We lost one of our own (Colockumelk)

[huntandjeep]

So sorry to hear . RIP.

[Ranger91298]

Captain Aaron R. Blanchard (clockumelk), I never had the chance to meet you but it has been an honor serving the same Country as you. I have lost 16 friends personally in Iraq/Afghanistan and it never gets easier. Though we have never crossed paths it still tears at my heart for your loss as well as all the other men and women of our armed forces. Thank you for your sacrifice and dedication to our freedom that my family and I are able to enjoy.   

BLRman, thank you for having shared your brother with us. Thank you for having the strength to come on HuntWA to share your stories and confirming the hard truth. They say "time heals all wounds" but I believe we learn how to deal with the pain in time. Please honor your brother by continuing to hunt and push that love and joy Aaron had of being in the mountains to his son. When you put that big bull down it will be in honor of Aaron and the hard work you two have put into hunting. Please pass on my thoughts and prayers to your entire family.   

[DOUBLELUNG]

I am writing with tears on my cheeks, sleeve and in my lap.  I never met Aaron, but we exchanged many PMs and emails while he was researching the Colockum elk herd.  He was an ardent conservationist, rarely have I encountered someone that passionate about a cause who was yet so open-minded and wanting factual information.  We had planned to get together, I wish that could happen.

I saw on Facebook earlier today that Doug had lost a friend; never had even the briefest thought it might be him. 

[firefighter4607]

Blrman would you be okay with the PayPal account to raise money for you to buy gov tag next year in honor of Aaron?

Sent from my C771 using Tapatalk 2

Since the Cup is going around to give to his family, and if people are still willing to donate for this tag idea. Since BLR has declined the tag maybe the funds can go to Wounded Warrior or Camp Patriot in memory of Aaron's name. Or another group like those.

[Wea300mag]

I'm not sure there are enough words to describe the feelings I have. Aaron gave all, and his family and friends are now suffering, so the rest of us can live freely during the day and sleep safely at night. You will never be forgotten around here.

[Mudman]

I didnt know the man yet I feel I did.  Why we lose the best of us early is a mystery.  The footprint we leave is what sets the great apart from others.  The Lord took a great one, again.  Big shoes to fill.  Thanks to all who left GIANT footprints to follow.  These posts choke me up as its clear he was a loved and great man.  I hope his children can read these someday and know their Father did make a diference in this world and was respected greatly!

[actionshooter]

 I never spoke or even PMd him, but I can tell the type of person he was from the responses here. I truly feel for the family.

[Rainier10]

I am shocked and saddened by the loss, prayers to the family.  What a great man and a terrible loss for all.  RIP

[NumaJohn]

So sad.  My family's and my thoughts are with Aaron's family and friends.

Grateful for his service,

John

[B.G.hunter]

I never spoke or even PMd him, but I can tell the type of person he was from the responses here. I truly feel for the family.

x2

He was very passionate guy and his post were allways full of knowledge and thought.  He also entertained with the his sense of humour.  The back and forth between him and the "BMM" was some of my favorites.  He will be missed but not forgotten.  Thank you BLR and be strong for his wife and kids.
RIP Colockumelk, Thank you for your service.   

[beave]

We lost a true Hero, keeping us all safe.   So sad to hear the news..

[billythekidrock]

After reading all twelve pages I sit here teary-eyed in shock not knowing what to say.

BLRman, my condolences to you and your family.

[trophyhunt]

I always get a bit teary when I hear of solders dying, this one even though I never met Aaron makes for a very sad day. Once again, RIP Aaron and may you be sitting by God and the angels for eternity. I will raise a glass in your honor tonight!

[gonehuntin68]

I feel for his family. Thanks to him for the ultimate sacurfice. He went out like a bad ass.

[RUTNBULL1]

I was hoping the call that I received today was one of untruth...I have just walked into the door and went to this forum..Though I have been a member of HW since 2008, I haven't been visiting much of late. I never had the pleasure of meeting Aaron in person but like others have mentioned in all previous statements in this post we all were graced with his knowledge and enthusiasm of his Country, Family, Friends, and The wildlife management of Elk in this Screwed up State. "BLRman, you and your family are in all of our Hearts, Prayers, and thoughts on these days and weeks ahead and I give you my condolences..." I am forever grateful for Aaron's service as well as others that have served and are serving to Protect our Freedoms... May the Lord give your family a healing touch to your hearts and provide you with the comfort and the strength that you will need!! May we all not forget those that have fallen but celebrate their lives and carry on their legacy's!!!!

" Aaron" Rest in Peace my Hunt WA. Brother!!!