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Eric Cottrell Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Eric Cottrell
SGT B. Benefield
May 8, 2024
Never forgotten ~ I served with him in Iraq in 2004-2005. He was a great person to serve beside. R/ Retired SGT Benefield
Christine Watkins
January 25, 2024
Happy birthday Eric, thinking of you not only today but every day.
Christine Watkins
May 27, 2023
Thanking you for your ultimate sacrifice not only this Memorial Day but every day.
Much love and appreciation my friend
Christine Watkins
August 13, 2021
Taken to soon, not a day goes by that I don’t think about you. Keep heaven safe my friend. Much love..
Toni Daigneault
May 31, 2021
I think of you often my ole friend. You taught both me and my brother how to go froggin' properly and track animals, when we were all kids. Not one day goes by that I'm not thankful that our mom's were the best of friends and we got to know you all. Thank you Eric for being our hero. We all miss you. RIP Goat.
-Toni Daigneault
(Ethel's Daughter)
Toni Daigneault
May 31, 2021
I think of you often my ole friend. You taught both me and my brother how to go froggin' properly and track animals, when we were all kids. Not one day goes by that I'm not thankful that our mom's were the best of friends and we got to know you all. Thank you Eric for being our hero. We all miss you. RIP
January 25, 2021
Happy birthday
♡ your mini me
Christine Watkins
January 25, 2021
Today you would be 53, you would be so disappointed in what's going on down here. Not a day goes by that I don't think about you. As always there will be a silver bullet with your name on it. Happy Birthday my Friend
Christine Watkins
August 13, 2020
13 years gone by, it still hurts the same. Never a day goes by I don't think of you. I will have a cold silver bullet for you today.
Christine
August 13, 2020
13 years gone by, it still hurts the same. Never a day goes by I don't think of you. I will have a cold silver bullet for you today.
Retired (SGT) Benefield
May 23, 2020
Goat, You are never to be forgotten. That is sure. It's getting close to another Memorial Day. I see a few from our rotation in 2004-2005. We all miss you, but know you did your job well. Best few memories of you for your family: 1) you were intimidating and quiet upon first introduction, but you crack a smile to make everyone know you're reliable and friendly; 2) for some odd reason, you chose me to teach on the SAW lane pre-mob (it was an honor to be chosen); and 3) you saw all of my knives strapped to my gear, first night in the Baghdad chow hall and said the most unsuspecting thing, "Easy... Evil"....it's a good laugh at myself today. Thank you for that PCC. It still makes my day when ever I think about it. Love that I got to serve with you and I hope your family is well ~ R.I.P.
Mike Nichols
May 29, 2016
Yes we are thinking about you, have been and always will.
Luis Arevalo
May 27, 2016
DOC!
Just thought I'd swing by and let you know we still think about you. Thanks for all those times you walked to my door to see if I was feeling better!
Norris Waters
January 25, 2015
Gone but never forgotton...i miss you brother especially today...(happy birthday)
Mike NICHOLS
November 20, 2014
When you stuck your head around the door and grinned it made my day. Thank You Goat!!!!!
November 20, 2014
Goat, All you had to do was stick your head in the door and grin and it made my day right. THANKS
Spc. Adam Heard
November 19, 2014
"Goat" was a great guy. Very sarcastic but in a funny way. To think of someone I served with being gone makes me sad but knowing that He gave his life for the country we love gives some comfort. May god bless and comfort his family and friends. RIP Goat
Christine Watkins
August 13, 2014
7 years ago today, you left this earth to rest. The pain and sadness still feel fresh. You are missed and thought of daily. RIP my friend I will have that cold one for you today.
SSG Eric J. Conyers
May 27, 2014
On this memorial day I honor you Staff Sergeant Eric D. Thomas Cottrell. Always miss you, and love to your family.
Mike
May 26, 2014
Thinking of you.
Jeff Raney
May 25, 2014
Cottrell was an all around great guy. nothing he wouldnt do for his soldiers. Great,great man.
Marc Brooks
January 20, 2014
There's not a day that goes by that your not in my thoughts. You are missed my brother. Prayers are still with your family.
Jeremy
November 11, 2013
Just think of ya all the time. Especially round days like today. Wonder how your family is doing. I miss ya a lot. Never will forget our last conversation. I love ya bro.
September 20, 2013
Sorry that has been two years. Time seems
to past faster as we get older but we have not forgotten my friend.
Mike
SSG Eric J Conyers
September 18, 2013
It's been 7 years when I saw you last. you was good friend and DAM GOOD MEDIC miss you a lot. You will never be forgotten.
Christine Watkins
August 13, 2013
I hide my tears when I say your name but the pain in my heart is still the same, though I smile and seem carefree there's no one who misses you more than me. Missing you still today as though it was yesterday the angels took you. I hope paradise is treating you well my friend.
Peggy Childers
August 13, 2013
To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Eric D. Cottrell:
Always remembering Eric. "Some gave all."
Christine Watkins
January 24, 2013
Tomorrow is your birthday, I will have a cold silver one for you. You are missed daily. Happy Birthday My Friend
October 7, 2012
In rememberance.
Christine Watkins
August 10, 2012
Monday 13,Aug 2012 will be 5 years it seems like yesterday, how the tears stil fall. Your elusive smile and laughter still accompany me. You were a great friend and devoted soldier. Your life will never be forgotten.
Mike Nichols
August 8, 2012
Know that he is still in our hearts.
Hero, warrior but most important friend.
Forever!
SGT James Duncan, Ret.
September 1, 2011
I was also honored to have Eric as a friend in Ft Bliss, TX. He was an awesome family man who constantly talked about his family and children. I was devastated to learn of his death. I will always pray for him and his family. Rest in peace, My friend.
Mike Nichols
August 14, 2011
We have not forgotten and we continue to miss him.
Mike
Peggy Childers
August 13, 2011
To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Eric D. Cottrell:
Please accept my remembrance of Eric on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
August 14, 2010
Eric,
We miss you old friend!
Mike
Peggy Childers
August 13, 2010
To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Eric D. Cottrell:
Remembering Eric 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
Phil Begay
March 19, 2010
Doc,
Our Hero and True Warrior. You are missed and Loved by many brother. Watch and take care from above like you always did outside the wire. You will not be forgotten. I was remembering the good talks we had and the bs'ing we did. I am proud to have served with you and thankful to have known you. Much Love and Respect.
Peggy Childers
August 13, 2009
To the family of Staff Sgt. Eric D. Cottrell:
Eric 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
KB Richard
August 13, 2009
Hey, Doc. It's me again. It's 2 years today. A lot of of our people are back there again, but it's almost over. I'm engaged now, and I think you'd like her. Make sure you take care of P and Lopez, and keep them out of trouble.
Christine Watkins
August 12, 2009
Its been two years and it still seems like yesterday. Your memory, your dedication, your friendship, and your spirit will live on with me forever. You are a hero
Rest well my friend I know in my heart that God has put you in the Best of the Best rooms of his many mansion.......
Sherry, and Family You are remembered as well every day for the sacrifice you all made being committed to a service Hero
Always
Christine Watkins
Clemons Family
May 25, 2009
Thinking of you today. Remembering you on Memorial Day.
Christine Watkins
May 24, 2009
On this memorial day just like every day I remember the ultimate sacrifice you made for our country. Thank you for giving up your tomorrows so that we can have all of ours in freedom.
Your still in my thoughts daily you will always be my hero, With much love you are missed.
KB Richard
May 11, 2009
Hey Doc. Life was not the same in 3rd without you, P, and Lopez. I still cry sometimes, even though you would probably call me a *ussy. I miss you, Doc.
Lisa Swanzy (Sad yet THANKFUL American)
April 27, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. Thank you Staff Sgt. Cottrell and family for your service and ultimate sacrifice. You will ALWAYS be an Alabama/American hero and WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!
With DEEP sympathy and MANY thanks to you and your family,
Mike Nichols
December 16, 2008
We have not forgotten our friend and comrade during this holiday season. To Eric's family, we wish you peace.
Kenna Larra
December 15, 2008
We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families at this time. This is a Nonprofit Organization to honor are Soldiers!
FREE OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING OF THIS HERO. COMPLETE FORM AT WWW.HEROPAINTINGS.COM
Please contact us! 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
Christine Watkins
October 18, 2008
I wrote your name on a piece of paper, but by accident I threw it away.
I wrote your name on my hand, but it washed away.
I wrote your name in the sand, but the waves whispered it away.
I wrote your name in my heart, and forever it will stay.
Christine Watkins
August 13, 2008
A year has past but the tears still fall. You are greatly missed, memories of you will last forever in our hearts. You will always be a hero in my eyes. My thoughts and prayers still go out daily for Sherri and the children God bless you all, may you find comfort at the foot of the cross.
In Memory of Eric ~ (Debra Estep)
August 13, 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 Eric, 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
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
Canyon Shearer, Patriot Guard
August 13, 2008
To the family and friends of SSgt Cottrell, please know that we have not forgotten. You are in our thoughts and prayers, especially this week.
Chandra Jefferson
July 3, 2008
It is a day before Independence Day, and I thought this is one of the best times to give honor to someone who fought for the Independence of others. God Bless your family. SSG Cottrell is never forgotten.
July 2, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Staff Sgt Cottrell!
Chris Durk
October 29, 2007
I served with "Goat" in OIFIII. He was a good guy. He will be missed.
Christian Ramirez
October 29, 2007
I served with Eric in 2005 when he was a soldier with the Alabama National Guard. We were medics working together with the Iraqi Special Forces, training and providing support for combat operations and convoys. I served with him for approximately 5 months and we became fast freinds. He was an honorable soldier with a desire to do what he thought was right. He was a man of courage and commitment and I knew I could trust him when things got bad. I will miss him.
Mike Nichols
October 14, 2007
Eric was a good medic & soldier but what made Eric special was that he was a great friend. How it made you smile when you saw him coming or you turned around and saw him standing there with that grin on his face.
For those of us who served with Eric, our hearts are darken by his lose but our memories of Eric and the time we got to spend with him (OIF 04-05)will always put a smile back on our faces.
Chaplain Dan Gates, Georgia Society SAR
September 26, 2007
With the deepest regret, I have just learned of the death of Staff Sergeant Cottrell. As a Vietnam Veteran and the State Chaplain of the Georgia Society, Sons Of The American Revolution, I speak for our President, Charlie A. Newcomer, III and the more than 1,400 SAR members around the State of Georgia in humbly expressing the condolences of a grateful Society. Wrapped in the integrity of service to our nation and the inestimable values of duty, honor and country, your American hero stood on a wall of freedom for us all. His life and his love of country epitomized every attribute of patriotism the Sons Of The American Revolution hold dear. And, as Americans, we could never repay the debt we owe him ..!! Nor the debt we owe you… his family!!!
Donna Probasco
September 19, 2007
To Sherri, Eric's Family, and extended family,
A big hug and thank you to all of you from one small town in Illinois to another small town in Alabama.
You are in our continual thoughts and will never be forgotten.
Donna
Christine Watkins
September 13, 2007
Eric, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for Freedom of press, for freedom of speach, for the right to Life, Liberty, and the prusuit of happieness. I thank you for Proudly suluting the flag of these United States of America for serving the same flag. But my heart is so heavy with saddness for Everyone who Loved you so much because your coffin was draped with the same flag. You will never be forgotten.
My deepest sympathy goes to all of Eric's family may God give you Peace in these times of toruble.
Sincerely
September 10, 2007
I did not know Staff Sgt. Cottrell, but I do know the pain of losing one of these fine heroes. My nephew was KIA on August 4th. They will live on in our hearts forever. Thank you, his family, for your sacrifice.
Sincerely,
Heidi Perry-Hipp
Proud Aunt
Spc. Matthew M. Murchison
KIA August 4, 2007
Baghdad
Jose Piniella
September 6, 2007
Please accept my sympathies. You're all in my thoughts and prayers. Eric is watching over you. Also, my thanks to Eric for defending our freedoms and American ideals. You will not be forgotten.
Debbie Costello
September 5, 2007
To the Cottrell family: I'd like to express my deepest sympathys at the lost of your husband, father, son and brother. Although I did not know him, I do know your pain as my son Jeremiah served with Eric in Iraq and was killed 6/2/07. Just know that there are alot of people praying for you and keeping you in our thoughts.
Dana Havron LTJG USN
September 5, 2007
Mrs. Cottrell & family:
My family's deepest condolances on your tragic loss of Eric. I know you will always be proud of the many accomplishments in his life: valiant Staff Sargent, loving husband and father, defender of freedom, and American hero! God's Speed as you go forward with your life, and be positive as I'm sure Eric would want.
Very Respectfully,
dmk ibelieve
September 2, 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.
Billy Kidd
September 1, 2007
DOC I just wanted to say from the bottom of my heart that you will be missed I will miss all the talks that we had you were more than an NCO to me you were a friend, the first time I met you you gave me my driving test for the humvee you told me to quit driving like a woman and just drive, I will remember you forever you were a soldier, a brother, a friend, and a hero. Keep watch over us you are with us in heart.
Former PFC Kidd
Angie Clemons
August 30, 2007
Sherri and family
My thoughts and prayers are with you always. Eric was a true hero, and will never be forgotten, his memory will always live on in your hearts. Much love to you all.
SHEILA DARNELL
August 29, 2007
DEAREST CUZ- YOU ARE IN OUR HEARTS AT THIS TIME OF YOUR LOSS. WE WOULD LIKE TO BE THERE FOR YOU IF YOU NEED ANYTHING, EVEN A SHOULDER TO CRY ON I KNOW THAT MISSISSIPPI IS A WAYS BUT I'LL TRY TO FIND A WAY TO HELP. I KNOW THAT GOD IS THERE WITH YOU CARRYING YOU THROUGH THIS TRYING TIME JUST AS HE IS FOR THOSE OF US WHO NEED HIM. I WANT TO SAY THANK YOU AND YOUR FAMILY AND THOSE JUST LIKE YOU WHO WORK TO KEEP US ALL SAFE WHILE OUR CHILDREN SLEEP PEACEFULLY AT NIGHT. I STOP TO LET MY KIDS KNOW EVERYDAY THAT ITS THRU THE HARD AND OFTEN DANGEROUS WORK OF OUR SOLDIERS THAT THEY ARE SAFE AND TO STOP AND PRAY FOR THOSE THAT FIGHT FOR THEM. THANK YOU SHERRI WE LOVE YOU AND MAY THE LORD WATCH OVER YOU AND YOURS. YOU KNOW WHATS IN OUR HEARTS, YOU KNOW I HAVE A HARD TIME WITH WORDS SO I HOPE YOU UNDERSTAND JUST WHAT I'M TRYING TO SAY CUZ. LOVE YOU, YOUR FAMILY, AND GOD BLESS.
SHEILA, SCOTT, ALEXANDREA, MICHAEL, AND GABRIEL
Kelly Onderi(fultz)
August 29, 2007
Sherri, no words can express our deepest thoughts, no words can comfort you in this time of sadness, but I pray for GOD to send forth HIS peace, HIS comfort, HIS strength in this season of sorrow. There is something I read once & it has stayed with me always-""Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you-Jesus Christ and the American Soldier-One died for your soul the other for your freedom.""
I'm thankful to all our military men & women, for what these hero's do for us everyday! Freedom is NOT free!
GOD Bless you all,
Meshack & Kelly Onderi(Fultz)
Teresa
August 29, 2007
To the family & friends of SSG Cottrell,
Thank you for your service and sacrifice for our country. I'm sorry for your loss and pray that you will let God comfort you during these times. Please know that there are many people praying for you all and are truly grateful.
Proud aunt of LCPL John T. Sims, Jr.
KIA 4/10/2004
and member of We Remember, Inspire, Cherish & Honor (www.werich.org)
Rodney Denson
August 28, 2007
I had the honor to serve with Eric in OIF 2005. He was a great medic and a great partner. Goat was always full of surprises. He will be forever missed. I will keep his family in my prayers.
debbi rivers
August 27, 2007
To the parents of Eric, I would like to extend my heart felt sorrow as I know what you are going through and what you will yet go through in the coming weeks. I too am the mother of another fallen soldier and with God's continued support in my life I try to reach out to other who might need the support of someone who has been where you are. I want to offer you the support you may need to contact me anytime so that you may vent, talk or just seek comfort I am here for you. As a Gold Star Mother I've reached out through God's blessings to many across the country and we have a good support group. May God continue to give you and your family the love, comfort and healing that you need. In memory of my son SPC Harry (Buck) Winkler III KIA Samarra, Iraq November 12, 2006
Lauren Palka
August 26, 2007
I served with Eric "Goat" in 2004-2005. He was one of our best soldiers and he always made us laugh.I will keep your family and friends in my thoughts and prayers.Goat you will never be forgotten.
Charles Clemons
August 25, 2007
Eric and I were close the closest friends in high school we never left each others side. Eric and I were total opposites Eric was a wild man always telling it how it was. A true Hero, I on the other hand was a quit kid always keeping to myself. Eric brought out the true me to believe in myself. Eric joined the Army while still in high school and tried to get me to join as well but I refused to do so I was going to college. Soon after Eric was out of my life and I went off to college to fine out that college was not for me. In Jan 87 I joined the Army and around Nov 1987 Eric came to Ft Drum NY to visit me. What a true friend. Soon after the visit we lost contact with each other again. Today I received yet another disturbing phone call from a high school buddy Shaun. Shaun and Eric never lost contact and stayed friends over the years. Shaun found my number to inform me that Eric had made the total sacrifice to his county and had lost his life in Iraq. It’s been over 20 years since I hade spoken to Eric yet it seems just like yesterday we were in class together (skipping a few class together). I just got of the telephone with his mother, so sad. But I would like to say to all that supported his efforts and attended his funeral weather you knew him or not thank you. You support is not unnoticed. For those that had the pleasure of knowing Eric it was a true blessing. My God be with his family and I know he is still looking over us all. Good night Eric I miss you and now I always will.
Thank you Eric
MSG Charles A. Clemons Jr.
New Your Army Nationl Guard
Recruiting and Retention Command
Rubidoux High School Gratuat
Riverside, CA
Tiffany Powell-Beatty
August 25, 2007
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
D & D Tainsh
August 25, 2007
Dear Sherri & family, this is Deborah Tainsh from Columbus, Ga, mom of fallen hero Sgt Patrick Tainsh. It was my honor to meet and spend time with you and other family members on Tuesday evening, August 21. My husband and I know the pain of this path and want you all to know that there is a support system here for you. We will keep you forever in our hearts and always honor your hero and family. May God bless your continue journey with strength and courage. Sincerely Deb & Dave Tainsh
SGT Paul Kerns
August 25, 2007
You will be missed brother. My sincere condolences go out to the family. I hope that over time your hearts will heal and that the memories of Eric will never fade. Try to look back at all of the good times so he will always be with you. It was a pleasure to serve with him and I wish that he was still here. God Bless and may God ease your pain and provide you with comfort.
August 24, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Staff Sgt Cottrell and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Tom Gugliuzza
August 24, 2007
My heartfelt sympathy to the Cottrell family in the loss of Eric. I did not know Eric, 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. Eric 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~
Matthew Shepardson
August 22, 2007
My heart goes out to Eric's friends and family. I served with Eric, as his squad leader, in the 1st Gulf War. Although, he was a challenge in his younger years, he was no doubt one of the most reliable Soldiers I had. I did not hesitate to cross the LD with him. He was fearless and determined. I am extremely saddened to hear of his tragic loss. May God bless his family and keep near his soul.
Sincerely,
Matthew S. Shepardson
CSM (D), US Army
valorie
August 21, 2007
My prayers and thoughts are with you.
I know how you feel losing a "HERO",Becoming a "Gold Star" Mother myself on 25 March.. The sacrafice our sons and daughters are making on a daily basis should tell us all..These young HEROS knew full well what they were doing and did it proudly When you hug your loved ones tonight.... Remember... We also hugged ours and now they are protecting you..We.. as Americans need to make the "Ultimate Sacrafice" by supporting all our military(HEROS)...the Proud Mom of SGT. Jason W. Swiger
5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne,Fort Bragg, N.C. KIA 3/25/007
Brian Rigard
August 21, 2007
Proud to serve in Iraq in 2005-2006
Jesse Horner,Sgt 3rd 117th
August 21, 2007
I had the Honor in serving with Eric in the Alabama Army National Guard(Phenix city,Al).May you feel God's presence as he helps and comforts you with peace and understanding.Your in our thoughts and prayers.
Jeanette Williams
August 21, 2007
My condolescences to the Cottrell family. May God Bless you. Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice.
Turner and Jeanette Williams
David Westbrook
August 21, 2007
I was proud to serve with him 2004-2005 in Iraq. Good Medic, Good Soldier.
David E. Westbrook, SFC 128th Med
"BIG SARGE"
August 21, 2007
My heart aches for the Cottrell family. It also bursts with pride for the heroism of men like Mr. Cottrell. I am forever grateful for your sacrifice.
A Grateful American
Ron McBay
August 21, 2007
I am so sad to hear of this tragedy. Having served with SSG Cottrell, I share in your grief. Goat, as he was known in the 128th Medical Company, was a guy you wanted on your team. It was an honor to serve with him.
Jamie Dinger
August 21, 2007
Goodbye to a good friend. I had the honor of being Eric's friend and of working with him as medics in 5-82 FA. You will not find another medic or soldier who was as dedicated to his job and to those around him. Eric will be dearly missed but will never be forgotten.
Chandra Jefferson
August 21, 2007
I want to offer my sincere condolences to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of SSG Cottrell. I am a platoon mom for 5-82 FA. SSG Cottrell will be missed. On behalf of myself, Adopt-a-Platoon, and SSG Bustamante-Morales (platoon contact), we pray for God's peace and strength during this extremely difficult time. May the Lord bless and keep you, may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you,comfort you, and give you peace.
Chandra Jefferson
Proud Platoon Mom
5-82 Field Artillery
HARLON CREWS & FAMILY
August 21, 2007
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Major US Army
August 21, 2007
To the Family, I am so sorry for your lost. There are no words to describe the way you feel. I can only say I am sorry. He proudly served his Country and we all thank him for his duty to protect. God Bless.
Tracy McMillan
August 21, 2007
Thank your for your ultimate sacrifice. You are our hero.
Shawn Beitler
August 20, 2007
From highschool to the day I got the call from your mom you were never far from my thoughts. only a few can call themselfs (The C Team) we will forever love you
August 20, 2007
THANK YOU FOR OUR FREEDOM
A TRIBUTE TO MY WONDERFUL NEPHEW SGT ERIC D. COTTRELL
Willing he gave
With spirit of conviction
With selfless acts of courage
With bravery and honor unmeasured
With a magnitude of strength and pride
Without despair, he lived a multitude of years in so few
The ultimate price he paid
For our freedom he gave
That we may pray without fear
Walk without coverage of shrouds
Live without terror
Educate without persecution
So our children are free tomorrow
Thou many have fallen before
Some will fall still
For this sacrifice so great
Thank you for our freedom today
Our hearts heavy with sorrow
Our tears are many
Thank you for our freedom today
His life he laid down
His work here is done
His beautiful soul takes flight
Wrapped now in Gods glory and grace
With tremendous love, gratitude and heartfelt sorrow. Thank you, Eric, for
my freedom.
Joy Cottrell Ashlock
Killed in action supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom on Aug. 13, 2007 in Qayyarah, Iraq of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device struck his vehicle. He was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Bliss, Texas.
Gary Allain
August 20, 2007
Staff Sgt. Eric D. Cottrell
you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.
Peggy Parker
August 19, 2007
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
August 18, 2007
Tears from Heaven were flowing
Causing the clouds to swell,
The Angels in Heaven were crying
On the day we bid you farewell.
It grieved us to say good-bye
The Angels knew our pain,
So their tears became the moisture
That fell in the form of rain.
God needed another Angel
Whose good deeds on Earth were done,
He needed someone special
You were the chosen one.
Happy memories of you surrounds us
They make us laugh and smile,
We were blessed to have you with us
Even though it was just for a while.
We will meet again someday
In the city made of gold,
We shall be together forever
God's words have been foretold
SGT Alicia Cadena and SSG David Cadena
August 18, 2007
MY HUSBAND AND I WANT TO OFFER OUR SINCEREST CONDOLENCES TO NOT ONLY DOC COTTRELL'S FAMILY BUT HIS FRIENDS AND TEAMMATES WHO LOVED HIM. AS A FELLOW MEDIC, IT HITS EVEN CLOSER TO HOME, KNOWING THAT ONE OF OUR OWN HAS MADE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE. I'M SURE THOSE THAT WERE WITH HIM DID THEIR BEST AND I KNOW DOC COTTRELL WOULD HAVE BEEN PROUD. HIS MEMORY WILL LIVE ON AND HIS LIFE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. I KNOW DOC COTTRELL TOUCHED ALOT OF LIVES AND HELPED ALOT OF PEOPLE, AMERICANS AND IRAQI'S ALIKE. HE WILL BE DEEPLY MISSED BY ALL OF US WHO FEEL THE LOSS OF NOT ONLY A FELLOW SOLDIER, BUT A FRIEND, A BROTHER, AND A TRUE HERO. MAY HE REST IN PEACE
Norris Waters
August 18, 2007
Eric was my brother and he will be missed by many and especially by me. This world seems empty without him in it, but we must be strong and know that he did what he loved to do. many people have offered there thoughts and prayers to our family and sometimes i wish that the prayers would just bring him back to us.... for those of you who have offered your prayers thank you on behalf of Eric and our family, may god bless you all.
August 18, 2007
my brother, god bless him forever
August 18, 2007
C. DURON
August 18, 2007
TO THE FAMILY OF STAFF SGT. ERIC COTTRELL. PLEASE ACCEPT MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES ON THE LOSS OF YOUR LOVED ONE.I AM VERY GREATFUL FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART FOR THE SACRIFICE OUR AMERICAN HERO MADE FOR OUR COUNTRY. HE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. MAY ERIC REST IN THE ARMS OF THE GOOD LORD NOW. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
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