Blake M. Harris Obituary

Another year has come and gone and we miss you just as much as 18 years ago. I know you come to visit often as I feel your loving spirit, especially at 3:33 in the morning. You see the loving posts from friends and comrades each year letting you know your memory is still alive. You are the lucky one to have gone on early, we still grieve. You are in the loving arms of Jesus, we still have to wait. Keep a light on in your mansion of the Lord, it won´t be much longer before I join you.
Your Loving Father

Hello,

We apologize for being so late in expressing our deepest condolences to you and your family. We want you to know that we will be sending Care Packages to deployed troops this holiday season and several of these will be dedicated to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo, service branch, rank and hometown of Blake M. Harris US Army Staff Sergeant.

We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community, their families, friends and others who support our mission.

We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.

Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of our US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign

Been thinking about you...miss you, brother!

I think of you every time I pass your photo in the "Hall of Fame" in our home. RIP. Linda Swinford

Blake, you are on my mind a lot you were a good neighbor, I think often on when you would have to come across the hall and get Ty when he would be watching cartoons with Jennifer and Celina on Pioneer kaserne. Wish I would have gotten to know you better at Fliegerhorst, Germany. Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice.

Remembering you on the eve of Veterans Day....thank you for your selfless act of service. Can't believe it's been 10 years since your 1st deployment in Iraq.

I am so glad to put a picture to your name and to have learned a few things about you. You will always be special.

Yet another year has passed so quickly since 3-15-07. It seems like yesterday that we received the awful news that you had been killed in action. I will never forget that day as long as I breathe. I miss your sweet smile and your crazy antics. I'm so glad you are my son and I am very proud of you. You are always in my heart and on my mind. I love you and I miss you every day. Mom

Really miss you.

To the family of SSG Harris, We received the quilt that was given to SSG Harris apparently at Balad. We make these quilts to honor our Wounded Heroes. We are having a walnut case made for his quilt with his name engraved on it. Both he and you, his family, will always be in our thoughts and prayers as we remember his sacrifices. It has taken us a while to figure out whose quilt it was, so we could honor him and so future generations could as well. We hope to meet you someday. Very respectfully yours. [email protected]

Thinking about you on this Memorial Day Blake! Thank you so much for your sacrifice!!!

Dear Paul and family,
There are many thoughts and prayers that have been given for Blake and you ALL over these past years. They still are. Although we never met - knowing his dad was enough. Peace.

A sweet note from your brother to Mom on your birthday.....
"You're too old to bother with birthdays, but he was too young not to have anymore....." love, Eric
Mom and I reminisced last night where we were 33 years ago and thought about the sweet baby we held in our arms that day. All I can think about is I'll get to do the same thing some glorious day in the near future. For us it will seem like an eternity to wait, but luckily for you it's only a heartbeat away.

Thinking of you today, and everyday. Happy Birthday Blake. Love and miss you.

March 15, 2012
To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Blake M. Harris:
Please accept my remembrance of Blake on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

Blake, 5 years have passed and it just doesn't seem like it. You are Missed and thought of Daily!
Never Forgotten!

My dear sweet son. It is so hard to believe that 5 years have passed so quickly. It all still seems so fresh and vivid in my mind and heart. How could 5 years have gone by? We love you and miss you and wish you could be here with us to enjoy the little ones, but we know we will be there with you one day. Give Mildred, L.M., Mom & Papa, Nannie & Pop, and Dale big hugs for us. Love you forever, Mom

Hey Blake, I miss you a lot and think about you often. I wish you could be here and see how much I have grown and matured. Wish we could just be at the lake and go fishing together, but I bet they have a lake just like ours where you are and one day I hope to meet you there and go fishing once again, It's hard to believe it has been five years since that day. I miss you Cousin, and will always have you on my mind forever more.

Buhda Man, just wanted you to know that we have another just like you. I call him Buh II. He is built like you, has the same hairline, beautiful smile and sweet spirit but definitely has the temper to boot. What a wonderful little gift from your sister! It is like living my early years of motherhood all over again and I love it. You are so missed and so loved. Rest in Peace. Mom

hey brother just wanted to stop by and say that i miss you so much and not a day goes by that i think of you and the rest of the guys. i hope youve found peace and quite and are resting in peace. i love you brother never will i forget you and the times we spent talking at the COP.

It just doesn't seem like it has been four years since that day in Al-Razul. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about you and the others. You all are missed! Thanks for looking out for us!!
Brian Cook

Four years have passed and yet it seems like yesterday that we received the horrible news of the death of our son. I still get that "kicked in the gut" feeling so often. I miss him but the tears have mostly been replaced with smiles of remembering that wonderful personality and that beautiful smile and crazy antics. He visits and reminds us often that he is here with us when we need him and he is still pulling pranks and loving us too. We love you, Blake. Mom

Can't believe tomorrow will be 4 years already. Some days it seems like yesterday, some it seems like forever ago. Theres not a day that goes by that I'm not thinking about you and missing you. To the Harris family and to all of Blake's friends, you are still in my thoughts and prayers. And to Blake I miss you and love you today, every yesterday, and every tomorrow. I promise I'll make it to visit you one of these days. Until then...sleep in peace tonight, american soldier.

Another year has come and gone, hard to imagine it has been 4 years already. There's not a day goes by that you aren't loved and missed and thought about. I know you are still around in spirit because you have touched people you love with that spirit. Ethan told Holli that you have visited him and said "everything is OK".....his words. Thank you for continuing to be a great Dad, a loving son and brother. And the song continues to play..."Heaven Just Needed a Hero"

To the family of Staff Sgt. Blake M. Harris:
Please know that just as your loved one remains in your hearts and minds; his sacrifice, and that of your family, remains with the people he died defending. Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for his bravery and selflessness, or the heartache we feel for your loss. God bless and keep you always.

You will always be a brother to me we went through basic AIT Airborne and lived at the 82nd together I will always remember you we went through it all together. I remember the times we had at the beach. You and your family are always in my heart god bless you my brother

I remember when you first came to HHC 2-504 PIR 82 nd Airborne Division, you had such a great spirit about you. Brother I will always miss you! May God bless you and your family. Your brother/friend, Kenworthy

Please go to this website to view a memorial to SSGT Blake McKenzie Harris..
http://memorialwebsites.legacy.com/BlakeMcKenzieHarris/Homepage.aspx

A candle adds light to the darkness and Blake is our candle to light our way back to him when that Midnight Cry takes place and Jesus calls all his children home. Blake and Mom and Papa and Mildred and LM and all the saints gone on before us will be waiting with arms wide open to welcome us home. Lord, haste the day.....

Thirty one years ago today at 5:26 p.m. I gave birth to a beautiful baby boy with big blue eyes and deep set dimples like his Dad's and the sweetest smile one can imagine. He was a good son, a good brother, a good husband and a good father and a strong believer in the word of God. He was also a dedicated soldier, fighting to preserve and protect our country's freedom from terrorism. Unfortunately, while on his third tour of duty in this senseless war, he lost his life in Iraq just 15 days prior to his 28th birthday. He will always be remembered and missed. It is so hard to imagine that three years have passed since his death. Heaven needed a hero!

To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Blake M. Harris:
Remembering Blake 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

It's been 3 years now and the pain of absence is still just as strong. It's hard to put into words the depth of depression that can sometimes roll over you. It's amazing how different it is when it is a lost child versus a lost parent or loved one. It's more like a piece of you is missing......This poem says what I feel everyday when I think about Blake.


We thought of you with love today
But that is nothing new.
We thought about you yesterday
And days before that too.

We think of you in silence
We often speak your name.

Now all we have are memories
And your picture in a frame.

Your memory is our keepsake
With which we'll never part

God has you in His keeping
We have you in our Heart.

Only today, nearly 2 1/2 years after the fact, did I stumble across this tragic news. I can't even begin to imagine what it must feel like to lose a child, but my heart is with you. Blake (whose picture reminds me of what his dad looked like when I once knew him in high school) is indeed a hero and will always be so, just as all of our beloved saints who gave their lives unselfishly for worthy causes to make our world a better place. I believe he is with God in the Light and that you will see him again. I wish this war would end, as do so many of us. It has taken so many lives. I will dedicate our annual memorial concert on Friday, September 11, 2009, at St. Margaret's Episcopal Church in Washington, DC, (www.stmargaretsdc.org) to his memory. May he rest in peace, and may his family receive the peace that only God can give to their comfort.

To the family of Staff Sgt. Blake M. Harris:
Blake 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

We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families. War does not discriminate – It breaks my heart to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,400 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Staff Sgt Harris!

Paul, Anne, Holli and Eric:
I just wanted to let you know that although a year has past, you will never be forgotten. Your family will be in my heart forever and Blake will forever be my HERO! Although when I think of him, tears fill my eyes and stream down my face, I can't help to smile when I think about all of the memories we shared over the years, especially our trip with Paul to PCB. You guys were my second family, Blake was like a brother to me and your home was home to me! I know Blake will be right there, as his nephew, Ethan Blake, joins the family. Although we had lost touch before his death, I know that Blake knew he was loved and I just wanted to share with you all how much I love each of you, especially you, Holli! You are always in my prayers and I am always here for you.
Blake, you will never be forgotten!
Love Always,
Angela

I can't believe that more than a year has come and gone so quickly. It feels like yesterday when I got the news of what had happened. Blake you will never (could never) be forgotten and I am greatful every single day for the freedom that you and so many other brave men and women give us each day because of your ultimate sacrifice. We love you.
To the Harris Family: You all are in my prayers.

It was so nice to have you both here on Saturday,to help Honor the PGR.Without them these Brave Young Men and Women would not get the Honor they DESERVE.Thank You for Your Son's Service to our Country.May God Bless You and Your Family.Teresa Bridges

Blake,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Sgt Harris will NEVER be forgotten. As each day passes, I am immensely grateful to have known and served with such a wonderful person. My condolences go out to the Harris family.

It is so hard to believe that it has been a year. I find myself thinking of Blake more and more every day. I remember the young man who came to my house so many times, who always had this beautiful, though mischievous smile. Blake had a way of making you think he knew something you didn't. But he truly had a heart of pure gold. I hope that in the year since he has been gone that Anne, Paul, Brandy, Holli and Eric have come to know the tremendous impact Blake had on so many people. We all still miss him and our hearts are still broken for his family. Though time will eventually heal the hurt, we will always miss Blake and never forget him or his family. This guest book will not outlast the loss we all feel or the depth of our prayers.

Personally I feel blessed to have known such a man as Blake. Men like Blake don't just happen they are formed by loving, giving, spirit filled parents like Anne and Paul. To Blake's family, on this the one year since he was taken from us, we love you all, we, like you miss Blake so much and we hope and pray every day that our prayers somehow comfort you through each day, and night.

Knowing that because of Blake, we are all connected, joined by our hearts, comforted by our memories, and blessed in our lives. One day our souls will all rejoice in song when we meet again. Until then, we will continue to honor your family and Blake by remembering your son, husband, brother and our friend.

Our continued thoughts and prayers out to the HARRIS family.Knowing now what they have always known,are one of the many reasons that our HERO[S] shall NEVER be forgotten.Rest well as prommissed and in your honor that star spangled banner shall FOREVER wave.Your name stamped in steel is FOREVER clutched in the tallons,as your spirit FOREVER soars high in the skies in the symbol of our great nation..THANK..YOU..Respectfully..HO..YAAH....All Hard Chargers**If you are wonded I will carry you**If you are captured I will come for you**If you are K.I.A. I will FOREVER reamber you...We have all COME by NORTH**COME by SOUTH**COME by EAST**COME by WEST,WE WERE ALL GATHERED AND UNITED ON THAT GREAT DAY AS STRANGERS,AS WE STOOD AND UPON THOSE LAST[4] SPOKEN WORDS WE ARE.............FOREVER..BROTHERS...............SEMPER..FI.....B.V.C.

To the family and friends of SSgt. Harris, please know that we haven't forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

We Worry


We Worry...that our soldiers were trained sufficiently to survive, fight and win in a combat situation.

"Have we trained on every subject to standard"?

We Worry...about their mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers, wives, girlfriends and children.

"They have put their faith in me to lead their sons into and out of harms way."

We Worry...about our own family and friends back home.

"Will they understand that I consider myself more expendable as a leader than the soldiers under my charge?"

But mainly, we worried about our soldiers. We worried in the present.

The Now! The Decisions! The Heat! The Rules! The Unknown! The Outcome!

They were younger, had less time on the planet’s surface, had yet to experience things that we had already lived through. In our minds, they deserved to live longer than we did based on age alone...

...not to mention responsibility, the weight of which would crush you if you were not programmed to endure it.

To which they were ours...indefinite

To which we were theirs...always.

We lead from the front, not for glory, fame or due to some great courage.

We are average men.

We lead from the front because it is the right thing to do.

We are honorable men.

We kick in doors, lead patrols, and walk on point ahead of our men because we worry.

...that if we did not lead from the front, then someone else would have to do so.

My condolences to the family and freinds of SSG Harris.

SFC Mac (retired)
1st AD

I see tears fall down your face

When your thoughts have turned to me.

Just know that I’m in heaven,

With my Lord, who’s set me free.



No pain or sadness do I feel,

For God is by my side.

The beauty here in Heaven

Is now where I reside.



I know it’s hard for you to cope

For you can’t feel my touch.

But every moment, I can see

And love you very much.



When you are at your lowest

And feel you can’t go on,

Look towards the heavens

The light will be turned on.



Talk to me, just like you did

On earth when I was there.

You see, I’m not so far away …

Only as far as a prayer.



And when it’s time for you to join

Me up in Heaven above.

It’s then that you will realize,

The Golden Place of love.



For here there is no sadness,

Just everlasting light.

Someday we will be joined again,

When it’s time to take your flight.


~Author~

Ruth Ann Mahaffey

©copyright Jan. 2005

"B"

It just doesn't seem possible that it's already been a year! They say time heals all wounds, but I'm not sure I believe it! It still feels like yesterday I got the news! We smile a little more each day, but your never far from our thoughts and you will always be in our hearts!
Ethan Blake will be joining our family in July! Sometimes I hope he's a little like you and others I pray to God he's NOTHING like you! :) I'm not sure I could be a patient as Mom and Dad! We miss you every day and count the days till it's our turn to see you again! I love you B! Holli

Blake,

You were my best friend and the big brother I never had. You were there for me every time I needed a shoulder or ear in Germany. I was devastated to hear the horrible news. I love you, Brandi, and Ty so much and I will always think of you all often. My heart goes out to the Harris family and Brandi if there is ever anything you need please let me know. I would love to stay in touch with you. I love you all and Blake you are dearly missed.

I learned most of my cooking skill from Blake while in the Army, he was intimidating until I got to know him. I remember when Blake, Woodring, and Myself went to Georgia to meet Blake's parents and sister Holli. Jumping off of a 70 Ft. Bridge and Paul in the boat waiting below. All three of us jumped over the side. I had a really good time, so I am so happy that I took that trip and met Blakes family, he loved all of you so much.
Brian

Paul, Anne and Holli,
I love you guys so much! I know this year has brought about alot of pain and sorrow for you and I am deeply sorry for this tragedy. On one hand, I am mad that Blake left the earth at this pont in his life, but then I look in the other hand and what a better place he is in right now!! Our God is so amazing and he has a plan for each of us. Just know that you are in his heart and mean the world to him. I know it hard to lean on him at times, but it can truely make all the difference. Paul and Anne, you guys are like second parents to me and the strength you showed after his passing was very inspiring to myself and Ryan. Though I do not know how it must feel to grieve over the loss of a child, I just wonder if I could show the faith you demonstrated. I have so many great memories to charish of being with your family as a young adult. Blake was so much fun to be around. He really has a heart of gold and showed me nothing but love and I will forever remember him as if he was my own brother. Holli, I know he is filled with joy about his niece or nephew that you are expecting and Blake will always be with you. He absolutly adored you! Your family has been and always will be a true FAMILY. I thank each of you for the positive that you have brought to my life in the last 14 years.

Anne, Paul, Holli and Eric,
I write this with such a great regret that I did not know Balke personally. I feel like I knew him as over the years I've listened to Anne tell me about him along with his brother and sister. For years I've had pictures year after year of your family on my refrigerator and in my wallet - yet our families living in separate parts of the state and our paths not crossing except by telephone and cards leaves me with having missed the chance of knowing Blake. I do know that he looks like his dad (and his sister). I've learned from his mom over the years that he never met a stranger. That he lived life big and enjoyed every minute of it as so many here have testified to. He really did have a tremendous smile. A friend once said that the smile is a reflection of what's in the heart - and it is obvious that Blake's heart was joyful and happy and that he spread that joy where ever he went. The sacrifice of giving ones life for their country alone deserves the highest honor! Blake will forever have my honor and you bet when I get to Heaven I'm gonna look him up, sit down and just spend some time getting to know him. I love you guys and your strentgh through all of this has been such a tremendous blessing to me.

It is so hard to believe that almost a year has passed. I thought the pain would get easier but if anything it has gotten worse. I guess the shock and denial really take over at first and then reality hit and it finally sank in that he is not coming home. I have peace that he is with his Maker but I miss his laugh and beautiful smile so much that sometimes I just want to die so I can see him again. Time does not heal the wounds of loosing a child.

My precious son, I love you and I miss you and I am so proud of you. Mom

I still think about Blake every day. I miss my best friend deeply and can't wait to see him again one day. The Harris family has always been like a second family to me and I love you guys.

Dear Harris family my name is Elexus & I would like to send my sympathy to your family.I am sorry for the lost. To find comfort you can go to Rev.21:4 & it says he will wipe out evert tear from their eyes & death will be no more.

Today is Thanksgiving and although we have many things to be thankful for, it's still not the same without you! I just found out I'm pregnant and it makes me sad that you won't here cause I know how excited you would be! You'd probably shove the Dr. out of the way to deliver it yourself! :) There's not a day that goes by that we don't think of you and smile for all the good memories we have and also cry cause there are so many more we'd like to have! We love you and miss you like crazy! Your big sister, Holli

You are cordially invited to attend the “Celebration of Life” Event as we honor and recognize the lives of Our Community Members and Fallen Soldiers we have lost during 2006-2007.
The program includes, a DVD Pictorial Memorial Tribute, Music, Candle lighting, Balloon Release, and Refreshments. Each family receives a personalized ornament to place on a Christmas tree as a remembrance of their loved one.
Families who have experienced loss find this event a wonderful time of remembrance and healing. We would love your family to be apart of this event as our Community joins together to recognize and honor your loved one during this Holiday Season.
We will be honoring all the Fallen Soldiers that were assigned to Fort Hood Texas. If you are not able to attend and would like to send a favorite photo, please feel free to do so.
RSVP By Website www.col2007.com
Call Celebration of Life Staff at 254-245-7061

Although I never got to meet Blake, I have had the great opportunity to work with his father, Paul. I have read and seen the out pouring of love and respect for Staff Sergeant Blake and I am forever greatful for his service to this country and more importantly for the very freedom he has provided me by giving the greatest gift of all, his life.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you Blake. Although we never met, know that you are loved and will forever be remembered.

I remember him when he was Sgt. Harris at HHC 4th BDE in Hanau, Germany. He was always cheerful and fun to be around. I remember he and I being really competitive, in a fun way, at every sport we played together! Great man, sorry for the loss...

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Staff Sgt Harris and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

If this person can stand in battle to ensure my freedom, then I will stand in grief with his/her family to honor him/her. 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 guest book for the rest of my life, but I promised Le Ron A. Wilson (a dear friend KIA 7/6/07, 18yrs old) that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)

I think of Blake and I miss his smile
He was a wonderful person
It seems unreal to me
He is in Heaven now
His kindness will always be remembered
God bless his family

My deepest sympathy to the family of SGT Harris. We will always remember his pleasant smile and great personality. You will be greatly missed!

From SSG Pena and Family.

Dear family, my heartfelt sorrow in your loss, I just wanted to say thank you for Blake's service and the sacrifice...I wanted you to know he is remembered even by those who did not know him...my prayers are with you and yours for God's grace in your every need...he is remembered by name

Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss, prayers that the Lord provide you comfort and peace, and our gratitude for the work, and sacrifice, of your Soldier, a true American hero. God Bless.

God bless the family and friends of Blake.
You will all be in our prayers.
Thank you Blake for being such a brave hero.

(In remembrance of Cpl. Joey Cantrell 4-4-07)

We are so sorry for your loss. Blake stands as a hero in the finest traditions of the United States Army. On January 22, 2007 we lost our son-in-law in Iraq. Spec. Nicholas Brown was in 2/7 Cav and loved being a soldier. He left behind a young wife and a newborn son. Because of him I am signing all guest Books of fallen soldiers of 1st Cavalry Division. I have read so many incredible stories in these books. I feel the loss with you, but I feel I must honor these young men who gave their all for liberty. Please accept our prayers and sympathy in these hard times. Thank you,

Harris Family,
I guess I never realized the impact that your family had on me. I still find myself shedding tears. I hope that you all can find somfort in knowing that Blake was loved and cherished by so many. I cannot tell you how many times Blake and I were 'left behind' b/c we were too young to go along with the rest of you and we would talk for hours and hours. I remember knowing about the big proposal before my sister knew b/c Blake had such a hard time keeping it quiet. He truly has a place in my heart that no one can replace. Me and my kids still kneel at their beds at night and your family is still prayed for by me and my kids.

Even though we aren't technically family anymore...there are certain things that never change and that is my love for Blake and you all!

I did not know Staff Sgt. Blake M. Harris but on memorial day I recieved his name from the Wall of Heroes. I wore his name all day long and I wanted to know something about him. He seemed like a wonderful and dedicated young man. I am so sorry to his friends and family. I know it is a hard time. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.

love to you all...

Staff Sergeant Blake Harris is in the hands of our Heavenly Father.

He now stands among the Angels as a good and faithful servant that will protect our nation under God.

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family, but know Blake will always be in spirit there with you.

With our Love,
Post 319

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR YOUR LITTLE ONE. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. GODSPEED AND SEMPER FI.

A PROUD MARINE MOM

I feel so blessed to have known Blake and his sweet family. My heart goes out to Anne and Paul as they find the strength to endure their terrible loss.I hope they will find comfort knowing that Blake believed in fighting for his country, and that he touched so many lives. He will be missed, but his memory will be kept alive.

My Dear Sweet Son,
Yesterday was Mother's day. It was a difficult day because I miss you so much. Even though you have been away from home for 10 years and deployed most of the last 5 years, I always knew that you were here on Earth and you were fine. I looked forward to your phone calls and I'm so sorry I missed your last call on March 13 when you called to check on your Dad and his surgery that was scheduled on March 16. You said you would call back the next week to check on him postop. But the call never got to come. I so looked forward to you returning home in October and hoped that you could stay home with your sweet wife and son for a while. I prayed for you every day that you would come home to us mentally, physically and emotionally whole. I know that God had plans that were more important than mine and I look forward to the day that I can be in Heaven with you. I know that Mom, Papa, Nannie, Pop, Mildred and L.M. were there to meet you and were happy to see you. I guess you and Mildred have had a "big old time" together. I must tell you that I'm jealous that you are there and I'm here. I love you and I miss you.

SSG Harris,Brandy,
I remember like it was yesterday we were working in the DFAC in JFK in Fliegerherst, Germany.
We were the only cooks there that had deployed with the 82nd Airborne Division and wore our combat patches proudly.
I remember you introducing your wife Brandy and son Ty to me and i told you I also had a Little Boy to,Blake i really was sadened when i heard of your passing through one of our former soldiers SPC Owens, Brandy my heart felt condolensces go out to you and Ty. Words can't express how much Blake will be missed, please if there is anything i can do,let me know.
SSG Harris was a good friend and will be dearly missed, Thank you Blake for allowing me to have had the honor to work along side of you, You will always be remembered and never forgotten, i'll miss you my Airborne Brother.
SSG John S. Flanagan,FOB Salerno, Afghanistan

Blake,
It doesnt seem real! Just the other day we were at the lake and you were teaching me how to kneeboard. Then when you got married to Brandy it felt like she was just another addition to our family. She seemed to just fit in with us. And there was Ty! You had to love him!! And even if you didnt have to we would still love him! It is crazy how you and Ty are so alike! I guess that is why everyone loves Ty so much cause he is so much like you! Even though I know you are in heaven with God it still hurts to know that you are not here with us! But I guess that is what has made our family so strong! I am writing to you today on Mother's Day because we were in church this morning and the preacher was talking about how parents and children are like bow and arrows. And how the parents are really only there to point us (the arrow) in the right direction. And when you are trying to hit something you are aiming for the target. Well the target parents are going for is God! Through the whole service all I could think about was You!! And how your parents aimed in the right direction! Because Blake you hit that target straight on! If only everyone could be aiming for that target just think of what our world would be like! But.. not everyone has great parents like we do! I hope that I will hit that target like you did! I know I will! Well I am going to go because if I keep writing I am going to use up alot of pages! I Love and Miss you Blake! You will never be forgotten! You meant alot to everyone! See you again! I LOVE YOU!!

To everyone that knew Blake he always knew how to make everyone laugh. Blake had an electric personality, a great smile, and was a good person. To the Harris family I express my deepest condolences and I am so sorry for your loss for it is a loss for me as well. Blake was a good man and a good friend to everyone he knew. He was always so proud to serve our country and took so much pride in his duty. To ALL of the friends, you know who you are we are all at a loss for words in this tragic event and are mourning in our own way. This is such a great loss to everyone and he was at such a young age to have to leave. You are ALL, no matter who you are or how you knew Blake, in my thoughts and prayers and my heart goes out to you. God Bless you all and we will always remember Blake forever.

SSG Harris...It just seems like i just talked to you.we used to run into each other all the time at hood before we deployed.The last time i saw you were coming from the flower shop in the px you had just bought some flowers for wife. I remember telling how pretty they were.You were so happy that day smiling from ear to ear.i will always remember that day because that was the last time i saw you.You were my squad leader and even though when you got trouble i got in trouble too for whatever reason.I could aalways count on you to find a short cut on how to get around things.May god bless your soul and watch out for your family.I will miss u....One more thing I made my E-5 like i told you i would.

My heart pours out to the Harris family. Blake was a great soldier and a wonderful friend. He made my experience in Germany a little easier just from his smile. The grief sometimes seem to never end, but find peace in knowing that SSG Harris had such a positive effect on so many lives. My prayers are with you. God Bless. Spc Blair

“Soldier”
Written to Honor the Service of Our Fallen Soldiers

Soldiers write history…they pay the price
Many miles distant, you live the life
Entered the Battle of our own free will
Out of Duty for Country, and we’d do it still

We hope and pray that all will find peace
In God, in the flag, in memories of valor
Gone now, our pride and courage you see
“An Army of One” our motto forever

Willing to risk all for love of our Brothers
We’re still Your Soldiers…and we showed the way
Our Lives too short, now pray for the others
Lived free died Heroes in lands far away

Deep within souls all cherished our Service
We’ll always have what some never know
Courage and Honor, our names forever
Lived life with purpose…just our time to go

We march in the Heavens with Honor and Glory
Missions accomplished we fought the Good Fight
Many years from now…we’ll tell the full story
Until that Day we will live in the Light

Our lives we laid down in a land far away
Still watching o’er you this night and by day
No need to talk…just know we are with you
There in your hearts and we hear what you pray

Yes we are your soldiers
Our lives we laid down
Still We guard o’er you
Still Duty bound

Entered the Battle of our own free will
Out of Duty for Country, and we’d do it still
We’ll always have what some never know
Lived life with purpose…it was our time to go

Staff Sgt. Harris ,
It feels like yesterday when we were in the dfac and you were telling me to make more grits, but now you are in a place where the lord wants you to be with him may god continue to bless you and your family you will be missed.

SSG Harris,
Its hard to believe you are gone.I remember the last time I saw you and your family. You were getting ready to PCS on outta here and go on to bigger and better things in the world. I hugged you and wished you and your family the best and to stay in touch. But you know how friends are in the ARMY. You met someone and since the ARMY is so small you will see them again....
When I found out of your passing just recently it just hit me real hard and I could not believe it. I cried and still can not shake the fact that you are truely gone.

My thoughts of you go back to the first time we all came to Germany. I remember you shipped out 2 weeks before I did. But we all had a blast before we left to the Box. Good times with Craig Hoffman. lol rememeber those?

While we were in BIAP we didnt see each other that often but when we did we stop and catch up and then say see ya later. You helped me a couple of times in gym when I tried to bulk up lol. So thanks for all the advice on that.

When we came back from BIAP things changed as they always do. We both got married and started our families. You joked about my husband being "samoan" all the time and I made wisecracks about you because you became a one woman man. Friendly humor, good times, laughs. You made me smile and laugh my whole pregnancy...when ever I would come into the DEFAC you tried to hide the food from me and always joked about my big belly. You told me one time it looked like I was carrying Twins lol.

That is how I will forever remember you Blake, as a guy who can make someone laugh, easy going, and a good friend. You will be dearly missed.

Harris, I pray that you are safe in the hands of our lord and that you are watching over you wife, son and family who must miss you dearly.

To Brandy, Ty and the Harris family
I am sorry for your lost. Words can not decribe what you have gone through and felt with the loss of his passing. Please know that my prayers are with you all.

His was a life cut short, but it will not be forgotten. His memories will be in our hearts forever.

I served with Blake at the Baghdad Airport in 2003-2004. I just read the article today on the Arlington National Cemetery WebSite. I can't explain the emotions I feel, but my heart goes out more to his family...especially his wife and son. My prayers are with you.

SSG Harris, My heart goes out to your family. I cannot express the sadness that i am feeling, you are one of the best, and favorite NCO's I have had a chance to work side by side with, you taught me a lot. You made the DFAC a fun place to be, even when the kitchen almost caught on fire.
I always hear stories about soldiers that have lost their life in battle, but it really hit home when it's an actual friend or some one that's apart of your "DFAC family". SSG Harris words cannot describe the impact that you made on our lives in that DFAC, but you will be missed greatly.

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

May the Lord bless SSG harris soul & watch over his family, I served with him in Fliegerhost, Germany. SSG harris - you will be missed.

Dear Brandy, & Ty,
I was so sadden by the news of what happen to ssg harris. I worked with him in the DFAC on Flieghorst in hanau,Germany. I can remember the days that I would do and say stupid things only to make him laugh and say "Gallimore your crazy". I remember the days when the family would come to the dfac and we would all crowd around and make jokes. SSG.HARRIS you will be missed. I know your in a better place now. One day when I see you again hopefully we can bake cakes again like we did in Germany. To Brandy and Ty I know you are filled with grief but I'm sure that SSG.HARRIS will be watching over you.
To TY your daddy was a good man and he loved you lots... trust me. Be strong and be of courage your daddy will always be proud of you no matter what.
Rest In Peace SSG.HARRIS.You will be missed.

Shawna Humphrey (Gallimore)

I was Blake's roommate in Fort Bragg for the first 14 months of our time there. It was tougher for me than it was him, and he helped me a great deal. Blake had a fantastic passion for life and was always fun to be around. I just learned of another former member of the 2/504 who lost his life in Iraq and I immediately decided to look Blake up again as it had been 5 or 6 years. I cant describe the disappointment to find this news. I did have the pleasure of meeting his family on a trip to Myrtle Beach and it was apparent where his strength began. It was an honor to know Blake and I thank everyone who supported him and allowed him to be such a great individual. God Bless you Blake.

Dear Brandy, Blake's Mom and Dad, Tyrus

Blake was a good friend. He was a honest person who was not afraid to speak his mind. The feeling I felt when heard of his death I can't describe. It was a low that I had never felt before. The world is a lessor place because he is gone. I send my most sincere condolensces to Brandy, Tyrus and Blake's Mom and Dad. Blake may God be with you. Rest in Peace good friend. See you in years to come.

Dear Mom and Dad Harris, Brandy, Ty and the rest of the Harris family:
Words cannot begin to express how much Blake has touched my life and how honored I feel for just having known him if even for a short while. He was such a joy to be around and for those of us who had the opportunity to know him, you couldn't help but to be drawn to his charm, humor, love for his family and friends, love for life and adventure, and let's not forget that winning and unforgetable smile. My heart and prayers go out to all of you for the loss of your soldier/son, husband, father, brother and family member. Upon hearing of Blake's passing I was inspired to write the following poem...just one of the ways I could think of to honor him...

Blake Harris has answered the Master's call,
to fly with the angels and watch over us all.
And though he will no longer be with us here,
we will not be alone, have no fear.
For in our hearts he will always be,
with memories to last for eternity.
We will always remember how he touched our lives,
and so we will not begin to say any goodbyes.
But instead we'll wait for that day in "The Promiseland",
where we will reunite with loved ones and walk hand in hand.

To the greatest heroes...the men and women who sacrifice their time and lives to serve our country...Thank you and we love you all!

I will NEVER forget you EVER. It was an honor to work with you and to be called your friend. You taught me alot and i will use everything you taught me to the best of my ability. Thank You. You will be greatly missed. GOD BLESS

i love you blake, i will always love you, and im soooo proud!i miss you.

I am honored to call him brother and friend. I served with Blake in Iraq in 03-04, before he married my sister. I was given the wonderful opportunity to serve a few years with him in Germany and it brought me closer to my sister than we had ever been before. My words are at an utter loss, and my heart is filled with tears of not saddness but joy. I know Blake is in a better place. He is God's soldier now, and I know I will get to serve with him again one day. Ann and Paul, Brandy, Ty, Hollie, Eric....thank you for the honor of Escorting Blake. Blake kept me on my toes throughout the whole mission, flat tires, red lights, and mooning the President..LOL. God Bless the Family and thank you for letting me be apart of it. You are always in my prayers. Atease Soldier, the battle is over, but the war not won.

My condolences go out to the entire Harris family. I served with Blake in the 82nd when we were cooks. The guy was a true leader and always set the example for us to follow. He was always a great friend and he will be missed severely. I remember him being one of the happiest persons I have ever met and his smile proved that every day. We served together in Afghanistan from December 2002-July 2003 and he made our time there so much easier with his amazing personality and leadership. He will always be in my prayers.

Harris family,
I was informed by one of Blake’s former solder’s this weekend about the tragedy. Blake and I served together in Iraq while he was part of 4th Brigade, 1AD in Germany. I did not believe his soldier when she told me, until I looked him up and found out it was in fact true.
My deepest condolences to all of you. He was a wonderful person and will be missed by all.
Sam Putnel-Rowan

The irony of running into old friends. I worked with Blake in Germany as cooks, left went to Kansas and just deployed to Iraq. a week after being here this soldier comes walking through the Dining Facility yelping my name out, it was Blake. after a brief conversation about his career change and how good it was to see him again we parted. one week later i saw blake getting ready for a mission, we talked a while and said our good buys,I didn't know it would be the last time i would see him. Blake you truely are a hero and my heart is saddened to know you are not here anymore. but i know your spirit is and you are safe now, God Bless. It was an honour knowing and serving with you.

My heart goes out to the Harris family. I haven't seen or spoke to Blake since high school. I to grew up in the neighborhood behind Blakes house on Panhandle rd. He and my brother Shawn played Basketball together alot. My brother, my family, and I have the Harris family in our prayers and would like Blake to know how wonderful he is and how proud we are of him. You will now and forever be in our hearts.

To the Family of an American Hero.

I hope that words from a stranger can help you with this loss. My country has lost another of its very best, and I want to let you know that I am one of many who feel we owe you and your soldier a debt that we can never repay.

My own son is a 1-8 CAV engineer, and while I worry every moment while he is in harms way, I am comforted knowing that he has been trained and prepared by the very best, those like SSG Harris.

My prayers are that you find comfort and solace in his memories. I hope that as you see how he has affected so many, it eases in some way your burden. God Bless you all, and RIP SSG Harris.