Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"It's been many years, but I still vividly remember flying from Seattle to Anchorage with the Marines from Grant's unit who were returning home from Iraq as I carried the box with his subsequent remains home to his Mom. I was the Marine Casualty Escort that had the honor of accompanying Grant on the last leg of his trip home from Dover Mortuary. God bless his family and God bless this country he sacrificed his life for. We love and miss you, Marine. Semper Fi!"
Tim Dalhouse MGySgt. USMC Retired, of Kailua Kona

"10/31/2020
May we honor the lives of those who have fought for our freedom with the way we choose to live our own, I was chosen because of a very close friend who served with the 48 Marines and Corpsmen who sacrificed it all; to read each story, to get to know a small piece of their lives through families and friends. I chose to honor each of them with a bible verse:

Grant B. Fraser 8/3/05
"Those who listen to instruction will prosper; those who trust the Lord will be joyful." - Proverbs 16:20 (Joy)"
Haleigh Kilgore of West Virginia

"May Jesus restore you with joy and laughter as you remember the good memories of your loved one during these upcoming holidays. Sincetely, Matthew USMC,USNSEABEE,UNANG veteran Iraq 2003'2004"
Matthew of CORONA,CA

"May Jesus restore you with joy and laughter as you remember the good memories of your loved one during these upcoming holidays. Sincetely, Matthew USMC,USNSEABEE,UNANG veteran Iraq 2003'2004"
Matthew of CORONA,CA

"I only knew Grant for a short time but what a bright light he was. We always had so much fun together, he was a wonderful person and friend. He's greatly missed and thought of often. Thanks for your sacrifice it's tragic that he is one of the fallen heroes, my sincerest condolences to his family."
Julianna of San Diego, CA

"Grant, not a day goes by that I don't think of you, so I wanted to take time today to convey the love that I, and all Americans, have for you, and others who the sacrifice you made. Happy Memorial Day to you and your family! You will never be forgotten, and you will always hold a very special place in my heart."
C. Jeffery Bowen of Dallas, TX / USA

"Grant, I miss you. Today I was thinking about how much I needed someone to talk to and how you are still the only person who knows. It has been 8 years since we were at SOI together and not a day goes by that I don't remember our time together, laughing and having fun during crappy school... that day I don't know why that happened to me but you were there to listen, to help and to protect my wishes to keep it private. You told me to keep moving forward and through your light I was able to keep going. I am still in so much pain but the one thing that keeps me pushing through are the words you said to me and how you related them to your home... "Sometimes it is dark for so long we forget what its like to see the light, but if you keep getting up everyday one day you will wake up from the sunshine warming your cheeks" ... Thank you for keeping me going Grant! Your friendship and loyalty is still working today. I just wish you were still here to talk to and laugh with. I miss and love you!"
Marine Veteran Jay Gamet of Carlsbad, CA

"Sorry for your loss. I am dax potter one of the ones that made him laugh. God be with family and close friends.semper fi."
dax potter of hurst tx

"Was also with you in the Basic Marine Platoon. Good times you always had a smile on your face and head phones on your head. Your missed man!"
Sgt Brian Armstrong of Frederick, MD

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

"August 3, 2005 was a sad day! The world is a lonelier place without people like you Grant. It has been over 4 years and you are still NOT FORGOTTEN.."
C. Jeffery Bowen of Dallas Texas USA

"Rest easy, you are not forgotten by your brothers."
Doc Sabo Kilo 3/25 2005 of Pittsburgh, PA

"I love you Grant."
of Anchorage

"Grant...there are so many things I can remember about you, but I think the one I remember most was our yearbook signing. To think that you didn't want to write anything and yet you took up an entire page of my book. I miss you buddy. Life isn't the same without you. You were like the brother I never wanted (ha-ha). To your family, hang in there guys. He is still smiling at us from up above and will always be "Tnarg" no matter what. I know you are up there watching over us Grant."
Jackie Cascarelle (formerly Spielman) of Vilseck, Germany (formerly Anchorage, AK)

"July 1, 2008
To the family of Lance Cpl. Grant B. Fraser:
Grant 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

"Grant,
I would just like to say thank you to you and all the other men who were also on that track with you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!"

"Grant,
I still can't believe your gone. We sure had some good times back at the Depot in San Diego! I think about the good ol' days often, when Gysgt Robinson was the only real thorn in our sides. You, me, Rich West and Dax Potter sure had our laughs.
Semper Fi!

To Grant's Family,
I am deeply saddened by his death and think of him often. I just want you to know that me made a real impression in the short time we served together in Basic Marine Platoon. He was a true friend and always looked out for his fellow Marines."
Cpl James Paris of Edwardsville , IL

"i will live my life for you- in your memory. you were always my inspiration and you still are. please don't forget to visit every once in a while."

"Never forgotten. May God bless and continue to provide comfort to the friends and family of Grant Fraser."
C. Jeffery Bowen of Dallas Texas

"Grant~

I remember O'Malley Elementary, Mr. Stoops, VGOT. I remember Chuck E Cheese trivia and Mrs Sudkamp's class. It had been years since we had spoken but when I read the news on the ADN website at my home in Kentucky I was struck by the overwhelming loss. I always knew even in Elementary school you would make a difference in the world, I hope you know you have. Miss You"
Jacquelyn Phillips (Johnstone) wife of SSGT Jeremy Phillips USAF of Mt sterling, KY formerly Anchorage, AK

"To the family of:Grant B. Fraser 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"

"THE EDGE OF THE SWORD
Grant Fraser
--------------------------------------------------


In our society, there are those that are the pen and pencil, the parchment and the policy. There are those that are the politic, the diplomat and the negotiator. There are those that are the armor and the healing hands. And then there are those wild-eyed few that are the sword of society. As with any blade, it is but a very hard and sharp fraction that makes the cutting edge. Grant Fraser was on the cutting edge.

Intellectuals ignore it, accountants begrudge it, policy makers rattle it, Citizens make it, and enemies fear it. The edge is where policy happens, where change becomes real and law is enforced. Policy is the will of people, but is only as strong as those willing to fight for it. The edge is where the desire of our nation meets the flesh of the enemy. It is where the battle of wills becomes the killing of men. The edge is dangerous and bloody. Lance Corporal Fraser was on the bloody edge.

People are forced to the edge of the sword by circumstance and laws, but it’s a special few that volunteer to be there. To willingly step in front of mortal danger, to say “I want to be the warrior that stands in the door”, is a rare and amazing gift that has made the Untied States so successful as a nation and a society. Any animal will fight when cornered, or to defend its young, but even the mightiest creature does not knowingly step towards mortal danger. It is but a heroic few that choose this path over all others. A member of Marine Force Recon, Grant Fraser was one of the heroic few.

What is a hero if not one that chooses, indeed, desires to be on the sword’s edge so that others may take solace behind his hard body and deadly skills. These are rare men that endure blazing heat, windy cold, bone aching fatigue, enemy wrath and mortal choices each day, so that others can sip their Coca-Cola and complain about rush hour traffic. As sophisticated and great as our nation has become, it stands upon the shoulders of such men, much like the greatest castle in the world stands upon its foundations. As a Marine, Grant was the destroyer of our opponents. In death his spirit now joins the bedrock our great nation.



Shawn Robinson
Cousin and Army sniper many years ago.
Eulogy read at funeral. August 2005"
Shawn Robinson of Charlotte, NC

"RIP man, shukran."
lcpl of 3/25

"I came across this tribute to a fallen solidier while re-searching my family tree. My Grandfather fought in WW1 and my Father in WW11 and with Gods grace both came back to us.
I cannot gage what Grants family is feeling however after reading each entry I came to the conclusion that Grants passing was not in vain, and that his memory will live on and provide strength and insipration not only to those that new him but also to those,like me, who did not. On behalf of my family we send our condolences to all that new and loved Grant."
Grant S.Fraser of Melbourne Australia

"grant's death holds heavy on my heart. there is not a day that goes by that i don't think of him. i promise i'll take care of them grant, and i hope you'll take care of us. i love you and words cannot express how much i miss you man. i know i will see you again someday, i can feel your presence, don't ever stop the mischief, because i know i won't."
wounded of too far away

"Grant Fraser was my friend. I have many memories of fun times in high school with Grant. We played on the varsity tennis team together. We also acted together in the play "The Matchmaker". Grant was one of the funniest people I have ever known. He could make the most of moments with his humor. I was shocked to hear of his death. I think of him often. My deepest sympathies go to his family. He is truly missed, I'm so sorry. I want them to know how Grant affected my life. He is gone but not forgotten. Rest in peace Grant."
Ken Kulovany of Anchorage Alaska

"Dear Family of Grant, Our hearts go out to you here in Ketchikan. We had a candlelight vigil in honour of him and the other four 22 year olds from Alaska who are no longer with us. If you ever plan to visit Ketchikan, please let us know and we will look forward to showing you about our town. PerryReeve@mac.com"
Perry Aiken Reeve of ketchikan, Alaska

"I miss Grant. Its been months but yet it still hasn't passed and seems to creep up at the most akward times. Grant I'm gonna miss not sharing pictures of my wedding with you. I'll not spill the beans on how the Snooze flies. Oddly I always thought it would be the other guy but now I'm just struck with envy, for now I have a new HERO.
BERT"
Robert Casey of Anchorage, Ak

"Grant Fraser,
You have made the ultimate sacrifice and did so willingly and without hesitation.
Good bye for now. When it comes my time to meet the Big General upstairs, I'm sure you'll be there waiting when I report for duty.

Fraser Family,
Words cannot convey my sorrow.
My deepest condolences to the family and all loved ones of Grant Fraser.
You will remain in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that the deep hurt you feel can be in some part eased by the feeling of great pride for Grant’s valor and deep sense of patriotism.
It has been my district pleasure to know and serve with Grant Fraser.
4th Recon
“No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy”
Semper Fidelis
Johnathan Wojtewicz
JWojtewicz@Yahoo.com"
of Austin, Texas

"Fraser Family,

When I saw the news report of Grant, I immediately remembered the times I used to baby sit for Grant and Victoria. I remembered we used to build castes in Grant's room and little Victoria would come in and jump threw them but Grant such a gentile soul would just laugh and start again. I remember the report he did on Rhode Island and how many people responded to his add in the local paper. I cant tell you how sorry I am for you loss. Grant touched so many lives and still does and always will. My family and I give you our deepest sympathy. You will always be in our thoughts and prayers.""
Courtney Behymer of Wasilla, Alaska

"The cost of freedom is paid with the blood of patriots and good people. He was a friend and I'll never forget that Grant gave it all so that others wouldn't have to."
Mark Evans of Fairbanks, AK

":*(

I'll miss you Grant."
Adam Yurek of St. Paul, Minnesota

"I am thankful this morning that I have come across this site. I have wanted to let you know how much my heart and prayers go out for you and with you since your loss. I was not lucky enough to know Grant personally but I was talking to someone the other day and mentioned him and found out that they taught him pre-school! It is truly a small world and for a brief few minutes I was blessed to get to know your son a little better. I know that we do not understand all things that happen in our lives, but I pray the Lord will comfort your souls and allow the peace Grant now feels to radiate to you. Each day as I think of our troops serving over seas I am thankful to be in Alaska and proud to be an American, where we have so many that valiantly serve our country. I will keep you in my prayers and I will always remember Grant's ULLTIMATE SACRIFICE! Peace be with you!"
Kathy Casagranda of Palmer, Alaska

"What can I say about Grant Fraser.He was my brother. See I'm an only child, so the few close friends I have are my siblings. Grant being one of the closest is my brother. I love him like a brother, and his passing has left a hole in my soul that can never be filled. It may heal and scar over with time, but some parts of my life will never be the same again. I will definitely miss his humor and wit, most of all. I remember this one time when we were roommates, we had a little to much to drink and I turned in early (rarely ever happens). Well, I woke up to find my legs shaved and my fingernails and toenails painted. Of course, I had to get him back. I did the exact same back but added my signature touch: lipstick and a mophead for a wig. Needless to say, I had some pictures taken and he knew about it before long. He finally rounded up all the pics and threw them away. What a waste. I wish I would of made copies of them. We would always go back and forth like that all the time. It was one big competition to see who could one-up the other better. But we were at our best when we teamed up. Man, let me tell you, all bets were off when we decided to get someone else together. Everything from planting roaches in our Sgt's desk to locking people in the toilet stalls. Suckers. Those were some great times. Some of our fondest memories were when we would just hang out and barbecue at the room or just go to a movie. Of course, we could never stay quiet at the movies because we were always pointing out the flaws. I'll never forget his laugh or the smile on his face. He went before his time and I will never understand why he had to go - I can only pray that he is in a happier and more peaceful place now. Every now and then I look up at the sky and see him smiling down at me, I just smile back. I know I'll see him when I get there and we'll just pick up right where we left off. We could always do that. No matter how long we were apart, when we saw each other again it was as if no time had passed. And I'll be happy when we meet again."
PFC Macan McBuney of Austin,TX

"Grant was a friend to so many of us growing up in Alaska and I will never forget the fun times we had together both on and off stage. His love for the Marine Corps and for his country always inspired me, though I never had the chance to tell him. He has made the ultimate sacrifice, and for that his country and his friends will always be indebted to him. I will remember your family in my prayers and pray also that I too would be willing to serve my country with Grant's level of commitment and loyalty. As he did all things in life with a smile on his face, I too wish for a similar willingness to serve my friends and family has Grant has. Thank you for giving us your son."
Ensign Grant T. Bryan, US Navy, 2000 Service High School Graduate of Anchorage, AK - currently deployed overseas

"To the family and friends of Lance Corporal Grant B. Fraser,

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

In the Support section of this web site you will find links to many groups that support you at this crucial time. The Marine Comfort Quilt group would be honored to send a quilt to the next of kin. There are many, loving and caring Americans from all over the United States that will never forget the sacrifice that your loved one has made for our Freedom. Please use our link and register so we can send you our "Love Stitched Together."

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

"Dearest Sharon,
My heart aches for the loss of your beloved son, Grant. I hope the love and support of your family and friends brings you every possible comfort and peace. I am holding you, Nancy, and your entire family in my thoughts and prayers. With love,"
Shari Kochman of Cleveland, Ohio (formerly of Juneau, Alaska)

"MARINE LANCE CPL GRANT FRASER - You are an American Hero whose ultimate sacrifice will not be forgotten by a grateful nation. Rest in peace Marine. You will be remembered for always being faithful to God, Country, Family and the Corps.
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Grant and may memories comfort you during this very difficult time. America salutes Lance Cpl Grant Fraser."
DOROTHY E. BURT of PORTSMOUTH, RI

"Marine Lance Cpl. Grant B. Fraser, "thank you" isn't enough for the ultimate sacrifice you gave to each of us. Our prayers and thoughts are with your family during this difficult time."
Jerry & Toni Longville of Akron, Ohio

"We are deeply sorry for your loss. America will forever honor your Hero.
The Courage, Honor, and Valor that your Hero showed will always be remembered.
We are grateful for the sacrifice that was made and we will NEVER FORGET.
God Bless your family and please know that you are not alone.
All of our prayers are with you."
Jennifer and SSGT Larry Mays of Massillon, Ohio

"Dear Family of Grant Fraser: I lost my son, LCpl Chad Maynard, on June 15, 2005 in Ramadi. When I heard the news on the radio about your son, it was like I was reliving that day all over again. It's hard for me to type this even now. I'm so sorry for your loss. On the temporary head stone on my son's grave is the saying, "Not In Vain". That is truly what my son believed and what we, as his family, have to believe every day. Please know that I feel your pain and loss, and I cry with you. They say time eases the pain, and I guess they may be right, but with every new report, I feel the ache of missing my son so much. Always remember, you are not alone. There are others who love you and care about you and know exactly what you are going through. Thank you for your son and his service to us all."
Cindy Maynard, mother of LCpl Chad Maynard and Cpl Jacob Maynard of Kennewick, WA

"Dear Family of Timothy Bell: I lost my son, LCpl Chad Maynard, on June 15, 2005 in Ramadi. When I heard the news on the radio about your son, it was like I was reliving that day all over again. It's hard for me to type this even now. I'm so sorry for your loss. On the temporary head stone on my son's grave is the saying, "Not In Vain". That is truly what my son believed and what we, as his family, have to believe every day. Please know that I feel your pain and loss, and I cry with you. They say time eases the pain, and I guess they may be right, but with every new report, I feel the ache of missing my son so much. Always remember, you are not alone. There are others who love you and care about you and know exactly what you are going through. Thank you for your son and his service to us all."
Cindy Maynard, mother of LCpl Chad Maynard and Cpl Jacob Maynard of Kennewick, WA

"Rest In Peace Tuefelhunden.
J and T USMC NC"

"To the Frasier Family, I am so sorry for your loss and our country's loss of your fine young Marine. Grant will always be remembered and honored as a true American Hero. We are praying for all of you. May God bless you all and God Bless Grant."
Mary Ghaney of Brooklyn, New York

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Grant will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you ALWAYS. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"The Salute


To those who have died,
And to those who have cried.
We Salute You.

To those who have lost,
Paid the ultimate cost.
We Salute You.

And to those who still serve,
The Red White and Blue.
Our grateful Nation,
Proudly Salutes You."
Tom Balstad of West Warwick RI

"Thank you Grant Fraser, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios

"To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Grant Fraser:
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 Grant for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

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