Justin J. Swanson, 21

Marines, Lance Corporal

Based: Camp Pendleton

1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force

Supporting: Operation Enduring Freedom

Died: November 10, 2009

Helmand province, Afghanistan

Single

Gender: Male

Hometown: Anaheim

High School: Buena Park High (Buena Park)

Burial: Westminster Memorial Park, Westminster

At a memorial service held in Afghanistan, Lt. Col. William McCollough recalled Swanson as "full of love for his family and home and dedicated to the protection of others." Swanson was killed Nov. 10 when a bomb exploded beneath the Humvee he was driving. Another Marine suffered a broken neck and is being treated at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. He was the fourth Marine from the 1-5 killed during the seven-month deployment that is set to end within weeks.

Marcus A. Tynes, 11/22/2009

Christopher M. Cooper, 10/30/2009

98 memories of Justin J. Swanson

“

Justin Swanson was the first friendly soul I'd encountered on my first day in BPHS. In spanish class, he encouraged me not to drop out because things will get easier. We weren't really close then, but when I got into PEER ASSISTANCE LEADERSHIP [PAL] we became friends. My favorite memory of him was the time that we had a project and it was brought up that I was nobody's dream girl as a joke, he took me aside and told me that I was always his. It wasn't meant to be a flirtatious remark, he was just a guy trying to make a lady feel special. Forever a ladies' man, forever in our hearts. Thank you for the short but wonderful memories and my freedom Justin. See you later.

” — Denise Ramirez, November 13, 2009 at 6:51 p.m.

“

I struggle to find words that do justice to Justin Swanson's memory or to the feelings of emptiness that are left in his absence. He was by far one of THE most amazing human beings on this earth.

His heart could not have been bigger nor could it be more welcoming or warm. He was one of those individuals who left an impression on your life that was utterly unforgettable.

He was the epitome of a true friend and I can truly say that I would not have made it through parts of my high school career without him there. But I have faith in the Lord's plan and I once heard it said that the He picks the prettiest flowers from the garden to keep on his kitchen table. Well, now he has the most astounding one of them all.

My thoughts and prayers are with all those who are struggling in the wake of this tragedy. Just remember: . Jeremiah 29:11.

Love you Justin, with all our hearts and we'll be anxiously awaiting the day when we can see that handsome smile again!

” — Liz Campbell, November 13, 2009 at 7:14 p.m.

“

I met Justin at BPHS and I will never forget him. He was my favorite little white boy as I always called him. It was his little trio Justin, Daniel, and Emmanuel that I always could keep a smile on my face with. No matter what was going on in the day or how you felt you knew you could always count on him for a smile or advice. Even though he was the class clown, crazy guy he always had the right mind set and good head on his shoulders. I remember the day of graduation when he told me he was going in the Marines for good as well as Emmanuel and Daniel planned, I cried just knowing they were all going but he assured me everything would be okay and he was put on this earth to make a lasting impression on peoples lives. He always wanted to help everyone. All I can say is he passed fighting for what he loved most his people. I am so proud of you Justin and will miss you so, so very much! I know your up there in heaven probably telling all of us everything is okay and making jokes. I love and miss you my favorite little white boy forever you will be missed!

” — Amanda McDaniel, November 13, 2009 at 9:07 p.m.

“

Justin,
I can't explain how much you are missed. You were a great cousin, a wonderful friend and a true HERO!!! I will never forget the great memories we have and the laughter we shared like when I tried to cut your hair before going back to base and completley messing it up... We had to go to the barber to get it fixed LOL! Or when we had the kareoke party and you and Richard threw Emma in the pool totally clothed.. That was great, the best part is knowing that I could go months without seeing you and when I would see you again we would pick up right where we left off which was usually laughing about something. Justin, you amaze me with your unselfishness and willingness to risk your life for me and the rest of the USA to be free! I love you forever and you will be missed always!!! I'll see you in heaven Cuz! Love Always,
Claire

” — Claire Milheiser, November 13, 2009 at 10:57 p.m.

“

OMG!!!! JUSTIN WAS THE MOST AMAZING KID I'VE EVER MET. HE HAD THE MOST INFECTIOUS PERSONALLITY, AND THE MOST CONTAGIOUS SMILE. I HAD THE HONOR OF LIVING NEXT DOOR TO JUSTIN FOR THE LAST 7 YEARS. WHEN HE JOINED THE MARINES WE WERE ALL SO PROUD OF HIM. AT HIS BOOT CAMP GRADUATION HE STOODS SO TALL AND SO PROUD IN HIS UNIFORM. HE WAS THE PROUDEST CADET ON THE TARMAK THAT DAY. TO US OF COURSE. IF I HAD TO CHOOSE ONE OF MY GREATEST MEMORIES OF JUSTIN, I COULDN'T PICK JUST ONE. THEY WERE ALL GREAT. HE WOULD BRING HIS BUDDIES HOME FROM BASE ON HOLIDAYS AND LEAVES IF THEY HAD NOWHERE TO GO. HE SHARED HIS FAMILY, HIS HOME AND HIS FRIENDS WITH HIS NEW BROTHERS. IF HE HAD IT, YOU HAD IT. IF HE DIDN'T HAVE IT. HE WOULD GET IT FOR YOU. THE BIGGEST HEART!!!! LEON AND I WILL MISS YOU SO MUCH. WE WILL MEET AGAIN I KNOW. WATCH OVER OUR BOYS, AND STAY CLOSE TO YOUR MOM, DAD, BROTHERS AND SISTERS. THANK YOU FOR GIVING YOURS TO KEEP OURS SAFE. FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS, LIKE A SON. YOU'VE ALWAYS BEEN OUR HERO

” — Nikki Miller, November 14, 2009 at 3 p.m.

“

Oh my goodness Justin,
This past week has been such an emotional rollercoaster for me. The memory I would like to share is Tuesday, May 19, the night before you were deployed. We spent all night texting. You told me you were leaving on Thursday. We planned on spending Wednesday together. Your last words to me were "goodnight". You left Wednesday morning without saying goodbye. I felt so hurt, like I didn't matter to you. After a while I've decided that you were a man going off to fight a war to protect the people you love. Saying goodbye is too painful and would've made it seem permantent. Of course the both of us were expecting you to come home next month. I'm so attached; I don't want to let go. I love you.
Goodnight Sunshine :)
Sweet dreams

” — JaeDean Pangelinan, November 15, 2009 at 4:41 p.m.

“

I can still remember the look on ur face when u stepped off the plane into Oklahoma! you looked so worried...it look you 2minutes in the car ride back to stillwater with Lo and Ian when you realized this was about to be amazing!! you and Ian came unglued when you found out we threw a party for you. we had so much dang fun together that secret weekend....you and ur shot glass dancing around my living room!! I can't believe half the stuff you did that weekend and I still have all the pictures to prove it!

I'm gonna miss you so dang much Jus. you were amazing. I know Ian misses you so much and when I got that message at 3am I was crushed! ill still rock the country and drink ur shots in ur honor. I miss you so much. rest in peace Jus and don't party to hard up there without me! keep an eye on Ian for me bubba..love you!

ps..you don't even have to ask...we are still tellin ur stories about that weekend. .

” — kaci winkler, November 16, 2009 at 4:44 p.m.

“

JUSTIN SWANSON WAS AN AMAZING SMART YOUNG MAN WHO TOUCHED THE LIVES OF MANY. HE WAS LIKE A BROTHER TO ME AND SAW ME THROUGH MY GOOD AND BAD TIMES. JUSTIN WAS SO FUNNY N ALWAYS HAD A POSITIVE ATTITUDE, HE NEVER LIKED TO SEE PEOPLE DOWN. HE LOVED MANY PEOPLE; FAMILY, FRIENDS, HIS COUNTRY, AND FELLOW MARINES. I CRIED AND CRIED WHEN I FOUND OUT. IT WAS LIKE A NIGHTMARE I COULD NOT WAKE UP FROM.

"JUSTIN I WILL ALWAYS LOVE AND APPRECIATE YOU. YOU WERE AN AMAZING FRIEND, PROTECTIVE LIKE A BIG BOTHER, AND GAVE THE BEST HUGS. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE MISSED".

MY PRAYERS N RESPECTS GO OUT TO ALL HIS FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND SO ON....

-VANESSA S. JAQUEZ
November 16, 2009
12:04 am

” — VANESSA JAQUEZ, November 17, 2009 at 12:04 a.m.

“

MY FAMILY AND I HAVE KNOWN JUSTIN SWANSON FOR THE PAST 10 YEARS. HE WAS ONLY 11 YEARS OLD WHEN WE MET. HE WAS A CUTE AND FUNNY BOY. HE ACTED LIKE A BIG BROTHER TO JACKIE AND CATHY (MY GIRLS)! WHEN HE WAS IN HIGH SCHOOL HE ANNOUNCED THAT HE WAS JOINING THE MARINES. WE WERE ALL SO PROUD OF HIM AND KNEW HE WOULD BE A BRAVE AND STRONG MARINE! OUR FAMILY MOVED TO INDIANA 4 YEARS AGO AND WE DIDN'T GET TO SEE HIM WHEN HE ENLISTED OR ANYTHING. THANKS TO NIKKI AND FACEBOOK WE HEARD THE HORRIBLE NEWS OF JUSTIN'S DEATH. JUSTIN YOU WILL BE MISSED DEARLY! TO MARY & LES AND FAMILY WE ARE SO SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR SON AND BROTHER! TO THE U.S.M.C. WE ARE SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR BRAVE MARINE IN COMBAT! JUSTIN WE LOVE YOU AND WILL MISS YOU FOREVER! GOD BLESS YOU! SEE YOU IN HEAVEN! ♥♥LOVE LORI, DAVID, JACKIE & CATHY ROBERTSON♥♥

” — Lori Robertson, November 20, 2009 at 1:06 p.m.

“

To the Swanson Family,

I was Justin's wrestling coach at Buena Park High School. He was a part of a club we called the "Get-tough-club." As I was trying to break us with intense workouts, he would motivate the group and say, "This ain't nothin baby!" His smile was contageous and his joy was infectious. I didn't see him for years until one day I was at Camp Pendleton and saw him in uniform. "SWANSON?! What the..." I could recognize that face and smile from a mile away. I gave him a big hug and he said to me, "Coach! What's up Sir!? So you think you can beat me now?" (as he flexed and showed me how much bigger he had gotten). I laughed and said, "I will always be able to kick your butt." I took a picture with him that day. I saw him one last time in February 09', which will not be the last time I see him.

Your son will be missed and never forgotten. Our country maintains its freedom through men like Justin. Freedom is never free and I am sorry for your loss.

To Justin, I will not say GOODBYE; but rather, see you soon in heaven Brother!

Semper Fidelis!

LT(FMF)Ryan B. Bareng
2nd Battalion, 4th Marines
"The Magnificent Bastards"
Chaplain

” — LT Ryan B. Bareng, November 27, 2009 at 5:49 a.m.

“

Hey swanny...It's gill again. I just wanted you to know that not a day goes by that I don't think of you and miss you terribly. I still haven't quite com to grasp with what happened yet. Like I said I sometimes close my eyes and go back to us singing and workin on 152's while drivin. I loved being your vehicle commander Swanson. I always have. If it were up to me I wouldn't of had it any other way. For those of you who don't know me my name is cpl gill. I was the only other person physically in the vehicle with Swanson when we hit the I.e.d.. I broke my neck completely in half and recieved other injuries. I would very much appreciate it if anyone that knew Justin would call me on my cell. I have no one to talk to that can relate. The platoon we were both in is still gone. They'll be home soon. Please pray for 1/5 h&s co hqt plt/guardforce 1. Thank you Justin for opening my heart and being such a great.

” — Marcus w. Gill, December 11, 2009 at 1:38 a.m.

“

"Sancho"
Not a day goes by that your not missed. It hurts alot, the pain is immense, and the nights are long. Many times I find myself at your house where your mom and family welcomes me with smiles. I will be leaving the USMC and Cali soon and they wont be there to help me with the bad times. You took part of me as well as a part of Marcus that day. I want you to know that I never left your side that day until the boys wrestled you away from me. I feel you have not left my side till this day. thanks for watching over me and please stay here. I miss you my Brother, my Son. I'm having a bad day so I know I will end up at you moms. so I will see you there get the Beer and Darts ready Bro.

Gunny Rivera

” — Gunny, March 6, 2010 at 1 p.m.

“

Hey twin,

I know Im late on commenting on this but hey family were family so its in your blood to forgive me! So Ive finally gotten the strength to write a memory about you on this wall for all to see ....and to be honest.... there would not be enough web pages or trees in the forrest to even begin to describe the angelic type of person you are. I pity those who never saw you, remorse those who never knew you and bleed of commiseration of those who never got a chance to love you. I have one to many memories of us growing up, getting in trouble by nana and grandad and worst of all aunty lol! But I will always remember your smile and your laugh and the love you showed while looking out for me as the younger twin. I love you and miss you. Even though I would give anything to hear half your breath or the embrace of a family hug, ''I know I will see you again''

Love your twin,
Sarah

” — Sarah Stebbings, May 1, 2010 at 2:37 p.m.

“

Jusin,
my dearest friend, it has been almost a year since I heard the news. Still to this day I can not think of you with out a smile on my face and a tear in my eye. I remember meeting you when you were just my sisters friend, and by High school was mine as well. I thank you for all the wonderful memories you have given me. I only wish that I was able to be there to receive you back on our soil. Tonight is a night that I can not stop thinking of you, and even tho I am at work with all my co-workers looking a me teary eye, I can't help but to look at old pics of you and wish to have you back. You will always live on in my heart. I love you sweetie and can't wait to see you again someday.

” — Barbara, October 17, 2010 at 11:35 p.m.

“

Swanny...again not a day goes by that you are not on my mind. I miss you terribly. This thing that i have become; this monster inside of me the devil that comes from within, scares me more and more everyday. What happened Nov 10th 2009? What part of me is missing? Amidst overseas...i hate myself. I need you back, so i can cease the leakage of my soul that comes and brides through my eyes...i need someone. Someone to help me reverse this inadequate demeanor before its too late...can this be turned around? I have become more in touch with a side of life that consists of such darkness, its as though the devil himself reached up and touched all 4 of us that day himself...help me rid this brand, this intrusively simmering stamp thats been seered into my skin and molded in my mind...help me

” — Vendetta, January 16, 2012 at 12:12 a.m.

“

Justin, here we are almost five years later. Man, where has the time gone? Would you have still gone over if you knew what was coming? I don't know if I would. I say again, almost five years later. Here I am now at 26 years old, half way through school, and living on the beach; I say it isn't fair. I am living my life how come you cant live yours? I still cry for you brother. I still read these posts from time to time as it is as close as I can come until God brings me home. In case you were wondering, I am doing better. I have a wonderful girlfriend now. I talk about you all the time; wish you could meet her. Someday! Turns out college isn't so bad after all. They're treating me alright. But lets rewind a couple of years back to a comment my mother left. A big part of me did die that day. A part of me I usually don't think about that often, but a part I remember I'll never get back when the day comes around. I love you bro, I promised you I would never forget you. I mean that. I'll take it to the grave. You will always be my hero. My kids look up to me, but I look up to you. Thank you for your selflessness, your courage, and bravery. I can only hope to be a man of such color. Semper Fi brother, make peace or die!

p.s. if anyone Ive served with reads this and whats to get in touch feel free to email me at marcuswgill@yahoo.com

” — Marcus Gill, November 9, 2014 at 1:57 a.m.

“

To those who know me. Know where my name came from. It was while we were in infantry school. Given to me by my close friend Justin Swanson. We had gone thru boot camp together and our bond was forged in the recruite Depot and in hills of Camp Pendleton. I remember no matter how much pain we seem to be faced with he would have a smile. He loved it! It's just the type of guy I knew him to be. Always upbeat and high spirited. I know it's the love he received from his family and friends that kept him that way. All the way til the end. So when I think about you "Swannie'" I smile at the crazy stunts we pull just to pass time and the friendship we shared. Till Valhalla. My brother.

” — TK , June 15, 2015 at 5:59 p.m.

“

I am swannies British cousin, I met Justin once in about 98 when me and my dad travelled to California to visit family, My dad and Les (Justin's dad )were fond of golf so we went to go and play but unfortunately Justin was very sick and we had to return him home . I remember him being friendly but sad and I got the impression his life wasn't very easy from what I saw at the time .
After reading every message and shedding many tears I see that Justin excelled himself in life and that he is the epitome of a hero :)
Love to you who knew him and remember he would want you to smile and dance around in celebration of his life :)
Cuz May you rest in eternal peace!
In the beauty of the kingdom ;)

” — David Swanson, March 2, 2016 at 9:44 a.m.

“

Swanson, may how the times have flown by. Gunny is still alive and kicking; somehow - he and I have never lost touch. I talked to your cousin Sarah the other day; she is doing really well too. I have come to you this 2018 memorial day weekend to say hi, to pay my respects and to say that, still, not a day goes by that i dont speak your name. I wear your name on me everyday of my life, wherever I go whatever I do - no matter what. Almost ten years later, you are still the symbol of pride I have deeply ingrained inside of me and can only hope to one day become more alike. I can still only hope to be half as a great a man as you once were. The privilege I have had of serving with such amazing men such as yourself has given me reason to never give up, to never settle and to always "keep-going"; no matter what. Some of our platoon have committed suicide since November 10th 2009. What happened that day seemingly tore apart the lives of a lot of people we both knew. Pray for your family and friends - that they never forget the love they once shared for eachother. I miss you everyday and can only wish you were here to revel in all my accomplishments you've helped motivate me to do. I finally graduated from college - the University of Southern California; although I came out more conservative than I was when I started. I am handling bomb dogs again; the very thing that could have saved us. Perhaps it is my way of repaying that debt to you. I will never forget Lance Corporal Justin James Swanson - for he was a man that stood tall among boys. You were a light for everyone around you then and now. Keep shining brother. Your laughter and smile have touched us all. I'll see you someday - just like Gunny said, have the beers and darts ready bro!

” — Marcus Gill, May 27, 2018 at 7:44 p.m.

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Justin J. Swanson, 21

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98 memories of Justin J. Swanson