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Alex Varela Obituary


VARELA, Alex
Born on January 29, 1988, and entered into rest May 19, 2007, in Baghdad, Iraq. Alex was a Private 1st Class for the United States Army. He is survived by his loving parents Rinda and Roger, sister Jennifer, and brother Roger. He is also survived by stepbrother Shane Pope, and stepsister Kirsten Bendure. He is also survived by his two grandmothers, Ramona DeHart and Josephine Varela, aunts, uncles, niece, nephew, and a multitude of other loving family and friends. He was preceded in death by his two grandfathers, Jack DeHart and Henry Varela. Alex is a hero that will truly be missed. Remembrances can be made in his honor at taps.org. A visitation will be held at MOUNT VERNON MEMORIAL PARK, 8201 Greenback Lane, Fair Oaks, Calif., on Wednesday, May 30, at 10:00 AM with services immediately following at 1:00 AM.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee on May 30, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Alex Varela

Not sure what to say?





Charlie Gili

November 3, 2022

Hello,

We wanted you to know that we will be honoring and remembering your loved one this holiday season. We are sending Care Packages to our deployed troops in his name. Each package will carry the name, photo, service branch, rank and hometown of Alexander R. Varela US Army Private 1st Class.

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, their families, friends and many others who support our mission.

We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.

Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of our US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign

CPT James S. Jones (Ret)

May 25, 2020

13 Years. For me, its like it was yesterday.
Hello Rinda,. Though I`ve not followed events of your life lately, I think of you and your family often.
I`ve since retired from the Army, but having served for so many years, I guess you could say I was raised by it. Of all that I did, all that I saw, nothing was harder to do, than knock on your door that day. Though our meeting was brief in the context of time, It lives forever. Again, I`m sorry for the news I brought.
So many times I look at my own Sons and imagine what Alex would be, of what his life would look like.
My Son Lonnie came with me to his burial at Mt Vernon. Thanks for allowing that. Lonnie had grown up with me being a Soldier, but I wanted him to see what that life may bring, prior to his own enlistment.
He served an now has two little girls. He and I will still talk about Alex now and then. Alex would be 32, Lon is 31. Lonnie went to Casa Roble HS so Orangevale was our home.
Enough about myself and my family. I just want to say to you again, Thank You for your service, Thank You for raising a great young man. And mostly, just to let you know, Alex will live forever in so many ways. I pray that Gods peace finds you, and that you and your family live in his love.

Skye Long

May 19, 2020

13 Years and I don't think there's a single day that I don't hear his voice in my head or his laugh distant in the background. It still feels like just yesterday getting that dreaded call. You are missed my friend, greatly.

CPT James Jones (Ret)

May 18, 2018

Rinda, been thinking about our meeting again. Especially at this time. Just want you to know Alex is never forgotten. Though it's now been 11 years, our meeting seems as though it was yesterday. I continue to pray for your families peace and comfort and want you to know someone else is thinking of you and Alex today.

CPT James Jones

December 24, 2017

Dear Rinda and Roger,
It has now been another 5 years since my last post. It's now Christmas Eve 2017. And as I said in my last post, You and Alex live within me. Again, the pain of bringing the news of his passing has stayed with me for so many days. And as I said, this will stay with me, till the end of my days on Earth.
I am so sorry to have brought that news to You, Roger, and Jennifer. It hurts. Though even now I can't even imagine the pain you feel. I do know that what I feel causes me to understand that Alex stood for something greater in life. I retired as a Soldier, I understand that I was only able to be this, because of my family. They knew... And understood.
Alex raised his right hand, to serve a cause, greater than any other. To serve his nation. And I thank you, and his family, for supporting him, as you do his memory. You, and Alex's family should stand proud. Knowing you raised a great young man, taken before his time. Thanks for his, and your service to our country.
I hurt today, especially as its Christmas Eve. If I could give you any present at all, it would be the chance to touch his face, kiss him, and let him know he is loved.
Again, I am sorry for that day we met, but Alex lives with me forever, as you and your family too.
On behalf of Alex, an myself, have a joyous Christmas, and know you are loved. Merry Christmas Rinda.

karon calhoun

February 18, 2013

to the family of alex on 1-29-2013 my cousin gave me a few things he found and one of the things he found was a dog tag oneside has his pic. and says alex our hero and the other has his name rank and the day he was born and the day he died this must be alexs way of telling all of you he is still with you alex was a hero contact me if any of you would like to get it back if not i will continue to wear it thank u karon calhoun

Anna Bel

February 9, 2013

Was an amazing friend and is still thought of and missed daily. Miss him lots!! When I moved to Fernley in High school he was the first person to welcome me and become a friend of mine.
Never forgotten

Peggy Childers

May 19, 2012

To the family and friends of Pfc. Alexander R. Varela:
Always remembering Alexander. "Some gave all."

James Jones

February 22, 2012

Rinda, its now been almost 5 yrs since I came to your door step to tell you Alex had died. Still a Soldier, this was one of my most difficult missions. I think of him, of you, and your family so often. I read the news articles and am so proud of you and the way you continue to build on the memory of Alex and who he was. I hope that your family are okay, and believe that in times of pain and doubt Alex comes to you with words of comfort. As I said before, he is not forgotten and he will live with me all my days. Love and peace to you and your family.
SFC James S. Jones

Peggy Childers

May 19, 2011

To the family and friends of Pfc. Alexander R. Varela:
Please accept my remembrance of Alexander on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

Laurie Orcutt

December 17, 2010

Ello love, your are the brightest star that I see at night. You are a soul that looks down on us now. You are the person that we no longer see anymore, you are the one that we miss more and more. Never to talk to you again or see your smiling face how it lights ups when you are with your friends being a young man. Love you , always in my heart. I remember you and cody together just being boys.

Peggy Childers

May 19, 2010

To the family and friends of Pfc. Alexander R. Varela:
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

nick vargas

February 5, 2010

i loved him and he was my favorite uncle.rip alex we love and miss you.

SGT Alexander Silveira

December 25, 2009

I hardly knew you but j know you were a good guy I know your dad a big thing for my mom.... Sad it had to end this way but I will never forget one of my brothers that have fallen cause we are strong forever in our hearts

Peggy Childers

May 19, 2009

To the family of Pfc. Alexander R. Varela:
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 deepeset sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Eleazar Varela

March 12, 2009

Truly, there are no words that can Express to you the sorrow I fell, for your Sibling. My heart is heavy and will always be greatful for the what he has done, not only for me, but also My Family. Right Now I have My Son, in the Marines based in North Carolina Camp Lejeune His name is Cory Varela. I pray for him every single day and hope he finds his way home to me, with all my love to you and yours.

Kenna Larra

January 29, 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

June 27, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Pfc Varela!

In Memory of Alexander ~ (Debra Estep)

May 19, 2008

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 Alexander, but I am remembering
his service. 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

Visit this link to hear the song.

The Other Side –
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol



Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

Please contact me and I will email you back a copy of my
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.

SFC James Jones

February 29, 2008

Rinda, We met when I came to tell you Alex had died. I hurt so badly inside, felt so weak. Our eyes met and I knew I would know you for my remaining days. Another Soldier, I remember Alex too. I pray the pain has softened some. I'd like to visit when my tour is over and I'm home. I send my prayers to all. SFC James S. Jones

Karen Cupples

February 12, 2008

Thank you for your son and his service to our country. He has paid the ultimate sacrifice and so has all his family. I pray his memories will bring you comfort and help you to carry on for him.

How awesome to have DJ too! He's a wonderful connection for you.

God Bless and comfort you.

Jennie Morales

January 24, 2008

I saw your story on CNN this morning. I think it is wonderful that your family got DJ.DJ will be a great addition to your family. Maybe DJ can take a little of the heartache away.

We are forever indebted to Alex and his family for the sacrifice made so that we are free and safe.

Always remember Alex was welcomed into paradise where there is no more pain or sorrow only joy, love and peace. He has earned his wings and halo. As long as you hold tight to your precious memories his smile will shine on.

We pray for all our men and women in harms way, that they will be strong, stay safe and keep this land free so that Alex, as well as all our fallen heroes, will lie eternally, forever free.

"To live in the hearts of those you leave behind is never to die"

"Cry because he is gone, smile because he lived"

Jennie, Alexandria and Frank Morales Family Of Cpl. William Taylor, USMC, 2/6 WPNS, KIA 11/30/05

Tim L.

January 24, 2008

Dear Family of PFC. Alex Varela,
My wife just came home from a doctor's appointment. While sitting in the waiting room, she watched a story about "DJ", the puppy Alex took care of while in Iraq who is now with his mother, Rinda Pope. I was so intrigued by what my wife said about that story of Private DJ, that I Googled Private DJ's name to find the web site put up by his Army buddies. As an Army veteran, I am proud of what these soldiers did for your family to honor Alex, I am even prouder of the six men who are very much a part of Private DJ's story, who are now on eternal partrol in the heavens.

I am so sad to know that five other fine soldiers lost their lives on that same day that Alex did and as a result of the same IED incident. Losing even one soldier is one too many, but to lose so many at one time is devastating and so very tragic.

Thank you to all of those brave men and women who have given their lives in support of our great country. Thank you to all of you who continue to serve or have served.

Thank you to the six brave men from 1st Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, who gave their lives in honor of our country.


Roll Call of the Fallen Six

Staff Sgt. Christopher Moore, 28, of Alpaugh, Calif.
Sgt. Jean P. Medlin, 27, of Pelham, Ala.
Spc. David W. Behrle, 20, of Tipton, Iowa.
Spc. Joseph A. Gilmore, 26, of Webster, Fla.
Pfc. Travis F. Haslip, 20, of Ooltewah, Tenn.
Pfc. Alexander R. Varela, 19, of Fernley, Nev.

You will never be forgotten.

Rest in peace, my brothers.

Alex and I at his birthday party while he was on leave January 2007.

Alexandria Avant

December 7, 2007

Alex was a wonderful person and he is missed so much by not only me but all of his friends in Fernley.... He was a gift to us and I miss him sooo much......He was my best friend and my boyfriend.... Rest in peace... I love you

skye long

September 6, 2007

Rinda and Roger I cant even begin to imagine loosing a child but I know how it is to loose a best friend thats what he is to me and the pain will never leave my stomach. I know he loved us all and I feel comfort in remembering his smile.

August 16, 2007

There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family 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, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) 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
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)

August 15, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Pfc Varela and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

Don Noonan

July 11, 2007

I cannot begin to express my gratitude and sympathy to you and your family. It is of little consequence what I say here but he (and others) gave me and my family the greatest gift any man can give. I thank God every day for people like Alexander Varela. A man and a hero in every sense. I will wear your bracelet inscribed with "YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN" PFC ALEXANDER VARELA KIA MAY 19, 2007 IRAQ US ARMY" for the remainder of my life.
God bless you Alexander Varela! and God bless America!

Ardis , Kay & Don Miller

July 8, 2007

Dear Rinda, Ramona & family
Words really cannot express the sadness we feel for your loss.Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.May God be with you and help you to bare your loss in these difficult times

Glen

June 21, 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

ROBYN garside

June 9, 2007

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. PLEASE ACCEPY MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES FOR YOUR GREAT LOSS. 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

Tina Gaunt

June 6, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are so thankful for heroes like your son and the others so that we may sleep peacefully at night. At David's service a beautiful story was told of Alex, David& SSG Moore helping to save the life of a little Iraqi girl. They are heroes in everyone's eyes and will never be forgotten.
Tina and Neil Gaunt

Jessica Brown

June 6, 2007

I am best friends with Alex's cousins..The Benjamins, i remember him coming to stay with them over a summer's time, and that's when i got to know him.He loved that game HALO. He would get so frustrated with me, because i asked so many questions about the halo game when he was playing. It was such a fun summer, that will never be forgotten!!

Brian Lindy

June 5, 2007

I didn't know Alex personally, but I attended and graduated from Folsom High School with his mother, Rinda. I've known Rinda since high school. I'm glad to have attended Alex's service. Alex is a true HERO for defending our country and the war on terror.
I'm a Navy veteran. I know he is with our Heavenly Father right now. He's not PFC anymore - he just got "promoted".

Tom Gugliuzza-Smith

June 4, 2007

My heartfelt sympathy to the Varela 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~

Shera Pillsbury

June 2, 2007

Dear Varela Family,

We are so sorry for your loss and so thankful you had a young man in your family so willing to protect our freedoms. We come from a family who have fought in many wars - Korean War, World War II, Vietnam Way, Desert Storm Way and the War In Iraq.

We are the family at Mt. Vernon placed next to you (#5), and I can think of no person finer for my father to be near, than your son.

It's a remarkable sacrifice and incredible loss; if we can do anything for you ever, please don't hesitate to ask us. We'd love to help you in any way possible.

God Bless you and your family during this time. It is very hard, we are coming to learn.

Always by your side, the Pillsbury Family

~Shera Pillsbury

Amy

June 1, 2007

I met Alex through my boyfriend, Mike, while in high school. I didn't know him very well, but every memory that I do have of him, he's always smiling! He was such a nice guy, always making people laugh. I wasn't aware that he had given his heart to God, I have to say that I was overjoyed when I heard that he was a christian. I'm so sad for his family but I'm glad to know that he's with God. Many people don't know where they're going to go when it's there time, but Alex knew. I want to express my upmost and sincere condolences to his family and friends. He will be missed but I know we'll see him again. Like his "Unc" said, "this isn't goodbye, it's just see ya later!"

Yvette Kelley

May 31, 2007

To the Varela and DeHart Family...
I did not know Alex, but I know Ramona. My husband is a SGT in the Army and we are stationed at Fort Hood, TX. Alex made a GREAT sacrafice for this country and our freedom. One that we all honor. I would like to send our familys' condolences to both sides of the family and may GOD keep you in his care and be with you always, may he comfort you in this time of sorrow. If there is anything that I can do for the you please contact me.

Yvette Kelley

Tina Meyers

May 30, 2007

I am sorry for the loss of your son, brother, grandson. Thank you for the most significant sacrifice a family can make. Your son died a hero, just as he lived his life as a hero.
Freedom is not free and he paid the ultimate price for me and for that I will always be grateful.

The Villarreal-Root Family

May 30, 2007

Words cannot express the sadness we feel for the loss of your son, Alex. May the memories of a loving son, brother, and grandson sustain you all and bring you strength and peace. Thank you, Alex, for your dedication to service for our country. May God bless you and your family.

Joe Axtell

May 30, 2007

I dont know PFC Alex Varela or his family but I want to thank the Varela family for your sacrifice. PFC Varela VOLUNTEERED in the Armed Forces DURING WARTIME to serve his country. To me there is no greater act of patriotism than this. To PFC Varela and all the other sons and daughters you are what make this the greatest country in the world! God bless you young soldiers.

Penny Anderson

May 30, 2007

We are so sorry for the loss of your son Alex. Although we didn't know him personally, he was a friend of our son's. We respect his courage and appreciate his service to this country. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

The Haskin Family

May 30, 2007

Thank you for serving your country and for your sacrifice. May God grant your family peace at this difficult time.

MAUREEN EATON

May 30, 2007

YOU ARE A HERO. THANK YOU FOR SERVING OUR COUNTRY AND FOR HARD WORK AND DILEGENCE. YOU WILL BE MISSED BY MANY, BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN. GOD BLESS YOU. GOD BLESS RINDA AND HER FAMILY.

a h

May 30, 2007

To the family of this young man, may god be with you at this difficult time,I dident know Alex but I do know he's a hero!!!

Gigi R.

May 30, 2007

I do not know this young man or his family--However, I am deeply thankful for his dedication and committment in keeping our country safe--God Bless!

Josephine Adame-Flores

May 30, 2007

Rinda, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May your memories comfort you.

Barbara Kennedy

May 30, 2007

Please know that a grateful nation shares your grief. May the cherished memories of those who loved Alex and those he loved be of comfort as we all mourn the loss.

Sharon Wilcox

May 30, 2007

One of OrangeVale's own...a true "HERO" in every sense of the word. How proud we are of this young man who gave his life so unselfishly to protect our much-treasured freedom. Bravery, heroic, honor, strength of character.....not enough words to describe him.

May 30, 2007

Thank you for your service Alex.

Jean & Randy Wright

May 30, 2007

Rinda, there is no love greater than the one between a mother and her child or a loss deeper than losing a child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve the loss of Alex. Alex will be greatly missed and his smile will never be forgotten. He is a true HERO and will always be our HERO.

Delfina Alejandrez

May 30, 2007

To the Varela Family, I didn't know your son or your family, but I just wanted to say "Thank You", for having a son that believed in Our Country....May Our Lord comfort you and yours in your time of need.

Darlene Johnson

May 30, 2007

Rinda, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this extremely difficult time. May it help you to know many many people are praying with you today and always. I know how very proud you are of Alex and that he is smiling in God's loving arms.

Sharon Kuhlemier

May 30, 2007

Rinda, words cannot express my sorrow at the loss of Alex. Know that others care and will be there for you. Let your memories carry you through and find peace in Alex's memory. Love, Sharon

Ronn Massie

May 25, 2007

God bless the family and friends of Alexander.
You will all be in our prayers.
Thank you Alexander for being such a brave hero.

(In remembrance of Cpl. Joey Cantrell 4-4-07)

Susan Colley-Monk

May 25, 2007

For each soldier that has fallen so that many may stand
We honor their spirit as they pass to God’s hand

For without their sacrifice we would live forever in fear
We pray for their loved ones and provide a salute and a tear

God help us heal the wounds of hate and the misery of war
That is our gift to our fallen heroes that are amongst us no more.

Written by my friend, C. Gragg and submitted by a parent of a 1-5 CAV soldier deployed in Baghdad, Iraq

SHIRLEY DONEY

May 25, 2007

REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND, TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS MAY THE MEMORIES OF THIS WONDERFUL SOLDIERS LIFE FILL YOUR HEARTS WITH BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES
GOD BLESS YOU

Garnet Jenkins

May 23, 2007

Please know how Deeply Sorry I am to learn of the loss of Pfc. Alexander R. Varela, the Price this Brave Young Soldier and his family have paid for this country and for freedom, Will Never Be Forgotten.

May Alexander rest safely in the Loving Care of God and may the Grace and Comfort of the Lord be with the Varela family.
There will Never Be Enough Ways to Humbly Thank these Heroes for their Sacrifices, my 19 year old brother among them. Killed in action in Vietnam, in 1967.

"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that shall be revealed in us."
~ Romans 8:18 ~

May the Peace of God and your precious memories of Alexander, remain in your heart always and give you comfort and strength through the difficult days ahead.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Sandy Bonesteel

May 22, 2007

As the mother of a son (my only child) who is enlisted in the Army, I want to send my condolences.

Carol Cline

May 21, 2007

Know in your heart that you are a true hero and will never be forgotten. All gave some, some gave all. Rest in peace. You will be missed by everyone’s life you have touched.

To the family, as the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family, friends, and all Americans for the sacrifice of one of your family members for our freedom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort in the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father.

FRed (USMC Ret)

May 21, 2007

It is with the deepest sadness that I ask the family and friends of this brave young Soldier to accept the offer of my most sincere and heart felt condolences. I hope that you know that your loss is shared and mourned by millions of Americans. Most of whom you don’t know and in all probability will never meet. We sincerely appreciate the sacrifices made by your patriot.

Freedom is not free; it is paid for by our heroes, and for those who fight for it, Freedom has a flavor the protected will never know! This soldier made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

WE MUST NEVER FORGET!!

I know the pain parents feel when they loose a child. I lost a son 19 years ago. It is a pain that defies description. It is a pain that never goes away. It is a pain that will never end. It is a pain that is all consuming.

I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

May God Bless and keep you today, tomorrow and forever!

Rest in Peace brave soldier; you did your duty with great honor, dedication, distinction and in the highest traditions of our great country.

Semper Fidelis

debbi rivers

May 21, 2007

As this war goes on it pains me to sign another fallen soldier's page. My son SPC Harry (Buck) Winkler was killed on November 12, 2006, I know all too well the pain the parents are going through. I stand ready with sincere invitation that if I can help emotionally in any way please contact me. I don't know the name of this great soldier but I do know the pain that you each face. May God protect the Parents, Spouses and Families of all our fallen soldiers and Bless them with His healing love as only He can. Please contact me at anytime. I'm here as a mother who understands the grief you too endure. Debbi

Gary Allain

May 21, 2007

you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.

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