Staff Sgt. Gregory Rivera-Santiago
Staff Sgt. Gregory Rivera-Santiago
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Gregory Rivera-Santiago Obituary
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Peggy Childers
September 10, 2011
To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Gregory Rivera-Santiago:
Please accept my remembrance of Gregory on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Brooke Locklear
May 23, 2011
I'm still moving forward. I just wanted you to know that the kids and I are doing well. I'm still working... and I'm working towards my degree online. At the beginning of each class, we have to introduce ourselves. This last class I wrote the usual about myself, but then I went back and added this.........
"Another thing I would like to add.... and I don't know if it is okay to say. But being the fact that Osama was finally found and killed I found some kind of closure and would like to come out of my shell and say what this degree is really about to me.
My first husband was killed in 2007 (at the age of 26) serving in Iraq with the US Army. He left behind 3 small children ages 4, 2 and 7 months. We both served time with the military, but I was the one that was able to get out and take care of our children. At the same time of his deployment, I was given the opportunity to work for the US Army as a DOD civilian working in Environmental Health. I could easily go through life and keep this job that makes okay money. But life is about accomplishments and making the best of the time you have on this Earth. So this degree is for SSG Gregory Rivera-Santiago and to me and my family (most importantly our children) to show what life is about. Do the best and keep on striving even when life throws you hurdles. "
I feel really guilty that I'm able to live and do the things that I know you wanted to do. I wear a smile most days.... but it lurks in the back of my mind. Why you and not me? I was the one who wasn't enjoying life.... and you loved it. It pains me that I get to watch our children grow up and you don't. You were sooooooooo damn smart. I know you would have got your degree in something interesting. I need to tell you that I'm really really sorry that you can't enjoy the things that most people do. I just needed to get this out because it's built up for so long now.... you've been gone almost 4 years. I hope you can see your chidlren from Heaven. They really miss you.
Peggy Childers
September 10, 2010
To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Gregory Rivera-Santiago:
Remembering Gregory 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
Brooke Rivera
January 6, 2010
Wow.... I remember you today. It's been 2 years and 4 months since you died and I became a widow. I've honestly tried to forget you b/c it's too painful to believe. You almost feel like a faint memory of a dream, but then I look at Gregory and Xiomara... you were real. Your son and daughter are growing fast. Xiomara will be 3 yrs this month.. you never got to know her... she's a smart and strong willed little girl. Gregory will be 5 years next month. He's just like you. Quiet...sensitive but tries to act mean.. very smart and likes to work with his hands. Ayani... she remembers you the best. She showed very little emotion when you died, but I know it hurt her the most. She actually stood at the head of your casket the whole time it was open. She's about to be 7 years next month.. in the 1st grade. They have not forgotten you. And I never will let them. Myself... I'm doing good. I met someone great. We are going to be married this April. He's really good with the kids. They gave him a hard time at first, but I think they are finally coming around. I just wanted you to know that we are doing better and that you are still thought about. I hope you are doing well. Thank you for all that you did.
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Peggy Childers
September 10, 2009
To the family of Staff Sgt. Gregory Rivera-Santiago:
Gregory gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Kenna Larra
December 13, 2008
We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families at this time. This is a Nonprofit Organization to honor are Soldiers!
FREE OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING OF THIS HERO. COMPLETE FORM AT WWW.HEROPAINTINGS.COM
Please contact us! Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna
Juan Santiago
October 27, 2008
Whats up Loco? I know your sitting up in heaven watching over all of us. I pray that your family is doing well and staying strong...... We miss you & you will never be forgotten...
SSG Santiago, Juan
1-325th AIR
Ft. Bragg, NC
In Memory of Gregory ~ (Debra Estep)
September 10, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know Gregory, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
carmen soto
August 19, 2008
WOW where should i start it's almost 1 year since you left us words can not explain how i feel signing this guest book i remember like it was yesterday when they called me and told me you died in iraq i was shocked and couldn't believe it still can't so young and full of life i remember when we were young and you were so quiet and always drawing in that book of yours i always thought you were going to be an artist so when you said you were going to the army i was so surprised you picked your destiny and you loved what you did i'm so proud to have had you in my life it was time for one more shining star to join them all and your the brightest of them all.(my hero)
Me and Xiomara before you died
July 7, 2008
July 4, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Staff Sgt Rivera-Santiago!
Rena Colon
May 18, 2008
I remember Gregory from high school in St. Croix. We would hang out in big groups and he was always the one cracking jokes and doing crazy stuff. He was a cool person. My husband and I were shopping in the commissary when I saw him in 2006. I was so busy I didn't even get a chance to say "Hello, how you doing?" I send my condolences to the family.
I love you gregory
Ana Santos
November 6, 2007
Gregory was my best grandson I always remeber when he was a baby and I will never forget when he use to play with all his friends and I remeber when he was learning to talk i will never forget him his grandmother Lulu
October 13, 2007
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
elizabeth zahller
October 10, 2007
Dear Loved ones, I wanted to say a few words to express the sadness and loss of a american soldier. Gregory gave his life so all americans can remain safe from harmsway and he did it with courgage and strenth of commitment and love for his country. Gregory had a hero's heart and he is an example of a person who paid the price of freedom and he most likely would not say he was the Hero' he would say it was his job and he had love and pride in his job. Gregory at our house you are forever be a shining star and we thank you everyday for what you did for us to keep our freedom. sincerely Elizabeth Zahller Soldier angels support team
Merle Trammmell
September 28, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
susan skelton
September 28, 2007
I'm sitting outside on a beautiful fall friday evening. I am secure, because men and women like you have given the ultimate sacrifice. I'd like to thank you and your family and hope you know that it is not in vein. I will appreciate this sunset for you. and i thank you.
September 24, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Staff Sgt Rivera-Santiago and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
7th Grade Louisburg Middle School
September 24, 2007
We care and share your sorrow and pride.
Chaplain Dan Gates, Georgia Society SAR
September 21, 2007
With the deepest regret, I have just learned of the death of Staff Sergeant Rivera-Santiago. As a Vietnam Veteran and the State Chaplain of the Georgia Sons Of The American Revolution, I speak for our President, Charlie A. Newcomer, III and more than 1,400 SAR members around the State of Georgia in humbly expressing the condolences of a grateful Society. Wrapped in the integrity of service to our nation and the inestimable values of duty, honor and country, your American hero stood on a wall of freedom for us all. His life and his love of country epitomized every attribute of patriotism the Sons Of The American Revolution hold dear. And, as Americans, we could never repay the debt we owe him ..!! Nor the debt we owe you… his family!!!
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
September 21, 2007
My heartfelt sympathy to the Rivera-Santiago family in the loss of Gregory. I did not know Gregory, 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. Gregory 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~
Patrick Craghead
September 18, 2007
Staff Sgt. Rivera you will be greatly missed. When you were my squad leader you were great. I am very sorry for the loss for all of your family.
Sandy Bonesteel
September 15, 2007
As the mother of a son who is deployed, I want to send my condolences. Please know that there are many, many people who grieve with you.
SHIRLEY DONEY
September 14, 2007
REST IN PEACE GREG, TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS MAY THE MEMORIES OF THIS WONDERFUL SOLDIERS LIFE FILL YOUR HEARTS WITH BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES
GOD BLESS YOU
Debbie , Kenny Coffey
September 14, 2007
Our HEROS will NEVER be forgotten.Our thoughts and prayers are with the Santiago family.Rest well brother Gregory,That star spangled banner will FOREVER wave,Your name stamped in steel clutched in the tallons,And spirit will FOREVER soar high in the skies in the symbol of our great nation . ....... ...
Valorie
September 14, 2007
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
Radix Family
September 14, 2007
With deepest sympathy. May you find strength in God during this difficult time.
debbi rivers
September 14, 2007
To the parents of Gregory, my heart and prayers are with you now as you go through this time of grief and heartbreak. I too know the pain you are feeling and what you will go through in then days, weeks and months ahead. I am a Gold Star Mother and I have been blessed by God with the strength to reach out to other parents and family to give emotional support that we so need at this time. When and if you are ready please contact me as I will be here for you to talk to, vent, cry or share memories. It takes the comfort of one who has been where you are now to help. May God wrap His arms of love and comfort around you and may you allow His healing powers in your life.
In memory of my son SPC Harry (Buck) Winkler III KIA 11/12/06
Garnet Jenkins
September 14, 2007
Please accept my Deepest and Most Heartfelt Sympathy regarding the loss of Staff Sgt. Gregory Rivera-Santiago, with So Much Gratitude for this Fine Young Soldier's Courage, Dedication and Service to our Country and for Freedom.
May Gregory rest safely now, in God's Care and know that he is a True American hero, that shall Never Be Forgotten.
May the Peace of the Lord be with his loved ones.
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.
"And God shall wipe away every tear from their eyes,
there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying,
there shall be no more pain.
For the former things have have passed away."
~ Revelations 21:4 ~
May you find peace in knowing the love and memories you have, will remain in your heart forever and that this Country Will Remember the Sacrifice Gregory has made.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
September 14, 2007
There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
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