For LCpl Damas and LCpl Olvera

I grew up in the 1960's and 70's. The Vietnam War was in full swing. It wasn't a "popular" war, and for some people, that unpopularity flowed over onto our military. We've all heard the stories of returning servicemen being spit on, called "baby killers," and treated with disdain. Even though the War and our servicemen and women were "unpopular," the American public still supported those who were missing-in-action or who were prisoners-of-war. We proudly bought and wore our metal POW-MIA bracelets, hoping that the person with the name we wore on our wrists would make it home safely. I had one. "My" serviceman didn't come home. As far as I know, he's still MIA.

Today, while the War against Terrorism might not be popular, it is necessary. I believe the American public knows this. I believe that's why we "support our troops." We all recognize that our fighting men and women stand between us and those who would harm us, our country, and our way of life. It is only fitting that we honor these men and women who give so much for us. There are a number of things we can to do give our military their due; volunteering for Soldier's Angels, sending packages to "Any Soldier," donating to charities that support the families of those who gave their lives, or by simply saying "thank you" to anyone you see in uniform.

My Marine Son has pointed out another way to honor those who have given all; a memorial bracelet. These bracelets are similar to the POW-MIA bracelets of the '70s. Like those bracelets, a memorial bracelet is a simple way to keep the sacrifice of those who "gave all" in the forefront of our minds. They're a way to remember. You can order a memorial bracelet at MemorialBracelets.com. You can order a bracelet with the name of someone you know, someone from your hometown, or home state. You can order a bracelet to memorialize someone who gave their life in Iraq, Afghanistan, or Vietnam; or someone who was the victim of terrorism. It's not hard to order, and wearing the bracelet is another way to show support for our military.

I ordered two bracelets today. I ordered them to remember two young men that I didn't know. I may not have known these young men, but I will honor them forever; not only because they gave their lives for this wonderful country, but because they served with my son. He knew them. He said they were "good kids." He mourns them. So to honor him, and to honor them, my husband and I will proudly wear these bracelets in memory of LCpl Leopold F. Damas of Floral Park, New York, who was 26 years old when he died in Afghanistan on the 17th of August 2009, and for LCpl Javier Olvera of Palmdale, California, who was only 20 years old when he died in Afghanistan on the 8th of August, 2009. May God Bless them both, and may God Bless their families.

For CW3 Mitch Carver

I started wearing a POW/MIA bracelet in the early 70s when my father gave one to me just after his return from SE Asia. I remember breaking it in half when the guy returned. Later on, I was assigned as a Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in 1988 and picked up a new bracelet down at the Vietnam memorial, for a CPT Cecil C. Perkins, who was MIA in Vietnam. I wore that until I lost the bracelet in Iraq in 2007. I was putting on my body armor to board a helicopter and didn’t notice the bracelet had come off until after arriving back at my camp. I decided to purchase a replacement for the one I lost but instead, decided to get a bracelet with the name of a friend of mine who was killed in action in Iraq, CW3 Mitch Carver. I don’t want to ever forget his service and his friendship.

Brad D. L.

For LCpl Dennis Veater

First I want to thank you for doing what you do. To many people tend to forget about those who have givin there lives for our freedoms. You help us remember them not just in our memories. It has taken me three years to breakdown and order my Memorial Bracelet, for my fallen Marine. His name was LCpl Dennis Veater. I was his Cpl in charge of him throughout our deployment. His death did not sit well with me and still doesn't. I have blamed alot of people along with myself for it. I will be visiting his grave for the first time since I last saw him alive 3 years coming in March. I will wear this bracelet proudly and hope he and his family know I have never forgotten that day. He was a great Marine and friend. Semper Fi.

Sgt Darryl Zimmerman USMC

For Capt Meadows and Sgt Haney

I am a C-17 pilot in the Air Force. On my first mission as an aircraft commander I arrived at Bagram to find a welcoming party with instructions for a "fallen heroes" ceremony. I had the sad honor of carrying Captain Joshua Meadows (USMC) and Sgt Randy Haney (US Army) out of the combat zone in the beginning of September 2009. Those ceremonies are always a sobering moment and we see far too many of them. It was evident that they were loved members of their units and they were honored as such on the ramp in the middle of the night at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan. I have carried heroes home before and I know that I will, again, but I thought that it would be a fitting way for me to honor all of those that have lost their lives downrange by wearing these 2 names on my arm. I will never forget that night. God bless their families and all of those that have lost a loved one in the fight.

Capt Jeremy Campbell

Pilot, C-17, USAF

For Maj. Curtis Dan Miller

My first cousin Maj. Curtis Dan Miller was shot down over Laos on March 29, 1972 while flying a C-130 gun ship. Their mission was to search out and destroy supply trucks on the Ho Chi Ming trail in Laos, a supply line to North Viet Nam when they were hit by a missile called a flying telephone pole. There were reports of beeper signals from parachutes, so our hope was always that Dan would be found alive someday. Although the chance of him escaping the flight deck of a C-130 was highly impossible from the reports of nearby support aircraft of the severe hit the C-130 received from the missile.

My first POW Bracelet was silver and I wore it throughout High School and at college, which was followed by a red one and it always received attention from people not sure of its meaning. This past year Dan was identified through bone fragments that the USAF had excavated from his crash site after his immediate family protested the planned burial of several unidentified bone fragments in a grave with the names of the five members from his aircraft that had not been personally identified from previous tests. Since they have now identified a bone fragment as Major Curtis Dan Millers, his service is scheduled on the day he went missing 38 years later. By wearing the Killed In Action bracelet at his Funeral/Memorial service it will give me a chance to take a step forward in realizing that he like many others will never return and wearing the KIA bracelet will always remind anyone who asks, that there are sacrifices that we endure for the freedom that so many take so lightly.

Kevin M.

For My Grandson PFC Brian R. Bates Jr.

I have ordered the Memorial Bracelets to wear in honor of my Grandson PFC Brian R. Bates, Jr. who was killed in action in Afghanistan on October 27, 2009. He leaves behind a wife and 2 beautiful children who will never know what their father did for them and all Americans to keep us free. Brian has received the Bronze Metal of Honor and the Purple Heart along with numerous other medals and awards. He will never be forgotten.

For Charles Cartwright

Charlie was my nephew and lost his life in Afghanistan 07 Nov 09. He was considered a true warrior. Charlie had only been married 11 months. I will NEVER forget this brave young man. I wear the Memorial Bracelet so others will ask why, and I can share my story of our beloved Charlie.

For James C. Kearney III

This weekend was my first training assembly with my new platoon. I really enjoyed getting to know the guys, and training was successful, but perhaps the moment that left the most lasting impression was walking through the Bravo Company awards room. The room is full of history, from photos of Bravo Company, 168 Infantry Regiment soldiers in WWII to awards received as an exemplary unit throughout the various campaigns. My unit’s history is truly spectacular.

The 168 Infantry Regiment most recently deployed to Ghazni Province, Afghanistan in 2004, where SGT James C. Kearney III was killed-in-action on November 1 of that year. SGT Kearney was manning the gunner’s hatch of his vehicle when his convoy was ambushed by small arms and RPGs on that day. Though “Task Force 1-168″ operated mainly in Ghazni, this particular convoy had taken them into Paktika province and towards the border with Pakistan when they were attacked. The sign in the photo was taken from “Kearney Base”, a Forward Operating Base which was eventually absorbed into the new Forward Operating Base Salerno. SGT Kearney was a member of 1st Platoon – the platoon I am currently assigned to – and his memory will be carried with us into Afghanistan.

Gabe Haugland

To Honor PFC Ronald L. Coker

I wear my Memorial Bracelet in honor of PFC Ronald L. Coker of Alliance, NE which is 60 miles from Scottsbluff, NE where I live. PFC Coker was Killed 24 March 1969 in Quang Tri Province, South Vietnam. PFC Coker was wounded by small arms fire and 3 grenades while he rescued a fellow Marine who had been wounded earlier. Despite PFC Coker's numerous he brought his comrade back to safety and died of his wounds shortly after. For his heroic actions on that day,

PFC Ronald L. Coker was awarded the Medal of Honor.

40 years after his death, the road leading to the veterans cemetery in Alliance, NE was named Ronald Coker Road.

Thanks,

Fred

For Pararescueman Jason D. Cunningham

When I was a freshman in an AFJROTC unit I was reading an article in Airman magazine about a school that turns men into supermen. It was an article about the rigors of Air Force Pararescue training and they followed one PJ candidate, Jason D. Cunningham. When I was done with the article I knew that I had discovered something special. To me, this was the best job in the military. Their sole mission is to save people. For a freshman I was awestruck and had for a time that's all I wanted to be. I still entertain thoughts of trying to be one of these few that put their lives on the line for no other reason than "so that others may live." A maxim that we could all try to live by. About three years later I was reading an article in I Air Force Times where a young Pararescueman by the name of Jason Cunningham was killed while trying to save the crew of a downed helicopter on the side of an afghan mountain. At first I was struck by a sense of familiarity. I knew the name, but couldn't put my finger on it. Searching through my archives of Air Force magazines I came across the original article. I was shocked and stunned. I was saddened by the fact that he was killed, but also somewhat happy because he made it through training and he was doing something that he loved. I ordered a Memorial Bracelet, will wear the band, so that we may never forget of the ultimate sacrifice. Giving one's life so "that others may live."

Dave

To Pass the Torch & Light a New Flame

I acquired my POW/MIA Bracelet in 1988 while on active duty in the Air Force. I have worn it every day since I received it, carrying LT. David Wallace Wickham II's name with me everywhere I go. I've even had old veterans tell me to leave it on my wrist while passing through metal detectors at security checkpoints.

From the time my oldest daughter was about 5 years old she has consistantly asked if she could have my bracelet to wear, I always decline. She is 19 years old now & just completed Basic Training and AIT in the U.S. Army. I've ordered her a duplicate of my bracelet so that LT. Wickham will be remembered daily for another 21 years.

I will be retiring my bracelet soon, replacing it with a bracelet in memory of my Uncle , Capt. Frederick Allen Burroughs (1955 - 2007), who was a Firefighter/EMT killed in the line of duty.

Nick N.

For My Husband's Friend Andrew Killed by an IED

If you have been reading my blog for a while, you may remember this post where I talked about a friend of my husband's being killed by an IED in Afghanistan.

I knew that my husband was very upset by this, so I wanted to do something special for him.

Since my husband was a Yuck (sophomore) at West Point, he has been wearing a Memorial Bracelet for a soldier who died in Iraq. He never knew the man, but he wore the bracelet every day. I am talking every day, like even to our wedding.

This sparked an idea in my head. I ordered him a bracelet for his friend Andrew. I knew he would be sad to stop wearing his old one, but that he would really appreciate having this new one. I was right. He hasn't taken it off since I gave it to him.

$2.00 from the sale of each bracelet is donated to charities that support the families of the heroes and victims of terrorism.

Visit The Simple Life of a Not so Simple Wife Blog.

For a High School Friend

The reason I bought this Memorial Bracelet is because this man was a friend of mine from high school, and we had played football together. His death hit home hard. He was a great man, a man that earned the right to be remembered in my heart.

For Sgt. Jamie "Gonzo" Gonzalez

My name is Nicholas B. Bradley and on 3 Aug 2008 I was operating a vehicle in a US convoy threw Kabul, Afghanistan when our vehicle was struck by a roadside bomb. Sgt. Jaime “Gonzo” Gonzalez was the passenger in my vehicle. He was also a close friend. This is the reason I wear a Memorial Bracelet. Thanks.

For CPL. Rhett A. Butler

In the 1970's, I wore a POW/MIA Bracelet with CAPT. David Smith's name (3-16-69). I still have it. Recently, I ordered Memorial dog tags with CPL. Rhett A. Butler's name (KIA 20 JUL 07 in Iraq). He was the son of a dear friend and also, I taught him in preschool. His name is on a monument in one of our local parks and his sacrifice will be remembered by generations to come. I will wear the dog tags engraved with his name to honor that sacrifice.

Kathy M.
Live,Laugh,Love,Learn

For SSG Baum and SPC Edmundson

I have recently returned from deployment with the 56th SBCT to OIF and during that deployment we suffered two KIA; SSG Baum and SPC Edmundson. I will proudly wear both KIA bracelets as a tribute to these two soldiers I had the honor to serve alongside and to their sacrifice and that of their families. As a soldier with 16 years Active Duty, I will continue on with my military career with a renewed sense of pride and honor.

TONIA M. B.
SFC, PAARNG
Personnel NCO
PA Med Det

For Rob From the 75th Battalion

Rob served four years of duty with my son. Both Rangers and fearless. My son opted to leave and become engaged, while Rob's decision was to continue on with the 75th Battalion. He came to our house to visit while on leave a few times, to see Tom my son. Rob had a kindred spirit,a beautiful smile and just left me feeling good.

On the morning of his death I had dreamed about a very bad thing happening on a road far away from me and I couldn't do anything to help. My son came out of his room that day, his eyes full of tears. He said I have some really bad news for you. Rob was killed by a roadside bomb this morning. Together we cried and hugged. Our hearts hurt for Rob and his family. After, I walked out onto my deck and looked to the sky to pray for Rob, when a huge bald eagle came over soaring. It stayed over head for what seemed like an hour, me being lost in trance. As it finally flew away I cried and prayed for Rob to soar on eagles wings and bid him farewell.

For My Dad: Sgt/Maj.Cyril E. Stirnkorb

My Dad was a career soldier who loved his country. He was a 1st sgt at the age of 26 and a sgt/maj at the age of 36. At the age of 39 he went to Viet Nam and three weeks later he died. He left behind a wife and 7 children. My mom raised us alone with only her widow and war orphan allotment. My father was a true patriot and he gave his life for his country. He was a loving husband, father, son and brother. They made a mistake on how he died which resulted in him not receiving his purple heart. We are at the present time trying to locate anyone who might have served with him in Viet Nam. Thank you sincerely for your interest and concern. May you all have A Very Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year!!!!!!! God Bless You All!!!!!!

For My Grandfather Who Fought in WW II

I got this Memorial Bracelet custom-engraved for my Dad for a Christmas present. His father fought in World War II from 1944-1947, serving in Germany and Korea. Two years ago, my grandfather passed away after deteriorating health conditions. I wanted something to give my Dad that could be passed down to my younger brother and his children when he gets older. I wanted something that would be a reminder of my grandpa's life and all he gave to his family. -Abigail K.

To Show our Support for Both of Our Sons

I was looking for something special for my wife for a Christmas present. Having been in the military I am very familuar with the POW/MIA Bracelets. Both of our sons serve and I could think of no better gift than a bracelet for her showing her support of both her sons. So...one says God Bless and Protect my son, Colton B. Stoks, Army National Guard..and the other says God Bless and Protect my son, Gus J. Patrick IV, United States Marine Corps.

For LCpl Daniel J. Geary

I order the Memorial Bracelets in rememberence of our fallen LCpl Daniel J. Geary who is and always will Be our son and missed more then anyone will every know. KIA 3/20/09.

For My Husband's Good Friend From Vietnam

I just purchased this Memorial Bracelet for my husband for Christmas. He was in Vietnam and lost his good friend there. He was not aware that his friend had died until he came home and called to tell him that we had a baby. I feel this is the best present I could give him.

Nancy

For PFC Patrick S. Fitzgibbon

I ordered and will wear faithfully my Memorial Bracelet for PFC Patrick S. Fitzgibbon for several reasons. I have grown quite attached to his family and extended family and they have included me as a part of their family. I am a Senior Ride Captain with the Patriot Guard Riders so it’s not as if I have not handled KIA missions before as I have handled too many, but for some reason this particular family has grown roots in my heart, I love each and every one of them. I am sure that once the family sees this bracelet there will be more ordered from your business.

Deb

Senior Ride Captain

Patriot Guard Riders

For My Son in the US Army

I wear an Active Duty Bracelet to support my son, who is an officer in the United States Army. It is all he has wanted since he was in 6th grade. I am very proud of my son and want everyone to know it. I wore a POW Bracelet in the 1960-70's while in high school and after I graduated. In all the moves I made, I misplaced my bracelet, until recently. I was cleaning out a cupboard and went through a box and found my bracelet. I went to the web and found my returned POW, a United States Navy pilot. I am so excited. I live in California and he is in Texas and we are trying to figure out a way to meet each other so I can give him the bracelet I wore. He has written a book and wants to trade. I encourage everyone to wear a bracelet to honor past or present service people. They are worth it and it means so much to them. Jennie

For POW Bowe Bergdahl

My 26th birthday was around the corner and my mother asked me what I wanted. I told her a Memorial Bracelet. It was something I always wanted, but unfortantly couldn't afford on my own. So I thought this was the perfect time to be able to get one. I remember as a child my Mother always wore one and I said when I was bigger, that I would wear one too. When my Mother asked me which one I would like, I picked a young 23 year old army PFC by the name Bowe Bergdahl. He is a POW in AFGHANISTAN. I was very specific on his name. My mother asked me why him and I told her I did research on him and his story broke my heart. And I wanted some one from my "generations war". So now my Mother, who lives in Mass, wears the same one as I do. I live in Jacksonville, NC (there is a big Marine Corps base down here). I have a brother in the Army National Guard. My husband served 4 years in the USMC. We are a military family w/ many friends in different branches. I can't tell you how much my heart goes out to all the familys and to the men and women who serve our country I am so proud to be an american and even prouder to be able to say it freely. Thanks to all and god bless....