Tenzin L. Samten Obituary

Hello,

We wanted you to know that we will be honoring and remembering your loved one this holiday season. We have recently sent Care Packages to our deployed troops in his name. Each package will carry the name, photo, service branch, rank and hometown of Tenzin L. Samten US Army Specialist.

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, our family, 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

To the Samten family,

Although I wish I had been given the honor, I never had the good fortune to meet PFC Samten or the two other Soldiers who laid down their lives on that fateful day. I was assigned to an Air Force unit at Tallil AB or as it was known to Airmen, Ali Base. As the Director of the Emergency Operations Center that morning, I was on duty when indirect fire impacted our installation. I assisted coordinating the dispatch of Air Force firefighters and security policemen to respond to the location where PFC Samten's vehicle was struck by IDF. It was a chaotic day, one I will never forget. Although I didn't have the good fortune to personally know your hero, his death impacted me and I reflect on that morning often. I have attempted to recognize his service and sacrifice by telling his story to others, like me, who did not know him. I would like you to know that I've paid tribute to PFC Samten, SPC Jackson and SSG Bradley during two Memorial Day speeches I've given to communities here in the Central Pennsylvania region...I felt it was the least I could do for Tenzin and his fellow, exceptional Soldiers.

Hello big brother, I know I haven't written in a long time, but I know you know you're always on my mind. On March 12, 2008 my life was changed as was everyone else's with sorrow, sadness, yet Pride. 7yrs later my oldest son got off the bus at MCRD and stepped foot on those yellow foot prints for boot camp to join the US Marines on Dec. 15, 2014, and I know you were watching over him because on March 5, 2015 he earned his EGA and the title US Marine. All during boot camp I was not able to see him or visit him, however our Nephew Andrew kept an eye on him and kept me posted on his achievements. And then I got the gift from you, on March 12, 2015 I got to see my son, my Marine for the 1st time since he left for boot camp. I know this is because he had you watching over for him. Times and dates work out the way they need to when they have an angel watching over them. I love you with all my heart!!!!!

MY SON, IT HAS BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE I HAVE WRITTEN ANYTHING HERE. I THINK ABOUT YOU EVERY MINUTE OF EVERY DAY. I LOVE AND MISS YOU SO MUCH AS DO BECCA AND DHARMA AND MICHAEL. THEY ARE YOUNG ADULTS ALMOST. TIME GOES BY SO FAST IT IS HARD TO BELIEVE THAT A LITTLE OVER 7 YEARS HAVE GONE BY. BETTY IF YOU READ THIS I UNDERSTAND YOU HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET IN TOUCH WITH US ABOUT THE WAR MEMORIAL IN PRESCOTT. IF I CAN FURNISH ANY INFO YOU NEED ADD A CONTACT ME TO YOUR MESSAGE. ANYWAY JOSH I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU, WE ALL MISS YOU HERE IN SAN DIEGO AND NORTH CAROLINA AND LAS VEGAS. WATCH OVER US ALL MY ANGEL, LOVE ALWAYS AND FOREVER MOMMY

Remembering you often but especially on this up coming Memorial Day. I am still working on getting your name on the war memorial here in Prescott. It turned out to be a bigger project than I could imagine. The memorial is for all servicemen and women who have died in the service of our country from all of Yavapai County. This is one huge county. But I will get it done.

Hello Josh, you are truely missed,time sure goes by fast .just wanted to send you this message not long enough I think you already know how each and one of us feel think of you. Give my mom a big hug & kiss for me ..luv Rundle Family

Hey Hunny,
It's 3 days before your angelversary and I just can't believe it will be 7 years since you died. The kids and I miss you so much. Not a day goes by that you aren't on our minds. You'd be so proud of what wonderful people they are. Dharma acts just like you and loves to read and write stories. Michael walks exactly like you and looks like your carbon copy. They are both very loving, intelligent, compassionate and mature. It's so hard not having you here. A lot has changed. We are going to go play video games in your honor on Thursday. Love you so much.

Just thinking about you bro, miss you a lots. Love big brother

In Peace Now you are Joshua Your dearly missed but never forgotten. Love your sister in law FLAVIA RUNDLE &FAMILy ;)

I'm his widow. You are welcome to send me a message with your questions. [email protected]

This is his brother jeff, what is it that you need I will help you out. Please
contact me either by email, or you can call me 858-750-8258, or 619-900-5835 thanks, jeff

Hi! I am writing from Prescott, Arizona and I need to reach either Pfc. Tenzin Samten's wife or mother. I am working on a project to update the war memorial in Prescott and need to ask some questions. Please send me your email address through legacy. Thanking you in advance for your help. Betty

Brother i miss and think of you everyday take care of mom make sure it isnt her time i need her very much love your brother jeff

Dear Brother,

As I sat at the kitchen table talking to your Nephew Sylent's recruiters all I could do is think of you and how much I miss you. I am scared for my son, but know that you will be over him watching him keeping him safe as he serves his country as you did. I never would have though that my son would have joined the Marines, but with pride I smile knowing he is following his passion. Such a strong deep decision for a 17 yr old to make, but I know he has done his homework and his heart is in it. You would be very proud of him! Andy has contacted me and let me know that he will be here for us as much as needed and is in hopes that he is able to be the one guiding and instructing Sylent in bootcamp soon.

I love you, and I am proud of you for all you did and all that you are as I am with my son and I know you would be as well. PLEASE WATCH OVER HIM through his journey in his new Military life!

Love you, Lil Sis

Brother do you realize how much I miss you? I think about you daily, I think of all the times we shared that were good and bad, heck the bad weren't so bad now that we are adults. My girlfriend who lost her son to our country only 5 mths before we lost you let me know today that you were recognized in San Diego's Union Tribune Special Article titled THE REGION'S FALLEN special report | THE IRAQ WAR: TEN YEARS LATER By Jim Watters MARCH 17, 2013 - Army Pfc. Tenzin Lobsang Samten, 33, Santee, died March 12, 2008 along with her son Marine Cpl. Erik T. Garoutte, 22, Santee, died Oct. 19, 2007. I am not sure if Momma knows or has seen this article but I am ordering 3 copies, one of which I will hand deliver to her as soon as I get it. I will always cherish our horror movie moments, or making swimming pools out of big yard trash cans, or jumping off the bard into the piles of straw, or when you would always hide under my bed and scare me as if you were Jason from Friday the 13th (which BTW is now my favorite movie series!) I love you, twerp Mikey Houston misses you as well, we talk daily, and occasionally get together for drinks and usually end up only talking about you! I love you more than ever expressed and I regret that now, but til we meet again, I will love you and think of you every minute of my life! Your Sis

Hello Josh. I can't believe that 5 years have gone by since you were taken from us. I miss you so very much all the time, every minute of every day. So many things, both good and bad, have happened in the last 5 years. On February 13th I had a massive heart attack and truly believed that I was going to join you in heaven. My right coronary artery was 100% blocked and I now have a stent in my heart. I thank God every day that I didn't pass out and was able to call 911 and get the help I need. It has been suggested a few times that I get Life Alert in case I am not as lucky next time. Definetly food for thought. Anyway, I was supposed to go to Virginia but now that has to be postponed for awhile. Enough of that.....I just wish you were here to talk to and laugh with and sing Les Miz show tunes with. I will never forget the trip from San Diego to Prescott, Ariz when you made me sing them with you. You would have loved the new release of Les Miz I am sure. You would have so excited to see that it had been remade. Oh well I can dream can't I? This has been a quiet day for me....just a day for memories to fill my head. Julie and Amy came to see me in the hospital. They are really into biking and running. Julie looks great! You would be so proud of all her hard work into her new healthy self. I love you so much Josh and I miss you with all my heart. Happy Heavenly angelversity. RIP my son. Till we meet again. OOPS before I forget Jeff and Flavia have a little girl now, she is so very pretty. Her name is Aliyah Marie and she turns 5 months old today. I almost forgot the good news. That should have been first...I guess my brain doesn't function right. LOL LOL. Okay now I will close but remember I am always thinking of you and love you with all my heart. Love always Mommy

Rest In Peace Hero our Grateful Nation Salutes You. Welcome Home

HELLO JOSH. TODAY IS VETERANS DAY AND JACKS BIRTHDAY. I TALKED WITH JACK EARLIER TODAY TO WISH HIM A HAPPY BIRTHDAY. I SENT HIM A CARD WITH CASH ABOUT A WEEK AGO. JOSH I MISS YOU SO MUCH MY HEART ACHES. AS ALWAYS I THINK ABOUT WHAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN BUT I KNOW THAT MY WISHES AND DREAMS CAN'T CHANGE WHAT IS. YOUR BIRTHDAY IS IN 5 DAYS AND YOU WOULD HAVE BEEN 38. SO HARD TO BELIEVE THAT YOU HAVE BEEN GONE FOR CLOSE TO 5 YEARS ALREADY. I TRY NOT TO BE SAD ALL THE TIME BUT SOME TIMES ARE HARDER THEN MOST. THE NEXT 6 WEEKS TIL THE FIRST OF THE YEAR WILL BE SO DIFFICULT. I HAD PLANNED ON GOING TO VIRGINIA FOR CHRISTMAS BUT THAT ISN'T GOING TO WORK OUT. I AM HAVING A LOT OF HEALTH ISSUES RIGHT NOW. MY HIP HAS BEEN SO SORE....JUST PART OF MY RA. THE COPD HAS GIVEN ME GRIEF SINCE JULY. I JUST CAN'T GO AND BE IN THE EXTREME COLD RIGHT NOW. IT MAKES ME VERY SAD THAT I WON'T BE WITH THEM ALL AGAIN THIS CHRISTMAS BUT I AM GOING TO TRY AND GO IN THE SPRING TIME. WELL MY DARLING SON I AM GOING TO CLOSE THIS FOR NOW BUT I WILL BE BACK ON THE 16TH TO WISH YOU A HAPPY HEAVENLY BIRTHDAY. I LOVE YOU SO VERY MUCH AND WISH YOU WERE BACK HERE WITH US ALL. GOOD NIGHT JOSH AND RIP TIL WE MEET AGAIN. LOVE MOMMY

Hello Josh. Here it is almost Memorial Day once again. I don't know how you could be in my thoughts any more than you already are daily, but you are. I miss you so very much and I love you so much. This is a busy year for Becca and the kids and I do try to get back to see them as often as I can. I will be going back in just a few weeks. You would be so proud of them all. Becca has done a wonderful job raising Dharma and Michael Bodhi since you lost your life in that horrible place. I wish we could turn back the hands of time to the beginning of 2006. I could think of a dozen different ways this could have played out and none of them ended like this. It is a a big wish or dream. nothing can be changed and I just have to accept this and move on. I am doing that. As is Becca but then you are always there protecting them and watching over them so you know. Dwayne is a good man and he loves Becca and the kids. If you couldn't be here to be with us all, then you must have sent Dwayne to be in Becca's life. I know I don't have to tell you this but she honors you every day as do Dharma and Michael. My heart bursts with pride for them all. Well son I guess it is time for me to close this letter to you. I miss you so very much and I will love you always. Oh I want to tell you that I am having a tree planted in your memory here in Santee in one of the parks. I am going to have a dedication ceremony. Just not quite sure of the date but am looking forward to it. I love you my son. MUAH till we meet again. Love Mommy

To the family and friends of Pfc. Tenzin L. Samten:
Always remembering Tenzin. "Some gave all."

Hello Josh and Merry Christmas to you. I think of you every minute of everyday.I miss you so much. I would give my life to have you back home where you belong. I didn't go to Virginia this year because I stress so much about the travel. I can't deal with delayed flights etc due to snow and guess what they aren't having a white Christmas this year. Go figure huh? Jack has gotten so tall, he is already taller than you and still growing. You would be so proud of him as you are of Dharma and Michael. Rebecca has become such a strong women and is doing an excellent job of raising them. Jeff just had his birthday, 46 years old. He is still at Sears and doing good. Andy is still in Marines and Matt just graduated from police academy. Life has a way of going on, one way or another. Anyway I love you so much and miss you. Merry Christmas Josh. Love Mommy

You would be soo proud of Michael... I know I am :) He was so brave this weekend at camp he even got up in front of everyone (with his buddy Myk) and shared "the oh say can you see song" as he called it! He said he had to do it since Friday was Veteran's Day and because I tell him all the time how brave you were and how proud of you I am. We all miss you tremendously but we have peace because we know you were saved before you died and therfore are in heaven with Jesus. You will always be our hero! <3

As I sit here Josh on Veterans Day I am Thankful for every scary movie you ever tied me to a chair to watch, to our hot summer days/nights we made swimming pools from trashcans, picking grapefruit (oh wait, I kinda wanna forget that memory) I wish you were here so I could tell you how much I absolutely love scary movies because you tormented me by hiding under my bed to scare me. I am saddened you gave yourself to our country for our freedom but greatful you lived with a smile on your face as you ate Dorito's and protected me as a big brother should. I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU! !

Hello my Son, Just wanted to let you know that as always you are my first waking thoughts in the morning and my last thoughts of the day as I go to sleep. The 4th of July is a few days away and I want people of remember that this is our Independence day, Americas Independence Day and as always to remember the thousands of men and women both past and present who helped make us free. I love you my son and wish that I could turn back the hands of time and we were all together once again. Until we meet again remember I love you and miss you always. Love Mommy

Hey you....
Just wanted you to know we thought about you and talked about you yesterday. As my friends came by, we showed your picture and tought the kids the true meaning behind memorial day.
Keep watching over Rebecca and the babies....they are wonderful & you would be so proud of them!
Hugs Mister....thanks for being a wonderful Guardian Angel!

I had the pleasure of meeting your daughter last weekend at camp. She is such a beautiful, brave girl (as you already know). I know you have to be so proud of her. She decided that some of the traits she must have gotten from you are her sense of humor, her bravery, and a little bit of her laziness (her words, not mine) :) I really enjoyed talking with Rebecca and Michael, as well - they are both so wonderful. I hope you find comfort in the fact that they have such a huge support system to help them when things get rough. I mainly wanted to write this to let you know that I am thankful for your service and I will not forget your sacrifice. I will be sure to keep Dharma, Rebecca, and Michael in my thoughts and be there for them in case they need me.

To the family of PFC. Tenzin L. Samten:
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.

To the family and friends of Pfc. Tenzin L. Samten:
Please accept my remembrance of Tenzin on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Hello Josh, Today marks 3 years since you have been gone. I miss you so very much. Talked to Jeff this morning and he is still having a hard time accepting the fact that you are never coming home. That morning 3 years ago is forever etched in my mind, I remember every detail of the phone call and all the things that took place after. I will never forget how many lives were changed forever that day. I will love you forever my son and think of you every day often now with a smile as well as tears. Keep us all safe God and hold my son in your hands for he is truly an American hero. I will always be there for Becca and the kids in any way I can. Until we meet again in heaven I love you. Loving you and missing you, Mommy

Hi there Zin. Just wanted you to know I thought about you today. Thank you...for being a guardian angel. And for bringing Rebecca, Dharma, and Michael into my life.

Good Morning Joshua, I love you and miss you so very much. This weekend is the TAPS seminar at Camp Pendleton and I am going to be there. This will be my second such meeting and I am looking forward to it. Sherry Jasperson is coming in from Henderson, Nevada today and is going with me. I can't believe that you have been gone for almost 3 years. It's like time has stood still and I am still waiting for you to come home. I know in my head that you are never coming home again but my heart is still waiting. I guess it is because I didn't get to say good bye or maybe it is because I don't want to believe it. I just know that your death has left a big void in my life and the lives of Becca, Dharma and Michael. Rest in peace my darling and know that you are always on my mind and in my heart forever. I love and miss you now and always. Love Mommy

Good morning my son. I know this is a guest book but I feel like I am talking to you so I will continue to do so. I miss you so very much. I can't believe that it has been almost 3 years since you were taken from this earth. Every detail of that day is forever etched in my mind. The pain is always in my heart and you are always on my mind. Please continue to watch over Becca and Dharma and Michael. They miss you so very much and are trying to get on with their lives and I want that for them. I love you Joshua and I miss you so very much. Please rest in Peace and watch over us all. Love Mommy

GOOD MORNING SON. TODAY IS THANKSGIVING, THE 3RD THANKSGIVING WITHOUT YOU. IT JUST DOESN'T SEEM POSSIBLE THAT SO MUCH TIME HAS GONE BY ALREADY. I MISS YOU SO MUCH AND THINK ABOUT YOU ALL THE TIME. I AM GOING TO HAVE DINNER WITH NICK AND NANCY, MY NEIGHBORS. THEY HAVE ALWAYS BEEN VERY SUPPORTIVE AND COMPASSIONATE WITH ME AND ASKED ME TO SHARE THEIR DAY WITH THEM. BECCA, DHARMA AND MICHAEL WENT TO MARYLAND WITH HER FRIENDS FROM CHURCH. THE KIDS DON'T KNOW THAT I AM COMING FOR CHRISTMAS, I AM A PRESENT FOR THEM. I TRY TO GO TO VIRGINIA AT LEAST TWICE A YEAR AND DHARMA CALLS ME ALMOST EVERY NIGHT. SHE LOVES ME AND WE DO SHARE A SPECIAL BOND. MICHAEL BODHI AND I HAVEN'T CLICKED YET BUT WE WILL. I AM STILL THINKING ABOUT MOVING BACK THERE BUT THERE ARE A LOT OF THINGS TO CONSIDER IN A MOVE LIKE THAT. I TRY TO THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU WOULD WANT ME TO DO. JEFF AND FLAVIA DID INVITE ME TO SPEND THANKSGIVING WITH THEM BUT JEFF HAD TO WORK TODAY AND HAS TO GO BACK AT 4 AM FOR BLACK FRIDAY SO I DECLINED THE INVITE. I LOVE YOU JOSH AND MISS YOU SO MUCH. JEFF MISSES YOU ALOT TOO. WE TALK ABOUT YOU WHEN WE ARE TOGETHER AND LAUGH AND CRY. YOU ARE ALWAYS ON OUR MINDS. BLESS YOU MY SON AND WATCH OVER US ALL. LOVE MOMMY

today I am celebrating your birthday like if you would be still with us. you were one of my bestfriend and I would never forget you you always have a part in my heart to you and SSG Bradley I rise my cup to the both of you

GOOD MORNING SON. THIS DAY IS DEDICATED TO YOU AND ALL OF OUR MILITARY MEMBERS WHO HAVE LOST THEIR LIVES PROTECTING OUR FREEDOM AND TO THOSE WHO ARE STILL FIGHTING. I THINK OF YOU EVERYDAY AND WISH WITH ALL MY HEART THAT YOU WERE HERE WITH YOUR FAMILY. WE ALL MISS YOU SO MUCH ESPECIALLY YOUR CHILDREN. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH. PLEASE REST IN PEACE KNOWING THAT YOUR LEAVING US WASN'T IN VAIN. GOD BLESS YOU MY SON AND ALL OF OUR MEN AND WOMEN SERVING THEIR COUNTRY. LOVE MOMMY

TO MY SON, I WANT TO TELL YOU HOW MUCH I MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU. YOU ARE ALWAYS IN MY THOUGHTS AND NOT A DAY GOES BY THAT I DONT CRY FOR ALL OF THE THINGS THAT WE DONT GET TO SHARE, ALL OF THE WONDERFUL THINGS YOU WERE DOING WITH YOUR LIFE. THE LIFE YOU WERE MAKING WITH BECCA AND DHARMA AND MICHAEL BODHI. WE ALL MISS YOU SO MUCH. TODAY IS MEMORIAL DAY AND I JUST WANT TO THANK YOU AND ALL THE THOUSANDS OF MEN AND WOMEN WHO MADE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE FOR OUR COUNTRY. I LOVE YOU MY DARLING SON AND WILL MISS YOU FOREVER, LOVE MOMMY

Rebecca, I'm so happy that God led you to our little church in West Point. I wasn't aware until last Sunday that you had had this chapter in your life. This was undoubedly a tough cross to live through! God's Word does tell us that if we strive towards His will, we will be blessed beyond. I'm glad you're holding close to Him! I pray His continued strength to you as you love and raise your two young children. To Tenzin, I would say, "Thank You" for his sacrifice to my freedom. Such a small recognition for a life given! I will never understand all of what goes on in this world, but I do know I serve a loving and powerful God who loves all His children and it is my job to walk closely with Him and follow His plan while I'm here. God Bless you, Rebecca and your children, in the days and years ahead as you live and serve Him too!

Dear Brother, I love you like you wouldn't believe! I miss you so much, and wish that I could call you and tell you all about life and how it is going! I know you are up there watching over everyone, and I cherish the time til I am up there with standing next you watching over everyone as well! Everyday I think of Friday the 13th, Nighmare on Elm Street, and picking Grapefruit with you, as well as all the times we went swimming in trashcans in the front yard in Lakeside, and jumped off barn rooves!

I still can not believe it has been 2 years that you gave your life for our country. I hope that the world knows how courageous you are and we will always remember the smile on your face!

I LOVE you, and miss you dearly!

To the family and friends of Pfc. Tenzin L. Samten:
Remembering Tenzin 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

As we approach the 2nd aniversary of your passing, we just want to take a moment to thank you once again for your ultimate sacrifice in defense of the ideals that America stands for - you represent the best that America has to offer, the heart and spirit it takes to make and keep this nation great - without you and your brethren, this country would not survive.
We also send our love and prayers to your loved ones left behind; we pray that, as your children grow, they will come to know who you were, as a father, as a husband, and as a soldier, and that they would always hold you up as the ideal American. May your legacy be one of remembering that some things are worth the price paid, and every American owes you a debt of gratitude for your honor and commitment.
May God continue to hold you close and watch over your family.
Love, Jeffrey & Marty Lamberth

Dear Rebecca, I really appreciate your husband serving in the armed forces of America, to protect our freedoms we enjoy every day. I'm so sorry that he died and that I'm sure you miss him very much. May God's grace, mercy and love fill you and your precious kids up to overflowing and be your eternal comfort. You are loved in Jesus and we thank God that He sent you to be a part of our church family. be healthy, safe and blessed, Pastor Randy

Hello Son, I have tried several times to write this over the last few days and I always have to stop because I can't see thru my tears. I miss you so much that somedays I actually feel as if my heart will break. My emotions are all over the place most of the time, there's anger, and sadness and happy and laughter and tears and sometimes just quiet. When I am having a bad moment, You find a way to let me know you are near, watching over me and Jeff and his family. Ashley saw you when she had her surgery, she swears you were there in your uniform, holding her hand telling her to be strong and I believe her. You may not be here in body but I finally understand that you are here in spirit. I guess a part of me still thinks that this has all been a horrible mistake and you are coming home. I find it hard to get rid of things that were yours for that reason. I know that its not going to happen but you are my child and I don't want to accept that you aren't coming back. Josh you would be so proud of Becca and Dharma and Michael. It amazes me how strong Becca has become and the life she is giving them all. She loves you and when I was there in Virginia we shared many silly memories and laughed. I will always try to be there for them all. I do know in my heart that they will be alright. On a lighter note, you would be so proud of Matt. He is going to school to become an EMT and he is going to be a Daddy. I am proud of him as I am sure all of his family is. Andy is still in the Marines and I think he is deploying again which sucks. There are so many things that remind me of you and I guess I should be grateful that I have all these wonderful memories about you. I wish that so many people that have made entries in this guestbook could have known you for the kind, gentle compassionate and loving boy you were as a child. I will miss you forever my son til we meet again I love you so much. Please know that you are always in my thoughts. Love eternally Mommy

Tenzin you have given the ultimate sacrifice and my words can not fully explain the loss of not having you here. You are survived by a wonderful wife and beautiful children that I have had the pleasure to know. You are missed by so many and we continue to honor you and your service. I did not have the pleasure of meeting you in person but can't wait to meet you in Heaven. Continue to watch over your family and know we are doing the same down here.

You have a beautiful, amazing wife and sweet, wonderful children! She is raising them incredibly well and is so strong - they all are! I'm sure you're proud of them! :) They are a blessing and we are honored to know them and be their friends! Thank you so much for your sacrifice - no man has greater love than laying down his life for someone else! Your family is constantly in our prayers and we love them so much!

Wow, There is not a day that goes by that you are not remembered. Your family is a strong one you would be so proud! We all miss you very much!!

I dont have anything profound to say except for thank you for your service. I know you are greatly missed by your family. I also know you made them ALL SO PROUD. Thank you for your service and GOD Bless.

Hi Zin, I know we never met in this lifetime. But you have made such an impact on my life. To know you are in Heaven looking over me makes me feel safe. Rebecca and the kids talk about you all the time. I know there are times she is just really wanting to talk to you, have you tell her this is a nightmare, and that it is all over. But I have to say, she is so strong Zin. She gets up and faces every day like a fighter you gave her the strength to have. You would be so proud of her and the babies. They look just like you! I am so proud to say that Rebecca is my friend. And you are too. Thank you for bringing her into my life. I just wish it was your hand that gave her to me and not your spirit. Thank you Zin for giving the ultimate sacrifice...you will live on in our hearts forever.

We remember and honor your ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We will continually pray for Rebecca, Michael & Dharma. God bless our Troops!

Hey hunny it's been a rough few months.. and I miss you so. It's crazy to think it's almost been two years now. The kids are growing up so fast. They are so amazing you would be so proud. I wish you could see how smart and talented they both are not to mention how much they look and act like you. I think of you daily and we talk about you often. I've made a lot of changes for the better and I feel like a new person. I love you Zin forever and always

hey man it almost your birthday again I can't believe already your birthday again in nine more day is going to be your birthday I'm going to go visit you next weekend I'm going to go with daugherty and his new wife it going to be the second time that I go to arlington I can't believe that it been already 1 year and 8 months since you left us not cause you wanted cause they took your life with SSG Bradley I miss both of you guy I always got both of you on my mind I'll see you next week.

TO MY SON, NOT ONE DAY PASSES WITHOUT MY THOUGHTS ON YOU. I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE GONE. MAYBE I NEVER WILL ACCEPT YOUR DEATH. I DON'T WANT TO. WE ALL MISS YOU SO MUCH. JEFF AND I TALK ABOUT YOU ALOT. I KEEP PRAYING THAT THIS IS ALL A HORRIBLE NIGHTMARE AND I AM GOING TO WAKE UP. IT'S HARD TO EVEN DRIVE AROUND THIS AREA CAUSE EVERYWHERE I GO THERE IS A MEMORY OF YOU. EVERY T.V. PROGRAM I WATCH IS ONE YOU AND I USED TO WATCH. MOVIES THAT COME ON ARE ONES WE WATCHED. I CHERISH EVERY MINUTE I EVER SPENT WITH YOU JOSH, YOU WERE MY BABY. I AM GOING TO STAY WITH BECCA AND KIDS FOR 6 WEEKS. I WILL BE THERE FOR THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS AND AM SO EXCITED. TIME IS DRAGGING TIL THE DAY I LEAVE. JOSHUA, I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU SO MUCH IT HURTS. WATCH OVER US ALL. TIL WE MEET AGAIN, YOU ARE ALWAYS IN MY HEART AND THE HEARTS OF US ALL. LOVE FOREVER, MOMMY

Well it's almost 3am hunny and I just found myself re-reading every email you sent me while you were away at basic, AIT and while deployed. I miss you soo much. I have more good days then bad but tonight or should I say this morning is really difficult. Most emails did make me laugh so I'm glad I read them. It's so hard to believe it's been 18 months since you went to heaven. You were the best husband, father, and friend. I will always keep your memory alive. The world deserves to know what a wonderful, and heroic man you were. I kiss the kids everynight from you... they won't ever forget you either.. I promise. We love you

It been about 1 1/2 ago since we lost you and it hard for me cause I had never lost a true friend in fact I lost two friend you and SSG Bradley I can say that both of you were my friend I will never forget you, you will always be in my heart one day we will see each other again I know that you are watching over

Think of you and your family daily!!!! Keep watch over that beautiful family you have!

to rebecca and those wonderful children i went to basic with samten first met him in PTRP (the rehab platoon) we spent 4 months there and then went back to basic on the same day and graduated basic togeather. He was a wonderful person. I know we have never met but i feel like i know you all cause he talked about u so much. I can remenber when we celerbated his birthday, he got cards from the kids, he showed them to me so proud with tears in his eyes. i where a bracelet to remenber him by he was a dear friend.

to samten all i know to say is i miss u

Dear Mrs. Samten and the Samten family,
There are no words that could ever express my greatest debt to you. The huge impact that your husband had on my husband is amazing. From all the stories I have heard this was one extraordinary gentleman. My heart hurts for the pain and the suffering that your family goes through. Please know that you give me strength though to never give up. It is so easy to take life for granted. I love you guys and I think about you often. Thank you for this page also. I am going to print it for my husband and hope he will find some peace in it.

I made it through another Memorial Day, this time without crying. I thought of you all day though. I couldn't be more proud of how brave you were to stand up and fight for our country. It's getting close to moving day and I know you would totally love the new house! I miss you so much and will always love you. You will forever live in my heart hunny.

Hunny I find great peace in knowing you are always with me and the kids in spirit. It is this fact that I believe allowed me to get through the first anniversary with a smile on my face. I wont say it was easy but I was able to remember funny memories and I even gave you some monster! Your favorite drink that you know I couldn't even stand the smell of!! We love you and wont ever let your memory fade. Love you pola bear

Tenzin,
We think of you often and have great memories of the time you spent with us in San Francisco.We miss you. Much love to you and your family.

I miss you, I love you, and I want to see the new Friday the 13th, but can't get myself to see it because that is one thing you always did with me! You made sure I watched all the new scary movies before mom and dad came home!! Maybe that is why I am a scary movie freak and it drives my husband crazy cause he can't stand them.

I am still finding photo's of us growing up and memories paralyze me! Remember those darn mice that over run our fireplace? We learned the hard way...NEVER BELIEVE A SALESMAN AND THAT THEY ARE ALWAYS ABLE TO GET PREGNANT AND HAVE BABIES!!!

I love you brother! Miss you!!

Tenzin,
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.

To the family of Pfc. Tenzin L. Samten:
Tenzin 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

I offer my deepest condolences for your loss

It's almost 2009 hunny. It's been the worst year of my life and I miss you more as each day passes. I pray you are safe with god and that you know I will always love you no matter how much time passes. You were my everything, the reason I am the person I am today. Now I must take care of our two kids and I am doing the best job I can, but it's a struggle. Until we meet again. I love you Polar Bear.

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

I love you baby. I miss you soo much. Your bday was really difficult to get through but I did it. You always were our hero, now you are our angel too.

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

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Pfc Samten!

Zin, Ive known you since 2003, we detailed so many cars together and had a hell of a time doing it!!!! You always made the day go by so much better!! I dont know if you knew it but you became my best friend... when you joined the army, you know i didnt agree with you, and god knows I tried to stop you!! but i understand why you did it!! I just recently heard of your passing, and I still cant accept it...I keep hoping its all a mistake and you will return my calls soon!!! I hope you will...where ever you are, please take care and i will see you one day bro!!!!!!!!!!I will never forget you!!!! GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!

To Tenzin,

You are my hero, my heart has a large void in it after hearing from your lovely wife Rebecca of you untimely death. I was your Recruiter and knew how much serving this great nation ment to you and your family. When I first found out about your passing, I felt that had I not made the effort for you to join the Army and realize your dream that you would still be with us. After talking with Rebecca i now realize that you would not have had it any other way. I started this message with you are my hero, and that is exactly what you are, I told you this to your face the day you joined the Army. I will miss you for you are what this country needs a proud father, husband, friend and warrior. I am reminded of a story I read that goes like this.....
An old man approched the gates of heaven, and as he reached the gates Peter asked the old man, what in your life has made it possible for you to come to this place...
The old man replied I took in the poor, the sick and the forgotten...With no questions or thoughts of repayment...
Peter replied well these are all good things I welcome you to the kingdom of heaven, the gates opened and the old man began to walk through, just then he turned to Peter and said..
There was a young man following close behind me make sure he enters...
Peter replied.. Why do you say this?
The old man said...
He carries the weight of freedom on his shoulders and that is no easy task..
Peter replied I will see that it is done...
A few moments later the young man approached the gates and Peter asked the same question as he did the old man...
The young man replied.. If it weren't for me no one could visit your gates and ask to enter... For I am the messanger of freedom and the holder of the light... As long as my brothers and I stand, united and strong you will continue to have visitors asking to enter here..

Never forget what we fight for, who pays the ultimate sacrifice and those left behind..

Tenzin I am proud to call myself your Recruiter, I am proud of your family and what you have accomplished, I will never forget you... I just hope that someday I will see you again..

This boy I loved to engage in sibling rivalry! There were many times where you could tell we were siblings and wanted nothing to do with each other, but that would last, what, 20 minutes! My memories will always be there and even though we fought like we were true blood brother and sister, I love you!



I will never forget the kind of person he could be when my big brother looked out for his little sister, yet how he loved to pick on me as well! I remember watching Friday the 13th, Halloween, and Nightmare on Elm St. at the Lakeside house with him and his buddies and then they would hide from me and scare the poop (sometimes pee) out me! He would hide under my bed and pretend he was Jason coming after me.



Good times they were (scary, but good)!! I remember other times when we first met at the Royal Garden apts., we used to run around at night with our remotes and turn all of our neighbors tvs on and then change them to the Playboy channel! Or when we came home with 2 mice of the same sex, oops too late, guess they weren't the same sex cause we had a few too many mice a couple weeks later. But it was fun hiding it from mom and dad.



And anyone who knows the story could also understand that because of Josh, I can NEVER touch a grapefruit now! Maybe that's why I get headaches so frequently now! I regret not keeping in touch throughout the years!! I am sorry and Please know, that I still love you!



I never got to meet you Rebecca, but I love and pain goes out to you and your beautiful children!! I have some photos that I need to find for you from Christmas and what not.



Nita, I am sorry you have to go through this. Jeff, please visit, I heard you came in looking for me.



Tenzin Samten ~ Josh Bratt head brother ~ I love you and miss you darn it!! I am proud of you and what you have done!

I would first like to give My Blessings to Samten's family and my Dearest respects. I Will Never Forget A Fallin Soldier. And I will never forget the times we had together. From when we first got to Eustis,to when we first got assigned to The best NCO, A Soldier could want, SGT Bradley, who will also, Never be forgotten, to when we deployed and worked together on those long cold and hot days. These Soldier's Have A Deep Place In Our Hearts Forever. You are in a better place now, and will be lookin down upon your Families & Friend guiding us through our steps and ways in life. We are all very blessed to be able to have a part in These Soldiers/Warriors Lives.

To Samten,
Thank you for being a great friend. We had our ups and downs, but through it all you will always be a brother, a friend, and most of all a soldier. You will be missed by all of us.

To Tenzin
We are going to miss we were friend and I will never forget you, You were a great father and great husband. The good time that I remember having fun it was wwith you cause you made fun to hang with and that I going to miss that about you you will always will in my heart.

My heart goes out to Rebecca, kids and Nita.
I used to babysit Josh when he was two. And watched him grow into the fine young man we all knew and loved. You will be missed,
Love you,
Viola

Samten was one of the greatest friends I have ever had! Even though I did not have the time to know him as long as some, I miss him as much as many who have! I miss his friendship and the way he made this desert a little more hospitable. Now it just seems so much more deserted!The world truely grew alittle dimmer that day! You will be missed Samten, and allways rememberd!

Deepest condolences to your family. Our thoughts and prayers include yours and Sgt Bradley's families as well as all the men and women who are still serving in Iraq. May peace be restored soon.

Thank you for all you have done for this country! God bless you and your family.

My heartfelt sympathy to the Samten family and friends in the loss of Tenzin. I did not know Tenzin, 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. Tenzin 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~

Rebecca, i just want to let you know that i love you and the kids....we are family now and i know our husbands will be forever watching over us on this journey. YOU ARE MY SISTER!!! LUV YOU GIRL

I knew Tenzin as Josh, the lovable, happy go lucky friend and fellow employee that marched to a different drummer; up here in San Francisco. I was happy to have shared a great portion of his early life here in the Bay area. I regret that his life had to be take away so quickly, but his soul will love on through his children and wife. I would like to express my deepest condolences to his family and would consider him always a friend. I salute you. Frank

Dear Zin,
I want to start by saying thank you for all the good times and the hard times. Thank you for being a strong hero, a great daddy, and for making my sister the happiest I have ever seen her. You helped our family grow and created the most beautiful children that I have ever seen! I promise to you with all my heart that I will always be there for my sister and those precious children. To the rest of the world you may be one person, but to me you are the world! You will never be forgotten, and we will all keep your spirt alive. You and my sister Rebecca are my two heros and will always be. I love you so much, and you will always be in my prayers. May God please watch over my family and keep us safe.
Love always and forever,
Auntie Sarah

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family everyday. There is no bigger sacrifice than what Tenzin and all other military soldiers are doing. They do what they do so that we may have what we have. Tezin is a part of our military family and is and will always be remembered as a hero. This is something that will NEVER go away, but it will get easier everyday.

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!!

I would also like to tell you about a website, http://groups.msn.com/SSPSoldierPor
traits/homepage,
where some wonderful people will make wood portraits of your fallen Hero for free for the immediate family. I became aware of this site when I wanted to do something special for Le Ron’s mother.

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett (Queens, NY)

To the family and friends of PFC Samten....I am so sorry for your loss. May God bring you comfort during this difficult time. He will not be forgotten. God Bless You.

Dear Family and Friends,
We would like to offer my sincerest condolences. I cannot begin to imagine the loss and pain all are going through. My nephew is a United States Marine and serving in Iraq. We all pray for him and his comrade’s safety every day. War is a horrible reality. I salute and I am proud of all of our troops and their bravery to protect our freedom and serve their country with honor. Freedom is not free.
With deepest regrets and sympathy
God Bless and may the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all family and friends

i want to thank you for serving this great country.and i know you are in the arms of jesus.

God Speed my Friend.

Thank you Pfc Samten for serving our country so well, may you rest in eternal peace and may God give your family comfort and peace in knowing that you are now a new kind of soldier for the Lord.

God Bless <><

My Prayers are with the Samten family. He was such a great husband and father. He will truley be missed by all whoever knew him.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR HEROIC PROTECTION OF OUR SECURITY AND FREEDOM, TENZIN. GOD HOLD YOU IN HIS LOVING ARMS AND BRING COMFORT TO YOUR LOVED ONES.

To the dear family of Tenzin la:

Please accept my heartfelt condolences for the loss of your husband, your father. As a fellow Tibetan, I am so very proud of what Tenzin la has done for this great country. I offer my prayers for Tenzin la. With warm regards, Tashi Norbu, San Francisco Bay Area, California, USA

Tenzin,

You were my best friend for many years and I will miss you so very much.

Mike

I'm so very sorry for your loss. I hope you will take comfort in knowing that there are many people who truly appreciate and have a great deal of respect for the work that our young men and women in the service are doing for our countries.

Tenzin,
I would just like to say thank you to you and the other the soldiers who were also killed in that mortar attack for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extned my deepest sympathy.

To the Samten family,

I know there are no words to say, except how sorry I am for your loss. May you hold Tenzins' memory in your heart and please remember he shall never be forgotten.

...For you every single soldier
Those who served so honorable
Your life was forever altered
While I’m home safe and free
I stand with grateful admiration
I stand respectful and so proud
I know I’m only a civilian
And I don’t even know if it’s allowed.

But I salute you; allow me the honor
to salute you with permission let me say
Even though I hold no rank know that from my heart
My humble gratitude comes from the deepest part.
I salute you.

Suzanne MacDaniel
A Proud Aunt
David M.Fisher
KIA 12/1/04 Iraq

I had the pleasure of deploying with Pfc Samten and i tell you that when he was around there was definately no dull moment. Pfc Samten touched the lifes of so many brothers in arms during his time with us on this deployment. To Tenzins family, Thanks for the sacrifce that you have given and please know that before Tenzin went anywhere, he made sure that the mission was completed in between of course amusing us with his humour! Thank you once again for allowing me to have the chance to serve with such an awesome man. My thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless!