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Cpl. Benny G. Cockerham
Cpl. Benny G. Cockerham
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Benny G. Cockerham Obituary
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Cora Tompkins
June 12, 2022
Thank you Gray for your service and sacrifice.
Alice Cote
November 30, 2018
Think of you Gray and your entire family each and every time I look over at your house, and will always remember, so many gone, Larry of four years but joy in watching Andy's children and seven yr old boy, Grayson, so glad for that name and reminding me of such a nice young man, your son, Gray. Another year and we never forget...Love to all your family Gray...
Brent Downs
November 29, 2018
We miss you man the sacrifice is incomprehensible especially at such a young age see you soon gray
L
November 28, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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May 25, 2014
And no resident will say: “I am sick…”Isa 33:24. We can be sure of this reality because God has promised as seen from his divine words about the near future; perhaps you or I may see those missing from our lives due to sickness or tragic injury that lead to death. Prayers go out to the surviving family and friends.
Ross Casey
October 21, 2013
Another year Corporal. Still aunt forgotten.
Rebekah Burnett
January 7, 2013
https://www.facebook.com/events/533763236634511/?ref=2 I wanted to let everyone know about the memorial dedication that will be taking place! if anyone needs any more info on it you can email me at [email protected]
Ross Casey
October 24, 2012
Jill Cockerham
you emailed me but I could not email you back because your email address was bad. Contact me again if you can.
Ross Casey
October 22, 2012
I was there the day Cockerham died. I Have not forgotten him. Nor will I ever.
September 2, 2012
Gray is still remembered and never forgotten. I thank him for his service to this country. May his family be on the path to healing.
roger cockerham
April 28, 2012
My is Roger D Cockerham i viewed your sons picture my son James L Cockerham could his twin
Sherry Berman
February 11, 2012
Jill and Ben,
I wanted you to know I think of you both so very often. Every October, especially. Please know that. I miss you both very much.
Jacqueline Freeman Mask
October 21, 2011
Remembering Gray today. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and many friends. Gray is and always will be My HERO! Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice so that I may live in the land of the free.
Peggy Childers
October 21, 2011
To the family and friends of Cpl. Benny G. Cockerham:
Please accept my remembrance of Benny on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Sean Reardon
January 18, 2011
As a junior at the Citadel im coming close to graduation and Marine Corps OCS this summer. All the Cockerhams were and remain great influences on my life, and now Gray more than ever provides me with the motivation to succeed as a Marine. "Semper Fi"
Peggy Childers
October 21, 2010
To the family and friends of Cpl. Benny G. Cockerham:
Remembering Benny 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
Alice Cote
October 10, 2010
It's 10-10-10, and we honor Gray and remember Jill,Ben,and Adam.We still miss you all so much. Justin is now at NCState and our neighborhood kids are all off to colleges all over. May God continue to bless and keep you. Alice,Larry,Scott,Andy,Janet,Justin Cote,Stoneridge. Conover,NC
Melinda
October 9, 2010
Almost that time again. Alot easier now than it was before. Still miss you like crazy. Wish you could see my wonderful babies. Love always and from The Hut too! :)
Cherish Cosenza
June 1, 2010
You all were in my prayers yesterday, as we remember Gray, a hero in so many peoples eyes. I know he's watching over you all. My thoughts and prayers are always with you!
Belinda Eilerman
May 31, 2010
WE HONOR GRAY AS OUR FRIEND, HERO AND LOVING SON TO JILL,BEN AND ADAM. GRAY GAVE HIS ALL WITHOUT QUESTION. HIS LAUGHTER AND LOVE OF LIFE WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED. THE EILERMANS
barb whitehead
May 25, 2010
The NC Run for the Fallen will honor fallen troops from North Carolina at a Memorial Run on Saturday, May 29th, 8:30am, Ayden Grifton High School track, Hwy 11 S. Ayden NC. Each troop will be honored by a runner/walker who carries a flag in his memory for one mile. Please come join us in honoring our fallen troops. For more information contact Kathy Moore at 252-746-3435 after 5:00pm or email at [email protected]
Alice Cote
October 22, 2009
My favorite friend Jill, Ben and Adam,
I think of you all when I pass your house each day and remember how Fred use to walk across the street and salute your flag early each and every morning. As Fred is now gone too after being with us for 93 years,I will keep both Grey and Fred in my heart forever. They shared a bond of friend and soldier,may they both remind us of how much each blue sky day is a gift. By the way,Pam,Sabrina's have all moved too.take care and love to you all again this year, Love, Alice Cote and family
cherish cosenza
October 21, 2009
It's hard to believe it's been four years. I have tons of memories that seem like they were yesterday i will always hold close to my heart. Not one day goes by that you are not loved and missed dearly! Your family will always be in my prayers!
BRENT DOWNS
October 21, 2009
A LIL TOUCH OF GREY/MAKES ME WANNA BE THAT MUCH MORE "GRATEFUL" EACH DAY TIL IM DEAD/HE BLED IN ORDER FOR ME TO LIVE THIS LIFE THATS BEIN LEAD/SO TONIGHT WHEN YOU PRAY DOWN BESIDE YOUR BED/REMEMBER ALL THE TEARS THATVE BEEN SHED IN THE FIELDS/THAT MAKE IT POSSIBLE FOR YOU TO PLAY/REST IN PEACE GRAY--BD
MIke Craver
October 20, 2009
October 20, 2009
Please know that you are always in our thoughts & prayers. MAC & MJ are constant reminders of our relationship with you, Gray & Adam. We think of you often.
Mike & Charlene Craver
Larry Gaskey
July 26, 2009
Please know that Benny will always be in our hearts and prayers. He served with our son Daniel, and we have heard many wonderful stories and memories about this young Marine. You raised a great man, and he is always a part of our hearts.
God Bless Your Family,
Larry and Grace Gaskey
Mike and Cindy Pray
July 14, 2009
Ben, Jill and Adam,
I wanted to let you know that Cindy and I are thinking of you. I think about Gray and his sacrifice alot these days. Especially the time when I made him change the tire on our trip from Hickory! He will never be forgotten, and you will always be in my prayers!
Semper Fidelis,
Mike and Cindy Pray
July 9, 2009
Gray, Was just thinking about you and needed to put it in words. It's almost four years and I can't stop the hurt. I remember when you visited was July 4th. Mom told me come see you and I made it just after you left the hut. For some reason, I felt I wouldn't get to see you. And I didn't. I'm at a loss for words. Just know that we are thinking of you always and You'll be in my heart forever! I love you
Allen Carpenter
May 4, 2009
Dear Cockerham family,
I was fortunate enough to have known Benny for awhile, from the days at out poolee meetings to when I spoke with him in K-mart after his first deployment to Iraq and learned he was injured, but was ready to go back and lead his fellow Marines. I also learned he was getting married and congratulated him on that as well. Benny always had a smile on his face and brought joy to all those he was around. Your son was a model Marine and always spoke highly of his time served and any duty assignments placed before him in the future. I am no longer in the Corps, but will NEVER forget my brothers and the ultimate sacrifice they have made for us all. Semper Fidelis Cpl. Benny Cockerham III, you will be missed more than words can express.
Allen S. Carpenter
Sgt. U.S.M.C.
served 96-04
Peggy Childers
October 23, 2008
To the family of Cpl. Benny G. Cockerham:
Benny 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
In Memory of Benny Gray ~ (Debra Estep)
October 21, 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 Gray, 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
Amanda Cockerham
October 7, 2008
Dear Gray, tomorrow would have been our 4 year wedding anniversary and I can't help but think how much I miss you. I hope u are blissfully happy where ever you are and I will always cherish our memories. To the Cockerham family, I wish you all the peace and happiness your hearts can hold and know that Gray is smiling down on us. Love, Amanda
Pat Hines
September 23, 2008
Ben and Jill,
My son is Taylor Fisher, a friend of Gray's. Taylor and I were so heartbroken when Gray died. We were with you at the funeral and with you in spirit so many other days. Taylor is now serving in Afghanistan and last night we were able to chat online. He wants information about the scholarship that he has heard is in memory of Gray. Donating to that scholarship is in the front of his mind right now as he serves in Afghanistan. Please email me so that I can forward that info to him. We both think of Gray and your family so very often. God Bless Gray and God Bless your family.
Pat Fisher Hines
Angelina
July 3, 2008
Rest in peace. You are remembered and these paltry words can't express the gratitude or the sorrow.
Wendy & Ethan Upton
July 1, 2008
It is amazing how small the world really is, on Presidents Day my sons teacher started talking about the war past and present. She started talking about this beautiful little boy she had in 2nd grade. I was already crying because I knew who she was talking about. We made a place on her wall to honor you. You will never be forgotten. You are our HERO!!!!
Craig F
June 30, 2008
May you rest in peace Cpl. Cockerham. You will forever be remembered for your sacrifice. My heart goes out to all his loved ones.
Mark Cantrell
June 30, 2008
Thank you for your service to our country. May God bless you and your family for your sacrifice.
Sgt. Ross Casey
June 30, 2008
As you can see by the sudden surge of entries in Cockerhams book. He has not been forgotten. I will continue to do as I have done since The day he died, remind people who the good ones are, and what they had to give.
Kevin Barksdale
June 29, 2008
I thank God for giving us men such as Benny Cockerham, who are men of unselfish strength, and integrity. And I pray that God watches over and blesses the family this man left behind.
Raychel Fitzgerald
June 28, 2008
my heart goes out to your family, my prayers are with you, even in your sadness, have pride for you have raised a hero, who will not be forgotten. God Bless.
Janae Larsen
June 28, 2008
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you and your family for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you, as I share in your sorrow. Please know that Benny's courage and valor are not overlooked and will never be forgotten.
Ronnie S
June 27, 2008
For a true hero is not measured by the size of his strength, but by the strength of his heart. A hero whom I will never meet, but will be greatful for during the rest of my days. May God continue to bless your family with His peace, and may you continue to rest in that peace.
Sarah F.
June 27, 2008
You ARE a true American Hero. You sacrificed your life for your country, and you will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace Cpl. God Bless.
My condolences to you all who knew this fine young man.
Cynthia Mann
June 27, 2008
Please except my sympathy for your loss. Your son died serving his country with honor. For that I am grateful and will remember him not only on holidays but everyday.
Candy Bounds
June 27, 2008
Thank you Cpl. Cockerham for giving us your all. True heroes are not forgotten. Thank you for my freedom.
Millie Mahoney
June 27, 2008
Please accept my heartfelt sorrow at your lose, and my heartfelt thanks for the ultimate sacrifice Cpl. Cockerham made for all of us. I believe that all those who serve are the best of who we are as Americans. Though I did not know him, he is a hero to me.
Gwynn
May 25, 2008
Remembering you on this Memorial Day weekend. We owe so much to you. The words "Thank you" seem so insignificant for the most precious of all gifts you gave to all of us. Without you and the other unselfish, extraordinarily brave men & women who have dedicated themselves to preserving our way of life, none of us could be enjoying this wonderful day in this greatest of all countries. All I can do is promise to appreciate to the fullest each and every one of our freedoms and to remember WHY I have those freedoms. Bless you and your family.
Noah Anderson
May 5, 2008
Benny I will always miss you. There is never a day that goes by that I dont thank you for what you did for us. You are a great friend and a great Marine. Love you Man
Susan Stanley
November 7, 2007
Dear relatives of Benny "Gray", my son SSGT Russell J. Verdugo is buried in Arlington National Cemetery along with your hero. I took some photos last Memorial Day Week-end 2007 and have a photo of your Gray’s grave site and marker. If you would like a copy emailed to you, please let me know. I love the explanation of the naming of Gray. I know the sky was gray with God's tears the day Gray died. I know we are so very proud of our fallen heroes, but we miss them so.
In loving remembrance of our heroes!
Gold Star Mother,
Debbie Kenny Coffey
August 30, 2007
Our condolences to your family.Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.Gray may you rest well for that star spangled banner will forever wave.When we look, upon the skies .The spirit we se soaring in the symbol of our great nation.Is yours
August 19, 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)
amanda lafone
June 29, 2007
To the Cockerham family I didnt know Gray well but I knew Adam, and I never looked at life like I do know you never know what will happen from minute to minute,Gray was a very special person, he had a wonderful family, and his wife was lucky woman to have such a gently man like him. Gray is remember by alot of people, we all miss him alot and we all know his there to talk to. and there always an angel looking down on us.I wish we could turn back time.we will always love and miss him....
amanda lafone
June 29, 2007
To the Cockerham family, I never looked at life like I do know You never know what will happen from day to day, my prayers are with your family, Gray was a very special man to alot of people,he had a really big heart he would do anything for anyone,I wish we could turn back time and have him here with us but we cant, the special thing we know is that we have a very loving, caring angel looking down on us watching what we do and knowing he is always up there to talk to.Gray had a wonderful family and he still does.love always. Richard Lafone and Amanda Lafone
Phil and Linda
June 11, 2007
God bless the Cockerham family and their fallen son, brother and husband. He gave his all for the freedom of all of the people of the U.S.A. From my family to you and your family, Thank You. Your family is and will be in our prayers.
5/28/07 News and Observer article
Alice Cote
May 19, 2007
Jill,Ben,Adam, There isn't a day that passes that I don't think of Gray as I pass your house, remembering those two portraits hanging on your wall of the boys when they were little and reminding myself of all the times we compared our "adventures" with our boys going through the teen years and laughing about many of the trials....oh,if we only had those years back again. I watch how the new group of teen boys( you know the group,mostly all have their permits now) in our neigborhood sometimes talk about Gray, they really looked up to him and I am so glad they are remembering him the way we all do, a spirit who lives on in them and in us. We send our love to you all.
Jackie Pierce
March 15, 2007
My prayers are with your family now and in the coming years ahead. I am so sorry for the loss of your dear brave son. I want you to know Benny will forever be my Hero. I did not know him here in this life but will one day in eternity be able to thank him personally, for his greatest gift of courage and the sacrifice for us. No man has a greater love than to give his life for another. I will never forget and my children and grandchildren will know of Benny and what he gave for us to live free and have protection here in our home land. Benny was one of our own, here in North Carolina and a close neighbor as we live just the on the other side of the river. He has brought this war close to home for us and reminds us, to keep praying for all our love ones in service for our country.
Forever, with a grateful heart!
TC
February 25, 2007
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Semper Fi.
Derek Davey
December 5, 2006
To the Cockerham family;
Four Marines and a sailor were killed in action on October 21, 2005. My son was among them: Cpl Seamus M. Davey, killed in a firefire in Haqlaniyah. Like you Mr. Cockerham, I am also a former Marine. I have thought about not much else since that day when we lost our sons but of my own time in the Marine Corps, the futility of hoping that the death of my only son was a case of mistaken identity, and the many images in my mind of his nearly 26 years of life. I share with you the pain that started that day like few others can only do. I offer any assistance that I can to the Cockerham family. Please contact me if you wish. Respectfully, Derek Davey
FOREST HEWLIN
November 17, 2006
THERE ISN'T A DAY THAT PASSES WHITHOUT ME THINKING OF YOU, BENNY. YOU WERE IN INTERGRAL PART IN ALL OUR LIVES. YOU WERE A LEADER, A BROTHER, AND MOST OF ALL, A FRIEND. I FEEL LIKE YOU AND THE REST OF THE BOYS ARE WATCHING OVER ME AND GUIDING ME ON THE RIGHT PATH. SOMEDAY ALL OF US WILL BE TELLING WAR STORIES TOGETHER. I CARRY YOU IN MY HEART ALWAYS. ONLY THE GOOD DIE YOUNG. GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY.
Tyler Starnes
October 29, 2006
Ben, Jill, and Adam. I know with me in San Diego I dont get home much but I do think about you guys as well as gray in prayers. You guys are like family to the girls,josh and I. Gray is definitley a hero to me and all who have served overseas. may god bless.
Aleisha Reid
October 29, 2006
Dear Cockerham Family,
My name is Aleisha Reid, and my college is in the process of building a war memorial on our campus. it is half finished, unfortunately there are many more names to add. i would like to present a eulogy in Gray's honor to my history class. By the end of my spring semester we will be putting up the other half of our memorial, and i will be putting a dog tag on the wall in honor of your son. i would like to express my deepest sympathies at the loss of your son. from what i have read about him, he seems like a great guy, and it would be my honor to remember him and be the one to put his dog tag on our memorial. The memorial is at Tarrant County College Northwest Campus, in Saginaw, Texas.
Please, if there is anything i can do for you or your family, let me know, i would be honored to do anything that i can.
Aleisha Reid
Michael Rodriguez
October 28, 2006
I have served with Benny in OIF2 I was the Senior Line Corpsman for Easy Company. He is a great man and will never be forgotten. You will be missed brother! Semper Fi!
to Benny's family always remember that I do send a lot of prayers for the fallen angels of Easy Company!
Ronald Tuttle
October 22, 2006
To Bin,Jill,Adam Cockerham hard to belive time is so fast we will not for get was at Arlington this past May payed my respects and intend to every year long as I can may god bless Semfi
Lynn Fullerton
October 22, 2006
To the Cockerham Family - Gray will forever be remembered. His life, work, enthusiasm, and ultimate sacrifice will always be appreciated by grateful citizens. Thank you for raising such a wonderful American hero.
Semper Gratus!
Joan
October 22, 2006
You have my deepest appreciation and admiration for all that your family has done for me. I will always remember your son, and honor him along with so many others who are the reason I can live freely and safely. It may seem many days as if we are not paying attention, but we are. We join millions of Americans who support our troops daily with thoughts, prayers, mail and packages. We are ever vigilent.
Larry and Grace Gaskey
October 22, 2006
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Benny lives in our hearts and prayers. He is and will always be part of our family. He had a profound impact on our son, Cpl Daniel Gaskey, Benny has made our Daniel a better Son and Marine. May you find peace and comfort in knowing the impact Benny has had on our lives. May God Bless your family and grant you Peace.
Jenn Kirby
October 22, 2006
Dear Cockerham family:
I read your story on Charlotte.com several times, and cried each time. I have a two-year-old son. Every time I hear on TV that our country has lost another brave soldier, I hug my little boy a little tighter, and I think about the unspeakable grief that the soldier's family must be going through. And I say prayers for those families, and thank God for the sacrifices that have been made so that we in America can continue our very comfortable and easy way of life. From now on, Gray and your family will be included in those prayers and expressions of thanks. Your story will stay with me for a long time.
Watt Keller
October 22, 2006
It's been a year? Feels like a lifetime. One of the hardest days for the Warlords with the loss of Gray, Butler, and Thompson all at the same time. And Cpt Swisher, one of the most beloved of the Company COs. The very day after losing Pummill, Russoli, and Szwydek. The week that ripped all our hearts out delivering a pain that will never really subside. Were it that anything could make it easier for your Family! Please except our heartfelt condolences and sorrow for your loss. Arlington is so fitting a home for the Hero that is your Son! Always Faithful!
Know that none are forgotten or ever will be. Their lives are celebrated by all those they served, and served with them. Their lives counted. Forever!
God Bless you all.
Fair Winds and Follwing Seas Marine!
Watt & Janice Keller
(parents of Cpl Kris Keller formerly 2/2G currently 2nd MAR RGT)
Dennis Mullen
October 22, 2006
May God bless you and your family. I have tears in my eyes as I write this note. I respect your son for his valor and thank him for giving the ultimate sacrifice. Be strong. Time will heal.
Barbara
October 21, 2006
To Jill, Ben and Adam Cockerham,
I want to let you know that I will remember your family and your son and brother; Gray, Cpl. USMC. I am so sad for your loss. I too wonder if anyone is paying attention to our young men and women serving at war. My son is a Cpl. in the Marines, recently home from Iraq. I have often visited ANC and will make sure that I stop and honor your son the next time I am there. You will be in my prayers.
Blessings
Bill Ward
October 21, 2006
Mr. and Mrs. Cockerham:
As a former Navy Hospital Corpsman who served with the finest outfit in the world, the U.S. Marines, and as the father of a Marine who gave 22 years in service to his country, I cannot even begin to imagine your loss. But perhaps you can gain some comfort knowing that Benney's memory will live forever in the hearts and minds of all of us who served. My father-in-law, a retired Army officer who served in World War II, Korea, and two tours in Vietnam, is also buried at Arlington. Please know that Benny is in the company of an elite group and may your grief be assuaged by the memory and pride that can only be felt by parents, such as yourselves, of a fine young man. Always think of Benny as a permanent member of the few and the proud -- the U.S. Marines.
Cindy Cooley
October 21, 2006
I am truly sorry for the loss of your son. I am so thankful for his dedication and for the ultimate sacrifice that he made. May God Bless you and your family.
J Barry
October 21, 2006
I pray your strength in the Lord.
Patty Atkinson
October 21, 2006
Mr. & Mrs. Cockerham:
I just wanted to express how sad I am about your loss of your son at such a young age and the heartbreak you are going through. I know we all someday have to face such tragedy as losing a loved one, as I lost my brother when he was 18 years old and I was much younger but still can remember the pain my parents and family went through. It is not easy, but everyday as your heart heals it does get easier. I know your son Gray would want you to go on with your lives and be there for his younger brother.
God Bless you and know your son is a hero and we love him for giving so unselfishly for us and our country.
Sincerely,
Patty & John Atkinson
Judi Archer
October 21, 2006
Ben & Jill, Gray will never be forgotten because of the wonderful parents you were to him and Adam. You are all indelibly marked in our hearts forever. Please stay in contact with us, we miss you. Bill, Judi & Kevin
Stacey Lundy
October 21, 2006
Thank you to your son for the ultimate sacrifice that any soldier can make, risking his life so that we may be able to live our life in the United States. My heart goes out to your family. May God be with you.
Jeff Wright
October 21, 2006
Mr. and Mrs. Cockerham, I do not know you, nor did I know your son. However, I want to offer a heartfelt " thank you" for the sacrifice your son has made.I hope God blesses your family and keeps you until the day you are all reunited.It is people like your son that make me proud to be an American.Take care and God bless you. Sincerely- Jeff Wright
Christine Dixon
October 21, 2006
To the Cockerham family...I did not know your son, nor do I know you personally, but it does not lessen the love & respect I have for your son and the sacrifice he has made. My family and I offer our condolences and we thank you for sharing your son with us, we thank you for raising such a fine young man and we too will NEVER forget.
Bob Reardon
October 21, 2006
I am sure it seems like it...but when they annouce another young man's death on the news...some of us do stop ..to give thanks and pray for their family to find some peace...My son 16 seriously injured his knee last Friday night playing high school football...he may never play again...the coaches, and other parents treat it like a real tragedy...yes he possibly had a future playing in college ...is it awful?....yes....but I think about how he would have never had the thrill...joy...and opportunity to play that game without the unfathomable bravery of young men like your son....Though I am not the most religious man...I pray for your family....and hope that you somehow find peace...and will do my best to think of your brave son ..when I hug my son goodnight..thank you for raising a great young man...a protector....I hope I can someday thank him myself for fighting for his country and protecting and preserving the freedom my family enjoys..peace be with you....
Mary Susan Vaughn
October 21, 2006
Gray's story brought me to unshakeable tears. I cannot imagine your grief. He was a handsome young man and he gave his life for our country and freedom. Thank you Ben and Jill for raising an amazing young man. His face and name are burned into my memory now. On this day, every year, I will remember your son - and every day that passes I will give thanks for all the incredible young men and women who risk their lives and lose their lives so that others may live in peace and freedom. I have a grandfather who is resting in Arlington National Cemetary and was buried on the same day as John F. Kennedy and only yards away from the burning flame. When I visit, I will visit your son's resting place and thank him personally for his brave soul and incredible heart. My prayers and thoughts are with you both and your family on this difficult day.
Garnet Jenkins
October 21, 2006
Remembering this Fine Young Marine, Cpl. Benny G. Cockerham, on the first anniversary of the day he Gave his Life for our Country, with a Multitude of Thanks for his Courage, Service and Dedication to our Country and for Freedom.
May "Gray" rest in God's Loving Care and know that he will NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
May God's Grace and Comfort, continue to be with the Cockerham family.
From the sister of a Fallen young hero, who made the Ultimate Sacrifice in Vietnam. KIA~1967.
Hoping you continue to feel the thoughts of caring and support that surround you each day, as this Country remembers someone very precious to you, who is a Hero to all of us.
I am deeply sorry for your loss.
" Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference. The Marines don't have that problem." ( President Ronald Reagan)
Shane Easter
October 18, 2006
To Jill, Ben, Adam, and the rest of our family. Guys if you read this know that I never stop thinking of you and I miss all of you dearly. I will never be able to forget. NEVER.
I love you, all of you,
Shane
Jayne Bowman
August 30, 2006
To the Cockerham Family,
I know your sister, sister in law Kristie Wright, who works for my dentist. I am originally from Mt Airy, NC. I was at the dentist in Nov 05 talking about my son's deployment to Iraq in Dec 2005, when I learned of your sons death in Iraq. Nothing has ever hit so close to home as your loss.
I am a North Carolina Blue Star Mother of a Son serving in the US Army, Baghdad Iraq who is mourning with you, and your familiy the loss of your brave soldier Benny. Words of Thanks for his service, do not express my deepest sympathy for the loss of his life.
This precious life God so freely gives to us to love, and raise we are never prepared to give back to God, but we have to believe that God will help us deal with it if and when the time comes, if we have to give up our child in death. Remember that God loves Benny more than we as parents or family could ever love him. I thank God for his life, as he chose to serve his country in the ultimate sacrifice.
It is almost Sept as I write this, and know that the loss of Benny is still a fresh wound. I have my own fears to face as soon my son is to return after his first tour ends in
October, due home in Nov. so you know, Jill, as a mother what I am going thru. I have asked several times, thru the year about your family, and want you to know, that I think of you often, and still pray
for this family.
Jonathan Cockerham
August 26, 2006
I want to extend my condolences to the Cockerham family.
Jason Godios
July 6, 2006
Benny, not a day goes by that I don't think of you, Doc, Miles, Hodshire, Belchik and everyone else we lost. Words cannot convey my sorrow.
David Trent
June 16, 2006
May he always rest peacefully and keep watch over the rest of the marines of 2/2. we all miss him dearly.
ROBYN GARSIDE
May 30, 2006
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. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI
A PROUD MARINE MOM
K Vaughan
May 29, 2006
I don't know why, but Gray's name caught my eye on the Editorial page of the Baltimore Sun today (Memorial Day). Gray, thank you for your service to your country. You will not be forgotten.
nina nahvi
March 20, 2006
My brother, SPC Russell Nahvi died in Balad, Iraq on October 19th 2005. I was looking through pictures of deceased soldiers and cpl. Benny G. Cockerham caught my eye. It's weird, I just randomly came across him and it turns out he died 2 days after my brother. There's something about his eyes that get me...
As long as our fallen soldiers memories are kept alive, it seems as if they were never gone at all. Remember - don't let this get you down, because as soon as you close your eyes for the last time, you will see your son. He is waiting for you.
Nina
Lynn & Jim Lenker
March 6, 2006
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the family of Cpl Gray Cockerham. You are in our thoughts and our prayers.
Our son Cpl Christopher W. Belchik was a friend of your sons, they became friends while serving together.
Our son Chris was also killed in Iraq August 22, 2004.
He was a friend to your son and to Doc (Christopher Thompson). As the three of them served as friends together on this earth protecting our country. They are now standing guard at the Gates Of Heaven.
We thank you for your son, and the kind of man he was.
Cpl Gray Cockerham we thank you for your service to our country. You will NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
May you Rest In Peace.
Proud Gold Star Parents of
Cpl Christopher W. Belchik
6-25-74 8-22-04
KIA IRAQ
Nancy Szwydek
February 6, 2006
To the Cockerham family,
We visited our son's grave site (Lance Corporal Steven Szwydek, USMC) yesterday at Arlington Cemetery. We stopped to pay tribute to Benny whose body rests next to Steven's. May you find peace in knowing that Benny paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We displayed a portrait of our son with inscribed words that read: "You must not judge a life by it's length, rather by it's depth". So many men have died so young, yet impacted so many lives. Please accept our deepest sympathy on your loss, but rest assured that you will reunite with Benny one day.
Stephanie Swisher
January 21, 2006
To Amanda: I don't know you, but my husband, Captain Tyler Swisher, was killed in the same incident as your husband. I just wanted to tell you that I am so sorry for your loss and from reading your husband's profile, he sounded like a remarkable man and marine. You may not have been married very long, but it's not the amount of time you were married, it is the depth of your love. Don't let anyone deny you your grief because of the length of your marriage. I just wanted to say that I was thinking about you and am so sorry.
To the Cockerham family: I am so sorry for the loss of your son, Gray, and I just wanted you to know that my husband told me many times before he was killed that his number one duty was to ensure that he keep all of his marines safe. He told me this over and over and I know in my heart that he tried his best and his marines' safety was always top priority. He would have died for any one of his men in a heartbeat, he would have done anything. That is why he was in the first vehicle in the convoy. He always wanted to set the example and look out for his men. I am just so sorry for all of us, I am still trying to accept that he is gone.
Josh and April Morales
January 11, 2006
To Benny'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
Gracie Gaskey
December 26, 2005
Dearest Cockerham Family, My family and I send you our love and prayers. We share in you loss. Our son Daniel Gaskey served with your son and husband and was with him at the end. My Daniel is still there and feels very strongly about honoring Benny by continueing to finish the mission they were assigned. Daniel said that these Marines are his brothers and that they share something that can not be explained or understood by average people. When I asked Daniel about Benny, it was hard for him to speak but, Daniel said that if I were ever to make contact with you to please tell you that he was, "Honored and Blessed to serve beside Benny and to know him".
The Marines brought our sons together and made them brothers, my heart feels that we are connected some how as family. Your loss is our loss too. Prayer is our constant companion, you are in our hearts and prayers as well as all of our sons and daughters who are serving to protect our country.
With Love, God Bless you,
Gracie and Larry Gaskey and Family
Grand Prairie, Tx.
Lynne Bickers
December 15, 2005
Ben, Jill and Adam.....You are in my heart and on my mind constantly everyday. Gray will always be remembered as the loving, kind, gentle young man that he was. He will NEVER be forgotten. We've always been a close family and this will not shake our faith that God's plan is being carried out and that we'll see Gray again someday. I love you all and want you to know that I'm with you in spirit during this holiday season. Love you all so much!!!!
Knapp Fitzsimmons
November 29, 2005
Dear Cockerham family,
I had not seen Gray for many years, but I will always remember fondly many summer nights spent playing Little League baseball with him. My service to this country was, unfortunately, cut short due to a medical discharge following a blood clot, but it would have been the greatest honor of my life to serve in combat with men like Gray. My deepest sympathies and prayers to your family and to all who knew Gray. Semper Fi.
Knapp
Mellisa Thompson
November 18, 2005
I too lost my brother-in-law that day, HM3 Christopher Thompson SW/FMF. We are all in a severe amount of loss as all the families that had members on the humvee that day. Our lives will never be the same.
Sgt George Tucker
November 15, 2005
To the Cockerham Family.
My name is Sgt George L. Tucker III
I'm with VMFA(AW)-332 F-18 squadron based in Beaufort, S.C. but is currently deployed to Iraq. Our job is to protect the ground troops from the air and we take our job seriously. When we have Marines from the ground units that die, we honor them by putting their name on a wall of remembrance. It reminds us to do all we can with our aircraft to keep Names off of it. I had to put Cpl Cockerham name on that wall and I cried doing it. I didn't know him personally but felt we shared something me being from Charlotte and him from Conover. I felt like I lost a brother. I'm sorry for your lost and your family is in our Prayers. May God Bless You.
SGT George L. Tucker III
VMFA(AW)-332
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