Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Because of you, your family, your friends your Marines, I am able to do what I do now in life. I am only able to continue on the path I walk because you stood where you did and not ten feet away. I didn’t know you, but I will never forget you, I owe my life to you. I owe everything I and my family are now, and ever will be, to you and the Marines like you. Everyone in this Country should understand what you and so many other Marines and their family’s have sacrificed. I can only pray that your loss has not and will never go in vane and that you have made a difference. Thank you eternally for what you have given. With respect, admiration, devotion,
Semper Fidelis
A Marine, An American, A Brother"
A Marine of Baltimore, MD, USA

"To the family of:John J. Thornton
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""

"Sgt Jeff Koehly (Nebr. Air Natl Guard) passed away 11/16/11. I was organizing his military things when I discovered a print out from DoD News dated 11/18/10. It was about the death of Lance Cpl John J Thornton on Feb 25, 2006. Sgt Koehly was in Iraq when LCpl Thornton died. I just wanted the family to know that Sgt Koehly NEVER forgot about the young men that died while he was In Iraq. Just know that John was NOT forgotten. God Bless."
Mary C. Dubois of Omaha, NE/USA

"I am trying to get in touch with a close friend or family member of Thorntons. I served with Thornton in Ar Ramadi, my name Justin. My e-mail is rudiniraq@yahoo.com"

"John you are an inspiration to me. You sacrificed to become a Marine and sacrificed to give others the gift of freedom. I will always remember the day you enlisted, went to Recruit Training, and returned a Marine. Semper Fidelis Marine!"
SSgt Devlin Marine Recruiter of Phoenix AZ

"hey j. its cousin john it will be 4 years in jus a matter of hours, my heart is heavy with sadness we all miss you so much. i will be there tommorow to visit you"
john alvarado of phoenix az

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

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

"February 7, 2009
To the family of Lance Cpl. John J. Thornton:
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

"Love you Bro, B&C"
B&C of Phx,AZ

"Josh, I love you bro, and miss you every day. Keep the beer cold, and the laughter goin.


I'll see you soon enough Buddy, love
you man Cory C."
Cory Calhoun of Phx, AZ

"John,
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 Devil Dog!"

"J, I cant believe its been over a year since u've left us. you are always in my thoughts. i miss you bro!"
cousin john of pittsburgh, pa

"Thornton, it has been a year now since you left us. Your memory gives me the strength to wake up each morning and make it through the day. It was an honor to serve with you. We miss you, brother."
Mac of 29 Palms, CA

"To the family of (Josh) John Thornton I am deeply sorry for your loss of a family member and a dear friend of mine. WE WILL NEVER FORGET!!!!!!!!!"
Bill Cheves of Phoenix, AZ.

"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 God Bless you ALWAYS. "

"To everyone who has left a message for John I want to thank you on behalf of his family for all of you support and kind words."
Shaunna of Phoenix

"Thank you John Thornton, 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. John Thornton:
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 Lance Cpl. John Thornton:
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