Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Thinking of Kyran on his birthday, nearly 20 years gone. Hard to believe. His kind, compassionate presence is missed."
A UMB Friend of Boston

"Kyran,
This message is many years late. But you have been in my thoughts recently and my prayers. I always enjoyed our early days together during our Kennedy reunions at Cape Cod with your parents and brothers and sisters. How you loved the water and jumped in the Bass River from a bridge close to the beach. Now that I have two sons serving in the US Army as 2LTs you are forefront of my thoughts. I hope my sons meet your wife and family someday soon. The Kennedy military tradition lives on with your son and mine. Duty Honor Country!
May God be with you in eternity.
God Bless you and your family!

Your Cousin J. Michael Kennedy, Worthington, Ohio
+"
Michael Kennedy of Worthington Ohio

"Thought of Kyran today. Fond memories."
A UMass friend of Boston MA

"I had the honor of serving with and knowning this great young American.

He will be greatly missed."
Bill Van Almsick of Baltimore, Ohio

"I wish I had been closer with my namesake. I know it's really late but I would like to express my sincere condolences to his immediate and extended family. I have not met Kyran but I did meet his father (from Avondale, Newfoundland, Canada) many years ago. I hope his family is now doing well. We are having a family reunion for Kennedy family members and would really appreciate it if any of his family were interested. kyrank@rogers.com"
Kyran Kennedy of Newmarket, ON, Canada

"Watched 'Taking Chance' tonight and thought of Kyran."
friends from the old neighborhood

"Kyran and I was stationed in Korea together. I walked in this center that made pottery items. He took the time to help me build projects and talked to me about life and the military. He was a very spiritual man with a beautiful family. I remember his wife and kids coming to the center also and he expressed to me how much he loved his family and how much fun it was having them in Korea with him. He gave me the knowledge that made my tour easy and if I get longly for felt homesick I could always go to the center and found Chief sitting there building a project. Your memory will last forever."
SFC Platt of Killeen, Texas

"Kyran, you're always in our thoughts."
--a friend from the neighborhood of West Roxbury MA

"Kathy,
My sincerest condolences to you and the boys at the loss of Kyran. I just saw the news article on his loss. Kyran and I were both young Warrants together in E Troop 4-17 CAV at Bragg in the early 90s. We served together for 28 months in the same troop. I remember Kyran very well and loved to talk and argue with him about the Politics of the world and fly together.

He was a great man who I know touched everyone with his Irish wit and charm. The world is a lesser place without him. We had much in common since I too was born in Boston in JP and grew up on the Cape and am Irish. It was rare for someone to join the Army from Mass in those days. Kyran had a zest for life and adventure. He was very proud of you and the job you were doing as a mother. I remembering him bringing in a baby sling carrier you had just I designed and sewn for I believe your first born.

God bless
Kyran's spirit, You and your boys

PS
If you need any help that I can give please contact me through the Army"
MAJ Christopher O'Donnell of Fort Leavenworth KS, USA

"Kyran, not a day goes by that I don't think about you and your family. I miss you, you were such a wonderful friend and husband."
Edwin Montufar of Homestead, FL

"im proud to say that i serve under the same bat as this man long live the airbone trooper"
PFC Doucette of Fort Campbell KY

"Don't know why, but I am thinking of you. Miss you, bro..."
CW3 Lyn Ratliff of US Army

"To Kathy and her family, I was saddened to hear of your loss. I only met Kyran a couple of times but knew that he was a wonderful person. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Joseph Furlong
Joe@MassVA.com"
Joseph Furlong of Needham Mass

"To the family of Kyran Kennedy
I am thinking of you and Kyran today on the 5th anniversary of his death. I remember him throughout the month of November by wearing my hero bracelet that bears his name, rank, town and date of death. My son-in-law is in Iraq and I hope this will be the last time he is deployed there, God willing.
Bless you all."
Joanne O'Hara of Medford, MA, formerly of West Roxbury

"Kathy and Family
I'm remembering Kyran's bright smile and warm laughter today. I think of him and you often and the sacrifice he made for us. You and your children are always in our prayers."
Sheryl (McElroy) Haselton of Nashua, NH

"November 7, 2008
To the family of CWO3 Kyran E. Kennedy:
Kyran 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

"Missing Kyran today (9-7-08) for no particular reason. We fondly speak of you and Kathy and the family and remember Boston."
--Bob and Judith

"Remembering Kyran today on this fourth anniversary of his passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always."
Sheryl (McElroy) Haselton of Nashua, NH

"Kathy and family
I'm not sure you remember me. We shared a house together in Nahant. Kyran was a frequent visitor and always had a laugh or a smile. You have all been in my prayers since his loss. I'm sure somewhere he is smiling down on all of you."
Sheryl (McElroy) Haselton of Nashua, NH

"Kathy,
I remember well times in the skies of Germany and beyond, times of comfort in the back of a Blackhawk with Kyran calmly guiding it. I’ve lost several friends and fellow crew members over the past few years, and I hold each one close in my own special way: I’m now a sportswriter, and each time I hear the National Anthem played before a game, I close my eyes and a slideshow of the special men and women I've known and served with who’ve given their lives for us all runs through my mind. Kyran is amongst them, and reading the kind words I’ve found here warms my heart, knowing that I am not alone in remembering such a special man.
To everyone who’s shared here, thank you.
To the men and women still in the line of fire, thank you and be safe.
And Kyran…I know you’re filing a flight plan somewhere right now. Fly safe!"
Chris Lancia (clancia@hotmail.com) of Savannah, GA

"Kyran was the finest example of an outstanding human being. He was my husband's (CW2 Aaron Power) friend and upon his death, my casualty officer. No words could ever express my graditude for his kindness. Kathy, best wishes to you and the children. My fondest memory of Kryan was how he lit up when he spoke of his family and "The Farm"."
Rhonda Power of Indianapolis, IN

"Thank you very much for your sacrifice. You were more courageous than I am, and I admire you. You have my gratitude and your family has my prayers."
Morgan Campbell of Athens, Greece (Resident of Boston, MA)

"To the family of Kyran E. Kennedy, I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayfully 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 at Gateway Community Church: Rev John Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd. Covington Ga 30016 phone 770-787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ."
Polly Ballew of Covington Ga

"On February 19, 2004 our son was born. His name is Kyran Anthony Pierce, Kyran in memory of Kyran Kennedy. Kyran Anthony was born five weeks premature and has been a fighter ever since. His father left for Operation Iraqi Freedom when he was seven months old, and is still there. Our prayers are with your family. Peace be with you."
Jamie Pierce of Ft Lewis, Washington, USA

"My deepest expression of sympathy to the entire Kennedy family."
of Boston, MA

"It has been a year now and I know that you are still hurting as I am. I am the son of CSM Cornell Gilmore who was also in the Black Hawk with your husband I am having one of those days today (I am sure you know what I mean) but writing this to you makes me feel a whole lot better. Stay strong and never forget the good times."
Cornell Gilmore II aka CJ of Stafford, VA

"I never do this---but I feel I should start to say how I am saddened by the loss of such a great spirit as your loved one,Kyran--just a glimpse on the news, let me know what wonderful people you must be & I want you to know that I deplore war more than ever because of your loss & I will never cease working for peace, because one life is one life too many---please let me know if there is anything I can do to honor your loss"
Colleen O'Toole of Shakopee, Minnesota

"Kathy;
Someday I hope that you can find the time to read the letters to this website. I have just spent the time to read the letters myself as I felt the warm tears falling across my cheeks.
You and Kyran and the kids were very dear friends to us while we were stationed at Ft Campbell in the late 90's.
I remember the fun we shared riding horses, drinking Killians Red, and talking about the improvements that were gonna take place out on the "Farm".
You can't help but to think of Kyran everytime you open your eyes, but as for me. I think of him just about as often too.
I know that somewhere, Kyran is still watching after you and the kids, and I know he still loves you. He is just around the bend, waiting for you all to catch up with him.
My heart has a piece of your family in it and always will. Thank you for the times of friendship Kyran, and Cathy; Thank you for still being there as a friend would be.
Kiss the kids and hug 'em for us, someday soon may we ride again together!
Sandra, Mike Tomlinson
North Pole, Alaska
alaskatomlinson@yahoo.com
(907)-488-9467
October-15-2004"
The Tomlinson Family of North Pole, Alaska

"hero. that is who you are.
we will nver forget."
melvin dela paz of philippines

"Kathy and the Kids,
Words cannot begin to express how much Kyran has impacted so many of us who served with him. Even here in Germany we were individually crushed by what we heard, with no 5th battalion family to grieve with. Please know that you are in all our prayers. Lynn and I felt helpless to be so alienated from our family in 5th batt and Ft. Campbell. Kyran was the consummate professional. I will always remember him with a smile, holding Kevin and "blowing smoke" in the cold February air when the guys deployed. The impact of his life can never be wiped away. God Bless You all!"
CPT Heidi (Ridenhour) Ratliff of Ansbach, Germany

"Thank you brave soldier for sacrificing your today for my children's safer tomorrow. You have our utmost respect and gratitude. May God grant your family comfort and peace in this time of sorrow. May you enjoy your final Tour of Duty in Heaven; where there is peace. Thank you again."
a grateful citizen in Arizona

"He will be in our hearts for ever and ever. We care about everyone who died."
7th grade student of Barker Middle School

"Thanks Kyran."
Jill of Boston

"Thanks."
Jill of Boston

""Low Flight"

Dedicated to Kyran E. Kennedy


Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth,

And Hovered out of Ground Effect on Semi-Ridgid Blades.

Earthward I've Auto'ed, and met the Rising Brush of Non-Paved Terrain;

And done a thousand things you would never care to.

Skidded and Dropped and Flared Low in the Heat Soaked Roar.

Confined there, I've chased the Earthbound Traffic

And Lost the race due to Insignificant Headwinds.

Forward and up a Little in Ground Effect,

I've Topped the Admirals hedge with drooping turns,

Where never SkyHawk nor even Tomcat Flew.

Shaking and Pulling Collective, I've Lumberd

The Low untresspassed Halls of Victor Airways;

Put out my Hand, and Touched a Tree.

Today Kyran you Fly with Angels. Thank you for your Dedication and Sacrifice. "Godspeed Chief..."
Dennis B. Dray MAJ (R) ARNG of Tucson, AZ

"Warrant Officer Kennedy, goodbye soldier and thank you. You are my hero."
Bill of Houston, Texas

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

"Friends and family of warrant officer Kennedy,
I am sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you. I am a Marine and share the namesake and I too am from Boston. I am gearing up for deployment to Iraq and my thoughts and prayers will be with you as I serve and only hope to serve as well as warrant officer Kennedy."
Lance Corporal Kennedy USMC of Camp Pendleton CA

"Thank you Kyran Kennedy, 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

"Kathy and the Kids,
I will never forget the times Jenny and I had and the memories I cherish in my heart for you and Kyran. He will ALWAYS hold the dearest and most cherished place in my heart and I will forever call him "My Best Friend"! Jenny and I will, as always, pray for you and the kids and will always keep you in our hearts."
Lee, Jenny and Haley Brown of Seoul, Korea

"To Kyran's family I offer my prayers and condolences during this time of intense grief. Kyran gave his life so that I could live mine more abundantly. Please know that he is rembered loved and honored by me. If there is anything I can do for you such as someone to pray with, or someonen to talk to please dont hesitate to contact me at ctpoet1@yahoo.com"
Chris Decker of East Windsor CT USA

"Dear Kathy & Family,
You might not remember us from your Bradley classes. We're so sorry to hear of Kyran's loss. CPT Ben Smith was a close friend as well. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Virginia is now a CH-47 pilot herself, while I'm homeschooling here in Korea. I'm sure I can't imagine how tough this must be for you all, please let us know how we can help!

If you ever need to talk, we're up when everyone there is sleeping! Please feel free to email us so we may swap contact information.

God Bless,"
Scott (for Virginia, Alexandra and Ben) Seigel of Korea

"To the Kennedy Family,
Kathy, you may not remember me, but I was the receptionist at your Chiropractor's office (Lisa). I can only say that you and your family are in our prayers and your husband was a very nice man who always wore a smile. I am so sorry for your loss & hope you find peace in the very near future. I will think of you often."
SSG Patrick Vilt & family of Montgomery Alabama

"To the family and friends of CW3 Kyran Kennedy:
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 Kyran 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 CW3 Kyran Kennedy:
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 Kyran, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia