Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz
Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz
Obituary
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Joshua M. Schmitz Obituary
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Charlie Gili
April 7, 2024
Hello,
We wanted to let your family and friends know that we are sending Care Packages to deployed troops this week and several of these will be dedicated to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo and hometown of Joshua M. Schmitz US Marine Corporal.
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, their families and friends and 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
arriel schmitz
November 2, 2017
we miss you
LCPL Price
January 10, 2014
You are missed brother. Your sacrafice has not been forgotten.
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Leila Campbell
May 7, 2013
To the family of Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Christian Memorial Day Remembrance worship service at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, 26 May 2013. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the bordering states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with some 300 white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.
The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses representing all of the wars of our nation's history and give honor to all who have served in the United States Armed Forces and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today. Wreaths will be placed at the foot of each 8-foot cross bearing the number of U.S. Service Members killed in each of America's conflicts.
I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled, “Freedom:Free, but Costly.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and there place poppies at each of the crosses. A Memorial Rifle Squad of the Fort Snelling National Cemetery will fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the Memorial Garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception (weather permitting) outside of the Chapel. The Memorial Garden will remain until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, 27 May (Memorial Day).
As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (651/286-7296) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans' name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (651/286-7296) or email the office ([email protected]) and leave your name and contact information.
Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Saturday 25 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sunday, 26 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one's cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.
If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.
Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org
April 25, 2012
To the family of Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Christian Memorial Day Remembrance worship service at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday 27 May 2012. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the bordering states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with some 300 white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.
The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses representing all of the wars of our nation's history and give honor to all who have served the United States and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today. Wreaths will be placed at the foot of each cross bearing the number of U.S. Service Members killed in each of America's conflicts.
I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled, “Lest We Forget Freedom's Cost.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. A Memorial Rifle Squad of the Fort Snelling National Cemetery will fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the Memorial Garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception (weather permitting) outside of the Chapel.
As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (651/456-4410) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans' name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (651/456-4410) or email ([email protected]) the office, and leave your name and contact information.
Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Saturday 26 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sunday 27 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one's cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.
If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.
Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org
Peggy Childers
December 26, 2011
To the family and friends of Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz:
Please accept my remembrance of Joshua on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Lynne Neibert
June 18, 2011
Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen Soldiers ([email protected]) is an organization with groups throughout the country who strive to send handmade prayer shawls and/ or lap robes to families who have lost a loved one in service to our country. Members of Trindle Spring Lutheran Church in Mechanicsburg, PA would like to honor your son’s sacrifice and memory by sending our prayers and comfort through a shawl which we will mail to you. If you are interested, please contact me at [email protected] with the names and addresses and what they would like to receive. We will send them as soon as possible. Also, if you know of any other families who are grieving the loss of a loved one who died serving our country, please pass along my e-mail address, as our organization can no longer get family contacts through the military. May God bless you and comfort you in the days ahead. Sincerely, Lynne
May 10, 2011
To the family of Cpl Joshua M Schmitz:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 29 May 2011. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with some 200 white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one. The Memorial Garden’s perimeter will be manned by members of the Patriot Guard and a honor guard from AMVETS Post #1 of Mendota will be posted at the entrance.
The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses representing all of the wars in United States history and give honor to all who have served their country and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today. Wreaths will be placed at the foot of each cross bearing the number of U.S. Service Members killed in each of our nation’s wars.
I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled, “A Believer’s Look at War.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. A Memorial Rifle Squad of Fort Snelling National Cemetery will fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the memorial garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception (weather permitting) outside of the Chapel.
As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (651/456-4410) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (651/456-4410) or email ([email protected]) the office and leave your name and contact information.
Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat 28 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun 29 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.
If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.
Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org
Peggy Childers
December 26, 2010
To the family and friends of Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz:
Remembering Joshua on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
April 30, 2010
To the family of Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 30 May 2010. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.
The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses to represent all of the wars in United States history and give honor to all who have served their country and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today.
I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled “A Day of Remembrance.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the memorial garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception; weather permitting will be outside of the Chapel.
As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (612/970-7866) or email ([email protected]) the office and leave your name and contact information.
Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat 29 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun 30 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.
If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.
Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org
Donna Gillette
December 25, 2009
On this day and with each day that we enjoy our freedom, I would like to give thanks and let you know that I do not take our troops for granted. May you experience God when you feel your loss.
Leila Campbell
May 4, 2009
To the family of Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 24 May 2009. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.
I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled “Answering the Highest Call.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the memorial garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception in the Chapel’s Fellowship Hall.
As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (612/970-7866) or email ([email protected]) the office and leave your name and contact information.
Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat 23 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun 24 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.
If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.
Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org
Kenna Larra
February 27, 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
LtCol Richard M. Schmitz USMC (Ret.)
February 17, 2009
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13
Joshua's service, actions and memory will live on in the hearts and minds of many whom he has not known. May you find comfort in this and know that he truly was called to a noble and just cause. My sincere condolences and that of a grateful nation....
In Memory of Joshua ~ (Debra Estep)
January 1, 2009
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 Joshua, 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
December 26, 2008
To the family of Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz:
Joshua 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
June 16, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Cpl Schmitz!
William Gough
May 25, 2008
I know there are no words that can ease the pain felt having lost someone as special as Josh. I was a member of his MTT and Lima Company prior to that. I was with him for two deployments and got to know him as a very wonderful and generous person. Everyday, he wore his uniform proudly. He served with honor and compassion. I will always remember him and the time we spent together. The arguments about football teams. Him playing his guitar in the evenings when we would build a warming fire with what wood we could scrounge. Please know that he was a friend to everyone he met and will be in our hearts forever.
angel martinez
May 25, 2008
i'll miss you brother
Leila Campbell
May 2, 2008
To the family of Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 25 May, 2008. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.
I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain, LTC Kenneth L. Beale, Jr. will preach a message entitled “The Price of Freedom” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played.
As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org
Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat. 24 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun. 25 May, a “PrayerVigil for Peace” will be held. You are invited to stop by and light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden, then enter the Chapel for prayer.
If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.
Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Administrative Assistant
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org
August 16, 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 5, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Cpl Schmitz and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Josh & Me
cory smrecek
June 18, 2007
Cpl. Joshua Mark Schmitz saved many lives the day he lost his. He fought for his country and for what he believed in. He is the meaning of a true hero, and to me he was more than a hero he was and always will be 1 of my best friends. Josh was always the life of the party he always knew how to make everyone smile and laugh. he will always be in my heart, my mind, and my life. I will always have my memories and to celebrate his life i will share them with people. Josh you will never be forgotten. I love you.
Your friend always, Coragen.
Robyn Garside
April 16, 2007
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES. 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 FAMILY. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI
A PROUD MARINE MOM
Jodi Osborn
April 13, 2007
Congratulations, Josh for the Purple Heart and the Bronze Metal. Thanks for being a hero for our country that not all people are thankful for.
I got the privilage of growing up with Josh--his parents and mine were best of friends. There was never a dull moment when Josh was in sight. I know he is missed dearly by friends and family but what he did saved the lives of other troops. He is truly a hero.
Ruth Pugh
April 3, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss of CPL Joshua. I feel like i know him by creating a book for you his family. I have finished a memory book for you his family and would love to be able to have one of our online moms to deliver it. We are members of several groups of online moms such as MMOL and MFO. We gather information and send condolences to the fallen Marine familys and all our other fallen soldier families. Please understand that this is a book done in love and appreciation. CPL Joshua will be remembered by so many! He gave all. You may call me at 601 636 7655 or email me at [email protected]. Thanks Ruth Pugh
Cpl. Chad Tremelling
March 9, 2007
To the family and friends of Joshua Schmitz: Josh and I met in commincation school and served together as advisors to the Iraqi Army. Josh was a good Marine and a better friend. We miss you Josh. Semper Fi
1stLt Gil Schuette
February 18, 2007
To the Family and Friends of Cpl Joshua Schmitz:
Josh was my fellow company advisor and we spent many days and nights patrolling together. Josh was truly loved and respected by Marines and Iraqi soldiers alike. He will forever be my hero. God Bless You Josh.
Lee Sirotnak
January 28, 2007
Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss. Your family is in our prayers, that the Lord provide you peace and comfort. Joshua will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and also in the hearts of those of us who did not know him, but honor him for his courage and sacrifice. Semper Fi and God Bless.
Joyce Rogers
January 25, 2007
To the family and loved ones of Cpl Joshua Schmitz,
My heart is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of your beloved Marine. Words cannot adequately express my sorrow. I promise to honor Joshua and his Marine brothers in my thoughts and prayers for the rest of my life. His bravery and ultimate sacrifice in the fight for freedom will never be forgotten. My sincerest condolences and deepest respect to your entire family.
Joyce E. Rogers
Mother to LCpl Chase Lambert
3/2 Kilo Company
Charlie Benbow
January 23, 2007
I worked alongside Joshua at the OK Corral for about a month before my unit rotated home. He was one of a handful of junior Marines sent to augment the MTT Team. I wondered at first about the wisdom of sending such young Marines to fill an advisor billet that called for a lot of experience and maturity, but Joshua proved to be more than up to the task. The Marine Corps has the reputation it does to this day because of Marines like Joshua. I was truly sorry to hear of his loss, he will be sorely missed.
Capt Charlie Benbow USMC
2d Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Co
Claire Zawistowski
January 23, 2007
Dear Schmitz Family,
Even though we have never met I feel as if we are a part of a family. My daughter's fiancee was killed in Iraq by an IED on 10/3/05. I pray that you will feel God holding you as close to His heart as He has held my family this past year and a half. May you know His comfort and peace.
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
January 19, 2007
My heartfelt sympathy to the Schmitz family in the loss of Joshua. I did not know Joshua, 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. Joshua 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~
Cindy Szepe
January 17, 2007
Joshua, thank you for your sacrifice for our Country. We will forever be indebted to you.
The Land of the Free, Because of the Brave
Trudy Lowe
January 16, 2007
My heartfelt sympathies to your family. My heart breaks with each new name added to this list, and I am saddened by your loss. Know that you are surrounded by prayers, grace and the deep gratitude of all who live in freedom. My God hold you in his arms and grant you peace. Please find joy in the memories of your loved one and comfort knowing so many are holding you in their hearts.
Joshua and April Morales
January 10, 2007
To Joshua's family and friends-
My family and I are praying for you and your family during this difficult time. We send our deepest empathy as we lost our Marine on 11/30/05 in Fallujah. We are comforted to know that our Marines are serving their country with such honor and bravery. We are so proud of our Marines and all of our other service men and women for all that they have done and continue to do to keep us safe and to give us the freedom we have that so many take for granted.
They are true Heroes and need to always be remembered for their selflessness and sacrifice to better our world. We will forever be united in the loss of our heros. We are so sorry for your loss and hope our words will ease some of the pain, and maybe fill some of your emptiness.
Yesterday, Today, Forever – Semper Fi - Marines!
Our sincerest gratitude for their bravery-
The family of Cpl. William "Billy" Taylor
2/6 WPNS
KIA outside of Fallujah 11/30/05
Anne Webb
January 10, 2007
To the Schmitz Family.
My deepest sympathy goes out to you. Also my deepest thanks for allowing your son to serve us.
Lord, we lift up the family and friends of Cpl. Schmitz. Give them your peace Lord, the peace that is beyond our understanding. Let them live the hope of meeting again.
Vicki Doze
January 8, 2007
To the family of Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz:
It is with caring thoughts at this difficult time that I send a message in sympathy and although my words are way too few, still I hope they might help to ease the loss of Joshua who has been so very dear to you. May the memories you hold of him be your strength today and throughout the days and years that follow. My heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to you at this very difficult time. God bless you. Joshua is truly an American hero and certainly my hero. God bless you all.
Sincerely,
Vicki Doze
PMM of Sgt. Jesse wounded in Iraq
PAFM of SSgt. David in England
Tooter Gregg
January 8, 2007
To the Schmitz family: please accept my condolences on the loss of your son. There can be no greater hurt on the face of this earth. Joshua was a hero to many, and I pray your memories of him and the grace of God will bring you peace and comfort. From a Marine mom
Carolyn Lightfoot
January 8, 2007
To the Family of Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz:
It's time like these that words cannot begin to express what we really want to say to you.
I also know that nothing can truly ease your pain - but I just hope knowing that so many families are here for you - and thinking and praying for you during this very difficult time.
Your son is a hero - and always will be!
As a mother of a Marine who is currently serving in Iraq - we pray for all of our sons who are there - and their families.
Your son is so handsome - and I know that he has a very special place in heaven! He is one of God's angels looking over us.
God bless,
Karl Lewis
January 6, 2007
Dear schmitz Family,
I am very proud to have escorted your son home it was an honor and a priviledge. I am very sorry for your loss, and I pray that God will ease your pain. Please know that what Josh was doing was a noble cause and he did not die in vain. Josh was very proud to be a Marine and was loyal till the end.
May God Bless you and keep you until the roll is called and we all shall meet again.
SSgt Lewis USMC
Joan Sapienza
January 6, 2007
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I thank your family for allowing your hero to serve all of us. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Know that Joshua will never be forgotten. From a Proud Marine Mom
Always remembering the good times
January 5, 2007
Barbara Porter
January 4, 2007
I use to believe the saying that time heals all wounds. I now know that it isn't true. There are some things, like the loss of a child that you never get over. What is true is that God will put His loving arms around you and help you though this difficult time.
As a Marine mom, I want you to know that our family will never forget the sacrifice you have made.
ELIZABETH CROSS
January 4, 2007
THERE ARE NO ADEQUATE WORDS TO CONSOLE YOU AT THIS TIME. IT'S A HEARTWRETCHING ACHE THAT NEVER SEEMS TO END. I LOST MY YOUNGEST SON, CPL KENNETH CROSS, TO AND IED ON AUGUST 27TH IN BAGHDAD. HE WAS THE COMMANDER OF A STRYKER VEHICLE. EVEN THOUGH JOSHUA AND KENNY ARE NOT HERE PHYSICALLY, THEY ARE DEFINITELY HERE IN SPIRIT. WE CAN BOTH BE PROUD OF OUR SONS...THEY ARE TRUE HEROS TO EVERYONE WHO'S LIVES THEY HAVE TOUCHED.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL AND BRING YOU COMFORT IN TIME. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.
ELIZABETH CROSS (KENNY'S MOM)
Dale Deraps, Sgt. USMC
January 3, 2007
He's in the very best of company now, Our beloved son, LCpl Leon B.Deraps USMC was killed in action 05/06/06 in Al Anbar. We are all a family forged of pain and loss, But I pray for us all to find peace and keep the joy of the times we had alive. This will test your faith as never before, but We find that the harder we lean on our Lord, Some how He carries us on. When it gets dark, force yourself, if you must, to say the Lords Prayer and Thank Him for the Blessing and privilege of have such a Bright Star in your life. The pain will stop your heart sometimes but the darkness will pass slowly but surely and the day will come when he pops into your head and you will smile again. God bless Them All. E-mail me if you wish.
PS I wrote this for our boy but you can share it. “If the Army and the Navy ever look on Heaven's scenes, they will find the streets are guarded by United States Marines”. He still stands his post and he’s the one with the big grin, ear to ear.
December 31, 2006
To the Family of Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz:
I will stand in grief with this soldier's family to honor him. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guestbook for the rest of my life, but I promised Brent that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
We lost our son SFC Brent A. Adams on 12/1/05 and it seems like yesterday. I wish so badly there were things I could say to you right now to make the pain you are feeling go away, but I know first hand there simply are no words that will bring you the comfort and peace your heart aches for. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you go through this tragedy moment by moment and as you mourn this loss.
We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group none of us wanted to join, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with as our hearts both burst with pride and pain together.
I am sorry that I never knew your soldier personally. While they can never be replaced, neither will they ever be forgotten. You must trust that sometime, someday the loving memories you have will help to sustain you and help you go on. This courageous soldier will forever be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me some measure of peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well.
To his family and friends in pain, I offer this comfort: When you find yourself in that dark sorrowful place, think not only of how you will miss him, but instead recall the years, days, hours and minutes gifted to you by his presence. The one thing that cannot be taken from you is your wonderful memories that now will mean more than ever.
If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away and would love for you to tell me more about your Hero.
God Bless this soldier and family who gave all and God Bless legacy.com for setting up this site where families can so quickly share their condolences and prayers with others like themselves.
Proud Parents of SFC Brent A. Adams, KIA, 12/1/05, Ramadi, Iraq
Pam and Bill Adams, Lancaster, PA
Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)
December 30, 2006
Rest in peace at your last post in heaven where your rest will not be disturbed because God is almighty.
Linda Pittano
December 29, 2006
Please accept my sincere condolences in the loss of your son. Because of him, we can live free in the United States. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you in your time of sorrow.
Linda Pittano
Connie Velasquez
December 29, 2006
Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of your son. May the Lord hold you in his loving arms and give you comfort. I'm so grateful for your son and all the military personnel who give themselves for our country and for other countries. They will never be forgotten in my heart. My prayers are with you always.
Colette Gritz
December 29, 2006
No words can express my sympathy to the loved ones of Cpl Joshua M. Schmitz. I wish to say thank you for your dedication to our country. You are in my prayers as well as all our brave men and women who have so unselfishly given the ultimate sacrifice so we can live free in this beautiful country. May Cpl Schmitz always and forever rest in peace and may your sorrow be eased by his memories in knowing that he is A True American Hero. If he can courageously defend our country, we can stand in grief with his family. You will never be forgotten.
Proud Spouse of an OIF Veteran.
Colette A. Gritz
Gary Allain
December 29, 2006
Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz
you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.
Don Elseroad
December 29, 2006
In recognition of Corporal Joshua M. Schmitz's Honorable Service in the United States Marine Corps, the Tri-Cities Tennessee, Detachment Number 969 of the Marine Corps League would like to extend our appreciation and gratitude for his service to God, Country and Corps as well as our sincere condolences to his family.
SEMPER FIDELIS
Don Elseroad
Junior Vice Commandant
MCL Detachment #969
marsha krahn
December 29, 2006
my sincere sympathy in your tragic loss of joshua in iraq. i pray that the love and comfort of family and friends will help you through these difficult and painful days. your happy memories will give you strength.
Renee Owens
December 29, 2006
Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of your Hero, and my sincere gratitude for his service. May God grant you peace.
The Land of the Free, Because of the Brave
In memory of PFC Chase Edwards, USMC
KIA 06Apr2006
Cordy Diaz
December 29, 2006
To the family of Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz, It is with great sorrow that I offer my deepest sympathy and condolences. Joshua will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Pam & Dennis Robertson
December 29, 2006
My heart goes out to Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz family, we lost our nephew on November 22, 2006, and I know the hurt is almost unbearable. Please know that you are in my prayers and may God comfort you through these times until you are reunited with him. May God Bless.
Garnet Jenkins
December 29, 2006
My deepest and most heartfelt sympathy to the family of Lance Cpl. Joshua M. Schmitz, with so much gratitude for this Brave Young Marine's Courage, Dedication and Service to our Country and for Freedom.
The price Joshua and his family have paid, Will Never Be Forgotten.
May he Rest Safely, in God's Care and may God's Loving Peace and Comfort be with the Schmitz family.
I am the Sister of such a young hero, who made the Ultimate Sacrifice in Vietnam, many years ago
Surely He hath borne our grief, and carried our sorrows.
Isaiah 53:4
May you find comfort and strength, in the beautiful memories of times you spent with Joshua and quietly and gently, may healing come, with each new day.
You are in my thoughts and my prayers.
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