Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Jamie, I found out from Tom Wotka about three weeks ago, that you had left us. I am saddened by this. We had good times in Panama and I had hoped we would work together again someday. The last time we saw each other was on the street in Q-town and you were an all-grown up Captain, not the 2nd Lt I first met. We were on opposite rotations in Iraq and so we never got to the job together again but I am heartened to hear and read what a great officer, leader and Marine you became. I will keep you in my thoughts and your family in my prayers. Semper Fidelis, brother."
John Lewis of Atlanta, GA

"Good evening Sir,
it has taken me a long while to write to you and please don't hold it against me! The men of 2nd plt B Co. will never forget that day in Ar Ramadi, you, 2nd Lt Clinton and me sharing your famous history debates and you walking around the berthing areas making sure the Marines were on their toes. I was always impressed by how your presence made your Marines calm in the face of imminent danger and I doubt that I will ever have a leader that exemplifies the corps values and virtues that you did every single day that I had the privilage of serving under your command.
I am a SNCOIC of a recruiting station and I try my hardest to push my recruiters to find young men that are made of the stuff that Marines like Cpl Starr and yourself were made of. Your memory will live on as long as I am a Marine and alive on this Earth. Semper Fi Sir and as I always said when you asked me if my guys were ready......No Worries Sir, you trained us! Thank you for your guidance and leadership."
GySgt Matt Woodward of Temecula, CA

"Jamie,

Damn man, I miss you. A week before you were taken I remember saying to my then pregnant wife that I wanted to go to a VMI reunion and hopefully you would be there so both my wife and kid could meet you, and so I could meet your family.

I always remember your orange truck and the day you came into my room asking me if it was running funny when I borrowed it. When I asked why, your reply always makes me bust out laughing... "'Cause the damn thing broke in half pulling out of the First Class parking lot!" Oh man, that was too funny!

You made a difference Jamie and those of us left behind are keeping watch on your family. Rest in Peace Brother, we'll catch up at some point. Semper Fi.

Ian"
Ian Connor, VMI '91 of Burlington, VT

"I think about Jamie and his family often, and I hope they are doing well. I moved recently, and I went through pictures and found a lot of Jamie and Billy. I miss you guys."
Nicki of Port ST. Lucie, FL

"Jamie,

Thinking of you over the 4th of July weekend. Thank you for all that you did for me. As one of your former rats in A Co, I am here today a Marine Officer due to your leadership, example and inspiration. I was so sad to hear the news, I visited you with my wife in Arlington in April of 2006, just before our wedding. My continued condolences to your family. I am so happy to have known you, your life and legacy has had a lasting impact on my life and those around you. I will never forget you."
Capt John Bolt, USMC VMI '99 of Twentynine Palms, CA

"June 2, 2008
To the family of Capt. James C. Edge:
James gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV

"Hey Brother Rat, some of us came by to visit you the other day. Hope you are doing well up there and we have not forgotten."
Seg

""Just thinking of you on the Memorial Day 2008""
The Ayres of Texas

"Thinking of your family once again this April. May our common journies leave us in peace.It's been three years of a journey not wanted and so very hard. Just wanted you to know, he's remembered and thought of."
Shellie Starr of Snohomish, WA

"I knew Captin Edge as my company comander, in SOI. I spoke with him before he went to Iraq. He was an excellent commander, he made me feel indestructible. He was good at inspiring people around him. It has been seven years since I have seen him. He is a true American hero and I am proud to have served with him. I wish there were more like him in the world. It is strange how good people die young. May the grace of God touch his family. My heart and prayers are with his family. He should not be forgotten. It is truly great to serve with a real American hero. He is and always will be an inspiration to me."
Thomas Peterson of Vinton, VA, USA

"I was deeply saddened to hear of the death Of Jamie Edge , I was a classmate of his during his Rat year. I lost touch with most of my classmates when I left. I left VMI and enlisted in the USN. I am still active and deployed as we speak. I just recently ran into an old classmate who told me the news. I only new Jaime for a school year but I considered him genuine, determined, funny and a friend. I send to you my deepest condolences, and God Bless his family. We will continue to press the fight on, never forgetting our fallen brothers....."
S.S.

"Capt Edge was a great man, Marine, husband, and father. I am glad I knew him."
Capt Cameron Renner of Camp Pendleton, CA

"To the family of:James C.Edge I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart cries out for you in your grief and you have my thoughts and prayers. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need prayer or need someone to talk to, please call or write my pastor: Rev. John Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew Covington,Ga"

"Sir, I am a SGT in Alpha CO at VMI. I just wanted you to know that we are keeping the traditions you lived by alive. I wear a KIA bracelet with your name inscribed on it. Your sacrafice will never be forgoten. Semper Fidelis and Rah VA Mil."
Michael Harvey of Lexington, VA

"We know words cannot return to us those we have lost,words can comfort,words can heal, words can be forgotten, But the selfless actions endure, I never knew James C. Edge but my deepest respect for his actions will reamin with me always, my the love he gave be with you always."
John Norman III of Virginia Beach VA

"Sir,
Thought I would wish you a happy memorial day.You are missed every day.I know I will never forget you.Until we meet again,
SEMPER FI."
Ssgt Smith

"Two years without your Jamie. Our hearts are joined in our losses. Blessings to you and your family in the coming days."
Shellie Starr

"I was visiting the messages left at the site of Cpl Jeffrey Starr, my nephew, when I saw the message from James' mother. My heart broke again knowing that this family has lost so much. I know if given the choice a parent would happily change places with a child who has died. We do not know why these things happen, but I know God is in charge and we live for his purpose.

Thank you for your gift to our country for such a man as James. We are a better nation and people for his life among us. We are poorer with his loss. My God bless James' family and friends and may we all be more resolved to protect this land and serve our God."
Tim Lickness of San Diego, CA

"Capt. Edge was one of the finest human biengs I have ever known. They don't make them like him anymore. He had more concern for his Marines than some of their own families. I was in Ramadi that day. If anyone has any questions please feel free to contact me. Dillon W. Swearengin (409) 782 4606. We miss you sir! To the family I want to say thank you for bestowing upon the Marine Corps the finest officer I have ever met. Even though I am out of the Marines now, I carry the leadership traits taught to me by Capt. Edge as I make my way through civilian life and apply them to every day situations. To his two little girls: Whom's pictures he carried in his cover, your father was an amazing human bieng who loved you and your mother very much. If you ever want to hear a good story about your father, don't hesitate to ask me. Everything he did, he did it for ya'll. Semper Fidelis and God bless.

Dillon W. Swearengin"
Dillon Swearengin of Beaumont, Tx USA

"I could not but help how sad I was and still am to hear that Capt Edge was killed in Ramadi. He was a man that would do anything for anyone. His leadership and devotion to duty was the ultimate. I remember when we both went to Lithuania during the partnership for peace program in order to aid in the training of Lithuanian soldiers. Boy, did he have a knack for teaching. I was very impressed. I really enjoyed my time being around him and with him. To the Edge family: Today is a day for celebration because he is with God. May we all be happy for this great man."
Don Funkhouser of Jacksonville, NC

"I make myself read each one of these memorials. I leave a message and I cry at the unimaginabe loss. My husband a Marine and A4 pilot returned home from Vietnam,waiting and worrying for him was the worst year of my life. My son is currently serving as a Marine CH-46 pilot. I pray every day for him.

Captain Edge was the kind of man that every Marine should be. His friends remember his courage and goodness. he is with his heavenly Father where there is only love and kindness. I am deeply sorry for the sorrow of the family he has left here on earth. May they find comfort in this painful loss."
Judith of Birmingham, AL

"Our son, Cpl Jeff Starr, joined Capt. Edge as a national hero, on May 30th, in Ramadi. He thought highly of Capt. Edge and was with him that day last April. You have been in my thoughts and prayers."
Shellie Starr vpm Cpl Jeff Starr kia 5/30/05 of Snohomish, WA

"Krissy, We think of you often. We think of Jamie often. Greg was with Jamie at LAR for two years, and in Iraq at the same time. We went to Arlington National Cemetery this weekend to visit Jamie and to remember the sacrifice of such a special man and his family. I have heard so many good things about Jamie. Greg talks so highly of him. We just wanted you to know we have not forgotten. Major Robert Greg and Darby Palmer"
Major Robert Greg Palmer of TJAGSA, Charlottesville, VA

"To the family of CPT James C. Edge,

God bless your souls, CPT Edge's sacrifice to his country is greatly reverenced and respected. You are in my prayers, the Lord is our comfort during these times."
David Furrow of Fort Sill, OK USA

"Krissy,

Please accept our sincere condolences on your loss. Jamie was a good man and someone I have great respect for. He was always a true professional and loved his Marines. I am honored to have served with him at 2d LAR and to know your family. Know that you and the girls are in Shelley and my prayers."
Major and Mrs. Cesar Rodriguez, USMC of Slidell, LA

"My last memory of Jamie is of us hanging out in Oceanside sharing a few beers and some good Mexican chow back in October of 2004. He had recently took command of a rifle company in 1/5 and you could just see the excitement in his face. I couldn't think of anyone more qualified to lead those Marines into combat. Jamie Edge was professional and inspirational, never boastful, never self indulged. He always had a smile on his face no matter what was going on around him...that's one thing about him that will stick in my mind forever. Although, I only knew him for a short while -- we were classmates at the Expeditionary Warfare School -- I can say without a doubt that I would have unhesitatingly sent my sons to combat with him. To Jamie's family, I know that there are no words that can mend your broken hearts, but I hope that you take solace in knowing that Jamie left us fighting for a noble and just cause, fighting for people that could not fight for themselves...fighting so that our sons and daughters would not have to live in fear of cowards that prey on the innocent. Semper Fi, Jamie. I know you're smiling on us today."
Bill Sablan of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina

"Jamie,

May your wife and girls remember the man I knew so briefly, and may their grief be tempered by the knowledge that the man they love is the best we have to offer.

I will miss you, as we all will."
Brother Rat of Lancaster , PA

"Edge,
You were an example to us. A gentleman. I think of you and the others who walked through Jackson Arch and wore the EGA, then went where the Republic sent you and gave your life because she asked it of you.
I am humbled to have known you.... Happy Birthday Keydet, Happy Birthday Marine, Rest in peace, Semper....
A first class private, VMI C/O 97' / Cpl USMCR"
GMR of Westfield, NJ USA

"Happy Birthday Razor! Having a beer for you today."
Capt Tony Licari of Fishkill, NY

"Dear Edge Family, I went to high school with jamie and will always remember him. He has always stood out above all. God bless all of you and may jamie rest in peace. we love you."
jennie of va beach va

"Dear James Edge Family, My sincerest condolences on your loss. My name is Marc Dull, I am a USAF Veteran and an Artist from Illinois. Thank you for your James' Honorable Service and Ultimate Sacrifice for America and it's Values. His Legacy will endure by God! I found James's Memorial page while doing some research for a very important project that I thought you might want to know about. I just returned from Camp Pendleton where I visited the Commanding Officer of his Unit. I am preparing to sculpt a large monument specifically for the 5th Regiment and the Fallen Heroes in Operation Iraqi Freedom for the Memorial Garden area on Camp San Mateo there. Please e-mail me at dullart7@cs.com if you would like to contribute any input or feedback. I would be honored by your participation on behalf of James! Semper Fidelis, God Bless you and your Family, Salute."
Marc Dull of Illinois

"Razor,
I forgive you for trying to kidnap me in Bridgeport, CA in 1999. I can't believe you got lost on the way to my hooch. Thanks for all the advice and humor you brought to the Wolfpack. We will all miss you and pray for your family."
Capt Tony Licari USMC of Fishkill NY

"I will never forget CPT Edge. We went to college together at VMI. I knew him as Rat Edge his first year in college and I was fortunate to be his Cadre Corporal. He was a tough guy who had lots of heart. I enjoyed getting to know him the remaining 3 yrs at VMI. We would talk often, march in parades together, try to turn college freshmen into VMI men! I have told just about everyone I know about him and how terrible a loss our nation and world has suffered. I have such good memories of such a good man. Please know that I will never forget him as long as I live and will keep his family in my prayers always."
CPT BB of El Paso, TX

"I served under Capt. Jamie Edge when he was taken. He was by far one of the most respected Marines and greatest commanders I have ever met. Simply speaking with him was an honor every time. He led from the front, and showed the Marines in his care what being a leader meant. His morals were of the highest grade. He is deeply missed and will forever be respected in our memories. To Krissy, Helena, and Rachel- Know that we are praying for you, and your husband and father is in a far better place waiting for you."
Tim Hendricks of Camp Pendleton, CA

"to the family of james edge - on this day of rememberance we all honor the memory of james and the sacrafice he has made for freedom we also greave deeply with his family for there loss .we will miss him and the smile that came over his face when his family would come in the room ,and the mothers look of pride when she looked on to his face at what kind of man he had become ,kind ,gentle,determand,and most definatly a patriot and role modle . love you all and may god guide you through these trying times."
gregg vaughan of suffolk va.

"To all of Jamie's family,
I grew up with Jamie and have such fond memories of him. He always smiled and knew exactly how to make anyone laugh. Those memories I will cherish and when I look back on the photos from school I will smile knowing he will be watching over everyone who's life he touched"
Tracy Mitchell (Jepsen) of Cary, NC

"To the family of Jamie, he will be missed and never forgotten. His legacy will live on through his two little girls. Share all of your stories with them so they will know how brave their Daddy was and how he is loved still. Speak of him often and he shall not be forgotten.

To Jamie, I will always remember your kindness, your laughter, and the many years we spent growing up together. You are my friend and my hero and I am lucky to have had you in my life.

IN YOUR HONOR

By Rebecca Grisdale

You were a young boy that we all once knew
A son, a brother, a student, our friend
Time flew by and then you were a young man
A Marine, a husband, a father, our friend
Distance kept us all apart and we went our separate ways
Knowing all was well we lived from day to day
When we heard about you today
It was in the most unexpected way
For it was with sadness that we learned of your death at such a young age
The tears soon started to flow and our minds were filled with rage
Then we thought of you and the courage that you displayed
You fought for our country and freedom with the bravest of the brave
As a Marine you served your country true to the end
A Captain, a comrade, a hero, our friend
You are now a fallen hero, our fallen friend
For it is in your honor that we shall all gather once again



Let us never forget the loved ones we lost, the ones who have served, and especially those who are still serving our country. Jamie, we will always remember you for your valor and your kindness. You and your loved ones will always remain in our hearts and prayers."
Becky Grisdale of Raleigh, North Carolina

"To the Edge Family

My family is deeply saddened by your loss. Although we did not know your son/brother/husband, my brother served under him in Iraq this last time. I know that his death affected my brother beyond words. It is such a terrible tradgedy. Especially for the little ones. But I know in my heart that he is in heaven, forever watching over his little girls.

May God bless your family, and keep you safe until your reunion with James."
The Love Family of Baytown, Tx

"To the family of James;
My deepest condolences for your loss. Our family has also suffered the loss of a precious life in this battle for freedom. James is truly an American hero and will always be remembered for his ultimate sacrifice."
Tammy McClain--azquail@att.net of Tucson, Az.

"To the family of James C. Edge. My family honors your Hero. His Bravery, Valor, and Courage will always be remembered. We are grateful for his loyal service and his sacrifice will never be forgotten.
God Bless James and his family"
Jennifer and SSGT Larry Mays of Massillon, OHIO

"To the family of Capt. Edge,
My deepest condolences on the loss of your loved one. My nephew was killed in Iraq one year ago- I trully understand the emotions you must be experiencing right now. Through the support of friends and family and websites like this one, I continue to work through the loss of my nephew. You may find that websites like this one will help to bring some level of comfort. I hope you will find some support and comfort here, too. God bless your family and all who loved Capt Edge."
Alisia LaLonde (aunt of Maj Richard J Gannon II, USMC) of Capistrano Beach, CA

"You showed pride and fought for our country. You're a hero and will always be remembered as one. I'm sorry for your friends and family. My deepest condolences go out to them."
Catherine of New York

"To the family and friends of Capt. James C. Edge,

Those we hold most dear, never truly leave us. May you find comfort in love's everlasting connection.

In the Support section of this web site you will find links to many groups that support you at this crucial time. The Marine Comfort Quilt group would be honored to send a quilt to the next of kin. There are many, loving and caring Americans from all over the United States that will never forget the sacrifice that your loved one has made for our Freedom. Please use our link and register so we can send you our "Love Stitched Together."

Proud Marine Mom and Proud Member of Marine Comfort Quilts "
Sandra Moudy of Placentia, Ca USA

"Captain Edge, goodbye soldier and thank you. You are my hero."
Bill of Houston, Texas

"Captain James C. Edge, USMC
Died on the Field of Honor

Brother Rat, Husband, Father, Marine

You will be missed by all who knew you"
Brother Rat - VMI 1996 of VA

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, James will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you ALWAYS. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"Mrs Edge and Family,
All I can say, is that I am at a loss for words. I can only tell you that my family as well as others from the old Company C, Infantry Training Battalion family have you and your whole family in our hearts and prayers. I can remember his smile when he use to breif us when on the ranges at Camp Lejeune and our family nights were so great because we were one family through and through. I want to take this moment to let you know that my family expresses our deepest sympathy and our heart aches for you and your children. Remember, we are here for you and your family. He will be missed and the lord our god will care for him because he cared for so much for others. God bless you and yours and may the lord be with you.

Semper Fidelis to a great Marines family and the brother-in-arms we all loved! From his 2nd Platoon Commander of Company C ITB! 2000-2001"
1stSgt Mark A. Massey of Company C 2nd AABN Camp Lejeune, N.C.

"Thank you James Edge, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios

"To the family and friends of Capt. James Edge:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless James for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of Capt. James Edge:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of James, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia