7.7.05 Hey baby! I miss you so much. This weekend
was really hard for me and everyone else. It is just
so sad, but I figured it would of been sad anyways even
if u were still in the sandbox. But I am so proud of
you and everything u stood for. You are a true hero
baby!!! U lived your life so unselfishly, at times!
;) and u lived your life to the fulliest. You got to
do and share so much, anyone who knows u has nothing
but great memories. I know I do!! I just wish we were
given more time to share those memories. Yesterday Boots
and I went shopping. We bought Marine Corps keys, u
can make them into anything! My is just going to represent
the key to my heart! Cause you have it baby!! We shared
so many wonderful memories. It was so great to finally
get to see her. I havent seen her since Nicks funeral
and u know that is not like us. We had such a great
time! and sad at times too. It was really sad leaving
her, even though I am going to see her on saturday.
But she is my connection to you two and my support like
I hope I am to her. So after I left the mall, I got
really upset. No not because I spent money!!! but because
I starting thinking about the wonderful life we were
planning on starting. Reading your letters again made
me realize how excited u actually were about moving
out together, even though u wouldnt let me decorate!!
haha!! and then our plans to disney and moving to florida.
We had our future set, I just wish that was still the
situation. Boots and I started talkin about Vegas and
that night at dinner. It was so funny. I told her about
the time when we were walkin back to the hotel and u
were like hey baby u wanna go the the chapel and get
hitched. I started laughing at you and said hold on
ill need a couple more drinks. You were like what u
have to be drunk to marry me! haha!! U know that is
not true! I wanted to marry u with all my heart, and
looking back i wish we would of gone that night, drunk
and all!! Boots said that same night she asked Erdy
to go! He was like ok if that is what u want... but
like us they knew everyone else would be mad, so they
didnt!!! But we thought that was kinda a bitter sweet
memory. I just miss you so much and wish you could be
here with me. It is so hard here without you. West and
Strahyle might be coming down on saturday for a cookout.
I cant wait to see them again. West is a great guy and
hopefully we continue to build our friendship cause
I enjoy hangin out with him. I think it makes me closer
to you, hearing all your funny stories with the guys.
Strahyle is a nice guy too... I really hope he can make
it down here this weekend. I am goin to try and call
Camp today, West gave me his number last night. It is
going to be hard, West told me to brace myself. At least
he warned me! It is great talkin with these guys who
served right next to you/! We can share stories and
memories and laughs. It helps take away all the sadness
at times. West and I came out to the grave the other
day and shared a drink with you, hope u enjoyed yours.
Dont worry we will be back out! We are goin to go visit
Nick the beginning of August. We are goin to take Bunker
and West to a Reds game and then the hoffbrauhouse.
West wants to go there since u and Erdy talked about
it all the time. I was lookin through stuff the other
day and I found the apartment info i was sending you
and stuff your mom brought back from Disney for me.
It was really sad. I just wish we could of gone to Disney
I know how excited you were to go! That Shedaisy song
says it best, "I still remember your touch, its
beautiful missing something that much, but sometimes
love needs a fighting chance, so I'll wait my turn till
its our turn to dance! I sleep alone, I cry alone and
its so hard livin here on my own, so please come home
soon!" I remember dedicating that to you right
after u left for Iraq. I just wish come Sept I would
get to run into your arms. It is going to be so hard
to have to watch people be so excited to see their loved
ones when mine had to pay the ultimate sacrafice for
his country and I wont get the warm welcome home with
the big hug and kiss. Well baby before I start crying
even more, I just wanted to say I miss you so much everyday
and the pain of that tragic day is almost gettin worse.
Just make sure you watch over your family and friends
and fellow marines. Your mom, sister and brandon need
that right now, along with the rest of us. B has been
great through this as I am sure you know. It is hard
for him to have to see you mom and sister upset like
this it just upsets him, he is so good to them. He is
trying his hardest to make you proud. Make sure everyone
does well by you. Be good up there with Erdy, take care
of each other. I love you baby, Rumor has it you love
me too... Love always and forever, Kristin
7.7.05 so a few days ago we celebrated the fourth
of july, the day when we celebrate all the things we
lost you for...it doesn't seem right because all most
people see the fourth of july as is cook outs and fireworks
and all that..I don't believe most people actually think
about and remember what it means, and it's not right...i
guess i didnt think about it much either before this
but then i did this year because it actually means more
when its someone you know..your mom kristin and brandon
came over to eat with us and then I saw them at the
parade..i was in it for cheerleading, me and martika
did a jump for them...it was embarassing..well I just
wanted to let you know I miss you a lot! and think about
you everyday..also taking care of Kristin..we love and
miss you!..
Peanut
7.6.05 Hey man, I'm at work for a few days so I thought
I would get on and say hi. Well the 4th was a tough
day, I stopped by, as you know, and saw the beer caps
and bottle sitting by you. I hope they poured some out
for you and didn't just drink it all themselves =) By
the way, yes that was a Harley I rode up on, Chris and
I finally got a bike. I was never really for the whole
street bike thing untill this tradgedy happened. You
lived your life so great and enjoyed every minute you
were here and that inspired me to try to do the same.
I just wish you were here to enjoy it too. Yeah, I guess
I would let you ride it. I also wanted to let you know
Chris and I finally got our tattoos. It hurt pretty
bad but it's the least we could do to show you how proud
of you we are. There isn't a day that goes by that I
don't think about the old days of hanging out and playing
caps and all the other great times we all had. Well
now that I'm tearing up I'll talk about something else.
Chris and I went over to your mom's house these past
few weekends and edged and mulched the landscape. I
guess you have an excuse this year for not helping,
and yes Chris did make it over there this time. =) Hopefully
we can go over every year and do the same. This weekend
we are all going to Kristin's condo clubhouse for a
cookout. It will be nice to see everyone again on a
better circumstance. Well, most likely I'll stop by
this weekend and say hi but I'm going to go wash the
truck now so know that we all miss you and think about
you everyday. RIP brother. Timmer =)
7.4.05 Hey Dustin,
It's the Fourth and this is a tough holiday without
you. We have our house all "red-white- and blue".
Your dad put a really nice American flag out recently
and we illuminate it at night so it can stay out all
the time. No doubt in this neighborhood who's partiotic!
We read an great article today with quotes from some
of the other Marines in the weapons co. They are, as
I am sure are all the Marine's are, very proud to be
serving thier country for the cause of freedom on this
Fourth of July.
But, many mentioned missing a cookout complete with
hot dogs, hamburgers and a cold beer or two!
Glad you got to "have a beer" the other day
with West and Kristin E. She said it was one of the
best days she's had since you've been gone. I was glad
to hear that. We all miss you and it can hurt so bad
not to have you here with us. When I get to feeling
too sad your Dad is so good at reminding me that you
are in heaven! (hope there's hot dogs...or many sub
sandwiches and some fire works there today!)
I love you and miss you so much.
Love Marla
God Bless America
We have and continue to be blessed by you Dustin
6.29.05 Hey Dustin- I miss you so much. I think about
you all the time. I am always coming out here to see
what other people have to say to you. I haven't been
out to visit you yet, but I'll make my way out there.
When I come out here I just want to cry everytime. You
had so many friends I didn't realize it. So many people
love you and miss you. Please bring those boys back
home soon. And watch over them. I really do miss you
and miss making fun of my Nick with you. If we had more
time together we could have got him to change his clothes.
Please take care up there. Love, Sara Bear 6.27.05 Hey baby... I dont know where to start. I miss
you so much it is unbelievable. This week has been hard.
I went to family day and I finally got to meet your
friend West. Nice guy! It was nice getting to talk to
him because he was able to share stories about you.
I got his cell number so we can hang out and so I can
bring him out to see you. He said he wanted to go out
there sometime. Last night they did a special on your
unit during operation madedor. It was extremely sad.
I watched it by myself, I thought it would be better
that way but i think I was wrong. Then I finished up
your scrapbook, just putting pages in it from the funeral
and the others too. I put all your letters in one page
and some pictures and poems on another. It turned out
really nice I just wish you got to see the final project.
I read your letters last night. One of the first ones
you sent told me to keep my head up and be proud. I
wish it was that easy. I am so proud of you!!! but it
is hard not to be sad all the time. I try my hardest,
i promise! I just thought I would never have to feel
as bad as the day I left Vegas.. I thought that moment
would be the worst moment we would have to go through
together... but I guess things in life can always get
worse. I just wish we could of started that life together
that you had wrote about. But I guess it was my time
to share you... and let everyone else get to see your
bright shinny smile. I just miss that so much... I wish
I could of had more time to be with you.... and I wish
it didnt have to end like this.... I LOVE YOU CPL DERGA!!!
and I know you will always be by my side!!! Rumor has
it you love me too!!! Love always and forever.... Kristin....
(and no not your sister!! haha;) )
6.23.05 Dustin,
Hey man...I just wanted to let you know that I think
about you everyday. I don't believe that I could ever
be as brave and as honorable as you have been. It's
guys like you who keep guys like me safe, and I am forever
in your debt. I know you are smiling big in Heaven right
now, and we'll all be together again soon. My prayers
will forever go out to you, your family, and your friends.
Oh...almost forgot...we all got the joke at the service
when you kept messing with the audio...always putting
a smile on everyone's face when they need it most. :D
Forever grateful,
Kevin / BJFD / NTFD
6.22.05 Hi Dustin,
I just wanted to let you know how much I miss you. It
seems to get tougher some days for your Dad and me.
We cry each day over something that reminds us of you,
or about missing something about you.
We had a nice time at Familiy Day. We are glad to be
part of the Lima Co. family. It helps your Dad and me
to help others if we can.
We sent a box of stuff to Trevor today. And the pirate
flags will go out this week too. I think lots of people
signed them for the guys. Talked with Trevor's mom last
night and she said the guys all miss each and everyone
of you.
I have your "goofy glasses" picture up on
my computer. It helps me remember that you are indeed
smiling each day in the presence of our Lord in heaven.
How awesome it must be! Some days I wish I was there
too. But I know God has some plan for me and your Dad
and all of us left to carry on here. I hope we all make
you proud of the how we continue to live our lives.
We are all trying our best but I have to admit that
some days are much harder than others.
I think back to all my letters and our talks about God
and stuff. Since as Nick Garver put it, you have been
"promoted" to our heavenly headquarters"
I am sure all your questions have been answered now.
Could you put in a good word for all us "weaklings"
down here? I know somedays my questions far out number
the answeres!
And I know I need all the help I can get!
Well ,I love you and miss you so much Dustin.
Love Marla
6.21.05 Dustin-
I have been wanting to post a note on here for so long,
but I couldn't find the words to describe my pain. I
only have a few memories of you, but only memories that
will never be forgotten. I remember the first time I
saw you in your uniform. You walked in my home in a
straight line, focused, assured, steadfast and dedicated-
then you stopped, turned, and saluted. I was amazed,
yet proud of your decision.
Another time, (oh this is good) was at my brothers wedding...You,
are so sly...poring Sky Blue in my Sprite trying to
get me drunk AT MY BROTHERS WEDDING .....(funny, especially
if I'm the one who is driving Nick's wedding gifts home
that night..funnier-we won't tell Nick by the way) I
know my brother made you walk down the isle w/me ( wasn't
your choice-i know this ;) ....because looking back
at old pictures, the expression on your face was priceless...(bored
out of your mind, or slightly intoxicated) You're crazy.
I have visited you about 5 times. For some reason, though
I was not really close with you nor your family...my
thoughts are with you all. I can't imagine what your
sister is going through. As a sister of two brothers
who are choosing to be cops, the risk they are taking......ahem...
I love them so much, i don't know what i'd do if something
were to happen. My heart aches for Kristen, as being
a sister. What an amazing young lady.
Okay....im done...i will be checkin' up- watch over
the family of course and watch over my brother Nick.
(I know he's taken it hard)
Guard the gates of Heaven solider!
Jenna Garver
6.20.05 Hey boo... So I made it through my week in
Michigan... It was fun.. but we did some really good
training.. Stephs grad party was Saturday the day after
I got home... that was a lot of fun especially after
the day that I had... It was good to finally get to
see everyone again... well I miss you... and love you...
Your mom and I were talkin yesterday that it doesnt
seem like it is getting any better but maybe even worse...
It sucks... it is so hard not having your smiling face
around... cracking the sarcastic jokes... "So baby
how many beers you have?"... "Only one! After
another!" as mad as you would make me... u always
covered it up by making me laugh.... I miss you so much....
but at least I have the wonderful memories we made in
the short time we had together... I LOVE YOU... rumor
has it you love me too (and so does BOOTS) haha... Love
always and forever... Kristin...
PS Hope u didnt make fun of you sister too much the
other night.. I think someone just needs to teach her
the technique.
6.19.05 Hey man,
It seems like lately things have been getting harder.
With the warm weather finally here I'm starting to miss
a lot of the things we use to do together. Things like
hanging out at the pool, throwing the baseball around,
having friends over for a cook out and playing disc
golf. I miss the days where it seemed like there was
nothing to do so we would hit up quizno's or chipotle
and go play some disc golf. It was always a good time.
It seemed like we'd often talk about life and just whatever
was on each other's mind. You were always great about
giving advice. I still feel like I'll be forever in
debt to you. I have a career that I love and if it wasn't
for your enthusiasm about the fire service I probably
wouldn't be doing what I am today. While I will always
miss what time we could have spent together in the future,
I will always cherish the memories you gave me. There
are so many of them. Some good some bad....heck some
are still a little fuzzy. Anyways, I will be getting
a tattoo dedicated just to you. It's really awesome.
I'm sure you'd like it. My brother is getting one too.
It has an m16 w/ the american flag and dog tags draped
around it. It says derga at the top and May 8 2005 USMC
at the bottom. Well I should probably get off here.
I'm at work. Just know that you'll never be forgotten
and are always missed.
BestFriend, Chris
6.15.05 dear dustin,
we think about you so much. and know you are in a great
place. we are so proud of you. you are truly missed.
please watch over trevor and everyone in his platoon.
and stay out of trouble w/ nick!!!!
love,
Pam & Gary
6.13.05 Hi Son,
Boy do we miss you! Well one month ago today Marla and
I met your remains at Port Columbus. You had to get
in the last laugh by making it hail on the way to the
funeral home, just like the hail you had in Iraq coming
back from your last mission before Matador.
We saw a picture posted on the web by one of the 3/25
Lima Marines with your Pirate Flag on the Amtrac. The
picture was taken on the day you died. Marla and I cried
over that last night when we realized the date. Well
guess what? I ordered 5 more pirate flags just like
the one I sent you. We are hoping to get all the families
to sign them at Family Day and then we will send them
to Gy. Sgt Hurley. I got a nice letter from the Gunney
last week and I Motomailed him to tell the guys we are
doing fine and to hang tough. I told him about the plans
for the flags we want to send and asked him to get it
approved so they could be flown on the vehicles. Please
talk to the General up there to get this OKed. I think
the guys in Lima would be happy to see the Jolly Roger
flying again in force with our names.
The outpouring of support has been so great. We are
invited to a airshow here in Canton this weekend. They
are going to do a missing man formation flyby in yours
and all the fallen troops honor. We are hoping to get
some of the flags put in the planes before we send them
to Iraq. The flyby is Saturday and we may miss it because
of timing with Family Day. If we do, we will try to
go Sunday. I know how you loved the air shows. We are
saving a seat for you.
An elderly WW2 veteran called me on Saturday. He is
doing charcoal drawings of all the Ohio soilders killed
in Iraq. Marla and I are going to see him Tuesday and
take him some reference pictures (who knows maybe the
goofy goggle picture will be used! ). They are going
to do a memorial service with all these displayed at
his church sometime later this summer. I broke the news
to him about the 3 Marines from 3/25 Weapons Company
in Akron being killed last week. You and Erdy show those
guys the ropes up there - they were good guys like you.
Well son, I got to go for now. Keep close to us. There
are days I close my eyes and I swear you are right here
with me. We love you so much and we are SO PROUD OF
YOU.
Love dad and Marla
6.12.05 Dustin, well it has been a month. It has been
the longest and hardest month in my entire life. Chris
and I went out the other night and had a good time.
We both said it has been a long time comming. We went
to a couple of places and ended up at some bar in the
arena district, where we saw Hansome Dan and Stephanie.
Everytime we all get togethor we share good thoughts
about you. It is awsome how much your life reflected
on so many people. You are being worshiped as a the
most honorable, strongest and funniest person that we
all have met. Your Mom and Kristin are still having
their good and bad days. I know that there will be harder
days to come. I pray all the time that we all can make
it through them. I promise you that I will always be
here to take care of your Mom and Sister. You will never
have to worry that they will be neglected. Your Grandpa
was back in the hospital the other day. He has taken
all of this very hard. I think he likes the hospital
food or something or maybe Mount Carmel Hospital has
taken the place of Denny's Dinner and it's his new secret
spot to eat. We are trying to plan a trip to Myrtle
Beach. I think we all need to get away for a little
bit. Almost eveyday we turn the news on there is something
about Lima company and it's usually not very good news.
Well buddy, I'm going to let you go. You and Erdy take
care and watch down over us. Love You
Brandon Harmon
6.12.05 hey baby... well i am off to michigan for a
week.. should be pretty fun or at least I hope.. well
i just wanted to say that i will come visit when i get
home... i miss you so much.... and more everyday...
well u better watch over those boys and keep them safe...
they need u right now... i love you baby... rumor has
it you love me too... xoxo your boo...kristin
6.10.05 Dustin-
So its been about a month. Long time. You meant more
to me than I knew. If I'm not concentrating on something,
my mind will wander and once I think of "Dustin"
I get flooded with memories, all of which are good and
usually funny. But I also feel regret. Many times I
was "too busy" to go out and do something
with you. I know after I got married and moved away,
you came to my place more than I went to yours. I just
never thought there wouldn't be tomorrow, or next week.
Lots of great times were missed. Well, I should probably
get back to my project I'm working on. You know what
it is. I'm hoping it will turn out favorably. Ok well,
I've gotta go. I'll never forget you! Love ya - Nick
6.8.05 Well it has been a month today... Not so fun
if u ask me... I think about u every minute of the day...
It has been hott lately so Im sure u would enjoy it!!!
I miss you so much and love you too.... our memories
will never be forgotten.... and my love for you will
never parish... well I will be out later to visit...
I love you and miss you... rumor has it u love me too!!!
Love always and forever Kristin
6.7.05 Young Patriot
by Roger W Hancock
A man we did not know,
Whose life had not yet begun.
Young, too young to experience,
The freedom for us he fought.
Our family member in liberty,
Young man’s loss we grieve.
Tears of pride and loss we shed,
In death this man still leads.
Procession of flag draped casket,
His family’s grief we join.
Sacrifice so great, he gave,
For those he knew, not known.
A son, a brother, soon a father;
Patriot youth, now home to rest.
Servicemen’s camaraderie,
Fallen hero our pride to carry.
Attention stand, tears down face,
For this man we did not know.
6.7.05 I want to say thank you Dustin for fighting
for our country. You are a hero. Please be with all
the other men that are over seas fighting for our country.
Bring them home safely. Thank you again for all that
you have done for America. - Dee
6.7.05 Sorry I have not been out to see you the past
few days... I feel so guilty... I have finals this week
and they are kicking my butt... I am so stressed out,
I guess that is what happens when u do not go to class
for a few weeks!! Trevor called yesterday... It made
my day (especially after failing a final!)!! It is so
great to talk to him... he misses you so much also...
The phone calls arent the same as you calling... but
at least they havent stopped!! It makes me feel better
to still get my phone call from Iraq... He has actually
done good calling too... I have received a call every
week... kinda crazy... he is starting to get as good
as you were calling!!! and you know that isnt like Trevor!!!
Everyone misses you so much... and Bruce leaves soon
so you better take care of him... I wish i could be
with you right now!!! or at least you here with me...
I dont think that is asking too much!!! I just wish
we had the opportunity to move to florida... cause u
would of looked so hott changing the oil and mowing
the grass in your speedo!! haha... that letter was awesome...
u made me laugh all the way through it!!! I guess i
should be gettin a package here in a couple weeks,....
Trevor said u and Nick were sending me and Ash stuff...
so they boxed it up and sent it out to us... they added
stuff on the memorial too so that should be nice...
Boots is good... she should be coming up tomm.. hopefully
i miss her... i want to see her again... I am gettin
deployed on Sat... dont worry I am just going to Michigan
to have some fun and do some chem warfare training...
Well baby i gotta start studying... I miss you so much...
and Love you... rumor has it you love me too!!!=) Love
always and forever... Kristin
6.4.05 Hey baby.... So this past week has been really
hard on me.. I think it is the whole getting back to
your life thing... It is just really hard... there is
not a moment in time that I do not think about you and
all the wonderful memories we shared... from the first
phone call i received from you over a year ago... to
the last phone call i received May 2. .. Bruce is going
over there soon... u better watch over him baby... He
needs to come home to his wife and kids... but your
mom and I told him we are willing to help with them...
Just do your best to bring him home... This morning
we are having a benefit for the soldiers killed from
Ohio in Iraq... hopefully it does well cause you boys
deserve it... well I miss you so much... and I will
never forget you.... my love for you will stay as strong
as it has been.... and the memories will get charished
more with time... Just wish we had time to make more
wonderful memories.... But you did your job and u did
it like a true hero and you are so honorable... I love
you CPL DERGA... and rumor has it, you love me too;)...
U and Erdy better be good up there... cause i know how
much trouble you both caused down here;)... Love you
baby, Kristin
6.4.05 Dustin -
I checked out your spot, Kristin is correct, it is by
far the best looking one there. They could have given
you a shade tree, but I remembered you always liked
to be in the sun, so maybe it suits you better than
I thought. On the bright side, you can maintain your
tan... So anyway, not sure if I ever told you, but THANK
YOU for your service, for protecting our Country, and
for fighting for a very noble cause.... FREEDOM! It's
truely tragic how it turned out, but I'm not sure anything
else would have been quite so honorable. I'm not exactly
sure what I'll do with the SPAM and peperoni sticks
you asked for, I only wish I would have shipped them
sooner. Sorry:( I'm sure you probably had a large stockpile
of it though, at least I hope so. Your dad gave me a
shell casing from the 21 gun salute. That made me proud.
Its funny how the smallest things in life are sometimes
truely the biggest. It would have meant next to nothing
if I would have walked over and picked one up for myself.
He told me you thought of me as a brother. I know you
did, I just hope you know the feeling is mutual! Of
course, you probably know alot more since your recent
promotion. I hope they keep this website up forever.
It's probably one of the only ones that really means
anything. At the end of the day, who cares about these
other sites. At first I was reluctant to use this site,
but I see its value now... I was thinking, it probably
won't be too long, proportionately speaking, until we
all get promoted. 100 years is a blink of an eye when
compared to eternity. Just consider yourself on vacation
for now. We're all on the next flight, the delays just
vary slightly. Ok, well as my Uncle would say, "next
time you're in town, stop in!" You have a key to
the joint don't forget. Love ya man. - Nick
6.2.05 Hey Dustin,
I haven't had the courage to write but I thought it
was time that I let you know how I feel. I want you
to know that I think of you everyday and when I see
a red Jeep or hear a Skynard song or at work when I
look at your Marine picture on my desk. I'm so glad
you've been a great best-friend to Chris and big brother
to Tim even though you enjoyed picking on Tim like a
little brother. Chris couldn't have a better best friend.
There are so many great memories like the time you,
Chris and Terry went to see David Allen Coe and the
New Year's party you kids had at my house. Ok, maybe
I wasn't happy about it then but I know you kids had
fun and I can laugh about it now. It was fun when you'd
go with us to see the band play. I even got you to dance
with me a few times. I was so proud of you the time
you came to the river with your Marine uniform on. I
told everyone you're my other son and I was proud to
say so. Well I don't want to babble on but I want you
to know that I'll continue to be friends with your Mom
and family. You've made such an impression on so many
lives and there are so many people that love you and
are so proud of you for the ultimate sacrifice that
you made for our country. You'll be in our hearts forever.
Until we meet again... Love, Debbie
6.1.05 Hey man, sorry it took me so long to write
you. I haven't had the chance to be on a computer in
a while. I don't know what to say. I just keep thinking
it's all a bad dream. I, along with everyone else, miss
you so much. Yes I said I miss you even though you spent
half your life picking on me and playing jokes on me
( like the time you and Chris went in my room and put
the wet tissues on my bed and the video in my VCR and
left it playing until I got home ). Yeah that was a
classic! I sure do miss those times. You are such a
great person for everything you have done. I look up
to you as a brother and as part of my family, as does
Chris and everyone else in my family. I remember those
good old days fishing at Mallard Pond, driving around
in your saturn during a snow storm, and getting stuck
in a snow bank, twice, at the same spot but different
times of the day. Another memory I have is New Years
at my house and how crazy that night was but I won't
get into that. God, I wish we could just hang out one
more time. I was so scared when I heard you had to go
to Iraq. I thought about you all the time but I just
kept telling myself, it's Dustin, he has to come home.
Well, you're home, just not the way I wanted. I was
so excited to show you my new place and go party together
now that I'm 21. We were both going to get four wheelers
like we talked about and go riding together. And most
of all, the last thing you told Brittany and I before
you left was that we had to wait to get married because
you wanted to be there. I guess this way you'll get
to be at the wedding and at the honey moon if you want.
=) No, wer'e not having it in Florida so don't pack
your speedos. Well, I'm at work and it's getting late
so know that I love ya and I think about you everyday.
We all miss you and I can't wait to see you again. Tim
5.31.05 Hey Dustin, It has been a long couple of weeks
since we found out that you left us. Nick and I miss
you so much. He is taking it really hard. I still can't
believe that you are gone. We are still saving the beer
caps. I'm not sure what Nick is going to do with them.
Nick mowed your mom's lawn for her. He was going to
keep doing it, but another company is going to mow it
for her for this year. I am sorry that you thought that
I didn't like you. It's not true. Please watch over
your family and Nick,which I am sure that you are. We
heard you messing with the music in the church during
your service. :o) Well I guess I better get back to
work. Miss you bunches. - Sara
5.31.05 Dustin -
So I haven't written on this site yet, I thought it's
about time... I miss you brother! I thought since it's
Memorial Day and all, I wanted to do something. I think
I'll stop by and visit for awhile tomorrow when I go
mow down the street from your mom. Your Jeep is in good
hands. Where did you put the brackets to the back seat
though? Not sure if you met Kelly at the Pizza Shop
in Thornville, but she's a nice mom in need of a vehicle.
Your mom was nice enough to sell it in her price range.
She's keeping the "United States Marine Corps"
sticker in the front windshield to remember. It's amazing
to me how many people know you ... who you met, maybe
only once or twice when you were with me. I think you
went to Dresden with me twice to my Grandparents, she
sent me a card right away, and Grandma, being "Mrs.
Kodak" has you in a few photo albums, categorized
by year of course. A girl you had the hots for (prior
to Kristin of course...) flagged me down when I was
patrolling her street and we talked for about a half
hour. As far as I know you only knew her from when you
rode with me at work. Its great how many people remember
you and all have a fun story to tell. Even though I
won't see you till I get to the other side, you're still
very much alive. I'm having a vehicle decal made up
in your honor, I'll try to make it available to those
who want one. Its something I want to do for you. I
have a glass full of beer caps for you, I stopped collecting
them since... Course I really haven't drank too much
here, I usually reserved that for when you came over.
Its wierd but I find myself saying things you would
have said. Not sure how to describe it besides "blunt".
Usually I sugar coat things appropriately for whoever
I'm talking to at the time, but there have been afew
noticeable instances that just made me smile, cause
I can hear you saying it. Feel free to stop in anytime.
I believe I caught you the other night, messing around
with the lights in the cruiser. I never thought I'd
be sad at the thought of someone NOT making fun of me,
but I've got to admit I'm on the verge of tears just
thinking about it. I want to go sky diving as you did,
I think it would be awesome. The only thing that concerns
me is, since you're in heaven, you probably can "pull
afew strings" from time to time, I trust you'll
leave my parachute strings alone:) I saw a picture of
you and it reminds me of, well a picture I have of me.
I'm going to put them side by side and blow it up (without
the use of explosives). Ok, well we'll talk soon. Feel
free to spot me every now and then since you have the
upper hand now! ... Ok well I'm having a rough moment
right now I'll ttyl brother. Nick
5.30.05 Dustin -
We miss you more than you can imagine. You'll always
be with us. Have fun with Erdy and say hi to Grandma
for me. Love always. Mom
5.30.05 Heey baby.... So it is Memorial Day... We (Steph
and I) decorated your grave with American Flags yesterday...
it is the nicest lookin one out there... you would be
so proud... We are going to the Battalion 8 tonight...
having a few drinks for you... it is going to be hard
for all of us... i know chris and scott still have probs
haning out there... and imagine this... I still cry...and
we know we wont be able to play pool cause i have no
partner... cause you know brandons isnt good enough!!!
it is just hard hangin out what at the place we spent
every night... and haha it is looking like you are doing
some good work up there... cause chris and stephy are
hangin out, finally!! Good Work baby!!! Dad just made
dinner for us (Steph, your mom, kristin, brandon., and
my fam) ... it was really good... u would of liked it...
Me and Boots are goin to Bethesda soon... not sure when
but soon... we need to go see the boys I think it might
help us out some... oh baby I miss you so much... and
love you... Stephy wants to share a story with you so
here it is....
Hey babe! So I was driving home from Athens the other
day, and I took Allen Rd. into Pickerington, and I have
to say, I had quite the laugh when I came up to the
railroad tracks. I almost forgot all of those times
we spent goin over those damn things!!! I could just
hear you tellin me to go faster...haha...but things
are a lil bit different without the saturn to beat up
;) So I just wanted to share that with you, and let
you know that I had a "Dustin moment" the
other day...you gave me quite the laugh! I miss you...take
care of yourself. Ok, well Kristin, Terry, Brandon and
I are gonna go drink beers now at the Post. We'll have
a few for ya!
Love you,
Stephanie
Well baby... there is not a day that I will not think
of you... u are my hero and I love you so much... There
is no one that can take the honor and courage away from
you and everyday people are so thankful for what you
have done for this country... I love you so much...
you and Erdy better be good.... Love you baby... Kristin
5.30.05 Dustin,
You will not be forgotten. When Michael came home on
leave this past week, one of the first things he did
was pull out his yearbooks to look at your pictures.
Rest in peace, sweet Marine, rest in peace. - Linda
- Navy Mom
5.29.05 DUSTIN.........IT'S BEEN SEVERAL WEEKS SINCE
YOUR FUNERAL, BUT IT SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY. I'VE BEEN
TRYING TO GET BACK INTO THE SWING OF THINGS BUT IT'S
STILL HARD AT TIMES. IT'S JUST AMAZING HOW ALL OF THE
PEOPLE WE KNOW CAN COME TOGETHER AT A TIME LIKE THIS.
I'VE BEEN KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH PEOPLE A LOT MORE. EVEN
THE OLD GANG FROM HIGH SCHOOL.
IM SO PROUD OF YOUR FAMILY. I THINK THEY'RE HANGING
IN THERE PRETTY WELL.(AS WELL AS EXPECTED) BRANDON'S
BEEN GREAT TOO. HE'S ALWAYS THERE FOR YOUR MOM AND SISTER
AND KRISTEN E TOO. HE AND I HAVE BECOME REALLY GOOD
FRIENDS. I ALMOST LOOK AT HIM LIKE A BROTHER. MEMORIAL
DAY IS HERE AND I GUESS THEY'RE HAVING A SERVICE TOMMORROW
AT THE CEMETERY. I GUESS SOME PEOPLE ARE GOING. I DON'T
THINK ILL BE GOING THOUGH. I FEEL MORE COMFORTABLE STOPPING
BY AND TALKING TO YOU BY MYSELF. IT JUST SEEMS A LITTLE
MORE PEACEFUL THAT WAY. I WAS GLAD TO SEE THE NEW PICS
THAT WERE RECENTLY POSTED. IT'S GOOD TO SEE TREVOR AND
BRITTON TOO. IT SEEMS LIKE I STILL WORRY ABOUT THOSE
GUYS EVERYDAY. I KNOW YOU AND ERDY WILL BE WATHCING
OVER THEM CLOSELY......WELL HAVE TO GO. IM AT WORK...................PS
SAY HI TO ERDY FOR ME.................CHRIS
5.22.05 I met Dustin while he was working for ISG Columbus
Processing. He loaded my truck with coiled steel on
several occasions. Always kind and appeared to be a
very hard worker. I didn't know what to think after
receiving the tragic news of his death. To his parents,
It was an honor knowing your son Dustin. I'm very sorry
of your loss, he was kind and very respectful to the
truckers that he loaded on a daily basis....
My prayers are with you all......Ken
5.21.05 Hey baby... Just thought I would write to say
hello. My dad made dinner for your mom , sister, and
brandon.... chris, tim and brittany also came over.
We had a lot of fun... Peanut even found brandon a song
that described him... It is called "Special Fred"
haha... you would love it.... We went to Cincinnati
earlier to see the Erdys and Ashley. It was good to
get to see them... I took Ash and Mrs Erdy a present,
I hope they liked them. Laura bought a star in your
name... she named it HERO-Dustin... that way she said
I will always have you.... right there... It was so
nice and special.... We are going to Dixons showing
tomm... it has been a tough weekend already for your
mom.... you need to watch over her and make sure she
is ok.... Well Im sure I will talk to you lata.... I
miss you and love you.... Rumor has it, you love me
too..... Kristin
5.19.05 Dustin,
Hey just checking in with ya. Your Mom and Sister are
doing a little better this week. Your mom still hasnt
been on her own since she found out. I dont know if
she ready to be yet. I have had a lot of people tell
me this week about how proud of you they are. I garantee
they are not as proud of you as I am. Chris and I are
working on a benifit for you guys. There are a lot of
local bars the are wanting to help us out and you know
scott wants to put something togethor. I went to work
on Tuesday. When I was getting my cruiser loaded and
ready to go I could image you sitting in my passanger
seat. Just to let you know I am going to keep all of
my equipment in the trunk for now on so I can always
have a seat for you. It would be my pleasure to have
you looking over me. Plus I think your sister would
feel a lot better. Well buddy your mom is calling for
me. I think she wants me to sweep the living room floor
or something. You see she must be felling better. Tell
Erdy I said hi
Love Ya
Brandon Harmon
5.18.05 TO DUSTINS FAMILY,
WELL I WANT TO START BY TELLING YOU ALL THAT I HAVE
BEEN PRAYING FOR YOU.IM TRULY SORRY.HE WAS A VERY BRAVE
MAN.ALSO I WANT TO SAY SORRY.. I WROTE A LITTLE SOMETHING
THE OTHER DAY TO YOU ALL AND I DIDNT THINK IT WENT THROUGH
BUT....I GUESS IT DID BECAUSE THEY PUT IT ON HERE TWO
TIMES..SORRY FOR THAT..WELL I WISH THE BEST FOR YOU
ALL AND ILL KEEP PRAYING FOR YOUR FAMILY...MAY GOD BE
WITH YOU ALL....
THE MILSTEAD
5.18.05 i Found out bout his death while i was in dc
with my friends n here to find out my bffff is his cuzin...
im soooo sorry for the whole family! - Brittany
5.18.05 Dustin,we have never meet but You are a hero
in the eyes of the world. A special person who picked
Kristen to be your loved one. I thank you and other
young men that have given to our country to keep it
free. I know that you rest in peace because God needed
you to come home and be with him. - Aunt Annie
5.18.05 Hey Baby... So today I am finally going to
try going to school and work. It is going to be so weird.
We are also going to West Davids viewing later. It is
all just so hard. I talked to Bunker yesterday. He told
me he was in the same house as you were on Sunday. He
is hanging in there but he was hurt real bad and I think
hearing about the loss of all the guys makes it worse
on him. But I know You, Erdy, Davids, Ivy, Goodwin,
and Dixon, along with others are watching over him and
the rest of the 3/25. I am awaiting a phone call from
Trevor, it will be good to hear his voice. I just hope
him and Britten will be able to fight on. Please protect
them and keep them safe. I received two letters from
you yesterday. I finally got the letter that I have
been waiting for. The one you said u sent that told
me exactly how u feel. It was amazing baby. And I loved
it so much, as I do you. I will never forget you and
your smiling face. Or the nights you would come home
and crawl in bed and tell me you loved me a million
times till I would wake up and say it back. My memories
of us will never wither and you will surround me everyday
of my life. I want you to know that I was ready to marry
you and you werent scaring me away with you comments
about getting married. I loved you with all my heart
and I would of been honored to be your wife. I love
you so much CPL Derga!!! You and Erdy better take care
of Ash and I. and each other. Just dont drink too much=)
Love you always and forever!! Rumor has it you love
me too!!! Love Kristin
