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Andrew Olmsted Obituary

Major Andrew J. Olmsted, age 37, died in Iraq on January 3, 2008 while serving with the US Army. He was born on February 1, 1970 in Bangor, Maine. Major Olmsted is survived by his wife, Amanda Wilson of Colorado Springs, his parents, Wesley and Nancy Littlefield Olmsted of Grafton, Wisconsin, a brother, Eric and wife, Corinne Olmsted of Watertown, Massachusetts, a sister, Catherine Olmsted of Grafton, Wisconsin, mother-in-law, Kathleen Wilson of Kingston, New Hampshire, brother-in-law, Ian D. (Gina) Wilson of Hudson, New Hampshire, niece, Elisha Wilson of Hudson, New Hampshire, grandmother-in-law, Ruth A. Wilson, North Andover, Massachusetts. Andy received BA Degree in History and Government from Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts. He was an avid Red Sox fan; he enjoyed reading, watching movies and playing war games. He loved going to Disney World. Andy was also an Eagle Scout. Andy loved writing and was writing a blog for the Rocky Mountain News from Iraq. Major Olmsted earned his commission through Reserved Officer Training Corps on 11 December 1992. He earned great respect from those he served with, beginning with his first assignment at the 66th Armor Battalion at Fort Hood, TX, where he served as A Company Platoon Leader, Assistant S3, and D Company Executive Officer. He then proceeded to Camp Casey, Korea, where he served as the S3 Air Officer for 72d Armor Battalion. In 1997 he returned from overseas to Fort Carson, Colorado, where for the next ten years he served in various positions and units, to include: 3d Brigade, 4th Infantry Division as the S3 Plans; HHC, 68th Armored Battalion, Commander; E Company, 362 Armored Battalion, Commander; 2d Brigade, 91st Division, Brigade S1; and 361st Engineer Battalion as the Battalion Executive Officer. His bravery, compassion and 'lead from the front' demeanor was displayed as the Team Leader, 1-5-1 Military Transition Team, 2/3 Armored Calvary Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, attached to 1st Infantry Division at Forward Operating Base Caldwell in Iraq. Major Olmsted faithfully served our nation for over 15 years. His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, three Meritorious Service Medals, four Army Commendation Medals, two Army Achievement Medals, the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star Device, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Korea Defense Service Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with "M" Device, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, the Combat Action Badge, and the Parachutist Badge. Funeral services will be at 2:30 PM on Tuesday, January 15, 2008 at Soldiers Memorial Chapel at Ft. Carson Army Base, Ft Carson, Colorado. The Olmsted family requests that memorials contributions be made to Captain Thomas Casey Children's Fund, PO Box 1306, Chester, CA 96020 or The Home Front Cares, PO Box 38516, Colorado Springs, CO 80937-8516.

Published by The Gazette from Jan. 12 to Jan. 13, 2008.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

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Memories and Condolences
for Andrew Olmsted

Not sure what to say?





Many cite Andrew's kindness and generosity. I'll not deny those qualities. I will add as a CPT working for him at Fort Bliss, he was simply one of the most competent officers I've encountered. His insight in to any situation was a revelation to me...he was that good. I learned much from his wisdom, intellect and experience. I will always remain shocked and saddened by his passing.

Steven C. Roumell

Friend

September 22, 2021

Our Boy Scouts had a cookout for Shrewsbury's veterans. My son and I toasted a coke to Andy. I knew him from Troop 101 in Northborough. He's not forgotten.

Sean Flynn

May 28, 2019

I was the battalion signal officer when Andy was the S-3 AIR for 1-72 AR in Dragon Valley, Korea (96-97). He lived right across the hall from me in the captain's hooch. He was the nicest, funniest, caring guy I knew at the time. We often helped each other out with battalion support activities when going to the field. The guy was filled with common sense and because of that, a soldier's soldier. I don't recall a single person who didn't like and respect him. Fantastic guy whom I will always remember.

Aaron Spinos

May 27, 2019

Hello,
We would like to express our deepest condolences and also let the Olmsted Family know that we recently made a small donation to The Home Front Cares in honor of Andrew J. Olmsted US Army Major. We recognize that this is a humble tribute, but we wanted you to know that it is heartfelt and made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals in the youth hockey community and beyond. We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of the US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign

Charlie Gili

May 6, 2014

The beat goes on..., friend.

January 28, 2014

To the family and friends of Maj. Andrew J. Olmsted:
It has truly been my honor to sign Andrew's guest book these past few years. Unfortunately, due to complications from my Multiple Sclerosis, it has become increasingly difficult for me to continue after this message. Please forgive me and know that Andrew will always be remembered in my home.
With love and respect ~ Peggy

Peggy Childers

January 3, 2013

On this Memorial Day 2012, I just want Andy's family to know that you are in my thoughts, and that he isn't forgotten. I hoisted a coke and toasted him listening to Freedom Isn't Free. I told my kids that Daddy had a friend who died, so that they'll remember him too.

Sean Flynn

May 28, 2012

To the family and friends of Maj. Andrew J. Olmsted:
Always remembering Andrew. "Some gave all."

Peggy Childers

January 3, 2012

Sleep well Brother. I miss you.

Eric Niksch

January 15, 2011

To the family and friends of Maj. Andrew J. Olmsted:
Please accept my remembrance of Andrew on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten in my home.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Peggy Childers

January 3, 2011

Tomorrow is Memorial Day May 31, 2010. I just want you to know that my thoughts are with you today and tomorrow. You don't know me. I am your neighbor, from a couple of states away. I didn't Know Andrew either. But I feel I do now, after reading all about him on line. Please know that he is not forgotten and is not just a number. Thanks for letting me intrude on your loss of a wonderful son,husband,and a true American.

Paul Rich

May 30, 2010

To the family and friends of Maj. Andrew J. Olmsted:
Remembering Andrew on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Peggy Childers

January 3, 2010

To the family of Major Olmstead,
My sincere and deepest condolences. I had the honor and pleasure to serve with Andrew many years ago at Ft Carson. I will remember him for his diligence and exemplary work while assigned to the 3d Brigade Combat Team. He servers as an inspiration to always do things right, no matter if it took a little longer. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Respectfully,
Stephen Murphy
1SG, US Army (Retired)

November 24, 2009

Olmstead was the best. He helped me get promoted and even pinned me. I really wish I knew sooner. He was funny and he cared about his soldiers. I will miss him deeply. SGT D. Flores

David Flores

September 5, 2009

Andrew,
Happy belated Birthday.

Michael Iezzi

February 2, 2009

I offer my deepest condolences for your loss

T Starman

January 17, 2009

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.


The Wind on The Downs

“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”

(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )

Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….

“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”


I did not know Andrew, but I am remembering
his service and sacrifice. He is my hero. !

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Other Side

i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.

can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.

i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side

the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)

“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008


The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol



Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b

January 3, 2009

To the family of Maj. Andrew J. Olmsted:
Andrew gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Peggy Childers

January 3, 2009

FREE OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING OF THIS HERO. COMPLETE FORM AT WWW.HEROPAINTINGS.COM
We love our Soldiers! This is a Nonprofit Organization to honor are Soldiers!
Please contact us! Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, God Bless You and we hope that your portrait is bringing you some peace!
Sincerely,
Kenna

Kenna Larra

December 2, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Maj Olmsted!

July 7, 2008

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Maj Olmsted and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

July 7, 2008

From My Family and I, our hearts go out to you. I'm very sorry

Sandy Rapazzo

May 3, 2008

To the Olmsted family,

I know there are no words to say, except how sorry I am for your loss. May you hold Andrews' memory in your heart and please remember he shall never be forgotten.

...For you every single soldier
Those who served so honorable
Your life was forever altered
While I’m home safe and free
I stand with grateful admiration
I stand respectful and so proud
I know I’m only a civilian
And I don’t even know if it’s allowed.

But I salute you; allow me the honor
to salute you with permission let me say
Even though I hold no rank know that from my heart
My humble gratitude comes from the deepest part.
I salute you.

A Proud Aunt
David M.Fisher
KIA 12/1/04 Iraq

Suzanne MacDaniel

March 2, 2008

Andrew,
Happy Birthday in Heaven. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

A loved one lives forever in the hearts of those who cared.
A loved one lives forever in the memories that were shared.

Michael iezzi

February 1, 2008

I find it so hard to express how I feel in words. Andy was a hero, a comic, a loving person. He could always make me smile with his dry humor and quick wit. I find out now since his death of his great writing talent. My heart goes out to Amanda, Aunt Nancy, Uncle Wes, Eric, Cathy, and Corinne.

Linda Sargent

January 24, 2008

Rest in pace where all is calm.

Henryk Zaleski (Lt,SC,USN-Ret)

January 18, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Jennifer Swisher

January 16, 2008

Its so hard when your son joins the army- you have to be proud of them but nerves too,Brandon, my son joined so young at 17 and i worry all the time-something that will never stop. i am so sorry about andrew-my thoughts are with you and he will always be in your heart.

lynnette poulin

January 15, 2008

Many thoughts and prayers.

January 15, 2008

Maj. Olmstead,
Sir, I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Mike Casey

January 14, 2008

I do not know you nor did I know your HERO Maj Olmsted but I lost my grabdson PFC Jeseph R Berlin on December 30th. As I grieve the loss of our hero please know there are many proud Americans who also grieve with you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all the families whose sons and daughters have made the ultmate sacrifice fou our freedom. Thank you!

A Proud Grandmother of a fallen hero

January 14, 2008

A true hero.

Randa Boyer

January 14, 2008

Our deepest and sincerest condolences to your family on your loss, from the proud parents of Raymond J. Lougee, Retired Master Sgt, who was also posted at Fort Carson. Our son too, served on foreign soil on many tours while in Special Forces, and we have thanked God every day for bringing him home safely each and every time, to his loving family.
May the Lord bless you, be with you, and keep you in his care.
(we're formerly from Maine)

C-J and Ray Lougee

January 14, 2008

Amanda,
As we gathered today and shared memories of Andy, we held you close to our hearts. Underlying all the stories was a great love for Andy, for family, and for you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always.

Lisa Cooney

January 13, 2008

WE ARE SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS AND WILL KEEP YOU IN OUR PRAYERS

THE FMAILY OF
SGT. MATTHEW E. HATFIELD
AFGANISTAN

SANDRA BAILEY

January 13, 2008

Our Church lifts up all who serve at our Worship Hour. We long for the day when we can take down our yellow ribbons. Mrs Olmsted, we will keep you in out prayers as well. In accordance with your wishes we are sending a gift to Capt. Thomas Casey's childrens fund. Walt Lundblad Pastor USAF RET

Walter Lundblad

January 13, 2008

We share the loss of Andy Olmsted as a member of our greater Olmsted family. He was a true American Hero.

Genealogist, Olmste(a)d Family Association

Walt Steesy

January 13, 2008

TO THE FAMILY OF ANDREW, I OFFER SINCERE CONDOLENCES AND PRAYERS. ANDREW, THANK YOU FOR YOUR COURAGE AND HONOR. GOD BLESS YOU.

Linda Cano

January 13, 2008

To The Entire Olmsted Family And Friends: Please take comfort knowing that Andrew will never be forgotten. He will always be remembered each and every year on a day we call "Memorial Day."
Rest In Peace Comrade
(Salute)

Mike

January 13, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. Think of the good times and things will be fine.

Sandra & Howard Stuart

January 13, 2008

Rest in Peace, Andrew. Thank you for serving and protecting our country. My condolenses to your whole family and all your friends.

Dianne Posner

January 13, 2008

A fine man and great American, RIP, and God Bless his friends and family in their time of need.

1SG USA Retired

January 12, 2008

I was saddened to learn of the death of Andrew. May God comfort you in this season of loss and sorrow. I pray that you will draw near to God as He desires to be near to you and to comfort you.
I met Andrew in basic training. He was blessed with intelligence and wit.
I wondered what a young man with such obvious talents was doing subjecting himself to the hardships of soldiering.
I never heard him complain. He always maintained a great attitude and outlook.
I recall there seemed to be ongoing challenges between Andrew and his buddies about everything.
Andrew recited the capitol cities of every state in one contest. He seemed to be up for every challenge.
He was a great guy.
It was so many years ago but some how I remembered him when I saw his name listed along side those of our fellow soldiers who have given the ultimate sacrifice.
God bless you and keep you. God make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you. May God lift up His countenance and give you HIs peace. In Jesus name, Amen.

SSG Bighorn

January 11, 2008

With the deepest regret, I have just learned of the death of Major Olmsted. As a Vietnam Veteran and the State Chaplain of the Georgia Society, Sons Of The American Revolution, I speak for our President, Charlie A. Newcomer, III and the more than 1,400 SAR members around the State of Georgia in humbly expressing the condolences of a grateful Society. Wrapped in the integrity of service to our nation and the inestimable values of duty, honor and country, your American hero stood on a wall of freedom for us all. This precious life, lived and lost in love of America, epitomized every attribute of patriotism the Sons Of The American Revolution hold dear. And, as Americans, we could never repay the debt we owe ..!! Nor the debt we owe you… the family of one of America's best ...!!!

Chaplain Dan Gates

January 10, 2008

My heartfelt sympathy to the Olmsted family in the loss of Andrew. I did not know Andrew, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. Andrew you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom

"To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~

Tom Gugliuzza

January 10, 2008

As the proud wife of a soldier who was KIA I want to send my deepest condolences to you Amanda and the family of Andy. I read his final blog and it was very touching. I only cried on the part to Amanda. I know that this is a whirlwind of everything going on right now and I hope that in the next year when things settle down you will be able to look back and go through all the things people are saying and leaving for you. No words can help you right now and though you are probably surrounded by a million people, you may still feel alone. I hope you will find some comfort in the words he sent last to you and continue on in search of the happiness he wanted you to have. He is right, you deserve it. I know this time is difficult and while I wish I could offer you the words and wisdom as well as promises of it being better and easier with time, we all know it doesn't get easier. It does get more tolerable. He will always be your hero no matter what, now I hope that you can live twice as happy for him....he sounds like he loved life so very much so it would be the most fitting tribute to him to see that you are happy. I will keep you in my thoughts....If there is anything I can do for you please email me at the below email....and I will send you my contact info.

Lynn Smith
Wife of a Hero
SFC Scott R Smith
KIA 07-17-2006

Gari-lynn Smith

January 10, 2008

To the Family and Friends of this Soldier:
I will stand in grief with this soldier's family to honor him. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guestbook for the rest of my life, but I promised Brent that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
We lost our son SFC Brent A. Adams on 12/1/05 and it seems like yesterday. I wish so badly there were things I could say to you right now to make the pain you are feeling go away, but I know first hand there simply are no words that will bring you the comfort and peace your heart aches for. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you go through this tragedy moment by moment and as you mourn this loss.
We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group none of us wanted to join, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with as our hearts both burst with pride and pain together.
I am sorry that I never knew your soldier personally. While they can never be replaced, neither will they ever be forgotten. You must trust that sometime, someday the loving memories you have will help to sustain you and help you go on. This courageous soldier will forever be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me some measure of peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well.
To his family and friends in pain, I offer this comfort: When you find yourself in that dark sorrowful place, think not only of how you will miss him, but instead recall the years, days, hours and minutes gifted to you by his presence. The one thing that cannot be taken from you is your wonderful memories that now will mean more than ever.
If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away and would love for you to tell me more about your Hero.
God Bless this soldier and family who gave all and God Bless legacy.com for setting up this site where families can so quickly share their condolences and prayers with others like themselves.
Proud Parents of SFC Brent A. Adams, KIA, 12/1/05, Ramadi, Iraq
Pam and Bill Adams, Lancaster, PA

January 9, 2008

My son sent me a link to Andrew's wonderful letter, and I cried as I read. He sounds like a remarkable person. He did know what he believed and what he stood for, and who he loved. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all as you face the most difficult days of all. Love from the mother of Benjamin Chandler Schuster, KIA Ramadi Iraq on February 25th, 2006.

Phyllis Schuster

January 9, 2008

There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.

Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.

I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.

REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!

I would also like to tell you about a website, http://groups.msn.com/SSPSoldierPor
traits/homepage,
where some wonderful people will make wood portraits of your fallen Hero for free for the immediate family. I became aware of this site when I wanted to do something special for Le Ron’s mother.

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett (Queens, NY)

January 9, 2008

SCOTT CHAMBERLAND

January 9, 2008

Father we entrust our brother Andrew to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
May God hold Andrew in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. My deepest sympathy.

Michael iezzi

January 8, 2008

As a mother of a Soldier, I want to send my condolences. Please know that there are many, many people who grieve with you.

Sandy Bonesteel

January 8, 2008

Thank you Andrew for your service and sacrifice. Thank you also to Andrew's family. I am so very sorry for your loss. I pray God's strength get you through the coming days. May your good memories be a joy to you always.

Kay

January 7, 2008

We offer our most heartfelt sympathies to Major Olmsted's family and friends. Bless you as you grow through this painful time. He represents the best our country stands for and his memory will always be honored by our family.
Parents of a deployed Marine,
Susan and Lt. Col. Gary Priest

Susan Priest

January 7, 2008

My son served with Major Olmsted and was with him the day of the ambush. He told me that Major Olmsted fought with great courage and he was proud to have been a part of his team for these last months.

Charles Thompson

January 7, 2008

Andrew,

I am so proud to have known you.
It was just a few months ago when you were home, you stood so proud with no fear in your eyes. It made me proud to meet you.We talked a little about the war. I fought in Vietnam and hoped that we could keep future young men from fighting in a war. But, that did not work.
When I heard the news I cried. Rest in peace my son! YOU ARE THE AMERICAN HERO!
An old Vietnam Vet- John Di Fazio

John Di Fazio

January 7, 2008

Amanda & The Olmstead Family.

Your husband, son and brother gave the ultimate sacrifice to keep us free. Words can never express how proud we were to have met Andy. We don't know the reason the Lord has taken Andy, but I'm sure he has a special job for Andy to do in Heaven. God Bless You All - Your in our thoughts and prayers.
Linda & John Di Fazio

Linda Di Fazio

January 7, 2008

We care and share your sorrow and pride.

7th grade Louisburg Middle School

January 7, 2008

God bless this family at this very hard time. losing my son also in Iraq on 10/13/06, so I know the pain you are enduring and will continue to endure from this point on. he is in God's hands now, and we will misss this brave soldier. Phyllis Broomfield proud mom of Lt. Johnny Craver KIA 10/13/06

Phyllis Broomfield

January 7, 2008

I can't even find the words...I lost my 19 year old son--5 Sept 2007, Balad, Iraq. I am absolutely devastated and I know that you are too...but find comfort in the fact that we will see our loved ones, our heroes again. Do I wish that I could trade places with my son? ABSOLUTELY not. He is in the arms of our Lord--"And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away" ~Rev 21:4
What a wonderful thought...
May God bless Maj Andrew J. Olmsted, God bless you and your family and God bless America!

Contact me if you want to talk. I am heading up the first ever Gold Star Mothers Organization in Colorado Springs. We will offer support to each other and the families of other Veterans in our city. We will lean and hold onto one another and lift each other up...Please contact me for more information at your convenience.

PROUD Mother of
Specialist Dane R. Balcon
KIA, 5 September 2007
Balad, Iraq

Captain Carla Sizer, USAF

January 7, 2008

May you rest in peace Major Olmsted. Know that because of brave souls like you, my son (Dane R. Balcon), the many others before, and yet to come, people in America have the right to live and express themselves freely. Your job here is done; although you are physically gone you will not be forgotten. May God bless the family and friends of this American Hero.

L Sizer

January 6, 2008

My prayers and thoughts are with you.
I know how you feel losing a "HERO",Becoming a "Gold Star" Mother myself on 25 March.. The sacrafice our sons and daughters are making on a daily basis should tell us all..These young HEROS knew full well what they were doing and did it proudly When you hug your loved ones tonight.... Remember... We also hugged ours and they were protecting you..We.. as Americans need to make the "Ultimate Sacrafice" by supporting all our military(HEROS)...the Proud Mom of SGT. Jason W. Swiger
5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne,Fort Bragg, N.C. KIA 3/25/007

Valorie

January 6, 2008

January 6, 2008

We love you Amanda, and we loved Andy too.....He is protecting dad now.....He died a true hero!

Ian, Gina and Elisha Wilson

January 6, 2008

I am writing to offer my deepest sympathies to you and your family over the loss of your HERO Maj Andrew J Olmsted. I lost my son in Iraq on May 6/2007, so I can well understand your pain of losing a loved one so dear.

I pray you will be guided by a higher power to give you peace, comfort and strength in this time.

Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit
GOD Bless you and your family. Your soldier was a true American Hero and we are all very proud of his service. He will not be forgotten!

(Proud mother of Sgt Joel W. Lewis, 5/20, 3-2 SBCT /Ft Lewis
KIA 5/ 6/07, Baqubah, Iraq)

Gale Poindexter

January 6, 2008

Thank you Mrs. Olmsted for sharing your husband. He has touched many lives in his service to our country. May Peace be with you and your family.

Ernest Murphy

January 5, 2008

Rest in peace Andrew. Your sacrifice wasn't and never will be in vain. You truly are a hero by every definition of the word.

Len Miller

January 5, 2008

I thank you, sir. Words cannot express my thoughts, but I hope to see and thank you personally in the hereafter.

From an old veteran to a much younger patriot and hero.

Neal Shaddock

January 5, 2008

God bless you and yours. Thank you for Andrew's and your contributions and sacrifices. Andrew is a true hero.

Steve Smith

January 5, 2008

Words cannot express my sympathy to the family. Good bless you all.

Scott

January 5, 2008

I pray that God will bring you comfort in this time of sorrow. Andrew is looking down now knowing that his sacrifice was not in vain. He is a true American Hero. Although I did not have the pleasure of knowing Andrew, I will not forget the sacrifice he has made. God bless you and your family and may he rest in peace.

Chuck Hoehn

January 5, 2008

REST IN PEACE MAJ. OLMSTED, TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS MAY THE MEMORIES OF THIS WONDERFUL SOLDIERS LIFE FILL YOUR HEARTS WITH BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES
GOD BLESS YOU

SHIRLEY DONEY

January 5, 2008

I am Deeply Saddened to learn of the loss of Maj. Andrew J. Olmsted. The Price this Brave Soldier and his family have paid for this country and for freedom, Will Never Be Forgotten.

May Andrew rest safely now, in the Loving Care of God and may the Grace and Comfort of the Lord be with the Olmsted family.
There will Never Be Enough Ways to Humbly Thank these Heroes for their Supreme Sacrifice, my brother among them. Killed in action in Vietnam in 1967.

"Cast thy burden upon the Lord,
and He shall sustain thee."
~ Psalm 55:22 ~

Hoping you can feel the thoughts of caring and support that surround you today and in the difficult days ahead, as this Grateful Country mourns with you, for Someone Very Precious to you, Who Is A True American Hero to all of us.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Garnet Jenkins

January 5, 2008

Showing 1 - 73 of 73 results

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Memorial Events
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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Andrew's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

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Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Ways to honor Andrew Olmsted's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates

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