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Lt. Cmdr. Eric Allen Cranford
Lt. Cmdr. Eric Allen Cranford
Obituary
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Eric Cranford Obituary
Cranford graduated from East Burke High School in Drexel, a town of 2,000. Cranford, a naval aviator, was commissioned at the University of North Carolina in 1992 and obtained the rank of lieutenant in 1996. He served in a helicopter squadron in Mayport, Fla., and on the USS Gettysburg, USS McInerney and USS Carr. He had been awarded nine service medals.
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Jim Bridges
December 31, 2024
I worked with Eric for multiple years at Camp Bud Schiele. I looked up to Eric and he extolled the virtues to me of Navy ROTC. I never did join but my father was a marine and my brother later became one of even more profound I have a daughter who is now a Navy Lieutenant and a doctor. Eric was a role model for me and my family. I lived in DC at 9/11 and we had lost touch. I had no idea he was there until a few months ago much less that he had died. A true hero and my friend. Thank you Eric.
Charlene Marie Jones
April 23, 2022
Charlene Marie Jones
April 23, 2022
Dear Mrs Cranford...here are 2 more pictures for your husband's legacy LT.Cmdr Cranford..united states of America Navy..the 1st picture is my class graduation 87-43 American Airlines Feb 4 1988..I am in the front row by the stairs..the 2nd picture is President George Bush..our finest flight attendant and pilots for American airlines..President Bush chartered American airlines..the picture was taken BOS Logan international airport 2000.when I am out side I always look to the sky for I know heaven is above me...all my friends who departed this world on September 11 2001 are watching over me..as your husband is watching over you and your family..god bless you and your family..if you ever need anything my phone number is 617-369-2444..love Charlene Marie Jones flight attendant American Airlines BOS Logan international airport
Charlene Marie Jones
April 23, 2022
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Charlene Marie Jones
April 23, 2022
Charlene Marie Jones
April 23, 2022
Charlene Marie Jones
April 23, 2022
Charlene Marie Jones
April 23, 2022
Dear Mrs Cranford...I have a few recent pictures I would love to share with your family..the first is me at the DFW international airport 9/11 memorial..the 2nd picture was taken in NYC 9/11 memorial ..the 3rd picture is. From my friend Denise chabolis..her brother David was the FO on American Airlines flight 77...this is her licence plate on her car in VA..God bless you and your family..love Charlene Marie Jones..flight attendant American airlines BOS Logan international airport
Charlene Marie Jones
April 23, 2022
Dear Mrs Cranford..I do hope this finds you and your family well...thinking of your. Husband Lt Comdr Cranford for his brave military career with the United States military Navy....the 20th anniversary of September 11 2001 was extremely difficult for me...your husband Lt. Cmdr Cranford will always be remembered..when I was based in DCA I went over to the capital and the Pentagon to pay my respect to your husband and everyone who was killed on the day the world stopped turning..my flight 11 family crewmembers where on the plane that hit the North tower..please know my heart and soul will always always remember the brave men and women who ran towards the Pentagon on September 11 2001..may god always bless you and your family..love Charlene Marie Jones flight attendant American Airlines BOS Logan international airport
Suzi Hall
September 10, 2021
Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice.
Cindy Roe
September 5, 2021
Remembering Eric on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
Flight 175 and flight 77 from my American airlines flight attendant APFA union magazine
Charlene Jones
June 5, 2019
Charlene Marie Jones my first flight 11 BOS Logan international airport
Charlene Jones
June 5, 2019
Flight 11 crewmembers and flight 93 crewmembers from my American Airlines flight attendant APFA union magazine
Charlene Jones
June 5, 2019
My one and only BOS luggage tag
Charlene Jones
June 5, 2019
Charlene Marie Jones and betty Ann ong on layover
Charlene Jones
June 5, 2019
Beautiful memorial for September 11 2001 DFW international airport
Charlene Jones
June 5, 2019
My American Airlines flight attendant jacket
Charlene Jones
June 5, 2019
Betty Ann ong on our layover
Charlene Jones
June 5, 2019
Beautiful memorial in DFW international airport
Charlene Jones
June 5, 2019
Tribute to ALL September 11 2001 from my American Airlines flight attendant APFA union magazine
Charlene Jones
June 5, 2019
Tribute to ALL hero's of September 11 2001 from my American Airlines flight attendant union magazine APFA
Charlene Jones
June 5, 2019
Charlene Marie Jones and betty Ann ong on our layover
Charlene Jones
June 5, 2019
Charlene Jones
June 5, 2019
In honor of your husband and son lieutenant Eric cranford..my other letter is before my candle..I will forward a few pictures..God bless your family today tomorrow and forever.Charlene Marie Jones American airlines flight attendant BOS Logan international airport BOS Massachusetts
Charlene Jones
June 5, 2019
Dear Mrs cranford and family..first I need to offer my sincere condolences to you and your family for the loss of your husband and son lieutenant Eric cranford..I honor every military men and women who sacrifice their lives 24-7 365 days a year..I wear my father's dog tags from the Korean war..my name is Charlene Marie Jones Flight attendant for American airlines BOS Logan international airport BOS Massachusetts..I would like you to know lieutenant Eric will not ever be forgotten by anyone..flight 11 was my original flight BOS-LAX out of Logan..I was on vacation..betty ong was going on vacation..we trained at the learning center in DFW together and went to BOS Logan..please know lieutenant Eric flight 11 flight 77 flight 175 and flight 93 had all captains in the military..your husband lieutenant Eric is part of our family..I honor and salute lieutenant Eric every day..my world stopped turning on September 11 2001...I lived in DCA and was able to pay my respects to the Pentagon and flight 77..I lived in NYC from2006-2008 and cried everyday..if you ever need someone to speak to my phone number is 617-369-2444..when you are driving eating watching your family..I believe lieutenant Eric is shining bright light from heaven above today tomorrow and forever..may you always have tailwinds gently and softly blowing you forward..God bless your family and thank you for lieutenant Eric service to his country.the United States of America Charlene Marie Jones Flight attendant American airlines BOS Logan international airport BOS Massachusetts
September 17, 2016
Dear Lt. CMDR. Eric Allen Cranford,
When it comes to simple people like me
I could never hope to imagine what you went through.
I will honor and respect you for as long as I live.
You will be as much a hero as the great Odysseus
Or as memorable as Achilles at Troy
Thank you, brave soul. May you walk in the garden of whichever afterlife pleases you; for you are worthy of every godly step and more.
Marsha & Bill Price
September 11, 2013
Eric, I never knew you, but knew your lovely wife. I was a frequent volunteer at the nursing home where Emily was employed. The morning of that terrible day, a person at the nursing home called me to see if I could get in touch with my Priest, and have him come to the nursing home; at that time, the horrific news of the events were just beginning to be reported. The person who called me said that there were some employees who feared that their loved ones were missing.
I contacted my Priest, he went to the nursing home and held a brief prayer service, I went later in the day. Eventually, we got the word that Emily's husband perished. We attended Eric's funeral at Arlington, and felt honored that while we didn't know Eric, his precious wife counted us as friends and wanted us to be present to grieve with all those who loved Eric. We will never forget that day, we will never forget Emily, and other family members, and we will never forget Eric, and the sacrifice of his life.
We thank God for the life of Lt. CMDR. Eric Allen Cranford, and for his service to our country. May God bless and strengthen his loved ones, and give some comfort to each of them in knowing that WE WILL NEVER FORGET. May God grant him eternal rest and peace.
Del Newberry
September 26, 2012
My thougts turn daily to the many lives lost on that day. I pray for the friends and family that you left behind. We will never forget. Much love from Texas.
Bernice
September 11, 2012
We were so fortunate to know you and even now we share our memories of you with our children. We will never forget 9-11, or you nor will our munchkins.
Loving thoughts to Emily & family.
Alisha
September 13, 2011
I dedicated my Facebook status to you and your memory. You were randomly selected. I googled your name to try to learn a little about you. Thank you for all you did while you were here. Never forgotten. Forever grateful. Rest in peace.
Roxanne (Costner)
September 12, 2011
I still remember Eric and Emily from elementary school, then junior high, and high school. Twelve years that i thought was such a long time. Now they are just a blink. But I have never forgotten Eric or Emily. Some people you remember FOREVER. Love to All!
Crystal
September 11, 2011
I'm thinking of you and your family today, Eric. You will never be forgotten.
Ben & Karen Smith
September 11, 2011
We will never forget.
bernice
September 10, 2011
Another year has gone by. We think of you often and share your story with our children. We do our best to keep you alive in our hearts. -so wish we could have shared your kind hearted, silly nature and smile with our kids. They would have loved you too.
John Risko
September 10, 2011
Continuing to remember Eric and his family. He was a classmate and friend taken before his time.
From someone who didn't know Eric, but does appreciate his sacrifice.
Katharine Nicholson
September 5, 2011
Yes, Betsy. I do think more info and pictures of Eric would be welcome. It's great that we're remembering people individually as well as the day in general. I hope others are also drawing Eric's name.
Ricky Pierce
September 5, 2011
The world gets much smaller when you learn of someone you may have known who was killed in one those terrible 9/11 disasters.
His father was you of my most impressionable high school teachers. Interestingly enough, I was in his father's history class the moment we learned of President Kennedy's assassination. It was one of those moments like Eric's death you never forget and where you were.
If Eric was anything like his father, he was one to be well remembered and admired for what he did.
I am sure he was one of the U. S. Navy's "finest."
Katharine Nicholson
September 1, 2011
We drew names at our church of those lost on 9/11 and I drew Eric. We will be remembering him on the anniversary. I'm sorry for your loss.
bernice
May 7, 2011
Justice has been served and you will never be forgotten.
janet Eller
May 5, 2011
I knew Eric all through school and he was a great friend to me and everyone he knew. I think about him often especially when an event like bin laden is killed. I hope it brings some kind of closure to some people. I know that won't bring your loved ones back but just know the crazy man who killed 3000 people is gone and in Hell!!!! I just know Eric is looking down from heaven smiling. God be with his family and to all 9/11 survivors and their family.
September 11, 2010
Thinking of you, Brother. Can't believe it's been nine years. Fly Navy!
Jeffrey Stuart
September 11, 2010
Cranny,
Not a work out goes by that I don't think of my running buddy, especially when I need to push for the finish of a run. I miss you.
Proud Mom
September 11, 2010
This morning my 13yr old daughter ran a 5K, she did not know who she was running in honor of. With her dad beside her (also Navy) encouranging her to not give up. she finished in 32min. when she was done she unraveled the ticket & gave it to me to put up. it reads: Lt. Cmdr. Eric Allen Cranford 32 U.S. Navy Drexel NC United States Pentagon. Sir you are remembered on this day. (Rota, Spain)
John Risko
September 10, 2010
9 years. It seems so long ago and yet, in some ways, it seems like yesterday. I know you are looking down from heaven seeing how many people miss you. You will always be remembered.
daniel miller
May 31, 2010
Eric, happy memorial day. Wish we could still play soccer together like the good ole days at East Burke. We will never forget.
Daniel Miller
Combat Medic Iraq 2003-2004
Prof Wolfe
May 26, 2010
Thanks, Eric, for all you did. As you would leave early from night class, you joked that the night watch was just sitting around the Pentagon, drinking beer with Scott & your buddies. We suspected differently... . And thank you to your family for sharing you with us, and for their sacrifice. Prof Wolfe
Kim Mason
March 31, 2010
I'll never forget summer time and Eric and Cliff setting up a putt putt course in Cliff's backyard. Or walking from the bus stop with them doing the diet pepsi commercial. Eric always made you laugh. Thank you for the laughter. Your life ended way too soon, but your spirit will live forever!
That is my middle daughters hand in the picture we took of the headstone.
Danni Thomas
September 13, 2009
I never meet Lt. Cmdr. Eric Cranford. My family went to Washington D.C. back on the first of June of 2009. We went to Arlington Cemetery on June 6,2009. My cousin and I want to see the memorial that they had there. So I made my 3 young girls, 6 years, 5 years and 2 1/2 years, walk over 1.5 miles one way to this memorial. Once we got there, Lt. Cmdr Cranfords wife was there. She asked us to please give her a moment, which we did. She watched her kiss his headstone and hug it. Once we saw that my cousin, aunt and I all started to cry. She then thanked us for giving her that time with her husband. She thanked us for making such a long walk with all the young girls and then left. My daughters were asking questions about why she kissed the headstone. And we told them that was her husband and he was killed in the 9/11/01 attacks at the Pentagon. I never knew of anyone that was effected by 9/11/01. I lived on the west coast when it happened. But I have told my daughters all about it. This to me for some reason made it more real, and more part of my heart. My oldest this last 9/11 asked her teacher if she could share this story and the picture of the headstone with her class. This made me feel so proud of my daughter to do this and that she remembers it. We are planning on going back to D.C. in 2011. And my oldest wants to make sure we go back to his headstone. She also asked if we could take him flowers? This is all from a 61/2 year old. Boy does this make me proud to be an AMERICAN!!!!!! Thank you LT. CMDR. ERIC ALLEN CRANFORD!!!!!!! THANK YOU!!!!! Thank you to his wife, for the sacrifice that she had to deal with. THANK YOU!!!!
Leslie Bolick
September 11, 2009
Thank you Eric for serving our country. Eric was in my previous wedding many years ago. He was a wonderful person full of life.
Heather Mauney
September 11, 2009
“Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.” Eskimo Proverb
Linda Old-Payne
September 11, 2009
I still recall that impish face of a bright, well-loved 5th grader at Drexel Elem.where I did my student teaching and finished out the year for a teacher in the 5th grade "pod" in which Eric was a student. He was always everyones friend, with that wonderful little grin on his face. As each 9/11 comes and goes through the years, there is always a very special prayer for Eric, his family and friends on the part of myself & family. You are remembered Eric. I will not forget you, nor your sweet mischievous face of a wonderful 11 yr old boy who was so well-loved.
Stan & Bernice Burns
September 11, 2009
Another year goes by, but you will never be forgotten. No one should forget this tragedy, but be reminded that our freedoms come with a price. Thank you...all of you who strive to keep America safe. And thank you, Eric for your friendship and devoted service.
Crystal Smoot
September 11, 2009
I just wanted to let Eric's family know that he will never be forgotten. Not today, not any day.
John Risko
September 11, 2009
I know Eric is looking down on us and knows how much we miss him. His picture hangs on my office door today, as it does every year on 9/11, reminding me of his sacrifice for my freedom. He was a classmate, fellow Navy Officer and friend. May God bless and comfort those he left behind.
Peggy Childers
September 10, 2009
To the family of Lt. Cmdr. Eric Allen Cranford:
Eric gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. My deepest sympathy to you. We must never forget!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
CDR Chris Chrislip
September 9, 2009
Eric,
It has been eight years since we lost you and it is still hard on us all. We started out together in NROTC at NC State. You were a good friend to me throughout those years. We grew up within 10 miles of each other and often traveled back home on weekends. You were a sword bearer in my wedding in 1990, and I bought all my furniture from his family's store in 1990 - I still have it. I was devastated to learn we lost you in 2001. I'll never forget visiting your grave in Arlington and seeing Emily's lipstick kiss on your stone. God be with you always as you were for us. I will never forget you.
Charly Smith
September 3, 2009
Since 2001 I have worn my memory bracelet with Eric's name on it. I would very much like to be in touch with a family member, with the hope of being able to give them the gift of this bracelet. I have worn it proudly in honor of him. My son has since serviced 3 tours in Iraq.
Colette Braun
July 14, 2009
I did not know Eric personally, but feel like I do from seeing many pictures and reading letters that he had written to his wife, Emily. That dreadful day, this Wisconsin gal flew to DC and landed at Reagan National as the Pentagon was being hit. I can still smell burning jet fuel. Shortly after my co-worker and I met up late that afternoon, my co-worker received a call from Emily's supervisor that he was taking Emily home as Emily had not yet heard from Eric and could we go and meet them at her house. We did and proceeded to spend that evening calling hospitals and helping Emily keep her mind off of things until her parents and Eric's parents arrived around 2am that next day - we left as the Navy Officers were walking up their steps. During the weeks after 9/11, we did whatever we could to help Emily and her family, including Fred and Betsy Cranford. We got to know more about Eric through his parents as well as numerous photos and letters that Emily had saved, including their recent trip to Ireland earlier that year. I heard from Emily and Eric's parents for a few years after that day, but have recently lost contact with them. I think about them often and have prayed numerous times that they find some sort of happiness following the loss that they had to endure. Although we do not understand it now, someday we will all understand God's plan.
Jane Cranford
May 19, 2009
I happened across this site while seeking genealogical information on my family name, which is also Cranford. Though I didn't know Eric, my heart goes out to his family & friends. May God bless his soul & ease the pain of his loved ones.
bernice burns
September 11, 2008
I have never really said goodbye to Eric. Perhaps because in my memory he is still alive and always will be. I met Eric through my husband, Stan Burns, in the fall of 1993. The two of them were college buddies at NC State, and friends throughout there Naval career. While stationed in Florida, Eric lived with us for a bit and when we lived in Hawaii, he and Emily came to visit. They were mushy, gushy in love. And what a perfect place to be in love. Eric was always incredibly gracious with his flattering words said about me to my husband. I will forever keep his kindness close to my heart. He was truly one of a kind. A picture of he and Stan sits in our den along with a miniature statue of an aviator. Eric was used as a model for the statue while he was in training in Pensacola. He was so puffed with pride to share that honor. I am puffed with tears as I remember him, because although I knew him for such a short time, he had amazing, never to be forgotten smile and heart.
Love and hugs.
Bernice Burns
John Risko
September 11, 2008
Eric's picture again hangs outside my office on this day. I'll always remember my fellow classmate and ROTC midshipman. May God continue to comfort his family and friends.
Crystal Smoot
September 11, 2008
I met Eric when I was just a child. He was in Moorefield, WV, doing mission work with his church youth group. I remember him so well; he was the only one who didn't mind me following him around like a puppy dog. He was so, so incredibly nice to me. I developed a giant crush on him (he was probably 15, and I was probably 11!) but he didn't mind. He actually humored me a lot! When he went back home, he even wrote to me a few times, really great letters that I kept for a very long time. He was so kind to do that, probably just so he wouldn't hurt my feelings. I have very good memories of Eric, and though I only knew him for a short time, I have never, ever forgotten him. The world is richer for having had Eric in it.
Prof. James Wolfe
September 6, 2008
May the Lord grant you peace, and comfort to those who knew you & love you still. We have just lost a family member to the war in Afghanistan, now some 7 years after you were in my class at UMD. While you guard the streets of Heaven, the fight goes on. Go Terps!
Thad Brendle
July 11, 2008
I am so proud of all that God packed into your short time with us. Am blessed and honored to have known you. Your life made me a better man and a stronger Christian. Eric Cranford's earthly sojourn will always be reflected upon with love, joy, and reverence.
Doug Abraham
December 21, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
John Risko
September 10, 2007
Eric's picture hangs on my office door reminding me, and my office workers, why we do the work we do to preserve freedom. May God continue to be with all those that were close to Eric and may we always remember his sacrifice.
Debbie , Kenny Coffey
September 8, 2007
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
P Tabbernor
August 23, 2007
In memory....
Briana Hoke
August 2, 2007
Eric I only met you when I was a baby but I still smiled at you!
You are my friend and my cousin.
Charles Cranford
April 11, 2007
I never met Eric but are distant cousins. How small the world becomes at times. God Bless and rest in peace. We will never forget.
Kristine
October 31, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Scott Buckles
September 23, 2006
I served with Eric at the Pentagon, but I left the Navy (and Pentagon) in November 2000. Eric is one of the victims whose death on 9/11 hurts the most. He was obviously very intelligent, fiercely determined to succeed, and well-respected and liked by superiors, peers, and subordinates. But what made Eric truly impressive to me was his ability to brighten up a room, or any situation, with his contagious optimism. Eric was a "Rock Star" with his enlisted folks. He could connect with anyone and made you feel like he truly appreciated, even admired, your contributions to the team. He was never condescending or pompous as an officer. He was a perfect Naval officer: he always exceeded the expectations of his senior officers and was very successful, but he did so while inspiring, motivating, and caring about his Sailors. Many officers have to be one or the other: A “rising star” in the eyes of his superiors, but at the expense of his subordinates; or a very popular officer with his Sailors, at the expense of always satisfying his superiors. It is a very rare individual who can be both, and Eric was. I was there, I witnessed it every day. My heart goes out to his family. I grieve with you ...
Scott Buckles (YN1)
Claire Hackney
September 12, 2006
I chose to honor Eric in the 2,996 project. It was such an honor to learn about his life through Emily.
If any of you would like to read it please email me for the link. I didn't think it appropriate to post the link here.
Mitchell Farthing
September 12, 2006
I knew Eric in Naval ROTC at N.C. State where he was a midshipman before he went to flight school. About one month after 911 I was studying in the basement floor where I attended medical school. Something kept making my mind curious about the pentagon victims. I decided in the quiet of that weekend morning to look at the pentagon web site. I found a list of victims by Service. My heart skipped a beat when I saw Eric's name. I have thought about him more than several times over the last few years although I knew him briefly. He was too good of a man to die without the chance to fight back - but I know in my heart if he were able to fight our enemies today he would be in the front leading the Attack.
Cathy Cranford
September 11, 2006
I never got to meet Eric or his family but I had hopes to someday as I am a genealogist researching mine and Eric's family. He was my cousin. September 11 took away the ability to meet him away. To look upon his face and maybe find similar features like my own.
I will forever be his cousin, whether we met or not. It is my duty as a family historian as well as to just honor him, to always make sure that he is remembered to the fullest extent possible.
My heart goes out to his wife and his parents. May they know that my heart lies with them every minute of every day.
Stacey Simpson
September 11, 2006
I recently realized that one of the doctors here on staff at my office, as well as his wife, has a bracelet with Eric Allen's name on it, in remberance. I just wanted to let someone know that he was remembered by even those who didn't know him. They had James Avery make the bracelets and James Avery did the work for free. They've been wearing the bracelets in rememberance ever since 911. The doctor tried to contact the family but had no luck. Our doctor thought the family would like to know. The people of 911 and the event will forever be remembered.
ann parker
September 11, 2006
ERIC-THANK-YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR GREAT COUNTRY.I JUST FOUND OUT THAT YOU WERE THE GREAT NEPHEW OF MY GRANFATHER FROM GREENSBORO,N.C.MAY YOUR FAMILY FINE PEACE IN THE LOVE OF GOD.ANN PARKER
Jerry Benge (AW2)
September 11, 2006
I had the privledge of serving and flying with "Cranny" at HSL-48, and further going on depolyment with him on the USS McInerney to South Africa. I was an aircrewman, and I'll never forget the countless hours I spent "flying holes in the sky" with him. He had a way to make all those long boring flights in the middle of the ocean at 0'Dark thirty, not only bearable, but fun. Here it is, 5 years later, and you are still missed.
Leslie Vandiford
September 10, 2006
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
John Risko
September 10, 2006
I was commissioned with Eric in 1992. He was a great friend, model Navy Officer and dedicated American Patriot. It wasn't until weeks after the attacks that I saw his name on the list of victims. His loss left the kind of emptiness that results when a brother-in-arms is suddenly and tragically killed. Eric's death drives me each day to find ways to support our efforts to combat the terrorists that took so much from so many. My heartfealt sympathies and prayers go out to Eric's family as we approach the 5 year anniversary of his death. He will NEVER be forgotten.
Tina Standard (Buff)
June 25, 2006
Eric was a fabulous guy. I was in class with him from kindergarten until we graduated high school. He was always the same, smiling, very humble, always putting everyone else before himself. I am helping to plan our 20 year reunion now, and I started thinking about Eric. I remember seeing him at our 10 year reunion. He was still the Eric had known all those years ago. Though we weren't "close", he always made an impact on me by the way he treated other people and by the huge amount of integrity he displayed. He was a great role model for those around him. I feel honored to have known him.
I know he is with Jesus and that makes me smile! I pray that each day will get easier for Emily and the rest of Eric's family. God Bless all of you.
Kathy Swaringen
June 20, 2006
on 6-20-06, 1 mile was walked to honor the life of Lt. Cmdr. Eric Allen Cranford and those who loved him. May you find some comfort in knowing that you do not grieve alone and that you and your loved one have not been forgotten.
Eric, may you rest in peace.
Scott and Jana Davitt
December 13, 2005
I, too, was stationed with Eric in HSL-48, Mayport, FL from Jan 1997-Apr 2000. My deepest and most sincere condolances to his family... I vividly remember 9/11 as I was a flight instructor in HT-8 and in the flight duty office at the time. Unfortunately, I only found out about Eric much later as well as this guest book. Godspeed, Eric, to you and yours.
Gary Cranford
October 21, 2005
I am sorry about your loss, Thank God For this Brave Man. As he has Honored his Cranford Name.
Cindy Middleton
August 12, 2005
I only recently found out about the loss of Eric. I want to extend my thoughts and prayers to his family. He was such an inspiration to me as a Navy wife so many years ago, and it was so very sad to hear of his loss so long after it all happened. Such a tragic loss.
FN Mugrage
September 12, 2003
Although I never met you, you are part of the Navy family just like I am. Rest in peace Sir, the watch has been properly relieved.
David Clayton
September 11, 2003
I want to express my condolences to the family on this the second anniversary. The whole nation grieves with you. Yet I would also like to honour Eric for his service to our country. I hope it is of comfort to you knowing that "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends"
Tracey Wardean
September 11, 2003
My thoughts and prayers are with Eric's family and friends. I never had the privilege to meet Eric personally but I feel a special bond with him. My husband is also a Lt. Commander in the Navy. I wear a rememberance bracelet with Eric's name on it to honor him and the job he did everyday. God Bless America and every person that has served in our armed forces.
Sharon Holley
September 11, 2003
As we mark this day the 2 year anniversary of the attacks on our nation; I continue to remember the lives that were lost that day. I continue to remember Eric and those he left behind in my prayers. As I have posted before, Eric was a wonderful person. Truly dedicated to his family and his country. I am very honoured to have known Eric personally. May his spirit and love of life continue to live on in those he left behind and the lives of those who he touched along the way. Thank you Eric, and Rest In Peace My Friend until we meet again.
AD2 William Calderwood
July 15, 2003
I had the honor of serving under LCDR Cranford(LT at the time) aboard the U.S.S. Gettysburg(CG-64) as part of HSL-48 Det 3. We spend six months deployed together, and worked side by side. He trusted me with his life every time he flew, because I was one of the people that inspected the aircraft. It was only about two weeks ago when I found out about the tragic loss of LCDR Cranford. He was a good man, a fine naval officer and one heck of a pilot. You will be missed, but not forgotten! Fair winds and following seas, Sir! Rest in Peace!
william cranford
April 19, 2003
We would like to say thank you for your son's service to the military.
We are going to add him to our wall of cranford's in the military,And we are all honored to share the Cranford name with your son and proud of him.
with all of our love and support,God Bless.
yours truly: Staff Sgt.John w cranford jr.
CW4 John w.cranfrod sr.
Lt. William F. cranford
Linda Whittington
September 13, 2002
While attending a memorial service, I had the honor of picking Eric's name to add to my daily prayers for comfort to his family and friends. Even a small town in Colorado is thinging of you and honoring your Eric. You will be forever in my prayers.
Ken Simon (AW2/NAC)
September 12, 2002
I had the pleasure of flying with LCDR Cranford while stationed at HSL-48 as well as meeting his parents on a cross country flight to NC. I just recently found out about Erics death and it has bothered me since.
My heart goes out to you Eric and your family. I will never forget you.
Angie
September 12, 2002
Although I never had the priviledge of meeting Eric, I will always have a connection with him, for I, too, am a graduate of North Carolina State University. I am certainly proud of my alma mater, but I am even more proud to say that I graduated from the same university as someone who represents honor, bravery, courage, and valor- I am forever connected to a HERO!!!!!
Willie & Brenda Dalrymple
September 12, 2002
To Eric's family....While we have only been in your presence a few times over the years, we feel as if we know you well through stories of past good times shared by Martha & Larry. Our hearts go out to you and you will always be in our thoughts and prayers. We will never forget Eric. You must be so very proud of him!
Sue Mosteller
September 11, 2002
Our love and prayers have been with
you and will continue to be with you.
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How to support Eric 's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
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