Mom buries fears along with son

Monday, August 22, 2005: Connie Schultz Plain Dealer Columnist

At an age when most women be come invisible in this country, 57-year-old Rosemary Palmer is emerging for all the world to see.

Over the past two weeks, her face has become a map of where she's been and where she is going. Photographers have chronicled her journey from grief-stricken mother of a fallen Marine to a woman of courage resolved to fight the war on her own terms.

She's a little nervous, but she's going public. The way she sees it, the worst that could happen already has.

Palmer's 23-year-old son, Lance Cpl. Edward "Augie" Schroeder II, was one of the 14 men in the 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment who were killed on Aug. 3 by a roadside bomb in Iraq.

What she most feared had come to pass.

"There were so many days when I would continue working until they finally kicked me out and told me to go home," she said, recalling her son's time in Iraq. "I was just so afraid to find that car in my driveway."

That car she feared, the one bringing two Marines and the news that changes a parent's world forever, pulled up to her Cleveland home on the morning of Aug. 4.

Palmer and her husband, Paul Schroeder, responded differently in the first hours after the devastating news. Schroeder issued an angry statement that morning condemning the war and those who support it.

Palmer granted a few tearful interviews, but her activism percolated. She waited until her son's casket was lowered into the ground.

The day after his funeral, Augie's mother held a news conference.

With Schroeder at her side, Palmer attacked the strategy of the war. "We have to fight this war properly or get out," she said.

Both parents spoke, but stories around the country focused on Palmer. She had come a long way from the young woman too afraid of public scorn to protest the Vietnam War.

"I was a scaredy-cat back then," she said. "I was young with a new mortgage living in a conservative town."

She was not media savvy, either.

"When I lived in New Jersey, I did a short stint on a school board," she said. "Every time they pointed a TV camera at me, I thought I was going to throw up. I was very uncomfortable, very nervous."

This is different.

"This is not my story," she said. "This is about Augie, and about all the men and women still fighting in Iraq. Now I feel like, You got a microphone? I've got something to say.' "

She attracts comparisons to another outspoken mother, Cindy Sheehan, whose son was killed in Iraq last year. Sheehan camped outside the vacationing president's ranch in Crawford, Texas, vowing to stay until Bush met with her. Sheehan left Thursday after her mother suffered a stroke.

They are different mothers, different women, Palmer said.

"I don't have the same message. She's willing to be a lightning rod. What's happening to her now, with all the criticism, is starting to make me nervous."

So far, the response to Palmer has been positive. She knows that could change.

"People start thinking enough already,' and they start looking for the clay feet, which we all have," she said.

It's a risk Palmer continues to take.

When she and her husband learned that more than a thousand vigils were planned last week to support Sheehan, they decided to attend one of them in Cleveland Heights.

"I was actually a little nervous," she said. "Some of us are having flashbacks to the whole Vietnam thing."

This is different, she decided again.

"I was hoping the vigils would embolden others to speak out."

She quoted the line her son loved from a song by Social Distortion: "Reach for the sky, 'cause tomorrow may never come."

Her voice softened as she recalled sharing that message in an online chat room with other mothers of young Marines.

"Even though my son has no tomorrow," she told them, "I hope your children have many tomorrows."

That is the hope that drives Rosemary Palmer now.

That is why she is no longer afraid.

To reach this Plain Dealer columnist: cschultz@plaind.com, 216-999-5087

© 2005 The Plain Dealer • © 2005 cleveland.com All Rights Reserved.

Bush Defends His Iraq War Policy

Associated Press | August 23, 2005

BOISE, Idaho - President Bush, defending his Iraq war policy in the face of anti-war opposition and slumping approval ratings, says pulling out before the mission is complete would dishonor the memory of all the Americans who fought and died in pursuit of freedom.

"A policy of retreat and isolation will not bring us safety," Bush said Monday in a speech to the Veterans of Foreign Wars national convention in Salt Lake City. Repeatedly citing the Sept. 11 attacks, he said, "The only way to defend our citizens where we live is to go after the terrorists where they live."

To read the rest of the article click here.

A war. A son. A father's pride, fear, hope and faith.

Posted on Fri, Aug. 19, 2005

HUGH KEATING

Editor's note: Every American is affected by the war in Iraq, but none as emotionally as the families of our military. Here, printed with permission, is one father's view, expressed in a recent letter to family and friends.

The writer, Hugh Keating of Gulfport, is the father of 20-year-old Marine Lance Cpl. Hugh Dennis Keating Jr., 3rd Platoon, Company A, 4th Amphibious Assault Battalion.

Dear all,

Dennis called on the morning of Aug. 10 at 1:15 a.m. It was our first communication in two weeks and a blessing to hear his voice.

We all were aware of the horrendous losses the previous week in and around Haditha; the two sniper teams (six Marines) being ambushed in Haditha and the amtrac carrying 15 Marines being hit by a remotely detonated IED.

Dennis was in a trac approximately 100 meters to the rear of the trac that was hit. At the time of the explosion, he was on a trac with crew chief Cpl. Justin Rishel, a Long Beach, Mississippi, native and role model for all young leaders.

He witnessed the grim event and lost three really good buddies, one of whom had been a sergeant on the Command/Communications trac to which he was formerly assigned. He spent four months with Sgt. Bradley Harper while assigned to the Com trac and had grown to know and respect him as a friend.

It is my understanding that the personnel on the Com trac were reassigned a couple of weeks ago due to force reductions and reallocation of assets. Force reductions due primarily to reassignments, fatalities, injuries, and family emergencies. Asset reallocation related to equipment wear and tear. Dennis is currently operating as a mechanic on various tracs, on an as-needed basis kinda' like a utility infielder in baseball. He serves wherever they need him.

Not withstanding the losses of his brothers, Dennis sounded clear and strong. He said he was "as good as could be under the circumstances. It was a really tough week."

Of course, there have been other instances where friends have fallen, but not of this magnitude or in such close proximity. There are no physical scars, but there is surely an emotional impact. With God'�s help, in time, those wounds will heal. Psalms 91 gives him comfort.

Dennis has always been able to overcome life's critical challenges. I told him to keep the faith. He quickly responded, "I will."

His situation is not unlike most of his Marine brothers in this time of loss. They have an uncommon and remarkable resiliency born of honor, courage and commitment.

He asked if we had seen the photos. I responded that they were all over the Internet later the day of the event and on front pages of papers the next day.

Upon learning of the bombing early Wednesday morning, Aug. 3, my heart raced, my heart sank to my feet and breathing became difficult. But, upon thinking it through, I took some comfort because I knew he wasn't assigned to a trac that transported infantry (little did I know at the time that his circumstances had changed).

Immediately following the sense of relief that I gained from this logic, I was struck with guilt and remorse upon the realization that the fallen were the sons of others. It is one of the tragic ironies of war.

A Navy chaplain, speaking on this same subject during our Reserve Unit�s family day last Saturday, observed that such feelings are normal and that it is "a positive thing to have pangs of conscience about the less fortunate fallen or injured, while at the same time being thankful for the safety of your own. It reveals a concern for others."

That gave me some consolation. I asked the chaplain to try to address this moral and spiritual conflict in a theological reflection, perhaps in the September newsletter. I think it would be helpful not only to parents, but to the Marines as well. I hope he will do it.

The Family Day event was therapeutic. It's amazing how one can feel so connected to families who had been strangers moments earlier. We had prepared and signed �Welcome Home� banners for the unit's return.

After recovering from the shock of the IED attack, Dennis said the Marines continued their advance into Haditha. He reports that they "kicked some serious butt" and that after a week of "seek and destroy," the area which his unit patrolled was cleared of insurgent activity.

His group returned to the Haditha Dam and does not anticipate further need to revisit Haditha before they organize to return to the States. That, of course, is a fluid situation and could change on a momen's notice.

He commented that he cannot understand the level or depth of hatred that the terrorists have for Westerners.

I can. We are infidels in their minds and the only solution is to eliminate us, at all costs even at the cost of the lives of good and right-thinking members of the Muslim community.

Which leads me to the following: This war is not about oil, politics or power. It is about the preservation of our way of life. It is about freedom from those who would impose limitations on civil liberties and mind control as an alternative to death. It is about protecting our children and our childres children.

We did not start this war. This war is not going to be won in a day, but it surely can be lost if we do not stand firm against the scourge of hatred the radical terrorists espouse.

Terrorists are exporting violence across the world. If our country doesn't take a stand, who will?

If we are not willing to support the mission, how can we expect our troops to have the motivation to win?

One cannot say I support the troops, but not the mission. The two are inextricably tied together. If one fails, so does the other. Our forces must know that we understand and support the mission. They are in this conflict because they believe in providing national security to protect our freedoms. We must not fail them. If we do, we condemn our future to greater turmoil.

On a lighter note, Dennis happily reported that one of the Iraqi families took his trac under its wing while they were in Haditha and fed them home-cooked meals. On one occasion, the family offered up a lamb for slaughter. Two of the Iraqi freedom fighters with his group, with knowledge of how to field dress and cook a lamb, undertook the task with great joy.

The manner in which Dennis related the story sounded like that particular gift of sharing, of something so important to a family, meant a lot to the men. There was a feeling that, indeed, some Iraqis really do want the help of the United States. Perhaps a desire to be free from the terrorists does exist and Muslims of good and tolerant heart do want change. The actions of that family provided light in a time of darkness. In my view, moderate Islam can overcome radical Islam, if given the opportunity. We can co-exist peacefully. Our world will be a safer place if that occurs.

Later on the day of Dennis' call, my 22-year-old daughter, Erin, and I traveled to Bogalusa, La., to attend the funeral of Cpl. David Stewart, one of Dennis' �Gulfport unit buddies. It was sad and, at once, uplifting. The community support for the family was overwhelming. The church was overflowing.

We arrived 25 minutes early to a standing-room-only crowd forming outside the church. We were not able to get inside. However, we did travel in the procession to the gravesite.

The love and adulation we witnessed as we traveled was nothing short of incredible and inspirational. I don't think there was a residence or business on the funeral route that did not turn out with signs of support and American flags. The procession was at least two miles long. People were standing at attention with hands over hearts or holding flags the entire time, despite searing heat.

Let there be no doubt that this young, brave man sacrificed his life for a worthy cause. He may have breathed his last breath in his material body on this earth, but his spirit has been given eternal life through his sacrifice.

Cpl. Stewart did not die in vain; nor have any of our other brave warriors. They are all true heroes. Thank God for the men and women in service to our country past, present and future. It is what has and will continue to make this nation great. There is no substitute for freedom. God bless,

Hugh

Poker run to benefit Lima Co. families

Saturday event is being held in memory of Derga

Thursday, August 18, 2005
By MACKENZIE WHITE: ThisWeek Staff Writer

By Paul Vernon/ThisWeek Scott Hammond -- a friend of Cpl. Dustin A. Derga, who was killed in Iraq -- holds a T-shirt listing the names of Derga and other servicemen who lost their lives in Operation Matador. The T-shirt was designed to raise money for families of Lima Company members who have been killed in the war. A poker run is also planned to raise money.

Three months after Cpl. Dustin A. Derga lost his life in Iraq, his friends are making sure his memory continues to live on.

This Saturday, motorcycles will roar out of Gatsby's in Gahanna in a poker run that will raise money for fellow Lima Company families who have lost loved ones in the war.

It's a company that's been hit hard, leaving a sadness that's hit close to home.

Derga, a member of the Ohio-based Marine Reserve unit, died May 8 in Ubaydi as the result of enemy fire. According to The Columbus Dispatch, as of last week, no other unit had lost more troops to insurgent attacks in Western Iraq.

Brandon Harmon and Chris Smith are at the helm of the poker run, which will send the bikers to different spots collecting cards before they end at Battalion 8 bar in Reynoldsburg. Owned by friend Scott Hammond, it was Derga's favorite bar.

Smith said dealing with Derga's death hasn't gotten easier.

He'd known Derga since preschool. They grew up together, and, for two years before Derga was deployed, they were roommates.

Losing someone like that is "kind of unreal," Smith said. Yet he points to one positive outcome.

"It's up and down, you know. You have good days and your bad," he said. "And one of the things thats become of all this is that I know a lot of us friends just make sure we call each other more often and everybody kind of makes the extra effort to hang out."

Friends who graduated from Pickerington High School with Derga hadn't seen each other for years, he said -- until Derga's funeral.

"You just kind of realize how precious life is," Smith said.

Derga's friends have also made sure to support his family, which includes father and stepmother, Robert and Marla Derga; mother, Stephanie Derga; and sister, Kristin Derga.

"I know that it's mainly hard on his mother," Smith said. "We all try to make sure we give her a call every day and keep in contact with her and his sister as well."

Harmon is dating Derga's sister. In the days after Derga's death, he acted as family spokesman, fielding calls and answering questions.

As a police officer at Port Columbus International Airport, he isn't a stranger to the way those left behind pull together when they lose one of their own.

"Any time that there's been a fallen officer, this (a poker run) has been a good way of getting people together," he said.

Harmon said he and Smith had planned to give all the money raised to Derga's mom, Stephanie. She said she didn't want it.

Instead, she'll divide it among others with whom the Dergas, tragically, have something in common: A roadside bomb killed14 Marines Aug. 3; nine were from Lima Company, resulting in a rash of funerals stretching across the state.

"Dustin's parents are trying to attend all the funerals they can, just to kind of give some support back," Smith said.

The poker run is Derga's friends' way of doing that. They said they haven't set a goal for how much money they hope to raise.

Smith admitted, though, that he is somewhat nervous by the amount of feedback he's already received about the event.

In just a couple of weeks, the friends have already sold nearly 200 T-shirts they made, bearing the names of soldiers, including Derga, who passed away in the hunt for insurgents known as Operation Matador.

"I guess I'm feeling a little overwhelmed," Smith said. Still, he said, "The more people you can get involved, the more people you can make aware of the situation, the better off we all are."

Harmon said the organizers hope to see the first bike leave Gatsby's by noon and the last bike enter Battalion 8 by 5 p.m.

The Country Sunshine Band from Delaware will perform afterwards.

Gatsby's is located at 151 N. Hamilton Road in Gahanna. Battalion 8 is located at 1355 Briarcliff Road in Reynoldsburg.

Those seeking more information about the poker run can contact Smith at 614-264-9521.

Minneapolis, Minn., native pounds the street providing care for 3/25

HADITHA, Iraq (Aug. 18, 2005) -- While patrolling through the streets of Iraq, Marines and sailors often find themselves under the watchful eyes of the city’s residents. One corpsman seems to receive more stares than anyone else.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Chan Vang is only 4 feet 11 inches tall. However, height does not interfere with his job as a “devil doc” with I Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment.

“I feel like I work twice as hard when it comes to patrolling,” the Minneapolis, Minn., native said. “Along with the extra load I have to carry, I have to take extra steps to keep up, but it’s my choice to be here and I don’t mind.”

Vang joined the Navy in 1998 with hopes of seeing the world and helping people along the way. He got his chance when he deployed to the hostile environment of Iraq’s Al Anbar province in March 2005. He and other medical personnel have helped dozens of people including other sailors, Iraqi civilians, Iraqi soldiers, and Marines on numerous occasions.

One such occasion that he vividly remembers occured in May 2005 when a squad with Mobile Assault Platoon-7. The unit suffered losses when insurgents used a hospital as a refuge while they attacked the unit with small-arms fire and a suicide car bomb.

“It was really hard to be trying to save people who you knew on a personal level,” the 1991 North Community High School graduate said. “I knew I had to be strong for them and they knew I would do the best job I could do.”

Vang was assigned to I Company in July and began conducting patrols as part of a permanent military presence in the city of Hit. Though he is often frustrated by the enemy’s cowardice, he is still happy to be here helping the Iraqi people.

As the missions continue, Vang knows his contributions are not overlooked and by helping the people of Iraq, they can form an organized and stable nation.

He has seen fallen comrades from both services and his job as a “devil doc” requires him to fight alongside them and try to save as many lives as he can.

“They treated me like another rifleman until someone got hurt or needed help and it was my time to shine as a corpsman,” Vang said smiling. “I thank them for treating me like an equal, like a Marine, in spite of my size.”

-30-

Photos included with story:

	HIT, Iraq - Minneapolis, Minn., native, Petty Officer 3rd Class Chan Vang, 32, with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment gives local children candy during a patrol. Photo by: Cpl. Ken Melton
	HIT, Iraq — Petty Officer 3rd Class Chan Vang, 32, Minneapolis, Minn., native, patrols with a squad of Marines from I Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment. Photo by: Cpl. Mike Escobar
	HIT, Iraq - Minneapolis, Minn., native, Petty Officer 3rd Class Chan Vang, 32, with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment looks at a memorial destroyed by insurgents. Photo by: Cpl. Ken Melton

Submitted by: 2nd Marine Division
Story Identification #: 200581842152
Story by Cpl. Ken Melton

They can't do their job without the tools

The logic would be: If you want to support the troops, give them the material and the numbers they need to do the job or get out

Paul Schroeder, father

NOTE:
I could not agree with them more. I'm sure many of us feel this way. Our loved ones will be home soon (next month or so??) but many are still there and more are on their way.

"...I have a job to do..."

Found in the most recent Sgt. Grit newsletter...

"He probably could have gotten out of going just because he has a newborn son. But he said, 'No, I have a job to do, I have a duty to do for my country'."
- Paul Montgomery, father of Lance Cpl. Brian Montgomery,
among the Ohio Marines killed this week.

Defending our own...

"It is a common observation here that our cause is the cause of all mankind, and that we are fighting for their liberty in defending our own."
- Benjamin Franklin

Thousands gather to honor Marines

People line the streets after a memorial service to show support for Marine Cpl. Jeffrey Boskovitch Friday as a funeral procession of cars rolls by in North Royalton. Tony Dejak/Associated Press

Funeral held for Geauga County Sheriff's staffer killed in Iraq

NORTH ROYALTON - A year from now, they might have gathered here for Cpl. Jeff Boskovitch's wedding. The aspiring police officer had planned to marry his love next October, as soon as he got back from serving with the Marines in Iraq. But on Friday, thousands poured into the streets in this city near the hard-hit 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines headquarters to mark Boskovitch's funeral. It was the seventh funeral this week for slain members of the Brook Park unit.

"We just decided we needed to come out to show our support," said Lisa Hill, who brought her three young children to stand on the curb a few yards from St. Albert the Great Catholic Church, where Boskovitch was eulogized. An hour later, nearly 450 people attended the funeral for Lance Cpl. Aaron Reed in Chillicothe, about 60 miles south of Columbus.

Funerals for three more Marines were set for today.

Fourteen Marines from the battalion have been killed in battle in the last two weeks. At Boskovitch's church service, the Rev. John L. Viall delivered the homily. No family members spoke during the service other than to read from Scripture.

"Freedom has always been purchased at a very great price," Viall said. "We are engaged in a war today with an evil force that seeks to take away freedom, make no doubt about it. "Jeff didn't want to die. He wanted to return to be with his family and marry his girlfriend. Jeff is a martyr for freedom. He was a young man, 25 years old with a zest for life."

Along the procession route following the service, people gathered on lawns, sidewalks, driveways and parking lots - sometimes in small numbers, sometimes in large groups - to pay their respects. Isabel Sauto, who lives near the Boskovitch family, stood on the street holding tiny American flags with her son, Nick, 4, and daughter, Ciara, 7. Sauto said neighbors worked with the USO to plant donated flowers and flags outside the family's home. "They've only lived there for a couple of years and they are very private people. We wanted to do this very tastefully," Sauto said.

The procession stopped in front of the headquarters of the 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines and the hearse carrying Boskovitch's casket entered the grounds of the reserve center. The hearse passed a chain-link fence where people have placed flags, flowers, wreaths and personal notes over the last two weeks. One of the items attached to the fence at the makeshift memorial is Boskovitch's No. 16 high school football jersey.

Rita Hess held a large American flag with both hands while the Boskovitch funeral procession stopped in front of her at the battalion.

"My mother started crying, and I had tears, too," Hess said. "It was heartbreaking. I think that was really special."

As they have so many times this week, members of the Leathernecks Motorcycle Club International - a group of Marine veterans who have made it a mission to attend the funeral of every one of their brothers killed in this war - rode in for the service.

Boskovitch, 25, of North Royalton, was to marry his fiancee, Shelly Tevis of Brunswick, on Oct. 14, 2006.

©The News-Herald 2005

Freedom Walk in DC

The tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, left an indelible mark on the American consciousness. This September 11th, the nation will gather in Washington, D.C. to remember the victims, honor our veterans, past and present, and celebrate our freedom with the America Supports You Freedom Walk, organized by the Department of Defense. Click here for details.

Marines (& Corpsman) Salute Fallen Comrades

USA Today | August 16, 2005

HADITHAH, Iraq - Three hundred Marines gathered Monday to remember 23 of their own who were killed in a spate of violence.

Six Marines were killed Aug. 1, including five from the 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, based in northern Ohio. Fourteen from the 25th Marines were killed Aug. 3 when their amphibious assault vehicle struck a roadside bomb; nine were from the Columbus-based Lima Company. Three other Marines were killed in separate incidents in the region.

After Monday's memorial service, Sgt. Eric Francis, 28, of Elyria, Ohio, said, "This has been one of the worst days of my life."

His best friend, Sgt. Bradley Harper, was killed in the Aug. 3 bombing. "Never in a million years did I think it would be this hard," Francis said. "You get over here and think you're indestructible."

The somber service was a scaled-down version of those normally held in the field. One rifle inverted into a sandbag supported a camouflaged helmet and 23 dog tags. A pair of dusty boots sat at its base. The thin metallic ping of the dog tags blown against the M-16 by the morning wind could be heard as the 25th Marines stood at attention at their base atop Hadithah Dam.

"It's important for the families to know that this happened, to know that their sons have not been forgotten," Sgt. Maj. Edward Wagner said.

Marines try to hold a memorial service as soon as possible after fighting stops to help put the events in perspective, said Lt. Col. Lionel Urquhart, battalion commander. Those killed in action typically are honored with a full eulogy and a rifle memorial, a ceremony that requires the presence of three Marines for each death.

Monday's service was simplified because the number of recent casualties would have required participation of at least 69 of the roughly 300 Marines in attendance.

A larger service is planned later in the year when the entire battalion, now spread throughout Anbar province, is reunited.

The province is one of the most volatile regions in Iraq.

Ohio's reservist 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines has suffered heavy losses since the unit and its attachments deployed in Iraq in March. Forty-eight of its Marines have been killed in action. The unit has spent about 80% of its time actively patrolling and engaging insurgents, said Capt. John Kasparian, battalion spokesman.

Reports of continuing deaths of U.S. servicemembers have contributed to a decline in President Bush's favorable rating for handling the situation in Iraq. A USA TODAY/CNN/Gallup Poll released last week showed the nation split on whether it was a mistake to invade. Bush, responding last week to calls from protesters to withdraw U.S. troops, said it "would be a mistake for the security of this country."
Francis, the sergeant who lost his best friend, agreed. He said more, not less, manpower is needed. "If we're going to do it, we need to do it," he said.

Copyright 2005 USA Today . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

MD's Most Wanted List: starring Jim Alluni

"...We were like Bonnie and Clyde as I pushed the wheelchair quickly around corners and onto the elevator before anyone could stop us!..."

Sounds like a great story. huh? It is! To find out what happened to Jim and his co-hort in crime, Cynthia, click here.

Continued prayers and well wishes for Jim. I'm so glad he's doing as well as he is and already getting into trouble! Ha! Good for him!

Jim Alluni...stateside and improving!

"...Jim suffered from a shrapnel injury to his neck. The shrapnel passed through one side of his neck and exited through the other, causing injury to his esophagus. Because of this injury, it required Jim to have a tracheotomy. There is also a piece of shrapnel by his thyroid, which they have chosen to leave alone at this time. Jim also suffered some burns (my apologies - I don't know where on his body) The most serious of his injuries was his esophagus..."

Jim has left Germany where he was sent after the incident and is now stateside in Bethesda, Maryland surrounded by family. He will be back home in only a matter of days.

Cynthia has been the "communicator" for us all on Jim's status. There's so much to write that it wouldn't do justice to anyone to try to reiterate what she's put so well. I encourage you to go to her blog for Jim (http://www.hypercrewjim.blogspot.com/) to read about the road he's traveled thus far and the latest updates on his wellness.

Prayers and well wishes go to Jim. He's a strong guy and we are very fortunate to still have him with us. Cynthia's last post (Tuesday) is especially heart tugging. Thank you Cyn for keeping us up to date on how Jim is doing. Thank God he's home.

Our hearts go to the families and friends of those that were lost in the most recent attacks. So many brave and courageous men. I find myself at a loss for words when it comes to expressing the feelings of loss and sadness for the families. Not to mention the guys still over in Iraq.

Take care. Stay strong. Semper Fi.

Sergeant Keeshon and a Navy Seal

Bear with me...Captain Kangaroo passed away on January 23, 2004 at age 76 , which is odd, because he always looked to be 76. (DOB: 6/27/27.) It reminded me of the following story...

Some people have been a bit offended that the actor, Lee Marvin, is buried in a grave alongside 3 and 4 star generals at Arlington National Cemetery.

Here's a guy who was only a famous movie star who served his time, why the heck does he rate burial with these guys? Well, following is the amazing answer: I always liked Lee Marvin, but didn't know the extent of his Corps experiences.

In a time when many Hollywood stars served their country in the armed forces often in rear-echelon posts where they were carefully protected, only to be trotted out to perform for the cameras in war bond promotions, Lee Marvin was a genuine hero. He won the Navy Cross at Iwo Jima.

There is only one higher Naval award... the Medal Of Honor.

If that is a surprising comment on the true character of the man, Marvin credits his sergeant with an even greater show of bravery.

During a dialog on "The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson", Johnny's guest was Lee Marvin. Johnny said, "Lee, I'll bet a lot of people are unaware that you were a Marine in the initial landing at Iwo Jima... and that during the course of that action you earned the Navy Cross and were severely wounded."

"Yeah, yeah... I got shot square in the bottom and they gave me the Cross for securing a hot spot about halfway up Suribachi. Bad thing about getting shot up on a mountain is guys getting' shot hauling you down. But, Johnny, at Iwo I served under the bravest man I ever knew... . We both got the cross the same day, but what he did for his Cross made mine look cheap in comparison. That dumb guy actually stood up on Red beach and directed his troops to move forward and get the hell off the beach. Bullets flying by, with mortar rounds landing everywhere and he stood there as the main target.

Johnny, I'm not lying, Sergeant Keeshan was the bravest man I ever knew. The Sergeant's name is Bob Keeshan. You and the world know him as Captain Kangaroo."

On another note, there was this wimpy little man (who just passed away) on PBS, gentle and quiet. Mr. Rogers is another of those you would least suspect of being anything but what he now portrays to our youth. But Mr. Rogers was a U.S. Navy Seal, combat-proven in Vietnam with over twenty-five confirmed kills to his name. He wore a long-sleeved sweater on TV, to cover the many tattoos on his forearm and biceps. He was a master in small arms and hand-to-hand combat, able to disarm or kill in a heartbeat.

After the war Mr. Rogers became an ordained Presbyterian minister and therefore a pacifist. Vowing to never harm another human and also dedicating the rest of his life to trying to help lead children on the right path in life. He hid away the tattoos and his past life and won our hearts with his quiet wit and charm.

America's real heroes don't flaunt what they did; they quietly go about their day-to-day lives, doing what they do best. They earned our respect and the freedoms that we all enjoy. Look around and see if you can find one of those heroes in your midst. Often, they are the ones you'd least suspect, but would most like to have on your side if anything ever happened.

Take the time to thank anyone that has fought for our freedom. With encouragement they could be the next Captain Kangaroo or Mr. Rogers.

"We will not be remembered by our words, But rather by our kindness to others"

U. S. Marines, Iraqi Troops Finish 'Quick Strike' Operation

From : Sent : Press Service Wednesday, August 10, 2005 10:46 AM

WASHINGTON, Aug. 10, 2005 – Iraqi special operations forces, Iraqi army soldiers and U. S. Marines from Regimental Combat Team 2 concluded Operation Quick Strike today.

American and Iraqi forces had teamed up to sweep the Haditha, Haqliniyah and Barwanah areas in recent few days as a part of a joint operation interdicting foreign and domestic terrorists' presence and networks, and collecting intelligence.

Quick Strike netted 36 suspected terrorists for questioning, officials said.

"This is another operation, similar to those conducted before, that has disrupted the insurgents' ability to operate freely in the western Al Anbar region," said Col. Stephen W. Davis, commanding officer, Regimental Combat Team 2. "The intelligence collected throughout this operation will enable us to better assist the citizens of western Al Anbar in their quest to participate in the upcoming referendum. "

Nine car bombs were discovered. Three were identified by a local citizen, and the remaining six were discovered in an assembly garage used for rigging vehicles with explosives for insurgents to attack Iraqi civilians and military targets. And 28 improvised bombs were discovered during the operation. Most were planted as roadside bombs; others were rigged to destroy entire buildings.

(From a 2nd U. S. Marine Division news release. American Press Service.)

U.S. Has Suspects in Killings of 6 Marines

<>USA Today | August 10, 2005

WASHINGTON - U.S. and Iraqi forces have apprehended several suspects in the killings of six Marine snipers last week, the Pentagon's top general said Tuesday.

Iraqi civilians in the area where the Marines were killed pointed out the suspects, said Gen. Richard Myers, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

"They're in interrogation right now," Myers told a Pentagon news conference.

He said they were apprehended in the Hadithah area when U.S. and Iraqi forces went there after an explosion killed 14 Marines on Aug. 3. That attack came two days after the snipers were killed by small-arms fire. Myers did not give more details about the suspects.

A statement from Marine spokesman Capt. Jeffrey Pool said Tuesday that 27 "suspected terrorists" had been captured in the area during the past week. It was not clear whether any were involved in killing the snipers.

The normal procedure when U.S. troops capture suspects is to gather evidence and build a case. The suspects are then turned over to Iraqi criminal courts for trial. Commanders of the units holding the suspects will make the decision on how to proceed in this case, said Army Lt. Col. Barry Venable, a Pentagon spokesman.

The snipers' killings were part of a flare of fighting in western Iraq last week that left 21 Marines dead, including 19 from one Marine Reserve battalion based in Ohio. Forty-one Marines from the battalion have been killed since the unit arrived in February.

U.S. and Iraqi troops in the area are working to clear out insurgents from their supply lines along the Euphrates River. Hadithah lies along the river near the intersection of three major highways.

Insurgents in the area are constantly on the move, said Maj. Bob Schubert, a Marine intelligence officer. "You can't really pin down the enemy," said Schubert, 35, of Washington.

Myers said the military believes the explosion that killed 14 Marines in an amphibious assault vehicle last week was caused by a bomb made up of three mines wired together and planted in the road.

"There was no way out of the vehicle once it overturned," Myers said.

Such deadly attacks will continue, Myers said. "There is no perfect defense, in this country, in Iraq, anywhere in the world, against people that are bent on doing those kinds of acts," Myers said.

Copyright 2005 USA Today . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Memorial Service for Lance Cpl. Brian P. Montgomery

PhotoID: 20055233414
Submitted by: 2nd Marine Division
Operation/Exercise/Event:
Operation Iraqi Freedom


Caption:
Haditha Dam, Al Anbar, Iraq -Cpl. Brian P. Montgomery, a 26-year-old Willoughby, Ohio native and a scout sniper with Team America, 3/25 Weapons Co., keeps eyes on potentially dangerous threats.
Photo by: Cpl. Ken Melton


Last night I went to the 2nd night of a memorial service for Brian Montgomery. The funeral home was strewn with photos of Brian with his family and friends. Stretching from the time he was just a baby until very recently. For me, all but one made you smile..one of him in Iraq, fairly recently, staring right at the camera. You could see the exhaustion in his eyes. Appearing like they were trying to tell you something. So many people showed up to pay respects to this great hero it was inspiring. The line was out the door for hours. Long after the time when the service was to end the line still reached the streets outside the doors leading them to where Brian was placed and family greeted each and every person. The Marines watched over their fallen comrade on either side of the flag draped coffin with change-outs taking place every half an hour, on the dot. The place went still and quiet as the Marines switched guards. With slow, respectful and deliberate salutes, they marched in and marched out.

Next to the coffin was his helmet, placed atop his gun with his boots below and dog tags hanging from the gun. Looking at that was the hardest part for me. You could see the wear on his helmet and boots. His goggles were on his helmet just as he probably wore them when not in use not so long ago.

The family was holding strong. He was certainly a very loved man. I missed it but I understand his old school football team showed up in team jerseys, all together to pay their respects. Apparently a site to see. Marines and vets from days before came in droves.

I am a friend of the family. It pains me to see his family feeling such sadness and loss. I can only imagine how they must feel. It's probably a mere fraction of the sadness they are actually feeling. My heart goes out to them as well as to the families of the other Marines and servicemen who have unselfishly given their lives for protecting us, and protecting others.

This family's story is much like many others...they watch the news and feel for the families of those that lost their son, their husband or their brother but are relieved to know that it didn't happen to their family. Then suddenly, it is. They become one of the many grieving for an untold period of time for the loss of a loved one. Always too soon and always too young. No one is ever prepared for the moment when 2 Marines come walking up the walk to your door.

A fund has been set up in the name of Alexander Montgomery at Sun Trust Bank in Willowick. Alexander is Brian's one year old son. At this time I do not have any more information but as soon as I do I will post it.

Semper Fi. Stay strong.

For funeral information click here.

A letter from Capt. Kasparian:

Captain praises troops
Posted Tuesday, Aug 9, 2005

U.S. Marine Capt. John Kasparian, the battalion adjutant for 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, which includes Akron's Weapons Company serving in Iraq, wrote the following e-mail after last week's loss of 21 Marines -- including two from Weapons Company and 16 Ohio residents -- who died in battle:

Dear Family and Friends,

We have the deepest sympathies for the families of our fallen 21 Marines and the other Marines who have given their lives for Iraq and for each other. We recognize that several of them came from other units, like 4th Amphibious Assault Battalion who has taken every risk with us.

After the last week's incidents, when asked if they wanted to leave, every Marine from Company L said, "We came here to do a job and we will finish it.''

A Marine dropped off six detainees who had just attacked his men; I asked him how it was going out there. He simply shook his head and said, "Busy.'' He quickly smiled and shook his head and headed out the door.

The last week has proven the most difficult for 3d Battalion, 25th Marines and the families. We have participated in more combat actions than almost any other unit in Operation Iraqi Freedom. We continue to take casualties and also kill, capture, or detain insurgents who have found no haven along the Euphrates.

3/25 (3d Battalion, 25th Marines) has protected Baghdad and Ramadi from attacks and kept the highways clear. Letters have come from Marine veterans from WWII to Desert Storm, thanking us for carrying on a proud tradition.

We will always keep our honor and avoid hurting the Iraqi people. When Gunnery Sgt. Charles Hurely IV's platoon from Company L became engaged by heavy machine guns, he ordered his Marines not to fire back because the insurgents hid among innocent Iraqis.

We have had heroes like Lance Cpl. Todd Corbin and Cpl. Jeffery Schuller Jr. from Weapons Company who saved the lives of 11 Marines during an ambush when the enemy used a hospital to attack from.

The Marines who gave their lives in the last week had courageously cleared a town in Operation Matador, going house to house, so they would not inflict injuries to the many civilians who lived there.

We have had instance after instance of Marines going above and beyond the call of duty.

Sgt. John Howarth, a scout sniper, ran out into a hail of enemy small arms fire in New Ubaydi to pull an Iraqi to safety.

Many times Marines have looked after their own. With a supporting M1A1 tank main gun firing, Capt. Billy Brown from Company L calmly walked in front of the firepower to a fallen Marine. With rocket-propelled grenades firing point blank at him, he scooped the warrior up and moved him away from the enemy.

3/25 has continued to clear the roads and the insurgents. We have been the focus of main effort for the Regimental Combat Team 2 and 2d Marine Division during major operations, recently during the clearing of the city of Hit.

Our job has always focused on keeping the rest of Iraq safe. The enemy will never use Haditha or Hit as a haven to launch attacks toward any southern city or town while we are on watch.

3/25 has always known we have to accomplish our mission so other Marines and Army brothers in southern Iraq do not get attacked from the enemy.

My friend, Staff Sgt. Joseph P. Goodrich, recently was killed in the city of Hit. We went to Reserve Infantry Officers Course together in the summer before we deployed. The entire time during this rigorous training, he had a grin on his face. I will miss that famous smile of his. He always remained positive and everyone always felt better when he walked up to you.

"Semper Fi'' has taken on a deeper meaning for many Marines here. 3/25 will remain "always faithful'' to the Marines and families from past wars and actions who have given their all for the Corps.

From 3d Battalion, 25th Marines to all those who we have lost and those who continue to press on in their memory, Semper Fi.

Capt. John A. Kasparian

Prayer for Our Military

The Rev. William J. Bleiler, state chaplain of the New Jersey VFW, wrote the following "Prayer for Our Military" for distribution to VFW members. He is pastor of St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church in Cedarville, Cumberland County.

Almighty God, our Source of strength and courage, we ask Thee to guide the leaders of nations in the ways of peace and justice and enduring freedom for the peoples of the world.

In these times of peril and war against terrorism listen to our prayers for the men and women serving in our armed forces, our military leaders and our allies. Protect them all from harm as they go into battle on land, in the sea and in the air.

Take away whatever fear from their hearts and enable them to overcome swiftly and decisively the violence and cruelty of the enemy.

Protect them from the hatred of others and bolster their personal pride of being American as they rid our world of the works of darkness and weapons of mass destruction.

Console their loved ones and family members who remain on the home front. Gently dry the tears of those who mourn for the wounded in battle and those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Oh God, bless them with Thy presence. Grant us homeland security. May Thy Peace, the fruit of justice, truth and mercy, reign in America and throughout the world. Amen.

3/25 Marine regiment fought on Iwo Jima

Friday, August 05, 2005

James Ewinger / Plain Dealer Reporter

The Brook Park armory of the 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, has a humble origin and distinguished name.

It was once an elementary school. Now, the home of the battalion's Headquarters and Service Company is named for Col. Justice M. Chambers.

He was a West Virginian and never lived here, but led the 3rd Battalion in early 1945 when it landed in the black volcanic sands of Iwo Jima.

The battalion lost about half its men, according to Chambers' Medal of Honor citation. His sector was beneath high ground from which the Japanese shelled an important landing beach. While directing a rocket barrage, he was seriously wounded by heavy machine gun fire. His wounds forced his retirement.

Before that, he also led the battalion on Saipan and Tinian.

Chambers' medals are preserved in a glass case at the Brook Park armory, and they include the Silver Star, three Purple Hearts, three Bronze Stars, the Legion of Merit and the Medal of Honor.

The 25th was activated in 1943, deactivated at the close of World War II, and re-activated in 1962 as a Reserve unit. The whole regiment mobilized for Desert Storm and Desert Shield.

The 3rd Battalion has companies in Akron, Columbus, Buffalo, N.Y., and Moundsville, W.Va.

According to an official history of the battalion, it has deployed three rifle companies to three combat zones in Iraq.

Members of the Headquarters and Service Company stood in the gym of this former elementary school in January for a ceremony. Then, family members and friends bade the 200 Marines farewell before they shipped out for Iraq.

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: jewinger@plaind.com, 216-999-3905
© 2005 The Plain Dealer • © 2005 cleveland.com All Rights Reserved.

A changing role for reservists

BY LIAM PLEVEN / August 8, 2005
STAFF WRITER; Staff writers William Murphy, Michael Rothfeld and Emi Endo contributed to this story.

Douglas Luback had served as a reservist in the U.S. Navy Seabees for 18 years - starting as an enlisted man and later becoming a commissioned officer - before he saw a moment of combat.

Last year, that changed in Iraq. Summoned to active duty, Luback traded his job as a supervisor in the New York City Department of Sanitation for a post as liaison to the Marines that involved dodging incoming fire daily.

"I've had rounds knock me down," said Luback, 49, whose civilian job is to keep the city's garbage fleet rolling. "I've seen people get killed right around me."

To continue this story, click here.

More Troops to be Sent to Iraq

Associated Press | August 09, 2005

WASHINGTON - Anticipating a new burst of insurgent violence, the Pentagon plans to expand the U.S. force in Iraq to improve security for a planned October referendum and a December election.

Although much public attention has been focused recently on the prospect of reducing U.S. forces next spring and summer, defense officials foresee the likelihood of first increasing troop levels.

To read the entire story, click here.

Marines, Iraqi soldiers take fight to insurgents

by Bassem Mroue, Associated Press August 6, 2005

BAGHDAD -- U.S. Marines and Iraqi Army troops pounded insurgents with bombs and tank fire Friday during a major offensive along a stretch of the Euphrates River valley where 22 Marines were killed this week.

To read the entire story, click here.

Articles honoring the 3/25...

[click on the title of the article to view the entire story]

Family, supporters greet Montgomery with tears
By: John Arthur Hutchison / JHutchison@News-Herald.com

The body of Marine Lance Cpl. Brian P. Montgomery was brought home Saturday.
Montgomery's body arrived at Cleveland Hopkins Airport about 6 p.m., then was transported by a police procession to McMahon-Coyne-Vitantonio Funeral Home in Willoughby shortly before 8 p.m.

Montgomery was among six Marines who were killed Monday by insurgents at Haditha Dam, Iraq, 140 miles northwest of Baghdad.
"I'll tell my son what a great man his dad was and what a great hero he was,"...


Ohio Community Honors Slain Marines

Associated Press | August 09, 2005

Tyler Hicks/The New York Times

CLEVELAND - On the stage sat a helmet, a pair of worn soldier's boots and a folded American flag. In the audience were thousands who turned out Monday night to honor 16 fallen Marines and their hard-hit Ohio battalion.

Families Begin Funerals for Ohio Marines
Associated Press | August 08, 2005

WILLOUGHBY, Ohio - The flag-draped caskets of two of the 16 Ohio Marines killed in recent attacks in Iraq arrived at Cleveland's airport Saturday evening, one saluted by his brother and fellow Marine.


Memorial salutes troops, families

Cleveland mayor: Support runs deep
Saturday, August 6, 2005
By Janice Morse
Enquirer staff writer

CLEVELAND - Mayor Jane Campbell delivered a message Friday that military mom Karen Parker needed to hear: "You are not alone."


Community mourns Marine deaths at memorial service
JOE MILICIA / Associated Press / Tuesday, August 9, 2005

CLEVELAND - Tears flowed as the faces of Marines killed in Iraq were displayed during a tribute that some military families believed was overdue for troops dying for the country.

Thousands of strangers showed their thanks Monday night to the families of Ohio's fallen Marines by attending a hour-long community memorial service at the I-X Center, a convention hall right next to Brook Park, home of the 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines that lost 16 members recently.

All of a sudden, it's someone you know...
<>By:Jonathan Tressler / JTressler@News-Herald.com / 08.09.2005

Troops' lives honored

Gov. Bob Taft, Cleveland Mayor Jane Campbell and a list of senators and state representatives headlined Monday's memorial service to honor Northeast Ohio's fallen heroes.

But perhaps more important were the thousands of everyday citizens who showed up at the I-X Center in Cleveland from all around Ohio to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in Iraq.

Take Lance Schamberg of Middlefield Township, who came to the memorial with his wife, Betsy, and 3-week-old daughter, Ava...


Ohio unit deaths stir war sentiments
Expert says U.S. casualties in Iraq will boost critics' resolve, cause supporters to question handling of the conflict.
By JOE MILICIA / Associated Press Writer

BROOK PARK, OHIO – Casimiro Zayas held his right hand to his brow, a salute to Ohio's fallen Marines in Iraq as the national anthem was sung at a prayer vigil.

As casualties have mounted, Zayas' stance on the war has grown more resolute.

"In the beginning, I was against it," said Zayas, whose son is in the Army in Iraq. "But now that we're there, we're making a difference and we should stick it out. We've lost too many lives."

Let us resolve that none of these men died needlessly
For the first time the war hit home for many young graduates of Cincinnati high schools with the deaths of the local Marines. Chris Dyer graduated a year below me and was one of the Marines killed in the bombing near Haditha dam. I am proud to have known Chris and think that it is a tragedy that his life was ended so shortly. However, it seems that in reaction to his death people are taking attacks on the Bush administration and the current Iraqi campaigns. I think that this is the last thing that those 14 Marines killed Wednesday would want to see.

Grieving for those who served us
Cincinnati.com / The Enquirer

For more than two years now we all have been seeing reports of American casualties in Iraq. They usually come out one or two names at a time. But unless the name is someone you are personally close to, there is still a distance to those casualties. That distance closed quickly this week with word that 14 Marines from a reserve unit based in Ohio had been killed in two attacks. Five of those young men came from the Cincinnati area.

To Our Fallen Marine Heros

In honor of...

Lance Cpl. Christopher J. Dyer
19, of Cincinatti, Ohio, died Aug 3 when the amphibious assault vehicle in whichhe was a passengerwas hit by an improvised explosive device. Dyer's unit was conducting combat operations south of Haditha, Iraq. Dyer was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, his unit was attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA August 3, 2005

Lance Cpl. Timothy M. Bell Jr.
22, West Chesterfield, Ohio, died August 3 when his Amphibious Assault Vehicle was attacked by an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations south of Haditha, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, they all were attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA August 3, 2005

Lance Cpl. Eric Bernholtz
23, Grove City, Ohio, died August 3 when his Amphibious Assault Vehicle was attacked by an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations south of Haditha, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, they all were attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA August 3, 2005


Sgt. Justin F. Hoffman
27, Delaware, Ohio, died August 3 when his Amphibious Assault Vehicle was attacked by an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations south of Haditha, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, they all were attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA August 3, 2005


Cpl. David Kenneth J. Kreuter
26, of Cincinnati, Ohio, died August 3 when his Amphibious Assault Vehicle was attacked by an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations south of Haditha, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, they all were attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA August 3, 2005


Lance William B. Wightman
22, of Sabina, Ohio, died when his Amphibious Assault Vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device during combat operations south of Haditha, Iraq. Wightman was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, they all were attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA August 3, 2005


Lance Cpl. Edward A. Schroeder II
23, of Columbus, Ohio, died when his Amphibious Assault Vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device during combat operations south of Haditha, Iraq. Schroeder was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, they all were attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA August 3, 2005


Lance Cpl. Michael J. Cifuentes
25, Fairfield, Ohio, died when his Amphibious Assault Vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device during combat operations south of Haditha, Iraq. Cifuentes was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, they all were attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA August 3, 2005


Lance Cpl. Aaron H. Reed
21, of Chillicothe, Ohio, died when his Amphibious Assault Vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device during combat operations south of Haditha, Iraq. Reed was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, they all were attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA August 3, 2005


Sgt. David J. Coullard
32, of Glastonbury, Conn., died as result of enemy small-arms fire while conducting dismounted operations outside Haditha, Iraq. He is one of five other Marines assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Brookpark, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, all were attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA August 1, 2005


Lance Cpl. Daniel N. Deyarmin, Jr.
22, of Tallmadge, died as result of enemy small-arms fire while conducting dismounted operations outside Haditha, Iraq. He is one of five other Marines assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Brookpark, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, all were attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA August 1, 2005


Lance Cpl. Brian P. Montgomery
26, of Willoughby, died as result of enemy small-arms fire while conducting dismounted operations outside Haditha, Iraq. He is one of five other Marines assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Brookpark, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, all were attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA August 1, 2005


Lance Cpl. Jeff A. Boskovitch
25, of Seven Hills, died as result of enemy small-arms fire while conducting dismounted operations outside Haditha, Iraq. He is one of five other Marines assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Brookpark, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, all were attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA August 1, 2005


Sgt. Nathaniel Rock
26, of Toronto, died as result of enemy small-arms fire while conducting dismounted operations outside Haditha, Iraq. He is one of five other Marines assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Brookpark, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, all were attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA August 1, 2005

Lance Cpl. Christopher P. Lyons
24, of Shelby, Ohio, died July 28 when his unit came under attack by enemy small-arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades while conducting combat operations in Cykla, Iraq. He was assigned to the Marine Reserve's 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, his unit was attached to Regimental Combat Team-2, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA July 28, 2005


Cpl. Andre L. Williams
23, of Galloway, Ohio, died July 28, when his unit came under attack by enemy small-arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades while conducting combat operations in Cykla Village, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, his unit was attached to Regimental Combat Team-2, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA July 28, 2005

Staff Sergeant Joseph P. Goodrich
32, of Allegheny, Pa, died July 10 from enemy indirect fire while conducting combat operations in Hit, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Moundsville, W.Va. During Operation Iraqi Freedom his unit was attached to Regimental Combat Team-2, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA July 10, 2005

Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Kovacicek
22, of Washington, Pa, died July 10 from enemy indirect fire while conducting combat operations in Hit, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Moundsville, W.Va. During Operation Iraqi Freedom his unit was attached to Regimental Combat Team-2, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA July 10, 2005

Lance Cpl. Thomas O. Keeling
23, of Strongsville, died in an explosion in Haqlaniyah, Iraq. He was assigned to the Marine Forces Reserve, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division. One of five Marines killed when a roadside bomb hit their vehicle during combat operations near Haqlaniya in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
KIA June 9, 2005

Lance Cpl. Devon P. Seymour
21, of St. Louisville, died in an explosion in Haqlaniyah, Iraq. He was assigned to the Marine Forces Reserve, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division. One of five Marines killed when a roadside bomb hit their vehicle during combat operations near Haqlaniya in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
KIA June 9, 2005

Cpl. Brad D. Squires
26, Middleburg Heights, died in an explosion in Haqlaniyah, Iraq. He was assigned to the Marine Forces Reserve, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division. One of five Marines killed when a roadside bomb hit their vehicle during combat operations near Haqlaniya in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
KIA June 9, 2005

Sgt. David N. Wimberg
24, of Louisville, Ky., died May 25 from wounds received as a result of small-arms fire from enemy forces while conducting combat operations in Hadithah, Iraq. Wimberg was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, his unit was attached to 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA May 25, 2005


Staff Sergeant Kendall H. Ivy II
28, of Crawford, Ohio, was killed May 11 from an explosion while conducting combat operations against enemy forces in Karabilah, Iraq. He was assigned to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
KIA May 11, 2005


Lance Cpl. Nick Erdy
21, of Owensville, died from an explosion near his vehicle transport in Iraq. He was assigned to the Marine Forces Reserve's 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines, 4th Marine Division based in Columbus.
KIA May 11, 2005

Lance Corporal Jourdan L. Grez
23, of Santa Fe, N.M.; lance corporal, Marine Corps Reserve. Grant was among four Marine reservists killed May 11 when their amphibious assault vehicle struck an explosive device in Karabilah in Iraq's Al Anbar province. He was assigned to the 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Corps Reserve in Albuquerque. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, his unit was attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA May 11, 2005

Pfc. Christopher Dixon
18, of Obetz, died from an explosion near his vehicle transport in Iraq. He was assigned to the Marine Forces Reserve's 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines, 4th Marine Division based in Columbus.
KIA May 11, 2005

Lance Corporal Jonathan W. Grant

23, of Santa Fe, N.M.; lance corporal, Marine Corps Reserve. Grant was among four Marine reservists killed May 11 when their amphibious assault vehicle struck an explosive device in Karabilah in Iraq's Al Anbar province. He was assigned to the 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Corps Reserve in Albuquerque. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, his unit was attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA May 11, 2005


Lance Cpl. Wesley G. Davids
20, of Dublin, Ohio, died May 11 from an explosion while conducting combat operations against enemy forces in Karabilah, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines, 4th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, his reserve unit was attached to 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA May 11, 2005

Staff Sergeant Anthony L. Goodwin
33, of Mount Holly, N.J., died May 9 from enemy small-arms fire while conducting combat operations in the vicinity of Al Qaim, Iraq. He was assigned to 2^nd Marine Regiment, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
KIA May 8, 2005

Cpl. Dustin A. Derga
24, of Columbus, Ohio, died May 8 as the result of enemy small arms fire while conducting combat operations in Ubaydi, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division. Derga's company is based Columbus, Ohio. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom their unit was attached to 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA May 8, 2005


Sgt. Aaron N. Cepeda Sr.
22, of San Antonio, Texas, died May 7 from explosions as a result of enemy action while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Cepeda was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, San Antonio, Texas. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom their unit was attached to 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward). Postal was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
KIA May 7, 2005


Lance Cpl. Lance T. Graham
26, of San Antonio, Texas died May 7 from explosions as a result of enemy action while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Cepeda and Graham were assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, San Antonio, Texas. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom their unit was attached to 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward). Postal was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
KIA May 7, 2005


Shown here, right, with his father, Albert.
Sgt. Michael A. Marzano
28, of Greenville, Pa., died May 7 as the result of an explosion caused by suicide vehicle borne improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations in Hadithah, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division. Marzano's company is based in Phoenix, Ariz.. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom their unit was attached to 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA May 7, 2005


Cpl. Joseph Tremblay
23, of New Windsor, N.Y., died April 27 from injuries received from a mine explosion while conducting combat operations in vicinity of Hit, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Moundsville, W.Va. As part of Operation Iraqi Freedom his unit was attached to 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA April 26, 2005

Cpl. Michael B. Lindemuth
27, of Petoskey, Mich., died April 13 as a result of wounds received from enemy mortar fire at Camp Hit, Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to Inspector/Instructor Staff, 3^rdth Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Akron, Ohio. During Operation Iraq Freedom, Lindemuth was attached to Regimental Combat Team 2, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
KIA April 13, 2005


Cpl Bryan J. Richardson
23, of Summersville, W.Va., died March 25 as a result of hostile action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve’s 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Marine Regiment, 4^th Marine Division, Moundsville, W.Va.
KIA March 25, 2005

Please say a prayer for his family and for all of the family members who
have lost loved ones while serving our country. For those who
have served Thank You and for those who are going forward- Stay
Motivated. God bless you.

Written by L. Winter, Proud Marine Mom

I heard of you today, not in a usual way,
I heard of the courage you displayed today.

Then I heard of your death that has come at such an early age,
Leaving us to weep and be full of rage.

You gave the highest gift that anyone can ever present,
And with your gift we know why you were sent.

For you were born for a more noble purpose than most of us could ever bear,
And, if life were fair...

You would still be with us knowing of your valuable worth,
To all of us here on earth.

But in God's divine plan, you left us to be of service in his highest realm.
You now are guarding his streets and taking your helm.

To watch over and see that other's are safe,
And brought home to their families, to be face to face.

We are debt to you always for being so brave,
You were put here at this time to show us how to save.

A country that needed to be free,
And now we have the need to see...

You safe in God's arms, full of body and health,
And acknowledging that one's worth is not of wealth.

But in the life you have given for someone else.
So rest for a while and gather yourself.

For God's angels are always on duty,
And you have achieved this rare and distinct beauty.

We salute you with tears in our eyes,
Because we now have to say goodbye.

You are at home where you are meant to be,
And yes, don't worry, we won't stop until all are free.

Your life has shown us there is a higher price to be paid,
For the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Until we meet again, Semper Fidelis...to our fallen Marine heros. We will never forget you.

Related Links:
http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2003/iraq/forces/casualties/2005.05.html
http://icasualties.org/oif/