JP Blecksmith Leadership Foundation Guestbook
Philip Bannister said:
I am a Marine Veteran who served from 98-03. I am getting ready to return to Iraq as a civilian this time. The loss of J.P., my brother Marine, brings tears to my eyes. All that we Marines strive to do is complete our mission and bring one another home. I know that for his efforts he protected his Marines and ensured that others made it home. My deepest sympathies for you and your family. The Marine Corps family is always there for you! Semper Fidelis!
John Barger said:
The most profound sense of gratitude to JP, his family, and to all of our troops, their families, and those who support them. John 15:13 says it all. May we all have the opportunity to reflect on such truth--and to recognize those who live it as good and faithful servants. Semper Fi indeed.
Jayson Leisenring said:
Did not know him, but what a man. Our country depends on men like him to protect our freedoms. Hope to help your organization through our web site in the future. www.ThankUSTroops.com
Stormy Hart said:
A more handsome man never lived. Even though his life was short, it was a full and happy life. I would have been honored to have met him.
Mark Ard said:
I never had the honor meet JP personally, from what I have read about him he was an outstanding person and a formidable Marine. I was with him the morning he passed to glory in Fallujah. I help to lift him out of the vehicle he was in. The memory has been burned in my mind and will remain there for the rest of my life. I'm sorry I never got the chance to meet you JP. I'm sorry there wasnt more we could have done for you. Thank you for your service and your courage. It has been said; 'it is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who have died, rather, we should thank God that such men lived' Thank you.
John Erikson said:
God Bless JP and his family. He was a true American hero. I never met him personally, but I feel I know him from everything that has been written and said about him. He was the very best kind of man this country has to offer.
Ann Boutin said:
The entire Boutin clan was proud to celebrate Independence Day by participating in the JP Blecksmith Memorial 5k. Thanks!
Neal Jenkins said:
The 5K run on July 4th is a great legacy to JP.
Lowell Brown said:
I can't think of a better thing to do on Independence Day than to visit this site and honor JP Blecksmith. God bless.
Robert Robinson said:
US Army grunt, Spec Four [twice], RVN Class of '68...running tomorrow to honor the Lieutenant and his family, especially his mother.
U S "Sam" Grant said:
Ed,
Having read through the Guestbook, there isn't really much I can add. It was good to see you and Rich Gannon at the Reunion. My time there was too short. God Bless.
Sam
Michael Sweeney said:
I attended the US Naval Academy in the late 1970's. I know first-hand how rigorous and demanding that training is. Your son is a true American hero, not just for his sacrifice, but for the life he chose to live.
I want you to know that you son lives on-- in the hearts and minds of thousands of people just like me. People who never had the chance to meet him, but who came across his story on the internet and were moved to write their names and thoughts here. Or, perhaps, to sit in silent contemplation... grateful that there exist men like your son in our midst.
I know your loss has been great, maybe greater than I or anyone here can imagine. I just wanted you to know that your son achieved something in his life that many men fail to do-- he made the world a better place for having been in it.
May God continue to bless you and your family. Semper fi.
Justin Simmons said:
J.P. and I shared a locker during our plebe year of football at the Academy. He was one of the first people that I got to know and his presence always lifted my spirits. Our country needs more men like him.
Carolyn Gupta said:
Monday will be Memorial Day and I just want you to know that I am remembering JP. He is gone, but not forgotten. Blessings to all of you. ~Carolyn
Lisa Dixon said:
Remembering and honoring JP and his Navy football brethren once again:
http://viewfromthe8thfloor.blogspot.com/2007/05/memorial-day-traditions-year-two.html
Best regards,
Brennan Joe said:
The members of 4-67 will always have you in our prayers.
Steven Baglio said:
Thank you Sir, for your sacrifice. Reading your story you are a true hero as of all the others who have and will serve in OIF. Saw the shirt and its a way for me to show my support for you and all others that have served for me.
A Clausell said:
I too was inexplicably drawn by the name on Mark/Leroy's T-shirt tonight. After reading of 2ND LT. J.P. Blecksmith, I can only say that my solemn thoughts and gratitude go out to his family and friends as well as to all the past, present and future men and women defending our country.
Ken Parham said:
Saw JP's memorial shirt this evening on NCIS. Thank you, JP, for serving your country and protecting our freedoms. We all owe you a huge debt. Semper Fi, sir.
R. Jenkins said:
This great country owes much to people like this LT. May the hands of GOD be upon you and your family who have lost a CHAMPION. Freedom is NOT free, this Marine paid the ultiamte price for you and me. Thanks to all who have served and are still serving!