For Mark, an American soldier, who gave his life in Iraq
Mark, an American soldier, gave his life for his fellow countrymen in the war in Iraq. The only one of his unit to survive the initial blast, he battled for life as he was flown back to the United States for medical care. His family flocked to his side and surrounded him with love in his final hours. Not long after his arrival in America, he died on home soil in the arms of his loved ones. His mother Kim, my husband’s first cousin, wrote this poem, “Is it you?” as she struggled with grief and loneliness for her young son. She asked me if I had a dragonfly photo to accompany her poem which relates the tale of the dragonflies that seem to hover near her in a show of consolation. This image is our collaboration, our joint effort, in memory of Mark Graham who defended the cause of freedom with steadfast determination and a valiant heart. May he rest in peace and may the angels surround him and his family now and forever. (100% of proceeds from sales will go to the Mark W. Graham Foundation; see another image, “Is it you?” in this portfolio if you’d like a green dragonfly. It will print better in the card size).
Taken from the Mark W. Graham Foundation website, here is additional information about the foundation to which all funds from the sales of these images will be donated: “The Mark W. Graham Foundation is a non-profit organization which provides support for young people of character and military families in crisis. It honors the legacy of Mark Graham, a fallen soldier whose strength of character and gift of service to his country are an inspiration to all who knew him.
Mark was a Lafayette, La., native and his death opened the community’s eyes to the reality of war and the sacrifice soldiers make in their fight to keep our country free. He was married to Stephanie for a little more than a year when he died. Mark was 22 years old.”
Available for sale asMatted Prints, Laminated Prints, Mounted Prints, Canvas Prints, Framed Prints and Posters
Sheryl Kasper
Bonnie, I am so sorry to hear about Mark. He was a brave soldier and we thank him for his commitment and dedication. This poem is touching and beautiful and my heart goes out to his family. Brought tears to my eyes.
Bonnie T. Barry
Thank you, Sheryl. I hope Kim reads your tribute and finds consolation in it. Mark’s wife, his mom and dad, and all his family members will be grateful, I’m certain, for your kind words.
Kimberly Palmer
Wow Bonnie, very heartfelt poem that Kim wrote. Dragonfly’s are special…
Your dragonfly is perfect…..... sad.
Bonnie T. Barry
Thank you, Kim, for taking the time to comment about this image which is very special on so many levels. I know Mark’s family is grateful for each person who remembers him and expresses sympathy at his loss. Bless you for caring!
SusanC
This is a beautiful way to honor someones memory. You have done a wonderful job. Your dragonfly photo is amazing and the poem is very touching :) my best wishes to his family …
Bonnie T. Barry
Heartfelt thanks, Susan, for responding to this image and leaving a supportive word to Mark’s family. Grieving families need love, and I thank you for the kindness you’ve sent their way.
jesika
Age will NOT weary him, but he will not be forgotten.
I can say no more
jesika
budrfli
Ahhh, He most defintiely did!
prayers of peace and consolation, and understanding from a mother …of a soldier
Kim, thank you to your son for the ultimate price!
Bonnie T. Barry
On behalf of Mark’s family, Jesika, I thank you for your kind words. What consolation in the thought that age will never weary him. You are a blessing.
Bonnie T. Barry
Thank you, Sandy, for your heartfelt message for Kim; the words of one mother of a soldier to another hold extra weight. Thank you for caring.
Nellmark
God’s little creatures definitely have messages for all of us.
wolfllink
This is wonderful what a great way to keep his memory alive. Thank you for shearing this with all of us!
Bonnie T. Barry
Lanell and Wolflink, thank you for taking the time to view this photo and read Kim’s poem. Your comments are much appreciated and welcomed.
Simon Mears
I’m so very sorry to hear of your family’s tragic loss, may i add my sincere condolences and my hopes that the pain, but not the memories, will pass in time.
Bonnie T. Barry
What a beautiful expression, Simon, that the “pain but not the memories” will pass with time. God bless you for your kind thoughts.
dummy
my condolences to all who knew him. Bless them all.
Martin Rowe
11/11/2008. 90 years after the end of WW1 we still remember all who have sacrificed so much for us. Thank you.