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James Blecksmith Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for James Blecksmith
Major Jon L. Shebel, USMC (Former)
November 30, 2023
SEMPER FI, BROTHER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Your Family and Friends can always be proud of the Man that you were and the Leadership you provided to your young Marines!!!! Your profile reminds me of my 2nd Lt. Terry Graves, USMC, 3rd Force Recon Co who was KIA in 1968 in Viet Nam.................I will always "look up" to you both!!!!! I still wear Terry's bracelet!!!! You will always be remembered!!!!!!!
Charlie Gili
June 21, 2023
Hello,
We realize that we are very late to express our deepest condolences, but we wanted to let your family and friends know that we will be 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 James P. Blecksmith US Marine 2nd Lieutenant.
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
Sgt. White
July 13, 2020
Semper Fi. Learned of you from NCIS S7. Sorry for the families, Corps, and countrys loss.
Trang Fredgren
May 31, 2016
You may be gone but not forgotten. Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice.
November 12, 2013
Remembering J.P. at the Church of Our Saviour, San Gabriel . . Dan Banks
Peggy Childers
November 11, 2013
To the family and friends of 2nd Lt. James P. Blecksmith:
It has truly been my honor to sign James' guest book these past few years. Unfortunately, due to complications from my Multiple Sclerosis, this may be the last message I'm able to write. Please forgive me and know that James will always be remembered in my home.
With love and respect ~ Peggy
Monique Gutierrez
April 19, 2013
Thank you will always remember you
Mark Ard
April 18, 2013
I pulled this Marine out of the vehicle he was in. I will never forget the look on his face when he laid on top of me after I could not bear his weight and I fell backwards. My heart goes out to the family of this outstanding man and Marine. Semper Fi.
Nicholas Lowry
January 28, 2013
I'm the corpsman who was by his side on that final day. I would be honored to talk to the family. Been many years
My name is: Nicholas Lowry
Email: [email protected]
Peggy Childers
November 11, 2012
To the family and friends of 2nd Lt. James P. Blecksmith:
Always remembering James. "Some gave all."
June 10, 2012
Thank you 2nd LT. James Blecksmith for your sacrifice for this country.
Peggy Childers
November 14, 2011
November 11, 2011
To the family and friends of 2nd Lt. James P. Blecksmith:
Please accept my remembrance of James on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
November 11, 2010
To the family and friends of 2nd Lt. James P. Blecksmith:
Remembering James on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
October 9, 2010
MAY GOD KEEP YOU IN HIS ARMS AND BLESS YOU WITH HIS ETERNAL LOVE. MAY THE AMERICAN SPIRIT KEEP YOU IN THEIR THOUGHTS AND REMEMBER YOUR DEDICATION TO THIS GREAT COUNTRY AND YOUR SACRIFICE FOR FREEDOM. AS AN AMERICAN I CAN ONLY SAY THE SIMPLE WORDS OF THANK YOU FOR YOUR INSPIRATION. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. SEMPER FI...
In Memory of James ~ (Debra Estep)
November 20, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know James, but I am remembering
his service and sacrifice. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
Peggy Childers
November 10, 2008
To the family of 2nd Lt. James P. Blecksmith:
James gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Kim Smith
August 26, 2008
Although I did not know 2nd Lt. James P. Blecksmith, I keep him and his family and other fallen soldier's families close to my heart and in my prayers. Remember in hard times that he is looking down from Heaven and keeping you safe and smiling. Thank You for serving our country, and keeping us safe.
May he rest in Peace with the Lord, and his families' hearts heal in time.
Proud Wife-to- Be of a Soldier in Iraq
July 6, 2008
please be assured that he is remembered and the loss of this stunning vibrant man is felt by many. I pray he is resting in eternal peace.
my deepest sympathy.
The Buck family
May 31, 2008
To the family and friends of 2nd Lt. James P. Blecksmith, our thoughts and prayers are with you in your loss. What he has done for our freedom will not be forgotten. May God bless and comfort your family.
April 20, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you 2nd Lt Blecksmith!
Kelley
October 15, 2007
My husband served with your son in Fallujah Iraq. He told me your son was a good man. I know to this day he remebers all those that were lost in that operation in November. Please know that Fallujah is now one of the safest thriving places in Iraq because of what they did there. Your son's legacy lives in the eyes of the children that have a future now because of him
August 7, 2007
I don't pretend to know what to say or do that would bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer 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 (KIA on 07/06/07) 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
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
July 13, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by 2nd Lt Blecksmith and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Gerald Presley
January 15, 2007
We are very thankful for your sacrifice and sorry for your loss. We are proud of James, the way he was raised, and thankful that our great nation has men and women like him to serve. I am a former Marine and he is a Hero! Thank you and may God bless you.
David Erlbacher
November 14, 2006
I am very saddened to hear about your loss. I recently lost a great friend in Iraq and can't imagine how difficult this must be for you. Even though I didn't know your son, when I see his picture and read about him, I feel like I've known him my whole life. I it wasn't for your son and those like him, I know that my family's security would be gone and life here would be extremely poor. Know that I am very grateful to you and your son. I will pray intensely for you. Even though I didn't know him, I will never forget him. God bless you. Thank you.
MICHAEL FENN
November 12, 2006
SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. I WAS PRESENT AT THE DEDICATION OF BLECKSMITH HALL RESERVE CENTER. I AM THE H&S COMPANY 2/23 GYSGT FOR OUR UNIT HERE, I CAN PROMISE YOU THAT ALL OUR MARINES WILL TRULLY HONOR THIS FALLIN HERO AND KEEP HIS MEMORY ALIVE HERE WHILE WE TRAIN.
GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY,
MSGT MICHAEL FENN USMC
M.C. Lyman
November 12, 2006
How many incredible plays I watched young JP make for the Flintridge Prep Rebels! On one particular play, while on defense, I witnessed him run down and catch an opponent from the opposite side of the field some 45 yards away. I couldn't believe it! The Rebels won that night and on other nights thanks to plays he made just like that! I remembered later that I wasn't surprised to hear he selected the Marine Corps when he graduated from the Academy and more than that his Valor as he led his men into combat. A selfless act of a incredibly brave Son, Officer, Athlete and Gentleman. It is my hope that our nation will come to appreciate the special sacrifice that JP and his marines and others like them have made on our behalf. SEMPER FI!!, Lt. Blecksmith, you live in our hearts!
Garnet Jenkins
November 10, 2006
Remembering this Fine Young Marine, 2nd Lt. James P. Blecksmith, on the second 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 James 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 Blecksmith 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.
Brian Keefe
September 17, 2006
I had heard about your son's death from other people I know who live in the Pasadena/San Marino area. This is where I live. I am deeply sorry to learn about your loss. No doubt your son is a hero. He gave everything for his country. We remember him and honor him. Thank you.
Jan Dank
May 30, 2006
Ed,
I can't express how sorry I am for your great loss and the pain that goes with it. The news was devastating when I heard. I keep you and your beautiful family in my prayers. You must be very proud of your son. Again I am very sorry for your loss. I hope to see you next year at the 40th reunion of our Basic School class.
Ruth Burnham
May 28, 2006
To the Blecksmith family, on Memorial Day 2006, I send my thoughts and hopes that you find peace and live with pride in your son, James. We have never met, but your son Alex is a friend of my daughter Christie, and she called me in deep distress when she learned of James' death. I have thought of you all from a distance ever since. Bless you for having such wonderful children.
Dan Wilcox
April 18, 2006
J.P. you were one very cool guy. Your loss hurts all of humanity. Remember us having such fun in "Old Town To salute you dude I will not raise a brewski in Pasadena again."
Bye Buddy.
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
April 5, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy to the Blecksmith family in the loss of James. I did not know James, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. James soon it will be 17 months since you were taken. You are a hero and you will never be forgotten. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things said about you.
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~
Ryan Deri
March 21, 2006
I am so sorry for your loss. Itis because of him my freedom in America still continues. All Americans areproud for the sacrifice he made. Let Peace always be with you.
sincerely,
Ryan Deri
Forest Glen MIddle School
Coral Springs, F.L
N.D. Blodgett
January 31, 2006
Semper Fidelis.
Brittany
January 6, 2006
Hearing about JP was the first time this war really hit home with me.
My brother showed me a picture of your son on the internet after his death and asked me if I recognized the face. I said no, but when he told me who it was, I was shocked. My brother went to school with JP at Prep, and I remember JP when he would hang out with my brother and friends. He was a really funny guy. It's just really hard to believe such news like this.
My condolences go out to the family.
Chris Johnson
December 28, 2005
I wanted to look up some info about your son after meeting you (Pam and Ed Blecksmith) last night--I'm glad to see so many people remember him so well and that his memory will keep inspiring people through his foundation--I can't help but share his story.
Elizabeth
December 2, 2005
Thank you for your sacrifice and heroism. May you rest in peace.
Gloria Stone
November 27, 2005
My deepest sympathy goes out to Lt. James P. Blecksmith family. Because of him and our other soliders at war, I am greatful for our freedom and democracy.
My prayers are with you.
David Farrell
November 5, 2005
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Blecksmith,
I practiced on the Navy football team with JP for two years. He was two grades ahead of me, but still took the time to get to know me (and the other young players) and go out of his way to be nice to us. I will remember him most for his humility.
Rob Carter
October 24, 2005
Wow, what an amazing man. My heart goes out to JP's family and friends. JP is the type of person who makes me further proud to be an American. I look forward to running the 2005 Marine Corp Marathon in his honor and memory as a friend of the United States Naval Academy Kentucky Parents’ Club.
A grateful American
September 13, 2005
Thank you for your selfless and heroic sacrifice in the defense of our freedom. May you rest in peace.
Karen Norton
August 13, 2005
I fall to my knees in gratitude for a man like JP Blecksmith. I thank him and others like him who protect us from the brutality of terrorists and defend freedom for all of us. I will hold him in my memory with a sense of the joy he brought to his family and the honor of his service.
The Rev. Dr. Charles A. Bevan, Jr.
August 13, 2005
Just learned of your son's death from a report "Combat Heroes" in Fox. I have four sons and would be devastated to have lost one of them. JP is in my thoughts and prayers.
Matthew Doniger
August 12, 2005
J.P.
I didn't know you, but I will always be greatful for you and all the rest. My family will live better and I can tell my daughter that their are real heros. God bless you and your family.
Alexis Villarreal
July 17, 2005
It was an honor serving with LT. Blecksmith he was a good man and an awsome Marine, God bless him and his family, His memory will live on forever in our hearts.
CPL. Villarreal
3\5 India company
3rd platoon
1st squad
Daniel B Banks
May 31, 2005
Pam, Ed, Alex, and Christina:
My thoughts went specifcally to J.P. and his family this Memorial Day weekend. When I pass his gravesite, his cap gives me pause to stop for a moment and offer a prayer.
God Bless . .
Al and Donna Checca
May 30, 2005
We not only remember J.P. on Memorial Day but everyday. There is not a day that goes by that we do not say a prayer for the Blecksmith and Winchester families. Words can not express our deep sorrow. May God give you everlasting strength. Our son spoke highly of JP.
Al & Donna
Kevin Ehrhart
May 9, 2005
Dear Blecksmith Family – Your pain and your pride must be immeasurable. Some day the terrible pain will abate somewhat but the pride will remain and grow. What you parents have helped create then sacrificed for what is good in our world, I can never thank you enough for.
I too am a parent of a US Marine who is in Iraq. He is 26 years old. We like your family have been members of the Jonathan Club and not knowingly have probably watched our boys together at the beach.
I am sorry for your loss. I don’t know you but I can promise that I respect and admire you for what you stand for and what you have given, God Bless you all.
Kevin Ehrhart
Kerry Quinby
March 9, 2005
Mr. & Mrs. Blecksmith,
I am very sorry for your loss, and know that it will take time to heal the wounds. Rest assured that J.P. is now guarding the streets of Heaven alongside many other fallen Marines.
I did not know him but I was in Marine OCS with Alex. I have not been able to keep in touch with Alex since he left Bucknell and was actually trying to look him up today when I found out about J.P. Being a Marine for the last 8 years I have had many friends deploy to hostile areas and sadly not all have come back alive. The Marine Corps truly mourns each of it's own.
Semper Fidelis,
1st Lt USMC
Larry Kopp
March 7, 2005
Dear Ed and Pam,
We only just learned of your son's passing, and can't tell you how badly Judy and I feel for you and Pam. Judy and I never knew your son, but knowing you two, his character and bravery had to be among the very best. You must be very proud of him and his valiant service to his country. Please accept our heartfelt condolences for you both. Judy and Larry Kopp
Kevin Johnson
March 3, 2005
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. It is heartbraking to lose a child in death. Please know that you are in my thoughts, and my prayer that the "God of all comfort will comfort you in all your tribulation."(2Corinthians 1:3,4)
Major Arnold Huskins
January 6, 2005
Dear Mr. and Mrs Blecksmith:
May I offer my condolences to you both and your family upon the passing of your American hero son, "JP" in Iraq. Please know that other Americans share in your loss and are concerned.
It is my prayer that God may grant you all an extra measure of peace, comfort, and strength during this difficult time.
May "JP"'s legacy of bravery and devotion to our country and its safety be a source of pride to your family and forever remembered by a grateful nation. His sacrifice is not unlike those Marines in times past who gave their all for freedom's sake in places with such names as Iwo Jima, Inchon, and Khe Sahn. "JP" truly was "Siemper Fi!"
Sincerely, with deepest sympathy,
Dr. Arnold M. Huskins
Major, USAF
James Sefton
December 14, 2004
Thoughts for J.P. . . .
Please accept these few thoughts from, yes, a stranger, but simply, an American Citizen, who never had the privilege of knowing you in life, and comes now to honor you in death. For this old Prof, who has spent 43 years teaching American History to college students, your story, as written in the Times, leaves no question that you exemplify everything that is good about young American men today. I cannot help but think how much you are like the very best students to come through my classes over the years. Your caring gesture towards your brother in the track meet, your fighting alongside your Marines -- these are especially ennobling ways for a young man to conduct his life. Your toughness and determination are vital athletic and military qualities, and their civilian counterparts are equally crucial to our nation's survival and progress. Recently we observed the 63rd anniversary of Pearl Harbor, that terrible day on which 2400 sailors and Marines died for their country. In the months that followed, thousands more joined the Navy and the Marine Corps to ensure that those who died would receive ultimate victory. You have joined that long line of American heroes. Your values and our nation's values are the same, and they shall prevail. I close with the prayer that our all-knowing God will cradle you in His loving arms, and bring peace and comfort to your family.
Sincerely,
James E. Sefton
Professor of History
Cal State Northridge
Rich bergen
December 13, 2004
Mr. and Mrs Blecksmith
My son Michael went through the Basic School with JP. During the thanksgiving holiday of 2003 JP came home with Mike and spent the holiday with us. The boys had a great time together and went to visit NY City also. Mike called and let us know of his death. He was a great kid and you have every reason to be proud.
Rich and Maryanne.
Steve Swayne
December 12, 2004
Pam and Ed:
Laura and I have been so saddened by the lose of J.P. He was such a wonderful young man. I have so many fond memories of your son. I know that this time in life is tough and please know that Laura and I are praying for both of you. As well, if you need anything, please let us know. You are loved by the Swayne family and your son's duty in battle will never be forgotten by us. We owe him his life and his honor for this country will not be in vain. We will never forget. Please let us know if we can do anything.
Your Friends,
Steve and Laura Swayne
Kevin Paul
December 12, 2004
My brother is currently over there so I read a lot about the war. I heard about J.P. through a reporter's story on Fox News. I'm terribly sorry to hear about his loss and wanted to extend my condolences to his family and friends. J.P. like many of his comrades who have either passed or are still alive have sacrificed a tremendous part of their lives and are extremely heroic to put their lives on the line for our country. J.P., we never met, but thanks a lot for all you've done.
R Gill
December 9, 2004
I read about your son in a story on the FOX News website.
His bravery under fire and leadership I am sure will be remembered by the soldiers that served with him.
God bless those that make the safety of this nation and its people their personal responsibility.
Shiloh Sharos
December 5, 2004
God Bless JP. May God Bless you, his family. May God especially bless all United States Marines, and may God continue to bless America. Our deepest sympathies, and our highest praise for valor so profound.
Mike Hayes
December 4, 2004
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown (victory wreath) of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing (presence)" (II Timothy 4:7-8)
Helen Paris
December 4, 2004
As Emily's aunt, I sit here watching the army navy game with her grandparents. We remember with a smile watching him playing football last year, waiting to see his jersey on TV. We are so proud of who JP was, his committment to America and his love for our special girl. God Bless you all
JoAnne Lerner
December 3, 2004
My heart goes out to you in your time of loss. To lose a child is horrible for a parent. Your son seemed to be a wonderful person.
terry hall
December 2, 2004
the death of your son has touched me like no other.i can feel your heartache through this internet maze.jp sounds very much like his father who i can still see zipping through our lines on the gridiron.
god bless you and jp
Erik Mogelgaard
December 2, 2004
I grieve for the loss of your son. My tears are fueled by the love I have for my children, and the pain I feel trying to even begin to comprehend the loss of one of my sons.
Find solace in the fact your son gave his life leading his men. Think not of the war, but in the battle and the house to house fight, and that his courage and strength brought his men through. I assure you, we will never, ever forget your son.
Chris Linscheid
December 2, 2004
Your son gave his life so that others may live. This is the definition of a true hero!
God Speed J.P.
John & Karen Pflasterer
November 30, 2004
Dear Blecksmith Family - Your son & brother is a hero we will always remember and thank God for men like him,who are honorable & selfless. You are all in our prayers. May Christ comfort you and sustain each of you. John & Karen Pflasterer
Meghan Cernick Thimjon
November 30, 2004
I got a call the morning of November 11, 2004 from my father Lt.Colonel Randy Cernick. He was devastated that one of his friends from Vietnam had just lost his son. I was also devastated and could hear the sadness in my father's voice.
My heart goes out to all of you. I do not know your family but my dad does and I just want you to know that I have been thinking of J.P. since the phone call I received. My husband was listening to the radio yesterday and they were talking about J.P. He will not be forgotten!
Sincerely, Meghan Cernick Thimjon, a very proud Marine Corps daughter!
Michelle Blanchot
November 29, 2004
Dear Ed, Pam, Christina, Alex, and Emily Tait - My heart goes out to you all at this time. Thank you for bringing such a wonderful person into this world. We will forever cherish JP in our hearts. How proud I am to have been friends with JP since Middle School; he has truly made a huge impact on my life. Please know that my entire church prayed for your family this Sunday (1,000+ people). JP's story is definitely being spread throughout the world! God Bless you all...
Craig Wilson
November 28, 2004
You son and brother sacrificed his life so that my family and our country can live in freedom. I can only say thank you to Lt. Blecksmith for his courage and commitment to his country, and can never repay him nor his family for the sacrifice they have made. May god bless you.
Donald Beuttenmuller
November 27, 2004
I happened to be seated next to Ed at the Army-Navy game, 2002. This was the first and only time I saw J.P. and his proud family. Words do not have the capability of expressing the sorrow we feel for the loss the Blecksmith family has suffered, nor the magnitude of J.P.'s sacrifice, made for each and all of us. We shall never forget your loss nor his sacrifice. For both are the bedrock of the freedom our country must never take for granted. Our deepest condolences and most profound gratitude are extended.
Diane Stevenson
November 24, 2004
Please accept my sincere condolences. I don't know you or your son but my heart goes out to you and your family. Your son gave a priceless gift for our freedom and I honor and respect him. May God wrap His arms around you during these most difficult times.
Tyise Gray
November 24, 2004
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to your family during this time of deep sadness. May your memories see you through this difficult time. Go to "Our Heavenly Father" in prayer and He will sustain you Psalms 55:22. God Bless you all.
Raymond & Monique Gutierrez and Family
November 22, 2004
Dear Blecksmith Family: We are truly sorry for your great lost of your son J.P., when we heard my heart dropped. Ed and Pam, I hope you remember us, my son Joel Gutierrez went to Flintridge Prep with him all 7 years, they were good friends...When I called Joel to give him the news, he was exteremly sadden but also very proud of him...We will keep your family in our prayers always...God Bless you and love always..Gutierrez Family...
DANIEL B BANKS
November 20, 2004
To: The Blecksmith Family
From: The Banks Family
We feel your pain. We can’t know why sad things happen. We can only know in time, the pain will go away and in its place, the beautiful and special memories, the keepsakes of the heart, will always remain.
Sincerely,
Church of Our Saviour
Liz Smith
November 19, 2004
To Ed, Pam, Alex & Christina:
I can't even begin to tell you how truly sorry I am for the loss of JP. My parents (Wayne & Barbara), my sister (Emily) and I are all just heartbroken. Emily and I remember when we used to babysit for JP (and you too Alex and Christina) and we have spent this past week thinking back on all those times. We will always remember JP as that adorable little boy who had the cutest giggle and biggest smile. And, thanks to all of the wonderful articles that have been written about him, we will also remember JP as an amazing and very special young man. My family and I send you our love and deepest sympathies.
Sheri OBrien
November 19, 2004
I am so very sorry for your loss. Our nation is so fortunate to have had your son on our side. Nothing I can say or do can take away from your sadness and hurt at this time, but please know you are in our prayers. We also honor your sacrifice as parents, giving us the ultimate gift - your child. God Bless You.
Lisa Harrison
November 18, 2004
Each of you are in my prayers.
Charlotte Ezelle
November 18, 2004
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
J.P. has given the ultimate sacrifice not only for our great country, but to give the gift of freedom to an oppressed country & people. What an awesome legacy to leave for future generations.
We hope the precious memories each of you made with J.P. will bring you comfort and sustain you until you're reunited in that far better place we've been promised. We know for sure the gates of heaven are safer with Marines like J.P. on duty.
God Bless-
Charlotte Ezelle
VPMM Sgt. Killingsworth
AnnaMae Terry
November 18, 2004
I am so very, very sorry. My heart just aches for you.
May God's angels wrap you in their arms and hold you for as long as you want to be there.
And your hearts be filled with warm thoughts and treasured moments that you have shared with your son.
VPMG Anne Terry
.
Beverly Rosen
November 18, 2004
Please accept my sincere condolences for the loss of this wonderful hero. My heart hurts for your loss. I pray you are able to feel God's comfort and peace during this time.
Art Wright
November 18, 2004
I know that words are often useless when you have to deal with the loss of a child, but words are all I can offer.
I feel that our country, my state, and my family are better off because your son was born and decided to become a Marine. I for one will never forget what he has done. Please accept my prayers and condolences.
a Marine Dad
Teri Dotson
November 18, 2004
My heart aches for all of you.
Please know that JP will never be forgotten.
In Christ
Teri Dotson
Cindy Lindow
November 18, 2004
My heart felt condolances to you. JP sounds like he was a wonderful intelligent young man who stepped up and with honor and dignity to serve his country. My prayers are with your family.
Alan and Mercedes Butts
November 18, 2004
We are so very sorry for your loss. This Nation owes J.P. eternally for his sacrife.
Our hearts and prayers are with you
Alan and Merce
Katie Legato
November 17, 2004
God bless you. We are all indebted to JP and his family for what they sacrificed in the name of freedom.
Michael Mulraney
November 17, 2004
Even though I didn't know you, J.P., your sacrifice is more then appreciate, I salute you sir! From a former combat wounded Marine.May GOD be with you!
"Semper Fi"
Karen Lindsey
November 17, 2004
Dear Pam & Ed,
I join the many, many friends, family and acquaintances who mourn J.P.'s loss with you and who pray for your peace of mind at this time. This has made me appreciate his sacrifice as well as that of so many others who are fighting to make the world a better place. It is a huge responsibility and one which I support; but I realize the price has also been tremendous. I am grateful and blessed to have had J.P. representing the U.S.
God bless all of you.
Karen Lindsey
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