Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"1LT Kevin Smith was my Security Detachment Commander escorting me and other members of the Iraq Reconstruction Management Office to a power plant in Baghdad outskirts on December 8th, 2005 when we were hit by a massive IED attack. He died protecting me. I think of him everyday. He steadfastly performed his duties at great risk to himself protecting me and others for months while we did our mission, always with pride and professionalism. You will never be forgotten"
Juan A. Diaz, COL, US Army (ret.) of Tokyo, Japan

"18 years yesterday. I am watching the Army Navy game and 3rd ID and Operation Iraqi Freedom are who the Army is remembering today. I miss you and it's just not fair."
Kimberley Zinicola of Albemarle NC

"KJ, you are gone but never forgotten. I often think about you and wish that it had been me instead of you. But this was not to be. Miss you."
Uncle Dave of Subic Bay, Philippines

"KJ, hearing about you passing was the toughest day for me in Iraq. You exemplified everything the Army looks for in a leader. You are respected by all of your fellow LTs."
Larry Massey of Former Marne Soldier.

"RIP Kevin. I still think of you often and remember that tragic day 14 years ago just like it was yesterday. Such a difficult loss for our family. Uncle Dave"
David Lowe of Subic, Philippines

"KJ you still with me in my thoughts. Remembering and honoring your sacrifice. 6 Dec 2016"
Uncle Dave of Muscat, Oman

"KJ..you are still in my heart and thoughts. Uncle Dave"
Dave Lowe of Muscat, Oman

"Kevin. Each 8th of December I stop say a prayer and ask myself if I am honoring your memory. I miss you dearly.

Uncle Dave"
Dave Lowe of Muscat, Oman

"KJ I know that it has been years since you left US, and I really miss seeing you in the gym and talking about them GATOR'S, I wish that you were still with us so that we can go see them GATORS Play, you will always be in my heart and your family in my prayer's. You are my Hero that gave the ultimately sacrfice like the True Dog Face Soldier you were."
Reggie Strickland of Tallahassee, FL

"To the family of:Kevin J. Smith
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 didn't personally know anyone who was killed fighting to defend our country. But I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry at times. I understand, in theory only, that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could the grieving families and friends 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
A hundred times a day, I remind myself that my inner and outer life depends on the labors of other men, living and dead, and I must exert myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received and am receiving. - Albert Einstein"
Scott Edward Steiner (6/9/10) of Worthington, OH USA

"Four years to the hour.

08DEC - 1015hrs, Baghdad time.

I miss you KJ."
Adam Mattis of Baltimore, MD

"I'm thinking about you today, LT.

Happy Veterans Day."
Adam Mattis of Baltimore, MD

"Happy Birthday, Sir. I'm living because of you, and for you."
Adam Mattis of Baltimore, MD

"07Aug09. We just found out about KJ's death and it has been almost 4 years. We are extremely saddened at the news. KJ was a constant example of kindness, positivity and humility. I did not spend alot of time with him, not nearly as much as my husband, but after reading all of the eulogies and kind words from those who knew him well, I am inspired. The life KJ lived in the short time he was here with us, has inspired me greatly to be better in every aspect of my life. We plan to go to Florida to visit his grave and pay our last respects. We will miss you KJ and our prayers will always be with you and your family and Dana. Love, The Hekimian Family (KJ's family and Dana, we are on facebook)"
Dara Hekimian of Cypress, TX

"December 10, 2008
To the family of Capt. Kevin J. Smith:
Kevin 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 looking thru a photo album of myself growing up and Kevin is in alot of those pictures from our soccer photos,school pictures, camping etc etc... I am proud to have known him and proud to say he was a friend."
Ed Choquette of Clearwater, FL

"I was with LT. Smith the day he was lost. I served with hs unit and often filled in with his platoon. In my time I knew him, he was one of the finest examples of a leader I ever knew. To me he is a mark I measure every LT I have met since in my military service. He always had time for his men, and never made anyone feelunwelcome or unequal. I extend my sincerest condolences to his family and fiance. His loss is one that was felt by all of us, and he is still in my thoughts even today. To me, he truly was the definition of what a HERO should be."
SGT Duncan, Chris of Ft Benning, GA

"I remember seeing CPT Smith running with his Soldiers to help them do the best they could on an upcoming PT test. Not just one or two, and not the entire platoon at one time, but it seemed like he ran with the entire platoon, one at a time individually. I physically saw him run with at least 4 of his Soldiers, one right after the other. He never seemed to tire. That is leading from the front.

He stepped in and took a platoon who had just lost their 1st Platoon Leader to a tragic accident and had pretty much lost their way. He turned them into a unit that you could count on.

I did'nt know him very well, but I wish I had."
SSG Brumley

"My condolences Dana."
Rob of brunswick, ga

"I am just thinking of you today and missing you more every day."
Dana of Savannah

"I remember talking to Kevin's dad in late 2005 for a story about Kevin. I just rewatched the raw tape of that interview tonight.

I wish I could have met Kevin, but I'm glad I had the chance to learn about him and share that with everyone in Central Florida and Tampa.

Thanks to Kevin's dad, Cliff, for talking to me at the time. I can't imagine how hard that was to talk at that moment, but he did.

There are some great pictures Cliff shared with us of Kevin with an Iraqi boy, and of Dana.

Dana, I would love to have talked to him about some of his experiences, but I'm so honored to have heard about him. Thank you.

~David
davidgwaters@gmail.com"
David Waters/News 13 Orlando of Melbourne, FL/USA

"12-08-06 To the family of Kevin J. Smith: I am he brother of a fallen soldier, Joseph Blickenstaff, who died in Iraq on December 8th 2003. On this day of rememberance I wanted to offer my wish of peace and healing to you in the years to come, we are forever bonded by this date and the loss of our loved one's. I pray for your loved one and family. ehblick@yahoo.com"
Eric Blickenstaff of Oregon

"On the anniversary of your death, I want you to know you are remembered and missed incredibly. I see the grief Dana is still feeling everyday, and the joy she has in your memories. Know you are loved and missed and never forgotten."
Kimberly of Ft Stewart, GA

"It has almost been a year. It is hard to believe. I will never forget the day the army came to our house to tell me you were gone. It was like a movie. I miss you so much it hurts at times. Just know I am always proud of your sacrfice and that you are my hero. Thank you for sharing your life and love with me."
Dana of Savannah

"I miss you so much baby. I am very proud of you and will always love and remember you. I know I will see you again. You are my hero!!!!!!!"
dana scherry of savannah, georgia

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

"I am truly sorry for your loss. May God's grace help you through this trying time.

Michele Carter
Sister of CPL Gary Walters
KIA in Baghdad on 24 April 2005"

"Thank you Kevin Smith, 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 Capt. Kevin Smith:
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 Kevin 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 Capt. Kevin Smith:
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 Kevin, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia