Thomas Edward Vandling Jr.
Thomas Edward Vandling Jr.
Obituary
Guest Book
Thomas Vandling Obituary
SGT. THOMAS EDWARD JR.
On Monday January 1, 2007, Thomas Edward Vandling, Jr., a sergeant in the U.S. Army, died a hero in Iraq. Tommy, as most people called him was born on April 27, 1980 and raised in Bellevue. Son of Tom and Dee (Jones) Vandling. He graduated from Northgate High School in 1998, attended the University of Pittsburgh, where he majored in psychology and philosophy, and served his country during two tours in Iraq. Tommy would do anything for a friend. He knew how to keep a secret and tell a joke. He had a 2nd degree black belt in tae kwon do and a way of laughing at you when you cried that made you laugh, too. He loved his family. He adored children. He read Nostradamus. He wore the same red baseball cap nearly every day and refused to wash it. He hated having his picture taken, but had the most infectious smile. And he made more friends in his 26 years than most people make in a lifetime. Nearly everyone of them described Tommy as one of the best friends they've ever had. In addition to his parents, Tommy is survived by his brothers Jimmy and Mike and his sister Elizabeth. He is also survived by his grandmother Dorothy Jones, aunts and uncles; Donna Jones, Jean & John Savulchak, Toni & Bob Bigger, Robin & Al Bodick, cousins; Michael Evans, Katie McKee, Christopher Mangum, Kelly Bombick, Missy Bodick, Melinda & Monica Bodick, Tracey Vandling and Michelle Davis and many dear friends. Preceded in death by grandparents Raymond E. Jones, William B. Vandling, Marian and Ray Kentzel and an uncle William B. Vandling III. Friends received Wednesday and Thursday 1-4 and 6-9pm at the LAWRENCE T. MILLER FUNERAL HOME, INC. 460 Lincoln Avenue, Bellevue. Mass of Christian Burial on FRIDAY at 12:30pm in the Church of the Assumption, Bellevue. EVERYONE PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH. We love you Tommy. Not a day will pass when we won't miss you.
Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
May 31, 2021
My son served in the Army with Tom in Iraq and admired and respected him deeply. Though I never had the pleasure of meeting him, I think of Tom and his family often. May you find comfort and peace in your memories of this true American hero.
January 1, 2021
I miss and love you with all mine heart
fern
August 28, 2018
Dear Vandling family and friends,
My name is Fern. I am in my 60's and today, (8/28/18) I was cleaning out drawers when I found Sgt Thomas E Vanderling's fallen soldier braclet I wore for many years and in my drawer for many more years. I was wondering if anyone would like to keep it? I can't get rid of it as I feel I would disrespect Thomas. I looked him up online for the first time in 11yrs and see what a great man and soldier he was. Please contact me if you are interested.
[email protected]
Sincerely,
Fern
I'm sharing this for all to see, thanks bid :)
January 1, 2014
Hey Tommy- just thinking about you today and always. The other night I dropped my earring down the bathroom drain and The first thing out of my mouth was "dammit Tommy! I need you to take my pee trap apart"!! Lol you know what I'm talking about.
"Heroes never die. They live on forever in the hearts and minds of those who would follow in their footsteps. "
I love you man, talk to you soon
Jackie
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Paul
December 31, 2013
I cannot believe that 7 Years has gone past since SGT Thomas Vandling has left us. I consider myself privileged to have known Tommy, even just for the short period of time in our deployment to Iraq. During our training and deployment, I never saw him without a smile. I vividly recall the last time I saw Tommy, it was around Christmas day 2006. He greeted me with his usual broad smile, and he wished me a "Merry Christmas". I did not know that would be the last time I would ever see him again. I wish I would have stopped and spent more time with him or even just to let him know how much we all admired and respected him. Fact is, you really never know when it will be the last time you'll see someone... Since that time, I have carried guilt for letting Tommy leave my detachment and into a TPT where he would pay the ultimate sacrifice on New Year's Day, 2007.
I learned in the after action report that because of Tommy's quick reaction and sacrifice on that fateful day that two people in his vehicle had survived the attack that day. I heard from the crew of the vehicle trailing (just behind) the one Tommy was driving in convoy, that they had noticed just a second prior to the blast that took Tommy's life, that he had suddenly turned his vehicle sharply to the right... the explosion hitting under the driver's seat, where Tommy was sitting. It flipped Tommy's vehicle on its right side with the driver's compartment completely gone. Tommy was the only one in that vehicle who was fatally wounded that day. I think back, the person assigned as gunner in the vehicle with Tommy was blown out, and away from the vehicle - surviving that day, because of Tommy. The person assigned that day to ride right seat in the vehicle with Tommy - survived that day, because of Tommy. I pray that both of them are well and safe to this day. Tommy loved everyone in our company, and I believe he is still with us watching out for each of us.
Because of heroism of SGT Thomas Vandling and his quick reaction that day, only he perished. Tommy selflessly swerved at the last second; he evidently saw something wrong in the road just a head of his HMMWV. Tommy could have swerved left, exposing his fellow crew member to the hazard. Of course, he didn't.
To this day, I am of two minds about transferring Tommy from my detachment. I feel guilt for selecting him to transfer to that Tactical PSYOP Team where he was killed. At the time I selected him, I knew he was the best Operator in my team to work outside the wire. And I was aware of the dangers, but not that the end result of this decision would cost him his life. I do consider that in selecting Tommy for that position, that he saved the lives of two Soldiers. To this day, I am still filled with grief, and I miss SGT Thomas Vandling. I still hate myself for sending him into harm's way, I owe him to make everyday count for him.
November 3, 2013
The Moving Finger writes; and, having writ,Moves on: nor all thy Piety nor Wit Shall lure it back to cancel half a Line,Nor all thy Tears wash out a Word of it.
August 18, 2013
Thinking of you today and always. Love you man
Charlie Gili
August 17, 2013
Hello,
We would like to express our deepest condolences and also let the Vandling Family and friends know that we will be sending Care Packages to troops in Afghanistan this week and we'll be dedicating several of these to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo and the hometown of Thomas Edward Vandling Jr. US Army Sergeant. We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community. We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of the US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
Peggy Childers
January 1, 2013
To the family and friends of Sgt. Thomas E. Vandling:
It has truly been my honor to sign Thomas' guest book these past few years. Unfortunately, due to complications from my Multiple Sclerosis, it has become increasingly difficult for me to continue at this time. Please forgive me and know that Thomas will always be remembered in my home.
With love and respect ~ Peggy
December 31, 2012
I miss you so much Tommy, words can't describe how hard the past 6 years have been without you.
Peggy Childers
January 1, 2012
To the family and friends of Sgt. Thomas E. Vandling:
Always remembering Thomas. "Some gave all."
March 18, 2011
I miss you.
Peggy Childers
January 1, 2011
To the family and friends of Sgt. Thomas E. Vandling:
Please accept my remembrance of Thomas on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten in my home.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Bernard Igiri
December 2, 2010
This brave soul took my place on that tactical team, and paid the ultimate price. I owe him my life.
May his soul rest in peace.
August 3, 2010
Dear Tom and family,
Thinking of you at the BHS reunion. I wish you had been there so I could express my sadness to you in person. I think of you often and wanted to let you know I keep you in my prayers. I have a son that is 29 and can't imagine not having him here. Take care of yourselves.
Barb Zehr Sullivan
Mike Olivares
May 27, 2010
Tommy. I think of you often buddy. Just here to let you know you are not forgotten.
April 27, 2010
It was thirty years ago today you made me a very proud dad. I would like to thank you. Having you in my life was the greatest thing. I miss your laugh and smile. I hope you are safe. Happy Birthday son all my Love Dad.
Peggy Childers
January 1, 2010
To the family and friends of Sgt. Thomas E. Vandling:
Remembering Thomas on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Julie (Banas) Grady
November 11, 2009
2009 Veteran's Day,
Dear Vandling Family,
In sincere remembrance of Tommy. May we forever pray for Tommy, his family, and all our soldiers. We must always honor those who served our country well. I will ever remember Tommy, Chuck Downey and Patrick Kenny whom all served their beloved country with honor far beyond the call of duty. When a hero comes along -- I say, "God bless and thank you, Tom, Patrick and Chuck.
With sincerity and deepest respect,
November 11, 2009
Happy Veterans Day Tommy! We will never forget you or the sacrifice you made for us. God Bless you - Colleen
November 10, 2009
Hey Tommy I was jsut thinking about you and wanted to say Hi
July 28, 2009
I LOVE AND MISS YOU SO MUCH.
Kenna Larra
February 23, 2009
We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families. War does not discriminate – It breaks my heart to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,500 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna
January 3, 2009
Dee and Family
I think about you often. Just always
remember that Tommy is missed by
so many.
January 1, 2009
I Miss You. Two Whole Years.
In Memory of Thomas ~ (Debra Estep)
January 1, 2009
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know Thomas, but I am remembering
his service and sacrifice. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
Peggy Childers
January 1, 2009
To the family of Sgt. Thomas E. Vandling:
Thomas 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
December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas Tommy. Nothing is the same without you, it never will be. I Miss You. I love you.
Barb Sullivan(Zehr)
November 23, 2008
Tom and Family,
I was home alone today and your name popped into my head. I began thinking of your loss and wondering how you are coping. I can't even imagine the emptiness you feel. I went to the obituary and there were new entries made. He must have been a remarkable young man. I thank him and other men fighting for our freedom every day. My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you and your family.
November 23, 2008
Life will never be the same. I LOVE YOU MORE THEN ANYTHING.
November 19, 2008
You are so missed.
October 28, 2008
I Miss You So Much. It Hurts.
September 7, 2008
Football season without you. My heart is broken. I love you TOMMY.
Tom and I before a mission in Mahmudiyah
Jeff Thomsen
August 6, 2008
From the time that I first met Tommy in Pittsburg until the time that I said goodbye to him before his remains were flown from Baghdad I will recall how many lives he touched in the company. Tommy had the zest for life that few of us are able to capture. I will miss him and will fondly remember his service and sacrifice to our nation and his comrades. You will never be forgotten.
1SG Jeffrey Thomsen
maggie selzer
July 31, 2008
To the family and friends of Sgt. Vandling,
I am so sorry for your loss.
My name is Maggie Selzer, and I am directing ‘Run for the Fallen 5K run/walk’ in Boalsburg, PA (just outside of State College) on August 24th, 2008. The event, held on the PA military Museum grounds, aims to keep alive the memory of all fallen soldiers, but particularly those from PA. All proceeds from the event will go to organizations that support the families of fallen soldiers and supports wounded soldiers.
I encourage you to learn more about the event at www.freewebs.com/runforthefallen5k/
index.htm.
The event is meant to keep alive the memories of brave men like Sgt. Vandling.
If you have any questions, or would like to send a memory of Sgt. Vandling to be included with the flag memorial that will be set up at this event, please contact me at (814) 571-8755 or
[email protected].
July 25, 2008
To the family and friends- please know that Thomas will not be forgotten. I read many heartfelt comments that you all shared about him, and I was deeply touched. May his sweet soul rest in eternal peace.
I am so sorry for the loss.
June 28, 2008
There will always be something missing in life without you here , not just for a few for many. Love you and your family.
June 17, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Sgt Vandling!
June 8, 2008
Remembering you- rest in glorious peace. you are missed.
Gayle Downey
May 26, 2008
Dear Tom Sr,
I'm thinking of you and your family this weekend, as I do many other days of the year. You must forgive me for not paying my respects or calling, or even writing at the time of your loss; I'd visited the Kenny's whom my parents and I knew, and it was almost too much. Visiting you, someone I liked so well in school was something just too difficult for me to do. I'm not sure you ever knew, but I lost my brother, my only sibling, on May 17, 1967; he was killed in Viet Nam. I remember the day, the very moment I pulled the curtain back on the window of our apt door and saw the Arm Sgt standing there..and calling my mother to answer our family's fate.
I'll be thinking of you, Tom, and Dee and esp your other children, each and every Memorial Day, and most likely many many other days of the years to come. I know the pain and sorrow and void never ever goes away.
God Bless you all.
May 8, 2008
Life just isnt fair. I Love and miss you so much.
April 28, 2008
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOMMY. I TRY TO BE A BETTER PERSON, DO BETTER IN MY LIFE, TO HONOR YOU. THAT'S ALL I KNOW TO DO.
April 27, 2008
Happy Birthday Tommy, love always
Fred Nunemacher
April 6, 2008
We didn't know Thomas personally,wish we could have.He's a Hero in our Heart's Too.His name is Honored on our PortableTribute to the Fallen Heroes from Pa,of the Iraq War.The Tributes Name is "Pa's Wall OF Fallen Heroes"The Wall Honors 200 Heroes,and we'll miss them All.
April 4, 2008
Cant stop thinking about you. I miss you so much, GOD I would give anything to see your smile and hear your laugh again. I LOVE YOU.
March 21, 2008
OH TOMMY,I say that so much. I think it is shock every time. I can't believe you are gone, yet I feel you here. I hope the world you are in is a kinder place than earth. Love you.
February 29, 2008
I pray everyday you are in Heaven.
January 29, 2008
I miss you more everyday. What a great man you are. Thank you for the time you given me. All my LOVE.
January 18, 2008
Its seems its getting harder everyday. I miss you so much. I wish I could talk to you just one more time so I could say a lifetime of things to you. ALL MY LOVE AND PRAYS
January 7, 2008
I miss you so bad Tommy. If god answers prayers then WHY does he not bring you back to me??????
January 2, 2008
Tommy, a year. Sometimes it seems like yesterday and other times it seems like forever. You are missed by so many. There will always be a special place in my heart & mind for you. Much Love
January 1, 2008
Its been a year; my GOD how do i do another one. LOVE YOU MISS YOU.
Debbie , Kenny Coffey
January 1, 2008
Our continued thoughts and prayers out to the VANDLING family.Knowing now what they have always known is one of many reasons that our HERO[ES] shall NEVER be forgotten.Rest well brother as prommissed that star spangled banner shall FOREVER wave .Your name stamped in steel is FOREVER clutched in the tallons,as your spirit FOREVER soars high in the skies in the symbol of our great nation.THANK..YOU..HO..YAAH..B.V.C.
John Steele
December 27, 2007
DEE and Tom. I am sorry I did not send this sooner. You have my deepest sympathy for your loss. The last time I saw Tom he was just a litle boy in diapers.From what I have read here he was a terrific and wonderful man.I am sure it would have been a joy to watch him growing up.Sorry for being a stranger all these years.
December 24, 2007
It's almost been a year and the pain has yet to go away at all, I think its actually getting worse for me. I miss you so much and I love you.
December 11, 2007
I Miss You Tommy</3 a lot
janessa
December 4, 2007
He, only takes the best.
God bless your family.
November 21, 2007
Be by your families side this holiday Tommy.
November 17, 2007
I just cant stop thinking of you. It just isnt fair. They say only the good die young. Boy GOD made his point with you. Your one of the best person ill ever know. I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU. Till we meet again.
October 21, 2007
Words cant explain how I feel everday your not here. My heart hurts so bad. I love and miss you. Please be safe were you are.
October 13, 2007
Life will never be the same without you in it. I pray your safe and happy with GOD.
October 9, 2007
Just thinking of you and your smile.And how much your miss. Love always.
September 25, 2007
Its so hard everyday without you
September 22, 2007
Maybe, Just maybe, we need more pictures of Tommy. I suggest everyone that frequents this sight add their favorite photo! Would not that be a great idea!
September 22, 2007
All though our losses are so different, they hit so close to home. My father is so proud of Tommy, I know that, and now they are together, looking down on us. I think of your loss all the time, it does not even compair to mine, my dad was so much older, some how it makes me hurt for you more than my own hurt. I know that Tommy did not die in vain. I am so proud to know that I knew him. Know that my love and prayers are with you still and always. I am so proud of you and your son.
September 19, 2007
Tommy, What can I say. I am totally lost without you. I love you more than you will ever know. Life just isn't fair.
September 17, 2007
Tommy...I Miss You So Much and wish that there was some way I could hear your laugh again. I hope you hear me when I talk to you...I feel like nothing will ever be the same without you. I Love You
September 16, 2007
Dear Tommy, Not a day goes by when I hear a story about the "war" that I do not think about you and your family. Certain things touch us in life and this goes well beyond. We are still praying for your family and know that you are above sending love down. This will be with us forever. God Bless
Lauren Pellegrini
September 16, 2007
Sgt. Vandling was a very brave man. I am proud to be from the same community as such a person.
September 9, 2007
First games of the season. Its just not the same without you. Love and miss you so much.
September 3, 2007
In My Pocket
I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.
My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.
They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.
Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.
But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.
August 26, 2007
Just thinking of you. I miss you so bad. Wish it was me not you.
August 20, 2007
Some days without you are harder than others. And, without reason or warning, this has been one of the tough days.
I miss you, Tommy, and I wish you were here to dispense some of that wise advice that no one else can quite match.
I love you.
August 17, 2007
I feel lost everyday I miss you so bad. Dont know how I will go on. LOVE YOU!
August 5, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Sgt Vandling and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
August 1, 2007
Another 1st passes, time passes, yet the sadness stands still. I hope there is a heaven so that I will see you again. Until then you will be with me in my heart. Love You.
July 31, 2007
If this person can stand in battle to ensure my freedom, then I will stand in grief with his/her family to honor him/her. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guest book for the rest of my life, but I promised LE RON A. WILSON (a dear friend KIA 7/6/07, 18yrs old) that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
July 29, 2007
Tommy, I thought about you today and I wish I could just hold you again.
July 5, 2007
YOU ARE IN MY THOUGHTS TODAY, LIKE SO MANY OTHER DAYS. MISS YOU.
June 20, 2007
So much time has passed and the war still goes on. Today I heard another kid from Altoona passed away and it made me think of you. The other day I was microwaving pizza and that made me think of you. There isn't anything I do that doesn't remind me of you. Some of it makes me laugh and other things make me cry.
TONY M.
May 7, 2007
TOMMY, I NEVER WANTED TO SAY GOODBYE, SO I DIDN'T. I CANT REMEMBER SAYING HELLO, YOU WERE JUST THERE. AND I'M PROBALLY NOT GONNA REMEMBER THAT YOU WERE GONE, BECAUSE I FEEL YOUR STILL HERE. SO I SAY TO YOU, I'LL LIVE MY LIFE TO THE FULLEST LIKE YOU TAUGHT ME, AND WHEN MY TIME IS NEAR I KNOW YOU'LL BE THERE NOT T0 GREET ME BUT TO TAKE MY HAND AND TAKE ME HOME. I LOVE YOU EVERYDAY AND AS ANOTHER DAY GOES BY I LOVE YOU EVEN MORE. YOU GAVE US SUCH GREAT MEMORIES TO KEEP US STRONG IN THESE TOUGH TIMES.
Rhiannon Holmes
April 28, 2007
It was your 27th birthday yesterday and we went to see you. The hardest thing since January 1st. Just as everyday, you were in our hearts as we stood there next to you to wish you a Happy Birthday Tommy! We miss you and love you!!
April 27, 2007
I just can't stop looking at your picture today. It is so hard to believe you are gone. Happy Birthday
April 27, 2007
Tommy, I wanted to wish you a Happy Birthday. Wishing you were here. Will remember you forever. Much love.
BERT HOLLER
April 20, 2007
I AM SO SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR BRAVE SOLDIER. THERE ARE NO WORDS TO TAKE AWAY YOUR SORROW AT THIS TOUGH TIME. ON JANUARY 22, 2007 WE LOST OUR SON-IN-LAW IN IRAQ.WE PRAY FOR YOU AND AT THE SAME TIME CRY WITH YOU. NICK WAS IN 2/7 CAV AND LOVED BEING A SOLDIER. FROM WHAT I'VE READ THOMAS WAS A FINE YOUNG MAN LOVED AND RESPECTED BY ALL. PLEASE ACCEPT OUR CONDOLENCES AND ALL OUR SYMPATHIES. DON'T FORGET HIS SMILE AND ALWAYS REMEMBER HIS SERVICE TO THE COUNTRY HE LOVED SO MUCH. HE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. THANK YOU,
Robyn Garside
April 17, 2007
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 HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI
A PROUD MARINE MOM
tony
April 9, 2007
FLY STRONG EAGLE FLY!
FLY STRONG EAGLE FLY!
FOR TODAY SEEMS DIFFERENT FROM ANY OTHER DAY.
FLY STRONG EAGLE FLY, THROUGH THE RAIN, SAND, SNOW, AND THE WIND,
FOR WE KNOW YOUR VIEW IS DIFFERENT TODAY!
FLY STRONG EAGLE FLY! NO MAN CAN TAKE YOUR PRIDE AWAY.
FLY STRONG EAGLE FLY, FOR I SEEN YOUR SLOW APPROACH AND
YOU’RE SOLOMEN LANDING.
FLY STRONG EAGLE FLY, ALL THE MILES YOU TRAVELED WERE NOTHING COMPARED TO THE FEW MILES, IT TOOK TO CARRY YOU HOME.
FLY STRONG EAGLE FLY, IT SEEMED LIKE YESTERDAY.
WE ADMIRIED YOUR BEAUTY, YOUR LOVE, AND YOUR FREE LIKE WAYS.
FLY STRONG EAGLE FLY, FOR TODAY WE MOURN YOUR LOSS DUE TO OUR
UNLIMITED LOVE FOR YOUR MEMORY IN FLIGHTS.
FLY STRONG EAGLE FLY, FOR YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN
JUST AS WE KNOW YOU WILL NOT FORGET US.
FLY STRONG EAGLE FLY, FOR WE KNOW YOU FLEW INTO BATTLE FOR YOUR LOVE FOR US. AND NOW FLY STRONG EAGLE FLY, FOR WE FLY FOR YOU IN REMEMBERANCE OF THE MEMORIES YOU GAVE US.
FLY STRONG EAGLE FLY, AND DON’T FORGET TO FLY OVERHEAD
EVERYONCE IN AWHILE. FOR IT WAS YOU WHO TAUGHT US TO FLY.
FLY STRONG EAGLE FLY, FOR YOU ARE THE TRUE WARRIOR SPIRIT,
AND THE SYMBOL OF OUR AMERICAN FREEDOM!
love you always tommy, from the blackman.
TONY MORRIS
March 29, 2007
TOMMY I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU. YOU WERE MY BROTHER, MY FRIEND AND MY HERO. NOT A DAY GOES BY THAT I DONT THINK ABOUT YOU. YOU MADE ME LAUGH AND YOU MADE ME CRY, BUT YOU WERE ALWAYS THAT PERSON THAT I COULD GO TO WHEN THE SKIES GREW DARK AND THE PROBLEMS BOLTED THUNDER. LUV YOU BRO TONY MORRIS
March 27, 2007
I saw a Mustang driving by my apartment today and I would have given anything for you to be in it.
I miss you everyday, Tommy.
I love you.
Christine
March 15, 2007
May God Bless you and your family.
March 11, 2007
I miss you more than you will ever know Tommy. You were the brighest and best person I have ever met. I think of you everyday, all the time. I Miss You
March 6, 2007
God Bless you, Tommy. I'm sorry I only got to know a little bit about you after you died.
Walter Edvalson
February 21, 2007
To the family of Thomas Vandling Jr. I wish that no one had to die to defend our country and am so thankful that someone, such as your son, would give of his time and then his life, to defend mine and this courtries rights. No one can say anything that will ease your pain or even fully understand what you are feeling, but we as a nation, and me personally, can say that your son was more than a hero; he was someone who loved his country, and by so loving his country, he loved me.
February 20, 2007
Tommy, I am not a particular religious person however I do believe that when we leave this earth we go to a better place. I also believe that those who go before us watch over the ones they left behind; so I am asking you to watch over your Mom, Dad, Jimmy, Mike and Elizabeth as they try to go on without you. Please let them find some joy and a peacefulness that seems to be unreachable at this time. I also ask that you guide the others that have loved and lost you and let them in some way comfort your family. Life for all will never be the same. I am grateful that you were a part of my life.
February 19, 2007
I miss you more and more everyday Tommy. I wonder everyday why you are gone, and I don't think I will ever find an answer. I just don't ever see things getting any easier, ever. I love you, Tommy, and will think about you everyday for the rest of my life
MAJ Bill Bryant
February 19, 2007
My deepest sympathies and prayers and are with you. I did not know your son, but want you to know that the PSYOP community is a close one, especially those who have served in combat. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
MAJ Bill Bryant
C/9th PSYOP (ABN)
OIF-1
Margie Mastrome
February 13, 2007
Hi. I am the wife of a USNR in Florida. I heard about your family member through a newsletter. I just wanted to tell u I am so thankful for what Thomas did to defend me. What a great man he must have been. I will keep all of u in my prayers.
February 4, 2007
You are never far from my thoughts.
Cledys and Shirley Henry
February 3, 2007
We never met your Son, but our Son Sgt Todd Henry was serving with him. You have our love and prayers. Todd was wounded on 31 Jan. Thank God, He spared him. Your pain and Tommy's life we share.
Harry Walagura III
February 3, 2007
Tom was a true hero he will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with the Vandling Family.
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