Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Camron my name is Lee Jancar, I joined the army right after I turned 17 and when I got to my first unit after basic and airborne school your dad was my first team leader. I grew up without my father and your father was like a father to me. I have so many stories to tell you! Your father is by far one of the greatest men I’ve ever known! He trained me so well I was able to get my tower of power or aka the infantry T ( airborne, air assault and expert infantry badge) at the age of 17, which was really rare for someone to get so young. But he saw something in me and helped me to achieve things I know deep down I could never have done without him! You come from true greatness! Please consider talking to me! I know a bunch of guys who would love to know you! I would love for you to meet my son. it might sound crazy but I love you so much and I would be honored if I could be apart of your life! 352-317-4457 I hope to hear from you"
Lee Jancar of Florence ,Alabama /USA

"Mark was the absolute best teammate and he barely knew me. Became friends in Ranger school. His sense of humor, grit, and tenacity were the only reason I made it.

Nicole, I am the one who emailed Mark from Kuwait in 2003. You responded.

I'd love to connect and pay my respects to you and your children."
Lee Novy of Raleigh, NC

"Camren, I’m so sorry you were not able to grow up with your dad. As a boy, he lived across the road from my in laws in a small town in Michigan. I first met your dad and grandmother when your dad was about 9 years old. He was in martial arts and ran over to my in laws to show them the trophy he earned. The trophy was taller than him! He adored his mother, your grandmother, and visa versa. We lost track of your dad after he lost his mother but I’ll always remember the sweet, serious, deep voiced little boy who was ebullient, polite and respectful. I’m sorry for your loss, your dad made an impression on people, even at a young age."
of Ruby, Michigan

"Hi dad, it’s your baby boy. It’s hard now being a man and not being able to share any memories with you. It tears me apart that I don’t know who you were. If I could just have one day with you just to talk to you and listen to you, I wish I could. Dad I miss you so much and I’m heartbroken that I don’t have any memories with you. I’m 20 years old now, I’m trying to be an adult but it’s hard dad… i don’t know what I’m doing and I wish I had you to guide me. I sometimes think to myself how different would my life be if I still had you here with me. I love you dad, I love you, I wish I knew you but I’ll always love you with all my heart."
camren vasquez of San Antonio tx

"Had the privilege to serve with Mark in Hawaii for 3 years, I just bought Mark's POW/KIA bracelet that I will wear with distinction from now on...YOU are not FORGOTTEN!"
Duncan Hughes of Lockport, NY

"12 years today, I miss you so very much. Time continues moving forward and all we have are the memories that we shared. It never takes away the pain of loosing you or the void we feel in our hearts without you. I love you forever and always."
nicole

"To the family of Mark, I am sorry for your loss. Mark and I went through basic together and then went on to serve in the 25th ID together. He was a great guy and a born leader. With the voice of man you would think to be 10ft tall and the heart of a lion. While at the 25th I transferred to another battalion, across the quad from 1/21. I would laugh to myself when I would still hear Mark sounding off. After reading through these messages left in his memory, I am pleased to see he had such a positive impact on so many lives. Mark, I will see you at the RP bro. God bless."
Will Younkin

"Brother… Still remember you… 22 May, 2015"
SFC G

"today our baby girl turned 18!!!! Im so incredibly proud of the young women she has grown into. she is so much like you it isn't funny. well maybe a lil sometimes. My heart is sad. You should have been here with me raising her, sharing all the moments that got us to this day. I know you and Gary are watching down with smiles. Proud dads...Yours girls have grown up to be beautiful, amazing and strong women.
I love you and Miss you so very much, forever and always"
nicole of schertz tx

"Happy birthday daddy"
Bre Bre

"Happy birthday daddy"

"I remember Mark when he was a little boy living in the Pt. Huron, MI area. He was into Karate and won trophies that stood taller than him. He was just adorable!! He and his mother were inseparable and we lost track of Mark after the accident that took his mother. I'm glad he found someone to love and that he had children to make is life whole. I think of him often. Bless you Mark's wife and children, bless you Mark..."
of Ruby, MI

"Mark,today was not a good day as the remembrance of your passing is still hard. Just when I thought I was strong and could look at your pictures without crying, my heart ached again from missing you. You are not forgotten cousin, I love you and I miss you. Next year I will try to be strong and not cry anymore. I haven't met your kids or Nicole yet but hope to meet them someday. Definitely a bucket list item. Your kids are so grown up and Lydia has shown me a couple of pics of them. They are beautiful children and I wish them and Nicole much happiness in life. I miss you so much, your death has changed my life in so many ways that I never knew possible. I wish I could talk with some of the people who served with you in Iraq on the day you were lost. Most of all I wish I could talk to you.....love your cousin, Romana"
Romana Huston of Port Huron, MI

"Still haven't forgotten you brother. Got a pic of me with my arm around your neck and kissing your head for my Facebook profile pic. Gone but never forgotten!"
Michael S. Swain of Beaumont, Tx

"this is me camren, I love you so much bre is now 16 and im 12 , I miss you so much mom misses you too.i love you see you soon"
camren of schertz,texas,usa

"Ten years may have passed my friend but I'll never forget 08 Nov 03. Bore Brother Bore."
Emo of Framingham, MA

"Mark, this November 8, 2013 will mark the tenth anniversary of your passing and we still miss you, Ryan and Gary (my brother) every minute of the day. I am glad that my brother called you his best friend and you guys made wonderful memories for us to hear about. You will not be forgotten by our family and your family is always in our hearts."
Donna Collins Lowder of San Antonio, Texas

"My name is Pauline and I deliver Civil War replica quilts, to our families of our Fallen Heros. The organization is called Home of the Brave Quilt Project. If you would like a quilt in memory of your son please contact me. Any one that knows this family please contact them to contact me. Pauline Keiser
h.keiser@sbcglobal.net""
Pauline Keiser of kalamazoo, MI

"Well bud its 05/28/2012. I spoke your name to my family, along with Jenkins from Cali, and Day from Minnesota. This beers for you."
Derek Warren of MS

"Thinking of you BROTHER...Bore Brother Bore."
EMO of Mass

"Daddy i love you and I am getting ready to turn 14 in a month camrens birthday is coming up In 4 days and yours in 3 days. Gosh I miss you Soooo much and even when I trie to hold back the tears when I pray to you I still love you . Mama dosnt really talk that much about you Anymore but I know she still thinks about you and loves you still. Thank you soo much for easing us with Stan he will never replace you but he is a really good guy. Mama says that I look exactly like you and me and cam are the memories of you. Camren is in love with video games haha of course . And loves legos ( toy ) . Its hot down here in Texas and nothing like Kansas . Can you believe that I'll be in high school next year gosh time goes by fast. And I cut my hair in a bob in 5th grade but it's really long now and it's still blonde like you remember . I love you and like we always use to say to each other when I was 6 I love you always an forever no matter what happens daddy I love you and will celebrate you birthday coming up and will sti pray for you I WILL NEVER FOGET YOU
LOVE YOU DADDY : P"
Breanna Vasquez

"Mark was my cousin. We grew up together and we were close, only 3 weeks apart in age. I will never forget the day I heard the news, my life had changed forever since that day. I miss hearing you laugh and joking around. Some day I hope to meet your wife Nicole and your kids. I am glad you found someone Nicole, I am sure Mark would not want you to be alone. Please take care of yourself and you may contact me via email at rhusto01@baker.edu . Take care of yourself Nicole and God bless you and your family."
Romana Huston of Port Huron, MI

"I just found out about Marks sacrafice. I served with Mark in the late 90s in Ft. Lewis, Wa. Mark was a great soldier and an even better human being. I had a lot of fun with Mark picking and pulling practical jokes on people. Earth is a worse place now, but Heaven is a better place now. I love you Brother in Arms. Nicole I am so sorry for you and your children."
Michael S. Swain of Beaumont, Tx

"I just found out about what happened to Mark. Like everyone else on here, I will miss him. You hope to reunite with your buddies, but never this way. God bless your family Mark - we will never forget your most honorable sacrifice."
John Cardwell of Everett, Washington

"SSG Vasquez, I just got my RANGER tab. I hope you are proud. You will never be forgoten."
SSG Jack Hodge of Schofield Barracks, Hawaii

"2 Dec 2010
To the family of Mark Vasquez,
I just heard of Mark's passing as a message posted by somebody that left a comment on a picture I posted of Mark and I. I am very sorry for your loss, I know it's been several years since the incident, but as I just found out today I am saddened by the news. I tried looking for Mark several times on Facebook and many other social networks. I served with Mark from 1993-1996. We were battle buddies in Hawaii as were we in the same squad as Dragon Gunners. When we got deployed to Haiti Mark and I nicknamed ourselves "Dutch & Duece" while we played spades. Mark and I were unstoppable. We beat almost every team we played. Mark had a great sense of humor and we razzed guys in our squad, and tried to get a laugh out of everyone. I haven't seen or heard from Mark since 1996, but he was such a great friend and impacted my life so much that even 15 years later I still remember him and his characteristics. I wish the best for his friends and family that were impacted the most after his death, and only hope that time has had a chance to mend the sorrow you felt.
I have several pictures of Mark in Haiti posted on my Facebook. If you want me to send them to you or you would like to see them my email address is
Mrblue5150a@aol.com

Kind regards
Spc. Sean Hall
Concord, Ca"
Sean of Concord, Ca

"Not a day goes by that your not in my thoughts. On a day as today your even more present.... I always remind Bre and Cam of the importance of Memorial Day and the many men and women who have paid with their lives. I love you so very much Mark and everyday wish you were still here. Our babies arent babies anymore Bre just turned 13 and Cam 9, wow huh. There is so many things that I wish you were here for but i know that your watching over us and your here. Let us Never forget the sacrafice, Thank you Mark, Gary, Ryan and the other.
ALWAYS IN OUR HEARTS....NEVER FORGOTTEN"
Nicole Vasquez of Schertz, Tx

"Mark,

You were one of the best. You knew when it was time to have fun, and when it was time for business. I learned a great deal from your professionalism and work ethic. You are one CURRAHEE I will never forget! You guys in the Inmate platoon used to really give me a hard time as your medic, but you were there if I ever needed something to do my job. Thanks for making my time in Korea an exhilarating adventure! You are gone but never forgotten!

A Co. 1/ 506th INF.
Inmate Medic"
Aaron "Doc" Weyburn of Salt Lak City, Utah

"hey mark...theres not a day that goes by that i dont think of you..laughing,jokes,sleepovers,all the battlescars from breakdancing! it was fun growing up with you. i love you dearly.we all do.puma boys."
torston lovelace of lakewood co

"bottom line mark i miss you.... thank you... ur always in my heart...forever!"
fairbrother of syracuse!

"You were a hero and i thank you for all that you have done for our country. I pray for your family everyday."
SSG Hodge of Sharqat, Iraq

"To the family of Mark I served w/him in fort Lewis and always talked about his loving family and also the times we had"
cross of ft Riley

"Mark,
theres not a morning that i dont wake that i dont think of that day on the freeway in fallujah...i got to know you at FOB mecury...you and gary was always laughing at something out back after missions...the day i saw 1stsgt westbrook cry was such a horrible day. i wear you and collins and ryans name on my bracelet and tatooed on my back..honoring you..love ya brother...5 years ago a loving family...the army...and the united states lost a great guy..love ya brother
robert miller(sgt miller med retired)robert_miller_jr90@yahoo.com"
robert miller of gillette wyoming

"Nicole,
There are no words. All these years later, and I still constantly think of you and Mark and the kids. I will always love you, and always think of him! Mark was one of the best people I ever had the privelege to know, and will never forget."
Melissa Hester of Fort Knox, KY

"I miss you buddy."
Bill of USA

"November 23, 2008
To the family of Staff Sgt. Mark D. Vasquez:
Mark 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

"5 years have passed and we still keep your memory alive. Thanks brother…."
SFC Garcia of FT Benning, GA.

"Mark, you were a great cousin for the very few years that I knew you. I know that you loved what you did and how much you loved your country, Rest In Peace. We all love you Mark, everybody will always remember you!"
Jacob Arnold of Port Huron, Michigan

"I just don't want this page to end - we all loved Mark. He was a fantastic person and every time I think about my time in the training room at C 1-5 I laugh when I think about him. He was always laughing about something and really made that time bearable for me. He taught me perspective. In this war he is the first person I knew personally to give his life, and that was so Mark - first in the fight. I know he is with us forever. He may have left us a SSG but for me he will always be the epitome of the "Specialist Mafia." Rest in peace."
Jim Wilson of Fort Irwin, CA

"Mark - Just a quick note from a Port Huron High classmate to say that I think of you often. I can't believe what happened, and I pray and wish the best for your family. I was just telling a co-worker about you and "Puma Boys" back in high school. You never know how the road will turn, but you definately made your own path. God Bless You and Keep You."
Vera Ashford of Detroit, MI

"Nicole,
Its been awhile since I've spoken with you! I'm so sorry to hear about Mark. I was at New Life yesterday, and they also mentioned your Dad. Once again, I'm so sorry, and I know that that word doesn't really seem to be enough, but for what its worth, my heart goes out to you. Stay strong. It will be nice to hear from you, my email is ttmariott@yahoo.com or Tina.Marriott-Natua@usw.salvationarmy.org. Keep in touch.

Tina Mariott-Natua"
Tina Mariott-Natua of Sacramento, CA

"Mark, today I wanted to say how much you, Ryan and Gary are missed by all the families. We will think about you guys and the friendships that you shared. We are grateful that Gary had a buddy like you with him on that fatal day. Even though today, we are sad for our loss, we are also standing straight with pride. The three of you are our heroes and we will never forget you for that. November 8, 2007"
Donna Lowder of San Antonio, Texas

"Sept.1st 2007, SSG Vasquez is not forgotten. True heroes never are."
Aaron of Salem, MA

"dang, 13 years ago today we got married....its crazy how fast time passes by, still that morning frozen forever for us. there is'nt a day that dos'nt go by that i dont think of you. i know that you watch over us, i was just telling bre that the other day with something that she had done.gosh how they have grown,looking more and more like you every day. bre is you to the t personality and all, yeah i definitly have my hands full and cam he has my laid back go with the flow attitude. i just wanted you to know that we are doing good. really good we are all happy and thank you every day for sending stan into our lives, it takes a strong man to take us on. everyday is a new day and we look forward. we dont pitty ourselves and say why we just are thankful that we had you in our lives.i just wanted to say happy anniversary baby and i love you."
nicole vasquez of schertz, texas

"Nicole, I am the oldest sister of Gary Collins, and I wanted to tell you that you and the kids are in my thoughts this week. I know that you are living very close to me now and I would like to get together with you. I have Gary, Mark and Ryan all over my house in pictures. Just seeing their smiling faces brings some comfort to me. My brother was very lucky to have such a great friend in Mark. Both sound like they were two peas in a pod. Our family misses Gary and the guys so much. Some days it's hard to go on without him...then I think of what they stood for and I keep trucking for THEM!! Please contact me, so that we can get to know each other better. Kassie tells me that you are really special to her and the girls. Please give me a call at 210-566-2008 or 210-722-3008. Thank you and God Bless you and the kids. Feb. 7, 2007"
Donna Lowder of San Antonio, Texas

"mark,
you know you were like a father to me, you were my 1st team leader, you tought me everything about being a true soldier,enuf that i got my expert infantry badge at 17 yrs old.my whole life im going to try to be like you, the father"breanna was such a daddys girl'the husband;you wife loves you so much!you were literly the best all around role model ive ever had!i was great because of you,and when i messed up you were my best friend!like a father im shaking and crying right now 4 years later,i wish i payed more attention then you offered so much to me and didnt have to!rember the time we landed helocopters in the back yard nic? and he blamed me for the mess in the bathroom,that day we cooked brats on the grill and breanna played in the pool "at fort campbell"those times were the best times of my life,nic please write me my email is leejancar@yahoo.com
IF YOU EVER NEED ANYTHING EVER I MEAN IT PLEASE LET ME KNOW PLEASE ILL DO ANY THING TO HELP FOR MARK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!MY #1-256-335-2841"
lee jancar of florence,alabama

"To the family of:Mark D. Vasquez 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 too served with Mark. We went through OSUT at Fort Benning and then served with the 1st Bn 21st INF out at Schofield BKS. You are not forgotten. GIMLETS!"
David Emond of Framingham, MA

"I served with Mark in Korea and I remember him as a hard charging dedicated soldier. It deeply saddens me that he left this world with a young family. I'm sure that he is watching over them now, only taking a moment now and then to check out his beloved Red Wings."
David Thompson of Lexington, KY

"wow it's been about 4 years now.. and everytime this day comes around it seems harder and harder to face. Today I looked at a picture of you and it didnt seem like you were really gone.
you were the best brother in-law I could have ever asked for. You are my hero. I miss you Mark.. :( But I know we will all see you again.
You have missed so much, Breanna is getting so big and every day she is more and more like you and the same with Hunky. We all miss you and love you."
Cathleen of Auburn ca

"I'am a friend of Ed Shipp who served with Mark. I'am 9 years old. I just wanted to tell you that I'am very sorry for your loss."
Jaren Bradly Hupp of Woodsfield, Ohio

"Happy memorial day"
Melissa of California

"This comes late due to I never new of this tragedy. I was a team leader in the same squad as Mark at FT Lewis. This man had endless energy and taught straight from the heart. Mark I'm thinking of our times with Brian Cox, Sappa who is in Alaska with me, and Swain. That was a great Seahawks game. I remember us hanging out in the barracks room talking about our daily struggles in life and I would tell you about my issues. There isn't a thing in this world I wouldn't due to give you back to your family. To your family I couldn't measure the loss, but I can say it was my privelage to work and hang out with your husband. My e-mail is kelly.rogne@us.army.mil"
KELLY ROGNE of ANCHORAGE, AK

"I thank god everyday for soldiers like you!"
of California

"ALL GAVE SOME AND SOME GAVE ALL! Your a hero in every meaning of the word. You Gave the biggest, bravest sacrifice, your life for our country. Thank you"
of U.S.A

"Thank You"

"It's been hard!

Its been two years now
since you've been gone
been so lost without you
don't know how to go on.

I thought you'd return
that's what you said
but now all of you is,
just a memory in my head.


When you left to go over sea's
I felt so broken
and so alone
didn't know why,
but something inside said it's a goodbye.

Didn't believe it
cause you told me you'd be fine
I believed you
and now you aren't even alive

Why did it happen
why was it you
you promised me
and I believed you.

Cant be true
don't want it to be
cause I still need you,
here with me

Its hard for me,
to face the truth
not knowing why
it had to be you.

Sometimes I cry
more like all the time
and sometimes I just die,
die inside.

I cry from what used to be
its like the memories haunt me
even all the good hurts
cause it is all the last.

you're my hero
and will always be
you died for your country,
to keep us free

Its been two years now
since you've been gone
been so lost without you
don't know how to go on.






This is the poem that I made for my brother inlaw mark and I wanted to share it."
Cathleen of Auburn Ca

"Nicole-
I don't know if you will remember me or not, but i served with Mark at Ft. Campbell. It was a great honor to know him and work with him. I think of him and you often. I know that he is greatly missed. He was a true soldier and a great friend. I hope that you are doing as good as can be. Take care and God Bless you and the kids."
SSG WILLIAM KNUDSON of Schofield Barracks, HI

"Nicole,

It has been 8+ years since we have seen each other. We first met in HI. My husband Dan served in the military with Mark. We moved to Wahiawa together and lived next door to each other on Olive Ave. We heard the sad news yesterday, 2 years to the date. I am very sorry for your loss and have fond memories of the both of you.

I see that you are living in San Antonio, TX, we are in Dallas. I would really like to hear from you and understand you have two children, as do we now. Daniel and Cora. Daniel is now 10 and our daughter is 6 1/2. It would be nice to hear from you. You can reach me via email at: reneeblomberg@grandecom.net

Again I am very sorry for you loss and you and your children are in our prayers.

Renee Blomberg"
Renee Blomberg of Dallas

"Baby.....I'ts been two years to the day since you were taken from us. I'm laying in bed with you on my mind, reading all of the messages that people have written to us and I cant believe that I have not yet written to you. I have been thinking of you alot with this day approuching and it has been tough. Facing the day that my world was taken from me is painful and there have been plenty of tears shed this past week. I miss you so much. I just miss you. There isnt anything i wouldnt do to bring you back to us but i can't. You were my life, my husband the father of our two beautiful children and most of all my best friend. I have had to pick myself up and start a life without you, something i never would have thought I'd have to do. It has'nt been easy but I know that you have been with us every step or stumble we have had to make. Our lives are moving forward but you will always be with us. Always in our hearts and minds. You will never be forgotten. I am the luckiest woman alive because I WAS LOVED BY YOU. Thank you baby for sharing your life with me....i wouldnt have traded it for anything. Until we are back together again, I will love you forever and always.
Love Nic
Proud army widow"
Nicole Vasquez of San Antonio, Texas

"Dear, Nicole Vasquez
I don't know if you will recall us but my name is Dan Blomberg and I served with your husband in Hawaii in teh 25th infantry division about a decade ago. my wife and I (Dan and Rene'e), lived near you and Mark in Wahiaha HI. I have thought about you and Mark often and today I was informed that your husband lost his life in the defense of our nation and it's freedom and way of life. I will always recall the fond memories of Mark and you and my wife and I cannot thank you and Mark for the sacrifice he made for our great country."
Dan and Rene'e 25th Infantry Division (Gimlits) of Dallas, Tx

"Nicole,
In a few days it will be two years that Mark is gone. I will be thinking of you and the kids.
Love you and miss you!!"
Karin of J.C. KS

"Mark was a great and funny guy. I only knew him for 2 years in the late 80's yet we hung out often. I was saddened to learn that he passed away serving our country. Although I lost touch with Mark after 1990 and never had the priveledge of knowing his wife and two children, I do pray for you often. May god bless you. morgan1973@charter.net"
Stephanie of Traverse City Michigan

"I had the honor of serving with SSG Vasquez in Korea. I am deeply saddened by his loss and extend my heart felt condolences to his family and friends. SSG Vasquez was an excellent soldier and leader. He is a hero and will be missed.

Very Respectfully,"
MAJ Keith Baber of Fort Polk, LA

"I just found out this sad sad news today Dec.31 2004. I hoped and prayed that this was not the Mark D Vasquez that i knew and was very close to. but whether i wanted to believe it or not it was. I first met mark in ft. lewis he was a team leader in my platoon. We became good friends before i left for korea. Then one day mark shows up in korea. Well anyway I pulled some strings and got mark in the same company and even platoon as me. And it was all over from there. we had some great times and i will never forget him he was a great man. i would like to send my regards to his wife, children and family god bless you. please feel free to contact me jfairbro28@hotmail.com (that means you to esterby you are impossible to get a hold of.)"
John R. Fairbrother of Syracuse, New York

"i knew mark at ft lewis he was my friend and one of my sergent's to this day i still rember and look back on things he said to me i am saddened to here of his death he will truley be missed and this country lost one hell of a soldier god bless my heart goes out to his kids"
SSG John Cosby of marysvile california

"i knew mark at ft lewis he was my friend and one of my sergent's to this day i still rember and look back on things he said to me i am saddened to here of his death he will truley be missed and this country lost one hell of a soldier god bless my heart goes out to his kids"
SSGT John Cosby of marysvile california

"My nephew Sgt. Ryan Young was with Mark & Gary. Just wanted to let you know I was thinking of you on the 8th. It was a hard day for all of us. God be with you all"
Maureen Ledet of San Angelo, Texas

"This is Marks Sister in-law
Its been a year now since Marks death and it is so hard to face the truth that he is gone. He ment the world to me and alot more to my sister and kids!! He tought me so much and I love himfor all of it! I miss you mark and will always love you!"
Cathleen of Auburn Ca

"This is Marks sister in-law
I just want to say thank you to you all, it means alot. And if anyone wants to please write me my e-mail is army_girl_n_proud@yahoo.com Cause it is nice to hear from people. It helps so much. And Travis Esterby thank you for writing that. It would be cool to hear from you.
Thank you all so much."
Cathleen Barnes of Auburn Ca

"Mark was one of my first team leaders in the Army, I served with him at Ft Lewis WA. I lived in the Barracks and he would invite me over to have dinner with his family, he was a great man and i am proud to had served with him. He taught me much of what i know now and to this day even though i am in Special Forces i still apply many things that he taught me. He was a true warrior and he loved what he did and loved his country. Mark will not be forgotten for he has touched so many people. I wish his family the best and if they ever need ANYTHING you can contact me."
SSG Travis Esterby of FT Bragg NC

"My mother happened to send me this link after she found it online. I was greatly moved after reading the story of this young man's death. I'd like to first say "Thank You" to him for his ultimate sacrifice and all others who remain today defending our freedom abroad and in America. Secondly, I wish to send my deepest condolences to all the family members of loved ones who have given their all in this hour of the world's turmoil. May the Grace of God and His Peace comfort the hurting hearts of those left behind here on earth. And thirdly, somehow this hit home with me like nothing ever has before because my name is Mark D Vasquez too and you somehow feel connected in a small way."
Mark D Vasquez of Grayson, GA USA

"I was his cousin-in-law. I only meet him once when i was four! i don't even remeber him. my cousin cathleen always talked and still talks about him. as i have herd he was a great solider, friend, and family member. his wife and two kids were visiting on christmas and his daughter and wife, my cousin nicole, were talking about him. Cathleen told me how hard it was to lose him and i felt so bad for them all! when i found out about his death, i thought of my cousin nicole and her two kids. there strong and i know that Cathleen will help them get through this cause she is strong! Cathleen if your reading this i'm sorry for your lost! you always talk about him and from what i herd he was great! God Bless you Mark Vasquez!"
Melissa Barnes of Los Gatos, CA.

"To the family of Mark Vasquez I am deeply saddened about your loss.. I know what you are going through- I lost my son in November. He was the second young man from Port Huron to lose his life. I know it is so hard. They were HEROS!!!May God bless you"
Patricia Riedel of Port Huron, MI

"" I remember the last time I spent with my Brother -in-law Mark it was spring break for me and I flew over there to see him. Well the Red wings were playing and I sat down and watched it with him. Those were good times to remember. I just wish I could have one more day to watch another game with him. Mark was so brave and strong. I don't no how I am going to live without him. But he told me to be strong and to help my sister and my mom if anything was to happen and to be strong for them . All I have to say is " Mark I am trying but it is o hard when I cant be strong for myself. He's my hero and always will be."
Cathleen of Auburn california

"I am not a hockey fan by any means, but I actually found myself watching the Detroit Red Wings game last night and rooting for them to win the game. I know Mark was a big fan, and I felt the need to watch the game. It was too bad that they lost the game in overtime, but it made me think about all of the good times that were had by many back in "C Quad." It has been 8 years since I've seen Mark or any of the others I have served with back in the 25th ID, but it shows you how strong of a bond you can have after basically spending 3 years of your life with a bunch of great guys. Again, my condolences to his entire family. You should be very proud of him."
Peter James of Wilkes Barre, PA

"I am Marks sister-in-law
and I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who has left a message. It means alot. It is so hard to believe that he is really gone. I try and tell myself he wont return but something in my mind tells me he will caome home when its time. Mark you were the best, you showed me the meaning of life and always helped me do the right things. You were always there for me and now your gone. I dont no what I am going to do with out you. Who am I going to talk to cause you always listened to me and always cheered me up when I was sad. You were like a dad to me. You cared more about me then almost anyone I no. I miss you and you will always be in my heart. thank you.
And thank you to all who left a message it really ment alot thank you."
Cathleen Barnes of Auburn californis

"I served with Mark in the 25th ID in Hawaii from 1993-1996. We also went to basic training together at Ft. Benning, Georgia. I was saddened to see that he has paid the ultimate sacrafice while serving our country. I had no idea until I watched the special on Nightline this past Friday. I was shocked to actually see somebody I knew and considered a friend. My condolences to his family, especially his children who will be without a father. The Army was definitely Mark's calling. He fit the role better than anyone I knew there. He worked very hard, yet had one heck of a sense of humor. I will mostly remember him for his vocals. Mark was a short man, but had a very loud and commanding voice, and I think anyone who served with him can attest to it. I would like to thank Mark, and everyone else serving in our Military for protecting this great land. It is sad to see so many Americans take for granted their daily lives while soldiers like Mark make the ultimate sacrafice so that they can live the way they do. God bless you Mark. I will always remember you my friend."
Peter James of Wilkes Barre, PA

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

"I DON'T KNOW YOU, BUT I DO HAVE TO THANK YOU FOR DEFENDING OUR COUNTRY.I AM A FORMER MARINE AND IT SADDENS ME TO SEE ANOTHER SOLDIER TAKEN FROM US. I KNOW YOUR KIDS WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU AND REMEMBER YOU. YOU ARE IN OUR DREAMS."
JIMMY of WILLIAMSBURG,VA USA

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

"OUR Words from Day one of this site have always been. REST IN PEACE BRAVE WARRIOR.....God bless your family and friends..."
The Taylors USMC of NC

"Mark you were the best! you made the best father to your two kids.and a great husband. You tought me alot and helped me out everytime that I needed you. Love you and thank you!I will never forget you! Always will you be in my heart. You were the best man I have ever known and the best Ranger that I have ever met. Love you. From Your sister in-law and her friends"
Cathleen of Auburn,california

"Thank you Mark Vasquez, 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 Staff Sgt. Mark Vasquez:
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 Mark 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 Staff Sgt. Mark Vasquez:
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 Mark, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia