Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"hat faithful night January 21, 2004 I was a young PFC, about 150 to 250 meters aways from my OP6 camp Scunion, around 1830, I observed a white pick up truck with a launcher in the back and multiple personnels. They started firing at us and with small arms and mortars (maybe rockets). My buddy ask "are we gonna call that in? I was like * go start shooting. I reported the direction, flash to bang, and all the necessary information. All OPs started firing on the same direction, artillery from Warhorse counter fire and hit the same direction, 2 Apache lit up the same area, until that vehicle was caught on fire, it was like Star Wars. CSM Burnett from 1/67 Armor came in our OP and told us "great job for your actions, tell the next guard duty to police call all the brass" Its sad that we had 2 casualties that night by the Warhorse gym across the street from us and one of them is SPC Parker, RIP Brother at least we got all of them for you."
SSG ALde of Clarksville, Tennessee

"I served with Parker as his LT in recon platoon for several months. When I first took over as LT, our truck didn't have a gunner. It was just me and Earlenbaugh who drove us. Then they gave us a guy who didn't work out, so I was back to being the LT and gunner again for awhile. Then they gave us Park. I was so thankful for him. He was tall and had no choice but to stand way too high in the turret. But he was brave and steadfast, and we were safer b/c he was on the gun. He was fun and funny as well, which made the days better. We went all over northern Iraq together running security on convoys and supporting missions. It has been 20 yrs today since he was killed, and I still think of him often. I was on R&R in TX the day he was killed, so my wife knew about him. Other than that, I haven't shared about him with others but today I told my family about him. I can't forget, and I just wanted others to honor him today. I wasn't a father 20 yrs ago, but I am now - so I pray for his family. I know I lost very little compared to them. I was so thankful for him, and I genuinely liked Park. I miss him."
Matt Lawrence, CPT 588th EN BN of Greenville, SC

"David. I’m heartbroken. Now as a grown
woman, I looked you up to see what ever happened to my favorite childhood buddy. Finding that you had died, and had died so long ago, shattered my heart. I will hold every memory I had with you as a child even closer to my heart. You were the BEST. I loved seeing your parent’s car pull into your grandparent’s driveway, and I couldn’t run out fast enough to see if you wanted to hang out. Thank you for sharing music with me, and for giving this silly little girl next door a fantastic friend. You’ll never be forgotten. You are so missed!!"
Jessica (Kay) Unruh of Spokane, Washington

"I miss you son. Always proud of you. You will always be my hero."
Jim Parker of USA

"Hey Buddy, Happy Birthday! I miss your face, your hugs and your capabilities to make us laugh and smile. I think of you everyday and see you in everything I do.... Love ya, Davie"
Virginia of Saint Louis, Mo

"Your sister sure misses you! Can't believe it's been so many years since I laid eyes on you. I can still see your face so clearly. Until we meet again.... Thinking of you always! Love - sis"
Desiree of Bryan tx

"Happy Birthday son. I love you more than words can express. I miss you every day. Rest easy now, and find joy in the grace of God and Jesus Christ.

Love Dad"
Jim Parker of Florida

"I served on an eight man raid team with Parker for five months until the day before he died. I considered him a good friend and had planned to visit Texas when we both got back to the states. The day before he died we talked about the risks of death duing what we did and even at that moment his thoughts amazed and stuck with me. He spoke VERY accepting of what fate may have in store for him and that he would live the life he had without fear. I remember how surprised I was that this mature of an attitude came from someone who even then seemed so young to me. I am still saddened and reminded of his untimely passing. He was a good man and I wish I could have spent more time on this earth with him. This prayer goes out to him and his family who truly lost so much in him."
SPC Adam Kastenholz of Madison, Wisconsin

"Hey buddy, was thinking about you all weekend. You made basic training an awesome experience. You were an amazing person, and I'm lucky to have spent the little time we did together. Missing you man!"
Shane Parks of Houston

"I Love you and miss you. I'm very proud of you and think of you often"
Uncle Augustas of Cincinnati,Oh

"Hey parker!! There is never a day that goes by that i dont think of you! I think about the fun times of the past, and know that i was lycky to have met u!!you always put a smile on peoples faces and still do by just saying your name. I know your always looking over us but I still miss you and know that one day i will see you again!!"
Ariel Mintz of cleveland Ohio USA

"Nov. 12th 2013-
Park
It's coming up on ten years now and still you are thought of daily. Finally you may be shown the appropriate respect you have deserved this whole time from your graduating high school in Solon. Some are pushing for your addition to the memorial. Soon my first born will be here. As promised her middle name will be Parker in honor of you. Its the least I could do. I just wish you were here to meet her. I miss you and I love you bro."
kevin Blake of Solon Ohio

"Every Year I think of you brother, YOU ARE NEVER FORGOTTEN!"
SFC (Retired) FRYE of Franklin, Texas

"I miss you brother! Not a day goes by that you are not in my thoughts! Until we meet again Sapper!"
Joseph Lombardi

"I thought about you a lot today. I wish I could see you smile. I'm proud of you. I miss you. I love you always.

Dad"
Jim Parker of West Palm beach, Florida/USA

"David,
You are missed on this earth but I know you make Heaven a better place. You will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace, Warrior."
Cliff Wiese of Houston, Texas

"Even though 21 good dudes from my infantry battalion were killed, I never shed a tear until I learned you died. I'll won't forget the good times we had as teenagers."
Garrett Bates of Grants Pass, OR

"Well..just thinking of you tonight David, sure do miss you and so do your "little brothers" who are not so little any more. Wish you were here."
Lynn of Bryan, TX

"Thinking of you today, everyone misses everything about you. Still have our homecoming pic from senior year...you are truly a hero."
Steph of Solon/NY

"Brother you are never forgotten and I am man enough today to say that I have cried many a tear when you have been in my thoughts.
SPC Hansen and anyone else who served with PFC Parker while we were in the 588th if you would like to contact me I am on facebook. http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000108416397"
SFC Frye of Ft Benning, GA

"Miss you David."
Lynn of Bryan, TX

"Well today has been 6 yrs. and I can still remember your laugh like you were gone just yesterday. James, you will NEVER be forgotten and ALWAYS be kept in our hearts. Your brother in arms, SPC Hansen B co. 588 ENBN"
Michael Hansen of Omaha, NE

"I lived around the corner from Dave in Solon Ohio where we went to High School together. Even though I was the new kid in High School he and his buddies made room for me at their packed lunch table and gave me the nickname "Tad". I don't know if anyone remembers me but I sure remember the kindness that Dave and Pignatello showed me those days. You will be missed Parker, you were an amazing guy, I will remember that kindness forever."
Lane of Solon, Ohio

"This is a video I produced in McAllen, Texas. I used some of his family photo's.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRo5rEqg-j8"
Ruben Avila of McAllen, Tx

"January 18, 2009
To the family of Pfc. James D. Parker:
James 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

"Man, i think about parker all the time. i had no idea this funny guy would be gone so soon after meeting him. parker and i were in different units, but i would spend time with his unit on two week rotations every other 2 weeks. we became good friends, we left for R&R together, got left in Iraq together, dropped off in Dallas and returned to Iraq together after Thanksgiving 2003 together. we talked about our lives, family, girls, cars you name it. but what remember most of all were the different plans we both made for the future and how he talked being in love with his girlfriend, Amy and possibly marriage. and on that tragic day Jan. 21, 2004 while eating dinner in the chow hall i heard a loud thunderous explosion, i ran to my ambulance put on all my gear, drove over to the site to find not one but two of my fellow brothers dead. not even realizing that one of them was my friend Pfc. Parker. I'm just sorry that i had to be the one to find him along with a couple more medics in E. 204th FSB, 4ID, after all the jokes and all the plans and all the alcohol we drank (in iraq) and all the weed we smoked (in iraq and kuwait). Those memories will haunt me and guide me all at the same time for the rest of my life."
Former Spc, Pv2 and Pfc then Spc again Timothy Stewart of E. 204th FSB 4ID of Little Rock, Arkansas

"Man, i think about parker all the time. i had no idea this funny guy we be gone so soon after meeting him. parker and i were in different units, but i would spend time with his unit on two week rotations every other 2 weeks. we became good friends, we left for R&R together, got left in Iraq together, dropped off in Dallas and returned to Iraq together after Thanksgiving 2003 together. we talked about our lives, family, girls, cars you name it. but what remember most of all were the different plans we both made for the future and how he talked being in love with his girlfriend, Amy and possibly marriage. and on that tragic day Jan. 21, 2004 while eating dinner in the chow hall i heard a loud thunderous explosion, i ran to my ambulance put on all my gear, drove over to site to find not one but two of my fellow brothers dead. not even realizing that one of them was my friend Pfc. Parker. I'm just sorry that i had to be the one to find him along with a couple more medics in E. 204th FSB, 4ID, after all the jokes and all the plans and all the alcohol we drank (in iraq) and all the weed we smoked (in iraq and kuwait). Those memories will haunt me and guide me all at the same time for the rest of my life."
Former Spc, Pv2 and Pfc then Spc again Timothy Stewart of E. 204th FSB 4ID of Little Rock, Arkansas

"05.28.2008. Still remember you. Still think of you. Still miss you. Thank You Dave."
Sarah of LA, CA

"just thinkin about you dave...it's been almost four years now and it seems like yesterday...every1 from hs is growing up...i've graduate with my bachelors and am going for my graduate...everyone else from hs has graduate or are about to...i love you man and still think about you...me and blake talk about you every now and then but it's still hard cuz we have to choke back tears...i still remember in the procession when the entire elemenatry school was out with signs and it seemed as if everyone had known you for years"
kevin gittner of solon oh

"Missing you so bad my brother! My heart still hurts just the same as it did the day you left this earth. Everyone says "it gets better" but when I ask?

Love your sister"
Desiree of bryan

""Dave I totally miss you man, all the times we hung out, partied, or just goofed off....going to your Texas home-town, meeting your family and old roommates, you were and are a great soldier love you man you will always be missed""
Justin Lee of Kirkland, WA.

"To the family of David i would like to tell u i am truly sorry for your lost dave was the type person that no matter how bad you day was he would make it better it was a honor to service with Him in the 588th!!"
Spc Pittman of Bamberg Germany

"to the family of pfc parker, i am so sorry for your loss. i served with pfc parker 1st platoon of b company 588th engineers. he was one of the funniest people i knew in the whole company and could always make you laugh. ----i still remember ssg soloman telling you to stay away from nitta an i when you first arrived saying we were trouble. i never did forget my promise to take you out for your 21st, i just wish you could have been there to enjoy it. i was always trying to look out for you while i was in iraq and never should have left you over there. i regret it every day of my life, thinking i could have done something. i miss you buddy"
Spc Stan Stauffer Bco 588th of Juneau, AK

"Parker. It's been two years and I still miss you, buddy. I will never forget you. You're a good kid, a good soldier, and a hero."
Former SGT Christer Lopez, Bco/588th EN of Savannah, GA

"Dave, 2 years now but youd be proud im still at Ohio State and going for my 2nd senior year, Gittner is going to graduate, weird huh, we are kind of starting the real world now, but still thinking of you dude. When we go out I still pour out a little drink for you and still give you a little air for yourself too, miss you much dude"
Jason Barrat of Solon/Columbus, Ohio

"Two years now, you're still missed so much. I now live across this Lawyers office, the guys name is James D Parker, and there's a rather big sign outside his office with his name,.. with your name. I think of you every day... with or without the sign to remind me."
Sarah of CA

"THANK, GOD FOR JAMES PARKER. HE IS A TRUE AMERICAN HERO"
RAY PARKER(no kin) of TRINITY, TX.

"my name is james parker of 42 commando royal marines. i to served in iraq and woud like to offer my sorrows for your loss. i am sure that even heaven is improved by james's presence. with love and respect mne2 p062192k james parker royal marines."
j parker of redditch england

"I did not know him. But it doesn't matter. I do not know any of them. But I honor all of them."
Anonymous of Columbia, MD

"On this coming second anniversary of their deaths, my thoughts are with you Parker family. Thought we do not know each other we share the same sadness. I hope that you are all well and we wish you the best. Our only consolation for the lost of our Gabriel is to know that his friend is up in heaven with him living in peace."
Palacios Family of Boston, MA

"To the family of:James D. Parker 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

"Parker,

God be with you and your family. May we never forget your sacrifice. I served over a year in Korea back in 84-85. I'll certianly think of you often."
James Parker of Covington, Va/USA

"I still cant believe ur gone. we all miss u here in CS. You will always be love and never forgotten. Love ya bro"
Printice of College Station, TX

"miss u dave, we all do. PEACE IN IRAQ, send our solders home"
J of solon/ohio

"Slaterson,
Well at least that was my name for you and you know why!! Theres so much to say and not enough words. I had talked to you the night befor you left us and I will never forget our conversation. You had let me know how much you missed me, told me about Amy and promised to come home. The next day I got a phone call from KB letting me know what happend and Blake (KB), Gitner, Megan, Emily, and Dave all went down for your funeral and met all of your friends and your parents down in TX. They couldnt believe we all had driven down in one night but there was no way any of us would have missed it. Deniss, virginia, prentice,Danny and I all still keep intouch and plan on it!! I want you to know you are still in all of our harts and not one day gos by that we dont think of you!! I LOVE YOU DAVE!!"
Ariel Mintz of Solon Ohio ~> University of Cincinnati

"Parker,
I just can't believe you're gone. I've got this picture of me and you that's from our D.C. trip... I carry it on my keychain so I have my angel wherever I go. You brought so many smiles to everyone, and made us laugh until we cried. I'll never forget all that you have done for me. I miss you always, love you forever. Sending you butterfly kisses to reach you in Heaven. We're all marching on for you. Our Angel, Our Hero."
Lindsey Reynolds of Solon,OH/Slippery Rock University, PA

""Beyond the grey skies""
Dustin of Solon/Buffalo

"Life is gone with the blink of an eye,
One minute your here, the next the sky,
Something’s wrong when you lose a friend,
It seems so pointless in the end.

Our righteous leaders distort the mind,
Sign em up and put them in a line,
With the intent of doing something good,
Will this ever end, I wish it would.

Some don’t believe, they’re in denial,
Open your eyes, just think for awhile,
But when all is said and done,
Out of many, you’re just one.

As times pass, and days go by,
People move on, but they don’t try,
Is this right, is it wrong?
You’ll be remembered everlong.

In memory of Dave."
Jeff of Cleveland

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal."

"Hey Parker, its still unbelievable how you went...but you really were an amazing person to be around and I only have good memories of you. My regret is for the charming life you were supposed to lead. The world is definitely less interesting without you in it."
Erin of Cleveland

"I can't believe it has been a year since this young soldier was laid to rest. I went to his funeral even though I did not know him. It was the least I could do considering what he did for me and my family. I'll never forget all the people in our great community who lined the streets as the funeral procession went by...some holding flags, others placing their hand over their heart, all of them wanting to show the family how sorry they were for the loss of a brave American. It still brings tears to my eyes when I think about it. The people of College Station and Bryan Texas will never forget our hero, James D. Parker!"
Joanna Dietzman of College Station, Texas

"Dave
It's been over a year now, and ... we still miss you. Thoughts of you bring smiles and tears to my face. I know you're in a better place, but it still hurts to know you're not here with your loved ones. Miss You."
Sarah

"Hey man, im sorry to hear of your untimley death. i dont know who you are, i just put my own name into google to see whats about, i came across this website which spoke of your tragic end to life. i am so sorry. you are a true hero."
James D Parker of UNITED KINGDOM

"Dave you are a true loss that words cannot describe."
Lane of Solon/University of Cincinnatio (Ohio)

"Parker-
I miss you so much dude you don't even know. High school never would have been the same without you man. Mexican sledding, mailboxes, and endless stupid stuff that we always got ourselves into. I will forever remember the great times we had. You gave you're life in the most honorable way that anyone could imagine. You are a great American and will always be my hero. My love to your parents and brothers. They should be extremely proud."
Zach Iwler of Solon, Ohio/ Ohio St. Univ.

"Yo Park
I was just listening to 311 and thinking of you, you know every 311 show this song is for you
"Beyond the Gray Sky
Light a candle...
The wick...
It's who we are...
One day youill see the clear blue
Beyond the Gray Sky"
we all miss you so much here, all of us from solon and all the Ohio State Soloners, we love you man"
Jason Barrat of Solon/Columbus, Ohio

"To PFC James D. Parker's Family:
I am a cadet at the Virginia Militry Institute, and in my first year. To pay tribute to the men and women around the world fighting for our country our company all pitched together and bought a "war bracelet" for each member of our company. Since I am from Texas, I got Jame's bracelet. I was doing research to learn more about the name I wear on my wrist, the name that will never leave my wrist.

To James:

It is a very selfless thing to be apart of our nation. It requires Honor, Integrety, and overwhelming Courage. I am proud and honored to learn about you sacrafice. God Bless you."
Stephen Donaldson of McKinney, Texas/ USA!

"To the family of James Parker,
Today our town had a memorial march to honer the men and women who fought, and died in Iraq, for thier country. I had the honor of marching with your sons name. After a service, his name, along with hundreds more were laid upon a flag draped coffin. I offer my deepest sympathy to you."
Lincoln (13) of Barrington, Illinois

"Dave...
WoW...I still can't believe it...Remember the mailbox baseball, Mexican sledding, garage shopping and riding with "Jim"...High school wouldnt have been the same without you....I wont ever forget you..."
Dustin of Solon/Buffalo

"Parker-
You brought so much positive energy to anyone who surrounded you. You were such a breath of fresh air for our otherwise constantly dramatic group of friends in high school. My only regret is that we never were closer as friends. I'll never forget all those nights hanging out at Liberty Hill park (or where ever we ended up). When I got the call about you in the middle of the night, I was in disbelief. It still hasn't really set in. The world is truly missing out on an incredible person. If this has shown us anything, it's how much we should really value our friends; past and present. I'll never forget you, how you lived, and especially what you've done for us all. Your legend will always live on."
Brad Heuschkel of Solon/Columbus, Ohio

"Dave~
God Bless you; you were an amazing friend, person and soldier. I will never forget you and the laughs we've shared, your smile lit up a room. You were always able to make me laugh, no matter how down I was, and for that I am forever grateful. You did something that none of us could muster up the strength and conviction to do, you fought for our country, for your family and friends. God took you from us because you were too good for this world, it was your time to leave, you have done your work here and are off to a better place. Thank you with all of my heart, I miss you and always will. You are a true American Hero."
Lindsay Joliat of Solon

"James, even though I dont know you, are hero to all Americans.. You are hero in the sky and are up there with so many other men and women to protect us from above.. Thank you and remeber Steadiest and Loyality.. James you have both..."
Leigha Myers of Bryan Texas

"Dave,
You were always my best friend, I will never forget you and the times we had. Though some of my memories may be fuzzy as I'm sure yours were as well, what is not fuzzy was the way your were my brother beyond all. You proved to me so many things I never imagined to be true. I just want you to know that I love you, I always have, and I always will. This I say to my friend, my brother, and above all my soldier, who I shall never forget. I love you man."
kevin blake of Solon, Columbus

"Dave you are an american hero! You have done something that none of us did you fought for us! i will always remember the times we had together at prom, in the commons, and even just watching all u boys do the dumbest things. you always had a smile on your face that i will never forget! you always made me smile not matter what we were doing. you were like a brother to me always helping me out with problems that i had! i know you will watch over me no matter what i am doing...i will never forget you dave!"
megan smith of solon, oh

"Park,
All the fun times we had bumming around solon and cleveland, going to the metroparks, garage shopping, and going to not so silent night. I remember everytime we got close to getting in trouble, you would always say dont worry about it and while everyone else was paranoid, you were always calm. Senior year was an amazing time and skipping out on commons and some other classes just so we could get some nice spring fresh air. Everyone has missed you so much and you are our hero, you did something then none of us could do. Just remember dude I know 10 days ago you were looking down on us and i felt your spirit being with me that day."
Jason Barrat of Solon/Columbus, Ohio

"Parker your our hero!!!
dave we had lots of great times together in high school and that is what i remember...garage shopping mexican sledding fire works whatever kept us amused!!! lol...we all love you and i know you know that...just keep a good watch on all of us...you fought for our freedom and even though i wish you were here right now i know that we will always be great friends
"WE WILL NEVER FORGET""
gittner of solon ohio

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

"Parker, you will always be in my memories of Iraq. You were the first guy outside of my unit that befreinded me here. I'll always remember hanging out at Echo-Med. Wish we would have gotten a chance to hang out at Ft Hood."
Marc Riordan of Lonestar Task Force

"To Dave and the members of his family:
I miss the fella. I was a member of Dave's platoon. He was well liked and will be remembered forever in my heart. Words cannot express the loss we all feel. We are gonna miss you Dave. You take care of yourself up there. To his family: I have pictures and video of him at home. If you want them contact me at joseph.richard4@us.army.mil"
PFC Joseph Richard of Baqubah, Iraq(588 EN)

"to the family of James D Parker,
Keep your head up...he is in a better place watching over you and remembering how much you love him. Dont worry this will be ok"
unknown soldier of Iraq

"To Daves Family
Dave was a great guy, he always knew how to make you smile and forget about your troubles. It wasn't hard to love Dave, because he instantly became your friend the minute you met him. He had a kind soul and a warm smile and he has won a place in my heart forever.

Dave,
I really miss you! I miss your jokes, i miss your silly stories, i miss the way you made me feel better when I was down and the way youd bring me back to reality when I was floating too high... but out of everything I miss your presence the most... You'll never be forgotten!"
Sarah Namdar of Los Angeles, California

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

"May you find comfort in knowing how many people share your sadness and loss. Thanks to James for fighting for our country. He is a TRUE HERO! Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless your family! We Will NEVER FORGET!"
The Grogan Family (USMC) of Lakeland, TN

"To The Family of PFC Parker:
There are no words that can express the sorrow we feel for your family at this time. Please except our deepest condolences. God Bless!"
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"Thank you James Parker, 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 Pfc. James Parker:
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 James 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 Pfc. James Parker:
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 James, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia