Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I didn't have the honor of knowing Cpl Dunham but I was in 29 Palms when he was killed and am honored to have served at the sametime in one of his sister battalions. He is a true hero and I can't wait to meet and salute him on the streets of heaven someday. Semper Fidelis brother!"
Jerry Hamman. 1/7 Baker Co. 3rd Platoon 3rd Squad of Chicago, Il

"I am writing an essay for my English class about heroes and i chose Jason as mine. I just pray that my essay will do justice by Jason and really portrays how he was a hero and why he still is one to this day. R.I.P Jason, god received a beautiful noble angel."

"I have to do a project in my history class over a Medal of Honor recipiant and I have been having you on my mind a lot and I just thank God for your bravery and sacrifice! I cant wait to meet you in heaven one day:)"
Monique Marsh of Lindale, Texas/US

"It was truly an honor to hold your hand and provide comfort during your fight to live... and you had some fight left. Without a shadow of doubt, I knew your strength could bring you back to your family. I cannot express my gratitude enough for your dedication, bravery, and sacrifice. Honorable Man, Marine, and Hero.

HM2 (FMF) Rachael A. Stirling
United States Navy Corpsman"
Rachael Stirling of Memphis, Tennessee

"thank u and will never forget u jason kilo 2ndplt."
bart daniels of kenai ak

"Semper Fi Marine ur the one who made me in list im 14 and when i heard about u i called a marine recruiter"
Nicholas Tully

"you are a true american hero R.I.P"

"My thoughts and prayers are with you this Christmas season. I hope there is comfort for your family in knowing that Jason will never be forgotten and that he will continue to touch the lives of many for generations to come. He is loved and remembered by those that never knew him."
K.B. Potter of TN/USA

"To the family and friends of Jason Dunham. Up until a few days ago I never knew he existed. I was asked to write a short research paper about him. He made the ultimate sacrifice to live up to the Corps values (Honor, Courage and Commitment) the things we strive for as soldiers in our Armed Forces. I would like to take a moment to bless his soul and thank him for what he has done."
PV2. Phillips of Fort Sill, Ok

"To the Family of Jason Dunham

I just saw your story on Fox News and it really touched my heart. My boyfriend is a Marine Corp stationed in Iraq right now.
We all worry and pray for our loved one's that are deployed and the thought that they might not come home really hits you when you see a story like this. I will never forget what I saw and I waned you to know how greatful I am for what he did. Hugs to you, I know this is a unbearable loss."
Laura Zolman of Fort Hood, TX

"Heroic thats all one can say heroic......unhuman like great courage and bravery. If I could have meet you it would of been a true honor. I look at you as less than a god but more than a man. Semper fi"
John Landis of Kansas City

"JASON I NEVER KNEW YOU AND I WISH I HAD
YOUR A TRUE HERO AND I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU. I READ THE GIFT OF VALOR AND IT WAS SO GOOD. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY"
KEVIN LAUGHLAN of ONTARIO CANADA

"”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,800 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at Projectcompassion@manti.com or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna"
Project Compassion , Kenna of Manti, Utah USA

"”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,800 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at Projectcompassion@manti.com or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna"
Project Compassion , Kenna of Manti, Utah USA

"Semper Fi Marine rest in peace bro"
josh bradley of waco,tx

"I've read a lot about this fellow Marine! I'm sure he was a great Marine like most are and is in now guarding Heavens gates! Though I didn't know this man I have great respect for him! His family are in my thoughts and prayers!

"Semper Fidelis""
Sadie Fay of Fruita

"Semper Fi Marine...your a true hero"
Sgt. Schuler of Michigan

"Semper Fi Marine"
Sgt Cody Waldroup of Camp Pendleton Ca

"Thank you Cpl Dunham."
Hunter of unknown

"Jason- You are in my thoughts everyday! There is not very many days in which I am not reminded of your heroic actions. You are and always will be a great leader and never forgotten. You deserve this medal- by far! Everyday that I serve, I think of what you did and how much people praise you. You are a great person and will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are always with you."
Amanda Nye of Scio, NY

"im doing a project on jason l duham and he was a great man.:(=sad"
savannah of orang ,ca,usa

"Jason Dunham was my fauster nephew his grandmother was my fauster mom and we had alot of great times together. We love and miss Jason very much and as time goes by we will never forget him. As the aniversery of his death aproches us it makes times harder but we remember the good times and all he has done. Jason always helped others and was a protector I know if he had the chance to go back he wouldn't change a thing because that was the kind of person he was. He always looked out for others.
I love you Jason and miss you very much I look forward to seeing you again.
Miss you
love
aunt shanna"
shanna of Hornell NY

"just thinking of you today we all miss you brother"
R.K.Myatt/USMC of IL

"Thank you for your courage honor and commitment to the corps. semper fi"
Cody of easley,sc,usa

"Speachless brother........ No words can describe the feelings... I am proud to be a fellow Marine."
Corporal Adam Criswell

"Semper Fi Marine"

"Semper Fi Marine"

"To the family of:Jason L. Durham I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart cries out for you in your grief. He died a hero defending freedom and we are so grateful for anyone defending our freedom.
Know that I am praying for the peace of God that surpasses all understanding for you and that one day we will all meet in Heaven where we will rest in the arms of Jesus.
If you need someone to talk to or someone to pray with please call my Pastor at Gateway Community Church, Reverand John Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd Covington Ga. 30016 Phone 770- 787- 1015 (fax)770-787-8215.Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew"

"Li o relato da historia de Jason no livro da Dra. Heidy.
Ele nao parou de lutar, mesmo depois de ferido. Lutou pela vida de seus companheiros e continuou lutando por sua vida, para ficar ao lado de todos que o amavam e amam, sem hesitar.
Isso mostra que ele se tornou valoroso ao longo dos anos, nao apenas pela amizade com os amigos ou pelo amor a  corporation. Tambem pelo amor que recebeu de seus pais e do Deus do Ceu.
Ele aprendeu que cuidar e retribuir o amor nos torna especiais.
Em lugar de matar alguem ele preferiu dar a vida. Esse e um ato que se aprende com o Divino Mestre.
Meus sentimentos a  Fami­lia.
"Nao se cansem de fazer o bem.""
Roberto (robertocruzlma@yahoo.com.br) of Sao Paulo, SP / Brasil

"i am the mother of a 20yr old marine that will be deployed in febuary of 2009 i am very scared for my sons life i cant handle him being deployed. your son was a very brave marine and i feel for you and your family. you are always in my prayers and your son in my heart. may god bless yous always love yous and take care may god bless yous love always a scared mother of a marine stacey hernandez"
stacey hernandez of rocky ford,colorado

"my name is Dan Roth I served with jason at the "Bay" words cannot take away the pain, but I only offer comfort with heart filled thoughts of your son. He was excellent young man. You all should be proud. I can only hope and pray that with time your hearts heal, your tears dry. Jason, thank you for support with all i was going through. I'll never forget our talks and jokes, you paid your dues thank you from the bottom of my heart. I hope to one day continue our talk we got alot of catching up to do.... "semper Fi'"
Dan Roth former marine of st. marys ,Ga.

"Hey brother!
Well happy belated 27th birthday and of course 233rd Marine Corps birthday! I want to tell ya man that i'm back here in 3/7 yet again but with CAAT White this time and we're getting ready to push further west to the border. It still blows my mind that i'm out here 4 years later in the same area in which we all remember so well. My Marines all know your story and i've shown them all on the maps where you gave it all in total disregard for you own life. I want to say thank you again bro, you've inspired so many and have touch the lives of thousands and more. You are a great man and Marine and i hope we're making you proud out here! I love ya brother and keep my seat up there warm, i'll see ya soon! Semper Fi
oh and by the way Dunham Michael Padisak arrived on July 19th 2008! Lets just hope he takes after his mom in the looks department hahah
In your honor my brother!"
SSgt. Michael J. Padisak 3/7 Wpns Co. CAAT White PltSgt of Rawah, Iraq (2008)

"I wish I could have the chance to say thank you a million times to such a hero, but I can't. Until then I will remember the reasons why our country lives in freedom-because of you Cpl Dunham and all of our troops.
Happy Birthday Jason, and Happy Birthday Marine."
Aimee of MKE, WI

"Jason; I just wanted you to know how great of an honor i considered it serving with you. We all called you "baby gunny" because of how huge you were. i knew you when you were with us in 3/4 Kilo Company together, and then you went to 3/7. I am proud to have known you, to have served with you, and to have your memory with me for the rest of my life. I tell your story everyhwere that i go in hopes that people will never forget your name, or greater yet....you're loving sacrafice. I was engaged down near fallujah and didn't even know that you were in country with us. we got in a pretty hairy situation in a city called Kharma, and when we finally were able to medevac our wounded we did. When they returned they said that they had been told by a nurse that you were there and that they had went to see you, but that it didn't look good. When all of us were told about this, we were totally blown away, the area i was in fell silent, and everyone just cussed and went their seperate ways. We all felt a horrible loss with your passing brother, but I can't even imagine what your family was and still is going through. i promise that your memory will be carried on through the years by me, my children, and their childrens children. You're a true hero Jason, good bye man, Sepmer FI
SPC O'Leary, US Army
formerly CPL O'Leary USMC
3/4 Kilo Company "Darkside"
thomas.j.oleary@us.army.mil"
Thomas O'Leary of Morgan City, Utah/ Currently in Afghanistan

"God's speed Jason
Semper Fi
can anyone advise if Jason was realated to W.Dunham Co'F"75th Inf LRRP Viet Nan 68-69 looking for a long time to return some property"
Bill Crozier of WPB Florida

"just read a gift of valor and jason is one of the reasons we should be thankful for being able to live the lives we are fortunate enough to hav in the u.s. jason you make me proud to be a former marine and to know that our marines today are as brave and tough as any in our history. i thank you for your courage and your compassion for your fellow marines. no true words can describe what a hero you really are but that we will remember you in our hearts everyday."
former cpl. steve pierce usmc 80-83 81's 3/3 of east bridgewater ma

"God bless you Jason, and your familly too.

Many of us in Spain and elsewhere in Europe support you. Your cause is our cause, despite our suicide short sighted, corrupt governments."
Alberto Gómez Corona of Madrid, Spain

"Just thinking of you as always bro. See you again at heavens mess night!"
Sgt. Joy of Clark NJ

"I read about Cpl Dunham while researching for my brief on the US Marines for the RAF, he is an inspiration for us all"
Cpl Leighton Hughes of Bridgend, South Wales

"June 2, 2008
To the family of Cpl. Jason L. Dunham:
Jason 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

"On this day, Memorial Day, I read your story again, and watched the videos of your Medal of Honor reception. Thank you Marine"
PFC Peters of US Army

"Semper Fi. You are a hero."
of PA

"I NEVER HAD THE HONOR OF MEETIND YOU BUT I DID HAVE THE HONOR IN HELPING BUILD YOUR DUNHAM'S DEFENSE AT PARRIS ISLAND, YOU ARE A TRUE HERO AND YOUR STORY WILL BE TOLD FOREVER, TO YOU MR. AND MRS. DUNHAM I HAD THE HONOR OF MEETING WITH YOU AT THE OPENING OF DUNHAM'S DEFENSE AT PARRIS ISLAND, AT I CANT SAY ENOUGH THAT YOUR SON IS THE REASON THIS NATION IS FREE, AND HES THE REASON WHY YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN JOIN OUR UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS. SEMPER FI AND THANK YOU JASON"
BRIAN TELINDA JR of CAMP LEJEUNE, NORTH CAROLINA

"Hes a brother like no other and bro i will never forget you. Your in everyones heart and always will be"
Dylan Green of Hornell, NY/USA

"I served with Jason in 2nd platoon Kingsbay security forces prior to him going to CQB. No greater example of a Marine to emulate.

Jason,
Semper Fi says it all. Mr. and Mrs. Dunham you raised a fine man, I am sorry for your loss but grateful for the inspiration he has given to the young people so evident on this site. His contributions will continue to give back to everyone who reads about him. I am happy to know that through his fighting spirit and the 'USS Jason Dunham' he will still be kicking A** and taking names. Semper Fi brother.
Sgt Kurtz
0311
MCSFCo.
2/3
1/23"
Carl Kurtz of Fort Worth TX

"I am 13 and in the program, Young Marines. I love the program and I admire you. You are my hero."
Maria of Austin, Texas

"I am so thankful for your actions in Iraq. I'm 13 and want to be in the Marines and just like you."
Matt of Paterson, NJ

"I read about Corporal Jason Dunham while researching the internet about the Marine Corps. I immediately was hooked to his story. It inspired me to do something great for my country as well. I can only wish I had the pleasure of knowing Jason but after following this story for awhile, I feel like I do know him now. To Dan and Debbie, my deepest sympathy and regrets. Your son was one in a million and gives a new meaning to the word "hero." His name and his story will live on for years and years to not only inspire younger Marines but also younger generations in general. I know that I will not forget him. I hope that we can all look at the selflessness and bravery that Jason demonstrated on that fateful day in April and strive to be the best that we can be. Jason, I hope you are living like a king in Heaven because you certainly proved yourself worthy down here on Earth and I hope that one day I will have the pleasure of shaking your hand. R.I.P. and Semper Fi...you will never be forgotten."
Matt Muckleroy of Beaumont, Texas

"TO THE FAMILY, I AM HONORED TO HAVE SERVED WITH JASON AT KINGS BAY GA. I REMEMBER WHEN HE REPORTED THERE FOR DUTY. HE WAS AN OUTSTANDING MARINE. I COULDN'T HAVE ASKED FOR A BETTER ONE. I AM DEEPLY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.YOU ALL ARE AND WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY PRAYERS.

TO JASON, EVERYTIME I THINK ABOUT THE SACRFICE YOU MADE IT MAKES ME PROUD. I AM VERY SAD THAT YOUR NOT HERE WITH US IN PERSON BUT YOU ARE HERE IN SPIRIT. IT HAS TAKEN ME A LONG TIME TO LEAVE A MESSAGE ON THIS SITE BECAUSE IT SADDENS ME. ONEDAY WE ALL WILL STAND TOGETHER GUARDING THE GATES OF HEAVEN. SEMPER FI MY FRIEND SEMPER FI.



FORMER, SSGT/USMC/0369"
HAROLD BARGERON of FERNANDINA BCH, FL

"Semper Fidelis my brother I hope to fight by your side in Heaven"
Motivated Marine of Camp Pendleton, Ca

"I thank god everyday that there are Marines like Cpl. Dunham. I do not know if I would sacrifice myself the way he did. But I shall honor my fallen brother till the day I die. God speed and Semper Fidelis RIP Cpl. it was not in vein we Marines are brothers and if I were in the same position I hope that I could do the same to save my fellow Marines."
Pvt. Stutsman of San Diego, Ca/US

"May you rest in peace Jason Dunham!"
Susan Summers of Chicago,Illinios

"SEMPER FI BROTHER GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY"
JUST A GRUNT of POUGHKEEPSIE NY

"Jason I think of you everyday and will always remember you. I'm so sorry that you are gone, I wish I could go back in time and change the way everything happened and maybe things would be different now. I will always miss you and think of you."
Jennifer of St. Mary's, GA

"to the Dunham family i am deeply sorry for your lose. There is no good way to make up for the lose of a life. He was a good man, a good son, brother, cousin, relative, friend and everything else that this Marine qaulifies for. I will never forget the sacrifice made by a small town kid that grew up to be the best and most honored man in the history of New York and also the Marine Corps. my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family and also with Cpl Dunham. SEMPER FI. RIP"
PFC Guiliani (USMC) of Lewiston, NY USA

"I am am truely honored to have served in the Marine Corps 1986-1992. Cpl Dunham lived the life all of us did, love your fellow Marine I have always been proud of my service but reading Cpl Dunham's story makes me more proud. He is a hero and I am sorry for his loss. When I reach heavens gates I will be honored to walk with him and guard heavens gates. Semper Fi Marine you are loved by many veterens of many wars."
Cpl R. Pesch of East Grand Froks MN USA

"rah.
thank you for all you did and what you are still showing us today. you truly are an inspiration to all. thank you again and even though i dont know you on a personal level, i still love you. RIP Jason, you will be missed"
Lauren of Annapolis (USNA)

"Thank you for your service Jason, you are a true American hero and thank you Mr and Mrs Dunham for raising your son the way you did Jason. God bless you all."
Dave of Western NY,

"What a beautiful, brave, happy boy/man! What a gift of life he gave up for God and country. What grief for you, not to see his smile in this life again. We hold him in our hearts with you."
Dolores Madlener of Chicago, IL, USA

"For the family of Cpl Dunham I will always have you and others like you in my prayers and as for Cpl Dunham "Semper Fi MARINE""
Sgt John McNeill of Charleston SC

"Jason,
You and your fellow Marines inspired us to write a song of Marine Corps Valor to showcase all Fallen Marines.

My friend, Cpl. Chad Van Rys, USMC, that I met in Ramadi, Iraq cut the song for us.

"And They All Came Home But Me(Once A Marine)" is on My Space at Ramadiroad.
http://www.myspace.com/ramadiroad

Lyrics and the story behind the song are on http://www.ramadiroad.com

Respectfully,
Kirk Wesley Boland

Southeast Of Nashville Records
Full Metal Jacket Music, ASCAP"
Kirk W. Boland of Smoaks, SC

"Jay, it was an honor to have you as my squad leader, friend, and brother. You will never be forgotten. Thanks for watching over us on our last deployment to Ramadi. Too many close calls, but you were always there for us. We will see you walking the streets of Heaven when our time is right. Deb and Dan, thank you for raising Jason to be the person he was. I wish everyone had a friend or brother like him. To the rest of the Dunham family, we love you all and will be in our prayers. Love ya and miss ya Jay. Semper FI!"
Sgt Dean, Mark E, USMC 3/7 Kilo 4thplt 2nd sqd of The great USA God Bless

"Jason your were always a good friend and an awesome leader. Your actions will never go unknown and unforgotten. Watch over your fellow brothers and R.I.P"
CPL. NELSON O. BRIONES of 29 PALMS, CA.

"R.I.P Cpl Dunham, what you did took a lot of courage you are a hero. Semper Fi my brother"
Cpl Luis of Okinawa, Japan

"CPL JASON DUNHAM SEMPER FIDELIS WARRIOR"
CPL DANIEL AYLER of TONAWANDA N.Y / CHERRY POINT N.C.

"Cpl Jason Dunham, Semper Fi Marine"
Joe Wooley; MSgt USMC Ret. of Buffalo, New York

"Cpl. Dunham, at a loss for words all i can say is Semper Fi. i served i Iraq with you and your company. I was regretfully on the base at the time everything ocurred. You are a leader now just as you were back then. Great person, Great Marine. you will not be forgotten. Semper Fi"
Lcpl Marcus A. Addis of Iraq

"Cpl Dunham, you are the type of Marine I aspire to be everyday...you are my inspiration and motivation. The Corps needs more leaders like you. Orrah, Semper Fidelis"
Lcpl Izadi of Okinawa, Japan

"I have and will not ever respect any man more than you for you have showed amazing courage and bravery and you put others before yourself i myself am only 14 i greatly admire you i would have enjoyed knowing you Rest In Peace Jason L. Dunham"
Janzen Glahn-Janatka of Southbury, Ct

"Semper Fi... I do not know if we met. But I do know you are the Marine I aspire to be."
Pvt. Brett M Iversen of Centerport, New York

"Life starts and we die somehow. You are never forgotten from the hearts and soul of mines. Thank you and Semper Fi."
Ledonia Norrise of LV,Nevada

"Semper Fi Leatherneck! God Bless you!"
Cpl. Wood of Dallas, TX

""Semper Fidelis, Marine, rest in peace for the Corps is proud of you. A group where, as ever, uncommon valor is a common virtue." Gone but not forgotton Brother."
Cpl Ventris of 29 Palms

"An example to us all...Jason has showed us the true virtue of a hero."
George of Ny,Ny

"I will tell people about your heroism. You make me proud to be a MARINE! Rest in peace, brother."
CPL. Santamaria of Daly City, CA

"Well I only Jason from the sports in our home county. The greatest memory I have of a hero like him is the day that he hit 4 homeruns off me in a single baseball game."
JM of Belfast,NY

"As a Navy Chief Petty Officer, it will be an honor to have USS Dunham in the fleet in the future. Every day that ship will be a tribute to your memory and honor. Thank You for all you did for us all, Cpl Dunham. You will never be forgotten."

"i was deployed in iraq when he was and i remember the story from word of mouth around the base and i remember the words that were spoken about the bravery of this one soul and even today after three deployments i dont tell my marines my story i tell them his. if you ask why, its because when the world cries out for help these are the men who answer and i am proud to have even existed amongst these great soldiers and awed by their sacrafice. rest in peace brother we walk in your footsteps and will fight the good fight. SEMPER FI"
vasquez of cali

"I personally did not know Jason, but my mother did. She used to babysit him when he was just a baby. So it goes to show you, we're all connected in one way or another. And I for one will NEVER forget his ultimate sacrifice so that I, my family, you and your family may live in freedom. Thank You Jason. And to those he left behind, you have my deepest sympathy for your loss."
Dave Dickerson of Mississippi, United States

"To the family of:Jason L. Durham 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"

"Dear cpl. dunham i feel like right now im talking to you and youll get this message im very gratefull for what you sacrificed in this war and im sorry you had to do it...my dad right now is in iraq and said to me he'll be back for me sometimes i think different i want you to keep him safe please i need to know his safe i haven't talked to him for now 3 months but rest in peace and thank you and im sure america thanks you too"
john ramos of puyallup,washington

"You will not have died in vain. God bless you, Corporal, and may God assuage your family's grief."
Richard Meade of Bayside, NY

"You will not have died in vain. God bless you, Corporal, and may God assuage your family's grief."
Richard Meade of Bayside, NY

"Seems that I know this young man as i work on a condolence book for his family. He was very special. No greater love can anyone find than this! He proved his love. I am sure there's a great reward for him in heaven."
Ruth Pugh of Vicksburg, Ms. USA

"For serving this country God will reward you greatly..."
Shakira of North Carolina

""NO GREATER LOVE". I'm a seminarian and was in the United States Navy. I heard about Jason Dunham and was totally moved about his actions. This youngman literally lived the Christ's commands.......of total self giving LOVE. God has put him amongst those men who lived love and died loving his brethren.......he shines amongst the stars of the firmament of Heaven.........forever."
Albert Romero of Denver, Colorado.

"rest in peace jason"
joe and lynda of poconos, pa.

"To the family of Cpl Dunham we will always have you and others like you in our prayers and as for Cpl dunham Semper Fi MARINE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Cpl Brashears of Camp Lejeune, NC

"SEMPER FI MARINE"
TC of Yakima,WA

"dessert storm 1 vet loved the book miss the brother.SEMPER FI see everyone soon when we regroup with jason a great marine and man"
sean murphy of wareham ma usa

"Semper Fi Marine"
Steve Hogan of Youngstown, Ohio

"Semper Fi - Marine - Thank You for your thoughtful actions - I wish that you were here for us to Thank in Person."
Joseph Zieminski of Philadelphia, PA

"I was one of his platoon commanders earlier in Cpl Dunhams career. His sacrifice is honorable to be sure. He is the 5th Marine I've lost (before or after they've left my command) and I am getting tired of it. Bush needs to pull us out of Iraq NOW. Oil is a sad reason to lose people like Cpl Dunham. I can't stand to bear losing one more Marine that I've known."
Major Guy (retired) of Jacksonville, NC

""An American we should all look up to. Well done Jason, well done.""
Mark P of Little Silver, NJ USA

"We are sorry for your loss. We thank Jason and your family for your patriotism and service.

My wife lost a cousin in 1968, fighting in Dodge City, Vietnam. He was from the 7th Marines, 3rd Battalion, Kilo Company. We are proud of what he did for the USA.

Now, we are proud of your son!

God Bless you."
Doug Smith of Madison, CT

"Thank you so much, for teaching us a great lesson. Life is the greatest gift we can offer anyone. By giving yours, we can continue to enjoy ours. Thank you "J"...you'll never be forgotten."
Ralph of Schweinfurt, Germany

"Semper Fidelis, Marine, rest in peace for the Corps is proud of you. A group where, as ever, uncommon valor is a common virtue."
Byron Quick of Waynesboro, Georgia, USA

"This is what it means to be an American. We are overwhelmed."
Gabriel & Pilar & Shane Espinosa of Monticello, New York, USA

"When someone sacrifices himself in this way for the good of others, no matter what the circumstances are, such act enriches the whole of Mankind, far beyond the immense value that was lost with that sacrifice. My respects to the family and friends of Marine Cpl. Jason Dunham. His bravery and selflessness reaches way beyond space and time."
Luis M. of Porto, Portugal

"Corporal Jason Dunham's actions are the basis of what the United States Marine Corps is all about, caring more about your brothers in arms than yourself and making the ultimate sacrifice in their honor, Iam honored to be a former Marine and see that there is still Marines out there that are keeping the highest traditions alive. Semper fidelis Cpl Dunham and God Speed."
Former Sgt Kevin R Armstrong-Bronze Star Recipient Desert Storm of Anchorage, Alaska

"Wow. What can you say? Words don't describe how I felt when I read the story of Jason Dunham. What an amazing, selfless act...I bet if you asked him, he'd say he was just doing his duty and protecting his fellow warriors, but to all of us, he is the definition of a hero. My heart goes out to his family and just know that his sacrifice has inspired many to be better people...better Americans. I know that's what it has done for me."
K. Mann of Salt Lake City, UT

"The President of the United States in the name of The Congress takes pride in presenting the MEDAL OF HONOR posthumously to

CORPORAL
JASON L. DUNHAM
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a Rifle Squad Leader, 4th Platoon, Company K, Third
Battalion, Seventh Marines (Reinforced), Regimental Combat Team 7, First Marine
Division (Reinforced), on 14 April 2004. Corporal Dunham's squad was conducting a reconnaissance mission in the town of Karabilah, Iraq, when they heard rocket-propelled grenade and small arms fire erupt approximately two kilometers to the west.
Corporal Dunham led his Combined Anti-Armor Team towards the engagement to provide fire support to their Battalion Commander's convoy, which had been ambushed as it was traveling to Camp Husaybah. As Corporal Dunham and his Marines advanced, they quickly began to receive enemy fire. Corporal Dunham ordered his squad to dismount their vehicles and led one of his fire teams on foot several blocks south of the ambushed convoy. Discovering seven Iraqi vehicles in a column attempting to depart, Corporal Dunham and his team stopped the vehicles to search them for weapons. As they approached the vehicles, an insurgent leaped out and attacked Corporal Dunham. Corporal Dunham wrestled the insurgent to the ground and in the ensuing struggle saw the insurgent release a grenade. Corporal Dunham immediately alerted his fellow Marines to the threat. Aware of the imminent danger and without hesitation, Corporal Dunham covered the grenade with his helmet and body, bearing the brunt of the explosion and shielding his Marines from the blast. In an ultimate and selfless act of bravery in which he was mortally wounded, he saved the lives of at least two fellow Marines. By his undaunted courage, intrepid fighting spirit, and unwavering devotion to duty, Corporal Dunham gallantly gave his life for his country, thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service."

"Jason Dunham was a true hero. He made the ultimate sacrifice to save the lives of others. I will always remember this story, and use it as a lesson each and everyday. May God bless him and his family."
Samantha of Texas

"God bless your family. I am grateful for your sacrifice and made even more proud to be American."
Damien S. of Clinton, WA

"I am grateful that this man once lived, and I am grateful to the parents who raised such a fine American."
Sheila of Mesa, AZ

"JASON IS GONE TO THE GREAT PARADE GROUND IN THE SKY. TO THOSE MARINES THAT HE SAVED, YOU HAVE RECIEVED A GREAT GIFT, USE THIS GIFT WISELY, USE IT TO MAKE THIS WORLD A BETTER PLACE, A MORE PEACEFUL PLACE. TO JASONS PARENTS AND LOVED ONES, THANK YOU FOR YOUR GREAT SACRAFICE, YOU WILL SEE YOUR JASON AGAIN, HE IS IN A MUCH BETTER PLACE. (PLEASE PRAY WITH ME) LORD GOD, PLEASE ACCEPT JASON INTO THE CITY OF GOLD, HE THOUGHT MORE OF THE LIVES OF HIS FELLOW MARINES THAN HE DID OF HIS OWN, JESUS SAID TO GIVE ALL THAT YOU HAVE TO THE POOR, JASON GAVE EVERYTHING, NOW HE SHOULD BE WITH JESUS, AMEN."
ART T. of HERNANDO FL. U.S.A.

"Jason represents the best of America. His sacrafice will always be remembered. Jasons death was not in vain. Marines will honor his memory forever. God Bless Jason, his family and the brave members of our miltary family."
Keith Derby of Yoktown, VA

"Thank you for your great sacrifice. May God bless you in Heaven and reward you for you unselfishness here on earth. I thank you for helping ensure our countries freedom. I will pray for your family and for God to give them the strength to endure and overcome. God bless you, and God Bless America! The Home of the Brave!!"
Matt of Stephenville, TX

"Having learned of Jason's great service to his country and to his fellow Marines, I would like to share my sincerest gratitude and condolences with Jason's family and friends. Truly, these Marines are an inspiration towards the America which we are all so honored to be a part of. Thank you Jason."
Phillip of Chicago

"Honor for this brave marine who was fighting for our freedom.
God bless him and his family
Rest in Peace"
Werner Stenzig of Spain

"Jason and family-I will thank God in my prayers for you, for your selfless service to your family and your country. Know that your extended military family will take care of you through their commitment to maintain the high standards that you exemplify. Having met other young Marines I can tell you that your sacrifice isn't alone-that others take seriously the promises they have made to keep us safe. My dad served in 3 wars, and every time an F15Eagle flies overhead, or the convoy comes down the road, or a truck loaded with soldiers goes to the field, I realize just how many sacrifices it does take to keep this country free. I pray that my children will honor this gift of freedom. Col Bud Day from the Viet Nam era often reminds us that he would have never survived Hanoi without the Lord.Mr and Mrs Dunham-Jason is free now-look forward to meeting in the skies, when we will be forever with the Lord."
L Helms of Eglin AFB, FL

"Jason, I cannot begin to convey my appreciation and love for the bravery you displayed. As an American living abroad, who often has to deal with anti-American, anti-war comments, you have made me so PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN. Thank you and God Bless you. To your parents, while I extend my deepest sympathies, I also wish you to know how proud all of America is that you have raised such a wonderful son whose loyalty goes above and beyond."
Diane Davis of Hobart Tasmania Australia

"The Freedom Fund has sent countless packaages to our Marines over the last 5 years. I wonder if Jason ever received a small token of the love and respect we have for him and all the heroes who are facing unimaginable conditions every day. Each death is a stone on my heart, but we all will die, but few of us in a manner so selflessly and heriocly as this young Marine. God bless him, his family, and all our soldiers. And we will continue to send much-needed love and support to our troops while they are in harm's way. With great sympathy, Beth Friese"
The Freedom Fund -Beth Friese of Burlington, VT 05408

""Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends," John 15:13

Semper Fi, Jason"
T.W. Kish, USMC 1968-1970 of Fernandina Beach, FL

"I just heard NPR's All Things Considered interview with Jason's mother and father. I'd like to say thanks to them for all they have sacrificied as well as say to Jason, personally, that I will ALWAYS remember your story and the gift you have given us: our freedom. No matter if one is FOR the war or AGAINST the war, I'm FOR Jason Dunham and those who have also fallen or been injured. God Bless you all..."
Sandy O. of Long Beach, CA

""No greater love...." This message is for CPL Dunham's parents-you are in my prayers; your son died a hero-and many American grief with you, at the loss of a wonderful human being and an outstanding American. God Bless you."
Veronica Carter of Leland, NC

"Thank you, Jason."
Jubal of Modesto

"The defintion of hero is you! From the bottom of my heart I say thank you for your sacrifice and service to our nation. Can one man make a difference... I believe the answer is yes. Rest in peace noble solider."
James S. Huntington Beach, CA

"We will remember Jason as a true hero. Thank you from the civilized world."
Dr. Peter Schade of Germany

"To the parents of Jason:

I am a father to two wonderful step kids both in college and I sometimes wonder if they realize the sacrifices that others have made to give them the wonderful lives they have? I have been greatly concerned for sometime that youth in this country seem to think that the great country we have was a stroke of luck and not a deliberate act by many individuals, few as brave as your son.

No words can express the awe I feel reading about the bravery of Jason and the pride I feel for you knowing you raised such a heroic child. His actions make me feel less concerned for the world we're living in and fills me with great hope that our children will carry on the greatness and sacrifice that is required to continue on as the greatest nation this world has ever seen. God bless you and thank you for your sacrifice."
Dale of Calif

"Wow. I am humbled and awed by the actions of Corporal Dunham. He willingly stood in defense of his comrades, his family and his country. He did it for me and for you.

Amazing love.
How can it be,
that you my friend
would die for me?

Thank you and Semper Fi, Jason. Thanks and condolences to the Dunham family- may God supply ALL of your needs."
Ray Scioscia, a grateful American of Brooklyn, New York

"Wow. I am humbled and awed by the actions of Corporal Dunham. He willingly stood in defense of his comrades, his family and his country. He did it for me and for you.

Amazing love.
How can it be,
that you my friend
would die for me?

Thank you and Semper Fi, Jason. Thanks and condolences to the Dunham family- may God supply ALL of your needs."
Ray Scioscia, a grateful American of Brooklyn, New York

"Jason;
This is one old Grand Father that can’t just say thank you, its not enough. Our God put you here as a special person. First you brought joy to your family and friends, and now you gave your all, you saved your friends.
Mom and Dad your Sons name will always be with me.
Each time I see my grand son Josh Dunham,; Jason will be remembered.
I have four, just in their twenties grand sons.
As I pray for my family, I will think of you, your son and all the rest of our young people that is protecting our U.S.A.
So Long
J. W. Dunham"
J. W. dunham of Denham Springs Louisiana

"I am stunned by your bravery and wonder if I could have acted under the same circumstance. You were an angel on earth and God always calls them home first. We were blessed to have you and your courage for a brief time. Thank you... from the bottom of my heart, thank you."
Heather of San Antonio, TX

"God Bless You"
ann of indiana

"I salute your bravery. The world will hopefully be a better place because of guys like you. God bless"
Andy Mizen, SO 12 police officer of London

"GOD BLESS JASON L. DUNHAM AND HIS FAMILIY.WE ARE BLESSED TO HAVE MENS SUCH AS HE
GOD BLESS AMERICA"
COL USA RET ALBERT WHITE of WEST BATH, ME USA

"I'm so grateful to you and yours for the sacrifice you made. Our Country is better because of Jason. Love and God Bless to his family, you must be so proud to have been part of his life.
God Bless America"
Pat McMahon of Oak Ridge NJ

"I am not a US citizen, but I strongly pry for this Hero, and for his family, so proved by this neverending war."
Mino of Milano, Italy

"Dunham Family,
I received the distinct honor of being your official photographer for the Medal presentation at the White House and the events later in the day. I had the opportunity to visit the website at jasonsmemorial.org and I can tell from those images and the time that I spent with you that day, that you are a very tight and supportive family, much like my own. It was truly, my pleasure and honor, to have made your acquaintance. I hope that the images that I was able to capture will be a token to the character of and sacrifice made by your son."
Petty Officer 1st Class Rob Rubio of Arlington, Virginia

"Dear Dunham Family,
I am grieved by your loss of Jason, but at the same time made proud by his sacrifice made in love to his fellow Marines. He is an inspiration to us all."
Bob Bowers of Vancouver, WA

"To Marine Corporal Jason Dunham,
May God bless you, and your family. Your heroism on the fateful day will never be forgotten by my self and a grateful Nation.
They say that the WWII generation “Was the Greatest Generation” but what you showed that day, is that your generation and every generation has its greatest. From deep in my heart, I thank you!"
Former MEANG Sergeant Terry A. White of Hermon, ME

"I have seen the story regarding Marine Cpl Jason Dunham. It is truely an honor as an american citizen to realize that this calibar individual was out there protecting my children. Many americans don't realize its fight them there or fight them here. God Bless this mans family and the family of all those that fight today and espically those that have paid the ultimate price."
Ricky of Tennessee

"What is it, Jason? John 15:13? No greater love than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. That you did, son, that you did. Enjoy the real life that has now begun with God."
SL Evans of Studio City, California

"For your sacrifice, I salute you. I will carry your name around with me, the rest of my life. You are my HERO! Vietnam, '67."
Richard L. Kerr of Kingman, AZ

"Dan and Deb,
What courage it took to address the media after the moving presentation by President Bush ,on behalf of a grateful nation, to honor your son Jason. In the days ahead you two will be some of greatest advocates of support for Jason's buddies. Jason would have been proud of his family today! My family will not forget your sacrifice and the lesson we have learned from your son!
God Bless you!
Steve and Elaine Maddox
Dallas,Texas"
Elaine Maddox of Dallas, Texas

"Thank you Cpl. Jason Dunham. It is acts of bravery like what you did that help shape our great nation. I know you were not the first but what you did really made me think about what I am free to do."
TSgt James Taylor of Langley AFB, VA

"hey love, i know your looking down on us right now.. i miss the times we used to go hunting & i always will remember you teaching me how to shoot a gun & kill birds!! You were such an amazing "big brother" ill never forget the times we spent together LOVE & MISS You jay"
alyssa of angelica, NY

"I would only wish Jason, my daughters meet someone and marry MAN like you.
Look up from Heaven for my girls, boy."
John Socala of Tarzana, CA

"From a soldier to a Marine. one can only aspire to possess your courage. From my family to you and yours. Semper Fi and God Bless.
Chris DiChiara
USA, Inf."
Chris DiChiara of Northfield,VT

"I must NEVER take my freedom for granted. Never! God bless this man's family and God bless Jason."
Pete Sweemer of Lebanon, Ohio

"To the Dunham family my condolesnces on your lost, as well as Thank you raised a boy or should I say a man that everybody in this nation should strive to be. Your lost will not be forgotton to Jason Thank You Marine, you exlempified the best of the Corp.
Semper FI
Sans Puer et Sans Reproache
God Bless Jason, His family The Corp and all of those who are in Harms Way"
crash67 of BHM AL

"May peace be with you! Thanks for being such a hero in this life and may you be one in the next life as well!! SEMPER FI!!"
Michael of Norman, OK, USA

"Thanks for defending us. You did for us what we cannot do for ourselves-greater love has no man---
Heros do not fall-they just stand taller in heaven."
Arnold Young of Provo UT

"Abraham Lincoln put it best:

"I pray that our heavenly father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom".

Rest in Peace Marine."
Dave Kehring of Parkville, MD

"Dear Family & Friends of Jason Dunham,
In my dictionary, the definition of hero is defined as: "A man of distinguished courage or ability, admired for his brave deeds and noble qualities." This barely begins to describe my feelings for Jason, a man who I never had the honor of meeting and those of you that have been honored to know him or sat in his presence are lucky indeed. He is the epitome of what Americans are, loving of God, his family, country and simply being selfless. It is because of his selfless being that my family and I and all of you can sleep safely and soundly in our beds at night and it is because the military stands guard, at the ready, in Jason's mighty footsteps. Thank you Jason, and thank you Mr. & Mrs. Dunham for raising such an honorable son, a hero. May God Bless you and comfort you in your loss and encourage you in knowing you will one day be reunited with Jason. Verses that come to mind are Proverbs 22:6 and Is. 40:28-31, the first shows how well you've done raising Jason and the latter, especially verse 31 describes what Jason is doing now. God Bless you all.
Respectfully, I lift you up in prayer.
Ken Wales"
Ken Wales of 230 3rd St., East Greenville, PA

"May God bless the Dunham family for raising such a courageous young Marine. Cpl. Dunham, your memory will remain in the hearts of all Americans forever. Sleep well Marine!"
Michael of Tempe, AZ

"Cpl Dunham,
You not only sacrificed your life, but did it without thought to save your brothers. You are what all marines should strive to be. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" John 15"
Abigail Williams of Murfreesboro, TN/ USA

"Semper Fi, Cpl Dunham....

From one Marine to another...."
Cpl Failing of Watertown NY

"Thank God for Marines like Cpl. Dunham.
Semper Fi"
PFC Schober of Pauma Valley, CA

"To the Dunham family, I am writing this with tears in my eyes. I heard of his valor and watched the ceremony as President Bush awarded Jason the Medal of Honor. I went directly to my computer to read about him. He exemplifies what our Marines and the rest of our soldiers strive to be. May God bless the Dunham family and hold a special place for Jason in Heaven. Thank you and my prayers are with the Dunham family."
Scott of Maryland USA

"Thank you and your family for your bravery, dedication and sacrifice to our country. It's people like you who will live on after most have gone."
Mike Marsalis of Raleigh, NC

""Corporal Dunham, I just want to say thank you and rest in peace my friend,You are a true hero.""
USAF (retired) Steven Beatty of Abilene, Texas

"Thank you. I owe you all that I have. Rest in peace."
Tyler Ackley of Mason, Ohio

"I have a son with l0th Mt. Division in Afghanistan. I just read about the incredible courage and selfless deed this wonderful young man did. I don't have any way to take away the pain his wonderful parents feel. I can only tell you that I got myself alone, prayed for him and his family and cried for a long time. That is all I have to offer someone who was so far and away above the rest of us in character, love and courage. God bless his parents and God rest his beautiful soul. I will not forget this young man."
Helen Potter of Wheeling, West Virginia (Ohio)

"I just heard the story of this American hero on NPR. It brought tears to my eyes. What a tragedy, how sad I am to hear of this and the thousands of other brave young people who have sacrificed for us."
Bruce Allen of Papillion, NE

"What an AMAZING and Beautiful Soul....God Bless you Cpl. Jason L. Dunham and your family. I pray that your Mother, Father and loved ones can find peace in knowing that there is a special place in heaven for rare soul's like you."
A Grateful American of San Antonio, Texas

"The Bravest of the Brave. Cpl. Dunham made the ultimate warrior sacrifice. His deeds will not be unnoticed in Heaven. Cpl. Dunham's heroism is what the Marine Corps is founded in, past, present and future.
Semper Fi, bro."
M.P. of California

"Attention! Another Hero reaches skyward.

Our condolences and thanks to Cpl. Dunham's family and friends.

Salute."
Don of Modesto, Ca

"Thanks Jason, and to your family Our Nation owe you more than a medal for the life of your son.
May God Be with you in the days and years ahead.

Love The Benton Family"
Wayne of Dallas, Tx

"Semper Fi, Brother. Your service honors us all."
Mark of Central Valley, CA

"Skip, Linda and family. All day I have had this void, all of the feelings that go with a young person dying before his time. the "No Tears" banner keeps becoming a visual for me.. I am so happy to know you are in Washington as I am reading the address made at the Medal of Honor presentation. I am praying for God's Grace to be surrounding you this very proud day."
Karen Simpson of Arkport

"from your fellow 3rd Battalion 7th Marines India Company.
Twentynine Palms, Ca
R.I.P.
I"m resently reenlisted after being out of the USMC for a year and you and Cpl. Jonathan Spears are the unfinished buisniss i left behind in Irag

May you watch over me the same way did when you here on earth.
Semper Fi"
Cpl. Benjamin Garcia of Immokalee, Fl

"Simper Fi Cpl Dunham. May God be with you always. To the family, Thanks. I hope I can raise my own son with such honor. jeffro8585@yahoo.com"
Cpl Ellis of Abbeville SC

"Thank you for your sacrifice and may your name be remembered with glory and honor through the ages.

For God For Country For Friends For Family.

Sua Sponte!"
Charles Kelly of Marlton, New Jersey

"Thank You for your ultimate sacrifice and example for good. May God Bless your family always. May the good examples outweigh the bad. Your family is in our prayers. Thank you for helping me teach my family about Honor and Valor and the Precious Price of Freedom. You are truly loved by those who never even met you. I am trying to raise my children so that they know that believing in something (i.e. Christ, Freedom etc.) enough to willingly die for it makes life worth living. THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS!"
mother of young sons , who desire to be American Soldiers, of Oklahoma

"I just watched Cpl. Jason L. Dunham receive the Medal of Honor. I cannot even choose the correct words to convey how moved I am by Cpl. Dunham's selfless and heroic act which saved the lives of his brother Marines. Thank you Jason for your service to our Country. You are a true Hero and the ultimate example of love. May God bless your family as you look down from Heaven."
Nancy J of Houston, TX

"Thank you Jason for your devotion and for the bravery you've shown! Its men like you who make me proud to be an American!!!"
John Misiak of Buffalo, NY/US

"Once a Marine always a Marine God bless you Cpl Dunham All of us Marines will be always remember you.

Matt Deleo USMC ret"
Mathew Deleo of Durham NC USA

"John 15: 13
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
Anita Robbins of Flower Mound, TX

"We can only thank you and your son for what he has done for us. Our hearts go out to you and you should be proud to have a son like that."
Trish of Tonawanda, NY

"If i could only be half the man that you were."
Roger l Baldwin II of Kalamazoo, MI

"Congratulations on the Medal of Honor, well deserved. Thank You on behalf of all men and women of the Armed Services."
SrA Soto of Tucson, AZ

"May our God hold you in his loving hands! Thank you, Jason."
Ed Kiely of Milan, IL

"In less than an hour, your son will receive our nation's highest honor, The Medal of Honor. His sacrifice will always be remembered. Bless your family and know that our prayers are with you."
Marge McCathern & husband Colonel William Sellers of Alexandria, VA

"I never met you but i wish i could have my recruiter, your friend Sgt.Padisak has told me a lot about you and you have become 1 of my 2 heros and i would like to thank you and just say if i become half the Marine you were/are i would be satisfied you were the best and i wish i can meet you some day"
Ron Foster of Livonia Michigan

"To Jason's Parents: I have read extinsively of your beloved Son Jason's heroism in the face of the enemy. It is with the utmost sincerity that I offer to you and your family my sympathy. From the Revolutionary War to our current mission in Iraq, it has been because of men and women like Jason that our Freedom survives! I pray for God's blessings upon you, now and all the days of your lives."
J.M. Dougherty, Sergeant, United States Marine Corps, 1970-1973 of Newton, IL

"From a greatful American and on behalf of our fore fathers; those who gave their lives in all past American wars to keep America free; those who enjoy our freedoms everyday............

Thank you Jason !"
Martin Schaffel of Miami, Florida

"To Mr. and Mrs. Dunham,
I, on behalf of all Americans, want to tell you that your son was one of a kind. To lay down his own life, when he could have just let the others die, is something special. I pride myself on knowing that he is up in Heaven, guarding the gate. To Cpl. Dunham, Sadaam is dead, when he tries to get in, tel him Ben Wycoff said GO TO HELL!! I can only imagine the bravery you must posess, and if I only ever get one tiny piece of that, I will be proud to say that I have it. I want to join the Corp after high school, but my mom is objecting, as I am her only son. Before I close, I just want to say one thing to you Jason, Semper Fi, Marine, you are always in ouir hearts. And to the Dunham family, you raised an exemplory Marine, and I am sure he was an even better broter and son. To you, I say, "OORAH!!" and if you have any words you could relay to my mother to convince her of letting me in the Corp, please e-mail me at bwcubskid@hotmail.com and put "USMC" in the subject line.
"No better friend, No worse enemy."
Tefelhunden for ever!!"
Ben Wycoff of Piper City, IL/USA

"No better friend. No worse enemy.
I graduated boot camp with this hard charger and I am proud to have known him. Your sacrifice, Jason, reminds me how expensive freedom is. Thank you brother.
Buzzsaw"
Buzzsaw of Columbus, MS

"i just read that jason is to recieve the medal of honor, you must be very proud. he was an amazing young man. i will remember him always.i tell his story to others often to let them know what he meant to us all that jason and men and women like him deserve our utmost respect and appreciation each and every day.
lori candgua ny"
lori of canandaigua,ny

"I first heard the story of what Jason did when taking a tour of the Pentagon on Nov 2006. What Jason did to safe the lives of his fellow Marines is what a real hero is all about. Jason is very deserving of the medal. As a retired sailor and soon to have a Marine as my son-in-law who will leave in June for Iraq, I have nothing but respect for the men and women who are fighting for our Freedom. RIP Jason and thank you for fighting for our Freedom."
MA1(SW) ret. Rocky Cardenas of Kings Bay, GA

"It is because of Marines like you that I possess such an umatched sense of pride when I put on my uniform every day. There is not a word or phrase in exsitance I can express that gives justice to the amount of gratitude you have instilled in me and in so many others. God Bless you and your family, Corporal Dunham. Semper Fidelis."
Lance Cpl. LaVine of 29 Palms, California, USA

"hi i am connie i lost my son in july of 04. your son was in the leatherneck this month. will you email me back at basemonkey@hotmail.com. my son was clp. dallas kerns... you are in my prayers always.."
connie of springfied mo. 65807

"Dear Dunham family, I'm only sixteen years old, but I want to tell you that I have the upmost respect for you as well your son. He died doing a job many won't do. It almost seems as if he died for a country who cares nothing about him. Its because of men like Jason, that I am aloud to do the things that I do every day. I am so sorry about your son. I pray for you and hope for the best. There is nothing stronger than a soldiers heart. Thank you."
Mike of Selma, North Carolina

"To Jason and your Family,
You gave the ultimate sacrifice. I just read "Gift of Valor" and I am writing a paper on it for my college psychology class. I am in the Army, and I can only hope that in that situation I would be as brave and selfless as your were. God Bless you and your family. Rest in Peace, Jason."
SPC Stefanie Benton of Plano, TX, USA

"To The Dunham Family
My daughter and I heard about Jason's sacrifice On Veteran Day, and we were both move to tears. There are certain character that each of us possess to make it in everyday life, but there are those born to do "Greatness" and that person was your son Jason. He was the one that went the distant for his fellow Brothers in Arm. May God Bless you and your family and just remember Jason fullfield his obligations on Earth, and now he is smiling down on each and everyone of us that reassuring him family that they are not alone in this difficult time. "HOORAH""
SSG Brenda Adams-Marks (ret) of Fort Sill, OK /USA

"You are not forgotten, Jason. It is men like you that give me the freedom that I have today. Rest in Peace."
Phill of VA

"I only read of Cpl. Dunham's sacrifice after the Medal of Honor was awarded (11/28/06), but I hope his family gets to read these many words of gratitude and amazement at his heroism. It's so unfathomable to me how someone can make the decision in the crisis of the moment to give his own life to protect his brothers like that. It's stunningly impressive courage. My sympathies and condolences to Cpl Dunham's family."
Roben Torosyan of New York, NY

"Cpl. Dunham and Family,

Semper Fidelis my fellow brother. Not a day will ever go by that I won't think about your actions out there in the desert sands of Iraq. Take care of Heaven until we all meet up again!"
Sgt. A. White of Granbury, Texas"
Sgt Anthony White of Granbury, Texas

"Oorah Devil Dog!

Semper Fidelis. May God be with you in your time of lay, and may you watch over me while I fall to my knees and pray. For times to come may be harsh for those who are not willing, but the title they earned will be everlasting, God willing!

(SALUTE)
I'll see you in the streets of heaven, I'll give your best to the Corps. You earned it.

(CUT SALUTE)"
Cpl. Jesse P. Tellinger of Camp Lejeune, NC

"Jason,

Semper Fi and you will always be remembered."
Micah Klein of Goshen, NY

"To The Dunham Family,
Not too long ago I read The Gift Of Valor.Your son Jason was such an amazing man. It was very hard to read with teary eyes. I don't have to tell you what a great soldier Jason was, as you already know. I hope your pride for him is helping you get through each day. What Jason did for his fellow soldiers certainly earned him the Medal of Honor. Jason and your family are always in our thoughts and prayers. He has earned his place in heaven. May God Bless..."
Colleen of Buffalo, NY

"To the Dunham Family: I am very sorry for your loss. Your son gave the ultimate sacrifice. Whether the war is right or wrong, Jason stood for what this country's foundations were built upon. He gave his life for freedom. Thank You Corporal!

Formerly of 3/5 Wpns. Company, 81's Plt."
Lcpl. Brandon Kushins of PA

"i am 14 and am hoping to become a marine. It's People like Cpl Dunham, your son, that inspire me to be the best i can be and make me want to join the Marines. I am sincerily sorry about your lose and i am fortunate enough not to know what you are going through. Good luck in the future"
Travis Q of Dumfrees

"Jason,

It seems like 2092 stepped off of that parade deck just yesterday. Soon all recruits will know of you and what you gave to all of us. Until it is my time to assume those duties at the Gate, I will carry with me a great sense of pride in having known you and served with you. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten. Thank you, brother."
Sgt Lane of New Bern, NC

"I hope the pride you have in Jason can out weigh the pain you must have in your hearts."
Scott Black of Andover, MA

"My thoughts are with the family, your son was a brave young man sacrificing his life for his fellow Marines. I know your heart is broken for the loss of your son, as a former marine I too have lost friends and felt the hurt. Our thoughts are with you and your family and your son Jason is in our prayers. Semper Fi, young Jason Dunham for you will always be remembered."
Yolanda Orozco of Oceanside, California

"The only thing i can say is THANK YOU"
J. Chance of Houston TX

"CPL,
YOU ARE WHAT AN IDEAL MARINE IS. YOU GAVE YOUR LIFE FOR YOUR BROTHERS IN ARMS. YOU ARE A TRUE HERO.

SEMPER FI"
LCpl Raquel Reyes of Corpus Christi, TX

"It is powerful how one marine's life can have such a lasting effect on so many others. Jason, you have given the greatest sacrifice so that others may live, and "there is no greater love than he who gives his life for his friends."

"Semper Fidelis"
J. Weber, Sgt USMC

"You received the Medal of Honor! :) I'm so proud of you. You will always be in my heart."
Shannon of Saint Petersburg, FL

"To Cpl. Jason Dunham and Family:

There is no easy way to classify a Hero, a Soldier and a person who gave so much for his country and went above and beyond the call of duty. I want to be a Navy SEAL, but i know that even if i make it, i will never match you or anyone else who know's the true meaning of freedom. To me freedom isn't all about fighting for your country, but about fighting for the men beside you, and you have shown the ability to do so in the finest fashion a brave man such as yourself could show. So because of you and the rest of those who have fought for our country throughout the years of America, i am proud to call myself an American."
Eric C. Veloni of Long Beach, CA

"To the family and friends of Cpl. Jason Dunham:

Please accept my sincere thanks to your son for his actions in Anbar. You lost a great man....WE lost a great American. Jason met evil face to face that April afternoon and when faced with a choice he decided to save his fellow marines and sacrifice his own. Who would even question whether this action is deserving of the Medal of Honor? He was a brave man and will never be forgotten. May god ease your suffering and leave you with the many great memories Jason gave all of you.
Jason, I never had the opportunity to meet you....and when I get called to heaven, I am going to look you up and shake your hand and give you the thanks you rightfully deserve. Sounds like there will two marines in front of me in that line.

God Bless you Jason!

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" John 15:13"
Kevin Waines of Spokane, WA

"Cpl. Dunham and Family,

Semper Fidelis my fellow brother. Not a day will ever go by that I won't think about your actions out there in the desert sands of Iraq. Take care of Heaven until we all meet up again!"
Sgt. A. White of Granbury, Texas

"Words could never capture the feelings I had when I read about your selfless sacrifice. My heartfelt sympathies go out to your family for their loss. This country has lost an individual of the highest moral caliber and sense of duty, but it has also gained by knowing that a few are still willing to give all so that the many can continue - -
With the greatest amount of respect,"
Wm R Gladbach, LTC, US Army (ret) of Woodbridge, VA

"Marines, the few the proud
It can not be inherited
nor can it ever be purchased.
It is impossiblle to rent
and it can not be lent.
You alone and our own have earned it with our sweat, blood and lives.
You own it forever, the title, United States Marine.
No words can describe what a Marine will do for his brother, friend or comrade in a time of need or in combat.

Thank you Cpl. Jason Dunham, your loyalty, and ultimate sacrifice to save members of your unit is worthy of recogniton and adknowledgement.It is the nature and proof of your chracter, you have well represented yourself, your unit, your country and the Marine Corps. Your parents should be proud . Though I may be a stranger, we share a bond of friendship,and comradeship through the Corps. USMC forever, once a Marine always a marine, Semper Fi"
Melvin Sherrod of Wilson ,North Carolina

"Jason you will always be in my thoughts and I'm proud of you. I always knew that you were going to make an impression in this world. Miss you and greatly respect you."
Sandy of Rochester, Ny

""Where do we get such men?". Such men of honor and courage. I am proud to come from the same country that produces such men.

Jason rest in peace and thank you."
Ted Schubert of Warner Robins Ga, USA

"I remember hearing of the story of Cpl Dunham a few weeks after he was killed in action. I read the story on the USMC.mil website and was so compelled by his heroism that I began to read the story to all of my new joins on a monthly basis. Each and every time I read the story to the young Marines, I would tear up and choke up with pride. For my young Marines to see their Plt Sgt showing this kind of emotion really helped to solidify what they would come to face in Iraq. So not only did Jason save two of the men in his fireteam, but his continued legacy will keep many more safe and vigilant. God Speed and Semper Fidelis, you are now among the elite. Daly, Puller......Dunham."
Sgt Lujan USMC (ret) of Littleton, CO

"As my eyes water reading the tributes to a brave marine, I can only think of the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ: "Greater love hath no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends" (John 15:13). Jason walked the walk many speak of; a true and absolute hero. De Oppresso Libre."
SFC (ret) R. Atteberry of Huntsville, AL

"Jasons actions are beyond words. I am proud to wear the same uniform as him. Many people speak of heros, but Jason is more than that. I will never forget his name, and every day I serve I will do it in his name. May god bless him and his family. Semper Fi"
Cpl K. USMC of Missouri

"Anyone who knew Jason was truly a better person for it. I am glad I had the opportunity to meet and know him."
Samson Krueger of Dallas, Texas

"Heaven's Gates are guarded well....all secure!
Semper Fi,
A fellow Marine"
Bill of Stafford

"There is not a day that goes by that I do not think of you! There are some days that I miss you so much it hurts, it is at these times that i sit down and look at old pictures and think of some of the amazing memories that we have together. I share all these things with my daughter and although she was too small to remember you she knows quite a bit about you. I guess this is my way of passing on your love and memory. You have touched more lives than you will ever know! Its weird, I still don't think that I have come to term with the fact that I will never see you or hug you again! maybe someday I will... I am so proud of you, not only for your Heroic act but for the amazing person you were and will always be in my memory. I will never forget you! I love you Jay!"
A loving friend of scio,ny

"Jason,

"You've touched the world."
Generations will be moved by your life.
11-12-06"
R. Zetah of Scottsdale, Arizona USA

"Jason I am glad that America has chosen to honor your sacrifice. I miss you man. I wish I could've been there with you. Already to many years have passed, but I will never forget you. You'll always be in my heart. It was an honor to know you and to serve with you."
Cpl. Christopher Morawska of Merrillvillle, Indiana

"There are still Patriots in NJ who support the cause you ,Jason, gave the ultimate sacrifice to. Our hearts and prayers go to all the Dunham family and all families of the fallen and brave who serve the greatest country in the world"
Judi and Stuart Buncher of Tinton Falls NJ

"Semper Fidelis."
GySgt Ross Hrynewych of 29 Palms, CA

"My son was with him and my heart is out for you. My son says he was wonderful. I look up to him for what he did.. Thank you..."
Patti Dutton of Hekena, Montana

"Poland is with You Soldier...

I also missed my father in Iraq.

son"
robert of Poland

"Semper Fi Mack, Your actions are finally recognized for what they were. You exemplified esprit de corps and every grunt smiles when they call you brother. Hold that gate with ST. Peter till the rest of us get there."
Sgt. Glover (98-02) of Atlanta

"Jason,

Thank you for your service and dedication, and your ultimate sacrifice. You are in your rightful and deserved place for such a committment to your country and fellow countrymen. I think God has a special place in heaven for heroes like you. Thank you for protecting my freedom and my country's freedom and for helping to keep America safe."
Bob of Lisle, Il USA

"To the Dunham family, I served with your son in 2001/02. Three years later when I was in Al Qaim I saw a memorial of your son's sacrafice. I recently saw he was awarded the CMH. I lost my younger brother in Iraq in 2005 and know the pain you feel. I am honored to have known and served with your son. You shoud be proud of the son you raised. God BLess you."
J. Houser of washington D.C.

"Thank you Corporal Jason Durham for sacrificing your life for your men. I hope you have the Happiest Birthday ever in Heaven!!! Semper Fi!!! You are missed and forever loved."
Sherry Porter of Greenville, TX USA

"Thank you and the rest of your fellow members of the armed services for making America a safe from terrorism. Thank you Jason and your family for you sacrifice."
dave ernst of frankfort illinois

"A well deserved recognition of bravery and the ultimate sacrifice. Thank you for continuing the tradition. Semper Fi!"
J. Doyle, SSgt USMC 68-77 of Oregon

"Mr & Mrs Dunham -- I can not fathom the loss you have suffered and I grieve for you. Neither can I fathom the pride you must have for your son who left a legacy that will never, never be forgotten. You can stand tall and proud to have raised such a fine man. There is absolutely nothing that can top what he did. It is people like him who make our great country what it is. The world is a better place for people like him."
Steve of Maine

"Jason, you died to save the lives of two men and the freedom of 2 billion Americans. Heaven and immortality are your rightful place."
John of Phoenixville PA USA

"When my wife and I heard Jason's story on Veteran's Day, we both cried. In today's world it seems that one only hears stories of valor like this in movies. It is truly and utterly amazing to me that somebody so young, (22 YO) would have the courage to do something so courageous. Absolutely incredible. I will read this story of ultimate sacrifice to my young troops so they too can understand how brave this young soldier is. I say is because Jason will never be forgotten. As an Naval Officer, I salute Jason and all of his family for your sacrifice. God Bless. ATB LT Robert Trujillo"
LT Robert Trujillo of Corpus Christi, TX

"Thank you for my freedom Jason."
Jackson of Trenton, Missouri

"Cpl Jason L. Dunham--MEDAL OF HONOR recepient, hero, Marine... Semper Fi! Phillip Castle, SSgt, USMC ('74-'82) of Dallas, TX"

"I am crying as I read these tributes and think of the sacrifice this young man made - for all of us. It is obvious to me that he was loved and nurtured by a wonderful family. You must be so very proud."
Jon of NYC

"Jason and His family,

I have so many memories with Jason ones that I will never forget, the best times I had was with this Marine that wanted to do the best for his Marines. He told me he wanted to go to Iraq and I said you are crazy, but he did. And what an honor he has given to this country, his Marines, and myself to just have known such a person. Happy Birthday Jason and Simper Fi I will never forget you!!!

Chad"
Chad of Reno, NV

"He will stand forever as a hero for all time, how I wish I could explain his sacrifice and what it means to me cannot be explained. I grieve, I promise you all that I will always stand for righteousness, I will keep these virtues true. He has not fallen, but will rise again with our Lord. Dear Lord, Please take him into your arms where there is no hate, only the sound protection that you provide. YOU are who we serve, God Bless Jason Dunham and let the perpetual light shine upon him. Amen

JB 123RD Sig Bt, 3rd ID 1989-1993"
Jeff Beggs of Kansas City, KS

"May God bless you, your family and every Marine that protect and stand guard over this great country. Semper Fi Marine! You will never be forgotten."
Alfredo Ordiano, Cpl of Menifee, CA

"Thank you and God speed. From a retired Marine Sergeant Major"
Doug Lyvere of San Jose, Ca

"It's amazing what some people are capable of. Thank you Jason."
anonymous of la jolla, CA

"Cpl Dunham,
How appropriate is it that today on your birthday, a grateful nation has made it official. The MEDAL OF HONOR is now yours. We already knew you were among the heros of our Corps and now the nation knows.
Semper Fi!"
JC Young, GySgt, USMC(Ret) of Scio, NY

"To Jason, Happy Birthday, Marine. You and I share birthdays, love of country and Marine Corps service. To Jason's family, simply thanking you for Jason's sacrifice, and your loss seems very inadequate, but from a fellow Marine, albeit from a different era, thanks, and Semper Fi."
Dennis Jeffrey of Firestone, Co

"Happy Birthday Marine. I wish that I could type this on every brother's thread, but I can't. But I know you'll be steadfast in reminding everyone about today. Semper Fi.

Cpl. Miceli
31st MEU(SOC) CE"
Placito Miceli of New Orleans

"Thank you for your courage and sacrifice. I am sorry that you had to give all for your men. I hope your family gets some comfort out of knowing that you were an excellent Man, American and Marine.
As a Marine I can only think of one thing to write. It was a little verse we would say.
When I go to Heaven
St Peter I will tell
Another Marine reporting sir
I have served my time in hell

Semper Fi Devil Dog. The world is a better place because of you, but will also miss you. Your time was too short."
Sgt RAW of Orange, CA

"Im joining the marines after highschool, and if im only a spec of the marine you were ill know ive fulfilled my mission in life.Semper Fi"
Charles Thomas Wright of Liberty hill Tx

"Dear Dunham Family,

Please accept me and my family's most hearfelt apology for the enormous loss of your loved one.

I read the story regarding Jason on CNN and I must say that I was so awe struck by the courage that Jason exhibited to save his fellow countrymen. I am not one who writes on any message boards but I felt compelled to this time because I owe a huge debt to Jason and service men and women of the armed service for protecting me and my loved ones. I have no idea how to pay these men and women back but I will do so in any manner possible.

Thank you Jason for protecting our freedom and fighting for people that can't protect themselves.

God Bless you and your family.

William Yoo"
William Yoo of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA USA

"November 10, 2006

Jason, on the 25th anniversary of your birth and the 231st birthday of the US Marine Corps, know that you and your sacrifice have not been forgotten.

One significant measure of the success of our lives here on this Earth is how those we leave behind remember us.

You made quite an impression on many, many people who knew you when you walked this Earth. Those of us who never had that pleasure number many more. But it is clear that we all have been deeply moved and inspired by your life, your story, and your heroism.

May God continue to bless and comfort your parents, your family, and your many friends.

Semper fidelis, Marine!

May you rest in peace."
A grateful American of Western New York

"It is with sincere sorrow that I send condolences to the family of Corporal Jason Dunham. Corporal Dunham was a remarkable testimony to his family. The rest of the nation can sleep in peace tonight knowing that men like him stand guard. I cannot begin to express how deeply I mourn with his family and can only hope that the all of America appreciates Corporal Dunham’s love of his fellow man and his incredible valor. He was the epitome of “Duty, honor, country.”"
Dianne D of Reading, MA

"Just reading the article about your son makes me proud to belong to the same organization and stand with men like him in our ranks. Few people will ever understand what real sacrifice is but I know that it is the good memories of your son that will carry you through. Also you should take great pride in raising a true hero who even in the worst fear overcame all adversity for something called "esprit de corps"!! I thank you dearly for having the courage to support him when he stood up and said "Make me a Marine". If there is ever anything I can do please do not hesitate to ask."
1STLT Anthony Heverly USMC of Okinawa, Japan

"May God bless this hero and. Americans all over are greatful for his sacrifice"
jack of swansea,ma

"To the Dunham family,
You were so lucky to have Jason in your life, even if it was for a short time. What an incredible man, I thank God for soldiers like him."
Debbie of Appleton, WI

"NO WORDS CAN MEASURE YOUR SACRIFICE.
THANK YOU JASON.AND MAY GOD BLESS YOUR
FAMILY."
ALEX 5TH SFG of WINTER HAVEN FLORIDA

"To the family of Jason Dunham. His birthday was today. Only 25 years old. I know your hearts are heavy. My father won the Congressional Medal also but it was years and years ago. Still all in all, Jason will not be forgotten. God Bless you every one.
Norma DeCamp, daughter of Charles Henry Willey, U.S. Navy"
Norma DeCamp of Hendersonville NC

"Your courage and sacrifice are beyond anything I have ever heard of. You are a true hero."
Yaniv of Israel

"As much as I hate this war I have to say how proud it makes me as an American to know that there are men and women like Mr. Dunham who, like all good Americans, put petty politics behind them and do their jobs when the chips are down. This man and his actions are proof to the whole wide world that Americans are some of the greatest people in all of human history.

My heart bleeds for his family. May his bravery and comfort them in their loss."
James J. Mullen III of San Diego, CA

"Dear Dunham Family,

May God Bless Jason. He will not be forgotten."
Bill of Westlake, OH

"Jason to get Medal of Honor.....Semper Fi!
http://www.mcnews.info/mcnewsinfo/moh/"
Nathan Culver of Austin, TX

"I read cnn today, just wanted to say thank you for all your son did. He was extremely brave, and honorable. He is so deserving of the medal of honor. A true hero."
Tyra of Cheyenne, Wyoming

"I am amazed by this man."
Matt of New Braunfels, Texas

"Dear Dunham family:
I just wanted to wish you my condolence's on your son's passing. May God give you the strength to come together during this hard time and to see that what your son did was a blessing, not only to his company, but to you and all of us as Americans.
Please look to God in all things; through him only true strength and peace can be obtained!
Much love and my condolences."
Reece of WA

"God bless you."
Chad Joyce of St. Louis, Mo

"God Bless You! My family, including my little girl live 1/2 mile from the Pentagon and I will NEVER forget your name."
John of Arlington, Va.

"Cpl. Dunham, I read of your heroism on CNN today. I'm simply an American citizen and what I hear of this war is awful, heart-wrenching stuff. Hearing your story, however, makes me realize exactly what type of man is overseas defending this nation, and all nations, in the face of such horror. Your single act required a split-second move that many, many men would run away from. You saved lives, and in your decorum and your heroism, you give the world an image of what it truly means to be a man. I, along with everyone nearby, salute you. You, sir, are a true hero and anyone who is close to you should know that you died the most honorable death - you shall never be forgotten, your story will serve as a lodestar in this great fight. Thank you, our thoughts and prayers are with you, your family and those closest to you."
Matt Christoph of New York, NY

"Cpl. Dunham, The president announced your receipt of the medal of honor today, your birthday, and the birthday of the corps. While this is a great honor, it fails to express what a debt the country owes, and the regard in which you will be held by marines. While the marine corps is full of good and honorable men and women, very few come to personify what it is to be a marine. When I put my uniform on, I will remember with reverence the sacrifice you made, and hope to be worthy of sharing the same uniform. Semper Fidelis Marine."
Sgt. C. Kness of Loveland, CO

"It was announced today, November 10, 2006, that Cpl. Jason Dunham will receive the Medal of Honor for his selfless act of courage in April 2004 in Iraq. His actions reflect the highest standards of the USMC. Oo-rah and Sember Fi, Jason. Well earned."
Sean of Austin, Texas

"As a former Marine, I am SO PROUD of you Jason. You make all Marines proud by your sacrifice. I am so honored to know that through your gallant efforts to save others, that you will receive the Medal of Honor. Listening to the President moments ago, I cried not in sadness though sad I am that you are gone, but so very proud of you, your family and your community.

Live long Jason, and remember... Semper Fi. I will see you one day in heaven, where I know you are now looking down on all Marines with the sense of Pride, Accomplishment and Respect.

You will live long in my heart, for you are a Marine like none other. You are truly, "Second to None"

With respect and tremendous Honor,

Fred Brito Gomez
LasCrucesAdvocate@gmail.com
Las Cruces, New Mexico"
Fred Brito Gomez of Las Crues, New Mexico

"My tears fall for you Jason! If anyone deserves the medal of honor, its you! Congratulations!!"
Thomas McGuire of Athens, GA

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARINE
JOB WELL DONE"
SUE AND DAVE LAWRENCE of WHITTIER CA.

"Jason - Happy Birthday Bro! I'll do my best to make sure people never forget you. The MOH - unbelievable! I guess I'm happy and sad all in one big swoop.

Rest in Peace Marine.

semper fidelis

Dave

www.jasonsmemorial.org
www.zoiiebeanpictures.com/dunham.html"
Dave of California

"Cpl.. thank you for your sacrifice. Family.. God receives my prayers for Jason. He is what makes America STRONG.
Patriot@usapatriots.net"
Fernando L of Denver, CO

"Thank you for your selfless act of heroism.
http://www.cnn.com/2006/US/11/10/medal.honor/index.html"

"Happy Birthday Jason, Love & miss you...."

"Never Forgotten, Happy Birthday"

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRO, REGARDLESS OF HOW MUCH TIME PASSES YOUR STILL MISSED"
SGT. DAVE FALVEY

"We will NEVER forget you! My husband and I are from Arkport, NY and I went to church with your grandparents. You were one special person, and we thank you for all that you have done. My husband is a Marine currently stationed in Washington DC."
Casandra Baker of Washington, DC (Arkport, NY)

"Dunham,
The years are passing fast but the day you gave it all just seems like yesterday. Man i miss ya alot brother. Out here on recruiting duty it's hard because we're so far away from what we love to do...Fight! Your story has touched so many bro, every one of my little poolee's knows exactly who you are and what you've done, they never met you but i'll be damned if they don't look up to you, i'm kinda jealous lol just kiddin' man relax. I told you years ago i would make them remember and I am. Here in Michigan alone I've given your book to many as gifts, told your story in the Recruiting office and shown pictures of you doing keg stangs. lol but rest in peace my brother for your job is done now, it's our turn to make you proud! By the way you had an awesome ceremony at the post office...we had a "few" drinks in the bar right there for ya too! gotta love those small towns man. I'll see ya soon, love ya and miss ya bro."
Sgt. Michael J. Padisak of Recruiting Station Detroit / Westland, MI

"Dear Jason,
General Douglas MacArthur said,"The soldier above all others prays for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war." You my brother are a sign of that quote. I pray that you are awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor as Sergeant First Class Paul Ray Smith was. Keep watch over us from above and one day we will see each other again. SFC Rod Brewer...."
Rod Brewer of Weston, Michigan, USA

"Dear Jason:

I came to visit you this past Memorial Day Weekend at the Faces of the Fallen exhibit while at Arlington National Cemetery. I was glad to find you in the same section/company with 2 other Outstanding Heros: Pat Tillman and Chance Phelps. I left you (and the other two) a Beirut Challenge Coin honoring the men who also didn't make it home. - Semper Fidelis"
Bill Kibler of BeirutStamp.com

"Cpl. Dunham I was in the 3rd Infantry div. and was over there in 03 and again in 05. Even though we wore different uniforms, you make me proud to be not only a Soldier but an AMERICAN! Semper Fidelis!"
SGT. Jerry P. Hagy of Boiling Springs S.C.

"Jason you have served in Honor. RIP"
Corey of Covina, Ca

"I just got done reading the "gift of valor" and I must say that I felt my heart overflowed with a pride that words alone can not tell. Along with that pride I felt sadness, sadness to know that the world has lost such an outstanding man, son, friend and Marine. My husband is a Marine( a grunt with great courage and a wonderful heart much like Jasons) currently serving in Iraq and so people asked me not to read this book not now they said. How very glad I am that I did not listen. I am so very grateful to Cpl.Dunham and his family for all that they have given to us. I pray that the lord blesses you all and Jason may you rest among the angels there in heaven as you were one here on earth. I know that you are still with your Marines and you are watching them still how lucky they are to have an angel, a hero and a leader like you. There are no words that can express our gratitude for what you have done. There are no words that can express the great sadness that filled my heart upon reading your story but I can find the words to say that you dear Man were amazing. You a true American Hero! You a True Marine! You show us all what" Semper Fi" is all about and for that I thank you. To Mr. and Mrs. Dunham I pray that the lord eases your pain and that he blesses you with the comfort that only he can give. I will always have you all in my prayers and Jason you will never be forgotten, never! God bless you Jason, God bless your family, your friends, God bless America and Lord please bless our Marines and Thank you For Jason I know in my heart lord that he is still doing great things."
E. Rodriguez Proud American , Faithful devoted Marine wife of Bolingbrook, IL USA!!

"I had the honor of working with Jason, he was a rare person; a leader and a rolemodel to his marines.
"All gave some
Some gave all""
Lcpl Brook, Robert of 29 Palms CA

"Dear Deb & Dan: My daughter shared the book, "The Gift of Valor" with me. I have never been so moved by a story of a person I never knew. Last night, after finishing the book, I couldn't quit thinking about your son and your family. Jason, both of you and your family paid the ultimate price for the freedom so many of us take for granted. I will never forget Jason's sacrifice or yours. May God bless you and always hold you in the palm of His hand. Jason sleeps with the angels now.

With love & gratitude,"
Barbara Jeffery of Redford Mich

"To the Dunham family: I'm so very sorry for your loss. I served at the Air Force Theatre Hospital in Balad and saw many men such as Jason come through our ER. We were always honored to take care of them and I will NEVER forget the sacrifices they have made. Jason was a kind soul and he has touched the lives of so many of us. There's not a day that goes by that I don't think of the heros still in harms way. I still see their faces when I close my eyes at night. Please trust that Jason is still serving with his Marines and standing watch over them in a much better place. God bless you all."
Tammy of Colorado Springs, CO

"I, like many others on here, finished the book "A Gift of Valor". I had never been so choked up by a book, and by the time I finished it, I cried like I had lost my own brother. I cried not only because an exceptional young man who made the ultimate sacrifice had died, but for all the other young lives who died in this war. I am still awed how the very young and underpriviledged are the very defenders of this country.

I was deeply touched by all those who stayed with Jason from beginning to end. I had never felt so proud of all our soldiers. At the end, I felt a pang of regret that I never served in the armed forces. To have such a close knit family would have undoubtably changed my life in ways I cannot imagine.

To the family of Jason Dunham, the people of this country owe a great debt of gratitude in allowing this very personal and gut-wrenching story to be told. This story, as this guestbook shows, has touched so many lives.

To all the other men and women serving, I hope that all come home safely! God bless them all."
John K. of Atlanta, Georgia

"To honor Jason Dunham, and the other American warriors who have borne the battle and made the ultimate sacrifice, my wife and I welcomed Andrew Dunham O'Connell into the world on March 23, 2006."
Andrew James O'Connell of Baltimore, MD

"to my brother,

As i appraoch the third year without you i want you to know that not a day goes by that i don't think of you. You've taught me so much in the time we knew each other. i hope i was a good friend. See you when i get there devil dog. Save me a beer.
your brother forever,

Gabe Carl LeBlanc"
of holland,michigan

"Corporal Jason Dunham is an example of a real hero. Everybody looks at superman or batman as a hero, Jason was a real hero. He did what many people are afraid to do, ever since I read the book "Gift of Valor" I've never been able to pass a day without thinking of the sacrifice he made for his country and his friends. I will never be able to understand people who look down upon people in the military, especially when people like Jason make sacrifices like this. I'm only 16 but Jasons sacrifice made me realize what I wanted to do with my life. He has inspired me to change a lot of who I am. Reading about what he did changed me forever in a good way. I thank him and his family for all the sacrifices they made. I could never thank him or his family enough. People like Jason make this world a better place."
Joshua Goettsche of Redmond, Washington/USA

"Thinking of Jason on Veters Day and every other day. He was one of a kind and can never be replaced. Rest in peace Jason,and thank you for touching all of our lives."
Jaimie Meyers of KingsBay Georgia

"I was remembering Jason today. I came back to visit just to be close. Never knew him and don't know any like him. Jason, I'm so grateful there are men like you. You won't be forgotten--not by me. I mention your name every night in my prayers and miss you. I'm a mother--and a grandmother. Thank you for their gift of continued freedom."
Pamela of Fresno, CA USA!!!

"I just finished The Gift of Valor and have never been more profoundly touched. My tears were tears of both immense sadness and loss, and pride for all that CPL Dunham represents. CPL Dunham personified the best of what any of us could ever hope to be and his legacy is one that should be shared with everyone. May God Bless the Dunham family and may America never forget CPL Jason L. Dunham. To all of the Fallen, God Speed!"
Jim Bunch US Army (Ret) of Lawrenceville, GA, USA

"I just read "The Gift of Valor" and it touched my heart and made me cry, especially since my husband is a Marine, and we are both from Binghamton, NY, a town about 2 hours east of yours. Your self-sacrifice was the ultimate sacrifice one can give, and for that, you will always be a hero in my eyes. Thank you for giving your life to our country and protecting those that choose not to serve and those that choose to look down upon Marines and such. It gives us all the more strength and all the more sense of pride for our Marines. To Jason's family- you did an amazing job raising someone as heroic and as brave as Jason Dunham. I look to you as heroes as well. Good luck in everything, and thank you again, for raising a such a wonderful human being who will never be forgotten."
H. Frey (wife of Cpl. S. Frey) of Marine Corps Air Station/MCRD Parris Island- SC, USA

"I was but one of hundreds of people who attended the ceremony to rename the Scio (New York) Post Office as the "Corporal Jason L. Dunham Post Office" on 02 June 2006.

One of the speakers was Major Trent Gibson, USMC. His tribute to Jason Dunham was the most moving speech that I have EVER heard.

It has words of wisdom for us all.

The local newspaper reported the speech as follows:

***

[S]peaking to Dunham as though he were in the crowd listening, Major Trent Gibson, the corporal's former captain, recounted the night before Dunham's act of heroism.

“My theory of leadership has three principles: lead by example; self sacrifice for the greater good; and one man can make a difference,” he said. “I knew you had these qualities, but didn't comprehend what a great leader you had become until that night when I watched as two of your men brought you a hot plate of chow because you were up at midnight laying out the next day's mission and hadn't had time to take care of yourself.

“As I witnessed that, I knew you had become a respected and trusted leader. That title can't be bestowed by your seniors; it must be given by your subordinates,” Gibson continued. “Comprehending that, I wondered what would I ever do if I lost a Marine like that.”

With tears in his eyes and a quiver in his voice, Gibson continued, “Now I know. I would write you up for this nation's highest award for valor [Medal of Honor], because you led by example, self sacrifice, and you did make a difference.”

Continuing his dialog, Gibson said to Dunham, “You made the ultimate self-sacrifice for the greater good. Inspired by you, those Marines of yours continued to take the battle to the enemy for the next five months. You are a Marine amongst Marines, that which we all strive to be, and you are somehow more pure. Your self-proclaimed mission to bring back your men alive was realized because of your sacrifice. So I say, 'Mission accomplished, Corporal Dunham.' I'm proud of you. I love you, and, for your service to us all, I salute you.”

***

And, at that point, having finished his tribute, Major Gibson rendered a salute.

May Corporal Jason Dunham rest in peace."
A grateful American of Western New York

"Your story is an inspiration to all of us Jason. I have read many articles and the book, "A Gift of Valor." I want to thank you and your family for the unselfishness act of heroism you have displayed. I still follow your story hoping that the day will come when you will receive the Medal of Honor. You are a now and will always be a Marine legend. Thank you brother. Semper Fi."
Former USMC SGT. Brian Moreland of Stanhope, New Jersey

"I will never forget you Dunham. As the years pass by I will never forget you. I wish i knew in Kuwait it was going to be the last time we saw each other. i guess i kinda just figured if you didn't make it then I didn't have a prayer. I always assumed you were to strong to die. Everyday I relive those moments in fallujah when I found out that you died. i have come to realize that I will never get over it. Your destiny was to become a hero. Somehow i think we both knew it. i love you brother. See you soon.

Gabe Carl LeBlanc"
Gabe of holland,michigan

"I hope to see you in Heaven, guarding it's gates. OORAH!

Semper Fi"
Ethan Sarrell of Rising Fawn, GA

"As we name our Post Office in your name tomorrow, I again thank you for the sacrafice you gave so we all may enjoy the freedoms we do. You will always be remembered. May God be with your family."
of Scio, NY

"Memorial Day - May 29, 2006

"When you go home
Tell them for us and say,
'For your tomorrow
We gave our today.'" -- words on a rock that stood outside a temporary cemetery on Iwo Jima

Jason, you have inspired so many men, women, and kids. And, in just a few years, those kids will be working hard to earn the uniform that you so proudly wore. You have left quite a legacy: those who will serve our Nation as the next generation of dedicated Marines.

Semper fidelis, Marine!

May you rest in peace."
A grateful American of Western New York

""I consider it no sacrifice to die for my country. In my mind, we came here to thank God that men like these have lived rather than to regret that they have died." General George S. Patton"
Andrew of Texas

"Semper Fidelis, young Marine...you've done the term proud...Semper Fidelis."
Batavia USMC 66-68 of La Quinta, CA

"Dunham family,
I just finished reading the book "Gift of Valor" for my book project.I am somebody who wants to enter the military and have a good career. Your son Jason has even inspired me more to go into the military and he sounds like the type of Marine that I want to be. Such as others come before me. Thank you for sharing your story with me and others."
Kevin P. of Berea, Ohio

"Dear Dunham Family,
I have recently read a book about your son, and his fellow Marines. It was (in my opinion) the greatest book to come out of the Iraq War. I, like many others, wept greatly for your son's sacrifice. I am doing a project on your son for hero's in our society. I am 16 years old, and your son is amongst one the reasons I want to be a Marine Infantryman. Thank you very much for raising a hero."
Andrew Wurster of East Aurora, NY, US

"Dear Dunham Family,
With Memorial Day 2006 is just around the corner, I think of your beautiful Jason and I softly say a prayer. .
I heard about your beloved Jason on Good Morning America last year and again read about him in the Sunday "Parade" last Memorial Day. As I watched the story on GMA I wept! I am so sorry for your loss!
I must say, your son was such a gift to this world! He is a true HERO!
Thank you for your amazing son, who's photos melt our hearts! He will always be remembered in our prayers along with your family!
May God bless you,
Most Sincerely,
Mischel"
Mischel of Bethlehem, PA.

"Hold the gates! Till we meet again bro !"
Sgt Joy of Clark NJ

"I am from 2/7 ....And I have talked to fello 3/7 marines and have read the book about Jason. I think he is a oustanding marine and we all pray for his family. It always hurts me everytime a service man dies. And I wish i could do so much more"
CPL Di Stefano of 29 palms ca, ..my home is NJ wahington twp

"My name is Nathan Culver. I was a Sgt. with 3/5 and got out in 97'. I still get to deal with the Marines through my business and that is where I head of Jason. As I read up on not just what he did, but more importantly who he was, I was touched deeply by his sacrifice. I can't believe it has been 2 years since Jason left us. For about the last 18 months, I have worn his name on my wrist in the form of a Hero Bracelet. It is a black metal bracelet that has his Rank, Name, Service, Date of Loss and City & State etched in silver onto the bracelet. I wear this so that when people ask me "Who is that on your wrist...was he a friend of yours?" I get the opportunity to tell them about Jason and who he was and what he did. We never knew each other, but I would like to think had I met him, we would have become friends. I hope that someday when I am called on from above, that I have a chance to meet Jason, shake his hand and thank him for not only his act of heroism, but his inspiration everyday to be a better person! Thank you to Jason's parents for your sacrifice and your gift to the world. Jason will never be forgotten...."
Nathan Culver of Austin, TX

"To all the good times we had in the bay. I will never forget you SEMPER FI BROTHER."
Cpl GESSEL of Valley Cottage, NY USA

"Jason,

I still remember those days in Boot. It was much simplier back then. We had it good there didn't we? And when you became the Squad Leader you never became the jerk the others were. I always appreicated that.

Semper Fi Buddy"
Matthew Barry of Brick, NJ

"Jason, You were one of the first NCO's I met when I went to the fleet. You were the only NCO to treat the "boots" like men, not trash. You treated everyone with respect and although I was older than you and had a bachelor's degree as a Lance Corporal, I still looked up to you. After my tours in Iraq, I now sit in Okinawa waiting to EAS in about 2 months and think about you every day as I pass by "Dunham Street" on Camp Schwab. I will always remember you....."
Sgt. Theodore R. Lester of Seattle, WA

"Semper Fi Jason!"

"April 14, 2006

Jason, on the second anniversary of your act of valor, it is clear that, in life, you touched the lives of so many and, in death, you have inspired countless more.

You were, undoubtedly and in many ways, a most remarkable young man.

Semper fidelis, Marine!

May you rest in peace."
A grateful American of Western New York

"I originally read about Jason Dunham on June 13, 2004, in which I saved the article from my local paper. After reading about Jason, I intended to incorporate his name into my sons name, if I was ever given the chance to have a son. During the first week of April 2006, my wife gave birth to twins, a boy and girl. I named my son Anthony JASON, in memory of Jason Dunham. I pray my son grows to posess some of the same qualities of our hero, JASON DUNHAM. May God Bless Jason's family."
Brian of Pascoag, Rhode Island

"I just read a book on Corpral Jason Dunham titled The Gift of Valor. Based on my second hand account of Corpral Dunham, he had this gift. I'm 13 years old, and all my life I've wanted to be a Marine. When I think of a Marine, it's people like Corpral Dunham that come to mind. I greatly appreciate what he and his fellow Marines have done. I am praying for everyone in Iraq and Afganistan. Keep up the good work. Everyone is thankful for you all.

Semper Fidelus"
Ed Herzberg of Brookfield, Wisconsin

"I served with Jason in 3/4 kilo. If i rememeber right, he was not with us for our 1st of many tours in Iraq and we gave him so much trash about it. All in all he was an awesome Marine and a nice guy. What he did is the ultimate a warrior can do. He gave his life to save others and his name and story needs to be forever remembered. I will not forget and to do this day I wonder what would have happened if that had happened to me or my friends while we were there...Semper Fi Jason and see you again someday"
Martin (Kilo 3/4 99-04)

"Cpl Dunham, thanks for all your help all that you have sacrificed one hell of a Marine. I look at hard charges now a completly different way, you were my go to Cpl the guy that got things done. I never imaged you would make the ultimate sacrifice but then looking back I can not imagine you not doing what you did. Guard those gates well Cpl Dunham, stay away from that gym... don't think I didn't forget, YOU STILL OWE ME A REMATCH in arm wrestling, my Bowflex and I say we will take you when we meet again. Semper Fi"
GySgt Larry Long of Corpus Christi, TX

"To the Dunham family, I finished reading the book about Jason and the sacrifice he made on behalf of his Country and fellow Marines. He was truly a hero in my eyes and how proud you must be. I hope I have the pleasure to meet him in heaven. I will forever hold in my prayers the sacrifice your family has given and Jason will be forever in our hearts. GOD please bless our Soliders and their families and let them return home safe."
Bryan Mclaughlin of Rochester, New York, USA

"To Family and loved ones of Jason,

I read the book "THe Gift Of Valor " I actually read it twice, I don't think there has ever been a book that has made me cry. This is one of the saddest things I have ever read about. But I am proud to say that I am also a part of the Marine Family. Jason showed bravery and he was the best example for all these young men that are out there fighting this War. May he rest in peace."
Carolina of Hesperia, Ca. US

"Cpl. Dunham's Parents,

I want to say that your son's story has been the most inspiring thing I have ever read. I have thought about crossing over from the Air Force to the Marines and after reading the book there is no stopping me. Thank You for your sacrafice."
Amn William Miller of Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany

"May God hold Jason in his hand and may he know peace in Heaven he didn't know on earth. I lost my nephew, LCpl Justin M. Ellsworth, in Fallujah 13 Nov. 2004 under similar circumstances. May they both rest in peace."
Mark O'Donnell of Eaton Rapids, Mi.,USA

"Dan and Deb,

You are in the prayers of my family. As the anniversary of Jason's death approaches, please know those who share the Dunham name wear it with pride because of Jason's bravery, devotion and sacrifice. I would have loved to have had Jason in my unit, leading my young troops. I could have learned a thing or two from him! I pray that our government does the right thing and honors him with the Congressional Medal of Honor. Dan, perhaps I'll be able to shake your hand at the ceremony and offer my heartfelt thanks."
Senior Master Sergeant Randy Dunham, wife Debbie, son Senior Airman Ryan Dunham of Urbana, Ohio USA

"To the parents of a fine marine. I can't begin to tell you how proud iam of your son. The leadership and selfless dedication he demonstrated are nothing short of anything i've ever read or seen in the history of our country. I pray that my sons could have selfless qualities of your son. God bless you!"
Cpl Hounsom W.J. A1/9 1986-1990 of Colorado

"As a Father of a former soldier,now fireman,and a sailor plus brother in law of an airman, I pray for each and every service member daily. Their sacrifices for us are so many and so many times people do not appreciate these brave men and women who are doing their jobs all over the world,everyday, so that we can do ours here at home!semper fi Mr. Dunham I know God has a special place for men like you!"
eddie dulaney of tye texas

"From a former Marine -- You will NEVER be forgotten and I hope one day in Heaven I can shake your hand and say thanks! You make us all very proud. SEMPER FI"
Tom Melton of Burlington, NC

"I own the Gift of Valor. Corporal Dunham is another reason why I'm joining the USMC. He was truly a great American and a great Marine, deserving of the Medal of Honor. It's the least we could do to honor his memory."
David of Fayetteville, North Carolina/America

"To the family of Cpl. Jason Dunham, K 3/7. I have just read the inspriational story of your sons heroic sacrafice in the book The Gift of Valor. I have been in the Army for a little over a year, and havent not yet been deployed to Iraq. However, I know the day is soon comming, and your sons story leave me asking myself "When its my turn, will I have the courage to do what he did?" Jason will always be in my thoughts and is an inspiration to me. Cpl. Dunham, thank you for your sacrifice, you did more than just save the lives of your commrades, you continue to give inspiration to young soldiers like myself. Thanks you!"
Pvt. Jeremy Johnson of Gresham, Oregon

"Your sacrifice will always -ALWAYS- be remembered. The fact that I'm free and safe is because of you and men and women of your level of commitment and courage. I wish only the best for your family. What you did was the most courageous thing anyone could possibly do, and only which a rare and elite group ever would do. I will honor you and others who have made this sacrifice by living my AMERICAN life to its FULLEST, exercising my FREEDOM at EVERY OPPORTUNITY. Sir, you have earned my eternal and profound respect. God Bless you and your family."
Rob Adcox

"I honor Jason Dunham. I have the book Gift of Valor. He was a great leader. I hope to someday be a grunt in the marines. At first I didn't care about rank, now I want to be a corporal, no higher no lower. I also honor his family espicaially Debra for taking Jason as her own. With great honor and respect SEMPER FI"
Rufus Huffman of Riverdale, Georgia/America

"I'm a sailor who has been fortunate to serve with many Marines in my career. Any of these outstanding men and women would have done in an instant what Cpl. Jason Dunham did to save his fellow Marines. That doesn't make this true hero any less of a hero. It shows him as an example of these Marines whose love and duty to one another is unbreakable, whose courage is legendary and whose mission will be carried out with honor.

Although I didn't know Cpl. Dunham, we were both stationed at Kings Bay, Ga at the same time. I will never forget this brave warrior.

With prayers and thanks for men and women like Jason Dunham,"
B. B. of Washington, DC

"I never had the chance to know Jason but after reading his book I was truely touched. My deepest sorrow goes out to his family. I want to personally thank him for what he did. I will never forget you nor will anybody else. SEMPER FI"
Grayson Smith of York, SC

"JASON YOU HAVE NOT BEEN FORGOTTEN, NOR WILL YOU! TO YOUR FAMILY PLEASE REACH OUT TO YOUR COMMUNITY AND POLITICAL LEADERS TODAY. REQUEST A STREET BE NAMED AFTER JASON. JASON SERVED HIS COMMUNITY, COUNTY, STATE AND COUNTRY. ASKING THIS OF YOUR COMMUNITY. IT IS THE VERY LEAST IT CAN DO TO HONOUR JASON. THE HOLIDAY'S ARE VERY DIFFUCULT WITHOUT OUR SON'S. THIS IS A GIFT WE CAN GIVE OUR SON'S. MY HEART AND PRAYS ARE WITH JASON AND YOUR FAMILY!"
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"A DIFFERENT CHRISTMAS POEM

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.

Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,
completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.

My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,
Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.

My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
a lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.

A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.

"What are you doing?" I asked without fear,
"Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!"

For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts..
To the window that danced with a warm fire's light.
Then he sighed and he said "Its really all right,
I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night."

"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,
That separates you from the darkest of times.
No one had to ask or beg or implore me,
I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.

My Gramps died at 'Pearl on a day in December,"
Then he sighed, "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers."
My dad stood his watch in the jungles of 'Nam',
And now it is my turn and so, here I am.

I've not seen my own son in more than a while,
But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile.
Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,
The red, white, and blue... an American flag.

"I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home.
I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.

I can carry the weight of killing another,
Or lay down my life with my sister and brother..
Who stand at the front against any and all,
To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall."

"So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,
Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."
"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,
"Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?"

"It seems all too little for all that you've done,
For being away from your wife and your son."

Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,
"Just tell us you love us, and never forget.
To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.
For when we come home, either standing or dead,
To know you remember we fought and we bled.
Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us.
***********************
***********************
PRAY FOR OUR MILITARY PERSONNEL EVERY NIGHT!

Thank You Jason
I Miss You...."
Natalie of Seneca Falls

"although i never met you and we grew up only miles away i wanted you to know that we share the same birthday and for that and the actions you did you will be in my heart forever and eternity.i am always thinking of your family,friends, and brothers.you were beyond brave.i thank you for giving us all our freedom to live.rest easy my friend."
william f greene of andover,ny

"TO THE PARENT OF A GREAT PERSON THAT WE ALL LOVED. I SERVED WITH JASON IN 3/4 KILO WEAPONS PLT. HE WAS THERE WHEN WE CAME HOME BACK IN MAY 2003. NEEDLESS TO SAY WE ALL HIT IT OFF AND BECAME FRIENDS. A FEW MONTHS PAST THE UNIT WENT TO BRIDGEPORT FOR TRAINNING.
I ASKED HIM TO WHATCH MY HOUSE FOR ME WHILE MY WIFE AND I LEFT FOR A MONTH. SO HE DID SO HE DID A GOOD JOB HE EVEN MADE MY BED FOR ME WHEN I CAME BACK. WHEN WE CAME BACK FROM BRIDGEPORT HE WOULD AWAYS SAY THAT MY PREGENAT WIFE WAS HAVING HIS BABY. SO EVERY DAY HE WOULD SAY THAT HAY KOOLADE YOU KNOW THATS MY BABY. ONCE THE TIME CAME WE HAD DECIDED TO NOT TO STAY IN 3/4 AND THEN TRANFERD OVER TO 3/7 KILO WPNS PLT. AT THAT TIME MOST OF THE UNIT WAS STILL ON LEAVE IT WAS ALMOST A VACTION IN ITS SELF. ONCE THE UNIT CAME BACK IT WAS TIME FOR ME TO GET OUT AT THE SAME TIME THEY WERE ASKING PEOPLE TO STAY AND GO BACK TO IRAQ. JASON AND I WOULD TALK AND I TOLD HIME I THINK TAHT IM GOING TO EXTEND MY CONTRACT A YEAR TO GO BACK WITH HIM HE THEN TOLD ME YOUR CRAZY. YOUR WIFE JUST HAD THE BABY YOU DONT NEED TO WORRY ABOUT USE YOU HAVE FAMILY TO WORRY ABOUT. SO TAKE CARE OF MY SON FOR ME WHILE IM GONE. THE LAST TIME I SAW JASON WAS AT 7:30AM DECMBER 17,2003. JUST AS I WAS ON MY WAY HOME WITH MY FAMILY. HE IS A TRUE FRIEND AND WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERD. SEMPER FI AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEVIL DOG."
CPL. JOSEPH B. COLUNGA of HOUSTON, TX

"Thank you Jason, you are the greatest hero in my eyes and you will never be forgotton!!"

"November 10, 2005

Jason, on the 24th anniversary of your birth and the 230th anniversary of the founding of your beloved Marine Corps, the following quotation comes to mind.

“To be honest with you, my first thought was, 'I wish he [Jason] hadn't [thrown himself on a grenade to protect his Marines].' Because then we wouldn't have lost him. But knowing Jason, it wasn't even an option." -- Matt Moretti, Scio (New York) Central School basketball coach.

Of all of the hundreds and hundreds of poignant and heartfelt, warm and thoughtful, touching and inspiring comments that have been made about you and your act of valor, one of the most moving was this one from Coach Moretti, who, in a couple of brief sentences, says everything that one needs to know about your character and that of your wonderful parents.

In life, you touched the lives of so many; in death, you have inspired countless more.

Jason, you were, undoubtedly and in many ways, a most remarkable young man. And I will always regret never having had the pleasure or the honor of meeting you here on this Earth.

Semper fidelis, Marine!

May you rest in peace."
A grateful American of Western New York

"Happy Birthday Jason I never Thought this would be such a somber day"
Cpl Falvey of 2D LAR

"Happy Birthday Jason...You are forever in my heart."
Natalie of Seneca Falls, NY

"jason,
I didnt know you, but I wish i did. I finish reading "The Gift of Valor" and after reading it I fell that I know you. I think about you, and what you did. I fell like your some how watching over me, like a guardian angel but I think your more like a superhero. I will always remember you. I'm a Lance Corpral in the Young Marines,and I will also be a Marine, but I hope I'm at least half the Marine you ever were. Rest in Peace. Thank You and Semper Fi- lcprl V. Figueroa"
v. Figueroa of mentor, ohio

"I am a Sergeant of Marines attached to Marine Corps Security Force Company in Kings Bay, GA. Cpl Dunham departed this command shortly before I reported on 2003. I never had the chance to meet meet him but I can say that he definitely left a lasting impression on the Marines at this command. His sacrifice and heroism set a lasting example for Marines. As we prepare to celebrate the 230th birthday of the founding of our Corps, myself and the Marines of Marine Corps Security Force Company, Kings Bay, GA honor the life and sacrifice of Cpl Dunham. We know that it is only by the actions of men like Jason and the values of our Corps that we are able to have such pride in bearing the title Marine. May we all have the courage to act as he did when called upon. Happy birthday Cpl Dunham, you are not forgotten."
Sgt Matthew J. Tolbert of MCSFCo, Kings Bay, GA

"I hope I have as much courage as you, when it's my turn to fight."
Trevor Sparkes of Hackettstwon, New Jersey, USA

"To the Dunham Family,

I recently completed reading "The Gift of Valor" and to say the least I was profoundly touched by your family's devotion and the manner in which you handled this tragic moment. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and may you be comforted in the years to come--it's stories like Jason that really hit home when it comes to nature of combat."
Calvin Williams of Scott AFB IL

"To Dan, Deb, Kyle and Katie,

I just read the book concerning your son and brother.

Dan and Deb, I am sure not a day goes by that you do not think of Jason. No one can ever feel the true sense of loss you must feel. Dan you are an extremely brave person also for the choice you had to make for Jason. Deb alot of people in this world would have loved to have a mother as such as you.

Katie and Kyle, do your best for Jason and honor him. I am positive thoughts of him will guide you through life. He may not be here physically. But you most certainly can look up to him.

Jason is/was/always will be a hero to many. He is a hero to me.

I always wanted to live in a small town, have a close knit family. The way Jason was is a testament to the benefits that a loving family and town can do to raise such a fine young man.

Semper Fi Jason and a job well done Marine."
Byron M. Hilyard GySgt USMC (Ret) of Utica, Michigan

"" GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN.""
Hector of Rosenberg, Tx/Fort Bend County

"To Cpl Dunham and his Family: I am in 2/7 Fox Company. After I heard about what Jason did and after I read the book Gift of Valor I was brought to tears. Reading his story shows what a true Marine is.I would give anything to have a squad leader like Jason. Words cannot begin to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. He is an inspiration and a hero.again I send my heart felt condolences. Semper Fi Jason"
A 2/7 Marine of 29palms

"Hey, I'm Maranda Williams from Central-Carroll High School, in Carroll County, GA. Im planning on doing a biography on a person of the year, and I have chosen this brave Marine.
-Maranda"
Maranda of Carrollton, GA. U.S.

"Me deepest sympathy to Jason's family and friends. My boyfriend was really really close friends with Jason and talks about him with the greatest respect I could ever imagine. The way he talks about him, Jason seemed like the greatest friend alive. I am sorry for your loss and I know I wont ever understand, or I hope I wont have to lose my boyfriend one day. Jason is a hero and I hope I will have the courage to do what he did the day I am in the service."
Elise of West Caldwell, NJ, USA

"My sister, Gloria Johnston from Bolivar sent me articles on Jason over a year ago. Originally from Fillmore, and a Marine Veteran, I now live in Concord, N.C. I read "his" book recently and was honored to visit his gravesite this past summer. You have to be a Marine to understand the die-hard respect and devotion from one Marine to another, though I suspect, his parents now know this feeling of "Semper-Fi" very well.
God be with you my brother Marine and on this the Corps and your birthday, I'll keep you constantly in my thoughts."
Ron Bliss of Concord, N.C.

"To the parents of Cpl. Dunham. First off I am sorry for the loss of your son and he will never be forgotten for his heroic achievements. When I was going through recruit training at MCRD Parris Island, SC the 1st Battalion Commander Lt. Col Stalhman once told us a story when we first arrived their. We didn't know what to expect being new the the enviroment. A lot of us were scared and nervous and some were mad for making the decision to become a Marine. He began to tell us the story about this Marine who gave the ultimate sacrifice to save other Marines in combat. His name was Cpl. Dunham...your son. It made a great impact on me when I heard what happened and what your son did. I will never forget that story and to this day I still think about it on how it has affected me. It made me want to become a Marine that much more...Your son has had a big impact on me and other Marines who have heard the same story. Your son is truely a hero. GOD BLESS..."
PFC Cogburn Michael D of 29 Palms, CA

"I am just finishing up the book, The Gift Of Valor. It is a book about Jason Dunham and his fellow soldiers. I can not think about or read this book without crying. This man was a true hero and will never be forgotten. He has encouraged me to join the Marine Corps myself. I am thankfull for heros like Jason, who have given all for our country. I want to send my deepest condolences to jason's family and friends. Thank you Jason, and may you rest in peace."
Timothy Larison of Tempe, AZ USA

"Although I have never met Jason, it feels as though I have through the book "The Gift of Valor." You are an inspiration to many and have paid the ultimate price and I want to thank you with all my heart. Words can not express how heroic you really are. You are in my heart and prayers everyday. Thank you to the family for raising such an admirable son may God Bless you everyday. So Jason we may have said goodbye to you but you will never be forgotten, and one day I hope to met you for you are a true American HERO."
Katie Waters of Wisconsin

"Of the thousands of books in Borders I picked up The Gift of Valor. What you did for your fellow Marines and Americans can not be measured. Your act of sacrifice will be remembered by this Soldier forever. Semper Fi Marine!"
SSG Alex C. of VA

"I went to boot camp with you and cannot forget when you stuck that huge damn staple almost through your hand. You were a poster Marine and an inspiration to us all. I will keep you in my thoughts. God Bless your family and Semper Fi"
Caleb Gaasch, Cpl USMC of Utica NY

"Corporal Jason L. Dunham, You are an inspiration for myself and all of your brothers. Thank you for your sacrifice! You are forever remembered! LCPL Hodges, Julian K.USMC"
LCPL Hodges, Julian K. of Indianapolis, IN

"Jason, I know you are in heaven watching over us. Thank you for all your heart, your spirit and loyalty,thank you for being the exceptional human being that you are. You will remain forever a force, an example of a true hero...a man of valor.You will not be forgotten.
Bless your family and may you rest in peace, I hope to meet you up there someday....I would love to see that smile in person.Go Yankees!!!"
Lori of Candgua,NY

"I am the proud mother of an Army soldier that served a year in Iraq. Your brave son's story touched me as no other war story has and has left me in tears. Many prayers for your family as you grieve the loss of your hero. Heroes like him make me proud to be an American."
Mary Ann Rogan of Dalton, PA USA

"Semper Fi, Marine."
Sam of Sacramento, CA

"I heard about Jason in the 'Parade' magazine that I get every Sunday. When I read the article, I was sick to my stomach to realize that I had not heard about his story sooner, or on national television. It absolutely broke my heart in two. I have a picture of Jason and his mother in my locker at school, and I look at it every day and say a quick prayer and word of thankfulness for men and women like this amazing man. Jason, you're gone, but certainly not forgotten. Oohrah and Semper Fi"
Brenna of Pendleton, California

"Mr and Mrs Dunham,
As a Marine I cannot remember when I was able to be in the same theatre of Operations and hear of such a heroic feat. I was talking to my Noncomissioned Officers about your son just the other day. I told them of his sacrifice in order to save fellow Marines and his exacting and instrumental leadership up to the day he was wounded. I told them that through his unselfish acts that day he made a statement. He made sure his men were safe as best he knew how and he dedicated his life to his fellow Marine. He is the exact example of an NCO. I cannot tell you what I would give to have a thousand men just like Corporal Dunham. My family and I pray for you and your family and we hope you can know that as a Marines family you will always be part of ours no matter where you are from or what unit your son may have been in. I am deeply moved by his courage and his desire to care for his men. I will remember this young lad always and think of the fine parents who brought him up in his life. Please accept my sincere condolences and remember Marines never forget the fallen, we continuously honor them. Semper Fi!"
1stSgt Mark Massey of Company C 2nd AABN 2nd Marine Division

"Jason,
We will continue to push forward and crush the enemy with your inspiration in our hearts and minds. Our mission will continue its success thanks to your extreme commitment to the mission and your fellow Marines. Semper Fi, Brother.
LCpl Viverette 1/7 H&S (former Camp Gannon Marine)"
of Twentynine Palms, Ca

"Jason,

I am a former Marine and your brave actions have motivated me to rejoin the military (Army) and go to Iraq myself to finish what we started. I will be there before the year is over and I hope I can be as brave as you.

I never knew you, but you can bet I won't forget your name. Semper Fi, brother."
J of California

"To the Parents of this Outstanding young American and Marine. If I were to sit and read websters from cover to cover, I could never find the words to comfort the pain you are enduring and will always endure. While he may be physically gone from the earth, he will live with us forever. He will never be forgotten by those who have served with him, who have worn the Marine Uniform and other members of our sister services. Thank you so much for raising a young man of his caliber. Thank you so much for allowing him to serve in our Corps. Thank you so much for allowing us to honor him today and for eternity. May the blessings of God be with you and your family until you are able to meet him again. Rest assured, his sacrifice has not been lost in the eyes of God. We may miss him terribly but he is now in the hands of someone who loves him as much as you and those who have served with him. He is in Gods hands. I will pray and always remember. God Bless You & Semper Fidelis,"
SgtMaj Alphonse A Pinero, Jr of Media, PA

"To Marine Cpl. Jason L. Dunham and his family.

A fallen soldier never dies in vain. He proudly gave his life for us and his country. Nobody can ever ask for more than that. I know that I don't know Jason and his family,but I can say that he will always be remembered not as just a soldier, but as a True Hero. In the end fallen or still fighting we all stand together!"
Alisha Allen 16 of Wayne Ohio, USA

"TODAY I BEGIN TO THINK ABOUT ALL THE SOILDERS,THAT IS LAYING DOWN THEIR LIFE FOR ME,AND THIS COUNTRY,I DONOT HAVE ANYONE OVER THEIR I WANT TO TELL YOU THEIR IS NO PAIN THAT GOD WILL NOT HEAL,I WANT TO TELL YOU AND YOUR LOVE ONE I LOVE YOU I DONOT KNOW YOU.I WILL PRAY FOR YOU,FOR JASON L. DUNHAM MAY GOD HOLD YOU IN HIS LOVING ARMS,AND TELL YOU A JOB WELL DONE THANK YOU FOR LOVIN YOUR COUNTRY"
GWEN of SANFORD NORTH CAROLINA

"To the family and friends of Cpl. Jason Dunham,
Please know that you are in my prayers and thoughts. I just picked up "Gift of Valor" from the local library and just by looking at the picture of Jason - you could tell he loved his country - that determined look to do good. Its people (by that I mean...soilders) like Jason who make me very proud to be an American. God Bless."
Terrilee of Amherst, NY

"More on Jason and "The Gift of Valor" on Beliefnet: http://www.beliefnet.com/story/169/story_16976_1.html"

"never forgotten brother"
aldkfjs of VA

"Semper Fi, Jason....."
Cowboy1773 U.S.M.C. 1974 of Houston, Texas

"I Met Jason once in Kingsbay, Ga. He has a spirit of gold and a heart of a warrior. What he did should insiper us all to achive greatness and carry on his name. To us he is up there with Dan Dailey and Chesty Puller. I hope he is at peace wathing over and protecting us."
Cpl Brown, Matthew, K. of Jacksonville, Fl. USA

"My name is Ben Mellish, and I would like to say thank you for saving some good marines, SEMPER FI! lcpl. Dunham is one of my heroes and has inspired me even more to become a U.S. Marine."
Ben Mellish of Natick, mass u.s.

"To Jason and family,
I never knew jason. I have heard a great deal of him before he passed. His courage and true love for his fellow Marines has challenged me in a way that can never be explaind. As a fellow Marine deploying to Iraq again, I only hope that I can be as heroic. Jason, you will never be forgoten and will be seen soon.
Lcpl Matt Burgdorf 1/7 wpns co. husaybah, Iraq"

"dear jason this is doc clarke from 3/7 kilo
company 1st platoon. I know that you are not here with us any more, but I would like to say thank you for giving you life so I could go home to my family.
I had the chance to know you,and what kind of man you are, and will always be.
I was there when you came in and I saw you laying there with gunny may he rest in peace. and my heart fell jason. we gotyou onto the helo and I said a prayer.
but our father in heven did not give me the answer i had hoped for.but god had
his reason's, and you gave us your life
to save two others. jason I know that god has a place in heven for you.
I am so proud to say that I know jason,
and that he is always with us. jason my brother semper fi.
to jasons mother and father,words can not tell how much I am thankfull for the chance to have known your son, and to have served with him in iraq.he was and will always be in my heart, and you will allways be in my prayers. your friend doc clarke"
adam,clarke. aka doc clarke of chicago illinois

"I regret never having the HONOR of looking you in the eye, shaking your hand, and THANKING you for all you have done for your Country, your Family and your Home. Rest in Peace Marine ... SEMPER FI!
Fom an old Airborne Trooper, a crisp, heart felt ... SALUTE!"
Vernon E Brewer II of Trumansburg, New York, USA

"I just finished reading "The Gift of Valor",and i want to say thank you to Jason Dunham and his family and friends. We should all thank our service men and women for the great sacrifices they make in order to ensure our liberty and
freedom. Last but not least I want to thank the families who make the ultimate sacrifices. You are all in my prayers."
C.S. of Bronx,N.Y.

"To Corporal Jason L. Dunham's family and friends,and to everyone that ever lost somebody in the midst of it all,

We have read the touching articles of the heroic acts displayed by Cpl. Jason L. Dunham which brought many tears streaming down our faces. At only the ages of 14 (KiKi) and 17 (LuLu) the story of Cpl. Jason L. Dunham has touched us in a way no other one could before. Even though we never knew Cpl. Jason L. Dunham personally, we feel as though we have suffered a loss.
May his courageous acts to save his fellow soldiers live on in each and every one of us and in all of the things we do.
We hope that someday we too can be just as brave as Cpl. Jason L. Dunham; a hero lost, but never forgotten.
If you would like to contact us for any reason, please feel free to write.
KiKi- Just_An_American_Heartbreaker@yahoo.com
LuLu- Shimmerofdust@yahoo.com

We would like to dedicate this to all of the soldiers and their loved ones.
Title: The Innocent
Artists: Good Charlotte, Mest, And Goldfinger

The start of Armageddon
It was just another day
We all saw the news, nothing to say
So many friends are missing
And family members gone
So we all pray that God help them be strong
And now we stand together
Remembering that day
The lives we live will never be the same

And we don't know why
The innocent die
Will this world ever find a way to change?
And we don't know why
But we know it's not right
We don't know why so many had to die
We don't know why so many had to die

Hate has turned to others
For their religion or their skin
But hate can't solve the problem it began
Everyone is angry
People are afraid
And no one knows what decisions will be made

And we don't know why
The innocent die
Will this world ever find a way to change?
And we don't know why
But we know it's not right
We don't know why so many had to die
We don't know why so many had to die

And we don't know why (don't know why)
The innocent die (don't know why)
Will this world ever find a way to change?
And we don't know why (don't know why)
But we know it's not right (don't know why)
Will any of us ever be the same?
Will any of this ever be the same?

And we don't know why
The innocent die
Will any of us ever be the same?
Will any of this ever be the same?"
KiKi and LuLu of Realistic Tragedy of Tacoma, Washington, USA

"I was very touched by the story "No Greater Love" in the "Parade" magazine. It is people like Jason who make me feel glad to be an American"
meaghan of New York

"I just wanted to say that Jason is in our thoughts and prayers everyday. My wife and I are both reading the book that she had autographed for me. I am leaving for Iraq soon with 3/7 Kilo Company 4th Plt; the same as Jason. 4th Plt is held to a higher standard in remembrance of Jason's sacrafice. Thank you for raising a hero like Jason."
"New Join" 3/7 Kilo of 29 Palms

"I served with Jason in Kings Bay Ga with the Marine Corps Security Forces. I was in the same Platoon but never got to know him well. I do remember that he was a gifted athlete and a Marine with a bright future. I didn't know what happend until I saw the book at work one day. Jason paid the ultimate price for his men and his country and I am fortunate to say that a knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and he will always be remembered. Semper FI"
Kevin Hyde of FT. Myers, Fl

"Words alone will never be able to express the kind of gratitude that is owed to you by this great nation. A true hero and an inspiration to us all. Thank you for your sacrifice brother. Rest in eternal peace. Semper Fidelis."
Former Marine Sergeant, Brian Moreland of Stanhope, New Jersey

"Between Michael Phillips' article and book (The Gift of Valor) and David Kniess’ recollection of having met Jason Dunham on a transcontinental flight, I've thought a great deal about Corporal Dunham and his heroic actions recently. He was born and raised (and buried) just 60 miles from my house. On the morning of Saturday, June 11, 2005, I finally decided that I would visit his grave to pay my respects, as that was the only thing I could think of doing at that time to honor this young man's sacrifice for his fellow Marines and our Republic. This was a hard decision for me, as I make it a point not to go to cemeteries to pray at a grave.

The issue of Parade magazine for May 29, 2005, shows a picture of Jason’s final resting place on the cover.

I stood at his grave for about 15 minutes (the time went by very, very fast, even though it was about 85 degrees that day). I was alone with my thoughts and prayers. I didn't see anyone else in the cemetery the entire time that I was there.

It certainly was a unique experience for me. I have been to Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknowns, as well as Gettysburg and other burial grounds.

But here, just a few feet away from me lay not only someone who was mortally wounded in combat, but a hero who made a split-second decision to sacrifice his life for others, someone who (I assume) will be awarded the Medal of Honor, and someone who wasn't even born when I graduated from college in 1981. His story is much more current in our minds than the actions of those in the earlier wars of the Republic. (I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing when I first heard on a radio station out of Buffalo that Jason had died of his injuries at Bethesda.) And he exhibited qualities that we don't often see and that we very much need in today's world.

I was quite an honor for me just to be there.

I left a US flag, a very small pot of geraniums, and a card.

I was surprised how peaceful and quiet it was there. The birds were chirping; a dog or two was barking nearby (his grave is near a residential neighborhood, and I could hear some music in the air and some little kids playing outside). I thought about who would even think that, in this quiet cemetery, up the hill, at the (now) edge of the recent graves, lies a true American hero that kids will learn about and hear about for decades. As I said, it was quite an honor just to be there.

I now very much regret not having attended Jason’s funeral.

When you get a chance, please say a prayer for Jason's family. I have sometimes wondered where God finds men like Jason Dunham in our country today. I have reached the conclusion that they are not made, but raised, and that his parents did an outstanding job! And there are plenty of parents out there in the rest of the good ol' USA doing that tough job today.

May we always remember and honor Jason Dunham and all those heroes who have the gift of valor.

I extend my most sincere condolences to Jason’s family and friends. May God hold Jason tenderly in His arms forever."
Joe Lazzaro of West Valley, NY

"My son, who was stationed with Jason in Kings Bay for a short time before Jason shipped out, sent me "The Gift of Valor" for Father's Day. Greg has told me what a great guy Jason was even after only meeting him a few times, and how he cared for his Marines. After reading his story, I was brought to tears trying to envision myself in your position. God bless you and Jason for the sacrifices you've made for all of us."
Gregory Ryan of York, PA, USA

"I have so many things I could say about Cpl. Dunham. His courage. His honor, duty, and love for his men and his country. Nothing would quite cover it. There is no way I can ever thank the soldiers like Jason who so willingly and selflessly lay down their lives to protect the freedoms we take for granted.

I know his family must grieve over his death and feel a sense of emptiness. They should know they raised an extraordinary young man. At such a young age, he accomplished so much. He gave us the most precious thing he had.

I took the book The Gift of Valor with me on vacation. There were many times I sat there, book in hand, with tears in my eyes. I felt so guilty about being on vacation while he and thousands of our soldiers have suffered horrible injuries and died fighting these disgusting terrorists.

We can’t change what happened. From what I’ve learned about Jason, he died giving NO thought to what would happen to HIM, only what he knew was going to happen to his men if he did nothing. What we all can do is never forget what our soldiers have sacrificed. The inured and the dead. We should support them 100%. We should tell their stories and let all our fellow Americans know what brave, honorable, and good people they are.

God has you now Jason. I wish I could have been lucky enough to know you for just a few seconds. Thank you for your honor, bravery, integrity, and most of all MY FREEDOM. I extend my love and gratitude to Jason Dunham and his family. God bless you!

You will not be forgotten. Many of us will see to that.

Chris George
www.pegasusdog.net"
Chris George of Texas

"I am writing on this Father's Day to thank all the fathers who are all heroes but especially to the soldiers who have gone to protect everybody else's fathers so they can come home to their childern at the end of the day. I have just finished the book "The Gift of Valor" as my son lay in his crib waiting for me to come get him. I am praying for all the fathers and sons to come home to their families. I am a proud Canadian and am also proud of all soldiers who go to unknown countries simply because they believe they have to. Jason Dunham's parents raised a son who gave his life to protect others and he will always be remembered by those who have met him and heard about him.

Take care."
Mrs. Tracy Grzybek of Calgary, Alberta, Canada

"I just finished reading "Gift of Valor" and was very moved by this fellow soldier's story. His parents must be very proud of the terrific son they raised. He truely deserves the Medal of Honor. God bless Cpl. Jason Dunham"
PV2 Matthew Reich, US Army of Ft Huachuca, AZ

"I can't begin to thank the soldiers like your son who so willingly and selflessly lay down their lives to protect the freedoms we take for granted. It is men like your son with morals and virtues that make us proud to be Americans and proud to support our country's efforts overseas. I look at my son and can only hope he will someday possess the strength and courage that you instilled in your son. Thank you for sharing his story."
Denise and Cory of Victor, NY

"I was with Jason during OIF2 in Husayba and for the short time that I knew Jason he was a great guy to be around. I cant remember a time when I didnt see a smile on his face. I used to call him daisy because he was such a strong looking guy but had a baby face. Rest asure that no one who has ever met him can say a single bad word about him. I wish that there were more that I could do to ease the pain that you feel but nothing can take away the pain. Just know that all of us that knew him love and miss him and our thoughts will always be with him and yourselves."
Cpl Darlington, Keith A. of 3/7 Kilo Co

"I just finsihed reading "The Gift of Valor" Jason was an incredible Marine. His family should be very proud of his actions and the courage that he displayed in combat. I hope that his recommendation for the Medal of Honor comes through, Jason deserves it. Thank you to his family for the hero that they raised and the sacrifice that he made for our country. God Bless Jason!"
Allison of Harrisburg, Illinois

"There is NO greater Love than this, that a man would lay down his life for his friend! God bless his mother and father for the way they raised him. May God bless, comfort and protect the entire family for always in Jesus' Name!"
Pastor Lamont & Katherine M. Settles - Refuge Church of Olney, MD (USA)

"I just finished reading "The Gift of Valor". As a USMC Beirut Veteran (82/83), I sincerely hope that you are awarded the Medal of Honor and I support your units recommendation, and that it is not stalled like the request of the Beirut Stamp in the manner that the USPS has cited because of their reason that "...not enough people were killed". May your family always find comfort in remembering the time they had with you, and to your fellow Marines who had the honor of serving with you, I share the loss you feel. I look foward to meeting you when it is my turn to stand watch on the Gates of Heaven. SEMPER FIDELIS"
Bill Kibler of Arlington, VA

"I have just finished reading "A Gift of Valor". Mr and Mrs Dunham, thank you for raising a fine young Marine, thank you for his service and for your sacrifice. Semper Fi"
Doug K. of York Pennsylvania

"To the Dunham family:
I had the the honor and pleasure of serving with Jason in Iraq and he is a good man and Marine. I am deeply sorry for the loss of your son and never had the chance to say that until now. He is truly a hero in my eyes. Thank you for your son and bless your family.
SEMPER FIDELIS Doc P L Co. 3/7"
Justin .T. Purviance of Twentynine Palms California

"To the Dunham Family: Saying I'm sorry for your loss seems so small in comparision to what your Jason has done for our country. He is truly an American HERO. You should all be very proud of what his life and death means to all of us. My son Jasen is also a Marine and I am proud of him everyday for the committment he has made to our country. Just as you are proud of what your Jason stood for. Honor among men is the highest honor anyone can achieve and Jason certainly went well beyond that with his sacrifice and yours. I grieve with you for your loss."
Stephanie & Michael of Jonesborough TN

"Dear Dunham family,
We recently read about Jason in "Parade" magazine. As tears poured down our cheeks we knew we must contact you. You have suffered a great loss,yet,you can be very proud of this HERO who gave his life so others can live. What courage! What integrity! What dedication! He embodied all that every Marine should aspire to be, and he attained it at such a young age. We commend you for raising such a man and thank you for the sacrifice you made so that we may live in freedom. You have our heartfelt sympathy and prayers that the Lord will bless you and give you peace."
John and Lela French of Moore, OK USA

"Mr and Mrs Dunham,

I was there when Jason took his first steps in the living room in your old house in Scio, I just wish that I that I had seen him more when he was growing up. Having served in the Navy myself for 8 years, also during Operation Desert Storm and Shield I know the solom pride which must be yours in knowing that the your son gave his life in defense of his fellow Marines. I am very sorry for your loss. God bless you Jason, you are a true hero. Your uncle, Chris."
Chris Walker of Wellsville, NY

"Mr. & Mrs. Dunham,
Jason was my squad leader in boot camp. I am no longer on active duty and currently work at a book store. I received a copy of "The Gift of Valor" today. I feel that Mr. Phillips truly depicted Jason in the truest form. There are no words that can accurately describe Jason and what he did for all of us, but this book was a start. I am forever grateful to have had a brother and friend like Jason. I would like to offer my deepest sympathies to you and acknowledge your sacrifice. You too are heroes in our eyes. Thank you."
Sgt F.A. Lane of Newport, NC

""Mr. and Mrs. Dunham: I am a retired Marine and have a son who is currently in the Marine Corps. I can't begin to explain how deeply touched I am by your son's story. I have followed it for the past year. I wanted to thank you for raising such a fine man. Wars will make heros out of men but the parents must first make the man. What an amazing job you have done. My deepest sympathy is sent to your family. I would also like to extend my deepest appreciation to you and to your family for how you are handling this tragic loss and how you are respecting the memory of one of the finest our Corps and country have sacrificed. Semper Fi Marine.""
E. M. Simms of Stafforc, VA

"Jason is in my heart every minute of everyday, as well as the Dunhams. I may have given birth to Jason but Deb and Dan gave him what it is was that made him who he was. I thank God that they were his parents. That he got from them the values that make him such a hero. I loved him and will miss him."
Natalie of Waterloo NY USA

"As long as the Marine Corps shall live so will your son and all Marines. His sacrafice will never be forgotten. Semper Fi Marine"
Just another nco of Va

"To the family and friends of Jason. I am in the middle of the book The Gift Of Valor. I read the first half of it in a few hours and your son and friend to many has made me proud that I am an American and that there are people who care about others not just them selves thank you for raising your son with the heart to protect us from the people that sould be over here if not for other soldiers just like your son who risked and risk there lives for us to be free. I send all my love and prayers to you all. And know that he is in all our hearts."
Heather Winn of Ontario,Calif./USA

"Dear Mr. and Mrs. Dunham,
Having read in Parade magazine about the ultimate sacrifice your son made on behalf of his men and America, our hearts go out to you and your family. Today, Memorial Day 2005, we chose to recognize Jason's and others' acts of selfless courage by projecting SGM Woody English's recording of Taps out over our neighborhood at 3:00pm. We then joined our neighbors in prayer for the fallen, the fighting, and their loved ones. Jason's picture was shown to the children present, and his story of bravery carefully explained. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." Jason will not be forgotten."
S. Henk of Ballston Lake, NY USA

"Mr. & Mrs. Dunham;
I read about Jason yesterday in parade magazine and have been unable to get him out of my mind, I sit here on Memorial Day 2005 and try to think of the words to help ease your pain for the loss of your son. I just can't find the words, but I can tell you how proud I am to be part of the same brotherhood with your son. I spent over 20 years in the Corps, I had the privlege to serve with men and women of such high caliber. Jason is a true hero and my hope is he will be awarded the Medal Of Honor for his selfless act of saving his fellow Marines. President Reagan once said "Most people go though life wondering if they made a differance, Marines don't have that problem". Marines have been making a differance for over 229 years and your son has made a differance. He is truly America's Hero.

"Semper FI,"
Chuck Hensley USMC (ret) of Havelock / Cherry Point NC

"Dear Mr. & Mrs. Dunham,
I read the article on your son today and I realized that he was killed just a few days after my nephew Maj. Richard J. Gannon who was also assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force out of Twentynine Palms.
We lost some azaming men.
Our pain over loosing Rick is deep and I know your's must be for Jason too.
Rick died for something more than just Duty, Honor, Corps. He died for Love. Just like your son Jason.
We will never forget them.
God Bless you & your family"
Norma Pate (proud aunt of Marine Maj. Richard J. Gannon KIA Iraq 4-18-04) of Capistano Beach, CA USA

"Please visit the Jason Dunham Memorial Scholarship website

www.jasonsmemorial.org

We will be updating it the weeks to follow. Please sign the guestbook while you are there.

semper fi"
David Kniess of California

"I, too, recently read about Jason in the magazine section of our paper. On Memorial Day, my family and I wish to honor Jason's name and thank his family for his life. Men who are willing to sacrifice themselves for an ideal are the best we produce, and the tragedy is that they pay for it sometimes with their very lives. We will never forget this wonderful, honorable young man. Thank you."
sandra mcfarland of nokomis, fl

"I heard about Jason L. DUNHAM,"
Just today.I wanted to find more facts about MEMORIAL DAY witch is today"
Kathleen of M.D.

"Mr. and Mrs. Dunham,

I just read the article on Corporal Dunham and today I fly my USMC and U.S. FLAGS today in honor of your son. Semper Fi Marine.
May God bless you all."
Sgt. Earl Spaulding (1991-2001) of Hampton, VA.

"Dear Mr & Mrs. Dan Dunham & Family, I am so sorry for your loss. What a Brave young Hero. May God Bless you always and Jason."
Jacqueline Willborn of Ballinger, Tx USA

"To the family of Jason Dunham:
Your son embodied the Marine's motto, Semper Fi. His sacrifice for my freedom is mind-blowing and I thank you for allowing his story to be told. My prayers are with your family and please know that I will always be in debt to your son, and the other men and women who serve, for the things they go through to give us freedom. Neither he, nor they, will be forgotten.
"There is no greater love than he who lays down his life for his friends.""
Jennifer S. of Virginia

"I read the story in The Parade all I can say is "THANK YOU" for giving so much for us to stay free may God be with the family of this American Hero and on a personal note from a former hospital corpsman 1st Division SEMPER FI"
David Payne of Calera, Al. 35040

"R.I.P. Jason L. Dunham.
I'm sorry for your loss!!"
Cheyenne Butler of WPB, Florida

"May God bless the Dunham family, they have raised a true American hero!! Thank you."
Lou Gastin, USMC 94-98 of Syracuse, NY

"I just read the story of Marine Cpl. Dunham's life and death. What a great example he is to everyone, everywhere. A true modern-day hero is Mr. Dunham; and I hope his family has some measure of peace in knowing what a great man Jason was. Truly amazing. I extend my love and gratitude to the family of Jason Dunham on this Memorial Day. God bless you!"
Drake of Oklahoma City, OK

"In this crazy mixed up world of trying to say who is a hero and who isn't. It can truly be said that Cpl. Jason L. Dunham is an American hero in every sense of the words. I believe that there are only so many people that are born to this earth that give so much and expect so little, and even though I did not have the pleasure of knowing Jason I am proud to be an American because of his valor. From a former soldier to a fellow marine, God Bless."
Brian Camenisch of Cumming, Ga. USA

"Today is your day bro! semper fi"
SGT JOY of CLARK NJ

"YOU have made the ultimate sacrifice so that I can raise my family under what the Lord and our Founding Fathers meant for me to do! Rest Forever my friend."
R Bisesi of El Cajon, Ca USA

"I honor your service, I am in awe of your sacrifice and I am humbled by your devotion to duty. May your memory last forever on the wall of heroes."
DS Bisesi, USN Retired of San Jose, CA

"i watched good morning america this morning and felt that my memorial day weekend was already honored appropriately,because of hearing the story of this brave beautiful soul that gave his life so selflessly."
cheryl baptista of mariposa,california

"I WATCHED THE GMA ON ABC TODAY AND MY EYES SWELLED TO SEE THE PARENTS OF JASON SHARE THEIR GRIEF. THIS IS THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE!

MAY GOD OF ALL COMFORT GIVE YOU PEACE AS YOU GO THRU THIS PAIN (PHIL 4:4-6)

WE WILL NEVER FORGET!"
REG of BINGHAMTON, NY

"The Dunham family will be in our prayers as we face the loss of another Hero. Our hearts are with you. I offer you this humble website in hopes that you may find a little peace in your time of need.

http://www.geocities.com/mrperky65"
Dave (aka MrPerky65) of Texas

"Dear Mr. & Mrs. Dunham,
I am sorry for your loss. I watched on GMA this morning about the book being published sharing your son's story. I heard the interview of you talking about your son and thought his actions of kindness and concern for his fellow man at home were almost as brave as his "ultimate sacrafice" for his fellow Marnines. You raised a fine young man. May the good Lord comfort you daily for the loss that you now feel.

You are in my prayers."
William S. Nnod of Orlando, FL USA

"Words can not express the emotions felt due to the lost of this Marine! I was Cpl Dunham's platoon sergeant while assigned to 2nd platoon Marine Corps Security Forces Company NSB Kings Bay Ga...Corporal Dunham is the finest Marines that I have ever had the pleasure of serving with. A Marines, Marine..Corporal Dunham will be truley missed..."
SSgt David L. Ingram of MCAS YUMA AZ

"Words can not express the emotions felt due to the lost of this Marine! I was Cpl Dunham's platoon sergeant while assigned to 2nd platoon Marine Corps Security Forces Company NSB Kings Bay Ga...Corporal Dunham is the finest Marines that I have ever had the pleasure of serving with. A Marines, Marine..Corporal Dunham will be truley missed..."
SSgt David L. Ingram of MCAS YUMA AZ

"The brother that I never seen and never talked to was one of the closest thing in my heart. When i found out that Jason was hert i had to call my other stepbother Dylan and it turns out that he had all ready found out. To the family i never seen but always thought about."
Taylor Sherwood of Burt, NY/USA

"To the family of Jason Dunham, you raised a wonderful son, a true example for others to follow, thank you. He will be remembered as a true example of Honor, Courage and Commitment. I served with your Jason, back in April-May 2003, awaiting orders and training to join our unit in Iraq for OIF-I. He was a true American hero, he gave his life for the sake for his fellow marines, we will all missed him, to Jason, I will meet you in heaven and you can be proud that America will live forever, because of your sacrifice. You are what legends are made of, a true American Hero. we are very proud of you. God bless to All. Semper-Fidelis"
GySgt Larry Buenafe of W 1/4 Camp Pendleton California

"I am trying to reach the parents of Jason Dunham. I was also a Marine in the Al Anbar province of Iraq last year. While I didn't personally know Jason, I believe as many people as possible need to hear the story. The sacrifics made in service to our country must be told. I plan on purchasing a large memorial at the Mt. Soledad Veteran Memorial to tell the story of this brave Marine. I would like to invite the parents to attend the dedication if they desire.
It has to be hard so I understand if they would not want to. If you know how to get in touch with them, please pass along my contact information in the event they would be willing to attend. Even if they can not attend, perhaps they have something they would included in the memorial.
Semper Fi,
Nathan
(858) 245-8819
fletcher.nathan@gmail.com"
Nathan Fletcher of San Diego, CA

"Jason,you were my squad leader from the first day I met you, to the day I picked you up when you jumped on the grenade. I learned everything you taught me from day one till the day you left us on the 14th of April of 2004. I am teaching and treating our new Marines everything you have taught myself along with 2nd squad,3/7 Kilo. We will celebrate every day till the day we see you again. We will be deploying again very soon, and plan on applying everything you have taught us to oursleves and our new Marines. I watch the video I have of Kilo 4 and you,every day. I hope to see you soon brother.You have taught us well. We love you and will see you soon. Brothers from Kilo Co. 3/7.Your Bro. Cpl Dean,just like you promised.Semper Fi,Do or Die,Kilo 3/7"
Mark Dean of Owasso,Ok,74055

"Jason: While I may have cared for you for only a small time in Germany, I will never forget what you did for your fellow Marines. This soldier salutes you. Someday, I will shake your hand. God bless your parents for raising such a fine son, and Semper Fi."
1LT Shawn Tulp, Army Nurse Corps of Tucson, AZ

"sorry,
about your los i think what he did was brave and nice he disvorses all that he has in his honer"
an of an

"I had a project to look up a fallen soldier in the war. I didn't see anyone with my last name, but i did see Jason's and i read about what he did. I wish i had known him in person, buti'm glad i saw his name so do know about him, because I should know about him and what he did, and what other soldiers are doing too. He definitely loved his platoon and showed great courage to do what he did. I thank God for giving him the stregnth to do that, and im sure his buddies do too. My prayers go out to the Dunham family, be proud."
Mark Durham of Tryon, NC

"Corporal Jason L. Dunham is the finest example of a Marine, and of an American. He will always live on in our hearts and in the proud traditions of the Corps. I am proud to call him my hero.

Semper fi,"
Retired Marine Gunner, CWO4 of Dallas, Texas, USA

"Dunham, sorry to see you go bud, I know that you were doing what you loved and I can't think of any other way to go. It was a pleasure meeting you. I'll miss all the joking around. Semper Fi Marine."
Shellby of Tempe, Arizona/USA

"It was nice to have known you Cpl Dunham, one of the finest Marines I have had the honor to have served with. Never did get that re-match on the arm wrestling maybe some other time when we meet again."
Staff Sgt Long Larry R. of Twenty-Nine Palms CA

"I did not know Jason L. Dunham very well but I know his family well. I am just very very sorry for thier loss of a very good person."
Elizabeth Hults of Scio, NY

"I served with jason at the bay . He came to me as a young pfc. I was his corporal. I took him under my wing and taught him about the corps, and when all was said and done it was him that was teaching me . I miss you bro. SEMPER FI TILL WE MEET AGAIN!"
SGT. JOY (USMC) of CLARK NJ

"On the 6th of March, I got the pleasure of meeting Cpl Jason Dunhams parents at the Marine Barracks in Washington D.C. They shared with me a little about the son that they lost, and I shared with them a little of the Marines history at my place of business. Debbie, I am truley sorry for the loss of your son and that you paid the ultimate sacrafice in losing him. Semper Fidelis."
SSgt Bryan Lawrence of Washington D.C.

"I served with Cpl. Dunham in Kings Bay I'm very sorry to hear of this tragedy.I will always remember all the great times we had together he was one of the best marines and friend that I have ever had or known.To the family of Cpl. Dunham I send my love and prayers and just want you to know you have done the best job any parent could have done with raising your children..Thankyou soo much!!!God Bless you Jason and your family.I love you!!!!!Semper Fi"
Sgt.DurrII,J.A of CherryPoint,NC

"I wear your "Hero Bracelet" as a symbol of your self-less sacrifice for the cause of Freedom around the world."
Jamie Hill of Atlanta, Georgia USA

"To Jasons Family:
This is dedicated to Marine Cpl. Jason L. Dunham, who died in Iraq on April 22nd, 2004 from injuries sustained from using his body as a shield from a grenade explosion to save members of his platoon. Your the real hero Jason and you are very badly missed.You lived your life to the fullest, and you died a hero. AS I APPROACH THE GATES OF HEAVEN; ST. PETER I WILL TELL; ONE MORE SOLDIER REPORTING SIR; I'VE SERVED MY TIME IN HELL. - unknown I dedicate this space to all those fighting in Iraq, those men and women brave enough to fight for the everyday freedoms we take for granted. To each and every soldier in Iraq and Afghanistan, I love you all and I hope you come home safe. Everyday you fight for the person standing next to you, and for those of us that can't or wont fight beside u. What you are doing is greatly appreciated.
I hope you are finding ways to cope, although im sure it must be very hard. Your son was a wonderful person and u cant replace a person like Jason. Just know he was well loved."
Al of Wellsville, Ny

"I served with cpl.Dunham before the end of my enlistment.He always motivated his fellow Marines, and many of us looked up to him.He was a great Marine, and more importantly, a great man."
Cpl.Ellis of west palm beach, fl/usa

"As a "former" combat Marine (Vietnam, 1965), I cannot express the pride that I have for Jason Dunham. I would have been proud to have known this "HERO", for it's men like Jason that make me proud to be a "MARINE".....
Semper Fi,
Nick Wiltse"
Nick Wiltse of Gasquet, Calif.

"God Bless and keep the entire Dunham family. I'm very sorry for your loss, thanks for raising such a fine person.

Semper Fi Jason."
Scott Temple of Highland, MI/USA

"Jason L. Dunham Family,
I can't begin to understand what your family is going through. What your son did took courage, he did what only most think about when they join the arm forces; that one day you might have to give the ultimate sacrafice. your son is a true hero and at peace now!! he served well!! my thought and prayers are with your family"
SrA Kendrick Bell, USAF of Lackland AFB,Tx

""To the family of Cpl. Jason L. Dunham:
This young man was what we need alive in our horrible world today to guide others to do what is right and just. I'm very sad for you to have lost such a hero. My life, even without children, is so trivial - my heart goes hurts for your loss of your child and heroic son. Thank you for giving us his life and teaching him such honorable qualities that he chose to give back to us...I am very sorry for your loss."
Tammy Norman of Fayetteville, GA USA

"After hearing the story about Jason Dunham it made me feel sad but extremely proud of him. I was happy to know that people out there are still brave and strong enough to do what he did. I cannot express how very proud of him I am. In my eyes he is the most heroic person I have ever seen. May God Bless him."
Mike of Greensburg, PA US

"To the family of Cpl. Jason L. Dunham:
My heart breaks for your loss of such a wonderful hero as your son. Jason is the highest example of an American who loved his country, his friends and family. Jason is the reason we have a great country. His desire to protect his buddies in Iraq is a testiment of great honor and character. We shall never forget him ever. I wish that I had the privilege of meeting this great man! I'm proud of what he has accomplished in Iraq."
Betty Leach of Norfolk, VA USA

"Your son is not gone, do not shed a tear, he is spending Christmas in heaven this year. What a hero!"
Glen of Florida

"What Jason Dunham did is the most selfless thing a person can do. It is hard to fathom giving your life in such a manner to save others. He must have really been a great man."
Mark of VA

"To The Family Of Cpl. Jason Dunham:
I can't compete with the Bible, "Greater love has no man than to lay down his life for another." I pray that God will bring you peace. You should be extremely proud of Jason. No words can console you, but be strengthened by the knowledge that millions of Americans support you.

May God bless you and comfort you."
Alexander L. Avallon Jr. of Hatboro, PA

"To the family of Jason Dunham: Jason exemplifies the definition of bravery and sacrifice. His brave act of courage just brings me to my knees. You must be wonderful parents to have raised such a unique individual. I will be forever proud of him."
Linda of Dobbs Ferry, NY, USA

"Memory Eternal!"
Dean George of Juneau, Alaska/United States of America

"My husband know Cpl. Dunham when they were stationed together at Kings Bay, GA. "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13. Thank you, Cpl. Dunham."

"To the Dunham family our deepest sorrow goes out to you on the lose of your son Jason. He acted in a way that many would feel why do it. He did it for his brothers with out thinking about himself. When you hear what the recruits are taught at Parris Island about the core Values of the Marine Corp, Jason not only learned it but lived it in his life. As for us, our son will be deploying soon with his unit. Having been part of the Marine Corp family for two years now, when anyones son is hurt or killed it hurts the whole family too. May God grant eternal rest to his soul."
Bob and Tricia Davis of Prattville,Al

"Jason Dunham has been nominated for Most Inspiring Person of the Year by Beliefnet.com. You may vote for him here: http://www.beliefnet.com/story/157/story_15715_1.html"
of New York, NY

"Thank you everyone for your kind words, think of this when you think of Jason. It is his story that I feel everyone should hear. I feel that I knew everything about Jason, and you will all know by reading this. Thank you everyone for showing your support during this difficult time. http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0767920376/qid=1101999017/sr=1-1/ref=sr_1_1/002-5690680-5276863?v=glance&s=books"
Justin "Jud" Lambert of Scio, NY (orig) Wilmington, NC (Now)

"Jason I hope that my kids turn out to be half the man you were. There's not a day that goes by that I don't think of you, your Mom and Dad, Kate, Kyle and justin. It makes me realize how precious life is and how lucky I was to know you both as a person and an athlete. As I told you at the Ridge last christmas " You're the Man"."
Wayne Smith of Scio, NY

"Words of my own cannot appropriately express my condolences. The following are attributed to one of this countries great leaders. To you and the memory of your son, Semper Fidelis.

"Executive Mansion
Washington, Nov.21, 1864

To Mrs. Bixby, Boston, Mass.
Dear Madam,

I have been shown in the files of the War Department a statement of the Adjutant General of Massachusetts, that you are the mother of five sons
who have died gloriously on the field of battle.

I feel how weak and fruitless must be any words of mine which should attempt to beguile you from the grief of a loss so overwhelming. But
I cannot refrain from tendering to you the consolation that may be found in the thanks of the Republic they died to save.

I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours, to have
laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of Freedom.

Yours very sincerely and respectfully
A. Lincoln""
Travis Baits - Navy 1983-1987 of Fort Worth ,Texas

"My eyes fill with tears...
My throat closes...
No greater love...
I'm an old retired US Army Sergeant Major. Seen it all, done it all. But the heroism of these wonderful young men knock me to my knees every time. May God bless them and the families. RIP young Marine. You are not forgotten."
Calvin C. Haygood of Collinsville, AL

"I had the pleasure and honor of fighting by Jason in Iraq with 3/4 before he went back over to iraq with 3/7. He is and will be forever remembered by me and his fellow Marines. When i joined the Corps we always heard the question of whether or not our generation will step up when called. Well, I must say Jason has shown them where they can shove that question! God Bless your family, and please take comfort in the fact that Jason was doing what he loved...Semper Fi Jason."
josh martin 3/4 Kilo '99-'03 of Bowling Green, Ohio

"As a marine that served on the same camp as Cpl Dunham I saw the love of his fellow Marines during his memorial service and want to say it was an honor to even be on the same camp as him during my tour of duty in the forgotten corner of this war. Semper Fi"
Corporal Bruce L.A. Martin of Virginia Beach, VA

"what a brave and heroic soldier. I thank him for what he's given."
J. Dibler of Los Angeles, CA

"thanks eveyone for the heartfelt messages. Our family really appriciates your kindness. And thanks to every other person in the services for doing your part."
Kyle Dunham of Scio, NY

"To the family of Jason Dunham: My most heartfelt condolences to each of you. His memory and inspiration, our gratitude and deepest respect, will forever live in our hearts."
John Schooler Jones of Petaluma, California

"To Jason's family

I just read about Jason's actions in Iraq and words can not express the RESPECT I have for him. Untill 20 minutes ago I never heard of Jason Dunham but from now on I will remember him for the rest of my life.
My Prayers go out to Jason and his Family. GOD BLESS JASON, GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND GOD BLESS AMERICA."
Sean Keel of Tucson, Arizona

"Jason, Bro how i miss you so much... I never thought for a minute you wouldn't be with me here today. I loved being around you, you always made me smile and laugh. Man i miss you so much! Without a doubt i can only hope to become half the man that you are, I can never come up with the words to explain how much you mean to me. I will never forget that dreadful day when i learned of what you had done, I still remember the last thing i said to you at "FOB EAST" ... I told you "Be careful, just do what you have to do, don't worry we're all here for ya". we shook hands and that would be the last time we'd ever see each other again. You never know when someone will be taken, but when they are you always wish you could have one more moment with them to tell them how you feel. All i can do is live to honor your memory and no matter what i'll never forget you! I love ya bro and i'll make the world remember, i promise. I love ya Bro!"
Cpl. Michael J. Padisak (USMC) of 29 Palms, CA

"WORDS CANNOT EXPRESS THE PAIN FOR THE LOSE OF A FELLOW MARINE. HIS SACRIFICE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HE LIVED UP TO THE HIGHEST HONOR POSSABLE. I NEVER MET HIM BUT I THANK HIM FOR HIS SACRIFICE AND MY SINCERE WISHES GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY, FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES. YOUR SON WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN"
LCPL CHAD ACKLEY of CAMP PENDELTON CA

"I am a school teacher Every day I ask my class to stand and I say the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States of America and her people . I tell them many brave men and women have fought and died for over 200 years so that we may stand on our feet with our hands over our hearts. The sound they feel is the love of those heroes' hearts still beating to protect us and give us our freedom. The children then stand quietly and think of people they love. Thank you for this great sacrifice and for your great gift of love to all of us. Please know that the hearts of the American children do know and do care."
E. Dana of CA

"My heart goes out to you, the family of this Marine. Please accept my sympathy for the loss of your son and my gratitude for his service. He did not die in vain. His sacrifice will in part help to bring justice and peace to this earth for the people who cherish peace. Your son was a good man, a true and faithful Marine and the best of what represents America.
I was an active Marine Cpl many years ago. My son is currently serving in the Marine Corps now. Your son is eternally part of a special and unique brotherhood and family that you are a part of now as well. Your young son was a true and faithful American hero. Not a phony Hollywood or sports hero but a true and honorable man who put everything on the line for his comrades and country. He was truly Semper Fidelis. I will pray tonight as earnestly as I know how for God's Peace to be in the midst of your family during this terrible and difficult time. Please know that I truly appreciate and honor the service and sacrifice of your son. I will try to honor his memory by helping those young men still over there and by keeping them and your family in my prayers. May God bless you and give you peace, may he hold you and give you comfort when you need it most. My heart goes out to you. Though your son you are always part of the Marine family and can call to them for courage and strength. Your son lives on with in his comrades and Corps and eternally in your hearts. He was the best we have to offer this hurting world. Your son made a difference. The world will be better for his time with us. Please look to the Lord during this hard time. We will never forget. Semper Fi.""
Former Marine Cpl. Bob D. of Jacksonville, Florida

"Semper Fi Brother"
a lady marine of hillsboro, nh

"James Cagney once jumped on a grenade in the movie, The Fighting 69th. He later went on to rescue Audy Murphy in real life and sponser him into film. Since those early years the most selfish of acts on the battlefield have been that of jumping on grenades to save one's comrads. Neither presidents nor kings will ever earn the right to walk in your shadow. Go with God."
SFC Paul Pate of Phenix City, Al

"Today I read about your son. I felt such sadness, but such love. He was a brave man, a selfless man. A true American. The kind of love and bravery it took for him to do what he did, it fills my heart with pride. I am proud to be able to say he was my fellow countryman. And I will be proud every day that he was there to protect myself, my children, and my fellow Americans. Because, in the end, he gave his life for us, for freedom, for future generations. He went, so someone else wouldn't have to. He sacrificed, and you sacrificed, so that someone else didn't have to. I can not tell you how grateful I am for that gift. How unworthy of it I feel. Everyday I will think of your son when I look at my children, and bless him for fighting so that someday they won't have to. God gave the world your son, you raised him right, and God took him back to watch over us still."
SSGT John & Danica Love of West Point, New York/USA

"To the Dunham Family,
I saw the photo of your beloved Jason hugging his Mom, and it touched me deeply. The picture was in my hometown paper in Wichita Falls, TX in a long article remembering many of the brave service people who gave their lives in Iraq. Your brave, strong, loving young son has a place in the hearts of more people than you know.
I cannot imagine your pain and I know that no words from a stranger can do anything to ease it. But I just wanted you to know that I am one of many who recognize the spirit, honor, and courage of your son and want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
May God hold you tight in his arms as He is holding Jason and may He give you strength and comfort."
Nikki Ross

"Cpl. May you rest in peace. Semper fi.
May god give your family the strength and peace that they richly deserve."
Melchor Ortiz (former Marine Cpl.) of Chicago IL.

"To Deb and Dan Dunham, the parents of Cpl Jason L. Dunham
Word cannot express what my heart is saying. I will pray for you. What your son Jason did for his fellow Marines is beyond heroic in my eyes.
I will carry his story with me forever."
D. N, US Army Ret. of Mo

"To The Family Of Jason Dunham, I Cant Begin To Express How Hurt I was To Find Out About Jason. Nor Can I Begin To Express How Proud I Am To Have Known Jason And Served With Him In Second plt. In "the bay".
Myself And Other Marines Heard Of Jasons Heroic Act While Deployed Here In Afganistan. And We Wanted To Let You Know That Jason And All of You Are In Our Thoughts And Prayers.
Semper Fi"
Cpl. David Falvey Jr. of 1st Bn 6th Marines Bco Afganistan

"After going through the past few years and watching friend after friend join the Marines, i finally learned the definition of Semper Fi...but today as i read Jason's story, i learned the TRUE MEANING of the phrase. Jason proved that he was "forever faithful" to himself, his fellow Marines, and his grateful nation, the United States of America. His story was inspiring, emotional and made me put into perspective on what a "true hero" is. Not personally knowing anyone that has died in this war for peace, i do have 6 friends that are in harm's way over there, protecting our freedom just as Jason and every other solider over there is doing. I will write to them and attach a copy of Jason's story...i know they are the ones that will really feel its power and motivation. God Bless you Jason Dunham, for your ultimate sacrifice, and may God and you watch over your family and keep them strong. Thanks "hero"..."
A grateful American who will never forget you... of PA

"Mr And Mrs Dunham I was your son's Drill Instructor in Plt 2092 and I can only say I am very sorry at your loss but I am so proud to say I trained your son. May God bless you and your family."
Gysgt Ronald Morgan of Ladys Island SC

"Just want to say thank you to all who have written in memory of Jason. He was a great brother and son, and an even greater American."
JD of PA

"To the family of Jason Dunham:

I served with Jason in Kings Bay, Georgia and we were on the same CQB Team. I worked side by side with Jason for about a year and a half. This news was total devastation to hear. Jason was such a great friend and an even better Marine. Everyone that knew him will truly miss him. My thoughts and prayers will be with his family. God bless Jason and his family."
Josh Guffey (Former Marine Sgt.) of Huntsville, Alabama

"May God rest your soul, my fellow Marine. The Marine Corps has lost a brother and Heaven has gained an eternal warrior.

Semper Fidelis."
Brian Rayner of USA

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

"Jason Dunham is a brave man and a hero. God wanted him to have his wings. may you find comfort and peace knowing your loved one is in heaven a much better place than here. I did not know him but i will never forget him. My dad is a retired Gunnery Sgt Marine. i do know what it is like to wait and miss him. God bless you and your family"
Andie Torres of Lake Forest, CA. USA

"Semper Fi brother, Semper Fi."
Just a Marine of Ohio

"to the dunham family from the wahl family. by all that wrote prior. no one needs to tell your family. JASON was a hero, for it's obvious he is! An much more by all the hearts he touch in his short life. An that's something he got from his family. Our family prays are with you. Our son has now joined Jason along with the many, and others will follow I suspect. It's amazing that our country have very special son's and daughter's willing to serve our great country! Jason no different from all our troops serving. He was doing what? he loved and did best."
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"I knew Jason's family, Jason is an example of them. They would do anything for the ones they love. My condolences to the Dunhams. They always say the good die young. Him and Brock are looking down on all of you, to comfort you when you are sad and to laugh when you are funny. God Bless You."

"To the Family of Cpl Dunham,
When I read the article on your son, it made me feel very sad and I wish I could of helped him and all the other service members who gave there life. He is a true hero and he made a big sacrifice, God Bless, and he will be in my memory as a Marine and a hero."
HM2(FMF) S.A. Thackwray of Okinawa, JA

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

"As a former 3/7 machinegunner, no words can fully express the honor I have for this great Marine. He is the very definition of the word 'hero'. My heart goes out to the Dunham family. Your son is one of the greatest Marines in the history of this country. God bless you Brother Marine.
Semper Fi."
Bret Reed of Petaluma, CA

"Jason will always be with all of us, even though he has parted physicaly. I remember Jason sitting with me on the bus when I was younger. No one else would, and I still thank him in my heart for that. Mr. and Mrs. Dunham, it was a pleasure to help plant the memorial tree in memory of Jason"
Mindy Becker of Scio, NY

"To the Family of Cpl. Jason Dunham,
Jason Dunham is a true hero. I am so move to read his story in the WSJ. God bless you all."
L. Nguyen of Los Altos, CA

"May God bless cpl Jason Dunham and his family. He now is in the arms of our Lord Jesus Christ. From a fellow marine I salute this great young man. "Semper Fi"my brother. We will see you again one great day.
warmest regards
Tony Cevallos
USMC 1977-1985"
Tony Cevallos of Downey CA USA

"Jason Dunham is truly a hero. I knew his family and him when I was little. Jason, Justin, Their cousin Tara and I used to play with eachother all the time, Jason was the most nicest and caring kid in the world and would stop and doing anything for you no matter what it was he never put himself first he always thought of others. And he will be truly missed in everyones hearts. To Dan and Deb Im sorry about Jason but he is a true hero. Love always, Tiffany Cline"
Tiffany Cline of Andover New York

"To The Dunham family:
I wanted to leave my word of thanks to your family. Your son made the ultimate sacrifice to our country and our Corps. I am sure that the Marines who served with him are better Marines for having served with him. He truely lived what it means to be a Marine. I will be sure that everyone I work with knows your son's story of heroism. He is a true credit to your family and I hope you continue to walk tall. Semper Fidelis."
Sgt. Jamie Walton, USMC of San Diego, CA

"To the family members of CPL. Dunham:
I don't know how to tell you how sorry I am to hear about CPL. Dunham. I am stationed down in Kings Bay, Ga, Close Quarters Battle Platoon. I served with your son, he trained me for the job i am doing today. He made sure that who he trained knew our job because of how important it is. When we found out about this down here, it was a heartbreaker to all the marines. I just wanted to tell the family that i am sorry for what happened and I hope he gets the medal of honor. He deserves it.
SEMPER FIDELIS
THis is from all the CQB marines down in Kings bay Ga."
LCPL WISHNIA, MIchael J. of Kings Bay Ga

"It is because of brave heros like Cpl. Dunham that our country lives on. Semper Fi. My son has just arrived as a combat replacement and I only wish I was younger and able to do my part over there. To the Dunham family - thank you for raising such a fine son and guiding him to be the hero he was. God Bless you Jason and may you rest in peace."
Gary D. Enochs - USMC(ret) of Riverside, CA - USA

"Dear Mr. Mrs. Dunham,

A fellow Marine I served with in the 60's sent me the notice of your son Corporal Jason L. Dunham's recent bavery and heroic act that took his life. It's the unselfish act that Cpl. Jason Dunham demonstrated that has always made the Marine Corps's NCO's what they are today and what they have always been ,Our Leaders. I have two son's in the Air Force and a third son that is a Police Officer, I can't find the words that can explain the sarrow I am feeling for you and your family. I can only say thank you for raising such a son that was so willing to sacrafice his life to fight for our Freedom and the Freedom of others who do not even understand the word.
God Knows Cpl. Dunham, and there is no doubt that Jason is now standing at the side of God. God Bless you and your family, my prayers are with you.
Semper-Fidelis"
1Sgt. Bob Milby of Carson City, Nevada

"Goddess Bless the loss of this brave warrior and comfort those who grieve the passage of a son, a friend, a comrade and hero. Rest in Peace Marine Cpl. Jason L. Dunham. Your work here is through, but your service will never be forgotten.

((((((HUGS)))))) To Family, Friends, and the Soldiers who grieve the passage of America's son. Thank You Jason for all you've done in service of our Country. Thank You, forever."
Ocean Rainssunchild of East Coast /USA

"I served as a machine-gunner in 3rd Battalion 7th Marines, as did Jason L. Dunham. I think I speak on behalf of all past and present Marines of this unit and of the Corps when I say how proud I am of Cpl Dunham and his actions in the face of danger. He is a true hero, a true Marine, and a true American patriot. Thank you Cpl Dunham for your ultimate sacrifice so that others may live in a free country. I will never forget your heroic actions.

I am confident that Cpl Dunham will receive the Congressional Medal of Honor, as he is well deserving of it. Semper Fi!"
Ryan McCarty former Sgt, USMC of San Bernardino, CA/USA

"To a brother Marine, born on November 10th, may you Rest in Peace."
Mark T. Davis, GySgt USMC (Ret.) of El Cerrito, California

"Recently I received an email describing the actions of Cpl. Jason Dunham. Not only was I moved by his decisive actions in a time that surely was chaotic and gravely dangerous, I believe that reading about those actions forces a man to delve deep inside himself, to determine if he has the guts to do what Cpl. Dunham did that day. I will forward the email that I received to every person I know, with hopes that it will have the same effect on them as it did me. My sympathies go out to Cpl. Dunham's family and friends. His actions will not be forgotten."
Mike of Felton, DE

"To the family of Jason Dunham,
I read the reprint of the WSJ article of your son. I struggled to keep my composure and I did not fully succeed. Jason makes all of humanity look better and it is hard to loose him. Still there are others who will follow his lead. I have a son who graduates this month. His choice is a military career and he has friends who have enlisted in the Marines. Every memorial day for the rest of my life I will say a prayer Jason Dunham."
Bill MacMinn of Charlotte, NC USA

"To Jason's Family:
My name is Rob Crowe, I just would like to say how sorry I am to hear about Jason. I had the pleasure of being friends with Jason and Melissa over the past two years. He, along with Melissa were my first two friends in Myrtle Beach. Whenever he came in town to see her from Georiga we all hung out. They even had Thanksgiving breakfast at my house two years ago. He was a good friend, and a better person, and as I'm sure you already know, will be missed by all of us whew knew him."
Rob Crowe of Myrtle Beach, SC

""To the family of Marine Cpl Jason Dunham:
I am moved after reading about Jason in today's Las Vegas Review Journal, so I searched out this site. The tribute to Jason was truly a moving article!
I want to thank you, Jason's loved ones, for the incredible service Jason rendered to our county; his gift of life to his fellow Marines by sacrificing his own! This is a testament of a TRUE Marine!
Jason exemplified that which many Americans strive to be, young and old; selfless individuals working for a greater good.
God bless Jason. May he now rest in the peace; a true American HERO, an example of all that is good and right with in America.
Jason's selfless service is a shining example for all; well deserving of the Medal of Honor."
Harold Ford of Las Vegas

"I've known Jason since he was a little boy, but more importantly, I've known Jason's mother, Deb, since she was a little girl. It is no surprise to me that Jason grew up to be such a friendly, caring and courageous person! His parents had a great deal to do with that. But my heart is heavy and my eyes are filled with tears as I will always remember that my freedom was purchased with the blood of my dear friend's son."
Kim Smith Lenaway of State College, PA

"The WSJ article was forwarded to me by the mom of a Marine in the 3/7. Since I read it, I can't get Jason off my mind. I put my flag out this weekend in honor of him. May God wrap His arms of comfort around you and your family, and give you the peace that only He can give. God bless you."
Tammy Packard of Woodstock, GA

"To the Dunham Family:
Thank you for the gift of your son. His heroism will live forever in the hearts of a grateful nation."
Joe of Independence MO

"Your selfless act of courage will be long remembered. May God Keep You in His Care and watch over the loved ones left behind."
Mary Owens of Charles Town, WV/USA

"To the Dunhams and all the families who have lost a loved one...words cannot express my gratitude for the efforts of your service member. I will keep them and you in my prayers."
Pam of Alabama

"To the Dunham Family:
Please know that my family's prayers for comfort and peace are with you. What a brave and outstanding son was Jason! Cherish his memories...honor his service...and remember, his sacrifice was not in vain. It is the actions of the Jason Dunham's who serve our great country, that we are able to remain free with liberties abounding. May God's peace, freely offered through the death but resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ, be yours. To my brother Jason..."Semper Fi""
Phillip Castle, SSgt, USMC ('74-'82) of Dallas, TX

"My son served with Jason while he was in the 3/4. I cannot express how deeply we regret your sacrafice, and how much we also share your grief. I pray for peace and confort to all of the family & friends of Jason. Let his example of self sacrifice be an enduring example to all when our Nation calls on the young men & women to defend America. Simper Fidelis!"
John Temple of Henderson, NV

"In my family we have a tradition: vote in every election, no matter how big or small. Never miss.

Growing up, my mother always told me that too many soldiers have given their lives to give us that gift for us not to use it.

Every time I've gone to a voting booth I've tried to imagine these men and women who've paid the ultimate price and said a prayer of thanks.

Reading the Wall Street Journal article on your son, I was so moved by his unflinching bravey and loyalty. He is a true leader. In every future election, this American will say a prayer of thanks to Jason Dunham. Thanks to your son for his bravery. He saved many lives. Thanks to your son for his dedication. He could have gone home, but he chose to stay. I will honor his sacrafice with every vote.

It is my sincere belief that when Iraq is stabilized, there will be many Iraqis who do the same. They too will honor the men and women like your son. They will say thank you. I believe it.

Your son is a personal hero of mine - a representation of the greatest essense of courage. If he gets the Congressional Medal he absolutely deserves it.

None of that will take away the pain of your loss, I'm sure. But your son's life had great meaning - that will never go away."
David Ewing of San Francisco, CA

"Dear Mr. and Mrs. Dunham-
I am a 55-year old lawyer living in Seattle, Washington. I read with great interest, and considerable emotion, the story about Jason in the May 25, 2004 Wall Street Journal.
Quite apart from Jason's bravery and selflessness in sacrificing his life so that his fellow Marines might survive, there is a much larger story here. Namely, Jason's face is the very face of liberty. America as we know it could not survive without the heroism of Jason Dunham, and of men and women like him.
As you grieve for your fine son, please know that thousands of other Americans grieve with you - - those thousands of others know, in their hearts, that Jason's ultimate sacrifice has helped to protect and strengthen America.
So, as you look upon Jason's face in the months and years to come, as you lament the weakness of the flesh and the unfairness of life, nevertheless you will always know that the face of Jason is the face of freedom, the face of America. That you will never lose.
As we approach Memorial Day 2004, hopefully all Americans will pause and think deeply about soldiers like Jason, and what they have done for our country. Some Americans do not seem very grateful, and it seems they often command more media time than those who are very, very grateful. Count me as one of the very, very grateful.
My own son, 21 years old, is now serving in Americorps. His contribution to our country is modest - - a trifle, really - - compared to Jason's contribution. Yet I am proud of his contribution just the same. I cannot fathom losing him. I cannot fathom your losing Jason. If I were to say, "I understand", that would not be the truth.
But some things I do understand. I understand that you will cry for some time. And then, eventually, you will smile. I know you will smile, because you will know what I know: Jason IS America. It's not that he WAS America, but that he IS America. That, you can take with you, always. Godspeed."
Jack Alkire of Seattle, WA.

"Always in the thoughts of that U.S. Marine was the innate concern for his buddies. No greater bond can exist in the Corps than the bond with a war fighting brother. No greater sacrifice can be made than to give up your life for another.

....And when he gets to heaven St. Peter he will tell...
"One more Marine reporting sir, I've served my time in Hell.""
Jorge Silva, USMC 90-94 of Los Angeles, California

"Jason was a good man, i fought with him in iraq, i have never met a man as nice as he was. he was a great Marine and a better friend.... he's going to be missed but at least the rest of the Marine Corps will always look up to him as a hero. I'll miss him... from all of 4th plt. 3/7 k co."
Leo R. Kendall of 29 palms, ca USA

"In our era of sports "heroes" and movie "heros", we sometimes forget what the word means.

This Marine has given the term back it's proper meaning.

I will remember the family in my prayers, and thank the Almighty for the lives of men like Cpl. Dunham. Truly, we are blessed for having had him here as an American, and as a Marine."
Matt Larson of Gaithersburg, MD

"To the Dunham Family:
I grieve with you for your loss. Your son, Jason was a genuine hero who put the lives of his compatriots ahead of his own. Jason, and you, will be in my prayers."
Cdr. Ed Ransom, USN (Ret) of Camarillo, CA

"Dunham Family,
I have a 4-year-old son who will look to men like Jason and honor their sacrifice so that we may live in the ray of freedom that Jason stood up for. My son, God willing, will continue to live in a country that produces such brave men as Jason. I want my son to recognize and emulate the honor of men like him. I look forward to explaining the war and the valor of the men and women that gave all they could give and far more that could be asked.

We pray for your family that God will give you piece and comfort in the knowledge that Jason chose the cause of good and paid for all of us. May the Lords hands cradle your souls in the time ahead.

God Bless Jason, your family and the great country for which Jason gave so valiantly"
J. Crowhurst, EWC USNR of Huntsville, Alabama

"I had to stop reading the WSJ article several times in order to regain my composure before reading on. My heart aches still today. When Jason's name is etched into the Medal of Honor Monument in Indianapolis, we will go to pay tribute. Sounds like he was the best of the best, as are all those in a soldier's uniform. God rest his soul."
Kerri E. Watson of Chicago, IL/USA

"We just read Jasons story in the Wall Street Journal.With tears we write this. No words can express our sorrow to the family. Jason is a legend. He will be forever remembered for his ultimate sacrifice to his friends, his country, and to us.Thank you Jason."
Dr. Michael J. Guerin/Ann Guerin of Woonsocket, S.D.USA

"Memorial Day 2004

Soft winds blowing across a mountain top flag
highlight those who struggle to hoist for all to see
reminded me of freedoms beacon
within their souls

allowing those here the slumber of the protected

The beacon shines brighter now

calling Jason and

those who chose to hear the call

moreover, the terrible price paid now on foreign shores

Willingly answered

to be escorted home upon caissons resting for eternity

Honored now by those who remember
Honored by those protected
Honored by those who stood by their side
Honored by those who also fell in battles past
Welcomed into the shade cast by the Tree of Liberty
While we stand in the sunlight of Freedom mourning those we honor.

Felton Green E-8 USN Retired"
Felton Green of Lakewood, Colorado

"Parents and family of Jason L. Dunham; When I heard of Jason's death on the radio I just started to cry. How proud you must be, to have Jason for a son. My heart goes out to you at this time, and may you always remember the happy times with Jason. God Bless you."
Bonnie of Massachusetts

"To the family of Corporal Dunham: After reading today's WSJ article, I was touched by your son's life and his sacrifice. The testaments of his friends and fellow Marines speak volumes about the man he was. I thank you for the incredible service he rendered to our county and for the gift of life that he gave to his fellow Marines by sacrificing his. Thank you for raising a son who exemplified what many, many Americans strive to be; selfless individuals working for a greater good. God bless you and Jason; may he now rest in the peace deserved by a true American hero while his memory shines bright as an example of all that is good and right with America."
Commander Kenneth L. McWilliams (Ret.) of Waterford, Virgnia

"There is no medal high enough for your son, Mr. and Mrs. Dunham. Jason is America's HERO. I am so sorry for your loss and I hope in time the good memories of Jason will help ease your pain. My thoughts and prayers are with the friends and family of Corporal Dunham always and forever. God Bless You."
Anonymous of Washington, DC USA

"I read the Wall Street Journal article today that profiled the heroic acts of your son. By the end of the story I found myself sitting in my office with tears in my eyes. What a terrible loss you have suffered. A loss that I cannot even comprehend. I just wanted you to know that there are many many people out there who are honored that people like your son would willingly give up his life to defend the values we cherish. Make no mistake - He did not die in vain. I wish I could do something to ease your pain. Please no that our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you."
Robert Reed of Dallas, Texas

"I sent many of my own soldiers to Iraq in the hopes each one came home safe and well. It was soldiers like Cpl Dunham who help make that possible.Cpl. Jason Dunham epitomizes the term HERO! He gave unselfisly of himself always and made the ultimate sacrifice. A true hero, I cannot help but think, God has quietly knelt beside this fallen comrade and uttered the words "Sempi Fi Marine". Let Cpl. Jason Dunham's heroic acts be told of in the years and decades to come. This man will live on in the hearts of fellow soldiers forever!"
1SG Ric Ciaramella of Roseville, CA

"To the Dunham family. As I read and forwarded the bravery story about your son to everyone I possibly could think of, I couldn't help but cry along with reading it. I have never met your son, but I cry for him and miss him as if i had known him for years. He will be truley missed and always remembered for the bravery and heart and honor, courage and commitment that he has withheld within the Marine Corps. Thankyou so much for your son. Without him, and soldiers like him, where would we be? Thankyou for fighting for my freedom. With all my love, Former Cpl Gillian"
Nina Gillian of King George VA. USA

"Once a Marine, always a Marine.Go with GOD Jason DUNHAM! You served your time in Hell."
Capt J. T. HART USMC(Ret.) of Dover, DE/Kent

"To the Family of Corporal Dunham:

Words will do little to ease the sense of loss you feel, but in time you will know that a grateful nation rests a little more secure and safe because of Jason and his actions. God Bless You."
Pat McCarthy of Jackson, MS

"Years from now, when the children of those who's parent were saved by Cpl Dunham look up at the flag, I pray that his name will be said with the reverence and dignity befitting a real HERO. Anyone who would die for others will live forever in thought and word of the grateful ones. Thank you Jason for being unselfish. For doing what had to be done. Your love for your fellow man is an incredible example to all."
Henry P. United States Navy Retired of Marshall, VA, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

"To the family of Cpl. Jason L. Dunham:

The WSJ article of your son's heroism moved me beyond tears. I haven't felt such sadness since I saw the film The Passion. Jason's selfless act to save his comrades was similar to Christ's Passion. I will be forever in his debt for his ultimate sacrifice. God Bless your family. EWH"
Eric Hubbard of Glenview, IL

"There is no greater hero than one who sacrifices his own life to save his comrades. Jason Dunham deserves the Medal of Honor."
anonymous of Stilwell, OK

"To the family of Jason L. Dunham:

I read of Jason Dunham in the Wall Street Journal today. A selfless act by a man who cared more for his men than himself. I have never been in the military and have no family in the military. I am proud the United States of America has men of your son's high caliber. Who willingly serve our country because they believe in a better USA and a better world. Your
son did not die in vain. Jason, by his actions, speaks volumes for your family, the United States Marine Corp and our country.

I am deeply sorry for your loss. Words are small comfort at this time. Trust in God and know Jason is in a better world.

"Young Sea" by Carl Sandburg

The sea is never still.
It pounds on the shore
Restless as a young heart, Hunting.

The sea speaks
And only the stormy hearts
Know what it says:
It is the face
of a rough mother speaking.

The sea is young.
One storm cleans all the hoar
And loosens the age of it.
I hear it laughing, reckless.

They love the sea,
Men who ride on it
And know they will die
Under the salt of it

Let only the young come,
Says the sea.

Let them kiss my face
And hear me.
I am the last word
And I tell Where storms and
stars come from."
JD Anderson of Canton, OH

"I'm greatly saddened by reading Jason Dunham's story in today's WSJ. May he rest in peace and know that we are grateful for his bravery and valor. God bless your family, and may he grant us peace during these trying times."
Anyonymous of Seattle, WA

"I'm sorry for your loss. As others have said, the actions of Jason allow me to wake up and kiss my wife and children goodbye everyday. For that, we are thankful to you and your son."
chris carter of reno, nev, usa

"Dear family and Friends of Jason:

I feel speechless! My heart aches for your loss and my tears join yours. Though Jason is dearly missed his sacrifice will live on and his memory will never die. Jason's act of heroism came from within him. It must surely be the evidence of the character of the parents which loved and raised him.
You will all be in our prayers!"
Pamela Karnbach, wife of retired USMC SSGT of Jacksonville Fl

"To the Dunham Family:
As I look into the eyes of my six and two year old daughters today, I am so grateful; thankful for men like Jason Dunham. He displayed courage far beyond his years, far better than most of could comprehend. I am deeply sad that he will not have the same opportunities I have had. Today I get to kiss my wife goodbye, hug my girls and embark on another precious day because of men like Jason. He will be remembered always. God bless the Dunham Family."
Jeffrey Smith of Elgin, IL.

"I was saddened to read in today's WSJ about the death of your heroic son, Jason.He truly represents the finest tradition of the USMC and every thing good about this great country of ours.How very proud you must be of him. I am honored to have served in the USMC with Marines like Jason.
I know he is with God and I pray that God will ease your pain."
Larry Savarese, Captain, USMC Retired of Lighthouse Point, FL

"I was saddened to read in today's WSJ about the death of your heroic son, Jason.He truly represents the finest tradition of the USMC and every thing good about this great country of ours.How very proud you must be of him. I am honored to have served in the USMC with Marines like Jason.
I know he is with God and I pray that God will ease your pain."
Larry Savarese, Captain, USMC Retired of Lighthouse Point, FL

"To the Dunham Family:
I never had the pleasure of knowing Jason, but he will always be a HERO in my heart.I just lost my Fiance and feel the pain that you have but please know my thoughts and prayers are with you. May God Bless you and give you the strength you need to get through this.
*Proud Fiance of Cpl. David Vicente, 29 Palms, 2/7 Echo. KIA Iraq 3/19/04"
Alexandria of Methuen, MA

"Jason was the most selfless person I have had the pleasure of meeting. As sad as it is to not have him here, I can't help but smile and laugh when I think of him. That's just the type of person he was. I know he's still out there watching over his Marines due to some of the encounters we have had. I truly am sorry for the loss of your son."
2nd Lt Brian Robinson of Al Qaim, Iraq

"To Jasons family and friends: I am in the process of custom etching the Marine logo on Jasons memorial for the cemetery. I have nephews/friends in the service, I have a son...I knew this was going to be a difficult, emotional one for me to do...so many feelings...sadness, pride...When I etch I have to stay focused. No room for mistakes when you have a dremel and jet black granite and are etching freehand. When I'm commissioned to do something like this, sometimes I pray to the person who it belongs to, to help me. Last night while I was working, I prayed, "come on Jason, tell me I can do this...help me out here" At the same time, "American Soldier" came on the radio. I can't begin to describe how I felt when that happened, but I'll try. Peaceful, calm, confident. After working, I had to give my son a ride home from band practice. I told him about what happened. He said they played "American Soldier" at Jasons Funeral. I didn't know that. Before I go back to finish the memorial today, I had to tell my story. This boy has touched so many lives and he will always live on as one of our American Heros. God Bless all of you and yours."
Lori Mills of Wellsville, NY USA

"He will never be forgotten."
Kevin Kreutzfeld of Xenia, OH USA

"Our son, a Marine for 13 years, was KIA March 21, 2003. We are very sorry to hear of your loss."
Joe and Judy Childers of Powell, Wyoming

"To the Family, Friends and Loved Ones of Cpl. Jason L. Dunham, USMC:

I did not know your lost loved one, but I deeply feel your loss and sorrow for I have lost yet another brother Marine. I just read about Jason on our Law Enforcement Openline here in California.

Goodbye, Marine - you are lost but never forgotten."
Mike Oliveira, Oakland, CA Police Dept. (Retired) of Danville, CA

"To Jason's Family and Friends:

On behalf of the Blanco-Caldas family, we send our sincerest condolences. We share the same loss ... the same pain. Our prayers are with you in this most difficult time and we thank you for his bravery and sacrifice.

Sincerely,

The Family of Capt. Ernesto M. Blanco-Caldas, 82nd Airborne, KIA Iraq 12/28/2003.

Gloria Caldas (his mom) of San Antonio, TX"
gloria.caldas@banksterling.com

"I am in great sorrow and simpithy about Jason's death. I have known him my whole life and I am only 14! I had just turned 14 April 1st. I think he will be so much happier in heaven, were he is now! I know that he died a hero and died doing what he wanted to do and I am so happy that our town has that kind of people."
Ashley Farwell of Scio, Ny

"I knew Jason when he was stationed at Kings Bay Georgia. Jason was a fine young man and a dedicated marine. My prayers to his family. We, at Kings Bay will miss Jason."
Phillis Brown of Saint Marys, Georgia

"I am so sorry for the dunham family because he was me Best friend and the best."
Tanecia Glass of Scio N.y

"With Jasons death, we are all saddened that another young Marine has givin his life for his country and fellow Marines.
Jason has shown us that Marines will STILL fight for the ones that can not fight for themselves. The word HERO has been used a lot since 9-11. For the firefighters and police at ground zero to a soldier killed by a roadside bomb, but Jason has shown us all what a true hero does for his fellow Marine. God bless you Jason. We also must thank God for you.
To the parents of Jason, You have raised a gread man that we all are proud of."
Steve Terry, India Co. 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines of Lawton, OKLAHOMA

"I actually had talked to Jason quite a lot. He was a penpal of mine, he was such a great guy, and couldnt wait to get home to his family. We talked about seeing each other when he got back, and after not hearing from him in a while, I did what nobody wanted to do, and checked the list. To his family and friends, I am really sorry for your loss! I got to know Jason as a very kind caring guy, seems you were all lucky. I feel lucky that he was able to touch my life as he did when we he did. I miss our silly talks and emails, *hug*God Bless!"
Megan of New London, NH

"Jason's Mother and I were very good friends through high school and even after. I had the pleasure of meeting her husband Dan at our 15 year class reunion. Dan was a shy person when it came to meeting new people, but we were able to get him to relax and we enjoyed a fine evening with Deb and Dan. I never had the pleasure of meeting their son Jason, but just from what I know of Deb and Dan, being the quality people that they are, Jason would have had to be a fine young man. I've been reading a lot of the stories on the Internet tonight about Jason and I feel as though I have met him. I've read all the quality articles and personal accounts people have paid tribute to him with. He is definitly a hero in the strongest sense of the word. My thoughts and prayers have been for Jason and his family ever since I first heard of his death. I haven't seen Deb and Dan for about 11 years, but I want them to know that I am thinking of them and that my wife and I send our deepest condolences. You raised a fine son who turned out to be a hero, but the loss still hurts. We'll keep you in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you!

Sincerely,

Regina and Ken Emmerick"
Kenneth Emmerick of Ridgway, PA USA

"To the family of Jason Dunham:
I have no words to express the sadness my heart holds for each of you during this loss. I read what your son did for his fellow soldiers. He paid the ultimate price, willingly and proudly. May God bring you peace during this time. May this nation never forget this HERO...I won't. God bless each and every one of you.
With the utmost respect,"
Tammy Albright of Kalkaska MI USA

"When somebody dies, a cloud turns into
an angel, and flies up to tell God
to put another flower on a pillow.
A bird gives the message back to
the world, and sings a silent prayer
that makes the rain cry. People dis-
appear, but they never really go away.
The spirits up there put the sun to
bed, wake up grass, and spin the
earth in dizzy circles. Sometimes you
can see them dancing in a cloud during
the day-time, when they're supposed
to be sleeping. They paint the rain-
bows and also the sunsets and make
waves splash and tug at the tide.
They toss shooting stars and listen to
wishes. And when they sing wind-
songs, they whisper to us, "Don't
miss me too much. The view is nice
and I'm doing just fine."

Jason was truly an amazing young man and a great American hero."
Mark & Mary Williams of Pt St John, Fl

"To Jason's Family:
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

"My sincere and heart-felt condolences go out to the Dunham family. Jason gave the ultimate sacrafice for his country. The ordinary man cannot understand the kind of courage that it takes to face the challenges that Jason faced. He is America's heroe! Go forward and draw strength from the memories of how many lives he impacted throughout his travels. He exemplifies the true spirit of America. You should be very proud of yourselves to have raised such a great son, a great American, and a great soldier. Thank you Jason."
Patrick D. Winans of Syracuse, New York

"Rest in Peace Tufelhunden
The Taylors USMC"

"My deepest condolences to the parents and all loved ones of Cpl. Jason L. Dunham. My heart aches for you, and you will remain in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that the deep hurt you feel can be in some part be eased by the feeling of great pride for Jason’s valor and deep sense of patriotism.
Jason, you have made the ultimate sacrifice and did so willingly and without hesitation. Thank you so very much for defending my freedom. It means so much to me, to the people of NYC and to the entire nation. Thank you for your bravery and sacrifice in the service of the country that I love so very much. You will always be remembered as an American Hero.

John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

Most Sincerely,
Pat"
Pat Shoukry of New York, N.Y. USA

"To the family and friends of Corporal Jason L. Dunham,

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

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

"A true hero."
melanie rios of fl

"When things like this happen you often want to ask the question,"Why God?" But it sometimes helps to think they are up in heaven with Him now. No more pain or tears. He's up there with God looking down and waiting on you. To his family, you will be in my prayers. I pray that God gives you the strength to get through this. He was a brave soldier."
Heather and Tyler C. of Columbus, Mississippi

"I know no words we can say will make it any easier but just know you are in our prayers. We lost our 22 year old son, Justin, on Apr. 10. We know how hard it is and how hard it will be to go on without them. You have our sympathy. Just keep the Lord close to you, that is the only way we have made it this far."
Cpl. Joe and Jan Johnson of Rome, Ga.

"To the family of Jason Dunham..I am so sorry to hear about your loss...He is a hero and will always be looked as a hero in the American peoples eyes..I was reading on aol what he did for the other people in his unit that was a hero right there..To Jason I know it is a little late but Thank you for serving our country"
Stacey Spadaccini of Zephyrhills, Florida

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