Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

Remembering the servicemembers who died in the service of their country.

Marine Lance Cpl. David Edward Owens, Jr.


20, of Winchester, Virginia.
Died of wounds received in action on April 12 in central Iraq. Owens was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, California. Died on April 14, 2003.

Please send information, photos, and corrections for Marine Lance Cpl. David Edward Owens, Jr..

Links:

Contributions to the Families of the Fallen

Messages:

Leave a message in memory of this servicemember, and/or to the loved ones left behind.

Please report inappropriate messages

"You are still loved and remembered by everyone who ever knew you, David.

Your anniversary is coming up this April. I want you to know you are still missed, thought of all the time in our lives regardless of how long it has been.

You were my first friend when we both checked into the unit in early 2001.
It has now been 20 years since I met you. But I feel your hand on my shoulder even now every so often.

Everyone loves & misses you from your friends you grew up with, to the teachers you had, the friends you made in the Marines. We all carry you with us even now.

There are some days like today, That the pain of your loss is felt especially heavy by those of us who knew you. Just checking in to let you know that we all have you in our hearts even now."
Alex Maxwell of NorCal

"Memorial Day 2014.. may God bless the Owens' family.. David will never be forgotten. May God's peace hold you. Thank you for your sacrifice for our freedom."
Sara Navy wife of Norfolk, VA

"It's the sister to your brother from 3/5. We remember you and think of you and celebrate you. Never forgotten brother. Your Marine Corps Sister, Esh"
Robyn of Soo, Ont, Canada

"David, Its Christmas eve and I just wanted to say hey. Its hard to believe it been over 10 years. I saw your dad about 2 weeks ago in the store where I work.He seemed well, but I know there is not a day that goes by he does not think of you. I wish I could tell him I thank god for men like you and still think of you often. I still remember your 1st birthday party your mon and dad had for you. I know your mom is with you now may you both sleep easy."
Bill and Jennie Saville of Stephens City Va

"David, I will never forget the good times we had. I hate that you are gone but you will never be forgotten. I know that I will see you again. Until then I will always think about you. God Bless and Thank You for serving our country."
Gary of Winchester, Va

"David, on today the 10th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!"

"April 12th, 2013:
Ten years certainly flys by in the course of one's life; however, I am constantly reminded of this night ten years ago. As the senior officer on site shortly after the initial attack, the decisions that followed were mine, and mine alone. I have replayed this night in my head thousands of times to think what (if anything) could have been done differently. Sadly, given the knowledge at the time and the severity of the wounds I believed then (as I do now), that the air medivac was your best chance for survival. Sadly, in the end it could not save you. However, your memory is not lost, and although it is likely little consolation to your family, I still close my eyes everytime the national anthem is played and visualize that night and the helo liftoff with the hope that you will get to the surgeon in time. Semper Fi"
Seaside 5

"Dear Marine,
Owens I Served with you but was in 3rd Plt. I remember this night extremley well. My squad was on react that night. I remember radioing in to CP about the flares that continued to mark your squads location. I rememberyour squads ro transmissions . I can still hear it all in my head. Our squad was suppose to be on patrol that night but a certain officer refused orders. I can't help but think how that impacted you and your family. I remember the rotar wash of the bird that night and the voice of the medic . I just can't let it go O, We weren't great friends at the time, we never got to hang out a whole lot but you were my brother. Know that in the days to come in my life , what ever time I may have left, you will not be forgotten! I will see you at the gates Marine!"
Cpl. Nelson, R.T. of Birmingham, Al

"To the Owens Family,
My deepest and most heartfelt condolences and prayers go to you in your time of loss. Your son was a true hero. I first came across his memorial on the Find a Grave webpage. I saw that our birthdays are the exact same day. He would have turned 30 years old tomorrow. Please know that every July 9th I remember your son and I say a prayer for him.

God's blessings, love and remembrance to you always, and may He comfort you in this time of sorrow."
Marta H

"Never Had the honor of knowing this Marine except in the imprint left afterwards. God Bless and Semper Fi."
Cpl Tyler Houston of 3rd Bn, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division

"To the Owens Family

Like many others here I looked up David's name on the internet. I served with him in Kilo Co and roomed across from him in Camp Pendleton. We had become good friends and I miss him alway. David was a brave, genuine, and kind person. Semper Fidelis"
Jonathan Loewe of Leominster MA

"”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to the hero’s Mother, Father and/or spouse. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Almost 2,100 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
This is a gift! We have wonderful sponsors who help with the costs, and want you know that everyone here at Project Compassion does and will always CARE.
Contact us directly at Projectcompassion@manti.com or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
Projectcompassion@manti.com"
Project Compassion - Kenna of Manti,Utah USA

"Oh my God David, I have to get this off of my chest. We grew up together from when we were 5 yrs old. Our mother's worked together from then until about 2001. I have always felt guilt about your death. I have always felt like maybe it was the wrong way, um, the fact that you were the only child, I was the middle of 3 girls, I joined the Army before you joined the Marines, and I knew your mother did not like it then. I had a daughter when I got orders and you never got to have children. I know that your mother died of a broken heart, and that still hurts me to this day. I didn't go to Iraq, and you did and now you are not here. That I know of, you are the only soldier I knew personally that did not make it home. You probably already know everything I am writing, since I have said it to you. It just feels better to see the words. I don't know why it took so long, but I feel I needed to express it. Please continue to watch over your family, especially your father. I miss you and Debbie, and will continue to pray. RIP"
Yvette of winchester, va

"El silencio del monte va
preparando un adiós.
La palabra que se dirá
in memoriam será
la explosión.

Se perdió el hombre de este siglo allí,
su nombre y su apellido son: fusil contra fusil.
Se quebró la cáscara del viento a sur
y sobre la primera cruz despierta la verdad.

Todo el mundo tercero va
a enterrar su dolor.

Con granizo de plomo hará
su agujero de honor,
su canción.

Dejarán el cuerpo de la vida allí,
su nombre y su apellido son: fusil contra fusil.
Cantarán su luto de hombre y animal
y en vez de lágrimas echar, con plomo llorarán.
Alzarán al hombre de la tumba al sol
y el nombre se repartirán: fusil contra fusil
--------------
A spanish song about a fighter and a hero in a time of war. We will cry with tears of gun powder to respect what you did for our country.

Abe1978de@juno.com"
Abraham Valle of Kingwood TX

"Owens. I remember playing pool with you in OKI. I also remember running react the night you left. I will never forget you. Consummate Professional."
Zachary Shafer of Wellston, Michigan

"Go easy 68, your in a much better place now. Semper Fi Owens. "Z""
(+) of Darkside of the Moon

"semper fi devil dog. man i think back to the time we where on liberty in japan chillen at the club. one of my most fun times i had with and the second was ammo guard in the middle of the desert good times brother. miss you alots bro till we meet again semper fi do or die"
rick aguilar kilo 3/5 3rd herd of santa ana ca

""Big O" This was a sad day for all of Kilo CO. 3rd btln. 5th Mar. You are still in all of our thoughts and prayers man. I am sure their isnt a day goes by that all of your fellow Marines and family doesn't think about you devil dog!!!"
Sgt. Jonathon Easton of Toledo, Illinois

""Big O" You will never be forgotten and I know that we sometimes butted heads but thats what brothers do. Im greatful for being able to serve with men like you because you showed me things that will follow me for all of my life. I love you and miss you and even though it dosent get easier Im comforted that you are still looking out for your brothers down here. Its because of people like you that the Corps is what it is. Semper Fi!"
Sgt. Wale Akintunde of Chino, Ca

"Owens Family-
I had the pleasure of serving with your son. I was in his same platoon and got to know him well. Everything said by others is accurate. David was a gentle giant, but when it got ugly, you wanted him on your side. I was with him that horrible night. It was a nasty fire fight. When the smoke had cleared and the last shell casing hit the deck, we had two fellow Marines down. I was one of a few other Marines that helped carry your son to the medivac. Their has not been a day that goes by that I don't think of that night. I lost a good friend. The Marine Corps lost a great Marine. The Owens family lost a great son. Your family is in my prayers. I pray for comfort and healing. We will all see big "O" again.

"Greater love has no one than this, that someone lays down his life for his friends." John 15:13

The Marines Prayer

Almighty Father, whose command is over all and whose love never fails, make me aware of Thy presence and obedient to Thy will. Keep me true to my best self, guarding me against dishonesty in purpose in deed and helping me to live so that I can face my fellow Marines, my loved ones and Thee without shame or fear. Protect my family. Give me the will to do the work of a Marine and to accept my share of responsibilities with vigor and enthusiasm. Grant me the courage to be proficient in my daily performance. Keep me loyal and faithful to my superiors and to the duties my country and the Marine Corps have entrusted to me. Make me considerate of those committed to my leadership. Help me to wear my uniform with dignity, and let it remind me daily of the traditions which I must uphold. If I am inclined to doubt; steady my faith; if I am tempted, make me strong to resist; if I should miss the mark, give me courage to try again. Guide me with the light of truth and grant me wisdom by which I may understand the answer to my prayer. Amen."
Sergeant Jason Arellano of Missouri jason@resolutiongear.com

"BIG "O" I miss ya buddy here it is more then 5 years later. I never took the chance before to tell you this, Thank you. You stood by me when I was so freaking scared, you talked to me like a human not like the boot I was. You saved my life brother, and for that I am eternally greatful. I carry your message and your memory with me everyday on the back of my calf. Rest in peace my friend. See you later... I'll bring some chocolate shakes with me."
Nick "smitty" Smith of Vancouver, WA

"Dear LCpl Owens,
Thank you for giving your life that me and mine can live ours free. May you always rest in peace."
M. Monaghan of LI, New York

"hey dave, five years now, this add says you died on the 12th, i remember the 11th. i'll never forget buddy.i'm still trying to move forward, it just ain't easy man. semer fi"
jason of jacksonville

"To the Owens family. I know ts been years but it feels just like yesterday. I am so proud to have known David and am very happy to have spent the time with him. I miss him very much."
Ginny White (Hester) of Bluemont, VA

"January 6, 2008
To the family of Lance Cpl. David Edward Owens, Jr.:
David 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

"David,
I would like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy. After reading the reflections left here by your fellow Marines, all I can say is that I wish that I had had the honor of serving with you when I was in the USMC.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!"

"Semper Fidelis Warrior! My children know who the real heros are!"
1stSgt E 2/4 of Camp Pendleton

"MY NAME IS ABRAHAM VALLE I WAS A SGT WITH KILO 3/5 AND DID SERVE WITH CPL OWNES IN THE MARINE CORPS. I WOULD LIKE TO THANK HIS FAMILY FOR HIS SERVICE TO HIS COUNTRY AND ALSO I WILL NEVER FORGET ALL THE MEMORIES WE HAD IN HONG KONG CHINA WHEN WE DEPLOYED. OWENS YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. E-MAIL ABE1978DE@JUNO.COM"
ABRAHAM VALLE of KINGWOOD,TX USA

"MY NAME IS ABRAHAM VALLE I WAS A SGT WITH KILO 3/5 AND DID SERVE WITH CPL OWNES IN THE MARINE CORPS. I WOULD LIKE TO THANK HIS FAMILY FOR HIS SERVICE TO HIS COUNTRY AND ALSO I WILL NEVER FORGET ALL THE MEMORIES WE HAD IN HONG KONG CHINA WHEN WE DEPLOYED. OWENS YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN."
ABRAHAM VALLE of KINGWOOD,TX USA

"david you were a light of goodness that had shined down on me and everyone else in the platoon I know that we would all agree that your the nicest sweetest and kindest individual any of us have ever met. Just like Jesus you have given and shown me a standard way of life to live"
blair,michael of oklahoma city,ok

"David and family- i was really good friends with david in high school when i was a freshman i went with his friend andy and david and his date to prom i remember meeting you his parents you guys were really lovely people and so was david he will be truly missed and never forgotten my thoughts and prayers are with you always"
becky of winchester, virginia

"Now that I wear a bracelet with Cpl. Owens name on it, I am able to share his story of bravery and service to our country...Go with God David, I look foward to meeting you in heaven."
Joel Hooper of Elkin, NC

"Today as I have been thinking of nothing inparticular, my thoughts wandered to David, I found this page a while back but havn't been able to put my thoughts into words. I remember when I heard the news that David was dead, I was at work and couldn't beleive it. I remember when we were in High school, David was a couple years behind me, but we are on the football team together, i remember his smile, how he was always wearing it and how big a smile it was. I went to his final resting spot for the first 2 years afterwards, to leave flowers and talk a while, but as the time passed I stopped going, thankfully my thoughts brought me to David today, it's time to visit an old friend again."
Sparky of Clear Brook, Virginia

"To the family of: David Edward Owens I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully, we will 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, Gateway Community Church, 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ,"
Polly Ballew of Covington,Ga

"To my friend David. Everyone in Kilo Company and also the rest of 3/5 miss'es you buddy. When we all talk on the phone and never forget the good times that we all shared with you buddy. You will never be forgotten. You're memory is still alive through you're friends and family. I can't wait to see you again someday David. When I get to heaven I know you will be waiting there alongside the Lord. Even if I become an old man, You will still remember me. I miss you brother. There's not a day that goes by that all of your fellow Marines think about you. I wish that I could have taken you're spot David. It's not fair. We were just talking together and eating our MRE's hours prior. I will visit you every year no matter where I end up in my life. I miss you and know that you are in the hands of our Lord Jesus. I just dont understand things went the way they did. You're enemys were taken care of that same morning. I was there to verify it. I witnessed the aftermath. I know it's wrong but you are our family David. Never forget you buddy. You are still alive with you're buddys from 3/5. Semper Fidelis Marine. Please Help guide me through the rest of my life alongside the lord.Maybe someday you can tell me why when I meet up with you. We all love you and miss you. You are Never Forgotten. I don't let people forget either why we were there. We helped free so many people from Death. We did the rigth thing. Miss you. You're friend Alex Maxwell. Former LCpl 3/5."
Alex M. of Camp Pendleton & Sacramento, Ca

"David, My Friend, My Brother. I miss you bro. David when I had heard the terrible news I was enrout to a raid on an Iraqi town in Al Dhaluyah. I recieved a letter from my mom. minutes before leaving our staging area. The only the only thing I could think about was the fun times we had together, and we had alot of them didn't we. Seconds after driving into the town we were ambushed. my platoon took heavy fire from all sides for over 2 hours. I thought immediately that we were done but I wasn't going out without a fight and I WOULD not go down without avenging you brother. I fought that night with no regards to my own life. When other people took cover I charged ahead, when other people fell back still I charged ahead. I was called lucky to be alive afterwards, but I knew the truth. I had a Guardian Angel watching over me that night, and everynight that I've been in Iraq since then. I thank you David for not allowing me to have what I thought I wanted that night. I still carry your picture next to my heart everyday I'm in Iraq. I use it as a reminder of why I'm here fighting. I love you david and once again thank you brother.

David Sr, and Debbie,
Lil' David was a very good friend and a true hero to his nation. I mourn everyday for him. Just know that like Lil' David there are still soldiers fighting this war who believe just as strongly about what we are doing for the people of Iraq. I don't know how exactly to end this but I pray for Lil' David, you and every soldier still serving in a land away from "home" Thank you for raising such a geat young man. David was one of a kind, and he will never be equaled.
Thank You. kraizey_mp@yahoo.com"
SPC. James P. Wade JR. United States Army Military Police Corp of Winchester, VA

"Well its been 2 years, since you left us.. I know that you are watching down on us, all the time. We miss you very much "owens" Thank you so much for everything you did for us and our country! You will always live on in our hearts forever. We love you and miss you so much! And thank you for always being you, for always being there for us, being a true friend, to us girls. One day we will meet again.."
Crystal Cannon, Adria Lopez & Samantha Ensor of Orange County, California

"As an Ex Infantry Soldier who as be under fire in a foreign land and come back home to my Family and Freinds, I cherish each and every moment with them all ,but never forget those i left behind who will never be by my side again."
Edward Owens of Birkenhead England

"it's almost been two year and i feel like it has been forever i love you and miss you. i no that you are watching over me i love you"
Love megan of winchester

"My name is Gary Owens i served in Viet Nam. Was wounded and returned home. Still today I wonder way i was so lucky,they call it survivor guilt.I call it losing the best friends i ever had ,and will never know that kind of bond that only combat soldiers have again. may God bless and keep your family David. Please know in your hearts that David gave the highest honor any man can give to his God family and country,his life."
Gary Owens of Jonesboro Arkansas USA

""little" david you were like my big brother you were always there for me to talk to and when i needed someone to cry to we grow up together.i love you so much and i miss you i would do anything to see you again and talk to you i remember we would wrestle you would always win no matter how much we would fight when we were little i new yo still loved me i think it little this like that i miss the most i love you so must Love"
Meg of winchester va

"To the family of David Owens - I wanted to let you know that I wear a bracelet with David's name on it. I wear this bracelet, not because I knew David personally, but because of my respect for his sacrifice, and because I don't want anyone to forget the brave warriors who gave the people of Iraq the chance to live in a free society. David's name on my wrist brings questions from others who will remember his service, and the service of others who have left us grieving and sad, even after this war will fade away. God Bless you, and keep you strong -"
Shelley Harrington of Reno, NV

"To The Owens Family

Just today I had the thought to look your son up on the net and I was very pleased to see so many responses and comments from our company. My name is former Cpl Jack Shannon and i had the pleasure of serving our country with your son. He was the most genuine person that I have ever known and I wish that I could have met you in person and offered any type of consolation. Your son was a good friend and the best of his group of marines when he came to our unit. He had a heart of gold and god konws that I miss him and every time I hear the song God Bless The USA his face comes to mind. If it is at all possible I would love to talk to you in person. Your son is missed by all of us and he will never be forgotten. Semper Fidelis David, Rest in Peace and God Bless. My email is Jarshan25@yahoo.com"
Jack Shannon of Oceanside, CA

"TO David "Big O" Owens,Jr. I came across this page today. And when I found Davids name here, I broke down crying. I am one of David's friends from 3/5 1st Marines Division. When we were in Baghdad I had this long converstation with David and towards the end of our converstation David told me how he had this bad feeling about going out on a patrol tonight, when there wasn't supposed to be one. I remember talking to him about how we both couldn't wait to get back home and to see our family's. We both were tired and ready to go home. But 1 thing about David was that He told me that this had to be done. He believed in the war and all of us Marines out there did too. I met David Owens Jr when we both actually arrived to the unit back in 2001. We were both PFC'S together. I was in another Platoon than David but we always ran into each other on hikes or Battalion Run's or even after work. David wasn't Always much for words but was kind, generous, and always no matter what had his morals and values, even when some of the guys tried to peer pressure him. We both had fun on our Deployment in 2002. And met up again in Philippines. David has touched my soul by demostrating to me what a friend truly is. It has been the greatest honor to me, to have met David and to be his friend for a short time, even though I never knew him before he joined the Marines. I was on the roof top over looking the patrol when the fire fight broke out. I saw the whole thing that night and returned fire upon our enemys. All of us didnt get any sleep that night nor did we rest for the next couple of days. I remember hearing across the Radio who it was that went down. I will never forget this Man for the rest of my life. I hope that I didn't offend anyone in this message. I am still hurting till now. Everyone the knew David is hurting. I am struggling to type this message.

To The Family of Big O, I hope that I could get in touch with you. I was on the front lines with your son. Heres my email address: maxwellas@hotmail.com
I hope that someone from the Owens family could Please contact me through email. I want to send out a card and also I want to visit his grave. I miss my buddy and I wanted to talk to him one more time. All of us Marines that knew David miss him so much. I give my condolunces to the family. You guys did an excellant job of Raising David. God Bless. Semper Fidelis. -LCpl Maxwell"
Alex Maxwell of Vallejo, California U.S.

"I was thinking about you today, "owens" I pray everyday for your family, I dont know what its like to lose a child, and I can only imagine. To davids parents, I hope that your heart will heal. Your son David, Is a true hero, not only was he my hero, but was also a really good friend, you did such an awesome job at raising david. And he is missed so much every single day. He will always be in my thoughts and prayers. And his memory will always stay alive, in my heart and mind.

I cried today, as I thought about you. I miss you so much "owens" I wish that you would come back, But I know thats just not possible, but I do know one thing, you are my hero, my angel and you will always be looking down on me and all of us, and one day, I will see you again in heaven. And we can kick it just like old times. Thank you so much for everything that you did for our country.
LOVE ALWAYS
SAMANTHA"
Samantha Lund-Ensor of Orange County, California

"I came across this link while browsing the Internet. My name is David Owens and I live in South Africa. Being so far away from America and Iraq, I have had little opportunity to be a part of this war. I have however been to every anti-war/ anti-bush march that has been held here since before the first attack. Seeing this young man's name in the list of deceased struck home even deeper the fact that each victim in this war is an individual and, in another time, could have indeed been me. Now with Bush in for another four years, God help us all."
David Owens of Johannesburg, South Africa

"Although I hadn't seen David for several years before he died I will always remember him. I grew up with him and I will never forget how we used to beat each other up all the time. I will also always remember the long talks we used to have late at night when he would camp out with some friends next door to where I grew up. David was a great guy and will always be truly missed.

To his parents: David, Debbie: you had a wonderful son and you should be proud of him and what he has done for our country."
Sarah Ingram of Columbus Ohio

"You were such an awesome person, and a very good friend, to me and to all of us "girls" I miss you so much, You and your family are always in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you and your family. "Oh how I miss the parties at my house, all of us just kicking back, having fun..We only knew each other for 2 years or so, but it was one of the best memories..You will live on forever in our hearts.. Love all of us forever...
samantha, adria, crystal....

R.I.P
WE LOVE YOU!!!
and thank you for everything you did for us."
Samantha Lund Ensor of California,U.S.A

"To the friends and family of David Edward Owens Jr.: I go to Hollins University and last week we had a candlelight vigil for the soldiers who have died from Viginia. When the list of names was said I heard David's name and that he was from Winchester. I am from Winchester myself and it just hit me hard to hear someone from Winchester had died. I just wanted to let you know he is in our thoughts and prayers here at Hollins University. My friend and I were the last ones to leave the vigil. We wanted to pay our respects to those who had fought for our country. I am sorry about your loss, but he will be remembered."
Jaime Lockhart of Hollins University

"LCpl Owens was a troop assigned to my amtrack during deployment to Okinawa in 2002. He was a very professional Marine and did his job 100%. Semper Fidelis."
Matt Theurer 3rd AA Bn of Hatfield,PA

"David it hasn't been the same without you around the house. i miss you alot i come and leve a message here all the time just to let you know that i always think about you."
Beemer of Front Royal , Virgina

"David it hasn't been the same without you around the house. i miss you alot i come and leve a message here all the time just to let you know that i always think about you."
Beemer of Front Royal , Virgina

"Semper Fi, rest in peace. I'm sorry I couldn't help you. You are always in my thoughts."
HM1 Sexton, STP1

"David I have known you forever, you were one of my best friends and I could count on you to do anything for me. I really believe now that god does take the good first. I'll miss you always, and your still very near to my heart. When I look back I remember what a great person you are and I still can't believe that your gone. God bless you pork chop"
Chris Bulley of Winchester VA

"RIP Marine"
Petty Officer Cawthon of RTC Great Lakes, IL

"I am a 7th grade student from Barker Middle School in Western New York. I am sorry for your loss.I respect the fact that David gave up his life to help others and i am sure that he is in a place now with no vilence and that he misses you verry much.
- 7th grade student"
7th grade student of Barker Middle School

"I am sorry for your loss, and I think that David knew that freedom isn't always free and that people will always remember him for giving up his life to help others.
- 7th grade student"
7th grade student of Barker Middle School

"David - I just want you to know that you will always be remembered...never forgotten. You had a big heart and you were always so fun to be around, we all miss you! David and Debbie you couldn't have raised a more polite, fun, and outgoing person!!! My prayers are with you forever and always!"
Love, Lyndsey of Berryville, VA, USA

"To the family of David Owens, Jr.: I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your loved one. He is a hero, whose bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten. A salute to a fallen soldier- THANK YOU, DAVID! May you rest peacefully in Heaven."
T. Rexroad of Moorefield, WV

"In Loving Memory..Its been a year..

At the rising of the sun and at its going down, We remember them.
At the blowing of the wind and in the chill of Winter, We remember them.
At the opening of buds and in the rebirth of Spring, We remember them.
At the blueness of the skies and in the warmth of Summer, We remember them.
At the rustling of leaves and the beauty of Autumn, We remember them.
At the beginning of the year and when it ends, We remember them.
As long as we live, they too will live;
for they are now a part of us, as we remember them.
Rest in Peace Dear Soldier!! We will NEVER FORGET!"
The Grogan Family of Lakeland, TN (4/2004)

"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, David will be remembered by name. (whether by coincidence? or accident - I was given the name of David Owens to pray for by the Presidential Prayer team - it saddened me deeply to see his name) Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"ONE YEAR HAS COME AND GONE SINCE JENNIE TOLD ME THE NEWS OF YOUR PASSING,THAT SAD SAD DAY IN APRIL. DAVID,I JUST WANTED TO WRITE A LINE TO TELL YOU THAT YOU AND YOUR MOM AND DAD ARE ALWAYS CLOSE IN OUR THOUGHTS.THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AND YOUR SACFRICE TO KEEP THIS GREAT LAND FREE.TO DAVID AND DEBBIE YOUR PARENTS,THANK YOU FOR GIVING US A MAN LIKE DAVID.MAY GODD BLESS AND COMFORT YOU."
BILL AND JENNIE of STEPHENS CITY VA

"Big "O" you were an inspiration to all who knew you. I have never met anyone with a better set of moral standards or of moral character then you. Here April 11, 2004, one year later we all sit together speaking of the memories...you will never be forgotten. From the boys of 2nd Platoon, Kilo Co, 3/5, we Love you and we miss you greatly!"
Sgt Brandon C. Bunch of Camp Pendleton, CA

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

"Owens,
Your altimate sacrifice hit pretty hard to me knowing i spoke to you in oceanside no more then a week before we all punched out. i was with you guys on the 31st meu as a engineer attached to kilo co. You where a very professional and respectful marine. I am certain your plt is less one good heart since your passing. Your persence will always be in our hearts"
Sgt. Jacob M. Schuhlein of Camp Pendelton

"first let me tell you that your son was a good friend. i was in kilo co with him, and he was a fine Marine.
i knew that David Owens was one of the Marines that people looked up to.
He brings good,fun times in my head when we usto go out to dance. i give u respect and i know that
you had a son to be proud of.And he wiol always be in my heart.
SGT VALLE, ABRAHAM"
ABRAHAM VALLE of houston tx

"BIG "O" your thought about everyday, and you will never be forgotten. One of the most professional and hard working marines i was around. I was honored to serve with you, God Bless you. "SEMPER FI"
Matt Ziminski of Long island NY

"BIG "O" your thought about everyday, and you will never be forgotten. One of the most professional and hard working marines i was around. I was honored to serve with you, God Bless you. "SEMPER FI""
Matt Ziminski of Long island NY

"Semper Fi buddy."
Jason Morrison of Kill Devil Hills,NC

"Big "O",
You will never be forgotten,you will continue to live in all of the hearts of everyone who knew you. The Platoon misses you, along with everyone who knew you. God Bless and Semper Fi"
Rob Witt of Barrington, Illinois

"lcpl owens you will never be forgoten. i will all ways remeber you, because you gave the most precious thing. i am a better person for have known you. your friend Geoff Salas kilo co 3/5"
Geoffery Salas of Santee, ca

"I know You can't hear me now David Edward Owens, Jr I hope you can You and your fellow marines alive and the ones who have given themselves up for my freedom will not be forgotten. Also The Men and Women of the Armed Forces shall always be remembered Thank You Semper Fi Marine and may you rest in peace.

It is the Soldier not the reporter who has given us the freedom of the press.

It is the Soldier, not the poet who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the Soldier, not the campus organizer, who gives us the freedom to demonstrate.

It is the Soldier who salutes the Flag who serves beneath the Flag and whose coffin is draped by the Flag, who allows the protester to burn the Flag.

Authored by:
"Father Dennis Edward O'Brien, Sargeant, USMC."
Stephen T. Katchusky of Debary, Florida UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

"Thank you David, for your sacrifice. In the words of our commander in chief "All we can do is be thankful; all we can do is remember, and always appreciate the price that was paid for our own lives and our own freedom." God Bless."
Mark Orechovsky of Strasburg, VA

"Thank you David Owens, Jr., 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

"Semper Fidelis Marine , May GOD bless your family! You will be remembered I promise!"
Sgt. T. Compton of Strasburg, VA.

"It is August 27th 2003, over four months since your son David was killed. In Iraqi almost everyday more young men die. As a father, I know that the pain of losing a son is almost too much to bear. I am sure that David's memory is with you every waking moment and nothing I can say will help to ease your pain. I just want you to know that you are not alone in mourning his death. All over the world people are sharing your grief. As I sit here in Chiang Mai, Thailand tears run down my face. "Little David" was a brave boy, a good boy, he will always be with you. As we all struggle to understand why such sacrifices are necessary, let us take comfort in knowing that he was fighting for a just cause. David, god bless you. Rest in peace son."
James Stevens of Chiang Mai, Thailand

"We thank you for the sacrafice your son made for us. Our hearts and prayers are with you during this time. Thank you David, May God keep you in His care."
Ken and Maritza Holley of Pembroke Pines, Florida

"To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. David Owens, Jr.:
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 David 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 Lance Cpl. David Owens, Jr.:
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 David, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera, of Powder Springs, Georgia

"RIP Brave Marine...We love you and will never forget you."
The Taylors, USMC of NC

"God Bless you David. Thank you for your courage in defending our freedoms. Rest in peace."
Cindy of CA

Honor them by remembering... Freedom - is their gift to us But his soul goes marching on