I was heartbroken to hear about my brother Darrell’s passing. Please accept my deepest condolences.

I met Sergeant Bamberg when I joined the 340th MP CO. in 2002. He walked right up to me and welcomed me to the unit. We all called him “Bam,” and he was the most squared-away soldier I ever met. Talk about leading by example—he went above and beyond that. Bam was always there to help, never asking for anything in return. He carried the Army values to the highest level I’ve ever seen in a soldier.

Bam and I hit it off from the moment we met. We had a lot in common—we were the same age and both held family above everything else. We had a lot of deep talks about life. I remember those moments when me, Bam and Ray would find time in Iraq to lift each other’s spirits and keep each other sharp while at war. Those conversations meant everything.

I’m really going to miss you, brother. It was a privilege to have known you and to have had you in my life. You’ll never be forgotten—the memories we shared will always be in my heart and mind.

I’m especially heartbroken that we never got the chance to meet up after your retirement from the military and NY Transit. We talked about it often, but life and schedules just got in the way.

I’ll never forget celebrating my 37th birthday with you, Ray, Nick and Jimmy in Baghdad, Iraq. (See photos.) That moment has stayed with me all these years—it truly showed the brotherhood we shared. I have tears in my eyes writing this, because you’re my friend and my brother—forever in my mind and heart.

Someday, I’ll see you again, and we’ll have that drink and cigar and talk about the good times. But until then, guard the Gates of Heaven.

To the Bamberg family, I hope you can find comfort in the memories you hold close. The photos I posted were just found—after 21 years home from the Iraq War—and Bam never saw them. I’m honored to share them with all who loved my brother Bam.

My condolences to Darrell's family. I first met “Bam” and his wife at a Yellow Ribbon event. Bam and my husband were leaving for GTMO together. He referred to my husband as “BrownMan.”He was the only person who could keep “Brownman” in check by telling him the truth in love. My husband always shared stories about their fun times together.  Bam was always prayerful, optimistic, provided us words of hope; during the toughest times of our marriage. We will always be reminded of his relationship with God, love for his family, military service, and his love for us. I will continue to take care of Brownman in your absence. We will miss you dearly Bam but we understand God has a plan for his faithful servant in heaven. Rest well our dear brother.🪽 🪽🙏🏾 🙏🏾

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants."

~Psalm 116:15~

           From:   Timothy Martinez