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Robert W Flanagan
March 6, 2024
James,
I miss your dedication and sense of humor.
Rest easy.
Bob Flanagan, Nashua, NH.
2/4 Infantry, '77-'80
Terry Tirey Lehenbauer
September 21, 2023
Happy Heavenly Birthday, Jim! Love and miss you! ~ Terry
Russell Brautigam
September 20, 2023
Remembering Jim on his 70th birthday.
Russ Brautigam, Mercer, Pa.
2/4 Inf, 56 FA Bde, 1976 to 1979, and
IOAC 1979
Terry
September 21, 2020
Happy Birthday, Jim. We miss you every day ❤
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Dorothy Srembo
June 23, 2019
Thinking about you and our Army days in Kores. So many memories to cherish and the memories last forever. Sad you left your family and friends too soon. You are missed!
J. Bristow
April 23, 2017
Gone, but never forgotten.
Dorothy Srembo
March 25, 2017
You are not forgotten. Memories live on forever. You are missed by family and friends!
Terry Tirey Lehenbauer
March 22, 2017
10 years, wow! You are still remembered by so many ❤
Dorothy Srembo
May 25, 2016
Memorial Day is this weekend. Remembering your years of dedicated military service. Thankful for men and women like you. Wishing you were still here to share those " war stories".
In thanks for your service, COL Tirey..
Scott Hyland
May 24, 2016
Dorothy Srembo
April 8, 2016
I have lost 2 dear friends on March 21 a day of sadness in my heart. Dylan's words are spot on about you. I am just thankful our paths crossed in this life. You are missed and remembered by many.
Dylan Thomas
April 6, 2016
Sempai,
You still live in my heart and when I teach the arts we loved so much. It still feels like it was not that long ago. I have trained and talked with you in dreams, only to wake and remember you are really gone from this plain.
My favourite photo is here, it is the one with you holding my then newborn 1st son, Richard Liam, at my black belt promotion in September 2002, just days after Liam was born.
The look in your face, my son's ease in your arms as he probably sensed that he was as safe in your arms as he was then in mine. Probably safer.
I remember how I felt that moment the picture was taken.
My Sempai, meeting my son for the first time, my son meeting my mentor and at that moment I looked forward to the day when he would study under you and was glad he'd know a man like you.
Alas he will never get the chance to study under you but he and his little brother, Aidan know about you, what you had done for me and what you mean to me.
The Combined Martial Studies Group was founded and carries on in accordance with your example and our shared dream. Armatura-Ryu is yours as much as it is ours. You are the only Soke it will ever list.
To be your understudy was an honour and a privilege and to be your friend was a gift.
March 28, 2016
I will never forget my Company XO, Jim Tirey. A great soldier, American, and friend.
Gordon Burke
Tom Giugni
January 27, 2016
It's hard to believe that Jim has been gone for so long! I viewed the slideshow yesterday, great pics and great memories of the Tirey family growing up. RIP, Jim.
Dorothy Srembo
May 29, 2015
Thinking about you Jim. Looking at pictures and remembering the happy times! You are missed!!
Larry Pryor
November 11, 2014
Morning in Luzon, Philippines and remembering Jim Tirey; we shared a rental in Salinas, California while both of us were Captains at Fort Ord. One morning there he was already gone to work; and I was putting on my blousing rubbers over my boots and had my first back episode slipping a disk while performing that routine daily action. Ended up going by ambulance to the Fort Ord Hospital; he came to get me there; they shot me up with medications and scheduled me for physical rehabilitation treatments.
He was without question the best roommate, I ever had in life. He was never materialistic or selfish. I had first met him at Camp Loon Lake while we were on the Staff there in 1969. I believe that as |Eagle Scouts and Army Officers that we lived by the codes of conduct that seem so out of place in the current macro world. Do not lie, cheat, or steal, your word is your bond, Gentleman's code, A Boy Scout is Trustworthy, Helpful, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean and Reverent. Other than his bedroom was a mess; he imbued all the codes of the old Americana of his youth, until his death. A rare memory to still say he lived his life always that way.
Miss you Jim; Larry Pryor
Dorothy Srembo
September 21, 2014
Know you are missed by family and your many friends!! Think of you often my friend! Miss your calls. Wishing there were phones in Heaven!
Terry Tirey Lehenbauer
September 20, 2014
Remembering you on your 61st birthday. Love you, my brother, and miss you so much!
May 16, 2014
Trooper,
I visited your grave at Arlington on 11 May. There were two stones placed on top of your grave marker; seven years after your death, you are still cherished and remembered by those who knew you. You are my mentor and you will always be in my heart.
De Oppressor Liber,
John Bristow
Terry Tirey- Lehenbauer
April 24, 2014
Jim, I saw a picture that might be you and felt your soul pass though me. I love you, hate it that you died too young, and admire you as the hero you were. You would be so proud of your nieces and nephews. Love you forever, Terry
Ali Jines
April 22, 2014
Uncle Jim! Not a day goes by that I don't think about you or miss you. You were the coolest uncle anyone could ask for and I have so many questions I wish I could ask you, but I'll wait. Thank you for giving me strength when I needed it most, I know you were there. I love you.
Steve Lehenbauer
April 12, 2014
Peace through Strength.
Frank Bush
February 24, 2014
To all of the Tirey's,
Jim and I were in 5th Gp as CPT's. He was the HHC Cdr when I worked in the S3 shop. He always had a handle on everything that was going on in the GP HQ's. Jim was a true Patriot and stayed in the game until his untimely early passing. We will all remember him as a great soldier and great person caring for soldiers. De Opresson Libre.
Dorothy Srembo
September 21, 2013
Just stopping back to look at the pictures again and remember the fun times! Another year is passed. You are missed!
Dorothy Srembo
November 11, 2012
Time cannot erase the memories of a dear friend!
Dorothy Srembo
September 15, 2012
Still remember our fun days in Korea. Know you are missed by friends and family.
Bob Horsman
September 14, 2012
Sir, I knew you but a little and even now years later you are missed.
Dorothy Srembo
January 19, 2012
Remembering!
Farewell dinner with friends in Korea
Dorothy Srembo
June 16, 2010
Remembering Korea with friends
Dorothy Srembo
June 16, 2010
Jim Lytle
June 15, 2010
Kathy,
We have never met but I spoke with you once on the phone and you informed me of Jim's passing. I was totally shocked and at a loss for words. I had the distinct honor of serving for and with a young Captain Tirey when he was the Company Commander of HHC 5th Special Forces Group 1982 - 1983. He selected me to be his Company First Sergeant. Even than it was obvious that this was a man of total dedication to what he knew was the right thing. I will always remember a true soldier and great fiend. Please accept my heart felt condolences, and may God Bless.
Army mess Dress Korea 1983
April 16, 2010
Dorothy Srembo
April 13, 2010
My thoughts are with all of Jim's family. As the years go by, I hope time is helping fill the void since Jim's sudden death. You are all in my thoughts. God bless you.
Dorothy Srembo
April 13, 2010
May memories of Jim live forever in our hearts
Jeri Jones
December 7, 2009
Kathy,
I hope this Christmas Season finds you well and at peace. Thank you for posting the photo album and for keeping this guest book open. My thoughts and prayers are always with you.
Jim,
We still miss you, my friend.
Dorothy Srembo,LTC,USA,ret.
June 4, 2009
I am returning to see the photos and notes from Jim's friends and family. It is comforting to visit and remember the fun times. Thanks for keeping the Guest Book online for friends to see again. It does remind me of how quickly life passes! God's blessings to all of Jim's family.
Loretta, Ray, Jane, Jim, Beth, Pat & Terry
May 26, 2009
Return From Bermuda
May 25, 2009
Larry Pryor
May 7, 2009
I first met Jim in 1969 at Loon Lake Boy Scout Camp. He was a quiet hard working guy, who took himself not overly serious. He was going to be a priest or a soldier. In 1984, I was a Captain at Fort Ord, recently divorced, and he was a assigned to Combat Developments Experimentation Command, I was the HHC Company Commander. Me and Captain Tirey made a road trip down to our unit at Fort Hunter Ligett, we got to talking, and Boy Scouts and being Eagle Scouts came up. We both got our commissions from ROTC at UC Davis. He got his a couple of years before me, I did a three year stint as an enlisted soldier. As we drove and talked about being Eagle Scouts in 1968, we found out we both worked at Loon Lake during 1969. I hardly recognized him of course, he was a lot bulkier than as a young teen. We went down memory lane of that Loon Lake summer. I could see him clearly as we talked. I had a house I was renting in Salinas alone. I asked if he wanted to share the rent. He agreed. He was the best room mate I ever had, except his room was the biggest mess always, I thought, yeah, if the Engineering did not kick you out of West Point I bet keeping your room straight was a problem. He always had lots of Japanese Beer in the icebox. He was open and giving always, and I took advantage of the free beer. He had a lousy job for CDEC. He spent a lot of time down at Fort Hunter Liggett, doing lowly tasks like ensuring the VIPs visiting had their little perks they expected, like Corn Flakes, Soft Drinks, etc in their billeting. He did not complain, and found it humorous. The recruiters for some secret force came through Fort Ord and Jim got tapped. He went off on a secret training course, and made it and was gone soon. The movers came into his messy room and packed up everything. And I mean everything, including the stuff I had on the top shelf of the closet. That stuff included my Eagle Scout Badge, Fireman Badge, and a photo album my mother put together for me. Well, I asked him about the stuff, but he could not find it. Well, no surprise there. I met a lot of Delta Force and SF guys in my life. I always brought up Jim. I heard of him being in Iraq with the Kurds. I live in Angeles City, Philippines now. I was at a local bar, Garfields, that has an SF group of veterans in a club there. I was talking to an ex Delta guy and asked if he knew Jim. He said he died recently. I was shocked. Well, Jim was a great guy and I feel privileged to know him as well as I did as an Eagle Scout and later as a fellow Army Captain. I think of him with warmth. Larry Pryor
Dorothy Srembo,LTC,ANC
April 11, 2009
Dear Kathy,
Words escape me in learning of Jim's untimely death and tears fill my eyes! I now know why I had not heard from Jim. As you might recall, Kathy, I met him in Korea in 1983.
It was delightful to meet you, Kathy, at that lunch reunion with Jim in VA so many years ago. It had been nearly 10 years since I had seen Jim and so much had happened in both of our lives.
Jim was a special man, soldier, friend, brother, husband and patriot! I feel blessed to have known him. The World will not be the same without his presence.
He spoke highly and often of his sisters and family when we were stationed together in Korea. Being assigned in Korea formed a special bond among all of the military!
I pray you will all find peace in knowing he was loved and respected by so many friends. Be thankful for the lovely memories you have. My prayers are with you all. May God's grace help you get through this sad time.
Therese Lehenbauer
March 21, 2009
It has been 2 years today since Jim's unexplainable death. During the past 2 years I have found out so many things that I had not known about Jim, including that he had been referred to as "Trooper". I just want to thank everyone for the many prayers, that have contributed to this site, have called me to console me (especially you, Bill) and have given me a glimpse into the life of a brother that I now realize is a hero. I especially want to thank Jim's business partners for all that they did. Words do not do justice to feelings. Terry Tirey Lehenbauer (youngest sister)
Bill Repass
May 12, 2008
I would like to express my condolences to Jim's family.
Jim and I were roommates for a while during plebe year at West Point. I remember his great sense of humor even during tough times. The company we were in had a reputation for being extra hard on plebes and we all caught the upper classmen's ire at one time or another. Jim always kept his cool through it.
I remember one time we were horsing around in the hallway and he put some kind of self defense move on me and flipped me over his back onto the floor. It really surprised me since I was about twice his size. We laughed about it afterwords.
I lost track of Jim when he left the academy, but did hear about him from time to time when he served in the army. He was a good guy.
Leo Flor
April 26, 2008
As two Solano County appointees to West Point in 1971, and ending up in the same regiment, I got to know Jim quite well. I never had the privilege of serving with him, but I am sure he served with great distinction and skill--he already exhibited uncommon leader traits and determination, even back then. My belated condolences and prayers to the Tirey family.
Tom Berens
April 26, 2008
I knew Jim primarily through our years at West Point. As a plebe, Jim took more than his share of abuse from upperclassmen, but I never recall it ever fazing him. His inner strength, combined with the ability to keep things in perspective, undoubtedly served him well throughout his military career.
While attending Jim's funeral, I was amazed at the number and calibre of people in attendance. From young soldiers to old classmates, these people served as a testament to the kind of man Jim was. He obviously touched a lot of lives, and the world's a better place because of Jim's contributions. I am glad that I had a chance to know him.
Eugene Piasecki
April 25, 2008
I had the pleasure to get to know Jim during our Plebe year. His left handed lead in boxing sure starched my socks. I hadn't seen Jim since he left, but I always knew him to be a serious person who was deeply committed to the things in which he believed. A great soldier who can't be replaced. COURAGE AND DRIVE!
Robert Enzenauer
April 24, 2008
It is always sad to hear of the unexpected passing of a classmate - especially one so young and vital. His reputation as a great soldier-leader is well known, especially to those of use having the good fortune to serve in the Special Operations community.
Very Respectfully,
ENZ Class of 1975 USMA
Robert W. Enzenauer, MD, MPH
LTC, MC, US Army (retired)
COL, MC, SFS Colorado Army NG
Battalion Surgeon, 5/19th SFG(A)
For they are now a part of us as We remember them
April 23, 2008
So long as we live, They shall live,
April 23, 2008
We remember them.
April 23, 2008
When we have joys to share,
April 23, 2008
And in need of strength, We remember them.
April 23, 2008
When we are weary
April 23, 2008
And when it ends, we remember them.
April 23, 2008
In the beginning of the year
April 23, 2008
And in the beauty of autumn, We remember them.
April 22, 2008
In the rustling of the leaves
April 22, 2008
And the warmth of summer, We remember them.
April 22, 2008
In the blueness of the sky
April 22, 2008
And in the rebirth of spring, We remember them.
April 22, 2008
In the opening of the buds,
April 22, 2008
And in the chill of winter, We remember them.
April 22, 2008
In the blowing of the wind
April 22, 2008
And in its going down, We remember them
April 22, 2008
In the rising of the sun
April 22, 2008
William Romano
August 6, 2007
Tirey Sisters
I just found out today about Jim's passing and I'm truly sorry about your loss.
Jim was and remained a great friend from Boy Scouts and also throughout our careers in the Army. We continued to remain in contact even after his retirement.
I truly treasure his memory, life and the times he and I spent together.
My thoughts and prayers go to Jim, your mother and father as well as all of you.
William Romano
Ron Barber
July 12, 2007
My thoughts and prayers go out to Jim's family. There never seem to be the right words when someone so young passes. Jim will be fondly remembered and admired.
Roberta Bemis
June 30, 2007
We are shocked and saddened to hear of Jim's passing. Our thoughts and prayers to all of the family and friends.
Roberta McLoughlin Bemis and Russell A. Bemis III
Janet Leary
May 29, 2007
Dear Tirey Family,
Jim was such an excellent man, and
I am so sorry for your loss of him.
Warm regards,
Janet Leary
Susan Payne
May 15, 2007
I was saddened when I heard of the passing of COL Tirey. My favorite memory is him cheering on the sidelines during the intramural sports season. It didn't matter which sport, we had at least one fan - COL Tirey. It was even better when we were able to win and have him accept the 1st Place trophy. COL Tirey was a kind, warm-hearted person and I feel blessed to have known him.
Cate Catina
May 11, 2007
Dear Kathy,
We can't thank you enough for sharing Jim with us all these years. We are all better soldiers having served with him....
I first met Jim in Somalia in 1993 (and later worked with him in Virginia). He provided me with mentorship, leadership, and many many laughs. I loved to see his face light up when he spoke of you... It made me happy knowing that there was really such a thing as a "happy marriage"...though he would counsel me and remind me of how much work it took.... I recall a lot of these conversations. We would talk about everything and about nothing- but i always left feeling a richer and better person. Jim was a great man- I know that he is flying with the angels now - helping to keep each of us safe.
You know that we are here if you need us.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I shall raise a toast (with GOMI, of course) "to Jim- thank you for your selfless service. thank you for being a Great American. may you rest well"
Michael Reiner
May 11, 2007
I only knew Trooper as Sensei Tirey, for a few years. But what he left me with has made a profound impact in my life and my training in the martial arts. I couldn't wait to attend his Monday night classes in Woodbridge. He always wanted everybody to succeed and learn. His knowledge and depth of understanding surpasses many who try to be in the limelight and call themselves masters. One only hopes to have the accomplishments and achievements as Sensei Tirey. His teaching of the arts will always be imbedded in my training. His care and modesty were an example for everybody to follow.
May God Bless him and his family.
John Mingus
May 10, 2007
Kathy,
So sorry to hear of this great loss. It was truely a pleasure to serve with the Trooper.
John Mingus and Family
Mike Muztafago Sr
May 10, 2007
I had the privilege of serving with Jim in the military throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s. He was a Soldier’s leader, who cared deeply about the mission and the people who accomplished it. He used his influence and abilities to help others, professionally and personally, and did it in such a gracious manner that he inspired loyalty and a commitment to do the same. He loved his family. A true leader, he recognized potential in people and took the time to teach, coach, and mentor individuals to become their best. The military and martial arts community have lost a true Warrior. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy lives on in his loving family and those who loved, admired, served and studied with him. John 14:1-3
John Walker
May 9, 2007
To the family of Jim Tirey.
I knew Jim as a friend at Holy Spirit grammer school and at St. Patrick's High school. After reading all the tributes I realize I only knew the kid not the man.
He will truly be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Andrew Blackmon
May 9, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Chuck Viator
May 9, 2007
My prayers are with Jim and his family. This is indeed a premature event. My profound thanks to Jim for the service he selflessly gave to our nation.
Gordon Houston
May 8, 2007
Warrior, leader, patriot, loyal and caring friend are but a few adjectives that describe Jim “Trooper” Tirey. I can not begin to express how much Jim impacted my personal and professional life. Jim, was much, much more than a friend he was a mentor, a father figure and a role model. Trooper may be gone but he will never be forgotten; the legend James “Trooper” Tirey will live on in our hearts, our stories and our deeds.
Francis & Theresa Smith
May 7, 2007
Dear Kathy,
We were very sorry to hear of Jim's
passing. We will keep you in our
thoughts and prayers during this
difficult time.
With love and sympathy,
Theresa and Frannie Smith and Family
.
Mike Medeiros
May 7, 2007
To the Tirey Family -
I am truly sorry for your loss. My sisters have all ready written about Jim. As the youngest of four children, I am too young to remember him growing up in Fairfield.
But a couple of years ago, I was leaving Saturday evening Mass talking to my Mom and Dad, and my Dad all of a sudden left my side and started talking to another man. I could tell my Dad was enamored with him and strode up to listen in. They were swapping stories about the military, often with a wink and a smile.
Afterwards, my Dad (the man I respect most in the world) told me that it was Jim Tirey. "That man has been places and done things that have kept us all safe. And, he's a really good guy. He's a real hero." My Dad passed away last October but I know if he were here today, he would be saddened to hear of Jim's passing.
If Jim Tirey was special to my Dad, then obviously he was a great man and a great American. May God bless all of you and keep you near.
Tom Giugni
May 7, 2007
To Kathy and the Tirey Sisters. I was shocked and saddened to see an announcement yesterday in the Fairfield, CA paper about Jim's death. I knew Jim in high school as we worked at the local swimming pools together. I had opportunities to speak to Jim when he travelled back to CA recently for the deaths of his parents. We exchanged business cards and promised to see one another again. I must say that I am in awe of the number and calibre of people he contacted and mentored in his lifetime. Words cannot say enough. I appreciate that I knew Jim. I wish all of you the best in these trying times.
John Walker
May 7, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with Jim and his family. My memoeries of Jim at Holy Spirit and St Patricks will aways be with me. I wish I had stayed in touch.
Sandra Braendlien
May 6, 2007
God bless you and your family.
Pat Knopp (French)
May 6, 2007
To the Tirey Family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very sad time. May God's love give you life and hope.
Gary Falati
May 6, 2007
Dear Family,
I wanted you to know I have you in my thoughts and prayers, was shocked to learn of Jims passing.
Corene Miles
May 6, 2007
I am truely sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers daily. He was a great man and truely left an impact with everyone that he came across. I am truely blessed with having him in my life.
Rod Taylor
May 5, 2007
Kathy,
I am very sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jim,
Thank you for touching so many lives in a positive way, thank you for all the laughs we shared, thank you for everything you taught me, thank you for being my friend
I'll miss you my friend
Bob & Cindy Nugent
May 4, 2007
Dear Kathy
We were so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He was always thinking of others and kind. We will miss him very much. Our prayers are with you in these difficult times.
Tony Carey
May 4, 2007
Kathy,
Jim was my commander and as you know my boss at ISAI. I will miss him very much. A natural born leader who could make everyone feel good about themselves. It was an honor to have served with him and later following our military careers.
His Spirit will always fill my heart. May you have peace in your heart - his spirit lives on.
God bless.
Tony Carey
MSG, US Army Retired
Senior Analyst ISAI
Elaine Smith
May 1, 2007
Cathy, My love and prayers are with durning this time of loss.
Love,
Cousin Elaine Smith
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