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Adriana Salem Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Adriana Salem
Sponsored by Christina Hasselbrink.
Laurie
June 20, 2022
I was in AIT with her. She was motivated and took initiative. We miss her everyday. RIP Battle.
Brother In Arms
October 19, 2020
To the Family of a Great Soldier.
When she fell, she was a real Soldier. People who had come back since then, have left being a soldier. They just have gotten comfortable again at home or have moved on to different jobs. But not Salem. She is still a soldier. Only waiting for us all to follow. To finally join her. The big reunion. I miss her. I wonder how many of us from that day she fell
keep coming back to this page. How many of us are united because of her memory. I think of her ALL the time. If you only knew how brave she really was. How strong she was. The Honor that filled her, to go towards the fight. You'd know a person like her could never be forgotten. No, not even if you tried.
BROTHER OF SALEM
Brother of Salem
July 15, 2017
I miss Salem. She and I didn't talk too much when we were stateside. But we'd just wave at each other, like casually. We were in different platoons. One night in Iraq she asked me for a hug. I embraced my sister. It was hard for me to put my arms all the way around her as she was ladened down with all the weight of her body armor and weapon. As we call it, she was," Full Battle Rattle". We didn't talk much but we were family out there. The next day was the day she left us... I'll never forget. Our sister, of Alpha Company 3rd BSB...I miss her so much.
Peggy Childers
March 7, 2013
To the family and friends of Spc. Adriana N. Salem:
It has truly been my honor to sign Adriana's guest book these past few years. Unfortunately, due to complications from my Multiple Sclerosis, this may be the last message I'm able to write. Please forgive me and know that Adriana will always be remembered in my home.
With love and respect ~ Peggy
November 10, 2012
To the family and friends of Adriana Salem, I offer sorrow for your loss. Please be aware that I will forever be grateful for Adriana for her service and sacrifice to this Country.
Ross Brown
September 6, 2012
Sandy:
This is Ross Brown, DJ from Adriana's 3rd ID Homecoming Ball. I was thinking of you, your family and Adriana's service.. I just want you to know that I remember meeting you and Adriana's Sisters. I just want you to know that years later, someone who never met Adriana continues to think about all of your sacrifices. Stay Strong.
Robert johnson
August 30, 2012
Just want to say to the family that she was a great soldier and i often think of her and the way she was . We was station at ft stewart together and we was in the same unit when she was killed i say to the family she will always be in my mind and thoughts Sgt Robert E. Johnson , a friend gone but not forgotten
Scott Kiokun
August 6, 2012
I don't know how to work the internet. I just figured it out. She was a good friend. We were in 8th Ord together. I found out what happened to her. She was so nice. I am proud to call her a sister of Arms.
Nina Byrd
May 28, 2012
I love you and miss you so much.
Peggy Childers
March 12, 2012
March 4, 2012
To the family and friends of Spc. Adriana N. Salem:
Always remembering Adriana. "Some gave all."
H. P.
March 6, 2012
R.I.P. Adriana N. Salem
Those who were here in this part of the world and sacrificed their lives for the freedom of others will not be forgotten. Live good in heaven where you are with your almighty God.
maurice johnson
November 29, 2011
too the family of spc salem she was a great person an her family is also a great family i was alway have the family an salem in my heart. SGT Johnson
Robert Johnson
March 7, 2011
well it has been years since spc salem left us but i just want to say to the family that in my heart she will never be forgotten i wear a braclet on my arm to remind me of her and when i get sad are my day is not going good i take it and i remind myself that spc salem would not want any of us to be down so i just want to say that she will always have a place in my heart always .
Anne Marie Martinez
March 5, 2011
Always remembering you SPC Salem. You will never be forgotten.
H. P.
March 5, 2011
Live good and happy in heaven SPC. Adriana N. Salem , that is why God took you there before us since you deserved to be there. Rest in Peace for ever.
Peggy Childers
March 4, 2011
To the family and friends of Spc. Adriana N. Salem:
Please accept my remembrance of Adriana on the anniversary of her passing and know that she will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Dymetra Bass
May 31, 2010
Thinking of your on this Memorial Day. Thank you for your sacrifice!
Peggy Childers
March 4, 2010
To the family and friends of Spc. Adriana N. Salem:
Remembering Adriana on the anniversary of her passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Debbie
May 24, 2009
Thank you and rest in peace.
Sean G.
April 24, 2009
Adriana,
Thank you so much for the heroic life you lived! I am proud to present your story at our Military Family Symposium with Alexian Brothers. I never had the blessing of knowing you, but I can tell you were and are loved dearly to this take.
Sandra Salem
March 6, 2009
Adriana (Addy) (Adri)
I can not believe it is 4 yrs already. I remember it like it was yesterday. I feel comfort knowing that you are watching over us. I miss you very much. I wish I can see you & give you a big hug. We all miss you!!!!
Chau Bella
Your Mom
Peggy Childers
March 4, 2009
To the family of Spc. Adriana N. Salem:
Adriana 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
Derrick Lemmers
December 20, 2008
just wanted to say thanks for being such a great friend. you will be remembered always.
Benjamin Caldwell
November 11, 2008
Adriana,
Happy Veteran's Day sweetheart. On days like today I just can't help thinking about all the great times we used to have. I hope you're taking care of yourself hun. You're always in my prayers, as is your family.
Love you.
Ben Caldwell (USA Vet.)
Pastor Frank Noyes
September 16, 2008
Dear family of Spc. Adriana N. Salem,
We want to say thank you. We understand that no words can be adequate for your sorrow. We certainly do not want to intrude upon your privacy. As Americans we want you to know that we deeply appreciate the ultimate sacrifice your loved one has made for all of us. We also would like for you to be aware that with this letter comes our special concern and prayers for you. We are all safer because young men and women who love their country, and know the value of a free nation, are willing to put themselves in harms way, and lay down their lives to keep this nation free and safe for all of us.
Your sacrifice is also very great. We know that we can give little comfort; however, the knowledge that your loved one did not die in vain, but died in the service of our country, gives each of us a noble example of the value of life, and the responsibility of freedom. We hope this will bring pride and comfort to you.
We at Gethsemane Church believe that there is purpose to life. We send this letter with our deepest appreciation for the greatest of sacrifices, you and your loved one have given to this country. We know it is not enough, but please allow us to assure you that your loved one is not forgotten.
Very Sincerely
Frank G. Noyes
Frank G. Noyes (Pastor)
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
(Jn. 15:13)
carolyn fennell
April 11, 2008
I wanted to say SPC Salem was a good soldier and will always be remembered. It has been 2 years now and she is still dear to our hearts.
my daughter, adriana raylee, placing flowers on Adriana's grave. She was named after a hero
November 26, 2007
August 6, 2007
I don't pretend to know what to say or do that would bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON (KIA on 07/06/07) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
Jeffrey Herring
May 22, 2007
My God Adriana, I was just searching the internet when I found out . This is crazy, I was thinking about all the times we had at K2. I am so sorry about the ways things turned out. Im even sorrier I did not have a chance to be a better friend to you. Forgive me and rest in peace. Your friend in service
Spc. Jeff "Fish" Herring
972 MP Co
Sara Delaney
May 7, 2007
I have the honor of embroidering this beautiful woman's name into a special project to honor and remember all the women that we have lost in Iraq.
It is called the Mother's Day project - Adriana, I thank you for your sacrifice and I hope I can raise my daughters to be as brave and strong as you.
Garnet Jenkins
March 4, 2007
Please know how Deeply Sorry I was to learn of the loss of Spc. Adriana N. Salem, two years ago.
The price this Brave Young heroine and her family have paid for this country and for freedom, Will Never Be Forgotten.
There will Never be Enough Ways to Humbly Thank these Heroes for their Supreme Sacrifice, my brother among them. KIA~Vietnam, 1967.
"Treasure this heroine Lord, in Your Garden of Rest,
for while here on earth, she was one of our best."
May you find strength in your faith, comfort in God's love, and peace in knowing this country remembers Andriana's sacrifice.
Softly and slowly, time heals...
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ryan Perry
October 24, 2006
Well Adriana, It's me, Ryan, signing this thing again- I'm sure you read this :) (as well as im sure you already know what im about to say!!!) But Sunday, October 22nd at 4:13pm I gave birth to my first child- her name is Adriana Raylee... though she has a different middle name she will grow up knowing that she was named after a HERO and a great friend- because she was named after you. I figured this was the best honor we could give you- and you will always be loved. I pray that you become her little guardian angel and make her the same kind of wonderful woman you always were. I love you and miss you!!
Addy's high school picture
October 21, 2006
Robert Johnson
October 20, 2006
Hello my name is SGT Robert E Johnson and I served with Spc Salem while in iraq, we where in the same unit Aco 3rd FSB and as a soldier I must say she was among the best I have served with, She had a very good spirt and was always on top of her job, she was a very good person to be around. I wear a bracelet on my right wrist to let me always remeber her . I hope that her family is doing ok and no that she will never be forgotten ,a great hero.
ROBYN GARSIDE
August 16, 2006
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HER BEAUTIFUL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR YOU ALWAYS. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. GODSPEED AND SEMPER FI.
A PROUD MARINE MOM
Karen Wilson
April 18, 2006
I am sorry that you lost your beautiful Daughter, Adriana. I know words cannot take the pain away, just know that I love her for the sacrifice she made for us all.
May God Bless you and comfort you.
Karen Wilson,
Pat Canfall
April 9, 2006
My condolences to the Salem family.
Adriana may you rest in peace. Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom. You have earned your golden halo and wings. May you continue to soar in the heavenly clouds up above.
Ryan Perry
March 4, 2006
well honey- everyone has somehow made it through a year without you.. its been a tough one. It amazes me how much laughter is missing because of you being gone... but i often find my self laughing at the most stupid things at the most random times- which reminds me that you will never be gone in spirit.... only in body.
I just had the pleasure of spending time with your sister christina and linda... they took me to see all the wonderful things that are around elk grove in your honor.... everyone thanks you and loves you so much... you will NEVER be forgotten my dear- but you know that.... you made sure you'd be unforgettable- and that is exactly what you'll always remain. I love you girl, and we'll see each other once again- I'm sure of that. Until then- keep giving me reasons to laugh at the stupid things!!
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
March 4, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy to the Salem family in the loss of Adriana. I did not know Adriana, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young lady and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. Adriana my heart was touched by the many beautiful/wonderful things written about you. It has been a year since you were taken. You are a hero and you will never be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
Susan
February 17, 2006
Thank you for defending our freedom.
susan balmes
January 24, 2006
I'm Devin's Mom, Devin was a friend of Addi's. I met Addi on a few occassions, EG track meet where they came to watch Kai and others compete. She had also been in our home to pick up Devin, and called often. She was very enthusiastic, liked to talk (at least when I was around), and seemed to be a true friend. Devin and Addi got together with other friends when Addi came home on that last leave of duty. Devin was extremely distressed to loose her. I'm very sorry you must bear such pain. My heart goes out to you. Sue Balmes
SGT Ryan R. Sass
November 22, 2005
I went to Elk Grove High School and graduated a year behind her. I remember when she enlisted, we had the same recruiter. She was very dedicated and I'm sorry for the loss. My best wishes for you all.
Sgt. Sass
MSG Dymetra Bass
November 1, 2005
It is now November and the memory of Salem still lie in my head daily. SPC Salem you were and are an awsome soldier and hero. Your name and legacy will live forever in my life. As your 1SG I am proud to have had you in my unit. You were the soldier that every leader would ask for, a take charge and go getter. May God Bless you and your family.
Major Arnold Huskins, USAF; Army: 77-81, 89-92
August 10, 2005
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Salem, Christina, Alexandria, Sabrina, and Larrisa
I recently read about the loss of your loved one in Iraq. May I offer my belated condolences to you and your family upon the passing of your American hero daughter/sister, Adriana, in Iraq in March.
Please know that other Americans share in your loss and are concerned. It is my prayer that God may continue to grant you and yours an extra measure of peace, comfort, and strength during this difficult time.
May Adriana’s legacy of bravery and devotion to our country and its safety be a source of pride to your family, an inspiration to her peers, and forever remembered by a grateful nation.
With deepest sympathy,
Sincerely,
Carolyn Evans
July 27, 2005
I remember in 1991 that America was on their knees in prayer in behalf of the American soldier until their soldier came home. Some of us are still waiting to see our soldier come home. We can only go to them now and one day we will. Spc. Salem, You will never be just another name on the wall. God Bless America.
Leah Fennell
June 13, 2005
It saddens me that I am writing an entry into the guest book of a beloved friend and commarade that I have lost. Adriana was not only a great friend but a great soldier who aspired to be a police officer when she got out of the military. Adriana and Kendall were the only two individuals that were concened about my safety when our unit sent me to Afghanistan all by myself to work in the U.S. Embassy. I was scared and alone out there but knowing I had two friends out in Uzbekistan kept me going. After a March bombing Adriana and Kendall were the only ones that called and emailed me to make sure that I was okay. My children loved her and I loved her too. We had our problems but we never let it go to far where we stopped speaking to eachother. I am proud of her as well as my children. It broke our heart to hear about her passing. My children will always know that she is a hero. A flag and a picture of Adriana hangs in our living room. So from the bottom of our heart to Adriana's family and friends we thank you for sharing her with our family, we will pray for you always and we will never forget her. To Adriana I am on my way to Iraq and my only prayer is to make you proud of me over there.
SGT Leah C. Fennell, Davita M. Fennell and Joshua D. Acton
Becca Mitsos
May 4, 2005
Adrianna-
Okay, so I didn't exactly know you personally but I am good friends with one of your best friends, Signe. She is our babysitter. Whenever she talked about you she talked about what a fantastic person you were, how you were always there for her and how you always promised to be there no matter what. To hear that you were almost killed twice from a bomb and then the car accident was truly unbelievable to me; I didn't believe it when I heard it. Though I didn't know you personally, I knew that you were an unbelievable person and that you were a fantastic friend.
GBYA
(God bless you all)
-Rebecca-
Sandra Salem
April 17, 2005
Dear Adriana,
I am so proud & honor to have been your mother. You will be always a very special person to me. You were very brave & had alot of courage. What ever you started you will always follow through & finish. I was not able to say goodbye to you or give you a hug before you were sent overseas to Iraq. I love you Adriana and I will miss you very much. I still can not believe that you are gone. I think that you are away and you will be coming back. I wish to see you one last time, to hug you, to say I love you but I know it is not possible. I am very proud of you and what you had accomplished in your short life. As you would say to my aunt Carol "Chau Belle".
Benjamin Caldwell
April 13, 2005
I was a very good friend of Adriana's while she was in Coscom here at Ft. Bragg. When I got a phone call from her friend that she was gone, I didn't believe it. I've known it's been true for a few weeks now, and I just want everyone who reads this to know that she was an exceptional, motivated young lady while sationed here at Bragg. I'm going to miss her very much.
Anonymos Anonymos
April 9, 2005
Adriana was a fighter, and she fought for our country. But now, she is under grace, in Heavan celebrating her freedom.
Christina Salem-Hasselbrink
March 31, 2005
Adriana,
Words can't describe how much it hurts for you to be gone. You were such a good person. Always making sure everyone was taken care of. Always making people laugh. Always there when I needed someone to talk to. And yet I just can't believe that you are not here anymore. You were just starting your life and had a plan of what you wanted to do. You had been through so much in your life that it just doesn't seem fair for you to be gone before you had a chance to live YOUR life. I know that you are watching over all of us and guiding us through this.Believe me we will need all the help we can get. I love you and miss you with all of my heart.
Your Big Sis'
Christina
Susan Johnson
March 30, 2005
May God bless your family and ease yor sorrow. I never knew Spc. Salem, but I am grateful for her selfless sacrifice for the ones she never knew. May God hold her in his loving embrace.
Pat Shoukry
March 15, 2005
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Spc. Adriana N. Salem. My heart aches for you, and you will remain in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that the deep hurt you feel can be in some part be eased by the feeling of great pride for Adriana’s valor and deep sense of patriotism. She will always be remembered as an American Hero by my family.
To Adriana I would say, you have made the ultimate sacrifice and did so willingly and without hesitation. Thank you so very much for defending my freedoms. It means so much to me, to the people of NYC and to the entire nation. Thank you for your bravery and sacrifice in the service of the country that I love so very much.
John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Most sincerely,
Pat Shoukry
Claire Louko
March 15, 2005
To The Salem Family-
I am truly sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Adriana was a great person, and I will always have fond memories of her from our orchestra days together. She was always cheerful and friendly. Life is not fair; she was a beautiful young lady who was doing something very noble by defending our country. She will be greatly missed! May god help ease this time of suffering. Love, Claire Louko
SSG Basseal Thomas
March 14, 2005
To the family of the beloved SPC Salem, I have had the honor to work with your daughter in Afghanistan and Fort Bragg. She was a determined person who tried as hard as she could to do right. When I got this terrible news my heart just stopped briefly, I cannot imagine how you feel, but always remember that she is in Gods hand and he will take care of the rest. So do not worry your loved one is in Gods hands. I am currently in Iraq with the 3rd Brigade and everyday is a blessing, so you and your family are in my prayers and take care.
Jessica McWain (Spoerlein)
March 14, 2005
My sister, Sarah knew Christina in school as I also remember Christina and Adriana from way back in grade school. May God bless your family. And thank you Adriana for defending the freedom of all of us.
Keith Picard
March 14, 2005
Sandy,
I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. Thank you and all of the soldiers out there who protect us everyday without our realizing it. I remember you being so very proud of your daughter's accomplishments. It seems to me by reading all of the entries in this guestbook so far that everyonw who knew her was just as proud of her and as sorry as I to see her go. My best wishes for you and your family in the future.
Keith Picard
Renee Reporto
March 14, 2005
Adriana was an amazing person and a great friend. I went to high school with Adriana and graduated in the class of 2001. Adriana and i were friends in high school and kept in touch even after she went into the military. Adriana is truely an inspiration she is one of the only people I knew who had goals and was working hard to be where she wanted to be. SHe is one of the only people I know who knew exactly where she wanted to go in life. Adriana was a sweet and loving person and I am blessed to have known her. I will never forget her and she will definetly be missed. To her family, if there is anything I can do for you please let me know. Also, if there are any memorial ceremonies or dedications or anything for adriana please let me know because I would really like to be there. I still have the letters Addy wrote me while she was in the military and I still remember when she would visit when she would come home and all the good times we had together. I will miss her and I am truely sorry for your loss. Adriana, I love ya sweetie and I will miss you, but you will never EVER be forgotten and will remain in my heart until I get to see you again.
Love,
Indira
March 14, 2005
To Sabrina Salem, I know how much you were looking forward to having her come home, and how much she meant to you. She was your hero, older sister, best friend. I remember your talking about all the things you used to do together, and how much fun she was to be around. She will be greatly missed. All our love to my "sister" and best friend. ...Indi
Jackie Giri
March 14, 2005
All our love to all of you in the Salem family during your deep time of sorrow. We know how much Adriana meant to all of you, and how empty life will be without her. A love like that is never gone, it's always in your heart.
Drill Sergeant Sean & Teresa Hennessee
March 14, 2005
As SPC Salem's NCOIC (for a short time) I remember her as very happy go lucky. I was hurt to hear of her death today. She was always there to help out with the FRG (Family Readiness Group) and Teresa at fund raisers. She is a loss to the Army and to the world, for her actions to the military, friends, family, and the community. Teresa and I will both miss you Adriana.
CJ & Mesha Giddings
March 14, 2005
To the Salem family-
My husband and I wanted to tell you how sorry we were to hear of Adriana's passing. He was her NCO for some of her time at Bragg and he was so proud of her because of the effort that she put into everything that she did. When she moved down here to Stewart she started hanging out at the house and the drag strip with me not far from the house. She was always a joy to have around and no matter how tired she was she was never too tired or busy to play with one of my kids or admire one of their drawings. She came over a lot while my husband was at JRTC and honestly I don't know how I would have made it through that time without her friendship. She was one of the nicest people I have ever met. We will miss her dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Michelle Ragano
March 14, 2005
I just wanted to say that I am very sorry to the family. Adriana was a very nice girl and from what I know is she was always smiling. I did not know her very well like I did Christina. If every you need help with anything I am here and Christina knows that.
CPT Nathan Strohm
March 14, 2005
To the Friends and Family of Adriana:
Know that soldiers around the world have felt the loss and share your pain. I had the privilege of knowing and working with Adriana for a short time. She was one of the soldiers in my section during our last deployment to Uzbekistan / Afghanistan.
Adriana was a true soldier; one who not only lived the Army values, but by her example was the epitome of them: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage.
Adriana was one of the soldiers that I would turn to on a bad day, when I needed to bolster my spirits. In talking with her, nothing was ever difficult. All you needed to do was do it. She knew her mission and did everything that was required to make sure it happened. She showed a wisdom and maturity well beyond her years.
I strive to be that same type of leader and instill the same spirit, and drive in my soldiers.
I pray to god that he may bless Adriana and her family, and to humbly praise him for placing Adriana in my life, if even for such a short time.
Adriana, you will not be forgotten. Your mission is complete; Godspeed!
Vicki McKeown
March 13, 2005
I'm going to miss Adriana more than I can really say in words. So many good times were shared with her throughout our high school years. I just wish I would have been able to better keep in touch, when I changed schools. I'm never going to forget how much fun she was to be around, all the strange jokes and laughs we shared. And how wonderful a person and friend she was. I'm very proud of her ambition, and proud to have known her. It's so hard to accept the fact that she is gone.
My sympathy is with all of her friends and family, as I know this is a heart-wrenching situation to deal with. Feel free to contact me if I can help in any way.
Adriana, thank you so much for everything you've done. I love you, I miss you, and there is no chance that I will ever forget you, or the impact you made on my life, or on my world in general. You are forever in my thoughts.
Michelle Laguna
March 13, 2005
I went to EGHS with Adriana and graduated from the same class. When I heard what happened I was in complete shock because it finally hit home the reality of what is going on. I am very grateful for what she did. I only spoke with her a few times but the one thing I remember is that she always had a smile on her face. I want to give my condolences to the family and friends of Adriana and you are all in my prayers.
Thank you Adriana
Roxanne Reyes
March 13, 2005
I remember back in school when Adriana had joined....that was around the same time my husband, Fernando, enlisted...Adriana was an upbeat, genuine girl and I am lucky to have gotten to know her. I wanted to express my deepest condolences to the Salem Family and may God bless you.
Mark Gault
March 12, 2005
May god be with you and your family during this trying time! My prayers are with you as are those of my fellow countrymen and women..
Marianne
March 12, 2005
Christina and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss, I never met Adriana but you spoke of her often. My prayers are with you.
Marianne
edith vocelka
March 12, 2005
Our sympathy and thank you to Spc Salem for serving her country.
Kendall Woodard
March 11, 2005
My thoughts and prayers go out to Adriana's family. I met Adriana a couple of months before we got deployed together in 2002. I was honored to become her friend and will cherish her memory forever. The summer we returned I was able to go to Chicago and visit her and got a chance to meet her mother and three younger sisters. I have no doubt in my mind that she could convince God to allow her to protect you! She had a way about her that made you want to believe. Knowing that she is in a better place helps the pain some, but I'd rather have her here. Adriana truly loved her family and worried about them all of the time. She was a beautiful, strong, intelligent, and funny person that would've reached the stars if she had the chance. I'll never forget the first time she wrote a poem while we were deployed. She was so excited to know that she could actually write one...you couldn't stop her after that! She meant a lot to my husband (James) and I and I will miss her for the rest of my life. Her family is in my prayers and I hope that they can find peace through such a tragic loss.
Love,
Kendall and James Woodard
SFC (retired) Anne Marie Martinez
March 11, 2005
To the Salem Family, I was deeply saddened today when I received an email from a friend of mine informing me of the loss of your daughter. I was her supervisor when she was deployed in 2003 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Adriana was a very hard worker. She will be missed by everyone who knew her. You are all in my thoughts and my prayers. God Bless you all.
Marie
Laura
March 11, 2005
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your beautiful daughter. I do not know you or her, but I still wanted to tell you that others care deeply. Especially when we lose someone from Illinois.
Your daughter is now safe with Jesus.
Bless you and your family.
Christina Gugliotta
March 11, 2005
As I sit here writing this guest book entry, I am still in shock of who I am doing it for. Adriana was a wonderful, caring person who wanted nothing more than to make the world a better place for people, and she was taken away from us too soon. I met Adriana my senior year of high school through her older sister Christina, who is one of my closest friends. I was very lucky to become acquainted with her and learn what a tremendous person she was. Adriana was a wonderful sister...she was Christina's rock. My heart broke when I heard the news this past Sunday morning, and I only wish there was something I could do to ease her family's grief. Adriana, you will be missed tremendously by all who were lucky enough to have their lives touched by you. And you did make the world a better place, simply by being in it.
Heather and Chris Gates
March 11, 2005
Dear Sam,
We are so sorry for your terrible loss. I can't imagine your pain but I hope you know our thoughts and prayers are with you always. From reading the entries, it is clear that your daughter was a wonderful woman and loved by many. She is a hero and she will be missed. We love you. Chris and Heather.
Candy DiCiolla
March 11, 2005
Christina & Family
I am so sorry to here about the loss of your daughter Adriana. I heard alot about her through Christina who I work with. Christina would always talk about Adriana and how she was so proud of her.I know they both loved each other and that love will still continue. God bless all of you and thank you Adriana for fighting for us.
ryan perry
March 11, 2005
I met Adriana through a friend of mine who was deployed with her the first time... when she told me she was transfering fort stewart i told her to give me a call... well she called me and we became instant friends. she was such an amazing woman... luckily i was able to spend her last few holidays with her... she and her roommate, nina, wouldn't let us celebrate the new year, so we all decided we'd just hang out and enjoy being with each other.... the last night before deployment we stayed up all night drinking beer and eating mcdonalds... ill never forget- she wouldnt let me cry before her final formation... she said if i did i had to go- because it would upset her... so instead we just made plans to have a huge party when she got back... adriana was amazing... i only wish i knew her as long as most of you... but my life is forever changed non-the-less.
i'm trying to get copies of pictures the families took with her in them before they deployed- if i can and you want a copy, please contact me and i will do my best.
adriana, you were an amazing girl, and for all that you've done for me, i will forever be in debt to you... i love you..
EGHS Class of 76
March 11, 2005
Dear Salem Family,
As a fellow EGHS alum and US Army veteran I want to express my deepest sympathy to your family. Please know that Americans everywhere respect and appreciate the sacrifices that Adriana and your family have made for our country. God bless you all.
SGT Andrew Rodarte
March 11, 2005
Dear Salem family, Adriana and i got to be good friends when we met in Fort Bragg a couple years back. we deployed together to afghanistan and became even closer friends. I am in Baghdad now and am saddened to hear of this loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to you. She was a dear friend and will be greatly missed
EG alumni
March 10, 2005
Dear Salem Family,
I just wanted to send my condolences. I appreciate everything Adriana did for our country. She's now in heaven watching over us all.
Thank you Adrinana.
Deanna Yurek
March 10, 2005
Adriana aka Addy was my best friend and I will miss her soooo much. I will never forget all the times we spent together and all the things we went thru together. She was a great person and a GREAT friend. I am so proud of everything she did for herself. She had done so much and would of done even more. I didn't only loose a best friend, but a sister too. Addy was one person that you just loved being around, she was soooo funny and fun.
To her family, you know all of you can call me whenever you need me. I will always be here for all of you.
We all will miss Addy very much.
The one thing I will never forget about Addy is her smile and laugh. Addy may not be here, but she is with us in all our hearts. We all loved her.
Love Always
Dee
Joyce & Jeff Brooks
March 10, 2005
To the entire Salem family and her friends,
My husband and I were most fortunate to meet your daughter through my daughter, Ashley Shields, while at Ft. Bragg. You know as a mother how you wish for your children to choose the 'best' of friends. Well, your daughter Adriana was the finest friend a daughter could choose, you should be extremely proud of the kind of young woman she became. We so enjoyed her visits to Atlanta with our daughter, the two of them surprising me with their visits and the laughter together made me feel so good. Knowing Ashley had Adriana as such a good friend gave me such peace. All those who were touched by the love, kindness and joy of Adriana are going to greatly miss her but we all will share in the blessed memories.
Veronica Contreras
March 10, 2005
To my dearsest bestest friend Adriana. You will be missed and loved, remembered by all your friends. And Thank you for writing me your letter I just received It i also told my parents that u say "Hello" and they say "Take care and that they missed you" I just still can't believe that you are gone. Ill still talk to u tho, cuz u kno me i talk out loud. Ill never 4get you, and i am goin to get a tattoo like how we planned on doing. Ill miss you and be thinking of you take care.
Love you always, Veronica
PAM & STEVE PRANER
March 10, 2005
SAM, SANDY AND GIRLS,
WE WANT TO EXPRESS OUT DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR DAUGHTER & SISTER. SHE WILL BE REMEMBERED IN ALL OUR PRAYERS. THERE ARE NO WORDS THAT CAN COMFORT YOU IN THIS TIME OF SORROW BUT ALWAYS REMEMBER "FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE LIKE STARS, YOU MAY NOT ALWAYS BE ABLE TO SEE THEM, BUT THEY ARE ALWAYS THERE." SAM, I REMEMBER ALAWYS HEARING YOUR STORIES OF THE GIRLS WHEN WE WERE AT SAM'S CLUB AND HOW YOU HAD THEIR PICTURES ON YOUR DESK, THEY HAVE ALL GROWN UP TO BE WONDERFUL PEOPLE THAT NO MATTER WHAT YOU SHOULD BE PROUD OF THEM. SHE WILL BE WATCHING OVER YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
Adriana and Natasha Ragus
March 10, 2005
Nicole Zajicek
March 10, 2005
Christina and family,
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of Adriana. I knew Christina better than Adriana, but I knew that you two loved each other no matter what happened. God bless you all, and thank you to Adriana for fighting for all of us.
Natasha Ragus
March 10, 2005
The pain in my heart is the pain of a thousand broken hearts. There will always be an empty space inside of me. "A" had special qualities which no one could compare! Every mile of my journey she tried so hard to help in every way. Her will to try again even if she couldn't succeed... I am so sorry that it took her death to help me realize a lot of things, and I am most sorry that she wont be here to see me grow. Whenever I needed someone "A" was always there. There was no time I had a doubt to come to her. Her time arrived with no goodbye--now I sit alone reminsing of the past I've blown! The impact that she left on me will forever last. I will always remember the laughs, the tears, the smiles. I will always love you A--my dear friend! We'll meet again someday and until then I promise to laugh every chance I get.
My family sends our deepest sympathy. A was a part of our family as well. All the way back to grade school....Christina: remember swimming in our pool?
We will remember her every day until there are no more...
karin
March 10, 2005
My heart is heavy with sympathy -- I can't imagine the grief Adriana's family is going through. Please know our country is the best one because of young soldiers like Adriana. May God bless her soul and comfort you all. My deepest sympathies.
1LT Scarpitti Maya
March 10, 2005
Dear Salem Family,
In the name of the soldiers of the 1st Platoon, 8th Ordnance Company from Ft.Bragg,NC, currently in Iraq, I'd like to pass our deepest condolences for the loss of your daughter and our soldier and a friend, Adriana.
I was her Platoon Leader at Ft.Bragg,NC right before she got the orders to move to Ft.Stewart,GA. She was supposed to deploy with our platoon.
We were all deeply shaken upon receiving the news of her passing. I wish I was there with her, to help her , to protect her…. But this life deals its own cards, and who know's how and why things happen, and we loose such dear people.
May she be with angels, and watch over us all! God Bless You.
Anonymous
March 10, 2005
words alone fall on deaf ears as your heart is being torn apart by this greatest of all losses, that of a child. Every parent every where shares in your grief and wishes they could do something, anything to lighten this burden. We know we can't so please accept that she is kept in our prayers and our arms are wrapped around you, her family in their hour of need.
Fellow Classmate
March 10, 2005
I just wanted to express my extreme condolences for your loss. I knew of you daughter from EGHS through friends. From the minute I met her I knew she was going to do all she can to change the world.
My words can't change how you feel, I know this, just please know that you, your family, Adrianna, as well as all the soldiers in Iraq are in my prayers and heart always! Remember the good times and the love she gave you.
My deepest sympathy~
A fellow classmate and American
Ashley Shields
March 10, 2005
Salem Family,
I am Adriana's best friend from Fort Bragg. I am in Iraq right now at the moment. Im sorry I wont make it to the funeral. Your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Salem Was a Top notch Soldier and is going to be missed by more people than you could imagine. Love, Ashley
March 10, 2005
Dear Salem family and friends:
I was involved in S.A.D.D. with Adriana and I also knew Christina. Adriana was 2 years older than me, but I still saw her around school. She made a difference to the community. She inspired me so much. I am studying in school right now to become a police officer and she was the one who inspired me to be that. I will honor the time I had with Adriana and be the best police officer I can be for both her and myself. She will be missed greatly and My prayers are with you and your family.
In Elk Grove, Mr. Jim Arey, is trying to get a peace pole put up, inscribed on the peace pole will be three names for the soldiers who have recently fallen, two of whom were from the graduating class of 2001. Hopefully this peace pole gets put up In Memory of them and In Honor of everyone else who is over there.
-Adrianna may you watch over your family and be their Guardian Angel in Heaven. You fell for our country, for our freedom, and you acheived a purple heart, I am proud of you for what you did, and thank you for being in the U.S. Military. You have impacted so many peoples' lives here and you will never be forgotten. Keep an eye on your family during this very tough time. You are my star in the sky and I will never forget you.
-Salem family: Adriana was a great: sister, daughter, friend, and an around loving person. Please know that Adriana is in a better place, with God. In God's hands he will take good care of her. He will watch over her and the rest of your family.
My prayers and condolences are out there for your family during this rough time.
God Bless You Adriana,
Love you always,
Your friend-Krissy
Nanci Zappia
March 9, 2005
Sam,
I am really sorry to hear about the loss of your daughter. My sympathies go out to you and your family in the sad time in your life.
Ann Dolan
March 9, 2005
To the Salem Family-
I just wanted to express my condolences for the loss of a family member that did good for our country and did what she wanted to do. I knew her and her sister Christina since Grammer school at Claremont, But really did not associate with the younger crowd. Adriana will always be there with you and in your hearts always and forever. God Bless your family through the hard times.
Michael Cherie
March 9, 2005
there are no words to explain adriana as where said on tv yesturday by her teachers and friends and im send my condolences to adriana family and friends over this tradigic loss
Phil Clarke
March 9, 2005
My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Spc Adriana Salem, a HERO and a National Treasure. Her sacrifice will never be forgotten. As the father of a fallen Marine we know that freedom cost us more than others will ever understand. God bless you and thank you.
Lisa Felton
March 9, 2005
Sam,
I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family.
ROSEMARIE KUREK
March 9, 2005
There are no words that can express my deepest sympathy for your great loss. Your daughter's courage and bravery are greatly appreciated.
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Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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The Five Stages of Grief
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You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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