White River Junction, Vermont
Jeffery S. Holmes wasn't among the best players on his high school football team, coach Mike Stone said. But the Marine had other, more precious, gifts. "He was a good-natured guy," Stone said. "He was a pretty popular kid, happy-go-lucky kid. He was one of those kids you remember." The 20-year-old from White River Junction, Vt., was killed on Thanksgiving in Iraq's Anbar province. He was assigned to Camp Lejeune, N.C. At 6-feet-2, Holmes felt he was too tall to fly Air Force fighter jets, so he joined the Marines instead, his parents recalled. "He wanted to fight for his country. He's always believed in it," Patti Holmes said of her son. "He always said if he dies over there, he died doing what he wanted to do." Survivors also include his father, Scott Holmes.
Each year, we participate in a project at work with the Mindful Memorial Day Foundation; volunteers hand out a yellow ribbon attached to a label with the name of a US service member that has died since 9/11. Just wanted to pay my respects, and offer condolences to family and friends.
Alberto V
May 27, 2019 | Washington, DC | Acquaintance
Hey Jeffery,
Its that old and retired Marine from Wilder. I see your mom and dad on occasion and Cory regularly during lacrosse season. I quite enjoy there friendship. I want you to know you've been in my families mind with great regularity. We honor your service, not just in the Marine Corps, but as a citizen of Hartford community. Every time I drive to the High School, I slow my car as I pass the tree planted and granite stone honoring your life and service.... And say silently...
Doug Dorain
November 25, 2018 | Wilder, VT | Acquaintance
Rest in peace Jeff
Brett Dezaine
July 30, 2018 | Wrj, VT | Friend
Good morning Jeff!
I just stopped by to thank you and your family for giving the ultimate gift of you!
I ask the Lord to bless your family by the thanksgiving of our hearts to them in the memory of you.
Gary Rivest
November 27, 2015 | Weare, NH
Dear Jeff,
Eleven years ago yesterday - sometimes feels like yesterday, sometimes feels like an eternity. We love so much and miss you every day. Happy Thanksgiving in Heaven son/brother.
Love Forever,
Mom, Dad and Cory
Mom
November 26, 2015
Merry Christmas Jeff! We will always love and miss you! Thank you for loving us!
Love Forever
Mom, Dad and Cory
Mom
December 25, 2014
To Jeff, I was a good friend of your dad when he worked at the college. As I was a newly retired Marine moving to your hometown he was so very helpful in repairing our 100 year old home. Your dad proudly told me of your intentions to join the Marines. One Saturday your dad was helping me at my family home when you dropped by to talk to your dad. I shook your hand, looked you in the eye, and asked if you had any idea what was before you at Marine Corps boot camp, never mind what it took to...
Doug Dorain
November 25, 2014 | Wilder, VT
Our Honor and Remember flag.
Dear Jeff,
This is a little late, but as you know, Dad, Cory and I came to visit your grave on what would have been your 29th birthday, July 28. We miss your smile, your laugh, your hugs and the twinkle in your eye. We always talk about you and will forever love you.
Love, Mom, Dad and Cory
August 01, 2013
We will always be grateful to Jeff for his service and sacrifice for his country. We have not forgotten him.
July 05, 2013