Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Ian your still my inspiration to keep going when it's rough just fight forward."
Daniel Marshall of Wabash Indiana

"To the Weikel family. I read the account of Ian's last day and wanted to tell you that I admire you for all the memories that have been shared with you on Ian's behalf. It is true that "greater love hath no man than to give his life for his friends". The love that has been shared with you will last with you forever and gives you great joy and pride for Ian's loving memory. Brother John, KIA DakTo, Vietnam must have already shared a Bud with Ian. I know the love that John's friends have expressed for him. Thank you for your sacrifice, and the love that can only come through such a tragic but honored time."
Greg Kapeluck of Jefferson Township, Pa

"I served with Ian in Iraq in 2003, he was one of my favorite fellow officers. So smart, funny, kind-hearted, dedicated. My heart goes out to his family, he was such a talented young officer. I will not forget him, and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family every year."
A friend of California

"Ian

I was here in DC this week and I visited your place of rest today at Arlington. I remember the rugby practices and how hard you worked to be the best. I remember seeing Wendy at NTC and hearing how much she loved you and how things were going great. Everyone misses you and loves you. You are our hero, Ian."
Michael Woodall of Tampa, FL

"I will always remember you as one of the Officers who came into our tent on Christmas day in Kuwait with a Santa Hat singing xmas carols. I live my life everyday knowing what you sacrificed and how lucky I am to have worked with you."
SFC Carmen R. Centennial of Colorado Springs, Co

"Memorial Day 2010...Remembering my young platoon leader from 1998 at Carson this day..."
SGM (R) Carl Johnson of Richmond Hill, Georgia

"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
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 E. Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"CPT Wendy Weikel,
I was just scrolling through names as I pass the midnight hours at work remembering some of our guys and I came across this one. I am so sorry, you helped me get out due to my family issues and I can never thank you enough for that. I can't even being to imagine what you are going through. I see too many people on this site that I know or connected to people I know. You have my sincerest and deepest sympathy."
formerly SGT. Jason Carney HSC 404th ASB of Ann Arbor, MI, USA

"April 22, 2009
To the family of Capt. Ian P. Weikel:
Ian 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

"Hey Sir,
I don't know where to start, but there have been so many times in my life since that deployment that I think to myself, "Why him? Why not me?". You were the best commander and an even better man. Every one of your soldiers held you in great regard. I was mad for a long time because I felt I should have been on that patrol and maybe things would be different, that maybe it should have been my vehicle, but I have lived my life since then to honor the amazing legacy you left behind. I am now married to my high school sweetheart and love of my life and have 3 beautiful children. I will always remember the ultimate sacrafice you were forced to make that day and your wife and family will always be in my heart and prayers! Thank you for the outstanding leadership, friendship and believing in me when I couldnt believe in myself. You are loved and are deeply missed!
Ready and Forward!"
SGT David Schwarz of Fort Knox, KY

"Capt. Weikel,
Sir, 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.

"Ready And Forward"(10th Cav Motto)"

"To the family of:Ian P. Weikel 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"

"Mrs. Weikel/Cpt Weikel/Wendy,
I first heard of your loss while I was in country myself, and my heart and prayers immediately went out to you and your family. I never knew your husband but if he was anything like you were, he was an outstanding officer. Again my heart and prayers go out to you and the rest of your family."
A former B-404 soldier, Rupp Fred B. SGT of Ft Hood, Tx/Cp Liberty, Iraq

"I was Ian's very first platoon sergeant in the spring of 1998 in G Troop, 2/3 ACR. I discovered he had been killed while looking through a VFW periodical this morning. He was a terrific young Lieutenant then, and obviously turned out to be a competent and dedicated warrior. My prayers go out to his family and friends. God Bless Ian and those he left behind."
Sergeant Major Carl Johnson of Richmond Hill, GA

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

"Dearest Wendy,
I was so sad to hear about Ian. I never wanted another spouse to feel that kind of pain. I remember when it happened to me, it was unreal, like a bad dream you just want to wake up from, but you're already awake. The past 2 years since Heath was killed have held a lot of difficult moments for our family. I still cry for him. But there is so much more joy than sorrow in this beautiful life we have. It will get better, I promise. The pain that seems so unbearable will ease with time. Always know that Ian is not only watching over you and your family, but actually helping you through this madness. He is doing all he can for you so let him share the burden and make things better. Let his memories wash you in happiness and his love heal your heart. I am so proud of him, and all our veterans, for serving the citizens of our nation. He is a real Hero - and so are you.

I am here for you anytime, girl. Your amazing personality drew me to you the day we met and each time we've talked I felt closer to you. Now we share an unfortunate fate that I hope no one else will ever have to endure. Just remember to keep your chin up and don't worry about pleasing the world right now. Just take care of yourself and your beautiful boy, you are the priority, the rest can wait until you are ready - willing - and able to take care of things. I know you will make it, I have no doubt. Just be good to yourself and let those around you who want to help do things for you. Don't be stuborn... :) Love you lots - can't wait to see you!!!"
Ursula

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