A Rowdy Loss

My heart goes out to J. D. and his family. Over the past few years, J. D. has become a good friend - even though I've never met him. I was heartbroken by this tragic news...what a wonderful tribute to James and his family. Thank you Buck, Bass, Cutler, Rusty and all of the Rowdy family for remembering James. It's guys like you that make the "wonderful" part happen even in the midst of such deep sadness.

James and his entire family made the ultimate sacrifice for all of us. For that I will be forever thankful.

I am deeply sorry for your loss. The family will be in my thoughts and prayers during this time.

"Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends."
-John 15:13

Being a relatively new parent I could not begin (nor would I ever want to) imagine what JD is feeling. I am truly sorry and it deeply saddens my heart to hear this. I do want to say that I am very proud of his son for having the bravery and pride to serve our country in these trying times. Regardless of anyone's thoughts on the war and why we're in it, there are American men and women doing what their country has asked and for that they should be commended. May God bless JD's son James and all of our military.

JD, nothing I could do or say could ever dent the trauma you're currently going through, but when I say my prayers your family will be in them.

J.D., as I've been telling you all along, our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. We send you our deepest condolences.

You are missed here on Rowdy.

What a tragedy for JD and his son's family. I am deeply saddened by this news and will keep all of your family in my prayers.

My prayers are with you and your family JD.

It's hard to put into words my feeling on Jd and his family's loss. As a Marine myself I'll contribute the Marines prayer as recited every Sunday during boot camp.

Almighty Father, whose command is over all and whose love never fails, make me aware of Thy presence and obedient to Thy will. Keep me true to my best self, guarding me against dishonesty in purpose and deed and helping me to live so that I can face my fellow Marines, my loved ones, and Thee without shame or fear. Protect my family.

Give me the will to do the work of a Marine and to accept my share of responsibilities with vigor and enthusiasm. Grant me the courage to be proficient in my daily performance. Keep me loyal and faithful to my superiors and to the duties my Country and the Marine Corps have entrusted to me. Help me to wear my uniform with dignity, and let it remind me daily of the traditions which I must uphold.

If I am inclined to doubt, steady my faith; if I am tempted, make me strong to resist; if I should miss the mark, give me courage to try again.

Guide me with the light of truth and grant me wisdom by which I may understand the answer to my prayer.

Semper Fi

I'm so sorry to hear about James. Our prayers go out to JD, to his family and to James' family.

What a brave young man, a true hero ... my deepest condolences and prayers to you and yours JD ...

I only know J.D. from Rowdy and I didn't know James at all, yet I cried when I heard.

We all honor the memory of this young man who chose to serve his country. We all grieve along with the Kimple family and hope that they can cherish the time that they had with James.

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal,
Love leaves a memory no one can steal.
- From a headstone in Ireland

J.D., I am so sorry to hear about James. My heart just aches for you and your family. If we could be sitting in that bar again in NYC, I would give you the biggest hug I could muster. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

I was showing my wife the responses to this topic and she is deeply touched by the love shown from so many people across our fine country who have not even met us. It really shows us how truly connected we all are. It is helping to heal our hearts to read so many kind words from everyone.

Sincerely thank you all and God bless.

JD I am sending you my deepest and most heartfelt sympathies. Your son was a true hero to our country. I admire his strength and courage as well as your families during this difficult time.