Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Hey Autumn. I hope this finds you well. In preparation for a Memorial Day walk I do for veterans I do a 10 mile loop out and back from my house. Every time I go out I honor a soldier who was lost on that day with a poster on my backpack and a Facebook post. Last night I walked in honor of your husband. He is an American hero. He will always be honored and remembered. DOL.
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02PPHHbVPfszrnDFEoVgKZ1fAxScaJJjpNsRYXbuMxJqhXmwmYSYMma5kDKKfFePzZl&id=100002496368285"
Stephen B Lewis of Farmington CT

"SFC Brett Walden was a great team leader. He is missed. I pray that his family is blessed."
Julon Pinkston of Houston

"Autumn,

I also served with Brett at the Ranger Camp. He was a great friend and a great man. The last time I saw Brett was when he was visiting FWB doing some scuba training with 5th Group. Brett is my designated "Ranger in the Sky", and I wear a memorial bracelet every day in his honor. He will never be forgotten..."
1SG Mark Rudolph of Crestview, FL

"We would like to extend this invitation for you to participate in our Gold Star Today Project. As families and friends of United States Special Operations community we have created an opportunity to share the stories and memories of our loved ones with the world. Those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom were men we loved, men who were part of our lives, and will forever be part of our memories. We at the Gold Star Today project believe that the memories of the 124 men whose name occupy a space on the USASOC memorial wall need to be shared and celebrated. The Gold Star Today project is committed to celebrating the story of each of these men. With the help of people like you we are building a kinetic document to commemorate the lives they lived. These men deserve to be known for their stories, not just the sacrifice they have made, each one of them were children, big or little brothers, boyfriends, husbands and dads. We welcome you to help us by contributing your personal stories, memories, and photographs of your loved one. If there are friends and family members of your service member who would like to participate please invite those to participate also so please forward this invitation to them. The project can be accessed at: http://www.facebook.com/GreenBeretFoundation Contributions can be sent to: Chrissa@goldstartoday.org


The Gold Star Today Project Team."
Chrissa M .Gross of Fort Bragg NC

"Thank you Rasmia and Ken...This is SFC Brett Walden's widow. I appreciate you continuing to honor Brett and all the soldiers. May God Bless all of you. De Oppersso Liber"
Autumn Walden of York, PA

"i just finished reading the horse soldiers by doug stanton. brett walden is among those special operation forces who entered afghanistan after the 9/11 attack. they were unsure if they were to walk out alive of that place. the hardships that they had endured is amazing...they were truly warriors in every essence of the word..they are prepared to die for their country and countrymen. he will have my highest respect as long as i live. and i hope that all americans and people around the world who enjoy freedom will know his greatness."
rasmia of philippines

"BRETT, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SACRIFICE. TO YOUR FAMILY I SAY THANK YOU FOR A MAN THAT ALWAYS PUT HIS COUNTRY FIRST."
KEN TAYLOR of KENNEWICK, WASHINGTON

"I know as time passes we tend to move on with our lives, but I want all of you to know who knew Brett that I know you think of him often. I thank all of you for that. It keeps his memory alive. May God bless all of you and please continue to pray for those families who've lost loved ones and those who continue to serve and protect us."
Autumn of York, PA

"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 take 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

"Just now found this site. Brett was one of my close friends in high school in Florida. I was so very saddened by his passing but always keep his memory with me. He was truly one of "the good guys". I will forever remember him with a smile on his face and some mischief in his eyes.

Maureen Horgan (from the Peanut Gallery)"
Maureen Horgan of Fort Walton

"Autumn,

I wanted you to know I am thinking of you and Brett today as we approach Memorial Day. I was honored to know and serve with Brett at the Ranger Camp.

God bless you.

Patrick Courson, SGT/2LT, RGR.

RLTW!!"
Patrick Courson of Jacksonville, FL

"Hi Alex, I was friend of your father and your Mom, I was there when they first met, your Dad was so happy he talked about your Mom all the time it was Love at first sight, I will be driving by Chinaman's Hat in two days and will throw some flowers in the ocean and say a prey for the three of you, your Dad was a great guy I will miss him."
Kerry Kitteringham of Honolulu, Hawaii

"Sandra, thank you so much for your condolences. And, thank you for your son's service and his own personal sacrifice. May God bless you all."
Alex and Autumn Walden of York, Pa

"I just found out about Brett. I went to high school with him. May God bless you and your family for your great loss. My son served 3 tours in Iraq... thankfully came home from his final tour in the Marines last January, and is a Wounded Warrior. God Bless our Troops both serving and Fallen."
Sandra Hearn of West Monroe, LA

"alex i remember when you would come over and we would go upstairs and play like we were going to get married.im sorry this happen to youre dad remember brett as someone fighting for the united states."
you know of montgomery

"To Mike Collins, Thank you so much. It means so much to Alex and me when a new brother to Brett writes and honors him, and us. I know it has been three years now, but it could be thirty years from now and I will always miss him. Again, though, stories about Brett like these make us smile! Especially because we know how Brett could be a schmoozer! To Niesha and the girls, ironically, we were just looking at old picturs and came across the one with Alex and Cabria where Cabria had the poofball pony tails. We miss you, too! Love you all, and anyone of you can email me at atornknee@aol.com Autumn"
Autumn of York, PA

""To Autumn, I served with brett as the battalion motor sergeant, he was a blast comming into the motorpool and asking for help. He was the guy we all jumped up to help. I think the team would send him down cause they knew if he came he could get what he wanted anytime. Yesterday (18 oct 08) I visited Arlington and stopped by his site. I am honored to know him and think of him often. He was a great man. Thank you for the site and I continue to think of you. my email is michael.collins6@us.army.mil
take care and remember you are in alot of peoples thoughts and prayers."
SFC Michael Collins of Ft. Benning GA

"Do you know I think of you guys often. I found a picture of the girls together going to school six years ago. Boy have they grown. I miss Brett as well as you and Alex in our lives. I hope you are continuing to heal and I will continue to pray for you and yours."
Niesha and the girls of Harrisburg, PA

"To Autumn and Little Blue, It has been over 3 years since we lost Brett, he is still in the hearts and minds of the men that were lucky enough to serve with him. Getting to meet you both last year at Trevor and Kattie's wedding was a profound experince for me. The men who served with Brett at the time of his death still reminisce about the upbeat nature of "Blue", we concider ourselfs very lucky to have known Brett. You are both in my thoughts. Respectfully, Joe Kent ODA 535 jckent23@hotmail.com"
joe kent of Ft.Campbell KY

"July 14, 2008
To the family of Sgt. 1st Class Brett E. Walden:
Brett 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

"Dana and Chris, the privilege was mine to have met both of you...and run a half marathon with such a brave, courageous man like you Chris. What an HONOR. You know, Brett was with us the entire run...thank God b/c without the two of you I would've stopped at mile .001. Hee, hee. What a moving, memorable day that was. I hope you both are still running marathons! Love you both, Autumn"
Autumn of York, PA

"Hello to everyone who has posted and who reads and writes in this site. This is Autumn, proud wife of SFC Brett E. Walden. I wanted to take this time to tell all of "Blue's" brothers thank you from the bottom of my heart for keeping "Blue's" memory alive. Joe, it was a pleasure meeting you and please, contact me via Trevor or Mike so I can get your address. I have a beautiful picture of you and Little "Blue" from the wedding she would like you to have, but I don't have your address. Eric, thank you. Thank you for being there for us when we really needed you and continuing to remember us and Brett. I would love some of those pictures! The rest of the "boys," thank you for your service to our country, to each other, and to us. Along with your fallen brother "Blue" you are the real heroes. Kati, you are a special friend. Thank you. Lori, there's something to be said about friendships from Sullivan County. Thank you. Over two years now and it's still very hard, but because of all of you it's a little easier to get through. May God Bless you all!"
Autumn of York, PA

"Autumn and Alex,
Two years have gone by since we lost Brett, he is still constantly in my thoughts - the passage of time has shown me what an impact that Brett had on my life and the life's of every one who was lucky enough to know Brett, his ability to defuse any situation with humorous logic and a big "Blue" grin will not be forgotten. It was great to meet you and Alex at Trevor and Katie's wedding and have the opportunity to tell you how much Brett means to me in person, and to see Alex who looks just like her father. I hope to see you both in the near future. Respectfully, Joe Kent
jckent23@hotmail.com"
Joe Kent of Clarksville TN

"Autumn and Alex
You are often in my thoughts and prayers. I am deeply sorry I never had the pleasure of meeting Brett. This website is a beautiful way to keep his memory alive. I hope that both you and Alex are doing well. Even though I did not know Brett, I can tell from all the stories I hear and the pictures I've seen that he was a true hero. I send you lots of love. If you need anything, don't hesitate to call."
Lori Eberlin-Singer of Harrisburg PA

"Autumn and Alex,

I just wanted to thank you for the braclet - I will continue to wear it with pride. Even though I never served with Brett, we had some sort of Army connection. You guys are always in our prayers and hearts. Please keep in touch. We are always here for you guys. May GOD Bless and Keep you both."
Ron of Harrisburg

"Moma A and Alex:

I was just going through my picture box last night, and I saw a picture of me at my first horse show with Abe. As i was laughing at my face and tossing it aside, i caught glimpse of blonde hair. I picked it back up, and saw Brett facing the camera, and you could see you and Alex in the background. It made me think of you guys. We have to get together sometime soon! I love you both eternaly!"
Kati of York Pa

"Autumn & Alex,
I feel honored to have met you this past weekend. I instantly knew we had a bond. I didnt know Brett, but I know he is a true hero and that is all that matters. I am here if you ever need me! Until next time......"
Dana Self of Clarksville, TN

"Autumn, it's been almost two years and I still remember the times "Blue" and I had together. I was online just the other day looking for special operations pictures, and what do I find? A picture of me and Blue in Afghanistan. I know you and I haven't talked in some time, but I will never stop thinking about you and Alex.... God bless!!"
Eric Gatlin a.k.a "BP"

"Thank you Jeremy. Thank you to all of you who befriended Brett and cared about him, including those who never knew him personally, but still honor him. Over a year has past, in fact almost two, and the pain hasn't changed, but seeing comments like your's Jeremy make it easier. I don't want you, or anyone to feel any guilt. The fact you would take his place in a heartbeat is heartwarmingly painful. To think how much you loved him that you would do that, not only for him, but for Alex and me, shows the character Brett always told me his boys had, but I feel sadness that you, any off you, feel any guilt. Please do not. God has a plan. It wasn't meant to be you or anyone else. I have learned so much from Brett both in his life and his death. Cherish life like Brett did and would want you to. Love those around you with all your heart. Tell your children you love them. Because, as we all know, life is short and can be cut even shorter in a blink of an eye. May God be with you all."
Autumn of Dover, PA

"Brett or "O'l Blue" was a true character when it came to life. He was a breath of fresh air when he came to the team. Brett was a little older but wiser than most of us. He kept our heads in the game. I was in the HUMVEE behind his when everything went wrong. There's not a day that goes by I don't think about Brett or that day. At times I feel guilty because I'm here and he's not. Other times I feel proud to have known him. Autumn, I am truelly sorry for your loss. I would trade my life for his any day of the week."
SFC Jeremy Troester of ODA 535

"To all of those that have written in this Memorial page honoring my loving husband and hero, Brett, aka "Blue," thank you. Words cannot express my appreciation. If my heart could speak you would know, but mere words are not enough. To Joe Kent, thank you. Thank you for being a friend and a brother to Brett and honoring him - to write in this Memorial to honor Brett a year later shows what character you have. It is no surprise you were my husband's friend. I take great comfort in knowing Brett was loved by his SF brothers because he loved all of you so very much. He loved the Special Forces. Know that he will always watch over you and protect you. With all my love."
Autumn Walden

"Autumn and Alex, A year has passed scince we lost Brett, and not a day has gone by that i do not think of Brett. Today i visted the tree memorial at 5th group and thought of Brett, it was a very sad moment however in the sadness i relized that all my memories of Brett brought a smile to face, thats just the kind of friend Brett was. Brett's sprit and memories are still alive in the hearts of the men of 5th group that where lucky enough to serve with Brett.
Joe Kent ODA 535"
Joe Kent of ft campbell KY USA

"Autumn,
It has been a year since we lost Brett. I still think of him every day. It was truly an honor to have known him, hugged him, kidded with him, and an even greater honor to have taken care of him when he gave his life for us. He has given me a much better understanding of what it means to be a funeral director, and how important it is to celebrate the lives of the heros among us.
We love You!"
Mario and Windy of Enola, PA

"To the family of:Brett E. Walden 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"

"As 4th of July draws near I have to tell everyone how grateful I am to have met Autumn and her daughter, Alex.
I appreciate the bond we created in Feb. at the United Warrior Survivor Confo. and our continued friendship this Memorial Holiday. Thank You for the understanding and closeness. I wish I could have met Brett personally, however through the 2 of you I feel like I have. Sending a smile your way.
Love"
Crystal, honored wife of SSG Mike Owen KIA 15 OCT 2004 IRAQ of Fayetteville, NC

"Autumn and Alex, I served with Brett on durring at the time of his death. Brett was true warrior and a great friend that was always smileing regaurdless of the situation we found ourselfs in, you could count on "blue" to lighten the mood with a joke or just a smile and a roll of the eyes. Brett will never be forgotten, not a day passes that those of us that when lucky enough to know Brett do not think of him and smile. Joe"
Joe Kent of Ft.Campbell KY

"Brett was my friend and Platoon Sergeant in Haiti, and was a great leader. To hear of his passing is a great loss to the Army as a leader and a soldier, but even more so as a friend, husband and father. I wish to offer to you my deepest condolences Autumn. He will certainly be missed. Brett, rest in peace, you are greatly missed. Keep smiling."
SSG Scott Heiner of St Louis, Mo

"I had the priviledge of serving with Brett with the 101st during a 6 month tour in Haiti. He was the ultimate professional and was loved by his soldiers. I remember his smile which he always seemed to have and that blond/reddish hair - The army lost a true warrior and leader; his family lost a true husband and a father.
Rest in peace Brett, God speed."
Chris Mielnicki of Woodstock, GA

"We were awe-struck this past weekend at the memorial for Sgt. 1st Class Brett Walden. His magnificent tree and memorial plaque graces the field at Ft. Campbell, KY and we are humbled by your strength Autumn, and we think Alex is the greatest young warrior, certainly a chip off a pretty formidible block. The pictures of Brett showed a bigger than life, smiling, loving man who will be missed by those who loved him, and by those of us who have never met him, but have met you, Autumn, and you Alex. His brothers in his Team, are stronger having served with him, and deeply feel your loss, because they were with him as God selected him to walk with Him that sad day in August 2005. We love you both, (and Eileen too) and look forward to being with you this summer. We pray that God will be with you always, and forever, and protect you from any sad days in your future years."
Linda & Charlie of Croton on Hudson, NY

"Autumn its Ryan, im really sorry you lost him. I cant even begin express my regret toward you or Alex. I am sorry that he had to go so soon. I never had the chance to meet Brett but terri and my dad always tell me he was a really good person. Hope you get through this whole thing ok and remember we are here for you all the time. With love."
Ryan Shelefontiuk of Arvada, Colorado

"Autumn,
I never had the honor of meeting your husband but, I am truly sorry for your family’s loss. I grieve for the loss of any of my brothers or sisters in arms. Brett made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and it is not forgotten. I am proud to serve and defend the freedom of my fellow Americans. I have done so for over 20 years now and I will continue to do so. My greatest condolences to you and your family."
SFC Libbie A. Adams of Heidelberg, Germany

"I am crying today for the loss of a brother I never got to know. I can only honor his life and thank him for all he has done for me and my family in defending our freedom through this website. Brett, we will see you again one day and then I will get to hug you and thank you. I am sorry that we were never allowed to talk or be a part of your life. Autumn and Alex, my heart aches for you both in the loss of your husband and father. I hope that the Lord will see fit to one day bring us together. Brett, we always loved you and Lee and spent many years missing our brothers. My prayers are with you all. God be with you Autumn, Alex, and Lee through these difficult times in your lives. I don't know how to contact any of you in person, however, please know you are not forgotten-not ever."
Tressa, stepsister of Tallahassee, Fl, USA

"I never met Brett, but my mother Kim was his stepsister and she always talked about how much fun they had together as children. I was deeply saddened to hear of his death even though we never met. My condolences to you & your daughter."
Brooke Rash of Montgomery, AL

"Thank you Brett Walden. You have made the ultimate sacrifice so that I and so many others can enjoy something so many of us take for granted...FREEDOM! Autumn and Alex, my heart and prayers go out to you for your loss. May you find comfort through your memories with Brett. God Bless you both."
Kelly Myers of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania

"Autumn and Alex we will be here for you anytime. We will miss Brett's smiling face but we will never forget him. We hope you read these and we can get together soon. In CHRIST Love, The Smays"
The Smays of Harrisburg, PA

"All politics aside Autumn, my thoughts are with you. If you had read my post you would have seen this is his brother, not his father. Once again, my condolences."
Hobson Walden

"Autumn, all though we have only met a time or two you and Alex are in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this very tough time in your lives. Brett and I spent much time together as children and regretfully not as much as I would have liked as adults. I still love him and am proud of his service to our country. He unfortunately has paid the ultimate price for our freedom. He will always be remembered as a hero in our minds and hearts. Your cousin, Michelle."
Michelle Epps of Enterprise, Alabama

"Hobson, you do not honor Brett by calling this a "useless" war especially in a memorial remembering Brett for his service to this country. By those words you are saying that Brett's death was not honorable. It was honorable because he was fighting for YOUR freedom. The very freedom you have had all those years you failed to talk to your son. That Hobson, not his death, is why you did not get to know him. And, remember Hobson why the two of you did not speak. Autumn Walden."
Autumn Walden of Dover, Pennsylvania

"Caroline, your brother and Brett, as well as all the fallen soldiers and those still fighting for our freedom, are true heroes. I will continue to pray for you and your family to have the strength to get through this. We love you."
Autumn and Alex Walden of Dover, Pennsylvania

"Mrs. Walden, my brother SFC Robert Derenda died along side your husband. He was the driver of the hummvee and tried his best to avoid a crash. Our families are mourning together. These were two men who loved this country and wanted to make it a safer place for yours and my children. We will never forget your husband. The two of them walked into their after life together."
Caroline Kibby of Cranberry Twp Pennsylvania

"Thank you all for the kind words and for keeping our family in your thoughts. This useless war has taken a brother I never had the opportunity to know. I hope this ends soon so that no more will have to know that feeling."
Hobson Walden of Montgomery, AL

"My deepest sympathies to Brett's family. I had the privilege of knowing him through work at Range Division."
Kristi of Ft Campbell Ky

"TO THE WALDEN FAMILY FORM THE WAHL FAMILY. OUR HEART AND PRAYS ARE WITH BRETT AND YOUR FAMILY. WE LOST OUR SON LAST YEAR IN BALAD. BOTH HAVE NOT DIED IN VAIN. BRETT THANKS FOR SERVING OUR COUNTRY........AN ESPECIALLY, BEING A MILITARY BROTHER TO OUR SON AS HE WAS TO YOU. AN ODDLY, YOU TWO NEVER KNEW ONE ANOTHER. ALL THIS IS HARD ON OUR FAMILIES. THE IMPORTANT THING... TO HONOR BRETT! MEMORIAL AND ALL THAT COMES OVER TIME! BRETT DESERVE'S SOMETHING DONE IN HIS NAME TODAY. I STRONGLY SUGGEST HAVING A STREET NAMED AFTER HIM. GOD BLESS!"
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

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

"ARMY SGT 1ST CLASS BRETT E. WALDEN -
You are an American Hero whose ultimate sacrifice will not be forgotten. With pride and honor you served this grateful nation. Rest in peace brave soldier.
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Brett and may memories comfort you during this difficult time and always. I am very sorry for your loss."
D. BURT of PORTSMOUTH, RI

"We are deeply sorry for your loss. The Courage, Honor, and Valor that your
Hero showed will always be remembered.
We are grateful for the loyal service and sacrifice that was made and
WE WILL NEVER FORGET.
Our cousin LCPL Michael Smith Jr. gave his life on 4-17-04 fighting for freedom.
Please know that this was not in vain and these American Heros will FOREVER be honored.
God Bless your family and please know that you are not alone.
All of our prayers are with you."
Jennifer and SSGT Larry Mays of Massillon,Ohio

"To the Walden Family, I wish to offer to you my deepest condolences. Your Brett is a true American Hero. Brett will always be remembered and honored. May God Bless you all and God Bless Brett."
Mary Ghaney of Brooklyn, New York

"Thank you Brett Walden, 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 Sgt. 1st Class Brett Walden:
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 Brett 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 Sgt. 1st Class Brett Walden:
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 Brett, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia