Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

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Ernest of Singapore

"Hey Dad. It's almost been 12 years since we've lost you. I miss and love you so much. Sometimes I have dreams about you. I miss your voice. Last month, me and Gabe watched some home videos with you in it. You didn't talk but it was nice being able to see your face and your smile again... I miss you so much and I know you're watching over me and our family. I love you! Daddy."
Lilli Rangel of New Jersey

"Your son had become a huge part of my life and I don't know what I would do without him and I love him so much. Thank you for serving our country you are greatly appreciated."

"It's been 11 years since you went with the angels. I still remember hanging out with you and Selena at south San😀 we all miss you"
Joann Soliz of San Antonio, Tx

"Thankyou Mr.Rangel for your service you did, not just for your country but for everyone. I'm honored to have come to your know children who have become close to my heart. And all though we never met I'm thankfull for everything you gave to this world. Thankyou so much. My prayers to you and all your loved ones."
Junior Chavez of New Jersey

"Thank you Jesus for this airman's family and healing their broken hearts and broken homes ... Please restore them completely dear JESUS?? We thank YOU LORD for loving us in Jesus holy name. Amen.."
Matthew of CORONA,CA

"Hey Mijo today is eleven years the worst day of my life. Not a day goes by that you are not on my mind and in my heart. We Love you and miss you so much."
Mom of San Antonio, Tx

"It's been eleven years without you now though it still burns like it happened yesterday. I miss you Daddy. I love you."
Lilli Rangel of New Jersey

"Hey Dad, I just wanted to say I've been thinking about you a lot lately. I miss you so much. I know you're watching over me and I hope youre proud of who I am becoming as a young lady. I love you so much Daddy..."
Lilli Rangel of New Jersey

"Hey Daddy I've been thinking about you a lot... I miss you so much I know you're still watching over me and I hope I'm making you proud. I love you, Dad"
Lilli Rangel of New Jersey

"Hey Dad I just wanted to say thank you for your service and that I miss you so much I love you Dad"
Lilli Rangel

"There's this quote from a movie... That I had watched... It was a kid movie but it's a strong quote.... And it not only reminded me of you Dad... But it reminded me of everyone that has served in the United States military... It goes "a strong man stands up for himself; a stronger man stands up for others" you and the people fighting or who had fought for this country is the stronger man Thank you... I love you Dad"
Lilli

"Happy Father's Day daddy.... I wanted you to know that I'm still thinkin of you... Even to this day... Thank you for fighting for my freedom and for being the man that you were... I miss you so much... I love you Dad"
Lilli

"Still wearing Ray's bracelet. It has been a part of me for over two years now. Every day it is a reminder not only of the price of freedom but the price that is paid for it. Some service men and women and some civilians (like myself) see it and say "What branch did you serve in?" I tell them that I served nothing, and this man gave everything. May God bless this man and all of his family. Though I have not met you, I love you all."
James Weimer of San Antonio, TX

"My company hosted a flag raising ceremony today in honor of the upcoming Memorial Day holiday. We lowered the flag to half-mass while taps played and the names of fallen service members were read. Ray's name was read during the ceremony. He has not and will never be forgotten."
Sam of Houston, TX

"Ray Woke up today and all I could about was it's been 10 years without you in our life's . Everything that was so special about you is still been missed.Your smile your laughter your ability to walk into a room and make everyone feel so comfortable.Ray miss you and love you."
Aunt Rachel& Uncle Bobby of San Antonio

"Honoring your sacrifice today on the 10 year anniversary. We will never forget."
Sam of Houston, TX

"Hey Dad so its officially been ten years and it still hurts like it was just yesterday. I miss you like crazy Dad. But I know you're in a better place watching over me and my family and all of our friends. I love you and miss you so much"
Lilli Rangel

"Almost 10 years later and It still feels like you'll be coming home for Christmas any day now :'( miss you so much Ray!"
CC of San Antonio, Texas

"You are not forgotten SSgt Rangel. Many prayers to the Rangel Family, God Bless."
1stLt Erika Palomino (Jaramillo), Iraq 04-05 of Tucson, AZ

"I miss you Dad. I still cant stop thinking about you no matter how long ago you had passed away... I don't know how to put it but as a song I've heard a million times says "I miss you I miss your smile and I still shed a tear every once in awhile an even though it's different now you're still here somehow....
....And I need you to know
I miss you....
....I miss you
I know you're in a better place yeah
But I wish that I could see your face, oh
I know you're where you need to be
Even though it's not here with me
I miss you I miss your smile and I still shed a year every once in awhile..."
When I hear this song I automatically think of you Daddy because I know you're in a better place I know you're where you need to be even though you're not with me I miss you Daddy. And I love you so much"
Lilli Rangel

"I never met Ray. My friend Ray Castoreno put Ray's memorial
bracelet on my wrist over a year ago. I have never taken it off. In that year me and Ray C. have met many people that knew Ray at the place we hang out. Some of them Ray C. knew, some he didn't. All of them said the same thing: Ray Rangel was a heck of a man and they would do anything for him. The fact that I still meet people that see this bracelet and speak so highly of him is a testament to
what a great man he was."
James Weimer of San Antonio, TX

"I miss you Dad. I think about you everyday... I love you and miss you so much"
Lilli

"I miss you Dad. I think about you all the time. I love you"
Lilli Rangel

"Your son Gabriel has become a huge part of my life. And i know your family misses you very much. Although we never met thank you for your services and thank you for your family."
Morgan

"Time does not erase the pain of missing you.Ray your gone but still in our hearts and in our thoughts."
Aunt Rachel& Uncle Bobby of San Antonio

"Ray, it's been 9 yrs and you are still on my mind every day. You will never be forgotten, RIP brother!"
MSgt Jason Keller of JBLE

"It's not fair not only is our son no longer with us but our grandchildren ray's children are not allowed to see us. Why why why"
Fred rangel

"Sra tremblay appreciate what did for our son Ssgt Ray rangel could you please let us know how it turned out at (feb13_gonehome@yahoo.com)thanks God bless you and all brave military people"
Fred/cindy rangel of San Antonio Texas

"9 years that you've been gone...miss you more each year!"
Christina of San Antonio

"SSgt Rangel,
I never had the honor of meeting you, but tomorrow I am going to give a station tour to a generals wife and I will tell your story! I want everyone to know you were a hero! I hope that I can express to her how important you are to all firefighters and even the military! I hope that peace is with your family. God bless! I thank you for your sacrifice."
SrA Samantha Tremblay of Deployment in Southwest Asia

"Miss you Ray..."
Christina of San Antonio

"Hey Dad it's been a while since I've written to you.... I miss you so much... I had a dream about you the other night and you had come home and I ran up and hugged you and it was nice to hear you and get a hug from you again after so long even if it was just in a dream.... I miss you Dad and I love you"
Your daughter Lilli

"Saturday we went to honor our son and all his friends at Austin tx. they had a memorial in their honor pictures all over the place. i will be turning sixty in june how i which he was here to help me celebrate probably would had him bbq he was good at that got that from his grandpa joe carreon we all miss him."
federico rangel jr of san antonio texas usa

"Ray I miss u bro. You always had a come back for all my smart remarks. Your my homie and I still miss you bro."
Raymond Castoreno III of San Antonio

"Hey Ray, It's been 8yrs now and your memory still lives on. RIP and we will never forget your sacrifice. God bless you and your family."
MSgt Jason Keller of JBLE

"Hey mijo... can't believe it's been 8 years. I miss you so much. I still don't understand why you were taken from us. I dreamt you the other day and it felt so good hearing your voice. I woke up and I cried because it was just a dream. But, I also cried because I was so grateful that I could still remember what you sounded like, especially your laugh. I miss you, I miss you, I miss you. Not a day goes by that don't think about you. You are truly missed. We went to Brack to remember you on your birthday, (it was dad's idea). He even bought a cake. We all would've given anything to have you there. I love you little brother. You will never, ever, be forgotten."
Rebecca of San Antonio, TX

"Ray, It's been 8 years since the worst news of my life arrived. I still cherish the memories of our time together at Fort Carson before the trip and being honored with the privilege to serve on your team. There is not a single water rescue call I go on now that you are not the first thought in my mind. Love and miss you brother! Ryan"
Ryan Brenneman of York PA

"The cold made me think of where is was Nov 11 1994. Goodfellow AFB fire Academy it sems like such a long time ago now but feels like only yesterday. Happy Veterans Day"
Jerry Quintana of Colorado Springs

"Hey Mijo it's been 7 yrs since we lost you, but not a day goes by that you are not in my thoughts. When I lost you you took a part of my heart with you. We had a cook out on your birthday Sunday you know the Rangel Tradition. The only thing was it was not freezing. The girls went too. Your Dad and I went to Justin's graduation in June. You would have been so proud of him. I could picture your big smile looking down at him. You would be real proud of all your kids they are so respectful and playful like you. Lilly has grown up to be a beautiful young lady.We miss you so much. I'm sorry I had not written before but it took this long to finally be able to write. We all love you and miss you. We will never forget you."
Your Mom of San Antonio. Tx

"hey dad i've been playing softball and i'm going for first base i miss you soo much love you"
Lilliana

"i miss you daddy"

"It's been 7 years my friend. You are missed everyday. You are a true Hero in every sense of the word. Your memory lives on in each and everyone of those you touched. You will NEVER be forgotten. RIP Brother."
MSgt Jason Keller of Joint Base Langley-Eustis

"7 years ago we lost a nephew who was very much loved.We dont just remember you today Ray but everyday you come to our thoughts and everyday we miss you."
Rachel and Bobby Rodriguez of San Antonio,Tx

"It's been 7 yrs since you gave the ultimate sacrafice that day in Iraq. You will never be forgotten by those who knew you and worked with you as an Air Force Firefighter. I hope to someday meet your family and share with them my memories of serving with you. RIP Ray and continue to watch over your family and knew your friends have never forgotten the great man you are."
MSgt (retired) Tom Schipper of Palmdale, CA

"Ray, 7 years today we lost a hero. A hero to all of us still today...never forgotten..."
Shane Clark of Tucson Az

"7 years now and i still remember everything, especially your smile, the jokes at the dinning facility, those long stand by's and ofcourse the last time we spoke minutes before the mission. It was an honor to have served you Ray.
WE WILL NEVER FORGET rip"
daniell hernandez of el paso tx

"It's now been 7 years. You will not be forgotten for what you've done. Your memory lives on, RIP brother."
MSgt Jason Keller of Joint Base-Langley-Eustis

"I do not know if this is the Raymond Rangel I grew up with or possibly a son. Some years ago Raymond called telling me he was retired from thesis Force. He was married to Dolores Mesa, a beautiful girl with whom we grew up. If this is that Raymond Rangel then I've lost a brother. If this was his son then I've lost a grandson I never met. My own son Jacob follows in tradition as he too is AF."
George Sutton II of El Paso, Tx 79934

"To the family of:Ray Rangel
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""

"My prayers go out to my cousin Ray and my admiration for serving your country with honor,just as your uncle Martin a retired chief, served his country with honor."
Becky(Rangel) Morey of Altus,Ok

"Sorry to use this page for this message, but I'm trying to contact the family. First, I am sorry for your loss. My name is Jennifer Mendez and I also lost my husband 1SG Bobby Mendez in 06 in Iraq. I am the mother of three children. I am trying to get in contact with the mother of Lilly. I recieved her name from Principal Scot Roppe (he is now my youngest daughter principal). He informed us that she is now living in the Virgin Islands. We will be in the Virgin Islands filming a movie about the lives of a couple of girls who have lost their fathers to war. If you are interested in taking part in this movie please contact me asap. Jennifer 520-227-0057. Thank you, Jennifer"
Jennifer Mendez of Sierra Vista AZ

"It's been 6 years since you left us & it hurts as if it were just yesterday. There are so many things I'd love to share with you (I'm a grandma can u believe it?!) I'd give anything to have you back. To be able to talk and laugh with you. To be able to have barbecues and crack jokes about when we were lil kids. I miss you so much little brother. There's this aching in my heart. I love you & it will never get easier."
Rebecca Rangel Lugo of San Antonio, TX

"Its been 6 years and Ray you are still very much missed and loved.Memories of you I keep close to my heart.Will never stop missing you."
Aunt Rachel Rodriguez of San Antonio,Tx

"6 years ago today that u went away.
RAY u will NEVER b forgotten
Even though ur bravery goes beyond words I wish we could hear your voice and see your smile one more time. I'll always cherish all the awesome memories. Love u n miss u :'("
love always from your tia Christina Carreon of San Antonio, Texas

"Ray, Today marks 6 years since that rainy day at Balad. Everyday I think about the ultimate sacrifice you made for those soldiers. You are a hero. I thank you for eveything you sacrificed and God bless you and your family as we will never forget."
TSgt Jason Keller of Langley AFB, VA

"Ray,
I know all of your kids. They are really something. Gabriel is one of my best friends, and I know he loves you so much, all of your kids do! And I know they miss you. Thank you for your service"
Lynette Barton of Abilene Texas

"I am a firefighter at Al Dhafra Air Base where we have a memorial for Sgt. Rangel in the station and everytime I pass by it I never fail to reflect on the bravery and commitment he displayed for his job in the Worlds greatest Air Force. Thank you Ray for your dedication to our job and making the ultimate sacrifice in the field, you have had a lasting impact on my life and my job as a firefighter. May you rest in peace.
Sincerely, Firefighters of the 380th ECES/CEF"
of Eielson AFB

"To the family of Ray Rangel, I pray that God would continue to comfort you. I'm certain that the pain must be great even after this time. I never met Ray and only today read his memorial. Continue to trust in God and serve him faithfully."
Cabo of Lubbock, Texas

"Hey buddy seems like only yesterday we were graduating the fire Academy. You will be missed my old friend god bless. Your friend Jerry Quintana"
Jerry Quintana of colorado springs colorado

"It's taken me 5 years to consider a response, and after 5 years I find myself without words. Ray is a hero, my hero, and every day I thank God for the difference that he made. My family and I are in a better place because of Ray's sacrifice. I can only say thank you. Our thoughts are with Ray's family. God Bless."
A Friend of Dayton, Ohio

"Hey Dad. Its been awhile I've been able to talk to you I love you and I love you and miss you alot"
your daughter Lilli of abilene,texas

"Hey dad I miss you so much i love you and think about you every day. I will think of you every day until i die. iI love you."
your son Gabriel Rangel of Abilene Texas

"Hey Dad I miss you soo much. I think of you every day.
I love you alot!!"
Lilli (daughter) of abliene

"many of Ray's friends/relatives/sisters/grandparents/parents/uncles/gathered to remember him with tears sorrow and fond memories. hope you all did same for your loved ones"
federico rangel dad of san antonio texas

"Ray, I only had a few chances to meet you when you came down to BIAP to visit us. The boys in Taji couldn't stop talking about how much they loved being with you, and how you made their deployment a little easier. I'll never forget getting the news when we were just about to leave to go home. Thank you for you service and sacrifice and god bless your family.

356th Engineer Det.
US Army"
Ray Hegarty of Medford, Ma

"Yesterday completed 5yrs since we lost you and not a day goes by that I don't think of you. You are still constantly in our conversations and forever in our hearts. I miss you so much little brother. I'd give anything to have you back. I wish u could see how big my boys are. Alex looks so much like you. Sometimes he'll make a face or say something and it's like you're here with us and it brings tears to my eyes. I love you so much Ray, you are extremely missed."
Rebecca Rangel Lugo of San Antonio

"Ray...it's been 5 years since you gave your life for our country. I want you to know that you are not forgotten and are in my thoughts daily. You are a true Hero in every since of the word and I'm honored to have known you and served with you. Rest in Peace Ray!"
Tom Schipper of Gilbert, Arizona

"Ray, over 5 years ago, we came together as a team and came together as a family of firefighters, tackling anything that came our way. I couldnt have been more proud of a group of firefighters. 5 years ago today, you made the ultimate sacrifice and became a hero to alot of people out there. Reading down, isn't it incredible how many lives you touched!!!! I miss you buddy, and our team. Selena,I often check in to "catch up". I think of Justin, Jacob, Gabriel, Lilliana and you often. Sounds like the boys are growing up in the splitting image of thier dad. Don't our children go up to fast? After 5 years, it seems that Ray still crosses my mind daily....my hero. I certainly hope one day our paths will cross. To Ray's parents... proud parents...proud grandparents, thank you for your messages keeping all of us updated. I also hope we can meet one day. You all will always be in my heart and prayers. v/r."
Shane Clark of Tucson Az.

"those that knew my Ray/Selena/children we saw them New Years Day handsome boys beautiful girl respectful what a way to start 2010 they are all doing great"
dad of san antonio texas

"I was also one of the members of the RAMS team in the attempted rescue. Ray has been in my thoughts since that very day. The memorial bracelet does'nt leave my wrist either. Ray, you are missed, and you have had an impact on more people than you could have ever imagined! I miss you, keep a place warmed up for me up there."
Anonymous

"just wanted to thank all you that serve and have served, given your loved ones that did not return in order that we could celebrate independence day. My son SSG Ray Rangel was one of them. As they say gone but never forgotten.cherish the good times weep if you have too but contiue be proud."
Federico Rangel of San Antonio Texas

"Ray, we thought of you and your family this Memorial Day. You truely are a hero and we are so proud to have known you and called you our friend. Please know that your sacrifice has not been forgotten."
Dan and Denise Ritchings of Panama City, Florida

"Ray, it is Memorial Day, and as I so often do, I think back to our time together. I am honored to have served with you. As many others have, you made the ultimate sacrifice for your country. I often think of your family and I pray for you and your family. I know you are looking over them. God Bless you."
Shane Clark of Tucson Arizona

"Ray February 13, 2005 you gave so much on that day no one will ever forget you. I am proud that you are my friend, my brother my fellow Fire Fighter. Thinking back to when we first meet in September 1994 basic training to when we graduated the Fire Academy in January 95. You were the first friend I had made away from home. My sons always ask about my friend who died saving soldiers. I always say my friend Ray he is a hero."
Jerry Quintana of Colorado Springs, Co

"Feb 13, 2009
Thank you Ray for trying to save my cousing, D. Gooding. You are a hero and every year on this day I remember you and D. Gooding and pray for your family. GOD Bless."
Angie Miles, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, USAFR of Parker, CO

"Ray...it's been four years already. Just want you to know that I will never forget the good times we had. I Google your name at least once a month just to read postings on various websites. I keep your family in my thoughts and prayers every day. Some day I hope to meet your family...and will try and make that happen. RIP Ray and know that thousands of military firefighters are carrying on the mission that you loved so much. A campaign is on to get you and every military firefighter who has given his life for his country a spot on the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial....we haven't forgotten you!!"
Tom Schipper "Ship" MSgt Retired of Gilbert, Arizona

"Ray it's been 4 years we miss you very much and think about you often.Still have the elvis teddy bear you gave me will treasure it forever.
Love your tia rachel and uncle bobby"
Rachel Rodriguez of SAN ANTONIO

"Hey buddy, It's been 4 years since that tragic day. This morning we had a last call roll call in your honor. We haven't fogotten, nor will we ever forget the sacrifice you made that day. It seems like just yesterday we were at Ft. Carson training for Iraq and starting up the RAMMS team. I think about you each and every day. I have to say it's been tough being back over here. Seeing this place again brings back a flood of memories from that day. Today is your day Ray. We will never forget!!!"
TSgt Jason Keller of Joint Base Balad (RAMMS team member - 2005)

"February 5, 2009
To the family of Staff Sgt. Ray Rangel:
Ray 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

"thank you mr.Schipper my daughter told us about the award and it is awesome how our son is still honor by other heroes thank you guys God bless you all and your families."
proud dad and mom of hero of san antonio texas

"Baby toes I miss you so much. I don't really have no one on my side like I did when before you. You were the one that I hated and then I loved. Your the only one who knew all my deepest secrets and didn't judge me. Now I have problems and I wait by my phone waiting for you to call me to tell me something dumb and perverted to make me laugh just to help me forget about the problems. No one will ever know the stuff we went though like that night we became Blood Brothers :).Damn son I miss you, you were my enemy to my BFF to my Brother. I never had a brother until you. Your always in my heart and I know you always next to me when I need you. You will always be my family. MISS YOU BRO Man I loved to hate you and hated to love you, how did it go "It's man love""
Big Guy of sa,tx

"I'm not sure if you know that they have designated an award for firefighters serving in Iraq in honor of Ray. Here is the website link...a video can be found in the upper right hand corner of the site. Still think of Ray almost everyday. This award is a fitting tribute to a true Hero. http://www.airforcetimes.com/ If the video is no longer on the site I'm sure you can find it through a search of Rays name on www.airforcetimes.com"
Tom Schipper ( MSgt Retired) of Gilbert, Arizona

"To the Rangel Family,

I knew Ray for a long time, he and I attended middle school and high school together, we both played football, even though I graduated a year ahead of him, I considered him a dear close friend of mine. When I found out that we lost Ray, I had no words to say. I will always remember him the way he was full of life and ideas, and always trying to help others."
Chief Petty Officer Cesario Escobar, USN of San Antonio, Texas

"I miss u cuz, i wish u could of met my wife and kids like we planed 2 do that new years befor u pass away. Maybe u could of helped me with my problems and help make the right decisions since i always looked up 2 u as my brother.. I love and miss u, do me a favor tell my dad i love him 2..."
Roger gutierrez of San antonio, tx.

"What I wouldn't give to see you walk in thru mom & dad's door. I miss you so much. There is so much I would like to share with you. I love u Mijo."
Your Big Sis, Rebecca Rangel Lugo of San Antonio, TX

"one more holiday without our son but one day closer to meeting up with him in heaven, our other loved ones, and his other hero friends that are with Ray, love you son, miss you, see you real soon."
dad of san antonio texas

"Selena sent us a picture of Jacob in his football uniform informing us that he had played an awesome football game. Cindy and I both agreed that our son had the biggest smile cause he was so proud of his son for doing so well in football. You know he was their coach when they were younger they get all that from their daddy"
proud dad of san antonio texas

"ray, we miss you so much we just wanted to say that we love u and miss you and always think about you. now that the holidays are coming up it is going to be hard to be happy, but knowing that you are in a better place gives us a sense of happiness, we just want to say that we will never forget you. you will always and forever remain in our hearts mijo we love you so much, you are our hero may god bless you, and your family love your grandma and grandpa and carreon family mimo and pipo"
edwarda carreon of san antonio tx

"I wish we could hear your voice one more time or we could see you your smile laugh with you when you would play your jokes on us. Its tough for all you who have sent your loved ones to war and not returned, but be of good cheer one day soon we will all be united again. In the mean time we must trust in GOD and see the good that has and will continue to come out of all this. Our children went to fight the good fight we also must fight the good fight to honor their sacrifices for this great country of ours."

"To the family of Ssgt. Ray Rangel. It has been over three years since that tragic rainy sunday morning. I will never forget the few words we exchanged just before he jogged out to the helicopter. I told him to be careful, he replied yes sir, and then he was gone. I know as a firefighter that being careful and getting the job done sometimes don't go together so well. But I know he did the best job possible under the circumstances, and I will always remember that he died trying to save the life of another US serviceman, and that will always be enough. I only new him for a short time before he died, but I wanted to pass on this statement to his family. Ray was "the kind of guy children hope to be, and the kind of guy old men wish they had been. God bless you all...Tom Miter"
Tom Miter of Troy NY

"I love you,Daddy!"
Lilliana Faith Rangel of Abilene ,Texas

"I'm so glad that you are able to see your grandchildren! I know Ray was so proud of his wife and kids....he talked about them a lot. Memorial Day is fast approaching and I'll always think of Ray and the sacrafice he made to his country. Great to see your message about seeing the grandchildren. God Bless"
Tom Schipper of Phoenix, Arizona

"God does answer pray seeing selena and our grandchildren again was proof of that. We got to see them on easter sunday the day we celebrate your resurrection we saw our hope resurrected again that we will continue to see them again and more often. I always knew that my son had fallen in love with a woman that had a kind and tender heart. God bless Selena and our grandchildern she shall always be known as our daughter."
ray's proud parents. of san antonio texas usa

"We saw Selena and the kids on Easter Sunday, they are growing up so fast. As they walked in one by one and hugged me as they said hello, my heart was both happy and sad. What I wouldn't give so see you walk in after them. I miss you so much little brother."
Rebecca Rangel Lugo of San Antonio, Texas

"I have come to terms with you going home to the Lord son. I do not consider that a lose but a victory for you son I know that we will eventually met again. What I keep praying and asking Our Lord is why we lost the right to see our grandchildren the children that in so many ways look like you and have your mannerisms. If you have lost a loved one at war don't add to their parents sorrow by not allowing them to see their grandchildren the children of their sons or daughters that gave up their lives for freedom in this great country of ours. Which includes or should include the freedom to see their grandchildren."
fred rangel jr. dad to this hero of san antonio texas

"Selena and all of the Rangel family, you are still in our thoughts and prayers. It has been three years since Ray's passing and Dan and I still talk about him often. We want you to know that even now, Ray and your family still have a big impact on our lives and we will never forget him. Selena, we think of you and the boys often and wonder about your little girl. It seems like just yesterday I was taking care of Justin and Jacob while you and Ray were at the hospital and you were having Gabe. Some of our best memories are of you and your family and the time we spent together at Spandahlem. I hope you are doing well and know that your family is always in our hearts. Ray was such a great man and will never be forgotten."
Denise and Dan Ritchings of Panama City, FL

"Ray, it is February 13th and it seems like yesterday that we were all together. As I often do, I said a prayer for you, Selena, and your family. Please continue to look over your family and all those that served with you. There are so many people that are thinking of you."
Shane Clark of Tucson Arizona

"Ray, today is the third anniversary of your passing. Just wanted to let you know that I'm thinking about you. I know you're watching over your family and they think about you everday."
Tom Schipper of Phoenix, Arizona

"i love you and will never forget you. Ray you are my hero."
unknown of san Antonio TX

"ray we will forever miss you and never forget you, you are always in our prayers we love you mijo"
Pipo&Mimo ( grandparents) of San Antonio TX

"please call the gold star family support center at fort hood texas(254)287-6831 ask for mae lane."
mae lane of Fort Hood texas

"Ray, I just wanted to say that i miss you so much you were the best cousin i could ever have you were like my uncle i just want to say that i will never forget you. You will always and forever be in my heart RAY you are my HERO!! Thank you for your sacrifice I love you and miss you so much. luv Heather Rae"
Heather Rae Carreon of San Antonio TX

"My deepest sympathies to the Rangel family. Ray and I went to South San together. My heart breaks for his wife and kids. We lost a good person and a wonderful friend. May God Bless You Ray and your family, you will always be in my thoughts and prayers."
Marie Analisa Caliendo Gaitan of San Antonio, TX

"ray we just got back from a luncheon that was done in you all's honor, all you heroes. Son we still miss you, we will always miss you."
fred rangel of san antonio texas USA

"ray my son we still miss you. You left a great impression with all those people. If you could only see how much they cared for you also."
federico rangel(dad) of san antonio, texas

"Ray, it has been 2 years and you are still missed so much. I think about you and your family everyday. Selina, you and your family are in my prayers. Ray, I only knew you a short time but what an influence you are. You lived the life of a firefighter we all strive to be; professional, service before self, compassionate, and skillful. You are a hero to me and all who know you and I was honored to serve with you. Continue to watch over us and your family."
Shane Clark of Tucson Arizona

"I was part of the mission to recover Ray from that canal on that cold day in Iraq. When I returned home I purchased a bracelet with his name on it. The war and the military are long gone from me now, but I wear the bracelet with Ray's name on it every day. Many people ask me what it is and why I wear it. I simply answer to them that it is because Ray Rangel is my true hero forever. To all those who loved Ray Rangel, God bless you here on earth, and Ray in Heaven forever."
Anonymous

"I want Ray's wife to know how special Ray was to our team in Iraq. As you know, I was in charge of the RAMS Team and personally picked Ray to go on that mission that morning. He had just arrived a few days before and was ready and willing to do the mission that we had at Balad. I remember asking Ray if he was ready to go just before the chopper landed to take them to the scene. He gave me a huge smile and a confident nod and told me he was ready to go. I want you and everybody out there to know that Ray Rangel was a true Hero and that he died doing what we all loved to do. We were firefighters in the US Air Force committed to saving the lives of our fellow man. Ray Rangel gave the ultimate sacrafice in trying to save three Army personnel from a overturned HUMVEE in the middle of a canal. I will never forget him and the hero that he was to me and all the members of the first ever Air Force Rescue Air Mobility Squad to serve in Iraq."
MSgt (retired) Tom Schipper of Phoenix, Arizona

"Selena:
Te conoci de nombre y por las fotos que Ray tenia en su cuarto. Como tu el pasado 13 de febrero fue uno diferente en mi vida. Tuve la oportunidad de compartir con Ray muchas veces en el tiempo que tuvimos juntos en TAJI. De hecho tuve con el el ultimo que estuvo alli por que fui uno de los llevo a tomar el helicoptero que lo llevaria a BALAD. Hacia mucho frio y para que no se quedaran fuera esperamos en los vehiculos con ellos hasta las 3:35am que fue que los vinieron a buscar. Eso fue el miercoles 9 de febrero, supinos esa misma noche que habian llegado bien, lo que jamas hubieramos imaginado es que fuera la ultima vez que compartiriamos con el. Su tema favorito era la familia los niņos y la casa. Fue un gran hombre, un gran amigo. Tengo varias fotos; lrmuniz@hotmail.com"
Luis R. Muņiz of Ponce, Puerto Rico

"This Monday will be 1 year since Ray has passed away. I wanted to thank you all for you kind words, prayers and support. He was a strong and caring man. We miss him so much! He died doing what he loved, being a firefighter and serving his country. To all his fellow brothers & sisters out there God Bless You! You and your families will forever be in our prayers."
Selena, his loving wife of Texas

"I am hoping someone will see this on this webpage and be able to help me. I am trying to reach the family of this soldier so that I can mail a flag to them that was flown in this soldier's honor. I am forever grateful for the sacrifices that this family gave. Any assitance would be very helpful.
Thank you. emmylou9@hotmail.com"
Emmy of Charleston, SC

"Dear Selena,
It has been 9 years, but it seems like yesterday that we lived across the hall from each other in Spangdahlem. Justin was just a toddler and my Zackary was only 3. This is Terrie Noland. We are headed to Abilene and I came across the news about Ray. When I first saw the name Ray Rangel, I frantically searched the internet to find clues to see if it was you. I am so desperately sorry for you and your family. I know that he will be missed. He passed from this earth doing what he was trained to do. You will definitely be in my prayers. I hope to hear from you. ttzmc001@cox.net"
Terrie Noland of Bellevue, Nebraska

"To the family or Ray Rangel, I just want to first offer my condolences to your family, but also thank you. I lost my brother SSG. Chad Lake the same day. Your loved one died trying to save my brother and for that I am forever grateful. Words can not express the greif and sadness I feel, but I felt that telling your family thank you was the least my family could do. Forever grateful to Ray Rangel for his bravery and sacrifice. His sacrifice will never be forgotten. God Bless your family."
Courtney Lopez of Ocala, Florida

"To Ray's Family and Friends:

On behalf of the Blanco-Caldas family, we send our sincerest condolences. We share the same loss ... the same pain. Our prayers are with you in this most difficult time and we thank you for your hero's bravery and sacrifice as we mourn the loss of yet another of Texas' sons.

Sincerely,

Gloria Caldas
Proud Mother of Fallen Hero
Capt. Ernesto M. Blanco-Caldas
"The Big Ern"
82nd Airborne, KIA Iraq 12/28/2003.
San Antonio, Texas
gcaldas48@aol.com"

"Ray,

From those met and worked with at Clear AFS, Thank you for the great memories, friendship and the fellowship. You will be missed by those that you befriended. God Bless and God speed."
Tsgt Robert Campbell of Anchorage, Alaska

"Brother we will keep you in our thoughts and keep on doing this job here in Iraq. Rest easy and keep an eye out for all of us."
Timothy McGinnis of Tallil Iraq

"I keep you and your family in my prayers. Your son was a true hero, he is now an angel for God. Thank you Ray for everything you did for our country. God Bless your soul and your family."
Betty of Chesapeake,Va

"Many share your grief and sorrow and I just want to tell you that you are not alone and don't have to go though this alone. I offer my condolences and know that you will get through all of this. You & your family as well as the other famalies will be in my prayers until we bring our soldiers home and remember those who gave their life for us."
Amanda of San Antonio, TX

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

"My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Ray Rangel. I lost my son in Iraq on 1/26/05. All those that have lost their lives in service to their country will always be heroes. May God bless you and ease your pain."
Helen Gilbert of Dayton, Ohio

"Ray,

We want you to know your family is so,so very proud of you. Hearing that you are gone has left us all heartbroken, but we know you died doing what you loved - helping others. We take comfort knowing that you are with the Lord. We will forever miss your kind heart and warm smile. Life will not be the same without you. Rest in Peace my brave, brave cousin."
Lisa Rubio of San Antonio, TX

"My condolences to the family of Ray Rangel. I lost my son, Richard Gilbert, Jr., on Jan. 26, 2005 in Iraq. My thoughts and prayers are with you."
Helen Gilbert of Dayton, Ohio

"Thank you Ray Rangel, 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 Staff Sgt. Ray Rangel:
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 Ray 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 Staff Sgt. Ray Rangel:
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 Ray, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia