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BORN
1979
DIED
2014
Tomas Young Obituary
Young died Monday in Seattle, according to the King County medical examiner's office. A cause and manner of death were pending, the office said Tuesday.
Ellen Spiro, who co-directed the film with Phil Donahue, also told The Associated Press that Young's wife notified her of his death.
Young joined the Army when he was 22, two days after the 9/11 attacks. He had been in Iraq less than a week when he and fellow soldiers came under sniper fire on April 4, 2004, while riding in an unarmored truck in a rescue convoy in Sadr City outside Baghdad, the Kansas City Star reported.
Young was paralyzed from the chest down because of a bullet to his spine, and he used a wheelchair to get around.
The documentary follows Young as a 25-year-old as he deals with his disability and finds his voice speaking out against the Iraq War.
"Tomas was a voice for his generation. Both compassionate and uncompromising," Spiro said in an email Tuesday. "I will miss his humor and presence in this world that so desperately needs more young people like him."
Young was a native of Kansas City, Missouri, and graduated from Winnetonka High School, the Star reported. He joined the Army hoping to fight in Afghanistan but was distraught when he was sent to Iraq because he felt that conflict wasn't justified.
In 2013, he told the Star that he planned to refuse food, water and life-extending medication. He later had a change of heart, saying he wanted to spend more time with his wife.
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
688 Entries
Maggie
November 11, 2023
Tomas,
I didn´t know of your sacrifice till I watched a National Geographic show called The Long Road Home here in Australia, where I´m from.
Thank you for your service. I feel totally heartbroken for what you and so many other veterans went and go through.
No veteran should "want for anything, EVER" after their service has ended.
Rest in Peace Tomas.
Patrick Sovereign
February 8, 2018
R.I.P MY BROTHER u are a true man a true hero an a true American
Your work will continue
Hope u are smiling dowm on all amen
The show they made about u an all your fallen brothers was so hard to watch but it just showed us what life is like MAY ALL THAT HAVE FALLEN R.I.P AMEN HOOORA
Katie Napoli
December 5, 2017
Tomas young you are a true hero. My heart breaks reading your story. May you forever rest in peace.
How you can show support
Jason
September 24, 2015
Thank you and Rest in peace Tomas. You're a super hero in my eyes for the conviction and your fight. It is a treasure to have shared some time with you. May you be at peace.
Shane B
September 5, 2015
Wow! Thank you for your service and the sacrifice you and your family will live with for the rest of their lives! My heart breaks For you and your family for this incredible loss to us all!
David Sharp
November 28, 2014
Wow, just wow. I never even heard of you until I saw this online. From what I saw, just a bit, you are a true man. Total honor goes out to you from me.
Len Denney
November 27, 2014
Thankyou tomas for your bravery and courage to continue on with life the way only you could
November 27, 2014
RIP. Thank you for serving and giving so much.
Matthew Hunt
November 26, 2014
Your silent tents of green
We deck with fragrant flowers;
Yours has the suffering been,
The memory shall be ours.
--Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
susan dunlop
November 25, 2014
Rest easy now and if there is a heaven may your broken body enjoy the wholeness lost because of humanity's inability to use their hearts and minds instead of their brawn.
Carol Ann Adams
November 25, 2014
You will be remembered as a nice guy (as you wished) but more than that - you will be remembered for heroically speaking out against the war than lined wealthy pockets as it took lives away.
November 24, 2014
RIP. Thank you Brother for your courage & valor.
November 23, 2014
Thank you for your service and commitment to keeping the American dream and freedom alive. Your country loves you
Sandee Garza Schock
November 23, 2014
To the Family & Friends of
Tomas Young
Please accept my deepest sympathy
in the loss of your HERO. May He Rest
In Peace. May God comfort You during
this difficult time.
Thank You for the ultimate sacrifice.
Sincerely
David Janish
November 22, 2014
Thank you Tomas Young for your service and your life. You're a true hero and a inspiration to those that live and survive. May you rest in eternal peace.
Marc BELLARIO
November 22, 2014
Honor, bravery, honesty, and dedication. These are the attributes of a truly noble human being, demonstrated by your actions.
A Stansfield
November 22, 2014
Thank you Tomas for giving the world your voice and the lessons you leave behind. The world needs to listen.
November 22, 2014
Thank you Tomas.
alan
November 22, 2014
Dude u are remembered as as great guy!
Rose Wilson
November 22, 2014
Thank you Tomas, for the life I have! S.Y.I.H.
Laura MacLean
November 22, 2014
So very brave. My heart is with you, wherever you are.
Will Gilmore
November 21, 2014
I can't think of a better example of "speaking truth to power" than the effort you put into speaking out against these shameful wars. Thank you, brother
Will Gilmore, U.S.M.C.
Vietnam 1969-70
Glenn Tracy
November 21, 2014
I will never stand by and allow war to sacrifice our young people...
Jimmy Arbelaez
November 21, 2014
Thank you for your service.
Kevin Green
November 21, 2014
May you now know peace. Thank you, Sir.
Leslie
November 21, 2014
Thank you so much for everything.
Rest In Peace.
Carol Smaldino
November 21, 2014
I have been so moved by this one young man, have written about him and hoped the film "Body of War" in which he comes through as so heroic, could reach minds and hearts that are sometimes closed, but also don't always have the chance to know. One man, one person, someone I didn't know, made a difference to me…My sincere condolences for what you all knew was to happen. His humanity was very very touching.
Vivien F
November 21, 2014
Thank you for all your service, for your selfless contribution, and for your convictions - and for sharing them with the world. I've seen you in the news and was always moved by your story. I am sad to see a beautiful and strong soul leave, but also grateful you were with us for that time. God bless you and your loving wife as well.
Michael Slyck
November 21, 2014
Thank you for your life, your service, and the sacrifices you made in serving our country. It's said that a man lives as long as his name is remembered. Tomas, you will live for a long long time. I pray to my God you've found peace and that your family will come to peace as well.
J HauserA
November 21, 2014
Tomas, though you will never read this, I am most grateful to you for the stance that you took against all war. Your wife is a living martyr and there is no ifs, ands, or buts.
Chelsea G
November 21, 2014
Thank you Tomas. For everything.
November 21, 2014
Tomas, Thank you for your service. RIP
HONEY RODGERS
November 21, 2014
thank you for your service tomas, and for your activism when you returned
my deepest sorrow for your family, wife and mother, you are truly a hero
i will say prayers for you and your loved ones who will miss you so much
dan peterson
November 21, 2014
may you rest in peace soldier.......not to be forgotten by me.
CJ Powell
November 21, 2014
Tomas Young, you my friend are a Hero. Thank You for your sacrifice. May Peace be finally upon you..
November 21, 2014
Thank you for your service and devotion to a great cause!!! This world needs more people like you & I'm so happy for you that you have found peace!!! Soldier on Tomas I stand at attention and salute you because true heroes as yourself never did!!!!!!!
Julie
November 21, 2014
RIP Tomas and Thank you for your service.
art belll
November 21, 2014
peace be upon you and your family/friends
November 20, 2014
Thank you for your bravery and voice.
You'll be missed, but not forgotten.
Yvonne
Brie
November 20, 2014
Thank you for your sacrafice
Melissa T
November 20, 2014
Tomas- may you rest in internal peace. God Bless You!
Tito Warren
November 20, 2014
O God of spirits and of all flesh, Who hast trampled down death and overthrown the Devil, and given life to Thy world, do Thou, the same Lord, give rest to the souls of Thy departed servants in a place of brightness, a place of refreshment, a place of repose, where all sickness, sighing, and sorrow have fled away. Pardon every transgression which they have committed, whether by word or deed or thought. For Thou art a good God and lovest mankind; because there is no man who lives yet does not sin, for Thou only art without sin, Thy righteousness is to all eternity, and Thy word is truth.
For Thou are the Resurrection, the Life, and the Repose of Thy servants who have fallen asleep, O Christ our God, and unto Thee we ascribe glory, together with Thy Father, who is from everlasting, and Thine all-holy, good, and life-creating Spirit, now and ever unto ages of ages. Amen.
Thank you Mr. Young. Thank you so much. I didn't know you. I wish I had.
You who suffered for so long have finally, I trust, found peace. Although we do not share the same faith I hope you can forgive my plea to God on your behalf. My faith, without the hope of your place in heaven, is worthless.
I love you, Mr. Young. As much as I can another person who is not my son, I love you.
Sebastian Correa
November 20, 2014
Thank you for giving your life for our freedom, and thank you for fighting not only for our ideals, but your beliefs as well. Rest in peace Mr. Young.
November 20, 2014
Thank you Tomas. Go easy Bro.
Derek
Fiona Nelson
November 20, 2014
After a courageous life may you rest in peace. With love.
Linda Vete
November 20, 2014
Blessing. May you rest in peace. Thank you for your service.
Mike Nesgoda
November 20, 2014
The world is a better place because of you Tomas. Your life did make a positive contribution to humanity. RIP.
TLRN
November 20, 2014
Thank you...you are a brave and honorable man, God Speed!
Phil Katz
November 20, 2014
I am sad to hear that another one of our young brave men has fallen because of a war that made no sense at all. Son of a veteran of three wars, when will we learn from our past mistakes? How many more lives do we have to destroy both here in America and whatever the next country we involve ourselves with.
I love my country, but let's start taking care of our own.
God bless Tomas.
sean coady
November 20, 2014
I hope you are at peace
Kelley M.
November 19, 2014
Reading about your life, service and ultimate sacrafice inspired me, saddened me and made ever more thankful to the brave men/women like you who served and sacraficed. May you rest in peace.
India Harden
November 19, 2014
Tomas Young bless your Great soul, Thank you so much for standing strong for our county I will think of you Every July 4, and Veteran days. my heartfelt Condolences to your mother, wife & family
Michael Gobbell
November 19, 2014
Everyday I wake up and get to live my life , have what I have and get to Love who I Love, is because of what you, the Soldiers that came before you and will come after you have gave to me and this Country. I thank you, your family and your Wife for your Ultimate Sacrifice and Wish you Peace and Happiness on your Journey. You are definitely a Great Guy, Tomas!!!
George Valdivia
November 19, 2014
You spoke of your experiences, you stuck to your beliefs, you demonstrated courage and determination. I just hope that you are now in peace. Thank you for your service to country.
November 19, 2014
RIP
Alesandra Amayi
November 19, 2014
My heart is breaking. Thank you so much for your service. Alesandra - Critical Care Registered Nurse - U.S. Dept of Defense
November 19, 2014
RIP
George Shepard
November 19, 2014
Thank you for not suffering in silence, but for duty, honor, and courage you lifted up many, may blessings follow the intentions you set in play, may others suffering in silence find a voice to speak out, may your family find peace from loss and take solace in the strength of truth your suffering showed all of us, you are not forgotten, your light shines in the hearts of many, blessings to each and everyone of you.
Mayra
November 19, 2014
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you forever.Our condolences to his beloved wife and all his family, see you in heaven. RIP Tomas.
Alfredo Iturralde
November 18, 2014
Rest in my peace my friend. We need more courageous Americans like you in this country. I loved reading your letter.
Mark indian
November 18, 2014
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your service. You will be missed dearly. You are among some of the best of the best to grace this planet. Rest in Peace buddy. Sincere and heartfelt condolences to his dear wife, mother, friends and family
G King
November 18, 2014
RLTW RIP BROTHER! Your final battle is now ended.. You gave hope to many! See you on the other side.. Cheers
WE ALWAYS REMEMBER TO THANK A VET
LAURA & TOM
November 18, 2014
WE THANK U TOMAS YOUNG, WE THANK U, WE THANK U FOR ALL UR SERVICE AND UR SACRIFICES....... U GAVE ALL......
Renee Soeterik
November 18, 2014
May you both find peace.
Maggie Orosz
November 18, 2014
Rest in Peace at last! You gave it your all and no one could expect more! God Bless your family; I know you live on in their hearts. Love from Maggie and Joe (Marine Corp Vet)
Kellie Taylor
November 18, 2014
May you now rest in peace, which you so richly deserve. Thank you for your many sacrifices, in defending our freedoms.
Eddie Rudisill
November 18, 2014
Thank You Tomas, For Everything.
D.H Shin
November 18, 2014
Tomas. Young. You had a heart of gold. an enlightened mind. courage that inspires us all. I wish that I could have thanked you personally. You gave your life for our country. Tomas, from the deepest part of my soul - thank you. As long as there are heroes like yourself, hope will shine through - into the darkest crevices of evil.
bonnie diessner
November 18, 2014
Tomas sounded like an amazing man. I am in awe of his bravery and of the commitment of his wife and family to him. I thank you all for the inspiration.
Cindy
November 18, 2014
Tomas Thank You for fighting for our freedom - now you have your freedom. Claudia - my prayers and thoughts are with you - and Thank You! for what you did for your husband, friend, and your Warrior! Cherish the moment as it will be too soon it will all become a Memory! But what sweet memories they are!
Maria Mercado
November 18, 2014
God bless you and welcome you to our home. thank you for fighting for our freedom and safety..
Dan Fynn
November 18, 2014
Rest Now fellow soldier for your work is done here, may you find the peace you so longed for. Fior Go Bas!!(Faithful unto death) http://army.ca/inf/irrc.php
Anthprof 1203
November 18, 2014
From one service member to another, it is time to stand down now. You've more than earned your "leave". Rest and know your family and friends are wrapped in each other's loving arms and, like so many others, are very proud of who you were, who you became, and who you are now. Rest in peace, Brother.
Teresa Siders
November 18, 2014
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. You, and the world have lost a great man. Bless you for the road you travel, and Bless Tomas for his service. May he forever rest in peace.
November 18, 2014
Thank you Tomas. RIP.
Steven
November 17, 2014
Thank you for being you.
Debbi Wade
November 17, 2014
Watching a loved one live in pain is one of the hardest things to do, I know. I am glad that your husband got to die on his terms, and am so very sorry that you and your family have lossed what seems to me, and so many others, an amazing man! Please carry these messages with you forever in your heart. It helps to know how much your loved one was loved and respected by others. May God bless you all and may you find peace and acceptance, in time.
Mark Wilkerson
November 17, 2014
No more pain. Rest in peace my friend.
Your words will live on.
Islandgirl
November 17, 2014
The loss of a loved one is never easy, Please accept my condolences.In the coming years celebrate his passions, interests and all that was unique to your beloved husband.
Nick Reidel
November 17, 2014
RIP. You will forever be remembered in my heart for your sacrifice and all you had to go through as well as being such an honorable man.
Lisa Blackwood
November 17, 2014
Thank you for your service and your honesty. RIP, Tomas
frank e
November 17, 2014
Thank you for your service, and ultimately, your sacrifice. You have indeed earned your rest.
November 17, 2014
RIP Hero! May you rest in the arms of angels.
Glenda
Tony Lordi
November 17, 2014
Dear Claudia,
I do not know if you remember me Tony Lordi but we had the opportunity to talk on the telephone & also email one another during your husband's illness. I am so very sorry to hear of his passing, he was without any doubts a true "American Hero" & you should be very honored & proud he served our Country. I only wish I could have had the opportunity too meet him in person.
I tried emailing toy on numerous occasions that I wanted to set up a day for me to come over for a visit but you never responded back to me & also I did not know that the two of you relocated to another state.If he wanted to be near Family I can understand the relocation. I have changed email addresses because I signed up with a new cable company (Google Fiber) I am enclosing it along with my telephone number if you have the opportunity to try & reach me. Again I am very sorry for your loss. Here is my information & hope to hear from you soon. (Email) [email protected] /(Phone No. (816) 879-0010 You can also leave me a message for you to have me return your call.
My prayers are with you at this time & always.
...Tony Lordi
November 17, 2014
My condolences to Tomas Young family. The Bible says of the Almighty: "He is a God, not of the dead, but of the living, for they are all living to him." ( Luke 20:37;38)
Katie Prude
November 17, 2014
I saw your story on CNN and it broke my heart. Thank you so much for your courage Tomas. You are such a hero for your service and the sacrifices you made for your country. Rest in peace...
Alex Rosenberg
November 17, 2014
So sad to hear about your passing never met you but your story touched me my thoughts and prayers go out to your wife and the rest of your family... rest easy man
November 17, 2014
To young's family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope it can be a comfort to think of a future when we are protected from the tragic effects of war (isaiah 2:4).
Alex J
November 17, 2014
Love you and rest in peace brother.
debra kline
November 17, 2014
We'll never forget you and always heed your wise words, Tomas Young. Condolences to wife and family of this dear man. He was loved.
Donna Stewart
November 16, 2014
Thank You for your service.May you rest in peace.
Jessica Jones
November 16, 2014
So very sad to lose such a thoughtful and selfless person. Tomas has done so much in such a short amount of time with his life. My heart goes out to his wife and loving family. The world lost a hero but you lost even more. You all will be in our thoughts. He will be missed by many and forgotten by none. I'm grateful for the chance of getting to know such a remarkable human being. There just isn't enough like him left. Thank you for your service, your determination and advocacy, and also for being a friend to talk to. In the words of one of your favorite songs, "lead your Calvary home" my friend.
November 16, 2014
Love you love you. Rest. Peace be to your wife, mother and family. TOMAS.
Bryan Murphy
November 16, 2014
Truly inspirational human being.
Rome Singh
November 16, 2014
I salute you my friend! Thank you for your service to your country. You are no more in pain. Rest in Peace in the arms of our Lord. You will never be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to your wife and family.
The McGreeveys
November 16, 2014
Peace and light to the family of Tomas Young. Thank you for your service Tomas and thank you to all our veterans.
Nancy Petrie
November 16, 2014
I wish I'd been aware of your story before your death. I would have told you that I'm so very grateful for the service you gave and so very sorry for the price you paid. I will think of you often.
Sanita Kazmirski
November 16, 2014
Thank you for your and courage. God bless your family.
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