MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. -- The war in Iraq has affected nearly everyone in one way or another and has left all too many missing something that can never be replaced.

The children of Capt. Paul C. Alaniz, pilot, Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, and Staff Sgt. Dexter S. Kimble, flight mechanic, HMH-361, were a few of the many who became victims of the war against terrorism when it stole something that cannot be replaced - their fathers.

The children of the two Marines who died in a CH-53E Super Stallion crash Jan. 26, each received $20,000 worth of Patriot Savings Bonds May 10 at Miramar to help show appreciation for their fathers' service.

"The Patriot Bonds were given by the Marine Corps Law Enforcement Foundation," said Gunnery Sgt. Jamie D. Burns, casualty assistance calling officer, Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466, MAG-16. "The bonds are issued in the children's names. They are to be used for education, so when the child reaches college age, they can be cashed in for $20,000 for each child."

Although the Patriot Bonds are given with good intentions and accepted the same, nothing can make up for the loss.

"I don't think anything - all the entitlements they get - can make up or do anything to offset the fact that they just lost their husbands and fathers," said Capt. Patrick S. Lindstrom, CACO, HMH-466. "It is a nice thing that people are doing to help them out.

"It isn't going to bring their husbands and fathers back, but it does show that people out there really care - that they aren't alone," Lindstrom added. "It is really a great thing that people out there are willing to help others when they are down."

According to Thelma I. Alaniz, the support of others has not only benefited her family but also helped her deal with the loss of her husband.

"I think the support, as far as the Marines around me and in the squadron, has been really helpful," said Thelma. "All of the small things and gestures help out a great deal."

As Lt. Col. Rich L. Caputo Jr., commanding officer, HMH-361, presented the Patriot Bonds to the two wives, he thanked them for their husbands' service.

"We owe your husbands for their ultimate service," Caputo concluded. "They gave their lives for this country."