Carlos Arellano Pandura, 22

I lived in Baltimore in the pits of crime and horror, 4 murders within 100 yards of my door, and the Bloods seemed to be getting stronger everyday. And while we Anglos walked with our heads down and prisoners of the community, the Mexican's were fearless, hardworking, wonderful parents, and an example for the entire community to follow. Before I left, 4 brave Mexicans were murdered in cold blood for no reason, and the media and the community never blinked an eye nor seemed to care. I realized from the experience that these brave warriors, very similar to Carlos, are the true Americans. Brave, patriotic, and deserving of true honor and praise. GOD bless the peacekeepers, and may his death in patriotic service to our country lead to a good for all mankind.

Carlos,
hey brother I sure was glad that I had you backing me up out there in Iraq. Our squad was family and we felt and continue to feel your abscense you were like our blood . We had been through many hard times but it did not seem that bad cause we had eachother's back. No matter what you will always be with me, I will never forget you. my brother.

Carlitos,
I never would've thought that the last time I'd hear your voice, it would be, "I can't wait to see you out here. I'll make sure to come visit you because I know you'll be scared, but I'm here, so it won't be that bad, I promise. Tell Mrs. Juli and the kids I said 'Hi!' and 'I'm okay' Oh! Don't forget my ranch sunflower seeds and my strawberry bubble gum. Ok? I miss you and can't wait to see your face." I still have your "goody list," I can't throw it away. Those last words resound in my mind everytime I look at your "lucky, salty woof-woof tags" that got you through your first "accident." I remember the day you gave them to me - it was April and I was leaving back to Ft. Riley and I told you I was deploying. You took them off and put them on me telling me that if they saved you, they'll protect me too, you hugged me. You then told me to "stay low, watch your 6 and don't be a Mike-Mike (an inside joke)." That was the last hug I'll have ever gotten from you. It was hard to let go, I was scared. I hung your "salty woof-woof tags" from my rear-view mirror, and they've been there since. Everytime I get in my car, I touch them for good luck and tell you I miss you.
I remember when you showed me your Purple Heart, the pictures from the accident, and the scars...I cried. You told me that it was nothing, not to worry at all, because you were "right here." Well, you still are, Carlitos, you still are.
Jeremy and I found out we were having a baby in mid-February 2006, his due date was 20 October 2006. Can you guess the day the Docs said I conceived? That's right, 20 January 2006, a wave of nausea washed over me when the Doc told me. His 2nd birthday was yesterday. The saying goes that one dies to give life to another, well, I guess that's our case. If I had it my way, it would've been someone else, almost anyone else, but not you. Remember, our bet? Well, I guess I won...by default, if I had it my way, you would've because at least you'd be here. Plus, I wouldn't mind being your Best Girl...shoot, I'd have even worn the tux!
There isn't a day that goes by that I don't reminisce about something that we did together. I still remember whooping your butt in basketball, celebrating like a crazy person, only to hear you tell me (later) that you let me win. I just wish I could travel back to the good days and make everything better, easier, make it last longer. We all knew you were grown up and had your mind set on going back, but it still hurts to know that that decision changed all of our lives, forever. You are here with all of us, day in and day out. The little things are the ones we carry in our hearts and think about. We will see each other again, I know it. I miss you more than you will ever know, and the tears well up every time I see your pictures or think of you. I miss you, Tough Guy. You'd better stretch your wings, work out, and practice your jump shot...you'll need it for the day I get there! Keep an eye out for me and watch my 6!

I think about you everyday of my life carlos. There isn't a day that passes that you dont cross my mind. Your on my mind and in my heart forever. i love you forever brother.
R.I.P Carlitos.

As a Veteran of USN, living in El Monte, I Salute Carlos' Courage and Dedication for his family and country. May you Rest in Peace, my brother.