Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I love and miss you brother. Semper Fi to a good friend and a great Marine."
Charles Lori of Bakersfield, CA

"MEMORIAL WEEKEND 2012 - We honor your sacrifice and pray for your family. So young to be so brave. You live on in the hearts of those who knew you."
Geri of Omaha, NE/USA

"To the family of:Shane E. Kielion
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"2-18-11"

"Shane, rest in peace Marine. You don't remember me but I helped get you onto the medevac bird. I had hoped that the Navy surgeons could work magic but sadly sometimes things turn tragic. You fought the good fight. Semper Fi!"
Major Tim Robertson of Germany

"Shane, Brother I have been thinking about you and the time we spent in iraq together alot lately.I have my Lieutenant Bars now and have taken over my Platoon and I know you are watching over me man..I love you..Semper Fi"
2ndLT.Bobby Hall,United States Marine Corps

"Shane, Brother I have been thinking alot about you man and the time we spent in Iraq together,I got my Lieutenant Bars and I am a Platoon Commander Now, I remember we use to take turn sleeping during night missions and we would rotate..I miss you brother and I love you"
2ndLT.Bobby Hall,United States Marine Corps

"Shane, Brother I have been thinking alot about you man and the time we spent in Iraq together,I got my Lieutenant Bars and I am a Platoon Commander Now, I know you're watching over me Love you man"
2ndLT.Bobby Hall

"To the Kielion family,
I am a former US Marine. When I learned of the story of Shane's service, the timing of his death and the the birth of his son; I was deeply touched. Marines like Shane Kielion are the kind of men legends are created from. His courage, service and sacrifice were extraordinary. As my sons grow up and want to know what a hero is and what people I admire, they'll never hear the name of an actor or sports figure. They'll know the name Shane Kielion and other brave service members who fought and gave their lives so we can enjoy the life we have here in the US. Take pride in knowing there are people out there who recognize this man for what he was. Semper Fi"
Former Marine of W Hurley, NY

"November 15, 2008
To the family of Lance Cpl. Shane E. Kielion:
Shane 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

"semper fi shane"
robert of hesperia, california

"What can i say about shane is that he was a good marine and even better friend.He and I became very close during our tour in Iraq,we lived,ate,slept and even confronted the enemy together.I am proud to call myself his friend and Brother.I love you and Hope to see you in heaven brother.Hall"
Bobby Hall

"Shane, I remember the last time I saw you the day before you died. You asked us how we were doing and gave us a reassuring nod and a smile. You did your job very well and I appreciate that. Thank you for courage my brother."
Ben of Wasatch

"Me and Shane used to have some "friendly competition" together in high school during football season. He was quarterback at South High and I was quarterback at Burke High. He was a great guy and always kept things humorous. I had a brief chance to work with him as the air element in Iraq flying him from place to place. I've also seen his wife on Fox News before and I sincerely hope that she is doing well. I continue to serve today, in hopes that my children, and that Shane's son does not have to when they are our age. Semper Fidelis Shane!!!"
Sgt Stephen Humphries of San Diego, California/MCAS Miramar HMH-466 "Wolfpack"

"he graduated the year before i came to south, but coach ball and other teachers would talk about him all the time. he made a big impression on the student body and the teachers as a leader. he is and always will be in my thoughts and prayers."
PFC andrew rose, B troop 3/89 cav of fort polk, louisiana

"April,
I was just thinking about you and Shane today,like I do alot. It is lil Shane's 3rd birthday, and I hope you are both doing great!!! I just want to let you know I love you and I pray for you always. love Katie Tellez(Huey)"
Katie Tellez of omaha,ne

"April,
We use to go to school together and although we were never really friends i thought you were such a sweet person.It really broke my heart to hear about Shane and then to find out you were his wife. I just wanted you to know that i think of all of you often and pray that you and your baby are doing well.Take care of both of you."
Stephanie Harshbarger of Omaha,NE

"April,
I believe someone from the Veterans office was going to try to contact you. Our nonprofit organization (KJ's Carts for Kids) 2007's efforts benefit the children and families of our military. We have an event on Sept. 9. We have your Shane's fellow marine (Klay South) speaking at our event. We are also in the midst of collecting gift cards for children and families of the military and they will be distributed at our event.

I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to visit with you. You can call us at 740-1740 or visit our website at www.kjscartsforkids.com"
Sherri of Omaha, NE

"I know Shane's loss is incalculable to all who knew him, valued him as a friend and trusted him as a marine.
I am a student at the SFC Tricia Lynn Jameson Combat Medic Training Center here at LSA Anaconda located on Balad Air Base here in Iraq.
I hope one day the children and older adults of Iraq will recognize the huge sacrifice of blood and treasure our nation has made to bring this nation into the community of free nations.
Shane could have easily skipped out and beebopped on his merry way oblivious to the suffering and the struggle of his USMC friends and the Iraqi people. But he didnt do that and hopefully we are all that closer to a final victory and closure in this so far un-ending war."
Captain Delbert Clowery of LSA Anaconda, Iraq

"To April -
I just heard your story on Fox News tonight. I cried - unable to imagine the pain you must have felt and continue to feel every day. I just gave birth to my first son, and I can't imagine not having my husband there, let alone to lose him at the same moment. I'm so sorry for your loss. You are so blessed to have your beautiful son to keep your husband's memory alive in your heart, forever. His daddy is a hero in the truest sense of the word. I hope that God continues to bring you some peace throughout your life, in spite of the terrible loss you have endured.
My husband was an Army Airborne Infantryman in Baghdad while your husband served in Fallujah. Now he's a helicopter pilot for the Army and will likely be deployed again. I knew Casey Ziegler in high school, who was to be a friend of your husband when they served together. If there is a memorial fund we can donate to, or for any reason at all, feel free to email me at erin_michelle_b@hotmail.com

God bless you and your son. I pray that the memories of your husband will keep his spirit close to your heart."
Erin Barnhart of Fort Rucker, AL

"April,

I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation for your courage and patriotism in such difficult circumstances. Many soldiers/marines have given the ultimate sacrifice, but your predicament is especially trying. Thank you for being strong."
Maj David Ellis - Faithful Husband and Father of 3 boys / of Bellevue, NE

"Ms Kielion
I saw the report on fox news today and was lost for words when I learned that your husband lost his life almost at the same time your child was born. As I continued to watch the report It left me feeling like I had lost a brother, as i am also in the military. Your husband seemed like a great man and reguardless of what anyone may ever say about our presence in Iraq, your husband mad a difference in the lives of thousands of innocent children and mothers like you. In your interview you seem like a strong ladie and you have a beautiful child.And even though I realize that there is no words that can ever make you feel better, always know that your husband is and will always be a hero. God Speed to you and your son."
SFC David Cherry of Cookeville Tennessee

"hey april, i was looking for things on our biggest heros for my english class, and mine is Shane. he's in my heart and prayers! love you,
Rachelle Sheard"
Shelly of omaha, NE US

"April.. I saw the story about your husband last night on Fox News and it touched me in ways you couldnt believe. I just feel a need to tell you that I think you are the bravest woman I have ever met. I was very touched by your strength. You are my inspriation now. I just want you to know that you and your son were in my prayers last night and will be every night from now on. Your husband is a hero in my eyes and as well as everyone elses."
Amber of Andrews, TX, USA

"April, May you know that I think of you and Shane jr. often. You have incredible strength and courage, as did Shane Sr. He would be very proud of you! You are a wonderful mother and I admire you! Shane Jr.is very fortunate to have you in his life. May God watch over and bless you!"
Bernadette Moore of Omaha, ne.

"Baby, I think of you every second of every day. I miss you and love you so much. God blessed us with a beautiful son who looks just like you. I know that you are our very own angel up in heaven now. Love, your wife, April

I want to thank everyone for all the wonderful comments and condolences and to let you know you have been a great help and support for our family. I cannot find the words to express our gratitude....thank you from the bottom of my heart."
April Kielion of Omaha, Ne

"God Bless you and your family. My brother Casey and boyfriend Clay just left for their 3rd tour in Iraq. It brings back a lot of memories and Shane is one of them. He is in my prayers along with his family. Deployments are very hard, on everyone on both sides. I think 3 tours is more than they need. But that is their job, to defend our country and keep us free and safe. Shane did an amazing job, I know Casey would definatly agree with me. I love all of our military, but espcially 3/5, India, Lima, Kilo and Wpns. God Bless You All! Keep praying for their safty. We all support you! Take care! Much Love.
~Cassidy Ziegler
Proud Sister and Girlfriend of *MY* Marines"
Cassidy Ziegler of Post Falls, ID

"god bless the family and friends of shane kielion. he is a true warrior"
james of key west, fl u.s.

"Shane,
You are a hero and a patriot. God Bless you and your family. Your sacrifice will not be in vane."
Joe Barabas of Chicago, IL,USA

"My thoughts and prayers go out to Shane's family and friends on his first anniversary of his death. Shane won't be forgotten. Thank you so much Shane for what you have done and accomplished."

"My thoughts are with the Kielion family on this first anniversary of Shane's loss; and as they celebrate Shane Jr's first birthday.

PMM of Cpl Travis Greenwood (Marine Brother of Shane)
3/5 India Co"
Sandy of The Colony, TX

"When I first heard this story i was realy sad because this dude was in my class and he would be at the football games clowning I couldnt remain sad because he was always acting a fool and having fun and always making me laugh to tears. So for those of you who was blessed by his presence think of the good times@ South High(class of 1999) and the Ultimate sacrafice ONE LOVE THE JASPERS"
LaRae Jasper of Omaha,NE

"Dear Shane E. Kielion Family, My sincerest condolences on your loss. My name is Marc Dull, I am a USAF Veteran and an Artist from Illinois. Thank you for your Shane's Honorable Service and Ultimate Sacrifice for America and it's Values. His Legacy will endure by God! I found Shane's Memorial page while doing some research for a very important project that I thought you might want to know about. I just returned from Camp Pendleton where I visited the Commanding Officer of the 5th Regiment. I am preparing to sculpt a large monument specifically for the 5th Regiment and the Fallen Heroes in Operation Iraqi Freedom for the Memorial Garden area on Camp San Mateo there. Please e-mail me at dullart7@cs.com if you would like to contribute any input or feedback. I would be honored by your participation on behalf of Shane! Semper Fidelis, God Bless you and your Family, Salute"
Marc Dull of Illinois

"Today, 8/15/2005, I read the article posted on the Fox website about Shane. I have a son in the Army that just returned from Afganistan. I don't know how we would have coped if we were faced with his death. Your strength Mrs. Kielion is inspiring. I wish I could do something for the families of all our fallen heros. However, I can only offer my prayers for Shane's family and all the others who have made the ultimate sacrafice. I will have a memorial braclet made in Shane's honor. I will wear it proudly and speak of his sacrifice and his story as often as I can."
Gary Stump of Elkhart, IN

"We appreciate you sacrifice..... You died to keep the world free. I live on the other side of the world but you died for my freedom as much as you died defending your countrys freedom."
A Lennon of Ireland

"I just wanted to thank everyone for their service. Shane was my brother, Cpl. Casey Ziegler's good friend. It hit him hard when this tragedy occured. He told us what had happened, and we just cried. I wanted to say that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers each day. I think about Shane and his wife and son often. It breaks my heart to hear her story. My boyfriend, soon to be fiancee, is also in 3/5 with my brother. They're due back to Iraq for a 3rd tour and I'm not excited. All we can do is pray for them and their families. I met Shane once, but I don't really remember it all that well. I just remember reading the name and knowing that he was friends with my brother. I hope and wish you all the best of luck in life. Thank you for your sacrafice as well as his. Take care and God bless you all."
Cassidy Ziegler of Post Falld, ID

"I have pursued all the internet avenues trying to find a way to leave a small but heartfelt few dollars to Shane Kielion's wife and baby boy. I went to the Wells Fargo option -- it was their stupid home page - advertisement for that stupid bank - I want to send a check to his wife & son - and not spend an hour manueuvering around their stupid websire trying to figure out how to make said donation. Does that sound like a bank taking advantage? Hell yes it does, and I can say that becuase I have worked for a commercial bank for 25 years. The bank is a schmuck.

I want to let Shane's wife and son know, personally, without the Wells Fago homepage - America loves their Shane, and if it werem't for Americans like Shane, we'd be living an existence where we do only what we are told, executed indescriminately, or considered as human cattle.

Shane Jr. lives in the glow. His father is the best, and Jr. will bask in his glory. You are a strong woman, married to a strong man, and will be raising a strong young man. This is what makes America great despite all our front window imperfections.

Thank you Kielions for your sacrifice for our country - there is nothing greater."
Jay Page of Anchorage AK

"I find myself taking forever to write something becasue I dont know what to say! Thank you Shane for your bravery and sacrifice! My prayers go out to his family. His Courage is inspiring along with the rest of the soldiers!"
Kris Boros of Plainfield, IL

"What a powerful sorry of love, both of country and of family. Shane's life, though brief, left many footprints behind. He has set an example for us all, and his son, Shane Jr., when he comes of the age, will have much to celebrate and admire about his dad. Too many sons today have fathers they don't know, don't care about, and would never want to emulate. Not so with Shane Jr. He has a role model for life: Lance Corporal Shane Kielion,Hero."
Joseph R. Cicero of Girard, PA

"I was deeply moved by this story and recognize that this family lost a husband, a father and a hero. My best to the family. We wish you well in your time of sorrow."
Marc of Atlanta, GA

"To Shane's Family,
I read the story... and couldn't hold back my tears, my prayers are with you and may Shane Jr. grow to learn how valiant and wonderful his father was for what he did for our country. May we never forget those that pay the ultimate price for freedom."
SSgt Jason Beckler (RET) of Avon, Indiana

"TO SHANE'S FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
I READ THE STORY ABOUT SHANE ON THE FOX NEWS WEB SITE.I MUST SAY IT BROKE MY HEART TO READ IT.IT MADE ME SO PROUD OF A MAN I DIDN'T EVEN KNOW.HIS WIFE IS SO BRAVE.MAY THEY FIND PEACE IN KNOWING THAT WE AS AMERICANS THANK YOU ALL FOR SHANE'S SERVICE AND MAY GOD GUIDE YOU TO LONG AND LASTING PEACE"
LAWRENCE LESIEUR of MANCHESTER,NEW HAMPSHIRE

"Lo, I have stood my watch this day, I have kept our enemy at bay, God and country I serve, so I swore for peace today evermore.
A new watch I proudly stand, so glorious and bold as God took my hand, with shield and armor I now bear a sword, my Comrades and I stand tall with the lord.
My eyes are fixed, my path is sure, my heart and mind so blessed and pure. As my God now dwells with me, my spirit with you will always be."
God Bless Your Family

"Semper Fi"
of omaha

"There was a man, a very special man who came to my cousin's wake on Friday
July 22nd. This man was Shane Kielion's father. My cousin Tricia Lynn Jameson was killed in Iraq when a secondary IED went off near her ambulance. She was there to help a wounded Marine (Christopher Winchester.)I remember the story of Shane Kielion from the news, about his wife and baby boy...Thinking what a loss of an awesome soldier, an asset to the Marine Corps, an Angel of God serving our country so we can be here safe in our own homes- A Hero is what he is. My Aunt came to me and told me a fellow soldiers dad had come to honor Tricia and the family and to pay his respects...It was the father of Shane Kielion. She was so honored to have this visit from such a wonderful person who had such a wonderful son that served our country...People like you sir make the world go round-you have no idea what an impact it had on our family that day to see you there and how much it meant to us. Coming from the family of another fallen soldier, we salute you , your family, your son's wife, their baby and especially Shane, for everything he did and everything he was...HE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN, ALWAYS IN OUR HEARTS, OUR PRAYERS, OUR SOULS-WE PRAY FOR HIM AS WE ALSO PRAY FOR OUR BELOVED TRICIA-GOD BLESS AND TAKE CARE-
Sgt. James Craig -USMC- and wife Keri Craig (cousin of Sgt. Tricia Lynn Jameson-KIA- Speicher,Iraq July 14th, 2005
May God watch over our Angels, Now and Forever"
Keri Craig-Tricia's Cousin of LaVista, Nebraska

"Shane, I went to high school with you and April. I didn't know either of you well, but I feel a connection to you - I gave birth to a girl just four days before your son was born, and my husband is also in the military. I am so grateful to you and all of the men and women risking their lives for us every day. I was crushed when I heard your story; I will forever keep you and your family in my heart."
Delana Lefevers Barnes of Omaha, NE

"Thanks Shane from a fellow marine from Omaha, NE. I wish I could put into words what you mean to our country..oorah!"
nameless of Omaha, NE

"I served with Shane in 3/5 and am also from Nebraska. I did not know him personally put his story touched my heart as it did so many others. My prayers are with his family and everyone else who is involved. He did not lay down his life needlessly. He answered to something greater than himself, the need to protect and serve."
Sgt. Brandon Braun of Omaha, NE

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

"Shane, I didnt know you all that well but I did grow up with April. You are very lucky to have such a wonderful wife and handsome son. Your short time on this earth proved worthy and I hope you are enjoying your eternal life with your higher power. April and baby Shane, Everytime I hear your story it breaks my heart. You are such a strong person April! Keep your head up and your heart strong."
Jessica Rabideaux of Omaha, NE

"I know in the depths of my heart that S. E. Kielion asked Jesus to send me to his side, in these, his last few breaths in this weary and wartorn world. And so I was, in awe again, priveledged, honored, speachless.

I prayed, anointed with the oils of the Church, sang with Shane and the "angels" and forgave any sins just moments before he died. God bless you April and Shane Jr.& Family. Shane Loves YOU. Love is stronger than death. I am a better priest because of Shane. Love, joy, peace"
Father Ron Camarda of Bravo Surgical, Camp Fallujah Iraq

"To the family of Shane. I saw your story on CNN. I seemed instantly connected. I am an Army scout pilot whose best friend was also killed on Nov. 15, but 2003. I worked Anbar Province also. Take care and know that a country's prayers are with you."
Ghost of Alabama

"In memory of my friend Shane...You were a great friend, and you married my best friend. I will never forget the time you convinced me to get on the float even though I am scared to death of water, and when I flew off I plugged my nose. You never let me live that down. Oh, and by the way, at your wedding I got deodorant on your uniform when I hugged you! I promise to take care of your beautiful wife and baby boy. I am lucky to have met you. Your friend from MT - no, we aren't ALL cowboys and rodeos up here! I hope now that your work on earth is done you can finally get to come visit big sky country."
Diana McCullough of Great Falls, MT

"We share your pain as our son, SGT Cory R Mracek was KIA in January 2004. There are no words to describe our loss but just know that we are all so proud of every soldier and thank God that there are men and women willing to defend us. Thank you and just know that we understand what you are going through. God Bless.
mracek@gpcom.net"
The Mracek's, Pat, Jim, Stacy, Heather of Hay Springs, NE

"We share your pain as our son, SGT Cory R Mracek was KIA in January 2004. There are no words to describe our loss but just know that we are all so proud of every soldier and thank God that there are men and women willing to defend us. Thank you and just know that we understand what you are going through. God Bless."
The Mracek's, Pat, Jim, Stacy, Heather of Hay Springs, NE

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

"To Shane'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 your soldier's bravery and sacrifice.

Sincerely,

The Family of Capt. Ernesto M. Blanco-Caldas, 82nd Airborne
KIA Iraq 12/28/2003.
Gloria Caldas (The Big Ern's Mom) of San Antonio, TX
gloria.caldas@banksterling.com"

"To the family of Cpl Shane Kielion, I had the honor of watching over your son on his journey home. You are in my thoughts and prayers."
Escort SSgt Weber of Washington, DC

"To Shane'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

"Thank You for the gift of Freedom. I will honor it in your memory."
P Bell of Macon,Ga

"To the family and friends of Lance Corporal Shane E. Kielion,

Those we hold most dear, never truly leave us. May you find comfort in love's everlasting connection.

In the Support section of this web site you will find links to many groups that support you at this crucial time. The Marine Comfort Quilt group would be honored to send a quilt to the next of kin. There are many, loving and caring Americans from all over the United States that will never forget the sacrifice that your loved one has made for our Freedom. Please register so we can send you our "Love Stitched Together."

Proud Marine Mom and Proud Member of Marine Comfort Quilts"
Sandra Moudy of Placentia, Ca

"Thank you Shane Kielion, 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 Lance Cpl. Shane Kielion:
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 Shane 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 Lance Cpl. Shane Kielion:
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 Shane, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia