Branden P. Haunert Obituary

Thanks to Facebook page seal of honor for posting about you. Now Ive learned of you and will remember you dear soldier

In memory of Branden. We will always be grateful to him for his service and sacrifice for this nation.

To the family and friends of Pvt. Branden P. Haunert:
It has truly been my honor to sign Branden's guest book these past few years. Unfortunately, due to complications from my Multiple Sclerosis, this may be the last message I'm able to write. Please forgive me and know that Branden will always be remembered in my home.
With love and respect ~ Peggy

Hello,
We would like to express our deepest condolences and also let the Haunert Family know that we recently sent Care Packages to American troops in the war zones. Each box carried a dedication sheet that includes the name, service information and a photo of your loved one. We recognize that this is a humble tribute, but we wanted you to know that it is heartfelt and made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals in the youth hockey community and beyond. We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of the US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign

To the family and friends of Pvt. Branden P. Haunert:
Always remembering Branden. "Some gave all."

To the family and friends of Pvt. Branden P. Haunert:
Please accept my remembrance of Branden on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

To the family and friends of Pvt. Branden P. Haunert:
Remembering Branden 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

B

it your brother hear it crazy for the longest time i couldnt even read this page and even now 17 mounth later it still just as hard as i thought it would be...it crazy i remember one of the last things we talked about befor you left is how bad we both wanted a tattoo just couldnt deciede what we wanted..well you gave me the best idea i could have ever have and this is a momorial to you i think about you and all the things you did for me everytime i look at it..always lookin out for me when i got in trouble with mom and dad no matter what it was they could have cought me red handed and you still would have been there for me and took the blam, always being there for me in school and inviting me to places with your friends i couldnt have asked for anything better growing up with you..it just crazy cause it seem like i heard a 100 times from people that it will get easyer with time but it seem like even after how much time has past it still seem like just yeaterday we lost you and it just gets to me everytime i think about you..you were more than just a brother to me you were my best friend..for the longest time it still seemed like i was just sitting around waitting for a call from you like i always was after you left.. use to always look foward to you callin just to talk..but i know that joining the service was somthing you talked about sence we were little and i couldnt be anymore prouder of anyone in my life..love you big bro always thinking about you and always will.

chris haunert

Branden,
Brotha it's been a while since ive wrote,but not a moment goes by that I dont think about you man.Just wanted to say i miss you man and ask for some help brotha!!My life is turning in a bad way fast man,Im losing everything!!

“When a friend dies, one isn’t truly forgotten…Specially when touched by the lives of others without asking, from heart to heart, in such a loving, caring and unique fashion.

When a friend dies, one isn’t truly gone… Though departed in the physical but remains in my mind’s gate, with me forever, regardless of their untimely fate.

When a friend dies, one isn’t truly lost…but is found and lives in the heart of all of us, simply because we love him…the recipient of our trust.

When a friend dies, one must travel alone…each one has his own special road, the route is created by each own, without help, each must walk alone; to our final destination, home.

When a friend dies, everyone becomes hurt…though no mere words can ever categorize the sorrow, it’s good memories fused with time that helps us through tomorrow.

When a friend dies, God is still in control…knowing that in the good or the bad, we are still blessed, because our God, not us, know what’s truly best.

Thought how can it be explained when a friend dies, yet we still remain. Until I see God and He makes it all clear – at least I know He’s always near. I’ll always remember my friend that I held dear….as I wipe away this tear…”

Branden… you were loved and you always will be
So many people cried for you
I know that you will be missed
By everyone you ever knew

Branden.
It's taken mom a long time to write but i feel the need to say a few things in my heart.I am not sure how to put my feelings in words but i'm going to try.I want you to know how much we love and miss you. As your mom i feel thatfewf a piece of my heart is gone.You are the first thing i think about when i wake and the very last when i close my eyes at night.I am so proud of you but that does not even began to tell you what you mean to us. One of the only things that gets me through the day is knowing that you and grandpa are on the lake fishing.Also you have all your grandma's spoiling you. I know a few things that make you happy and these are just a few.I know it's not to hot or not to cold, theres no spiders, and you can have shrimp and crab legs whenever you want.Even shrimp scampi that we made together when you were home. Branden,mom and dad miss you so much that there are know words.I remember watching the superbowl thinking i'm not sure i can watch this but then i thought that your not watching. Your there with grandpa giving the umps all kinds of stuff.Iknow you were probably hoping for arizona but we came up short.I know saying i love you is a given but i remember talking to you one afternoon and saying I love you and you said in your silly way ,I love you Ilove you I love you ,I love you. And I said i love you more.You always made me smile even through tears.Mom and Dad are leaning on each other because we need each other so much. people are so supportive but they just don't know the loss we feel.Your brothers are missing you so much. You had such a bond with each one of them and your relationship was different with each. I know i have told you i love you and that i'm proud of you but i don't know if i ever told you thank you. Thank you.Thank you for being the most selfless son.Thank you for always having a kind word for someone who needsit.Thank you for being the best son and brother and friend. We often hear from people that you have met and we hear that you helped them in some way. Howproud can we be but thats just who you are.So while your fishing and playing basketball, please know were not there yet.Mom and dad know we will see you someday and thats what gets us through the day.I do want to say when i can thank you. thank you to every one for all the support and thoughtfulness. There support means the world to our family.To all the men and women here and far fighting for our freedom and our saftey our prayers are with you ,thank you for all you do. Branden you are our angel. You are special to all of us for one reason or another,but to us your our son who we miss more than words and you have a piece of all of are hearts.A word for all Brandens friends , most we know some not.Thank you for being here and sharing stories that make us smile for a minute.You are always welcomed here and we find that you all love him and miss your friend. Branden ,you know mom could go on but this has been hard but needed.We love you more and more every day.Mom and Dad love and miss you. You are always with us.LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE and more,
ma and pops

To the family of Pvt. Branden P. Haunert:
Branden 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

Branden,
Growing up with your family was a blessing.I just remember little things in Norwood as a child and it was great growing up and getting to know you.You are a hero and godspeed soldier!

we miss ya man. i find myself thinking about all the times we had together back at benning. everything from hiding out in the latrines to bowling on family day. noone will ever replace you. my prayers go out to your family...

Branden,
I find myself staring at your picture daily wondering how this could have happened to my bro,and it makes me sad whenever I think about it,but then I think of the last time I saw you before we left.You were nervous as was I and I told you that we'd get thru it and I promised we would be back in less than a year.im so sorry I lied to you man i wish I could have protected you and sheilded you from that blast.I've made a memorial for you in "MY" room and had a sticker made for you to put on my truck.I miss you so much man,wish that we could have had more time together,you are my HERO and you will never be forgotten man.please watch over everyone as we still are going into harms way

I offer my deepest condolences for your loss

FREE OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING OF THIS HERO. COMPLETE FORM AT WWW.HEROPAINTINGS.COM
We love our Soldiers! This is a Nonprofit Organization to honor are Soldiers!
Please contact us! Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, please disregard.
Sincerely,
Kenna

Today is Brandens 22 birthday. We wanted to visit you but we couldn't because we are still in Arizona at school so Jesse and I wrote letters to you on balloons and are going to release them here in a few. Hope they make it to you ok. Just in case here is mine:

Hey Branden,
There are so many things that I have wanted to say and I am sorry it has taken me so long to say them. I've gone up on your remembrance page a million times and started typing away- sometimes pages and pages and sometimes just a sentence. Every time I am done writing I feel like it isn’t good enough. It doesn’t express how amazing you are well enough. And how much we miss you deep enough. I just wanted it to be perfect ...so I never sent it. And now have started to realize that maybe there aren't words to explain- because everything I’ve ever said can’t even begin to touch anything I’ve ever felt.
But today I am going to try… again.

At your funeral they asked us if we could pick one word to describe you. I wanted to say your smile, - it was all I could think about- but that wasn’t the question so I said happiness; True happiness. Because that is what would have explained your smile. You have the most amazing smile; it was contagious. It’s like whenever you smiled the world around you smiled. Your eyes opened up but squinted at the same time (lol) and your face lit up too; It’s almost like you could you see straight into your heart. And there it laid true happiness. Whatever the situation was, no matter how bad it seemed you were always happy. Everyone knew it- everyone felt it. Still every time I think of your smile, I smile- then most of the time cry but I smile first ;)
The other day I was thinking about you and I started thinking about My mom-when I was little she told me that God only takes people who are ready to go- those ready for Heaven and it is because of this that I know why he took you and know your there:

b/c I started thinking about my life if I was today taken by God -after I thought about it I can honestly say that I would be completely satisfied with my life. I have loved and been loved. I have the most amazing family any one could ask for and the relationships: all the love my parents, brother, sisters and I have for each other is enough to last forever. It is because of that that I have had such a wonderful life; you, nick, and the rest of your family had a huge part in that and all the happiness I have been blessed with. For you too have amazing family one I was so lucky to be a part of for so many years. Your mom and dad are two of the most caring people I have ever met in my life. And you and your brothers have that same relationship me and my sister’s do- and unexplainable one. You were like a second family: A second mother, father & brothers I love you all so much- more than I could ever explain.

I would write more but it won’t fit on the balloon so I just want to say thank you

Thank you for everything Branden.

Thank you for the early years: of sneaking out, poker and movies with Gabe.

Thank you for the years I spent at your house and the years you gave up your room for me

Thank you for the smiles, the advice, and the tears you’ve dried

Thank you for all the love you have given to your me your family and to this world.

Thank you being an American soldier. Thank you for everything you haven taken from yourselves to give to us. You are the most amazing and important people in this world. If it wasn’t for you and everything you do none of us would be what we are today. And I am blessed to have had my life touched by so many angels.

Thank you for giving your life to this country.

I think about you everyday Branden. We all miss you so much. I Love you - and I’ll see you soon, we all will.

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

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Pvt Haunert and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! It is especially sad to lose another member of the Buckeye state. May God bless all of those who are affected by the loss of Pvt Haunert!!

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Pvt Haunert!

Prayer for Peace

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace;
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
And where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master,
Grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
To be understood, as to understand;
To be loved, as to love;
For it is in giving that we receive,
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Amen

i went to basic with haunert i can say since i heard about what happen i been sad becouse the world lost a great man and solider he was my friend and he will always be ..i am so sorry .......

To the family and parents of Branden I want you to know that you are not alone in the grief you are feeling. I too know what you are going through and what you will go through in the coming weeks and months ahead. You will have many questions as to why? You will have many things to get ready or go through and that should be done in time. Sometimes it just can’t be faced and that’s ok, for you will know when the time is right for you. There is no right or wrong way to grieve it’s an individual journey that unfortunately we now have to take. I ask that God give the comfort, strength and courage that you are going to need. When and if the time is right for you please contact me. You can cry, vent, or just talk as only another person who has been where you are can really know what you are going through. May God continue to be with you and heal you.

In memory of my son
Spc Harry (Buck) Winkler III
KIA 11/12/06 Samarra, Iraq
82nd Airborne 2-505th PIR

To the Haunert Family, i knew your son for a short time when he came to the platoon. but he was a great guy, my prayers go out to you and the rest of his family and friends. Branden was a true american soldier, somone who i will never forget!!!

To the Haunert Family....
We knew and loved Branden for many years. We are all so proud of him and we will miss him.
IN HONOR OF OUR FRIEND, BRANDEN…..
A great kid who grew up to be a great man.


It is the SOLDIER, not the preacher, who has given us freedom of religion.

It is the SOLDIER, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the SOLDIER, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the SOLDIER, not the campus organizer, who has given us freedom to assemble.

It is the SOLDIER, not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is the SOLDIER, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote.

It is the SOLDIER who salutes the Flag; it is the SOLDIER who serves under the Flag.

ETERNAL REST GRANT THEM O LORD,
AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON THEM.

The Ogden Family

To the Family and Friends of this Soldier:
I will stand in grief with this soldier's family to honor him. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guestbook for the rest of my life, but I promised Brent that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
We lost our son SFC Brent A. Adams on 12/1/05 and it seems like yesterday. I wish so badly there were things I could say to you right now to make the pain you are feeling go away, but I know first hand there simply are no words that will bring you the comfort and peace your heart aches for. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you go through this tragedy moment by moment and as you mourn this loss.
We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group none of us wanted to join, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with as our hearts both burst with pride and pain together.
I am sorry that I never knew your soldier personally. While they can never be replaced, neither will they ever be forgotten. You must trust that sometime, someday the loving memories you have will help to sustain you and help you go on. This courageous soldier will forever be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me some measure of peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well.
To his family and friends in pain, I offer this comfort: When you find yourself in that dark sorrowful place, think not only of how you will miss him, but instead recall the years, days, hours and minutes gifted to you by his presence. The one thing that cannot be taken from you is your wonderful memories that now will mean more than ever.
If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away and would love for you to tell me more about your Hero.
God Bless this soldier and family who gave all and God Bless legacy.com for setting up this site where families can so quickly share their condolences and prayers with others like themselves.
Proud Parents of SFC Brent A. Adams, KIA, 12/1/05, Ramadi, Iraq
Pam and Bill Adams, Lancaster, PA

Another family grieves the loss of a loved one. The nation grieves the loss of another American Hero. May God bring comfort to all of you. Thank you and rest in peace, Branden.

My very deepest sympathy goes out to Branden's parents, family and firends. My daughter is stationed in Tikrit and had met Branden briefly before that mission and told me that she thought he was a sweet guy. She said that she was present on that mission and that she was very sad that he was hit. I wanted to tell you what she said and hope that it may bring you some comfort to know that your dear boy had friends who cared for him still. I feel the pain of a mother and pray for you and all yours.

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008

Mourning the loss of a beloved son, brother and friend. You touched so many people's lives and I'm going to miss ya darlin. Watch over us...

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 Branden's family and friends--I am deeply saddened by your loss, and pray that all of you will begin to remember the good and happy times you shared with him, and that those memories will give you some peace in this most difficult of times. I pray that you will all remember that there are no rules to follow, no right way to grieve--it takes time to recover from such a loss, and that everyone moves at a different pace. Take care of each other because you know Branden would want you to do so. Know that you all made a such an important difference in his life, or he would not have been so willing to sacrifice his life for all of you. He will remain in my heart as a hero for his sacrifice--
Mrs Gonda, Sycamore High School

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 Branden, 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 –
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol



Sincerely,

Deb Estep
Twinsburg, Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL

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

Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b

To his family, he was a good soldier that was among many others. sorry for your loss. SSG Woods

My heart goes out to the entire Haunert family during this difficult time. I remember Brandon as a young boy, and was very saddened to hear this.

To the friends and family of PVT Branden Haunert. My name is SSG John Dalgleish I was your loved ones Drill sergeant. I just heard the news from another soldier that was in Brandens platoon in basic. I just want to send out my deepest reguards and I'm truely am sorry!

DS John Dalgleish
U.S. Infanrty

Branden, you are a true soldier who gave the ultimate sacrifice. I just want to say thank you for serving our country, it is men like you who make us feel safe and proud to say "I am an American".

You will be missed by many and you have left such a legacy around Cincinnati through school and baseball.

My thoughts and prayers will always be with you and you family. You will forever be missed.

God Bless and R.I.P.

To The Haunert Family

I am Theresa and Rick Burkhart's sister-in-law and I just want you to know how very sorry I am about your son and brother. I will be thinking of you today and tomorrow as you say good bye. My deepest sympathy to everyone.

My heart goes out to the Haunert Family during this very difficult time.
A special loved has left us here for right now,
Wanting to bring him back but don't know how.
Branden is a hero and one we will never forget,
He was needed in Heaven gate wide open for welcome time and day set,
Now an Angel to watch and protect us from up above,
We will not say goodbye knowing we all be together at some point in time,
Until then your memory will be with us always in our hearts and in our mind.

My deepest sympathies to Branden's family and friends. My son is one of the soldiers that Branden and his friends were on the way to pick up after they hit an IED.We are both extremely upset that Branden and his friends also hit an IED. But we want you to know that we will always see Branden as an American hero. I will keep you all in my prayers every day; as I do my son and his troop. May God comfort you and keep you close to Him in this time of sorrow; and please know that my family appreciates your hero more than you can know.

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

My thoughts and prayer are with those who loved Branden,
My deapest sympathy to his MOM.
May god bless you in this time of despare.

To the Haunert Family...my sincere condolence to you. I am a military mother also...my heart is broken for you. Our loving God has now welcomed your dear Branden to his eternal post. Another bright, heavenly star is shining down on all of us tonight. May God comfort and keep you all.

The soldier stood and faced his God
which must always come to pass
He hoped his shoes were shining, just as brightly as his brass.

"Step forward now, you soldier. How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To My Church have you been true?"

The soldier squared his shoulders and said,
"No Lord, I guess I ain't
Because those of us who carry guns, can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays, and at times my talk was tough,
And sometimes I've been violent
because the streets are awfully rough.

But, I never took a penny, that wasn't mine to keep...
Though I worked a lot of overtime,
when the bills just got too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help, though at times
I shook with fear
And sometimes, God forgive me, I've wept unmanly tears

I know I don't deserve a place, among the people here
They never wanted me around, except to calm their fears.

If you've a place for me here, Lord, it needn't be so grand
I never expected or had too much,
but if you don't I'll understand."

There was silence all around the throne,
where the saint's had often trod
As the soldier waited quietly, for the judgement of his God.

"Step forward now you soldier, you've borne your burdens well,
Walk peacefully on Heaven's street,
you've done your time in Hell."

Author unknown

as a mom who lost my son 1 year ago, i know the pain. i feel your loss and my condolences go out to the Haunert family.

My deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Branden. Please know that as the mom of another Screaming Eagle in Baghdad, I am grieving with you. May the memories of your brave Soldier remain in your heart always and give you strength through the difficult days ahead.

I'm so very sorry for the loss of Branden, and I am grateful for his service. I pray for the peace and comfort of his family.

We lived in Blue Ash for many years and my daughter was a classmate of Branden's at Sycamore.

Brandon was a great friend to have he was one of the chillest nicest people and always out to have a good time with all hios friends now that hes gone we all lost a very special type of person who we could look up to and he will be missed greatly.

I honor you B HAun for what you have done to this country i striahgt up salute u from my soldiers point to your bravery for this country.

Hooah!!! Hooah!!!! Hooah!!!!!
RIP BRANDON you will be missed by many til we all meet someday

We honor Branden's sacrifice and the Family and Friends who nurtured him.

Angels With Broad Wings

Standing on the edge of time
Watching the world go by
Seeing all the children of mine
With sadness in their eyes

Let your tears flow for now
Let your heartaches grow dim
Let memories last forever
Of the times you spent with him

I only call for Angels
Angels with Broad Wings
The ones that bring me smiles
The ones that make the heaven's sing

When Branden stepped through Heaven's gate
The trumpets sounded loud
As he sat next to me this morning
It made me so very proud

So let your sorrows fade
Love life's treasures and all that it brings
Remember I only call for Angels
The Angels with Broad Wings


Thnak you Branden and to all the men and women in the Military !

To the Haunert family my condolances for the loss of your son.He is a true HERO! My son is a marine in Iraq. My son always says freedom has a face the faces of those who have paid with their lives. My we live lives worthy of His sacrifice. Thank you for my freedom Branden I will always be greatful. God bless the Haunert family.

To the Haunert Family,
Your son is in my prayers and I am very proud of him and all who gave their lives for us.

To the Haunert Family and Friends

YOUR LOSS is America's as well.
I want to take the time to send a few words and Let you know Pvt. Branden P. Haunert is remembered and you are as well with Prayer for your Loss..
May your Memories with him and of him help to comfort you along with God's care.
There just is no word's to take away the loss you feel, for that I am sorry...
I thank you for Amreica's freedom and mine and my families because of men and women like your Branden.
God Bless and Keep You in his Peace during these times of Great Loss.

The Family Lines of Lt. Presley Neville O'Bannon (Raised the frist American Flag on Foriegn soil, Sores of Trippoli Hero) Salute Pvt. Branden P. Haunert one of our Gold Star Hero's, who gave his all.

Although I did not know your son, please accept my family's deepest sympathy. I am reading his profile with my daughter, age 10, because I never want her to forget the sacrifices your son made for her safety and freedom. God bless your family. And, God bless Branden.

To the family and friends of fallen hero PVT Haunert....I am so sorry for your loss. May God bring you comfort and peace during this very difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers. He will not be forgotten. God Bless You.

My husband called from Iraq to talk about this young man. I want the family to know he is in the thoughts of the men and women who serve, as well as the families who support them.

I wish there were words .....

Hugs from our family to yours.

NO GREATER LOVE IS HE THAN HE WHO GIVES HIS LIFE FOR A FRIEND.
THANKS FOR THE GIFT BRANDEN
A TRUE AMERICAN HERO
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

CSM W.H.WILLIAMSON

Hello,
I read an article about your son and I just wanted to say I'm sorry. I just recently lost my younger brother and I can tell you that I understand what you are going through. There are no words to take away the pain that you are feeling. I hope you are able to get through these hard times by keeping Branden close to your heart. Remember the good times you've shared with him and all the joy that he brought to your lives. He will always be with you. My love, thoughts and prayers go out to your entire family.
Love

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

I do not know you or your family, but my brother in law just returned from Afghanistan serving in the Special Forces of the US Navy.

I honor your sacrifce and express my deepest gratitude and sympathy to those who knew and loved you.

May god bless you all.

Bhaun-

I still can not believe you are gone. Its so not right. I had just talked to you last week and i was so comforted to hear from you. When I heard I completely lost my composure. I just can't believe they took you. So many people love you, and you've clearly touched so many. You were always there for me and just an all around nice guy. When I try to think about you I can't move past your smile and the spark you always had. I can hear your laugh. and "like the cheese like the chili" Your boys don't know what to do with out you. You just had so much life in you and it was taken way too early. I am so proud of you for getting out of Cincinnati and making something of yourself. I heard you were very successful and I'm proud. Now I can only take comfort in the fact that you are in a better place. I miss you Branden, so does every one else. Rest easy, and watch over us please.

like I said the last time we talked, you know i have mass love for you bhaun.

To the Haundert family,

I know there are no words to say, except how sorry I am for your loss. May you hold JBradndens' 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

Our thoughts and prayers go to the Haunert family for their traget loss. We are also a gold star family. My nephew PFC Aaron J. Ward was killed on 5/6/08 in Iraq. At his services I made a promise to him that I would make sure I wrote in every guest book of every fallen soldier. It bothers me to admit but before our own loss I like so many others just went on with my day not thinking of these brave soldiers serving. I will never again take for granted our freedom. If not for these brave souls we would not live as free as we do. God Bless you Branden, stand down soldier your mission is done. Please watch over the rest of us with my nephew. We will all meet up again one day!

Branden,

I remember you as a little boy, running around the bases at Leyman Baseball Field after your brother Joey played a baseball game. You sure grew up fast. Of course you know your family misses you...yet, they supported your efforts.

My son Scott also serves in the US Army. He's assigned to a Military Intel unit in Iraq. He too, has grown up quickly.

I stopped by your parents house the day I heard the terrible news. You kind'a "ruffled the neighbors feathers" on Canary. Instead of neighbors yelling at you for "throwing the ball in their yard"...I saw several crying as the news spread of your very untimely and unexpected death.

You have no idea the positive effect you had on the
ol' neighborhood.. at Sycamore High School...and The United States Army family.

I'm extremely proud of you Branden. I will forever hold and embrace you in my heart and prayers.

With the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, I'd like to be one of the first to salute you Branden, and say to you sincerely....

" Job well done ! "

Brandon is truly a hero. My prayer's are with the family. I will alway's remember the price paid for my freedom.

as a military wife...i am sorry from the bottom of my heart...i will pray for your family...my husband is currently serving in iraq and is to come home 3-2009...thank you for your son and all he did....

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 they were 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

Father we entrust our brother Branden to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
May God hold Branden in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. My deepest sympathies.

From our military family to yours, we would like to thank PVT Branden Haunert for his service and sacrifice to this great country, as well as send our deepest condolences for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

I am writing to offer my deepest sympathies to you and your family over the loss of your HERO Pvt Branden P Haunert. I lost my son in Iraq on May 6/2007, so I can well understand your pain of losing a loved one so dear.

I pray you will be guided by a higher power to give you peace, comfort and strength in this time.

Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit
GOD Bless you and your family. Your soldier was a true American Hero and we are all very proud of his service. He will not be forgotten!


(Proud mother of Sgt Joel W. Lewis, 5/20, 3-2 SBCT /Ft Lewis
KIA 5/6/07, Baqubah, Iraq)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXAX__FZYg4

Please know that as a mother of a Soldier; I'm grieving with you. As are so many, many others.

To the family of Branden Haunert. Please accept my deepest condolences for the loss of your loved one and a hero to all who live in this great nation. I pray God will help you during this difficult time.
Hugs from California.

Branden, you were my son John's
best friend. He is lost without you, and we miss you terribly. Your family,friends, and country salute you, young Branden. I know you are in the loving arms of our Lord, and I feel honored to have known you. We pray for your family every night.

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

Please know how Deeply Sorry I am to learn of the loss of Pvt. Branden P. Haunert.
The Price this Brave Young Soldier and his family have paid for this country and for freedom, Will Never Be Forgotten.

May Branden rest safely now, in the Loving Care of God and may God's Healing Grace be with the Haunert family.
There will Never Be Enough Ways to Humbly Thank these Young Heroes for their Sacrifices, my brother among them. Killed in action in Vietnam, in 1967.

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

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