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James Walton Obituary
WALTON JAMES JOSEPH WALTON (Age 41) Lt. Col., U.S. Army "Jim"/"Buz" Of Arlington, Virginia, died June 21, 2008 outside of Kandahar, Afghanistan. He was killed by a roadside bomb and small arms fire. Jim was a member of an Army Transition Team whose mission was to train Afghan soldiers. Jim was born March 31, 1967 in Boston, MA but spent most of his childhood in Rockville, MD. He graduated as Cadet Colonel in 1985 from St. John‘s College High School in Washington, DC and from United States Military Academy at West Point in 1989. His favorite hobby was skydiving, and he and his team were world record holders in 2003. Jim met the love of his life, Sarah Moschler, in 2003 and they were married on June 26, 2004 in Richmond, VA. During his more than 19 years of military service, Jim served in Germany, Honduras, Haiti, Korea, Costa Rica, Washington, DC, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Jim is survived by his wife, Sarah Moschler Walton of Arlington, VA; his parents, Donald and Mary Jane Walton of Rockville, MD; his sisters, Kathleen Walton of New York, NY, Kyle Marie Cottrell of Chesapeake, VA and Diane Jewell of Burlington, VT; and his brother, Donald C. Walton, III of Lexington, KY. The viewing service will take place Wednesday, July 9 at the Everly Wheatley Funeral Home, 1500 W. Braddock Rd., Alexandria, VA from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. The funeral will take place Thursday, July 10, 8:45 a.m. at the Fort Myer Memorial Chapel followed by the burial service with Full Military Honors at Arlington National Cemetery. His family suggests that in lieu of flowers donations may be made to a memorial fund at the Fisher House or to Best Friends Animal Society to benefit abused animals.His family suggests that in lieu of flowers donations may be made to a memorial fund at the Fisher House or to Best Friends Animal Society to benefit abused animals.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Walton
Charlie Gili
November 15, 2025
Hello,
We wanted to let you know that we will be honoring and remembering your loved one this holiday season. We are sending Care Packages to our deployed troops in his name. Each package will carry the name, photo, service branch, rank and hometown of James Joseph Walton US Army Lieutenant Colonel.
We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community, our family, friends and many others who support our mission.
We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of our US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign Inc.
Doug Strand
May 24, 2025
Jim and I were the only two military member who participated in making four consecutive world records at Lake Wales, Fl in 2003. We were both Lt Cols at the time and I was in the Air Force. I will always miss his enthusiasm and friendship.
Marjorie Woodings
March 31, 2018
Always think of you on Birthday Day. Thank you for all you gave, for being apart of my life and such a wonderful person. You warmed so many hearts!!!
Love,
Marjorie
Kathleen
June 21, 2016
I am thinking about you today, Jim. I miss you and love you. And I thank you for being the great man that you were. Always in my heart.
Luv,
Kath
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David Lattuca
July 20, 2015
RIP Lt. Col. James Walton. I strive to be a better man because of your sacrifice.
May 25, 2015
Remembering you today, little brother. I remember you every day. Thank you for what you gave to our country. You are missed. Luv, Kath
Audrie Sierra
April 1, 2015
Thinking of you yesterday and how you'd joke that your birthday was on day that coupons would expire. Always makes me smile.
Amy Hagen
April 1, 2015
Remembered, loved, and missed. Did something crazy for you yesterday! I know you were laughing the whole time :)
March 31, 2015
Thinking about you on your birthday, Jim. You are remembered, missed, and loved.
Luv,
Kath
John Hardison
September 25, 2014
I was posting on the St John's class of 85 facebook page and we started talking about Jim. Made me stop and think about high school and sitting next to Jim in chorus most mornings.
Frank Giannantonio MSG/RET
June 23, 2014
I think of you every day and miss you greatly Sir. Only got to have six months but they were the best I ever had in service to our country.
Don Walton
June 21, 2014
Love and miss you, Jim. Lots.
The Regels
July 4, 2013
Thinking of Lt. Col. James Walton on this Independence Day.
In memory of LTC Jim Walton
July 1, 2013
The Altar Flowers today are given to the Glory of God and in memory of LTC Jim Walton by LTC(R) Larry and Betty Houck.
First United Methodist Church, Atmore, AL
David Surber
June 23, 2013
As a friend of Dr. Donald and his lovely wife Mary Jane, parents of their much loved son Jim, I wish to convey to them and all the members of their outstanding family my sincerest words of support and gratitude for Jim's service to this good land we love so well, this place we call home.
He is an example of the man mentioned in Scriptures who said simply "send me" when there was an important and very dangerous job to do. In the last analsyis, since none of us know when we wil die, it does not matter so much how long we live but how well. Jim's life was short but lived oh so well, doing what his Country asked of him and with courage and bravery. Job well done my friend, rest in peace. Until we meet again, God keep you safely and enjoying the peace which this world cannot give, nor, now take away.
June 23, 2013
LTC Walton's legacy still remains strong here at FOB Walton in Kandahar Afghanistan. We remember our brother in arms and ensure that his fighting spirit, selfless leadership and enduring will live on here at our SFAT compound by telling his story for all who visit. He will never be forgotten.
MAJ Reginald Jackson
G3 Advisor
SFAT 3
Joy Berends
June 22, 2013
Thank-you again for Lt Col Walton's service and your sacrifice.
May the Lord continue to comfort you.
Amy Hagen
June 22, 2013
Jimmy- You are an inspiration to myself and so many others. You are missed. Thankfully we all have such wonderful memories of you to think about and make us laugh and smile. It's a comfort to know you are watching over us now. It's an honor to say you are a member of my family.
Jane Rosen
June 21, 2013
My thoughts are with you today and the sacrifice Jim made for his country.
Jimmy Gibbons
June 21, 2013
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers, Cousin Jimmy. You are missed my good man.
June 21, 2013
Jim is a hero and gave his life so we can all live with the blessings we have in our great country. While his absence leaves a void in the lives of those who knew him and love him, take solace knowing that the sacrifice he and his family have made was not wasted and is deeply appreciated by the rest of us who have benefited from it. Remembering a great man, and a great family today.
kathy walton
June 21, 2013
Remembering you today Jim. You are missed and loved and remembered daily.
Janice & Bill Whorton
May 3, 2013
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Walton,
My husband, Bill, & I were so pleased to meet you & your daughter yesterday at the mile marker for our sons during, the Honor & Remember Run. What a surprize to learn that your daughter knew my son, Jamie & his wife Krissy, when they were stationed at Quantico. It was heartwarming & comforting to spend time with all of you, while we waited for the runners. When you're at Arlington, Jamie is in section 60 grave # 8108. Next time Bill & I go up we will visit your James as well. Bless you both. We share the sorrow of your loss.
Sincerly,
Janice (Edge) Whorton & Bill Whorton
Leigh Schroeder Salvage
January 23, 2013
Childhood buddy and friend of Jimmy here. Just saw this video. The whole time I was reminded of Jimmy's spirit. It seemed that literally, he had this giving spirit, ALL the time, and always helped those around him, no matter how much sacrifice it took. Most of my memories of him are examples of acts of kindness. (Ok and goofiness too!) I hope that when we remember him, we extend our own generosity around us just a little more, and keep his spirit alive.
Those of you that knew him would not have any doubt as to why this video reminded me of him, so much.
To his family and wife, I hope you are doing well.
- Leigh
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=381305535298974&set=vb.492410544113200&type=2&theater
November 25, 2012
To the family and friends of LTC James Walton: Legacy of LTC Walton lives strong here at FOB Walton. We've just begun our period of service here and are inspired by the patriotism and heroism LTC Walton as we continue the mission of coaching and mentoring the Afgan Uniform Police in securing the city of Kandahar. We thank you for LTC Walton's service and assure you that we will be well represented in our efforts to accomplish our mission.
Sincerely,
MAJ Reginald Jackson
G3 Advisor, SFAT Team 3
[email protected]
Jeff S
June 29, 2012
I was looking up an aqaintance who was recently kia in Afganistan when I came across a photo of Jim's wife huging his tomb stone. Some things just leave one speechless. God Bless you both.
Joy Berends
June 26, 2012
Thank-you again for Lt Col Walton's service and your sacrifice. How difficult anniversaries must be.
May the Lord continue to comfort you.
Peggy Childers
June 24, 2012
June 21, 2012
To the family and friends of Lt. Col. James Walton:
Always remembering James. "Some gave all."
Ross Coffey
May 3, 2012
To the family of James Walton,
Thank you for his service to our country. I command the advisors stationed at Forward Operating Base Walton and walk past his memorial and picture every morning. His example and heroism serves as our inspiration and commits us to accomplish our mission to the fullest of our abilities. You should be confident that the Afghan National Security Forces are well-trained and in-the-lead, due, in no small part, to Jim's service.
Respectfully,
Lieutenant Colonel Ross Coffey
[email protected]
Joanne Chubb
April 1, 2012
Rest in peace brave hero.
kathy walton
March 31, 2012
Hey Jim--we miss you so very much and thank you for your service to this country and for being such a great part of our family--awesome kid brother. I love you, miss you desperately, and I am thingking about you today (all day) on your birthday.
Love
Kathy (your old sister).
Ginny & Family
October 22, 2011
We wish to Thank You Lt. Col. James Walton and your Family for your Service and Sacrifices made for our Country and Freedoms. Thank You and we Pray for your Comfort and Peace.
Jodi & Max Manes
June 26, 2011
Jim's jokes (coupons) keep us laughing still:) OT: You can send expired coupons to bases as they are still of use to the families months after expiry.
Wishing all Jims’ loved ones comfort in your memories & gathering on the memorial of Jim’s heroic sacrifice. Much love,
Jeff Edgington
June 23, 2011
All the Way Sir! I think of you often. You're still missed.
Peggy Childers
June 21, 2011
To the family and friends of Lt. Col. James Walton:
Please accept my remembrance of James on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Roy Alston
May 28, 2011
"Jim was my classmate at West Point. We were in the same company, G-4. I will never forget Jim and I will never forget his sacrifice." Roy E. Alston, PhD (Frisco, TX)
Joy Berends
April 1, 2011
May the Lord give you comfort.
Lt Col Walton's sacrifice is not forgotten.
Audrie Franco
April 1, 2011
I was thinking about you on your birthday Jim. I remember you used to joke that your birthday was on the day coupons expire. You are remembered fondly.
kathy walton
March 31, 2011
Jim--you are missed so very much--you have no idea. Happy Birthday Little Brother.
Love, Kathy
Steven Bolas
August 6, 2010
One thing I remember about Jim was the Flags he had in his room. While not all politically correct, he He told me that they were a part of history and cannot be forgotten. Jim, You will not be forgotten.
Patrick Jarchow
July 2, 2010
It's been two years now. I still think of you often, and that horrible day, and only wish and wonder if there was something I could have done differently to prevent it. To the Walton family, you all are always in my prayers and thoughts.
Patrick Jarchow
MSG (Retired)
kathy walton
June 23, 2010
Thank you so much for remembering my kid brother, Jim. My family was all together remembering him this week.
Jodi Manes
June 22, 2010
To all the Waltons,
Hoping that time has eased your pain somewhat. With loving thoughts and prayers for you & everyones' hero Jim on this second memorial. Godspeed & safety to those soldiers here remembering Jim.
Jodi & Max Manes
Peggy Childers
June 21, 2010
To the family and friends of Lt. Col. James Walton:
Remembering James on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Jeff Edgington
June 21, 2010
Sarah and Walton family, I served with Jim in Afghanistan. I want to tell you that he had and continues to have an influence on my life. He's a model that I try to follow in my career as an officer and even in my personal life. He continues to have an impact on this world.
Thanks for that...
Jeff.
June 1, 2010
On this memorial day I would like to express my prayers and remembrances to Jim's wife and the Walton family. We will remember Jim and your family in prayer. Semper Fi, A. Williams
May 31, 2010
Buz, It's hard to believe almost two years have gone by since you departed this life. Though you are gone, you are most certainly not forgotten ... and never will be. You will always be a dear friend to me, and you will forever be missed. No one could have asked for a better friend or skydiving buddy.
-Erin
COL Thomas Ritz
May 25, 2010
Jim,
I was so happy when an officer of your caliber replaced me in Kandahar. From both our conversations and mutual friends I knew you were the right guy for that very difficult and dangerous mission. My prayers remain with you and your family. Rest in Peace my Brother. You are never far from my thoughts....
David Surber
March 31, 2010
My dear members of Jim's family, and all his many friends and colleagues, in and out of the service:
Someone once said: "Men live as long as they are remembered."
In that sense, Jim will always be with us.
We are grateful for his life and his service to our country, and he will always be missed.
We recall the closing lines of Hamlet:
"Now cracks a noble heart. Good night sweet prince and may flights of angels sing thee to thy rest."
With love and thanks,
David
S B
March 11, 2010
I never met LTC Walton in person, only thru Blueforce tracker, phone calls and letters. I worked for him for a very short time in Afghanistan before I was wounded and left country. I can tell you from someone who worked for him, that he was very supportive. Whenever I made enemy contact he would jump on the NET personally to see what I needed. I would have loved to have that kind of a boss in my other deployments. After I was sent state side due to my injuries, he sent me a letter to cheer my up. I believe he truly must of cared for ALL of his Soldiers.
Like I said I never met LTC Walton in person, but he too touched me. I think of him often in the spring because I was greatly injured a short while before his death.
Rest my Brother in Arms,
Leigh Salvage
March 9, 2010
Oops, I meant her grandson is going to Afghanistan...
Linda Gilmore
March 9, 2010
Hello, I am a member of a grass roots group called Prayer Shawl 4 Fallen Soldiers. We supply prayer shawls to survivors of soldiers who died while serving their country. If you are interested in receiving a prayer shawl please let me know. I am so very sorry
for your loss.
Linda Gilmore
Leigh Schroeder Salvage
March 9, 2010
A woman I've recently befriended has a grandson heading off to Iraq. I pray that he is guided by the principles and spirit that guided you, Jimmy. Honesty, generosity, hard work, and fighting the good noble fight in the best ways you know how.
Blessings, still, for the family that misses you every day.
- Leigh
(childhood & younger years friend)
Julian With
March 8, 2010
Jim,
Well it has been almost 2 years since I lost a great friend/mentor and soldier. There are times where I just wish I could pick up the phone and call you for that great advice you would always give me, I could really use it right now but I live by the motto WWJD which stands for What Would Jim DO....and the other questions u always asked me were is it Legal, Moral and ethical.....you were the best friend anyone could ever ask for, I check on Sarah when i go to DC and we always get out for dinner.....you would be proud of her she is doing well.
March 6, 2010
Jim, I think of you every day,and will always remenber what a great friend you were to me. Sarah you run thru my mind always.
MSG Frank(CMATT 2)Giannantonio
PJ Helper
March 4, 2010
Jim, there are no weapons where you are. You can take it easy, God will take good care of you.
February 1, 2010
It has been almost a year and a half since we lost you Jim. My memories still remain. I will never forget the mentorship you rendered to me.
Sarah Walton - You are still in my prayers!
MAJ Matt (Kentucky Windage) Smith
Henry Chou
December 18, 2009
Dear Mrs. Walton,
We wanted to let you know that your family is in our family's thoughts this holiday season. We saw the picture of you hugging your husband's tombstone at Arlington and were deeply touched by it. We are deeply grateful for your husband's dedication to our country and we are saddened by your family's loss. God Bless.
LTCOL Mike D. - USMCR
December 13, 2009
For Mrs. Walton-
I saw your picture on the CNN website today laying a wreath at your husband's grave, and found it to be one of the most moving images I have seen related to the war. I did not know him, but we deployed to some of the same contingencies over the years. I hope you are able to find some solace this holiday season among your family & friends, and know that many in this nation have the greatest respect for LTC Walton's service and sacrifice. Our thoughts go out to you.
Amie Burnside
November 11, 2009
Thinking of you and your family on this day of remembrance.
Anna Moschler
August 18, 2009
Uncle Jim,
Im going to go skydiving really soon, just for you. Unfortunately its not with you like we planned.
But I know you'll be in the sky with me.
I miss you, we all do.
Joanne Chubb
June 27, 2009
Rest in peace brave soldier. You will never be forgotten. May God Bless the Walton family.
Military Mom of 3 Men
Frank Giannantonio
June 25, 2009
Jim
It has been a year, a long year. I have seen just how badly the army needs your kind of leadership. I speak of you often and think of you always. I miss not having some tell me to breathe when I get annoyed like I used to. I miss you still and always. You were one of the best things to have happened to me.
You're Friend and
brother
MSG G
Amie Burnside
June 24, 2009
We still remember and will never forget..... The Burnsides
Jim in Germany
June 23, 2009
June 23, 2009
Audrie Franco
June 23, 2009
Dear Walton Family,
I remember how deeply sorry I was to hear of Jim's passing last year. He was a wonderful person and I pray that your memories with him fill you with peace.
I will continue to pray for his family and his wife. God Bless.
Peggy Childers
June 22, 2009
To the family of Lt. Col. James Walton:
James 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
Julian With
June 9, 2009
Well Buddy it has been almost a year and I still can't believe you are gone, It has been a difficult time not having you around but just know that we (your guys from Iraq) are doing fine but we miss you very much, every story we ever tell has some sort of waltonism in it........just know that we miss you and think about you all of the time. You were the best friend anyone of us could have ever asked for. Till our paths cross again.
Your Friend & Brother
Sgt. Julian F With
Marilyn Mangano
May 7, 2009
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Jeffrey Kimberley
January 3, 2009
Words cannot express my grief for the loss of this fine gentleman, Lt. Col. James Walton. Although we never met formally there is a shared kindred spirit between the Guppies and the Hoggs of the 4th Regiment. "Well Done; Be Thou At Peace."
Kenna Larra
December 18, 2008
We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families at this time. This is a Nonprofit Organization to honor are Soldiers!
FREE OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING OF THIS HERO. COMPLETE FORM AT WWW.HEROPAINTINGS.COM
Please contact us! Contact us directly at [email protected] 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,
Kenna
Andy Robbins
October 2, 2008
My sincere condolences to the Walton Family. I knew Jimmy growing up in Flower Valley. I can attest that Jimmy always knew what he was going to do with his life and I am in no way surprised he became a HERO in every way a man can become one. Jimmy was good at everything as a kid, so much so it drove you crazy. I remember his early excellence and his sense of humor. When I heard of his death I simply remembered his smile first thing. I remember how disciplined he was when we were so young. Jimmy really has left a legacy that will only grow in all that knew him.
Jean Leimkuhler
September 13, 2008
LT COL Walton,
It was a pleasure to serve under you in Afghanistan. You were truly a great leader who took into consideration the welfare of your soldiers. Team Warrior was truly upset on that fateful day in June. We always spoke of you with the fondest of memories. We will never forget you.
Johanna McKinzey
September 9, 2008
Sarah,
I was devastated to learn of your loss, and Jim's passing. Even though it has been several years since I lived in Arlington Village, I always fondly remember that time. It always made me smile to see Jim coming my way (usually with Hanibal) when I would be out for a walk with Jack. Jack also smiled, knowing that his Uncle Jim would soon be giving him a doggie massage. Such a kind, gentle, giving soul will be greatly missed by those who knew him well, and by those who knew him only in passing. You, and all of Jim's family and friends, are in my thoughts and in my heart. Jack and I will be with you in spirit, at the dog swim on September 10.
Johanna McKinzey (Jack's Mom)
Brandon McDaniel
August 22, 2008
I served with LTC Walton in Honduras. He was such a great Officer & Soldier. He would never not pass you by without talking to you. It did'nt matter your rank he treated everyone with great respect. When I first came in contact with LTC Walton it was my first day in Honduras and I went to the gym that evening and was working out my calves. He came by and stopped me and gave me some better tips on the workout. He jumped in and we worked out together for about 15 minutes. He really loved to workout. I really hate this happened to him he will greatly be missed. I know he really loved being a soldier and being there for his Soldiers thats a fact! He was one of the Best Officers I ever served with. God Bless You LTC Walton. Brandon McDaniel (SGT 1/228 Avn. Honduras Feb.00-Apr.01)
Gary Allain
August 22, 2008
Lt.Col. James Walton
you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.
Paul Boley
August 15, 2008
Dear Sarah and the Walton Family:
I saw this article on the bulletin board in the gym at the Pentagon and was shocked. I served with Jim at Joint Task Force Bravo in 2001. He was as fine an officer as there every was. He was gentle, yet firm and positively impacted everyone he came in contact with. Heck, he was even nice to us Air Force guys. :)
He is a loss to all of us.
Prayers,
Lt Col Paul Boley
Robert Andrews
August 1, 2008
I just found out that Jim had been killed. I knew him from St John's. God Bless him and his family.
In Memory of James ~ (Debra Estep)
July 29, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know James, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
Bill, Barbara, Dan and Sarah Haight
July 27, 2008
We have such wonderful memories from the years when we were "growing up" together. Jimmy, and all of the Waltons, are in our thoughts and prayers. Much love from our family to yours.
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
July 22, 2008
My heartfelt sympathy to the Walton family and friends in the loss of James. I did not know James, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. James you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten. I visit ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY frequently and each time I am at ANC I will visit/honor James
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
"TO LIVE IN THE HEARTS
OF THOSE YOU LEAVE BEHIND
IS NEVER TO DIE"
~Robert Orr~
Kyle (Walton) Cottrell
July 18, 2008
My brother was definitely one of the good guys. The day we were told the sad news, my son said, "Mom, I thought Uncle Jimmy was invincible." I guess we all did.
My three year old said to my mom yesterday, "Nana, are you sad because we can't see Uncle Jimmy?" When she replied, "Yes" my toddler said: "Don't worry he'll be back from heaven soon." Then she turned to me and asked,"Mom, how far is heaven? Is it farther than Virginia?" All I could say was, "Sometimes heaven feels far away, but sometimes it is very, very close."
I hope it feels close to all of us for a long time.
There is a cross-country run to salute all military men/women who have died in combat in the war on terror. It is the Run for the Fallen and it ends on Aug 24th at Arlington National Cemetary. To participate all you need to do is run one mile...wherever you are. It is a show of solidarity. Just download a bib and run for Jim (and the other almost 5,000 American heroes that have given their lives for us). I know he would have liked that.
http://www.runforthefallen.org/
Edward Rutledge
July 17, 2008
Kathy, Kyle and Walton Family, I am truly sorry to hear about the loss of your brother Jim. I knew your family when we all lived and played together in Flower Valley and went to Wood Jr. High. Jim was a great person who served his country admirably, with honor, pride and respect!!! He will be truly missed, BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN!!! God Bless Jim and may he rest in peace. John 15: 13. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
MAJ David & Becky Jones
July 15, 2008
I'm typing this entry while my wife and I are in tears. I just returned off of block leave prior to my pending deployment to Iraq to read the front page article in the Fort Riley Post about my friend.
LTC Jim Walton was a former co-worker and someone I'm proud to have called a friend. We served together as Battalion S3s/Operation Officers for the Dallas Recruiting Battalion. That was a decade ago but we had maintained contact since that time. My wife and I hosted him for a home-cooked dinner at our home during his training while here at Ft. Riley. He even bought us a book that he loved which we now love called Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal. When he had a last minute drop off his team I volunteered to jump over to his team but branch denied my request because of my own pending deployment. It would have been an honor to serve under Jim's leadership and mentorship once again. To think I could have been nearby is something I shall think about and cry about for a long time.
My wife, Becky, and I send our regrets to his wife and family. Even though we never met Jim's wife I know she has to be an incredible women. Jim was a good man, a dear friend and a Great American. He will be sorely missed. He and his entire family are in my families' prayers.
Right now I imagine Jim is doing what he loved, either parachuting or watching Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
Jane Cahill Newstedt
July 14, 2008
Dear Don,
I was so sorry to hear about Jim's death. My deepest sympathies go to you and your family. What a loss to your family and our Nation! Please be assured of my prayers.
Yours truly,
Jane
Robert Petrosino
July 14, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Walton family. I knew Jim through St. Patrick's Church. Jim was everyone's friend. He was liked, respected, and admired by all. God Bless the Walton Family and God Bless America!
Gerald Harris
July 14, 2008
It was an honor to serve with this man. (then) Major Walton set the example for all to follow. His simple litmus test for any undertaking " Is it legal, moral and ethical?" Will stay with me forever.
Thank you Sir
CMATT COM
July 13, 2008
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Lt Col Walton and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
July 13, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Lt Col Walton!
Jenny Ruth
July 13, 2008
Sarah and family,
I never had the opportunity to meet LTC Walton personally but was able to read some of his emails and share some of his videos that he made with my brother Capt. Edgington. My brother (still serving) had the chance to serve with LTC Walton in Afghan. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you. May God give you peace and comfort. We are very blessed to have had such a wonderful person touch so many people.
God Bless each of you and give you the strength.
Jim smiling
Diane (Walton) Jewell
July 13, 2008
For those of you who did not attend Jim's funeral, there was an opportunity at the end of the reception for people to stand up and tell stories about him. They were wonderful! Thanks to everyone who had enough courage to stand in front of hundreds of people on such a sad occasion and tell funny stories. :-) Jim would have been first in line to try and crack people up on a somber occasion.
Thomas Miller
July 12, 2008
Dear Sarah and the Walton Family:
I just learned of Jim’s death and wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to you. I was a classmate of Jim’s at St. John’s. While I have not seen him since we graduated, I was friendly with Jim during our years at SJC. I will always remember his smiling and laughing during our breaks from class. He always had boundless energy. God bless you and please know that you are all in our prayers.
COL and Mrs. Alan Mosher
July 10, 2008
Dear Walton Family,
We have never met, but are friends of Kyle.
We were terribly saddened to hear of your loss.
All of you are in our thoughts and prayers.
wayne Pennington
July 10, 2008
Thanks for your part in making us free.
Leslie Ward
July 9, 2008
I am deeply saddened by the news I received from my parents this evening about James. Just his name brought wonderful memories of my not so long ago childhood.
When we had no cares in the world and spent the summers having fun, there was always a Walton around at the pool or on the tennis courts or even babysitting. Jimmie (as I knew him) stood out to me as a wonderful role model for my brother, Jeff. Jeff used to watch Jimmie dive and want to be just like him. I know James carried that quality and so many more with him through all his journeys.
I am so thankful for courageous people like Jimmie who stand up for our country. I admire his courage and valor. He is a true hero to me.
Although we all miss Jimmie, he will always be etched in our memories and cherished in our hearts.
Eric Michaelson
July 9, 2008
Sarah: You don't know me, but I read about your husband. My family and I are very grateful for your and his sacrifice. I wish there was something comforting I could say, but please know that we will not forget him.
T. Mandich
July 8, 2008
Jim was a childhood teammate and friend of mine from CYO St. Patrick's basketball. He was such a tremendous athlete and competitor. I always felt more comfortable out on the court when Jim was at my side. He was truly a great guy, one that I will never forget. My family sends the Waltons our sympathy at this very difficult time, you are in our prayers! Jim is a true hero!
Bill and Jane Saettel
July 8, 2008
Dear Sarah,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you on your great loss. Jane and I met you July 5th while visiting our son Nate. It was a pleasure to meet you, and share some time. We didn't know Jim personally, but after talking with you and reading about this amazing man, I know we have all lost a great American hero, and a truly special individual. Our hearts ache for you, but I hope it helps to know that others truly care. As a retired Air Force Veteran, Jim will always have a special place in my thoughts and prayers.
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