Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Never forgotten. Love you."
Tasha

"Dwaine McIntosh (Joshua McIntosh),I served as an Independent Duty Corpsman with Third Battalion 7th Marines 3/7 during Operation Iraqi Freedom/Enduring Freedom. Your son was second to none,always going above and beyond that call of duty. While assigned to "81's Weapons Company, he was highly respected and praised for taking care of his Marines. He was treated as an equal. I was living in the make-shift battalion aid station in Karbala, Iraq when Joshua McIntosh was brought in with a gun shot wound to his head,by his Marines. Myself and other staff did everything we could to save him and unfortunately he passed enroute to a higher echelon treatment facility. Part of his uniform and combat boots were left behind. I slept on the ground next to the stretcher where he was treated for his injury. For some reason I kept his boots and have had them with me for over 17 yrs. I wrote the date and place where the incident took place. I've moved from place to place always making sure I didn't lose his boots. Throughout the years I've thought about contacting your family so that I could give you his boots however, I didn't know how your family would take it. I was afraid to open up old wounds and be upset with me. After all these years, I feel the right thing to do is to at least let you know I have them. Out of respect for Joshua, I will never get rid of them unless you or some other family member wants them. Very Respectfully,
HMC Leo Raya (FMF/SW/AW)
Docraya7@gmail.com"
Leo Raya of La Mesa, CA 91942

"Just saw this for the first time today. I have missed Doc every time Memorial Day passes. We spent many a days running together in Iraq, many laughs throughout the long sleepless nights that combat brought our way, he gave my IV's twice when I was really dehydrated, and best of all we were able to pray together and talk about The Lord while in the Tracks in enemy territories. I miss him. I miss his laughter and his ability to take all the Marines would give him. He was truly the best Corpsman I served with in my 9 1/2 years in the Corps. And, by far, the most in shape Corpsman I serves with. He could PT with the best of us and many days he run better than us. RIP Doc! Until I see you again in Heaven, I will not forget you."
Josh L of Salt Lake City, UT

"Josh Love you brother you are on my mind and in my prayers even now. I miss you brother God bless you and your family."
David E. of Kingman Arizona United States

"Joshua,
I would just like to say thank 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 Doc!"

"Josh, "Doc,"

My friend, I think about you all the time. Your premature passing has had a profound impact upon my life, & I have & will continue to seek justice on your behalf. I know you are in a better place, I look forward to our next meeting. You are always in my heart & in my mind. Love you brother- Semper Fi"
Tyson Manker of Jackson, Michigan

"Josh although gone NEVER forgotten, Rest Easy Brother"
Ray Price of Kingman AZ

"Honoring your memory today. Love you Josh!!"
Tasha Rivera of Medford, Oregon

"So many memories... I love you Joshy~poo! Your kindness will never be forgotten <3"
Tasha Rivera of Medford, Oregon

"Zach and I spent a large portion of our youth together as best friends, I have not seen him for about 20 or so years, sadly while looking for him online I stumble across this page, and OMG!!! little Josh I can only think about those times Zach and I were going off to run a muck in Kingman and Josh no matter how much we tried to lose him or ditch him, managed to stay right there with us, I remeber so many little things about him that were so good and over all, fun....and after all these years of no contact with any of the family, and just now reading this devistating memorial, the last memory i have of him was a good one, a bunch of us old friends from school got together at the park next to the High school and i think was the capital bldg, late at night and Zach, James Dean, Jay Candeleria, Frank Pike, Frankie, and a few others i cant remember played capture the flag (full contact) my Name Is John Odom, changed my name so today im known as John Marshall of Denver Colorado) that night at the park....our team won and just before heading home, Josh laughing and highfiving his team zach and I grabed him and showed our love with a noogie, messing up at that point his perfect hair..lol it was all in good fun. Zach, Brother...I am so sorry for your loss and Kathy & Dwaine, I can only imagine what you went thru, my heart goes out to you all and little lindsey too, Zach if you read this, or any of the family that remembers me, please contact me, jollyroger05280@gmail.com take care and keep close those memories."
John Odom Marshall of Denver Colorado

"Josh, yesterday was Memorial Day... Lacie and I talked about you, your service, and the memories that we all shared together... God bless and as always miss you and thinking of you..."
HM1(EXW/AW) J. Dronchi of Kingman, AZ

"I love and miss you Joshua....so much."
Tammy Towry of Kingman, AZ

"”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 the hero’s Mother, Father and/or spouse. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Almost 2,000 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!
This is a gift! We have some wonderful sponsors who help with the costs, and only want you know that we care.
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

"hey doc, i still think of you all the time, i salute your service and our marines couldnt have asked for a better corpsman , i remember how you pressed my hand against the carotid artery of a dying iraqi civilian while we were getting shot at on highway 8 in central baghdad, i found out what kind of person you were on that day and i miss you very much, rest in peace brother ! semper fi !"
nathan clay olsovsky of austin, texas

"Josh, so many thoughts cross my mind from time to time. Question's of what if, what could have been, and what will be. My military career is dedicated in your honor, because after all, we did this together! I will continue on my journey to carry out the dreams that we aspired to have one day. Love you brother."
HM1(EXW/AW) Joseph Dronchi of San Diego, CA

"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

"i want to thank you for you sacrafice and for your friendship. you were a very special person with artistic talent abound. i was devestated apon the news of your passing. i think of you often and may god be with your sister Lindsey and with Kathey and Dwane. rest in peace and you will never be forgotten."
Stacey Davis of kingman az

"Thank you Mr. McIntosh for doing something so courageous and selfless. may god bless you and your family"
Kevin of Kingman

"Josh you are still in my thoughts always. I miss your kind and strong heart. I remember with great detail are Soccer experinces, We were the best fowards out there on are teams we played for but you were always teaching and pushing me to play better. I remember me and you at Centennial Park we were passing the ball back and forth at each other, walking to what we thought was a practice but to are major surprise are entire team was out there playing another team in a official game. We rushed up there and borrowed shirts from other people that had the colors of are team and got out on the field and kicked some butt. We had a good laugh about that one. I miss you brother its hard out here without you man. May God be with you always I miss you brother."
David Emerick III of Kingman Arizona

"You're dearly missed."
HMC William M. Pace III will_pace@comcast.net of USA

"Semper Fi Brother. 3/7 81's"
David Rainey of Louisville, KY

"i had the pleasure of serving with josh in while we were in 3/7. he was a very likeable person who always had a smile on his face. he was an excellent corpsman and showed no fear or hesitation in helping a fellow warrior who was hurt and under fire. i think of him every day . he is our brother in arms and gave his life for his country. i always think of the good times that we had . a part of our family is gone but not forgotten .brother, i miss you so much !rest in peace! semper fi!"
corporal nathan c olsovsky of austin , texas

"Joshua I remember the day you walked into the Bas and I had the job of placing you with one of the companies. I wanted to keep you with me at the BAS but you wanted nothing to do with that.You kept begging me to place with you be with one of the hardest unit. It has taken me a long time to write this and come to terms with your passing. I think of you daily my man. I remember you would always come by to talk with me and share your wild stories. You are a hell of a DOC. Man I miss those days, you always made me laugh. I wish I had the power to turn back the hands of time and keep you safe. To the parents and love ones of Joshua, I am truly sorry for your loss. He was and outstanding Fleet Marine Doc and outstanding friend. I was there when he passed on. He is burned into my heart forever.... HM1 Matteson"
Doc Matteson shockdoc101@yahoo.com of Heading back to my home state Montana

"February 8, 2008
To the family of Seaman Joshua McIntosh:
Joshua 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

"hey thats my name"
josh mcintosh of cattaraugus

"Hi, I didn't know you Joshua McIntosh but from what I hear you were an awesome person. I'm good friends with Grant and he has nothing but good things to say. I just want to thank you for giving your all for me and all the people who live in the US with all the freedoms you made sure we have. You have the upmost respect from me and the entire country. I know your looking down on all of your fellow marines and looking after them. Thank you again and you and your family are in my prayers."
Natalie S. of Ohio

"Hi, I didn't know you Joshua McIntosh but from what I hear you were an awesome person. I'm good friends with Grant and he has nothing but good things to say. I just want to thank you for giving your all for me and all the people who live in the US with all the freedoms you made sure we have. You have the upmost respect from me and the entire country. I know your looking down on all of your fellow marines and looking after them. Thank you again and you and your family are in my prayers."
Natalie S. of Ohio

"It has been four years now since we were in the Marine Corps together. A lot has changed since I got out of the Marines (for the good) but one thing has not, and that is the fact that the night and circumstances of your death go through my mind everyday. I was one of the first Marines on the scene and there was nothing I could do and it breaks my heart. I will always remember all the good you did for everyone around you whether that be medical help, someone to talk to and confide in, or just being around you playing racquetball made me so relaxed. You met and exceeded everyones expectations of you and I am sure that since they don't need a good corpsman in heaven (I F****** hope there is no sick call or war there), you will have plenty of time to chill out and be Joshua Mcintosh, a man and warrior I will always admire. I love you brother and Semper Fi, Grant G."
Grant G. of Ohio

""If you are able,
save them a place
inside of you
and save one backward glance
when you are leaving
for the places they can
no longer go.
Be not ashamed to say
you loved them,
though you may
or may not have always.
Take what they have left
and what they have taught you
with their dying
and keep it with your own.
And in that time
when men decide and feel safe
to call the war insane,
take one moment to embrace
those gentle heroes
you left behind.
Major Michael Davis O'Donnell
1 January 1970
Dak To, Vietnam
America has been built on the blood
of Heros and Brave Men of Honor.
Thank you for your service and my
freedom.. May God bring comfort
to your loved ones.
You shall never be forgotten by
a grateful nation.""
Willai D. Taylor of Bonita Springs Florida

"I grew up with you. I babysat your sister. And to know, albeit so late that your gone. Rest now dear one."
MC of Iowa

"Josh, from the troubles of boot camp to the stress of Corps school, and the rigors of field med, you were always a good friend. I will never forget what you were to me shipmate. I named my firstborn son Kyle Joshua, so that you may forever be a part of my life. He serves as a constant reminder of your sacrafice and your true friendship."
HM2 (FMF) Bryan Clarke of Camp Lejeune, NC

"Hey Josh! I was just thinking about you and wanted to say hi! There is not a day that goes by that I DON'T think about you. I miss you so much. Love ya buddy :)"
Lacie of Kingman

"Now God is lucky to have two wonderful men with him. May you and Roger have eternal peace. I love and miss you both."
Tammy Towry of Kingman, AZ

"Just thinking about you....I love and miss you. God is lucky to have such a wonderful man with him."
Tammy Towry of Kingman, AZ

"Joshua,
I would like to say thank 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 Doc!"

"Josh... Time ticks by, but my memories of you are still vivid. Not a day goes by, that I don't think of you and our family.... Lacie and I wear a bracelet with your name, so we can take you with us, where ever that may be...(which might be Oregon for me) I wanted to thank you for supporting my dreams all of the time, even though they may have been nightmares!! May god love and keep you... Love ya man- your other brother Joe"
HM2(AW) Joseph Dronchi of Kingman, AZ

"For J. McIntosh:
You are everything
You are beautiful
You are the victorious dead
Dear Josh,
I never knew you, I actually knew of you because my dad was stationed at twenty nine palms, to my surprise I met some of you loved ones not even knowing that they were yours. I’ve seen the pain in their eyes and it makes me want to weep. I feel their pain, 6 months after you left us my fiancée joined you. You are in my mind your sacrifice is with me everyday. I may have never known you but I love you and I always will. In my heart, in my mind, and in my soul forever."
Era Crustulum of AZ

"Josh I miss you very much. You are always on my mind and in my heart. Today in class, my students were writing to soldiers for a campaign called "Operation Gratitude". You popped in my mind and I decided to do a search on the internet and came upon this site. You were like my little brother and the news of your death hit me hard. It still hurts, but I know that you are in good hands. I will never forget you. Kate and Dwayne, I hope you are doing well also. I miss you guys."
Tammy Towry of Kingman, AZ

"Its has been three year little brother and still come to this site! You are the one who kept me alive in Iraq brother. I miss you still think of you every day. I miss you alot and know your watching over me. You never be forgot as long as i live. I love you Joshua!!"
SGT Zachary Cheever McIntosh of Phoenix, AZ

"First let me convey my appreaciation for all the thoughts and prayers. Not a day goes by I dont think about my son. Its been three years and hes missed everyday. Its tough to come to this site and face reality. But its also good to remember that Josh was a real person, one that cared about others and made a difference in peoples lives. People that knew him realized that he had a big heart and reached out to others. He was a funny little dude and he had more artistic talent than I'l ever have. He went into the Navy to get an education wanted to get into nuclear medicine. He never ceased to amaze me or his Mom. He finished his medic training in Chicago, came home Christmas and told me he was giong FMF. I remember thinking no man no....But he was different in so many ways confident purposeful, focused. I couldnt help being proud of who he had become. My little man was no longer little. WE enjoyed those days on leave then he was off to S.C. Camp Lajune. When it was done he got assigned to 29 Palms as a medic for the 3-7 mar-div. Christmas 02 we spent together as a family afterward we drove back to 29 from Kingman he told me he was leaving in Jan for Iraq. In my heart I never felt good about him going. To say I loved my son doesnt begin to explain what he meant to us. Yes hes in heaven and thats the good thing but were still here and wish he was to. There is a lot that remains to be said but like his tags will always be close to my heart.
One last thought the men of the 3/7 were a stand up group of Americans. Josh told me that they were exceptional people. I took that forgranted until I had the opportuniy to meet his C.O. and his Lt. Just for the record your thoughts and your reaching out went well beyond the call of duty. And to all of you that served with Josh thanks God speed get home to your families , Dont think for a moment your sacrifices are in vain because there is somebody that loves you and the freedom that you allow to us to enjoy."
Dwaine McIntosh of Kingman Az.Mohave

"Joshua we were never really close, but I do remember hanging out with you and your friends at Sharky's. I moved but still to this day remember you by name and face. God bless you and your family. Maybe we will see eachother again in heaven, Thank you for being one of many who are out there trying to protect your fellow Americans"
MaryMargaret Day of Previously Kingman AZ

"It's been three years as of today and not a single day goes by that I don't think about what happened and how I wish you didn't have to give all. You are fallen Josh, but never forgotten. Semper Fidelis"
Grant G of Ohio

"Thanks Corpsman McIntosh! I wish you were still here to care for your Marine brothers. Rest in Peace, buddy!"
James Carter of California

"josh you made the days in mr. patels math class go way faster than they would have. your sense of humor and personality will be with me always. much love friend. rest in peace."
nick turner of kingman, az

"God Bless you Josh, you have always been a strong and kind hearted person. My prayers are with you and your family."
David Emerick III of Kingman, Arizona

"TO the family of Joshua McIntosh, I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Hopefully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need someone to pray with you or someone to talk to please call or write my pastor at Gateway Community Church: Rev John B.Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd. Covington, Ga. 30016 phone 770-787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ,"
Polly Ballew of Covington Ga. U S A

"josh you and i have been friends since the 1st grade, you made me laugh and we listened to def leppard. i remember how artistic you were and we would get in trouble for drawing in class when we were supposed to be studying. we used to go to the lake with my mom and have a blast in the summer time. ill always remember you and think of you. youll be in my prayers."
sam nelson of kingman, arizona lostmymind692000@yahoo.com

"Josh, your life and contributions will not go unrecognized. I am sad to have never met you before your funeral. Your an insperation to all and especially the family. You will always be missed and loved. (Wish I would have met you sooner, love your cousin)"
Kyle Hayes of Ashland, OR

"To the Family and Friends of Joshua McIntosh:
I recently ordered a bracelet honoring the fallen heros in Iraq from herobracelets.org. When my bracelet came it bore the name of Seaman Joshua McIntosh, his hometown and the date of his death. I wear this black metal band on my wrist all the time. Whenever I look at it I will remember and honor your brave son who gave so much. May God bless you!"
Sandy McLaughlin of Tucson, Arizona

"may GOD be with you and may you rest in peace..."
formerly HM3 de la O' RAS, 3/7 ddelaoo@yahoo.com of fresno,ca

"For any Doc who has served with the FMF be it Group,MARDIV, or Airwing. It is always painful to see a fellow man go down under any reason. Hoorah Doc Job well done. My sincerest condolences to your family."
Former HM3 FMF 92-97 1st FSSG 7th ESB Marcus Williams of Seattle Wa

"To my little brother:
First I would like to say thank you to the people that have writen. I miss you more every day that goes by. I thank you for your sacraficed. Now i leave for Iraq in two months. I know you will by my side. I love you little brother. duty honor country selfless service. you'll never be forgoten"
SPC Zachary Cheever Mcintosh of Ft polk ,La USA

"My husband was a corpsman with 3/7 "Lima co" from 95-98. Joshua was with a great unit, and his sacrifice will never be forgotten. Rest In Peace!"
Lisa Johansen of WA state

"i still remember 1st grade when we'd swing with j.t and sing def lepard songs...and you asked mrs. jackson in 2nd grade if she was related to michael jackson. you drawing abilities inspired me. good luck with the angels..."
Eve Selonke of Tempe AZ

"I have seen this page posted for awhile now and have always wanted to post a message. I want your family to know that you were the hardest working corpsman that I saw in my four years in the Marine Corps. You were more than that though. You were also a great person and friend, and not a day goes by when I don't think about you or the night you died. In my book you will never be forgotten, and you will always be sorely missed. I regretted that when I met your dad at the memorial service at 29 palms that I couldn't really talk to him without bawling my eyes out. There was so much I wanted to say to him even though I only knew you for a short period of time, but I just couldn't find the words, and still probably can't. You or the sacrifice you made WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN AND IS NOT IN VAIN. June 26th, 2003 is a night I and many others will never forget."
Grant of Oh

"RIP, Brother."

"In Loving Memory..Its been a year..

At the rising of the sun and at its going down, We remember them.
At the blowing of the wind and in the chill of Winter, We remember them.
At the opening of buds and in the rebirth of Spring, We remember them.
At the blueness of the skies and in the warmth of Summer, We remember them.
At the rustling of leaves and the beauty of Autumn, We remember them.
At the beginning of the year and when it ends, We remember them.
As long as we live, they too will live;
for they are now a part of us, as we remember them.
Rest in Peace Dear Sailor! We will NEVER FORGET!"
The Grogan Family of Lakeland, TN

"Josh,
I will never forget you, or the times we all had together. You always knew how to make someone laugh. What am I talking about, you still do. There's not a story that goes by that Joe and I don't just sit there and start cracking up. Your an awesome guy and a cutie at that! I'm really going to miss you.
Dwaine, Kate and family my thoughts and prayers are with each and every one of you."
Lacie of Kingman, AZ

"Knowing that it has been almost one year since Josh went to be with the Lord, I thought I would look to see if there was a site for him...and here it is. Dwaine, Kate, Lindsey,Toby and the rest of the family, we just want you to know that we think of you often, pray for you often. There are no words to help your pain. May God be with you and may he ease your pain. We were grateful to have known Josh and his Service to our Country will not be forgotten. Love & Prayers, Rodger & Kathy"
Rodger & Kathy of Kingman,Az

"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. I was a HMC with 3/7 prior to Desert Storm. I know Joshua was with a great unit. I am lost for words...Sempi Fi."
Bob Jaeger, HMC (FMF) USN Ret. of Sterling, VA

"Last weekend at my church we were given the oportunity to adopt a fallen soldier to pray for and keep in our thoughts. Without knowing anything about Joshua other than he was my same age as me something told me he was the one that I was meant to adopt. After taking home his name and thinking about it I decided to look him up on the internet and found this site. I feel expecially attached to him because reading the beautiful things people have to say about him he sounds like an amazing guy who touched many. And now he has touched me. My thoughts are with him and his family. Even though I never met him, I will never forget him and I will always hold a special place in my heart for him."
Casey Ditzel of Albany, New York

"RIP SHIPMATE"

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

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

"Hospitalman McIntosh, goodbye sailor and thank you. You are my hero."
Bill of Houston, Texas

"My Marine is with 3rd battalion 7th marine regiment and I remember the day he told me about the loss of Josh. He said Josh was a great corpsman. We will forever be grateful for his service and sacrifice! God bless the McIntosh family. Bill is back in Iraq and the worry that families must endure is unexplainable. I cannot even begin to imagine what your hearts are feeling. May God grant you the strength to get through this difficult time."
Anjee of Arizona

"Josh,
I don't know where to start...
I think about the times day in and out, of us back in K-town, living it up and driving our parents crazy. After all, we were more brothers then friend's.I know you are up there, watching my every move, as we always pushed each other to give 150% NO MATTER WHAT! You know I will go far, and it will be because of you."
HM3 Joseph Dronchi of San Diego CA

"Thank you Joshua McIntosh, 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

"I was stationed with "mac" in 29 right before they left to iraq, he was a great kid and he will always be thought of and missed. Hoo-ra shipmate!"
Stephen Martinez of Las Vegas, Nv

"Josh was an outstanding shipmate and always brought a smile to any situation. I always thought I would meet back up with him in a chiefs mess somewhere. His loss is great and I have no words beyond that. To his family, he talked about you constantly and loved you very much. I am so sorry for your loss."
HM3 Bryan Clarke of Camp Lejeune, NC

"To the family and friends of Seaman Joshua McIntosh:
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 Joshua 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 Seaman Joshua McIntosh:
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 Joshua, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia