Thank You Jason

Friday I was reading the paper and came across an article about a young Marine, Lance Cpl. Jason Nicholas Barfield, who was killed Monday in Afghanistan.  He was only 22.  Jason left behind two parents, six siblings and numerous friend and family members who will forever remember his enduring smile, the article said.

His father said Jason never met a stranger.  He was always smiling and outgoing.  His mother said he was one of those people who, when you met him, you never forgot him.  He had an impact on everyone.  She also said she thought he slept with a smile on his face, and he never gave in to idle gossip.

Ray Barfield said his son loved family.  He loved the Lord.  He loved going to church.   Ray Barfield also said his son sang, 'Amazing Grace' at his (mother's) funeral about three years ago.  Both parents had just spoken with their son early Sunday morning.  He had called them about 1:30 in the morning and woke them up just to talk with them.  Jason told them he was looking forward to coming home and getting some of his mother's cooking.

Friends said he had grown up to be the best, sweetest, kindest, most loving young man that you have ever wanted to meet.

As I read the article my heart was touched.  It sounds like these parents did a wonderful job of raising a son who was respectful of God, family, and country.  According to the article Jason's mom, Kelli said, "I was very blessed to have him as a son."

We too can be proud because Jason was an exemplary young man who was defending his country.  I am thankful that these parents did such a fine job raising their son.