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Brett Walden Obituary
SFC Brett E. Walden, 40, formerly of Ft. Walton Beach, FL, and most recently of Dover, PA, gave his life for his country on Friday, August 5, 2005 in Rabiah, Iraq.
Brett was born in TX, and grew up in Ft. Walton Beach, FL. He loved his family dearly, enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson, and hunting and fishing. Those who knew him only for a moment never forgot his smile, humor and kindness. He was our hero and a man of honor and courage who was never afraid when his country called him to duty.
SFC Brett E. Walden was a member of the 5th Special Forces Group, Ft. Campbell, KY, a U.S. Army Airborne Ranger Instructor, achieved the Expert Infantry Badge and Combat Infantry Badge, the Global War on Terrorism Medal, The Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Iraq & Afghanistan Campaign Medal, and most recently was awarded his second Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal and the Purple Heart.
Surviving are his loving wife, Autumn Walden and his precious daughter, Alexandria (Alex) Walden of Dover, PA; his father, Hobson E. Walden; and two brothers, Chad Holland and Lee Walden. He was preceded in death by his mother, Brenda Holland Walden.
Services will be held on Saturday, August 13, 2005 at 11 a.m. at the First Assembly of God Church, 4100 North Progress Avenue, Harrisburg, PA. Viewing will be on Friday at the church from 5 to 9 p.m. Burial with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery, Washington, DC on August 19th at 1 p.m.
"No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends".
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorial donations be made to the Brett Walden Memorial Fund for the benefit of Alexandria Walden at any Commerce Bank Branch in the Harrisburg area.
Arrangements entrusted to the Gilbert L. Dailey Funeral Home, 650 S. 28th Street, Harrisburg, PA 17103.
www.daileyfuneralhome.com www.pennlive.com/obits
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Brett Walden
Bud Brangard
July 9, 2015
Be with God Ranger buddy, may we all be able to do the final link-up!
Lynne Neibert
March 20, 2013
Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen Soldiers ([email protected]) is an organization with groups throughout the country who work to send handmade prayer shawls and/or lap robes to families who have lost a loved one while serving our country. Members of Trindle Spring Lutheran Church would like to extend our sincere sympathy and to honor your son and husband's sacrifice and memory by sending our prayers and comfort through a prayer gift which will be mailed to you. If you are interested, please contact me at [email protected] with the names and addresses of those who would like to receive one and which gift they would like to receive. We will send our gift as soon as possible. Also, if you know of any other families who are grieving the loss of a loved on who died while serving our country, please pass along my e-mail address. May God bless you and comfort you in the days ahead. Sincerely, Lynne
Peggy Childers
August 6, 2012
To the family and friends of Sgt. 1st Class Brett E. Walden:
Always remembering Brett. "Some gave all."
Ginny & Family
October 10, 2011
We wish to Thank You Sgt. 1st Class Brett Walden and your Family for your Service and Sacrifice for our Country and Freedoms. Thank You and May God Bless you always.
Peggy Childers
August 5, 2011
To the family and friends of Sgt. 1st Class Brett E. Walden:
Please accept my remembrance of Brett on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
August 6, 2010
To the family and friends of Sgt. 1st Class Brett E. Walden:
Remembering Brett 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
July 9, 2010
In loving memory. Your daughter is your living legacy. She looks just like you. You live on through her and the memories you left in the hearts of all those you touched
Cozette Haggerty
September 21, 2009
Re: SFC Brett E Walden
Hello,
I represent PRAYER SHAWLS 4 FALLEN SOLDIERS (PS4FS), an organization that since October 2007 has sent over 3,100 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
Peggy Childers
August 5, 2009
To the family of Sgt. 1st Class Brett E. Walden:
Brett 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
June 10, 2009
”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,550 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 and Respectfully,
Kenna
Tressa Bridges
November 13, 2008
Thank you Brett. You will not be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers to Autumn and Alex. You were always a kind person I will never forget.
In Memory of Brett ~ (Debra Estep)
August 5, 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 Brett, 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
May 7, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Sgt 1st Class Walden!
December 5, 2007
I only knew him in passing, but what little I did know was dedicated. God bless
August 15, 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)
Patsy Jo Reed Sircy
August 14, 2007
Sincere sympathy and love, Pat - R.N.
July 22, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Sgt 1st Class Walden and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Patrick Courson
May 2, 2007
I had the pleasure of serving with Brett at the Ranger camp in the early 90's. I was stunned and saddened to see Brett's name on this list. He was always as you see him in the picture - smiling, cracking jokes and generally improving the moral but he was always the consummate professional, a true American and a skilled warrior. I know he felt with his qualifications and skills that he was doing the right thing and that's what led him to Iraq and Afghanistan.
I left the Army in 1996, but still have a copy of the "Eglin Eagle" with both of us and others on the cover during a family day outing. Brett was smiling as usual, doing what he liked best.
God Bless, I am truly sorry for your loss, Brett was a good man. If you need anything Autumn, please contact me.
Garnet Jenkins
August 7, 2006
Paying tribute to this Fine Soldier, Sgt. 1st Class Brett E. Walden, for his Supreme Sacrifice, with a Multitude of Thanks for his many years of Service and Dedication, to our country and our freedom.
May he rest, in the Mighty Hands of God and know that he Truly is an American hero.
May God's Loving Grace and Comfort continue to be with the Walden family.
Those who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice, shall NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
My brother among them. KIA-Vietnam 1967.
We must remember the crosses in rows,
and the service that was paid by those
who rose to answer the country's need
For they are all true heroes, in deed!
"True Heroes"
By: Thomas A McClure
May the memories of your loved one live in your heart always.
Softly and slowly....
Time heals...
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
August 4, 2006
To the Walden family: I previously signed Brett's guest book. I live fairly close to ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY and I visit two or three times a week. Please know that each time I am at ANC I always stop by to visit honor and pray with Brett. Brett tomorrow will be a year since you were taken. Know that you are my hero and that you will NEVER be forgotten. I am going to ANC today and will spend time with Brett.
ROBYN GARSIDE
July 6, 2006
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR YOUR DAUGHTER. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI
A PROUD MARINE MOM
a brother in Christ
June 28, 2006
Brett was a good man. We will truly miss him. The Iraqis loved him because he loved them, it was very inspiring! To Brett, a servant of God and a great Green Beret-
cindy Joy
June 27, 2006
I'm sorry that I did not have the privilege of knowing your brave son Brett. After reading a little bit about Brett and how he wanted to be in the special forces, I now know that Brett must have been one of our finest. I want to thank you for raising such a self-sacrificing young man. Brett will not be forgotten. He will always be my Hero. There are times when words are just not enough, so may God's eternal promises and everlasting love surround you now.
I am with thee . . . I will strengthen thee.
Isaiah 41:10
Joann Yost
April 12, 2006
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart, thoughts and prayers are with you at such a difficult time. Once again the ultimate sacrifice was made for all of us. Another hero lost but not forgotten.
Wife of MSG Tony Yost, KIA 11/19/05
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
February 27, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy to the Walden family in the loss of Brett. I did not know Brett, 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. Brett soon it will be 7 months since you were taken. You are a hero and you will never be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
Adam Bartley
February 8, 2006
Brett made the ultimate sacrifice for his country and will not be forgotten by the men that served along with him. From the members of ODA 533 our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Wendy Borawski
October 20, 2005
Autumn, after our numerous talks about your wonderful husband and how he loved serving his country, you and Alex have made the ultimate sacrifice out of your love for him. Not only is Brett a HERO, but I believe YOU and ALEX are as well. Having a son in the military who loves his country as much as Brett did, I can only say THANK YOU and MAY GOD BLESS YOU and ALEX for your unselfishness. Please know that I am praying for you both. If I can be of any help, please do not hesitate to call on me.
Eileen and Bill Jeker
August 25, 2005
Our sincere deepest condolences are extended to the family of another fallen hero from two very grateful Americans. Brett, may you rest in peace.
Dexter and Christine Hoffman
August 21, 2005
Dearest Autumn and Alex,
Our hearts have been ripped apart with the loss of our Brett, but talking about all the sweet and fun times with him helped so much. He will always be my hero. You are in our prayers. We love you.
Judy Hancock
August 19, 2005
Dear Autumn and Alex,
I am so sorry for your loss. I do not have adequate words to say what is in my heart. May the peace of God that surpasses all understanding surround and comfort you at this time of loss in your lives.
I am honored to have been acquainted with a family such as yours. Thank you for his service and his supreme sacrifice for each of us who call this country home.
Judy Hancock, Secretary
Civil Law Clinic
Michelle Knight
August 15, 2005
Dear Alex and Autumn - you are in our thoughts and prayers. Brett was an incredible person - our love is with you. Love Michelle, MacKenzie and Bob
Julie Whitney
August 14, 2005
We Bayshore Patriots in Tampa, Florida will be waving our American Flags on Bayshore Boulevard in Brett's memory and your honor every Friday afternoon.
I will hold you in my prayers, that you believe he is in a safe place and that you find comfort in the wonderful memories that you made together. He is truly an American Hero.
God Bless You and your precious family.
Nancy Eddy
August 13, 2005
Autumn and Alex, My heart is broken with saddeness for you. Brett was a kind hearted person willing to lend a helping hand to a neighbor. He was an excellent soldier who loved the two of you very much. He and both of you made a tremendous sacrifice for our country. I hope your memories of your first home purchase and your former neighbors will bring smiles occassionally. I also pray that your memories of Dad Brett will console you now and in the future. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Rand and I share your sorrow. Much love from your former neighbor on Tory Circle.
Airforce Wife
August 13, 2005
There is nothing more honorable then serving one's country. Your husband, father, and friend is a true American Hero. He will never be forgotten as he will live in the hearts of those who love and respect him forever.
A Soldier's Daughter
August 12, 2005
There are no other words to express our country's appreciation, except for THANK YOU - You are a HERO. Imagine what this country would like had it not been for people like your Son, Husband, and Father. Again, I did not know your Hero, but appreciate what he sacrificed for this Country. Again, my heartfelt, sincere THANK YOU! I know that my own Father, along with Jesus, was waiting in Heaven to greet your Hero with a welcoming Salute and a "Job Well Done, Soldier"!
Georgia Sprenkel
August 12, 2005
Autumn, My heart goes out to you, your daughter and family . Take comfort in your memories. Your husband is a true hero.
Sincere Sympathy,
Georgia Sprenkel
Dover Township
Wrightsville PA
August 12, 2005
Thank you for your service.God bless you.Rest in peace.You will not be forgotten.
Benton & Eddie Mae Owens
August 11, 2005
We Love both Autumn and Alex and we loved Brett. We are very sad and very proud at the same time. Proud of all of you for the sacrifices that you all have made. Words can't adequately convey our feelings of saddness, of love and of appreciation at this time. Thank you for everything. May the Lord be with you and keep you strong and bless you forever.
Nancy Fulk
August 11, 2005
Autum & Alex,
As a past neighbor of you and Brett, my heart goes out to you and yours, I only spoke with Brett once when he was home. He was a sweet, kind, and caring person to speak to. Very proud of his family. And he had a great love of sweet tea!
God Bless you all and you are in my prayers.
August 11, 2005
It is sad that you have to lay down your physical, earthly life for mine. However, the truth is it is not just for me but all of America and perhaps the world. It's a story of your courage, values and love. May the journey of your soul be full of love, happiness, and peace.
G. Miller of PA
Jane Propst-Ardern
August 11, 2005
My deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Mr. Walden. He made the ultimate sacrifice for his country and will be blessed richly for it. God Bless all of you.
Pam
August 11, 2005
May God Bless you in your time of need. Please know that your father and husband is a ture hero and will never be forgotten.
Another proud American
August 11, 2005
My condolences on your loss. To his family and especially his little girl, your daddy is a true HERO.
August 11, 2005
Thank you Brett for serving our country and the selfless role you had in continuing American freedom. Your memory will live on.
A Proud American
August 11, 2005
Thank you isn't enough, but all I have to offer. Because of you and other brave men & women, I am safe. God Bless your family.
Mary
August 11, 2005
My appreciation goes to SFC Walden for the selfless sacrifice he made to keep my country and my family free. My sympathy to his family and friends, and my prayers for strong comfort for them at this time.
karen marshall
August 11, 2005
Rest well, soldier, and welcome home.
August 11, 2005
I Thank your loved one for serving our country
May god bless you all!
Carole Taylor
August 11, 2005
I did not know your husband/ son/ brother but my heart and prayers go out to all of you. Yes, there is no greater love than to give one's life for their friends and fellow countrymen. I just feel so overwhelmed by his extreme sacrifice and I'll be lifting you
all up to our Heavenly Father for so time to come. Love in Christ,
Rev. Steve Topper
August 11, 2005
GOD bless all of your family on your loss it is a loss we all feel.He will always be with you.MY church sends our prayers and love . The Rev. Steve Topper
Anonymous
August 11, 2005
Thank you for your loved one's service to our country. It was greatly appreciated.
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