Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I knew Tim! We partied together in college. Got kicked out together and deployed to Iraq at the same time.
We were walking across the street together on the way to classes when the first tower was hit and he was the first to voice a real interest in joining the army in support of the US’s response.
My favorite memory of Tim is making up the craziest dance moves we could at our boss’ favorite club and just making each other laugh.
He has a bright and happy heart. We broke all the rules. We took all the risks… We were young and fearless. Unfortunately he didn’t come back. He was a hero!"
Shane Basse of Nepal

"I knew Timothy when I was little. We grew up together. He was my first kiss under the swingset. He would rip the heads of my barbies so I would play gi-joes with him. He brought me a rose every Sunday morning to church. He was my best friend. I always knew he was a special person. He was a light in the darkness, an angel amounst us. When my mom told me he joined the army ,I smiled because I knew he was living his dream. But I prayed for god to keep him safe. He was always strong and brave even when we were young. I'm so proud of him and I miss him. I never forget him or his blue eyes and his amazing smile. My dad lives on watkins dr. And every time I drive down it ,I think of him ...I will never forget him."
Cathy of La mirada ca

"To the family of Timothy D Watkins: May God give you peace and comfort for each day you are without Timothy. I thank you for raising a Godly son, one that felt and answered the call to serve the Lord and this country. I will remember you in my prayers and never forget the ultimate sacrifice given by Timothy."
Susan, A Thankful American of Fayetteville, NC, USA because of the Brave

"Never Forgotten. I miss you brother."
Scott Ray of Bamberg Germany

"Thinking if Tim in appreciation of his service and sacrafice the Memorial week. God bless you Pastor and Teri."
Craig Hampton of Yucaipa, CA

"Pastor and Mrs Terry, I haven't forgotten Tim and the friendship we shared. I will miss him always! Thank you for raising a son who was so brave, not only in his physical life, but in his spiritual life as well. I love you all! Thank you Tim for your sacrifice!!!!"
Rachael Holaday of Killeen, Texas

"I met Tim on a work Detail when we were in Iraq about 3 months into our tour. We found we had much in common, with where we were from in California, our faith in Jesus Christ, and both wanting to go into the ministry once we got out of the Army. My walk with God really had dissipated at that time with being in a Combat MOS and just "going with the flow" of other soldiers. I never thought Christian could live the life he should in that type of enviroment, until Tim and my path crossed that one day in Iraq. We had lunch and I could just tell he was living the life God meant for us to live. I didn't find out about his passing until a week before we came home, until I saw his picture on the wall, that's when it hit me. I was hit by an IED on the same rout in Ramadi, on Oct 10, 2005 that disabled my bradley fighting vehicle. I do feel guilt that I am alive and other people aren't like Tim. I know that he was a Huge light in the world, and his unit, and shared his faith openly with everyone he came in contact with. May God be showering him with blessings in Heaven. I am proud that I was able to meet him, and be encouraged by his presence. May God bless his family!!!"
Matt Whipple of Travis AFB

"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
A hundred times a day, I remind myself that my inner and outer life depends on the labors of other men, living and dead, and I must exert myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received and am receiving. - Albert Einstein"
Scott E. Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"Rob and Terri,
Still thinking of you and your wonderful family. Timothy is greatly missed, and the world is a lesser place without him."
Jim Hammer of Baku, Azerbaijan

"I remember Mr Tim from camp Ironwood. As many has said, he always had a smile on his face. I barely knew him personally but I saw the impact he had on one of my best friends who was in his cabin one summer. My friend was also fighting in Iraq when Tim passed and he devastated about it when he came home. I am so thankful for his influence on my friend and everyone else who knew him. Thank you so much Tim for serving our country and the Lord!"
Patricia of Az, USA

"The war was and is a waste."
Erudite of Mt Clemens

"I knew Tim very well. We unintentionally post-boned college and joined the Army at the same time. Tim was such a peaceful and compassionate person. His whole life seems to have been used to benefit people other than himself. Tim and I used to go drive up into the mountains and find the coolest places. We ventured into Pomona's culture and made friends of everybody we could. He was with me when I got my Ephesians 2:8 tatoo on my shoulder - something considered taboo in the bible college we were attending. He never judged me by my things like tatoos or rock and roll music - actually he seemed to have accepted everybody without preconditions. Sometimes I feel like his death is partially my fault, because while I was in bible college with him we hung out a lot and we encouraged each other to do many things that may have been distracting to us both. I came close enough to death in Iraq when I was there, but now that I've lived on, I feel that Tim would have been a better man than I and more deserving to have continued life. One afternoon Tim and I went on a double date with these two ladies we met at work. We all went down to the beach and played on God's beautiful earth as if it were a dream - it was sereal. Tim wore board shorts with tribal designs that were orange and black. I remember his hair was freshly cut and it looked like the hair styles that the actors on Pearl Harbor (the movie) had. He was a very attractive and athletic person. On September 11th, 2001, I was with him crossing the street from our dormitory when suddenly the second plane hit and the terrorists plot had become obvious. Pastor Smith, the campus church pastor, came running out of his house and ordered us three (Kevin McCabe was also with us) to get inside saying that "the United States is under attack". I'll never forget Tim's reaction. All he could think about for the weeks and months following is whether or not he should join the armed forces to go and retaliate in honor of 9/11. I myself was mostly concerned with my commitment to completing school, but Tim, like usual, compassionately contimplated the importance of sacrifice. In our natural AND spiritual world some things have to die so that other things may have life. And in this tragedy we call life I've only known two people so innocent and selfLESS: Timothy D. Watkins and Jesus Christ."
Shane Basse of Portland, Oregon

"Mr. Tim was one of the first counsellors I met at Camp Ironwood. Mr. Tim along with many other counsellors including Miss Judith help me relize I needed a Saviour. Mr. Tim was like the father I never had. Mr. Tim was always there to help when you needed him. He had a great sense of humor. Ironwood without him hasn't been as much as it had been my first years there. The summer after he died I thought no one else cared or missed him. They all seemed distant about it. Then when his dad came everyone changed and people started talking again. When I heard what happened at evening service I wanted to run out of the room. After googling Mr. Tim's name I see that people apart his family and church truly do miss him. I just want to say we all loved Mr. Tim and he will always be in our hearts. I praise God that Mr. Tim got to see his Saviour."
Joy E. White of Canoga Park,CA,USA

"I'm Sgt Bohling's sister in law also a 2-69 soldier kia in ramadi on 9-5-05. I pray for peace and healing for the family and friends of this solider. He is truly a hero. The next time we are at Benning I will lay flowers at the memorial for Timothy too. God bless you."
Kristy Bohling of Ft. Wainwright, Ak

"I was a member of 2-69 in ramadi in 2005. eventhough i was in a different company and didnt know watkins, i still remember where i was and what i was doing when the call came in. i will never forget that year with all the guys in ramadi, and the guys who's spirits are the only thing we were able to bring home, i will hold a special place in my heart as long as i live."
brandon lindsey of virginia

"it will be 3 years on wednesday, I still miss you and the rest of blue 3 two the same as that painful day. i miss you man, and it was great to be able to work and live with you. I always felt great fighting and training with you. You will always be with me. Love you brother"
Nessim E Fournier of Encinitas, Ca

"September 29, 2008
To the family of Spc. Timothy D. Watkins:
Timothy 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

"Tim was one of my best friends! I went to highschool with him and joined the service shortly after him. He had a great dedication to service before self and the character of a man all of us can strive to be like. His devotion to his country was surpassed only by his devotion to his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He fought the good fight, he finished the race, and left an immense footprint for God is this world he left behind. I'll see you in Glory Tim, thank you for being such a great human being!"
1Lt Greg Show, USAF of Columbus AFB, MS

"Mr. Tim was a counselor at Camp Ironwood. He was my little brother's counselor one year.
I don't remember much about him, but I'll never forget my first impression, "Wow, he's a serious guy!" Boy, was I ever wrong!
Mr. Tim had a big heart for the Lord and for kids. I'll never forget the counselors who showed us how much they cared about us just by being at Ironwood, but Mr. Tim stands out above them all.
Thank you, Mr. Tim."
Mary Ream of WA

"I had the awesome privilidge of working with Tim at Ironwood. He was one of the most awesome guys I have ever met. I know that he had the opportunity to make an impact on hundreds of kids for God's glory. I just found out about it, and my heart is saddened for his family. But he is with the Lord. And we WILL get to see him again!!"
Melissa Hunter of Honolulu, Hawaii

"I met Tim when back when his father pastored SBT in Moreno Valley, CA. He was 7 and I was 5. I always remember Tim being a very sweet kid. He was the kind that would do anything for anyone. Tim made an impact on everyone that knew him. The kids he counseled at Ironwood, the guys he was in college with at BJU and many many more. He was a good friend and a great man of God, a servant in every way. Even though it was a long time ago... I still remember my first conversation with him... he was the first guy I ever loved. See you in Heaven, Tim. Thanks for serving and paying the ultimate sacrifice. We miss you!"
Melissa Jackson of Riverside, CA

"To all that knew you Watknis, we know how amazing of a person you are. To all who miss you, know that you you live on through us and our actions. Not a day passes that you are not on my mind, and not a second goes by that I know you are not with me. We all Love you and Miss you Tim."
SGT. Patrick Foley of Baghdad, Iraq

"I am graduating from high school (Class of 2007), and I reflect back on all the people who have been a great influence in my life. I remember going to Ironwood Camp in 2001, and had the privilege of have Tim as my counselor. Even though I only had five days with Mr. Tim, I clearly saw that he was different than many of the young adults I knew at that time. He was always smiling, making friends, and trying to help others. He was one of the best role models I have ever had. I was saddened to hear that he had joined the Army, but I never realized that his absence from camp would be permanent. I was shocked to hear of his death, and I knew that I would never again have the chance to see him again. I still have my camp group photo, campers of cabin “Laredo”, and in it depicts the friend I knew. I wish I had a chance to thank him for all that he had done before his passing. I know he is in a much better place, Heaven, waiting for campers like me to welcome home."
Chris S. H. of Yuma, Az

"Dear Watkins family,
Keeping you in my prayers this Memorial Day and throughout the yr. Thankyou for your sacrifice and pray that you are someday relieved of your grief. Today I placed a rose from my garden at our national cemetary in Louisville with your son, Tim, in mind. I think of Tim often. Your family remain in my prayers and has my deepest gratitude. God bless and keep you.
Bonnie Breen
Louisville, Ky"
Bonnie Breen of Louisville, Ky

"Tim just wanted to say that im thinking of you bro.. Miss you man"
SGT Mackey, Thomas of IRAQ

"Quite a bit of water has gone under the bridge since this death happened. I never knew Tim, but saw his pictures on Ironwood's web site in his rememberance. There are two picture frame memorials in the Institute of Ministry's Shop here at Ironwood; and from the testimonials I've read on this site, I've come to understand that Tim did leave a trail to God, because life is a vapor.
I appreciate the up bringing his parents gave him for that reason.
I also know personally that time does ease the pain of the death of a loved one, though never takes it completely away. But it's great to know that we as believers in Christ's work on the cross will see them again.

Until that day..."
Bethany Cole of (Hometown) Conneaut, OH.

"Tim, Well buddy im back in iraq again. I know you are watching over me and keeping me safe. I just wanted to let you know how much i miss you bro. Life isnt the same here without your big smile and goofy laugh. Well bro you keep on watching over me and ill write you again soon.

SPC Mackey, Thomas C.
2-14IN 10th MTN DIV"
Thomas Mackey of Camp Striker, Iraq

"mr. tim was my first counselor at ironwood summer camp. he led me to the Lord. he is one of my greatest heroes. whenever i think of courage, i think of him. when i think of what a good Christian man should be, i think of him. my last memory of him is when he came to see us horsemanship campers before he went off to iraq. he gave me a hug and remembered my name.
i miss him."
andrew mills of lancaster, ca.

"I am glad I just found this site. Tim was a great friend and an encouragement.I miss him greatly, as do others. He was a great soldier for our country and a great soldier for the Lord. I can't wait to see him in Glory!"
gabe forster of chicago, il

"To the family of:Timothy D. Watkins 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"

"I had the privilege of working with Tim for two summers at Ironwood Camp in Southern California. He was one of the most Godly young men I have ever known. It was plainly evident that he loved the kids he worked with, and you can see from the testimonies on this website that his life touched theirs with an eternal impact. My life was enriched for having known him even that short time. Thank you, Tim, for your service to our country. Thank you, Watkins family, for allowing him to serve and for training him up as a man of God. As I remember the day a year ago, hearing that Tim was gone, I am more and more thankful to know that someday we will all be together again in heaven, no more tears or pain. "We'll never say goodbye in glory.""
Bethany Alsup Hager of Berwick, Pennsylvania

"It's almost been a year and as the day approaches it's hard not to remember Tim. The laughs we had together, the work at Ironwood, the late night talks, the trips to Columbus, to Macon, and back to Columbus, all the soldier friends he introduced me to and brought over to the house. He left good fingerprints on my life, my heart. I smile as I think of him even as the tears well up in my eyes. I miss him. Watkins family, my dear Rachel, I think of you often and know that time doesn't replace the emptiness but does draw us nearer to the time we'll see Tim again."
Marianne Domico of Changchun, Jilin, China but formerly Macon, GA

"SPC WATKINS A SOLDIER A FRIEND AND MOST OF ALL A BROTHER IN ALL OF OUR HEARTS. WATKINS, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. YOU WILL ALWAYS MEAN SO MUCH TO ME. THE TIME THAT YOU PASSED YOU WERE IN MY PLACE AS THE TEAM LEADER OF MY SOLDIERS. THE DAY I HEARD THAT YOU PASSED WAS ONE OF THE SADDEST DAYS THAT I CAN EVERY REMEMBER. YOU WERE ALWAYS THAT PERSON THAT COULD BRING A FRIEND UP THAT WAS STARTING TO HAVE DOUBTS. YOU WILL KICK THEM AND TELL THEM "HEY! GET YOUR HEAD UP!". THEN, DO A PRAYER. YOU WERE THE GUY THAT COULD NEVER BRING US DOWN WITH THE BAD NEWS BECAUSE YOU WOULD ALWAYS MAKE A JOKE AND MAKE EVERYONE SMILE. UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN, TIMOTHY, YOU ALWAYS MEAN SOMETHING TO ME AND THE REST OF 3rd HERD."
SGT FIGUEROA MANUEL ALPHA TEAM LEADER FOR TIMOTHY WATKINS of COLUMBUS GA

"Tim buddy you were the best soldier i have ever known. You tought me so much, i miss you so much buddy. I wear your braclet on my arm everyday in honor on the man you were so nobody will ever forget you. You rest in peace buddy. And we will meat again"
Spc Thomas C. Mackey of Ft. Drum, NY

"Tim you are and always remain a hero to me...i remember the first time i met you when i was a camper at ironwood and i always wanted you as a counselor but never got you..however we did develop a friendship and i remember talking with you when you decided to join the Army...i looked up to you for that and you have been an inspiration for me to join the service...God Bless you man and thank you for serving our country you are My hero"
James Hurn of San Diego, CA

"My husband, SSG Nestor served with Timothy. Unfortunately, living away from post makes it hard to know anything about the single guys. Yet, I think about your son everyday and the sacrifice he and his squad mates made. You are in my prayers everyday."
Christie Nestor of Ft. Benning, GA

"Today, for some reason, I was prompted to enter my Pastor's name from 1985 to 1988 at Sunnymead Baptist Temple in a search engine, and a link came up for Timothy. A lump formed in my throat as I read the summary, and then tears in my eyes after I clicked on one link, and then another reading about Timothy. My memories of Timothy date back to when he was an energetic young boy. I was his Sparks Director in Awana. He was one of my Sparkies! In 1988, my wife and daughter moved to Northern California, and couple years later lost contact with the Watkins. Reading several articles and numerous posted messages has caused me to praise the Lord for this young man's testimony for the Lord. Rob and Terri, it is obvious you raised a fine young man who loves the Lord. At the time we attended Sunnymead Baptist Temple, I was Timothy's age in the Marine Corps. I am most honored to know that Timothy was serving this great nation. Though a number of months have now past since Oct 2005, we would like Rob and Terri to know that we will uphold you in your prayers. May the Lord continue to bring His comfort to you all."
Greg & Kathy Rasmussen of Redding, California

"I am writing to you as a member of the Illinois Motorcycle Freedom Run. The motorcycle community in Illinois has built a wall to honor the fallen heroes in the Middle East from 1979 till today. Timothy's name has been engraved on this wall and the Freedom Run staff; family and friends would like to extend a VIP invitation to your family to join us for a memorial service on June 17, 2006 to honor Timothy and all the others who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Please, if you have time, take a look at our website (www.ilfreedomrun.org). We all truly appreciate everything Timothy and all the other service men and women have done for us and this is our way of honoring them. Also please feel free to contact me via email at any time (sbrown6117@comcast.net) if you would like more information."
Sara Brown of IL

"Thank you for raising your son to be a Christ like example. Thank you for serving our country. I will try never to take my American freedom for granted."
Anna Curtis (Ironwood '02) of Medford, OR

"I never had the privilege of meeting SPF Tim Watkins, but I would like the family to know that my deepest prayers are with you. SPC Jeff Corban was my brother. Jeff was with Tim on October 15th, 2005. Although it has nearly been 6 months, the pain is still so real and deep. When the sadness comes I am reminded that God truly is with us every step of the way. He wipes away every tear. I am so thankful for Tim's belief and faith in the Lord. I'm sure he had an impact on all of the soliders in his division. They will always be missed and never forgotten."
Lori FitzGerald of Kansas City, KS

"I know tim from ironwood. he was a great friend and leader. he was a great influence on me. God bless you"
Edgar Puerling of San Diego, Ca

"My family's hearts go out to Rob and Terry. It was so wonderful to watch Tim growing up in Moreno Valley at the then, Sunnymead Baptist Temple. Tim was raised in such a God loving home, that it is no surprise that he severed our country with honor. Tim did what so few are willing to do and I am sure that our Lord has blessed him in great measure. May God bless all of the Watkins' family."
Jim & Diana Gibbons of Yucaipa, Ca

"Something within wells up when we think of Tim. We are glad to have met him & his dear family. Thank you for fighting for our freedom. Dear Watkins family may the strength of our loving Lord be your refuge. We love you."
Save Sikele & Family of Missionaies-Fiji Islands

"I knew Tim from Bible College. I enjoyed two great summers with Tim at Ironwood. It is true, Tim always had a smile on his face and he had such a love for the Lord I will never forget it. I thank Tim for fighting for our country and I know, one day I will see him again. I will miss him. I wish I would have been able to go to his funeral, but because I am so far away it was not possible. Tim was an encouragment! I will see you again bro...in glory land! My prayers are with the family."
Cliff Clutters of Durham, Ontario Canada

"Tim was the oldest of our pastor’s children and the typical protective big brother...he was friendly with everyone he came in contact with and treated everyone with respect. Tim was a good soldier but an even better person. As you can see, he had a positive impact on the lives of many others. He also believed in serving his country and protecting our freedom. He understood that freedom isn't free and he ended up paying the ultimate price for it...for us.... thank you Tim! I believe in my heart that Tim completed his purpose here on Earth and that’s why the Lord called him home so soon. Please pray for the Watkins family in this time of mourning. Tim, you will truly be missed...Rest with Jesus our dear friend..."
The Blakeley Family of Yucca Valley, CA

"Tim was more than a comrade in arms to me and the men of third platoon. he was our brother. Tim i am thankful for every day that i served with you. you always knew how to keep my spirits up. even when the going got tough. watching you die was one of the hardest things i ever had to do. you will never be forgoten, nor will i forget the other 3rd platoon soldiers that gave their all here in ramadi, SSG Jason Benford, SSG Vincent Summers, SPC Richard Hardy, SPC Jeff Corban, SPC Thomas Byrd and you Timmy. You will always live on in me"
SPC Ray, Scott B of Ramadi Iraq

"My wife and I had the blessing of being Tim's Sunday School and AWANA leaders from 1995-2001. Tim is a wonderful and kind servant who helped all those around him. Tim lived for the Lord all the time , not just when Dad and Mom were looking. I am very blessed to be able to carry a little bit of Tim around with me every day. Way back in 1998 our AWANA boys were playing football in the park. On a kick return, Tim blocked me and broke three of my ribs. On cold days (and we have many of them here)my ribs start to ache. With a smile I still think of my dear brother Tim. We cant wait to be with you soon around the table of the Lord Tim. Then maybe, a football game by the crystal shore. Love in Christ"
Stephen & Marla Smith of Joplin, Missouri

"My wife and I had the blessing of being Tim's Sunday School and AWANA leaders from 1995-2001. Tim is a wonderful and kind servant who helped all those around him. Tim lived for the Lord all the time , not just when Dad and Mom were looking. I am very blessed to be able to carry a little bit of Tim around with me every day. Way back in 1998 our AWANA boys were playing football in the park. On a kick return, Tim blocked me and broke three of my ribs. On cold days (and we have many of them here)my ribs start to ache. With a smile I still think of my dear brother Tim. We cant wait to be with you soon around the table of the Lord Tim. Then maybe a football game by the crystal shore. Love in Christ"
Stephen & Marla Smith of Joplin, Missouri

"I didn't know Tim personaly, but he was my son's counselor at Ironwood a few years ago. As my wife and I sat with our son at the memorial service for Tim I couldn't help but put myself in the Watkin's place. My heart and prayers go out to your family, you all have been a blessing to me. Just to see God's grace through you has been a real encouragement. My son has said Tim was a big influence on his life and one of the reasons he is in Christian college today. Being a retired Army Sergeant First Class,I know the sacrifices our military makes. May God bless the Watkins family, our Military, and America"
Julius & Janet Williams of Barstow, CA

"I had the honor of working with Tim at Ironwood Christian Camp, as I got to work with him and play, I will always be reminded of a guy, who smiled (alot) and who had a love for our God. The many pictures that have been taken are pictures of Tim with kids and Tim always has a smile on his face. Tim, we will miss you, but praise the Lord we will see you again. Pastor Watkins, Mrs. Watkins, and family, thank you for your testimony, and thank you for the testimony of how you represented our Lord during the memorial services yesterday. May God bless you."
Ben Magee of Newberry Springs, CA

"As we laid my nephew to rest, we took the time to mourn the loss of a wonderful young man....but we also celebrated the life of a man who touched so many - not only in his service to our country, but his service to the Lord as well. Although he is gone from this earth, his testimony will continue forward touching many. We are proud and look forward to seeing that wonderful smiling face once again."
Melody White of Huntington Beach, CA

"After meeting Tim at Ironwood we continued our friendship as he was moved around. His love for the Lord and desire to serve in the military were obvious passions. I will always remember what he said before he left. He said he was going to bring his Bible and devotionals to Iraq because he wanted this time away to be a time he could draw closer to God. I am so thankful I will see Tim again. Watkins family, you have been, and will be in my prayers; may the Lord comfort you in this hard time. The Lord used your son in the lives of many here!"
Amanda Lavertu of Franklin, NH

"I only got to spend one semester of college with Tim, but while I was there, he was a great friend to me. Him and Sarah and I spent a lot of time together because we always seemed to be driving somewhere. Where we went, I can't remember now, but we drove a lot together. The three of us talked about everything in that pink escort of mine. He helped me in many ways, and he never took the glory for it. He even sang "I'm A Little Teapot" in front of the school after he played a prank on me to "make it even". I spent a most of September 11, 2001 with him along with many others at PBC, and he wanted nothing more than to protect his country that day. As sad as I am that he is gone, I am glad that he had a chance to fulfill his dream, and he fought his fight. I know that we will all see him again in heaven someday. Watkins family, I am praying for you every day, and my church is praying for you as well. I pray that God will comfort you during this hard time."
Destiny McCabe of Hillsboro, Oregon

"I knew Tim from the summers we spent at Ironwood together, and from his visits while I attended Pensacola Christian College. He was SUCH a great person. Anyone who had the opportunity to meet Tim, was blessed by him. I will forever remember the fond memories I have of him... He was truly a GREAT friend, and he made a strong impact on MANY lives. He will be remembered forever... And those who knew him well, know he is in a far better place... Watkins Family: I pray for you daily, and know that God will comfort you in the days and weeks to come... I love you all!!"
Beth (Morgan) Aguayo of Murrieta, CA

"Our son served with Tim in Iraq and he has told us what an engaging and solid person he was. We thank Tim for his sacrifice and we honor him for his faith. We pray for Tim, his family and his brothers that remain in harm's way."
Jim & Carla Lois of Prescott, AZ

"It is amazing how one man could affect so many lives! Tim not only affected my life, but so many others. I had the priveledge of attending PBC with Tim, and I will never forget the memories we shared. I remember a conversation we had during one of our days at PBC... we were talking about his dream of joining the military (air force at that time). I remember asking him why, why would he want to go when he may not live... his responce was simple, "I know where I'm going..." this brings such joy to my heart as I mourn the passing of a friend, a brave soldier, a patriot, our Tim. Thank You Tim for fighting to keep us free! I am praying for you Pastor and Mrs. Watkins, Rach, and family... I know God will help ease the hurt."
Sarah Jones of Garden Grove, California

"I had the pleasure of knowing Tim because my family were members of his father's church in Yucca Valley, CA. I will always remember the way Tim helped out the church and his family. I will especially remember the way he played with his younger brother Jonathan. May God bless the entire Watkins family as they mourn his passing and rejoice his rebirth in Christ."
Rick Johnson of 29 Palms, CA

"I am a cousin of Tim's and I am honored that he was willing to sacrifice the most important thing he could for his country. God bless all of his family and may he rest in peace."
Jason Hosler of Papillion, Ne

"Tim was the greatest friend I have ever had. He was always there for me with encouragment when I was struggling, a shoulder to cry on when I was hurting, and a smile to get me through my day. I have known Tim for many years, working at camp with him and corresponding with him while in Georgia and Iraq. I will miss my FRIEND but the comfort of knowing I will see him again is the greatest joy I have. The Watkins family have always been a blessing, encouragemnet, and example to me and I truly know the pain they are going through. I am just as proud of Tim as they are. He is a true HERO and is greatly loved. Dear Watkins family, you are always in my prayers and heart. I love you all so very much."
Nellie Zuidersma of Chino Hills, California

"I know Tim and Rachel from College and was very blessed by their testimony. Although Tim and I were not very close, his willingness to serve God and country touched me. Tim, you will not be forgotten. And although we mourn for you now, we know that you are in Heaven with Jesus. So I'll see you soon, Buddy. To the Watkins Family, know that I grieve with you and will miss Tim dearly."
Michael LimaOsorio of Anaheim

"Our memories are not of "an army man," but of a delightful young boy who loved the Lord, his family, and his entire church family. What fun times we had with Tim, Rachel, and Thomas as they grew up in Moreno Valley. We've heard so many wonderful things about Tim, the man, these last few days. It makes our hearts swell with pride for his accomplishments, but our hearts also ache with you as we honor Tim's sacrifice for his country and complete strangers. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" (Jn 15:13). Rob and Terri, thank you for continuing to share your most precious gifts with others. We love you all and uphold you in our prayers."
Bill and Sue Phillips of Moreno Valley, CA

"Tim was a man of strength, character and kindness. Our friendship while we were in college together is fondly remembered and I hope that we can all be affected by Tim's death as much as we were affected by his life. He lived his life to protect others, we should all do the same. I will be praying continuously for the Watkins family and their church."
Steve Jones of Garden Grove, CA

"We lift the family before the Lord. Our church has been praying for you since Angela let us know. We ask that Christ peace will be with you. We are encouraged to hear Timothy's godly life and his willingness to serve our country. The giving of his life so others will know freedom will not be forgotten."
Pastor Mark, Brush Prairie Baptist Church of Vancouver, WA

"I only knew Tim for a short time when he started coming to my church, Grace Baptist Church, in Columbus, GA. He was always very well-mannered and had a smile on his face. I wish that I could have known this brave young man a little better. To the Watkins family, I am sorry for your loss. I don't know what kind of pain you're going through, but please know that your family is in my prayers. The sacrifice he gave will not be forgotten. God bless your family, and I pray for peace and comfort in this trying time."
Chris Song of Columbus, GA

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

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