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Alexander Van Aalten Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Alexander Van Aalten
Steve
June 10, 2020
I miss you friend. All these years later I still smile at the memories.
Leo van den End
October 29, 2019
I just read the article in my Dutch newspaper "De Telegraaf" Halfway reading I get tears in my eyes. I never knew Alexander or the Dutch military Cor Strik, whom's body Alexander wanted to bring in safety. What a true hero is Alexander and a wonderful man. The story about Alexander must continue being told in future, as an example for our kids how a true man died during his duty and how he tried to help others. Everybody who knew Alexander can be very proud of him. My apologizes for my bad english. Dutch is my native language.
Connie Stinson
October 30, 2016
It seems like a life time already since I seen your beautiful smile. Thank God for eternal memories !! You were and will always be my son in law !!! God sure did take the best !! Will forever love ,honor,cherish and miss you
David Roscoe
October 29, 2016
Greetings. I didn't know Alex but today, 29 Oct, I saw a jeep in a parking lot with a tribute to Alex. I was in the 82D and deployed in Afghanistan at the same time as Alex. I looked him up; read about him and his sacrifice. Just know today a stranger took some time to learn about him and, in a small way, attempt to honor his memory. He will never be forgotten. My deepest condolances.
Heather Roberts
July 18, 2015
Tonight I was reminiscing about the past, and you came to mind. I will never forget your kindness and patience. You were a great leader to us in JROTC, and your attributes have touched many. I cannot fathom why God would take you from this world so young. God bless you, I will always remember you.
Connie Stinson
April 20, 2013
Alex we miss you so much. You were a shining light in this dark world. I can't imagine not having you in my life as my son in law. I am a better person because of that. You truly loved The Lord and Our Country and for that I know you are in Heaven watching over us and waiting on us. Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice. We will forever Love and Miss you so much.
Marilyn & Robert Hiller
September 2, 2012
Dearest Alex,
Today is your birthday, and even though you are not with us in person, we will never forget you. You are our angel in heaven so Happy Birthday dear Nephew. We love you. Aunt Marilyn and Uncle Robert
Peggy Childers
April 20, 2012
To the family and friends of Sgt. Alexander Van Aalten:
Always remembering Alexander. "Some gave all."
Marilyn & Robert Hiller
April 20, 2012
Our Dear Alex, on this day 5 years ago, you, our Hero gave the ultimate sacrifice.
You died in Afghanistan doing what you wanted to be doing. Fighting for freedom and protecting our country.
You were only 21 years old Alex with your whole life ahead of you. I guess God had different plans for you. We miss you so much dear Alex, but know you are in a better place. You are the brightest star in the heavens,you are our angel watching over all. May you
always rest in peace. You are our Hero. You will never be forgotten. We love you. Aunt Marilyn and Uncle Robert
L Neal
May 17, 2011
To the family of Sgt. Alexander Van Aalten:
Please know that just as your loved one remains in your hearts and minds; his sacrifice, and that of your family, remains with the people he died defending. Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for his bravery and selflessness, or the heartache we feel for your loss. God bless and keep you always.
Jacqueline & Bill Ballans
April 23, 2011
A 'thank you' seems so inadequate for what you gave for our freedom! We love you Alex and pray for you everyday. We know you are at peace and know we will all be together one day. God Bless you, you are our hero.
Love,
Aunt Jacque' & Uncle Bill
Helen Pieper
April 23, 2011
Thank you for everything that you gave us for our freedom. You will never be forgotten
mike gray
April 23, 2011
thank you brother for the ultimate sacrafice ,, you are gone but never forgotten ,,, we love and miss you ,,, and prayers for your family
roger rickert
April 23, 2011
rest in peace hero, a grateful nation salutes you
welcome home
David David
April 23, 2011
Thanks to Alexander, his family, our hearts and prayers are with you during this time.Thanks to you we remain safe and have our freedom. God will take care of the rest may you always be remembered.
David in Texas
Friends of the Koch family.
Linda Garner
April 23, 2011
May the Lord embrace this young man's family and friends on the anniversary of his passing and may they be comforted in knowing that he will never be forgotten.
Peace
Pam Richnafsky
April 21, 2011
Thank you Alexander for paying the ultimate price for God and Country. God bless the ones you left behind.
R
April 21, 2011
Can't believe it's been 4 years, I will never forget you and your love of being a Soldier, it will be the same in 40 years love you man
nolan crosby
April 21, 2011
another hero gone too soon, thanks for serving our country may you rest in peace,god bless
Christine Koch
April 21, 2011
Time is a companion that goes with us on a journey. It reminds us to cherish each moment because it will never come again. What we leave behind is not as important as how we have lived.
God Bless you always Alex,,, may you forever Rest in Peace ... You are not forgotten... Your that hero standing next to my Steven and Lynne.. You shall always hold a speclial place in my heart..
AIRBORNE ALL THE WAY ~
FURY FROM THE SKY
The Koch Family
Peggy Childers
April 20, 2011
To the family and friends of Sgt. Alexander van Aalten:
Please accept my remembrance of Alexander on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Marilyn & Robert Hiller
April 20, 2011
Our Dear Alex, four years ago today you made the ultimate sacrifice doing what you loved to do.
There is not a day that goes bye that we do not think of you, your parents, brother and sister.
You are our true hero and now you are an angel looking down from above watching over us all.
I look for the brightest star and know it is you. We love you and will never forget you.
Aunt Marilyn and Uncle Robert
December 5, 2010
Our Dear Alex,
As the Christmas Holidays approach us, you are the first to come to thought. We cannot describe the lost we feel year in and year out. You are our Angel that we place upon the tree, the stars that look down on us in the brilliant lit sky. God has you watching over all of us and we will never forget our loved one, our Hero and what you sacrificed for all.
We love you Alex.. Gods Blessings to you and all the family.
Aunt Marilyn and Uncle Robert
Jacqueline Ballans
April 26, 2010
Alex,
Words will never describe the loss we all feel for you. You gave your life for all Americans to continue to enjoy their freedom in our beautiful country. Saying 'thank you for giving your life' does not seem adequate for your unselfish act. You are truly our hero and always will be.
You were taken from your loved ones far too soon and you are always in our thoughts and prayers daily. I cannot help think that God has a special reason and task for you in heaven.
Peace and God's Blessings be with you and the family always and also with all the soldiers who have met the ultimate sacrifice.
Please know we love you and you will never be forgotten.
Aunt Jacque' & Uncle Bill & Cousins
and Grandma
Susan van Aalten
April 23, 2010
To our sweet son. We miss you so much! How can 3 years go by and you not be here? You are not forgotten, not by us and not by all the people who lives you touched. You would be amazed if you knew how far reaching your life was. You are in every breath your Dad and I take We love you. Hero, son, husband brother friend and soldier.
Marilyn Hiller
April 21, 2010
Alex, three years passed since you were suddenly taken from all who loved and knew you. You gave your life to keep us safe. There is not a day that goes by that we don’t have you in our thoughts and prayers. You are our hero forever. You left deep memories in all the hearts you touched and will always be present with us no matter what. Our prayers go with your Mom, Dad and your entire family and to all the other soldiers families. We love you, Aunt Marilyn, Uncle Robert and Cousins.
Anne Harris
April 21, 2010
As a mother of a fallen soldier my heartfelt condolences go to the family left behind. My son, SSGT Blake M. Harris was killed 3/15/07. To lose a child is the worst pain; emotions of pain and pride are hard to juggle sometimes. May God bless you all who have fallen and may He also bless the families of the fallen. Anne Harris
Shana van Aalten
April 20, 2010
Alex, words can't describe how much I miss you. It seems unreal that three years have already passed. And even though we only had a few years together, they were the most amazing years. I have so many memories that I will never forget, you truly touched me in so many ways. Alex I will ALWAYS love you and you will ALWAYS be a part of me. Shana
Peggy Childers
April 20, 2010
To the family and friends of Sgt. Alexander Van Aalten:
Remembering Alexander 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
David Elliott
April 20, 2010
thinking of you and your family on this day that we will share forever.
You are always in my thoughts and you always will be.
Naomi Rose
April 19, 2010
"Nor will your memory be forgot while Fame her record keeps,and Honor points the Hallowed spot where Valor proudly sleeps." From the poem 'Bivouac Of The Dead'. Beautiful, yet haunting poem.
May you remember Alexander with loving memory and know what a wonderful son you raised. Thank you for your efforts and for his dedication.
Rebecca Trousdale
April 19, 2010
To the Van Aalten family, there are no words to describe the sorrow of losing a loved on, especially a child. I as an American ,is so grateful for the sacrifice that your son made because this country asked him to. He stood up and fought for our right to peace and freedom. He is a great American Hero! As long as I live I will never take the freedom of living in this country for granted and will never forget our American heroes! God Bless them, and God Bless your family!
Airborne All the Way ~ Fury From the Sky ~ America's Guard of Honor
Christine Koch
April 19, 2010
"A man who was completely innocent, offered himself as a sacrifice for the good of others, including his enemies, and became the ransom of the world. It was a perfect act." - Mohandas Gandhi
O Lord, in my eyes You were gazing,
Kindly smiling, my name You were saying;
All I treasured, I have left on the sand there;
Close to You, I will find other seas.
God Bless you Alex,, you are always in my thougths and my prayers.. rest easy with Steven
Sincerely
Christine Koch
Bas vanderBerk
April 12, 2010
Thank you Alex. You shall not be forgotten.
And thank you van Aalten Family.
May the Lord keep your loved forever in the palm of his hand.
Bas
(from the Netherlands)
March 3, 2010
Dear
Mr. and mrs. van Aalten
Our names are Marvin Harmanus, a former soldier
of the Dutch Army.
and Lauwrens Terbeek.
The nephew of the deceased Corporal Cor Strik.
We would like, from sharing our sorrow tribute for the loss of your son Alexander.
and gratitude what Alexander had done.
for Corporal Cor Strik
and for our Dutch troops.
on the day of the roadside bomb attack were present.
Dutch troops and American troops.
Thank America for saving our Dutch troops.
We also speak out on behalf of the Dutch flag.
and the Dutch troops in Afghanistan who still serve.
Mr. and Mrs. van Aalten
We let you know that we also support you from the Netherlands.
and we both from the home front to support the American troops.
Stay strong and hold on.
with god bless
Gratitude and best regards
Marvin Harmanus
and Lauwrens Terbeek.
Susan van Aalten
December 23, 2009
My beautiful son how I miss you so. As we gather for Christmas with the family your place is so noticably empty. My heart aches. I will always love you and you are always in my heart and mind. I can hardly breath for missing you. I love you and so does your father as he silently grieves. You are my inspiration, Thank you my hero for being a light in my life. I love you Mom
Connie Stinson
December 19, 2009
Alex,we miss you so much.Another Christmas is approaching without you.I watch on the news last night them Laying wreaths at Arlington,wishing I could be there to help,wishing I could be there to place yours.I think about you all the time.I am a better person because you touch my life so,a shining star to us all.Thank you for serving our Country,but most of all Thank you for Loving My Daughter for you brought such happiness to us all.Some day I will get to see your beautiful smile and once again say THANK YOU! We will always Love you and miss you.
Ashley Barnes
October 27, 2009
Alex, you will never be forgotten. You served your country and now you can rest in peace. I can still remember everytime I'd walk into the karate studio I'd see your picture on the wall. Your always in our hearts.
Charity Norrod
September 2, 2009
Alex and Family,
I will always look on this day as a special day...the day a Hero was born!
I admire your strength and pray god is always with you all.
Love Always,
Charity
Susan van Aalten
September 2, 2009
Alex we miss you so much! We can't wait to see you again. We will always love you and cherish the wonderful life you brought to us. You are our hero! We celebrate your life today on your birthday. Love you forever, Mom and Dad
Nicole van Aalten
September 2, 2009
To my loving Brother....Happy Birthday Alex; I only celebrate this day because a Hero was born! I miss you so much Alex!
Love you very much!
Nicole
Cozette Haggerty
June 16, 2009
Re: SGT. Alexander Van Aalten
Hello,
I represent PRAYER SHAWLS 4 FALLEN SOLDIERS (PS4FS), an organization that since October 2007 has sent over 2,800 prayer shawls to military families who have lost a loved one. We are an organization of over 240 groups from all over the country. We make every effort to reach families even when post cards are returned after they have moved. Would you kindly send me a contact email/address so that we may send a loving hand-made prayer shawl to the family? Thank you!
Cozette Haggerty, Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen Soldiers
Email: [email protected]
Website Address: http://webpages.charter.net/ps4fs/shawls
Tammy Bass
May 31, 2009
Please know that your sacrifice will not be forgotten. On Saturday May 23 I was honored to read the names of Tennessee's fallen in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars at a ceremony in Washington DC at the WWII Memorial. Alexander Van Aalten is remembered.
Proud Mother of USMC Cpl. David Bass
4/23/85 - 4/2/06
Steven Young
May 24, 2009
To the van Aalten family. What a true hero you raised. With tears in my eyes I say thank you. Alex is gone but surely not forgotten. I am honored to have been a small part of his life and look forward to seeing him again someday.
Samantha Smith
May 24, 2009
As the third memorial day comes and goes without you here, we pause to remember what a great inspiration you were. I am glad to have called you a friend for so many years and look forward to seeing you again one day.
Susan van Aalten
April 20, 2009
To my beloved son and my hero. They say time heals but it does not, it only teaches us to go on anyway. I miss you as much and even more as the day you left. I will love you always. Mom
Michael Iezzi
April 20, 2009
Alex,
Thinking and praying for you on the 2nd anniversary of your passing into eternal glory. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends", John 15:13.
Peggy Childers
April 20, 2009
To the family of Sgt. Alexander Van Aalten:
Alexander 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
Kenna larra
February 4, 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 1,300 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
david elliott
December 27, 2008
To Alex's family sorry for the loss of your son, sorry i would of wrote on here sooner but only just found it.
To Alex rest in peace, thank you for helping us out on that fateful day, sorry it cost you dearly. you have always been in my thoughts after that day.
David
Hans van Schijndel
November 17, 2008
I also was deeply moved seeing the documentary on the internet.He gave his life trying to look after a fallen soldier from my country.They both have my deepest respect.May they both rest in peace.
Monica Bast
September 18, 2008
I also saw the programm of your son Alex and Cor on the Dutch television. Cor was a friend from my son in law and my daughter. I was very emotioneel when i saw your family and Cor, Heidi and Mike. I wish that they also get a medaille for their son. Your son, Cor and all the boys who are died in the war, they may never will forget.
martin klink
September 13, 2008
my name is martin from the netherlands
i watch the docu about your son
he is a true hero god bless him i felt so bad when i watch the docu he try too rescue a dutch soldier
sorry for my bad english
Elsje van Ooijen
September 9, 2008
Seen the documentary here in The Netherlands about Cor and your Alex, deeply touched, such a heroic act trying to rescue a brother in arms..... Had to shed some tears for your loss.
Bas van Aarle
September 9, 2008
I was very moved by a documentary on dutch television that portrayed Alex van Aalten and am inspired by the personality tha approached from the documentary.
thom statt
September 9, 2008
we remember a hero, God bless you!
Susan van Aalten
September 2, 2008
Today is your birthday. Sept 2 will always be a special day for me. I love you as I have always loved you I am proud of you. You are my hero Mom
Richmond & Wendy Boruff
August 6, 2008
Thank you for your unselfish sacrifice for OUR country. You will NEVER be forgotten!
June 23, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Sgt van Aalten!
Connie Stinson
May 14, 2008
Alex,
I am so honor to have got to call you MY SON- IN-LAW.I am a better person because you was in my life.You will be FOREVER MISSED AND LOVED.THANK YOU for laying down your LIFE for OUR COUNTRY AND A FELLOW SOLDIER.You are a TRUE AMERICAN HERO.As your nephew,Eli, said to me"Nanny,Uncle Alex was the BEST and I miss him.I want to be like him when I grow up."Now that your in heaven I know you see how many people you touched and made a difference in their life.
We love you
Monica Bast-Briesum
April 29, 2008
I am the mother from a friend and girlfriend from Cor Strik. They miss him so much, just like you miss Alex. Now one year later their sadness is still there and will always be there. Cor was a hero, tjust like your son and husband. I give you my love and i,ll think of you. Sorry that my english is bad.
Christine Koch
April 21, 2008
Susan,
I realize today it has been a year since you lost your son, your hero, your american treasure. I am sorry and I am glad we have become friends. Alex is resting with Steven and all the soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country they so truly loved.
The soldier stood and faced his God which must always come to pass... He hoped his shoes were shining, Just as brightly as his brass. "Step forward now, you soldier, How shall I deal with you? Have you always turned the other cheek? To my church have you been true?"
The soldier squared his shoulders and said, "No lord, I guess i ain't... Because those of us who carry guns Can't always be a saint. I've had to work most Sundays and at times my talk was tough, and sometimes I've been violent, because the streets are awfully tough. But I never took a penny That wasn't mine to keep... though I worked a lot of overtime When the bills got just too steep, And I never passed a cry for help, Though at times I shook with fear, and sometimes, god forgive me, I've wept unmanly tears. I know I don't deserve a place among the people here... They never wanted me around Except to calm their fears. If you've a place for me here, Lord, It needn't be so grand, I never expected or had too much, But if you don't "I'll understand". There was a silence all around the throne where the saints had often trod...As the soldier waited quietly, For the judgment of his God, "Step Forward now you soldier, walk peacefully on Heaven's street, Youv've done your time in Hell."
Dedicated To All that Serve...God Bless America!!!
Author Unknown
Susan you and your family are forever in my prayers..
Christine Koch
Safely Home
Michael Iezzi
April 21, 2008
Alex,
Thinking and praying for you on the 1st anniversary of your passing into eternal glory. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends", John 15:13.
In Memory of Alexander ( Debra Estep )
April 20, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers today.
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 Alexander, but I am remembering on
this day he gave his all.
He is my hero.
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL
The Other Side
(Beautiful song to share)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Marilyn Hiller
April 20, 2008
Alex, a year has passed since you were suddenly taken from all who loved and knew you. There is not a day that goes by that we don’t have you in our thoughts and prayers. You are our hero forever. You left deep memories in all the hearts you touched and will always be present with us no matter what. Our prayers go with your Mom, Dad and your entire family. We love you, Aunt Marilyn, Uncle Robert and Cousins.
Susan van Aalten
April 19, 2008
Dear Son, You have always been our hero! We miss you and love you so much. You will forever be in our hearts. I don't know how we have gotten through this year with out you. We love you Mom and Dad
Sgt-Maj RNLAF John van Benten
November 22, 2007
With upmost respect
FCSA Coty Flatt
October 4, 2007
Alex,
You alaways were a friend and you taught me so much about leadership. I would have loved to have served under you and with you. You would always do what was right, even when no one was watching you, I always admired that.
Kathy Cosgrove-Kelly
September 28, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Mary Hebblethwaite
September 28, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss. Your son's dedication to his country and his men is wonderful. May you eventually find the peace you deserve.
September 27, 2007
God Bless you and your Son. This Great Country was founded on the Spirit of Freedom and Rightiousness that must have coarsed through him and those he loved. A Firend
Barbara Marhatta
September 25, 2007
condolences to your family on the loss of Alexander
Michael Neale
September 18, 2007
To the Family of Sgt. Alexander Van Aalten I would like to extend my utmost sympathy for your loss. My son Mark served with him with the 1-508th Delta Company. Alexander was not only his Seargent, but was also my son's friend. He will be forever rembered as a man who died doing what he thought was right - to rescue a fallen comrade. He is a hero - a true American hero, and should be remembered by all as such.
May God show him mercy, and keep him at His right hand before the gates of Heaven.
Sincerely
Michael R. Neale
Patsy Jo Reed Sircy
August 14, 2007
Sincere sympathy and love, Pat - R.N.
August 13, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Sgt van Aalten and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of 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)
Dennis
July 21, 2007
I want to pay my respects to the familiy and friends of Alexander. I didn't know Alexander but I was A friend of Cor Strik, the persons body he tried to recover. Sadly enough two young boys gave their lives in a country far from their own, far from their family and friends. My deepest respects to both, Alexander and Cor. I'm glad to have known Cor and have respect for Alexander who gave his life for someone unknown to him.
I salute you.
Dennis.
July 16, 2007
For the Van Aalten family:
I wish to express my condolences for your loss. I did not know Alex, but I graduated with Dax at Monterey High School. May God bless you and comfort you still.
Eric Welch
Iasi, Romania
Sgt. David Cyr
July 12, 2007
Alex, you are a fine man, a good friend and a great soldier. It was a pleasure to serve with you, God bless you. To the Van Aalten family, I am deeply sorry for your loss, but I also thank you for the privilage of knowing such great patriot. Alex you may be gone but never forgotten, your friend
Sgt.Cyr
Nicole van Aalten
June 28, 2007
I miss you little brother!!! You truely are my HERO!!! It still hurts....
SGT Nicole van Aalten
ROBYN Garside
May 28, 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. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. GODSPEED AND SEMPER FI.
A PROUD MARINE MOM
Jessie Spaulding
May 15, 2007
Van Aalten family:
I am so sorry for your loss. I am the wife of Sgt. Richard Spaulding who is also serving in Afghanistan right now and was formerly part of Alex's unit. I didn't know Alex well, but I know that he was a respected soldier. You have my deepest sympathies.
Tom Gugliuzza
May 13, 2007
My heartfelt sympathy to the van Aalten family in the loss of Alexander. I did not know Alexander, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person 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. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. Alexander you are my 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~
Barb Aldridge
May 8, 2007
Grief is a long and difficult journey that we sometimes we travel alone, sometimes with others, and always, with God.
Connie Stinson
May 8, 2007
Alex is a true AMERICAN HERO.He gave his life to try to save another Soldier.Alex is MY SON-IN-LAW and For Three Years I have been BLESSED to have him in Our Family.HE COMPLETED MY DAUGHTER's LIFE.Everything that he touched or anyone that got to know Alex was Blessed.His SMILE would light up the WHOLE ROOM.He made such A DIFFERENCE in all us,he brought out the goodness in everyone.I know I will get to see him again someday,because not only was he AN AMERICAN SOLDIER BUT A CHRISTIAN AMERICAN SOLDIER.HE WILL LIVE ON FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS AND NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.Please lets All JOIN TOGETHER AND PRAY FOR ALL THE TROOPS EVERYDAY.WE LOVE YOU ALEX AND WE WILL MISS YOU FOREVER.
Glen
May 5, 2007
“Soldier”
Written to Honor the Service of Our Fallen Soldiers
Soldiers write history…they pay the price
Many miles distant, you live the life
Entered the Battle of our own free will
Out of Duty for Country, and we’d do it still
We hope and pray that all will find peace
In God, in the flag, in memories of valor
Gone now, our pride and courage you see
“An Army of One” our motto forever
Willing to risk all for love of our Brothers
We’re still Your Soldiers…and we showed the way
Our Lives too short, now pray for the others
Lived free died Heroes in lands far away
Deep within souls all cherished our Service
We’ll always have what some never know
Courage and Honor, our names forever
Lived life with purpose…just our time to go
We march in the Heavens with Honor and Glory
Missions accomplished we fought the Good Fight
Many years from now…we’ll tell the full story
Until that Day we will live in the Light
Our lives we laid down in a land far away
Still watching o’er you this night and by day
No need to talk…just know we are with you
There in your hearts and we hear what you pray
Yes we are your soldiers
Our lives we laid down
Still We guard o’er you
Still Duty bound
Entered the Battle of our own free will
Out of Duty for Country, and we’d do it still
We’ll always have what some never know
Lived life with purpose…it was our time to go
Samantha Smith
May 3, 2007
Dear Alex,
Not a day has gone by that I haven't thought about how great it was to know you over the last 7 years. You are my hero and my inspiration. You have shown me what true devotion is, and I promise to never waste a moment. As I stood on the street watching you pass by for the last time, I know that you would want us to keep moving forward and continue to pursue the goal of freedom and peace. I thank you for all the memories and most of all for your sacrifice. Just as Jesus laid down his life for us, so have you. Forever in my heart you will remain. I love you, and miss you.
Russ Mullen
May 1, 2007
I will miss you Alex, you are a true hero.
The Deans
April 30, 2007
Our family offers our deepest sympathy for the loss of this tremendous young man. My son attended high school with Alex at CHS and knew him well. We admire his dedication to all of us...what an honorable life he lived.
Dennis (USMC - Vietman) & Pam Robertson
April 30, 2007
We are saddened at the loss of this fine young soldier, a hero. May God comfort and embrace you as only He can. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
In loving memory of our nephew
Lance Cpl James R. Davenport KIA 11/22/06
Trudy Lowe
April 30, 2007
My heartfelt sympathies to your family. My heart breaks with each new name added to this list, and I am saddened by your loss. Know that you are surrounded by prayers, grace and the deep gratitude of all who live in freedom. My God hold you in his arms and grant you peace. Please find joy in the memories of your loved one and comfort knowing so many are holding you in their hearts.
SGT Steven Secor
April 30, 2007
Alex, you will be missed brother.
stefan straten
April 30, 2007
Dear Van Aalten-family. I want to express my deepest sympathy to you all. Alex made the biggest sacrifice possible by volunteering for a dangerous assignment, trying to help his Dutch colleagues who had previously lost a corporal. He is a true hero.
Alex, Rest in Peace and thank you for what you did and what you believed in.
A very gratefull Dutch lieutenant who served in Iraq, the same time you were there.
Kelly
April 30, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Dawn Gerardi
April 30, 2007
We appreciate Alex's courage and dedication to our country. He died fighting for what he believed, helping others. Although his death was untimely, his life had purpose. To Ed,Susan,Shana,Nicole & Dax our thoughts and prayers will always be with you. Love the Gerardi family.
Nancy Sahlberg
April 29, 2007
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007
Maureen
April 29, 2007
Traveling through TN, we saw Alex's name on billboards in Cookeville. Please know that Alex and all his family are in our prayers. We are forever indebted to Alex for his sacrifice and may the memory of his fortitude, dedication, and love of our country bring some measure of comfort.
1LT Drew Schaffer
April 29, 2007
Alex,
You were a great soldier and a stellar individual, I am grateful for having had the honor of being your Platoon Leader and friend. I will never forget you coming in the middle of the night to pull Lathrop and I out of the NTA when our pickup got stuck. You are one of the most caring and honorable people I know and you will always be a part of me. Thank you for all that you have done and I'm sorry that this happened. Shauna and family, I thank you for giving me the opportunity to have known such a wonderful person and know that you are all in my daily prayers!
PROUD AMERICAN
April 28, 2007
Thank you so much for standing on the front lines for our country. You and the other troops are always in my prayers. My you rest in peace, for peace and freedom is what you gave your life for.
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