Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"10 yrs ago yesterday Brother. You are not forgotten. I remember all four of you every day."

"Vetrans day 2013, Jonathan Bowling and others who died during in Iraq are remembered. Never forgotten, still missed, eyes watering because you are not here."
Allen Shepard of Chesapeake, Virginia U.S.A.

"I didn't know Jon, but he was my Brother Marine...About four years ago at the Jonathan Bowling Memorial Ride, I met Darrell Bowling Jon's dad. Over those four years we have became great friends and I've shown him what Brothers Forever means...I always feel that these young Marines are my Marines..THANK A VETERAN FOR YOUR FREEDOM.....SEMPER FI"
SGT HB of Virginia

"Thinking of you Jonathan and your family, as we celebrate the death of Osama bin Laden.
Thank You for your sacrifice!"
William Waldron of Fayetteville, NC

"Jonathan, It;s been 6 years now since you passed from this life. Our heart still feels the pain of that day when the Marines came to us to tell us of your heroic sacrifice for the country that you loved. We are so proud of you and the many more who have given their lives for this great country that we live in. We love you for your dedication and we continue to pray for your family and all those that were apart of Jon's life. I was reminded of yet another loss and that was in 1967 when the Army came to our house and told my mom that her son was killed in action in Vietnam. I never dreamed that I would see my daughter go through such a loss when she lost you in Iraq.I think of you often and I will never forget the joy you brought into our lives especially Tonya's life. We love and miss you every day."
Velma Mcfarling of Ridgeway,Va

"Jonathan, It;s been 6 years now since you passed from this life. Our heart still feels the pain of that day when the Marines came to us to tell us of your heroic sacrifice for the country that you loved. We are so proud of you and the many more who have given their lives for this great country that we live in. We love you for your dedication and we continue to pray for your family and all those that were apart of Jon's life. I was reminded of yet another loss and that was in 1967 when the Army came to our house and told my mom that her son was killed in action in Vietnam. I never dreamed that I would see my daughter go through such a loss when she lost you in Iraq.I think of you often and I will never forget the joy you brought into our lives especially Tonya's life. We love and miss you every day."
Velma Mcfarling of Ridgeway,Va

"Jonathan, It;s been 6 years now since you passed from this life. Our heart still feels the pain of that day when the Marines came to us to tell us of your heroic sacrifice for the country that you loved. We are so proud of you and the many more who have given their lives for this great country that we live in. We love you for your dedication and we continue to pray for your family and all those that were apart of Jon's life. I was reminded of yet another loss and that was in 1967 when the Army came to our house and told my mom that her son was killed in action in Vietnam. I never dreamed that I would see my daughter go through such a loss when she lost you in Iraq.I think of you often and I will never forget the joy you brought into our lives especially Tonya's life. We love and miss you every day."
Velma Mcfarling of Ridgeway,Va

"Jonathan, It;s been 6 years now since you passed from this life. Our heart still feels the pain of that day when the Marines came to us to tell us of your heroic sacrifice for the country that you loved. We are so proud of you and the many more who have given their lives for this great country that we live in. We love you for your dedication and we continue to pray for your family and all those that were apart of Jon's life. I was reminded of yet another loss and that was in 1967 when the Army came to our house and told my mom that her son was killed in action in Vietnam. I never dreamed that I would see my daughter go through such a loss when she lost you in Iraq.I think of you often and I will never forget the joy you brought into our lives especially Tonya's life. We love and miss you every day."
Velma Mcfarling of Ridgeway,Va

"Five years ago today, January 26th....truly the saddest day of my life."

"Five years ago today, January 26th....truly the saddest day of my life."

"Being in your platoon, I will never forget you brother!

Semper Fi"
Carl Swensson of Newport News VA

"1/13/2010
Five years pass so quickly. We still remember you and feel the loss. I think about what happened, you and Tonya from time to time particualy in January. I would say "Take care" but its us who must "Take care" for you are fine up there.
Kind Regards and thanks Sir"
Allen Shepard of Chesapeake, VA

"Thinking of you on your birthday today....November 24

Always in my heart......"

"Jon,
You truly are a Hero in every sense of the word. I was privileged enough to have known you for several years and I will carry our conversations and laughs with me always. I remember talking to you for hours about the Corps, God, life, and everything in between.
For anyone who didn’t know Jon, he had a faith that could move mountains. He is the reason I know God now. We were working together at the time and Jon literally taught me how to pray. He led me to God and helped me to change the path I was on. For that amongst everything else I will always love and miss him. The world lost so much when we lost Jon.
Darrell,
Jon was so proud to be your son. When he talked about you his eyes became those of a small boy on Christmas morning. As much as he is your hero, know that you were always his. Take peace in that.
Tonya,
Even though we never met, any woman that could win Jon’s heart has to be amazing. Jon sure thought so. Know that he loved you more than anything."
Shannon of Stuart, VA

"Jonathan,
You were one of the best friends that I ever had. You were one of the sweetest and caring men that I ever met. You and your family, since the first day you went to war and even today, is in my thoughts and prayers. Its been 3 years since you died and I still think about you every day. You will always be my hero!

"Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference. The Marines don't have that problem."
--President Ronald Reagan, 1985

SEMPER FIDELAS!!"
h.g.h <3 of Stuart, VA

"It has been four years since I lost you and it still hurts like it was just yesterday. I am so lucky to have found you and have the love that we shared together. I know that what we had was something that most people spend their entire lives looking for and some never find. I was lucky to have found it once and that love will last me a lifetime. The day I lost you I lost a part of my heart. You will always be My True Love and Hero. Thanks for giving me the best love ever. I will always love you Jon."
Tonya McFarling of Ridgeway, VA

"To the family of:Jonathan W. Bowling 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"

"April 29, 2008
To the family of Cpl. Jonathan W. Bowling:
Jonathan 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

"To Jonathan's Family I happen to stumble over this web page by accident, it has been over two years since I brought Jonathan home but he remains in my thoughts often. For me to see the out pour of love from your community truly moved me as a man and a Marine. I truly believe that is because you raised a very fine son, I once told you Mr. Bowling that I pray that my sons become half the man that Jonathan became in his time here and that I would be as proud of them as you were of your son. At that time I meant every word of it and still do. I'm retired now but daily think of Marines like your son who I brought home to there families. May the lord continue to bless and keep you all "Semper Fi" Ramon Hampton MSGT/USMC Retired"
Ramon Hampton of Stafford Virginia USA

"Dear Mr. & Mrs. Bowling:
I just saw the CNN program of the fight in Iraq that took your Son, Jonathan. He was a beautiful young man and from what I have read, he was also beautiful inside as well. His sacrifice and service to America will always be a blessing to all of us, and I pray that God has helped you cope with his passing. I Honor Jonathan and thank You and Him for my freedom.
May the Lord Bless You.
Humbly,
Roberta Paul"
Roberta Paul of Houston TX - USA

"Mr. and Mrs. Bowling:

Just a few minutes ago I was watching CNN's Memorial Day broadcast which featured the story of your son's life and service in the U.S. Marine Corps and through the Internet it took me a very short time to find out how to send you a message of condolence. Your son's story was one that deserved to be told and is an inspiration to those of us who enjoy living in this great country for which he stood. Just recently I lost a high school friend of mine and watching the story on your son and how you handle everything actually has helped me in a way. Thank you for sharing with so many people. I hope that this Memorial Day was a time that allowed you to recall the wonderful memories you have of your son."
Darryl Williams of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

"Dear Mr. and Mrs. Bowling:

Words cannot express my grief as I viewed the CNN special the River of Secrets, and learned what a wonderful and blessed young man your son was.

We in the Armed Forces no matter what service feel a sense of loss when one of our fellow brethen gives his life for the cause of freedom.

I am ever so sorry for the emptiness you feel. Please know that we will always continue to pray for you all, and hope for the day when all of our men and women in uniform come home.

Mr. Bowling, as a fellow police officer, I was so humbled watching the tribute to your son.

I too have served in theater and have lost friends there.

God Bless you all, my hopes and prayers are with you. Take care."
TSgt Mark J. Woolley of Reading, PA

"I just watched the special on CNN about Jonathan and the other three Marines that died during combat. I have never met them, but cried all night for them. I cannot imagine the pain you feel having known these fine young men. Please know there are so many Americans who think of our service men and women everyday and are so honored for their sacrifice. They are the ultimate heros of our Country and it is only them that can hold that honor. My heart goes out to Jonathan, his family and his fellow Marines. God Bless America."
Erin of McKeesport, PA

"To the family of jonathon bowling he is
a real american's hero"He will never be
forgot it soldiers like him that keep american free and thanks to Gary Harris for his Soldiers Sprit RV that display his name as a rolling Memorial to all our hero's"
Ike Mumpower of Bristol Va

"My wife Cathy and I watched the CNN story on the ambush. Our 18 year old son died on May 10, 2005 at home; we still cry most every day. Tonight we cried for Jonathan and his family. We send our hugs, prayers, and gratitude."
Tom Meyer of DeForest, WI/USA

"Jonathan,
I just watched the documentary on CNN about you and your fellow Marines at Haditha. I would just like to say thank you to you and the other Marines from your unit(C/4th CEB) who were killed in that ambush 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!
A fellow Marine;LEO

Semper Fi Devil Dog!"

""Jonathan inspires me to get up everyday and serve this country I love. Being a Patrick Co. native this hits close to home. To the Bowlings I am sorry for your loss."
Sra Bronson Clontz USAF of Seymour Johnson AFB

"I served with Jonathan at the Dam. He was always willing to help others and was respectful. I never saw him cross with anyone and he never broke any rules or got into trouble. He never balked at an order. He truly represented Marine Corps values and was the kind of Marine other Marines should emulate. Semper Fidelis. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones."
Former Sgt Douglas Grimes of Baytown, TX

"You continue to inspire me Jonathan. And I will never forget you!"
Kathy of Mount Airy, MD

"Darrell,
I am so sorry for the loss of your son. May the Lord be with you and your family."
Brian Davis APD of Altavista, VA

"August 26, 2006
VIRGINIA MEMORIAL QUILT PROJECT
The Friendship Circle Chapter of the Richmond Quilters’ Guild has begun a new project. Our goal is to make a memorial quilt for the closest relative of each soldier that gave his or her life from the State of Virginia in Operation Iraqi Freedom. We are inviting the other six (6) chapters of the Richmond Quilters’ Guild to join Friendship Circle in this Project. The entire Richmond Quilters’ Guild represents approximately 300 individuals. Check our website richmondquiltguild.com and select Virginia Memorial Quilt Project for further details and updates.
We are committed to provide a memorial quilt to each family who sustained the loss of a family member in this military conflict. We are asking family and friends of a fallen member of the armed services from Virginia to contact either Debbie Elam at debelam1@aol.com or Mary Biggs mary_biggs@verizon.net to give us information so we may write a letter to the immediate family asking if they would accept a quilt from the Virginia Memorial Quilt Project. We are committed to treat this information with the utmost confidentiality.
PLEASE help us reach out to the families from Virginia who has lost a member of their family in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Debbie Elam ~ 800 Hallsboro Road ~ Midlothian, VA 23112
debelam1@aol.com
(804) 794-6364"
Debbie Elam of Richmond, VA

"Jonathan's Parents, sisters, and most of all; to you Jonathan...We love you and you will always remain in our thoughts and prayers. May God Be With You...You're at home now Jon...Sweet Dreams..."
Melissa Hall Dorsett and Miss Jane(your preschool teacher) of Lynchburg and Stuart Va

"I think of you and miss you every day. You made the ultimate sacrifice...and are a hero to all. We love you Jon."

"Thinking of you, and the many others up there with you, on this Memorial Day Jon. I'm thankful for the time you were with us, and for the sacrifice you gave for so many others. May blessings be on your family and on the work you began while you were here. Proud of ya."
Talley G. of Stuart, VA

"Hey John, we never met, still, being a fellow Marine, former member of Charlie Company, and "native" Patrick Countian, I do pray for you and your family, and for those of us who still fight the good fight.
You will not be forgotten. Thank you, brother, thank you.
Semper Fidelis..."
E. Scott Stanley, SSgt, USMC of fighting the good fight

"It's been a year since I first got the word...and it only seems like yesterday that you were with us. The tears flow when I recall the shock, the disbelief. But you are stronger in our hearts now than you ever were...I will NEVER forget you Jon, or the fun times we spent together. I pray each day for your Dad & Mom and their families, and for Brooke & Ashley. But we all know you're up there with our Father and we will keep the light on in your honor, until that day when we meet again. God Bless You Brother Jonathan, my hero."
Just a Brother left behind of Virginia

"It has been an honor over the past year working with the Marines from Jon's unit. All of these Marines are amazing!As a mother of four children I can only imagine what Robin is feeling. But I do know Robin did an incredible job raising her son and his sisters. Jon was obviously a committed, dedicated, selfless Marine who paid the ultimate price for our safety. I never got to the chance meet Jon, I only know about him from what I have read and have been told by others., but after having the honor of meeting his mother. I now understand where Jon got his strong faith in GOD, exceptional character and his gift of love for his country. All of us mothers with young children could certainly learn from you. We will never forget your son Jon and will pray for your entire family."
Kathy -MD For Our Military of Mt Airy, Maryland

"To Darrell & Rita Bowling,
Our family will always be greatful to Jonathan for his sacrifice to our country. He was a proud Marine......
What a hero he was... I know you & Rita were very proud of him.
Rita , you may not have given birth to Jon , but in his book , the work "stepmother" was just a word.He loved you !
Darrell thank you for helping out all of the Marines that you have , including our son-in-law SSGT. Richard Sadler ( who was wounded in Iraq on Jan. 5 2006.)
God bless the Bowling family as it has almost been 1 year !
In Jon's memory we pay Tribute !
Craig & Kathy Alcorn (of Illinois)
SSGT. Richard Sadler & wife Tammy & boys Mason & Ryan of Ca."
Craig & Kathy Alcorn of Centralia, Illinois

"I'm at a loss for words - may you rest in peace."
Shannon of Fairfax Virginia

"Pleae support Ronnie Kimball who has a cd with a song LIBERTY that will touch your heart. The proceeds go to the fallen families."
Stuart Mayper of Houston, Texas

"We miss you Jon...and thank you for the light you brought into our lives. I know you're in a better place, and you're up there with Scott and Brandon and all of the others who gave everything for those of us left behind. We will never forget you, or the laughs and joy you brought into our lives. We are so lucky to have known you even for brief time here on Earth, but your inspiration will flow through us for generations and your name will echo wherever great people perform a deed of honor. I honor you Jon, and thank you for being so strong and courageous. "And the Lord asked: 'Whom shall I send?'. And I answered, send me Lord, send me." And you went proudly Jon, as you did in everything. We may never know what life has for us each day, but we will always carry you in our hearts, minds, and our spirit."
Talley Griffith of Stuart, VA

"I do not know John nor have family in Iraq. My father is retired from the Army and has seen battle in his lifetime. This morning I was behind a van at Bojangles in Harrisburg, NC and saw a decal on the back of it. Fallen Hero 01/26/05 Cpl Jonathan W. Bowling. My 11 year old daughter and I were very touched and sad for your loss. I just want to somehow tell you all that I am greatful for our US Troops. I am also thankful that Bowlings family and friends are keeping reminders on the back of their cars to support our troops and pray that they come home soon."
Linda & Brooke Anderson of Harrisburg, NC , USA

"Our hearts and prayers go out to the family of Jonathan Bowling. As a friend and neighbor of Marine Sgt. Jesse W. Strong, also killed in Iraq on January 26, 2005, we know and feel your loss. Thank you Darrell, for coming to Vermont this Memorial Day for the burial of Albany's fallen Marine. It was an honor to meet you -- your son Jon will live on forever in our memory. May God's love comfort you all, now and always."
Kate, Ryan, and Connor Fletcher of Albany, Vermont

"Our hearts and prayers go out to the family of Jonathan Bowling. As a friend and neighbor of Marine Sgt. Jesse W. Strong, also killed in Iraq on January 26, 2005, we know and feel your loss. Thank you Darrell, for coming to Vermont this Memorial Day for the burial of Albany's fallen Marine. It was an honor to meet you -- your son John will live on forever in our memory. May God's love comfort you all, now and always."
Kate, Ryan, and Connor Fletcher of Albany, Vermont

"My heart still aches for John Bowling. I still am praying for all his family members . I miss John so very much and my heart aches to see his love ones in such sorrow. I know my family has and continue to think of John daily. My precious neice Tonya hurts so bad. She
finaly had a chance at true love. But, God had other plans and how my heart mourns for what could have been. But, I know John is with God. Our loss is heavens gain.
To Johns family please know that Iam praying so hard for you all. This memorial day will be one of sadness and I know I will do my part to honor those who have fallen. My brother was killed in Vietnam and my dad and brothers fought to. John changed my life and
today I thank him and and the many others for fighting for our Freedom.
Freedom isn't free. These young men shed their blood so we can be free. I hope all Americans will 'HONOR " this brave, corgagoues, honarable and devoted men who gave their life. Thanks John. I will never forget you. To Robin, Darrell, Brooke and Ashley. Iam so sorry and I will keep you in my prayers."
Bonnie Kotalik of Chesapeake, Virginia

"Jon,
I miss you terribly and am so proud of you. I feel so lucky to have raised such a fine son as you. I know you are now with the Lord but you will always be in my heart. I love you.

Jon's Mother"
Robin Feron of Stuart,Virginia

"I just read an online story about Jonathan and Stuart. He was a hero, but you all know that. My thoughts and prayers are with your courageous town."
Michael of Nashville

"Jonathan, your family means the world to me. They, as well as anyone who knew you, are better people for having had you in their lives. You and my son, Tyler, are now together with our Lord and Savior. Take care of one another and know that we will see you again some day."
Tyler's Mom, Sandra, of Ocean Isle Beach, NC

"Jon, I am so very heartbroken over losing you. My tears still flow freely every day since January 26, 2005 (truly the saddest day of my life). I love you, JonBoy."
Rita Bowling (stepmother of Jon) of Stuart, VA

"I am very grateful for our soldiers fighting for freedom. My condolences to the Bowling family. I, too, lost my brother Army Spc. Edgar P. Daclan on September 10, 2004 during a combat in Balad, Iraq. I know that their sacrifices are not in vain. I am very proud of Jonathan and to the rest of our military people. Thank you soldiers, thank you Jonathan!!!
----- GOD'S FLOWER GARDEN ----- It's hard to lose the ones we love, to see them pass away, The sweetest and the kindest gone, while others are left to stay! But if we had a garden, with roses fair and bright, We'd often pick the loveliest and think it to be right. And so it is with Jesus in His earthly garden here; He often picks the fairest flowers, the ones we love so dear. The flowers that are picked by Him will never fade away. We know Jonathan will live forever, and we'll see him some sweet day."
Aileen of Torrance, CA

"To Jonathan: We will miss you terribly. You are the true hero to us. Knowing you through your life was one of the most honorable things that I will cherish in my days to come. You are a great man. Your selflessness and loving spirit will be remembered in our small town. Thank you Jonathan."
Janna Foley Bonham of Stuart, VA, Patrick County

"You are truly a hero."
Mike of New Jersey

"02/02/05
Thank you Cpl Bowling for defending the freedoms we all cherish from those who would destroy America! America and freedom loving peoples all over the world owe you their sincere gratitute. Semper Fi Marine, God Bless you and may He grant your loved ones peace. From a very grateful American family."
The Shaw family of Pasadena, Maryland

"To the family and friends of Corporal Jonathan W. Bowling,

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."
Sandra Moudy of Placentia, Ca USA

"There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for your loss. May God bless you and help you through this time."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"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, Jonathan , will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you ALWAYS. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"Cpl.Jonathan Bowling we are so sad to lose such a handsome young man but we all know that you did what you had to do, and that you died doing what you believed in.....Freedom!
You will always be remembered for the fine Marine.Cpl you were, and not a day will go by that you will ever be forgotten.
May god be with you, and all the loved ones that ever knew you.
We in Canada Salute all of you!
Rest in peace, Marine"
M.Giguere of Canada

"Thank you Jonathan Bowling, 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 Cpl. Jonathan Bowling:
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 Jonathan 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 Cpl. Jonathan Bowling:
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 Jonathan, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia