Thomas A. Wren Obituary

It has been almost 18 years now. I still miss you and tell your stories. My son, named after you, loves jeeps and camping as well as the other things you taught us growing up. I hope to be just as good of a dad to him as you were to me. He asks about you and I tell him of the man you were and the values and morals you taught. Just know that you are still touching people's hearts to this day.

Your son,
Andrew

This is Michael Puckett, Tommy was my older brother.. he was always an inspiration to me for his service and just being a great brother .. the last time I saw him was at our dad's funeral service.. I was a handful as a teenager,young adult, and went away for 10 years and had to go to our fathers funeral on a pass from Prison.. I'll never forget getting a pass to go to the Chaplin's office , which is never good, and said I had a phone call and I picked it up and it was Tommy to tell me about our dad passing away.. I was a wreck about going to my Dad's service.. I was scared of the judgement or the lectures I thought I would get.. but the first person I recognized was my big bro Tommy and he came up to me and gave me the biggest hug and he said no matter what mistakes you made I'll always love you little brotherit really hit me hard... that was the last time I saw him... He was always a good brother to me and I always respected him.. I think about him often... I remember many Christmases with his children going to our grandma's house and all the children had to eat in the little TV room on TV trays cuz there was always so many adults that they took over the big table thinking back now it was the best times of my life.. I would love to reconnect with my nephews and niece again... [email protected].. please email me or find me on Facebook.. I would love to see pics of my brother and reconnect... Salute to my brother for giving the ultimate sacrifice for this country...
I love you bro ..
your little brother Michael

Tom, we ran together all through high school. Myron, you and I were like the three amigos, and at other times like the three stooges. As graduation often does, we lost contact. You went into the Army and I headed out to sea with the Navy. I finally located you and we had a brief talk on the phone that I so thoroughly enjoyed. You were headed out on deployment again. Then I lost contact with you again, only to find out about your accident years later. You were a friend most people only dream of having. It was my pleasure to have had you as a friend, for that short time during high school. Bread will always bring back memories. You will never be forgotten brother.
Anyone with questions may contact me at [email protected]


Your brother in arms.
Jeff

Hi guys! Im Heather Wren Tommys youngest daughter. Unfortunately during the hard time of my fathers passing I lost contact with Holly and Id love to meet my younger brother Tyler. If anyone has any info on how I can reach Holly or If anyone who knows her could pass the message along that Im trying to reach out that would be amazing! My email is [email protected]
Thanks guys!
Heather Wren

Hey daddy! Its little one ❤
Not a day goes by that you dont cross my mind. I cant believe so much time has past and so many life changing events have passed. Leahs now 10 years old and going into the 4th grade! Also going to the school I went to. We try to keep your tradition alive and go camping each summer! With the boys of course! Erins now in high school! And Andrew had his first son, whos he named after you! I know youre looking over us and taking care of us all. You will forever be my hero. Youll never be forgot Daddy! I love you lots. Hugs and kisses! ❤ Heather

MSgt Dave Arnold may be contacted regarding Tom's time in Iraq. Please contact me as I know he has many memories to share with the family.

Thank you,

Douglas L Webster
MGySgt USMC(ret)
[email protected]

Fair winds and following seas...I was there that fateful day. Family members may contact me at-
[email protected].

"No Worries" as Tom would say with that grin. Well definatley missing that grin still. I miss you and your dad! Love you both!

Just sitting here thinking of you and missing you dearly. There are no words that can express the impact you made upon my heart. I hope you and Pop are hanging out together in heaven and laughing. Love you both!

November 5, 2011
To the family and friends of Lt. Col. Thomas A. Wren:
Please accept my remembrance of Thomas on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

Our memories are still with you Tom and if this is Tyler, please accept our thanks for the picture...Sincerely Roland and Ann Foster

thought of you on an camping trip recently and remembered the time you carried me out of the woods on your back because of an old spike thru my foot... love you brother

Our memories and love fill the days since your passing. We miss you.

To the family and friends of Lt. Col. Thomas A. Wren:
Remembering Thomas 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

We are forever grateful for your service to our country on this Memorial Day 2010...You are not forgotten...Great Aunt and Uncle Roland and Ann Foster

Sir, I still remember you fondly and appreciate your dedication to us during our deployment.

Tom,
I remember this time of year as a sad time. It is a time I lost a brother-in-arms and a good friend.
You have left an everlasting example for others to aspire to.
Tim

It is with sad memories and another year has gone by that we remember our grand nephew Tom who gave his all to protect our freedom...Wish we could see a photo of his son Tyler...his great grandparents who are now in their eighties would surely appreciate it.We found out we were to be grandparents for first time when attending Tom's memorial service..Thanks..

Each day we share memories of you with Tyler.
Love,
Tyler's grandma

Tom, you are not, nor will you ever be forgotten...I miss you my friend.

to the wren family, especially chris. the sacrifice of your father and his service to our country is one that never can, or will be forgotten. he will always be in your hearts. i wish i could have met him, i know he was a great man and a great american! god bless all of you, and god bless the soldiers of the united states of america!

Tom, not a day goes by that I don't think about you and miss you. You will always be in my heart.

To the family of Lt. Col. Thomas A. Wren:
Thomas 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

As Veterans Day approaches tomorrow I am thinking of you and smiling as I think about all the good times you shared with me and all your friends. I hope you are looking down on us with a smile on your face as we do exactly what you would want us to be doing.

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 Thomas, but I am remembering
his service and sacrifice. He is my hero. !

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Other Side

i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.

can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.

i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side

the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)

“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008


The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol



Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB

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

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

You haven't been forgotten.

It is so weird to know that we are headed to Va this comming Jan. and you will not be there, we hope to spend a ton of time with Holly & Ty over the next three years, thanks for helping us get to be near your family, you are in our prayers. We miss ya a ton!

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Lt Col Wren!

vetern's day is almost here and 2 years youv'e been gone... miss you Tom

We all miss you Tom, not just because it's Veteran's Day, but because you were a great friend and an American patriot. The impression you left behind on each of us, has us missing you everyday. I feel fortunate to have been your friend.

You will always be missed! Thank you for being our friend.

Dear relatives of Thomas, my son SSGT Russell J. Verdugo is buried in Arlington National Cemetery along with your hero. I took some photos last Memorial Day Week-end 2007 and have a photo of your Thomas’s grave site and marker. If you would like a copy emailed to you, please let me know. What a wonderful photo album. I know we are so very proud of our fallen heroes, but we miss them so.
In loving remembrance of our heroes!
Gold Star Mother,

There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.

Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.

I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.

REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!

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

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Lt Col Wren and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

To the Wren family, I just want to let you know that you are in our prayers today. I am very fortunate that I get to visit Arlington Cemetary frequently. So I go by and say hi to tom. I sure miss him. But he is never forgoten

Retired MSG P

Memorial Day, 2007. Just one more day to add to the 568 without you. You are in our hearts every day now and forever. Thank you for the love and joy you left behind in Tyler. We love you.

Tom, we remember your great sacrifice on this Memorial Day...You, plus many more make it for possible for us enjoy our freedom..We will always remember your great personality and spirit..May God's presence be with your loved ones on this special day of honor...Your great Aunt Ann and Uncle Roland Foster

My name is Debbie Elam and I am the Co-Chair for the Virginia Memorial Quilt Project. The Friendship Circle Quilters in Richmond, VA have a project to present the immediate family of each fallen soldier from the State of Virginia with a memorial quilt. Please contact me at the following:
Debbie Elam, Co-Chair
Virginia Memorial Quilt Project
800 Hallsboro Road
Midlothian, VA 23112
Home Phone 804-794-6364
or you can email me at [email protected]. We hope to hear from you soon! God Bless.

just passing by just thought i give my condolences and gods prayers to you and your family.

T Wren

Holly, Last week Chris came to visit Tom. He served with Tom.

Thank you for being my friend. GOD has blessed me with the time and fun you shared. You will truly be missed.

You will always be my best friend...I love you and miss you....Rach

Tom a year ago today you were taken. You are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten. To the Wren family; I previously signed Tom's guest book. Each time as promised when I am at ANC I always stop by and visit/honor Tom. Yesterday I spent some special time with Tom......From the most inner part of my heart I am so sorry he was taken from you.

Paying tribute to Lt. Col. Thomas A. Wren, on this first anniversary of the day, he lost his life while in the service of our Country.
A Multitude of Thanks, for his Courage, Dedication and Service.
Rest In Peace Lt. Col. Wren, in God's Loving Care and may God's Healing Grace and Comfort continue to be with the Wren family.
Those who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice, So Many and So Young, shall NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
My brother among them. KIA-Vietnam 1967.

Treasure this Young Hero Lord, In Your garden of rest,
For while here on this earth, he was one of our Best.

May the memories of your loved one live in your heart always.
I am deeply sorry for your loss.

I feel it is the responsibility of every American to at least read the names of the brave Americans that have made the ultimate of all sacrifices. Although not personally acquainted, I feel the loss. God Bless Thomas Wren and his family. God Bless the Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq. God Bless the United States Army. Most of all, God Bless America.



Formerly with 2nd/11th FA, 25th ID.

Dale Richardson (Honolulu, HI )

As I look back on the messages left by others, I don't know what I will add about LTC Wren.

I was the American Liaison Officer with the Italian-Romanian Headquarters in Iraq. LTC Wren came in and introduced himself, told me about his mission, and laughingly asked for help starting "Operation Mooch." "Operation Mooch" consisted of him going around to local military units and, without formal orders, getting them to support his small unit. We went to eat and discussed what he needed and who might be able to provide it. He was able to get Texas, Alabama, and Tennessee Guard units, The US Air Force, The King's Royal Hussars (British army) and the Italian and Romanian armies to give him security, signal, logistical, maintenance and other support. All simply by meeting their commanders and soldier and charming them with his sense of mission, honesty, positive attitude and smile.

The soldiers in his small unit really felt that they were getting ready to do great things supporting the Iraqi army. His leadership was a large part of this attitude. Everytime I saw him he had a big smile for everyone. When he came to camp Mittica, he made sure to schedule it so that he (and his soldiers) could eat in the Italian mess hall and we shared several very good meals. He was very popular with the Italian staff and was always a welcome guest at their mess. He never tired of talking about and showing photos of his familes.

At the memorial ceremony for him, he was honored by the British, Italian, and Romanian commands as well as every American Unit in the area. The most touching honor was offered by officers of the Iraqi Army Brigade, being supported by LTC Wren's unit. They had great confidence in LTC Wren as a soldier. Especially his professionalism and leadership. His loss was a shock and loss for everyone. His family can be honored by his memory and his children would do well to follow his example. It was an honor to know him.



Steven D. Dortch

CPT, IN

56 BCT, TXARNG

Our kids are so proud of their Dad! They talk about you all the time, telling stories of things you did, and the times they had with you. They will miss you always, as will I. I'm so glad for the time we had together, and that we were able to become such good friends again.

Tommy, we remember and miss you every hour of every day. You were a wonderful son, grandson, brother and friend, as all these rememberances show. You were an excellent leader and a superb solider. You accomplished almost all of your goals in life which made me very happy for you, and left behind children that you can be proud of and who I will always be able to see you through. I thank God for that. A mother is not suppose to loose her children, but you willingly gave the ultimate sacrifice. I know you loved the Army and what you did, so on this memorial day your family salutes you, as you did for the ones who went before you. I have always been proud of you and could not be more so than this day. I'll see you in the not to distant future, till then you will never be forgotten. Thanks to all who have remembered.

Carole Thifault, your Mother and only "Mom"

To the Wren family:

I previously signed Thomas's guest book. I live close to Arlington National Cemetery and each time I go I promise you that I wll visit Thomas. He will never be forgotten.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR THE LITTLE ONES. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI



A PROUD MARINE MOM

A man that had a impact on me as few others have. Till we meet again, your old college roomate and fellow Golden Knight circa 1979.

love you brother,

Pete

You were a great infantry officer, I enjoyed servicing with you!

To the Thomas Wren Family...A memorial gift was sent in his honor to the Fisher House in Md..a group that helps military families stay at the bedside of their injured love ones while recuperating...when they are far away from home...they do have a website..

My heartfelt sympathy to the Wren family in the loss of Thomas. I did not know Thomas, but my heart is broken and I am sadden for your loss of such a fine young man 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.

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~

andrew,chris,jennifer and heather our thoughts and prayers are with you at this holiday season.i know how hard it will be for you all.also holly and tyler god bless and be with you all.

It's real simple, Tom...

* Thank you for being my friend

* Thank you for enriching my life

* Thank you for the life's lessons and believing in me

* And thank you for your smile and all the laughs!



Until we meet again, my friend, you will be forever missed!



And to Holly, you're one VERY special woman! Thank you for making Tom so happy.

Please know that Darryl and I will always be here for you.

Tom,

We thank you for your shining example of courage, strength and calm. You touched our lives with incredible grace and love; made us laugh; reminded us to love one another, whether we understand each other or not; and showed us that nothing really matters except being kind to each other and to all the world as far as we can reach.

Holly will ensure your legacy lives on in Tyler.

Godspeed, big man.

Love, "Mom"

Tom,

You will always hold a special spot in my heart. Thank you for being a wonderful father, brother, uncle, cousin, and most of all friend. I will always be there for your family, as you were for mine. I miss you everyday and always will. There is no one like you...Thank you.

Love Rach

This is one of the family's favorite photos of Tommy at Brenda's home taken while visiting his children and grandchildren at Christmastime. This will be a very difficult Christmas for Jennifer, Chris, Andrew and Heather. They miss their Dad! Please say a prayer of comfort for ALL of Tommy's family this year during the Christmas season. He is still loved by many.

Tommy has been a member of my family for over 20 years, and I am proud to be an aunt to his four children with Brenda Wren. He has been a wonderful father to Jennifer (26), Christopher (18), Andrew (16) and Heather (12). He was also a loving grandfather to Jennifer's two children, Zachary (2) and Emma (7 months) and to Christopher's daughter Erin (1-1/2). Tommy will always be a part of our family, and will live on in his children and grandchildren. Thank you Tommy for serving our country - we love you will miss you!

TOM WAS IN THE YOUTH GROUP AT MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF LAKE PLACID WHILE ATTENDING LAKE PLACID HIGH SCHOOL. I WAS THE YOUTH LEADER AT THAT TIME AND GOT TO KNOW TOM AND TIM THEN. I WAS ALSO THE AMERICAN HISTORY TEACHER FOR TOM AT LAKE PLACID HIGH. I WILL BE PRAYING FOR YOU AND ALL THE CHILDREN. TOM WAS ONE THAT COULD LIVEN UP THE DAY. I HAVE NOT SEEN HIM SINCE GRADUATION, BUT KNEW HE WOULD BE IN THE MILITARY IN SOME FORM.

GOD BLESS YOU.



TROY WHITE

With heartfelt sympathy.

The Purvis Family

Tom was my best friend in high school. I lost touch with him after we graduated but I have never forgotten him. He was the best friend that anyone could have asked for. I only wish I could have spoken to him again. To his family - my heart and prayers go out to you. God Bless you.

Worked with Tom for a year in Culpepper, VA (80th Div). He was just promoted to Major. I wish his family (both) the best during this difficult time. It shows you how close the challenges of war can impact your life.

WOW! I was looking through some of the military obituaries and I am still in shock and very sad. I met him at Fort Dix a few years back while I was stationed there. How sorry I am for this family. It was an honor to know and serve with him.

Tom, I only knew you when I was little, but you made a wonderful impact on me, I felt like you were an uncle to me. I remember you coming over to our house playing with my brother and I. You were a great friend to my dad. We will miss you!-Nikki

Tom, You were one of my very closest and best friends, but you knew that..and I will never, I couldn't, ever forget the years in the Infantry we spent together. No one that I ever knew, loved being a soldier more than you..and I loved you like a brother, and I always will.

Holly and family,



we are so sorry for your loss and if there is anything that we can do please don't hesitate to call or send an email. Our thoughts are with you. I really haven't seen Tommy as an adult but I remember him as a kid Mr. Gi Joe. Maybe one day we can get out our photos and have a look.

I will always remember the way you liked to laugh and talk. Your personality will live through all your friends and family-along with all your favorite saying and phrases. Keep an eye on all of us. We sure need it at times.

Tom, you gave your all for your country...To that we will forever be grateful... Please remember GOD DIDN'T PROMISE DAYS WITHOUT PAIN, LAUGHTER WITHOUT SORROW, SUN WITHOUT RAIN, BUT HE DID PROMISE STRENGTH FOR THE DAY, HIS HOLY SPIRIT TO COMFORT THE TEARS AND HIS LIGHT FOR THE WAY...

Tom... no one could have ever wished for a better friend than you. i know you are smiling with that crazy grin cause you know how much you are going to be missed.

Happy Birthday Tom. Wherever you are, I know you are watching over all of us who have been left behind.



We love you Holly and Tyler - our hearts go out to you and we are always here for you.

Tom was a great man. I know many people are thankful to have known him. He was a caring friend and his big grin always spread joy. Tom will be missed but hopefully we can all keep his memory alive for his children, especially Tyler. Holly, you and his children are in my prayers.

I will always love you Tom.

I got the great pleasure in serving with LTC Tom Wren at Ft. Dix NJ back in 01. LTC Wren was a true leader and always wanted solution in fixing problems. If you didnt have one he sure did. Tom was a great Soldier as well as a great human being. He will be missed

Holly, being new into the family I greet You openly, Welcome. Denise and I are planning to wed as soon as she finishes college. I was honored to have met You and Tyler. May God be with You and give You peace.

Scott

May fond memories help you through this very difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

We know that this is a very difficult thing but we will be there for you and so will God. Put all your faith and trust in him and he will strenghten you. We hope to see you and tyler again but on a better occasion.

To Tommy's children we are very sorry for your loss and we hope to see you more often. Take Care

The Brown Family

We are very sorry for your loss. But please remember that you may only have met us once, but that doesn't make you any less our family and we will be there for you and Tyler. We hope to see you and Tyler often at family gatherings.

I worked with Tom at Sytel. I thought of him as one of the nicest people I have ever met. He was always willing to go the extra mile for work. I know that he was the best soldier there ever was.



God speed, Tom, you will be missed.

Holly, our deepest sympathy and love to you and Tyler.



Linda & KC

Words can not express what you may be going through, just know that God will see you through it all. He promises never to leave us alone. Even when you fell alone rest asure that you are never alone. Stay strong and remember that you have a lot of people praying with and for you.

You are never alone.



Cpt. Chris & Mrs. Cooper

Richmond,VA

Lt. Colonel Thomas A. Wren, 11/17/1960 - 11/5/2005



2:30pm - 3:30pm, Monday, Nov. 14, 2005

Lie in State

National Presbyterian Church, Washington, DC



4:00pm, Monday, Nov. 14, 2005

Memorial Service

National Presbyterian Church, Washington, DC



*9:45am, Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2005

Interment/Burial

Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA

*those wishing to attend this service, must be at ANC by 9:15am.

My heartfelt condolences to Tom's wife, Holly, and his children.

Tom was LTC - I knew him since he was a captain, we served together in several reserve units. Tom taught me how to shoot, I was able to get my first medal for marksmanship(after 10 years of service! - well, nurses didn't REALLY need that!) He had a great sense of humor and could always make you laugh in the worst of situations. I just want his new son to know what a fun and cool guy his dad was, and a dedicated soldier. We'll all miss him.