Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"17 years later but still so fresh, we didn't have enough time together, God knows how mom and Andre did it. But I'm here brother, I felt the urge to come see you the last few days, it's been a while, we still miss you, we still love you, I'll be dropping by really soon."
Ramesh Paul of Flanders, New York

"Salty,
Still thinking of you and your sacrifice in 2016. You are missed my brother."
of Pentagon

"ACE WHAT IT DO BRO THIS YO BOY BOSSMAN JUST DROPPING BY LEAVING SOME LOVE I MISS YOU MAN YOU THE DEFINITION OF REAL I WAS BLESSED TO BE IN YOUR PRESENCE AS AN YOUGIN! I WAS SUPER BAD AND YOU USE TO ALWAYS TRY TO GIVE ME POSITIVE ADVICE BUT I NEVER LISTENED BUT I AINT THE SAME BOSSMAN NO MORE I CHANGED FOR THE BETTER AS I GOT OLDER MY MIND PROGRESSED AND I NOW MAKE WISE DECISIONS I KNOW YOU SEE YO BOY IM TRYING IM TRYING WELL I AINT GO TALK YO EAR OFF I KNOW YOU GOT BETTER THINGS TO BE DOING RIGHT NOW SO MUCH LOVE AND YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN THANKS FOR BEING REAL! P.S. THANK YOU FROM SAVING ME FROM SCOTT AND DESHON BEATINGS LOL GTB FOR LIFE!!!!"
BOSSMAN of MILWAUKEE,Wisconsin,USA

"Adrian, I remember the love, laughter, the countless conversations, waking everyone in the house at 6am when you were on leave, the last time I saw you and our very last conversation on 9/11/2004 and the dreadful news of your death on 9/13/2004. It has been 9 years it is still so fresh and it still hurts. I miss and love you so much! You are gone from this life but you will never be forgotten! R.I.P. son."
Desiree Soltau of Milwaukee, WI. USA

"A unk this tre sitn here on 9 11 lstn 2 i wish by r Kelly cryn i no u watchn ovr me and smiling i miss u tho see u in heaven miss u"
Trejean Howard of Milwaukee wisconsin

"Adrian,

It's Memorial Day, you and the Alpha Company losses are on my mind. In Iraq we played basketball, me, SSgt Oo and the other Motor T guys. I always asked you to take it easy on me and not run so much, you never listened! Anyway, I just wanted to let you know you are missed by a web of friends and family that stretches to no end. Thank you for the memories and the laughs."
GySgt Gabriel Flores of Temecula, CA/USA

"Heyy uncle...im kind of late but i just wanted you to know i love you and i miss you...see you in heaven"
Jade of Milwaukee, Wisconsin

"I NEVER MET YOU BUT I KNOW YOUR FATHER HE IS MY NEIGHBOR AND I THINK I AM HIS ONLY WHITE FRIEND, HAHA IF YOU KNEW ME IT WOULD BE FUNNY. I AM A VETERAN JUST LIKE YOU AND WE CELEBRATE YOUR LIFE EVERY YEAR. YOUR PARENTS AND FAMILIES SHARE STORES WITH ME ABOUT YOU AND IF YOU ARE ANYTHING LIKE YOUR FAMILY, YOU ARE ONE HELL OF A PERSON TOO. TAKE CARE BROTHER I AM PROUD TO SHARE THE NAME VETERAN WITH YOU!"
RAASCH of MILWAUKEE, WI

"It was an honor serving with you brother. Much love to you and your family.
YAT-YAS"
Sgt Rousseve of CA

"Semper Fi brother. I still think of you often. You forever will remain my defintion of cool. Miss you!"
Schmidty of Spring Valley, CA

"As memorial weekend approaches I wanted to leave a note, and remind you that you’re still not forgotten. Semper Fi"
Old Man of Portand, Oregon

"Hey, it's Oct. 13th(Navy's Bday) and I was thinking of you. Decided to google you and found this page. I joined the Navy in Feb and I would be lying if I said you didn't have some influence on me joining. So thank you for being a good friend and inspiration the short time i knew you. It's been 5 years and I have yet to forget you and your family in my prayers- and I don't plan to either. Thanks for everything. (I hope your sister Ashley is still hooping it up)"
Sharon Kwiatkowski of Milwaukee, WI

"Salty,

Hey bud, it's mackadocious! Memorial day is coming up and some good folks out here have put up a moving iraq memorial with a cross for everyone that has lost their life in the line of duty. each cross has a name on it and i'm going to pay some respects and find your cross. i miss you man, you were a funny dude and no matter how much it seemed we got late shifts on the ramp, complaining about how crappy it was, we had a lot of fun! much love brother and we'll see you one of these days! Mack."
Zack Mack of Modesto Ca.

"happy birthday brother"

"It is September 23, 2008 and its been 4 years since we have buried u on this very day..its a hard thing to deal with but i guess i have too...i think out of everyone im taking your loss the worse..i cry every nite thinking about u..i can hardly sleep in the house because of all the memories we both shared..man im missing u but keep the gates open for me..and i'll see u there...I LOVE U BIG BROTHER!! U ARE MY HERO!!!"
Ashley Soltau of Milwaukee, WI

"August 22, 2008
To the family of Cpl. Adrian V. Soltau:
Adrian 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 belong to an online group called http://groups.msn.com/americansoldiermemorialproject
I've done an embroidered memorial for Mr. Soltau's family but I don't have an address as to where to mail it. Can someone help me out. My email is CarolPost@aol.com
Thank you

Carol"
Carol Post of Luxemburg, Wis

"Hey Markey
Not a day goes by that I don't think of you and you know it. You always stop me and talk to me, and i know it's you. The hairs on my neck stands up and all goes quite. The first time it happened, I was scared, then it became calming. KEEP FOLLOWING ME. your big brother"
Andre

"Again i think of you. Never forget the greatness you encompassed. Always a devil dog, always my friend. I cant wait to see you again"
Lindsay of Milwaukee,WI

"Hey brother, its been a while since you've been gone, but just remember that you are NEVER forgotten. Semper Fi"
Tom "ee-or" Webb of Sacramento, CA

"waddup bro....u know everybody misses u man...it aint tha same without u...but im just droppin sum love aight...love ya...see u in heaven"
Ashley Soltau of Milwaukee,WI

"To the family of:Adrian V. Soltau 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"

""On March 31, 2006 a friend of Adrian's will be getting married. This man, Joseph R. Mack, who served with Adrian in Iraq, will become my son-in-law. He speaks fondly of Adrian and we wanted to let you know that we will be displaying a memorial table at the wedding, with the pictures and names of five of Joseph's fallen comrades, and Adrian will be among them. Thank you Adrian for serving and dying for our country. You are truly blessed for your sacrifice and it is deeply appreciated.""
Patricia L. Bay of Redding, CA

"I didn't really know you to well, but we graduated together, and what I did know about you was that you were always nice, quiet, and a good person. It's sad that you're gone and you'll always be in our hearts. Peace be with your family. "God Bless"
Dorothy Reynolds of Milwaukee, Wisconsin/ United States

"To Adrian's memory and Adrian's family,

I didn't know you, but from one Soltau to another, I am so deeply sorry to hear that a wonderful young life has been taken before its time. My thoughts are with you all at this time. I sincerely hope that time eases the pain and eventually admits only the very best memories of Adrian for many years to come. With love, the greater Soltau family."
a soltau of chicago and sydney, australia

"To the family of Adrian Soltau, I can't begin to understand the depth of your grief at this time. I can only pray for healing and peace for you all in the future. Adrian and Andre are both heroes in my book. May God's blessing be on your family at this time. I am honored and proud to share the same last name as ya'll."
Robert Soltau of Longview, TX rsoltau@sbcglobal.net

"Cpl Soltau you made everyone's day better with your humor and smile. You were a leader and great Marine. You will be missed and my prayers and thoughts are with your family."
Michael Bongiovanni of New York, NY

"Salty, you set yourself apart from the rest in your actions and the way you conducted yourself, it was a pleasure serving with you. you will never be forgotten. Semper Fidelis."
Old Man of 3D AABN A co.

"Adrian, i've known you since John Muir and all the way through Madison High; it's hard to believe you're gone. We're losing so many so young.. i'd do almost anything to have all my friends back that have passed away...
You'll be missed.. Keep the Gates open for me."
Jason H. of Milwaukee, WI, USA

"To the family of Adrian V. Soltau:

The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 29 May. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain, LTC Kenneth L. Beale, Jr. will preach a message entitled “Remembering Our Freedom.” A former Soldier and country music songwriter and performer “Rockie” will pay a special musical tribute. At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played.

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Administrative Assistant
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:info@fortsnellingmcf.org
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org"

"I LOVE u man. I wish i can to see u again,I can still see u and i playing infront of grandma's house.............
i am adrian smaller cousin if u were is friend co worker and have eny pic or enything u want to say to his mon about him call me 609 540 2641 patrick_ferlando@yahoo.com"
Patrick Paul of hamilton nj us

"i wanted to write and express my deepest sympathies my dauger is debra wilson . she just to;d me about your son and that she is making the quilt for you . danny liszewski is my grand son . i have lots of photos that adrain took of him in iraq. god bless you all kay besemer"
kay besemer of bacliff texas

"Sitting in the open air on a cool evening breeze talking about family and happiness in Iraq, while escaping the discomfort of war. This is a memory that Cpl Soltau left me to stay for the rest of my life. He was a great man and VERY Honorable. Words cant express the pain I feel. But I am positive that when we all come to the gates of heaven Cpl Soltau will be there to greet us. Semper Fi "Salty" You'll be missed."
Sgt Burch of 4th AA BN Tampa Fl.

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

"Adrian...Our Mr. Valentine...We miss you. You will never be forgotten or replaced, your face will remain unaltered in our hearts. Your family is second to none, they are brave and strong, just as you would want them to be. Delighting memories help push the pain away, comforting us in the time of loss. Today, it's been one month without you, chanting your cadence down the street, and smiling that smile. You'll never be gone to me."
Lindsay of Milwaukee, WI

"Our sincerest condolences for your loss. Our family has also suffered the loss of a precious life in this battle for freedom. Adrian is a true American hero and will always be remembered for his bravery and sacrifice he gave to our country. May God bless you during this difficult time."
Vic and Tammy McClain--azquail@att.net of Tucson, AZ

"words can't express how much I am hurting at this time. Adrain was a good friend and co worker.He will be deeply missed."
Cupid Willams of milwaukee,Wi

"words can't express how much I am hurting at this time. Adrain was a good friend and co worker.He will be deeply missed."
Cupid Willams of milwaukee,Wi

"This young man gave all for his Country and for Freedom. His Family and loved ones are in my prayers. There are no words to express th sorrow and pain they must feel at this time. May God help you with some of it."
Ramona of Rio Hondo Texas

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

"THERE ARE SO FEW WORDS TO SAY, AND SO MUCH TO FEEL... I BEND MY HEAD AND SINCERELY THANK ADRIAN FOR TRYING TO MAKE THIS WORLD WE LIVE IN A BETTER PLACE... I SHED MOTHER TEARS FOR A YOUNG MAN WHO SACRIFICED SO MUCH; AND AS A RESULT, HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS SHARE THE PAIN OF HIS DEDICATION... I HONOR THIS YOUNG MAN BY PRAYING FOR HIS LOVED ONES, AND PROMISING TO TRY EACH DAY TO MAKE THIS WORLD A BETTER PLACE: BE IT DUTY, A SMILE FOR ANOTHER, OR AS A COMFORTING FRIEND.
I AGAIN BOW MY HEAD... AND WITH TEARS ...THANK ADRIAN V. SOLTAU."
DEBE HAIDT of INDIAN TRAIL, NC,

"We are deeply saddened by your loss for your loss is ours as well. Adrian was a great Marine, Brother, and Friend , he wil be missed however, he will live in our hearts for ever. God bless you and your family."
GySgt J.L.Ramirez of Oceanside CA.

"Eulogy for a Hero

Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the Gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the mornings hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight,
I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there, I did not die.

By - Mary E. Fryer"
The Hernandez Family of Oceanside, CA. USA

"We are deeply saddened by your loss. Our nation lost a brave hero & he will NEVER be forgotten. WE are so appreciative of his sacrifices to ensure our freedoms, as well as, those of the Iraqi People. Adrian had an awesome spirit and is now with the Lord watching over you. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May the Lord be with you and comfort you as only HE can. God Bless you."
The Hernandez Family of Oceanside, CA. USA

"To the family and friends of Adrian,
May God bless you and your family in this time of loss,and give you strength and guidance. Adrian touched the lives of everyone that every came in contact with him. We knew Adrian as a Marine, a hero, and as a friend. Adrian's memory will live in our hearts forever."
The Smothers family of Oceanside,Ca.

"God's blessing to you and your family. I too have lost a loved one and know the pain you are feeling at this time.
Your son has paid the ultimate price for our freedom and I thank him for that. May the Lord bless you and keep you."
Candy of Poynette, Wisconsin

"To Adrian's Family:
There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for your loss. May God bless you and help you through this time."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"To Adrian's Family and Friends:

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

Sincerely,

The Family of Capt. Ernesto M. Blanco-Caldas, 82nd Airborne
KIA Iraq 12/28/2003.
Gloria Caldas (The Big Ern's Mom) of San Antonio, TX
gloria.caldas@banksterling.com"

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