Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"August 20, 2024

I was new to 351st CA Commad and new to the Bay Area altogether. I remember sitting next to you at chow and you were friendly as always and we would have conversations about drill and how we couldn’t wait for COB formation lol! (I’m gonna make an admissions here. after all these years I admit I had a crush on you but I wasn’t gonna do anything because I really valued our friendship. Sorry for the tangent) At the time I hadn’t reclassed into CA’s and was feeling out of sorts. I even thought of putting in a 4187 to go back to 63T.

My change in attitude was a result of your character and spirit. I knew you were reluctant to deploy but that was easily overcome by your need to make a difference in Civil Affairs and help the Iraqi people. That’s how I learned about our MOS and the mission in Iraq. I was naive to think Civil Affairs was safer than other MOS’s but you and Sgt. Wiley died while helping to rebuild the infrastructure after OIF.

The news of your passing hit me hard. We always talked about school and I knew you would use your Combat Pay towards getting a degree. There was a Memorial in San Jose or maybe Mountain View I can’t remember. What I do remember was the gathering afterwards. Your family was there and there was a lot of chatter amongst the unit. A jovial scene of sorts perhaps to uplift spirits while remembering you. As everyone was leaving people would approach your family members offering condolences. I offered them as well and I remember the kids on the guard rail completely silent. Somber and detached there was nothing I could say to alleviate their pain. I went home upset thinking we acted inappropriately laughing and carrying on while your family sat to the side devastated.That was the last time I wore my Class A’s and I ETS shortly afterwards but the memorial wristband I would wear indefinitely.

I have that black wristband till this day. I wear it during the holidays and my wife knows about your courage and valor. When my daughters are old enough they will learn about you and be inspired by your story. Rest easy Sgt Reali, I thank you for your service and sadly miss you and we will never forget your sacrifice for our freedom.

SPC Albert Macauley"
Albert Macauley of Sydney, NSW/Australia

"I know this is 19 years late. But I had a flashback triggered by a Facebook group focused on Operation Iraqi Freedom. As I was sitting here reminiscing about those days of invading Iraq from Kuwait. One of my memories drove me to remember SGT Reali. Who was killed during my second tour of duty in Baqubah, Iraq. I think it was just after new years that news of her passing was reported in the daily Intel report our team reads every morning. My Team leader just happened to read the headlines of the day and he caught attention of a Civil Affairs Soldier who died from an IED Attack. He mentioned SGT Wiley. Which didn't ring a bell for me. I was still listening as I was doing something on my laptop. The Major read the second name and this name caught my attention. Took me a moment to realize who he was mention became my team leader mispronounced Reali's name at first. As he tried again to say her name. I turned around and looked him straight on the eyes and said Reali???....Regina Teali??? The Major said yes....you know her. I said yeah.....we were in the same unit together.(351st CACOM) I immediately froze as I sat back on my office chair. That young SPC I knew from 351st CACOM in Mountain View, CA. Gone...I lost it. She was a battle buddy, a friend, a colleague, a fellow soldier. Me and her were just young lower enlisted just trying to make it. Make a name for ourselves in our military careers and our personal lives. All of a sudden.....gone. I can tell you all that she was a great person to know. Great person to be around. Great person to talk to when you need a laugh. One thing that still bothers me to this day. I never talk about this to anyone. I mainly kept this to myself. But I think I can share this today. Even though it hurts. Before the Iraqi invasion happened in March of 2003. I was asked if I wanted to deploy in December of 2002. I had no idea what was happening or exactly where I was going. All I know was I wanted in. Was ready to get out there and do something because I just graduated from Civil Affairs Reclass course. As did SGT Reali. On more than one occasion I asked SGT Reali if she wanted to come with me. Asked her at least 2-3 times during a weekend Battle Assembly. I sat and tried to convince her that this is a good opportunity to get out there and do some serious CA work. She politely declined. To this date.....and this is just me. I feel like if I had tried harder to convince her to go............Maybe she would still be here. Maybe she would have made it through the deployment I went on. I kick myself in the * every time I think about it. I think and think and think of what the outcome would have been if we deployed together. I think she would have survived. I really do. This has been eating me up for years. Can't help it. 😔 God bless you Regina. You are a hero no matter what. Rest easy. Truly, MSG Webb"
MSG Webb, Julian of Riverview FL

"I know this is 19 years late. But I had a flashback triggered by a Facebook group focused on Operation Iraqi Freedom. As I was sitting here reminiscing about those days of invading Iraq from Kuwait. One of my memories drove me to remember SGT Reali. Who was killed during my second tour of duty in Baqubah, Iraq. I think it was just after new years that news of her passing was reported in the daily Intel report our team reads every morning. My Team leader just happened to read the headlines of the day and he caught attention of Civil Affairs Soldiers that died from an IED Attack. He mentioned SGT Wiley. Which didn't ring a bell for me. I was still listening as I was doing something on my laptop. The Major read the second name and this name caught my attention. Took me a moment to realize who he was mentioning because my team leader mispronounced Reali's name at first. As he tried again to say her name. I turned around and looked him straight in the eyes and said Reali???....Regina Reali??? The Major said yes....you know her? I said yeah.....we were in the same unit together.(351st CACOM) I immediately froze as I sat back in my office chair. That young SPC I knew from 351st CACOM in Mountain View, CA. Gone...I lost it. She was a battle buddy, a friend, a colleague, a fellow soldier. Me and her were just young lower enlisted Soldiers just trying to make it in society. Make a name for ourselves in our military careers and our personal lives. All of a sudden.....gone. I can tell you all that she was a great person to know. Great person to be around. Great person to talk to when you need a laugh. One thing that still bothers me to this day. I never talk about this to anyone. I mainly kept this to myself. But I think I can share this today. Even though it hurts. Before the Iraqi invasion happened in March of 2003. I was asked if I wanted to deploy in December of 2002. I had no idea what was happening or exactly where I was going. All I know was I wanted in. Was ready to get out there and do something because I just graduated from Civil Affairs Reclass course. As did SGT Reali. On more than one occasion I asked SGT Reali if she wanted to come with me. Asked her at least 2-3 times during a weekend Battle Assembly. I sat and tried to convince her that this is a good opportunity to get out there and do some serious CA work. She politely declined. To this date.....and this is just me. I feel like if I had tried harder to convince her to go............Maybe she would still be here today. Maybe she would have made it through the deployment I went on. I kick myself in the * every time I think about it. I think and think and think of what the outcome would have been if we deployed together. I think she would have survived. I really do. This has been eating me up for years. Can't help it. 😔 God bless you Regina. You are a hero no matter what. Rest easy. Truly, MSG Webb"
MSG Webb, Julian of Riverview FL

"It was deep privilege to be the pastor and US ARMY RESERVE CHAPLAIN who did the memorial service for Regina and graveside burial. Although I wasn’t then assigned to the 351st Civil Affairs Command in Mountain View California/Moffett Field, I later served there for almost five years. My commander MAJOR GENERAL GARY MEDVIGY sponsored the dedication of a war memorial for 17 USACAPOC Civil Affairs and Psycological Operations soldiers. I wear a bracelet honoring Regina as KIA soldier and today 27 May 2024 Memorial Day honor her selfless service paying the ultimate sacrifice."
Chaplain/COLONEL Steven M Eddy of Fresno, California

"i had the honor of bringing our Angel back home to the US.....it was one of the hardest things i have ever done...Gina...RIP you're one of Gods Angels..."
Msgt Ricky Martin of Knoxville tennessee USA

"I knew you since middle school at fort miller through high school at fresno high. I was shocked to hear what happened. These many years later i still think of you."
Sai Cha of Fresno

"I really don’t know SGT Reali, but had the dreadful task of notifying the Next of Kin in person, which was her to nephew and niece in San Diego, shamelessly it was on Christmas Eve Day that spilled over to Christmas day. I a combat veteran as on Casualty Affair Duty in the San Diego area, as part of a team to provide the in-person notification to the service member next of kin. I had just performed a notification a day early at Balboa Naval Hospital, when Fort Huachuca Casualty Affair Office called a fellow team member who ignored the call to respond, because it was so close to Christmas and walked out of his office quickly to avoid being called again. I then seen my government cell ring and it was the CAO from Ft Huachuca, he said I know you’re not on the rotation for another notifications since you did one yesterday, but it’s a day before Christmas Eve, I need you to do this for me, please….
I accepted it and traveled to the address of SGT Reali’s Brother, but no one was there. I then probed around ad seen a neighbor and asked a few questions, but they were some-what perplexed on why I was around the home, so I left. It was late around 22:30hrs. I travelled to Balboa Hospital and did my reports from a personnel office. I was upset and talking out loud on why I had to do this, it was now mid night, I called FT Huachuca and informed them I did not make contact with the NOK, could this case be transferred to another team member, because it was Christmas Eve, they replied we need you…. I sat alone in the hospital office cussing and questioning my duties, this was my 16th notification and Casualty Assistance Officer Duty, and I hated it. As I pounder a man who was a night cleaner over heard my frustrations and yelled to me, Sarge, you’re going strap it on and go do that notification. I looked at him and instantly became enraged, explaining you don’t know anything about me to give me an order to do something, you’re a janitor. He replied “you have to, I served in Vietnam, and many were lost and their families were horribly notified, so this is a must, no delegation of duty, you and you only must do this.” I was puzzled, but in a few short minutes realized I had to do it. I turned to give some kind of apologies, but the man was gone, as if he appeared out of nowhere. I was scared, but summed up the courage to do the notification later that morning. I can only say when I arrived to the brother’s home, there was a lot of people there and they were expecting I believe a video message or feed from SGT Reali to her brother ship, who was serving in the Navy, but they got me and it was a very, very, very difficult seen, I can’t go into details on what happened, but I respect how the family reacted. I finished my paperwork and was hurt inside. I went to the Ocean Beach Pier around 17:30hrs and never departed till the next day Christmas around 11:00 hrs. I reflected on then on my last 21 years in the Army. I felted so badly inside, that I was the last image as her father said to me in my face of his little girl, a horrible image. I called FT. Huachuca and insisted if I ever died do not send anyone to my door ever. I fought with all my demons inside that night on the pier and didn’t enjoy a Christmas until 2010. During Christmas day I use to visits the Children’s Hospital and the VA Hospital, brining gifts and cards on my own, until that Christmas Eve day in 2005. I never duplicated that efforts again, too sad by the events of being on Casualty Assistance duties. I only hope that the family forgives me for intruding that day, it was duty and orders, I followed, but am affected from it ever since. My condolences to SGT Reali’s family, I never knew her, but felt their lost that day. My heart broke that day, I’m only giving my side of the story behind the events of that day. It was horrible and I relinquished my duties three months later in honor of her. I am profoundly sorry for having to be the one to notify SGT Reali’s family, my God shine love, peace, and understanding on your loss of 9 years."
Ronald Woods of San Diego

"I knew Regina in high school. We attended Fresno High school. We were both class of 1999. She was an amazing person with a warm smile. She will always be my friend and hero and I will never forget her."
Cynthia Walker/Bernardino of Fresno California

"I watched Regina grow up. Lived right around the corner from my house. Her and my little brother Ryan were best friends for as long as I can remember. She kept my brother out of trouble a lot, and I missed my chance to say thank you to her before she left for the Army. She was a good girl, last time I saw her was for 5 minutes when she was on leave once visiting my brother. I was proud to see what she had become. She didn't deserve what happened and I was terribly upset when I heard about it. I will never forget you Regina."
Matthew Mann of Fresno, CA

"Here it is, August 2011 - I only knew SPC Realli for a short time - we were both in 448 CA - but I have never forgotten her. Every time I teach a class to soldiers on IED's I remember her. I remember her smile, I remember her devotion to the people of Iraq, especially the kids there, I remember how she always went the extra mile if a soldier was down and out. She was a great person to have known."
SSG Jon Watt, of Ft. Huachuca, AZ

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry. I understand in theory only that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take the families pain away but I can't. I am committed to loving ALL people, myself and our environment. I am committed to working on my happiness everyday because so many have died for my freedom to live my life. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have. All my love and respect. ogersteiner@yahoo.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEjz-wAQLSA&feature=PlayList&p=477CB1585D5551F3"
Scott Steiner of Worthington, Ohio USA

"To the family of SGT Regina C. Reali
My heart goes out to your family and friends. May God Bless You and protect You.
You and your family will always be in are prays.
"LET NO ONE BE FORGOTTEN"
God Bless"
SSG Santoyo of Clovis, Ca

"December 21, 2008
To the family of Sgt. Regina C. Reali:
Regina 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

"To the family of Regina. I was very sorry to see the programme on our televison on the 27.10.2007 for the deparure of Regina. I was in S. Diego last September and I tried to contact Paul and the family but unfortunately the tel. number was not in function anymore.I will return soon due that my son is working there. Please I would like to visit Regina could you please inform me if you have already put her photo on the hill.
thank you if you could reply to me I have already send per e-mail my e-mail address without any reply up to now."
flavia of Lugano, Switzerland

"Regina, it's been 2 years and it's still hard to believe you're gone. You are truely missed. I will never forget all the help you gave me."
Mayra Lopez-Nanez of San Jose, CA

"I wish that you all could have known Gina, she was and is beautiful inside and out! The best daughter, sister, and to me the best friend! She is loved and is missed greatly! Thank you for all of your kind words!!!"
Nakia Garrett of Merced, Ca

"This message is for Regina C. Reali.
We love you gina."
Whitney of USA

"This message is for Regina C. Reali.
We love you gina."
whitney of usa

"Gina, I loved serving with you in Iraq and consider it an honor to have known you. Thanks for all your help with comms and intel at FOB Loyalty. I remember talking with you on the evening of 21 December 2005 and how you were anxious to get home and see your father. God Bless you."
SSGT Ron Taylor, 448 Civil Affairs Bn of Bakersfield, Ca

"Regina,
I would like to say thank you to you and the other soldier who was also killed in that blast for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy."
Mike Casey of El Paso, Texas

"To the family of:Regina C. Reali 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. She 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"

"It will be 9 months on September 23 that Gina was taken from her family and friends. I only knew Gina for a short time through her Aunt Judy and had a visit with her before going back to Iraq. What always sticks in my mind was that sweet smile she had, that's what I remember. God Bless all the family and friends and most of all "GINA". You will forever be remembered!"
Pam Sagardia of Fresno, California

"Gina was a great fun loving girl that would warm the heart of any person that she came in contact with. She worked at the Home Depot in Clovis CA for 3 years. She Graduated from Fresno High School and was attending Fresno City. She was a special person while she spent her time here on earth, and god had decided that it was time for her to come closer to him and provide more selfless acts for him. Its been almost 6 months since she had past and over a year since I last saw her. It is still hard to not see her and in fact as I write this it still brings a tear to my eye and a pain in my hart. We will always miss you Gina, We will carry your tourch for all to see and charish. If you would like to leave a message to her family they have a memorial book at Legacy.com"
TJ Warren of Fresno, CA

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness,
and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief.
Our nations HERO, Regina will be remembered by name.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pat & Sandi Breckenridge / Montana God Bless you ALWAYS. "

"Thank you Regina Reali, 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 Sgt. Regina Reali:
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 Regina for the sacrifice she has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of Sgt. Regina Reali:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. She 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 Regina, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia