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David Roddy Obituary

RODDY , David S. Suddenly, on September 16, 2006, NavyPetty Officer DAVID S.; killed serving his country; beloved husband of Cristale A. Roddy (nee O'Rourke); devoted father of Jessica, Matthew and Michael; loving son of Robert and Carol Roddy and son-in-law of Edward and Hazel O'Rourke; dear brother of Michael Roddy; cherished grandson of Gloria Roddy and Matilda Hast. Also survived by several nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to call at the SCHIMUNEK FUNERAL HOME OF BEL AIR, INC., 610 W. McPhail Road (at Route 24) on Friday from 2-4 and 7-9 P.M. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at the Saint Francis DeSales Catholic Church in Abingdon on Saturday at 10 A.M. A memorila fund has been established ot benefit his children. The family request donations to be sent to Cristale Roddy Special Fund, USAA Federal Savings Bank, 10750 McDermott Freeway, San Antonio, TX 78284.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Baltimore Sun on Sep. 26, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for David Roddy

Not sure what to say?





Matthew Kutz

March 31, 2022

I was with Dave in the Boy Scouts in 1980s at St. Stephens church and enjoyed him during our middle school and high school years. He was one of the most kindest souls I've ever met, and have mourned his loss ever since learning of his passing.

Dean Dooley

September 16, 2020

Dave was an awesome man, dedicated to his work, sacrificed his life to save many. I was with Dave in the back of the EOD truck with the Corpsman the day he was killed. I was a Dog Handler in the Marine Corps. I had the opportunity to meet with his parents, Bob and Carole, a year or two after his passing. Me Bob, Mrs Carole, my wife and I all ate on the White House lawn together. Wonderful people. Dave came from great parents and it showed. He would always set up training for myself and the other dog handlers. I only knew him for a total of 10 days, but in that short time period I knew him to be selfless and humble. Rest easy Brother, and thank you for saving my life.

DH

September 16, 2016

Thinking of Dave and his family on this tenth anniversary. I met him in Kuwait and still remember his sense of humor and great smile. He is missed.

Rick Gates HMC/USN/RET

September 16, 2016

Today marks the 10th anniversay of Petty Officers Roddy death. I would like you and your family to know that you are not forgotton. Although you paid the ultimate sacrifice you are a true hero and part of what makes America the country it is today.

STEVE FORTNER

September 16, 2013

Steven Fortner,,father of Trveor Fortner.he too is a E..O.D.,,,R.I.P.

Dan Ryno

May 10, 2013

Thinking about you today Dave. Until we meet again in Heaven. -Dan

May 7, 2013

I remember dive school and EOD school like it was yesterday. I really enjoyed that experience with you Dave, and you never had a negative word to say about anything or anyone.

I miss you man..

-TJ Yockachonis

Danielle W.

May 6, 2013

I passed the car with the tribute to David on the back window this morning and made a mental note to look him up and pay tribute to his life and his service. God bless you.

Eric Neal

January 27, 2013

Your still with me brother.

Andrew B

January 8, 2013

Always thinking about you Dave. RIP friend! BAHS 1992!

Paul Lyons

October 21, 2012

I live in the Woodbridge, Va area. This evening a white SUV passed me with a tribute to David Roddy on the back window. When I got home I looked up his name and was sad to hear of his loss. Those that have written about David are a testimonial to his life and the honorable man he was. I have a special solace for David; I am a retired navy chief petty officer, and a father of a son lost in Iraq (Lcpl. Christopher P. Lyons, USMC), KIA 7-28-05 near Haditha, Iraq. My prayers are with David, family and his shipmates and friends.
Paul R. Lyons, Woodbridge, VA

Heather S

September 16, 2012

Thinking of you on this day Roddy. Much love goes out to you and your family.

Jason Miller

June 4, 2012

Miss you Dave!

Heather Serio

September 17, 2011

Thinking of you Roddy and your family on this anniversary of your death. You are still in our thoughts and hearts, as is your family.

Peggy Childers

September 16, 2011

To the family and friends of Petty Officer 2nd Class David S. Roddy:
Please accept my remembrance of David on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

Matthew Bodenner

November 2, 2010

Dave,
I miss you.
Matt

Joshua Bowden

September 26, 2010

I still to this day can not get the time he died out of my head nor the image of his gear be put onto the seat next my feet as i stood in the turret keeping watch but the one thing that stands out is that he served with the up most honor right up to the end. His passing was a great loss to his team as well as to free lance and I know it was an even greater loss to his family. God bless you all and you are all still in my prayers to this day

Peggy Childers

September 16, 2010

To the family and friends of Petty Officer 2nd Class David S. Roddy:
Remembering David 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

September 9, 2010

Its hard to believe that Dave has been gone four years now! Thank you to everyone for remembering Dave and the sacrifice he made! It means a great deal to all of us. Love you and miss you terribly Dave! xo You will never be forgotten.

TJ Yockachonis

July 23, 2010

Miss you Dave...Always man. RIP brotha...

Andrew M.

July 21, 2010

I did not know David Roddy personally but I am typing this to recognize his actions. He walked the path of a hero, a man who will put his life on the line to help protect his team and fellow citizens. I am a member of class 10-60-EOD and am writing a commemorative report on this brave Sailor. I can only hope to follow in his footsteps. He was and will always remain a member of an elite group, and his actions will not be forgotten.

S, Christopher Gillis, OS2

June 26, 2010

To a Dear Friend,
I remember serving with Roddy on those long watches on USS Dubuque/USS Juneau; he always brought a smile when it was needed. All my best and prayers go to his family.

Eric Flutka

May 31, 2010

Today is Memorial Day and I thought of Dave. He was a classmate and I want to thank him for paying the ultimate price for mine and my family's freedom. My heart goes out to his family. Thank you.

Joyce Krauss

December 8, 2009

Dear Carol and Bob Like we would ever be able to forget David think of him and you every day Proud of how far you
and Bob have come sure is not easy as I
know Love all of you
Joyce & Charlie

Peggy Childers

September 16, 2009

To the family of Petty Officer 2nd Class David S. Roddy:
David 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

Nick Haynes

July 30, 2009

One of the honors of my time in the Navy was to have worked with Dave. He enjoyed having fun, he loved his work in the Navy, but more importantly, he loved his family and it shone through each and every day. He lived life with a heroic spirit, and though it pains me to hear of his death, he died exactly the way he lived-like a hero.

May God continue to give his soul the rest he has had for the past few years. May God continue to comfort his family and remind them of the bravery Dave showed in his service. And may God continue to provide us with such men and women who are willing to answer the call, no matter the cost, when our freedom is on the line.

Farewell, my brother.

Joe Massie

May 24, 2009

Roddy taught me how to wax the deck in the ET shop. He even made me feel better about being up past 0300 after being on watch. At the time it felt like a punishment but ET2 made it kind of fun because he was stuck being up that early too with me and he didn't have to help me. He went out of his way to help me and was happy to do it. He was like that in everything I saw him do, always happy to do it. Believe me the ET's had a lot to complain about but Roddy didn't seem to let it bug him. He's the only person I knew closely that we have lost in this war. On this memorial day I remember David Roddy for more than just being an excellent man with a swab and a bucket of water but for a man who smiled at every task no matter how daunting or menial. He was proud to serve his country anyway he could. Thank you.

Christopher Sakos

May 23, 2009

Dear Roddy Family-It's Memorial Day Weekend, and I just want you to know that I am thinking of you son. It's not just "a day off" for me, as you know. Sincerly, Christopher V. Sakos

David Roddy

May 14, 2009

My name is also "David Roddy" and I to am on active duty in the Navy. I found this article while doing a search on myself just to see what was out there. As you can imagine, it's strange to see your name in such a tragic story. I spent 10 years as a navy corpsman but currently serve as a recruiter for the navy. Stories like this make me proud of the young men and women in our armed forces. I pray that the pain of your loss will ease with time. Our freedom is directly tied to the sacrifices of families like yours. The price is high...sometime to high it seems. Please know that millions of Americans understand the cost of freedom and are forever in your debt. I'm sure I speak for many when I say that we love you for giving your son to this great FREE nation.

Christopher Sakos

May 5, 2009

Dear Roddy family-My son, Chris Sakos Jr., must have been in Iraq with him. We live in N.J., and Chris got out of the Navy a year ago. Last summer, he moved out to Denver, where he was last stationed, to live, and while putting a bunch of his stuff in the attic here, I came across the pamphlet for David Roddy's memorial service in Iraq. Chris mentioned a handful of close calls, but never said anything about buddies dying. I googled David, and came across this site, and, even though it's been a few years, I want to send you my condolences. I'm more then sorry about your loss. I know the war in Iraq is debateable, but, we cannot, and will not let 9-11 go unanswered. I was working across the river from the twin towers on 9-11, and saw the first one fall before heading for home. Sadly, not letting 9-11 go unanswered means loss of lives on our part, and your son/brother/husband/father was one of the heros. Chris has a twin brother who was in the Army at the same time in Iraq as Chris, and is on his 2ed tour right now. Vince had many close calls the first tour, and lost 2 buddies. I will never take Memorial Day for granted anymore, and it is not just a "day off" for me. My thoughts are with you.-----------Christopher V. Sakos

May 4, 2009

I met David while attending a naval leadership course in 2006. He inspired me to become an EOD technician. Due to complications I became a Navy Diver instead, but have remembered our short meeting often.

I am currently submitting my officer package and thought about David again. I'm not sure what brought his memory in my mind, but in the end I stumbled across this site.

Thanks for your service, David Roddy!

V/R,

Jason

Family

April 27, 2009

Dave, Cristale and Jessica

April 27, 2009

Wedding day

April 27, 2009

At the beach

April 27, 2009

Dave and Jessica

April 27, 2009

Kenna Larra

March 21, 2009

We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,450 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna

In Memory of David ~ (Debra Estep)

September 16, 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 David, 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

Joe Keller

September 9, 2008

Nearly two years since we lost you doing your job in Iraq, your friends still miss you and will continue to remember the sacrifice you made so that we as Americans can continue to live free. I am glad that I had the opportunity to know you while I served in the US Navy.

Trevor Lee

August 30, 2008

I am a better man for having known you. I will look back aboard our time aboard USS Juneau together with find memories and I will never forget your sacrifice. FC2 Trevor "Fuzz" Lee USS Juneau June 2001-July 2005

Heather S

July 16, 2008

We still think about you often and pray for your family. You will never be forgotten! God Bless

June 4, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Petty Officer 2nd Class Roddy!

Linda Davidson

June 2, 2008

local ties

in memory of David Sean Roddy, 32
from abingdon, maryland
who gave his life for his country
in Iraq on Sunday, 9/17/06


i’m 20 years his senior, and he never knew my name
he lived and died with quiet pride, not seeking wealth or fame
and while i worked and shopped and ate and slept in comfort here
he ate from cans and slept in sand and swallowed his own fear

young roddy knelt down in the dirt to save somebody’s life
somebody else’s children -- somebody else’s wife
with caution, skill and courage he pursued a path of peace
in a country marked with bloodshed that he prayed would someday cease

i watched my little girls grow up; i got to see them wed
i love to kiss my grandkids as I tuck them into bed
i’m free to pledge allegiance to old glory as she waves
because of men like roddy who now rest in countless graves

i never even knew him, though i someday hope to see
his face, all cleaned and rested, standing by a crystal sea
i know the debt i owe him is too much for me to pay
so i ask that God will bless his little family each day

i count myself among the ones he laid his life down for
and when i stand in line to vote i’ll say a prayer once more
to thank God for my freedom and reflect how high the cost
and remember what we gained because of what young roddy lost



-- linda m davidson
september, 2006

Dan Rose

February 6, 2008

A true hero that I unfortunately never met. However, in 2007 after some research and I was able to contact and meet Carol and Bob to express my deepest sympathy. They expressed so much pride in David and his family! It was my honor to provide Matt and Michael with HERO soccer camp scholarships hoping that they would attend. To my surprise they attended. Seeing them play soccer for a week with smiles on their faces and knowing that David was watching was very special. They are very special boy's David and they will make you proud! God bless you Bob, Carol and the Roddy family!

Joe LaCourse

September 19, 2007

From PSI to Tech, you showed me dedication and strength. You helped me and others get through tough times. You gave everything for this, and I thank you for it.

Jason Cathcart

September 11, 2007

I know Dave has met and touched a lot of people since I had last seen him, some odd four years ago. I knew that he went on to become an EOD tech, but nothing hit harder than finding out that he had passed from another friend. You see Dave and I had worked together and mudd pupped at an EOD mobile unit in Sasebo, Japan. Even though he knew what he was getting in to, I was the one put the idea(EOD) in his head.
Dave you have done all of us a great service. You will be missed.
Jason M. Cathcart

August 16, 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)

Florence McSween-Elkins

August 2, 2007

To All Parents
“I’ll lend you for a little time a child of Mine,” He said.
“For you to love the While he lives and mourn for when he’s dead.
It may be six or seven years, or 22 or three,
But will you, till I call him back, take care of him for me?
He’ll bring his charms to gladden you, and shall his stay be brief.
You’ll have his lovely memories as solace and relief.
“I cannot promise he will stay, since all from earth return,
But there are some lessons taught down there I want this child to learn.
I’ve looked the wide world over in my search for teachers true
And from the throngs that crowd life’s lanes I have selected you.
Now will you give him all your love, nor think the labor vain,
Nor hate Me when I come to take him back again?”
For all the joy Thy child shall bring, the risk of grief we’ll run.
We’ll shelter him with tenderness, we’ll love him while we may
And for the happiness we’ve known forever grateful stay;
But shall the angels call for him much sooner than we’ve planned.
We’ll brave the bitter grief that comes and try to understand.”

I share in your loss; Proud Mother of Petty Officer 1st Class Joseph Adam McSween EODMU-11; IKA near Kirkuk, Iraq on 04-06-07

Chris Broome

August 1, 2007

Petty Officer Dave Roddy, brother EOD Tech, rest in peace.

Chris Broome
U.S. Navy (Ret.)

July 31, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Petty Officer 2nd Class Roddy and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

Shelli Brown

July 21, 2007

So sorry for your loss. I came across this site again (lost it the first time I wanted to add). We were family members on the Juneau in Japan. Thoughts and prayers to you all
Sean (HM1 at the time) and Shelli Brown

Dean Dooley

July 19, 2007

I served with Dave in Haditha, and was with him the day that he perished. He was an awesome man, devoted to his work. He spent his off time setting up training problems for us, (the dog handlers). I salute him for making the ultimate sacrifice. My condolences go out to his family and friends.

ETCS (Retired) Mark Reynolds

July 14, 2007

I was David's Senior Chief onboard USS Juneau. He was a true American, Shipmate and Father. He was my friend, I will miss his presence and example. Fair winds and following seas shipmate...

July 11, 2007

We just want to send our condolences to the Roddy family. We hope that you are receiving solace from the Word of God, who promises to soon bring peace to the earth. Our sympathies.

Samantha Mull-Harper

July 9, 2007

I was on swim team with David in high school, and he and his family will always be in my thoughts and prayers. We could never ask for a better man.

John Al Trinidad

June 26, 2007

I served with ET2 David Roddy onboard the USS Juneau. He was a happy go lucky guy and he was a blast to hang out with. I looked up to him and he taught me a lot. He was a superb sailor but most of all, he was a superb mentor and friend to everyone in OE Division. My deep condolences to his wife and 3 kids.

Phu Phung

June 25, 2007

Dave was a great friend, we were in A school together and to my surprise we was also station on the same ship, the USS Juneau, for 3 years, no matter what happens he always has that smile on him. And his laughter was contagious. I will always treasure those time.

David Swasey

June 24, 2007

David Roddy was an excellent man and friend. I will miss him. I am proud to have served with such and outstanding man on board the USS Juneau, Sasebo Japan, 00-01.

Benjamin Newton

June 23, 2007

Roddy was a really cool guy. I served with him on the uss juneau. My prayers are with the family.

Cliff Wilson

June 22, 2007

Dave is one of the most amazing people I have ever met... no matter what happened, I never saw him without a smile on that face. Dave invited me into his family for my first Thanksgiving in Japan and in the following years taught me a lot about my job and even more about life... Dave will always have a dear place in my memories.

Mark Witherspoon

June 22, 2007

I also served with ET2 Roddy on the USS Juneau (LPD-10) Dave was such an incredible guy! Always smiling, making you feel at home. He was the guy you wanted to be around, the guy you wanted to be friends with, and I'm pround to say that I was his friend and he was mine.

To Dave's family: No words can ever express enough how sorry we are for your loss. I will always be thankful for the time I knew him and the sacrifice he made.

Ryan Howard

June 22, 2007

I served with Dave on the USS Juneau. He was one of the nicest guys you would ever meet and rarely ever caught not smiling. He will be missed very much but his memory will live on amongst those he touched with his laughter.

ET2 Justin Dane

June 22, 2007

Dave Roddy was one of the best role models I had as a junior sailor serving onboard the USS Juneau. I will always remember him as he was then. My deepest condolences go out to his wife and three children.

Dustin Haney

June 22, 2007

I knew Dave on the Juneau and work with him for two years, and it was a pleasure knowing and working with him and getting to know his family. He is miss even in Texas.

Joe Massie

June 21, 2007

I knew Roddy for a short time when we served together on the USS Juneau. He helped me a lot when I first arrived and made the process less awkward. While most of the guys were trying to break me down he was building me up. Thank you.

Taylor King

May 4, 2007

I will always miss Dave, he was one of the few truly kind people I have ever met in my life. While it makes my heart hurt to think him gone and the pain his family must be going through...I hope it brings them some solace to know that he blessed my life with his friendship. I will have Dave and his family in my heart forever, and as hard as this way of life can be...meeting and sharing my life with people like Dave, Crystal and the kids has made it all more than worthwhile. Crystal, please stay in touch and never hesitate to call if you need anything.

Martha Benton

March 11, 2007

To The Roddy Family,
I am the aunt of Cpl. Jennifer Parcell. I am so sorry about your loss, for I know how you must feel. It is hard sometimes to think about the future, when you have lost a loved one. May you continue to find grace thru God and be able to live your lives in a way that would make David proud. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Martha Benton

Susan Stanley

February 26, 2007

You, Petty Officer 2nd Class David S. Roddy, will never be forgotten...
Though I barely knew your name.
You will always be a hero and I will remember your name...

You kept my children safe at night. Cold, wet, and yet standing as though you were stone, protecting their future, their freedoms, my home.
You did this all as your wife slept alone.

You have reminded me that my freedoms are not free.
As you helped to pave a road to Democracy for a people
who are not as free as me.

Your selfless acts make me proud to be an American.
I only hope that we as Americans can live up to the right of freedom for which you died to give us !!!
The above poem was written by, Scott N. Stanley, a soldier. I put in David’s name to help comfort Carol Roddy, another gold star mom.
In remembrance of our heroes,
Susan Stanley (son SSGT. Russell J. Verdugo KAI 5/23/05 EOD)

Linda Swinford

February 14, 2007

Dear Family, Friends and Comrades of ET2 Roddy,

I just read SGT Dean Dooley's 12/30/2006 posting in which he told of ET2 Roddy's actions that saved his comrades, but cost him his own life. I'm so sorry.

I pass along to you a couple of messages that I received upon learning of the death of CW3 Tim Flannigan. who was killed 02 07 2006 in Afghanistan. I read them now and substitute ET2 Roddy's name. I hope they comfort you as they continue to comfort me, as I try to follow their example and live each day to the fullest.

24 July 2006 from 1LT William Elliott: "It is another reminder that our time can be very short. Tim knew that, as we all do, and yet he chose to do his mission in Afghanistan. His death is tragic. But how tragic would it be to not have really lived, to not do something that mattered to yourself or others. Tim's life can teach us all a thing or two - if we are only ready to learn."

19 July 2006 LTC Jerry Jochum sent me the following, which was written by Major Michael Davis O'Donnell on 1 Jan 1970, MIA 24 Mar 1970, Dak To, Vietnam: "If you are able, save a place inside of you and save one backward glance when you are leaving for the places they can no longer go ... Be not ashamed to say you loved them, though you may or may not have always. Take what they have taught you with their dying and keep it with your own ... And in that time when men decide and feel safe to call the war insane, take one moment to embrace those gentle heroes you left behind."

We are forever grateful to CW3 Flannigan, ET2 Roddy and all of our Armed Forces for fighting for the cause of freedom throughout the world. We will never forget them. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, both today and all of the tomorrows, as we remember these heroes.

February 2, 2007

Thank You.

Hollis Kelly

January 22, 2007

He was a great guy. I will truly miss him. My prayers go to his family.

Nathan Ellsworth

January 21, 2007

Rowdy Roddy Piper! You will live on in all of the lives you have touched. My prayers go out to you and your family. See you on the other side brother. God Bless and God Speed.
~Nate

James Hartman

January 19, 2007

Great guy, great friend. I am lucky enough to have known you and served with you, you will never be forgotten.

Benjamin Newman

January 19, 2007

David was a good man and he will be missed by all. We were stationed together on the USS JUNEAU. My prayers go out the Roddy family.

OS1 (SW) Michael Diamond

January 19, 2007

To a Dear Friend,
I served with Roddy on the USS JUNEAU, he was a hell of a shipmate and a great friend, all of my best and prayers to his family and Roddy thanks for being a brother.

Sally Cherry

January 13, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with the family of...
Petty Officer 2nd Class David S. Roddy
Gone but Not forgotten

Charles Foley

January 9, 2007

So sorry to lose a good man and shipmate, my prayers are with you.
BM1(SW) Foley , USN (ret)

William Sheehan

January 8, 2007

My friend, I will always remember the smile on your face. Never did I see you frown. You enjoyed life with a great passion. My sympathies to your entire family. Roddy, I am proud to have met you and I know my life is better for it.
My best to you, the family of David.
-Bill

Jennifer Chism

January 8, 2007

I want to say how sorry I am for your loss.We lived in the same building as they did while stationed in Sasebo.Our prayers go out to the Roddy family.

Jennifer & BM1 Chism

Tommy Ziomek

January 8, 2007

A great kid, a great father, a great friend, and a great loss. We will miss you-

IT2(SW) Ziomek - USS Juneau 1999-2002

LT Ron Schneider

January 4, 2007

Roddy Family,
I extend my condolences to you. Word of your lost is making it's way around the world, a true testament of the friends and relationships David has made while in the Navy. David served with me on the USS JUNEAU; he was a true professional in all regards.

Willie Young IT1(SW)

January 4, 2007

It’s an HONOR to work with a Hero and we really appreciate him, God Bless the family who always there for him with an open heart. IF we can only go back in time, it was really fun to work with him during our tour in the JUNEAU. We surely miss him..

January 1, 2007

To the Family & Friends of David Roddy~ We send our deepest sympathy for your tragic loss. May your memories bring you comfort in the absence of your loved one. David is a True American Hero.

God Bless You All,
The Hutchison Family

shawnee (Austin, TX)

January 1, 2007

I was going through a list of the troops who were requesting items to be sent to them when I came across PO2 David Roddy's name.
I'm very sorry for your loss. He was highly respected from what I read on the other site. He is an American hero, and will not be forgotten. Rest in Peace.

Toby Matlock, IT1(SW/AW)

December 30, 2006

To the Roddy Family, today it saddens me to read about a friend and a brother of US Navy. Me and David worked together at his first command USS JUNEAU (LPD-10). Our families got to know each other very well. I got a chance to visit with his parents when they came to visit in Sasebo at one of the indoor water parks...that was fun...very nice family. I know he will be missed.
I really can't explain, why today I had a strange feeling to look at the names of the fallen, but a feeling that I would know someone today, and now I'm here.
I can still remember David training for EOD it was his dream, to be more than just an ET riding on ships.
David, thank you for your friendship and what you have givin to this world in your short time
here, I know one day we shall meet again.
Cris... my prayers are with you and the family. God Bless!!

Bill & Brenda Ernst

December 12, 2006

Brenda and I will be making a donation to the Cristale Roddy Special Fund in lieu of Christmas presents this year to thank you and and your children for David's service and sacrifice to his country. Know that the prayers of a nation are with you at all times. God Bless you and your children.

JOHN HARVEY

October 28, 2006

TO THE RODDY FAMILY
GOD BLESS YOU ALL, I WORKED WITH DAVID YEARS AGO, AND ALSO MICHAEL YOU ARE VERY FORTUNATE TO HAVE SUCH WONDERFUL SONS.
YOUR SON DAVID ID A TRUE AMERICAN HERO - WHO'S JOB SAVED MANY OTHER INDIVIDUALS.
I THANK YOU DAVID FOR YOU SERVICE.
JOHN HARVEY

Petty Officer 2nd Class Walliser

October 25, 2006

I first met Dave when he reported to Eglin as a PSI on his way to dive school. he was a class behind me but we became friends nevertheless. his smile and affable nature was unavoidable. I was moved by knowning he had overcome a horrible auto accident and was continuing on with his dreams. I didnt see dave again until I flew into Kuwait on my way to Iraq. I spent the night at their camp and got to share in some stories and good times with Dave. that was the last time I saw him. We, the brotherhood, remember.

April and Richard M

October 15, 2006

Cris,

We are so, so sorry to hear this news. Words can never fully express what we mean to say, or how we feel. Just know that you and the children are in our thoughts. Please, if you need anything, anything at all, give us a call. I sent you a mail with all of our new contact numbers.

Terry White

October 12, 2006

I am deeply saddened to hear about your loss. I am a Navy EOD and will be leaving for Lebanon soon. They are all very special young people. They do their job in order to save lives. Could there be a better calling?

Tom Gugliuzza-Smith

October 10, 2006

My heartfelt sympathy to the Roddy family in the loss of David. I did not know David, 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. David 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~

Maureen Miller

October 9, 2006

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. David was my cousin (I used to be Maureen Quinn), and although I hadn't seen David since we were teenagers, I remember the fun we had when our families spent time together in Baltimore. David was always ready to joke and tease and have fun.

My thoughts and prayers, and those of my family, are with you and yours.

Love-

Travis and Dawn Wilson

October 9, 2006

Cristale,

Words can't express the sadness we feel however know that our prayers are with you. Although we've only known you guys a short while we will miss Dave as though we had known him our whole lives. He was indeed a wonderfull person. His memory will not only live with us each day but will remind us why we get up each morning and put on our uniform. God bless you and the kids, your family and Dave's family.

Your lifelong friends,
Travis and Dawn Wilson
Ft Meade, Md

October 9, 2006

My sincere sympathy to the Roddy family. Our prayers are with you at this difficult time. It's because men like this that we can sleep comfortably at night knowing that tomorrow, we will still have our freedom. God Bless You.

George Bodenner

October 8, 2006

I did not meet David personally but I was honored to attend his graduation from UDT in Florida where I reenlisted my nephew, Matt Bodenner who was a friend of David.

Marilynne Brooks

October 7, 2006

I am sorry for the loss of your son. My Dad was in the Army,my grandfather too. So we are commrades of a sort. I attended a solider's funeral at Ft. Lewis Washington. I got the folded flag after the 21 gun salute. Peace to all of you!

Sandy (Williams) McGregor

October 4, 2006

To the Roddy Family,

Bob it has been many years since we worked together in R709. I remember how proud you always were of your boys. It sounds as if David turned out to be a wonderful young man. My heart aches for your families, especially his children, on his loss. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless you all and give you strength!

Vicky Burns

October 2, 2006

To the Roddy Family
May God be with you and comfort you day to day, hour to hour, moment to moment. I am so sorry for you loss.

Bridget Leimbach

October 2, 2006

For Bob and Carol Roddy: Know that you and your family are loved and prayed for in your parish community. I did not have the honor of knowing your son personally, but having been at his funeral, I can understand what a beautiful person he was. May you find solace in knowing that others appreciate his sacrifice. God bless you, Christale, and your grandchildren.

October 2, 2006

To the entire Roddy Family,

Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this trying time. PO Roddy will be truly missed. I'd also like to thank you for allowing others to mourn with you.

My Deepest Regards,
Ken Erickson
EOD Operator and PGR member

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