Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

Remembering the servicemembers who died in the service of their country.

Marine Cpl. Erik H. Silva


22, of Holtville, California
Killed in action in Iraq. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, California. Died on April 3, 2003.

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"I never knew or served with Erik. Before today I never knew his name, but I’ve thought many times of his passing over the past 18+ years.

In April 2003, I was a Marine Captain commanding an artillery battery launching rounds down range that faithful day. I had one of my vehicle radios set on 5th Marines Command net as they were the 1st Marine Division’s Main Effort as I wanted to get a feel for how the fight was unfolding so I could anticipate where our next firing position would be as well as our zone of fire. Colonel (later General and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs) Joe Dunford was calmly issuing orders to his battalion commanders and taking stock of the fight. Erik had been wounded before I came up on the net as I wasn’t aware 3/5 had a CASEVAC underway. As the CH-46 departed Dunford asked the Battalion CO, Lieutenant Colonel (later Lieutenant General) Sam Mundy if the Marine was still alive. Sadly, Mundy reported he had not made it. The anguish in both men’s voices was palpable. I have never forgotten it.

I’m a Marine Colonel now and getting ready to retire soon. I can’t tell you how many times that memory has inspired me to push through and persevere. God bless you and your family. The comments from those who knew you best say it all. Where do we find such men who are so great beyond their young years?

Semper Fidelis,
A Marine"
A Marine of Virginia

"It's been so long and you are still remembered. I remember a time we played baseball in Holtville and I had the only opportunity to hit a home run, I hit the ball and thought it was a home run only to hit it to the side of the field Erick was playing. Sure enough he caught the ball at the fence and stold my only home run opportunity I had. I will never forget that. I thank you Erick for your sacrifice and for our freedom."
jesus flores of fontana ca

"Dear Silva family-
I noticed the name of your loved one on the veteran's plaque. Just this name on a simple granite plate in downtown Holtsville caused me to stop and pause to remember the ultimate price paid for freedom. Thank you."
Kirk Bulick of Berea Ohio

"Semper Fi!!! Love and gratitude to the Silva family. 3/5 forever!"
Tommcat of MN

"Dear Silva family,
I'm so sorry for your loss of Erik. I cant put into words how much your son ment to me, and all the other marines of 3/5 India co. 2nd plt. Your son was one of the finest marines I ever served with. Not only in uniform but out of it. I still remember the good times we had together and how he got the nickname "Thumbs". I miss him everyday and think of him constantly. From time to time I see his face in crowds and sometimes his voice and laugh. I feel honored to of served with your son. And I know hes watching over me and his loved ones everyday. I never talk about what happened that day your son lost. But I hope you can find some comfort in knowing that he wasn't alone. Myself along with many other marines were with him that day at his side. We all lost him that day, and his sacrafice will never be forgotten. Semper Fi Erik."
Lcpl. Brad Schindler USMC of Spokane WA

"Cpl. Silva,
Sir, it's been 10 years since you were killed in action and you are still honored and remembered. I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!"

"My Brother you are guarding our doors up in heaven. I think about you every day. One day we will meet I will bring a 30 case of coronas and a deck of cards. Your loved and missed. RIP"
A. Lopez of MIAMI FL

"Dear Silva Family,
My son Marine Lance Corporal Rob Gilbert played football with Erik in Kuwait as they waited to go into Iraq. Later he shared how Erik was killed, and he wears a bracelet in honor of Erik to this day ... exactly 10 years later. I remember my son's return to Camp Pendleton as though it were yesterday, and how when I saw your sign, forced myself to come over and give you a hug, although I couldn't force out a single word. I want you to know that I have been praying for you and your family regularly ... especially as I reflect on my son and his beautiful family ... knowing that you don't have this opportunity. You told me you were there to honor ALL your "sons" and would do so until they ALL came home, which I have no doubt you are still doing. In response to those who doubt why Erik was there, my son Rob said that after he saw the Iraqi people sifting through the remains in the mass graves for their loved ones, he knew it was right for him to be in Iraq. May God continue to give you peace"
Mark Gilbert of Auburn, California

"WHOEVER DOES NOT HAVE THE STOMACH FOR THIS FIGHT,lET THEM DEPART. GIVE HIM HIS MONEY TO SPEED HIS DEPARTURE SINCE WE WISH NOT TO DIE IN THIS MAN'S COMPANY. WHOEVER LIVES PAST TODAY AND COMES HOME SAFELY WILL ROUSE HIMSELF EVERY YEAR ON THIS DAY, SHOW HIS NEIGHBOR HIS SCARS, AND TELL HIM EMBELLISHED STORIES OF ALL THEIR GREAT FEATS OF BATTLE. THERE STORIES HE WILL TEACH HIS SON AND FROM THIS DAY UNTIL THE END OF THE WORLD WE SHALL BE REMEMBERD. WE FEW, WE HAPPY FEW, WE BAND OF BROTHERS; FOR WHOEVER HAS SHED HIS BLOOD WITH ME SHALL BE MY BROTHER AND THOSE MAN AFRAID TO GO WILL THINK THEMSELVES LESSER MEN AS THEY HEAR OF HOW WE FOUGHT AND DIED TOGETHER.
I MISS YOU AND THINK OF YOU EVERY DAY BOTHER WE HAD GOOD TIMES. ILL ONE DAY MEAT YOU UP THERE ILL BRING THE BEER. SIMPER FI."
A.Lopez (LOLO)INDIA COMPANY 3/5 2ND PLT. of Miami Fl

"I was Erik Sylva’s first platoon sergeant in Iceland. He made a great impression on me and the Marines there. On his first cold weather experience, a glacier training evolution Erik; who had never been on one before ended up carrying our corpsman gear. He had a great heart and is truly missed. He made such an impression on me and my family that when my wife and I found out that he was killed in action we named our second son after him. My little Erik who was born on the 13th of July was named of a great Marine who is truly missed. I have some pictures of him at my house and on some training evolutions. All I can say is that my little Erik has some big shoes to Fill.
Joseph Medina, Camp Lejeune FMTB-E"
SSgt Medina of Camp Lejeune

"I will miss you Big cuz. It has been 9 years missing you, I know you will look over me , like I had looked up to you since the day I was born. My Heart is set to be a Marine just like you big cuz. I had so much memories of you and i together when I was little and those are memories I wont ever forget You were like a big bro to me. Ill see you up in Heaven Cuz when its time. Miss you."
Sergio Hernandez Jr of Holtville, CA/USA

"Dear Eric,
We all luv you and miss you alot. This weekend Alex, Leticia and I will be doing the fredom walk in your memory. We are all proud of your mijo..."
Carmen Ramirez of San Diego, CA

"We were in the same company together. When i got back to the states another marine and i tried to find his grave in his home town , but came up empty handed."
Dan Rebich of West Chester, OH

"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

"”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 the hero’s Mother, Father and/or spouse. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Almost 2,100 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!
This is a gift! We have wonderful sponsors who help with the costs, and want you know that everyone here at Project Compassion does and will always CARE.
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
Projectcompassion@manti.com"
Project Compassion of Manti, Utah USA

"Gloria, we just met you the other afternoon at your job. I was there with my family for my son's 18th birthday.You made note of my shirt with the Marine Corps emblem and proudly stated, "Semper Fi" and with a smile on your face you proclaimed your position as a "Gold Star Mother".  I wanted to thank you once again for the kindness extended towards my family but more importantly, I want to thank you for taking the position you have as a Gold Star Mother. So often we only hear about and read about the mother's who are so bitter. As I told you, my wife and I lost my beloved daughter to cancer at the age of 9 yrs of age. As we both know, only a parent who has lost a child understands and knows the pain only we can feel. Despite your loss, you have chosen to honor not just your son, but our country and it's military with the position you've taken. Please accept our condolences for the loss of your son and our thanks to you Erik, for making the ultimate sacrifice. Your mother is so proud of you, she just beams and swells with pride when she speaks of you and I am sure she will continue to do so until you are together again. What a joyus day that will be! Semper Fi!"
Jerry Villanueva of Moreno Valley, CA.

"When I first reached the fleet Marine force in January 2003, I was what you call a "greenhorn", in lamen terms, or "boot" if you've ever been a Marine. It was a wide eyed, intimidating experience, especially when the news is that your unit is deploying to Kuwait in a month for a possible invasion. Corporal Silva was the first NCO, let alone Marine that I met from second platoon, my scheduled unit. He actually put my mind at rest about the situation. He appeared to be a very chill, intelligent NCO. We went on some runs together before the rest of the platoon returned from March Air force base at the time. Him, Thomas and Blackbird were the only senior dudes there in charge of us boots for a bit. Silva and Blackbird actually came and hung out in my room one night and drank beers and watched Band of Brothers episodes with me, which blew my mind(usually senior Marines don't chill with boots). He was one of the most agreeable corporals I had ever met, and a good guy.
I was in the ambush that claimed his life, and saw him right before he was evaced. I was never so stunned in all my life. I think back on my first impressions of him mostly; we didn't get a lot of time to know each other. I was so struck by the loss of such a good guy so suddenly that when I returned home I tattooed the date when it happened on my forearm. People ask me all the time what those numbers mean, and I am instantly taken back to Corporal Silva's face. I refuse to let myself forget."
Fred Lambert(USMC 2nd Plt. I co 3/5) of Orlando, FL

"Thank you Erik, and thank you Silva family for allowing Erik to protect us. Even though I didn't know you, I think of you often. This Memorial Day weekend is a good time to reflect how you and your fellow service members who've given all demand our admiration and respect."
Ken Meyer of Elgin, TX USA

"May God hold Eric in the hollow of his hand."
Jack O'Brien of San Francisco, CA USA

"You were the best baseball player in India, brother. I hope you are playin' a game in the "Field of Dreams.""
Cpl. Duncan, J. F. of Nashville, TN

"Erik was a great Marine and an even better person. I had the privilege of serving with him in Iceland, 3/5 in Camp Pendleton, and in Japan. He was a good friend that will never be forgotten. Keep heavens gates safe Erik.
RIP friend.
Corporal Chris Horvath
3/5 WPNS Co 81's
(1998-2002)
Memphis Firefighter"
Chris Horvath of Memphis,Tn

"hey thumbs i love you brother think about you everyday i miss you brother"
blackbird of dulce new mexico usa

"I had the distinct honor of serving with Erik in India 3/5. I was the company Water Survival Instructor and Chief Safety Swimmer on all of our water related training. I, too, came from Security Forces before joining the fleet and, as a machinegunner, was frequently attached to Erik's platoon during training mission's. He was always there to help out another Marine or just be a buddy when you needed one. I trained with Erik in Japan in 2002 and in 29 Palms as we prepared for deployment to Iraq. My end of service date came prior to that deployment and I was discharged from active duty. I remember sitting on my couch that night with Cpl. Josh Elliot as we saw Erik's name come across the screen on CNN. It was heart wrenching, I couldn't sleep that night and contemplated re-enlisting to go help my friends. What if I was there, would I have got that guy before he got Erik? I've talked to some of the guys that were there when it happened and there was just nothing anyone could do. Doc. Woody told me how he tried to render aid to Erik immediately but it was too late.

Mr. and Mrs. Silva, it was a privilege to serve with Erik. He was an honest and hard working man always there for his team. You should be proud, he is deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Sgt. Kenneth W. Counts (0331)
India Co 3/5, Weapons Platoon
08/01/01-12/28/02"
Kenneth Counts of Covina, CA

"From someone who did some growing up in Holtville back in the 70's, my family wants to say sorry for your loss, thank you for your service and sacrifice, from the bottom of our hearts. Thank you. We should all strive to live a life of service to others. A free life because of men like Erik and his family. It would have been an honor to know you. Prayers from Oklahoma. God bless."
Jack Rea of Norman, Oklahoma

"December 30, 2007
To the family of Cpl. Erik H. Silva:
Erik 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

"I was 5 feet from Eric when he was killed. I am so sorry it waas him and not me. He was the happiest person I knew and i think of him every day. He was one of the best people thatI have had the honor of knowing, and fighting next to.
I love you Erik and Love your family.
With much Love. Semper Fi Marine"
Cory Barnette of Brook Park, MN

"My prayers are with you and your family always. My daughter's SFSOps unit was imbedded with the 3rd Infantry 3rd Brigade traveling just behind the 1st Marine division when they took the Bagdhad Airport, my daughter is safe only because of the sacrifices of soldiers like Erik. My daughter is USAF, soon to be USArmy, to fly helicopters and fight the bad guys some more along with her brothers in arms. She loves her country, she believes in her country, and she loves her brothers in the Armed Forces. She fights for Erik and everyone like him. Thank you Erik Silva family for your sacrifice, you will be with him again one day, of that I am sure. Peace be with you all, Namaste"
debbie taylor of Opelika, AL USA

"To the family of Erik Silva,
I was stationed with Erik at MCSFco Iceland, I will always remember him as the Marine who did everything as good as he could, no matter how hard the task was. He was an amazing Marine and an even better person. God bless and RIP Cpl Silva"
SSG Nathan Freedy of Marshfield, WI

"On this memorial day may 28, 2007 we remember a great soul.
We love you Erik and will always miss you. My little boy Erik born the day of your burial April 15, 2003 is a constant reminder of never forgetting what a wonderful and special person you are and what i wish for my son to become.
Forever in our hearts...love always Ilario, Adriana, and Erik Castro
miss you, miss you, miss you!!!!!"
Adriana Castro of Holtville CA

"Erik,
I would like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!"

"erik its been 3 years i remember you as a good friend a good drum mayor you told me i was the best tuba player and i told you were the best drum mayor i miss you my friend que dios te tenga en su alma erik."
ulises of las vegas nevada

"To the family of:Erik H. Silva 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"

"I've known Erik back in 1997,when i was in Holtville to be an exchange student.We went to school togheter and played soccer togheter...I will always remember Erik for being so kind with me and for making me feel welcome even in a foreign country.It'is hard to find the right words to say thank you,especially now that you have lost your life to make us all feel welcome in this world,by defending its freedom."
Francesco of Italy

"the imperial valley loves, thanks, and appreciates you and your sacrifice."
palacio family of calexico

"I had the honor of serving Erik in MCSFCO Iceland . A true warrior and fine example of a U.S Marine. He did his duty and never once complained. Erik was loved and respected by all. News of his death shook us to the core. Brother you are missed and I promise you will never be forgotten .We are eternally in debt for your sacrifice. Semper Fidelis"
SGT. Justin Horner of Kennesaw, GA

"Erik, I always think of you every time I hear the word Iraq. I know that you are up there taking care of all of us and your service to our country will never be forgotton. My best friend Ernie is now deployed in Iraq, please watch over him and pray for him and us. Gracias Hermano-"
Paco(Liljoe)Gonzales of San Diego, CA

"erik,thanks for the friendship and the baseball discussions.You are a good marine and good friend. no matter how bad it would be we could always count on you for a smile.All gave some some gave all."
norm of afganistan

"Just wanted to let you know that I was thinking of you on your birthday. We all miss you and love you! Take care of all of us."

"One of my last memories or eric was in kuwait just before the war broke out. Eric was wrestling with a few guys from 2nd platoon and took a break to come down and play a game of Uno' with me and a few other guys we joked and played for a few hours teasing each other and talking about what we wish we could eat or drink I cant beleive that would be the last conversation id have with my friend. i'll never forget you bro and ill see you again some day."
Alex Hebert former 3/5 india company of cudahy , ca ,usa

"Erik, you will always be in our hearts. We love you and miss you."
Sandoval Family of Holtville

"I just want to express my gradidtute to each person that remembers my son Cpl.Erik H. Silva. It's now been two years since I've lost my son. But to let everyone know as his mother I am the proudest mother on earth. to have a fine son as him. Now he is my guardian angel. With me 24/7. It is very touching from people all over the USA how they honor our heros. As his mother I thank-you and please continue to pray for all of our soldiers that are over there, for my son Erik is watching his brothers and sisters."
Mother of Erik H. Silva, Gloria H, Silva of Holtville, California , USA

"Friday, April 4th, 2003 was a defining moment in my military career. It was the day I started Officer Candidate School (OCS) in route to receiving my commission as an Officer. I remember that first weekend of OCS very, VERY well. I recall the excitement and upset stomach I had in anticipation of it all. “Smoke session” was a new phrase I learned very quickly. But the good thing about OCS was that I was guaranteed to get in shape whether I liked it or not. Although my first weekend as a Candidate was interesting and fun, I was confronted by the reality of my decision to rejoin the military that Sunday. We were about to be released from our drill weekend and I had my first chance to call home. My wife answered and I immediately knew something was wrong. “Erik’s dead. He was killed. We’ve been here all by ourselves the whole weekend with no way to get in touch with you” she said. I’ll never forget those words.

I had originally pursued a commission for selfish reasons: the pay, the chance to lead, to serve my country and more. But I quickly changed my reasoning that Sunday day. I was now about to pursue my commission in an effort to make a difference. Part of me became immediately prejudice towards the Iraqi people and I wanted payback. The other part of me wanted to learn as much as I could so if I was ever confronted with a similar situation as my cousin, I would not make the same mistake and maybe be able to save a life.

Fast forward two years to the day and here I am. My commission was dedicated in memory of my fallen cousin and I’ve aspired to do my best in every situation. But what I envisioned doing and what I am doing are two different things. On that day in 2003 I had three family members in Iraq, my brother-in-law, and two cousins. All three came back but we had to bury one. No one in our family has been involved in this was on terrorism since then until now. Now it’s my two cousins and I and my family sits on edge each day worrying about us all. I wish I could say we’ve each made the choice to be in the military because of the pay but everyone knows that’s not true. The reason lies deeper than that and is something we’ve embodied. But it’s the sacrifice of leaving our loved ones behind that hurts us the most. Time heals the bumps and bruises or the things we see but nothing can ever make up for the lost time with our families, wives or children.

So today, April 4th, 2005 I ask that each of you to take a minute to pray not only for Erik, but for all the other soldiers that have given their lives, the soldiers that serve now but more importantly the family members who put their lives on hold in hope their loved ones return home… safely.

I'll write again in a few days but until then, God bless.

Miss all of you,
John Munger

John T. Munger
2LT, FA, AZ ARNG
Det 1 2/180th FA (FWD)
Assistant Operations Officer/
Assistant Public Information Officer

“STEEL RAIN!!!”"
John Munger of Somewhere in Iraq

"To the Family of Erik Silva,

You will always be in my thoughts and Erik will always be in my heart. My son, Lcpl. Frederick J. Lambert was with Erik the day he was killed. My son and the rest of the brothers who were with Erik have a special tatoo that is in remembrance of Erik and will always keep him in their hearts and souls.

Thank you Erik for your ultimate sacrifice to the United States. This is now 2005 and your contribution to freedom has made a difference!"
Carol F. Lambert, US Marine Mom of Orlando, Florida

"Eric, your life on this earth has been good with me. I wish we could have had spent more time togheter, I'll always remeber you, and how you & me use to box it out at my uncle sergio's house. Brother, just remeber your an insperation to me, but most of all you were like a big brother. I thank you for your courage, I'll see you in Heaven.Sempri fi"
(cousin) Daniel Hernandez of Holtville Ca,

"I remember when we first met in 1999. All you wanted to do was be a Marine. You studied hard for that ASVAB and you were the first person I ever welcomed into our Marine Corps family. Your Mom was really proud of you....she always talked about you and she always treated me really good. I remember the last day we spent together. We came out in that wedding, damn I never thought that would be the last time I saw you. I wanted to come see you, and say one last good bye, but I was in the field on a training mission. I hope you recieved my good bye thru GySgtRocha and SSgt Zuelke. I went to your memorial at your dads house it was very nice. He had raised a flag pole in your memory. I hope one day my family will remember me like that. It was the first time I had met your father. I could tell he is really proud of you too. Save a place in Heaven for one of your Recruiters.
Semper Fi
GutierrezC@15MEU.usmc.mil"
GySgt Gutierrez Jr. Camilo of Brawley, Ca -- currently deployed

""If the army and the navy ever look on heavens scenes, they will find the streets are guarded by United States Marines" I guess not even in heaven we can get out of fire-watch huh? anyway some day we'll get there to relieve you. psycho Ico. never forgets you"
Cpl. Rocha

"THIS IS TO THE FAMILY OF ERIK SILVA, I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT ERIK AND I WERE STATIONED TOGETHER THROUGHOUT MY EARLY YEARS IN THE CORPS WE WERE ROOMMATES FOR OVER A YEAR AND IT HAS BEEN SO HARD TO FIND THE WORDS TO EXPRESS THE WAY I FEEL, I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO REACH THE FAMILY BUT EVERY ATTEMPT HAS FAILED, YOU KNOW ERIK AND I HAD SOME GOOD TIMES WE CAME UP TOGETHER FROM SOI TO VIRGINIA WHERE WE WENT TO MOS SCHOOL AND THEN TO BEING STATIONED IN ICELAND TOGETHER WE KEPT IN CONTACT BUT UNFORTUNALEY I GOT STATIONED ON THE EAST COAST BUT THAT DAY I WAS ALSO THERE IN IRAQ AND I DIDN'T FIND OUT UNTIL I GOT BACK ABOUT WHAT HAD HAPPENED AND I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT THERE IS NOT A DAY THAT GOES BYE THAT I DON'T THINK ABOUT HIM HE WAS MY BROTHER SO MANY MEMORIES WE SHARED SO MANY THINGS WE WENT THROUGH TOGETHER FROM EATING MENUDO OUT OF A CAN MY MOM SENT ONE CHRISTMAS TO ICELAND FROM WALKING THE STREETS OF LONDON TOGETHER I WILL NEVER FORGET HIM.SEMPER FI GOD BLESS HE MIGHT BE GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN USMC INFANTRY usmcmunoz@hotmail.com"
CPL MATTHEW J MUNOZ USMC VETERAN 99-03 of ARIZONA

"Thank you Soldier for save our freedom"
Ute of Germany

"My name is Aaron Brady, I know Joe Hernandez through my Brother Rick Brady. I heard about Joe's Cousin Erik Silva losing his life in Iraq. It is important that we (Americans) have people like Erik Silva that volunteer to fight for freedom. I too have lost friends in the war in Iraq, all that is left to say to them is they paid the ultimate price for freedom, all are truly heros! I wear a military uniform everyday, I am an active duty Navy Seabee. I work with Marines on a regular basis. When a Brother falls the pain lies with everyone. My heart goes out to the family of Erik H. Silva,USMC; the loss of a loved one is the toughest pain any human can experience. Remember to always support our brave men and women across the world that strive to protect our country"
EO2 (SCW) Brady, Aaron C. of San Diego, Ca

"Erik,
I was in Mexico when I heard. I couldn't believe it. I remember us hanging out, and screwing around during "The Play" and I will never forget the fights about who's band is better, and who had a better swing. Godbrother, I only wish that I could have played one more round with you. To the Silva family, my entire family's deepest and most heartful prayers are with you. Que dios y Erik nos cuiden desde el cielo. Claudia, and Jose (aka Paco-Liljoe)Gonzales"
Jose F. Gonzales of San Diego,CA formerly of Calexico, CA

"To the friends and family of Erik H. Silva:
I know that no words can began to make the pain any easier, but I would like you to know that Erik's sacrifice will never be forgotten. I pray for the families of the fallen soldiers every day. My husband Justin Linden was KIA in Iraq on June 4, 2004. It hurts so much to see how many of us have had to go through this pain. Erik will live on forever in your hearts. God bless."
Sarah Linden of Portland, OR USA

"RIP Marine"
Petty Officer Cawthon of RTC Great Lakes,IL

"I just heard of the news, and I can't believe it. One of my fondest memories of Erik was when he was in high school, and Gloria and I made a five hour trip to see him in his first parade as Band Major. He was so happy to have his family there. I am glad I was able to be part of it.
To the Silva family I am truly sorry for your lost. Please know your in my prayers."
Karina Alcala of Oxnard, CA

"A year has passed and I still think about Erik everyday. He was truly one of America's great hero's and will forever be in my heart.
Miss you!"

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

"Erik,
You were best friends with my brother Corporal Shelvy and are remembered daily. My brother always had great things to say about you and admired you very much. You were a great Marine and a great friend. Thank you for everything. And to the Silva family my deepest sympathies, you will always be in our prayers."
Alexis Shelvy of Stl Mo

"Thank you Marine. We did not know each other but we are brothers through the Marine Corps. I visited your resting place yesterday. You would be proud to know that your town is very proud of you, I found your name on a memorial in a park in the center of town. This town, Holtville California, seems to be lost in a better time. Families played in the park, people waved as I drove around the town and everyone seemed to know you. They all spoke of their pride in you and how much you are missed. They described your "big smile" and friendly manner.I whish I could have known you in life, for you truly must have been an extraordinary man to garner such respect. Thank you Marine"
Dave "thetrog" Leary of Hesperia, Califronia

"Erik,
A year has past since your death and I still cant believe that your gone. The saddest thing is how I will never get to see that big smile you always had on your face,nor will I ever get to laugh and joke around with you about your thumbs. Im glad that I got to know you though, you were and will always be in my heart. Everyone misses you and loves you. 23 forever man!!! Ok you won, Goofy is better than Pooh."

"Remembering them..Its been a year..

At the rising of the sun and at its going down, We remember them.
At the blowing of the wind and in the chill of Winter, We remember them.
At the opening of buds and in the rebirth of Spring, We remember them.
At the blueness of the skies and in the warmth of Summer, We remember them.
At the rustling of leaves and the beauty of Autumn, We remember them.
At the beginning of the year and when it ends, We remember them.
As long as we live, they too will live;
for they are now a part of us, as we remember them.
Rest in Peace Dear Marine!! SEMPER FI!!
We will NEVER FORGET!"
The Grogan Family of Lakeland, TN

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

"Erik I just wanted to say that I miss you and that I know that you are looking down on us from heaven. You take care of everyone who got a chance of knowing you and who spent many unforgetable memories with you. Love you always!"

"To the Silva Family:
My most sincerest condolences. Althouth, I was unable to attend the wake services, my thoughts and prayers were right there with you and have been since. God bless always."
Former Marine of Calexico, CA

"Thank you Erik Silva, 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

"Erik,
I thank you brother for providing my family with the freedom you have given us with your selfless act of heroism. For many years you always followed me, Jay, and Goya around whether we were playing army in the ditches or just beating each other up. How I wish that we could go back to those days, but life must go on because that's how you would have liked it. I think about you every day,
and wish that i could have just one more round of golf with you. You have made me the proudest brother on the face of the earth, and I can only dream of being half the man that you were. Life without you has been rough,but knowing that you will always be watching over me and my family gives me the sense that you will never let any harm come to my kids. Thank you for you sacrifice, and from this day forward I now follow in your footsteps.

I MISS YOU BRO! THUMBS 23 LIVES!"
Isaac H. Silva of El Centro, California

"Silva Family-
I was stationed with Erik in Iceland, he was such a wonderful young man. When I heard the news and saw his face on TV it broke my heart in ways that I can not even express, but I'm sure you know well. The Marine Corps lost a member, and everyone who knew him lost a friend, but your family has a hole that will never be replaced. I pray for you all! May God give you the strength and courage to make it trough this."
Liz of Chicago, IL

"One thing I can honestly say about Erik is that he loved doing his job. He loved serving his country, he loved traveling and seeing the world. He never complained of being in the military, he was always proud to be a Marine. We miss you everyday, love always Pooh."

"Erik was my second cousin. when I found out that he was killed in Iraq I just got so mad that I never Knew him. I never got to know how great of a person he was. If I ever got to meet him I'd just like to tell him thank you for serving our country and risking your life for our country. I honor you. May you rest in peace."
Love Veronica Hernandez of Elk Grove, California

"Our prayers are with your family during this difficult time. Thank you brave soldier, your courage and sacrafice will never be forgotten."
Ken and Maritza Holley of Pembroke Pines, Florida

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

"Erik, I watched you grow into a fine young man. You served "Your Country"
well. May you Rest In Peace."
Bonnie of Holtville, California

"Your effort and courage will be felt for years to come, thanks to you and those who raised you for this ultimate sacrifice, your service to this country and mission to better the impoverished Iraqi people will never be forgotten and lead others to follow in your courageous footsteps. God Bless."
US Citizen of Everywhere, USA

"Erik, You have made us proud, you served your school as drum major well, well now you have served your country. You will be so missed."
Love, Mary of Holtville

"Nephew, Brother, you followed my boots, you pulled my pant leg, You served our Marine Corps our Country, and I'm Proud that we shared something in common. I will miss you brother, I know you will look over my little ones who looked up to you like you did to me. You know jr. has his heart set to be just like you. SEMEPER FI Tio"
Sergio Hernandez of Holtville, CA/USA

"RIP Brave Marine...Thank you.."
The Taylors, USMC of NC

Honor them by remembering... Freedom - is their gift to us But his soul goes marching on