Their Story
Remembering James P. Blecksmith.
James P. Blecksmith was only 24 when he died. But by age 16, he already was displaying the quiet altruism that made him a natural as a Marine Corps officer, family members said.
"He led by example. He lived his life the way he talked about his life," his sister, Christina, 27, said at the family home in San Marino.
The second lieutenant, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate, was killed by sniper fire Nov. 11 in Fallujah, Iraq.
“J.P. had unflappable integrity and perseverance – traits that almost made him destined to be a Marine. He was a gifted athlete, a loyal friend, and a fierce patriot. With a great sense of humor, J.P. never took himself too seriously, but had an infinite list of dreams, goals, and aspirations.
There was a certain wanderlust to him that fueled unique and varied tastes in music, food, and travel. He was a focused leader and never took his leadership responsibilities lightly. To J.P., being a Marine was not about him – the medals, the ribbons or the promotions – it was about his Marines and serving this great Country.
His greatest satisfaction was putting his Marines in a position to be successful, and then seeing their accomplishments. He loved the physical side of being a Marine and the challenges of long days with little food and water.