Hello,

We apologize for being so late in expressing our deepest condolences to you and your family. We want you to know that we will be sending Care Packages to deployed troops this holiday season and several of these will be dedicated to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo, service branch, rank and hometown of Cory Christian Kosters US Army Private 1st Class.

We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community, their families, friends and others who support our mission.

We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.

Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of our US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign

On Wednesday, March 7, 2018--just eleven years after Cory's death on March 5, 2007, Cory's best friend John Michael Downs, was buried near Cory in Houston's National Cemetery.

And though it breaks our hearts that John Michael no longer walks this earth, we rejoice that John and Cory are together once again in the realms of heaven where their bodies are made whole.

We miss you terribly, dear Cory, and long to see you again one day.

Senta/mom

Senta...what a beautiful and wonderful remembrance of Cory and Zach! Thank you for posting those pictures. I hope you and your family are well. God Bless!!

What a great day! At today's Memorial Day service Cory and Zach's statue recognizing all servicemen and women in all branches of the military was unveiled. It has been a long process, but worth the wait! I cannot help but think that Cory & Zach would have loved it!!

Senta and family.....remembering all of you today. God Bless.

Cory....remembering you on Memorial Day and always. Thank you for your service, hero! RIP

He raised you up on eagles wings that day. I never told your mama it was my sister's bday...woulda been her 37th, but maybe you were there celebrating. I think of you often, young man.

March 5th. It changed all of us. Time has flown by, but our memories have never diminished. I still break out in a big, huge smile everytime I hear "Fly Like an Eagle" and feel Cory right there.

Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen Soldiers (ps4fs@charter.net) is an organization with groups throughout the country who work to send handmade prayer shawls and/or lap robes to families who have lost a loved one while serving our country. Members of Trindle Spring Lutheran Church would like to extend our sincere sympathy and to honor your son's sacrifice and memory by sending our prayers and comfort through a prayer gift which will be mailed to you. If you are interested, please contact me at gramman@comcast.net with the names and addresses of those who would like to receive one and which gift they would like to receive. We will send our gift as soon as possible. Also, if you know of any other families who are grieving the loss of a loved on who died while serving our country, please pass along my e-mail address. May God bless you and comfort you in the days ahead. Sincerely, Lynne

Senta....thank you for sharing Cory's letters....I know each one is so precious to you. He was such a wonderful young man...and I know he would be so proud of you...an inspiration to all of us. Love you...sweet friend....God Bless.

Senta,
Thank you for sharing Cory letters, thank you for raising such a outstanding young man.

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

Cory's life, sense of humor, thrill of adventure, and ultimate sacrifice will NEVER be forgotten. Thank-you, Senta, for sharing a glimpse of your precious son with us. I love you, Sweet friend, and think of you more often than I can say. You really are my inspiration of what it means to have the "Joy of the Lord."

Today, 6 years later, I find myself reading through some of Cory's letters & emails from Iraq - and smiling. He had such a wonderful way with words. Here are a few favorite excerpts from his writing:

August 27, 2006 (first letter from Iraq) Hey guys, I've finally reached base and guess what we got to fly here in? Chinooks! I never thought I'd ever get to actually ride in one, but sure enough! It wasn't as pleasant as I thought it was going to be. The heat behind them is so bad you had to keep your head down and hold your ears because they felt like they were going to melt off...We expected our base to be pretty much nothing but like mud huts to live in, but instead it's actually AWESOME! Also, word has gotten out to the higher-ups that I know my stuff when it comes to technology and networking. I have officers coming to me now all the time asking ME, a private, to please network all this stuff. And when I do it in like five minutes after they've been trying to figure it out for like 2 hours they just stare at me, hahaha!

Oct 28, 2006 - I'm still doing fine here in Iraq. We still haven't taken any casualties. The mortars still explode all around our base, but somehow never make it inside our perimeters...Mom, I was however concerned about the pink pillow cases (regardless of what you may think, they look pink to me). I don't know if you're joking around with me or what, but I am using them regardless of the constant harassment. I just happen to be good friends with the biggest guy in the company and he says they're peach colored. HAHAHAHAHA! And he makes harmful threats to anyone saying otherwise and suddenly the subject is dropped!

Nov. 25, 2006 - Thanks for sending the care package early. A lot of other guys here have already received their Christmas package with cards telling them not to open until Christmas, but yeah right. I don't think a one of them waited more than a day and then decided to just open them all anyway. I don't really blame them too much though; there really isn't anything to do here when we're not out on a mission. A lot of people have those small, portable DVD-players with a built-in screen and are all addicted to Smallville, Desperte Housewives, and One Tree Hill. Pretty sad and pathetic really, a bunch of deployed soldiers addicted to watching overly-dramatic soap operas, hahaha, but it definitely passes the time I guess.

Jan. 21, 2007 - Last night our platoon went way out of the city limits to check out a supposed weapons stash. Well, this time we REALLY hit the jackpot. So much stuff that the Colonel himself came over to check it out. We got plenty of pictures, and I even have a video of EOD blowing all the stuff up. I took it on my camera. It was a massive explosion! Too bad my camera doesn't have sound, but it's still pretty cool...Kevin wrote me an email and mentioned that it was really icy at home. That's pretty funny, because just today while we were out on a mission, no joke, it started hailing ice. The gunners in the humvees were really irrated because it's already cold up there, and now they're getting pelted by ice while we drive 50 miles an hour! Who would have thought, ICE in Iraq?

Cory's last email came the day before his death. It is a typed email that when printed out is three pages long. It is a detailed letter that describes the "new levels of hostilities" that his unit dealt with - and Cory also writes about several of the men he would later be killed with. I have decided to withold sharing Cory's last letter to protect the men he names. Not because he wrote anything negative, but out of respect for any of the family members who may not want their son mentioned in an open format. If you are interested in a copy of Cory's last email, please contact me at: senta.kosters@gmail.com

May prayer is that by sharing portions of Cory's writings you would get a glimpse of his heart, his humor, and of his love for adventure.

May Cory live forever in our hearts through the memories, photos and writings he left behind.

Be blessed!

I Know Christmas' will never be the same and will always be "OFF" but I'm so glad you have your Precious Memories of the Past.

God Bless, All Our Love

I'm sitting here thinking of you and your brother during Christmas's long past. The two of you would get soooo excited on Christmas Eve - literally bouncing off the walls with anticipation of Santa's arrival.

The Christmas that stands out in my mind was the one where Santa brought you and Kevie BIG, LOUD toy SAWs. (Kevin was in kindergarten and you were in 3rd grade.) The two of you ran through the house and up & down the street shooting at everything in sight. I'm quite certain the neighbors would have liked to have shot Santa as well for bringing those guns!

Christmas's are different now. Crissy now sits at you spot at the table for Christmas Eve dinner. (Kevin even corrected her last night - telling her that she was sitting in his spot at the table and that she was to take your's.) Christmas is also a lot quieter - now it's Zeus that makes all the ruckus instead of it being you and your brother! How you would love that dog!

I miss you so, dear son of mine. I miss your laughter and your clever humor. And we all miss your antics!

-Mom

rest in peace. i miss you.

Dear Senta.....thank you for sharing the letter from Sgt Chris M. with us. I know that gives you so much comfort to read those words. I know it is the perfect description of Cory....a proud, strong, brave soldier, and friend. Be very proud of your son...as he would be proud of you. You have been an inspiration to me, as a fellow army mom. I hope we can continue to be friends, even if it is only over the internet. Thinking of you and yours today. God Bless

There's not a day that goes by that I don't think about you Cory

- lindsay

Every spring break, I think of Cory, of his sacrifice and the most amazing outpouring of patriotism, love and support by the greater Houston area, on the day his life was celebrated. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13)

Sunday, March 18, 2012

Tomorrow (Monday, March 19th) will mark the 5th anniversary of Cory's burial at Houston's Veteran's Memorial Cemetery...wow, it seems like just yesterday.

While thinking about Cory and going through the binders I have that hold cards and letters, I ran across a letter written to me by Cory's closest friend while in Iraq. Cory spoke so very highly of Chris, especially about their poker games! He respected this NCO (non-commissioned officer), but he also loved him like a brother. So much so, that Cory gave his March leave to Chris so that he could be home for the birth of his first born child. In doing this, Chris wasn't there the day of the explosion - the day that seven 82nd Airborne soldiers were killed, along with their Iraqi interpreter. However, this is what Cory would have wanted - that his good friend, a father & husband should live instead.

I thought I would share Chris M's letter:

Dear Mrs. Kosters,

I am sorry it has taken me so long to write you, but when I first heard what the papers were saying it upset me. It made me feel like I was responsible for Cory not seeing home one last time. I am not worried any longer as to what the papers say and instead have just chosen to remember Cory for the man he was.

You wrote earlier how Cory thought it was cool that a Sgt. would give him the time of day. It wasn't that I gave him special treatment or anything; it was that he was a close friend. It was not always like that. When Cory first got to Ft. Bragg we had a 10 mile road march with full body armor and rucksack. It was the middle of summer, and the Ft. Bragg humidity was in full kick. Towards the end of the march, Cory started to fall out so me and a SSG played the role of NCO's. Basically we gave him a hard time; we put him through things that no one in any other job would have to put up with. He was new and we had to "toughen him up." I have to be honest, at first I didn't think he would make it in the infantry. He just didn't fit the tough guy image. Instead of being cocky and headstrong, he was quiet and reserved. He didn't out-perform anyone in physical training, nor did his aggressiveness stand out. It wasn't until we got here (to Iraq) that his actions started speaking for themselves. He commanded respect here. His cool-headedness under fire proved that as soon as we got back to Ft. Bragg, he would have become a team leader. After his actions through various engagements it became obvious that he was going to lead people eventually, all of his leaders recognized it in him.

There are several engagements when Cory's actions were so impressive that they have reached mythical status here at our base. One day Cory and another PFC were standing next to a Humvee when a grenade was thrown at them. The grenade landed within ten feet of them without either of them ever noticing it. Once the grenade exploded, the other PFC dove for cover and was bewildered, but Cory didn't even flinch. He just looked down at the other guy and calmly said, "The grenade has already gone off, get up and help me pull security." He didn't even raise his voice. And though both soldiers were the same rank-that was the kind of leadership Cory would display under stress.

One of the last conversations I had with Cory was about when he first got to our unit. He admitted that he hated me at first. He thought I was one of the meanest guys around. The reason we were having this conversation was because we were now good friends, and even though I had put him through so much, we were now like brothers.

Your son was a good man and the kind of soldier every soldier hopes to have at his side. He was a better friend than most people could ever begin to understand. He was the kind of friend who would take a bullet for you and never think twice about it. Civilians don't know what that kind of friendship is like because it is rarely proven. Yet, Cory proved it to anyone that ever fought alongside him. Your son was a good man and I don't say that about many people. He was the kind of man that made others men better for being around him and he is greatly missed.

Sgt. Chris M.

Said a prayer for the kosters today

March 5, 2012
To the family and friends of Pfc. Cory C. Kosters:
Always remembering Cory. "Some gave all."

Thank you for your service, thank you for our freedom Cory. It was an honor to stand tall and silent.

You are all in my heart still, even if I don't get to see you that often. Cory will always be missed.

Sunday morning one of my 6th grade students asked me a question before class began: If you could say anything to Cory, what would it be?

My husband & I looked at each other and with little thought to it, we both agreed that we'd been blessed to say everything to Cory that we might want while he was alive.

This morning, I realized I was wrong. I never got to say, "Thank you."

Thank you, dear son, for giving your life protecting the freedoms that I enjoy today. Thank you for making me proud. And, thank you that you lived the kind of life that made a difference to those around you.

You are loved, you are cherished, you are missed.

-mom

With tomorrow (June 16th) being your birthday, I was remembering back years ago to a time when I was making your favorite chocolate cake for your birthday -"Chocolate Decadence". I'm just busy as a little bee and you want to help me...so, you begin reading the recipe. Suddenly you stop mid-sentence and exclaim, "Hey!! This isn't the right cake! This recipe is for Better Than Sex Cake!!" Funny thing, I'd forgotten he could read soooooooo well at such a young age! Note to Senta: Next time you change the name of a sensually named recipe, make sure you also change the recipe card!!

Thinking of you, Bubba, and smiling as always! Happy birthday thoughts are sent your way...

-mom

Senta and Family....on this painful anniversary....please know you and your family are in my prayers. Cory would be so proud of your courage and strength. You are the ultimate in army mom role models. I will never forget Cory, or any of the other men and women who gave their lives for our country. I know they are all serving the Lord now, and watching over us all. Sending much love and prayers...

To the family of PFC. Cory C. Kosters:
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.

The past several weeks have brought a flood a favorite memories of days gone by. Memories of all our camping days and how Kevin always seemed to get hurt and all the young trees you sawed down to make your bows and arrows through the years! (And of all the times your spears, bows and arrows brought some of the "hurts" that Kevin received!!) And of the time you, Kevin and Sam went to the ravine in the woods and walked home covered head to toe in red clay - looking like clay monsters! And what about the time I found all of my cactus plants shot full of plastic air soft pellets?!? Or playing Hide & Seek in the house and you hid in the chest at the end of my bed and we never found you because you had fallen asleep!! I was in a panic! Or you sneaking out the upstairs windows to sit on the first story roof...how thankful I am for ALL of my wonderful memories!

Now, new memories are being made and it hurts that you are not here to be a part of them. Kev and Crissy are working hard on their wedding plans and I know their hearts hurt, too, because you are not here and in the middle of it all! Crissy talks of you so much and is even making plans for you to be an honorary groomsman since you aren't able to be Kevin's Best Man! And, as much grief as you gave her through the years (and Kevin) we know that you would give this wedding your blessing. And, I also know, that even though you won't be there in person you will be alive in the hearts of all who know and love you.

These days, the hardest part of dealing with your death is not in the moving on, but in knowing that as I move on, my new memories don't include you. My photos no longer include you...and that hurts in ways that most others can't understand.

So, I am soooooooo thankful for ALL of the wonderful memories of the amazing 19 years you had on this earth. And, I am soooooooo thankful that I took billions (literally) of photos!! I'm thankful that instead of whining and covering your face, you allowed me the privilege of taking those photos. Because in the end - all we have left are our memories and our photos.

Thanks for the memories!
Missing you.
-Mom

Thinking of you and your family this morning....

:)

It was an honor to stand Tall Silent at Pfc Cory Kosters and to have been the lead RC for the PGR at his services. Cory you are not forgotten.

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

May we never forget the sacrifice you made, and the ones your mother, dad, and brother make daily. God bless you all and thank you Cory for being a HERO.

Dear Senta My how the time gets by , But no matter how long has past I will never ever forgot your courage You and your family will always be held up in prayer... love you girl . Stay Strong

Senta,
Even though I don't see you very often, ever since our last visit I have been thinking about your Cory and your family. When you share your memories of your boys, your face lights up along with your beautiful smile. I don't know what it's like to lose a child, but you must miss Cory tremendously and wanted you to know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Many Blessings,
Julie Montgomery

Thinking of you tonight on what would have been your 23rd birthday and remembering when you were first born...what a beautiful baby you were--perfect in every way.

I miss you so, sweet son of mine. And I long for when I will see your beautiful smile again!

~mom

I am not the best at sending notes or even writing to you in this guest book, but Cory crosses our minds many times and especially when we read in the paper about how the war has affected another family; but especially when we read about the death of another soldier. We love you and know what a sacrifice Cory & you all have made. It will never be forgotten. May God bless you. Love, Uncle Arnie & Aunt Tina

We are remembering Cory today. May God bless and keep you today Senta, Marlon and Kevin.

The most amazing thing happened today. A total stranger walked up to me while I was shopping and asked if I was Mrs. Kosters. After I told her "Yes," she said that she recognized me from my photo in the local paper from several years back and that she and her family had been thinking about use and had also been covering us in prayer.

People will never know, unless they have lost a loved one, how important words like that are--especially to a mom. Yes, time does continue on, and so do people and you begin to wonder after a while how long will it be before others stop remembering. How long will it be before Cory's memory fades...Will this be the last note or card?

To those who stop me in the store or send notes, to those who still send up a prayer for me and my family - THANK YOU! You will never know this side of heaven how important or how treasured those small acts of kindness are.

Senta and Family..... kind thoughts of you and Cory on this Memorial Day, 2010. Cory is still living through you, and in your heart forever. Lifting you and yours in prayer this special weekend.

Thinking of Cory this Memorial Day Weekend 2010.
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
Mine and Cory's favorite passage.
Thoughts and prayers are lifted up for the Kosters.
Love,
James, Jan & Jadi Box

To the family and friends of Pfc. Cory C. Kosters:
Remembering Cory 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

Kosters Family,
May God bless you all. Pfc Kosters you are a true hero and we will never ever ever forget your sacrifice. I also served with the 2nd battalion 505th infantry the black panthers 82nd Airborne Division 1971-1973 AIRBORNE ALL THE WAY SPECIALIST

GOD BLESS CORY

LIZARDO QUINONES
VETERAN

We are honored that you and the other families have allowed us to pay tribute to our nations fallen soldiers. We can not in words express our gratitude towards you and your family for the sacrifice Cory made on our behalf. God bless all of our fine soldiers and their families. " The Patriot's blood is the seed of freedoms tree."

Your freinds and Spring CJD

Senta,,,,,keep those beautiful birthday memories alive.....they will sustain you. Cory will ALWAYS be in your heart. Still praying for you....

What a wonderful tribute to your "very special" son. Even though we didn't know him that well, since we live so far apart, we thank him, God, & you and Marlon for his sacrifice for us. Senta, you are truly amazing, and we love you all. Uncle Ron & Aunt Alice

Beautiful Birthday Memories Senta. Thank you for sharing them with all of us. We're so sorry you didn't get more birthday's together. Your never far from my heart, mind and Prayers. Continue to Cherish every memory until we hold our babies again.

All my Love Carla

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CORY!! YOUR ALWAYS IN OUR HEART AND ALWAYS ON OUR MINDS!!! WE LOVE YA!!

Throughout the day, okay, honestly speaking...throughout the past week, I've stopped to remember the day my Cory was born. Twenty-two years ago today, June 16th, 1987.

Cory was this amazingly beautiful baby with black hair and blue-gray eyes...his father's eyes. He was long and skinny weighing 6 lbs, 11 ozs. and he was 19-20 inches long. I remember Marlon referring to him as a "noodle."

And, naturally, I can't help but stop and remember the last time I saw my Cory. He was allowed to come home from Ft. Bragg, North Carolina to celebrate his 19th birthday before shipping out to Samarra, Iraq.

He stood so tall and proud in his fatigues, black jump boots and burgandy-colored Airborne beret. He didn't complain about posing with each and every grandparent, aunt, uncle, cousin, neice and/or nephew for tons of photos. And, Cory spent the entire day laughing and sharing with his extended family, taking time with each. I still remember standing back and just watching him...the boy who had become a young man. I can't remember a time when I had been more proud of him.

So, today I sit and remember once again, the very brief 19 years I was blessed by my son, Cory. I remember the dinosaur birthday party we had for him when he turned 4. And the pirate party we had for him when he turned 6. I remember ALL of the L.A.N. birthday parties he had and those he and Kevin attended together dragging ALL of their computers, monitors, folding tables, chairs, oscillating fans, etc. - not to mention ALL of the connecting cables, networking boxes, and more! And, I can still hear Cory shouting, "Oh, my...Oh, my!" when things would get heated up during a combat game...and what about ALL of the food everywhere! Pizza and pizza boxes, soda & energy drink cans, candy and always the favorite--my brownies! Brownie crumbs on the floor, carpet, trailed upstairs and back down again. Then again, no girls, no alcohol, and no drugs...just a house full of boys and their toys. Yep! those WERE the days!

What I wouldn't give to have one more birthday party with my first-born son.

Missing you, Bubba. Always.
Mom

My prayers remain with you all for always.....

A Memorial Day Memory

This last Memorial Day we were fortunate to have some time off. We headed to our hometown where two of our three sons live. Arriving in the evening, we decided to visit the cemetery the next day.
The following morning, our oldest granddaughter wanted to go for a car ride with us out to the cemetery. I wasn’t sure how much she would understand about our tradition of placing flowers on our family graves, after all, she is only four.
When we got to the cemetery, the place was full of vehicles so we parked up by the office. Our son is the sexton so we stopped in to say hi to him and then proceeded to walk around the shop and over to “our area.”
My family takes up a lot of space there. My grandparents, my parents, my sister, and several other assorted relatives are all buried in that lot. Most of them have been buried for several years.
I could see that someone had been out before us as several pots of mums were sitting at the different headstones. I knelt down in front of my mom and dads headstone and brushed some of the cut dried grass away from the base. My granddaughter was watching intently.
She asked me, “Are all these people died?” I was a bit surprised that she knew
the word “died.”
“Yes honey, all these people are dead.”
“Will they come back? Will we see them again?”
“No honey, they are in heaven and they are happy to be there so they will stay there.
Someday when we are in heaven, then we will get to see them again.”
My husband and I took turns taking pictures of the graves and then it was time to walk down to the other section of the cemetery where his grandparents are buried.
I stood back and looked at all the headstones. Our granddaughter took my hand as if to comfort me. She asked me, “Grandma, do you miss them?”
“Yes honey I do.”
With the most heartfelt sigh I have ever heard from a child, she breathed, “Me too.”
We held hands as we walked thru the cemetery and about halfway to the other side, she asked me, “Grandma, is God in Heaven?” I answered yes He is. A few steps further, she said, “I miss God.” I explained to her that God was always with her so she just had to close her eyes and picture Him hugging her and she wouldn’t have to miss Him.
It was a good reminder for me because some days, I too miss God…
When we got to my husband’s grandparents grave, we again took some pictures.
Afterwards, we decided to go look at the new Veteran’s Memorial Wall that the cemetery had installed. It was up in another corner of the cemetery so we began to walk.
As we got close enough to see the wall, I noticed to the right in another section, a statue of Jesus. I was not the only one who noticed this. The closer we got, the bigger the smile was on our granddaughters face. She let go of my hand and started running toward the statue. She yelled something over her shoulder. I wasn’t sure what she had said but knew I better follow her! She got to the statue and stopped; eyeing it from several different directions before I caught up to her. She turned to me with a big grin on her face, “Grandma, will you take a picture of me in Heaven? Please, Grandma, take a picture of me with Jesus!” Her little eyes were like starlight. She grabbed my hand and pulled me closer to the statue. “I really want a picture of me in Heaven.”
She sat down on the base of the statue and I took a couple of pictures. About that time, Grandpa had caught up to us. She jumped up and said, “Grandpa, I got a picture of me in Heaven!” I don’t think he heard what she said and I know he didn’t understand it, but he smiled and we finished walking over to the Veteran’s Memorial Wall where we took several more pictures. She knows that her daddy is a Veteran so she made sure I took a picture of her by the Army emblem.
As we walked back to the car, with our granddaughter skipping ahead of us, I thought how wonderful her innocence. She was so happy to have a picture of herself in Heaven with Jesus. I believe Jesus smiled down on us and gave us a picture perfect moment.

© Laurel Olmsted
May 29, 2009

Dear Marlon, Senta and Kevin
We are here in WA DC and thought maybe we could find a marker or something about Cory @ Arlington but no. We have been thinking about you guys so much and praying for you too. Last night we went to a concert on the grass of the capital and today we were in the gazebo listening to Pres. Obama speak. It was rally something.
Anyway, just want you to know that we love you and pray for you alot...Cory gave the ultimate sacrifice for his country and now he is with God watching down over us all.
LOVE, Uncle Dan and Aunt Lindy

Hi Senta, Marlon and Kevin-
I just wanted to stop in on this special Memorial day to let you all know that you are being thought of and Prayed for today and many other days as well.
I was going through some old news papers yesterday and came across a Caladonian that had a quote from Cory with his picture in it. It kind of struck me because I was already thinking of him this weekend.
I know this is another hard day for all of you because no matter how much time has passed it never really gets easier, just bearable. With God all things are possible for those who Love the Lord. And you my dear friends have a Love for Our Lord that is awesome. You are an inspiration to us all.
God Bless, All Our Love,
Carla Kenny and Brett

May 25, 2009
On this Memorial Day, 2009, we want to thank you Cory for your sacrafice. Love, Uncle Arnie & Aunt Tina

Senta-
I met cory a couple of times during high school. I was friends with Sarah Roach and after her move to dallas, we rarely talked. After finding her on facebook, I went to see her and her family for her graduation in Dallas last week and they broke the news to me about cory. Now, i am 22 years old and a mom myself to a 3 year old. As i sat and listened to sarah, vince and terri's stories, they all broke down in tears, as I did too, even though we had met only a couple of times. I want you to know this memorial day that your family is STILL in everyones prayers. Also, as a young mother myself and looking at the pictures, you are so strong, as well as your family. I maybe only met you, Cory, and your family, once, but I remembered your son and you, especially, becuase of your great realationship with not only them, but jesus christ. I know that if you could leave a lasting inpression on me, only meeting you once at church, that cory is looking down on all of us and watching over us beucase of the faith and values that YOU taught him. I will continue to pray for you and your family and just wanted you to know that you were and are an awesome mother and I hope I can be as strong in my faith and teach my son the way you have taught yours. Cory, I think about you constantly and I know you are looking down on us. Senta, God bless you and your family and I can only hope I will raise my son as you have yours.

GOD BLESS,
STACEY WARREN

Dear Miss Senta,

I recently came across a memorial for Cory on youtube and just wanted to let you all know that I was thinking about you and that I still remember Cory fondly.
Hopefully I'll get to see you when I come back for the break.

with love,

Caroline

Dearest son,

It was exactly this time 2 years ago today that I was trying to absorb the news of your death, while also attempting to comfort Kevin and Crissy. And, waiting, for what seemed like forever, for your dad to get home from work! As long as I walk this earth I will never forget the details of that night. Honestly, it still seems like yesterday...

I've been thinking about what someone told me about an Eskimo legend that says something about perhaps they aren't stars in the sky, but instead openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones shine through to let us know they are happy!! I think that is a beautiful legend...

Oh, Cory, even though you and Kevin made so much fun of me, I am so very thankful for ALL of the millions of photos I've taken through the years...they have made missing you so much easier AND they bring back a flood of wonderful memories!

And, know that I thank you almost daily for putting your Economic's class project on my computer; because when I miss you most, when I need to hear your voice, your laughter, or be reminded of your craziness, all I have to do is play your video...and there you are in all your glory, exactly as I remember you!

I miss you, Bubba.
Love you, more!
-Mom

To the family of Pfc. Cory C. Kosters:
Cory 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

Dear Marlon, Senta & Kevin --
Every week when we read in the paper of more soldiers injured or killed in the war, we are reminded of the sacrafice that Cory and all of you made for the freedom we all enjoy. Please know that we have not, nor will we ever, forget that sacrafice. Some day we will see Cory again and we will get the chance to tell him thank you for defending us and our country.
Love, Arnie & Tina

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 Projectcompassion@manti.com 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

Cory,

I had never met you, but you truly are an American hero. Thank you so much for your service to our country. May you rest in peace.

Hi Senta and Family
i just got the most amazing photo of a bronze soldier ... To the left of the
kneeling soldier is a small Iraqi girl giving the soldier comfort as he mourns the loss of his comrade in arms. i thought u might enjoy this photo.

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Pfc Kosters!

Easter evening: March 23, 2008

Today I was remembering a time not so very long ago when I wasn't ready to stop hiding plastic eggs for my boys on Easter. So, instead of the traditional candy and trinkets in hidden eggs, I put money--$50 worth of bills divided between 20+ eggs. I remember laughing so hard as Kevin ran around the house finding ALL the hidden eggs and there stood Cory...with 1-2 eggs, looking lost. Cory never really got overly excited about much, and it wasn't any different that Easter either... which made it even sweeter when Kevin offered to split his "booty" with his brother.

That's the way it always was between the two of them. No telling how many secrets Cory carried with him to his grave...and Kevin will do the same. And does any mom ever really want to know EVERYTHING her children do?? Not this mom!!

I've raised my boys in a Christian home with Christian values, but that doesn't guarantee they won't act like the devil at times!! I've also tried to teach my boys to respect others and their property...to respect the opinions of others even if you don't agree with them. And how can you expect others to do something you're not willing to do? To stand up for what you believe, even if you're standing alone!

Most of all I've tried to teach both of my sons to make the best choices in any and every circumstance...to make sure you can live with the results or the consequences of your choices, and then move on! No regrets! Don't look back; always look forward. And, to live a life you can be proud of.

I truly believe Cory did just that. Even when he made a mistake, he would kinda chuckle and make some comment about not doing THAT again, and move on. And he never complained. He took what life gave him and moved on.

Me? I'm trying NOT to whine as much these days...but, man...it's hard following in Cory's footsteps. It's truly one thing to teach this stuff, and another to try and live it - especially this past year!

In closing, I want to say thanks to my Cory for being the kind of son a mother could be proud of.

I miss you so much, Bubba.
Mom

Cory, It was an HONOR to know you, and to have walked by your side. If only you could have known how much of a hero you were to me.
Less than two weeks away from going to Iraq, and all that I can think about is you! Plese look down from Heaven and watch over myself and my unit, I know your my Guardian Angel! I love you!
HOOAH! OORAH!!

Cousins by a Marriage,
Brothers by Arms!!

Dear Beloved Pfc. Cory C. Kosters,

It has been one year since you were killed in action along with my son, Spc. Ryan Bell. Seven families rec. the shocking report from Samarra, Iraq. I have never been the same. My life changed forever.

Thank You so much for serving your Country. You are one of America's Finest!!!!

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

Love,

Sheryl
Ryan Bell's mother

Senta, Marlon and Kevin. I hope the next days are filled with loving memories of Cory.

Thank you for serving your country. You are truly an American hero and will not be forgotten.

Rest in peace!

Dear Senta & Marlon and Kevin
It has been with great honor that Cory served in the Army, he knew that he was to make a difference and help others in the time of need in the war. he will never be forgotten and will live with the glory of the lord.
God bless you: Senta, Marlon and Kevin.

hey bro, we all miss you alot. we still talk and think about you and the rest of the guys. you will never be forgotten. ill see you someday.
SPC Wiley, Timothy

Rest in peace dear son of Texas.

Dear Kosters Family...
if it werent for this day, 6 years ago, possibly Cory would still be here with you. Christopher and i miss him, we think of him, and we speak of him fondly, with tears in our eyes. Take care, Senta, Marlon and Kevin! God Bless You.

Love, Carol and Christopher McKinney

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Pfc Kosters and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

Our deepest sympathy is extended for the loss of your Soldier. We are thankful for the service provided by your loved one, the sacrifice that he made as part of our Armed Forces, and are blessed to be living in a country which heroes are willing to serve. God Bless your family with peace and comfort in his memory.

God bless the family and friends of Cory.
You will all be in our prayers.
Thank you Cory for being such a brave hero.

(In remembrance of Cpl. Joey Cantrell 4-4-07)

God Bless You Senta, Marlon, & Kevin

I am so sorry about Cory and I'm really sorry that I haven't been in touch sooner. I broke my ankle the same day you lost Cory and have been out of touch. You have all been in my thoughts and prayers and will continue to be. I hate that you had to join this sad club of parents and little brother's who lost your first born, your best friend. We can rest in the peace of knowing that our precious children are in the arms of Jesus. We love you and pray for your continued strength.

God Bless,
Carla, Kenny & Brett Buchinger

May God continue to Bless you and your family and keep you safe... Cory will never be forgotten.

Dear Senta & Marlon,
Cory Kosters was very brave; he wanted to do someting that would
help keep AMERICA'S freedom.

He made all of our Kosters family so proud of him.

I could not wait to see him, but you
know that God wanted him to come to heaven and spend eternity with Him.

Love,