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Jonathan Lankford Sr.

Jonathan Lankford Obituary

lankford CSM JONATHAN MILES LANKFORD, SR. Passed away September 22, 2007 in Baghdad, Iraq while serving his country in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He is survived by his wife Cheryl Denise Lankford; and son Jonathan Miles Lankford Jr.; Mother Mary Jo Lankford; and many other beloved family members. Jonathan was born April 16, 1965 to Henry Cameron Lankford of Stevenson, AL and Mary Jo Lankford of Scottsboro AL. He graduated from Scottsboro High School in 1983, attended University of Maryland and earned a Bachelors degree in Business Administration. CSM Lankford enlisted in the Army November 5, 1984 and volunteered for Explosive Ordnance Disposal. CSM awards and decorations includes Legion of Merit, Two Bronze Star Medals, and Meritorious Service Medal to name a few. He was a true leader for the current Joint Force Structure; able to lead intricate combat operations in extraordinary lethal environments. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 9, 2007 at ROBERT J. MURPHY FUNERAL HOME, from 6 to 8 p.m. Services will be held at Ft. Myer Old Post Chapel on Wednesday, October 10, 2007 at 3 p.m., followed by interment at Arlington National Cemetery.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on Oct. 6, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Jonathan Lankford

73 Entries

Kerstin Thies-Turner

July 1, 2020

Miles was our amazing friend . We crossed paths in Germany and Indianhead . He spent lots of time with our little family. He was a fun ,warm, intelligent, loving every minute of his life kind of person and a sunshine to have around. Someone who leaves special memories, a unique human being .

September 23, 2011

I think about my friend often. I never miss a chance to talk about Miles and what he meant to so many of us professionally and personally. He was a true soldier and an even better friend.

Peggy Childers

September 22, 2011

To the family and friends of Command Sgt. Maj. Jonathan M. Lankford:
Please accept my remembrance of Jonathan on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

Sandy Graham

September 22, 2011

Dear Family of Commander Sgt. Maj. Jonathan M. Lankford,

Your loved one will always be remembered and especially on this day, may you feel the loving arms of our heavenly Father around you.

Peggy Childers

September 22, 2010

To the family and friends of Command Sgt. Maj. Jonathan M. Lankford:
Remembering Jonathan 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

June 27, 2010

Aunt Jo, I finally learned how to use this computer to search. I was looking for you and found out Miles was gone. I am grateful for his service, shocked at him being gone and am so sorry for your loss. The funny thing is I talk about you and Miles all the time. Please call me at your earliest cinvenience ( collect )home-219 886-2720 or cell219 308-8023 -Rene' or Dwight at 219-308-8024 mother-219-885-6717. We apologize for taking so long to find you. God bless you and yours. Rene' Edwards- Gary, IN.

william mizell henry

January 18, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Peggy Childers

September 22, 2009

To the family of Command Sgt. Maj. Jonathan M. Lankford:
Jonathan 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

Lisa Swanzy (Sad yet THANKFUL American)

April 28, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. Thank you Command Sgt. Major Lankford and family for your service and ultimate sacrifice. You will ALWAYS be an Alabama/American hero and WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!
With DEEP sympathy and MANY thanks to you and your family,

Charles"Charley" Barley

February 10, 2009

Its been over a year since we loss our best friend, mentor, father, husband, so much to so many. I think of Miles often. Seems that his name comes up in conversation over and over again. He made a big impact on the EOD field and in all who knew him. Cheryl and Jon Jr know Wendy and I are always here for you.

SSG Phillip Blackmon

February 9, 2009

I can never forget the first time I met CSM Lankford. I remarked how big of a man I was, which I thought funny because CSM was not a small man himself. He was the president of the board and evaluated me when I went to the rank of SGT. His words have stayed with me throughout my career thus far. "Dont just wear the rank, bear the responsibility of an NCO" I am saddened to hear of CSM Lankford's death but I will do the best I can to honor what he stood for as a soldier and NCO in the Army. Thank you Sergeant Major!!

Lewis Stewart, LTC(Ret)

November 11, 2008

On this special day in which we recongnize those whom serve this country so bravely, it pains me greatly to discover that CSM Miles Lankford has returned to the hands of God. Miles and I served together in the 21st EOD, Ziegenberg, GE during the late 1980's. As the unit commander, I learned very quickly the qualities and professionalism that Miles possessed. I never hesitated to lean on him when the most difficult mission arose. We shared many great moments in friendship and duty. The Army and the world lost one of its best the day God called Miles back home. I know Miles continues to "look down from heaven to ensure his troops and his officers are taken care of" -- it is the type of person he was. Miles, I know you are teaching the angels in heaven how to crip a blasting cap and when to yell "fire in the hole". You left a lasting impression on me as a young commander and now in your death. May God continue to bless your loved ones, whom I know miss you so very much.

William Alexander

October 10, 2008

I have been very saddened to learn of the death of CSM Lankford. I got to know CSM Lankford while we were both serving with the Berlin Brigade. He helped me put together my applications packet for EOD school, and later I was priviledged to have him as one of my instructors during the Indian Head phase. He had a generous and magnetic personality. He made me want to learn, and to become a better soldier. I am very sorry to know that others will not be able to experience this with him. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Thank you for all that you gave to our country CSM Lankford, and all that you did to help me.

Safely Home

Michael Iezzi

September 22, 2008

Jonathan,
Thinking and praying for you on the 1st anniversary of your passing into eternal glory. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends", John 15:13.

In Memory of Jonathan ~ (Debra Estep)

September 22, 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 Jonathan, but I am remembering
his service. 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

July 4, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Command Sgt Maj Lankford!

June 14, 2008

HAPPY FATHERS DAY

Robert Barocio

March 6, 2008

I am deeply saddened to just have learned of CSM Lankfords passing. I served with him in 1998-1999 in Technical Escort Unit Edgewood MD. He was a great mentor and he never once hesitated to be there when I had a question. He would make me laugh a great deal with his dry humor. I am deeply saddened and I sincerely give my condolences to his family.

Robert Barocio

Geneva Morring

February 27, 2008

Dear Cheryl and Mary Jo,

I knew Miles when he was station in Berlin, Germany (2003-2005). He and I attended classes together at UMUC. I am devastated to learn of his death; he was a great person and friend. I pray that you and your families have peace of knowing that Miles is with God. I thank God for allowing me the opportunity to know and respect Miles.
God Bless,
Geneva

Miles in 1997 taking a break from a bike ride. National Airport is in the background. His smile says it all.

Cassandra Soltis

January 31, 2008

The attached photo is how I will always remember Miles...that beautiful smile with a heart of gold to match.

Cassandra Soltis

January 21, 2008

Dear Cheryl and Mary Jo,

I knew Miles from when he lived in the DC area. He was such a good person. I can't tell you how crushed I am to find out about his passing. I pray that you and your families have peace knowing that Miles is with God. I also pray that Miles knows that he had a lot of people who really respected him and thought a lot of him. My thoughts and prayers go to you all and to Miles.

Mrs. Lane Pietrylo

January 1, 2008

Dear Lankford family,

I am sorry to learn of the Sergeant Major's death, and I wish to express my gratitude for his efforts in the Army. He began serving America and sacrificing for each one of us a long time ago. His many years of service to this country are worthy of our honor and continued appreciation.

Thank you for sharing him with us.

Earla Lockhart

November 16, 2007

I am an old friend of Mary Jo Lankford and knew "Miles" when he was growing up in Scottsboro. I somehow missed the news of his untimely death--but still wanted to express my sympathy to the family. May God comfort you with His peace, His power and His presence as you face life without your loved one.

Nathaniel Garza

November 9, 2007

I first met CSM Lankford in Taji, Iraq in 2003 as a scared 1st Lieutenant assigned to help his unit destroy ordnance just North of Taji. I had just arrived in Iraq and CSM Lankford took me under his wing and ensured I was operating safe to get the job done. Later, we served together at the 79th EOD BN and would play golf at the Fort Sam Golf Course. I am not a very good golfer. But CSM Lankford was very good and he waited patiently while I , CPT Sopko, and CPT Smith had to go find our golf balls on every hole that we sliced into the brush. Cheryl and Jon Jr., I feel terrible for your loss. When I heard of the news I just couldn't believe it. He was a great mentor and a valuable asset to the EOD community. I will miss him dearly. CPT Garza, 759th EOD.

Robert Black

November 6, 2007

Cheryl, Miles Jr. and the entire Lankford family,
I would like to take this time to offer my condolences to you in this time of grief. I am a classmate of Miles from Scottsboro High School and I can say that he was a friend of mine. I was saddended to hear of his passing, he was a one of a kind. Today, as you know the State of Alabama honored Miles along with the others that have fallen in Iraq with a memorial in Montgomery. How fitting it is that they be honored for what they have given for us. My love goes out to you all.

Mariam Soto

November 5, 2007

My prayers are with the Lankford family. I think of him often and know that John Jr. will be proud of his daddy. CSM Lankford was an amazing person and very respected. He was truly one of a kind and by far the BEST CSM I have ever work for. He will be sorely missed.

CSM Stephen Scalf

October 14, 2007

Just over a year ago, I was preparing to return home from Iraq and stopped by the Camp Victory PX. I heard a familiar voice call my name and turned to see Jonathan. What a place for a reunion. We caught each other up on our families and reminded each other about some of the fond memories we shared from our time together at the Sergeants Major Academy. I always admired Jonathan's keen intellect and his quiet dignity. He had a way of inspiring those around him to want to be better people. He was a shining example that a man can be a professional Soldier without compromising his morals, his values, or his faith. I am a better person for having known him. May God be with you and uphold you as you find your way forward.

October 13, 2007

To the Family and Friends of this Soldier:
I will stand in grief with this soldier's family to honor him. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guestbook for the rest of my life, but I promised Brent that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
We lost our son SFC Brent A. Adams on 12/1/05 and it seems like yesterday. I wish so badly there were things I could say to you right now to make the pain you are feeling go away, but I know first hand there simply are no words that will bring you the comfort and peace your heart aches for. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you go through this tragedy moment by moment and as you mourn this loss.
We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group none of us wanted to join, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with as our hearts both burst with pride and pain together.
I am sorry that I never knew your soldier personally. While they can never be replaced, neither will they ever be forgotten. You must trust that sometime, someday the loving memories you have will help to sustain you and help you go on. This courageous soldier will forever be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me some measure of peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well.
To his family and friends in pain, I offer this comfort: When you find yourself in that dark sorrowful place, think not only of how you will miss him, but instead recall the years, days, hours and minutes gifted to you by his presence. The one thing that cannot be taken from you is your wonderful memories that now will mean more than ever.
If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away and would love for you to tell me more about your Hero.
God Bless this soldier and family who gave all and God Bless legacy.com for setting up this site where families can so quickly share their condolences and prayers with others like themselves.
Proud Parents of SFC Brent A. Adams, KIA, 12/1/05, Ramadi, Iraq
Pam and Bill Adams, Lancaster, PA

elizabeth zahller

October 11, 2007

Dear Loved ones, I wanted to express our feelings of sorrow for the loss of Hero Johnathan. We dont know one another but we are here to show our respect and to honor him for keeping us from harmsway and every american needs to thank God for Our Jonathan because it takes a unique and strong person to perform a job that ask you to give up so much. He loved his family and he loved his country and he loved freedom. We are praying for you in arizona and we know Jesus will comfort you and hold you tight in his loving arms. sincerely, elizabeth zahller soldiers angels support team May no soldier go unloved and soldiers family go unsupported

From a mother who's son has served his country

October 11, 2007

I Thank God for the many men and women like your husband, father and son who is and has served to protect our freedom in the United States. I pray that the Lord will give you strength during this trying time.

Robert Starr

October 10, 2007

I am a fellow member of the Scottsboro High School Class of 1983. I wish to express my gratitude to Miles for his service and to let his family know that everyone I've talked to from our graduating class is greatly saddened by their loss. Thanks again.

Beth Campbell Mannon

October 9, 2007

Cheryl, I am a classmate of Miles from the 1983 graduating class of Scottsboro High School. I feel so honored to be able to leave you a message. I know I am telling you something you already know! Miles was a WONDERFUL guy with an unforgetable smile. Please know that hearts in Scottsboro hurt for you and Miles Jr. Please let Ms. Mary Jo know she is very much loved also. I lift you all up to God.

7th grade Louisburg Middle School

October 8, 2007

We share and care your sorrow and pride.

LMF

October 8, 2007

Thank you for helping to make things better for the people of Iraq and for protecting what we Americans treasure most, Freedom.
I am most saddend to hear of the passing of another soldier, but we continue to be free & for that I thank you. Condolences to the family & friends of Jonathan Lankford.

evanglina mathis

October 7, 2007

Dear Sir: thank you for serving our country and putting your life on the line for all Americans. You are a hero and you will always be in my prayers, and now that your with Jesus and all his angels you will live forever. God bless all your family, and i know they will mis you very much. love Mr.&Mrs Mathis

Sandy and Deborah Anderson

October 7, 2007

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Just know Jonathan served his country bravely, and we are so very grateful. May you always cherish your memories. All of your family will remain in our prayers-let the Good Lord see you through this most difficult time.

Edie Hoyte

October 7, 2007

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying. Neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

Ms. Cheryl, I was sitting reading the Army Times last week and my words nor my very emotional reaction cannot begin to express how I felt when I saw Mr. Jonathan's picture...

We are so sorry for your loss...

Know that you and your son, and your families are in our thoughts and prayers...

Cheryl, please take comfort to know that the Hoytes have never forgotten the Lankfords. You guys were the best neighbors and friends at Fort Hood! Junior and I forever cherish and have always been grateful for the times you and Mr. Jonathan spent with our sons, Michael and CJ... Michael and CJ never forgot the both of you.

Cheryl, may the memories you hold deep within your heart help to soothe you now during this difficult time, and beyond.

Always your friends,

Junior, Edie & the boys

Christopher J Hoyte

October 7, 2007

Hello Ms. Cheryl,

This is CJ. I was sorry to hear about Mr. Jonathan. He was a very nice and loving person, and we all miss him here. I hope we can come over there and see how you are doing this November.

Love,

CJ

Michael Hoyte

October 7, 2007

Hello Ms. Cheryl,

This is Michael Hoyte. I'm sorry for what happen to Mr. Jonathan. I remember when we would come over to your house and play with Princess, and when Mr. Jonathan fixed my bike. Hopefully we will come see you in November.

Sincerely,

Michael

Cynthia Rodriguez

October 7, 2007

Sir: Thank you for serving our Country. May God Bless You and keep you by his side. Also, God Bless Your Family. Mrs. Rodriguez

October 7, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Command Sgt Maj Lankford and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

Lynda Witt

October 7, 2007

Though I do not know you I want you to know how much we appreciate your service and sacrifice to our country. God bless you and your family.

John LaBuff

October 6, 2007

You gave your all. Our sympathy to your family. Thank you from a gratful nation.

Gordon Graham

October 6, 2007

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of CSM Lankford. Many, many years ago I was one of his students in EOD school at Indianhead, Maryland. Without a doubt, had it not been for CSM Lankford I would not had successfully graduated. I'm now a LTC in the Army, and I credit any success I may have in my career to CSM Lankford and the many NCOs like him, I've met in my career. I truly thank God for bring CSM Lankford in my life and allowing him to have such a lasting impact on the type of soldier I should be. I pray for you and your family during this time and please know that CSM Lankford's has definitely made a difference.

LTC Gordon Graham

Julie Griffith

October 5, 2007

Cheryl~~
I'm so very sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything at all that I can do. I'm here for you!! You, your son and the rest of your family are in my daily prayers and thoughts. When you feel up to it please contact me ~ I would love to catch up with you. My number is (410) 286-3569.
Love ya!
Julie Ingram (Griffith)

Kristi Bingham

October 4, 2007

Cheryl,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you during this time of mourning and healing. We are praying for peace for you and Jon, know that we are here for you both, no matter how far away, or how long it has been.
With Love,

Susy Gonzalez

October 2, 2007

Even thogh I only met Mr Lankford a couple times, I have had the pleasure of knowing his son and wife for almost two years now. They are both wonderful people and reflect the type of person I know Mr Lankford was. I hope that they soon come to a place of peace and understanding. Our thoughts are with them and with the family.

Elizabeth (Liz) Gamble

October 2, 2007

Cheryl, I was so sorry to hear the news. Jim and I wanted to let you know you and your son, Jon are in our hearts and prayers!

Jason Roth

October 1, 2007

My family and I had the pleasure of knowing Jonathan, Cheryl and their son, John for a short time. We are deeply saddened by this tragedy. Jonathan was quiet and reserved, but witty. Although I never worked with him, his dedication to his country, family and the Army was something that I found easy to admire. I was looking forward to seeing him on his return, shaking his hand and thanking him for his selfless service. We will certainly miss him.

Angela Stahl (sister-in-law to Stan Blaskowski, Matt's brother)

September 30, 2007

We are currently grieving the loss of our own hometown soldier,
SFC Matt Blaskowski 9/23/07. I came across this Guestbook and wanted to extend my sympathies to the family and friends of Command Sgt.Maj. Jonathan Lankford. Please take comfort in knowing that you are not alone, we are hurting deeply as well. How thankful we are for these brave men and women who lay down their lives for us! Each of these soldiers has a family and loved ones who want them to return home safely more than anything in the world, and when they don't, it is heartbreaking for those left behind. We bear your grievous burden with you and pray that God will meet your every need at this most difficult time. We also pray that our soldiers who remain active in this war will be home soon. We are so sorry for your loss.

William Filipkowski

September 30, 2007

I can not express my deepest sympathy for your loss. I have fond memories of Jonathan from the SGM Academy and he was a great soldier. I hope in the months to come you can find some peace in the fact that he will always be with you and your family. May God Bless you in your time of need. Best Wishes Always.......

Felicia Stoeltje

September 29, 2007

We are so very sorry to hear of Jonathans passing, he will be greatly missed by all who knew him and worked with him, our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time of great sorrow.

Ruben and Felicia Stoeltje

Kenny and Donna Revel

September 29, 2007

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13

You are in our thoughts and prayers. We pray for God's comfort and peace in your lives.
Our family shares in the loss of your loved one. We thank God for his life and you for the sacrifice he made for the freedom we have in America, the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Jarrod Lampier

September 28, 2007

I am very sorry for the loss of CSM Lankford. I had the honor and privilege to work with him in Iraq and in San Antonio with the 79th EOD BN. I have known him to be a consummate professional and he cared deeply for all of his Soldiers. The EOD community has lost a true warrior leader and he will be missed.

Ronn Massie

September 28, 2007

God bless the family and friends of Johnathan.
You will all be in our prayers.
Thank you Johnathan for being such a brave hero.

(In remembrance of Cpl. Joey Cantrell 4-4-07)

CSM Lankford and I in front of his Battalion Sign Dec 05

Charles Barley

September 28, 2007

Miles as he was known to many of his friends was the example of what every soldier and leader should strive to be. Accountable, tough, fair, caring and understanding. He was an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician. He was my best friend and will find it hard to think I will ever find another guy I think so highly of. To his wife, son and family my heart goes out to you. We will continue to be there for you. Love you both very much.

Tom Gugliuzza-Smith

September 27, 2007

My heartfelt sympathy to the Lankford family in the loss of Jonathan. I did not know Jonathan, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. Jonathan you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten.I live close to ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY and I visit there frequently. Each time I am at ANC I will visit/honor Jonathan.
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~

Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)

September 27, 2007

Rest in peace.

SHIRLEY DONEY

September 26, 2007

REST IN PEACE JONATHAN, TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS MAY THE MEMORIES OF THIS WONDERFUL SOLDIERS LIFE FILL YOUR HEARTS WITH BEAUTIFU MEMORIES
GOD BLESS YOU

Carol Cline

September 26, 2007

Command Sgt. Maj. Jonathan Lankford and Family:

Know in your heart that you are a true hero and will never be forgotten. All gave some, some gave all. Rest in peace. You will be missed by everyone’s life you have touched.

To the family, as the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family, friends, and all Americans for the sacrifice of one of your family members for our freedom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort in the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father.

Sandy Bonesteel

September 26, 2007

As the mother of a son who is deployed, I want to send my condolences. Please know that there are many, many people who grieve with you.

Carla Sizer

September 25, 2007

I can't even find the words...I too lost my son--5 Sept 2007, Balad, Iraq. I am absolutely devastated and I know that you are too...but find comfort in the fact that we will see our loved ones, our heroes again. Do I wish that I could trade places with my son? ABSOLUTELY not. He is in the arms of our Lord--"And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away" ~Rev 21:4
What a wonderful thought...
May God bless SFC Matthew Blaskowski, God bless you and your family and God bless America!

Garnet Jenkins

September 25, 2007

A Multitude of Thanks, to Command Sgt. Maj. Jonathan M. Lankford, who has lost his life while in the Service of our Country. With so much gratitude for this Brave Soldier's Courage, and his Unselfish Dedication and Service.
Rest In Peace now, Jonathan, in God's Loving Care and may the Peace of God be with the Lankford family.

Those who Make these Sacrifices, So Many and So Young, shall Never Be Forgotten, my brother among them. Killed in action in Vietnam in 1967.

"I consider that our present sufferings.
are not worth comparing with the glory
that shall be revealed in us."
~ Romans 8:18 ~

I am sincerely hoping that you feel the thoughts of caring and support that surround you today and every day, as this Country morns with you, for someone very precious to you, who is a True American Hero to all of us.
I am So Deeply Sorry for your Loss.

Debbie , Kenny Coffey

September 25, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers to the LANKFORD Family.Many of us know now what Jonathans family has Always known.And also in his honor our HEROS shall NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.Rest well brother Jonathan that star spangled banner shall FOREVER wave,Your name stamped in steel FOREVER clutched in the tallons,Your spirit shall FOREVER soar high in the skies in the symbol of our great nation. COME by NORTH--COME by SOUTH--COME by EAST--COME by WEST,We were all gathered and united on that great day as strangers and upon those last [4] spoken words we are FOREVER BROTHERS.. ...SEMPER FI. ...B.V.C.

Gale Poindexter

September 25, 2007

I am writing to offer my condolences to your family over the loss of your HERO Command Sgt Major Jonathan M Lankford. I also lost my son in Iraq on May 6/2007, so I can well understand your pain of losing a loved one so dear.

When things settle down, I recommend that you contact a man named Michael Reagan @
www.michaelgreaganartist.com

He will draw one portrait of the fallen soldier. He does this for free and will draw any picture of your choosing. He has drawn presidents and other celebrities. My husband and I got one and it has helped me with the healing process. Michael is a truly gifted artist that captures the very essence of the person he draws. I look at my picture everyday and it gives me a connection that I cannot explain.

I pray you will be guided by a higher power to give you peace, comfort and strength in this time.

Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit
GOD Bless you and your family. Your soldier was a true American Hero and we are all very proud of his service.

(Proud mother of Sgt Joel W. Lewis, 5/20, 3-2 SBCT /Ft Lewis-KIA May 6/07, Baqubah, Iraq)

Valorie

September 25, 2007

My prayers and thoughts are with you.
I know how you feel losing a "HERO",Becoming a "Gold Star" Mother myself on 25 March.. The sacrafice our sons and daughters are making on a daily basis should tell us all..These young HEROS knew full well what they were doing and did it proudly When you hug your loved ones tonight.... Remember... We also hugged ours and they were protecting you..We.. as Americans need to make the "Ultimate Sacrafice" by supporting all our military(HEROS)...the Proud Mom of SGT. Jason W. Swiger
5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne,Fort Bragg, N.C. KIA 3/25/007

debbi rivers

September 25, 2007

To the parents and family of Jonathan, I feel sadness in my heart each time I know another family has suffered a loss in these wars. I too am a Gold Star Mother and so I truly know what you are going through and what yet is ahead. I would like you to know that if you would like to talk, vent, cry or share memories that I am here for you. I have been blessed by God to be able to reach out to other parents who have gone through this same tragedy. We have a very good support group across the US so any emotional support you need is here. May God continue to heal you as you face the days and weeks ahead.

In memory of my son
Spc Harry (Buck) Winkler III
KIA November 12, 2006
Samarra, Iraq

Chaplain Dan Gates, Georgia Society SAR

September 25, 2007

With the deepest regret, I have just learned of the death of Command Sergeant Major Lankford. As a Vietnam Veteran and the State Chaplain of the Georgia Society, Sons Of The American Revolution, I speak for our President, Charlie A. Newcomer, III and the more than 1,400 SAR members around the State of Georgia in humbly expressing the condolences of a grateful Society. Wrapped in the integrity of service to our nation and the inestimable values of duty, honor and country, your American hero stood on a wall of freedom for us all. His life and his love of country epitomized every attribute of patriotism the Sons Of The American Revolution hold dear. And, as Americans, we could never repay the debt we owe him ..!! Nor the debt we owe you… his family!!!

Michael iezzi

September 25, 2007

Father we entrust our brother Jonathan to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
May God hold Jonathan in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. My deepest sympathy.

September 25, 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)

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