Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

""To the family of Capt. McKenna , I severed with your son in MACS-2, and on two other operations between 99 to 03. As a father I hope that my son and daughter will be able to find a friend like him. As a Marine I will always remember being his first Reenlistment, and having him reenlist me on top of a building on Cheery Point. I remember talking to him about the Reenlist Creed a day prior, and him wittingly enjoying the fact he had to memorize it. During the speaking of the creed, I had him laugh the entire time while he was trying to glancing at an index card, once or twice. O and also, I had him rolling as he pin my Sgt. chevron on too! Your relative was one of my few friends, and my family will be missing him. I am proud to say, that he was a great man, and a good friend. I am truly sorry for your loss, with my deepest condolences.”
John, God speed and fair seas my friend. I will miss you my brother."
Drew Turnquist of California, USA

"My son, Chris, served with Capt. McKenna in Iraq. He was devastated by the loss of his friend. He displays Capt.McKenna's picture proudly. I pray each day that Capt.McKenna is watching over Chris. On Memorial Day we remember Capt.McKenna and his brother Marines who we lost in 2006. Thank you to them and their families."
Maggie Nazzaro of Jaffrey, NH

"Our Prayers are with John's family on this day of remembrance. John is always in our thoughts and prayers. It is so heartbreaking to loose a loved one to war. We are ever so Grateful, Thankful and full of Pride to John and our Military. God Bless John and may the Angels of God shine down upon his family."
Mack Family of Cohoes,NY/Albany

"To the family of:John J.McKenna lV
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""

"Sir, you died leaving an example for all others to follow. In the extreme conditions of hostile fire, you strived to save another Marine. God bless you and God bless the family that raised you."
SSgt Peter Wilcott of Manchester, NH

"”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 2,150 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 wonderful sponsors who help with the costs, and want you know that everyone here at Project Compassion does and will always 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
Projectcompassion@manti.com
www.heropaintings.com"
Project Compassion - Kenna of Manti, Utah USA

"As I've thought every single day of you, my host brother, John, since the day you left us, I'd like to send my most sincere condolence. You're not forgotten!"
Andy Glaser of Vienna

"While visiting Saratoga, NY in September , 2009 I purchased a shirt for Operations Adopt A Soldier with your name on it" Marine Captain John McKenna IV" and have since read about your bravery and valor. You will be forever thanked and remembered by me and my family. Your family, especially your mom, will be in my thoughts and prayers forever. Thank you."
Leslie of Marshfield MA

"I served with John McKenna when we were lieutenants at the Basic School, one the funniest Marines I have ever met. Incredibly intelligent, witty and with a great sense of humor! I found out today about his passing away, and I would like to let his family know that along his trail of life, he left a footprint in my heart which I will never forget. McKenna was great man and friend. Semper Fi Devil Dog!"
Andres H Caceres-Solari (Maj, USMC) of Jakarta, Indonesia (USEMB DAO)

"July 3, 2008
To the family of Capt. John J. McKenna, IV:
John 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

"God Bless you! My brother and boyfriend both served in 2/25 with you and we think of you often. May you rest in peace."
Diana of New York

"To the family and friends,
I would like to extend my deepest sympathies. Losing a loved on is the hardest thing in life. I am writing to not only express my sorrow for you but to let you know about a memorial I am working on. I am creating a quilt to honor the fallen soldiers from the New York City Area. Each soldier will have a panel created. I am inviting the friends and families to get involved. If you are interested or would like some more information please contact me at nycfallensoldiers@yahoo.com"
esther kabalkin of Staten Island, NY

"I had the honor of serving in the same platoon with John at Basic School in Virgina and remember him well. There are some names that when mentioned to you sound familiar, but you're not sure how or why. When I learned of John's passing today, I could instantly picture his face, his smile, and his wit. John left an impression on everyone who met him and he will truly be missed. God Speed, John. Semper Fi."
Mike Deardorff of Tampa, FL

"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.
Our nations HERO, John will be remembered by name.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pat & Sandi Breckenridge / Montana
May we always remember: FREEDOM ISN'T FREE! "

"Capt. McKenna,
Sir, I would like to say thank you to you and the other Marine from your unit(2/25) who was also KIA that day 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!"

"Captain McKenna: We will never forget you. Rest in peace."
Ruben Ortiz of Washington, DC.

"Thank you John McKenna IV., 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 Capt. John McKenna IV.:
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 John 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 Capt. John McKenna IV.:
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 John, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia