COMPLETED:
Its over now! We saw Don go down to the ground and return back to the earth. He is safely in his final resting place; its a prime spot in the center of the cemetery next to the roadside. You don’t have to hike a hill or go over dozens of other graves. And he is very lucky to have it, especially in what is a basically full national cemetery. His spot was formerly held by an unidentified soldier who coincidentally got identified just as Don needed a final resting place. It is a spot truly meant for him.
Please stop by the cemetery office to get a map and/or have your questions answered. There is also a beautiful view point at the very top of the cemetery where you can take some panorama photos of Diamond Head, the valley, the skyline, the ocean, and the cemetery itself. As an added bonus, the pathway leading to this view point is impressively lined with all the placards dedicated to the cemetery.
We hope that you’ll visit him here some day. He is buried at:
The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl
2177 Puowaina Drive
Honolulu, HI 96813 U.S.A.
1 (808) 532-3720
Section: Q
Grave Number: 383-A
PHOTO CREDIT
© ALPHA COMPANY, 2/25 AVIATION
Next to his Symbol Which he Stenciled Himself, 2010
Codename: “DRAGON”
CHAMPION:
Don has always been a competitor. And proof of that was his win as the “1,000 Push Up Champion.” He won by clocking in 1,000 push ups in 27 minutes! Aside from bragging rights, he was also awarded this uniform belt attachment. Now, he will now forever be the ace.
Champion Belt Attachment for the “Push Up King”
JANE:
Have you seen the stuffed animal lion named, “Jane” (see photos)? She is very important to Don and because so, she is very important to us as well. Last seen in Afghanistan. We are hopeful that she was not part of the crash that killed Don. So if you’ve seen, touched, or know anything about Jane, especially her whereabouts, please let us know.
With Don Inside a Helicopter in Afghanistan
With Don’s Pilot Friends in Afghanistan
VIDEOS:
Christiana (Don’s god daughter) misses him very much. Though at only five years old at the time of his death, she is still too young to fully understand the gravity of the situation. However, she is constantly saddened when she thinks of our loss and sometimes even teary. She briefly sings a song in tribute to the uncle she loves and tells him a final message.
I’ll See you Again by Westlife
“Always.”
“You will be part of me.”
“And I will forever feel your strength when I need it most.”
“You’re gone now”
“Gone but not forgotten.”
“I can’t say this to your face, but I know you’ll hear.”
“I’ll see you again.”
“You never really left.”
“I feel you are beside me.”
“I know, I’ll see you again.”
Christiana Also Tells Her Uncle Don One Final Message
COMMENTS:
You can view the comments previously placed on this posting, but new comments must be made in subsequent postings as this one is full. Thank you for your understanding. We’d love to hear from you.
Sherry on 
Dan Curtis on 
Cindy Forrest on
Hello Sherry,
I am Chris Workman’s mother and I live in Idaho. I wanted to express my condolences for you brother. I attended the memorial service held at the brigade headquarters on May 16th and was disappointed I did not get to meet you and your parents. I hope the engraved picture frame was appropriate as my school, where I teach, sent all the parents the picture frames for their sons. It is a gift from all of the students and teachers where Chris also graduated.
The following day we visited Don at Punch Bowl.
We are also distressed about the extreme length of time that is being taken with the investigation. I am very suspicious (as you are) and cannot come to peace with this until I have the answers. Besides the fact that these beautiful boys loved their careers and their country, it is such a horrible waste of superior, extraordinary, men. We love our son and miss him very much. We are disappointed that he will not see his hopes and dreams fulfilled.
Another reason I am suspicious of this incident is the strange things that have been happening. Similar to accounts that I have read in the comments on this site. We know he has not gone on and is among us. Why? I feel something is causing unrest.
Since you are closer to the army base and may be in a position to here or see something that will give some light to this, please contact us so that we may also know.
Please accept my sincere regret to you and your parents for the loss of Don. My son spoke very highly of him.
My deepest sympathy,
Anna Workman
Thank you for taking the time to visit Don virtually on this Website and also at his internment site. We were all very happy to see your comment and to know that you actually went to visit his grave. And to answer your question, yes we received the photo and frame – thank you very much. In fact, my mother Luz has carried it to several family gatherings. And our relatives took it to Don’s grave during the picnic they had there on Memorial Day (we were out of town). So its fair to say its been used and continues to be used. And we are very glad to have it.
I know you must miss Chris as much as we miss Don. We offer our deepest sympathy for your loss as well. What has given me some solace through this is the thought that even though Don was off at some foreign land, that at the last moments of his life, he was with some great men doing what he loved.
I will reply to the rest of your comment more privately on email.
Again, thank you and please accept our condolences.
-Sherry
Here’s a little something dedicated to Don. We used to sing this together in his car.
Great job, Juana
God Bless you Don and your family.
You will be missed very much.
My son in law was with you and will also be missed as with the other men>
sup don!
just stopping to say wassup.
still cant believe you’re gone.
hope your resting well
rest in peace aloha again!
Don,
You will always be remembered and honored.
- Alberto Family
Don came to visit me in a bittersweet dream on Saturday night. He said his farewell and that it’ll be a long time until we would meet again. His smile was just as bright and beautiful as ever. As far as I could tell, he was very happy; there was no sign of pain, only peace.
Oh, how I wish that he truly is happy. If only to have some peace in my heart. I really do hope so.
Dear Don,
I leave Hawaii today for a long time. Our parents will follow me in a few days. We are taking a long needed trip to a beautiful place. Its something we all actually planned before you left us. But I will be back. I will never completely leave Hawaii to go back home to the mainland (as I promised you), until someone answers for your death. Those military guys have really prolonged our suffering. Each week is a new thing. They promised us initially that the answers and the end of to the investigation would be completed within one to two weeks of your death. It is now over a month later and they are still not saying anything. This leads anyone to assume that something is deeply wrong. Especially since there were already eye witnesses to your incident. It should not be this complicated, unless it was the military’s fault to begin with, right? May said you told her that in her dreams. Regardless, I will be here, along with our parents, waiting for the day that those military paper-pushers (who never see combat so don’t truly understand the full consequences of the decisions they make), tell us why they let you die.
I’ll be back to visit you again, brother.
Love,
Ate (sister)
Condolence from Baldo Family.
May Don Rest in Peace.
Sherry, thank you for sharing about the butterfly! It gave me goosebumps; I’m glad he’s still around somehow. Thank you for planning a beautiful ceremony.
Also, it would be great if you could find a photo similar to the butterfly that was seen. Thank you!
Someone claims to have one. But now cannot find it. We’ll see if it turns up and if it does, I will post it.
I’m glad Don’s friends were able to come. He’s was such a secretive person. We didn’t know he had so many other friends. Its comforting to see that he did.
To the family of CW2 Don Viray
My condolences goes out to you. I have known him since we went to JRTC in Ft Polk, LA. Thats when I found out that he was a local boy just like me and the same age. It was my pleasure on knowing such a great guy and pilot.
May he fly in paradise and the rest of his crew of DH 20.
With my deepest respect,
SGT Fau, Christopher
D Co 2/25 AVN REGT
Thank you for your thoughts and I’m glad you still remembered him even from the JRTC days.
very very sorry for your loss your son was a very brave young man for doing what he did my sincere condolences to all of you your son is loved and misse by us all
Thank you for your kind words.
Sherry:
I just want to say how beautiful the ceremony was at the chapel as well as the military style burial. I’ve never seen a more solemn and well organized event. Don would’ve been happy to see such a tribute to him. I can’t imagine having a better sister to love.
Mr. & Mrs. Viray:
I’m sure there is nothing I can say that will ease you minds on losing your son. No parent should ever have to bury their off spring. But rest assured that Don was loved, and that was clearly shown at his memorials and burials. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to meet such an impressive young man. Even though he died young, he made a lasting impression on us all. That won’t be taken away.
-Daryl
I’m so glad you liked the memorial and burial ceremonies. It was a lot of hard work and painful stress, but worth it all for Don. I sure hope he was happy about it and smiling upon us now. Thank you
I totally agree. It was a great ceremony to great person. It saddens me deeply to hear another one of these reports again.
Leo and family,
I’m sorry that you have sufferred the ultimate loss of your son (DON) inservice to his country.DON was a credit to the US Army and such an outstanding and shinning example of a real hero.I remember the day you talking about your son (DON) decided to join the Army.Don just knew it was something he had to do.And by the way , it’s a small world Don and my son are in AVN unit Kendahar together and my son will return next year.My prayers will be with you and your wonderful family at this sad and tragic time.God Bless you and your family.
Sincerely,
Grace Gomez
Dear Don,
We (your mom, dad and sister) just got home after seeing you go back to the earth. It was a beautiful funeral. So many people were there (even some traveling from thousands of miles away just to see you) that the chapel didn’t even have enough seats to accommodate. Your burial was equally as impressive. The Patriot Guards guided us to the cemetery and the National Guard performed at the burial ceremony, even with a Chinook helicopter flyover. And on top of it all, the 25 ID commanding general gave honor to your family. We now each have one of your flags, which we will keep nears us, just like we will keep you near us.
You should know that you were loved and today that was evident.
We hope you are now at rest and someday in another life, we will see you again.
Love,
Ate (big sister)
Dear Viray Family,
I just wanted to say “sorry for your loss” and that you have been in my thoughts and prayers. As I write this, you are now at Punchbowl burying Don in his final resting place…may he rest in peace. He was a handsome young man and so courageous. Thankful for his service to our country. I pray that you will be given satisfactory answers from the military about what happened. My heart goes out to you…a sudden loss is never easy. The loss of a child to parents is very hard and Sherry I can feel your pain and sadness as you have written to your brother here. Blessed are those that mourn, for they will be comforted. Take care and may God bring a healing to your hearts in the days ahead.
Sincerely,
Aurora
Aurora, I cannot tell you how comforting your words are for us, me in particular. I also cannot wait for an answer regarding the investigation of my brother’s incident as we are still waiting for one from the military a month later. Its impossible to proceed with Don’s final matters when his preliminary death certificate has “PENDING” on the cause of death. I am hoping for answers soon and even then I already know I will not be satisfied, especially coming from the military who have not been easy to deal with in the past few weeks. Thank you for the ecard.
Don,
Hey MAN! I know today (5-10-2012) you’ll be settling down on your final resting place… It is still hard for us to accept that you’re really gone, and that we cannot be there to witness how Hawaii & US will honor you as a hero. I will miss our talks and your advises. I didn’t expect that our path will cross just once here on earth but I will never forget those days man… As of now, nothing I can do but to ask God to guide you, but man I promise that one day I’ll be able to visit your land and your grave.
You’re still “THE MAN”, that’s what we used to call each other and it will always be.
YOU WILL FOREVER BE A PRIDE OF OUR FAMILY AND YOU WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED COUSIN…
May you rest in peace…
-KIM
I’m so glad that you got to know Don, even from far away. It is also hard for us to accept that he is truly gone and sometimes we don’t actually believe he is dead (especially since there was no body). But he is gone. Please take solace in knowing that you crossed paths at least once in life.
Viray family,
Truly sorry for your loss and I hope that you and the other families, as well as the Army family who lost their brothers, will heal from the sting of the pain of death in time.
The brigade and battalion staff members DO care, very much, about the welfare of fallen soldiers’ families and spend countless hours and emotions trying to do what is right. It pains me to see negative comments about your son’s brigade on this site. I hope your family and your son’s Army family continue to work, together, to honor the memories of your son and of his fallen brothers.
The day I actually see ALL the members of the brigade and battalion do what is right, is the day mind will change about the military. For now, it is what it is, and it is a shame. I truly appreciate the reassurance, but I cannot truthfully believe it; at least until I experience something different going forward.
Don
it was nice know a guy like you.
Thanks for defending our country
may you rest in peace. aloha
Leo,
It is clear Don was a wonderful person, a most loyal Soldier, and a faithful son to you and Luz . After attending the service this afternoon, it is clear many others acknowledge it also. We thank you for your son’s service and sacrifice. “As iron sharpens iron, so one man (and his noble life) sharpens another ”
- The Curtis Family
LTC Curtis,
I really appreciate very much your present to Don Memorial Service this afternoon. It heals the pain in my heart to see the true friend like you. GOD Bless you and your family.
Viray’s Family
Don, I work with your father, even though I did not know you personally, I feel as though I do. You father talked about you constantly, you was his pride and I could see it in his eyes. As I look at your picture and the words Freedom is not free, it is symbolic to how you live your life and your sacrifice.
Sincerely
Nadine
Nadine,
Yes indeed it hurts to loose a son especially he is only 25 years old.
Thank You,
Leo
Someday we will know, where the pilots go
When their work on earth is through.
Where the air is clean, and the engines gleam,
And the skies are always blue.
They have flown alone, with the engine’s moan,
As they sweat the great beyond,
And they take delight, at the awesome sight
of the world spread far and yon.
Yet not alone, for above the moan, when the earth is
out of sight,
As they make their stand, He takes their hand,
and guides them through the night.
How near to God are these men of sod,
Who step near death’s last door?
Oh, these men are real, not made of steel,
But He knows who goes before,
And how they live, and love and are beloved,
But their love is most for air.
And with death about, they will still fly out,
And leave their troubles there.
He knows these things, of men with wings,
And He knows they are surely true.
And He will give a hand, to such a man
‘Cause He’s a pilot too.
R.I.P Don
Very lovely and touching. Thank you
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Viray and family,
Those of us who knew and worked with Don respected, and admired his great love for his country and family. He was an inspiration to us all.
Your son was a caring and compassionate person. He was always doing something for someone else, and never taking credit for it. He was also dependable, and for that reason he was often called upon when a special assignment had to be done. His fellow conrades knew that he would see it through to completion.
Giving one’s life for your country is the highest act of patriotism possible. Your son was a true patriot. His bravery and valor are evident. He died defending freedom for the country he loved so dearly. I wanted to let you know how very sorry I am for your loss. Please extend my sympathy to your entire family.
I pray that GOD brings peace to your family in your time of sorrow.
God Bless You and God Bless America.
In Deepest Sorrow,
CW2 Kenley Kirkland of A. Co. 2-25th AVN BN. WAAF, Hawai’i
Thank you for sharing your thoughts about and experiences with Don. We are glad to hear his compassion was felt beyond just his family. And that he was well respected by those who worked with him. This makes us very happy.
By the way, since you two “lived” so closely, if you know anything about the whereabouts of Jane (the stuffed animal lion), please let us know.
We hope to hear from you again.
im sorry it took this long to respond back….im sorry to say i know Don always took jane on every flight….it wasnt in the room and i dont know if it was out were he was…all i can think was he had it with him.
So glad that you took the time to look. We think Jane was with him, too but thought there might be a chance she survived. I guess we are just going to have to deal with another loss. Though I will keep trying until everyone says she is no where to be found. Although we are still missing several of Don’s big item things, too. Every little process of this has been so difficult sometimes that its just frustrating. The Army makes everything difficult, I guess. Thanks for looking.
Dear Don,
We bury tomorrow. I have planned and initiated the best possible memorial and burial I could have imagined for you, along with the help of our parents. It is our hope that you would be proud and happy of our tribute to you. Weeks have gone by and yet I do not feel any less pain. And perhaps, that is not necessarily a bad thing, as I am constantly reminded of you. One more day, brother, and then you can rest in peace.
Love,
Ate (ate sister)
Sherry,
You and your parents did an awesome job in honoring Don. I’m 100% positive that he is smiling down on you today and always.
God bless y’all,
Kumeo
Thank you for giving me this affirmation I needed. I hope you are right
Don,
Thank you for being an amazing and loyal friend to my husband. His heart is aching but you will live on for eternity in his heart. The countless memories the two of you made will forever be a part of him. You were more of a brother and you made a huge impression on his life. He will be forever grateful for your friendship. You are an amazing man and a TRUE american HERO and I am proud to have met you. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Viray Family,
My deepest sympathy during this difficult time. Please know that your son was an amazing man and touched so many lives. His legacy will live on forever.
Love, Kristin Neal
Don,
Sorry it took so long for me to write to you. It has just been very hard for me to accept that you are no longer with us. I hold on to hope that one day you will pop up and say you are OK. You know we grew up like we were siblings and we have lots of memories together, which I will hold on to very dearly. But what hurts me most is we wont be able to laugh about it together. I know we will see each other again. Please watch over your god daughter Christiana. Be her angel as well as the whole family. You always wanted to fly and now you’re an angel forever will be flying the great blue sky. Fly high cuzzoe, you will be forever in our hearts! Yana and Des says, we miss you uncle.
Mr. Viray and Family,
I did not know you for long, but it was a pleasure to of known you and to of worked with you. I hope that God takes good care of you and our other 3 Alpha company brothers. Watch over the rest of us BLACKJACKS as we complete the rest of this mission here in Afghanistan.
SPC Amber Wyller
Alpha Company
For all this year that i’ve known you and all the happiness that we had shared together i never treated you like nobody else and for me your like a brother to me..You even said to me once that life has an ending but i never thought it would happen like this..Don, i know your happy right now and hope to see u someday wherever you may be but always remember that i was glad and happy that i met you and your family they are all families to me but i THANK you for everything and i will always be here remembering all the good times we had before and u will never forget you and always be in my heart miss you And i love you bro…
Julius,
I know you and Don treat each other like brothers.
Now Don is gone, I hope you will not forget his legacy.
Be careful out there. I am praying that no more Americans will die at OEF mission. We cannot afford to lose anymore American life.
Leo
(Don’s Dad using Sherry’s account)
Leo and Family,
I know words are not enough during this difficult time. Just know that we are thinking of you and the loss of your beloved son. May you find peace with God’s love.
God bless you,
Kumeo
Kumeo,
Thanks a lot for your support during my toughest time in my life.
No words can describe how me and family feels about the death of Don. It really hurts so much…
Your Friend,
Leo and Family
Leo,
As I sat in the back of the Chapel watching you, Luz and Sherry, it broke my heart to see you. When we last spoke you mentioned that I can understand what you were going through because of my father’s death. Now I know there is no comparison. My father had a long life and I buried him as it should be. There is no way I can relate to the pain you are dealing with…no parent should ever have to lay-to-rest their child. I still break down and cry when I have thoughts of my dad, but I’m comforted with all the great times we spent together. You will go through this, but hold close to your heart all the great memories you have of Don and it will be alright . I wish I could take away some of your pain…I know I can’t…so I’ll just keep praying for you and your family. God bless you my friend.
With Heartfelt Sympathy,
Kumeo
Don (Soldier & Fellow Warrant)
As I watched you partially grow up and become man and soldier, as a friend of your family you made all of us proud, even though you left us too soon, but your love of God and country, the services you rendered will not be forgotten. Your sacrifice was given, for others to live on and to be free…..
CW5 (Ret) K.S. Oneal
Mr. O’Neal,
Don is a true hero and he will not be forgotten.
Thank you for remembering him when he still growing up.
Don is gone but he will stay in our heart forever.
Take care my friend and I hope I will see you again.
Leo
ILOVEYOU and IMISSYOU SO MUCH COUSIN.. Be here with us. I know your soul is wondering around right now. We are waiting for you. We miss you so much. Wishing this didn’t happen to you.I’m always thinking about you because till this day I can’t believe we’ve lost the best cousin. Rest in Paradise :*
So glad you are always thinking of him – its the only way to keep his memory alive, please don’t stop.
My Dear Don,
I will never forget all the times we shared together, even when you were so many miles away. I miss you so much and it makes me so sad that we won’t be having our random hang out sessions again. I still can’t believe it, man. Sometimes I think of how this happened but it just saddens me more and it makes me wish we had more time to spend together. One day, we will have eternity to hang out together and we won’t have to worry about anything at all (especially when I get lost trying to find your new home… that was always annoying right?). Thank you for always encouraging me to push myself to the next level when I doubted myself. Thank you for all your words of wisdom. Thank you for putting a smile on my face in times that I needed one. I am so proud of you for everything you have done for yourself, your family and your country. I think about you everyday and pray that we will see each other again. I love you, my friend. You will always be in my heart.
The Viray Family,
My deepest condolence for your loss. Words cannot express the sadness I felt when I came to learn of his death, and I cannot start to imagine the pain in your hearts. I pray for your healing and wish you strength in this difficult time. Thank you for raising such a great, loyal, successful young man.
With my deepest love,
Juana Mae Bacud
To the viray family,
From the day I was introduced to don back in high school it was an automatic bond. With his cousins Stanley Richard and Ed we were a wild bunch of kids and looking back now the memories we had together will always live on. Don we had some great moments and a lot of trial and errors. But u always had that go get it attitude and u always knew what u wanted in life. I am not surprised with the accomplishments u have achieved in the short amount of time and can only dream of being half the man u are today. to dons parents it was honor to have grown up with your son and deeply sorry for your loss. Don your legacy will live on in my heart and will see u soon. Take care and love you bro. From the Seguritan family to the viray don will be greatly missed.
Thank you for coming all the way from Texas to be there for Don. I know he would’ve been very happy to see such a good friend make an effort just to attend his unit’s vigil, family’s memorial, and family’s burial. I’m sure he appreciates a good friend like you.
Dear Don,
Yeah, it’s again … me.
It is so hard to deal with your death on daily basis. I never imgained that I would feel such pain at this point in my life. It is especially hard for me since I have to be the buffer on all the things going on with respect to your death. It doesn’t help that our parents never wants to be happy these days, which casues a lot of irritation; you know how they are. If I choose to be happy and have fun sometimes, I hope you understand. Its hard carrying the gloom of dispair and the burden of holding things together day in and day out. I just need an outlet from time to time. It doesn’t mean that I am not deeply saddened to lose you, because that is the only thing my heart feels right now.
Love,
Ate (big sister)
aunt n uncle ……on behalf of mamang n papang we are very sorry bout what happen to my cousin DON.MAY GOD COMFORT THE FAMILY especially both of u uncle n aunt and ate sherry …may he rest in peace…we lovee u DON UR A HERO FOR US
Thank you for your thoughts.
I did not know him but what an amazing man he was! He was very brave to join our military and ultimately die for his country. What a wonderful family he has that love him so very much and he will live on in your hearts. He IS a true hero, I’m so sorry he was taken so soon from you. Prayers to the family at this time.
Don, You are a true hero. I thank you for your service to and for our country . Your life was well lived and your pure character shines through in how you lived your life. I am sorry that I was never able to meet you, but I have heard so many amazing stories from your devoted sister. Rest in peace, Don.
Beth,
Thank you for taking the time to write a beautiful message for my brother, whom you never met no matter how many times he made it up to Seattle. This loss for our small immediate family is so tragic and great. I hope it gets easier from here. I’m glad to have friends who constantly support me.
Sherry
To all of you:
Thank you for your thoughts and prayers for our family. Although we did not meet most of you, I now know that there many nice people out there.
-Luz
Don, you will be greatly missed.
I remember us running around the airfield together and laughing at how much you didn’t like to run, but would still beat me back. Humble is the word that describes you. You were always trying to improve and wanted to be the best pilot you could be. One of the nicest and respectful young pilot I have ever met. Truly a good person with a good heart.
It was a blessing to have known you and my heart goes out to you Mr. and Mrs. Viray.
May you rest in peace.
We are waiting to you every day to see your face again, if you are happy wherever you are. We’re always praying that your soul are in the good place. I miss you so much Kuya.
Sometimes I remember your memories when you’re here in the Philippines. If I can rewind the passed happy memories, I will do it……………..!!! Like, we are eating your favorite food (like sisig, Barbique, etc.) and drinking champaigne with Viray Family.
We will never forget you. I love you so much cousin..
Hope to see you again and again and again. God bless you always..
Love,
Sol
Bring some chicken sisig for him; that’s his favorite. I hope one day you can actually come and see his grave. I’m sure he enjoys visitors, especially those that bring food. Thank you for thinking of him.
Do-don,
My very dearest cousin dodon, I will cherish all the good memories we shared together growing up. You will always be remembered and won’t be forgotten. You are in a safer place now so never to worry about anything anymore just stay happy wherever you may be. I miss and love you my little cousin Dodon. When we see each other again I will cook your favorite pinapaitan or dinuguan like before when you were still with us… I’m proud of you and keep watching over us.
Sharon
Hey bro,
I was saddened to hear of your passing through the media. I haven’t seen you since middle school, but I always wondered how you were doing. We had some great times at MMS; I remember you were always down to hang out with the boys before the 1st bell, and you always killed it playing percussion in Tsuha’s band class. And how can we forget that one time we were all hanging out during lunch and stupid me had to bust out my Game Boy and get it taken away by staff, LOL. I hoped that maybe one day we’d cross paths again and catch up a bit, but that’ll have to wait a little bit. God bless you bro, and your family.
To Mr. & Mrs. Viray, you two raised a great son who gave the ultimate sacrifice in helping to defend our country and the well-being of those abroad. Please know that his passing is not in vain, and that he’ll never be forgotten.
Dear Don,
I’ve been back home in Hawaii now for about two weeks, since your death. Staying in the house we shared together when we were younger is sometimes hard. I constantly stand from outside of my old room, which is caddy-corner to your old room, to see the many helicopter and Army stickers on your door. You loved it so much, even as a child. I look towards your door everyday and hope to see you come out, but you never do. And I am here still waiting for you.
Your death has been my whole life for the past two weeks. The more I piece together everything that happened to you, the more angrier I get. Though we are still waiting and waiting and waiting for the military to conclude their investigation on what they believe actually happened; it matters very little at this point the exact reason for the crash. While I strongly believe the cause was enemy fire, what is fundamental regardless of the actual cause, is that some power and/or promote hungry officer out there in Afghanistan wanted to look good, so this PR mission was ordered which sent you guys on a dangerous mission in bad weather (the same eastwardly moving weather pattern that killed 30 Pakistanis early the next day in a plane crash), in pitch black conditions, in the rough Afghan terrain, to save some Afghanis (who by the way are supposed to self sufficient)! It wasn’t even our people you were helping to save. And in the end, it resulted in the deaths of four young AMERICAN men: 2 who were barely in their twenties, 2 husbands and a father. Who ever ordered you guys out there obviously didn’t do any safety assessment or just didn’t care. Unbelievable! While, my dear brother, you did not have a choice whether or not to accept this mission, I have a choice to fight for you (as well as the motivation). (S)he or they will answer for this stupidity.
Love,
Ate (big sister)
Yes, agreed about the power hungry, wanna look good officer who didn’t care about the end result so long as (s)he looks good. I imagine one of the primary reasons the investigation is taking so long is because they are trying to figure out a way to pass the blame on something or someone else and not on them. Its always the young ones that die for these kinds of decisions. It sickens me dearly.
Yes, I’m sure the military already knows what happened. In fact, there was another Black Hawk with its crew flying next to Don’s Black Hawk that saw exactly what happened. I think its just a matter of how do we tell the families without looking so bad kind of situation. Makes me sick, too!
Sherry, I understand you are angry and you have every right to be. You seek answers and will probably never get any straight ones from the military. My heart goes out to you. I know that many missions are often questionable in the middle east. The whole war itself is questionable. It really pisses me off that Americans had to die for the Afghanis. In the end, I hope Don rest in peace.
They should never have used Americans to save Afghans. Someone out there decided (s)he would make a move to look good. Well it cost four American lives unnecessarily. I’ll find that person.
Don, the more I think of you son the more pain I felt. I am missing very much! Yes, I agreed to your sister (Sherry) as a family we want a real person to tell us the truth and not a person( s) who will twist it around and lie to us.We will speak in your behalf. We deserve a truthful answer.
I totally agree with my cousin, Ate Sherry! We the family of Don deserve to know what really happened to him. I don’t think the military are doing their job well at this point, they don’t really understand what we’re going thru, the pain and agony we feel. It is hard to be honest. I hope someone will pay for this..We are not gonna stop until we really finds out what happen, not just us but the rest of the family that loss their loves ones at that crash deserves the RIGHT answer! if not, I hope your conscious will HUNT you forever!
May, I know you are grieving as much me. The whole family is extremely upset for this sudden and precious loss. I am heartened to know that my parents and I are not the only ones wanting to fight for Don. He deserved better than to come home in the condition he did. We gave him to the military: healthy, capable, loyal and confident. And they gave him back, well, you know. It will be a long time before I can find any forgiveness in this, if ever at all.
To the military truth is a game of words. They’ll play with it, bend it, change it, and make it as close to the actual truth as possible but never really tell you the whole truth. Seems like you’re one smart cookie, Sherry. And for that I am thankful because the military will have a hard time playing words with you. We all need to fight for those who can no longer fight for themselves, just like what you say you will do.
What really sucks is that what’s more important to high ranking blow holes is how they appear and they what accomplish, rather than the guys in the front lines who risk their lives for their decisions – and irony is, its these idiots that give out the decisions that get live and grow old. I too believe that this was a PR (public relations) mission that cost the lives of four Americans, which included Don. It was STUPID mission to save some Afghans, who should’ve been saved by Afghans and NOT by American resources and American soldiers!
Someone needs to pay.
My promise to Don is that I will not totally leave Hawaii until I get the resolution that my heart can accept; I will be unrelenting – someone now has to fight for my brother, since he cannot fight for himself.
may DON rest with the angels & the other heroes who perished with him in the kingdom of GOD . ironic to see his picture with that sign : freedom is not free . if this sign is in Washington DC , then I too was there at this same place . Go with GOD Don Cayetano Viray .
The sign was at the Korean War Memorial in Washington DC. We hope that Don is at rest with the angels.
Dear Viray Family,
I just want to express my condolences for your loss. I know there are no words I can write to offer you comfort. Many of my friends husbands are pilots with the unit that deployed in January. I was very saddened when I learned of the crash and although everyone I knew personally was safe I was still quite upset. Learning about Don’s identity as a local boy continued to nag at my heart and tonight I saw the interview he gave before his passing. As a mother I know your hearts must be broken in a way that can never fully heal. Please know there are many people that appreciate your son’s sacrifice. It was not in vain and he will not be forgotten.
Sincerely,
Andrea, an Army Wife
It is my sincere hope that the “crash” that claimed Don’s life was not in vain. But the answers to that is still forthcoming, as we wait to see the results of the investigation. We do truly appreciate your thoughts and kind words about Don.
My deepest condolence to the Viray Family. I have a son who is serving the Air Force. This tragedy really hits home. Don, thank you for serving, thank you for keeping us safe! God Bless!
The feeling is really not the same, until your loved one comes home in a coffin. But we understand. And we also appreciate your son’s service to the military. Thank you for your thoughts.
Don-Don,
I would like to thank you for giving the Ultimate Sacrifice! I’m very proud of you to all what you had accomplished.
Yes indeed, “Freedom is not Free”. Rest in Peace, Chief. We will take it from here.
I salute CW2 Don Cayetano Viray!
Sincerely,
SFC Ronald D. Lactaoen (Ret)
Don I miss u I hope god takes care of you
Don,
I will always remember you as the Local Boy Pilot chaheeee. I was glad we served together In Kirkuk always got to talk story about the aina. I will miss you and your laid back Island style. Be at Peace Aviator Brother, Black Jacks. Aloha A Hui Hou
Tony
Don,
My dear cousin, we are missing you so much. It’s not the same without you anymore its really hard for me and the rest of our family to move on. I feel like you are around and one day you’ll come back to us again. I ask my self, why you, why now?!….. You deserve to live longer and get to experiance many things in life. You are in a better world right now watching over us, keeping us safe. I love you so much cousin. I will see you again..
Don,
I wish we got to know you better. Still feels like finding out you’re gone is just a dream. Even though we didn’t know each other that long, we both want to thank you for being a part of our lives. I pray and hope that we will meet again one day. You will always be in our hearts. Until then, rest in peace now… You are Home.
Thank you for defending us all.
To the Viray family,
We both wish to give our most sincerest condolences. He was an awesome person and we’re so honored to have met and known him. Sorry again for your loss and may God be your light and may He give you all peace.
Thank you for supporting Don and the kind words that you’ve left for him. We appreciate all the words and kindness people have extended to us these few weeks. They have helped.
Don,
I am still at a loss for words at this moment, but you will be missed by all of us. I am honored to have known you and flown with you. I was so proud of the day you came up to me and told me you were a Pilot-in-Command. You kept telling me you wanted my PC patch once you finished your check-ride! I always enjoyed our flights together in Iraq, whether it was a mission, training, the test flights you always volunteered for. You were such an awesome person and I am so glad you were part of my life Don.
I never met anyone like you before. Never a complaint or a negative outlook on anything and that is a characteristic that I wish I had. I will miss you Don, but knowing you and who you were will live on forever. My prayers go out to you and your family.
Adam
Don, I never knew you but my son talked a lot about you and how you reminded him of himself when he was younger, the love of flying and eagerness to learn. I know every day the job you both love put you in harms way, but you do it willingly, ready to serve at all cost.
Dear family, we know its hard losing a child. but we pray that he is smiling down at you and with time the pain of loosing your son with get better. keep him in your heart and always remember that he was doing what he loved.
Don, thank you for defending our freedom.
Don, I remember when we met in Hawaii you reminded me so much as a younger brother, kick back island boy full of passion and loyalty for your new found military family and pride in your work. You would come to work every day always on time and eager to learn. I wish i could have spent more time with the Black Jacks so I could have gotten to know you better it just wasnt in the cards. To that Flying Hawaiian, keep on flying Brother… You will be remembered
Don,
I am truly grateful our paths crossed in this life. You will always be one of the most amazing people in my life and I am proud and honored to call you my friend. I will always cherish the times we spent together and remember your level of happiness every time we were in the air. Thank you for sharing your time on this Earth with us and leaving an everlasting impression on my life.
Although you will be soaring above us for eternity, there is no explaining how much you are missed.
Biruk
What a beautiful message to Don. Thank you for taking the time to write one. And most especially, my family and I would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to you for flying all this way to be present for Don’s vigil, memorial, and burial. It was nice to briefly meet you.
Sherry,
It was an honor to attend the beautiful service you and your family put together and I thank you for sharing that time with us. Although I wish we had met on different terms, it was really nice to meet you too. After meeting your family and all those close to Don, I can see how he became such an amazing person.
You will be missed Don…
With God’s love and light,
Ernie and Shiela Pesebre
Don,
It seems like life goes on except for mine. My heart will always be broken no matter how long time goes on. Though I left home (and you) early in your life to pursue my own dreams, I always looked forward to knowing that you will be there when I got back and the times we would share. Now knowing that I will never have that again and that you will never be there for any important future events, well, it just makes this overwhelming sadness unbearable at times. I will never have another brother or another sibling. Know that you will always have a place in my heart and in your life and even in your death, I have always been so proud of you. No one could have asked for a better brother.
Love,
Ate (big sister)
We want everybody to know that even though Don died in the line of duty, that he actually loves his job very much.
Don, our hearts are broken to hear of your passing. It is the worse nightmare come true. It will never be the same without you. We want you to know that you will always be loved forever and that you will be missed. You will never be forgotten.
Hope to see you again.
Mom and Dad
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Viray & the Viray Family,
I am so very sorry for your loss of your son. As a mother whose son is serving with “A” Company in Afghanastan, my heart goes out to you & your family. I know that my son served with Don and was so proud to serve with such fine young man.
Your son’s spirit and love of his country is evident. I know that he has brought pride to your family. Our children are not supposed to go before we do. You will see him again because, as my Grandmother use to say, “God only wants the best.”
My continued prayers for you and your family. May the clouds pass and the sun shine for you once again. I know your son would be proud of your memorial to him.
My Deepest Sympathy,
Thyra J. (Jan) Griswold
Joy, thank you the clarity. You’re right of course, death in war is inevitable. I just never imagined that it would come so close to me; to all of us.
We are thankful for all the military support we’ve received, even though much of these past two weeks were filled with more unnecessary drama caused by the military. All the military support is of little consequence without answers from the military. For those, we are still waiting and only answer we get is that, “the investigation in ongoing.” I just hope they don’t make us wait forever.
Hi Joy,
I had a conversation with Don while he was on deployment and he wanted to book a dinner cruise with someone when he got back. Just know he always had you in mind
Thank you for always thinking about him and loving him so much. He lives on, so long as he lives in our hearts. Peace is still far out of reach, but hopefully in time, it will get closer.