Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

Remembering the servicemembers who died in the service of their country.

Army 1st Lt. Leif E. Nott

24, of Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Nott died of wounds received from hostile fire in Belaruz, Iraq. Nott was assigned to A Troop, 1st Battalion, 10th Cavalry, Fort Hood, Texas. Died on July 30, 2003.

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"I will always remember your big smile as you would come to my commo shop for assistance with your FBCB2 system.

It was a pleasure serving with you Leif in combat in 2003. Thank you for your service and sacrifice in support of our great country Brother. Rest In Peace!"
LTC Jermaine L. Sutton of Ashburn VA

"STRENGTH AND HONOR
You'll never be forgotten Sir!"
SSG Tyson L Hensley of Rapid City SD The United States of America

"Sir:
I do remember 1LT Leif Nott I was in D Troop 1-10 Cav. Leif was a great Officer and a fine person. On Friday 6 Dec 2013 I will give my retirement speech and I will mention the tragic loss of this fine young Man and Officer.
Sincerely,
CW4 Brett Beavers"
Brett Beavers of Wiesbaden Germany

"Fiddlers green sir"
Ssg swaite of Kentucky

"Lt. Nott,
Sir, 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 extends deepest sympathy. After reading all the messages left for you all I can say is that I wish I had the honor of serving with you when I was in the Military.

Ready And Forward!"

"Thinking about you and your family this weekend."
Will of WA

"I came across this posting while doing research for work. As the mom of a West Point wannabe, let me tell you that it is people such as LT Nott who inspire the next group. God bless."
Ellen of Gaithersburg, MD

"One of the greatest privileges of my life was to do Leif's memorial in Iraq as his squadron Chaplain. A godly man and a great cavalryman."
Chaplain Larry Dabeck of Fort Riley, KS

"Leif, we miss you so much and still talk about you when we get together. We'll be thinking of you this Memorial Day, and will never forget your friendship, leadership, and warm heart. I'm blessed to have known you, you were like a brother to your fellow soldiers."
Ryan of California

"Lief - Your death hit us all hard. But, for those of us who knew you and served with you at West Point, the Army, and in ministry know the impact your godly character had on people. Thanks for your example and your heart to share the love of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ with others. I am thankful that we'll see you again.
Isaiah 6:8"
Robb and Alyson Dettmer of Austin, TX

"Leif, Bin Laden is dead, Mission accomplished. Rest in peace and know that your sacrifice will always be remembered and treasured. Raffa, Les and Eric I love you guys and I am here for you if you need me."
Anna Maria of White Sands Missile Range, NM, USA

"I just found out. Hard to know that you are gone. I remember all the fun we had in school in Germany. RIP."
Candie of Fayetteville, NC

"Leif, I found out much too late of your passing and I have waited longer to leave a message because it's the first time that I can log on to this site and not cry. I read all the accollades of your friends and fellow Soldiers and I can tell that you were a wonderful man, a great Soldier, an inspiring leader, and an unforgetable son and husband. But to me you will forever remain that cute energetic little boy with a huge smile, a gleam in your eyes, and blonde, widswept hair that played with my two wonderful children for hours at a time. I treasured you then and I miss you now. The void you left will never be filled but the joy you brought to others will forever stay in their hearts as it stays in mine. Rest in peace Leif... your duty is done... your love lives on... rest in peace my Leif.
Raffa, Les, Eric nothing that I can say can heal the pain but I will forever be here for you. Thank you for giving this nation such a rare gift as Leif."
Anna Maria Vestal of White Sands Missile Range, NM

"Leif--It's been 6 years. You are still missed. We love you, and honor you this day."
Becky of Bellevue NE (Vilseck High School)

"Leif,
My best friend, I still feel your absence every day. We passed your name on to our first son. The memory of all the good times we had will stay with me forever until I see you again.

To Mel, Les, Raffa and Eric… you guys know anything you ever need, any time, any where just call on me.
All my love,
Rick Kelo
rickelo@hotmail.com"
Rick Kelo of Fishers, Indiana

"I wish I had found this site sooner. Not a single day has passed by since the night that I haven't thought about what happened. I remember it as if it happened only yesterday. As everyone else has already said LT Nott was an amazing man and an extraordinary soldier.
To Leif: you were a great man, an awesome XO, and a good Christian; may we meet on Jordans shore.
To the soldiers that were there: I share your loss; may we never forget.
And Spc Ray, you were the best medic we had and one of the best I've met, it wasn't your fault.
To the Family: God Bless!!! I wish you well. He is not forgotten, may we forever treasure his memory."
Spc Sisson of PA

"I will always miss you Leif and never foget you."
SGT Charles Alexander

"Its been 5 years to the day. There's not a day that goes by that I haven't thought about that July 30, 2003. I run the whole night through my head every day trying to remember everything I can in an attempt to never forget it. I've tried my best to model myself after Leif which has made me be a better person. I keep seeing the last ten minutes of that night and try to make sense of it all. I'm still angry over what happened, I wanted to walk with his dismount team out to their objective but no one heard me yelling at them that night. I try to dream about it in a hope to see it all again but I haven't in 5 years . . . I hope that his family is well and that he's forever watching over them. God bless you sir."
Sgt. Sean Harvey of Sacramento, CA

"Almost five years now and not a day passes that I do not miss each moment I was blessed to share with Leif as a fellow Buffalo Soldier in 1-10 CAV. You excelled at making the best of ANY situation and you put your soldiers first 100% of the time. I will never forget that fateful night in Balad Ruz when we lost much more than a beloved son, husband, friend and brother in arms, but a genuine Hero.

'Well done,' Leif, 'Be thou at peace...'"
Chris Crawford of Boston, MA

"July 3, 2008
To the family of 1st Lt. Leif E. Nott:
Leif 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

"Thanks for your sacrifice. You are well remembered this Memorial Day."
Dan Keenaghan '00 of Washington, DC

"I never knew LT Nott, but I served in D Troop 1-10 and when we got the news that we had lost a memeber of the squadron, I still remember the sadness I felt. He was a brother and I prayed for him and his family good-bye LT Nott.
Ready and Forward"
SGT Daniel Long of Naperville, IL

"Lief,
Rest in peace, my brother."
A former CAV officer

"Lt. Nott was one of the greatest people I served in Iraq with and I will remember him forever."
Jesse Pigg of Texas

"It's been 4 years, Leif; and your loss is still felt. Prayers going out to your parents and your wife."
Becky (Hooper) Gargan of Bellevue, NE

"You will be missed. God Bless You my friend."
Sgt John Macaras of VHS c/o 96

"I met lief at young life, we used to do the skits together,one time he about killed me in a karate skit lol. i loved him to death and sad that im just finding this.god bless you lief,keep God laughin!!"
brady kollecker of Boise, id

"I knew Leif for 4 brief, yet memorable, days in a Model US Senate conference in Germany when I was 17 years old in 1996. Our school only sent a small group to the conference..we were the rookies and everyone else was so experienced compared to us. We were terribly intimidated. I met Leif on our 2nd day there. I was having a terrible day and he made me laugh so hard I completely forgot what I was upset about. We became great friends instantly. He was smart, funny and so eager to hear other people's points of view. We stayed in touch for a year and then went our separate ways. For some reason I remembered Leif 2 days ago and I googled his name, not thinking for a second I would find what I did. I haven't been in touch with Leif for over 9 years but the news struck me as though I had known him my whole life. I can't believe he died. My heart and prayers are with his family. Your son was a ray of light.
I hope the leaders of this country think long and hard before they send their boys to war. Leif was always willing to give his life for this country, that doesn't mean that he had to. I hope you rest in peace Leif, we miss you."
Mona Hassen of New York

"Leif Nott was an amazing XO but also an extraordinary person. His life was cut short but his memory lives on. We will never forget you. 2/3/2007"
Michael Trosko of Mesa, AZ

"I dont know where to begin to try and say something about Leif. I was his Bradley Gunner when he past away and I was there until the end. I cant explain how good of a person he was. He put everyone's needs in front of his own and I'll never forget him. I know for a fact that our lord is taking care of him as we speak. He was the best human being I ever met. God bless him and his family."
Sgt Sean Harvey of Sacramento CA

"Theres so much i want to say and dont know where to begin,LT.Nott was not only a good leader but a great friend. The world is a lesser place with out him but i know he's in a better place now. I served under LT. Nott while i was in Bravo troop 1/10 CAV and had the pleasure to learn lots from him. God keep you in his arms LT. Nott........Ready and Forward Sir!!!!!!!"
SGT. R BENAVIDES of HOUSTON, TX

"May your Soul Rest in God Arm's!!!!!!

Leif and I go way back to A-Burg Germany. He played soccer and I basketball. To be honest he could play all sports if he wanted to. The kid was a Beast in high school. I am sitting here holding back tears, Because Leif was like the smartest, funniest, most athletic person to be around. I see that he went to West Point and had all these accomplishments, That makes me so happy so to know such a person in my lifetime. I to lost someone to this war.. My Father.. I wonder when it will stop. Another Fallen Hero......
Leif and the Nott Family I just would like to say Thank You for making such a wonderful person. May God Bless you and your family on all that you do in life."
Obinna Eze' of Norfolk, VA

"My name is Justin Ray. I was there that night. I'm a medic in the Army and on that night Lt. Nott wanted me to go with him on his last patrol before he took over as the squadron maintenence officer. Spc. Deavers, who was also a medic, was leaving the next morning as well and she wanted to go instead, so I said okay. It all happened so fast but I remember the gunfire and the Humvee pulling up with Lt. Nott in the back. We tried everything we could but we failed. I was the last person Lt. Nott saw and I'd just like to tell his wife and his family that I'm sorry I failed him and I would give anything to go back and change what happened that night. Please forgive me."
Spc. Justin S. Ray of Hanau, Germany

"I salute you!"
Angela Turman of Ft. Worth, Texas

"I didnt know Leif, but my fiance is stationed here at F.E.Warren AFB; it just amazes me the courage these guys have to risk their lives for millions of people they never knew. He is a hero in my eyes."
Tyra of Cheyenne, Wyoming

"Ah, I wish I'd found this site sooner! I also went to Vilseck with Leif - I was his date for the Military Ball that year! My heart just shattered when I heard the news. Though he and I lost touch, Leif had visited my parents at Ft. Knox, and I heard of him from time to time. I was so pleased to learn he found love, it just goes to show good guys really do win!!! I am so sorry for your loss, he was truly a special, warm, funny, caring man, and I will never, ever, forget him. Melanie, though we never met, you're often in my prayers, everytime I remember my fallen classmate. I hope time finds you healing from your loss, please know you are not alone in your grief - and, hopefully, the joy that comes with knowing Leif is in that "better place.""
Michele Hardeman of South Carolina

"To the family of:Leif E Nott 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 Chirst,"
Polly Ballew of Covington, Ga

"It's been two years.
Two years....
I haven't posted anything
Feels like yesterday when I was listening to your stories of West Point.... When I was giving you big loving hugs... When we were dining in style before the Homecoming dance with our dates: your mom chefing out, making Spaghetti Carbonara! To the big brother I never, yet always had... You are still so alive to me! I know you are still with all of us, in someway. Thank you for changing my life...
Love***"
Erin Connolly of Pleasanton, California

"The Salute


To those who have died,
And to those who have cried.
We Salute You.

To those who have lost,
Paid the ultimate cost.
We Salute You.

And to those who still serve,
The Red White and Blue.
Our grateful Nation,
Proudly Salutes You."
Tom Balstad of West Warwick RI

"To the Nott family,

Firstly, I am very sorry for your loss. I never knew Lt. Nott but from what I have read he was a true soldier and a respected individual. I am sure that every life that was touched by his was a positive and nurturing one and that his legacy will live on with the young men that he lead. I left the Army a few years ago as an NCO and a soldier of F TRP 1-10 CAV. I now live in Australia and have lost touch with many army buddies however decided to purchase a memorial bracelet for a fallen comrade and wear it with pride never forgetting the sacrifice made by this soldier. I picked Leif and will wear his name/details on my wrist with pride and honor as a fellow Buffalo Soldier. He will not be forgotten!

God Bless and thankyou Lt. Nott"
Bud Kinimaka of Queensland, Australia

"I just found this site so I am a bit late of wishing my friend farewell. Leif was the nicest and most caring friend anyone could imagine. Leiff and I went to high-school together in Vilseck, Germany. We spent a lot of time discussing everything from politics to church to girls. He was the guy everyone liked and never had a bad thing to say about anyone. He helped me a lot during my time in school, mainly by just being there listening and making me laugh when things weren't so bright and shiny. We were close friends then and eventhough I have not seen him since then, I always considered him a very important person in my life. I will miss the guy that always had something nice and funny to say, who could light up a room and make everyone feel appreciated. I will miss those times bud, and I have the picture of you and me at graduation day on my wall. You meant a lot to me Leif, you were an amazing friend and an honest individual. Thank you and thanks to all of you who are making the sacrifice to preserve our freedom. Leif meant a lot to me and I know that all the people who he left behind and whose lives he touched will forever remember him, not for how he died, but for how he lived. Good-bye my friend, thank you for the memories, the friendship, and for showing me what it means to sacrifice."
Sven-Eric Thompson of Sioux Falls, South Dakota

"Leif, my classmate and friend, we had some great times, while we didn't spend all our time together, when we were at glub or anywhere else we bumped into each other we were boyeez. You inspired me to be more responsible. Despite any problems you had, you always leaned on God and inspired me to never lose my faith. As I sit ready to deploy to OIF III as a commander, I think it an incredible loss to those of us who knew you and those who you would have led, but I believe that you would have few regrets. I will keep your memory close and carry on the fight as I know you would have. Here's to Cali, mistakes, duty, and eternal salvation my brother. I'll see you on the other side."
Aric Prost of Fort Stewart, GA

"To The family and wife of Leif Nott...
Leif was one of my best friends in High School, last time I talked to him was when he was at West Point. My heart goes out to you. I'm sitting here, just having found out what happened and remembering our times in school. Like me he had a sense of humour and could make anyone laugh. As I am sitting here writing this with tears down my face, I'm explaining to my wife who Leif was and what he meant to me. I only wish I had remained in contact through the years and had known my friend's fate sooner...to my friend Leif, I will miss you dearly and recall our friendship with a smile. You have given your life for our country and my son's will grow to know what you and others have sacrificed. Our loss is Heavan's gain, for you truly are a great soul. Farewell my friend and may we meet after this life. God bless the troops of the United States of America."
Michael Walters of Hinesville, GA

"Leif,
Thank you for the memories and the times we had. Constant training was made easier with you and the other platoon leaders when we went to the field. You served your country and left with the highest name any man can hope to attain, that of a hero."
CPT Bill Parrish of Amarillo, Tx

"To the family of Leif,

I am so sorry for your loss.

Leif was in my company at West Point, he was a plebe when I was a firsty. I remember him as a tall, serious and squared away guy. I remember getting him to laugh a few times and how his entire face would light up.

About 6 years later, I was given the opportunity to work with Leif again, this time, we were in Iraq. My artillery battery was supporting his CAV troop. I was absolutely blown away at how this guy I remembered as a young plebe had clearly developed into a dedicated, professional leader. I could sense how his soldiers and officers respected him and I was really impressed. And I was happy to see that smile again.

I just wanted to thank Leif and his family for the sacrifices they have made to the country. I also want you to know how proud I am to have been able to serve with Leif and his soldiers.

Go Fighting Irish, Leif- you will never be forgotten."
Andy Roberts of San Diego, CA

"My name is SPC Michael Darcy A TRP 1-10 CAV 1st Plt. I want to express my condolences to Cpt Notts family. I feel honored to know someone like him. I knew Cpt. Nott for 2 years, and I have nothing but the best things to remember him by. I have been on combat missions with him, and he will always be remebered as the best XO A TRP 1/10 Cav has ever had... Rest in Peace brother...and god bless you and your family.

X to the Hizzo 24/7"
Michael Darcy of Ft. Hood, TX

"In Loving Memory..Its been a year..7/30/04

At the rising of the sun and at its going down, We remember them.
At the blowing of the wind and in the chill of Winter, We remember them.
At the opening of buds and in the rebirth of Spring, We remember them.
At the blueness of the skies and in the warmth of Summer, We remember them.
At the rustling of leaves and the beauty of Autumn, We remember them.
At the beginning of the year and when it ends, We remember them.
As long as we live, they too will live;
for they are now a part of us, as we remember them.
Rest in Peace Dear Soldier!!! We will NEVER FORGET!"
The Grogan Family of Lakeland, TN

"I was in Leif Nott's company when he was a Firstie and I was a Plebe. I'll never forget how he made one of the most difficult years of my life more bearable. I wish I had more than a year to get to know Leif. In the year I knew him, I learned how much he loved His God, his soldiers, the Army, and his Country. To Leif's family: I give you my deepest condolences for your loss. To Leif: You lived and died a Hero, doing your small part to bring something good to the world during a time when there is so much evil around. You will never be forgotten."
2LT Michael Kurtti of Fort Irwin, CA

"In Loving Memory..Its been a year..

At the rising of the sun and at its going down, We remember them.
At the blowing of the wind and in the chill of Winter, We remember them.
At the opening of buds and in the rebirth of Spring, We remember them.
At the blueness of the skies and in the warmth of Summer, We remember them.
At the rustling of leaves and the beauty of Autumn, We remember them.
At the beginning of the year and when it ends, We remember them.
As long as we live, they too will live;
for they are now a part of us, as we remember them.
Rest in Peace Dear Soldier!!! We will NEVER FORGET!"
The Grogan Family of Lakeland, TN

"To the family of Leif Nott,

I graduated with Leif from West Point in 2000. I knew him there, only in passing, but his gentle charisma was inspiring to me and many others. I truly wish that I had gotten to know him better, but I know that his faith was the torch he used to light the way through uncertain times. All of us who were in any way touched by Leif are greatly saddened by his loss. Sincerely,"
CPT Nate Crain of Ft Leonard Wood, MO

"And when our work is done
Our course on Earth is run
May it be said 'Well Done'
Be thou at peace
'Ere may that line of Gray
Increase from day to day
Live, serve and die we pray
West Point, for thee..."

I had the honor to sing these words with Leif in the glee club at school. He was a great guy and extremely talented. My deepest condolences to his wife and family, he will be missed by many."
JK of Fort Campbell, KY

"j'aimerais savoir l'origine de cette personne car,je m'appelle NOTT édith, j'ai 53 ans et mon père, édward NOTT, décédé en 1990, était d'origine anglaise et a été prisonnier pendant la dernière guerre pendant six ans ! quelqu'un l'a t-il connu pendant cette époque ? il avait un frère, Robert, qui est mort au front ."
nott lesoeur of lyon France

"As a brand new Second Lieutenant reporting to an artillery battalion, I had the luck of being assigned as a fire support officer in support of Bravo Troop, 1st Squadron, 10th U.S. Cavalry. This is where I was afforded the pleasure of meeting my great friend, Leif Nott. We both graduated West Point together in 2000, but unfortunately, I did not know him very well. From the days I spent with 1-10 CAV, I was able to see what a great person Leif was and the leadership that, for some, just came natural. He would often joke with me because I wasn’t a true Cavalryman, but that never stopped him from embracing me as a brother. In that year that I was the FSO, we spent about 4 months in the field, all of which was made much more bearable with Leif around. I will never forget the times that Leif and I played cards with Ryan and Will. It is the bonds of friendship that make the Army a better place…and Leif certainly made my life better, making me a better person just to know him. I will never forget Leif and how he has touched my life. To Leif’s family…thank you for you brave son…he will never be forgotten."
CPT Gregory E. Ladeveze of Fort Hood, TX

"I met Leif at the first parent's weekend at West Point. My nephew was his roommate that first year and I took a picnic lunch for the boys. We had a fun day although they all looked tired and hungry! What determined young men they all were! I will never forget him. He was a hero. I can't ever imagine your loss. Thank you so much for your brave son."
Charlene Peterson of Danbury,CT

"To Mr. and Mrs. Nott and his wife Melanie:
I am very sorry for your loss. Lief went to High School with my brother John C. W. Macaras in Vilseck, Germany, I currently go there to. They have a memorial plaque for Lief in the hallway by the scool office."
Jessica Macaras of Vilseck, Germany

"To the Nott Family and CPT Nott's wife.
I knew then LT Nott from working with him at TCACCIS in Fort Hood. He was the unit's Movement Officer. He was a fine officer with the ora of an angel. At the time he was getting his unit ready for deployment, I was pregnant, and he's wife was also from what he told me. He always asked me how I was doing, and he didn't have to. In that short time that he used to come to my office, I learned to respect him so much more as an Officer and as a man. He always talked of his wife and unborn child with such love, devotion and respect. And he always showed genuine care for me and my unborn son. To his wife, I know you miss him dearly, but know that you have your own personal guardian angel. For I know he is watching over you and your family. To his parents, you brought up a fine, fine young man and an even finer Officer. CPT Nott, thank you. For always caring and always showing me a smile that was genuine. We (my son and I) are doing fine, he is 19 months now!!. You are always on my thoughts. God Bless you all."
SSG Lorna Nichols of Fort Hood, TX

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

"Please KNOW so many people continue to remember you in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Leif, will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"Lief was the most competent officer in 1-10 CAV. He was a great American and a warrior who served his country selflessly and with great pride. I had the pleasure of serving with Lief in 1-10 CAV. He is missed by all."
A former Cavalry Officer

"To the family:
Army 1st Lt. Leif E. Nott will not be forgotten!
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you in your sorrow.
May God's love and peace be with you."
Pat and Sandi B of Montana

"To the Nott family we send our deepest sympathy. I did not know Leif, but my son serve's in the same unit. His service and your loss will not be in vain. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers. Keep you faith in God and pray for all those who have fallen and those who still remain in harm's way.

Sincerely,

SFC RET Frederick A. & SGT Michael V. Bucci"
SFC RET Fred Bucci of Chambersburg, Pa. USA

"Thank you Leif Nott, 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

"My name is Jessica (Lee) Nilsson, and I met Leif way back in high school when he was my assistant editor on the yearbook. He was a wonderful guy. Always happy and willing to work. I saw him again while he was a senior at West Point and talked with him a little. He was still the cheerful, intelligent guy I knew back in high school. My heart goes out to his wife and family. God bless."
Jessica Nilsson of Spokane, WA

"I have known Leif since his first days in the 1st Squadron, 10th U.S. Cavalry when he reported to B Troop as a newly minted lieutenant. I had the distinct pleasure of serving as his troop executive officer during which time we cultivated a good friendship. Of course, it did not take long to take stock of Leif’s indomitable character. In every respect, he demonstrated the qualities that define great men. He was warm and gracious to everyone regardless of their color, creed, or station in life. His infectious optimism could stir hopefulness in the stubborn hearts of pessimists. He never failed to lift the spirits of everyone around him with his cheerful personality and good humor. Firmly committed to self-improvement, Leif was always willing to accept criticism, and he never hesitated to seek advice and counsel from others. He led his men with the authority and respect derived not from his title or position but from his unparalleled competence and selflessness. By the inspiring force of his example, Leif encouraged goodness in everyone whether peer, subordinate, acquaintance, or friend. Over time, I grew to respect and admire Leif more and more for the depth and vitality of his spirit. The true measure of a man’s character lies not only in its outward manifestation but also in the deeper beliefs and values which give it substance. In this respect, Leif was undeniably special, for the content of his character was molded by an unwavering faith in the Almighty, by an abiding love for his family, and by an unyielding devotion to our Nation. His uncommon love for God, family, and country found expression in every word and every action, and the light that emanated from his life shined like a sunbeam on the hearts of all who knew him. While I may never again enjoy the warmth of Leif’s presence, I will forever embrace and cherish his precious memory, for I have faith that the beacon of his life will not be cloaked in the darkness of his passing. His light will always flicker in my heart, and his memory will echo in my mind all the days of my life."
CPT Ryan Newman of Fort Hood, Texas

"To Leif,
I will always remember the fun and crazy times we had at Young Life. And then the night we had all the guys over to your house and watched movies and played your guitar. I miss you man, you were like a big brother to me."
Jay Johns IV of Ft. Hood Texas

"I remember Leif from the Glee Club at West Point. He would translate the Italian songs so we would know what in the world we were singing. I will remember his good humor and smile always."
J.R. Sawyer of Arlington, TX

"Dear Notts,
It is with great sorrow that I write this to you. Leif was a good friend to all who would need one. He was faithful to God and a pretty good guitarist, too. I had the blessing of having him in the OCF Praise Band at West Point when I was its Cadet in Charge. He could always be counted on to raise the quality of the praises we led for our Lord Jesus Christ. He also could always be counted on to stir up a little good-natured mischief, too. I will sorely miss him. I'm sure that connot compare to your grief, but I want you to know that I can't wait to sing and play guitar with him again at the feet of Jesus one day.

In Christ,
Nathan
thehurtbox@hotmail.com"
CPT Nathan Hurt of Fort Knox, KY

"Mr. and Mrs. Nott and Melanie,
Your son and husband was a fellow warrior and leader in 1-10CAV. I could always count on him to brighten my day no matter how bad it was. He had the unique ability to inspire laughter and to minimize worry. He led by example and set a standard few of us could obtain. Leif truly represented selfless service and outdid all of us in his abilities and his love for his soldiers, while never making us feel inferior. He was truly a great officer and leader of soldiers. All of us still here in Iraq mourn his loss, miss his presence, and keep his family and loved ones in our thoughts and prayers. GOD BLESS!"
1LT Waitman W. Beorn of 1-10 CAV, IRAQ

"I was in a couple classes at West Point with Leif. Please accept my deepest regret for your loss. He always had a smile on his face."

"To Leif's Family and wonderful wife, Melanie, We pray for you everyday and we love you very much. Leif is a wonderful man who sacraficed a great deal for the better of our country. He will be missed and will always be loved and remembered. Melanie, we miss bebo, baxter and bianca. Hope you read this and know that we think of you very often and of Leif's family. May God shine His light on you and Raffa, Les, and Eric and all family and friends. Love you always,
KarinAnn, Steven, and little Stevin (scooby, scrappy, and shaggy, too)
SteveMcK1974@aol.com"
KarinAnn and Steven McKinney of Deltona, Fl. USA

"I went to West Point with Leif and knew him well. I just wanted to pass my condolences to his family and friends and let them know that they will all be in my thoughts and prayers."
1LT Brian Gillo of Fort Hood, Texas

"A Raffaella, Les ed Eric, in particolare, ma a tutti coloro che hanno avuto il privilegio di conoscere Leif, nostro nipote e ragazzo straordinario che, ovviamente, non dimenticheremo mai.
Un infinito abbraccio"
Paola Carlo Massimiliano e Giulia - Italy

"Leif was my son's first room-mate at West Point and my husband and I cannot express enough on how upsetting it was to hear of his death. You can be proud of Leif and all his accomplishments. It is an honor to have had the privilege of knowing a hero. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers."
Debby Rivard of Somerset, WI.

"To the Family you are in my prayers...May God bless you. I do want to say it was a honor to have him in our military Thanks for serving our country"
Stacey (Proud Army WIfe) of Zephyrhills,Florida

"To the family and friends of 1st Lt. Leif Nott:
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 Leif 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 1st Lt. Leif Nott:
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 Leif, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia

Honor them by remembering... Freedom - is their gift to us But his soul goes marching on