Andrew C. Perkins Obituary

Drew....
You´ve been on my mind more and more lately. You had an infectious personality filled with laughter and the bright side of things.... You worked endlessly to make it to airborne... I remember you training so hard. This was your dream..

You were so excited when you got accepted...Visiting you in Fort Bragg was one of the happiest, laughter filled times I´ve ever seen you. You were smiling, confident and so in your element, you loved it.

I was so proud of you....

I miss you... I can still remember the day Jill called to tell me.. and it´s taken me far too long to write..

Your courage, your strength, the love you had for your family and friends.... Oh Drew, I´m so proud of you. I hope you know, feel the love we all have for you....

Thank you Drew.....

I was just thinking about you and your old blue VW bug. I hope your family is doing better!

Rest easy brother.

Good morning Drew, it's Sunday morning here in Bosque Farms. I moved back to NM the end of July 2016 for better weather conditions, new job, family contact and to be closer to the cemetery for tending and caring.

It's been a long time son since you were taken from us. Life has changed so much. Everyone has gotten older and hopefully much wiser.

I notice that most every one is settling down from entering on your memories. It's strange how people tend to go on with their lives and sort of forget those who sacrificed for us. I guess it's the way of the world.

But you are still much in memory from this end. Iv'e been trying to make a new life for me since your father said he didn't love me any more. It's hard not too many good men out there any more. I suppose if it's God's will he will send someone special in my life.

I know you have been with my parents there and other loved ones along with all your fellow brothers. God Rest Your Soul Son!

Love,
Mother, Liz

ANDREW, MARCH 05, 2007, IT'S YOUR NINE YEAR ANNIVERSARY FROM BEING KILLED IN ACTION IN IRAQ ALONG WITH SEVEN OF YOUR AIRBORNE BROTHER'S. YOU ARE SORELY MISSED AND LOVED. I MISS YOUR LAUGHTER, YOUR JOKES, AND YOUR LOVING WAYS. YOUR DAD AND WERE AND STILL ARE SO PROUD OF YOU. IT DOESN'T SEEM LIKE NINE YEARS SINCE YOUR DEATH. IT'S STILL A RAW PART OF MY HEART. AND THE WAR IS STILL GOING ON OVER THERE. AND IT DOESN'T LOOK LIKE THERE IS AN END NEAR. ISIS HAS GONE CRAZY OVER THERE. REALLY SON, THIS WORLD IS NOT GETTING ANY BETTER, IT'S SCARY HOW THIS WORLD IS TURNING OUT TO BE NON-PATRIOTIC. IT'S GOTTEN SO BAD THAT I BELIEVE THE END OF TIMES IS VERY NEAR. THERE IS SO MORE MORE EVIL IT'S UNREAL. AND TO THINK THAT YOU AND OTHER'S LIKE YOU HAVE FOUGHT TO PROTECT US FROM THE VERY THINGS THAT ARE GOING ON RIGHT NOW. I KNOW YOU ARE HAPPY WHERE YOU ARE, AND ALL OF OUR TIMES ARE COMING TO JOIN YOU AT GOD'S TIMING. GOD REST YOUR SWEET SOUL ANDREW, I LOVE YOU, MOTHER LIZ

Andrew,

I was listening to Pearl Jam with my neighbors the other day. We got to talking about why they're such an important band to me. Then we got into the white Metal Gear Solid game franchise. You would not believe how awesome it is now. I just know you'd love this stuff. I miss you, bro. Airborne. All the way. Forever.

Drew, I sit here all alone in my apartment, looking at the memories you left for all of us to enjoy.

I tell you my son, what a blessing you were in my life. It's hard to know in my heart how long you have been gone. My mind tells me it's been going on nine years. This seems so negative to me. It's still so fresh on my heart.

I miss you dearly. I miss your laughter, your joking around and your presence. All of our lives have changed so much since your death and to me, not all of it has been for the best.

I have not made good choices in my life since you passed. It's been hard. I know there have been times when you are there protecting me from making more awful decisions. But Drew, your mother is very lonely and I don't want to spend my life alone anymore without a soul mate. I am sorry that things between your dad and I didn't turn out. I really tried, but your death, I believe, was just too much for us to handle. I wish you were still here with us with your presence not just a memory. I love you baby boy...love momma Liz

Drew, I will never forget the day that the military came up to our door to tell us you were gone. You told me that you might not come back that there was a chance. I knew you were right but I always thought in my heart that you would be home. Life has changed so much since your death. I am sure you are aware of everything. Your dad has posted several photo's of you on FB. They are so handsome of you and your friends.I cannot describe how much you have been missed. I realize that life does go on, but for some of us it's still difficult. We love you dearly. Mother Elizabeth

Well Andrew Life Goes On... I miss you. I cannot imagine who you must be able to have contact with in heaven, but if you see my mother and dad will you please give them big kisses and hugs from me until my time comes to be with all of you. Love you sweet heart. Mother

September 11th has come and gone again. My life has changed drastically and I am feeling better about life. I still wish you were here, but alas, I find that to move on is the best. Rest Easy, Airborne. I'll see you in the next life.

HELLO SUGAR, JUST SITTING HERE THINKING ABOUT YOU AND WHAT YOU MIGHT HAVE BEEN DOING TODAY IF YOU WERE STILL HERE WITH US. SURE DO MISS YOU AND YOUR JOKES AND LAUGHTER. YOU WERE SUCH A JOY TO OUR LIVES. MISS YOU SO MUCH. BUT AS TIME GOES ON I AM GETTING OLDER AND THE TIME WILL COME FOR US ALL TO BE TOGETHER AGAIN. WHAT FUN IT WILL BE IN HEAVEN WITH ALL OF OUR LOVED ONES. LOVE YOU DREW... MOMMA LIZ

Andrew-today is your 34th birthday. What a sweet day it is. I wish so much we could all be celebrating together to wish you many years of happiness and more birthdays to come. It is still hard to belive you are gone. I think of you everyday-when i see small boys playing I often wonder what is in store for them-if they will be a soldier fighing for our freedom like you. A tragedy hit OKC yesterday and may people lost their children-I know how that news of the death of a beloved child is. I wish i could reach out to all of them to let them know it will be alright-one day we will be together and learn of all Gods plans for us all. I miss you so much-love MOMKLAT

To the family and friends of Sgt. Andrew C. Perkins:
It has truly been my honor to sign Andrew'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 Andrew will always be remembered in my home.
With love and respect ~ Peggy

Andrew the days are narrowing in on the 6th anniversary of your death--it is so hard to make it through this time of year-I want to say that we have not forgotten you and wanted to share my happiness of the things your brother has accomplished since you have passed-I know you look down and see us and are proud of those of us who share our love and truths of you that we have shared-I am proud of both you and Aaron-I am happy he has kept up with his promises to be such a great soldier-- you were his guiding light--watch over him--miss you love MOMKAT

Hello,
We just wanted to let the Perkins family know that we are sending care Packages to troops in Afghanistan this week in the name of Sgt. Andrew Perkins. Our family project US Hockey Players Support Our Troops is making this humble tribute to honor the memory and service of Sgt. Perkins. May God bless you all.

Many sacrificed their life for our freedom son along with you. I miss you dearly and wish things were different. I heard that Aaron is over in Iraq in that area for nine months, I know if you are abale you will watch over him and the other soldiers who are putting their lives on the line daily for us. We have lost too many now they all need to come home. God Bless all of those who have sacrificed their lives for us.

March 5, 2012
To the family and friends of Sgt. Andrew C. Perkins:
Always remembering Andrew. "Some gave all."

My sweet son you have been gone five years now and it seems like only yesterday that you were taken from your dad and I. I want you to know how much you are missed and loved by all of us including your surviving military brothers. You were such an inspiration to all of us...especially me... you were such a blessing in my life...I know I was a good mother to you... you told me many times how much you loved me and you confided so much in me. I miss and love you son...say hello to all of the family there..I know that you are enjoying getting to know all of them. I think your dad is doing better son...I pray you can RIP...love mother Liz

Son, it's coming nigh another year of your death. I miss you dearly. You were one in a million son, one in a million. Love you much. Mother Liz

Andrew, Almost another year...I miss you.

Andrew thinking of you and remembering all the wonderful times we had as a family. Mother and dad are up there with you now. I imagine that you all are having a wonderful time there together. I miss you terribly but understand your sacrifice for you were always a servant unto others. I just wish things could be different in all of our lives but guess fate cannot be undone. You will be forever in my heart and I will see you again someday son you can bet on that. Love mother Liz

Well Dearest Brother, it has been over 4 and 1/2 years since God took you home. I think about you everyday and the sacrifice you made for me. I can't lie, I miss you so much. I keep your picture on my desk at work to remind me of your life and to inspire me to love everyone full heartedly like you. I have moments when I just want to break down and beg God to give you back, but then I think about what you were doing when he took you home. You were doing what you always did best, helping others.

I remember being about 9 or 10 yrs old and breaking my arm on the trampoline. You were the first to come and aid me. You made me a sling out of your Boy Scouts scarf and made sure I was comfortable and distracted from the pain. You always came to my rescue when I needed you. Now when I am down and out and need your help I pull from your strength and heart to get me through it all.

I guess what I am trying to say is, I miss you, I love you, and I look up to you everyday.

Thank you for being my FOREVER Hero!

Love,
Your Lil Sister

Hi son, I thought that I would post this picture of you. It was your last home coming before being deployed to Iraq. You were so happy to be home and around your family. This is why you were buried in Roswell to be close to family. I will see you again someday. Tell everyone hello for me. Love you much, Mother Liz

Son, it's been hard these past years, I miss you terribly. I could use your sense of humor these days, they are long and lonely. I know your sacrifice was selfless but which it was not so. You have always been the most wonderful and caring person for others and somehow I know that you are still doing the same in heaven. Tell our loved one hello for me, OK? Love and miss you, mother LIz

To the family of Sgt. Andrew C. Perkins:
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.

Hey Brother,

Had a decent little visit to the memorial out here. I enjoyed reminiscing and sharing with my friends your story. Left you a Shiner, A Dr Pepper, and a can of Cope. See ya next year!
-Aaron

To the family and friends of Sgt. Andrew C. Perkins:
Please accept my remembrance of Andrew on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Merry Christmas son, thinking about you this holiday season. Hope you're keeping watch over your fellow military guys and gals. Miss you so much. Our lives aren't the same without you here with us. Everything has changed especially your dad. He really needs watched over. Tell Jesus and all the angels hello for me. Love, mother Liz

Hi Son, sitting here watching it snow, getting ready for the Christmas holidays. It's strange not having you here, watching you eat, spill your jokes, and your laughter. Things will never be the same in our lives since you are gone. So much has happened. We love you and miss very much. Are you having fun with all the family members keeping them rolling in laughter? You were the light in mine and your dads eyes. We were so proud of you and how far you went in your life. You're very special to us,
Love, mother Liz

Just thought I'd say how much I miss being back in the barracks, watching tv series' and talking about everything from politics to family. I really enjoyed those talks, and would love to have another. I guess that's all I really had to say. Just miss you, Andrew. I know I didn't know you nearly as well as so many people, but you made people feel like they'd known you forever. Airborne!

Hey Brother,

Kicking it with Grandma Lorene, eh? Hope y'all are having fun. I'll see you when I get there.

I miss you Andrew, my son, I have no clue to life any longer, just live one day at a time as you did that's all I can do. Love, momma Liz

Hey Andrew, Don’t think we’ve forgotten about you for one second! You remember that VW bug you had?? I was ridding in one the other day and it reminded me when we would cruise all around Amarillo in yours. It felt like you were in the bug with us. Miss you man!

Son, we missed you on Memorial Day, but know you were with us in spirit. We sat out on the middle deck, your favorite spot to sit, enjoyed talking with all of the family as it also was papa's 80th birthday. I know if you had been here you would have had everyone laughing their heads off as always. You were always the life of the party. Love and miss you. Mother, Liz

Well Andrew all i can really say is that I miss you tons man. You were the one person who could pick me up after falling down with one of your great talks. I miss that and could use one right about now. Rest easy my friend.

I never had the privilege to know you personally SGT. ANDREW C. PERKINS but you have a special place in my heart. Thank you for your unselfish service to our country, you will never be forgotten.

Happy birthday. I miss you and think of you everyday. I'll tell Andrew Martinez stories about you when he is old enough. There is a shortage of men who will fight for what they beleive in and never compromise. You were the only one I knew.

Andrew, miss you and all the guys like crazy, think about you guys everyday. Rest easy, and Happy Birthday, going to have a drink set aside for you tonight.

Happy 31st Birthday son, I miss and love you so much. I pray that you are able to ride motorcycles today with all of your buddies, with a beautiful girl sitting behind you and God at your right side. I miss riding with you. Dad and I had the best time of our life when we rode with you before you left for Iraq. I cry with tears of a broken heart, Drew, I love you and wish you were back here with us so we could enjoy you and your laughter. Love you momma Liz

There isn't a day that goes by that we dont think of you Andrew. Still missing you everyday.

Oh, my precious son, you have been gone for three years now. It seems like an eternity but then again it is still so fresh on our minds. Although the pain is not as sever as it once was our hearts and souls are still so raw. We miss hearing your voice, being able to give and receive hugs. You made a difference in everyone's life. You touched so many people in so many different ways. You gave so much of yourself to others. You were "always" there with your hand held out to help others and I still believe you are doing that today. We love you son, love your momma Liz.

To the family and friends of Sgt. Andrew C. Perkins:
Remembering Andrew 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

Hey Brother,I made it through a coupleof hellacious jumps and gotpinned by Col. Owens. SSG Atkinson was thereand he was cool tome.Hemisses you. Had a b;ast and I am working on my jumpmaster, Air Assault, and Ranger Tab. Love ya and I wish you were here. Your sacrifice made this possible. Thanksagain,brother. Rest Easy,AIRBORNE!!

Andrew, Aaron went through jump school this past week following your footsteps. He was pinned today by Col. Owens and he drew blood. I know you are as proud of him as we are. Aaron said the first day he jumped was like someone just lifted him up by his collar and it was fantastic. I had told dad that you would be there with him. I know you wouldn't have missed that for any reason. Aaron said it was perfect. His jump brought back many memories of your jump school and the scrapes and bruises you told us of. Just know Andrew, that you're missed so much by your family and the 82nd Airborne. Aaron is carrying on your legacy in so many ways, and it started by getting into the very unit that you were in. I was told that a tree was planted in your memory there in Fort Bragg, can you imagine that? That tree will be strong and beautiful,just as you were while here on earth. I love you son, you are thought of all the time not just by me and dad but but everyone who knew and loved you. Dad and I will be in Roswell on the 5th of March to visit and share a drink with you as did your Airborne brothers when you were buried. We do this in honor of your memory. We have yet to visit with Chris, but is still in our plans just as soon as Chris is able to deal with your loss. Your death is still a raw place in our hearts even though we all know that you did what you loved by trying to save a life. There aren't many men like you out there son, who would have done what you did. You truly were one of a kind. I can only imagine how beautiful Heaven must be by reading the word of God, but someday we'll be able to share what you are getting to see. Love you son, see you on the the 5th. Until then, love momma Liz

hey Andrew, i finally looked you up it's been 10 years since i last saw you and.im proud of you for giving youre life up for the ones you loved.You are the bestest friend I ever had,I moved to amrillo when I was 13 you were so kind to me.we were always together and you taght me how to live.I remember going to youre house and your family accepted me as if i was part of it .i never even had to knock on the door i would just walk in. you were always so full of love ive never known anyone that made me feel so akin.thank you for being such an inspiration of courage...thankyou for the times we had together.my condolences to the Perkins he is a brave loving soul,I have always thought of our time here on earth together as some of the most ejoyable times of my life I'm sure he is with us and always will be not just in memory,but eternally we wil see you again... always David

Good Morning Andrew! It has been a long time since I last put an entry in your book, for that I apologize. But just know you are always thought about and your memory stays alive within me and everyone else. You know, Thanksgiving is coming up and guess who for the first time is coming? Aaron, Maggi, and their two little ones are. I am so excited to see them. You know, it has been probably 10 plus years since I saw Aaron. So, this should be cool. I really wished that you could be there in person. At least I know you will be there in spirit. Well, Jason (my son) and I are doing great and looking forward to this Thursday (Thanksgiving). And even more for Christmas because Matt, his wife (Jodi) and their little girl are going to be there too. So, that is going to be an even bigger family get together. Love you...Amanda

I love and miss you more every day.
Poppa

Son, as the Thanksgiving Holiday draws near I think of you and miss you. I look at your picture above my chair several times a day with you giving the thumbs up sign. It always seems as though you are giving me the thumbs up that all is ok. I miss you son, wish you were here with us and not only in spirit. I know that you are happy being by Jesus side and doing the things that he ask of you. I do pray that one of those things is to continue to be near us. I linger on the memories of your laughter and helping to keep peace within all of our lives. You still have the cutest crooked grin just like your father. I know you are keeping heaven quite busy with all of your jokes and kidding around. I hope that those in heaven enjoy them as much as we did. Aaron is home with his little family, back in Ft. Bragg. He has probably told you lots of things that happened. Your dad is still grieving quite a lot at times, but it is getting a little better. Just remember son, we love you and miss you. Hope you have a great Thanksgiving with the Trinity and all of the other blessed souls there.
Love, Momma

Perkins, Buddy. Remember those conversations we would have during basic? You slept next to me and I asked you to draw my little brother pictures? He still has them. We miss you, bro. You were always the chipper one in the group. I know God i loving you right now by his side....who would not? Look over us, keep your family and loved ones safe. Miss ya, brother

Andrew, as the days slip past, it is almost summer once again. It seems like the seasons come and go quicker than before. Aaron is still in Baghdad, and as you know it is terribly hot there right now. I am sure he is ready to return home as most soldiers are at this point in time. I had a second surgery on my left femur in March. I am not sure of the outcome yet. Hope to find out something on the 6th of July. Your dad had his right knee replaced about three weeks ago. He's doing great from the surgery, no complications what so ever. At least we can be thankful for that. Of course we have many things be be grateful for, one being that you were a good son with so many good traits, that we all miss. Your dad is not the same man that he once was before your death. It's strange how people can change it seems like over night. I do wish we could hear your laughter once again. Your death has been hard on all of us but, especially your dad, as you were each others hero's. This has been a good memory of your dad's but he always said that you were his hero. I think that Chris, your buddy, is still having a hard time as well. We plan to get together with him and his wife except I think that he still needs more time to heal before we see him. I just wanted to let you know that this is still in our plans. They named their son after you. I know how honored you would have been, for you spoke so highly of Chris and his family. Just to let you know you are still thought of more each and every day and still loved more than ever. Love, Momma Liz

Hello Drew, just a note to let you know that I miss you. Things will never be the same in our home. The joking and laughter is almost gone. I miss your smile and seeing you kid around with your dad. Those were very good days. I love you son, always will.
Love, momma Liz

Hey dude, rockin' it here in Baghdad with the mighty eighty-deuce. I keep running into dudes that knew you and speak humbly of you and your character. That's where it counts, Bro. See you in heaven someday...

Hello Andrew,
It warms my heart to see how many people care about you and still write, it's no surprise though you are amazing. I was glad to see you have the picture up of when we(you, me, and Chris) went out to dinner. Chris loves that picture, it's the backround of our computer still. I wanted to let you know that we just found out we are having a son and decided to name him after you. When we talked about names Chris said "he(you) is the best man I've ever known, and that's what I want to feel when I look at my son." I just wanted you to know that we still think about you everyday and please keep an eye on us. We love you very much.

Hey Andrew,
We (uncle Sam, Michelle, Adrianna, and I) had the pleasure of seeing your mom, Aaron, Maggie, Maitlin, and Daniel a couple of weeks ago. This was a couple days before Aaron left for his deployment to Iraq. It was nice to see all of them again, but it also brought back some wonderful memories of you, your mom and Grandma Jasper's visit here a couple of years ago. We miss you dearly. You are truly a hero and you will never be forgotten.

Hello son, just wanted to let you know that we have so many new friends through you. You are still making a difference here on earth. Your dad and I both have been dreaming a lot about you for quite a while now. My dreams are all confused. They don't make a lot of sense. We are missing you more than anyone could possibly under stand. That sweet smile of yours is contagious. I know that you would be happy to know that we are continuing to be friends with the 82nd Airborne. We know that you were going to make it your life. We love you son, always know that. Just wish that you were here so that we could all live in harmony and love one another and be the family that we once were. Your laughter was contagious and we miss that plus your embraces. I miss your joking and kidding around. I know that this sounds crazy, but there are times that I look and your photos and it seems like I can see your smiling at me. I talk to you a lot with the photo that hangs above my recliner. That is one of my favorites of you. We visited your grave yesterday and had the annual drink that your soldier buddies started the day that you were buried. It was sad none the less but I felt your presence there and that is what I needed. We will see you one day with all of the loved ones. Missing you and loving you. Momma Liz

To the family of Sgt. Andrew C. Perkins:
Andrew 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

Hello Drew, just a note to let you know that we are planning to attend Aaron's graduation in Ft. Bragg. You would be so proud of him. He is following totally in your foot steps of what you started three years ago. We will pray for him as you know. Love Mother Liz

We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families. War does not discriminate – It breaks my heart to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,400 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna

Hey Bro, went to Bragg to look for a house. Drove around for awhile trying to find your memorial at the 82nd Museum. There you were, second from the top right where Dad said you were. Broke my heart. Had to look away and go elsewhere. Your memory is too powerful in light of all that is happening right now. I might lose it when the kids go see it. I am totally honored to be in your Company, Guy. I miss you and wish you could be there. If at all possible, be there when I jump during Airborne training. Gimme a high five...

Son we are miss you dearly. I have been dreaming of you lately. You came to me asking if I still loved you. As I looked at you I could hardly see you, except you had thick and very curly hair. I was not able to see your face but a small bit and your mole was not there that you had on the right side of your face. Then I said to you, Andrew you know that I am your momma and I will always love you unconditionally. Alex has been thinking of you a lot so he came out to spend the night with us last night. It is always hard on us when it comes the anniversary date of our tragic moment of losing you. That date is not far away. I sit here looking at your sweet smile that you were always sharing with others. What a difference you made in all of our lives here on earth. You were quite the character and son. Just loving and missing you.
Momma Liz Perkins

Son, we missed you this Christmas. Your spirit and laughter was not among us as in previous holidays. We had a nice holiday but it would have been much better if you had been here to be the shinning light. I just miss you son, you are constantly in my heart and it aches so for you to be back home with us. You were the light and joy in our home. I believe that you still have that beautiful smile even in heaven. Drew, you are still the light in our lives. Love you, momma Liz

Missing you really bad this Christmas, son. I still love you with all my heart, and as you know, I think about you constantly. I miss your spirit, and the strength you are to me. Watch out for me, son. You are my light.

Hi son, just wanted to update you on life here on earth. Dad had his total left knee replacement in July. He is doing well and awaiting his right knee replacement. Kelly & Katie had their baby girl on November 3rd. I had surgery on my left femur. I split it in three places. I have thirteen pins, one bolt, one plate, and was repaired with cadaver bone and was given blood. My recovery time the doctor said will be long. I can't bear any weight on it for three months and that sucks. I know that if it had not been for God intervening I would have not made if for the pain that I was in. They say when you break your femur bone that is one of the most painful breaks that there is. God took over my pain. I did not know anything for a day and half. I can't even remember hitting the side of the brick wall of Kelly's house while trying to ride his motor bike. I know that you would have been here if at all possible. They say that Kelly picked me up off of the running bike and laid me on the ground. All I knew was that it was broke and was awful to try and move. Nanny & papa are hanging in there. Both are still sick and now I am not able to take care of them. Aaron will be going into the 82nd Airborne soon. Suppose to be in your group. I know that you two would have had fun together, but I guess this was not to be. Missy and family are well as Leslie and her family are also. Alex is good as good can be. The rest of the family I know nothing about. We do not hear from them. I can tell yo Andrew that you are sorely missed and loved with all of our hearts and you always will be. Love, Momma Liz

Hi! I am the daughter of Betty Perkins. I just located my great great grandpa online...Andrew C Perkins, who was a Civil War Veteran! Until tonight, I never knew about my great-grandparents! We may be related! All my best to you, Connie Anderson

Hello son. I have not written to you in such a long time for I lost the guest book sign in page when we went from the PC to Mac computers. Dad has been feeling pretty darn blue the past week over you and it turning fall has not helped. We all miss you so much. Words are not able to describe how we feel. It doesn't matter what we do in honor of you it is not enough for what you did to save your fellow American's. We have received many medals in your honor and have them displayed in the front living area. Nothing we do will ever bring back that beautiful laugh and smile that your were so famous for. That kidding around that you did all the time. Son, you were a good soldier that we are so proud of. It is sad that life goes on and when I looked here on your site that no one has written on it for a long time. If I had not lost the web address I would write to you. Now that I have found it, you can bet your bottom dollar that you will hear from momma Liz a lot. Kelly and Kate are expecting their third child with this one being a girl. This son will be my last grand baby on my side. If you were here I know that I would have plenty. The world is in a jumble. It is almost time for presidential elections again. May God hear our prayers and let the Republicans get office this term. God bless you son. We love you with all of our hearts. Love, momma

Het Bro- Made it out here and back in one piece. Going to Ft bragg after I get back. Reassignment, and mostly because of you and who you are. Thanks for looking out for me and keep up the fire. All The Way!!

To the Perkins family: My memories of Aaron and Andrew hanging out with me are still strong. I knew them back in Amarillo when Aaron and I worked for the same grocery store. I personally took one of the photos in the photo album of Aaron and Andrew at my house, with their backpacks. I look at the picture, still to this day, and fondly remember these 2 wonderful young men. They had the best personalities and always made me laugh. Please know that, though many years have passed, you are always in my thoughts and prayers. Aaron, I will keep you in my prayers and wish you the best. Andrew will forever be a hero and after reading everyones entries, it sounds like he turned out to be a wonderful young man. I will check to see if I have anymore photos that could be added to the photo album. Thank you, Christine Melillo Amarillo, Texas

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Sgt Perkins!

To the family of drew (peanut) I am sorry for your loss I used to ride with peanut in tucson he was one of the best people I ever had the pleasure of knowing as parents you should be very proud of the man he had become.He truly is a fallen hero and he will never be forgotten.RIDE FAST RIDE HARD LIVE FOREVER IN THE HEARTS OF THE PEOPLE THAT LOVED YOU. YOU WILL BE MISSED

GOD BLESS YOU MY GRANDSON, WE MISS YOUR FUNNY SMILE AND JOKES.
PAPA IS REALLY SICK AND WILL PROBABLY SEE YOU SOON AND I WONT BE FAR BEHIND, THEN THE FUN WILL BEGAN. THANK YOU FOR BEING THE KIND OF MAN YOU WERE. WE NEED A LOT....
TAKE CARE AND SAVE A SMILE FOR ME.

LOVE YOU
NANNY

Having lost my own beloved nephew 5 years ago in Afghanistan, I know the pain of the Perkins family. Also having known Drew when he lived in Tucson with his dad and knowing what a wonderful young man he was then, I'm not surprised at the hero he was at the time of his death. Thinking of others and not himself - that was Drew. Like the others that went before him, a true American hero. I am so very proud to be able to say I knew him when.

I'm honored to have served this wonderful man thru his family. What a family to have molded such a man.

MY SON ANDREW, WE ARE HERE IN FT BRAGG IN YOUR HONOR. IT FEELS COMFORTING TO WALK WHERE WE KNEW YOU ONCE WALKED, BUT SAD AT THE SAME TIME. IT IS HARD TO SEE ALL OF THE MILITARY MEN MARCHING, RUNNING AND DOING ALL THE THINGS YOU USED TO DO HERE. I KNOW IT IS ESPECIALLY HARD ON PAPA. HE PULLED INTO A PLACE JUST TO CLEAR HIS MIND AND WOUND UP INTO OF THE BULIDING WHERE THEY HONOR THE DECEASED FROM WARS. I THINK THAT YOU LEAD HIM THERE FOR A PURPOSE. WE PLAN ON STAYING THE ENTIRE WEEK IN YOUR HONOR. YOU DESERVE SO MUCH MORE THAN WE COULD EVER DO FOR YOU, BUT WE WILL CONTINUE TO DO ALL THAT WE CAN TO HONOR YOU IN WAY WAY THAT YOU DESERVED TO BE HONORED. WE LOVE YOU AND WE MISS YOU SO MUCH. I DECORATED YOUR YOUR GRAVE IN THE MEMORIAL COLORS WHILE I WAS IN ROSWELL TAKING CARE OF MY PARENTS. THEY WERE BOTH SICK AT THE SAME TIME. I WAS THERE FOR TWO WEEKS. THEY ARE DOING SOMEWHAT BETTER NOW. ABOUT THE BEST THEY CAN DO FOR THEIR AGES. EVERYONE WE HAVE TALKED TO HERE AT BRAG THAT KNEW YOU, TOTALLY MISS YOU SO MUCH. ONE GUY FROM INDIANA WANTS TO MEET WITH US WHEN WE GO THERE. WE PROMISED TO MEET WITH HIM. CHRIS IS OUT OF THE ARMY NOW AND MOVED BACK HOME. HE ALSO MISSES YOU AND I THINK WITH YOU GETTING KILLED IS WHAT HELPED HIM MAKE HIS DECISIONS TO GO ON WITH HIS LIFE. HE IS TO NAME HIS FIRST CHILD AFTER YOU. PEOPLE ASK US ALL KINDS OF QUESTIONS AND WANT TO TALK TO US ABOUT YOU. SO YOU SEE SON, YOU DID MAKE AN IMPACT ON EVERYONES LIFE THAT YOU TOUCHED. YOU SEE, IF IT HAD NOT BEEN FOR YOU CHOSING ME AS YOUR MOMMA, INSTEAD OF THE OTHER WAY AROUND, WHO KNOW'S WHAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED. SO IN A SENSE WE BOTH ADOPTED ONE ANOTHER. AND YOUR PAPA AND I ARE VERY HAPPY AS YOU ALREADY KNEW AND NOW STILL KNOW. HE IS MY LIFE AND HE WILL BE UNTIL DEATH DO WE PART. JUST WISH YOU WERE HERE TO SHARE SOME OF OUR HAPPENISS WITH US. I THINK OF YOU EVERYDAY AND PRAY FOR ALL OF OUR MILITARY. I SIT AND LOOK AT YOUR CROOKED GRIN AND I SEE SO MUCH OF YOUR PAPA THERE. WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU DREW AND WE LIFT YOU UP IN OUR PRAYERS EACH DAY. I AM WAITING UNTIL WE GET ALL OF YOUR THINGS BACK AND THEN I AM GOING TO START A MEMORIAL BOOK OF YOU, FOR YOUR PAPA. I HAVE ACCUMILATED A LOT OF STUFF ON YOU AND PLAN TO PUT THEM DOWN IN ORDER. IT WILL TAKE ME A LONG TIME, BUT IT WILL BE WELL WORTH IT WHEN IT IS FINISHED. GOD BLESS YOU AND THE OTHER ANGELS IN HEAVEN. WITH ALL OF YOU THERE IN HEAVEN, YOU CAN HELP PROTECT OUR MILITARY EVERYWHERE. MUCH LOVE TO YOU MY SON. I WOULD LIKE TO WISH YOU A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY ON THE 21ST OF MAY. YOU WILL BE THOUGHT OF WITH TEARS AS I WEEP OVER YOUR GRAVE, FOR YOU DID NOT GET TO LIVE THE LIFE YOU WERE PLANNING. BEING WITH GOD THOUGH, MUST BE A FEAST DAILY, WITH MUCH MORE THAN WE COULD EVER GIVE YOU.JUST KNOW SON, THAT WE WILL ALWAYS CELEBRATE YOUR BIRTHDAY EXACTLY THE WAY YOU WOULD HAVE US TO. WE PLAN TO GO TO SOME OF YOU FAVORITE PLACES HERE IN FT BRAG THAT YOU , CHRIS AND SOME OF YOUR FRIENDS USED TO GO TO. I WILL HAVE A DRINK IN YOUR HONOR FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY AND MAYBE EVEN A SLICE OF CAKE. WE LOVE YOU, MOMMA AND PAPA.

There is discipline in A Soldier
you can see it when he walks.
There is honor in A Soldier
you hear it when he talks.
There is courage in A Soldier
you can see it in his eyes.
There is loyalty in A Soldier
that he will not compromise.
There is something in A Soldier
that makes him stand a part.
There is strength in A Soldier
that beats from his heart.
A Soldier isn't a title any man
can be hired to do.
A Soldier is the soul of that man
buried deep inside of you.
A Soldier's job isn't finished after
an 8 hour day or a 40 hour week.
A Soldier is always A Soldier
even while he sleeps.
A Soldier serves his country first
and his life is left behind.
A Soldier has to sacrifice what
comes first in a civilian's mind.
If you are civilian -
I am saying this to you.....
next time you see A Soldier
remember what they do.
A Soldier is the reason our land
is 'Home of the Free',
A Soldier is the one that is brave
protecting you and me.
If you are A Soldier -
I am saying this to you.....
Thank God for EVERY SOLDIER
Thank God for what YOU do!

HELLO GRANDSON'
WE DIDN'T KNOW YOU VERY WELL, BUT THE TIME WE SPENT WITH YOU WERE VERY SPECIAL TO ME AND PAPA. YOU ARE IN A WONDERFUL PLACE, AND BECAUSE OF YOU AND MEN LIKE YOU, WE ARE ABLE TO SLEEP AT NIGHT. GOD BLESS YOU, AND SAVE A NICE PLACE FOR ALL OF US. WE LOVE YOU AND APPRECIATE YOU.

LOVE YOU.
NANNY AND PAPA STEPHENS

To a friend and hero. We miss you.

My Brother and Friend Andrew. I just wanted to let you know how much I miss you and wish I could give you just one more hug. I see Alex all the time and had the pleasure of seeing Aaron and Maggie a few months ago. The kids miss you and talk about you often. I am so thankful we were able to spend so much time with you before you left and have a lot of great memories to see us through until we all meet again. Rest in Peace my brother. I love you and miss you.

Your Sis. Missy

Hey Little Brother...it;s been over a year now and I'm about 5 days away from heading to iraq myself. I think of you alot but my focus will be on the mission for the next few months. See you in the next life. i wont be late... Rest Easy, Airborne!!

Remember

Remember me when I am gone away,
Gone far away into the silent land;
When you can no more hold me by the hand,
Nor I half turn to go yet turning stay.
Remember me when no more day by day
You tell me of our future that you plann'd:
Only remember me; you understand
It will be late to counsel then or pray.
Yet if you should forget me for a while
And afterwards remember, do not grieve:
For if the darkness and corruption leave
A vestige of the thoughts that once I had,
Better by far you should forget and smile
Than that you should remember and be sad.

By Christina Rossetti
The Poetry Foundation

Dear Beloved Sgt. Andrew C. Perkins,

It has been one year since you were killed in action along with my son, Spc. Ryan Bell. Seven families were in absolute shock one year ago.

Your mom and your sister, Audrey have helped me a great deal through the greatest challenge of my life. They have been Blessings in my life.

I spoke with your mom, March 6, 2007 and it was great to talk with her.

I am still in grief therapy and I think of the Samarra Seven each day and I feel that you are America's Finest!!!!

I am so happy that you rec. your Silver Star!!! You deserve that and so much more!!!!

May God Bless You and Your Loved Ones Forever!!!!

Love,

Sheryl
Ryan Bell's mother

SEMPER FI PARATROOPER WITH GOD YOU REST----AIRBORNE

WALLACE W TINNIN FAMILY