Sgt. Jon Edward Bonnell
19 Aug 1984 - 06 Aug 2007
U.S. Marine Corps
Al Anbar, Iraq
Died when he stepped on an improvised
explosive device
while patroling on foot, looking for roadside bombs.
This was his second tour in Iraq.
Sgt. Jon Edward Bonnell, Jr.
I didn't know Jon... I never met him.
I don't even know how or if we are related
through the Bonnell family tree...
But we are related as Americans and as fellow Servicemen.
In reading of Jon's death,
I felt especially compelled to acknowledge and
thank him for his ultimate sacrifice.
I realize there have been many others before him
(And there will be many others after him)
That have done the same but have not been acknowledged or thanked...
But we are thankful... and wish it didn't have to be this way.
And I do know that nothing I can say will help Jon's family,
but I want them to know, as a former Serviceman and a Parent of Sons,
I do feel for them... and wish it didn't have to be this way.
= =
Dear Lord,
Lest I continue
My complacent way,
Help me remember
Somewhere out there
A man died for me today...
As long as there be war
I then must
Ask and answer,
"Am I worth dying for??"
US Marine Base, Camp Pendleton, CA
Jon was assigned to B Battery, 1st Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment,
1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, based at Camp Pendleton, CA.
The unit specialized in security and bomb detection.
Visit often for updated information and details...
photo borrowed from
The Messenger
