Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"RIP LCpl Blair. I served with LCpl Blair in Iraq who was an outstanding Marine. I will never forget you. God Bless the Blair Family and friends."
Sgt. John Longendorf of Baltimore, MD

"Not a day passes that I don't think of LCpl Tommy Blair, Happy Easter, and Semper Fi. "RIP E3B""
GySgt Joe Faragone of 2d LAAD Bn, Bravo Battery, Cherry Point, NC

"My name is Cpl Bailey. I was assigned to 2nd laad with Lcpl Blair and served in Iraq twice with them we have lost many great marines in this fight. But they will never truly be gone in our hearts."
Cpl Bailey of Cherry Pt/NC

"My heart goes out to Tommys' family. My sister and I used to babysit Tommy and his brother. Great kids. I just want his family to know that we are thinking of them and he will be missed very much."
Janet & Katie of Tulsa, Oklahoma

"I just today found out about Blair, and was shocked and had to verify what I was reading. I am filled with a sudden emptiness and feeling of loss. I knew Blair when he was only able to addressed as Blair no PVT PFC or LCPL, I spent 13 weeks with him and was best friends with him. I shared a bunk with him in boot and we helped each other get through each day. We together created platoon 3006's range flag and used it as an opportunity to get to know each other well, not to mention get a little slack from the drill instructors. My deepest sympathys go out to the family, whom I had the honor to meet, on graduation day. Spending boot together, makes it seem like we knew each other forever, watching each others back, keeping the other guy out of trouble, making sure to push each other through. But then again we are Marines and thats what we do. I'm proud of what Blair did, rescuing others. It solidifies even more what an incredible person he was, and I feel honored to know him, and to have served with him. He was my best friend in boot. He is someone I am proud to call my friend, my brother. Without him I dont know that I would be a Marine, he helped make me the person I am, And he will be missed. Ill never forget SSGT Gomez banging the two of us together until we could finally said the words "we request" rather than "recruits Spears and Blair, or these recruits request",... We made it together and Ill never forget how you helped me. Semper Fi."
LCPL Earl Spears USMC of Denver CO

"hey Tommy! well lacey had a miscarriage, but dont worry shes fine now.....i wish you were here- theres something wrong with me.....my medicane, says it helps bipolar people (I dont have my medicane, mom wont get it for me) but its all good...i better go now I love you Tommy! bye!"
Autumn Sunshine Dorris of Elliott, Iowa

"Hey Tommy!! guess what i finally found Uncle Alfred!! yea and im not dating Mark i havent been for a long time.....ive been datin Cj for a month or so now. Hes helpin me get better. I was in the Mental Hospital not but two weeks ago, dont worry im fine now! i got to go now Tommy I love u soo much oh lacey is having a baby!!"
Autumn Sunshine of Elliott

"To my Brother's in the Struggle,...
I served in 2nd LAAD from 88'- 89' as part of the Communication Unit.
My heart goes out to the family of the fallen. Know that he has not given his life in vain and that he stands guard at Heaven's Gate,...

"Death from Below""
Andre "Green Monster" Green of Bronx, New York

"I served with LCpl Blair in Iraq, and he is missed. Their is not a day that goes by that i don't think of him. Semper Fi, and RIP E3B!"
Sgt. Micheal Foster of Orlando, Florida

"hey i dont no y, but i got to tell my Uncle Tommy something- i dont no if he'd truely like to hear it...but i was always a baby if it was up to him....he'd take care of me, but he dont have to for now. Uncle Tommy, i thought i'd write to tell you i have a boyfriend- he's almost 19, and a bodybuilder and hes nice to me, his name is Mark. i no im only 16 but at least give him a chance - well us a chance, i really like him and im so confused- im sorry i even cut myself. i dont know the exact reason y i did it either...it was stupid, but it made me somehow feel better and i took it out on myself because if i hit someone else i dont think i woulda stopped. but i think that since i have anger issues and mark has his own kinds of issues- do u htink maybe we could learn from each other? well i gotta go i just wanted to tell u that and say I miss you but I love you too! bye Tommy, you'll always be in my heart!"
Autumn Sunshine Dorris of Elliott, Iowa

"May 30, 2007
To the family of Thomas A. Blair. Thomas 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

"i served with Blair in okinawa with stinger battery. he was a corporal and i was a junior marine. what i remember best about him was his love of country music and his love for country dancing. we would go to the e-club as a group and he would dance either with a group or by himself. he didn't care who it was with or what music was playing. he liked to have fun. he was the type of guy who would be happy no matter where he was or what he was doing. he was always positive and didn't let things get him down. i will always remember him as a good guy with a great heart."
Justin Hockley of sioux falls, sd

"Lcpl. Thomas Blair
YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN...I served with you and I am very proud to have known you, may God bless your soul, your family and friends. Thanks"
Cpl. David A. Mays of Clintwood Va.

"I am trying to get in contact with a family member of LCpl Thomas, I am the S-4 at the Marine Corps Detachment in Ft BLiss, TX. We want to dedicate a room at the school house to this hero and would appreciate any photos of him in his blues from boot camp graduation. I can be contacted at 915-568-3150"
GySgt Kato, Carlos of Ft Bliss, TX

"Wild man Blair was the guy who'd be the first to light your cigarette, and he knew how to take care of business... GET SOME, SEMPER FI!!"
Sgt Kovacs of Yuma AZ

"Family Members:

May the Lord embrace your Marine. The Courage, Honor and Valor that your Hero showed will always be remembered. :Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; Love leaves a memory no one can steal". We are deeply sorry for your loss. My son is a Marine. We love our "Devil Dogs". John 15:13 "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends". "Oorah and Semper Fi". "Once a Marine Always a Marine". Another Marine has reported for duty in Heaven."
Liz Romagosa of Lincolnton, NC

"Blair was a good man.... a true friend and I feel like I owe him my life... right before we crossed into iraq out platoon changed up teams... so Blair was supose to be where i was I vise vursa.... I am so sorry to his loved ones it should of been me......"
Jimmy Muzic of lexington, kentucky

"Hi Thomas, thank you for your services. We are proud of you. I also lost Sgt Chrisitan B Williams, my son recently In Iraq July 29,06. You boys will be rembered, always. Rest in peace with God. Semper Fi
Proud Marine Mom"
Maria/Jack Williams of winter haven,fl

"Thomas,
I would like to say thank you to you and all the other Marines who were killed in the fighting at An Nasiriyah for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy. After reading the citation for your Commendation Medal w/Combat V, I know you were one hell of Marine, you put the lives of your fellow Marines ahead of yours.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!"

"STINGER UP !!!!!!
Death from below....Hey Thomas my name is Charles Morgret (Sgt).I was in 1st Faad Plt/1st Laad Bn 84-89.Then 2nd Laad 89-91.When we went to Desert Storm my oldest daughter was just about 2 1/2 years old. That would have made you about 6 or 7 I guess. Many of us who went to Desert Storm wished that we had finished the job then and there !!!! But as it was, a later generation did what had to be done.
So Thomas you might be wondering why Im saying this.You see my oldest daughter just graduated high school last year with honors. She was #14 out of 347. Now she is going to USF to become a nurse.My second daughter is still in high school.She is the junior class president.And she also wants to get into the medical field. FYI I didnt even get a high school diploma.Just a GED for me. You see Thomas the success of my children has been made possible by the sacrefice that you and so many others have made.
So Thomas I honor your sacrefice with the success of my children.
And when my final day comes I shall have no fear.Because in the halls of Valhala I shall meet you there.
Thank you forever !!!!"
Charles H. Morgret II of Tampa Florida USA

"To my Tommy Bear,

I will never forget my first love. Till the end of my days I will always remember that mischevious grin, those beautiful blue eyes and the sweetest heart of any man. I love you Tommy. From here till eternity."
Kristie Wofford of Tulsa, OK

"Memory of a Marine Brother:
I first met Thomas in El Paso(Ft. Bliss), while we attended our MOS school together. He was one of my great friends and definitely a leader to us all. Thomas was always there when you needed guidance with anything but most of all with life. During this time it was hard for us all because we were all trying to get used to being away from home, and Thomas was always there as a friend and a Marine Brother. Upon graduation we parted ways as we both headed to different duty stations, but were reunited in the fight against terrorism in Iraq. Once the news was recieved of his tragedy it was disturbing not only to myself but to all of the brothers of the Low Altitude Air Defense family. You will never be forgotten and I will always have those cherishable memories my brother. To the Parents of Thomas from which I met at the Memorial at Marine Corps Air Base Miramar, I would like to give my best wishes and once again I am sincerely sorry for your loss. Thomas may you rest in peace and look down upon us from time to time when we are at those crossroads in life and show us the RIGHT PATH to travel as you always did. Once a Marine Always Marine. Semper Fidelis.. (IF IT FLIES IT DIES)"
Sgt. Gadison, Gary of San Diego, California

"God Bless Lance Corporal Blair. I served with him in Okinowa Japan. He was a kind man and I always saw him in the recreational room where we had a pool table--he was one of those marines always there to talk to and he was a leader with much experience."
David Cole of Los Angeles, CA

"My first duty station was Okinawa, Japan. I was stationed there from 2002-2003. Cpl Blair was one of my Corporals. I have already completed my time in the Marine Corps, but I was in Iraq during my first tour when tragedy struck. At the time I was stationed with 3d LAAD BN. One of the other Marines, Cpl Williams, was there with me defending the Army Patriot Battery when we got the bad news. Williams also knew Blair. My father told me, over the phone, before I went to Iraq about his tours in Veitnam while he was in the Air Force. He told me about a friend he had lost. I never thought that I would ever feel that hurt until now. While I was stationed with Cpl Blair at 1st Stinger Battery, he was always there when the rest of us Marines needed guidance, or moral support. I do, to this day, still think about and remember my first tour in Iraq when I heard the news. It still hurts loosing a friend. He was a excellent Marine."
Cpl Kevin Denton of Huntington Beach, Ca.

"To my Dearest Uncle Tommy,
I wish you were here now! I know the last time i saw you i was really young but i still remember it. when we moved to Iowa i wanted to go home and be with you so much i can't even explain, I miss you, and i wish you could be here with me, i noticed that cousin Sarah wrote that is how i found this site. and even though everyone but you is going to read this i had the same feelings as Sarah, i did have a crush on you! I hope you are watching over me and smiling as you do it, i am trying to be something that would make you proud. and no matter what you will alwayz be the Soldier of my heart. I hope we meet soon, and i know Lacey would say the same things not just because everyone else is writting things but because all three of us (Me, Lacey, Sarah) are your nieces; and we truly love you with all of our hearts! i found this site at school (where i am now) and i knew i was meant to find it because i lost hope in my own life, so i believe you came to me today to comfort me somehow, well i Love you! and i miss you! see you soon! i hope your memory will live forever it will in my heart and i will tell my children and then their children and so on! i love you!"
Autumn of Elliott, Iowa

"To my Dearest Uncle Tommy,
I wish you were here now! I know the last time i saw you i was really young but i still remember it. when we moved to Iowa i wanted to go home and be with you so much i can't even explain, I miss you, and i wish you could be here with me, i noticed that cousin Sarah wrote that is how i found this site. and even though everyone but you is going to read this i had the same feelings as Sarah, i did have a crush on you! I hope you are watching over me and smiling as you do it, i am trying to be something that would make you proud. and no matter what you will alwayz be the Soldier of my heart. I hope we meet soon, and i know Lacey would say the same things not just because everyone else is writting things but because all three of us (Me, Lacey, Sarah) are your nieces; and we truly love you with all of our hearts! i found this site at school (where i am now) and i knew i was meant to find it because i lost hope in my own life, so i believe you came to me today to comfort me somehow, well i Love you! and i miss you! see you soon! i hope your memory will live forever it will in my heart and i will tell my children and then their children and so on! i love you!"
Autumn Sunshine of Elliott, Iowa

"I met Tom while stationed with him at 2nd LAAD, I was his team leader for almost 2 years, plus served with him in Okinawa. He was an awesome Marine, and most of all a wonderful friend. I was in Iraq the same time, but located with another unit, I have served twice in Iraq since then, and Tom is always with me. I still have a picture of us on my wall. Semper Fi."
SSgt Michael Buxkemper of MSG Det Bamako, Mali West Africa

"I was stationed with this wildman for a time in Okinawa. I consider him a true friend and great Marine."
Michael Whyman, once a Cpl. in 1st Stinger Battery of Phoenix, Arizona

"My name is Bryan and I'm so touched by your passion for freedom and your love for others Thomas. You have made this world a better place. You are a great man and will always be looked up to."
BMR of Maui, HI/USA

"My brother is a marine about to ship out to Iraq, and I am proud that he is defending our freedom and the memory of all the men before him who died doing the same thing."
jamie of baltimore

"I served with LCpl Blair in Okinawa, before OIF. He was a good Marine. I will always remember him. Since then I have served in Iraq, and am slated to go again. I am sorry for your loss but it was not in vain. Although the news is not showing it, there is alot of good going on in Iraq...schools, roads, etc and Thomas gave his all so that other would be free. Semper Fideles"
SSgt Fred Sieber of Beaufort SC

"i just whont all of the troops to know how proud of all of you for what you are doing for are country and i hope all you troops stay safe"
Beth Baucom of Coweta Oklahoma U.S.A

"To the Blair Family,

My son served with Tom in Nasiriya, My son and Tom were both 2nd LAAD Marines from Cherry Pt.. The bravery and selflessness of your son will never be forgotten or taken for granted. As time passes I pray that your family finds comfort and peace, knowing that your son is a hero. When my son returned from Iraq he had Toms date of demise tattooed on his arm. Having fought beside him on that night.

Your son will always be a part of our family."
Ronayne Family of Long Island, New York

"Hello,

I am so sorry for your loss. I too lost a loved one to this war.
We have formed a group for those of us who have experienced
the ultimate sacrifice. Gold Star Families for Peace.
www.gsfp.org.
Love and Peace to you,"
Dede Miller of Bellflower, Ca

"Thank you Tom for your brave actions in taking the fight to those cowards who ambush and run. Your actions that night where above and beyond and saved the lives of your fellow Marines. You are a true American hero! To your loved ones, we all mourn with you and pray that God grant you peace. Semper Fi Marine as you stand duty for the Lord. From a very grateful American family."
The Shaw family of Pasadena, Maryland

"To Tom's family,

I knew Tommy from Pride from 94-97. My name is Mike Merit. We spent much time together during those years and I consider him a close friend. During all of the initial part of Iraqi Freedom I was stationed in Okinawa Japan. I am a Marine and have been one since I graduated in 98. I was part of the initial push into Afghanistan and I wanted to be a part of that new fight for freedom with all of my other brothers and sisters. I have to admit that I didn't know that Tommy had joined the Marines, but when I received an email from a mutual friend of ours, Jeremy Carter, I wished I had been there with him. I just recently returned from a tour in Iraq and thought of him often while I was out there. I have yet to be home to see the memorial to him in Broken Arrow. I look forward to the day when I can see it and spend a moment to remember him there. I just want you to know that Tommy was a dear friend and he will truly be missed. But he will never be forgotten."
Cpl Michael L Merit of New Windsor, New York USA

"To Tom's Mother,

Tommy was my best friend throughout our time at Oak Crest Elemetary school. I remember first meeting him running home thinking that a bird's egg that he had found was about to hatch. I don't know why, but from that day on, we couldn't be seperated. He would always come over to my house every morning so we could walk to school together and talk. And every day after school until the end of 6th grade we walked home. Sadly I went to another school districted and we didn't see each other again until I returned to North. Yet at that time both of us had grown our seperate ways. We still remained good friends, we ate lunch together when we could. And talked and laughed at our exploits as younger children. To this day I still look back at my childhood and know that I was blessed to have a friend in Tommy. I know I wouldn't be the man I am today if I had never met your son. He was a good man, and he was a great friend."
Daniel Salter of Tulsa, OK

"To Tom's Mother,
Dear Mrs.Blair,
My nephew, Garret Yeager served with Tom. He sent me this link because he knows I care about our service personnel serving all over, but especailly in Iraq. I lost my oldest son on March 24, 2000. He was killed in an accident on the job. You will never stop missing him and the pain never really goes away, but we learn to live with it. God gives us the strength to make it through each day. I know it doesn't make the pain go away, but you can be so very proud of Tom. He is a true hero. Please accept my sympathy in the loss of your son. Also know that I am grateful for men and women like your son that are strong and brave enough to defend what we believe in."
Donna Chronister of Pryor, OK/USA

"To the family of Tommy Blair,

I would like to extend my deepest condolences. I am a graduate of Broken Arrow High School (96), and a former Marine. I was friends with Tommy in school and had the privaledge of serving with him on the USS Essex in Okinawa. Tommy and I passed many nights on ship playing cards. I heard of his death from a mutual friend. I was in Hawaii at the time and was very sad that I could not attend the funeral. He was great friend and an oustanding Marine. I will always remeber his selfless service to his country, and more importantly, to his fellow Marines. Once a Marine always a Marine. Semper Fildelis. You will always be rememered Tommy."
Garret Yeager of Tulsa, Ok USA

"In early July of this year I was in Broken Arrow visiting my wife's parents. My wife and I decided we wanted to go for a walk,and enjoy the stateside air and saw his memorial in the park. I am also a Marine Lcpl from OK. I'm from Collinsville and my wife is from B.A..When I saw that memorial I mourned for a brother in arms. Even though I didn't know him he was a United States Marine and every Marine is a brother to another Marine. As a United States Marine I felt it was my duty to leave my condolences. OORAH and Semper Fi."
Lcpl Jimmy R. Smalygo of Okinawa, Japan

"You will not be forgotten! Semper Fi."
Sgt. Luke Schieffelbein of Chatfield,MN

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

"To the Family of LCpl. Blair,

It is with a heavy heart that I write these words to you and other family members of Marines who have fallen. I come from a long family line of Marines; I too am a Marine Corps veteran. His service to his Country and his Corps will live forever in the minds of his fellow Marines all over this country.

While I never personally met this Marine, every Marine is my brother and it is with love and respect to his family that I say to them the words of retired GySgt Ermey, "The Marine Corps lives forever, and that means you live forever."

God Bless and Semper Fidelis"
Rob of Iowa

"I've been wearing this MIA bracelet that my mom gave me for 2 years now. I just recently found out about the death of your loved one. He is brave for ever enrolling in the Marine corps, and served his country well. My brother is a marine as well, and I can only imagine the pain that those close to LCPL. Blair have suffered, but I can also identify with the pride they take in knowing such a brave man. I will continue to wear this bracelet, as I have been, in memory of this fallen hero, Thomas A. Blair."
Rikki Aiton of Palm Desert, Ca, USA

"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.

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 Marine!! SEMPER FI!! We will NEVER FORGET!"
The Grogan Family of Lakeland, TN

"I served with blair from 1997 to Januray of 2000. As marines go he was one of the best that they come. A hard worker and ture to the corp. It is to no surpise that he gave up his life to save fellow marines. He was one the people that I most respected while I served with him. It was a honor for me to serve with him. You will be missed.
Semper Fi"
Roger Perkins of Baltimore MD

"We Will NEVER FORGET !" As the first anniversary of the death of your loved one arrives;
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering all your family and loved ones in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Thomas, will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"i am tommy's rural mail carrier. i never knew tommy, personally. he went into the corp, about the time that i started to carry the rural route that he lived on. after tommy was killed, i had to deliver alot of bad news to his mother's country home. tommy's mother worked days, so she was never home, when i came around to her house. i signed for alot of certified letters for her, so that she would not have to go to town to get them. these letters were from the marine corps, the department of defence, president bush,corps officers, etc. i have never met his mama.
i had to deliver alot of parcels that came to nancy blair's home, because of tommy's sacrifice. i was always very afraid when i had to go to her house. i was unsure of my own courage.
a day came that shouted out to me and told me how shallow i was thinking. i had to re-deliver a big package that tommy's mama had sent to him. it was a care package that his mother had mailed to him, one that he never received. it was a prioroty mail box that was totally wrapped in tape.
when i had to re-deliver it, it had been caked with sand, under the tape, and totally crushed. bits of what looked like potatoe chips were falling out of the box, tommy never received his mama's care package.
the day i delivered that sandy-box, an old dog meet me at nancy blair's porch.
i petted that old dog, too long.i looked at tommy's old lonley horse. i saw tommy's old ford pick-up and i just cried. i knew the love and sacrifice that tommy held in his heart. it was, the same love i felt the day that saigon fell, in may 75'.
tommy, i know that god holds you."
derek adams of broken arrow ok

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

"I would like to thank everyone that has extended their thoughts, prayers, kind words of encouragement, support and gifts of love to myself and the rest of Tommy's family over the last year. It's been almost a year since Tommy departed and I miss him like it was only yesterday. He was a hero to everyone that he came in contact with and now he is a hero to the entire world. I found out this week that Tommy was awarded the Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal for Valor and I would like to share with everyone the write-up that accompanies the medal:

Summary Action: For actions as Air Defense Section Leader, Second Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, Second Marine Aircraft Wing attached to Company C, First Battalion, Second Marines, Task Force Tarawa during the Battle of An Nasiriyah. On 23 March 2003, First Battalion, Second Marines conducted a movement to contact North towards the city of An Nasiriyah, Iraq in order to establish a battle position south of the city. Shortly after the lead elements of the Battalion began receiving incoming enemy mortar and machinegun fire, the Battalion received the order to attack to seize the two bridges along Route 7 through the eastern side of the city. This attack would open the route and allow First Marine Division and other I Marine Expeditionary Force units to continue their attach north to Baghdad.

Charlie Company's mission was to seize the northern bridge spanning the Saddam Canal. After several hours of fighting as a mechanized infantry force south of An Nasiriyah, Charlie Company attacked north along the Main Supply Route through the eastern side of the city. Lance Corporal Blair, mounted in a High-Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), began to take heavy small arms and rocket-propelled grenade fire while attacking through the city. Charlie Company seized the northern bridge under intense enemy direct and indirect fire and established battle positions north of the bridge in order to secure the northern approach of the Main Supply Route and to project combat power north of the city. Seeing that effective enemy fires threatened the company's positions, Lance Corporal Blair demonstrated initiative and courage by dismounting his HMMWV and immediately providing security to the company rear, despite the enemy barrage.

With incoming artillery and mortar rounds striking the friendly fighting positions and the effects of enemy machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades impacting his vehicle and the surrounding terrain, Lance Corporal Blair fought on, undaunted by the menacing enemy fire. Without being so directed, he provided security to the Company Gunnery Sergeant and defended the company's exposed southeastern flank. The number of wounded Marines in the company was starting to rise and the need for a medical evacuation (medevac) was becoming more and more urgent. The incredible volume of enemy fire precluded the use of a helicopter medevac, so Lance Corporal Blair joined other nearby Marines to load the casualties into an AAV in an attempt to speed them to the Battalion Aid Station south of the city. As Lance Corporal Blair and his fellow Marines struggled to recover the wounded and carry them to the AAV, they were forced to expose themselves and were quickly targeted by enemy fighters. Lance Corporal Blair came under intense fire from multiple enemy positions throughout his efforts to save the lives of his fellow Marines. Time and again he exposed himself to withering fire to safeguard the life of fellow Marines. Lance Corporal Blair's devotion to his fellow Marine was particularly noteworthy due to the face that he had just joined the company as an attachment the night prior. Thus, he had no inherent responsibility other than to provide air defense, but chose to endanger himself to preserve the lives of others.

After helping to load nine Marines into an AAV, Lance Corporal Blair mounted the vehicle himself in order to safeguard the wounded and provide security for the trip through the firestorm of An Nasiriyah. During the movement south, the AAV came under intense fire and was destroyed, mortally wounding Lance Corporal Blair.

Lance Corporal Blair's actions under fire ensured mission success as Company C successfully seized and held the bridge despite a determined enemy. Lance Corporal Blair's actions contributed to the defense of the company's position and victory for Company C in the battle for the Saddam Canal Bridge. Ultimately, he sacrificed his own life in the attempt to save his fellow Marines. Lance Corporal Blair's tactical skill, personal bravery, and self-sacrifice reflected great credit upon him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.

The Combat Distinguishing Device will be officially presented to me with the Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal for Valor.

Sincerely,

MarinemomX2"
Nancy S. Blair of Broken Arrow, OK

"Blair, will always remember you. I am sorry we didn't keep in touch. I thought of you often,and still do. I still have the 40 West CD and I still wear the watch every day (yes it still works). I will always miss you. You were always a good friend even when you didn't have to be. The world (and Cherry Point) was a better place because of you. You're the reason God made Oklahoma."
Tara Perry Sweetp626@aol.com of Cleveland, OH &Cherry Point, NC 98-00

"I ran across your travelall forsale on ebay and it brought things into perspective; sometimes we as American Citizens take for granted the cost of the freedoms that we hold so dear to our hearts. You were someones son, you were someones brother, you were someones loved one. As the member of a mostly military family, my father a retired major, my sister Lt Colonel and my brother a Captain I hold the fact that my freedoms are secured by my family and my friends to the highest regard and respect. You will be missed by your family and friends and even those who never had a chance to meet you.

edewerth@aol.com"
Eric L. DeWerth of Inman, SC, USA

"MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE BLAIR FAMILY. THOMAS AND I SERVERD TOGETHER IN CHERRY POINT AND THEN OKINAWA. HE WAS MY TEAM LEADER. WORDS ARE NOT ENOUGH TO EXPRESS THE EMPTYNESS. HE WAS A GREAT LEADER. I KNOW HE IS READING THIS SMILING. SEE YOU AGAIN SOMEDAY. SEMPER FIDELIS MARINE"
JACOB BEEMAN of ST. LOUIS, MO

"Representing the members of the IH Digest, an on-line forum for owners of International Harvester light trucks, Travelalls, and Scouts, may I express the heart-felt condolences of our group to the family and loved ones of Corporal Blair.

Many of us were moved to tears when we saw Thomas's Travelall for sale, and read the story behind it.

Our eternal thanks to Lance Corporal Blair and the other men and women of our armed forces who make possible the maintenance of our freedoms, including the decidedly minor freedom of owning, cherishing, and preserving our old International trucks. We can only wish he were here to pursue that freedom with us."
John Hofstetter of Murphys, California

"to you the family......I would like to give you my condolences for the loss of your son. We Marines, as you definately know, are family and every loss is felt. I grew up in Pryor, Ok and have spent the last 15 years serving our nation and the Corps. We as Marines live life to the fullest expectation and at any point know it could end. As we look back on our life we realize that our sacrifice was for some strange good. I promise you that his memory shall never diminish in the Corps as we will always remember our fallen comrades. Each memory pushes us to accomplish our mission. And for them we will do our best because for them, is where the respect shall lie. We will look upon our homecoming as respect to our fallen. We will never take the gratitude of success because it is theirs, for whom we serve. The history of the Corps and all of its legacies are due part to the sacrifice of Marines like LCpl Blair. He is a brother in this club of warriors and even, never knowing him, I miss him as my brother and my fellow Marine. Please accept my dearest respect for your fallen Marine. Sincerly gibsonwe@3div.usmc.mil"
SSgt William Gibson USMC of Okinawa Japan

"As a native Oklahoman I feel this loss closer to my heart. I am a proud United States Air Force wife stationed in Arizona at Luke Air Force Base. It really touches my heart to see such young individuals taken away so early. I only pray his family will make it through this tremendous loss as their son was only protecting his country. Because of his selflessness my four children can continue to enjoy their freedom. I can only tell his mother thank you from the bottom of my heart because I have two boys whom I worry about when they are 18. Remember there is now another Angel above to keep an eye over you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. He served his time well for our country."
Joni Beratto of Luke AFB, Arizona USA

"My heart goes out to The Blair Family, I am a Broken Arrow / Tulsa Mother who shares your loss, I too lost my Son in Iraq, He was in the Army. He knew Tommy. I also have a Son and Daughter that knew him from school, they are both Marines and both stationed in Cherry Point, N.C. My prayers are with you. Nanci Ward PROUD Mother of PVT Jason M. Ward (Army) CPL Casey Ward (USMC) & LCPL Kendell Ward Presby (USMC)"
Nanci Ward of Tulsa. OK

"Thank you Thomas Blair, 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

"Thomas, I never met you but i've talked to you on the phone, you're marine brothers miss you so much and I'd love nothing more then to bring you back for them and for your family. I hope you know that we miss you and never forget how proud all of us are of you. I wish i could say more but i cant find words to show how greatfull we all are. Thank you."
Sarah of Australia

"Thank you from the bottom of my heart for my, and others freedom, Much love in your memory. Daisy"
Daisy of Oklahoma USA.

"My thoughts & prayers go out to all the Military men and women who are at war and especially those who have lost their lives. May God bless you forever. Thank you for everything, you are my hero! Rest in peace."
Amanda K Casas of San Diego, Tx

"Dear Tommy,
even though other people are going to read this, I had to write it. I know that your not here to read this, but I miss you more than you can ever imagine. At your funeral I was the neice with such a crush on you when I was little. I remember the day you told me how you got all of your tatoos, what country, and whether or not you were sober! I miss you Tommy, and I wish you were here more than anything in this world. I hope to see you again someday. Like you said your my soldier, and I hope and pray everyday you still are watching over me. I love you so much!"
Sarah of Gravette, Arkansas

"Tommy, you'll always be in my heart and on my mind. I just hate that you had to leave us so soon. Your family will stay in my thoughts and prayers always and my brother and I will ever forget our fun times in band and the wonderful man you became. Thank you for protecting my freedom and that of every other American. You are surely missed."
Rachel D. Gaines-Dunkwu of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma

"We Are Very Proud Of You For Serving And Protecting America And Others To Be Free! My prayers and thoughts for his family. DAUGHTER OF CW2 DONALD L. WANN (Shawnee,Oklahoma) 158th Aviation Battalion, 160th Aviation Group, 101st Airborne Division Status: (Missing June 1, 1971) MIA Status Updated (In 1973): Killed/Body Not Recovered (Vietnam) **GOD BLESS**"
Shannon Wann Plaster of Yukon, Oklahoma

"SEMPER FI MARINE YOU GAVE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE.REMEMBER THE STREETS OF HEAVEN ARE GUARDED BY UNITED STATES MARINES. YOUR MEMORY WILL ALWAY'S BE REMEMBERED BY YOUR BAND OF BROTHERS."
NICK&JOAN TOPKICK of GALVESTON,TEXAS U.S.A

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

"Thank you Thomas Blair for the price you paid to insure we as Americans continue to live in freedom."
Terri Curtis of Green Forest, Arkansas

"Thank you for sticking up for what you believe in. Oklahoma and the US is very proud, but yet sad. God Bless."
Robyn of Blocker, OK . USA

"Lcpl Blair. Thank you, we will never forget your face or sacrifice and we will live our lives to the fullest because of you. RIP Devil Dog..Semper Fi"
The Taylors of NC

"Thank you for allowing your hero to protect our freedoms!"
Holly of Virginia

"Thank you for your sacrifice"
Ginger Smith & Family of Hillsboro, In