Monday, December 31, 2007

To Remember Landen and The Amazing Staff at Children's


Our son Landen was born into the NICU at Children's St. Paul on October 2 2007 14 weeks early. He weighed 1 pound and was 10 1/2" long at birth. We told ourselves we would wear the hospital bracelet given to us at his birth until he came home. I had always joked that I would need to buy some sort of bracelet because I got so used to wearing the one from the hospital. Landen passed away at the hospital peacefully in our arms on December 19 2007. That night I cut the hospital band from my wrist and it has felt strange ever since. My wife and I will wear our Memorial Bracelets where the hospital band once was to remember Landen and the amazing staff at Children's.
Thank You
John and Megan
St. Paul Park, MN  

Wednesday, December 26, 2007

Because My Mother Wore a Vietnam POW Bracelet

I just bought a Memorial Bracelet, and I will wear it proudly because my mother taught me to do so.  She wore a bracelet from the Vietnam War and through all those years, she took very good care of it, wore it proudly, asked me to pray for the man when I was growing up, and when she didn't wear it, she kept it safe and close, in her night table drawer.  She passed away 3 years ago, and I found the bracelet recently.  I contacted the person looking for that bracelet, and hopefully will be sending it to that man's family soon.  I will wear my bracelet proudly, and pray like I did growing up, like I was taught to do. 

Megan

Monday, December 24, 2007

For a Marine I served with at Chu Lai

I recently sent for a Memorial Bracelet in remembrance to a marine corps officer I served with at Chu Lai in 1969. I was one of the last marines to see him alive on March 17,1969, and although it's been several decades since that night the memory is still so vivid in my mind. Capt. Armitstead was a fine officer, a great pilot and it truly was a privilege to serve with him for the short time we had together. I only hope that his supreme sacrifice is appreciated by those at home in our country and those he gave his life to protect.
Sincerely,
Tom
sgt.u.s.m.c.1967-1971

For a Fallen Comrade From My Home State

I purchased this Memorial Bracelet to honor a fallen comrade. I chose Sgt Alloway because he was from my home state of NH and the branch I proudly served in for six years. I served in the USAF during Vietnam, but never went there. I wore a bracelet for many years but it was misplaced. I have been looking for a replacement for years. If I had my way every american would wear one. We should never forget those that have served and especially the ones that have fallen, not just Vietnam but all the wars and conflicts. Without their sacrifice we wouldn't enjoy the freedom we all have now!!! God Bless America and the American Military!!!

Dennis

Sunday, December 23, 2007

For David and Orville Cooley

As editor of the Cooley Family Association newsletter, I was researching Cdr David L Cooley and Lt Orville D Cooley when I discovered memorialbracelets.com.
David's F111A went down near Quang Bien in Laos, but no wreckage was ever found. Orville's C1A crashed into the Gulf of Tonkin after takeoff from the USS Kitty Hawk.

Friday, December 21, 2007

To Support Vietnam MIA Colonel Whitford and His Family

When I was in high school, in Richardson, Texas in 1974 / 1975, I had a very good friend named Nancy Whitford.  She lived with her mother and older brother in Dallas.  I became aware, that her father was missing in action in Vietnam.  The family still held out hope, because POWs were still being held in North Vietnam at that time.  Mrs. Whitford granted me an interview for the high school newspaper.  During that interview, I was made aware of the details of his last mission and the clues which made her think that he was still being held prisoner.  I vividly remember, the special days, where the Whitford family would gather to listen to some reel to reel tapes that Colonel Whitford had sent home.  My friend Nancy, would have been about 10 or 11 years of age, when he was flew his final mission.  I always felt very bad for the family and I read each new finding report from southeast Asia, hoping that one day, they will receive the news which will give them closure.   I have always wanted a MIA bracelet, supporting Colonel Whitford and his family.  I thank you very much for the opportunity to get one.  That damn war has greatly affected my life and my feelings for the government of this country.  But that is nothing, compared to the pain of my friend and her family.

Paul

Frisco, Texas

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

For the Father of a Local Business Still MIA From the Vietnam War

I love the quality and craftsmanship of my Memorial Bracelet.  I have always wanted to wear a Memorial Bracelet for a long time now.  I am a combat veteran myself so knowing the sacrifice it takes to serve is close to my heart.  I always looked for a bracelet (in army/navy stores) but never found one that stood out.  A few months ago I learned that the owner of a local business had a father that was still MIA from the Vietnam war.  His mother even started a "Where is LT Joe Dunn?" campaign and recently published a book about the experience.  The owner and his wife are such good genuine people I felt it appropriate to make a bracelet to honor his father's sacrifice and remind me that he will come home.
 
Respectfully,
Joshua

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

For Brent Marthaler and 18 Other USAF Members at Khobar Towers

I ordered my Memorial Bracelet due to having some what of a personal connection to the individual, (A1C Brent Marthaler, USAF), I am honoring and remembering.  It was April 16, 1996 and I was sitting in the living room of our suite at Khobar Towers, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, King Abdul Aziz Air Base, 4404th Wing.  We had cleaned out our bedrooms and were awaiting our replacements from Eglin Air Force Base in the living room of the suite.  We had been there since January 1996, and the second tour from Eglin AFB was coming in to finish out our 6-month commitment at Dhahran.  As our fellow airman were coming into the suite to take their assigned bedrooms I saw A1C Brent Marthaler walk in.  I paid more attention to A1C Brent Marthaler, than the others, not because he was carrying his luggage but a pillow with a cartoon pillow case and due to him taking the bedroom I had just vacated.  Time has robbed my memory of the specific cartoon on the pillow case but I remember thinking how funny it was that even in a potential hostile environment how we all brought certain things with us to help give us some symbolism of home and attempt to make the time more bearable.  Myself and the first half of the tour then left Dhahran later that day and returned to Eglin AFB, FL.  On June 25, 1996 a truck filled with explosives was parked across the street from that very building A1C Brent Marthaler was living in and detonated.  As a result of the explosion A1C Brent Marthaler along with 18 other USAF members were murdered that day.  I have no way of knowing A1C Brent Marthaler's specific location inside that building at the time of the explosion, but can only hope and pray that his death along with the 18 others was quick and painless.  He worked on the flight line as a F-15 crew chief I believe.  I was an Ammo Troop assigned to the 33rd Munitions Flight but had seen A1C Brent Marthaler on the flight line at different times while stationed at Eglin AFB.  So I have chosen to remember A1C Brent Marthaler with this bracelet, not because we were the best of friends, (because I don't think we had ever spoken to one another), but for his ultimate sacrifice he paid for his country on June 25, 1996.  It has been over 11 years since God has seen fit to take A1C Brent Marthaler and the other 18 USAF members home to heaven and as the years pass I find myself remembering these events more often.  And because of this I suppose I need to know that their deaths have not been in vain which is why I choose and am proud to wear this bracelet.  Thank you Memorial Bracelets for allowing me to do so.  

Monday, December 17, 2007

Because so Much Sacrifice is Going On

Got the bracelet. It's awsome. I had a difficult choice between 2 soldiers I had read a great deal about...both KIA and great men...tough, smart, but gentle and loving family men. I would definitely recommend this site to others. I still have a POW/MIA bracelet from Vietnam and it reminds me how much sacrifice is going on.  I serve on a VFW Rifle Squad and I will wear it and my father's ring (he was a WWII Merchant Marine) when I go to a serice....because it's for all of them.

Thanks,
 
Paula (Capt-USAR-Ret)

Saturday, December 15, 2007

For My Great Uncle Who Fought In WWI


I just received my Memorial Bracelet from you guys and let me just tell you all, it is great!.  Thank you for a great craftmenship.  

I love the bracelet.  I have worn it for a few times already when I have gone outside the wire on convoys and it has gotten a bit cover in stuff.  But it cleans up nicely and just as new as the day I got it.

I order my bracelet after doing some research on family relatives that have served in the military throughout the past.  I came across a great-uncle who joined the Infantry in 1918 for WWI and found out that during his ship crossing of the Atlantic Ocean to go to Europe, his ship hit another ship and sank, thus leaving him to drown.  After seeing other family relatives that have served in different wars, I felt that it would be fitting to have a bracelet worn in his honor and while I am serving over here in Iraq.

Attached, you will find a picture of me wearing my new bracelet.

Thanks again,

SGT Eric

For My Husband on his 3rd Deployment


My husband is on his 3rd deployment since 2001.  We are expecting our second child in a few weeks (we have a 7 year old daughter) and he will be able to come home for that at least.  I hear other women talking about their husbands being gone for a few weeks and I have to laugh anymore.. after an 8 mo, 18 mo, and now a 12 mo tour, their few weeks are like an AT drill for us (national guard).

I have enclosed a pic of the bracelet I have ordered for my/his family.  We will wear it until he comes home and every time he is deployed.

Thank you,
Mrs. Arnold

Friday, December 14, 2007

To Replace My P.O.W. Bracelet for Roger C. Hallberg

Back in 1973 or 74 we had a new girl move into town.  She came from California wearing a nickel plated P.O.W. bracelet.   None of us in Florida had ever seen one and we were all curious.  Of course after she told us what it was all about we all wanted one, so she provided order forms for all who were interested.  I believe the cost of the bracelet at that time was around $5.  Before long, so many of us high school students were wearing our own P.O.W. bracelets to honor Vietnam P.O.W.'s and M.I.A.'s.  I wore my bracelet until it broke - rarely removing it from my wrist.  
 
Recently, my college student son was in Washington D.C. on a trip.  He  was on his way to visit the memorial wall so I asked him to look up the name on the bracelet I wore in high school.  His name is Roger C. Hallberg and he became missing on 3/24/67.  Well, his name was not on the wall.  I wondered why, so I googled his name and discovered that he was instrumental in saving many lives, but he and his partner were never recovered.  (If you want more details, google him to learn about his final mission.)  He still has not been recovered - like so many other heroes.
 
I would love to hear from someone in his family.  I'd like them to know that someone they have never heard of or even knew existed was thinking about and praying for their loved one for many years.  He will never be forgotten as long as I am around.  From doing the investigation of Roger on the internet, I came across MemorialBracelets.com.  I ordered a bracelet with Roger's name on it and am once again wearing his name around my wrist.  (I got a leather one this time.)  I challenge everyone who, like me, wore a bracelet years ago to get an updated bracelet to wear now.
 
Thanks, Rob, for what you're doing.  Our heroes should never be forgotten.
 
Lynne

For SGT Roderick Soloman

I recently ordered and received my bracelet with the name SGT Roderic Soloman name inscribed on it.   During OIF 1, I was SGT Soloman's Platoon Sergeant.  On 28 March 2003 at approximately 0230 hrs, My platoon was moving from a checkpoint to a screenline mission,  when the bradley fighting vehicle that SGT Soloman was riding in drove into a 45 foot deep hole.  I watched in horror through my night vision as A21 disappeared from sight.  I was the first one to reach the hole,  the bradley was vertical, standing on its front end,  Of the 12 men on board, only 2 were uninjured.  After we got everyone out of the vehicle, our medics had arrived and began to render first aid to my injured men.  I cradled SGT Soloman's head in my lap as I held a oxygen mask over his face while the medic's did everything in their power to revive him.  He was pronounced dead as soon as he was medavac'd to a field hospital.      There hasn't been a day that has gone by since then that I haven't relived that night. 
 
A good friend of mine, SSG Michael Webb, my gunner from OIF 1, recently told me about your website.  I immediately ordered a Memorial Bracelet with SGT Soloman's name on it.  I will wear it in his honor for the rest of my life.
 
 
Sincerely,
 
SFC Dennis

For Lost Solder SGT Roderic Soloman

I recently ordered and received my bracelet with the name SGT Roderic Soloman name inscribed on it.   During OIF 1, I was SGT Soloman's Platoon Sergeant.  On 28 March 2003 at approximately 0230 hrs, My platoon was moving from a checkpoint to a screenline mission,  when the bradley fighting vehicle that SGT Soloman was riding in drove into a 45 foot deep hole.  I watched in horror through my night vision as A21 disappeared from sight.  I was the first one to reach the hole, the bradley was vertical, standing on its front end.  Of the 12 men on board, only 2 were uninjured.  After we got everyone out of the vehicle, our medics had arrived and began to render first aid to my injured men.  I cradled SGT Soloman's head in my lap as I held a oxygen mask over his face while the medic's did everything in their power to revive him.  He was pronounced dead as soon as he was medavac'd to a field hospital.  There hasn't been a day that has gone by since then that I haven't relived that night. 
 
Sincerely,
 
SFC Dennis

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

For the Fiance of SGT Matthew Soper

I think Memorial Bracelets are a great way to show sympathy for the families that have lost a service member, a tribute to those who have served, and a wonderful way to support the ones still serving. 

I randomly searched for Memorial Bracelets to give to my fiance for a christmas gift. After about a half an hour of finding sites that didnt meet my standards, I came across MemorialBracelets.com.  I was so pleased to see all the names listed and the number of options available.

The story behind the bracelets I ordered is one that breaks my heart. My fiance served 14 months in Tikrit, Iraq with the 1461st Combat HET Unit out of Jackson, MI. In June of 2007, with two months left to serve, one of the men in his unit was hit by an IED and was killed. Twenty-six year old SGT Matthew Soper, born and raised in Jackson, MI.  Matthew was one of eight children. I feel like this bracelet is a tribute to him and a wonderful gift to give to fiance. My heart goes out to the Soper family & the other families and loved ones who have lost a service member in OIF and those who have been taken from this world in any other war, and or way.

Thank you for the magnificent gift and the amazing opportunity for people to show their support and share their stories.

Kendra

Monday, December 10, 2007

For My Fellow Recruiter Joe

I met Joe about 4 years ago while we served as recruiters in the east Tennessee area, Kingsport to be exact. He had a young lady named Jen he wanted nothing else but to marry, he did. They were the perfect match for one another and had life by the tail and knew it. They loved their pets and treated them as their children.  Jen and Joe had a bond that overcame the stresses of the job. 
Joe knew that one day he was going back to the infantry, his first love and second to Jen. Mission was to make it day by day in Kingsport and get back to the job he had joined the Army for in the first place, lead infantry soldiers. He as an Active Duty recruiter an me as a Reserve Recruitier worked together to make out lives in USAREC bearable. I heard Joe say many times, "I can't wait to go back to the real Army", he wanted a squad of infantry soldiers to lead. I looked up to Joe even though he was an E6 and me an E7, I knew he had what it took to be a leader. So many good soldiers end up on a tour like recruiting and it makes them doubt their abilities. Joe was not a person to doubt his abilities.  
All Joe wanted was to lead an infantry squad. The last thing I remember him saying on a tv interview was "My biggest fear is losing a soldier in battle". We lost a great soldier, giving his life for his soldiers and the American people. Jen we love you and you will survive. Joe we miss and love you with all that is in us. You will forever be in my family's heart. I pray for you every day. I pray for healing for your family. You are a true American hero. Jen you are a hero as well, never let anyone take that away from you. You have stood beside a great man, a true Warrior, not a paper soldier you seen in his previous command 
Memorial Bracelets, you give us the means to hang on to that patriotism. Thank you for the things you are doing and I can assure this bracelet will never leave my wrist. I ordered two so on can be placed in the most special place to me. It will be displayed next to my Bronze Star earned during Desert Storm. It will always come before any award I have ever been given.

SFC RUSTY

Because A Good Friend Joe was Lost

Rob,

I met Joe about 4 years ago while we served as recruiters in the east Tennessee area, Kingsport to be exact. He had a young lady named Jen he wanted nothing else but to marry, he did. They were the perfect match for one another and had life by the tail and knew it.    Jen and Joe had a bond that overcame the stresses of the job. Joe knew that one day he was going back to the infantry, his first love and second to Jen. Mission was to make it day by day in Kingsport and get back to the job he had joined the Army for in the first place, lead infantry soldiers. He as an Active Duty recruiter and me as a Reserve Recruitier worked together to make out livings in USAREC bearable. I heard Joe say many times, "I can't wait to go back to the real Army", he wanted a squad of infantry soldiers to lead. I looked up to Joe even though he was an E6 and me an E7, I knew he had what it took to be a leader. So many good soldiers end up on a tour like recruiting and it makes them doubt their abilities. Joe was not a person to doubt his abilities but you have so many persons, I won't call them soldiers, who wear rank and expert infantry badges, airborne wings and other badges you earn by attending school, yeah right, schools. Leadership that has never lead soldiers only they have had the power given by USAREC to show real soldiers what they think it takes to make a soldier. As an example I give you a Command Sergeant Major that has never held a platoon sergeant position in a line platoon and has never earned his recruiter ring, yet, he is going to tell Joe, a soldier who was detailed with recruiting duty and earned his ring in 2 years by telling his story as an E6. All Joe wanted was to lead an infantry squad. The last thing I remember him saying on a tv interview was "My biggest fear is losing a soldier in battle". We lost a great soldier, giving his life for his soldiers and the American people.  

Sunday, December 09, 2007

For Donald Burris Because He Lived In A Town Close to Me

I received my Memorial Bracelet  and  I am very happy with it.  What prompted me to order one was the fact that I found an old POW bracelet in one of my drawers and it reminded me of what an important issue this is.  I adopted Donald Burris as he was someone that lived in a town close to mine.  I plan to write to  government officials about this.  I am too new to computers to create a web site for CW2 Burris but maybe in the future I will be able to do so.  The other bracelet I have is John Bischoff and I ordered another one, Gomer Reese for a friend for his birthday.  I think these bracelets make wonderful gifts and plan to tell everyone I know about them.

To Remember How Important the Vietnam POW Issue Still is

What prompted me to order one was the fact that I found an old POW bracelet in one of my drawers. It reminded me of what an important issue this is. I adopted Donald Burris as he was someone that lived in a town close to mine. I plan to write to government officials about this. The other bracelet I have is John Bischoff, and I ordered another one with the name Gomer Reese for a friend for his birthday.

Saturday, December 08, 2007

For His Boot Camp Roommate

My son asked for a bracelet memorializing his friend,
after seeing others wearing them.  He just got back
from Iraq and asked for one for Christmas.  I told him
I'd try to find out how to get one, so I Googled
something (can't remember what words I used) and came
to your site.  

His friend was his roommate in Marine Boot Camp and
SOI.  He was killed in Iraq less than a year after he
became a Marine.  My son has such great memories of
staying up most of the night talking to his buddies in
the bunks next to his.  One of the buddies was Anthony
Butterfield, whose bracelet he'll be wearing soon.

Thank you!

Francine

In Memory of My Son's Friend Anthony Betterfield

Hi, Rob.

My son asked for a bracelet memorializing his friend, after seeing others wearing them. He just got back from Iraq and asked for one for Christmas. His friend was his roommate in Marine Boot Camp and SOI. He was killed in Iraq less than a year after he became a Marine. My son has such great memories of staying up most of the night talking to his buddies in the bunks next to his. One of the buddies was Anthony Butterfield, whose bracelet he'll be wearing soon.

Thank you!

Francine

Wednesday, December 05, 2007

To Honor My Neighbor Killed on 9/11

I honestly can’t remember how I found out about your web site; probably a related link through either Rolling Thunder or the Yellow Ribbon Foundation or some other POW/MIA/veterans-related site. Either way, I am glad I did. The initial motivation for buying the bracelets was to honor my neighbor, Michael Gann, who was killed on 9/11 (he was in NYC for a meeting; he lived here in Atlanta). All stories from that day are sad but Mike’s was particularly tragic. He had only recently remarried for the second time and their blended family included five children who adored him. He was active with youth ministry at the local Catholic parish. Ironically, he had resisted going to NYC for the meeting; he had had a premonition that something might happen. He had asked his boss if he could stay behind and (from what I have heard) he was told that if he didn’t go, his career would be in jeopardy. So he went. He was on a high floor (in the 100s) in the north tower when the first plane hit. Apparently he called his wife Robin from his cell phone (she wasn’t available) and he left a voice message assuring her that they were all certain they would be rescued soon. Shortly afterward, he left her another message—a goodbye message—telling her he loved her and the children. His wife heard the messages later. I’m sure they haunt her to this day. They never found Mike’s remains; he was memorialized 6 weeks after 9/11 and at the service, each one of his children brought something to the altar that reminded him or her of their father/stepfather. One brought a guitar, a reminder of Mike’s propensity to play for the kids and the youth group. Another brought a pair of running shoes—reminding them of Mike’s love of sports. It was a gut-wrenching service. One year later, I was teaching high school part-time (in addition to my “regular” business) and I had my students prepare a large canvas and sign it with “thank you” messages for the New York City firefighters. I flew to New York, also carrying a laminated version of the bulletin from Mike’s memorial service. On Sept. 10 I gave the canvas to a firehouse in the Chelsea district in lower Manhattan that had lost many of its firefighters in 9/11. On Sept. 11 I tied Mike’s bulletin to the fence next to St. Paul’s church, across from the WTC site, and stood on the steps of a nearby building as they read off the nearly 3000 names of the dead or missing, Mike’s among them. I was alone during the trip and, to be honest, it was a very emotional experience. At 3 different times during the day on Sept. 11, 2002, I encountered three different woman who walked or talked or just stayed with me for periods of time—sort of like 3 angels sent to comfort me. I don’t even know their names. I will never forget them.

So that is the motivation for my initial purchase. There is a post-script as well. Although I grew up mostly in the South, my parents are from New York City and I have many cousins, aunts, uncles, etc. still there. On 9/11, two of my cousins (a father and son) were in the South tower. The son got out after the first plane hit but his father was still in the building, around the 55th or so floor. Police cleared the area and sent the son away, not knowing for 8 hours whether or not his father got out. In the meantime the second plane hit the south tower. The father started making his way down the stairwell but after about 20 floors, he could no longer walk (he has serious knee problems) so he just sat down and gave up. A man came along and practically carried him down the remaining 30 floors; they made their way up the street just seconds before the south tower came down. For years the father and the man who saved him had a reunion on 9/11 (the father has since moved to Florida). The son’s wife also worked in the WTC area but she had called in sick that day or she would have been trapped underground in the train tunnels. So 9/11 is very close to my heart.

That is probably more than you wanted to know but there it is. The other bracelet I ordered is for Sgt. Matt Maupin, whose case I became familiar with intimately as result of meeting his parents two years ago at the Memorial Day Rolling Thunder event in WashingtonDC. I was in high school and college during the Vietnam war and we all wore POW bracelets then. I had hoped we would not have to do it again. Thank you for providing this opportunity for people like me to honor and remember those who are lost or missing. 

God bless you and your work!

Christine

For 9/11 Victims and Matt Maupin

The initial motivation for buying the bracelets was to honor my neighbor, Michael Gann, who was killed in 9/11 (he was in NYC for a meeting; he lived here in Atlanta). All stories from that day are sad but Mike’s was particularly tragic. He had only recently remarried for the second time and their blended family included five children who adored him. He was active with youth ministry at the local Catholic parish. Ironically, he had resisted going to NYC for the meeting; he had a premonition that something might happen. He had asked his boss if he could stay behind and (from what I have heard) he was told that if he didn’t go, his career would be in jeopardy. So he went. He was on a high floor (in the 100s) in the north tower when the first plane hit. Apparently he called his wife Robin from his cell phone (she wasn’t available) and he left a voice message assuring her that they were all certain they would be rescued soon. Shortly afterward, he left her another message—a goodbye message—telling her he loved her and the children. His wife heard the messages later. I’m sure they haunt her to this day. They never found Mike’s remains; he was memorialized 6 weeks after 9/11 and at the service, each one of his children brought something to the altar that reminded him or her of their father/stepfather. One brought a guitar, a reminder of Mike’s propensity to play for the kids and the youth group. Another brought a pair of running shoes—reminding them of Mike’s love of sports. It was a gut-wrenching service. One year later, I was teaching high school part-time (in addition to my “regular” business) and I had my students prepare a large canvas and sign it with “thank you” messages for the New York City firefighters. I flew to New York, also carrying a laminated version of the bulletin from Mike’s memorial service. On Sept. 10 I gave the canvas to a firehouse in the Chelsea district in lower Manhattan that had lost many of its firefighters in 9/11. On Sept. 11 I tied Mike’s bulletin to the fence next to St. Paul’s church, across from the WTC site, and stood on the steps of a nearby building as they read off the nearly 3000 names of the dead or missing, Mike’s among them. I was alone during the trip and, to be honest, it was a very emotional experience. At 3 different times during the day on Sept. 11, 2002, I encountered three different woman who walked or talked or just stayed with me for periods of time—sort of like 3 angels sent to comfort me. I don’t even know their names. I will never forget them.

So that is the motivation for my initial purchase. There is a post-script as well. Although I grew up mostly in the South, my parents are from New York City and I have many cousins, aunts, uncles, etc. still there. On 9/11, two of my cousins (a father and son) were in the South tower. The son got out after the first plane hit but his father was still in the building, around the 55th or so floor. Police cleared the area and sent the son away, not knowing for 8 hours whether or not his father got out. In the meantime the second plane hit the south tower. The father started making his way down the stairwell but after about 20 floors, he could no longer walk (he has serious knee problems) so he just sat down and gave up. A man came along and practically carried him down the remaining 30 floors; they made their way up the street just seconds before the south tower came down. For years the father and the man who saved him had a reunion on 9/11 (the father has since moved to Florida). The son’s wife also worked in the WTC area but she had called in sick that day or she would have been trapped underground in the train tunnels. So 9/11 is very close to my heart.

The other bracelet I ordered is for Sgt. Matt Maupin, whose case I became familiar with intimately as result of meeting his parents two years ago at the Memorial Day Rolling Thunder event in Washington, DC. I was in high school and college during the Vietnam war and we all wore POW bracelets then. I had hoped we would not have to do it again. Thank you for providing this opportunity for people like me to honor and remember those who are lost or missing. God bless you and your work!

Saturday, December 01, 2007

To Honor Pvt. Byron Fouty

I am from the State of Michigan. I have attended every vigil held on behalf of Pvt. Byron Fouty, since his capture on May 12, 2007.  The vigils are held in his honor, so that we never forget or give up hope.  His family misses him terribly and I will wear it proudly, as a remembrance to him in his honor.

I am also a Blue Star Mother, with a son also currently serving as a 10th Mountain soldier.

So we Never Give up Hope for Pvt. Byron Forty

I am from the State of Michigan. I have attended every vigil held on behalf of Pvt. Byron Fouty, since his capture on May 12, 2007. The vigils are held in his honor, so that we never forget or give up hope. His family misses him terribly and I will wear it proudly, as a remembrance to him in his honor. I am also a Blue Star Mother, with a son also currently serving as a 10th Mountain soldier.

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Because of My Cousin Pamala Lost in 9/11

I am Michael and I live in South Portlan, Maine. I decided to go to American Public University to study Strategic Intelligence with a major in terrorism, to become a counterterrorism analyst. I decided this a long time ago when I found out that my cousin Pamala Goff was in the Tower that was attacked by al-Qaeda on 9/11. At first I was going to go to Norwich University and study Diplomacy, but when I saw the course study at APU I knew that this is what I needed to do to fight terrorism in anyway I could, intelligent analyst.

I have allways wanted to avenge the terrorist acts that caused my cousin to lose her life for their hidious terrorist crimes and with the grace of God I have the opportunity to do something not only for my cousin but for my country as well. The war on terrorism will continue untill the world with civilized countries and states come forward with people like you and me and put down these unrightious terrorist groups and make the world safe for everyone regardless of their ethnic or religious affiliation.

Sincerely Yours,
Michael

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

In Honor of My Friend Michael Tank

I ordered a Memorial Bracelet because I have a friend that fought in Vietnam and came home. I remembered that there used to be bracelets to wear for POWs.  I googled it and found that there are STILL bracelets for them.  In honor of my friend, Michael Tank, the Vietnam vet, I decided to get one to remember that not everyone came home.  I chose the person I chose, because he went missing on August 29, 1968---my 18th birthday.

God bless you all for remembering these young men, 

MaryLane

A Mentor and a Friend

I was a scrawny 17 year old kid who joined the US Army because I was kicked out of school and wasn't allowed back in. I weighed 119 lbs. I went to Fort Benning GA. in April 1967 to end of May 1967.  Our drill instructors were strict and disciplinarians to the extreme, but SSG Bennie Monfort seemed to be a bit different as he was always smiling and acted more friendly to us greenies than the other unit Sergeants.  SSG Monfort was a nice guy.  He was only 10 years older than me.  

He went to Nam and was killed a year after I left Fort Benning.  His death was disturbing to say the least.  He treated us greenies like we were his students rather than recruits or something.  He always gave us pointers on our footlocker inspections, how to set up our bivouac areas, like a mentor perhaps.  He always had advice to help us in our new setting. I liked the Sarge, and wish to keep his memory alive in my life.

Michael
PFC veteran
Weatherford,TX

Sunday, November 25, 2007

For Gilley in NY

I grew up on Coralyn Avenue, White Plains, NY, and the Winstons lived 3 houses up the hill on Coralyn Road, Scarsdale, NY. Gilley and I were both born in 1938. When he went missing, I was employed in the District Office of Congressman Ogden Reid, who was able to assist his wife during those difficult days. Recently I attended a performance of "Touch The Names" here in Tucson, AZ. It inspired me to go to the web site for the wall, and then your Memorial Bracelets site.

Because Not Everyone Comes Home

I ordered a Memorial Bracelet because I have a friend that fought in Vietnam and came home. I remembered that there used to be bracelets to wear for POWs. In honor of my friend, Michael Tank, the Vietnam vet, I decided to get one to remember that not everyone came home. I chose the person I chose, because he went missing on August 29, 1968---my 18th birthday.

God bless you all for remembering these young men,

MaryLane

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

For Larry Potts - A Vietnam Hero Who Did Not Make it Home


I've received the bracelet and it is outstanding. It is a replacement for the one I've worn for years. I passed that one on to a young Marine Staff Sergeant who was about to deploy to Iraq.

I wear the bracelet for Larry Potts. I was with him in Nam in '71 and '72. I learned just a few years ago that Larry did not make it home. He was shot down shortly after I had returned home. Some have tried to call me a hero for serving, the real heroes are the ones who did not come home.

Regards,
Glenn
Sgt. USMC '69 - '73
RVN '71 - '72

Monday, November 19, 2007

To Honor the Memory of Six Members of My Son's Platoon

This a photo from our local newspaper, the Chico Enterprise-Record, of my husband and me practicing push-ups at the gym to get ready for October's  Boot Camp Challenge at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot. (We entered as a team member of Marine Parents.com and raised money for their Care Package Project). As you can see, on my right wrist is a Memorial Bracelet that I have worn constantly for the past three years. I wear a customized one that honors the memory of six members of my son's platoon, the 3rd Platoon, of the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, Fox Company who were killed on Labor Day 2004 in Fallujah, when a suicide bomber crashed into the first vehicle in the convoy. My son nearly always rode in the first vehicle, but on that day was assigned to the second vehicle and consequently was next on the scene, though he himself was spared. That tragedy affected me deeply; I grieved terribly for months. Then I happened to come across the website for memorialbracelets.com and, at first, just bought one bracelet for my son to wear with his best friend's name on it. But the more I thought about it, the more I felt the need to have one too. I had found that I thought many, many times a day of that tragedy: of the loss of those Marines, of the families' pain, and of the pain my son must bear to have seen his friends' remains in such a gruesome state. The bracelet has actually helped me heal; It has helped me move through my grief better and has given me a objective way to continue to honor those young men, whom I will always carry in my heart.
Nanette and Mario

For Uncle Bobby Killed in Vietnam

I received the POW Bracelet today and gave it to my 6 year son, for whom it was ordered.  He is named for his uncle Bobby whom he never met.  His Uncle Bobby was killed in Vietnam just a few weeks after being there in April of 1969.  The family rarely, if ever speaks of what happened that day or the weeks that followed, waiting for their son, brother, uncle to return home.  The bracelet was ordered as a tribute and memorial for my son of his uncle, who gave the ultimate sacrifice.  My son does not understand the significance of the bracelet now, but will be taught as he grows.  Thank you for the time and care you put into making the bracelet.    
Sheryl

Saturday, November 17, 2007

For the Vietnam MIA From My Town

My husband and I became members of the POWMIA Awareness Association in our area and in doing this I was checked out a lot of sites and found out that a pilot from the town I grow up in was MIA from the Vietnam War. (Which my husband and brother were in) After reading the names of Servicemen that were killed or missing from the State and Town I grew up in I decided that we would get a Memorial Bracelet for the only one that was MIA. My Hopes are that he will be identified and brought home to his family. It gives me great peace when I wear my bracelet.

I really like my bracelet it means a lot to me.

Beth  and Fred

Friday, November 16, 2007

For My Active Duty Son and His Wife

I just placed an order in honor of my son and his wife.  Their names are Steven and Shannon Crosby.  They are BOTH active duty with the United States Navy and stationed in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii.  They have a baby girl that is 18 months old named Kailee.  
Shannon deployed to Iraq at the end of October and will not be returning home until around May 2008.  Very shortly after she returns  home my son, Steven will be deploying to Iraq.  
This young sweet family will be seperated for such a long time.  I wanted the bracelet to honor them and show my pride for their sacrifices.  I'm so very proud.

Thank you from a Proud Navy Mom

Monday, November 12, 2007

Because Every Loss Hits Close to Home for Someone

Just like everyone does once in a while I decided to Google my own name.  Up popped information on a fallen private in the army during Iraqi Freedom.  We would be the same age, we have the same name, the same ‘not so popular’ religion, and I found out later, she was a close friend to one of my relatives.  I think everyone can use a reminder that their vote counts, that they have a choice to remain silent or open their mouth, that EVERY loss hits close to home for someone… sometimes that anonymous someone isn’t so anonymous.  And so I ordered a Memorial Bracelet to remind me of the sacrifices made in my name.

Sincerely,

Alyssa

For Our Canine Partners at The WTC

WE WEAR THE BRACELETS TO REMIND US AND THE PEOPLE THAT WE COME IN CONTACT WITH, OF THE LONG COUNTLESS HOURS, AND CONDITIONS THAT MYSELF AND MY CANINE PARTNER WORKED AT THE WTC.  AND TO ALSO KEEP ALL THE VICTIMS AND RESCUE WORKERS IN THEIR MINDS.  MANY OF US RESCUE WORKERS AND OUR CANINE PARTNERS HAVE PASSED AND/ OR HAVE NOW GOT HEALTH PROBLEMS.  AND TO SHOW THE TRUE NEED OF OUR CANINE PARTNERS AND THE SERVICES THAT THEY GIVE THEIR LIFE FOR.  IN SHORT, WE WILL NEVER FORGET THE SEARCH AND RESCUE/ RECOVERY CANINES TEAMS.
 
Walter
Specialty Dog Unit of Southeastern, Pa. (INC.)

Sunday, November 11, 2007

For The Man That Would Be The Father of My Children

At the age of 17 I thought I had found the person I wanted to grow old with. I was a junior in high school. Michael had graduated the year before from the town next to mine. My girl friend introduced us at a home coming football game. Our schools were playing each other. After the game there was a dance. I had no plans of staying, but my friend, Patty, and Michael talked me into it. Michael and I did more talking than dancing. We talked about every thing. We became friends and he called most every evening when I would get home from school. Then one day he called and told me he had been drafted and would be leaving soon for boot camp. We went on our first official date that week end. I received my very first kiss. (I'm crying as I type this, now). He asked me if I would be HIS girl and would I write to him. He gave me his class ring on a gold chain (which I wore for a very long time). I met his parents and was so proud when they invited me to visit any time I wished, even after Michael would be gone.
We wrote for those long 6 weeks of boot camp, and our friendship grew.
If anyone had seen us together they would have thought we were brother and sister. When he got home from boot camp. We would walk and talk holding hands. It was then he asked if I would marry him. I couldn't get the word yes out fast enough. But because I was still in high school my parents told me I had to wait until after I graduated. So we did. We both respected our parents wishes.
Michael left for Vietnam and the DMZ area in the spring of 1967. To this
day I am still not clear on the mission he was on, but I do know I lost
my Michael on a June day of that year.
He was the first (boy) man from that town to be sent home from Vietnam in a box with a flag over it. The whole town, it seemed, came to the services. His parents were so kind to me, and we stayed in touch for a long time.
I wear my Memorial Bracelet for a man that was to be the father of my children, the man I was to grow old with, the man who was my best friend, the man who's smile could light up a gloomy day, for a life that was taken because his country said they needed him and he knew that it was his job to do so.
I did marry a couple of years later. And now have two son's. I wanted so badly to name the first boy Michael, but it was not Michael's son, so I
gave him his middle name instead, Steven. The odd thing is that my
Steven has that same crocked smile that lights up a room. 
The name on my braclet is John. The one on Steven's is "Michael". My other son also has a braclet with the name Roger.
God Bless all of the Fathers and Mothers who had to bury their Son's and Daughters during the most heartless war (I believe) in history.

Kathleen

To Honor Sgt. Maupin

I ordered a Memorial Bracelet earlier this year with the name of Matt Maupin engraved on it. I wear it proudly every day. I ordered the bracelet with Sgt. Maupins name because he is a military man who has been missing since 2004 and he is from the Cincinnati area. I have always wanted to wear this type of bracelet but I couldn't decide who's name should be on the bracelet. In checking the internet I found a number of military men missing since Vietnam from Kentucky. In checking your web site I found that I could get one inscribed with Sgt. Maupins name and I felt he was the one I wanted to honor. I want you to know I have received a number of complements about the bracelet and will continue wearing it until Sgt. Maupin comes home.  
Thank you for your help. 
Ron

Friday, November 09, 2007

For My Active Duty Father

I have worn many over the years.  My father is still active with 28 years in the Marine corps.  I wear one while he is gone and i wear another at all times when he his home honoring a Lt i served with while i was in the Marine Corps.  God bless our troops and God bless those that do not understand the sacrifice given for them to sleep peacefully in their beds every night. 
 
Jessie
1/3 Marines

Thursday, November 08, 2007

To Remind Me That My Place is With My Fellow Soldiers

I just ordered Memorial Bracelets for myself and my husband--I've been wearing another bracelet since 2005.  I was WIA in Iraq in June 2005 as an Air Force K9 Handler.  My medic from Iraq is now my husband.  I regret every day that I was retired due to my injuries.  I would give anything to be back there and will always feel that I didn't fulfill my mission.  My injuries were life-threatening as I had an IED go off underneath my seat in my vehicle, but I lived.  I'll never know why I did yet so many others didn't.  I will always feel that my place is there with my fellow soldiers and I want to go back but I know I never will.  That is why I will always wear my Memorial Bracelet. 

For One of My Female Privates Killed

I just ordered a Memorial Bracelet from you and am looking forward to getting it, though I am not happy about the circumstances as to why I purchased it. I ordered a bracelet that has the name PFC Sam Huff. She was killed just about 4 months after she graduated Basic Training and AIT from Fort Leonard Wood, MO. Sam was one of my Privates, I was her Drill Sergeant. She was in 1st Platoon, and I was in 2nd, but being that I was a female Drill Sergeant, I had a different type of closeness with her and the other female privates. I had the responsibility to not only train all the Soldiers of D. Co. 795th MP BN, I had to mentor the females and teach them about being a "girl" in the Army and try to teach them the right things. Sam was a great Soldier. She had the hardest time with her sit ups. She failed almost all her PT test because of the sit ups. It was the week of graduation, and she didn't know if she was going to be able to graduate or not since she had not passed her PT test. The morning she did pass I was right there with her and we were so excited I told her to get on the phone and call her family to tell them it was safe to buy airline tickets to come see their daughter become a Military Police Officer. She look at me all crazy and said its 0630 Drill Sergeant and I said and your point is......? She said my parents live in Phoenix, AZ and its real early there, I said I know where your from and who cares, I think its a phone call they are looking forward to getting and they need to start early trying to buy tickets so they are cheaper haha!! I was very sad to hear that after her graduation in November, she was killed that April. She will never be forgotten, nor will her sacrifice. She was laid to rest in Arlington, which is where thousands of heros dwell....its fitting though, because she IS a hero as well.
2LT ChrisAnne

For for My Friend Killed in Iraq

I would like to share my story why I'm getting a Memorial Bracelet. I had a good friend that was in the army as I was. I got out june of 06 and she got shipped to Iraq this yr. In July she was killed in iraq. I want to remember her of who is was and what we stand for. She gave all so I could get out of the army so I could raise my daughter. I'm a single Father and I had to make a choice of keeping my daughter or staying in the army and being shipped. family first. Anyway, her unit went over and she was in country about 6 months when a motor attack hit near her. She was a true soldier and hero to me. She was a friend, soldier and most of all a Mother. She leaves behind two kids. Thats why I got a Memorial Bracelet. I got her baby sister one too. 

Thanks for what you do.

Sgt. Chris
Army (ret)

Wednesday, November 07, 2007

For Our Active Duty Son to Come Home Safe

We wanted an Active Duty Bracelet with our son's name and the message "Come Home Safe". We received them (3) today and are very pleased with how they turned out. Thank you. We will wear them until he comes home (May '08), then we are going to give them to him for his kids, when he has them.

I've already had positive comments on mine and people want to know where I got it. So I tell them about your site.

Another thing: I think about him and pray for him every time I look at it.
You are doing a great thing for our soldiers and their families.
Thank you again.
Dawn

Monday, November 05, 2007

A Young Man from Port Aruthur

I couldn't believe you had actually wrote to me sending me information on Ron Ray. I wasn't old enuff to understand that era.. but when I lived out in CA when the traveling wall came, I went & said thank you to all there. It also came to Amarillo a few years back. I wonder if this young mans family is still down at Port Arthur. Its several hours from me here in Amarillo. I've printed out what you sent to me & have it framed. It hangs next to my late Dad's purple heart & bronze star (WW II). He was in the battle of the Buldge (malmadee masacre). I never knew him either.

Thank ya now for yer time in this Rob.

many blessings,

Paula in texas

Monday, October 29, 2007

For the Safe Return of My Son from Iraq

As a teenager during the Viet Nam era, I had 3 brothers serving in the Armed Forces – 2 Army, 1 Marine. All 3 served deployments in Viet Nam; 2 were injured, but Thank God all came home.

During this time, I had purchase an MIA/POW bracelet which I wore faithfully until it broke. Recently, I heard that these types of bracelets were once again available. I discovered your site when I performed an Internet search for Memorial Bracelets.

My son was preparing for his second deployment to Iraq, so I immediately ordered my Until They All Come Home – Iraqi Freedom bracelet, engraved with my son’s initials and regiment. He left for Iraq on Wednesday, October 17, with an estimated date of return of February 2009.

Saturday, October 27, 2007

For the Friends I have Lost

My hole family had been in the military. I was in the army for 10yrs and got out in 2006. My Dad was in the army and sister was in the navy. We all have lost friends in this war and in past wars. I have lost a total of 6 friends, two of which were in my unit. I saw your site and have ordered two bracelets for myself and my Mom has ordered one for herself.


Chris
US Army SGT., Retired

Sunday, October 21, 2007

To Remember Capt. Tyler and Support the Troops

I discovered your web site after the memorial service for Capt. Corey Tyler, when referred to it by one of his friends. I have been wanting to wear a bracelet as support for our troops.....now I do both.... I celebrate the sacrifice of Capt. Tyler and support the troops.



Steve

Sunday, October 14, 2007

To Remember A Friend KIA in Operation Iraqi Freedom



I located your site after a friend was killed in action in Operation Iraqi Freedom and I wanted a way to always remember him. The bracelet I ordered is in memory of SrA Jason D. Nathan. SrA Nathan was stationed at Royal Air Force, Lakenheath in the UK and was one of a handful of Airman that I had direct contact with every single day. Airman Nathan was very intelligent and dedicated to the United States and the Air Force. His dedication and professionalism was the first things I noticed about him. While deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom I received word that Airman Nathan had been killed in a roadside bombing attack near Tirkit, Iraq. Having known him personally I wanted a constant reminder of his sacrifice and the consequences of serving in today's military. Wearing Airman Nathan's bracelet is my way of honoring him and continuing his dedication to duty that is demanded of all US service members.


SSgt Neal USAF

Friday, September 28, 2007

To Remember Bohannon


My sister got me a Memorial Bracelet when I found out that a friend of mine passed away. It was hard for me to understand how someone could be gone that I just went thew
Basic and A.I.T with. Seems like it was just the other day I was playing in the snow with him. It was a big wake up call for me! I'm deployed as I type this e-mail. Now that I have have Bohannon's Memorial bracelet around my wrist, he is not forgotten in anyway. He will always be my brother in arms

Pfc. Muir

Thursday, September 06, 2007

To Remember GySgt. Shawn Lane

I am stationed in Okinawa, Japan.

This is a great reminder of my friend and fellow communicator GySgt Shawn Lane. He and I were promoted to GySgt (E7) together and ate lunch often while we were stationed at HQBN Comm Co, 1st MARDIV.

I saw him last at lunch the day before I went overseas. His wife and son were his life and we talked about our families ad nauseum (to others I am sure). When I learned of his death I was devastated, and even more so because I was stationed in Japan but in Korea on an exercise and could not fly to Camp Pendleton and pay my respects. To this day I miss him. I wish blessings to his family and to all who remember him.


Danielle

Wednesday, September 05, 2007

To Never Forget Those Left Behind ing Vietnam

Well, I am a 58yo USMC 68-72/jarhead prc-25 humping grunt who served in Vietnam I Corps 69-70. I was one of six Congressman sons to have served in country RVN. Both my step-father and mother were U.S. Senators. I have been wearing several different POW/MIA bracelets and also one Montenegro's (Bru) bracelet dug out of the attic since 11/82 when involved with VVA 134 out of Dayton Beach, Fl., and went to the original Wall Dedication/5th & 10th yrs as well.

The VVA comradeships and I think subsequent involvement with the National League of Families in the 80's and early 90's probably kept me from going over the edge to personal self-destruction. This bracelet replaces my last broken one. I never knew Major. Henry Allen-USAF, but I was in/out of northern I Corps and Laos (where he was shot down) on Uncle Ho's trail when he became MIA. I was blessed to meet his surviving brother several times who lives/or lived in the greater Dayton area and he was kind enough way back when to speak publicly on September-National POW-MIA Day functions.

There is no description of the pain that would suffice to describe what he and many of the brave surviving family members felt and still feel. So many with no welcome home. No one has the corner on the market for pain! So I wear this bracelet to Never Forget Those Left Behind nor the values of humility and long suffering of those American MIA Familes.

Saturday, September 01, 2007

To Replace my Original POW/MIA Bracelet

My original POW/MIA bracelet was purchased in or around 1972 when I was in high school and was also for Captain Dean P. St Pierre. Like many folks I actively protested the Vietnam War, but I also fiercely supported our military men and women and continue to do so today. The ill treatment of returning soldiers from Southeast Asia by so many is unforgivable in my eyes. My Father served in Korea and Vietnam and I am proud to be the daughter of a veteran. I have not continuously wore my bracelet, but around the first Gulf War, I ran across it and thought it was time to wear it again as a reminder of the sacrifice that is made for our freedom and to keep our military force close to my heart, thoughts and prayers. Over the years, the black lettering has worn off and I was worried that eventually I would no longer be able to read Captain St Pierre's name. In my quest to never forget him, I have occasionally did a little research on the Internet on his name and ran across a link for this company. I never imagined I would be able to duplicate a bracelet with his name, so I was very moved to be able to symbolically keep him near.


Carol

Saturday, August 25, 2007

For a Vietnam Serviceman

I'm 46, too young for service, but old enough to remember kids wearing the bracelets in jr high.

My uncle served in USAF in Vietnam, flying F100s and F-5s; he did survive the war. I've been interested in it for quite a while. Had a recent trip to D.C. and visited the Wall. I searched out some names I'd read about so I could find them on the wall.

How I chose this particular serviceman: After my trip, I was searching Wall names by home state and noticed Donald Westbrook's name. He had the first name of a family friend and the last name of another family friend, so it caught my eye. I searched Internet about him and found out he was 51 when he was lost, serving in his third war! I also noticed his remains were recently recovered after almost 40 yrs- and, he was buried at Arlington just a wk before my DC visit.

Larry

Tuesday, August 21, 2007

For My Fallen Comrade

I received my bracelet today and I was hoping to get it before I departed for my rest and recuperation leave tonight! It looks great, and I thank you and your company for such a professional and thoughtful reminder of my fallen comrade. This was one of my Soldiers we lost in July and I wanted to keep him close to my heart each and everyday with this bracelet.

CSM Dolishia

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

As a Gift To A Good Friend

This bracelet was a gift to a friend. This bracelet was a reminder/replacement of the original bracelet that was given to him by a teacher in grade school who was the widow of the person that is listed on the bracelet. He kept this bracelet all through school, college, and 15 years in the USSF and never lost it. Once he return state side it was stolen from him. His description of how much it meant to him and the reminders of the special people in his life that he had lost during certain conflicts that he was apart of during his time in service. So I got this to help him.

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

To Remember My Contribution at Ground Zero

I have been in the communications business for over 25 years (13 years Air Force). I had the distinct Honor and Privilege to respond to the destruction that happen to the Cellular communications system with the harrows that befell the World Trade Centers. I traveled with 7 other guys from my company towing 4 portable Cell sites from Phoenix AZ to a staging area outside of Manhattan. Myself and three other company guys were tasked to go in to Manhattan and help deploy microwave point-to-point communication systems to help bring the Wireless phone system back on line.

Although we spent only a week working in and around Ground Zero it had a tremendous effect on all of us; or contribution was every small in the scope of things but it is the proudest moment in my professional life. I have been looking something to wear other than the shirts I have support the FD and your bracelet has provide me with that.

Bob

For Navy Pilot James B. Mills Shot Down in Viet nam

James B. Mills was a Navy pilot from Bakersfield California. He was shot down over North Viet Nam ( 09-21-1966 ) and never heard from again. His father was an administrator at the high school I originally went to (East Bakersfield in 1969) and I've always wanted to remember his son's story with a POW bracelet.

The DOD is slowly bringing home some of the missing from Southeast Asia and just this month July 2007 Marine Cpl. Jim E. Mosier (KIA helicopter shoot down 06-11-1967) was identified and brought home to Bakersfield for burial. We owe it to the families to bring them all home and demand a full accounting from the various governments involved, for the brave warriors were true Patriots who shed their blood for the tree of liberty.

For a Fellow Navy Shipmate

I purchased my bracelet to remember a fellow Navy shipmate that was killed during a helo training exercise that killed all 5 members on board. I remembered a friend in high school that had a bracelet during the first Gulf War that had the name of a soldier in his brother's unit that was killed in Iraq.

For a Brother Firefighter Murdered on 9/11

I ordered a bracelet with the name of a brother firefighter who was murdered on 9/11. A victim of terrorism. I am a firefighter and felt that each brother in the FDNY that perished on 9/11 deserved to go home.... Wearing this bracelet each day, as I go into work, is my way of helping them continue their tour. Each day I leave work for home, is my way of bringing them home, like each and everyone of them should have on 9/11.

To Remind Me and Everyone the Freedom Comes at a Price

Recently i was moving , and during the process, my girlfriend found her original MIA bracelet from the late 60's -early 70's. Upon finding the bracelet she has worn it ever since.

Recently my parents went to visit my oldest brother, who is a Commander in the US Navy and was teaching at Annapolis. During there visit, they went to see all the sights in the nations capitol, and one of there stops was the Vietnam Memorial to place flowers for one of my brothers friends who never came home in 1969.

One night i called my brother to find out how there vacation was going. He told me the story of there trip to the capitol and all the other events of the day. As he mentioned the Memorial wall, i told him that we had found the old MIA bracelet. He mentioned that next to the memorial was a place you could order new bracelets, and the following day i went on line and found your web site, and ordered my first bracelet for Capt. Quinlan R. Orell USN . Upon receipt, i have worn the bracelet every day as a reminder to me and everyone who sees it that freedom comes at a price, at that price is a persons precious life.

For Every Person Protecting our Precious Freedom

I don't think our troops are receiving all the support they should. Not to mention the families of the men and women serving to protect our country! Protecting even those who protest!

You see I come from a military background, growing up overseas on military bases, and I personally don't care how people feel about the war, whether you are for it or against it, but I do believe that no matter how you feel, you should support and be extremely proud of the men and women who sacrifice all to protect us and our great land! For without them..... we could be living like the people in Iraq and Afghanistan.

I am wearing the bracelet for Pvt. Byron W. Fouty, who is currently MIA. He is only 19, the same age as my son. My prayers are with him, his family, and each and every person who is protecting our precious freedom!

Wednesday, August 08, 2007

For LCPL John B. Nahan III

I received my first MIA bracelet for LCPL John B. Nahan III (a Marine that served in Vietnam in early 1994). A new friend and former vet was wearing one at the time and told me all about it and I immediately asked how I could get one. Until recently I knew nothing of John's story. This is what I uncovered about him. He was 22 and served one year and was killed on his first day back.  He was killed on August 3, 1967 but because they could not recover his body he was listed as MIA. Our government recovered his remains in June of 1994 but he was not properly identified until 2001 and his status was then changed to KIA. I will be returning his MIA bracelet to his family via the Department of Defense and I have ordered his KIA bracelet to wear in place of the old one.

Monday, August 06, 2007

For My Dad and Best Friend

This bracelet means the world to me.  My dad was and will always be me best friend.  I just lost him four months ago to cancer and he was all military , strong willed to the end and I appreciate your website to be able to show people what he meant to me.

To Support the Family of Matt Maupin

I manage a military surplus store in Northern Kentucky just 15 miles from where Matt Maupin's parent's live. I met his parents at the Yellow Ribbon Support Center in Batavia, Ohio and was touched by their spirit and willingness to not forget their son. Since his capture is so close to home and we have ongoing activities around the area to help to lead him home, I felt compelled to purchase the bracelet in support of Matt and his family.

Saturday, August 04, 2007

For My Earth Angel

My son Noah was full of life, he was the happiest couragest 5 year old I knew.  I believe there are two types of Angels. Heavenly Angels and Earth Angels.  God sent Noah to us as an Earth Angel.  My son touched so many lives at the young age of 5 that most people don't do in a life time.  We live in a small town in called Thomaston, the population is approximately 8000 people.  My wife and I started a found to replace a 30 year old playground at Noah's school in his name.  Last year in 2006 we raised 240,000.00 for the new playground, the playground was built and like I told everyone,  Noah's playing on the playground with all the children laughing and smiling. Remember little things are really big things, in the whole scheme of things.

Thursday, August 02, 2007

For High School Classmate Lynne Morris Who Perished in the WTC

I live in Tucson, AZ now, but I am originally a native New Yorker, born in Newburgh, NY, and raised in Highland Mills, NY (otherwise known as Woodbury). One of the closest towns to Highland Mills is Monroe, NY.

I knew several people that perished in the World Trade Center, but I knew Lynne Morris the best. She lived in Monroe. She was my age, and we attended the same high school (Monroe-Woodbury), and the same class (1996). We sat in several classes together, and all my classmates knew each other. She was a very sweet girl, and was nice in high school. I remember going to a store and seeing Lynne's parents hand out fliers to notify the community that she was missing. I just about burst into tears. She was a few months younger than me. I kept thinking that it could have been me that perished like she did. I felt so sorry for her family, and so heartbroken that yet another class member of mine has died (there have been several 7 or so since graduation). I also felt guilty in that I wish there was something I could have done to protect her and everyone else that died that day.

So someone told me about your website, and that is why I ordered a bracelet in Lynne's name. So when I think of it, I can smile, and it is just like having a piece of her with me. Thank you so much. My bracelet is just what I wanted.

For Someone Close to Me

I have always wanted one from the age of about 7, I am now 44, my father was in the Air Force and we used to go the Open House on the Base where ever we lived and I used to see them. So I found your site which is wonderful and I located a name that was my maiden name Hardy the MIA was also from CA where I am from. My Dad  is a Hardy from CA and he also did his time in Vietnam. So I felt that the name I chose was appropriate and I did research on Capt John K Hardy and read how he is MIA. My prayers are with him and all our service men.

Tuesday, July 31, 2007

For the POW bracelet I wore for 1st LTD Wm. Flnn

A friend of mine that I haven't seen in years sent me some pictures she had found of us when we were younger.  I attached the file that she sent me.  I just turned 50 a few weeks back so you know the pictures are old!  The top picture is me when I was about 15 so that's about 35 years ago.  I noticed that I had my POW bracelet on.  I remembered clearly what the bracelet had said on it...1st LTD Wm. Finn 12/24/71.  It was Christmas Eve when he went missing..how tragic. I had worn that for about 10 years and was never able to find out what happened to him.  I still have that bracelet so I got it out of my jewelry box and decided to search the Internet to see if I could find out anything about him.  From what I found out, it appears that he was never located and from some accounts, considered deceased.  That made me very sad.  When I found your web site, I decided to purchase another bracelet in his name so that the proceeds from the sale could help his family or others in need. While it is a small gesture, every little bit helps.

Friday, July 27, 2007

In Honor of My Son Serving in Iraq

I got my Memorial Bracelets today and they are awesome!  They are honoring my son serving in Iraq.  I wore the POW bracelet during Vietnam and wanted something similar to signify what he is doing for this great country!  Thank you so much!

To Honor a Possible Distant Relative

I remember people wearing them back in the seventies and I always wanted to get one but never did.  I was a student and participated in the demonstrations on the Ohio State University campus in Spring of 1970, and while the bracelets weren't available then, a lot of home made stuff was - I made a lot of "ON STRIKE! SHUT IT DOWN!" Tshirts using cans of spray paint and a stencil I cut out of cardboard. We were trying to shut down the campus to protest the war, and it was shut down for a week after the Kent State students were killed.

Well, just out of curiosity I searched under the S's for my last name, Schell, and was really surprised to see the entry for Maj. Richard J. Schell.  I have researched my family tree somewhat and my ancestors were orginally Pennsylvania farmers and many (there were a lot of offspring) moved West in search of more or better land - some landed in Ohio and some may have made it to Minnesota.  Anyway I thought this person could be a distant relative and I wanted to honor him by wearing a bracelet with his (and my last name) on it.  I may have been against the war, but I do think that we should honor those who served and died in that war.

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Because When We Are Complacent We Are Vulnerable

My son, husband and I have  ordered bracelets in honor of our son, brother, Ryan S. who was killed in Iraq 6/06.  Though it has been over a year, sometimes the reality still has not sunk in.  Not sure if it ever will. The bracelet will be worn to remind others that there is a very high price that is being paid to keep the war in Iraq because just as soon as we let down our guard, it will be brought home to us in the States.  We didn't learn from the first bombing in NYC so the World Trade Center was used to show our vulnerability.  When we are complacent, we are vulnerable.

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

For My Dad

I just received the bracelet and I love it. I order the bracelet in remembrance of my Dad.  I also had the Army symbol and the Flag added to remind me of the sacrifices that our military is making now, and also the sacrifice my father made in WWII.  It also made my Mom cry.  I hope to wear it forever just as the love of my Dad is forever.

Friday, July 13, 2007

To Remember Staff Sergeant Joe Goodrich

I received the Memorial Bracelet that I ordered to remember my good friend, Staff Sergeant Joe Goodrich, USMC, who was killed in action on 10 July 2005 in Hit, Iraq. Joe was leading a patrol of Humvees and as they were returning to base, they came under attack by enemy mortar rounds. Joe was mortally wounded, but the Sergeant Major of Joe's battalion wrote in a letter to Joe's wife that he was a good Marine and was radioing for help for his wounded Marines before he died. Joe is survived by his wife Amy, brother George, sister-in-law Rhonda, and his parents.

I met "Goody" in 1996 when we were rookie police officers for the Kennywood Park Police Department. We partnered together as often as our shifts allowed and from 1997 through around 2001, we were the principal field training officers for the annual rookie class of officers. Joe had a great sense of humor and was an excellent police officer. Joe also served as a police officer in McKeesport, PA and Indiana, PA. He supported his wife's deli business by making deliveries and working in the shop with her. Joe had a great love for the Marine Corps and continued as a part-time recruiter. He helped prepare young men and women who were on the delayed-entry program to enter the Marine Corps, coaching them on physical fitness, answering their questions, etc. When I heard that Joe had asked to return to active duty in Iraq, I was not surprised. He was a good man and a good friend to all. He is sorely missed by his family, friends, and by Amy.

A group of former Kennywood Park Police Officers purchased a number of plastic memorial bracelets and distributed them to our members and friends. Another former officer showed me the bracelet that he purchased from your website and I was impressed, so I ordered one for myself. I am very pleased with the quality and appearance of the bracelet and I wear it proudly every day. I want people to ask about it so that I can tell the story of Joe Goodrich, even if it is only in a 20 second conversation. I think that memorial bracelets are a great way to keep the memory of friends alive and to never forget the sacrifices that are made on behalf of this country every day.

For my Husband's Father Who was a Vietnam Vet.

Today I received the bracelet I ordered in the mail. I was so excited once I ordered it I just could not wait to get it. I ordered the bracelet for my husband as a father's day gift. Of course knowing me...I didn't plan ahead and waited last minute to get him something, so I had to make sure that it had lots of meaning. I was browsing through the Internet when I suddenly opened up your web page. I instantly knew that I was in the right spot.

My husband's father was a Vietnam Veteran who returned to the U.S. and was awarded the Bronze Star with a Valor device. From what I was told he was a great man, great soldier and had a great heart. I've never met him because he past away when my husband was 15 years old. My husband and I recently had our first born child...which oddly enough, she was born the same day my husband's father past. So I ordered a Memorial Bracelet with his father's information it. A little something to remind him of his father on his very first father's day.

Katie

For a Vietnam POW from my hometown

It has not been off my wrist. It is of a better quality then the one I had 30 years ago. The lettering is clear and easy to read. Why: My husband participated in Rolling Thunder for the first time this year. He had a great ride. This lead me to take another look at the pow/mia list. I found a solider from my hometown. He may be related to a person I went to high school with. I thought it would be a good idea to honor him.

Thursday, July 12, 2007

For the Only Marine I Lost

LCpl Settle was a gunner in one of the vehicles in my convoy when he died.  LCpl Settle was on his second deployment with me when an unfortunate incident occurred which costs him his life.  He is the only Marine I lost in over 300 missions in Iraq. Semper Fi

Friday, July 06, 2007

For Fellow Marine Gsgt Terry Ball Jr.

I wore a similar bracelet for a year until I ran into a Marine who was very intrigued by it and asked where he could get one, so I gave it to my brother Marine as a gift. I then went to the internet to find another bracelet and typed in "memorial bracelet" and your site came up.

I wear my bracelet to honor the man whose name is on it. I feel a part of him is with me and he gets to be involved with Marines and other activities I am involved with. His name is mentioned frequently by myself and other former Marines when we talk about my bracelet, so it kind of keeps his spirit with us. Also interesting to look up the info and background of Gsgt Terry Ball Jr. I am sorry I never met the man but I now feel like I know the man a little better.

Semper Fi,

Cpl Thomas
U.S.M.C Vetran

Monday, July 02, 2007

For Basketball Teammate Maj. Kip Taylor

The reason I ordered this bracelet is because I was reading comments left on Maj. Kip Taylor's memorial site and one of the writers commented that she had found the site by ordering a bracelet and received Kip's name randomly. I remembered one of my babysitters as a child had a Vietnam P.O.W. bracelet, but I had not previously realized anyone was making them for 9/11 victims or present day KIAs.

I knew Kip from playing basketball against his team and later on his team when we were both military brats in Germany. While we were not extremely close, I do remember Kip as one of the kindest most unassuming people I had ever met. I thought wearing the bracelet an appropriate memorial for an outstanding young man who died much too soon. Thank you.


M. Berg

Sunday, July 01, 2007

In Memory Of Lost Troops and Operation Iraqi Freedom

Hello from Mosul, Iraq! I just received my bracelet today and just wanted to write and say thank you and it's so perfect! It is just how I imagined it.

There are several reasons behind why I ordered the bracelet. I originally ordered one back in 2005 while I was deployed to Iraq the first time, but upon my return flight back to Iraq I lost my bracelet on the flight and couldn't find it. I was pretty upset. It took me almost two years to find your website. After going through some old emails I found the original receipt from the first time I ordered and remembered that I was so happy with the quality of your bracelet before I thought I would order another one.

The second reason I ordered the bracelet is because this is my second deployment to Iraq. I have lost a great deal of friends over here in the past 4 years since deployments started, so I got the bracelet etched with "In Memory of Lost Troops Operation Iraqi Freedom". I think too many Soldiers have been lost over here and it's time for us to come home before we lose anymore. I get very sick to my stomach every time I attend the memorial service of one of my friends, or even those of soldiers whom I didn't really know, they were people I had met through work and had just happened to say hello to in passing. I think it makes it a little easier for me to remember my friends and the other lost soldiers when I look at my bracelet, and it makes me more grateful that I'm still here today.