Sgt. 1st Class James D. Priestap

Sgt. 1st Class James D. Priestap

James D. Priestap Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Nov. 28, 2006.
Sgt. 1st Class James D. Priestap, 39, of Harwood, Mich., died Nov. 23 in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries suffered when he came in contact with enemy forces using small arms fire during checkpoint operations.

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January 14, 2025

Carl Phillips posted to the memorial.

May 27, 2024

Chad B McRee posted to the memorial.

May 30, 2023

Lisa (Priestap) Rohloff posted to the memorial.

Carl Phillips

January 14, 2025

I was stationed with Jom on ISS INDEPENDENCE CV62 in Japan and he was the best buddy ever. Always had a smile on his face and was a true friend. I wear his KIA bracelet in memory of him. Fair Winds and Following Seas Shipmate.

Chad B McRee

May 27, 2024

A great Platoon Sergeant, who left behind a wonderful family.
Lest we forget!
Colonel Chad B. McRee
(USA RET)

Lisa (Priestap) Rohloff

May 30, 2023

Dear friends, I am James D Priestap´s sister. He is buried at a very tiny cemetery in a town in which you wouldn´t even know it was a town if you drove through it. It is Foster City, Michigan. Don´t let the name fool you. It´s not a city at all, but Jim and CD i and our step brothers and half sister had loads of fun there. You can find an amazing tribute to him at Foster City cemetery right next to his mom and grandparents.

SPC ALAN JOYAL

June 9, 2022

SFC PRIESTAP was my platoon sgt. He took great care of us and got us extra protection for our vehicles in Iraq. He is my brother in arms and every Thanksgiving, I wake up to his memories. He gave me my nickname ROOSTER. I will always and forever remember him. He is my HERO. i RETIRED FROM THE MILITARY AFTER OVER 25 1/2 years on December 31st,2020. I was a better soldier and person because of him. If anybody can tell me where he is buried at, I want to pay him my respects to him. I reside in Savannah, GA. RIP my brother.

Jeffrey Gibbons

May 28, 2020

My friend, my brother, I'm a better man for having you as a friend.

Sgm Jeff Gibbons
US Army retired

Lisa Rohloff

February 23, 2019

God is good!
I love you so much. Mom has joined you in paradise.
Lisa

Linda Hanrahan

November 26, 2014

Jim Thank you for your bright light and happy enjoyment of life. There are so many things that remind me of you at this time of year, mostly the stories about the snow, hunting, holidays and family. It still takes my breathe away when i remember getting that call from Connie. You are our Hero.

AJ

May 24, 2013

Prayers for peace in your hearts and only happy memories of his life on this day. We won't forget James.

Remembering you....

Brian Thomas

May 4, 2013

Memorial to SFC James D. Priestap in Foster City, MI

Greg Peterson

December 16, 2011

You will never be forgotten.

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=oa.10150437448803264

rosemary kassab

November 27, 2011

Ever so mindful of the sacrifice you made and keeping your family in our prayers.

Linda Hanrahan

November 26, 2011

Jim, I am not only grateful for having you as a friend, but I miss you dearly.

Peggy Childers

November 23, 2011

To the family and friends of Sgt. 1st Class James D. Priestap:
Please accept my remembrance of James on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

October 4, 2011

I'm also in the Army, SFC Priestap and his family will always be in my prayers.Farewell, my Brother! I know you're now in Heaven...

Linda Hanrahan

May 30, 2011

Thimking of you on Memorial Day and thanking God for the priviledge of still having you in my heart.

Kurt Dabb

January 24, 2011

Still think aboutchya and wear your bracelet daily! R.I.P. Jim!

Lisa Balicki

December 26, 2010

It has been more than 4 years and I still ache the loss of my brother Jim. He will never be gone to me. I have tears now.

Peggy Childers

November 23, 2010

To the family and friends of Sgt. 1st Class James D. Priestap:
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

Rosemary Kassab

June 1, 2010

We walked among the crosses
Where our fallen soldiers lay.
And listened to the bugle
As TAPS began to play.
The Chaplin led a prayer
...We stood with heads bowed low.
And I thought of fallen comrades
I had known so long ago.
They came from every city
Across this fertile land.
That we might live in freedom.
They lie here 'neath the sand.
I felt a little guilty
My sacrifice was small.
I only lost a little time
But these men lost their all.
Now the services are over
For this Memorial Day.
To the names upon these crosses
I just want to say,
Thanks for what you've given
No one could ask for more.
May you rest with God in heaven
From now through evermore.

Linda Hanrahan

May 31, 2010

Today is Memorial Day, 2010. We are remembering our fallen soldiers and Praying for continuing support of their families and loved ones. I miss you Jim, every day.

Michael Gendreau

May 10, 2010

I served with James in the 46thMPCo, before he moved to Florida. I was deeply saddened to hear the news of his death. This was a good man, a true patriot. My deepest sympathy to his family.

Angie

April 7, 2010

I met SFC Priestap during service in support of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. He served his Troops and his country with honor.

Brian THOMAS

December 23, 2009

I had the pleasure of serving with James in Sarasota, FL (3-265th ADA). Reading the words of his fellow soldiers and sailors perfectly describes this selfless man. I wear James’s KIA bracelet on my wrist to remember my fellow soldier and friend. Miss you buddy.

Dennis Romatz

November 26, 2009

Remembering you on this day as I do most every day with every activity I partake in.
The indelible impression you left on me still propels me to be greater than I thought I could ever be.
I thank you so, so very much for the memories.
I will carry the torch .

Nate Pringle

November 16, 2009

My deepest sympathy for the family. I served with Jim as a fellow SAR swimmer onboard USS Rainier. I was a new guy needing leadership at my first command and I was blessed to have him as a guide.

Tracie O'Neil

November 12, 2009

I'm sorry to hear about your loss. I was on board with him on the USS Rainer (AOE-7) and remember his always positive and helpful attitude. He was a great guy.

Rosemary Kassab

November 12, 2009

Your unselfish sacrifice has not been forgotten Sgt. 1st class James Priestap. May you rest in eternal peace Sir.

Daniel Swing

November 11, 2009

James was a fine shipmate on our days with the USS Rainer. He will be sorely missed. I hope all is well with his family as he is always in our hearts, minds, and prayers.

Daniel Dennis Swing, FCC
Shipmate USS Rainier AOE7

November 11, 2009

I'm very sorry for your loss. He is an American hero, and will not be forgotten. My heart goes out to the family of these heros who fight for our country.
-Julie

July 6, 2009

What a cool guy! Served with him on the USS Independence. God bless you and your family. Jim Priestap, THANK YOU!!!

Jim Parrack

June 29, 2009

I was shocked to hear about Jim.
I was Honored to have served with him in the U.S. Navy onboard the USS Independence.
When i first met Jim I knew i liked him!
He had a great sense of humor and took his job seriously.

I have often wondered what happened to him after i left the Navy.
My suspicion was right- He was putting others before himself.
Thank You for your Service to our Great Nation Shipmate.
God Bless you and your family.

Lynn Ackerman

May 28, 2009

Jim was such a fabulous guy. It was an honor to have known him.
I had the privledge to have spent his last birthday with him on a class field trip with his son & mine.
I see his beautiful children almost daily and know how proud he must be.
There is still alot of pain from his passing, but he will always be remembered,and missed by all the lives he touched. Which are many.
Thank you for being in our lives and touching so many hearts.

Rosemary Kassab

May 27, 2009

Thanksgiving is a day when we pause to give thanks for the things we have.

Memorial day is the day we pause to give thanks to the people who fought for the things we have.

I salute you and give thanks for your unselfish sacrifice.

Rest in peace young hero.

Wayne Dolatowski

March 9, 2009

SFC. Priestap was like a father to me and my platoon. He always looked out for us and you never had to worry about missing a meal or sleep. He took care of us and always put a positive spin on life. SFC. Priestap is one of the greatest men I will ever know. He once quoted to me "Willful minds are stronger then the chains that try to hold them back". SFC. Priestap will always be in my thoughts and his family in my prayers. GOD BLESS.

Kenna Larra

March 5, 2009

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 you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,450 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!
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

SGT Lessor

January 29, 2009

Your very missed Jim and will pray for you and your family

James Burchett

January 1, 2009

I remember serving at the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office with you. You were one hell of a CO. you will be missed

Rosemary Kassab

December 5, 2008

In remembrance of a young American hero.

In Memory of James Dennis ~ (Debra Estep)

November 23, 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 and sacrifice. 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

Peggy Childers

November 23, 2008

To the family of Sgt. 1st Class James D. Priestap:
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

sandi vollmer

November 21, 2008

Dear Priestap family

As we enter another Hoilday season, without our "Heroes" with us, we can only remember and honor them for the men that they were and the jobs they were doing. Our prayers and thoughts are always with you and your family.

Sandi Vollmer,
Proud mother of Sgt. Chad Vollmer
Echo Co.,1-125 IN KIA 12/23/06

Tarra Hemmers

July 31, 2008

I served briefly with Sgt Priestap with the 46th. I'm very sorry for the loss of a great man. I know where ever he served he had the respect and honor serving with his men.

June 15, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Sgt 1st Class Priestap!

August 14, 2007

There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.

Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.

I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.

REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)

August 3, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Sgt 1st Class Priestap and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

Gary Allain

June 13, 2007

Sgt. 1st Class James D. Priestap
you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.

Rosemary Kassab

May 28, 2007

In remembrance of James D. Priestap on this Memorial Day. It wasn't the way he gave his life that made him a hero but rather the way he lived it. Loved and missed by family, friends and comrades. Rest in peace.

Remembering James D. Priestap

Katherine Allen

May 27, 2007

This morning at First Baptist Church Orlando, we had a day of rememberance. Everyone took a flag at the end of the service with a fallen American service person, and asked to pray for the family. I want you to know that God knows and God cares that you are hurting. And I want you to know that I thank God for James' life and for his service to our country. I know God knows all about James but I wanted to know about him to, so thank you for having this website. May God bless you

Troy Shaffer

April 21, 2007

I was in awe when i heard of Jims passing. I served with Jim in Iraq. His platoon replaced my platoon. (258th MP CO) I didnt know him that well, but the little time we did work together I could tell he was an awesome NCO and took care of his soldiers. God bless you Connie, take care and God speed.

Christopher Barton

April 17, 2007

Jim,
Your actions that day where exactly what I would expect from you. You where the true example of an NCO. You always placed your Soldiers needs above your own, even up to the very end. I am glad I had the opportunity to work with you while your where a member of the Florida National Guard. I wish your family the best. May they move forward knowing that you were a guiding light to those around you, and an inspriation to all. God Speed my friend. God Speed.

Robyn Garside

April 5, 2007

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR YOUR CHILDREN. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. GODSPEED AND SEMPER FI.

A PROUD MARINE MOM

Frank Murphy

March 27, 2007

SFC Priestap's unit relieved my unit (258th Military Police Company) in Iraq last Novmeber. I am sorry for your loss and the loss of all soldier's from the 46th MP Co. I lost my roomate, friend, and other fellow soldiers while I was there. It is not for nothing though. His sacrifice will impact the lives of thousands of people. Again, i am soo sorry for your loss and I prey for all of you guys still over there.

Denise Carroll

March 2, 2007

I served with Priestap when he was a DC/Star swimmer on the USS Rainier, He truly was a great man. He loved his family he would do anything to help anyone in need and was a good friend. I am sorry I had not kept in touch and it's sad to know now that he only lived a town away from me in Fl. All I can say is I am so sorry for his loss, God Bless!

Glen

January 30, 2007

“Soldier”
Written to Honor the Service of Our Fallen Soldiers

Soldiers write history, we pay the price
Many miles distant, you live the life
Entered the Battle of our own free will
Out of Duty for Country, and we’d do it still

We hope and pray that all will find peace
In God, in the flag, in memories of valor
Gone now, our pride and courage you see
“An Army of One” our motto forever

Willing to risk all for love of our Brothers
We’re still Your Soldiers…and we showed the way
Our Lives too short, now pray for the others
Lived free died Heroes in lands far away

Deep within souls all cherished our Service
We’ll always have what some never know
Courage and Honor, our names forever
Lived life with purpose…just our time to go

We march in the Heavens with Honor and Glory
Missions accomplished we fought the Good Fight
Many years from now…we’ll tell the full story
Until that Day we will live in the Light

Our lives we laid down in a land far away
Still watching o’er you this night and by day
No need to talk…just know we are with you
There in your hearts and we hear what you pray

Yes we are your soldiers
Our lives we laid down
Still We guard o’er you
Still Duty bound

Entered the Battle of our own free will
Out of Duty for Country, and we’d do it still
We’ll always have what some never know
Lived life with purpose…it was our time to go

Lee Sirotnak

January 26, 2007

Please accept our condolences for the loss of your loved one, and our prayers that you find peace and consolation in God’s grace. We are indebted to your Soldier for his great sacrifice and we will not forget.

SGT Michael Freda

January 21, 2007

Sfc "P", It IS an honor to have served with you. A gift from god to have known you. None of us will ever forget you.

FIRST PLATOON

January 5, 2007

GOD SPEED SGT P 1st PLATOON

Tom Gugliuzza-Smith

January 3, 2007

My heartfelt sympathy to the Priestap family 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 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~

Linda Hanrahan

December 13, 2006

I had the privilege of working with Jim for over 4 years while he and his family were living in Florida. He was a true inspiration to me and I will never forget his undying devotion to his family and our country. His spirit was a true miracle of God's creation. Blessed are we who shared even an hour with this fine man. It wasn't until I met his family and friends that the mystery of his character was revealed to me. You are all
wonderfully caring and compassionate people. I am so grateful to have known Jim.

Mark Frazee

December 12, 2006

I worked with Jim at the VA Medical Center in Iron Mountain, Michigan. I asked the National Guard post if they had anyone who would like to speak at the Veterans Day ceremonies in 2005. They immediately suggested Jim, "Jim would be great, he'll hate doing it, he doesn't like the spotlight, but he'll be great".
He was he said he couldn't write speeches and would just get up and talk. He talked about Iraq and his time spent with Katrina vic tims in Louisianna. The audiance loved him. I thought I would lose it when one of our veterans in a wheelchair went up to Jim and Said "Thank You for carrying on with our noble work".

SFC Terry Brewster

December 11, 2006

I had the priveldge to have met James during ANCOC. He was the one individual who you could not help but like nor forget. He shared his stories with us and maid each day an adventure. We talked about meeting up again to attend other courses together, I my not be able to see him setting across the room, but he will always be in the classes of every class member of that ANCOC class for the future. We lost a great leader, friend, father, son and husband. James, you will not be forgotten.

Mark & Lisa Balicki

December 11, 2006

His Sister and her husband are putting a website together. At www.jimpriestap.com. If you have any stories about Jim please submit them to [email protected]

A1C David Stevens

December 10, 2006

God's strength be with you at this time. I never new SFC Priestap but feel safer knowing that men like him help protect our country. Just from reading this guest book I can tell that this man is one whom everone should learn from. My best friend was serving with him at the time in Iraq and spoke highly of him. They feel safe knowing that he will be watching over them.

Amanda Barker

December 9, 2006

To write this entry, I am having to finally realize that this is real. My heart aches for your family and no words will ever make this tragedy less painful. SFC Priestap was my husbands platoon leader and my husband spoke highly of him. SFC Priestap was a great man to have touched so many lives and he will live on in our memories. He will never be forgotten.

SPC Matt Adams

December 9, 2006

I'll never forget 23NOV2006 for the rest of my life. I am deployed with the 46th mp co and SFC Priestap was my first platoon sergeant and was the best example of a true soldier that I have ever seen. He watched out for us all like we were family. He was always placing the needs of others before his own. He was a true leader. He told me once decent leader will say "go" but a great leader will tell you " let's go". SFC Priestap did not have to be out on mission that day but he put the needs of others before his own again. I'll never forget you SFC James Priestap "SFC P" neither will the 46th.

SFC Thomas POLINO

December 8, 2006

To the family and friends of SFC Priestap, I attended ANCOC with Jim, it was a pleasure to serve with him during that period.I give my deepest regards to the family for their lost.Knowing Jim did his best and he loved his country like the ANCOC class. God bless SFC Priestap and all of our fallen hero's.
SFC Priestap it was an honor to have you as a fellow classmate. May your legacy live on.

William Landrum

December 8, 2006

May God be with you during your time of grief. You can be assured that you will be in my prayers tonight. James gave his life so that others may live and there is no greater act of love.

Kyle Berry

December 8, 2006

I met SFC Priestap in Ft. Leonard Wood, Missourri this past spring(2006). I was there for MPOBC along with his PL 2LT Vandusen. My condolences go out to the family and friends. He died a heroes death!

Lori Platz Proud National Guard wife of SFC Ted Platz, Echo Company 1-125 IN

December 6, 2006

There are no words that can explain the pain you are feeling at this time. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God continue to be with you and your family. My husband is in Iraq serving the same task force as he was. SFC Priestap, you are one of my American Heros watching over us from above.

David Plattenberg

December 6, 2006

my deepest thoughts go out to connie and her family. Jim was an awesome individual that always had that special smile. I knew Jim for the past 7 years. He was a great friend and soldier. I was devasted finding out about him as I remember him from the 46th when I was there and jim was under me . There is never enough words that could be said about this man. He was very acccomplished in life, he was a pilot, a great scubba diver, police officer, and friend. He will truely be missed

Michele Chubb

December 5, 2006

I still can't believe he is gone. The FIRST thoughts that come to my my mind about Jim are DEVOTED husband and father, always there for a friend, funny, sweet, easy going, and caring.

Andy & Cathy Young

December 5, 2006

Please accept our family’s heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Your entire family is in our thoughts and prayers.

God Bless your family,

Eric Clawson

December 5, 2006

I worked in the same department at the VA Hospital as Jim did. I considered Jim a friend of mine, if you knew Jim, you liked Jim. He had an infectious smile and an attitude to live life to the fullest. Jim was one of those rare personalities that found good in everything. He never said a bad word about anyone. He focused on positive points of a situation and could always be counted on to come up with a solution to a problem. He was a true leader and is a Hero to me. Jim accomplished so many things in the short time he was on Earth, I can only imagine what he would have done next if he wasn't called up on high! I feel that we all are here on this earth to prove ourselves to the Lord. What takes most of us 70+ years to accomplish was finished in 39 years by Jim. His work is done here and is now in the presence of God. I'm sure Jim is being told, "Well done, son, well done". We will miss you dearly Jim, God bless.

Shawnee (Austin, TX)

December 4, 2006

I didn't know James, but I wanted to take this time to thank him for his service to this country. He is a hero, and will not be forgotten. Rest in Peace.

Rick & Cathy Robidoux

December 4, 2006

Please accept our family’s heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Your entire family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Marine Parents of
LCPL Craig Robidoux &
LCPL Derek Robidoux

James Mather

December 4, 2006

I served with Jimmie on the USS Independence of a few years. He worked for me and advanced and worked with me. We were close. A finer man would be hard to find. A man of his word. I loved him. We would talk of Christ and Michigan and ofcourse, Connie. He was an awesome buddy and always up for a train ride into Japan for an adventure.

Pat Lorenzen

December 4, 2006

Priestap Loved Ones & Friends: I am so sorry about the loss of your most precious loved one & one of America's Finest Heroes. No hero ever dies in vain, but they leave a trail marked by the impact they had on others lives for the good. May God help you each & every day & may He bring back joyful memories of your times spent with James.

Rosemary Kassab

December 3, 2006

May God give comfort, strength, courage and faith to the family and friends of SFC James D. Priestap, and may the memory of this outstanding, fallen American Hero live on in their hearts forever.

bill jennings

December 3, 2006

God Bless your Family during this time.
The Entire U.P military community is at your side.

Susan Holbrook

December 3, 2006

From the Tributes it sounds like James was a very special person and will be missed greatly. I had sons to served in Iraq and I can only imagine the sadness your family is going through. My sincere smypathy and prayers are extended to you and your family in this tragic loss of your love one. I also send my deepest respect to your love one for the sacrifice that he gave in serving his country. May God wrap HIS arms around you and comfort you.

ct marr

December 3, 2006

I didn't know your son. I thank him for his service. May he rest in peace. His work will never be forgotten.

In loving memory of SFC James D. Priestap, a true American Hero.

Rosemary Kassab

December 3, 2006

Matthew, Rebecca Boulton

December 3, 2006

We are so sorry for your loss. Sgt. Priestap was one of the best Sgt's i have ever had. He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten. We will keep you and your family in our prayers.

Peter Melissa Moran

December 3, 2006

Our greater condolonces. Sgt. Priestrap was a great leader and a wonderful man. We are deeply sorry for your loss.

Don Winkler

December 2, 2006

My Heart Goes out to the You. No knows the Grief you are Feeling Right Now. Iam so so sorry For your Loss.. Thank you and May GOD Bless your SON..

Jobie Langston

December 2, 2006

Hey, what's a good word for today? is what I'll always remember SFC Priestap asking. He touched the lives of so many, and will be greatly missed. Deepest sympathies to his family. May the precious memories never fade.
SGT Jobie Langston (North Port, FL)

Jessica Tracy

December 2, 2006

I am sorry for your loss. I didn't know your son but I know he had the courage, strength, loyalty, integrity, respect, honor, determination, dedication, love and care to do what he did. I believe we all should take a moment of silence to remember our heroes who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. May your son and any other hero never be forgotten!

frank PV2 Kolatski

December 2, 2006

its brings me to tears to have to write this but i just wanted all of his family to know that is was an honor to serve with SFC Priestap. even though i have not know him that long he was one of them people that makes an impact on ones lives. he will be greatly missed by all that knew him

Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)

December 2, 2006

Rest in peace you are missed.

Robbyn Frazee

December 1, 2006

Connie and family, our prayers are with you. Jim will be missed. If there is anthing you need, please let us know. We will miss Jim at the VA.

Manny Lopez

November 30, 2006

To The Priestap Family,

May the supreme sacrifice of your beloved son James bring lasting peace and freedom to the Iraqi people. We salute this American hero who valiantly defended the faith and our way of life. God Bless America !

Phyllis Schuster

November 29, 2006

Please know that there are so many people who care about this single life. James, whether we knew him or not, is someone who cared, committed himself, and went the distance to serve us. My son, Benjamin Schuster, was 21 when he volunteered to go to Ramadi Iraq as a replacement, and he lasted only nine days til he was killed by sniper fire. These young men and women are of a caliber rare in any generation, and to do less than honor each one is a national shame. I will keep James in my heart along with Ben, and hope that his family can survive and cope in a way that he would be proud of. We care. Know that always.

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January 14, 2025

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