Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"2023 ... not forgotten."
L. Busch of Missoula, MT

"I do not forget the sacrifice of Marcus Cherry and those who live without him."
L. Busch of Missoula, MT

"To remember is to honor your sacrifice, Marcus."
L. Busch of Missoula, MT

"Marcus Cherry, you strengthen those who love you and abide with those who honor you. Memorial Day, 2020"
L. Busch of Missoula, MT

"Marcus' single life, albeit brief, affected many others. May the memories of those who love(d) him, bring comfort in his absence."
L. Busch of Missoula, MT

"You live eternally in the memories of those who love you, Marcus Cherry. May their sorrow be eased knowing others honor your sacrifice. May 27, 2018"
L. Busch of Missoula, MT

"I remember your name for those who loved you."
L. Busch of Montana

"A bracelet was found with this soldiers name on it and I want to return it to the owner. Please help me get this memorial piece back to his loved ones."
Cindy of Charlotte NC

"You are remembered, not just today, but always."
L. Busch of Missoula, Montana

"Happy Birthday Brother. Your heroic actions will never be forgotten. Rest in peace."
Diego Jimenez of Los Osos, Ca

"10 years later...you will never be forgotten....rest well with The Lord"
Gloria Spies (Castaneda), USAF, USANG of Oceanside, Ca

"Memorial Day, 2014
Remembering your sacrifice, Marcus, with gratitude."
L. Busch of Missoula, MT

"Marcus' name was given to me as part of a memorial constructed in May of 2005 in Corpus Christi, Texas. His sacrifice and his family's loss are always with me."
L. Busch of Missoula, Montana

"brother, every day i miss you more and more. its been 9 years now and it still feels like yesterday that I was in your warm arms giving you a goodbye hug as you left to war. I love you and I think about you all the time. I think about the what if's that could have been happening right now if you were here. You would be my best friend and I would be able to share anything and everything with you. You are my guardian Angel. I know you have your angel wings spread over the family and we thank you for that. Keeo smiling up there and until the day I see you again will be the best day ever. Love you and Miss you. <3

love always, your little sister
05-02-2013"
Monique of El Centro, California

"Marcus, It was an aweful day when I found out you passed. I collapsed on the floor in grief and pain. I remember that last time I saw you and Shannon and gave you both a hug. I asked you if you were sure you wanted to go into the Marines...With unwavering spirit you nodded and smiled. Im proud of you and know that every time we think of you, you are next to us. You were such an amazing person. Your voice was like an angel and your now singing with them. I Beg you to protect my husband and brother as they deploy. Semper Fi Marine."
Jackie Stallings-Teixeira of From Imperial, Stationed at Fort Benning

"To the family of Lance Cpl Marcus Cherry:

Please know that your loved one was remembered individually by my family at the Memorial Day Services at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery in Lehighton PA.

We are so appreciative of your sacrifice and we pray that God bless you all always!"
The Aaron Family of Lehighton, PA

"Marcus, words can't express the honor I feel to say that I am a friend of yours. It gets tougher through the years to realize we lost you at such a young age. But I know that the sacrifice you gave to this country, to me, to my wife, and my two little girls will never be forgotten because we will always carry your memory. Thank you my brother, my fellow Marine, but most of all my friend. I love and miss you..."
SSgt Erik A. Ramirez USMC of USA

"I will never forget the day I took you to see your brother. I envied the fact that you had family in the local area even though we were in Iraq. Warrior you are one of the best. Rest my brother and I honor you with my continued service."
SgtMaj Bernard C Coleman of Cherry Point NC

"Marcus, I miss you so much son, I am a proud mother. I love you, and this country loves you, and I am thankful to God for you everyday. You were an awsome son. Love your mom Genevieve S. King"
Genevieve S. King of Imperial Valley, California

"Hey Marcus
I cant tell you how much I miss you. Its very hard every year when my birthday and Memorial Day comes around. I am gald that we had our time together when you lived out here in North Carolina. I miss you every day and I count my blessings that I get to call you my Brother. One day we will be reunited. I LOVE YOU Bro."
Tara Tyler of Hubert, NC USA

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry. I understand in theory only that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take the families pain away but I can't. I am committed to loving ALL people, myself and our environment. I am committed to working on my happiness everyday because so many have died for my freedom to live my life. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have. All my love and respect. ogersteiner@yahoo.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEjz-wAQLSA&feature=PlayList&p=477CB1585D5551F3"
Scott Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"People come in and out of our lives, and time passes...you are thought of often....Never forgotten Marcus......"
Sherry of Imperial

"I still can here you sing! I remember when you, your brother and josh performed at the fair in imperial. You will always be remembered and loved"
Marissa A

"I'm still missing you buddy. just wanted to stop and say that i have one of your cd's of you rapping and i listen to it all the time. love you bro"
Will Hogue of Imperial, CA

"To the family of:Marcus M. Cherry 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"

"I love you brother. I will never forget."
Mikey Sanders of Imperial, CA

"Marcus I seved with you brother in Iraq. I remember it like it was yeaster day when I saw that expression on his face. Its almost been 4 years and I still haven't forgot about you. My prayers are with your family"
Gerardo Casillas of Dallas, Texas

"I MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU MARCUS YOULL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART."
PALEIGH of PA

"Memorial Day, 2008
To the family of Lance Cpl. Marcus M. Cherry:
Marcus 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

"Your heroism and sacrifice will live in the hearts and minds of untold future generations of Marines. You are in the company of Chesty, J. Basilone, D. Daley and all the other Marines that have served in defense of our Nation. Semper Fi devildog!!"
LCpl. Caballero 1990-1994 of Chicago, IL

"LCPL. MARCUS CHERRY, MAN ITS BEEN SO LONG AND I STILL TRY TO GO BACK INTO TIME AND PULL YOU BACK, BUT YOU WERE SUCH A HARD CHARGER MAN! I STILL HAVE OUR CARD WE MADE FOR OUR RACK IN AR- RAMADI AND I STILL CANT GET THAT INCREDIBLE SMILE OUT OF MY HEAD MAN. I KNOW I WAS SENIOR TO YOU BUT I LOVED YOU LIKE MY BLOOD AND I'VE FOUND MY SELF THINKING ABOUT THE 6TH A LOT MAN,I JUST WISH YOU WOULD HAVE WAITED FOR ME. I WILL NEVER FORGET HOW GREAT OF A KID YOU WERE AND WISH WE COULD OF GOT MORE TIME WITH EACH OTHER TO HANG, TO LAUGH, TO SERVE THE CORPS. STILLL TO THIS DAY WHEN I TOLD YOU THAT YOU WERE THE BEST MARINE I'VE EVER MET NO ONE COMES CLOSE!!!! NOT ANYWHERE NEAR!!! TO YOUR MOM I NEVER HAD THE HONOR OF MEETING WITH YOU BUT I JUST WANTED TO SAY THANK YOU FOR GIVING LIFE TO SUCH A WONDERFUL INDIVIDUAL, MARCUS IS THE BEST KID I'VE EVER MET! I MISS YOU SO MUCH BRO AND GOING BACK TO RAMADI, SO IN A WAY WE WILL BE TOGETHER AGAIN CLEANING UP THE STREETS AND I WILL SEE YOU AGAIN SOMEDAY BROTHER! LOVE ALWAYS MAN, SGT. TELINDA 2/4 (2001-2004)"
BRIAN TELINDA JR. of CAMP LEJEUNE, NORTH CAROLINA

"So today is four years bro, it's been hard, I miss you so much and I think about you and all the good times we had. I'm watching out for your bro too! It's hard leaving this message but I just wanted to let you know you are not forgotten and we all love you."
Will Hogue, of Imperial/San Diego CA

"Marcus Cherry....How are you my love!! Dang it has been a long time since i have seen that big smile full of Pearly Whites!! I miss you so so so much! I have been thinking about you alot recently, i know i haven't been out to visit you in a long time! And my deepest apologizes! But I want you to know that I love you and I miss you so much! I will never forget our "FRIENDSHIP" and I will never forget you and all the laughs and smiles you have given me thru our years together! Thank you for your Bravery and thank you for standing up for what you believed in! Your a true MAN and i am so Blessed to of had you in my life!! I will always love and cherish everything about you! May God Bless your family! I LOVE YOU CHERRY ON THE CARRY!!!"
Ashley V. of Imperial, CA

"marcus i miss you sooo much.
i live every day waiting to see you.
i dream of you and i miss you very much.
thank you for being my guardian angel.
cant wait to see you.
i love you.
[:

<3 your sister, monique"
Monique Tyler(sister) of El, Centro, CAli

"Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free,
I'm following the path God laid for me.
I took his hand when I heard Him call,
I turned my back and left it all.
I could not stay that day,
to laugh, to love, to work or play.
Task undone must stay that way.
I found peace at the close of the day.
If my parting left a void,
then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss
Ah, these things I too will miss.
Be not burdened with time of sorrow,
I wish for you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life's been full, I savored much
Good friends, good times, a loved one touched.
Perhaps my time seemed all to brief,
But don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your hearts and share with me.
God wanted me now, He set me free!"
William Darby Taylor Jr. of Bonita Springs Florida

"Marcus, I have the same name as you and just recently searched my name on the internet, it makes me proud to see that someone as courageous, honourable amd loved by many, bears the same name as me. I just hope that I can be half the man that i can see you to have been."
Marcus Cherry of Hobart, Tasmania Australia

"Marcus, I've been thinking a lot about you lately...about how much you make us laugh...about how great of a football player u were back in pop warner when i used to cheer for u...about how great of a person u r...about what a wonderful hero u r!....

"I just called to see
If you still have a place for me
We know that life took us apart
But you're still within my heart
I go to sleep and feel your spirit next to me"

U will forever be in our hearts Marcus! and someday we'll reunite again! We love yoU!"
Tania of El Centro, CA

"Marcus, I still miss you very very much. I hope you know that you were a very special friend and Im glad that you were a part of my life. I love you so much Marcus."
your sweet lady of imperial

"We still miss you so much Marcus. Not a day goes by you do not cross my mind, as well as others. Of course I did not want to accept it, but as time went on, I had to not be so selfish and let you do your work up there. I know you're smiling down on us. Sing with the angels sweetie. We love you."
Danielle Watts & Fam. of Imperial, Ca.

"HEY MARCUS, HEY BRO I JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW THAT I MISS YOU AND THAT ONE DAY I WILL SEE YOU AGAIN. I KNOW YOU ARE WATCHING OVER ME EVERYDAY. I JUST WISH I COULD HAVE TALKED TO YOU BEFORE YOU WENT INTO THE MARINES. I AM PROUD TO SAY THAT BOTH MY BROTHERS WERE UNITED STATES MARINES. I WILL ALWAYS KEEP YOU IN MY THOUGHTS EVERY DAY. I MISS YOU VERY MUCH AND I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU AGAIN SOON."
TARA TYLER of HUBERT,NC USA

"Earth's loss was Heaven's gain on the day Marcus went home. I feel so honored to have been blessed with the privilege of knowing Marcus and being there to support him. Marcus is the true measure of a man. Marcus is the son that every mother dreams her son will be; an athlete, a scholar, a gentleman as well as a gentle man, respectful and respected, Godly, moral, a true Patriot and an awesome role model. Genevive, you did an excellent job with this gift from above. I hope that my son will be the man that Marcus saw in him. I can hear Heaven's stadium ringing out with "Cherry on the Carry." Marcus, thank you for allowing me the honor of being your Aunt B. You will always hold a special part of my heart and I will always love you."
Aunt B of Imperial, CA

"in july i'm having a baby. i'm in my senior year and looking at a dual major of electrical and computer engineering. i have made it this far because of the marine corps. there was one time that i could've severely been in trouble and ruined that chance, but cherry got me out of it. i only hope that the life i live can honor his life. i dearly miss you brother and the world is a sadder place without you. but some people are too good for this world. as a word to the family, marcus was a very remarkable and honorable man. i know that no words can replace the voids in your hearts. but know that you're in my prayers. semper fi and God bless."
of carbondale, il

"HEY CUZ,
I DID IT I GOT MARRIED. MAUI WAS AWESOME. FREEDIE IS GREAT AND THE FAMILY IS DOING WELL. I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU. HAPPY B-DAY MARCUS"
VANESSA of SAN DIEGO

"HEY MARCUS...
I JUST WANTED TO SAY THAT I MISS YOU OH SO VERY MUCH AND THINK ABOUT YOU ALL THE TIME. I KNOW YOUR WATCHING OVER ME AS WELL AS THE REST OF YOUR FAMILY. YOU MOM AND FAMILY MISS YOU SO MUCH. IT IS HARD TO BELIEVE THAT IT HAS ALMOST BEEN 3 YRS. WELL I LOVE YOU AND KNOW YOUR NEAR BY. MARCUS CUZ YOUR SMILE IS UNFORGETTABLE. TALK TO YOU SOON.

LUV VANESSA XOXO FOR NOW AND FOREVER"
VANESSA MORENO of SAN DIEGO

"To the Family and Friends of LCpl Marcus Cherry:
The Mt.Soledad Memorial Association, in coordinated efforts with American Legion Post 275 of La Jolla, California, is conducting a Honor Ceremony on August 26th,2006 to recognize the dedicated service of Lance Cpl Marcus Cherry and the other 20 Marines that paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Post 275 has sponsored the manufacture of 2 granite plaques to be placed at the Mt.Soledad Veterans Memorial in La Jolla, CA.
For additional information and photos of our memorial please log onto www.soledadmemorial.com
We would be deeply honored if ALL interested in attending the ceremony could call Joanie at 858-459-2314 or Steve Marrietti at 858-705-2214.
THANK YOU and GOD BLESS!"
Joanie Miyashiro-Brennan of San Diego, CA/USA

"Lcpl. Marcus Cherry just wanted to let you and your family know that you will never be forgotten , almost two years later i still remember you like it was yesterday,a brave warrior that you are . love you lots brother .Happy 4th of july
- SEMPER FI . 2/4 ECHO CO."
Lcpl. Miguel R. Martinez of Simi Valley ,ca, U.S.A

"LCPL Cherry, you mean a lot to my son, so that means you mean the world to me. You are his friend. He called me the day after it happened,and said, "Dad pray for the Cherry Family. Marcus is gone" my son is with the 2/1 Fox Co, Camp Pendleton.
MY prayers are alway with your family forever. If the world were like you, there would be no reason to fight.
GOD Bless your family and the troops who fight. We LOVE YOU and NEED You.
Reggie Carr Sr, Dallas, Tx"
Reggie Carr Sr of Dallas,Texas

"Whats up Marcus, its almost been 2 years since you left us. I hope you are happy in heaven and that your taking care of us. I can still remember football practices giving the coaches a hard time remember you calling me "dominguez" and that name stuck with me. Anyways i never tought you would end up leaving us this way and i never got to say goodbye to you,i know that you died doing your job and it was something you liked. I am happy that i got to meet you and make a good freindship with you. Take care man and watch over us."
Domingo Rodriguez of Imperial, CA,

"Marcus,

RSS El Centro is so proud of you. We knew there was something special about you. I remember you and Andre at the Air Show in 2001 when you guys participated in our pull-up challenge. You guys told us you would become Marines. I miss you and look forward to the day we meet again. This time you can recruit me."
GySgt Rocha of Camp Pendleton, Ca

""No one man has any greater love then to lay his life down for a friend"
John 15:13

on behalf of 1st plt. we wil never forget"
carter of glendale,az/united states

"August 15, 2005
Marine Lance Cpl Marcus M. Cherry
You are an American Hero whose ultimate sacrifice will not be forgotten by a grateful nation. Rest in peace brave Marine. You will be remembered for always being faithful to God, Country, family and the Corps.
"In all of the far-flung operations of our Armed Forces, the toughest job has been performed by the average, easy-going, hard-fighting young American who carries the weight of battle on his own young shoulders. It is to him that we and all future generations must pay grateful tribute"."
D. Burt of Portsmouth, RI

"To the family of Marcus Cherry:
This year a recognition of those fallen in Iraq was conducted by an anti-war group in my community. As we attached the names and photos to the memorial, the skies cried. For whatever reason, I chose your son as the soldier I will remember daily until I leave this earth. I am so touched by the memories shared here. Of course, when I decided I would keep Marcus in my memory, I had no idea of what kind of man he was. What a loss to his family, friends, and community.
My condolences to all who miss him."
Lori of Corpus Christi,TX

"LCPL Marcus M. Cherry,
Yesterday evening I came across a vehicle that was parked outside the Fitness Center where I work and noticed a sign of sorts on the back window. Upon closer observation I realized it was a small however, endearing tribute dedicated to your memory. It touched my heart in ways no words could begin to describe. You made the ultimate sacrifice by giving your life for the freedom of many of thousands of Americans and for that, I am eternally grateful. Even for a veteran such as myself need little reminders such as this to take a minute out of each and every day to remember our true fallen heroes... The men and women of our Armed Forces. Once again... Thank You LCPL Marcus M. Cherry. God Bless You and God Bless America."
Dave M. Mersino USN(Ret) of El Centro, CA.

"Dear Marcus today we went to your grave.We all had a good feeling that you were a great guy.We've never met you but were proud you served our country. =) THANK YOU!"
Tania11,Mario12,Bobby6, of San Diego,CA

"Hey Marcus, I remember watching you play football as my father and I announced it on the radio. Your contribution to this country, making the ultimate sacrifice, makes me proud to have been in the same school as you. I wish I could have gotten to know you, because so many people I've spoke to have so many good things to say about you - if half of it is true, I know you're up there with the Big Guy. God bless you, man."
anon of Imperial, CA

"I am really sorry for all of the families of all the soldiers that have died or are away from home.."
Breanna of MN

"hey there marcus we had a beautiful memorial for you yesterday and your church...i know you were smiling down on all of us at Christ Community and proud that because of you so many people joined in the worship to praise the Lord for everything he has given us....i just wanted to stop by and say hi...i miss you marcus cherry can't wait to see you again one day..."
Heather C. of Imperial

"It's been a year Marcus. We'll never forget you. God Bless ya'! Semper Fi Marine."
Chrissy of USA!

"Marcus was a very enthusiastic kid when I went to high school with him. He was a lower classmen and was happy, friendly, and had a great voice. My condolences to his familiy and to his closer friends. Peace and Love,"
Reyna of Imperial, Ca

"I proudly wear a Fallen Hero bracelet bearing the name Lance Cpl Marcus M. Cherry. You will remain with me forever. To the family of Lance Cpl Cherry....you are in my thoughts and prayers. Your sons sacrifice will never be forgotten. He will live on in our family."
Mrs. W. F. Lloyd , spouse of SFC Ret, W. Lloyd USAMP of Baltimore MD

"Marcus I'm so sad you had to leave us.I remember hangin out with you and your brother andre in san diego spending the night at your guys place.I miss rollerblading or just lauging around joking man.marcus one thing I know you could make anybody do is laugh and thats what I like about you.You and your brother andre were tight and thats how I feel towards you like another brother.I'm so glad that I got to live with you in el'cento at least I got to hang out with you and your brother someone to spend time with.There is no word that can describe how much I wish you were still on this so called earth with the war still going on but I wish you were becuse I love you and I'm sure your brother misses you too I know that everybody misses you.ALl though we know your in the big sky with god having agood time looking over all of us and thinking i:m in a better place its alright everbody.To aunt jennifer,monique,steven,andre and uncle jim I'm so sorry this had to happen with marcus ANd I hope one day you guys will be happy and say marcus was just meant to be in heaven with god and he is cherising everymoment of life lilke he was doing just here on earth.I love you guys.RIP,marcus cherry. tlc yor cousin johnny castillo."
johhny castillo of el,cajon,ca

"Marcus, I want to thank you for what you have done for us. I knew you were special since the moment I met you. I will never forget you and what you mean to me. You were there for me and made my days as a senior fun when I felt uncomfortable. I love you Marcus and I hope you knew that when you were here. I am so sorry I didnt say bye, I didnt want to accept that you were really leaving. When I heard what had happened to you I broke down inside, you were something special on this earth that was taken to soon. you were a one in million friend. I love you. I dont even want to stop because I feel like Im talking to you.I will never forget you and I hope you havent forgotten about me. Good bye "Sisqo". love, your "sweet lady"."
2003 friend of Imperial, CA

"Hey Cherry....its me Cheeto...haha remember when u gave me that nickname??? well anyways its been 9 months...and i'm still missin' u man. I still remember the good times we had at school in the hallways jokin' w/ eachother. You were such an awesome person and u always made me smile...the football team won DML for you this year marcus...i know you're proud! I could just see u up there in heaven beggin' God to let u watch every game no matter wut haha....its still weird knowing that u aren't here w/ us anymore...still can't believe that you are gone...but i know u are up there smilin' down and watchin' out for every one of us down here! well I love ya and miss ya...be our gaurdian angel Marcus and thank God for blessing us w/ the 18 years we got to share with you..."
Heather "Cheeto" of Imperial, Ca

"Marcus,
I never really knew you but my family did. see, my brother played pop warner football with you w/ u and also cause i was in cheer with ur sister monique.Id always see u @ her cheerleading compeitions and u are such a great brother.I always will know u for ur great goregous smile and personality, and singing and thats how i remeber you. You are truly special on earth and i loveu and miss u! You will never be forgotten . The whole wide world dont mean a thing if we aint got u w/ us mrcus.RIP MarcusCherry.""
loved friend of Imperial California

"Marcus,
I never really knew you but my family did. see, my brother played pop warner football with you w/ ur great gorgous smile and personality and thats how i remeber you. You are truly special on earth and i loveu and miss u! You will never be forgotten . The whole wide world dont mean a thing if we aint got u w/ us mrcus.RIP MarcusCherry."
loved friend of Imperial California

"Hey Marcus, what can I say. Its been along time since we've last spoke. I always picture you in my mind, coming to our (RSS El Centro)poolee meetings. You use to tell me you couldnt wait for the day you stopped working at that doctors office. We always talked about Marine Corps and how you couldnt wait to become a Marine. You were always motivated. GySgt Rocha and I were proud that you were one of our best Poolees. I always knew you would be a Outstanding Marine. Save a place in Heaven for one of your Recruiters. GutierrezC@15MEU.usmc.mil"
GySgt Gutierrez Jr. Camilo of Brawley, Ca ---currently deployed

"Thank you Marcus, you are that bright star that we see sparkling overhead at night. Semper Fi Marine"
Jim, Margie Shaw and family of Pasadena, Maryland

"Marcus it has been almost eight months now sense we all heard the unbelievable news of your passing. Yesterday would have been your nineteenth birthday, which should have been a day of joy and celebration... In a way it was a day to celebrate, we celebrate your life and what you have accomplished. Knowing that you are in heaven looking over us gives us a reason to smile when we think of you. I look at your pictures every day, you, your mom, Andre, Monique and Stephen. I feel at home when I look at the pictures with all of you in them. You guys have always been family to me. Through all the years we've know each other and everything I've been through, you have ALL always been there for me. I only wish that I could be as great of a person as Genevieve, Andre and yourself have all become. You all have so much strength, I especially don't know how your mom does it with all that she has been through. I pray for you all every day. It is still extremely hard for me to concept the fact that you are not coming home, when I look at your pictures and see your georgous smile it brings a warm feeling over me. I know you're not really gone, you are with us all every day.
You could not have known how many lives you touched during your short time here. The number of lives that you changed with your smile, your words, and your actions is unknown because you touched so many peoples lives all over the world. Your mom and Andre have been so strong through all of this. They must get thier strengh from you. When I read the letters to you in the paper yesterday... It was so hard to get through them, Andre's letter to you especially was so touching it had me crying three words into it. Watch over him especially he needs to feel your spirit with him.
I remember when you two were younger always goofing around together or singing in your room. That is besides when the two of you were taking turns chasing Stephen around the theater on base or dragging him away from the smack bar. Not a day goes by that you are not thought of by all your friends and family. You left us all with so many memories that will keep your spitit alive forever. You will NEVER be forgotten Marcus. We all love you and miss you so much, watch over us. And thank the Lord for giving me(us) the chance to know you Marcus... You are forever in our hearts, Love, Hollie"
Hollie Arnaiz of Imperial, Ca

"Ms. King and family, I saw your interview with Chris Matthews on MSNBC this evening, 26 Nov 04. I am a former Marine from 2/7 out in 29 Palms, now living in New York. My condolences to your family in the loss of your son. It is comforting to know that he IS in heaven, enjoying the glory of the Lord for the rest of eternity. May the God of all comfort continue to give you peace and strength. God bless you and keep you, may His face shine upon you, and may you feel His love and His presence, as you did with Marcus, all the days of your life. Semper fi."
Kurt Michaelson of Cortlandt Manor, New York, USA

"Marcus, although I did not know you well I still knew that you were a great person with a wonderful heart. You are dearly missed by everyone... God bless you and your family. You are truly a hero.... Many prayers and love to you in heaven and your family..."
Jackie Gomez of El Centro, CA

"Hey marcus,
I miss you so much and now I now the meaning when people say I'll never know how much you miss a person intill their gone. It took me me a long time to face the fact that your gone.it's so hard to belive.now I wish I could of seen you more. I miss everything about you but your smile and the funny things you do are geting harder to remember.there are so much going on but I don't even want to be here anymore. The family is growing apart and the holidays are not just the same anymore,it's people like you that made the day so special. I just wish that I could go back in time and change things. It makes me feel good when I listen to your CD.I almost cry but knowjust about every word. All I can do is to keep living on and maybe one day people will listen to you and your friend wise words and have a "holy ghost party cuz the holy ghost party don't stop""
breauna of el cajon

"I didn't know Marcus but he is greatly missed, I lost my brother-in law in November 2003.We love you and you are deeply missed."
Antoinette Brooks of Stone Mountain, Georgia

"hey Marcus,
you know i really missed not seeing you at graduation when i went to visit Cali, but you were always and will always be in my heart. i'm so glad i got to be a part of your life and you being a big part of my life. we will all miss you, i love you, keep smilin, and singin'!"
Sully Ojeda of Imperial, CA/El Paso, TX

"marcus will be truly missed by everyone who knew him. i had the privilege of knowing him since the 6th grade. i remember going on a whale watching trip with our 6th grade class like it was yesterday. he wore jeans and a navy blue zip hoodie which didnt stand out as much as his radiant smile... i cherish the pictures and the letters you sent and i cant wait until the day we meet again. you will never be forgotten. i love you and miss you."
erin of san diego, ca

"Hey Marcus,
I know you're singing w/ those angels. lol. Keep our boys safe.Miss ya,hon. "Cherry on the carry""
Colbi Bonillas of Imperial, Ca

"Dear Cherry, Man it is so hard knowing that you are gone. Just 6 months ago i was there fight right next to you. All of 2/4 misses you. I wish that I could have gotten to know you better. The one thing that I do is that your where one hell of a good Marine and most importantly a great friend. You motavated all of us everyday. Im happy that i got to meet you and serve next to you. Rest in peace Marine
Semper FI"
Lcpl. Chris J Robins of 2nd battion 4th Marines Camp Pendleton

"Thank You Sir Marcus for making the world a better a place to stay. I really appreciate your generosity.
Love and Respect,
Amanda Cruz, age 13"
Amanda Cruz of Long Beach CA United States

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

"Semper Fi Devil Dog say Hi to my nephew Erik Silva brother. Orah!"
Sergio Hernandez of Holtville, CA / USA

"TO THE FAMILY OF MARCUS CHERRY, YOUR FAMILY IS IN OUR PRAYERS. MAY GOD BLESS YOU."
ROBERT THOMAS & FAMILY of IMPERIAL,CA

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

"I feel like you're still alive and you're just away in Iraq. I don't think I'll ever except the fact that you're not coming home and going to my sister and joeys' house with Shannon. I'm so sorry Marcus when the last time you came home I didn't spend time with you and Shannon. You were a very good friend to me, you were always there when I needed to talk to someone who would give their honest opinion. You were there for me when I needed a ride somewhere. It didn't matter where it was, you would always give me a ride. I will always remember you and the times we had together. Even though you're gone now I wouldn't take back the times we had and our close friendship. I'll miss you and think about you everyday of my life until we meet eachother again. Watch after Shannon help her get through this hard time. Let her know in her dreams that you'll always be with her and you'll meet again some day. Thank you for being such a good friend."
Brittany Jaime of Imperial, CA. USA

"I feel like you're still alive and you're just away in Iraq. I don't think I'll ever except the fact that you're not coming home and going to my sister and joeys' house with Shannon. I'm so sorry Marcus when the last time you came home I didn't spend time with you and Shannon. You were a very good friend to me, you were always there when I needed to talk to someone who would give their honest opinion. You were there for me when I needed a ride somewhere. It didn't matter where it was, you would always give me a ride. I will always remember you and the times we had together. Even though you're gone now I wouldn't take back the times we had and our close friendship. I'll miss you and think about you everyday of my life until we meet eachother again. Watch after Shannon help her get through this hard time. Let her know in her dreams that you'll always be with her and you'll meet again some day. Thank you for being such a good friend."
Brittany Jaime of Calipat, CA. USA

"To the family of Marcus M. Cherry. Your son was obviously a braver man than any of his age. That is something to be prowd of for the remainder of your years. I pray that you may reunite and see your son someday. My condolences. God Bless."
London of Fresno,CA

"to the family of marcus cherry your son died a hero and so did my son that day PFC CHRISTOPHER R COBB chris spoke highly of marcus and told me marcus was his friend in camp pendleton and also in iraq in fact they were roommates both places god bless you all and just remember they are our angels now guarding the gates of heaven god bless you all keep your chins up at all times and just remember they are watching us all now"
sheila cobb of bradenton fla

"to the family of marcus M Cherry my son Lance CPL Kyle D Crowley also died april sixth with the 2/4 marines in ramadi iraq I cry for your loss as well as mine and pray that your grief threw the lord god may hold your memories of your son close to your heart I understand of your torment as my mind is as my heart torn between honor and absense"
mark crowley of san ramon ca 94583

"To the family of Marcus M. Cherry, our thoughts and prayers have been with you all. Your sons sacrifice for our country will never be forgotten. My nephew Pfc. Christopher Cobb was also killed that day. Our hearts are grieving. I have heard Marcus' name so often and seen his picture so many times. Just know that we will pray for your family. We will always miss them, Sincerely, Lori Jefferson"
Lori Jefferson of Sarasota Fl

"HE WHO SHED'S HIS BLOOD WITH ME IS MY BROTHER. SEMPER FI MARINE AND LIVE FOREVER.. SAY HELLO TO ST. PETER FOR ALL OF US"
SSGT VICK of CALIFRONIA, USA

"From one Marine family to another
"Though you cannot always see the bird singing, if you listen with your heart, you can always hear his song.
Though the ones we love may leave life as we know it, in our memory, the love we knew will always carry on." unknown author
Our heart and thoughts are with you at this very sad time. Your precious Marcus will not be forgotten. He was a true American!"
Charles Davis family of Kailua, Hawaii

"To the family and friends of Marcus Cherry I am deeply sorry for your loss, I had the priveledge of meeting this wonderful and talented young man a couple times. You will be greatly missed by the valley, by everyone....and you are loved and cherished and will never be forgotten."
Jackie Gomez of El Centro, Imperial Valley

"Hey Marcus this is matt i just wanted to let you know that i love you bro. im really going to miss you alot. we had some really good times together we was like brothers. i cant believe your gone. you died doing what you wanted and im proud of you i hope you got some of them for me. i love you marcus. Mourn you till i join you."
Matt Mitchell of Imperial, California

"To the family and friends of Lance Corporal Marcus M. Cherry,

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

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. 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. Please register so we can send you
our "Love Stitched Together."

Proud Member Of Marine Comfort Quilt group, and Proud Marine Mom"
Sandra Moudy of Placentia, Ca USA

"To my CBP brother Tyler you are in my prayers in the lost of your son Marcus. Words could never heal the hurt or pain you suffered in the lost of your child but remember your CBP family will be here for you."
D.Hodges of Chicago,IL.

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

"To Marcus' Family:
There aren't words to express the grief we all feel for your loss. May God bless you and watch over you."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"Too young to die. Though I barely knew you, we are still part of this special family. They've taken someone I know that had so much to live for. God bless you and what you've done. Honor, courage, commitment. Thank you. For everyone else: don't ever forget that freedom isn't free, it's because of these ultimate sacrifices we are blessed to have what we have."
LCpl Lizarraga, Elizabeth of Kaneohe Bay, HI/USA

"Our USMC family sends to yours our loving thoughts and prayers and our eternal gratefulness for your son and his service. Thank you. His sacrifice and yours will go with us in our hearts forever."
Shannon L Deese of MCAS New River, NC

"On behalf of the Blanco-Caldas family, we send our sincere condolences. We share the same loss...the same pain. Our prayers are with you and we thank you for your child's bravery & sacrifice.

From the family of Capt. Ernesto M. Blanco-Caldas KIA Iraq 12/28/2003"
Gloria Caldas (his mom) of San Antonio, TX

"Rest in Peace Tufelhunden,Semper Fi
The Taylors
USMC
NC"

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