20, of Woodbridge, Virginia.
Medina died as result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Died on November 12, 2004.
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"Brian,
You will always be my best friend. I miss you so much. I am sorry I wasnt there with you. I maybe could have made a difference. I love you so much. I wish I would have had the guts to write this to you and your family a long time ago. But I just didnt have it in me to say goodbye. You will always be in my heart and thought."
Lcpl Ashley "turtle" Gray of Roanoke,Va
"DEAR BRIAN, Today is one of the hardest days of the year for me while many of those have cookouts and throw parties i remember the ultimate sacrifice you paid for this country i remember your funeral and in what was supposed to be a celebration of life felt like my very own heart was being torn out and then watching section 60 and reliving everything today is the day that i come to see u every year i miss you so much homie i find my self smiling staring off into the distance somedays just laughing at all of the stuff we used to joke about im so sorry that i never called you that day that i got your number and my last words to you were come home in one piece and when you get back were gonna get messed up for your 21st b day had i would have known that it would have been the last time i would have seen u alive i would have said different i beat my self up for it often and every year on this day i fufill that same promise i sit in my and celebrate your twenty first birthday the one that you never got to see and i realise how short life really is i now not only have a two year old daughter but another daughter on the way DEANNA SKYLAR STORM HALDERMAN i have a wonderful fiance jennifer who keeps me sane most days and a family the one i always dreamed about they know all about you i hope your doing ok up there i keep you and your family in my prayers every day and have been free from adiction for a little over three years now any ways i miss bro and as long as those of us who knew you are around no one will ever forget SEMPER FI WE ALL LOVE AND MISS YOU PS please watch over my nephew and grandmother i know they are watching over you___miss you homie"
justin lee halderman aka shadow da kid of Fredericksburg va
"Brian, I feel so much guilt for not having dropped absolutely everything and written you back right away. I do. I remember getting that very first e-mail from you after so many years and just...I was blown away. My lanky goof of a Brian, a US Marine? Amazing.
I just never saw it coming - I didn't think you would leave me. Not once had it ever crossed my mind. It was an impossibility, and that is where I was wrong. So very wrong. Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever.
I don't know about the existence of a god, or spirits, but I honestly hope you saw me that day - the day I found out and the anguish. I crumpled and the guilt was... Oh, Brian. I was such a dumb kid.
I contacted your dad and tried to send him copies of our 9th grade Military Ball pics. Remember that? =] You and Branden were sliding all over the marble floor, LOL! Your pants were all dusty! You ruined our pics. >:] You big ol'doofus. <3
I never actually got to send him those pics. I don't remember why that never worked out. I also turned down the chance to say my last goodbye to you. Babe, I'm sorry. If my situation would've been easier - if I hadn't of been overseas - I would've been there. Someday I will come to see you, though, and I will tell you about all of the crazy things I've done and just, everything. We'll catch up and it will be so awesome!
That last message...you said you were a grunt in life? Something like that? I never got the chance to have you explain that to me, but, you know what? You are nothing less than wonderful. So many people loved and admired you. Unfortunately you just may not have realized it quite in time.
I love you, Brian. We had some damn good times together. (Well, except for that one time you smashed that big grasshopper. I'm still pretty not happy about that. >:|) I don't remember how it is that we lost contact after you left for the states, but I was so glad to have you back in my life, hun. You just left too soon. We didn't have enough time and I would've loved to have seen the man you had become.
Miss you. <3
PS: I printed out your e-mails back in the day, because I am absolutely weird like that, and I am so glad that I did cuz I got locked out of my account! I still have them, though.
PPS: <333 you so much. Seeing you in my dreams is bittersweet but I will gladly take it any day.
PPPS: Okay, I'll stop, but I seriously do love you. I'mma give you the maddest hug ever when I next see you.
---
Those of you that went to NAHS, are family or who knew him personally can contact me at kindle_the_darkness@hotmail.com. I have 2 pics with him in them. I'll just blur out others and myself. Just put Brian in the subject line, k? Much love."
Andrea Petrucci of UK
"Hello from Ontario Canada. We have watched Section 60 for the second time today, and our 8 year old son, Noah, asked about Brian Anthony Medina and about his Dad who was visiting him. We write to pay our respect, and to ask if his family and friends and those who knew him best could please post a photograph of him.
Today, our family of 5 will drive to Toronto Ontario and stand on a bridge along the Highway of Heroes as five Canadians killed in Afghanistan, make their final journey to rest.
God has promised, that one day there will be an end to war."
Amanda Garraway Roberts of Cambridge, Ontario Canada
"Dear Brian,
Its been a while man and i visit your grave at least once a year and i think about you everyday i have a daughter now ..shes three months old & shes gorgeous i remember whilin out in rotc with you and us freestyling by the freshman locker bay in high school two mixtapes later with an album on they way here i am i want you to know you got your own song now its called say goodbye my biggest regret is when you gave me your number never calling you i hate myself everyday for it i will nevr forget you homie EVER i got ya R.I.P. tat on my chest and i wear you dog tag i miss you so much and i know that one day i will see you again"
Justin Lee Halderman of fredericksburg, va.
"I first learned about Brian on the documentary Section 60. My heart goes out to all the men and women who have given their lives fighting for what our Country stands for! May the Creator look down upon all of you and your families."
Zella F. Utley of Belleville,Michigan
"Brian,
Like one of the previous reflections, I also saw the HBO documentary "Section 60." The love and devotion that your father shows for you is incredible. I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
Semper Fi Devil Dog!"
"I owe you my life. Thats about as simple as I can say it. When I found out that I was EAS non-deployable and couldn't extend fast enough to deploy, and you volunteered to take my spot, it broke me. I still think about you every day, and the sacrifice you made. I dont think I have more respect for anyone else in this world. I wish it would have been different for you brother. My heart is still so heavy that I could never fully explain it to anyone. I pray for your family and friends, and I pray that some day I could return the favor. Words just cant say how much. Semper Fi brother."
Cpl. David Baltz of K 3/3 Wpns
"I will never forget you"
Thomas Buijten of Jacksonville NC
"Our Father. O Lord be with Our Soldiers as they leave their homes and their families to serve our nation. Guide them as they plant the seeds of peace, for these are the seeds that will forever keep America, the land of the free and the home of the brave. Bless them O Lord, and Bless their Families, for they are the heroes of American Freedom. Their sacrifice for us will not be forgotten."
William D. Taylor Jr. of Bonita Springs, Fl.
"Brian A Medina was a Marines Marine and our Marine loved him and respected him and bled with him; I am so glad we all met Memorial Day weekend in 2005; Greg is an awesome person and I know he is why Brian was such a great person and Marine; Jennifer is the kind of girl I want my Son to marry; God bless your family; JJ was wounded but lived as were Etheridge and Ayala; the Medinas have an awesome Family."
Andrew J Aguirre of Fayetteville,NC
"November 15, 2008
To the family of Lance Cpl. Brian A. Medina:
Brian 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
"God bless you. Your son is a true hero and will never be forgotten."
Mike of Glendale, AZ
"This morning I watched a documentary about Section 60. The father of a soldier named Brian Medina will be in my prayers for the rest of my life. I am not sure if I have the right person, but I somehow wanted to tell him that he and his family are forever in my thoughts. I, a veteran of the Military, am proud to have served along with your son. He gave all he could to defend his country, and I will be eternally grateful. God Bless you, Mr. Medina and family."
Leslie Nicole Tomme of Houston, Tx
"hey bri,
its crazy how you only lived 20 short years but yet you had such an impact on everyone around you, even if youve only known them for a day. that just goes to show just how great of a guy you are.
i now have a toddler & a baby boy on the way, it saddens me to know my kids will never met their uncle brian. but i promise i will talk about you often, so long after im gone, they will keep your memory alive. your never gone as long as someone remembers you.
i have two regrets. one, i wish i sent you more letters while you were in Iraq & i said i love you more often. two, i wish i let you teach me how to break dance, like you wanted. im sorry. i took my last days with you for granted & for that im sorry too. i cant wait for the day i see you again. i love you & i miss you."
YOUR SISTER, Jennifer Medina of Maryland
"I remember the formation when you asked First Sgt. Booth if you could volunteer to drop to 1/3. I had no choice, I was told I was going, but you did have a choice, and you chose to go. I didn't realise it at the time, but I was in the company of the bravest men the world has ever known. Men who would give their lives, so that others may have it. Semper Fi, Medina. Your life will never be forgotten."
Brannon Dyer of Blairsville, GA
"Hey weapon...it's me anthony..man i remember hearing about you as soon as i got out of bootcamp..(04)..i actually recived a letter from you 5 days before your passing...i miss you bro...rest in peace and we'll see each other soon and talk about the old days back in naples..."
HN Burdios, Anthony of NMCSD
"Weapon, Whats up man? This is ya boy Barker, from Italy. I miss you dawg. I want to thank you for all you did. You remember playin football and basketball over seas, those were some good times. Anyway, I know you lovin where your at. We all miss you and love you."
Kyle Jacobs of Columbus, Georgia
"Medina,
I still remember the first time I met you. You were one goofy kid.But one hell of a Marine. While the rest of us seasoned Marines were seperated into involuntary service to Iraq, you and only you had the balls to volunteer for the sand box. Every, single, day I think about that. You were one of my best young Marines. I cant tell you how hard it's been on all of us of your loss. But we always find a way in comforting ourselves in the wake of your bravery.On this memorial day 2006, I wll crack open a cold one and remember all the times we had together, and think about the day we will meet again.I miss the hell outta you. God speed."
Neal "skinny" Walker Kilo Co 3/3 2001-2005 of Orlando,FL
"Brian, it is me Doc, I just wanted to tell you how much I miss you with all my heart and I am glad I was with you when you left this world. I try to subdue your pain and I hope I did a good job. Being a Corpsman is not an easy job and I just wish I could have done better for you. I love you so much...and I must say I am crying inside everyday from the loss of you and Dave. Sometimes I relive the event like it is happening all over again even though I am out of the military.
I believe I left the service to soon, and now I wish to go back, this time as an officer. I will always hold a special place in my heart for you and Dave. You guys were great. I love you and miss you. You pal DOC"
DOC Dowers of Some where in this world
"brian, your ar the root of all the good memories, i ahd so many good times with you and you really open up my eyes man, i miss you. some day man some day"
cpl. thomas lawler of 2nd plt, 1st sqd
"Brian, you are our hero. Dan and I are so proud to have known such a great man as you."
Rebecca and Daniel Zeringue of Jacksonville, NC
"To the family of:Brain A. Medina 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. Prayerfully, we will 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, Gateway Community Church, 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ,"
Polly Ballew of Covington,Ga
"""As a veteren of K Co 3/3 and a very short stint (2 Months with G Co)(1986-1990)MCAS K-Bay it saddens me to hear of the loss of my brother Marine but I know he left us bravley fighting to keep my family safe from the evils of the world keeping with the highest traditions of the Corps. I'm now to old to reenlist but if I could I would."""
Lcpl. Robert Blaylock of Lakeside CA, USA
"Corporal Medina, goodbye soldier and thank you. You are my hero."
Bill of Houston, Texas
"Brian, i still think about you day and night wishing i could see you again. Your love and kindness is greater than anything anyone would be able to give. I miss you and love you always."
danielle of california
"Dear Brian
WE WILL MISS YOU.THOU WE ONLY MET ONCE I FEEL LIKE I REALLY KNEW YOU U ARE SO FUNNY AND I HAD A GREAT TIME HANGING OUT WITH U TAKE CARE GOD BLESS U AND YOUR FAMILY"
angie of COLUMBIA,SC
"You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Semper Fi"
CPL and Mrs. Ryan Olson of Woodbridge, VA
"Dear Brian,
Not a day goes by that I dont think of you and what happened. I am so sorry, always will be. I wanted to get you out. I wish I was able to get you out of that court yard. We worked so hard together, shared our lives with each other as roommates in Okinawa. I miss you so much. I'm sorry, brother."
Cpl. Ethridge, Andrew D. U.S.M.C. of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii
"Brian,
I didn't know you, but I read about you through Naples from back in Italy I also attended school there, what brings me to your site today is the fact that you were my brother we are related through a Military family, so just because I don't know you,doesn't mean that I don't hurt for the empty space you once filled here on earth.
you are a hero, it was today that you were being brought into this earth not long ago, I am sad that you could not stay long, and send my condolences to your friends and family.
December 19th 2004"
Sgt. Nuray R. Colon of Fort Hood, 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, Brian will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you ALWAYS. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "
"To Brian'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 Brian'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
"To the family:
My heart, thoughts and prayers are with you everyday. Keep your eyes upon the Lord. He will get you through.
My husband, L. Cpl. Travis A. Fox 1/3 Bravo 3rd Plt, was killed Oct 30, 2004 in the car bombing. Our families understand and know what you are going through.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all they ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
If you need me for anything, don't hesitate- casieeasterlin29@hotmail.com"
Casie Fox Proud Marine Wife FOREVER of Lcpl Travis Fox KIA 20041030 Iraq of Greer, SC
"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 Brian A. Medina,
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 Brian Medina, 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. Brian Medina:
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 Brian 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. Brian Medina:
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 Brian, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia