Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Garry, just thinking of you brother! I miss you a lot. The 4 years we served in the barracks were memorable and fun. Your laugh, and sense of humor was contagious. I will never forget times we went down to SD to hang out and come walking into the barracks right before formation. I can’t wait to see you when my time comes, Semper Fi!!"
Matt Lieberman of Glenville, NY

"It’s been so many years bro but i still remember our fun times together every time you visit San Diego when we were active duty…I was in the Navy and Gary went to USS Peleliu for deployment…Were both Filipino and we called ourselves cousins…

Rest in peace and i’ll
see you again my brother…"
Officer Neil Santiago of Las Vegas Nevada

"Missing you so much... i love you❤️❤️❤️"

"Happy Wednesday Brother. I know it’s been awhile since we last spoke. However it’s been busy with me since the last time. Married with 4 boys. You know me, I have no luck with girls. Just know you are never forgotten. You will always live through me and my family. I miss you everyday and more. Save me a spot on Heavens wall. I’ll stand the watch with you brother. I love you and miss brother. Semper Fi Devildawg!!!!!"
S. Totua of San Francisco, Ca/USA

"i miss u"
sweetie of qa

"Semper Fi Cpl Rhimes, you are remembered by many. To his family, thank you for allowing me to have known and served with him, Godspeed!"
Mike Hewitt GySgt USMC Retired of Eagan Mn

""To the family and friends of Cpl. Garrywesley Rimes"
It's been several years since I sent Cpl Rimes
back to his family! As we prepared him for his
final trip home I promised him I would some day
have the strength to contact his family! This
young man was "absolutely" the happiest Marine i have ever met! His smile and caring
brought joy to everyone around him
Every night he found his way back to the
company headquarters tent "regardless" of how
tired he must have been from the rigorous
patrols. Eventhough most Marines would wait for
the next day to call home, not Cpl Rimes! He'd
promised to call his young wife,Happy! After each phone call without doubt he was the
"happiest" Marine in Weapons Company, One
day we had to stop all outgoing calls! But, I still let him make his on this day... The next time we stopped our out-going calls, it was to ensure the proper respect and notification was provided to the Rimes Family! I will never forget him! I think of Cpl Rimes often, my name is Dwayne Farr. I was the Weapons Company First Sergeant of
Cpl Rimes. If anyone knows his mom and wife please let them know they may contact me
through Facebook, I'd like share something wo
Ith them!

share soothing with them.

Semper Fdelis,
SgtMaj D.W.Farr USMC ret"
SgtMaj Dwayne Farr USMC (retired) of Beaufort, South Carolina

"It has been a very long time brother. Words and action cannot explain how i feel then nor now! You will always be remember for your crazy ways! you will always live in our hearts and soul for your not one to be forgotten! I love you and miss you dearly bro! We will meet again on the battle field for one more oorraahhh! Semper Fi!"
Shane Totua of LB/SF/DC Ca

"love you tito garry. i wish you were still alive so we can hang out and play.love ya"
Your Niece, Helena Rimes of Santa Maria, CA

"Miss you Sangko! Love you."
Patty Rimes of Santa Maria, CA

"march 20, 2013

tom is your bday!!!!!! if buhay ka, panu mo kaya icelebrate?????????"
wye of pasig

"happy birthday!!!!!!!!! sana kahit sa panaginip mag pakita ka...lets celebrate..."
wye of pasig

"birth day mo..san tayo? what if buhay ka pa..anung life kaya meron ako.."
wye of pasig

"Rest Well.. May God be with you.."

"08/19/2012 👇"

"I've already done what I promise you. I know you're at peace now. I still miss you everyday especially your guidance, protection, support and love. I hope that you're still watching over me (most especially this time of my life that reminds me of you). You're not forgotten and I'm hoping the same. SEMPER FIDELIS."
******

"Thinking of you this Veteran's Day! 11-11-11... We love and miss you bro soooo much!"
Your sis, Patty of Santa Maria, CA

"Thinking of you Pa're!!!"
Jayzer of SoSF, CA.

"Hey brother hope you are at peace. I leave for afghanistan in a few..we are going to finish this up my friend..watch over me bro..the 1st air cav will lead to us victory..semper fi.
three amigos forever!"
SAM of Texas

"Happy Birthday my dear brother! I know you're celebrating with our Lola, Lolo, Tita and Tito's up there, especially with Lord our God and all the angels. Have a blast up there bro! Love and truly miss you... Never forgotten!3/21/11"
Your Sis Patty and Niece Helena of Santa Maria, CA

"Gary, just saying, no matter how many years have passed. you are always remembered and never forgotten...Love ya and miss your smile :) Rest in Peace hyper one xD......A true DevilDog.."
Nia Ripley of Daly City , California

"We Love you so much Rimes, we all would have given our lives for you. Stay hard devil dog. I love you!"
Sgt. Young of Santa Ynez Valley, CA.

"sira ulo tong si anne..magpakita ka nga samin..or paramdam..tirikan ka namin candle..sige na kahit sakin lang wag na sa mga kapatid ko..matatakutin cla..lagi ko suot mga damit mo..pinambabahay ko..i miss u so so so bad..alam ko if buhay ka,tayo magkasama...y na ang name ko hindi na yzel..tsaka michelle tawag mo sakin kaya madalas tayo nag aaway.."
y of pasig phil.

"hello, kuya garry.. anu na??? wag mo kami multuuhin.. pagtitirik ka namin ng candle, miss ka n namin hehe.."
ane sis of Y of pasig phil.

"Thought about you this Memorial Day Pa're... You area true Hero..."
Jay of SSF

"You are not forgoten brother... Totua family misses you everyday... you are in our hearts, thoughts and most of all, loved by the Totuas... we will meet again devildog... peace"
S. Totua of S.F./Ca.

"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 E. Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"Garry - you are in our hearts forever. To Helen, Patty and Helena - our angels on Earth. We love you. From your Marine Corps 1/5 Family."
Susan Transon of Phoenix, AZ

"tol... 5yrs kn wla,sana m tahimik kn...i miss you much kya ginawa kita ng k palit garry wesley tan II pamangkin mo,..may god be w/you...kuya"
bing3rd of cardona,rizal

"hi garry miss you so much, my prayers re with you always..."
ate jaye of cardona, rizal

"”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,600 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at Projectcompassion@manti.com or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna"
Kenna - Project Compassion of Manti, Utah USA

"Rimes, I will remember you forever. We were roommates as Lance Corporals, and brothers forever. Save a seat in heaven for me. May God grant your family peace"
Corby B. Lewis (Sgt) of Lakeland, FL

"April 18, 2009
To the family of Cpl. Garrywesley T. Rimes:
Garrywesley 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

"Sangko,
Happy Birthday! We love and miss you...."
Patty of Santa maria,ca

"Hi Tito Garry, I miss you so much,i,m seven years old now and i,m in 2nd grade now, my teacher told me that i,M VERY SMART,but I talk too much and my mommy told me to ZIP IT UP HELENA. i,LL TRY TO BE GOOD ALWAYS. hAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU IN HEAVEN WILL THEY HAVE BIG CAKE FOR YOU WITH THE ANGELS TOO, I LOVE CHOCOLATE CAKE TOO. lOVE YOU ALWAYS hELENA"
HELENA RIMES of Santa Maria, Ca

"Hi Garry!
i dont know you but i know tru your mom your birthday is coming this 21st of March i wish you a happy birthday and i know you are happy where you are now.Your death anniverssary is coming this 1st of april and we will be saying a prayer for you and your family.We are very proud of you and you will never be forgotten."
Aida of Chicago,IL

"happy new year sangko! we love you.."
patty of santa maria,ca

"Your not forgotten. Just missing you everyday constantly... The Family misses you as well... Things are not the same since the day we parted... But the kids misses their awwesome uncle... Nevertheless you are not forgotten! your forever in our hearts and thoughts bro. Ill see you next month on November 10. Love you and miss you dearly DEVILDOG... Semper Fi!"
Shane Totua of Long Beach, Ca

"missing you a lot."

"happy birthday to you.we miss you...so much"

"YOUR MEMORIES AND LAUGHTER WILL ALWAYS FOREVER BE IN OUR HEARTS BROTHER. SEE YOU WHEN I SEE DEVILDOG. SEMPER FI TILL WE MEET AGAIN."
SSGT. TOTUA S. of Long Beach, Ca.

"YOU ARE NEVER FORGOTTEN BROTHER. YOUR SMILES AND WAYS WILL FOREVER LIVE WITHIN MY FAMILY BRO. BROTHERS FOREVER!"
SSGT. TOTUA S of Long Beach, Ca.

"Thank you for your service brave soldier. I did not know you Cpl. Rimes, but I am humbled and grateful for your selfless sacrifice for the freedom of others. May God bless your family and friends and bring them peace and comfort. And may you now rest in the loving arms of Jesus.
Susan Johnson (Plano, TX)"

"March 30, 2007
Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Garry is a true hero and will not be forgotten. I pray that your happy memories of him are of some comfort for you. I thank you for allowing him to serve so I and my family can continue to enjoy our many freedoms.
With gratitude,
A proud Marine Mom
Joan Sapienza (Brooklyn, NY)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 13, 2007
In tribute to a true American Hero, I want you, his loving family, to know that Garry's sacrifice has not been forgotten. Many Americans share in both your pride and your sorrow. I pray time has allowed fond memories to bring smiles through your tears. God Bless.
Laura PMM of LCpl Derek

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 13, 2007
Words seem so inadequate especially since they can't express what Garry meant to those he served with. You have much to be proud of. Thank you for raising such a hero. May the Lord continue to give you comfort.
Mimi Price (Los Fresnos, TX)
Contact me

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 12, 2007
As the anniversary of the loss of such a great hero draws near, please know that Corporal Garry Wesley Tan Rimes will not be forgotten. We honor him and he will be with us forever. Helen and Patty - know that there are many people that love you guys and are here for you. From your Military family ..... Semper Fi
Susan Haggerty (Phoenix, AZ)
Contact me

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 12, 2007
To the family and friends of Garry,

I would like to let you know that
Garry is not only your hero,
he's OUR hero too.

May you continue to feel the
blessing of the prayers that
are being said for all of you.

Thank you for his service.!!!

xo xo
Debra Estep
Proud AF Mom and AF MIL
Debra Estep (Twinsburg, OH)
Contact me

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Scott Chamberland (St.Agatha, ME)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. GODSPEED AND SEMPER FI.

A PROUD MARINE MOM
ROBYN GARSIDE (AZ)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 21, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy to the Rimes family in the loss of Garry Wesley. I did not know Garry Wesley, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. April 1st will be one year since you were taken. You are a brave hero and you will never be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom

To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith (Springfield, VA)
Contact me

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Garry, you don't know me but you served with my son Juraska. I have gotten to know your wonderful mother Helen and your sister Patti. We are all proud of you Garry and we honor you. You are in our families thoughts and prayers daily Garry and you will never be forgotten. You are a hero young Marine. Semper Fi.

The Juraska/Haggerty Family
From Phoenix, AZ
Susan Haggerty (Phoenix, AZ)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Wanda Cobb & Family (Jax, FL)"

"April 2, 2007
You will never be forgotten. Your memory lives on in us.
May God wrap is loving arms around you all and bring you comfort.
Terry Menville (Newton, TX)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
April 1, 2007
Please know that your in our prayers.Hang on to Gods promise that we will be with our loved ones again for eternity.
Gold star parents of Sgt Jeremy Murray USMC KIA 11-16-05
Harold & Pam Murray (Atwater, OK)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
April 1, 2007
We will never forget or take our freedom for granted. Thank you Cpl. Rimes.
SSgt. Christian and April Abreu (Camp Pendleton, CA)
Contact me

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
April 1, 2007
May God give you the grace to continue on without Garry. I know that you miss him so much. He is one of our heroes, and will not be forgotten. His service to our country is the greatest gift he could hve given. He gave his life for us.

Marine mom Barb
Barbara Porter (Glendale, AZ)
Contact me

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 31, 2007
Please know how deeply sorry I was to learn of the loss of Cpl. Garry Wesley T. Rimes,
A Multitude of Thanks, for this Brave Young Marine's Courage, Dedication and Service to our Country and for Freedom.

Those who Made this Ultimate Sacrifice, So Many and So Young, shall Never Be Forgotten, my brother among them. KIA-Vietnam 1967.

"Greater love hath no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." - John 15:13

May the Peace of God and the memories of Garry, remain in your heart always.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Garnet Jenkins (Grand Junction, CO)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 31, 2007
To the family who raised and loved this brave soldier. Although time has passed since you lost Cpl. Rimes, his service and sacrifice will NEVER be forgotten. I thank God everyday for men like Garry who fought for the ideals of freedom. His valor is cherished and I honor his memory. The American soldier is the ture hero for all generations to come.
Debra Cappel (McCook, NE)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 31, 2007
For the love and time you invested in your son's life and for the service and sacrifice of your son Cpl. Grimes
THANK YOU!
Annie B (Atlanta, GA)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 31, 2007
You raised a courageous, young man. Stand proud, as my family is, honoring the life, service, and sacrifice of your son. Always remember the good times and find comfort in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Honoring Your Son,

Michelle Baker and family
Michelle Baker (Foristell, MO)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 31, 2007
Please know that you and Garry are in my heart always.
Ruth Hendricks (Phoenix, AZ)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 31, 2007
Garry,
Thank you for your service and your sacrifice for our great country. You honor and commitment should be commended and praised by all. We will not forget that you gave your life, so that the rest of us may live freely and safely. Thank you again. May your Rest In Peace.
The Bateman Family
Robin Bateman (Jacksonville, NC)
Contact me"

"Tol, it's been two years... I wish to visit you there in CA someday-Kuya Bing.. Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice not only for your country and also for the family kaw lang talaga ang nakagawa nang ganyan sa pamilya.. Saludo kami sa iyo ikaw ang Garry noon mga bata pa tayo, stubborn nga pero may prinsipyo! Our dear little brother we love you and we miss you more than you ever know.. Rest in peace!"
With love, Kuya Bing Tan of Canada and Kuya Bong Tan of California

"Hi Sangko! Two years... You are never forgotten.. We love you and miss you! Rest in peace."
Love, Patty and Helena Rimes of Santa Maria, CA.

"Happy Birthday Tito Garry! We love you.."
From your nieces and nephews.. Trixia Tan; Helena Tan Rimes; Cris Patrick Tan and Garry Tan II

"Happy Birthday Sangko!!! It's been two years... you are always in my heart.. i miss you so so much!! I love you bro.."
Patty Rimes of Santa Maria, CA.

"SHANE AND I WANT TO SEND OUR LOVE OUT TO GARY'S FAMILY, HAVEN'T FORGOTTEN HIM.. WE PRAY DAILY GIVING THANKS TO HAVE KNOWN SUCH A BRAVE MAN. WE ALSO WANT TO SEND A HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO GARY, YES HIS BIRTHDAY IS COMING UP SHORTLY, MARCH 21ST! SHANE'S TOO JUST 3 WEEKS LATER...... IT WON'T BE THAT EXCITING FOR US ANYMORE, BECAUSE WE WONT BE HAVING THAT GUINESS WITH OUR MAIN MAN, GARY.. WELL, PLEASE REMEMBER THAT WE LOVE HIM TOO, HE'S ALWAYS IN OUR HEARTS AND THOUGHTS.. GOD BLESS THE RIMES FAMILY......"
SHANE AND NIA of DALY CITY

"I can not believe, that it has actually been 2 years, I am so sorry... Well, I guess that shows, that in my life with a dear friend of yours, it still is very difficult, that it seems like yesterday.. Your loss , is felt and reminded daily through Shane.. SO, I do apologize for such a typo...Two years....... Anyways, we miss you Gary.... Nia Ripley"
Nia Ripley of Daly City

"Just want to say that your 1 yr. anniversarry is coming up since you have been gone, and it is felt very much in our home. I remember last year Shane and I went to Santa Maria for your services, and he was devastated that we were late. It was out of our control, because we got off at 7am, we tried so hard to make it on time, but our hearts were with you of course. It is extremely difficult for Shane, we have your picture on our dresser, with a rose that i took from your services and he stares at it each time, wanting so much to have you here to call and harrass you even now!!! He is your true friend for life. He lives in his past so much, remeniscing about your guys ordeals and you just being the crazy loving guy that you are. We miss you, and I can only support Shane, with his regrets not reenlisting and going out with you. He blames himself alot, for not being there, especially when there are so many dear memories he tells me of you guys. I can only love him every day, and I be thankful for the times I did meet with you, to be able to share some hilarious moments when we teased ol Shane together.. Well, you are dearly missed, and our country owes you so much, and we know that we sleep better because of all the courageous volunteers that we have that become soldiers like you... Your family is fortunate that you brought honor to your family name and your son in the future... God bless you, Sincerely, Nia Ripley (I will love my marine always too.. SSGT. SDTOTUA)"
Nia Ripley of Daly City, CA

"Hi Sangko!!! Happy V-Day!!! Love you!"

"i miss you so much..."

"I still haven't recovered from you pushing on. However, i will see you again, that's a promise DEVILDOG! Missing you and wishing you were with your luv ones. 4ever in our hearts bro... Alofa fa'amaoni i lou uso mo aso uma..."
Ssgt. S. Totua of Long Beach, Ca.

"Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to the "Rimes" family from the "Totua" family of Long Beach, Ca."
Leonard T. Totua of San Francisco, Ca.

"Uncle rimes, i miss you and hope your watching over all of us. thank you for all that you have done for me. your dog tags will be forever my greatest treasure. thank you uncle. i love you and miss you very dearly. Merry christmas and happy new year."
Taili'i Aukai Pangelina Totua of Kalihi, Hawaii

"Another holidays without you bro. keep a spot open for me when my time of arrival is due. missing you and wishing your family a very safe and happy holidays. see you one day bro..."
Ssgt. S. D. Totua of Long Beach, Ca

"SANGKO I MISS YOU SO MUCH TALAGA! LOVE YOU!!"
Patty Tan Rimes of Santa Maria, CA.

"garry
we felt the pains and sorrow of your family especially Helen and Patty. peace be with you and God bless"
berris family of los angeles,ca

"garry miss ka pa rin kahit kulit ka nakakalungkot isipin na wala ka na.
peace be with you always."
tita bella of florida,usa

"we miss you a lot garry most especially now with the holidays coming.your loving tito&tita"
DR.Paul&Bella Psaras of Tarpon springs,

"Repa, Naway payapa ka na ngayon sa iyong kinalalagyan....may you rest in peace.. we love you!! you are not forgotten... Sa langit ang ating tagpuan."
Young Guns Club of Philippines

"Just a note to say that you are dearly missed.........."
Nia Ripley of Daly City

"To the family of:Garrywesley T. Rimes 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"

"Remembering and honoring you this Memorial Day! Rest in Peace.."
Patty and Helena Tan Rimes of Santa Maria, CA.

"Happy birthday uncle Rimes. Missing you very much. Thank you for the dog tags. I will forever keep them close to my heart. Your devilpup nephew in Hawaii, Tai Totua"
Son of SSGT. S. Totua/Tailii Totua of Honolulu, Hi

"Happy Birthday DevilDog. It has been a while now. Dont worry your not forgoten. Missing you very dearly bro. We will meet again..."
SSGT. S. Totua of Long Beach, Ca.

"pre,
magkikita pa rin tayo kahit hindi mo ko inabutan sa bahay nong magpunta ka sa min.. mahal ka ng tropa!!

God is always with you!"
bobbie herrea of kuwait

"Happy Birthday Sangko!

Wish you Peace! Love you!"
With Love Patty and Helena Tan Rimes of Santa Maria, CA. U.S.A.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY GARRY! WISH YOU PEACE!
WE ALL LOVE YOU..."
LOVE KUYA BING TAN AND FAMILY of TORONTO CANADA

"Word cannot express how grateful the rest of my family and I for the countless and endless support of our extended family here in the States and Philippines, friends, community, country, and by all means the military... Not only was my Sangko a great son, soldier, cousin, nepwhew, he was a great brother and uncle. We had our times, but we always worked through them in some ways, he knew he was loved and appreciated. Sangko, events like these make us so profoundly sad....yet so profoundly proud. I think about you everyday. I have to continue to tell myself you are not coming back which is a hard reality to face, when i got call.. my heart is immediately crushed like i was hit by a truck... because before i know that you are there somewhere and anytime i will know that you're here in town and makes me feel good that you were safe, although we never see each other.. the fact that you're still alive and kickin' and always eager to come back it was a great relieved for me. Still the military was your home away from home, we knew if for the very first time you joined that was part of your life, everybody supported and love you and always praying for your safety especially mom, dad, and tita's. We all know the you enjoyed your life being in the military, never did complaints comes out to your mouth when you learned for your deployment instead it was your goal to complete the task at hand and com home. But unfortunately, you joined those fallen heroes who risk their lives like yours to be with GOD.. You touched a lot of peoples heart when you leave us, especially your family. My time at home is my private time to think of you, to thank you, and pray for your soul. I wish i was young again..but i am not. Anyway, thank you so much for evrything, for the fun and laughters, for the love and care, for the petty things we fought, for the arguments and most of all for your sacrifice.

Words cannot convey the thanks I have for you and for all of the soldiers who have lost their lives or are left serving our country. May God truly, truly bless them!!

I wish i could personally thank every family of all the Fallen Heroes.. To tell them that their son, daughter, husband or wife will never be forgotten. All Americans, or some military service people all throughout the world should fall to hteir knees and pray for those that made the ultimate sacrifice. Pray for the families that are in so much pain...My heart goes out to wive's and husbands, mothers and fathers, children, nieces, nephews, uncle and aunts of our bravest and finest.........For all WEAPON COMPANY who left there in Iraq, your company will be forever engraved in my heart.. My dearest sangko, as your brothers in U.S.M.C. says SEMPER FI... I remember you told me the meaning of that.. We love you and miss you ..Rest in peace..""
Sister of Fallen Hero Cpl. Garry Wesley Tan Rimes with love and prayers. of Santa Maria, CA

"Happy Valentines Day Sangko!!
Kuya Bong misses you so much... we talked last night and he told me it was this time of year last year when you had your last visit in the Philippines and he remembers everything you've done for him during those short time... Wish you peace bro.. We all love you.."
Patty Rimes of Santa Maria. CA.

"Hi Sangko! Ala lang.. Miss u! RIP."

"Happy New Year Bro! We love and mIss you..."
Bing Tan, Dexter S. Tan and Patty Tan Rimes

"HAPPY HOLIDAYS BROTHER. IT HAS BEEN A WHILE SINCE WE LAST SPOKE TO ONE ANOTHER. IT IS VERY DIFFERENT NOT HAVING YOU AROUND TO CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH... I'LL SEE YOU ON YOUR BIRTHDAY WHEN I COME THROUGH TO VISIT AND STAY THE WEEKEND THERE. WE ALL MISS YOU DEARLY. BRO'S FOR LIFE DEVILDOG! THANK YOU FOR YOUR BROTHERLY LOVE AND YOUR FRIENDSHIP. YOU WILL ALWAYS LIVE THROUGH ME."
SSGT. S.D.TOTUA of LONG BEACH, CA. USA

"Peace be with you dear Garry. We miss you, especially during the holidays. I remember all the time when you visited me with your friends,enjoyed preparing dinners with you guys.. Merry Christmas and happy New Year!"
Tita Lily Tan Aquino of Los Angeles, CA

"Hello Garry, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!! We miss you and still cannot accept that you are gone, i still remember you visited me in orange county with your buddies we had so much fun together then.. May you Rest in Peace, cousin.."
KuYa Gerry Tan Aquino of Las Vegas

"hi garry! i don't even know what to say but all i want you to know is that you will always be in our thoughts & prayers, you're such a true hero in our hearts. you will always be remembered as a true friend no matter what. merry christmas & happy new year, i know you're happy up there w/ the lord."
friend from cardona of california, u.s.a

"Christmas Poem

Twas the night before Christmas
He lived all alone
in a one bedroom house made of
plaster and stone.

I had come down the chimney
with presents to give,
and to see just who
in this home did live.

I looked all about,
a strange sight I did see,
no tinsel, no presents,
not even a tree.

No stocking by mantle,
just boots filled with sand,
on the wall hung pictures
of far distant lands.

With medals and badges,
awards of all kinds,
a sober thought
came through my mind.

For this house was different,
it was dark and dreary,
I found the home of a soldier,
once I could see clearly.

The soldier lay sleeping,
silent, alone,
curled up on the floor
in this one bedroom home.

The face was so gentle,
the room is such disorder,
not how I pictured
a United States soldier.

Was this the hero
of whom I 'd just read?
Curled up on a poncho,
the floor for a bed?

I realized the families
that I saw this night,
owed their lives to these soldiers
who were willing to fight.

Soon round the world,
the children would play,
and grown-ups would celebrate
a bright Christmas day.

They all enjoyed freedom
each month of the year,
because of the soldiers,
like the one lying here.

I couldn't help wonder
how many lay alone,
on a cold Christmas eve
in a land far from home.

The very thought
brought a tear to my eye,
I dropped to my knees
and started to cry.

The soldier awakened
and I heard a rough voice,
"Santa don't cry,
this life is my choice;

I fight for freedom,
I don't ask for more,
My life is my God,
my country, my Corps."

The soldier rolled over
and drifted to sleep,
I couldn't control it
I continued to weep.

I kept watch for hours,
so silent and still
and we both shivered
from the cold night's chill.

I didn't want to leave
on that cold, dark night,
this guardian of honor
so willing to fight.

Then the soldier rolled over,
with a voice soft and pure,
whispered, "Carry on Santa,
It's Christmas day, all is secure."

One look at my watch,
and I knew he was right.
"Merry Christmas my friend
and to all a good night."

AUTHOR: MARINE ASSIGNED IN OKINAWA, JAPAN

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!
WE LOVE AND MISS YOU BRO!"
LOVE, KUYA BING TAN AND FAMILY of TORONTO, CANADA AND CARDONA, RIZAL

"You are in our thoughts and prayers Garry. May you rest in peace! Happy Holidays!"
With Love Tita's of Tarpons Springs and Tampa Florida

"YOU ARE ALWAYS REMEMBERED.....
LOVE YOU!

The Christmas Watch

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.

Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The sparkling lights in the tree, I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.

My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem.
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eye when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,
Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.

My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
and I crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.

A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.

"What are you doing?" I asked without fear.
"Come in this moment, it s freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve! "

For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts,
To the window that danced with a warm fire's light
Then he sighed and he said "Its really all right,
I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night "

"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,
That separates you from the darkest of times.
No one had to ask or beg or implore me,
I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.


My Gramps died at Pearl on a day in December,"
Then he sighed, "That s a Christmas Gram always remembers."
My dad stood his watch in the jungles of Nam
And now it is my turn and so, here I am.

I've not seen my own son in more than a while,
But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile."
Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,
The red white and blue... an American flag.

"I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home,
I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat,
I can carry the weight of killing another
Or lay down my life with my sisters and brothers
Who stand at the front against any and all,
To insure for all time that this flag will not fall."

"So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright
Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."
"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,
Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?
It seems all too little for all that you've done,
For being away from your wife and your son."

Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,
"Just tell us you love us, and never forget
To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone.
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.

For when we come home, either standing or dead,
To know you remember we fought and we bled
Is payment enough, and with that we will trust
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us."

Author Unknown"
PATTY TAN RIMES of Santa Maria, CA.

"HAPPY HOLIDAYS DEVILDOG! I MISSED YOUR GROUND BREAKING FOR THE CITY OF SANTA MARIA NAMING A STREET AFTER YOU. HOWEVER, THIS PAST WEEKEND MY FAMILY AND I VISITED YOU. THEY MISSED YOUR CRAZY AND WILD WAYS. MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR BRO. ILL SEE U ON CHRISTMAS EVE AND DAY. LUCKY CHANCES INC SECURITY & SAFETY DEPARTMENT SENDS THEIR LOVE AND REGARDS. YOU ARE A HERO TO MY SON WHO CONSTANTLY ASK FOR YOU EVERYDAY. HE HAS A SET OF YOUR 1ST DOG TAGS AROUND HIS NECK. THANKS BRO. WE WILL MEET AGAIN. JUST SAVE ME A SPACE. SENDING MY LOVE TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. THANK YOU MRS. RIMES & SIS PATTY RIMES. FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS."
SSGT. S.D.T. of LONG BEACH, CA.

"Rest in Peace my son... God Bless You!
WE ALL LOVE YOU!!!"
With Love, Kiss and Hugs, DADDY and TITA of TAMPA, FLORIDA

"Rest in peace my dear brother...

Just to let you know that now you will always be remembered in our community, they opened the street named after you last Veteran's Day 11-11-2005 our family, our beloved Mayor and his staff, your friends and people of Santa Maria paid tribute to you. It was RIMES COURT my dear brother, we love and miss you.. you are always with us..you are in our community FOREVER.."
With much Love your sister... Patty Tan Rimes of Santa Maria, CA.

"mizzing you so much."

"Watch over us bro... We will all meet again..."
JayZer of DALY CITY

"Rimes,
Rest well. The rest of us will be up there one day."
Cpl. Lo of WI, USA

"Missing you, in memory of GWTR.T. 11-27-04 and SDFT II 11-31-04"
N. M. R of daly city, ca

"again iloveyou so much...."

"The Final Inspection.

The soldier stood and faced God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining,
Just as brightly as his brass.
"Step forward now, you soldier,
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To my church have you been true?"
No, Lord, I guess I ain't.
Because those of us who carry guns,
Can't always be a saint.
I've had to work most Sundays,
And at times my talk was tough.
And sometimes I've been violent,
Because the world is awfully rough.
But, I never took a penny,
That wasn't mine to keep...
Though I worked a lot of overtime,
When the bills got just too steep.
And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God, forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.
I know i don't deserve a place,
Among the people here.
They never wanted me around,
Except to calm their fears.
If you've a place for me here, Lord,
It needn't be so grand.
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't, I'll understand.
There was a silence all around the throne,
Where the saints had often trod.
As the soldier waited quitely,
For the judgment of his God.
"Step forward now, you soldier,
You've borne your burdens well.
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in Hell."

Unknown Author

"Once a MARINE, Always a MARINE"
Well meet again bro. Miss you."
Ssgt. S.D. TOTUA of Long Beach

"Another year & your not here physically. your memories and spirit will never die with me devildog. I will always look up in the midnight skies knowing that your looking over me from time to time. In a way, I feel I have let you down by not re-enlisting together. However, thank you for your kindship and most of all, thank you for your friendship. I would have never made it through our last tour without you bro. you were a friend to many but to me, you will always be that crazy, funny and determine MARINE I met at overseas. ROUGHNECKS forever bro. missing you dearly. HAPPY HOLIDAYS BRO!"
Ssgt. S.D. TOTUA of Long Beach

"iloveYOU......so much."

"WE MISS AND LOVE YOU RIMES, ALWAYS, SHANE & NIA"
NIA RIPLEY of DALY CITY, CA

"may GOD be with you, your a hero i will pray for your soul, may you rest in peace"
robert of philippines

"ala lang po...sana nandito ka pa rin...la na eh..."
la lng of la lng of phil

"again, i mz u so bad...
tinago ko na ung mga damit mo,ung iba pinambabahay ko..."
otso of phil

"i miss u so bad..."
of phil

"SEMPER FI DEVIL DOG;
ONCE A MARINE ALWAYS A MARINE. REMEBER NOT TO FORGET OUR MOTTO. WE WERE THE ELITE FROM M.C.R.D., HOLLYWOOD MARINES THEY SAID, BUT FIGHTING WARRIORS WE WERE. AS FOR ME BRO, YOU WILL BE MISSED AND NEVER FORGOTTEN BECAUSE WE WERE BROTHERS. WE SHARED ALOT OF MEMORY AND CONTINUE WILL I KEEP THOSE CLOSE TO HEART. MY FAMILY SENDS THEIR LOVE AND MY LITTLE BROTHERS MISSES YOU DEARLY.
TO THE RIMES FAMILY, YOU WERE BLESSED WITH ONE OF GODS GREATEST GIFT. IF THE DICTIONARY NEEDED A DEFINITION OF WHAT A TRUE PERSON OR BROTHER SHOULD BE, THE NAME "GARY WESLEY RIMES" WOULD BE IN THAT LINE. I WILL SEE YOU SOON AND EVERY MONTH OF THE YEAR AS LONG AS I AM A RESIDENT IN CALIFORNIA. YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN DEVIL DOG. I GUESS I'LL BE SPENDING THE HOLIDAYS AND YOUR BIRTHDAY WITH YOU IN SANTA MARIA DEVIL DOG. NOTHING CHANGES, ALL STILL REMAIN THE SAME JUST AS WE SAY IT WOOULD BE. REST IN PEACE BRO UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN. I LOVE YOU & MISS YOU BRO."
SSGT. S. D. TOTUA of LONG BEACH, CA/USA

"Gary, you will be missed so much... We are sorry that we were late to your services, you know us...I am so pleased that I got to meet and get to know you from Shane (Totua). You knew the way you wanted to go, and God let you have your way Rimes..We already are planning our next road trip to come and visit you again this month (May). You were like a brother to Shane, not just another Marine, he misses you terribly.. We love you, and May god be with you and all the other fallen soldiers.. You rest now Gary, and I say for all at LCI (Lucky Chances, Inc), you will never be forgotten........Condolonces to the family, Peace on to you.........You are a TRUE HERO RIMES, we love you.."
Nia Ripley & Shane Totua of Daly City, CA

"as we call him gorio a good friend. the only thing embeded on my mind was his favorite expression during our highschool days was thw word "pogi rin" and the most famous " shet i'm in love again " I never knew that a crazy person like gary would even become a soldier, but wow a "hero" hes some one to look up too. rest well my friend."
rex macapagal of pasig city

"May you rest in peace... Our deepest sympathy... You are a true blooded Sienans. In the service... of truth!"
Gonzales S. Gonzaga St. catherine Batch 92 of Taytay, Rizal

"To Garry's family,
I understand how difficult it was because of garry's lost. But I justwant to let you know that God will always be our comfort in times like this."
Jeremiah USA Air Force of California

"Bro, I never knew you will end up like this. I know that you will become successful someday but unfortunately these event happened. Gary is my batchmate way back in Highschool days in Siena College of Taytay Rizal. He is a very soft spoke person pero makulit. I'm so proud of you bro. Eventhought we didn't talked that much before. I will pray that the Father God will Lead you in his kingdom. To Rimes Family, Condolences, from Babar Family/Siena College of Taytay Rizal Batch 1992"
Dennis Babar of Manila, Philippines

"Word cannot express how grateful the rest of my family and I for the countless and endless support of our extended family here in the States and Philippines, friends, community, country, and by all means the military... Not only was my Sangko a great son, soldier, cousin, nepwhew, he was a great brother and uncle. We had our times, but we always worked through them in some ways, he knew he was loved and appreciated. Sangko, events like these make us so profoundly sad....yet so profoundly proud. I think about you everyday. I have to continue to tell my self you are not coming back which is a hard reality to face, when i got call.. my heart is immediately crushed like i was hit by a truck... because before i know that you are there somewhere and anytime i will know that you're here in town and makes me feel good that you were safe, although we never see each other.. the fact that you're still alive and kickin' and always eager to come back it was a great relieved for me. Still the military was your home away from home, we knew if for the very first time you joined that was part of your life, everybody supported and love you and always praying for your safety especially mom, dad, and tita's. We all know the you enjoyed your life being in the military, never did complaints comes out to your mouth when you learned for your deployment instead it was your goal to complete the task at hand and com home. But unfortunately, you joined those fallen heroes who risk their lives like yours to be with GOD.. You touched a lot of peoples heart when you leave us, especially your family. My time at home is my private time to think of you, to thank you, and pray for your soul. I wish i was young again..but i am not. Anyway, thank you so much for evrything, for the fun and laughters, for the love and care, for the petty things we fought, for the arguments and most of all for your sacrifice.

Words canot convey the thanks I have for you and for all of the soldiers who have lost their lives or are left serving our country. May God truly, truly bless them!!

I wish i could personally thank every family of all the Fallen Heroes.. To tell them that their son, daughter, husband or wife will never be forgotten. All Americans, or some military service people all throughout the world should fall to hteir knees and pray for those that made the ultimate sacrifice. Pray for the families that are in so much pain...My heart goes out to wive's and husbands, mothers and fathers, children, nieces, nephews, uncle and aunts of our bravest and finest.........For all WEAPON COMPANY who left there in Iraq, your company will be forever engraved in my heart.. My dearest sangko, as your brothers in U.S.M.C. says SEMPER FI... I remember you told me the meaning of that.. We love you and miss you ..Rest in peace.."
Sister of Fallen Hero Cpl. Garry Wesley Tan Rimes with love and prayers. of Santa Maria, CA.

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

"SANGKO, MAHAL NA MAHAL KITA.... KAHIT HINDI TAYO NAG BO-BONDING WHENEVER YOU WERE HERE IN SANTA MARIA I KNOW DEEP INSIDE THE LOVE AND CARE WAS THERE AND NO ONE WILL BREAK THAT BOND BETWEEN THE TWO OF US, BECAUSE IM YOUR ONLY SISTER. EVEN TO OUR TWO OTHER SIBLING.. ANG KUYA AND DIKO. MAHAL NA MAHAL KA NILA, IT WAS A BIG IMPACT TO THEM NA IN REALITY YOU'RE GONE DAHIL THEY NEVER HAD A CHANCE TO HUG THEIR LITTLE BROTHER ESPECIALLY SI KUYA BING, IT HURTS HIM SO MUCH DAHIL HE WANNA SEE YOU FOR THE LAST TIME BUT WALA SYANG MAGAWA BUT HE WAS HAPPY AT THE SAME TIME DAHIL AND DIKO BONG NAMAN NAKITA AT NAKASAMA KA SA HULING SANDALI MO DITO...WE EXACTLY KNOW YOUR REAL PURPOSE AND AS A FAMILY WE'RE ALWAYS HERE FOR YOU AND WE'RE VERY PROUD OF WHAT YOU ACHIEVED IN YOUR LIFE.. AS THIS MOMENT WE, YOUR FAMILY, STILL HAS SO MANY QUESTIONS THAT WE KNEW THE ANSWERS BUT WE KEPT IT IN OURS HEARTS TO GIVE RESPECT TO YOUR FUNNY, HEROIC AND LOVING MEMORIES. WHATEVER YOUR DREAM TO OUR FAMILY (TAN FAMILY), TO OUR OLD HOUSE..UHM, IM NOT GOING TO PROMISE ANYTHING BUT I WILL TRY MY BEST TO MAKE THE LIFE OF EACH AND EVERY ONE YOU LEFT BACK TO NORMAL AND LIVE TO HAVE LOVE, UNDERSTANDING, CARE AND FORGIVENESS IN OUR HEART. RIGHT NOW, IT IS TOTALLY DIFFERENT, SOME WAS STILL IN DENIAL, MOURNING, SAD, SOME WERE HAPPY, FOR ANY REASON, I DO NOT KNOW. YOU KNOW WHAT SANGKO, I'M TRYING TO HOLD BACK MY TEARS, BUT THERE WAS A TIME I JUST WANT TO BE ALONE AND CRY. I KNOW IT WILL TAKE US A LONG TIME TO FORGET BUT FOR SURE WHEREVER YOU ARE RIGHT NOW WE'RE HAPPY FOR YOU, WE'RE PROUD OF YOU AND WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH..WE MISSED YOU SO MUCH.. YOU'RE IN THE "FATHER'S KINGDOM" ALREADY, YOU'RE THE ANGEL WHO WATCH FOR US,THE BROTHER, THE SON, THE BRAVVE, THE PROTECTOR, AND THE MARINE FOR ALL OF US! WE KNOW LOVE IN OUR HEARTS WILL MAKES US STRONG..WE LOVE YOU AND YOU MAY REST IN PEACE...."
WITH LOVE, THE PROTECTOR'S SISTER of SANTA MARIA, CA. U.S.A.

"Dear Garrywesley,
I start this letter off like I already know you because you as well as others died for my freedom.One of thoes was my Uncle John T. Sims Jr. now that the both of you are in heaven in an own little section for you I hope you look after us in this time of need. To your great and stronge family you are in mine and my families prayers. We know how you fell.Im sorry to that he died on my birthday but that makes him even more special. Jt died on April 10, 2004.I hope that you have as much comfort in this time of need.And I love you guys Stay stronge!
SEMPER FI!"
Shelby Waid of Birmingham Alabama

""Gary Rimes and Family"
- You will always be remembered for your bravery. We thank you for offering your life for freedom and kindness.

Ray Caparros – Siena College of Taytay – Batch 1992"
Ray Caparros of Chantilly, VA. USA

"Gary, my wacky and fearless highschool friend/classmate. I will always remember your sprited action, naughtiness and enthusiasm for life. May you Rest in Peace and be united with our Lord our Savior."
Cecil of Taytay Rizal, Siena College of Taytay, Batch 1992

"To the family of Gary Rimes
I met Gary during his first enlistment with Charlie Battery 1/11, this is a man that I will never forget he was always there for me, during the times that I was at my low points. I personally considered Rimes as one of my best friends in the Marines. I will never forget the countless stories that we hade together; from San Diego to Las Vegas. I have nothing but the up most respect for him, he performed the most unselfish act that any man could have done. I just recently heard the news on 04-19-05, if there is any way that I could be contacted on the information of his funeral I would greatly appreciate so that I may pay my respect and say goodbye to brother. Busta Rimes you will be missed and I will see you when it’s my time, FIRE IT UP.
Peter Neufang, pneufang@msn.com"
Peter Neufang of Santa Ana, CA

"To Garry"

You're always be remembered as a good and brave man. No wonder, you offered your life for the love of the country and for your family. Thanks for all the good things, from our childhood memories while playing with your kid sister.....you're always there to look after your sis....until the day we talked last February 2005, still you're such a good, protected and loving brother. I will miss your kindness and the way you call me "Sister Aileen".I will pray for you and i know you are contented and happy with in the cradle and love of our Lord God....
To Tan and Rimes Family...condolence!
From Punzalan Family"
aileen punzalan martizano of cardona, rizal Philippines

"To the family and friends of a great hero,
My name is Craig Anhalt. I got the great pleasure to meet Garry when we were in the same platoon at boot camp. He slept in the bunk next to me. His jokes and his great stories kept us up many of nights. It was reality for us. We went our seperate way after boot camp. My friend from home James Fenlon was in his patoon in the fleet, two years after boot camp i got to talk to Garry once again on a phone call made to James. He was still the same upbeat, funny, and always talking about his home. My deepest sympathy goes out to all his family and friends. He was a true "MARINE". Thank you Garry, "SEMPIR FIDELIS""
Craig R. Anhalt of Reedsville, Wi, USA

"The Garry Rimes Family
I am deeply sorry to hear of your great loss. No words that I, or anyone else for that matter, will ever take the place of your fallen son. All I can do is tell you of the great friend, man, and Marine he was to me and so many others he unselfishly served with. The images of Garry cracking jokes, telling truly hilarious stories, or just listening to his comrades bring back some great memories. Garry, you will be missed by the countless many and your service is greatly appreciated by all citizens of this country. God Bless and Semper Fidelis."
James P. Fenlon (fenljp26@uwgb.edu) of Green Bay WI

"c gary? kuya gary, nung maliliit pa sila, dati sa kanila kami natutulog, pag nasa amin ang mga mommy nila, kmi ba ang bantay.. bata pa lang siya we know n lalaki cyang mabait,although nung lumaki na cla, parang di na masyadong mga nagkasama, kasi syempre may sari sarili na kming interest s buhay. nung mapunta ang mga magulang nmin at kapatid s US.. natira siya sa mga mama, ang laging cnsbi nya sa mama, gusto nyang mabuo ang pamilya nya.. isa ung s dahilan kaya sandali siyang umalis sa serbisyo, pero nanaig pa rin ang pagmamahal nya s ating lahat, dahil kahit anong pigil ang gawin ng mga mama, at ng iba pa, bumalik pa rin siya kahit alam nyang masyadong delikado, dahil sa pangarap nya, s pagmamahal nya s ating lahat.. ang sabi nga raw nya s aking brother. MAMAMATAY AKONG ISANG MARINE, NA NAGLILINGKOD S LAHAT. may usapan pa nga sila na after 10 mos. babalik siya at magsasabay pa sila paguwi sa pilipinas.
nalaman ko ang balita tungkol sa kanya, thru my brother, nagtxt cya.."si Kuya Gary Wesley Tan Rimes yumao na", bigla akong natigilan, kakagising ko lang, kaya nagtxt ako kaagar, n 2mwag s bahay, ung nga raw.. parang ang hirap isipin na totoo, itong huling uwi nya, for the first time may pasalubong siya s amin.. un pala huling bigay na nya yon..
kahit medyo makalokohan siya, mahal siya ng mga magulang namin, naming lahat..
WE LOVE YOU KUYA GARY, WE'RE PROUD OF YOU.. alam namin masaya ka dyan, dalawa na kayo ni lovely na angel namin."
'd halilis of San Francisco Cali. / Liwanag Car. Riz. Phil.

"la lang..............."
la lng of la lng

"Si kuya Garry ay lagi kaming pinagagalitan ni Patty noong Elem days namin kasi bang ingay raw namin at magulo, sabi niya tandang tanda ko pa na kumilos raw kami nang kilos babae, naging kasama mo rin siya sa choir kay Mr. Esguera at naging school mate ko siya sa TC. Theres a lot of happy memories in tc, swimming roon, pangusi rito at kung ano ano pa.

Thanks sa tread mo sa amin nina jay, barry, joan, ian, mylene at antot sa camalig, i remenber na e hug mo ako at sinabi mo " ate jai aalis na ako sabi ko naman i happy trip na lamang,sabi mo hindi baka "HINDI NA TAYO MAG KITA AT MAMATAY NA AKO SA IRAQ"

To Rimes and Tan family esp to my friend patty, nakikiramay po kami. just always remenber na may angel garry na laging nakatingin sa inyo.

To you kuya garry, we will miss you, and thanks for everything."
Coun. Impo, Myrna, Jhemond, Jayna & Dexter of Cardona, Rizal Phil.

"Goal achiever, brave man…tough in everything! And now a HERO! …Garry, so soon that you were in GOD’s good hand, with him, you will be spending a lot of time..We were proud that you became one of the advocates..sayang nga lang hindi sa sarili nating bansa. You died with courage, and with honor. It seems that it was really your time to rest, you’ve been a good child and a good friend. We’re gonna treasure all moments with you and the life you spend with us..

We love you and we will miss you!!!"
ANTHONY & SANDY MATEO of CARDONA, RIZAL/PHILIPPINES

"Cpl. GARRYWESLEY T. RIMES
Garry, sya yong makulit na guy noon nasa cardona pa sya super kulit nyan each time na nag kikita kami lagi nya me greet "janine" with a big smile, yon ang mamimiss ko sa knya...hindi ko akalain na member sya ng USMC i cant imagine how brave this guy is, i salute you bro, but i know your under GODs hand now but your memories still in our mind and heart ...our prayers and thanks for a hero like you bye for now bro we will miss you here in cardona rizal philippines"
Ana Janine V. Celdo of Cardona/Pasig Philippines

"i just saw their messages ... your a filipino and a HERO ....... im sad it happens...... may you rest in peace ........ your brave and unselfish ..........."
maurice of san diego California USA and From Cabanatuan CITy Nueva Ecija

"Cpl Garry Rimes;
I'm not sure exactly how to thank a man for doing something he doesn't know about and yet affects so many people in so many ways other than to just say it, thank you Garry. Ever since you came to 2nd Plt. Wpns co 1st Battalion 5th Marines you've always been that guy with the smile on his face and a funny comment to make so that whatever marine was around you had a smile on his as well. I'm so proud of everything you've done up until this point and even more of the impact you've made on so many lives in so many ways. I only wish you could be here today so that I may share these words with you in person. There's nothing that I can do for you to be with us in person, but rest assure you'll be with me and the rest of W2, Wpns Co for the rest of our lives. God bless and Semper Fidelis"
Cpl Robert T. Harriott of Al Ramadi, Iraq

"Gary.... Sya ang ka batch namin sa Siena College of Taytay.... nde namin naisip man lang na magiging member sya ng USMC... kasi nun High school kami, sabay pa kami nyan nag take ng summer class para sa CAT, Mabait sya and sobra kulit... Maganda ang nagawa mo pare... Nde ka namin makakalimutan.... Ipinagmamalaki ka namin mga ka Batch mo sa high school... may you rest in peace... sayang nde man lang tayo nagkita nun last uwi mo... nagpunta ka pala sa isa natin kaibigan, si Bong Naval.... hinahanap mo daw pala kami... Pre maraming salamat sa mga memories with you... mga kasiyahan, kalungkutan, mga kalokohan natin noon.... SALAMAT... PROUD KAMI SA IYO..."
Allen Calderon / Batchmate/ Siena College of Taytay. yr. 1992 of Taytay Rizal, Philippines

"ei'dude!waz up?i can't bellieve that you're gone by now.Tom told me last apr.4,i was stunned then,it's not april fools,rt?i kept on askin' Tom if it's true,cuz it's a bad joke.&here you are,a hero.we've been tog.4a short span of time,but,i saw you as a cool dude,great guy,you always make d' ppl happy.i remember the cap u gave me,you save it4me,cuz,you've got1word.u even call me while you were in the US,a very loving guy to his family,&a dedicated Marines.I lav you man!i'll never forget you.Prayers for your soul,may you live happy ever after w/ our creator.thank you Garry.GT.we'll miss you!"
JHEIGHA MEDINA of MAKATI,PHILS.

"I'm crying, but I never met you. I can tell by the other letters that you were a true hero and a special person. Thank you for serving our country. Thank you for serving as a Marine."
Christine, Marine mom of Rome, GA

"isa sa anak ng karsada ng cardona rizal... makalokohan pero as always may panininrigan.
Garry, sayang... di kita nakainuman o naka jam man laang para nagkabasahan tayo ng diwa at isip.."
cWk Admin of Cardona, Rizal

"Kuya gary, kaw yung pinaka aztig na taong nakilala ko sayang kz sndali pa lang kita nakajam pero sa short span of time na nagstay ka dito sa pasig madami nako na22nan sau. Nakkamiz unh kwentuhan naten about dun sa training nyo.. di ko makakalimutan yung gift mo na wine para sa monthsary namin tapos sabi mu magssstroll tayo pagbalik mo kaya lang tinawag ka na ni God sguro tapos na mission mo..hapi trip kuya! Sana hapi ka dyan..eeeerr..thnx sa hapi moments – love.Prez & Cheenee"
Prez & Cheen of pinede pasig,phil

"Ei, kuya gary… Tnx xe kht s sandaling panahon n ngkasama tau ei pnatawa at pna cmangot m ko. Ehehe!! Pinatawa dhl makulit ka at maingay.. Pinacmangot dhl lagi m kng tinatawag n bruha!,promiz mamimiz k un, kaw lng ata 2matawag skin nun, pro kht ano pa man salamat. Sori kc hndi s lahat ng tym n mgkasama tau ei mganda ang pinakita ko sau na ugali ko. Kaya nga bruha tawag m skn ei’ ehehe..naalala ko 2loy un dumating l s houz at naabutan mo ako sa bed ni ate, sbi mo pa nga ‘oi bruha umalis ka riyan at akoy ma22log’.ahaha kuya gary, kung asan k man ngaun, wag mo ko mumultuhin ha, joke..kng asan k man sana maging msya k jn..geh hanggand d2 n lbg kuya gary
ANE & OBEL"
ANE & oBEL of PINEDA, PASIG, PHIL

"To my everdearest and beloved friend, you will always be remembered. I'll cherish every memories we've shared. Though life is so short, you make the most of it. Thanks for eveything! YOu're in good hands now."
Celeste of Cardona, Rizal

"(This is kinda different testimonial among others but this is truly how I feel)
After hearing the news about Gary, last Apr 3,Sunday (Phil), I was shocked and not totally convinced that he is gone. I have learned that from my cousin Allen who is a friend of Jaina, that Patty relayed the news about his brother…I was still not yet convinced, I asked my best friend Mitzi to call her sister ate Janet, who is also in America and Gary’s female buddy. Unfortunately, ate Janet was not aware & she just learned the news from us. At first, she didn’t believe either. I was only convinced after learning from my cousin Allen who had just got the confirmation from Adonis friend…This is the time that my shriek froze in my thought...dunno how to manage to be okay..can’t breath either..i was shaking and trembling. I began to cry and pray. I informed my parents about it & they were so sorry….I texted our common friends and my officemates as well..
I was so touched the last time he went in my house last Feb 14…When we separated our ways he was about to go to crossing and I was about to attend our corporate anniversary celebration, but I stayed first at my office for my last rehearsal. He was calling but I wasn’t able to answer his call. After an hour I was going from my office to D’fort which is the venue of Philhealth anniversary. I was then surprised when my officemates told me that Gary is around. I sat beside him & asked him not to stay too long because his friends and relatives were texting him and looking for him. I asked him to answer his texts msgs coz they were worried perhaps of his where abouts. We went to Market Market to have lunch not knowing that it would be our last lunch together. After eating he asked me to accompany him to a flower shop because it was Feb. 14, hearts day but I refused coz he wanted to give me a boquet of flowers ( sayang, isa sana yun sa maiiwan nya sakin) what he left is his shirts & longsleeves, the black one he left in my room is the one I use as my comforter which I carry wherever I go…
I remember when he called me, I forgot the date but he was already in Iraq, he told me that he was sorry for being makulit!! He also asked me to wait for him and that he would be coming this Nov. We agreed we tackled things just between the two of us, not knowing again that he will no longer be here. It was the last time we talked because pusang gala I changed my sim card & I dunno if hes was tryin to reach me again or what..i was not able to greet him on his birthday last March 21 because I thought it was not possible for him to call again for he is in Iraq…(bwisit na bwisit ako kasi di naman nya alam yung isa kong #)..So I really dunno if he was still calling or what!!!!
When I visited Cardona last March 23, I talked to Monet our common friend. During that night Tom passed by and told us that Gary just called him and tried to let him hear the explosion. That was the last time I heard anything about his situation in Iraq.
During his stayed here he was left alone in my house but I asked my brother Obel and my friend Prez to accompany him on my behalf when I’m at work. I was so touched then that he spent time for us knowing that my place is too far from Cardona..
A week before the news about Gary, I kept on listening to the song entitled “Pagkakataong Masabi” by Milk n Money, who happened to be Gary’s friend (Prez).Upon listening to the song, I asked my friend why do I like the song as if I am dedicating it to someone.. The lyrics goes like this:
Pano kung di na tayo magkikita
Pano kung wala ng pagkakataon
Masabi ang lahat sayo
Pagkakataon..

Kulang ba ang oras na binibigay
Kung ikaw at ako ay magkahiwalay
Hindi sasayangin bawat sandali
Magkahiwalay..

Chorus:
Kailan ba mauulit oras na din a pansin
Kalian ba maririnig tawanan na di mapigilan
Sanay maalala, kailan ba maibabalik
Ang lahat ng pinagsamahan..

This song is simply dedicated to my lost GT because during his days here, I was not able to let him know how important he is. I was not able to give my buong oras for it was conflict coz I was quiet busy with our rehearsal unlike before, I used to be absent for how many days just to spend time together with Tom and the rest. We used to argue all the time na kung tawagin ni Tom, ASO’T PUSA…Sayang!!!!

Gary, I thank u so much for all the memories we shared…the tawanan.. the kalokohan… mga kabaliwan, mga kulitan, mga inisan, mga sapukan, especially yung serious moments natin na akala ni Cheng eh wala tayong ganon…haaaaay….. I didn’t expect that this will end like this. You told me that the you will be here on my birthday…My last birthday you were here was 2001 and you treated us in Tia Maria. You were so kind to my friends that’s why they voted for you. The last time you were here you told me many times, “M…, di ko sigurado kung mabubuhay pa ba ako, hindi ko alam ang mangyayari sakin”, & I answerd u na, “masamang damo ka, hindi ka agad kukunin ni Lord” tapos tawanan pa nga tayo eh!! Haaay…. My friends told me na tanggapin ko na ang nangyari sayo…pero hindi eh kasi umasa pa rin akong they just got wrong info about you.. or nagpapauso ka lng.. bsta yun pa nasa isip ko dati.. . I just accepted the reality last April 6 and that’s the only time lang siguro na nakatulog na ako ng maayos…..
Gary, the last time u called, my tinatanong ka pero hindi ko nasagot ng maayos so only God knows what is really on my mind so il just keep it that way…. Sana naririnig mo yung kanta ko para sayo… Gary naman eh…. Kainis ka naman eh! Wala ng tatawag sakin na walang ginawa kundi mang asar kasi tuwang tuwa ka pag naiinis mo ako…kaya sowi kung lagi kitang namumura dati…Basta …ang dami ko pang gustong sabihin sayo…………………………………………………………………………….
Gary, lam ko kung gaano mo kamahal pamilya mo..c patty, c kuya bing at si kuya bong na lagi mong inaalala at mommy mo, si daddy, mga tita mo at ung mga pamangkin mo & all the rest… Sobrang mahal mo sila at napakaswerte nila sayo at gayon din ikaw sa kanila…Ahm, the last time na nandito ka sinabi mo pala kila Cathy at Juliet na ang aasikasuhin mo naman ay magiging pamilya mo..kinuwento lang nila sa akin..
Ewan ko sayo!!!! Ngayon tanggap ko na at dapat ko lang tanggapin kasi may kasabihan lang daw na mahihirapan daw ang soul mo to enter heaven pag di naming tatanggapin..kaya nga sabi ni Tom eh sulat na daw ako…
Cge, dito na lng muna… ang dami ko pang gustong sabihin sayo..tsaka siguro lam mo naman na yung iba siguro…yung iba kong dapat sabihin ….tsaka ung mga secrets natin……Basta lam mo nay un!!!!
LOVEYOUALWAYS……."
La lang of Pasig City, Philippines

"Gary,you've been such a great friend and a wonderful cousin.You will always be remembered and will always have a special place in our hearts.We'll surely gonna miss you!We love you so much.This is not the end of your mission but it's a new beginning.May you rest in peace."
jai,ton & jazmine maceda of manteca ca. USA

"Cpl. GARRYWESLEY T. RIMES
I will not forget you in thoughts and deep in my heart. All those things we have shared together in joy and sorrows, I will never forget you. You are a GREAT HERO. May you bring in heaven all good memories and love you have shared here on earth when you're still alive, MAY GOD SHARE HIS EVERLASTING PEACE AND LOVE TOGETHER WITH YOU IN HEAVEN. I love you so dearly GARY.And to his family and beloved ones, my sincere condolence in his lost."
TOMAS of CARDONA, RIZAL, PHILIPPINES

"WE ARE PROUD OF YOU KUYA GARY!!! WE LOVE YOU FROM SUMILANG FAMILY"
JOSAH of PHILIPPINES

"TO THE RIMES FAMILY FROM THE WAHL FAMILY. WE ARE DEEPLY SADDEN BY THE LOST OF GARRYWESLEY. HE IS A TRUE AMERICAN HERO! WE FULLY UNDERSTAND YOUR LOST. WE LOST OUR SON ELEVEN MONTHS AGO. ALTHOUGH, BOTH HAD NOT KNOWN ONE ANOTHER. BOTH ARE MILITARY BROTHERS. AN BOTH HAD EACH OTHERS BACKS. GARRYWESLEY, HAS TOUCHED THE HEARTS OF MANY. FRIENDS, NEIGHBOR'S, IN HIS COMMUNITY, HIS MILITARY FAMILY AND OF COST HIS LOVELY FAMILY. HE WAS AN AMAZING SOLDIER...AN HIS PARENTS RAISED A VERY SPECIAL MAN! HE WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART AND PRAYS. GOD BLESS!"
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"Cpl. Rimes

I don't feel that I can address you by your first name, as we did not know each other. But, you feel like family to me. Forever, you will be in my family's heart. You gave a beautiful gift to us. You protected someone we love so dearly. You are a hero to us, whether anyone else ever agrees. Whether or not you ever thought of yourself that way. The type of person we are isn't just determined by the way of life we lead, it can also be determined by the way in which we leave this earth. And you left this earth as a guardian, not just of my brother, but of America.
I like to think of it as such. While my brother lay there, after his heart stopped and he stopped breathing, the angel of death came for him. He picked my brother up and turned to leave, and there you were. You stopped him and said, "Take me instead." So he placed my brother back upon the ground, and took you with him. And as you left, my brother took a breath.
You guarded my brother from bullets that could have injured him worse. He was able to be brought back before, but should a bullet have found him, he may not have. In that circle of brotherhood, circle of protection, you and the other brave Marine's made that day around my brother, you gave him a chance to survive. And he did. You made sure no further harm would come to him. And none did.
Thank you Cpl. Rimes. Thank you so greatly.
I hope you don't mind if I continue to talk to you on here. I do so at other times during the day as well. I like to tell you about our family. About how Daryl is healing. You didn't just save him, you know. You saved us. Because our family would have been lost without him."
The Love Family of Baytown, Texas

"TO THE FAMILY OF GARRY RIMES

He was more than a loving friend, he was like a brother to us.

GARRY, YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN OUR HEARTS!!"
Janette, Osamu and Ada of San Francisco, CA

"TO THE FAMILY OF GARRYWESLEY T. RIMES,

WITH OUR SYMPATHY, THE TIDE RECEDES BUT LEAVES BEHIND BRIGHT SEASHELLS ON THE SAND, THE SUN GOES DOWN, BUT GENTLE WARMTH STILL LINGER ON THE LAND, THE MUSIC STOPS, AND YET IT ECHOES ON IN SWEET REFRAINS... FOR EVERY JOY THAT PASSES, SOMETHING BEATIFUL REMAINS. GARRYWESLEY T. RIMES YOU ARE HERO..."
RICKY & SONIA VOLUNTAD & FAMILY of SAN FRANCISCO, CA

"Thank you for all your good memories. We will cherish it for the rest of ourlives. All our prayers are with you and your families. WE LOVE YOU GARYRIMES. **Friends from Philippines**"
Tom, Elvas, Nanay Linda of Rizal, Philippines

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

"To the family and friends of Corporal Garrywesley T. Rimes,

Those we hold most dear, never truly leave us. May you find comfort in love's everlasting connection.

In the Support section of this web site you will find links to many groups that support you at this crucial time. The Marine Comfort Quilt group would be honored to send a quilt to the next of kin. There are many, loving and caring Americans from all over the United States that will never forget the sacrifice that your loved one has made for our Freedom. Please use our link and register so we can send you our "Love Stitched Together."

Proud Marine Mom and Proud Member of Marine Comfort Quilts "
Sandra Moudy of Placentia, Ca USA

"This wonderful young man was killed while standing guard over my brother, who had been badly injured in a suicide bomber attack. Though they were in the same unit, they had never met. After bombing the building that my brother's entire battalion was in, they then began taking shots at the medics and other soldiers helping to pull my brother (the only soldier injured) from the rubble. Cpl. Rimes was one of the soldiers who formed a circle around my brother and the medics to protect him. How can my family ever repay you Cpl. Rimes? How can I tell you how much your selfless act means to me. I still have my brother, because of you.

My brother is the youngest of 4, the only boy, and only 20 years old. Thank you for making sure he stayed with us longer.

My entire family thanks you greatly for your sacrifice.
The family of Cpl. Daryl F. Brown Jr, USMC"
Danica Love of Baytown, Texas

"Thank you Garrywesly for your loyal service. To the family, my family honors your hero. His Bravery, Valor, and Courage will always be remembered. We will never forget the sacrifice that he has made.
All of our prayers are with you and please know that you are not alone.
God Bless Garrywesley and his family"
Jennifer and SSGT Larry Mays and family of Massillon, Ohio

"Thank you Garrywesley Rimes, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios

"To the family and friends of Cpl. Garrywesley Rimes:
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 Garrywesley for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of Cpl. Garrywesley Rimes:
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 Garrywesley, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia