Editor's Note: The Oregonian wanted to offer an opportunity for those who knew a service member or those who wanted to comment on their sacrifice to add to their tribute. To leave a remembrance, or view by service member, see service member bios.
Dave wrote:
I read about Marc in the book the "Sheriff of Ramadi" and it really made me appreciate all he and his fellow SEALs did to help secure that part of Iraq. The SEALS had nothing but praise for Marc and I hope Marc will always be remembered for the hero and great guy that he was. The SEALs are the best and there is no doubt Marc was the best of the best.
Date Posted: June 21, 2009
TG wrote:
Pvt Leisten, I had the pleasure of being your PL before you deployed. I heard the news the day I left the guard. The war hit home for me when I heard you died. I didn't sleep well for a couple of years and still feel guilty about not deploying, though I had ample opportunity to do so. I didn't have it in me to make it to your funeral because I felt I had no right to do so, having not deployed and made the ultimate sacrifice or been in harms way as you were. I'm sorry, I was wrong. If anything, I had more of an obligation to be there. I often felt after your passing, that I wish I had taken your place. I did not know you on a real personal basis but I remember you as a good soldier, guardsman and I remember you had a good bond with Sgt DeGhandi who was a mentor to both you and me. Thanks for trying to do the right thing in this world, for fighting for the hope of a better humanity in a part of the world that desperately needs it and trying to make a difference. I won't forget your sacrifice as long as I live. I don't deserve the freedom I have every day. It was graciously afforded to me by men like yourself that did the right thing and fought the good fight. Thanks for setting the example of selflessness and courage.
Date Posted: July 12, 2007
John Staub wrote:
The Wildcat Battalion and Oregon lost a brave
young citizen/soldier when it lost you, Specialist
Leisten. The Wildcats are no more but we all salute
and honor you for your courage and willingness to
be a true warrior when you were called to fall-in for
those who for whatever reason could not stand
where you stood.
Your selflessness will never be forgotten and your
devotion to the Oregon National Guard an
inspiration that will never give the enemy rest nor
the friendly reason to doubt you were the best. First
To Assemble!
Date Posted: November 4, 2007
Andy wrote:
Kenny, I had the pleasure of meeting/ knowing you before you had enlisted. You were a bright young man, seeking to do something positive with your life, and had been somewhat of a little brother to me. Sometimes you reminded me of myself at a younger age, and seeing you slowly change your life and be a better person and do positive things, only made me proud, and I am glad I knew you for those several years, and I was deeply saddened to hear you had passed several years ago. So young, and changing for the good, we all lost a good person when you left, and I will never forget you Kenny. You will always be thought of as my little brother.
Date Posted: August 6, 2009
Cindy wrote:
I am a mother of a fellow Marine, and just wanted to extend our families condolences to you and yours. Mattew was taken from this world way to soon, but we would like to thank him and remember him for his service to his country. Semper Fi
Date Posted: July 20, 2009
Larraine Davis wrote:
Sgt. Joshua A. Lengstorf is married to our granddaughter, Jesse. I have great admiration for Josh - so patriotic & such strong convictions to protect the freedoms of The United States of America. My husband, Lloyd, and I will always love Josh. Our deepest sympathy goes out to all his family in Oregon, Washington, Montana (and any other state they may reside).
Date Posted: January 7, 2010
jeremy wrote:
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. We are HONORED for what your son has done for this country. God Bless - The Nauta family
Date Posted: March 22, 2007
Justin Ross wrote:
I miss you Nick. I look at that picture and
remember that I wouldn't have been standing there
if it wasn't for you pushing me up that damn hill
multiple times. Every day leading up to this next
deployment and every day that follows over there is
dedicated to you and your family. You were with
me from day 1 and you'll be with me when I get
out. You'll always be my Airborne Ranger in the
sky. I still eat wheat thins with cream cheese
because of you. I still do a lot of things because of
you. Time is relative, see you soon buddy.
Date Posted: June 4, 2007
Muschamp wrote:
I knew Nick through wrestling as I coached for Newport. Worked out with Nick a couple of times and his work ethic and character are what I most remember of him. He was a joy to be around due to his passion for life and wrestling. My heart is sad for Nick and his family, and I wish all the best for then ones he loved.
Date Posted: June 6, 2007
Sgt. Gerald Brattin wrote:
You are truly missed my friend. Week end drill is not the same with out you there making every one laugh.
Date Posted: August 13, 2007