Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I also want to share something with you....what is on my mind today (other than finishing my shopping). I woke up this morning, and for whatever reason, God put Corporal Cory Leonard Palmer on my mind.

Back in Dec 2006, I was in the airport waiting for my flight back overseas to finish up a 12 month deployment after spending two weeks at home for R&R. I was feeling pretty down, and couldn't believe I was leaving behind my son and husband AGAIN. I had just finished a five month tour and went back 9 months later for the 12 month tour. So, I was sitting in the airport in uniform, and a really soft spoken woman walked up to me and asked if she could tell me about her son. I said sure. She pulled out a small picture of her son who was in uniform and told me his name is Corporal Cory Palmer, USMC and he was killed on 6 May (2006) while serving in Fallujah, Iraq. She told me how much he loved serving his country and asked me to carry his picture so he could continue to serve. She thanked me for my service, hugged me and left. I was heartbroken but at the same time, felt an overwhleming sense of duty and pride. I reallized at that moment that I needed to pick myself up and be grateful that I could still continue to do what I loved doing (serving) and be grateful for my life, family and friends.

I have carried Corporal Palmer's photo with me EVERY day since! He has been on deployments and TDYs all over the United States. I retired from active duty on 1 Feb 2012, and now work as a government civilian still working directly with the military -- Corporal Palmer is still carried with me. I have thought many times about trying to contact Corporal Palmer's mother to thank her for helping me through a rough time in my life, and to also let her know that her son is still being honored and has continued to serve since the day I met her. I woke up this morning determined to make TODAY be THAT day. I am trying to find her. I am also going to make copies of Corporal Palmer's picture and give them to the young men and women who work with me so they, too, can carry his picture with them.

I am trying to contact Corporal Palmer's family today so I can tell them how much they have touched my life and how grateful I am for Cory's life and service!!! I hope this message reaches them today, Christmas Eve!"
SMSgt (RET) Melissa Taborn of Langley AFB VA

"Today an instructor of mine carried the picture of Cory Palmer. She told us the story of how her moral was so low after returning from her deployment knowing that she would shortly be deployed once again in five months. She was in the airport wearing her uniform when a lady approached her, this lady was Cory's mother. She handed her a picture of her son, and asked of her to carry this picture, and share her son's story so he can too continue to serve his country. A sniper in the USMC, I say thank you to you Cory. This story and seeing his picture have touched my heart. I'm proud to serve for this great nation, and am proud to say Cory is still making a difference in people's lives. Including my own. Once again thank you, and all my condolences to his family.

Airman First Class Deissy Sanchez."
Airman Sanchez of Langley, VA/USA

"To the family of:Cory L. Palmer
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""

"I may not know you but I'm proud of you. You lost your life protecting my life and all the others in this country. You and I happen to share the date May 6th. Its my birthday. I turned 8 the day you died. I wish I had been old enough to pay my respects then rather than 6 years later."
Jill Erin of Illinois

"I remember Corey before his service days...when he was in school in Seaford. It is hard to say goodbye but he is a genuine hero and his sacrifice was a tribute to his character. Semper Fi, my friend..."
Umi of Austin,Tx/ Japan

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry. I understand in theory only that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take the families pain away but I can't. I am committed to loving ALL people, myself and our environment. I am committed to working on my happiness everyday because so many have died for my freedom to live my life. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have. All my love and respect. ogersteiner@yahoo.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEjz-wAQLSA&feature=PlayList&p=477CB1585D5551F3
A hundred times a day, I remind myself that my inner and outer life depends on the labors of other men, living and dead, and I must exert myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received and am receiving. - Albert Einstein"
Scott E. Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

""SEMPER FI" u are always in the hearts and minds of the people of seaford."
jason romer 5/8/09 of seaford,de

"May 4, 2009
To the family of Cpl. Cory L. Palmer:
Cory 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

"Just thinking of Cpl Cory Palmer on Memorial Day. Semper Fidelis brother.

Maj Worth Parker USMC"
of Camp Lejeune, NC

"Semper Fi...
After receiving some photos of you from your Mom at your favorite Nic-o-boli place, I felt the lost of my fellow Marine brother in arms... you will not be forgotten. I can sleep easily knowing that you are guarding the gates of heaven."
Jim Dobroski SGT USMC of Lewes, Delaware

"to corey's family , man that boy was wild and full of life more than most. his love and spirit will never be forgotten,he will always be in my thoughts. his medic HM2 (DV,PJ,FMF) John Maritnez. if any questions write me at martymar78@earthlink.net"
john martinez of Beulaville,Nc

"Thank you Cory for all that you have done for all of us. Semper Fi Marine.
Paul G., RECON, Bethany Beach DE."

"Thank you to Cory and his family for all the sacrifices you made to keep our country free. We truly appreciate all your efforts. Our sympathy to the family."
Jim and Betty Schulze of Troy, MO USA

"Thank you, Cory, for you dedication that went beyond anything you or your family could have imagined! You are truly a hero that I'm thankful that many want to emulate: service to their country no matter what the cost in order that others could live freely. My own son is one of those who will be continuing your fight starting next summer. I pray that your family will find peace in knowing that you will always be remembered! We will see you in heaven and salute, thank and hug you in person!!"
The McDonald family of Madison Heights, VA / USA

"I never met Cory, but I always heard wonderful things about him back in my hometown Seaford. Thank you so much Cory for your bravery. God bless you. I'm so proud of you."
Lauren H. of South Carolina

"Cory, thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice for our country. You will never be forgotten. God bless the Palmers and the Swains and may they find comfort in their memories of this brave, fallen hero."
Lisa and Samuel Miller, Ericca and Kristopher Bell of Seaford, DE

"May God Bless this brave Marine. May God grant the family peace. Time will heal but you will never forget. Just try to dwell on the pleasant memories that he had with you. We too share your grief. Our son SSGT Robert F. White of the 325-1 82nd Airborne, US Army was killed by enemy fire September 26, 2006 in Afghanistan."
Stan & Shirley White of Cross Lanes, WV

"Cory I remember you as the crazy kid in school. I also remember how proud your mother is of you. Your memory will always be honored. And my prayers are forever with your family. Miss you"
Mali of Seaford,De

"Cory you were just a tiny, beautiful baby I held when I was just 16. Today you are a hero! You are so loved by your family."
Aunt Alison of Laurel, DE

"Cory, you will always be our hometown hero! Seaford will never be the same without your contagious smile. Your friends and family will miss you always! We thank you for your enormous sacrifice. God Bless you, and may He bring strength and comfort to your family and all of us who love you.
With love and prayers,"
Connie and Pete of Seaford, DE

"Thank you Cpl Palmer! You ARE an American Hero & won't be forgotten. Semper Fi"
Gale Gordy of Seaford, DE USA

"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.
Our nations HERO, Cory will be remembered by name.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pat & Sandi Breckenridge / Montana God Bless you ALWAYS. "

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