Welcome to our blog for Scott. Post any thoughts, memories, stories, anecdotes, jokes, one-liners, laughs, tears, dreams, messages, comments, links, notes, advice, or anything else you would like.
This is a place for all of us to be with each other and with Scott.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Messages to Scott
A place to write to Scott. No rules, write how you feel, about your day. Anything you want.
Hey Scott, well, things just keep on changing. You know about most of it already anyway. I know you never liked changes, and these days, neither do I. Some good news is I just got a little space to work at a short walk from home. I'll be sharing it with Paul who's book 'Us & Them' you have, and with some other painters and illustrators. So that should be fun. A chance to get out of the house finally. It is what I need and is not easy to do these days. A good feeling to go there anytime I want to do my thing. You know how it feels, to do your thing. Nothing better then that. Off to do my flying. Love you and speaking later. T
Scott, I miss you, I feel sort of guilty about missing you so much since you are no doubt in a better place. I am having a rough go though and it is hard. If it weren't for you I wouldn't even be doing this well, so thanks for all you did for me. It is sort of hard without my cheerleader around, you always had a way of lifting me up, all I can do is say thank you for all you were to me and did for me and hope that I did the same for you and I promise to try harder to get myself back together. I have a Math test tomorrow so I gottsta go hit the books, same place you dropped me off at when you were here in March, that makes me miss you, it is the oddest things that make me think of you. All for now, I will never use our bu bye with anyone, it was and will always be sacred. Love, Tara
Just a side note, went running today, the route we took that Sunday, it was nice, haven't felt like running since that was the last run, but for the first time it felt good, it was so fun to run with you, i can't believe how much fun the last year was, being able to run with you and hike, thanks.
Scottie. Thinking about you and Tom today. Can't think of anything else. Nov. 11, Veterans day. It was always a day to stop and think, but now more than ever. Thank you to both of you, please pass it on to Tom. Thank you guys. -Todd
I always felt I could put things in there place, a way of accepting and of helping me to move forward...how do you move forward when something just feels so wrong, it's unacceptable, it's not right. I can't put what I feel in it's place, something feels so out of place, I feel displaced. You know what made made me sad last night was thinking how much of a loss to so many people this has been but also how many people will miss out meeting you, knowing you.
Scott, There are billions of people on this planet, but it's so empty without you. So many cards and letters about you arriving daily...all saying the same thing...you were the finest friend, officer and gentleman. Thank you for making us so proud! We were truly blessed to have you for a son.
Scott, I just want to tell you here, I know you already know this, but you have the most amazing brother! How does Todd manage his art work, deadlines, projects, business and keep Dad and me sane? He spends hours keeping me company on Skype. I don't know what we'd do without him to lean on. I think you knew we'd be in good hands with him. Watch over him, he needs YOU now more than ever.
Scott, I miss you so much. 2 months today without you in so many ways and with you more than ever in so many others. So much to say and no idea where to start. I know you are with me helping me and all of us through this. Love you Scottie. T
Scott, Where do i start, i used to eat you J.O.'s for lunch, but only because i had already seen up close what others are seeing for the first time. You always impressed me with your ability to learn from the wise old "chiefs" or either tell us what we wanted to hear! It was an honor to have the pleasure of serving with you and you have definitely touched the lives of those around you. The offer still stands that i gave you as a young J.O., I'm here if you need me and i will always have your back. jim weatherford (ADCS(AW)
Hey today all i wanted to say to you, was that despite how crappy i feel right now, I am so thankful for having met you and had you as a friend for even the short time i did. Thank you.
Hi, I miss you. It is hard to be with your family and not have you around, but then of course it is great to be with them at the same time. They remind me of how great you are. I miss you, Love, Tara
Hey, Went to see you today, I hope that you can hear when we talk to you, I hate to see you there, but then know that you aren't really there in spirit, so maybe that is ok. I needed some time with you. I will work hard to be a better person, thank you for being the type of person that would make me want to work to be a better person. I miss you so much, I know I say that a lot but it is so true and was so hard today, today felt like I had to feel all the grief of the first moment of finding out, but I promise to behave and work on it. Love you and Buu Bye, Tara
Hey, I miss you. Car got shot, I know another window to replace, somehow doesn't seem like that big of a deal these days. The kids have been nuts lately, their stories and lives make me so sad, I am so glad that you got a chance to meet them, it makes it more important for me to be here. I have been thinking of you a lot. Look after your Dad he needs your company. Love, Tara
Hey Scott. Had a big last ten days. been crazy with travel and work once again. All is ok. Had my workshop in France which was such good therapy for me and some of my students. I know you saw it, but am not sure of why we did it. Well, I tell you, it felt really good to see what I believe you saw. To experience in the tiniest way what you did. The thing I learned was that it was wonderful. I know you where there at school guiding my students to create this. I am not so afraid anymore having done this. I realized that you are ok, and somewhere wonderful. I was not so sure just 2 weeks ago, but now I am. In fact I look at it that we're the unlucky ones, stuck here on earth! Eventually we'll be together again. Thank you for giving me the strength to use design to see something so important to me. It helped me a lot and many of the others who came to experience our project. I will never forget it. I wish I could have brought Mom, Dad and Tara there. I wish all of us and your friends could have seen it. It would have been the best therapy. facing it head on and learning in the process it is wonderful and not sad at all. I love you and thank you Scott. T
We miss you this Christmas, and especially on your birthday. It will be a tough week for all. We know you'll be right there with us. Thank you for visiting us in our dreams....Kara & Matt
Scott, I miss you so much, I hope you heard my prayer tonight. Hope you are able to be with Todd and your parents. All of us here are thinking of you and if you can see, you see they are even more cute than last year. Love you, tara
Scottie. Thanks for being out here in London with us. We love you and miss you but know you are also right beside us. We're doing our best. Miss you so much and love you even more.
Our first Christmas without you is something we have been dreading. T's friends, Jacob & Ian and their families, have made us feel welcome. Ian has cooked a beautiful meal with all the trimmings. We were shopping for some small gifts which kept us busy. We went to St. Fransis of Assisi last night. We hope you and Tom could see the candles we lit for you. Mommy mommy is lighting her candle for you every night too. We are trying our best to be a brave Navy family...that's what you deserve. Thank you for sending us such wonderful, caring people who have helped us through this time.
Happy Birthday Scott! I miss you so much, I am sorry I couldn't help your parents out today. I know you can hear her, Bridget is yelling Happy Birthday at the computer right now, she says she misses you. I hope that you are in a good place and at peace. Love,Tara
34 years ago tonight at 11:55 PM was our first face to face moment! You were beautiful and I knew then you'd be wearing a baseball cap real soon. Been remembering so much...you gave us so much...I feel so sad for us all...we all want, but cannot have, more of you. All the books I have been reading say the same thing. You are in a better place and will be waiting to guide us there too. I know you will watch over us. Every birthday of yours was a happy one for us. Always, all our love, Mom Dad and Todd
The best thing about your birthday has always been that it meant I got to see you. It felt good to have a day just for you. I guess when I think of it now, I am glad despite your joking frustration with the competition of Christmas, that your birthday was during the holidays. Being that we both live so far apart, your Christmas birthday ensured that we’d be together for it. I guess ‘upstairs’ knew in advance that we would have a limited amount, so they made sure that at least the ones we had would not have been a missed opportunity to appreciate you.
Happy Birthday, Peanut. We're thinking of you. Matt's best friend and his wife are having their baby today in Chicago. I know you are there watching over them on the birthday you share. Kara & Matt
I just read a Weatherford post and had to make a post. I was one of the hardest Senior Chiefs (some whould say ass)on JO's in the squadron. It was not out of disrespect but it was to train you for the future and you were one of the few who figured it out and did not fight back too much. I sit and wonder why do all the good guys have to be sent to another assignment when they are in their prime.
Happy New Year. None if us wanted to leave 2005, but it helps knowing you are with us.
Missing you like crazy. You must be looking at all that is going on and thinking how on earth will we deal with it all. If you ask me, I can tell you I will manage as I know you believe I can. Knowing you are still here to support me along the way.
Love you Scottie. Supporting you at the same time. T
Time moves on but think about you daily. I know it meant alot for your parents to be with Todd for the Holidays. You are missed here....but in a peaceful place. Semper Fi. RSH
Hey Scott. Just a note to say thank you. You have always been and will continue to be the great constant in my life. A reference point and in my conscience guiding guiding my decisions.
Scott, My birthday is on Tuesday...I found a birthday email from you...dated 2003. You wrote that you were sorry you weren't able to talk to me, but you hoped I'd have a great time. You also said you'd be coming home to give me a birthday kiss and hug. I'll be looking for that hug on Tuesday...I know it will be there, somehow. It was no accident that I found that printout - a picture of the stork carrying a drunken, unshaved, cigar smoking baby - made me smile...and the text "Lucky for me the stork has a no return policy! Happy Birthday Mom" No, Scott, I was the lucky one. Always, with love, Mom
It is six months today. We think of you non stop...especially today. We think of what you would want us to be and get it together so you can be as proud of us as we are of you! You and Tom...messages and prayers for you both...that we love and miss you...and will continue to do our best.
284, I really miss you, somedays I just miss knowing that there is someone as great as you in the world. Life is a weird thing, it takes us on such a crazy journey. I miss you, Love, 220
Scott, you sure did pick a good place for us to move to. We finished the Perdido Kids Park this past Sunday. About 2,000 volunteers made this park become a reality. Marines were everywhere! Many thanks to the Perdido Kids Park Committee for their thoughtfulness. I am sure you love the S3 with your call sign and name. Also, the squadron patch for you and Tom, "You will not be forgotten", was beautifully copied by one very talented young Marine who feverishly got it done and on the wall by the 5 PM deadline. I am so grateful to be in this atmosphere of such giving and caring people. I know you are smiling. Love, Mom
I found a note I had written for you today, and for the first time I didn't feel like crying, it made me smile, you made me smile, thank you. I miss you terribly, but also I am ok. Thank you for being you. Love Tara
Eight months...I am sure you loved the Arbor Day ceremony in Malverne...I was told how beautiful and fitting it was. The tree is tall and beautiful, just like you. Miss your hearty laugh...keep expecting my phone to ring whenever I go into Winn Dixie...I check the couch to see if your are taking a nap...no luck. Wish you would give Dad a dream...he is struggling so much. I love the emails from some of your buddies on the boat. I feel you are with them and a part of their activities. Take care of them and bring them home safely. Love you always, Mom
Memorial day. You know everyday has and will be memorial day for Mom, Dad and I, but today is a bit different. Raising a glass to you and all the others we've lost and another to the ones still out there. A day to say thank you, to celebrate what all of you have given us. Love you. Todd
Hi Scott, Seeing people in flightsuits makes me think of you sometimes and running into people that we both knew makes me miss you, sometimes I don't want to talk to them. Sometimes the last thing I want to talk about is S-3's. I miss you like crazy here, I am sure the next set of orders will be harder in that way. Most days I am doing better but I miss you, what I wouldn't give for that hug, to have my head in your chest and feel your kiss on my forehead, to know you are there. I miss you.
The Lord gave me a very special son With whom I spent time and had so much fun. The joy that he brought to me and my wife Has given us memories that have so blessed our life. From the time he was able to put a smile on his face Seldom would you see him without it in place.... He was able to master everything he would try Oh when I think of him, I so want to cry.... I can only imagine what that day will be like When I can again hug my son and hold him so tight.... My son is no longer here in this place But I know for certain I will again see his face....
excerpts from a poem by Frank Zitzman Jr.
Scott, Dad and I are so blessed having you and Todd as our sons AND having the sons and daughters you have brought into our home to share our lives, fun and sadness.
Thank you both, and we thank God for all he has blessed us with.
9 months. I guess it is strange to keep counting. You'd think I could find a fun thing to think about when I think about you, but I guess that will come in time. Either way, don't worry, we'll get there. Mom, Dad and I will hold the course and get there. Miss you like hell, love you and feel a bit better that you are right here, right now even as I write this.
I'm sure you knew before any of us did, but Matt and I are having a little boy. We will name him Scott in your honor. We look forward to meeting him and know you'll watch over us until early November arrives. As a child, Matt always wanted to be named Scott because "it was so cool."
We miss you all the time. Matt heard a song the other day that reminds him of you. We raise a drink for you at the Bracher Bar in our house whenever we get a chance.
Ten months, today. Our hearts know without looking at the calendar...you are always on our minds. We feel you all around us in the "cottage". When the moving truck arrived with your things, planes flew overhead, welcoming them...I hope it was your way of giving us your approval. Miss you, Scott....more and more each day.
LCDR Bracher, Thank you very much for the uplifting the day I told you that I was applying for the OCS program. I know that you never got to write me the letter of recommendation. Oh death, you have done us wrong. Finally, I applied but was not selected. I remember all your encouragements not to give up and keep trying. I will reapply again this October. I hope that you will pray for me over there because you are in the arms of the Almighty. I thought that I should let you know of the development. Thank you very much, Mr Bracher.
Not sure why it hit me yesterday, but yesterday and today have bummed me out. Man, I miss you. Not sure what else to say, but it hurts. Somedays I just want to talk to you. I miss you, Tara
I was making a list of your likes and dislikes for your mom today and for some reason it was great and super hard at the same time, I can remember your likes but for the life of me can't recall a single dislike. I miss you, some of the kids have asked about the pilot who came to talk to them last year. Man I miss you, Tara
You are especially being remembered at this time of year. Hugs to your Mom, Dad and Todd. It has been a tough year for all those who knew and loved you. You are sorely missed.
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 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.
Light A Candle for Scott
Light a quiet candle, Send a quiet kiss, Say a quiet fare-thee-well, To the one we miss. Light a quiet candle, Shed a quiet tear, Sing a quiet lullaby, and our Scott will hear. Thank you all, The Bracher Family
Scott, I just found this site today thanks to your mom's letter. What a great way to enable all of us to honor your life. Everyday, I drive past the spot where I got Dave's phone call about you last year and it makes me remember you. I remember getting to my house that day. Lori was outside with Lucas and she knew right away that something was wrong. We cried together. Now, when I pass that spot, I try to think about our good times together. Our Academy days, our days in Georgetown, our days in San Diego, the hens. Remember that night in S.D. when we both got blitzed after a very bad week. You were always there for your friends! I met Lori at your going away party. I guess I owe you for that one. It doesn't seem fair. Logan Scott had a rough go of it after he was born, fighting pneumonia for 12 days. He is now a very strong, healthy boy. I like to think that you had something to do with that too. I miss you Brother! Mike
Matt wanted me to post this for you and your family, Scott. It's how he hopes Heaven will be.
We have only 7 weeks to go until Scott William Robinson joins our family. We are excited to meet him and know you'll be the best guardian angel a person could ask for.
We miss you and plan to release balloons at noon on Thursday.
Love, Kara & Matt www.scottbracher.com and www.scottwilliamrobinson.com
* FLYING WEST *
I hope there's a place, way up in the sky, Where pilots can go, when they have to die. A place where a guy can buy a cold beer For a friend and a comrade, whose memory is dear; A place where no doctor or lawyer can tread, Nor a management type would ere be caught dead; Just a quaint little place, kind of dark, full of smoke, Where they like to sing loud, and love a good joke; The kind of a place where a lady could go And feel safe and protected, by the men she would know. There must be a place where old pilots go, When their paining is finished, and their airspeed gets low, Where the whiskey is old, and the women are young, And songs about flying and dying are sung, Where you'd see all the fellows who'd flown west before, And they'd call out your name, as you came through the door. Who would buy you a drink, if your thirst should be bad, And relate to the others, "He was quite a good lad!" And then through the mist, you'd spot an old guy You had not seen in years, though he taught you to fly. He'd nod his old head, and grin ear to ear; And say, "Welcome, my son, I'm pleased that you're here." "For this is the place where true flyers come," "When their journey is over, and the war has been won." "They've come here at last to be safe and alone" "From the government clerks and the management clone," "Politicians and lawyers, the Feds and the noise," "Where all hours are happy, and these good ole boys" "Can relax with a cool one, and a well deserved rest;" "This is heaven, my son......You've passed your last test!" Author Unknown
It's been a year since you've left, and we miss you like crazy. Your Spirit needed to soar, farther and higher than ever before. We'll forever miss you, but we're warmed by the glow of the life you chose and the joy you unlocked, and we love you for it.
Reflecting on yesterday, how lucky we are to have the love and kindness Scott's legacy has provided. Thank you ALL for your kindness...your prayers lifted our spirits and gave us strength. Thank you and God Bless! Love Lorraine Greg and Todd
Yesterday was very special and I am very fortunate to have been blessed by your friendship. I was on the flightline at JAX yesterday morning and it was absolutely the best day in JAX that I can remember. Not a cloud in the sky all day. It was perfect and fitting to celebrate your life. Just as I was walking back to the hanger, a 4-ship formation of S-3s gracefully overflew the air station, they paid tribute to you and your comrade. It was very moving and it brought back all of the great memories and good times we had together. I know you are doing well in paradise and looking down on us every day. I miss you brother and I'll see you when I get there.
Dear Lorraine, Greg And Todd, Although distance and illness have kept me from being with you for this sad anniversary, my thoughts and prayers were with you Kathy Gibbons
He is Gone. You can shed tears that he is gone, Or you can smile because he lived. You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back, Or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left.
Tom, your beautiful children and wife continue your legacy. They are as special as you.
Scott, the friends and relatives who love you will never forget your generous and caring spirit.
We are all better people today for having you both in our lives.
I does not get any easier. I also don't want it to. Missing you so much and I still don't believe what I'm supposed to. Life will never be the same without you here. It is not what I can't get from you but what I can't give to you. Actually, that's not true, I miss everything you give to me. Everything you give to Mom and Dad. I miss the idea of what you gave to everyone you've met. This is so hard.
I miss you. Sometimes it is hard to believe you are gone. I wish I could make sense of things, but I guess that is not how the world works, not everything has to make sense. I miss you. Memories of you make me sad and happy all at the same time. Miss you, Tara
You always believed in giving your All, not just your best. You proudly served your country. We pray for our military out there, doing their best, and giving their All. We hug and welcome back all who return and respect and admire all veterans who have served so nobly. God bless you this Veterans Day.
Somehow this makes me miss even more, I keep wanting to talk to you about things with my Dad and then I can't. Please look out for him and help him out up there, I know he says he looks forward to seeing my Avo, have you seen him, is that possible. I am so sad. I miss you, Tara
For some reason you feel less far away today than all year. I don't know why but I'll take it. Looking at the calendar today and not feeling bad, but only with good thoughts. The ones I have all the time about you. I know you're laughing, I know you're smiling. I know you enjoyed Lisbon as I did, you were right there it was great. Your guys are amazing and you were just as lucky as they were.
You've even prepared me for something like this and how to manage it. Every day I see how amazing you were. I always knew it, and continue to discover it.
Man I have been away from the Maulers for nearly 5 years but I still think about you, Money and Meschke all great guys taken before their time. I just know that there were plans for you and it is to serve a higher purpose.
LCDR Bracher, You are one of the coolest officers that I've met. It crushed me to know that you left us here on earth to be without you physically. I know that you are around all of us who cared about you. I even made up a little page for the Navy folks, so that they could remember you when they log onto the Navy site. I've never met anyone who wanted to fly more than you, with all the back issuses and all. You left the place doing what you loved. I'm happy to have you as one of my angels. Thank you for crossing my path and being a pleasure to work with.
Always thinking of you, Scott... Just to let you know, your squadron in JAX finished number 1! The S3 at the memorial site was painted in the Squadron colors. Additionally, they painted your memorial patch onto the plane. I know you and Tom are proud of them...we are also!
Hey Peanut, I just wanted you to know that your god son hit his first homerun on Saturday, that’s right on Cinco de Mayo. I know you are proud; moreover, he’s a lefty that bats right. I reached for my mobile to tell you and realized half way through that you already probably knew. Miss you. You were probably watching and gave him a little help with the in field defense as he rounded the bases. Ahh Tee-ball defense such a well oiled machine. I miss you immensely buddy. Though I know Jude’s got the best guardian angel on the block. Ciao.
Missing you every day. Hope you're hanging in there and looking out for the brave men and women still out there this memorial day. Thank you to ALL of you.
My husband, Peter, and I were at the tree dedication for Scott in Malverne....a few weeks ago a friend recommended a good yoga studio in Malverne, and I was delighted to find out that it's located right across the street from Scott's tree, so now, when I come out of my yoga class each Monday night, I stop by the tree, say hi to Scott, and a few prayers for him & his family!
I miss you. It was great to see your parents and it felt good to visit you, but still I just miss you. You were amazing. Thank you for everything. Love, Tara
Went by the tree on NAS JAX today on the way to the hanger. It is growing strong, as expected and was adorned with tribute. It still amazes me that it has been raining everyday for the past week and today, on the 21st, this week-long deluge has stopped and the sun returned all-day. It is truly fitting that this happened today, I know you had something to do with it. I hope you continue to watch down on us and know that you are always with us. Take care brother and I'll see you when I get there.
Scott, Someone else for you to watch over has arrived: She was born Sunday Dec 2, at 1251, she weighed 6lbs and 3 ozs and was 19 inches...Chloe Jeyn Carroll... beautiful head of dark hair and blue eyes. Yup, Tara and Doug will be wonderful parents.
Scott, 36 years today. ......the ache will always be there...missing you and your warmth. I asked God to give you our hugs and remind you how much you are loved and missed. Happy Birthday...my sweet boy .
HEY SCOTT, IT;S JOEY AND NGA AND WE JUST WANT TO SAY HI AND WE MISS YOU ALL THE TIME. YOU ARE ALWAYS IN OUR THOUGHTS ALONG WITH YOUR PARENTS AND BROTHER. I WILL NEVER FORGET THE TIME YOU HELPED ME SURPRISE MY SISTER WHEN SHE CAME BACK FROM THE GULF. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR BEING WHO YOU ARE. I LEARNED A LOT THAT DAY FROM YOU... YOU SHOWED WHAT A TRUE FRIEND WILL DO. I STILL REMEMBER YOU AND I TALKING ON THE PHONE GETTING EVERY SET UP SO THAT I COULD SURPRISE HER WHEN SHE RETURNED, WITH OUT YOU I WOULDN'T HAVE BEEN ABLE TO GET IT DONE. FROM THAT POINT ON WE WHERE FRIENDS AND I COULDN'T BELIEVE HOW LUCKY MY SISTER WAS TO HAVE SOMEBODY LIKE YOU IN HER LIFE AND I TRUELY FELT BLESSED TO HAVE YOU IN MINE. I HAVE NEVER WRITEN IN THIS BLOG BEFORE BECAUSE IT WAS TO HARD FOR ME UNTIL NOW, AND I SORRY FOR THAT. I TRUELY DO MISS YOU AND WHAT YOU REPRESENT. HARDLY ANY BODY IN TODAYS WORLD CAN LIVE UP TO THE MAN YOU WHERE. YOU HAD SUCH HIGH MORAL STANDARDS AND INTEGRITY AND I LOOK UP TO THAT. WILL TRUELY MISS YOU. THANKS............. LOVE YOU
A gift of love and honor.... precious Scott Leonidas Claiborne was born on January 22, 2008 to Amanda & Chris and Big brother Jude. He weighed in at 7 pounds 11 ounces, at 1:34 pm. I am sure you will keep a loving watch over him!
Boy would I love for you to meet my Chloe, I wonder when she looks past me and smiles if it might be you or my Dad she is seeing. If so thank you for all of the wonderful smiles. You are missed.
Mommy Mommy, Ricky and I brought you white roses. As we were getting out of the car, one solo Blue Angel plane quietly flew right in front of us as if to welcome us and say hello....we believe it to be a hello from you and your buddies. All our love .... we miss you!
Miss you bro. I know you continue to look down on us. I can 't help think that every time Scott laughs and smile for no apparent reason that's it's you making a funny face or trying to rap. Think about you everyday. Love, C
Received the latest pics of your Scotty kids (Robinson & Claiborne). They have the same beautiful bright laughing eyes and smile as you. Watch over them. Always thinking about you, every day. Watching Yankee Stadium take its place in history tonight is kind of like each year going by without you. Its influence and impact, just like yours, will continue. It's too worthwhile to ever forget, just like you. Always, Mom & Dad
scott, a friend of mine has been sent to you, he is good man and i know you will be friends. i love and miss you. please look out for my friend as he always looked out for us as you do. god bless the both of you.
It pleases me to inform you that I finally got accepted to OCS last year. My training went well. I was commissioned on Dec 19, 2008. Thanks for your prayers and making everything happen. Thanks a lot for all your good advice when I started my application in 2005.
I cruised with Lt Bracher in 1999. He was our Line Div O. He was a great man and I was very sad to hear about his passing. I often think about him and also two other shipmates I lost in VS-32, Lt Mat Moneymaker and Lt Mike Meschke. They are all missed and will always be remembered as hero's.
Miss you brother! Things are crazy but in a good way. 3 man cubs now but you know that. So Amanda and I have had to move to a zone defense man to man no longer works. Wish you were here! Love you.
It has been sad, not only today, but we have felt the build-up for the past week. Mayor Panzarella scheduled a mass for you in Malverne, and has you included in a mass in the Duomo in Firenze, Italy. Phone calls and cards, some from people we'd never expect, and some you never knew. Don Masden was so kind to bring flowers to the site in Jax. Todd went to Malverne, where he noted there was a flag. Oct. 1 there will be a mass for you at Holy Spirit Church here in Pcola from Liz and Vete. And, as usual, Todd came through at just the right time. God, too, came through...he sent the most beautiful magazine article about Todd, which included paragraphs about you. How we love both you kids...the best days of our lives were when we were all together. Always missing you...see you at T's wedding....we know you wouldn't miss it.
Memories are a blessing; they can take us to places that were special, make us smile and remind us of people like you! Your smile, jovial manner and kind words will always be cherished. Thanks for sharing moments with many of us that will fill our hearts with love and laughter. Thinking of you today on Memorial Day as I attended ceremonies here in Washington DC.
Watching Angels Among Us on TV....and know you are here. Christmas photos of your dear loving friends and the beautiful children named after you are a wonderful reminder that everyone continues to keep you in their hearts and thoughts. Tara was on a flight....Tom Blake was the pilot. Thank you for the hellos...we notice them. Sending you Christmas love, my sweet boy...
First year I've decided not to be sad about today. I'm done with that. No need anymore. No more remembering the bad, at least no need to put a cloud over the day/month.
All is good. miss you for sure.. that does not change. Still helping and guding.. that does not change either. Just to say thank you and seeing you tomorrow and the next day... Love you
Thank you Mayor Manzarella and Mrs. Panzarella for the remembrance mass at Our Lady of Lourdes in Malverne today for Scott. You always remember. Watching the iTunes festival....I know you'd love it....noisy and energetic. Your tree is growing straight, tall and strong. Flowers and flags were there. You are loved so much. So many friends missing you and sending their love. 8 years....love mom
I wish you were here. Always. Not a day goes by especially when looking at our boys how I wish you could meet them. Spend time with them. To spend time with you. Do nothing, but just to spend time. That's all. I do hope to actually have that day eventually...
Until then. I miss you, love you and please be 'in touch'.
12 years today. Miss you Scott. Can still hear your voice, your laugh. Thankfully. So much new but also nothing’s changed since you’ve left. You cause me to pause and to think, and when I do, it’s like nothing’s changed, like a version of home.
I miss you Scottie. I’m coincidently in Florida today. I feel more connected to be here today, so that helps too. :)
13 Years... first time the date on the calendar was not that painful. That's a good sign I guess. :) . All hanging in there with lots going on. Wonder what you would be doing today, that's for sure. Miss you. Think about you daily, and wish you were here. No other words to say.
14 years on. The good news is you still feel close. I think in some ways always going 'back' to you helps me stay grounded and not lost int he craziness of today and the unknown of tomorrow. I'm sure you would be wondering how did life here get so hectic... and it is. Its not supposed to be, and I don't recommend it.. but it is. I am hoping not for much longer. Somehow I feel you would have had a very balanced life.. a smart one. I am imagining what that would have been and looking to how I can learn from you. keeping it simple, smart, logical and balanced. Like you.
You know already all that's in my life, so nothing more to say. Miss you as always. feeling you as close as ever in these past 14 years, so for me that's a good sign for the years ahead.
A friend posted a memorial for you on Monday on his FB page. You were an instructor of his in flight school and took special care to get him his wings. It was nice to see your picture and remember your mentorship at USNA. You were a role model, one to be looked up to and an example to follow that would surely lead to success. Somehow, likely due to an overseas deployment, I didn't know the news of your loss. Maybe I heard about it then. I don't know. You are now added to the list of young heroes that I remember every Memorial Day that I served with and whose loss effects me. Thanks for your leadership. They say only the good die young. You left far too young...but then I guess that shows your goodness. I hope my comments here will remind your friends and family of just how special you were. Nevermind, they know better than me. Gone but never forgotten.
Every day, each one different, each year passes, another change, life continues, evolves, good and bad... all just keep going. One constant. You. Missed every day. Lots of dreams recently, happy that you are still a big part of my life. You constantly reminded me to calibrate, check in to where I am and where do I want to be, out of respect for you... your big brother influence. I thank you.
17 year. Spoke with mom today, and she said the same... feels like yesterday. Literally 24 hours ago. And we both are 'happy' that's how it feels. You still feel close, relevant and in our lives, all things considered. The boys know about you, ask about you. Still as proud of you as ever... miss you every day. So thankful for how you continue to influence us all these years later. Love you. T
18 years in, though I'm not trying to count. It's been a hell of a year, to say the least. I am taking control back of my life or, more accurately, removing myself from the control of others. It has been a very challenging thing to do, but for the kids and for me, it is a necessity. I have learned how to address patterns and people that are not good for me or for the boys and take action to remedy them. It does not come without resistance and complexities, but in the end, this is the right thing to do and will only provide a positive space for growth going forward.
The boys are navigating their own challenges. Adrian is powerful and unable to see himself yet, but I know he will get there. I will help guide him. Ash is open to exploration, specifically, he's taken to jets and is curious to learn more, and I am working to provide those experiences for him. Any guidance you can provide for both of these young men would be welcome. They often talk about you, ask questions, and know you. I am thankful for this. We visited your tree in Malverne, and you in PNS, and will be visiting again in 2 weeks.
I love you and sending you a hello, and by this time next year, I expect to be in a much different place as the next chapter unfolds.
143 comments:
I am so proud of you Scottie!!!!!!!
T
I miss you like crazy. Thank you for being you and being my best friend.
Hey Scott,
well, things just keep on changing. You know about most of it already anyway. I know you never liked changes, and these days, neither do I. Some good news is I just got a little space to work at a short walk from home. I'll be sharing it with Paul who's book 'Us & Them' you have, and with some other painters and illustrators. So that should be fun. A chance to get out of the house finally. It is what I need and is not easy to do these days. A good feeling to go there anytime I want to do my thing. You know how it feels, to do your thing. Nothing better then that. Off to do my flying. Love you and speaking later.
T
Hey, and by the way. Don't worry about my birthday. You were there more than ever. :)
Scott, I miss you, I feel sort of guilty about missing you so much since you are no doubt in a better place. I am having a rough go though and it is hard. If it weren't for you I wouldn't even be doing this well, so thanks for all you did for me. It is sort of hard without my cheerleader around, you always had a way of lifting me up, all I can do is say thank you for all you were to me and did for me and hope that I did the same for you and I promise to try harder to get myself back together. I have a Math test tomorrow so I gottsta go hit the books, same place you dropped me off at when you were here in March, that makes me miss you, it is the oddest things that make me think of you. All for now, I will never use our bu bye with anyone, it was and will always be sacred. Love, Tara
Just a side note, went running today, the route we took that Sunday, it was nice, haven't felt like running since that was the last run, but for the first time it felt good, it was so fun to run with you, i can't believe how much fun the last year was, being able to run with you and hike, thanks.
Scottie. Thinking about you and Tom today. Can't think of anything else. Nov. 11, Veterans day. It was always a day to stop and think, but now more than ever. Thank you to both of you, please pass it on to Tom. Thank you guys. -Todd
My oh my Scottie, things are tough. Thanks to you... I'll get through it. Don't worry. Love you.
T
I always felt I could put things in there place, a way of accepting and of helping me to move forward...how do you move forward when something just feels so wrong, it's unacceptable, it's not right. I can't put what I feel in it's place, something feels so out of place, I feel displaced. You know what made made me sad last night was thinking how much of a loss to so many people this has been but also how many people will miss out meeting you, knowing you.
Scott,
There are billions of people on this planet, but it's so empty without you. So many cards and letters about you arriving daily...all saying the same thing...you were the finest friend, officer and gentleman. Thank you for making us so proud! We were truly blessed to have you for a son.
Scott, I just want to tell you here, I know you already know this, but you have the most amazing brother! How does Todd manage his art work, deadlines, projects, business and keep Dad and me sane? He spends hours keeping me company on Skype. I don't know what we'd do without him to lean on. I think you knew we'd be in good hands with him. Watch over him, he needs YOU now more than ever.
Scott, I miss you so much. 2 months today without you in so many ways and with you more than ever in so many others. So much to say and no idea where to start. I know you are with me helping me and all of us through this.
Love you Scottie.
T
Scott,
Where do i start, i used to eat you J.O.'s for lunch, but only because i had already seen up close what others are seeing for the first time. You always impressed me with your ability to learn from the wise old "chiefs" or either tell us what we wanted to hear! It was an honor to have the pleasure of serving with you and you have definitely touched the lives of those around you. The offer still stands that i gave you as a young J.O., I'm here if you need me and i will always have your back. jim weatherford (ADCS(AW)
Scott, Mom and Dad said it best in a note to me today:
'Thankful still, this Thanksgiving.'
T
Hey today all i wanted to say to you, was that despite how crappy i feel right now, I am so thankful for having met you and had you as a friend for even the short time i did. Thank you.
Hi, I miss you. It is hard to be with your family and not have you around, but then of course it is great to be with them at the same time. They remind me of how great you are. I miss you, Love, Tara
Hey, Went to see you today, I hope that you can hear when we talk to you, I hate to see you there, but then know that you aren't really there in spirit, so maybe that is ok. I needed some time with you. I will work hard to be a better person, thank you for being the type of person that would make me want to work to be a better person. I miss you so much, I know I say that a lot but it is so true and was so hard today, today felt like I had to feel all the grief of the first moment of finding out, but I promise to behave and work on it. Love you and Buu Bye, Tara
Hey, I miss you. Car got shot, I know another window to replace, somehow doesn't seem like that big of a deal these days. The kids have been nuts lately, their stories and lives make me so sad, I am so glad that you got a chance to meet them, it makes it more important for me to be here. I have been thinking of you a lot. Look after your Dad he needs your company. Love, Tara
Hey Scott.
Had a big last ten days. been crazy with travel and work once again. All is ok. Had my workshop in France which was such good therapy for me and some of my students. I know you saw it, but am not sure of why we did it. Well, I tell you, it felt really good to see what I believe you saw. To experience in the tiniest way what you did. The thing I learned was that it was wonderful. I know you where there at school guiding my students to create this. I am not so afraid anymore having done this. I realized that you are ok, and somewhere wonderful. I was not so sure just 2 weeks ago, but now I am. In fact I look at it that we're the unlucky ones, stuck here on earth! Eventually we'll be together again. Thank you for giving me the strength to use design to see something so important to me. It helped me a lot and many of the others who came to experience our project. I will never forget it. I wish I could have brought Mom, Dad and Tara there. I wish all of us and your friends could have seen it. It would have been the best therapy. facing it head on and learning in the process it is wonderful and not sad at all. I love you and thank you Scott.
T
We miss you this Christmas, and especially on your birthday. It will be a tough week for all. We know you'll be right there with us. Thank you for visiting us in our dreams....Kara & Matt
Scott, I miss you so much, I hope you heard my prayer tonight. Hope you are able to be with Todd and your parents. All of us here are thinking of you and if you can see, you see they are even more cute than last year. Love you, tara
Oh and we watched Santa is Coming to Town the other night and of course I thought of you when we saw the Meister Berger Meister.
Merry Christmas! We miss you so much, there is a picture of you on the fridge here and it reminds me that you are with us in spirit. Love, Tara
Merry Christmas Scott. We miss you my brother.
Scottie. Thanks for being out here in London with us. We love you and miss you but know you are also right beside us. We're doing our best. Miss you so much and love you even more.
Todd, Mom and Dad.
Our first Christmas without you is something we have been dreading. T's friends, Jacob & Ian and their families, have made us feel welcome. Ian has cooked a beautiful meal with all the trimmings. We were shopping for some small gifts which kept us busy. We went to St. Fransis of Assisi last night. We hope you and Tom could see the candles we lit for you. Mommy mommy is lighting her candle for you every night too.
We are trying our best to be a brave Navy family...that's what you deserve.
Thank you for sending us such wonderful, caring people who have helped us through this time.
Happy Birthday Scott! I miss you so much, I am sorry I couldn't help your parents out today. I know you can hear her, Bridget is yelling Happy Birthday at the computer right now, she says she misses you. I hope that you are in a good place and at peace. Love,Tara
34 years ago tonight at 11:55 PM was our first face to face moment! You were beautiful and I knew then you'd be wearing a baseball cap real soon. Been remembering so much...you gave us so much...I feel so sad for us all...we all want, but cannot have, more of you.
All the books I have been reading say the same thing. You are in a better place and will be waiting to guide us there too. I know you will watch over us.
Every birthday of yours was a happy one for us.
Always, all our love,
Mom Dad and Todd
Scott,
The best thing about your birthday has always been that it meant I got to see you. It felt good to have a day just for you. I guess when I think of it now, I am glad despite your joking frustration with the competition of Christmas, that your birthday was during the holidays. Being that we both live so far apart, your Christmas birthday ensured that we’d be together for it. I guess ‘upstairs’ knew in advance that we would have a limited amount, so they made sure that at least the ones we had would not have been a missed opportunity to appreciate you.
I love you Scottie. Happy Birthday.
Todd
Happy Birthday, Peanut. We're thinking of you. Matt's best friend and his wife are having their baby today in Chicago. I know you are there watching over them on the birthday you share.
Kara & Matt
You are loved and missed so much by so many. Like most days, you are in my thoughts but even more so with the holidays and your birthday.
"There is one road,no simple highway between the dawn and the dark of night and if you go, no one may follow. That path is for your steps alone."
You are amazing!
Britches
I was at a loss for words when I heard the news. You always had something good to say when chaos was ensuing in the squadron. Say hey to Money.
Britches,
I just read a Weatherford post and had to make a post. I was one of the hardest Senior Chiefs (some whould say ass)on JO's in the squadron. It was not out of disrespect but it was to train you for the future and you were one of the few who figured it out and did not fight back too much. I sit and wonder why do all the good guys have to be sent to another assignment when they are in their prime.
ATCS(AW) JD Hall
Hey Scottie.
Happy New Year. None if us wanted to leave 2005, but it helps knowing you are with us.
Missing you like crazy. You must be looking at all that is going on and thinking how on earth will we deal with it all. If you ask me, I can tell you I will manage as I know you believe I can. Knowing you are still here to support me along the way.
Love you Scottie. Supporting you at the same time.
T
Scottie,
Time moves on but think about you daily. I know it meant alot for your parents to be with Todd for the Holidays. You are missed here....but in a peaceful place. Semper Fi. RSH
Hey Scott.
Just a note to say thank you. You have always been and will continue to be the great constant in my life. A reference point and in my conscience guiding guiding my decisions.
So good to have you. T
I miss you
LOVE YOU SCOTTIE! Its a heck of a rought time, but you are AMAZING and are holding us together... LOVE TO YOU!!!! :)
T
Thank you! You gave me so much, and as much as it hurts it is so great and beautiful as well. I think of you often.
Scott,
My birthday is on Tuesday...I found a birthday email from you...dated 2003. You wrote that you were sorry you weren't able to talk to me, but you hoped I'd have a great time. You also said you'd be coming home to give me a birthday kiss and hug. I'll be looking for that hug on Tuesday...I know it will be there, somehow.
It was no accident that I found that printout - a picture of the stork carrying a drunken, unshaved, cigar smoking baby - made me smile...and the text "Lucky for me the stork has a no return policy! Happy Birthday Mom" No, Scott, I was the lucky one.
Always, with love, Mom
It is six months today. We think of you non stop...especially today. We think of what you would want us to be and get it together so you can be as proud of us as we are of you!
You and Tom...messages and prayers for you both...that we love and miss you...and will continue to do our best.
Scottie,
All day, everyday.
Proud of you and Love you.
T
284, I really miss you, somedays I just miss knowing that there is someone as great as you in the world. Life is a weird thing, it takes us on such a crazy journey. I miss you, Love, 220
I miss you a lot, I wish I could still email you or call. You were amazing, thank you for being you.
Scottie...I hope you are laughing as much as always. Love you so much.
T
Scott, I know you are in Malverne today with so many who love you. I am proud of Malverne for what they've done and you deserve every last bit of it.
Love you. T
Scott, you sure did pick a good place for us to move to. We finished the Perdido Kids Park this past Sunday. About 2,000 volunteers made this park become a reality. Marines were everywhere! Many thanks to the Perdido Kids Park Committee for their thoughtfulness. I am sure you love the S3 with your call sign and name. Also, the squadron patch for you and Tom, "You will not be forgotten", was beautifully copied by one very talented young Marine who feverishly got it done and on the wall by the 5 PM deadline.
I am so grateful to be in this atmosphere of such giving and caring people. I know you are smiling.
Love, Mom
I found a note I had written for you today, and for the first time I didn't feel like crying, it made me smile, you made me smile, thank you. I miss you terribly, but also I am ok. Thank you for being you. Love Tara
Eight months...I am sure you loved the Arbor Day ceremony in Malverne...I was told how beautiful and fitting it was. The tree is tall and beautiful, just like you.
Miss your hearty laugh...keep expecting my phone to ring whenever I go into Winn Dixie...I check the couch to see if your are taking a nap...no luck.
Wish you would give Dad a dream...he is struggling so much.
I love the emails from some of your buddies on the boat. I feel you are with them and a part of their activities.
Take care of them and bring them home safely.
Love you always,
Mom
Scottie,
Memorial day. You know everyday has and will be memorial day for Mom, Dad and I, but today is a bit different. Raising a glass to you and all the others we've lost and another to the ones still out there. A day to say thank you, to celebrate what all of you have given us. Love you.
Todd
Hi Scott, Seeing people in flightsuits makes me think of you sometimes and running into people that we both knew makes me miss you, sometimes I don't want to talk to them. Sometimes the last thing I want to talk about is S-3's. I miss you like crazy here, I am sure the next set of orders will be harder in that way. Most days I am doing better but I miss you, what I wouldn't give for that hug, to have my head in your chest and feel your kiss on my forehead, to know you are there. I miss you.
A Father's Memory
The Lord gave me a very special son
With whom I spent time and had so much fun.
The joy that he brought to me and my wife
Has given us memories that have so blessed our life.
From the time he was able to put a smile on his face
Seldom would you see him without it in place....
He was able to master everything he would try
Oh when I think of him, I so want to cry....
I can only imagine what that day will be like
When I can again hug my son and hold him so tight....
My son is no longer here in this place
But I know for certain I will again see his face....
excerpts from a poem by
Frank Zitzman Jr.
Scott,
Dad and I are so blessed having you and Todd as our sons AND having the sons and daughters you have brought into our home to share our lives, fun and sadness.
Thank you both, and we thank God for all he has blessed us with.
9 months. I guess it is strange to keep counting. You'd think I could find a fun thing to think about when I think about you, but I guess that will come in time. Either way, don't worry, we'll get there. Mom, Dad and I will hold the course and get there. Miss you like hell, love you and feel a bit better that you are right here, right now even as I write this.
Though we are on the other side of the earth from Todd, our hearts, thoughts and tears flow as one. We miss you, son.
Hi Scott,
I'm sure you knew before any of us did, but Matt and I are having a little boy. We will name him Scott in your honor. We look forward to meeting him and know you'll watch over us until early November arrives. As a child, Matt always wanted to be named Scott because "it was so cool."
We miss you all the time. Matt heard a song the other day that reminds him of you. We raise a drink for you at the Bracher Bar in our house whenever we get a chance.
~Kara & Matt
Ten months, today. Our hearts know without looking at the calendar...you are always on our minds.
We feel you all around us in the "cottage". When the moving truck arrived with your things, planes flew overhead, welcoming them...I hope it was your way of giving us your approval.
Miss you, Scott....more and more each day.
LCDR Bracher,
Thank you very much for the uplifting the day I told you that I was applying for the OCS program. I know that you never got to write me the letter of recommendation. Oh death, you have done us wrong. Finally, I applied but was not selected. I remember all your encouragements not to give up and keep trying. I will reapply again this October. I hope that you will pray for me over there because you are in the arms of the Almighty. I thought that I should let you know of the development. Thank you very much, Mr Bracher.
AD1 Ezedike, USN
Not sure why it hit me yesterday, but yesterday and today have bummed me out. Man, I miss you. Not sure what else to say, but it hurts. Somedays I just want to talk to you. I miss you, Tara
I was making a list of your likes and dislikes for your mom today and for some reason it was great and super hard at the same time, I can remember your likes but for the life of me can't recall a single dislike. I miss you, some of the kids have asked about the pilot who came to talk to them last year. Man I miss you, Tara
You are especially being remembered at this time of year. Hugs to your Mom, Dad and Todd. It has been a tough year for all those who knew and loved you. You are sorely missed.
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
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.
Light A Candle for Scott
Light a quiet candle,
Send a quiet kiss,
Say a quiet fare-thee-well,
To the one we miss.
Light a quiet candle,
Shed a quiet tear,
Sing a quiet lullaby,
and our Scott will hear.
Thank you all,
The Bracher Family
Scott,
I just found this site today thanks to your mom's letter. What a great way to enable all of us to honor your life. Everyday, I drive past the spot where I got Dave's phone call about you last year and it makes me remember you. I remember getting to my house that day. Lori was outside with Lucas and she knew right away that something was wrong. We cried together. Now, when I pass that spot, I try to think about our good times together. Our Academy days, our days in Georgetown, our days in San Diego, the hens. Remember that night in S.D. when we both got blitzed after a very bad week. You were always there for your friends!
I met Lori at your going away party. I guess I owe you for that one. It doesn't seem fair. Logan Scott had a rough go of it after he was born, fighting pneumonia for 12 days. He is now a very strong, healthy boy. I like to think that you had something to do with that too.
I miss you Brother! Mike
Matt wanted me to post this for you and your family, Scott. It's how he hopes Heaven will be.
We have only 7 weeks to go until Scott William Robinson joins our family. We are excited to meet him and know you'll be the best guardian angel a person could ask for.
We miss you and plan to release balloons at noon on Thursday.
Love, Kara & Matt
www.scottbracher.com
and
www.scottwilliamrobinson.com
* FLYING WEST *
I hope there's a place, way up in the sky,
Where pilots can go, when they have to die.
A place where a guy can buy a cold beer
For a friend and a comrade, whose memory is dear;
A place where no doctor or lawyer can tread,
Nor a management type would ere be caught dead;
Just a quaint little place, kind of dark, full of smoke,
Where they like to sing loud, and love a good joke;
The kind of a place where a lady could go
And feel safe and protected, by the men she would know.
There must be a place where old pilots go,
When their paining is finished, and their airspeed gets low,
Where the whiskey is old, and the women are young,
And songs about flying and dying are sung,
Where you'd see all the fellows who'd flown west before,
And they'd call out your name, as you came through the door.
Who would buy you a drink, if your thirst should be bad,
And relate to the others, "He was quite a good lad!"
And then through the mist, you'd spot an old guy
You had not seen in years, though he taught you to fly.
He'd nod his old head, and grin ear to ear;
And say, "Welcome, my son, I'm pleased that you're here."
"For this is the place where true flyers come,"
"When their journey is over, and the war has been won."
"They've come here at last to be safe and alone"
"From the government clerks and the management clone,"
"Politicians and lawyers, the Feds and the noise,"
"Where all hours are happy, and these good ole boys"
"Can relax with a cool one, and a well deserved rest;"
"This is heaven, my son......You've passed your last test!"
Author Unknown
We look toward the heavens and see a new star shining in the distance,
We know that it is Scott
sharing his love with us on earth.
We honor your memory, we remember your spirit, we love you and miss you terribly. Your in my thoughts everyday.
It's been a year since you've left, and we miss you like crazy. Your Spirit needed to soar, farther and higher than ever before. We'll forever miss you, but we're warmed by the glow of the life you chose and the joy you unlocked, and we love you for it.
Reflecting on yesterday, how lucky we are to have the love and kindness Scott's legacy has provided. Thank you ALL for your kindness...your prayers lifted our spirits and gave us strength. Thank you and God Bless!
Love Lorraine Greg and Todd
Britches,
Yesterday was very special and I am very fortunate to have been blessed by your friendship. I was on the flightline at JAX yesterday morning and it was absolutely the best day in JAX that I can remember. Not a cloud in the sky all day. It was perfect and fitting to celebrate your life. Just as I was walking back to the hanger, a 4-ship formation of S-3s gracefully overflew the air station, they paid tribute to you and your comrade. It was very moving and it brought back all of the great memories and good times we had together. I know you are doing well in paradise and looking down on us every day. I miss you brother and I'll see you when I get there.
Dear Lorraine, Greg And Todd,
Although distance and illness have kept me from being with you for this sad anniversary, my thoughts and prayers were with you
Kathy Gibbons
He is Gone.
You can shed tears that he is gone,
Or you can smile because he lived.
You can close your eyes and pray
that he will come back,
Or you can open your eyes
and see all that he has left.
Tom, your beautiful children and wife continue your legacy. They are as special as you.
Scott, the friends and relatives who love you will never forget your generous and caring spirit.
We are all better people today for having you both in our lives.
Scottie boy,
I does not get any easier. I also don't want it to. Missing you so much and I still don't believe what I'm supposed to. Life will never be the same without you here. It is not what I can't get from you but what I can't give to you. Actually, that's not true, I miss everything you give to me. Everything you give to Mom and Dad. I miss the idea of what you gave to everyone you've met. This is so hard.
13 months....so who's counting??
We are and always will.
I miss you. Sometimes it is hard to believe you are gone. I wish I could make sense of things, but I guess that is not how the world works, not everything has to make sense. I miss you. Memories of you make me sad and happy all at the same time. Miss you, Tara
You always believed in giving
your All, not just your best.
You proudly served your country. We pray for our military out there, doing their best, and giving their All.
We hug and welcome back all who return and respect and admire all veterans who have served so nobly.
God bless you this Veterans Day.
You've given so much, and never asked for anything in return. Always. Love you Scottie, so much to ask you, so much to talk about.
Look out for the ones still out there.
T
Somehow this makes me miss even more, I keep wanting to talk to you about things with my Dad and then I can't. Please look out for him and help him out up there, I know he says he looks forward to seeing my Avo, have you seen him, is that possible. I am so sad. I miss you, Tara
Scott,
For some reason you feel less far away today than all year. I don't know why but I'll take it. Looking at the calendar today and not feeling bad, but only with good thoughts. The ones I have all the time about you.
I know you're laughing, I know you're smiling. I know you enjoyed Lisbon as I did, you were right there it was great. Your guys are amazing and you were just as lucky as they were.
Speaking soon,
T
I always knew you were up there watching over us.I think of you often.You are good soul. We were all blessed to know you in this world. Fletch
I miss you. Thank you for all that you did for me, you made me such a better, stronger person, I miss you. Love, Tara
Miss you Scottie. Every day.
Love. T
Scott,
You've even prepared me for something like this and how to manage it. Every day I see how amazing you were. I always knew it, and continue to discover it.
love you.
T
Man I have been away from the Maulers for nearly 5 years but I still think about you, Money and Meschke all great guys taken before their time. I just know that there were plans for you and it is to serve a higher purpose.
All day, every day Scott. Thank you for being there. You are so missed.
LCDR Bracher,
You are one of the coolest officers that I've met. It crushed me to know that you left us here on earth to be without you physically. I know that you are around all of us who cared about you. I even made up a little page for the Navy folks, so that they could remember you when they log onto the Navy site. I've never met anyone who wanted to fly more than you, with all the back issuses and all. You left the place doing what you loved. I'm happy to have you as one of my angels. Thank you for crossing my path and being a pleasure to work with.
YN2 Fitzgerald
Always thinking of you, Scott...
Just to let you know, your squadron in JAX finished number 1!
The S3 at the memorial site was painted in the Squadron colors. Additionally, they painted your memorial patch onto the plane.
I know you and Tom are proud of them...we are also!
Hey Peanut,
I just wanted you to know that your god son hit his first homerun on Saturday, that’s right on Cinco de Mayo. I know you are proud; moreover, he’s a lefty that bats right. I reached for my mobile to tell you and realized half way through that you already probably knew. Miss you. You were probably watching and gave him a little help with the in field defense as he rounded the bases. Ahh Tee-ball defense such a well oiled machine. I miss you immensely buddy. Though I know Jude’s got the best guardian angel on the block. Ciao.
Scottie,
Missing you every day. Hope you're hanging in there and looking out for the brave men and women still out there this memorial day. Thank you to ALL of you.
Be speaking soon.
T
My husband, Peter, and I were at the tree dedication for Scott in Malverne....a few weeks ago a friend recommended a good yoga studio in Malverne, and I was delighted to find out that it's located right across the street from Scott's tree, so now, when I come out of my yoga class each Monday night, I stop by the tree, say hi to Scott, and a few prayers for him & his family!
Missing you. Everything just seems so empty.
Year two. The good news is you are still here....
...missing you everyday since.
I miss you. It was great to see your parents and it felt good to visit you, but still I just miss you. You were amazing. Thank you for everything. Love, Tara
Went by the tree on NAS JAX today on the way to the hanger. It is growing strong, as expected and was adorned with tribute. It still amazes me that it has been raining everyday for the past week and today, on the 21st, this week-long deluge has stopped and the sun returned all-day. It is truly fitting that this happened today, I know you had something to do with it. I hope you continue to watch down on us and know that you are always with us. Take care brother and I'll see you when I get there.
Beetle
Navy did it again.... hope you were watching. :)
Scott,
Someone else for you to watch over has arrived:
She was born Sunday Dec 2, at 1251, she weighed 6lbs and 3 ozs and was 19 inches...Chloe Jeyn Carroll...
beautiful head of dark hair and blue eyes. Yup, Tara and Doug will be wonderful parents.
Happy Heavenly Birthday Scott... my loving wishes to Lorraine, Greg and Todd...
Always remembered, always loved...
Lucy
Happy Birthday Scottie Boy. Love you and Miss you. :) T
Scott,
36 years today. ......the ache will always be there...missing you and your warmth. I asked God to give you our hugs and remind you how much you are loved and missed.
Happy Birthday...my sweet boy .
HEY SCOTT,
IT;S JOEY AND NGA AND WE JUST WANT TO SAY HI AND WE MISS YOU ALL THE TIME. YOU ARE ALWAYS IN OUR THOUGHTS ALONG WITH YOUR PARENTS AND BROTHER. I WILL NEVER FORGET THE TIME YOU HELPED ME SURPRISE MY SISTER WHEN SHE CAME BACK FROM THE GULF. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR BEING WHO YOU ARE. I LEARNED A LOT THAT DAY FROM YOU... YOU SHOWED WHAT A TRUE FRIEND WILL DO. I STILL REMEMBER YOU AND I TALKING ON THE PHONE GETTING EVERY SET UP SO THAT I COULD SURPRISE HER WHEN SHE RETURNED, WITH OUT YOU I WOULDN'T HAVE BEEN ABLE TO GET IT DONE. FROM THAT POINT ON WE WHERE FRIENDS AND I COULDN'T BELIEVE HOW LUCKY MY SISTER WAS TO HAVE SOMEBODY LIKE YOU IN HER LIFE AND I TRUELY FELT BLESSED TO HAVE YOU IN MINE.
I HAVE NEVER WRITEN IN THIS BLOG BEFORE BECAUSE IT WAS TO HARD FOR ME UNTIL NOW, AND
I SORRY FOR THAT. I TRUELY DO MISS YOU AND WHAT YOU REPRESENT. HARDLY ANY BODY IN TODAYS WORLD CAN LIVE UP TO THE MAN YOU WHERE. YOU HAD SUCH HIGH MORAL STANDARDS AND INTEGRITY AND I LOOK UP TO THAT. WILL TRUELY MISS YOU. THANKS............. LOVE YOU
A gift of love and honor....
precious Scott Leonidas Claiborne was born on January 22, 2008 to Amanda & Chris and Big brother Jude.
He weighed in at 7 pounds 11 ounces, at 1:34 pm.
I am sure you will keep a loving watch over him!
Boy would I love for you to meet my Chloe, I wonder when she looks past me and smiles if it might be you or my Dad she is seeing. If so thank you for all of the wonderful smiles. You are missed.
March 21, 2008
Mommy Mommy, Ricky and I brought you white roses. As we were getting out of the car, one solo Blue Angel plane quietly flew right in front of us as if to welcome us and say hello....we believe it to be a hello from you and your buddies.
All our love .... we miss you!
You are missed every single day and will continue to be. I can't believe how incredible you were... and how incredible you still are.
Miss you bro. I know you continue to look down on us. I can 't help think that every time Scott laughs and smile for no apparent reason that's it's you making a funny face or trying to rap. Think about you everyday.
Love, C
just wanted to say hi!
my man. Watching Yankee stadium ride off into the sunset. Miss you and know you're watching as well. Love you Scottie. All day every day. T
Received the latest pics of your Scotty kids (Robinson & Claiborne). They have the same beautiful bright laughing eyes and smile as you. Watch over them.
Always thinking about you, every day.
Watching Yankee Stadium take its place in history tonight is kind of like each year going by without you. Its influence and impact, just like yours, will continue. It's too worthwhile to ever forget, just like you.
Always, Mom & Dad
scott,
a friend of mine has been sent to you, he is good man and i know you will be friends. i love and miss you. please look out for my friend as he always looked out for us as you do. god bless the both of you.
miss you every single day.
I can still hear your laugh. Miss you and think about you everyday!
LCDR Bracher,
It pleases me to inform you that I finally got accepted to OCS last year. My training went well. I was commissioned on Dec 19, 2008. Thanks for your prayers and making everything happen. Thanks a lot for all your good advice when I started my application in 2005.
ENS Jude Ezedike
I cruised with Lt Bracher in 1999. He was our Line Div O. He was a great man and I was very sad to hear about his passing. I often think about him and also two other shipmates I lost in VS-32, Lt Mat Moneymaker and Lt Mike Meschke. They are all missed and will always be remembered as hero's.
Just came across this site, it's beautiful. Thinking of Scott and my love to the family.
JUST THINKING ABOUT YOU
Miss you brother! Things are crazy but in a good way. 3 man cubs now but you know that. So Amanda and I have had to move to a zone defense man to man no longer works. Wish you were here! Love you.
Time is flying but also does not feel that long ago.
Miss you as much, no suprises there.
Less than two weeks till the big day. Hope in some crazy way to see you there.
Love you, Scottie. T
It has been sad, not only today, but we have felt the build-up for the past week. Mayor Panzarella scheduled a mass for you in Malverne, and has you included in a mass in the Duomo in Firenze, Italy.
Phone calls and cards, some from people we'd never expect, and some you never knew.
Don Masden was so kind to bring flowers to the site in Jax. Todd went to Malverne, where he noted there was a flag.
Oct. 1 there will be a mass for you at Holy Spirit Church here in Pcola from Liz and Vete.
And, as usual, Todd came through at just the right time.
God, too, came through...he sent the most beautiful magazine article about Todd, which included paragraphs about you.
How we love both you kids...the best days of our lives were when we were all together.
Always missing you...see you at T's wedding....we know you wouldn't miss it.
:) thank you Scottie for your wow on our wedding day. Amazing. Love you.
Miss you brother...thinking of you often,
Thinking of you always. Thank you especially today for always putting everyone else first in your life. Love you always. T
Miss you Scottie. Thinking about you always.
Love you Scottie. :)
Happy Christmas Scottie. Missing you but also feel you're right here. Thinking of you today and everyday.
T
Memories are a blessing; they can take us to places that were special, make us smile and remind us of people like you! Your smile, jovial manner and kind words will always be cherished.
Thanks for sharing moments with many of us that will fill our hearts with love and laughter. Thinking of you today on Memorial Day as I attended ceremonies here in Washington DC.
To the only person who has never asked for a thank you.
Thank you.
Never a day goes by. miss you and love you.
Watching Angels Among Us on TV....and know you are here.
Christmas photos of your dear loving friends and the beautiful children named after you are a wonderful reminder that everyone continues to keep you in their hearts and thoughts.
Tara was on a flight....Tom Blake was the pilot.
Thank you for the hellos...we notice them.
Sending you Christmas love, my sweet boy...
Happy Christmas Scottie boy. Miss you. :)
Hey Scottie.
First year I've decided not to be sad about today. I'm done with that. No need anymore. No more remembering the bad, at least no need to put a cloud over the day/month.
All is good. miss you for sure.. that does not change. Still helping and guding.. that does not change either. Just to say thank you and seeing you tomorrow and the next day... Love you
Thank you Mayor Manzarella and Mrs. Panzarella for the remembrance mass at Our Lady of Lourdes in Malverne today for Scott. You always remember.
Watching the iTunes festival....I know you'd love it....noisy and energetic. Your tree is growing straight, tall and strong. Flowers and flags were there. You are loved so much. So many friends missing you and sending their love.
8 years....love mom
Thinking of you today Scottie. Love
Heavenly Birthday Scott.....
9 years ago today. Right now in fact.
Love you and miss you always.
T
I wish you were here. Always. Not a day goes by especially when looking at our boys how I wish you could meet them. Spend time with them. To spend time with you. Do nothing, but just to spend time. That's all. I do hope to actually have that day eventually...
Until then. I miss you, love you and please be 'in touch'.
T
12 years today. Miss you Scott. Can still hear your voice, your laugh. Thankfully. So much new but also nothing’s changed since you’ve left. You cause me to pause and to think, and when I do, it’s like nothing’s changed, like a version of home.
I miss you Scottie. I’m coincidently in Florida today. I feel more connected to be here today, so that helps too. :)
Love you. I know you’re close.
T
13 Years... first time the date on the calendar was not that painful. That's a good sign I guess. :) . All hanging in there with lots going on. Wonder what you would be doing today, that's for sure. Miss you. Think about you daily, and wish you were here. No other words to say.
T
14 years on. The good news is you still feel close. I think in some ways always going 'back' to you helps me stay grounded and not lost int he craziness of today and the unknown of tomorrow. I'm sure you would be wondering how did life here get so hectic... and it is. Its not supposed to be, and I don't recommend it.. but it is. I am hoping not for much longer. Somehow I feel you would have had a very balanced life.. a smart one. I am imagining what that would have been and looking to how I can learn from you. keeping it simple, smart, logical and balanced. Like you.
You know already all that's in my life, so nothing more to say. Miss you as always. feeling you as close as ever in these past 14 years, so for me that's a good sign for the years ahead.
Love you, stay close. T
A friend posted a memorial for you on Monday on his FB page. You were an instructor of his in flight school and took special care to get him his wings. It was nice to see your picture and remember your mentorship at USNA. You were a role model, one to be looked up to and an example to follow that would surely lead to success. Somehow, likely due to an overseas deployment, I didn't know the news of your loss. Maybe I heard about it then. I don't know. You are now added to the list of young heroes that I remember every Memorial Day that I served with and whose loss effects me. Thanks for your leadership. They say only the good die young. You left far too young...but then I guess that shows your goodness. I hope my comments here will remind your friends and family of just how special you were. Nevermind, they know better than me. Gone but never forgotten.
Miss you Scottie. 15 years today. T
Scottie. Think about you all the time. Great guy and friend. Miss you. 16 years come 9-21-21. Your not for gotten. Semper Fi. R
Every day, each one different, each year passes, another change, life continues, evolves, good and bad... all just keep going. One constant. You. Missed every day. Lots of dreams recently, happy that you are still a big part of my life. You constantly reminded me to calibrate, check in to where I am and where do I want to be, out of respect for you... your big brother influence. I thank you.
Love you Scottie.
17 year. Spoke with mom today, and she said the same... feels like yesterday. Literally 24 hours ago. And we both are 'happy' that's how it feels. You still feel close, relevant and in our lives, all things considered. The boys know about you, ask about you. Still as proud of you as ever... miss you every day. So thankful for how you continue to influence us all these years later. Love you. T
Merry Christmas Scottie. Missing you today as much as ever. Thinking of you. T
18 years in, though I'm not trying to count. It's been a hell of a year, to say the least. I am taking control back of my life or, more accurately, removing myself from the control of others. It has been a very challenging thing to do, but for the kids and for me, it is a necessity. I have learned how to address patterns and people that are not good for me or for the boys and take action to remedy them. It does not come without resistance and complexities, but in the end, this is the right thing to do and will only provide a positive space for growth going forward.
The boys are navigating their own challenges. Adrian is powerful and unable to see himself yet, but I know he will get there. I will help guide him. Ash is open to exploration, specifically, he's taken to jets and is curious to learn more, and I am working to provide those experiences for him. Any guidance you can provide for both of these young men would be welcome. They often talk about you, ask questions, and know you. I am thankful for this. We visited your tree in Malverne, and you in PNS, and will be visiting again in 2 weeks.
I love you and sending you a hello, and by this time next year, I expect to be in a much different place as the next chapter unfolds.
Missing you as always Scottie.
T
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