Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Tiffany,

I just wanted to send my condolences, again, for the loss of Jerrick. I was the Soldier he relieved at the Gas station and not a day goes by that I think, just an hour(s) difference, would have changed so many lives in the reverse. I pray that I live a life worth living in his honor. Thank you, and Im sorry. Former PFC Vasquez."
MSG (Ret) Derek Vasquez of Buffalo, NY

"Jerrick was a good friend of me and my husband quintin when we worked for mcdonalds i remeber coming in to work having a bad day and he would pull me aside and ask what was wrong i would tell him and he hug me and say Hollie every thing is gonna be ok and i go about my day happy i still to this say hear his voice when im sad or having a bad day saying it to me and i get that comfort i cryed for months when i found he died cause he was my best friend jerrick my friend you are for ever in our hearts we love and miss you
like the carrie under would song says i will see you again this is not where it ends rip my friend"
Hollie Anthony of phoenix az

"I miss you my love. Every day you are in my heart, and will be to the end of my years. Our baby girl is getting married to her love this Friday. I know you can't be there to walk your baby girl down the isle, but you will be there in our hearts and you will have a seat right next to me watching our lovely girl grown up and starting her life. We miss you Jerico. Your always with us and your kids would make you so proud. Your son took your nickname, Jerico, and celebrates his birthday on yours. You will never be forgotten and will always be alive in our hearts. I love you. Azzie wants you to know that all the decisions she has made and what got her through her life and finding someone to love was because of you daddy."
Tiffany Petty of Pocatello Idaho USA

"You never leave my thoughts, forever in my heart, I love you Jerricks!"
Diane Fletcher of Ephrata, Pennsylvania

""A Soldier doesn't fight because of what is in front of him." He fights because he loves what he left behind."

Tiffany, best wishes to you and your family."
Bull Dog 2-1 of Ft. Benning

"I've carried you too long brother. It's my own fault. Rest in peace, for both of us.

Goodbye."
A Bulldog

"I the evidence points to the crisis., bad credit loan, 29544,"
Sgyewauo

"10 years ago, as a Platoon Sergeant I met my newest soldier, and a short time later he was killed in action. I remember him, and honor him nearly every day since then. Jerrick Petty, you will never be forgotten. To his family I can only wish the best."
SFC (RET) Daniel DeNormandie, Bco 3/502nd INF of Fort Campbell, KY

"I served with Jerrick in basic training. He was a good friend and often talked of his family back home. I remember enduring many hardships with him during training and how he contributed greatly to our units sense of comradary. Upon learning that we would not be stationed together, a great sense of loss was felt. Later, when news came that he had fallen in combat, many of us were deeply effected.

Please know that he will remain in the thoughts of many of us who served with him and that our prayers go out to those who also remember him on this memorial day weekend."
B26 (R) of 1/14 "Golden Dragons" 25th ID

"I remember when Petty came to our platoon. We were out at the MEPS station and were sitting around on the cots talking about our homes. We both liked the same kind of music and he said not alot of good concerts came to Idaho, and I said the same thing about Maine. We got along well for those couple of days. We were both backwoods guys. I attached his KIA bracelet to my machine gun for my whole 2nd tour. I like to think that he helped look out for me. Somebody sure was. Here's to you, brother."
Shawn Bickford of Clinton, Maine

"I miss you. I just really miss you."
April Angeletti - little sister of Caldwell, ID USA

"hey cuz it's been awhile nine years i still bring you up every chance i get like tonight at a dinner for the gold star families a group that recognizes and supports the families of fallen soldiers im invited but not as a family member who lost but as an American , and American cruiser to support the supporters im not sad for you though if i shed tears it's for those you won't meet those you won't be able to touch their lives as you have for so many im not sad for you but proud, for you ,to have known you, to have been considered family by you for the freedoms i enjoy and take full advantage of as often as i can because of you. you were and always have been my hero i looked up to you as a kid and i still feel like a kid some times how i wish that i could have been there or at least been able to serve like you to know THAT pride that im told would be awesome but my choices disallowed me to: skating ,motocross ,trouble , job corps , wife , kids, home ,...ect.i may wish i could have gone but for the road i've traveled im content i do pray for your family cause they seam sad, hopefully they know you are were we all hope to be some day with him and i hope they know that your in a place with no pain unlike us mortals here on earth like i do in my body and my heart that pain is hard the only thing that seams to help is knowing one day i'll be with him like you and none of this will have ever mattered so if you can i know you've done so much but anyway can you help relieve some of our pain and remind us... also save a real good hug for me i'll see you again when im finished with my job down here so sit back you deserve it you did a real good job love ya' cuz"
dave "shrek" nichols of hawthorne nv USA

"We weren't prepared for you to go
You were too full of life to be taken away from us so soon
I still find it hard to believe….
How much we miss your smile
Your laughter in our ears, the twinkle in your eyes
Your absence leaves a hole in us….
You taught us how to be our best
How to be a loyal son brother, husband, father and friend
To never hold a grudge for long…..

I miss you Jerricko… Mom"
Diane Fletcher of Exton, Pennsylvania USA

"We thought of you with love today,
But that is nothing new.
We thought about you yesterday,
And days before that too.
We think of you in silence,
We often speak your name.
Now all we have is memories,
And your picture in a frame.
Your memory is our keepsake,
With which we'll never part.
God has you in his keeping,
We have you in our hearts.

I miss you Ko! Love Mom""
Diane Fletcher formerly, (Petty) of Exton, Pennsylvania USA

"I remembker meeting Jerrick in mosul. We drove him out to his platoon. 3rdPlatoon was at the gas station and we were on patrol anyways. i talked to him a while while we ate breakfest. i remember he told me he just wanted his CIB. I think about him all the time actually. God rest his soul, there are many whose minds he will forever live in."
SGT Mike Lilli of Baltimore,MD

"I remember the day that PFC Petty came to B co 3/502, my squad took PFC Petty out to the MEPS site in Mosoul, Iraq. Being a new guy we all kind of keep our distance from him. We had all been in in country for about 9 months or so and we were no longer innocent or nieve as he was. There was something refreshing about it, to know that the real world still excisted. I will never forget 10 Dec 2003, it was the day not only our company losing a soldier but our battalion lost 2 that day, SSG Burdick was also killed that day, and just a few short weeks before on 23 Nov, CSM Wilson, our Brigade CSM was killed, my prayers go out to all family members who have lost someone in this war."
SGT Daniel Trylch of Auburn, AL

"I thought about you today, Tiffany. I hope you're well, and have found your smile once again. I can't believe it's been six years.

Thank you & Jerrick for your sacrifices.

Burdick's Widow,"
Jeni of Santa Rosa, Ca.

"Mrs Petty I aws in Jerrick Company my best friend was his squad leader I think of that day often i want ot give you my heart felt condolences he will never be forgotten, bless your family"
SSG Eldon Noble(ret) of clarksville TN

"I deployed in march 03 with the 101st airborne division. Bco 3/502 Inf. And was redeploying back home in Feb 04. I served with your husband. I never had the chance to say hello or introduce myself but being from Idaho myself I felt close to him. It was such an honor to serve with Jerrick. Jerricks'service was volunteer. But the FREEDOM of this country is not. Thank you so much for your honor and service. Fellow 101st airborne brother. You will not be forgotten"
Pvt King of Idaho, Kootenai

"I know I did not know my uncle that well.But I know that he was a great person.I mostley just want to say thanks for keeping our countrey free!!!!!!!!And sorry aunt tiffany that you had to loose uncle jerrick"
Sarah of caldwell id

"God Bless your son and your family. Our family will pray for him and we thank him for his service and sacrifice."
Cynthia Branca of Stony Point, NY

"To the family of Jerrick M. Petty:
Servicemen and women are in a league of their own because, while there is much turmoil around them during wartime, they remain steadfast in their mission. They are a special group of people who deserve love, respect, and support from everyone who enjoys the freedom that is made possible only by the faithful service of a soldier who serves unselfishly for the love for his country. Now, his family should receive that love and support from a grateful nation. Jerrick served with my son, former Major Adam R. Grijalba, in Mosul, Iraq. I know the fear you must have experienced during his service in Iraq because I also felt the fear and uncertainty. Thank God for the courage of these wonderful patriots! My thoughts and prayers are forever with you for the great and ultimate sacrifice that was made by your brave son. All gave some...some gave all."
Esther Grijalba of Silver City, NM

"You are in our thoughts, always!

Love & miss you all
Michael, Kimberly, Makyle & Cody Jones"
Kimberly Jones of Gilbert AZ

"Hello Diane,
First I am so sorry for your loss. As a mother of two boys, I can not imagine what you are going thru. I pray for your healing and comfort, and good memories to last a lifetime. You must be so proud of Jer. It is a difficult choice that takes alot of courage to serve our country in any of the armed forces. I have a nephew (twin sister's son A.J.) who is going into the Marines as soon as he graduates in May. I am so proud of his courageous decision. Thank you so much for giving your son for the freedom of our country and our world. Have a blessed Holiday Season.
Prayers and Love
Friends of the Grijalbas"
Ronda Rothchild of Cincinnati Ohio

"My heartfelt condolences to you for your son and friend that gave the ultimate sacrifice for his country. I consider this a great honor also as an army veteran. The highest honor is that of our fallen heroes. May God grant him eternal peace."
Tom Brandenburg of Louisville, KY

"A hero is some one who doesn't hesitate to help someone out, give to someone, sacrifice himself, and to love someone with out being told too. Jerrick was always that person and I know he would be like "No, I'm no hero I just did my job sis.""
Candace Petty (big sis) of Nampa, ID

"A hero is someone who gets up,
even when he can't. Jerrick was always a hero and always will be."
April Angeletti (little sister) of Caldwell, ID

"I remember the day of Jerrick's death and felt such much sadness especially since it was right after Thanksgiving. Diane, after talking to you so many times I feel you are such an amazing Christian mom. You know your son is in a better place. God will bless you for being obedient to Our Lord and Savior.

When Adam retired last summer I thought back to our 20 years of awesome military families that we have met. Even though I have only spoken to you I know we share the same beliefs and are sisters in Christ! I look forward to one day meeting you and your family. May God Bless You All Laura"
Laura Grijalba of Crestwood, Kentucky

"Soldier just wanted simple life for family
Newspaper article written by Gina Kim, Tribune staff reporter.
Protected four sisters: Pfc Jerrick M. Petty's didn't date much growing up, That's because Petty warned all the boys in Hawthorne, Nev., to stay away from them. " He was very protective," said his mother, Diane. Petty 25, of Idaho Falls, Idaho died Dec. 10 while guarding a gas station in Mosul, Iraq. Petty assigned to the Army's company B, 3rd Battalion, 502nd Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, was gunned down in a drive-by shooting.
Instead of studying, Petty liked to sketch dragons and portraits, his mother said. Although a bright child who did well on tests, Petty did not have the paitience for homework, she said. He dropped out of high school, but earned his high school equivalency.
Settled in Idaho with his wife and two children, Petty enlisted in the Army last year in hopes of providing a better life for his family, his mother said. The son who loved to jump from the roof of the family's single story home, wanted to jump from helicopters.
"He said, 'A man's got to do what aman's got to do,'" his mother said.

We thought of you with love today,
But that is nothing new.
We thought about you yesterday,
And days before that too.
We think of you in silence,
We often speak your name.
Now all we have is memories,
And your picture in a frame.
Your memory is our keepsake,
With which we'll never part.
God has you in his keeping,
We have you in our hearts.

I miss you Ko! Love Mom"
Diane Petty of Nampa, Idaho USA

"December 7, 2008
To the family of Pfc. Jerrick M. Petty:
Jerrick 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

"You are not forgotten!
Oct. 2008"
Joanne of New Jersey

"Tiffany, I have wanted to talk to you since we moved from Idaho Falls to South Dakota. Mandy and Meggan miss you very much and would like to hear your voice a.s.a.p. I Love you and hope all is well with you and my two sweet hearts. Call me a.s.a.p. 1-(605)-892-5338 or email me at addamhaskell@yahoo.com
Love Alwyas"
Addam Haskell of SD Belle Fourche

"Tiffany, I have wanted to talk to you since we moved from Idaho Falls to South Dakota. Mandy and Meggan miss you very much and would like to hear your voice a.s.a.p. I Love you and hope all is well with you and my two sweet hearts. Call me a.s.a.p. 1-(605)-892-5338
Love Alwyas"
Addam Haskell of SD Belle Fourche

"Tiffany I don't know if you remember me but you and your family lived right next door to my mom Jerrick also worked with my moms boyfriend. I have been trying to get in touch with you but had no clue how. My best wishes to you and much love."
Nikki of Idaho Falls,ID

"When I'm Gone

When I come to the end of my journey
And I travel my last weary mile,
Just forget if you can, that I ever frowned
And remember only the smile.

Forget unkind words I have spoken;
Remember some good I have done.
Forget that I ever had heartache
And remember I've had loads of fun.

Forget that I've stumbled and blundered
And sometimes fell by the way.
Remember I have fought some hard battles
And won, ere the close of the day.

Then forget to grieve for my going,
I would not have you sad for a day,
But in summer just gather some flowers
And remember the place where I lay,

And come in the shade of evening
When the sun paints the sky in the west
Stand for a few moments beside me
And remember only my best

- Mrs. Lyman Hancock
In honor of my son;
Jerrick McKen Petty"
Diane Petty of Nampa, Idaho

"Tiffany,
Dec 10th is just around the corner and the familiar gray cloud has started looming over head. Just wanted you to know I was thinking about you and your family, and wish you happy holidays and lots of love.

Jeni Roarick (Burdick)"
Jeni Roarick of Santa Rosa, Ca.

"To the family Jerrick Petty left behind: I am the ID State Coordinator for the Home of the Brave Quilt Project. It is our group's goal to make a memorial quilt for each fallen soldier from Idaho. We are a group of volunteers that are part of a nationwide organization of volunteers who are making Civil War Reproduction Quilts for the families of Fallen Soldiers. Our hope is that the quilt we are making for your family will be a small token of our deep appreciation for your ultimate sacrifice and serve as some comfort in the many years to come. Please contact me at czelus@hotmail.com"
Cheryl Zelus of Home of the Brave-ID State Coordinator

"To the family of:Jerrick M. Petty 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"

"Bco3/502 3rd plt...haven forgotten man..haven forgotten.."
a friend of ftcky

"I remember the day I met Petty in Mosul. I was always excited to get a new face in our platoon. I asked him what he liked to do in his spare time back home and he said "I love to hunt and fish, Idaho is a great place for that." He had a good attitude about being in Iraq and was very determined to do his job. I just hate that I didn't get to know him for longer than a few days. He was a great addition to our team, and he is still thought about on a daily basis. My thoughts and prayers will always be with his friends and family."
Jeremiah Maxwell of A 1/502 Mahmudiyah, Iraq

"To everyone who has commented on here, thank you!
It is really uplifting to hear such wonderful things about the man I loved. He did a great service to his country and his family, and it makes me so happy to hear what you all have to say about him. I couldn't ask for more.

Our children will always know who their daddy was. Our families will make sure of that, but all of you have a big hand in that as well.

Thank you! Thank you so much!"
Tiffany Petty, wife if Jerrick M Petty I of Inkom, ID USA

"I am deeply sorry for your loss. I was in Jerrick's battalion and he will always be remembered by all of us that were over there."
SGT Smith of Ft. Benning, GA

"To the family and friends of Jerrick M. Petty,
I didn't know Jerrick but he was in my battallion and my good buddy told me his story. I first would like to say that I have often thought about Jerrick even though I never met him and don't even know what he looks like. I have a son and a daughter which makes me to identify with him. I don't really know what to say other than I hope that through this tragic loss of life we see what is really important. His was a life not lived in vain or deceit. He stood up for his GOD his country and the ones he loved. He gave up everything just so everyone could enjoy and complain about how little they have. May you always remember the way Jerrick lived and know that I still fight in his stead and think of him from time to time. RANGERS LEAD THE WAY!!!!

GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU AND MAY GOD BLESS THE CHILDREN OF THOSE WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES SO OTHERS MAY LIVE>"
SPC John Risley of GERMANY

"I have carried this quote in my wallet since Jerrick joined the Army. He is missed so very much.

As a stranger in this land it is my job as a good soldier to " heavenize " it's culture, to maintain peace, to fight off any rebellious attacks of the defeated enemy and to keep him from resuming any kind of leadership.
Author Unknown
Dedicated to Jerrick McKen Petty Company B, 3rd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell Kentucky. Died on December, 10, 2003. " A good soldier"."
Diane Petty, Jerrick's Mom, of Nampa, Idaho USA

"I was in Jerrick's platoon. Me and him hit it off right away. We had similar tastes in music and he seemed like an all-around nice guy. The one thing gained from this loss was that it opened our eyes and made us aware that the same thing could happen to any of us. It made us more alert and I'm sure that a lot of us are alive today because of that. I still wear Jerrick's name on my wrist and hopefully he'll be looking out for me next time I go over."
Shawn Bickford (formerly B co 3/502 INF) of Clinton Maine

"A hero indeed. People just like Jerrick have inspired me to sign up for the Marine Corps. Freedom sure ain't free. God bless."
Jarrett of Orange, CA

"god rest your soul brother. i only hope the life i live would make you proud. to your friends and family words can't express the loss you've had to bear. i am forever in Jerrick's debt, and yours."
SPC Shaw, John of Balad, Iraq

"we few, we happy few. we band of brothers. for he who sheds his blood with me today shall be my brother. . . . ."
SAM PARK, SPC, US Army of Germany

"I am truly thankful for this soldier's sacrfice's, and all fallen soldiers and marines. If it wasn't for these awesome soldiers in combatant occupations, intelligence, support, and administrative personell would not be able to do thier duties effectively to help the groundpounders in return."
SPC Anthony Deschaine of Iraq, Washington/USA

"I never knew him. I guess you could describe him as one tired face out of thousands. I never fought side by side with him. I only watched a television set full of biased viewpoints by people who have never fought in a war. I never was a hero. But he was. I did support him. I did pray him, as I prayed for all the troops. And I will never understand war, but I will understand freedom. I guess I can only say thank you."
Neil of San Luis Obispo, Ca

"God bless your family for your loss.
War causes some soldiers to make the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Sad , but they will never be forgotten, they died heroically, for their country!

God Bless, you, our troops, and America,"
Steven Nicoli of Walden, NY

"I am truly sorry for the loss of your husband. I am eternally grateful for his sacrifice. My thoughts and prayers are forever with you and your family. God Bless."
Melissa R. Medina of Columbus, GA

"Your husband is a true hero and will never be forgotten. You and your family are in my prayers."
Stephanie of Simi Valley, CA

"May "GOD" forever bless those that protected our lives. You are all now guardian angel's to those you've loved and cherished so much."
Victoria of Fresno, CA

"Tiffany, Today marks a full year that we both lost our husbands. I just want you to know I still have you and your family in my thoughs and prayers. God bless, Jeniffer Burdick"
Jeniffer Burdick of Imperial Beach Ca, USA

"Family of PFC Jerrick M. Petty, I know that is has been awhile now since Jerrick gave his life for his country, but I wanted you to know that he is not forgotten. Jerrick served with my son Travis over in Iraq, and his death deeply hurt all of the men of the 502nd. Travis has told me how much he liked Jerrick and what a good soldier he was, and that even though they didn't get to be with him long he had told them all about his wonderful family. My son never talks about Iraq that he doesn't mention Jerrick. I am so very sorry for all of you, I hope it gives some comfort to know that the soldiers he served with still talk about him and still miss him terribly. God Bless You"
Nancy Mendenhall of Absarokee, Mt

"Thank you Jerrick Petty for keeping us safe. Your in our hearts and prayers. Jerrick will never be forgotten he is a true American hero."
Brian B. of Boise, Idaho

"Family of PFC. Jerrick Petty,

I am deeply sorry for your loss. I had the privlage of attending Basic Training with Jerrick and I also reported to Fort Campbell with him. He was a great soldier who loved what he did. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

PFC. Dennis R. Stiokis JR.
D. Compnay 2/187 INF. (101st Airborne Division)
miniedge@comcast.net"
PFC. Dennis R. Stiokis Jr. of Fort Campbell, KY

"God Bless you and your family. I can imagine how hard this has hit home. I grew up in Blackfoot and went to Idaho Falls many times."
Clint of Coon Rapids, MN

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

"http://www.idahostatesman.com/Search/story.asp?id=56755
http://www.idahostatesman.com/Search/story.asp?ID=64371"
Diane Petty of Meridian Id

"Dear Tiffany and family and friends of Jerrick M. Petty, I cannot imagine your loss. I have never known you or Jerrick but, through the great courage and love of this great country, you have touched my life. I can think of NO better country in which to live and thanks to the sacrifice of Jerrick and the many men and women before and after him, I am proud to and able to call America my home. We, the American people owe families like yours so much and rarely get the opportunity to show our gratitude and thanks for ones such as you. My freedom is taken for granted but, it is due to families like yours who truly experience the price of freedom that we are able to call this the greatest land in the world. And my most humblest of THANKS for your contribution for my freedom. May the Holy Spirit comfort you and your family in your darkest hour, may God's love be with you, and may Christ's guiding hand be with you always. Sincerely, a grateful fellow American and sister in Christ."
Cathy Hall of Cedar Springs, Michigan of The Great U.S.A.

"The men that Jerrick was stationed with in Iraq have made it home safely, I was truly blessed to be able to go to Kentucky and meet them. They all had very wonderful and kind things to say about him. Every one of the men and women serving are a hero. I can't thank everyone enough for all the support and love I have recieved.

Thank you all!!!"
Tiffany Petty of Pocatello, Idaho

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

"petty was one of the first friends i had when i got to ft campbell we were real close he was my room mate i hate the fact it was him and not me i just want to say he will always be in my memories and my prayers go out to his wife and chilldern. he`ll always be true infantry blue"
Pfc Jason Booth of A.co 3/502nd pomona Ca

"Tiffany - God bless and keep you and your family."
Eric Ottewitte of Idaho Falls, ID

"Pfc Petty:
Thank your for giving yourself so that those of us at home can live freely and safely. There are not enough 'thank yous' for a gift such as this. Rest in peace soldier."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"Although I only knew Petty for a limited amount of time. He will always be a hero of mine. My heart goes out to all who mourne. You will always be in my heart, mind abd soul. May the angels be with you and the Lord be by your side. God bless your family. Amen"
Pv2 Bones, Aida L. of Fort Campbell

""I am Jerrick's mother, I wanted to let each one of you know that your words of compassion and support have been a blessing to my family and myself. I can't begin to tell how much I miss my Son. Jerrick was a hero to his family before he went into the service; his sisters loved him strongly. He overcame certain obstacles in his life and he made us proud. I miss him so terribly, and when I kiss his beautiful children I am kissing him as well. Thank you so much for giving me your words and a place I can come to and read them, It helps so very much. Jerrick's Mom, Diane"
Diane Petty of Meridian, Idaho USA"
Diane Petty of Meridian, Idaho USA

"I had the privilege of meeting PFC Petty before he left Ft. Campbell for Iraq, and while I didn't get to spend much time with him, I remember him as an earnest and grounded guy. It seemed like he knew where he was going and what he was doing at all times, and it was with shock that I heard of his death. He was an outstanding soldier, and I'm glad I got a chance to know him. My prayers are with his family, and my thanks as well."
SPC Ford of Mosul, Iraq

"For the Petty Family. I am sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family. Thank you for the sacrifice your husband has made. It will not be forgotten. God Bless you and your family."
Brooke Weiss of Florida

"To Tiffany and the rest of the Petty family, I live in Luning, Nevada. Jerrick went to school in Hawthorne and some of his friends are my neighbors. Mineral County as a whole has been shocked and saddened. I just wanted you to know you are all in our prayers, and we hope that God gives you strength to get through the tough times you are facing. We thank you for all the freedoms that we have and GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!!*****"
Tamara Gentry of Luning, Nevada-Mineral County U.S.A.

"For the Petty family. Jerrick is an inspiration to us all, and a soldier for the rest of us to emulate. I pray that God will give you strength in this difficult time. The freedoms we enjoy and the beauty of the Idaho mountains and rivers are a tribute to his sacrifice. God bless you. A very thankful family from Pocatello, Idaho."
Captain Bryan Triplett of Camp Howze, Korea, 2d INF DIV

"Dear Mrs.Petty,
I am deeply sorry for your family's loss. My family would like to let you know that we greatly appreciate our country and it's fallen hero's like your late husband...God Bless"
Bill, Laina and Kayla Kaczor of Boca Raton, FL USA

"Dear MRS Petty,
I am so sorry for your loss. Your husband has made the ulitmate sacrafice to kep myself and my family safe. It is deeply appreciated.It is the bravery and selfless acts of people like Jerrick that allow us to live the way we do. He is a true hero. God bless you and your family."
Sean Callahan of Margate,FLA

"Thank you Jerrick Petty, 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

"I wanted to leave a message but don't quite know what to say. I wanted to say thank you to those who knew Jerrick for sharing their memories of him with the media so those of us who didn't can know a bit about the man who gave so much to make our lives and countless other lives better. I am so very sorry for your loss. I wanted his wife and children and the rest of his family to know that the sacrifice is deeply appreciated and will not be forgotten. I hope God and time will ease your pain. You are in my prayers."
Kelli Johnson of Idaho

"Tiffany,Your husband was a true hero. I am sincerlly sorry for the loss that you had to experience. May you and your and your children remain strong and keep your heads up. He is an angel now."
Adriana Menegatos of Las Vegas, Nv

"Dear Mrs. Petty:
My name is Donna Gilmore, my hushand was killed in Iraq on 7 Nov 03. I know your heart hurts so much that at times it seems unbearable. I too share this pain. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Please e-mail me if you want to talk. I know right now so much is going on. I am still in a fog like state, it hasn't been that long. People will expect you to move on a lot sooner than you may feel like it. Take heart, there are a lot of us out here who are personally going through the thing. Please contact me in the future when you regain some strength. God's peace to you and your family. A fellow soldier's wife.
Donna Gilmore
magil922@msn.com"
Donna Gilmore of Stafford, Virginia

"Dear Mrs. Petty:
My name is Donna Gilmore, my husband was killed in Iraq on 7 Nov 03. I know your heart hurts so much that at times it seems unbearable. I too share this pain. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Please e-mail me if you want to talk. I know right now so much is going on. I am still in a fog like state, it hasn't been that long. People will expect you to move on a lot sooner than you may feel like it. Take heart, unfortunately there are a lot of us out here who are personally going through the same thing. Please contact me in the future when you regain some strength. God's peace to you and your family. A fellow soldier's wife.
Donna Gilmore
magil922@msn.com"
Donna Gilmore of Stafford, Virginia

"Dear Tiffany,I am very sorry to hear of the loss of your husband.From the letters I have read about him he sounds like he was a teriffic person.It takes a very unselfish person to join the armed forces with a family at home.In a lot of ways I know the heart ache you feel in losing him.I lost my wife just a couple months ago and we have two small children.If theres anything I could tell you,just lean on God and be thankful that you had him in your life."
Ty Justesen of Filer,Idaho USA

"Tiffany, You remain in our hearts and our prayers. We honor Jerick on this day, and pray for your family. Your family will always be a part of our family. May you find some joy during the holidays. You are always in our thoughts.
From the Men of 2nd PLT,
Mosul, Iraq"
SFC Daniel DeNormandie of Mosul, Iraq

"My condolences on your loss. I hope the new year brings you and your family peace."
Amy of Phoenix, AZ

"Dear Tiffany and Family- So sorry to hear of your loss. I pray that the Holy Spirit will give you and your family comfort during this time. I thank you for your sacrifice as a family that you have made for Jerrick to serve our country for we are indebted to you. You will be in my family's thoughts and prayers."
Angie Gleason of Grand Rapids, MI

"Hi Tiffany
I can only imagine the sense of grief and loss that you are experiencing, and the times of fear for your family for the future. I pray for the comfort of the Holy Spirit and His healing touch on your broken heart. May He give you great wisdom as you rear your children, and may He make every provision for you.
I would love to send you a little book that may help you process your grief if you will send me an address to lonniedshields@aol.com."
Lonnie Shields of Grand Rapids, MI USA

"Well we do not know you, but from our good friend Ben we have learned a lot about you and your husband. We send our deepest sympathy for you and your family's loss. We truly appreciate the sacrafice that you and your husband made for us, our country, and the Iraqi people.

When I was serving with Ben, I talked to a Vietnam Veteran at an Airborne Convention. The man looked at me and said "Son there are people around the world that are afraid of you." I was taken aback by the comment. Then I told him "The only reason people fear me is because of what you did for our country." Because of your husbands sacrifice, America will continue to be free along with the people your husband so dearly fought for.

Our Prayers are with you and your family always."
Kipp Hartman and Laura Mason of Kankakee, IL

"Tiffany, I hope you know by now that most Americans, no matter how they feel about the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, appreciate the people in the military. Our son is in the Army and, while not deployed now, is likely to spend time in Iraq before it is over. Men and women join for all kinds of reasons, but the fact that they do join and serve, makes our world safer. Real Americans are deeply grateful for our soldiers and are truly sorrowful when they are struck down. I want you to know my wife and I, and many others, pray for you and your children."
Neil and Betty Finch of Tucson, Arizona

"Dear Tiffany and family,
Please know that during this difficult time, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Your husband's sacrifice for our freedom will not be forgotten."
Susan Teeter Shapter of Prescott, Arizona

"Dear Tiffany Petty,I would like you to know that your sacrifice of your husband's life is what makes our country safe. God is able to comfort you and give you the words to say to your son on his birthday and to he and his sister in the years ahead. Please take one day at a time and lean on Him. My family and I will be praying for you this Christmas and will trust you into His hands and allow you a glimpse of how God sees life and eternity..Thank you again.Dan & Linda Teeter in Glendale, AZ"
Dan Teeter of Glendale, Arizona

"I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My brother, Benjamin Finch, has written our family about your husband. I am truly grateful for Jerrick serving our country. Please know that he will not be forgotten. May that be of some comfort to you and your family during your time of grief. My son and I will keep you in our prayers."
Jennifer & Gavin Moses of Tucson, AZ

"Dear Tiffany,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God bless."
Tyler and Amanda Stuart of Phoenix,AZ

"To the family of PFC Jerrick M. Petty,Please accept my heart felt condolences for your family's tragic loss. I myself am a Gulf War Veteran and am very proud of the soldiers over there finishing the job we started 12 years ago.Our prayers are with you in your time of need!
Sincerely,
Joseph Krouse
U.S. Army, Retired"

"Dear Tiffany and family, Please know that during this difficult time, you and your family are in our thoughts. We are truely grateful for the sacrifice your husband has made for this country. May he rest in peace."
The Schencman Family of Rockville Centre, NY

"Dear Tiffany,Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Thank you for the sacrifice that your husband, you and your family have made. May God watch over you and your children."
Rachel and Matthew Cazalet of Long Island, NY

"Dear Tiffany,

Please know that our prayers and thoughts are with you and your children during this difficult time. Your husband was a hero who gave his life for freedom and he will never be forgotten."
Bill and Ursula of Palm Coast, FL

"Dear Tiffany, Azure, and Jerrick Jr.,

We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Jerrick's bravery and sacrifice will not be forgotten."
Andrea and Aaron Massari of Chicago, IL USA

"Dear Tiffany,
Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family. Jerrick's service to all of us will not be forgotten. May you find comfort in remembering the love you shared and in knowing that your children (Bless them) can be very proud of their Dad."
Joanne and George Callahan of Hasbrouck Heights, NJ

"I am sorry for your loss. I thank you for your husbands service. God bless you and your family."
Michael of NY

"I appreciate what your husband did for me and our country. I currently live in the Middle East. Far enough away from the conflict to feel safe and comfortable but close enough to know how real it is. Forget about the news for now. I have spoken to 2 people from Iraq since I have been in Dubai now for about 8 months. Here is what they told me. The first was a man in his mid 50's, well educated and polite. he told me about how his entire family including brothers, uncles, nephews, sisters...being taken from their home and left with nothing. all their possessions were left behind. He does not know where most of his family is to this day. if they are alive or dead. he comes from a family of 13 kids. This man thanks God everyday that the US is in Iraq and had tears in his eyes for helping him and his family to not live in terror anymore. The second is a lady in her mid 40's. She told me about her cousins who were killed by gas, along with the entire village. nothing was left alive. she has family in Bagdad now that tell her even though it is not safe yet, they are so happy that the US is there. This is just 2 peoples stories who are from Iraq. My point is maybe you can sleep better knowing that along with you and your family there are these 2 familys and countless more that can sleep better and without fear because of your husband. I wish you and your family the best."
Patrick McCarthy of Dubai, United Arab Emirates

"TIFFANY, IT SOUNDS LIKE YOU HAD ONE OF THE MOST WONDERFUL GIFTS OF ALL. A VERY UNSELFISH AND CARING HUSBAND. YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN ARE VERY LUCKY TO HAVE HAD HIM IN YOUR LIVES. I PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY AT THIS MOST DIFFICULT TIME. TAKE CARE AND KNOW HE IS STILL WATCHING OVER YOU."
BEVERLY ARNOLD of CYNTHIANA, KY

"I just want to say thank you to everyone. It helps me to hear the kind words and wonderful things that each of you have said. I can't tell you how much all of this means to me. Thank you"
Tiffany Petty of Pocatello, ID USA

"This is an email i recived from my cousion Dan DeNormandie that i wanted to share.


His name is Jerrick Petty, he ws killed in a Drive by on 10 DEC 03. He joined my platoon on 7 DEC 03. During his few days in Mosul Iraq he performed like a soldier with experience though he had none. The day prior to his death, his squad was ambushed, he reacted like a seasoned soldier and covered his buddies immediately allowing them to get to cover, and then he pulled back with them. The "seasoned" soldiers in my platoon praised him and knew he would be one of the future leaders of this great Army of ours.Jerrick was a Soldier a Husband, and a Father. If I would have to only pick one of those to describe him best. I would have to say father. Althought over here does not allow for it, I could tell that his children were the light of his life. When I talked to him the day of his being assigned to me, I had to ask him about himself, and when it came to his Kids Daughter 3, and Son is going to be 1 on the 26th of this month. He was so full of pride and joy just by mentioning the children. And all we really talked about was birthdates.Jerrick Petty joined the Army on April 23rd. He joined the Army during a time of war, it takes a special breed of man to do just that. He joined the Army to make a better life for his wife and children, again a special breed. He joined at an age of 25, again it shows that he did not jump into the decision. He immediately displayed a certain confidence, without cockiness. It was a short conversation, but I learned a great deal about him. I have been doing this a while and I know the true product when I see it. Jerrick made an immediate impact on all the members of our platoon. He deserves the highest honors, for he gave the ultimate sacrifice for his Country, his Family, and his fellow soldiers. He performed like a true soldier with years of experience. Jerrick will remain in our hearts, and always be remembered He is a soldier, a hero, and always our brother He is survived by his Wife Tiffany, Daughter Azuri 3, and son Jerrick. His Father Jerald, and Mother Dianne, He was a member of my family and will always be remembered as a brother."
Ted DeNormandie of Trevor, Wisconsin USA

"To the family and friends of Pfc. Jerrick Petty:
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 Jerrick 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. Jerrick Petty:
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 Jerrick, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia