There are so many sons and daughters that have been lost in the Iraq conflict. They are praised and prayed for by many, including the parents. They have given their lives for a cause. They have earned the praise.

There are many sons and daughters who have lost their lives while serving their country right here at home. Thousands have died upon the highways, in their homes, on the streets of their communities, through auto accidents, home accidents, work accidents, shootings, etc.- eliminated from the American freedoms and the pursuit of happiness by the "terrorists" at home. Most of them are only remembered by those who were very close to them and loved them dearly.

My son, Jeffrey Allen Ferry, was killed on the 405 Freeway on May 1 when his motorcycle collided with a truck bed liner that someone dropped in the lane. He was only 42.

There were almost 400 people at his memorial service, and we have received hundreds of cards and flowers from those who knew and loved him. During his life Jeff had devoted much to the people he taught at Apollo High school and others at the colleges and universities where served as a substitute teacher.

When he left us he was a member of the Disney Corporation. He was well-liked and served his employer to their satisfaction and joy.

I would like to send a special thanks to the members of the Ventura County Board of Supervisors for the wonderful tribute to our son. Mr. Peter C. Foy, Mr. Steve Bennett, Ms. Kathy Long, Ms. Linda Parks and Mr. John K. Flynn sent us a letter and a certificate that reads, "In deepest sympathy the board this day adjourned in memory of Jeffrey Allen 'Jeff' Ferry," dated May 13, 2008.

Thank you, gentlemen and ladies, for your kindness and sympathy and for giving us a little more insight into our son's life.

We will celebrate Father's Day for two reasons. It is also my birthday. We have two other children and five grandchildren to help us continue on.

Our heart goes out to the many others who will celebrate life without sons or daughters except in their hearts. None shall be forgotten. Ronald J. and Cathie A. Ferry Simi Valley