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| Sgt. Thomas E. Barber |
Spc. Bob MacDonald |
Chief Warrant Officer Greg Montgomery |
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| Spc. Rafael "Ralph" Olvera-Rodriguez |
Maj. Robert Leslie Olson |
Chief Warrant Officer George P. Perry |
Introduction
On Feb. 12, 2001, six men were killed when two Black Hawk helicopters crashed as they participated in a military exercise. The men were fathers, sons, brothers and friends and the pain of their deaths have been deeply felt both inside and outside the military community. We have received dozens of messages of support, which we will send on to the families of the six men.
Posted on March 7, 2001
We are deeply saddened to hear the news of this accident that killed your loved ones. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. We have a strong belief that this life is not all there is and we know absolutely that you will see your loved ones again. Until then we will continue to pray that you will have the strength to endure well this difficult burden. May God Bless you All as you continue in the legacy left by your loved ones; to honor and hold dear to your hearts the foundation of the Constitution represented by our great Flag and protected by the Military Families of the United States of America.
Sincerely,
SSG Clayton E Wells and Sherry L Wells
Fort Campbell, KY
To the Wives, Children, Mothers, Fathers, and Family members of these brave men,
As an Army aviation wife of 10 years, I know that nothing will help you through this hard time except the understanding that your loved one is in God's hands. For those that have the "talent" to understand aviation and work with it, they know that sacrifice is a part of the package. I commend your loved one for being able to serve among our nation's elite, and hope you know that their courage, sacrifice, and dedication to be the best will never go forgotten. Our family will keep you and yours in our prayers and thoughts.
With deepest sympathy,
Lisa DesLauriers
Ft Hood, Texas
To each of the families
My "military" family and I send our heartfelt condolences.
Being a wife of a retired 1SG, having my oldest son in the Air Force in Italy, my middle son in the Army in Germany, and the mother-in-law of a soldier assigned to Fort Hood, I am very aware of the tragic loss. It is something that as military family, we are conditioned to respond to. The needs of others, especially during this time of loss is paramount. These gentlemen along with their families will continue to be in our hearts and prayers. They will be remembered. Again, all of us here are saddened by your loss and continue to pray that you will find inner strength and peace.
Respectfully,
The Manyen Families
(Texas, Italy, & Germany)
My prayers are with you in your time of sorrow and loss. God will comfort you.
SGT Pauline Mabry
USA MEDDAC
Fort Hood, Texas
Please accept my condolences at this time. These soldier gave their lives for us.
V/R Juan Rodriguez
Although I am many miles away in Heidelberg, Germany, these soldiers are in my thoughts and their families and friends are in my prayers. To those who are grieving: Please know that there are many, many people around the world who recognize the sacrifices these men made while in the United States Armed Forces, the honorable service they gave to their country, and the high price they've paid for their patriotism. We care, we honor them and we grieve with you.
CARLA A. BARNES
HQ USAREUR &7A, Heidelberg, Germany
It was just one year ago that my husband and I left Hawaii. He was an avionics sergeant also working on
Black Hawks. Everyday I would pray and ask the Lord to watch over him and send him home safely. Now, I pray and ask the Lord to provide guidance and support to all those that have lost their husband, father, friend, co-worker, and confident. You all have my deepest condolences.
Sincerely,
Carla Sprattling
Atlanta, GA
To the families and the love ones of these soldiers, know that they are in a better place and that they fought a good fight and their spirit is still carrying on. Keep the faith that you will indeed see them again on the other side.
Serendadj
My heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and fellow airmen of the six courageous aviators killed while proudly serving their country. Their daily lives were filled with training, training and more training so that all Americans can enjoy "worry-free" freedom. All Americans owe them a debt of gratitude for their selfless service to our great nation. God bless their families, their units, and those who continue to fly everyday under insurmountable danger.
CW4 Jim Tolbert
Alexandria, VA
As the sister, daughter, and granddaughter of brave men that have given my family our freedom: I am deeply sorry for your loss. My brother is currently stationed in Hawaii with his family. My sister-in-law and two young children, one boy and one girl. I can't pretend to know how you feel, but I hope that the Creator will help you all through this terrible and lonely time. And I salute the memory of these fine family men and sincerely thank them for EVERY sacrifice they made for our country.
May God comfort and keep you.
Faith Haupt
San Jose, CA
To The Families and Fellow Soldiers:
I am writing to express my sympathy to the families of those proud soldiers killed in Honolulu recently in the training exercise gone awry. I also wish to express sympathy to the extended families of these soldiers with whom they served the flag.
I am deeply troubled by the lack of recognition and concern nationally over this tragic event. It seems that these types of accidents have become so common, that no one pays attention anymore. In contrast, a millionaire Nascar driver dies while performing his job and the whole country is asked to mourn. I do not understand the priorities of Americans anymore.
Having a son serving proudly in the military, I am grieving for the families of those proud soldiers killed in the helicopter accident. I wish to thank the Honolulu Advertiser for listing the names of these soldiers so that we may NEVER FORGET their sacrifice. It seems that after the first couple of days, the rest of the nation has forgotten. Not me.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey D.(Mario) Smith
Lexington, KY
No one that hasn't been there can truly express the pain of the loss of a brother in arms, doing what needs to be done so the rest of us can live the life most Americans take for granted. Just want to say our hearts are with those left behind, and our thanks for those who serve.
Larry M. Curtin
Colonel, U.S. Army (Retired)
To the families of the fallen, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Everyone in the Army is deeply affected by these tragic events, especially those of us in the Blackhawk community.
Myself, and thousands of Army aviators past and present, know that without a doubt, our brothers fought desperately in those final seconds. They put every ounce of their being into saving the people aboard their crippled aircraft.
CW2 Matthew Hobbs
To the families and friends of those who are lost:
I have always believed that God has a special place in Heaven for those who defend our freedom. They march now with the best. My heart goes out for your loss.
Someone who cares.
Cheryl Sproat
My words I feel could never quell the feelings of the recent past. I, too, flew with the aviation unit, at the time 53rd Avn Bn. between 1987-1990. My heart and soul have been greatly heavied by the price these men have paid for God and country. I can speak from experience to say that each one loved their job, duty, and service, and hope their families know they were doing what they were called to do. Please know and remember that you are all family with the Army, and that family will grieve with you. Fellow aviators still on duty, press on, and leave no one behind!
SPC Michael Janson
As a former Light Fighter, I have not forgotten my own days of hard and exhausting training in the Kahukus. I would just like to let the families of the fallen that everyone who ever wore a uniform for this country knows your pain, and feels your loss. I can remember distinctly the sounds of tree tops hitting the bottom of the UH-60 Blackhawk as we moved through the valleys and ridges; indeed those were dangerous times, and I'm glad that, at the time, not many of us appreciated the full measure of it. It made it easier. Only upon reflection, I truly see how close we were flirting with death every field cycle. However, their courage and sacrifice ARE what makes a soldier who he or she is, and that courage defines them above all others. Their heroism will not be forgotten.
Sincerely,
Michael James Dyne
SPC, USA5-14 IN Lancer Brigade1992-1995
There is nothing I may write that will be sufficient comfort. I will pass these words to you, instead. "I feel how weak and fruitless must be any words of mine which should attempt to beguile you from the grief of a loss so overwhelming. But I cannot refrain from tendering to you the consolation that may be found in the thanks of the Republic they have died to save. I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and the lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom." -- ABRAHAM LINCOLN
Edward W. Lynskey
Sergeant First Class
United States Army
"This We'll Defend"
Please forward this to the family and friends of six soldiers killed in the Black Hawk helicopter accident:
I AM
I am the fresh air in the morning,
I am the mist in the early night.
I am the light that shines so brightly,
when ships are lost and out of sight.
I am the one that is there to guide you,
through the long and darkest night.
I am the one that you can lean on,
when all the others fade away.
I am the one that holds the baby,
and will kiss its hurt away.
I am the one there in the darkness,
that will watch and care for you.
I am the one who's heart is broken,
when I see you cry a tear.
I am the one who will be present,
to take away your fear.
I am the one who's hand is reaching,
the one that cares for you.
I am the one who holds the candle,
and will pass it on to you.
I am the one who would give his life for you,
to be sure your life is free.
I am the unknown soldier,
I am the one that died for Thee.
We will try to send a check made out to Soldier's Relief Fund and mail it to The Soldier's Relief Fund, c/o First Hawaiian Bank, P.O. Box 861598, Wahiawa, HI 96786.
Please tell the loved ones, our family is grateful for what was done to help America Stay Free and the sacrifice these Grand Soldiers made.
God Bless You For Your Sacrifice.
James Hunt
Lord, we ask that you receive these six great warriors with open arms and lay a hand upon the families to steady them in their time of need.
Phil Lasher
I feel for the lose of your Heroes. Please accept my condolences. May God bless you at this time and always.
Sincerely,
Tyler
Salt Lake City, Utah
From an Aviator brother, may the Lord keep you strong through these difficult times. They gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Let's honor them proudly as SOLDIERS. We will miss them dearly.
God speed,
Martin Telles
SFC, USAArmy Recruiter
(So Cal Bn)
I had the distinct honor of serving in Bravo Company, 2-25 from 1994 to 1998 as a crew chief. I want you to know that although your loved ones have slipped the surly bonds of this world, they are among friends. Those friends are the countless other soldiers who have laid their lives at the feet of lady freedom. Although I can offer no words to ease your grief, I want you to know that you are not alone.
You belong to a family made up of America's finest: soldiers, veterans and their families. We mourn with you. We, together, carry the burden that freedom demands. Your loved ones have contributed more to this great country than they ever took from her. When you gaze upon our mighty Stars and Stripes I hope that you will realize the pride and dedication with which they served. I urge you to make a trip to Arlington National Cemetery. When you walk among the rows upon rows of fallen soldiers, rest easy. Your husbands, sons and fathers are among those proud spirits. We do justice to their sacrifice every day we wake up free, proud and united as a nation under God. They are not gone, nor forgotten. Every time the sun comes up on the North Shore look closely: within the bright rays of sunshine are their smiling faces. We will not forget. You are not alone.
Steve Woodward
Tallahassee, Fla.
Just want to give a salute to the soldiers who give it all for their country. I too have serve with the 25th, (E-5) and been on many training missions. I do understand how the units are feeling now. Just remember Soldiers, you must continue the mission. Carry on!
pbenjamine
CSM (Ret)
Tribute To Our Fellow Soldiers
They will live in the hearts of the friends they made
And be known always for the foundation they laid,
Because Goodness and Fairness never die.
They go shining on like sun in the sky,
Just as Honor and Truth endure forever,
Death is powerless to destroy or to sever....
So their gallant soul has taken flight into
land where there is no night,
They are not dead, they
have only gone on to a brighter, more wonderful dawn.
God Be With You All
Olga Keehu
As a former Army Aviator (Vietnam), I never really know what to say in these situations. It is never easy losing a friend, comrade, or loved one in any way. But the sacrifice our soldiers make without fanfare is beyond that required of any other group of people. Know that I am keeping you all in my prayers, thoughts, and wishes. May the God of all peace be with you, and smile His countenance upon you. Heroes are those who give without being asked, and ask nothing in return. I did not personally know any of these men, but I do know they were heroes of the highest caliber.
Roland W. Wilson
CPT, IN, (former)
Posted on March 2, 2001
No words of mine can ease the suffering for the six families whose loved ones gave their last full measure of devotion. Please know that you are all in the prayers of my family and I. Our hopes are that you are surrounded with the memories of the love and devotion to family, unit, and country that your loved ones displayed as a member of this humble fraternity of brothers in arms that will always remember them.
SFC Thomas Earley
A-Troop 3-4CAV
Schofield, BKS.
I found the following verse years ago by an anonymous author after losing fellow paratroopers from my unit in an accident at the "Green Ramp" of Pope Air Force Base. My hope is that this simple verse will bring a small measure of comfort when your thoughts turn to the husband, father, son, brother, friend, or fellow soldier who will always be with each one of you in their own special way.
"Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there.
I do not sleep
I am a thousand winds that blow;
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain;
I am the gentle autumn's rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush;
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft star that shines at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there; I did not die."
May the Lord bless you,
K5DSGT, USA
"One Team, Hooah!"
The following email was sent to me from someone I really don't know who lives in Florida but with whom I share his sentiments.
To the Men & Women of the 25th Infantry Division, their family & friends,
On 18 February 2001, while racing for fame and fortune, Dale Earnhardt died in the last lap of the Daytona 500. It was surely a tragedy for his family, friends and fans. He was 49 years old with grown children, one, which was in the race. I am new to the NASCAR culture so much of what I know has come from the newspaper and TV. He was a winner and earned everything he had. This included more than "$41 million in winnings and ten times that from endorsements and souvenir sales".
He had a beautiful home and a private jet. He drove the most sophisticated cars allowed and every part was inspected and replaced as soon as there was any evidence of wear. This is normally fully funded by the car and team sponsors.
Today, there is no TV station that does not constantly remind us of his tragic end and the radio already has a song of tribute to this winning driver. Nothing should be taken away from this man, he was a professional and the best in his profession. He was in a very dangerous business but the rewards were great.
Two weeks ago six U.S. Army soldiers died in a training accident when two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters collided during night maneuvers in Hawaii. The soldiers were all in their twenties, pilots, crew chiefs and infantrymen. Most of them lived in sub-standard housing. If you add their actual duty hours (in the field, deployed) they probably earn something close to minimum wage.
The aircraft they were in were between 15 and 20 years old. Many times parts were not available to keep them in good shape due to funding. They were involved in the extremely dangerous business of flying in the Kahuku mountains at night. It only gets worse when the weather moves in as it did that night. Most times no one is there with a yellow or red flag to slow things down when it gets critical.
Their children were mostly toddlers who will lose all memory of who "Daddy" was as they grow up. Their fathers died training to defend our freedom.
I take nothing away from Dale Earnhardt but ask you to perform this simple test. Ask any of your friends if they know who was the NASCAR driver killed on 18 February 2001. Then ask them if they can name one of the six soldiers who died in Hawaii two weeks ago.
18 February 2001, Dale Earnhardt died driving for fame and glory at the Daytona 500. The nation mourns.
Six soldiers died training to protect our freedom. No one can remember their names and most don't even remember the incident. However, just remember there are some us out there who do care, share your grief, respect & appreciate your sacrifices and we honor your dedication to duty, honor, country.
Phillip A. Tatum
D Company, 2nd Bn, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Div
Republic of Viet Nam 1968 - 1969
Posted on February 28, 2001
To the families of the six brave men who made the ultimate sacrifice, I salute you and your sons. I am so very sorry for the loss. There are no words to describe my thoughts at this moment.
May God bless.
Sincerely,
Donald R. Allee
Executive Director & CEO
Port of Beaumont, Texas, USA
To the families, fellow soldiers and friends of those who lost their lives in this tragic accident:
My deepest sympathies go to you. You are all in my family's prayers. My son has been in the Army since June 1999 and is stationed at Schofield Barracks in the 65th Engineer Battalion. Last year during one of his training exercises one of his fellow soldiers also lost his life. It was at that time that the reality of the dangers of learning to defend our country hit our family. My son, like all or most others, has willingly decided to join the U.S. armed services to defend the freedom of our country. It is a tough and dangerous task they have accepted responsibility for. They are to be considered heroes and are to be saluted by everyone from our nation. We pray that these families and friends can find peace and comfort during this tragic time.
God Bless You All,
Larry Parker
Dudley, Massachusetts
As a former Navy squadron commanding officer who has worked closely with our country's soldiers, my heart goes out to the families and mess mates of those who were lost in the tragic accident. It is small compensation, and little solace to remember that their sacrifices are what makes our country great and our freedom secure. God bless.
v/r
Walt Kreitler
CDR USN
Posted on February 21, 2001
We've had the honor and special privilege of knowing the Olson family through many experiences. The Olsons were not only classmates of mine, but we also served a tour together at USMA. It was during this tour that Holly also delivered my youngest daughter and we worshiped together at the same church. Needless to say, our two families came to know each other in a special way. Our personal as well as professional paths were intertwined.
Rob's professionalism and sense of humor will never be forgotten. You could always count on Rob greeting you with a smile and he was always upbeat about everything. Rob's belief in Jesus Christ was always seen in his actions and words. My family and I were saddened very deeply by this loss, but we know Rob has left an incredible mark on cadets, soldiers, classmates, fellow officers, friends and family. God has a plan for all of us and we know that Rob is with God. We know that Rob will always be with us in spirit.
Our prayers go out to Holly, Brittany, T.J. and to all the families of the men who served with honor in the 25th ID.
God bless,
MAJ & Mrs. Eric C. Turner & Family
'87
For the sons, fathers, brothers and husbands who were lost in the accident, I offer my deepest sympathies to the families. You have had to live though the worst fear of any aviator's family. Here we feel as if we have lost a part of our family. While we may not have known these men personally they are part of the brotherhood of Army aviation. I thank you for my freedom and I offer you this prayer: LORD, GUARD AND GUIDE THE MEN WHO FLY.
Mary C.D. Hamilton
As a returning "Tropic Lightning" soldier, my thoughts and prayers go out to our fallen soldiers and their families. It's a sad and hard and hard reality of freedom. I know there were times when I was on the same training missions, that my wife and feared the worse too. Your sons and husbands are all heroes that should be saluted. May the Lord grant you peace and comfort.
Conrad B. Chavez
SSG, USA
Battalion NBC NCO
"ELEMENTIS REGAMUS PROELIUM"
To the families and fellow soldiers of our fallen protectors:
My deepest sympathies go out to the families, friends, and fellow soldiers of these brave individuals. They like many stand in the face of tyranny to protect the less fortunate. In this, they each day risk their lives in the pursuit of freedom for those oppressed. They are fathers, husbands, sons and brothers, and comrades. In this tragedy may we all learn and reaffirm that freedom comes at a high cost. My prayers go out to those who have lost, families, friends, and fellow soldiers.
May God bless,
Ivan Mills
To the families and friends of the six soldiers killed in the Blackhawk crash, I want to express my sincere sympathy. As a former member of the LRSD 125th. MI 25th ID, I have had the pleasure of working and training with aviators, and artillerymen alike. They are all great men and great warriors. This tragedy hurts my heart deeply. Although I have never met any of these men, I feel like I have lost a part of my family. I pray that their families will make it through this loss, and may these warriors rest
in peace.
Respectfully Submitted,
Blayne C. Lannan
As a former company commander in the 25th Infantry Division my heart goes out to the family, friends and fellow soldiers of those killed in the crash.
Your division commander, MG Dubik, as my battalion commander told me the day I relinquished command - the world will never know the level of service and sacrifice you have given to this nation.
For your service and sacrifice - I know. I thank you for your service and pray for your comfort and strength to drive on.
I too lost 12 friends on a helicopter crash in 1992. It hurts. For those we lost, we have established a memorial web site as well, http://www.ranger.org/Antelope_Island/index.htm.
May God be with you,
Karl Monger
B Co, 5-14th Infantry 1988-89
Even though I cannot recall ever meeting your (deceased) loved ones in person, I felt as though I knew them all some place, somehow, somewhere. I attended the memorial services and heard nothing but kind words being spoken ,giving one the sense that these were truly "special people." From my family to yours, we send you our deepest sympathy. God bless you all.
Cornalia Williams-Valdiri
Posted on February 18, 2001
This message comes with love and prayers for the families of the young men gone before their time. But who is to say. Not us. You might think this is easy for me to say, but it isn't. Our oldest son is currently serving in the U.S. Army, stationed in Alaska. He is with the 1/501st Parachute Infantry Regiment (GERONIMO). He, too, trains to defend our country if he is called. It does not thrill me to know he is jumping out of airplanes, for training, in the event he is called upon to ensure our freedom. I pray every day for the men and women who have chosen to keep us free. Not only because our son has chosen to do so, but because we do enjoy the freedoms we have. One of those freedoms is being sent by me to you right now. At this point in time this may seem trivial and not bring you comfort. I pray some day it will. You do not know me and I do not know you or your children but I will never forget any.
May God Be With You.
Connie Knerr
A Soldiers Mother
Our son was on the perimeter of the L Z with A company when the accident occurred. Our hearts go out to all of the families. We are all proud of the choices our sons are making and all should be considered heroes to a grateful nation. May God be with all of you and these men. May God gradually give you peace. Words can not truly express our loss.
Anne and Chuck McVaugh,
Pennsylvania
My husband is an Army aviator here in Hawaii. Sadly my worst fears were realized for you on the night you lost your loved one. We have been praying for you and all of your families. I can't begin to tell you how sorry I am that you are going through this. I also want you to know that we feel like we've lost one of our family too.
As a military family when one is lost we all feel his absence. Your husbands, brothers, fathers and friends will never be forgotten. My heart is hurting for all of you. May God help you through this.
Stacy Maurer
Your loved ones are the true heroes of America. No less than on a battlefield, they have given their all in defense of our freedom. In your darkest hours, when they are missed and their sacrifices seemingly forgotten, or when ignorant fingers of blame question their skills, please take comfort in the thought that their service remains quietly and sincerely appreciated by the great silent majority.
Parent of a young Army Ranger
To the families of the 6 men who were killed. My heart goes out to you. I just went through 8 years of my Son in the Army and I feel like I too have lost family. They belonged to all of us. Thank you for what they gave, may the good memories and love sustain you in the long run. I salute all of them.
They were someone's son, brother, husband, father, uncle and friend and they will be missed.
In sympathy,
A former Army Mom
Roberta Paul
Amityville, NY
I wholeheartedly believe that God puts people in our lives who are intended to have a lifelong impact on us. Rob was one of those special people. As first semester West Point plebe year roommates in F3, Rob quickly began to show me the true qualities of friendship, leadership, and living life to the full. For that I am truly grateful.
Rob was an incredible friend, husband, father, leader, and soldier. A man who always had a way to lift your spirits. He had a deep understanding of people. A willingness to sacrifice for anyone. I will never forget his love for life, loyalty towards friends, steadfast values, compassionate heart, and true love for family. As we have kept in touch over the years, he has continued to amaze me with his outstanding leadership abilities and great humility.
I believe the acid test of a great leader is how he raises and loves his family. Rob has done an excellent job. As I have had the privilege to support Holly and her children (T.J. and Brittany) over the last few days during this incredibly difficult time, what clearly stands out is that Rob was an amazing husband and an awesome father and leader to his children. They are very giving, polite, obedient, fun-loving and confident. They are awesome kids! Rob I salute you. I will strive to follow your example with my own family, and will do all I can to help Holly continue to raise TJ and Britany the way you desired.
I will truly miss you Rob. Your friendship is one I will cherish forever. I (we) have lost an incredible friend and America has lost one of its best leaders. I hope that all of us that were impacted by your life and friendship will express our honor to you by imitating your character and heart so that many more people can be touched in the same way.
Thank you Rob. Rest in Peace.
Jim Santucci
Thank you for your sensitive and balanced coverage of the Black Hawk incident and for your donation to the Memorial Fund, plus this opportunity to remember one of the victims.
I was a CW3 Black Hawk pilot assigned to SSG Barber's unit from July 1996-September 1999, and participated in the same exercise during that time.
I met SSG Barber as a specialist when he joined the unit, and he impressed me right away with his serious dedication to being a soldier and to doing helicopter maintenance right. He was an excellent and valuable Black Hawk flight crewmember. Flying the UH-60 to its maximum potential and lowest risk really is a team exercise, and SSG Barber contributed greatly in my experiences flying with him.
His family and the unit should be proud that he made the unit, the Army, and the nation better by his participation. Hopefully his loss will intensify his positive effect on his fellow soldiers and make them work harder to emulate his fine example as a soldier and crewmember.
Sincerely,
(former) CW3 David Nuss
We offer our deepest, heartfelt sympathy and prayers to the families who lost cherished love ones in the crash of the helicopters.
Karen and Dan Eshelman, Parents of Sgt. Matthew Eshelman
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