s Mother, Father and/or spouse. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,800 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
This is a gift! We have some wonderful sponsors who help with the costs, and only want you know that we care.
Contact us directly at Projectcompassion@manti.com or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna"
Project Compassion - Kenna of Manti, Utah USA

"I was reminded of Luke on Saturday at an OSU football game when Molly was on the field with some of the Veteran Alumni being honored. It caught me off guard and I cried for the James family, and over the dear price they have all paid in the name of Freedom, along side so many other families. The willingness to lay down one’s own life for the sake of others is honorable beyond all else. I remember being in 4-H with Luke, and meeting him again in Willham 11 at OSU where we both lived, and the warm and friendly welcome his family gave me when I stayed with them once. He was a good man and came from a good family and he is sorely missed. I continue to pray for and thank the James family, and all who serve in our military as well as their families, for the absolute sacrifice they have all made."
Jacob Stone of Perkins, OK

"We will never forget! RIP Luke."
CW3 Barrett of 2-505 PIR FT. Bragg

"I have never forgotten about you buddy. I still think back to the times when we were in college together and how we would sit around talking about our love for the military. You were a great friend. I miss talking with you. You will NEVER be forgotten."
Greg Bork of Choctaw, Ok/USA

"I saw some pictures of your son the other day and was a little overwhelmed with how much he looked like you. He was there with your sister on her wedding day, and it was like looking at the young version of you standing there with her.
Thank you for being you, and giving all."
Dessie of Brunswick, Maine

"Thank you for your service Luke..... Happy Memorial Day...."
Amber Duff of Fort Lee,VA

"Hey buddy, it's past midnight here. Just sent somebody an email trying to get a spot in the ARMY 10-miler. Hopefully I get in.
I waved at you the other day on my way to a meeting at Reagan Airport. Still awestruck at the beauty of Arlington. I'm going to make way over there on Monday for a chat. Big news. I'm getting married, but I'll tell you all about it on Memorial Day.

Peace old friend"
Robbie Welle of Annapolis, MD

"I came across this memorial page and thought it only fitting that I leave a message since I served with Luke S. James at Ft. Bragg and in Iraq. Luke was known as a husband and father that had a passion for his family, as well as an officer who cared deeply for his soldiers. I never remember him seeming detached like some leaders, but always in touch with them. And though I wasn't in his Platoon, I often wanted to be because of his strong leadership and the camaraderie he encouraged.

Sir, consider your family prayed for. And I can't wait to see you again and salute you!"
SGT Joseph L. Hoover of Seattle, WA

"RIP LUKE you will never be forgotten."
Amber Duff of fort lee, va

"January 17, 2009
To the family of 2nd Lt. Luke S. James:
Luke 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

"We know it's Luke 29th birthday and we have thought about him all day today. We celebrate the chance to be a part of his life and miss him dearly. Love The Campbell's"
Terry, Zallee, Colby, and Ashley Campbell of Hooker OK and Edmond OK

"Happy Birthday"
des of Maine

""Luke,
I wish we knew each other better, but I'm forever grateful for the time we did. I thank you for your honor and commitment to serve our country so bravely. I love you and miss you. God bless your family, wife and son."
Zane Dugger of Aurora, CO/USA

"Luke,
I only got the privilege of spending 6 months along side you going through IOBC. You were a good man and great leader. I will never forget your sacrifice as I remember you daily. God Bless your family and may you never be forgotten.
CPT Aaron Billingsley"
Aaron Billingsley of Ft Campbell, KY

"Luke,

I never met you but I was there every step of the way to help your wife , She is such a strong woman and I know that you are so proud of her and Bradley. You come to my thoughts most everyday, thank you for your service. God Bless you and Your Family"
Amber Duff of Fort Lewis, WA

"Luke,
Its been a long time buddy. I hope all is well with your family. You are missed and respected by all. God Speed!
See you in the Sky!"
Captain Robert P. Steidley of Augusta, Ga

"We all remember our lost soldiers on Memorial Day, but I remember you everyday."
Dessie of Brunswick, Maine

"Molly,
There isn't a day that passes without my thoughts drifting to Luke, Buddy, or Cory. This weekend makes it all that much harder. I don't know where you and Bradley moved to, but know that you are never far from our thoughts. God bless you both. We will never forget the impact Luke made in our lives and his sacrifice to this country and the country of Iraq.

Colonel Bruce Parker
Former Cdr, 2-505th PIR
bruce.d.parker@us.army.mil"
Parker of Ft. Bragg, NC

"For Molly, Bradley, and the James family. I think of you often and hope you are well. I will never forget Luke and his service to our country."
Crystal (Miller) Mengers of Copperas Cover, TX

"Hey Brother, I wanted to let you know that I still think about you. On the anniversay of your passing, I had my command issue a moment of silence to remember you for your sacrifice. I am here to finish what you started and we miss you. God bless you brother..."
SSgt Cortney "Opie" Ferguson of Camp Victory, Baghdad, Iraq

"Dear Molly;
It has now been three years since we lost of loved ones, Cory, Luke, and Buddy. I think of you and Bradley often and hope that you are well. Please remember you are in our thoughts and prayers as we all try to heal. They are truly our heroes."
Pat Mracek of Hay Springs, NE

"Luke, you always promised to protect the ones that you loved and cared about. As time flies by and I look at my children, I am reminded of that promise and my hopes rise with every smile and playful step that my children take. You have sacrificed so much for others to live and remain happy. I always believed in you and I always will. See you on the other side and Thank You for everything."
Christy Jenkins of Leonardville, KS

"Luke you were the true embodiment of honesty, integrity and courage. You will always be remembered. I was honored to be your floormate and friend at Oklahoma State."
Tom Mirc of Raleigh, NC

"Happy Birthday Luke
We miss you and are thinking of your family..."
Tim and Dessie of NAS Brunswick, Maine

"I can't even explain how much I apperciate the sacrifice Luke did, meant to me. I am currently working in Cuba, and everyday I think of him, to remind me what we are fighting for. He was a true Hero, and many of us, cant ever dream of following his footsteps. I know He still guards us in spirit everyday."
MA1 Kirsten Purcell Darksmiller, United States NAVY of Cuba

"Words cannot express my feelings of gratitude to all soldiers for their sacrifices. I went to school with Luke in Hooker, and considered him a friend. My love and sympathy go out to the loved ones he left behind. He will never be forgotten."
Shannon (Robertson) Wickware of Woodward, OK

"Thank you for your sacrifice Luke"
Jessica Nyberg (Simpson) of San Diego California

"Brother,
We were always having fun together, learning, PTing, and most of all surviving college. I am honored to have been a teammate in ROTC with you, a brother in arms, and to have known you. You helped me learn more that I know, and I have used some of what you taught me to survive in Afghanistan and SW Asia. May God be with your family, and I will see you in heaven. Till then, keep it safe for me! Hoo-ah!"
SSgt Cortney Ferguson, USAF of Hickam AFB, HI

"My sister was a friend of Molly's in North Carolina and a wife of a soldier there with Luke on that day in Iraq. I think of your son, your husband, your friend often. It is 2006, a Thursday, and you are all in my prayers today. I pray that you are comforted by your memories of Luke. I pray that Luke's son grows up with love surrounding him every single day. May God's Peace Be With You."

"Luke,
I knew you as a cadet, a floormate, and as a friend. Of all the officers I I have known, I would have chose you to lead me. My respect is hard earned. I really respected you a great deal. The man that you were demanded it. You were a man that truly lead by example. You were a great credit to the US Army. I think of you often. I bid farewell to my friend and one of the finest and most capable officers our Army has."
Spec. Joshua Lawrence of Tulsa, Oklahoma

"Today we (Oklahoma House of Representatives) honored a fallen soldier from Tulsa,Oklahoma and with this ceremony, I am flooded with wonderful memories from the James' family. Everyone knew that being a soldier was your destination in life. However, you also were destined to leave your mark on Molly’s heart as her husband and as Bradley’s father. Your legacy will never be forgotten and will be carried by your son. Your greatest achievement has been the honorable legacy you left. Thank you to your family for being so strong. I have never met a man giving, loving, and kind-hearted as Luke. Thank you all for your sacrifice. You are a wonderfully strong family. My family loves you all and will never forget."
Kyla (Campbell) Rapp-(formerly of Hooker) of Lindsay, OK

"Brad and Arleen we love you and your family and will be thinking of you more than ever today.
Luke lives on in our hearts.
1-27-2006"
of Andrews AFB, MD

"I served with 2LT Luke S. James both at Bragg before Iraq, and also while deployed in Iraq. He cared about soldiers and always bothered to ask how we were doing. I keep him and his family in my prayers."
SGT Emmanuel Parial of Boca Raton, FL USA

"9-12-05
"Happy Birthday Luke" There is not a day that goes by that I do not think of you and know someday we will see each other again. Keep smiling as always until we meet again!!"
Aunt Sarah of Sedalia, Co

"2LT Luke James was a man of character and courage. I was greatly saddened to learn of his loss. He will be missed."
MAJ Steve Fetrow of San Francisco, CA

"I knew Luke during my time with the ABX ROTC booster group at Oklahoma State. Watching him and Molly, you saw what real love was. I am very sorry for his loss and will keep his family always in my thoughts. We miss you, Mr. James"
Rebecca Williams, ABX Alumna of Tulsa OK

"LT,
I can never explain to you how guilty I felt for not being in Iraq with the company, or how hard it was to see Molly and have to break her heart that night. I was honored to speak about you at the funeral, i don't know that anything i could have said would have really said enough about you. I will never think of the Gardens of Stone without thinking of you Sir. When strangers ask, I will tell them where you lie, obedient to the end. H-Minus"
SSG Francis Collins of Bco 2-505 PIR, Fort Bragg, NC

"I grew up with you in my life, and now you are not there. But I know you are in a better place and that I will see you again. You were like a brother to me with all the stock shows and I will miss you. Your family is special to me."
Cati George of Hooker, Oklahoma

"Always remembered, Always cherished, Always loved."
Andrea Shouse of Aspen, Co, USA

"I met Lieutenant James when he was the Cadet Battalion Commander at OSU ROTC. I was just a freshman and he was my idol. His examples of professionalism and strength inspired me to drive on every day. I think about you often and draw strength from the example of your courage."
2LT Amy Dilly (Miller) of Ft. Bliss, TX

"Luke,
I know we haven't seen eachother since the Cameron/OSU ROTC FTX in April 2003, but I will never forget our departing words "See You Down The Road". I hold myself to that promise everyday and we will see eachother again someday."
1LT Wesley Bradshaw of Lawton, Oklahoma

"James, you are greatly missed by 'the gang'. Lori and I still talk about being drafted to your army in our childhood days in Hooker, OK. Our parents kept 'the gang' together while we were growing up and God will keep 'the gang' together now. You always knew what you wanted to be and you strived to achieve that. You were great at everthing you did, husband, father, best friend, and occasional counselor. We miss you and love you so much!"
Erin L Bredel-Shepherd of Arapaho, OK USA

"LT. James,

It's been over a year since we lost you in Iraq. It still weighs heavy in my heart and the hearts of people that know you. You will always be remembered along with Cory, and Lester. Paratroopers will never be forgotten. You served with honor and distinction. You have never failed those with whom you've served. I salute you and I'll see you all in that big DZ in the sky! H-Minus! Airborne! All The Way!!!!!"
Sgt. Udani of Ft. Bragg, NC.

"LT. James,

It's been over a year since we lost you in Iraq. It still weighs heavy in my heart and the hearts of people that know you. You will always be remembered alont with Cory, and Lester. Paratroopers will never be forgotten. You served with honor and distinction. You have never failed those with whom you've served. I salute you and I'll see you all in that big DZ in the sky! H-Minus! Airborne! All The Way!!!!!"
Sgt. Udani of Ft. Bragg, NC.

"It's been a year now and Lukes death still weighs heavy on our hearts. Molly, I hope your heart is healing, though I could not imagine how you do it. We think of Luke and everyone in the family often and will never forget. Today there were flowers on his grave, he touched many people and left an empty hole in many hearts."
of Andrews AFB, Maryland

""Luke was truly one of the kind souls of the high school hallways at Hooker High. I went to school with him there. I was a year a head of him. He was a good man. My heart goes out to his family and friends who knew him best. I wish I had the chance to know him better. Rest in peace. We will see you again someday. Thank you for risking all for us.""
Tish of San Angelo, TX

"Merry Christmas Luke"

"IM VERY SORRY TO HERE ABOUT THIS KILLING"
LUKE BRIAN JAMES of AMANFORD

"Hey Luke, Had a tough time figuring out what to say. It's been close to a year and I still have writers block. Some things have definitly changed since i last talked to you. Brant, Snelson, and I plan on riding out to see you. I think we'll wait till it gets warmer. Watch over Snelson he still needs you. As for me and Brant just listen like you always have. You know us, we tend to need you're guidance every now and then. But for today rest easy bud.

see you when i see you."
Robbie Welle of Oklahoma City

"I went to school with luke in hooker he was a good person and could get anybody to laugh if they was having a bad day he is a good friend and my family sends they best wishing to his family for there great loss we will miss you Luke"
Steven Prouty of Watonga ,OK USA

"I went to school with luke in hooker he was a good person and could get anybody to laugh if they was having a bad day he is a good friend and my family sends they best wishing to his family for there great loss we will miss you Luke"
Steven Prouty of Watonga ,OK USA

"i was there when we lost you that night. i am so sorry i couldnt have done more. i will always remember you."
sgt dunn of ft bragg

"To Luke's family, I just want to say I am so sorry for your loss, Luke was a wonderful person in every way. I met Luke my freshman year at OSU, and he helped me adjust to studying. We were in the same classes, and being the great person he was, he always asked how I was doing, both personally and in school. It was so nice to have someone encourage you and give advise. Luke will be missed, and again, I am so sorry for your loss. To Luke's son, your father was a great man, and a hero."
Krista L. of McAlester, OK

"Happy Birthday Luke"
9-12-04 of Maryland

"This old paratrooper will never forget the brotherhood of the greatest division in the world. Although I never ran across James, my heart still hurts for my brother. May you rest in peace."
Anthony of Denver, CO

"In your honor, we will drive on."
Bruno Kelpsas of Seattle, WA

"Dear Luke, I know you're watching from above. I'll remember all those days back in the COWBOY BTN. I miss you bud and hope that your family is doing well. I am about to become a father in the next day or so. For all your professionalism and your motivation that you gave me, COWBOYS FOREVER.

From 2LT Gaston"
of Fort Gordon

"I was at FOB Kalsu the night 2LT James, SSG Kinney and SGT Mraczek were killed; although I did not know him that well, I heard nothing but praise for him & the other two troopers

May God Bless Them and their families

See you on the "Big DZ in the Sky"

H-MINUS!"
SSG Christopher G. Lewis of HHC 2/505th PIR Fort Bragg, NC

"Happy Fathers Day Luke..."
of Andrews AFB, Maryland

"To the family of 2LT Luke James--- I only served with LT James a short time, but he was invaluable in letting me pick his brain to map out an ROTC carrer path for myself. We in 1st Platoon, B Co 2/505 will never forget the sacrifice he made for us, along with Cory and Lester. Go with God, sir...I won't let you down.
Sean"
Sgt RS Burton of Ft Bragg, NC

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

"Luke,
You were always the warrior, the leader, the fighter, the friend, the one that always had something kind to say, we will miss you here, but I know that God had something great for you were you are, Rest In Peace and watch our backs from Heaven..."
Ricardo Inciarte of Stillwater, Ok

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

"2LT Luke S. James was a near a dear friend of mine. We knew each other in High School and were lucky enough to serve alongside each other in ROTC, Luke in Army and myself in Air Force. We spent many fun times together and even shared some tears. He supported me when my engagement went sour and was a good friend until he left Oklahoma State University in the spring of 2003. I will miss him dearly and will never forget that he gave his life so that others may experience the freedoms that we in the US enjoy. My heartfelt condolences go out to your wife Molly and your child. May your child know that you were a hero. I love you and I'll miss you Luke. To your brother Kirby and your parents: Luke was an absolute blessing to our lives. Luke was a great friend and I'll never forget him. All my love and prayers go out to you in your time of mourning."
Soon to be 2Lt Jenna M. McDonald, USAF of Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma

"As an Oklahoman at heart I sincerely feel this tremendous loss deep in my heart. I am a proud USAF wife stationed at Luke AFB in Arizona. I hope the honor and dignity this young man will continue in his son. This brave man lost his life fighting so my four children can live in freedom. My prayers go out to his parents, wife and son and know your son and husband will always be greatly appreciated.."
Joni L. Beratto of Luke AFB, Arizona USA

"I first met Luke when he was nine years old, even at that time all he ever wanted to be was a solider like his daddy. He had only been in Iraq for one week. Now, on Thursday his family will lay him to rest. I look forward to meeting his 6 month old son and wife, but dread saying good bye. Hooker Oklahoma will never forget this fallen son. Our prayers are with his family and friends."
Desse Yates of Andrews AFB, Maryland

"RIP Warrior"
The Taylors USMC of NC

"God bless you and your family. Thank you for your service.May you rest in eternal peace."
Bob Oles of Brooklyn, NY

"2nd Lt. James:
Thank your for giving yourself so that those of us at home can live freely. There are not enough 'thank yous' for a gift such as this. Rest in peace soldier"
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"Thank you Luke James, 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 2nd Lt. Luke James:
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 Luke 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 2nd Lt. Luke James:
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 Luke, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia