Honor your hero with thoughts, memories, images and stories.
My tribute to Justin M. Ellsworth,
My American Hero!
My hero is a person,
Special as he could be,
My hero is a leader,
He wants us to be free,
My hero is not famous,
Only in my heart,
In this war infested world,
My hero did his part,
My hero is much greater,
Than some people seem to see,
He was put on earth to defend us,
At least that's what I believe,
Most people do not know my hero,
Just how could this be?
My hero is my brother,
He died for you and me,
I thank him for his blessing,
I think of him every day,
And as I think about him I pray I'm this great one-day!
My Big brother. There is so much to say. Its been quite a few years now, but it feels like it was just yesterday. God has given me so many blessings. I am so glad that I got to have such an amazing big brother. Not only because of how you died, but because of how you lived. You taught me so much. I love watching the videos of us when we were little. You were always such a great big brother not minding when i jumped on you to wake you up or when i begged you to play with me when im sure you would have much rather done something else. You always smiled this big old smile and did whatever you could to make me happy. Everyone is always so amazed at how selflessly you gave up your life, but it never shocked me one bit. I grew up watching you live your life selflessly. It was just who you were. Whether it was giving up your freetime to make your little sister happy or helping others enjoy life more by keeping them in constant laughter, you loved like I have never seen before. You taught me that everyone deserves love and not just love like most people love but a sacrificial love. Brother, I could really use you right now. So much has happened that I know you would be able to help me understand. You had this way of knowing what i needed to hear. Not always what i wanted to hear, but what i needed to hear. Some things in life just don't make sense, but i've learned that that is when i tend to lean on God more. Im so glad that i can be absolutely sure that i will see you in heaven someday. I am completely filled with joy that can only come from Christ, but there is still that piece of me that wishes that you were here. I graduated from highschool and you werent there. I went away to college and you werent there. I got in a terrible car accident and you werent there. I made the deans honor list my first semester and you werent there. I can't even fathom what my wedding will be like without you there. I know it will be an incredibly happy occasion but i don't know how it will be complete without you there. I hope that someday when i have kids they will love you as much as i do. They will know about their uncle Justin and what a great brother you were. I wonder who you would be if you hadn't died. Im sure you would be married. It would have been a beautiful wedding im sure (mom wouldnt let it be any other way (: ) and i would have stood by your bride and been the happiest sister in the world. Im sure you would have kids that i would spoil absolutely rotten!....I would give most anything just to see your smiling face again and hug you one more time. I love you so much big brother. I know that eventhough i can't always see it all things work togehter for good to them that love God. I am so thankful for the years that i had with you and that your sacrfice will not be forgotten. God has allowed me to meet so many inspiring people through your death and i am so thankful for what they all mean to me. So many people love you and miss you, but i know i will see you again someday. Big brother, you mean so much to me and i love you so very much. Love, Your baby sister
Rank: LCPL
Name: ELLSWORTH, JUSTIN M
Recommended Award: BV
Action Period: 20041113-20041113
Status: Completed
Last Updated By: Michael E Hjorten on 02/18/2005 02:41:57 PM
Last Forwarded To: HQMC Military Awards Branch on 02/18/2005
Final Approved Award: BV
Date Approved: 02/18/2005 12:22:05 PM
Approved By: John F Sattler, LtGen, CG, I MEF
Summary Action: Service member receiving IDP. Combat distinguishing device is authorized.
Lance Corporal Justin Ellsworth was in receipt of immanent danger pay during this period and is enthusiastically recommended for the Bronze Star with Combat Distinguishing Device POSTHUMOUSLY for his heroic actions while serving as a Combat Engineer, 2d Platoon, Company A, 2d Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Brigade Combat Team, 1st Marine Division in combat operations against the enemy during Operation Iraqi Freedom II on November 13, 2004. Many of the successes of 2nd Platoon and Company A have been a direct result of Lance Corporal Ellsworth's intuitiveness and keen awareness. He has set an example of courage for all to emulate that has been an inspiration for the platoon as well as his fellow Marines.
At approximately 1130 on November 13, 2004 a seven-man reconnaissance patrol left a platoon patrol base to interdict insurgent activity in the vicinity of Al Sadan, Iraq. Lance Corporal Ellsworth was assigned to the patrol in order to provide engineering capabilities in locating and destroying weapons caches. As the patrol was returning to the patrol base, Lance Corporal Ellsworth received an initial reading on his metal detector indicating the potential for a possible Improvised Explosive Device buried along an unimproved road. Realizing that a possible explosive device was only 50 meters away from the patrol base and numerous Marines were in the near proximity, he immediately focused his efforts to identify and neutralize the threat to his unit. Demonstrating a complete disregard for his own personal welfare he selflessly moved forward clearly exposing himself to the potential effects of the explosive. The object uncovered was determined to be a homemade explosive device. Once Lance Corporal Ellsworth positively identified the location of the improvised explosive device, determined that there were not wires and that it that was in all probability a remotely controlled device, he immediately sounded the warned for his fellow Marines to clear the area. He determined that the object consisted of three homemade explosive cylinders taped together with a cord running to a cell phone adjacent to the explosives. By this time, there were seven Marines within the immediate vicinity of the improvised explosive device and another four Marines were approximately 20-30 meters away. Shortly after discovering the cell phone, the explosive was detonated, mortally wounding Lance Corporal Ellsworth. At the time of the detonation, Lance Corporal Ellsworth was positioned directly over the improvised explosive device. His body directly absorbed a large portion of the detonation. Many Marines lives were spared and several others escaped severe injuries as a direct result of Lance Corporal Ellsworth's initiative and courageous actions.
Lance Corporal Ellsworth's selfless dedication and personal bravery in the face of grave danger were heroic. His sacrifice prevented the serious injury or loss of further life among his fellow Marines. Lance Corporal Ellsworth actions and service are deserving of recognition consistent with that of the Bronze Star Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device. His courageous actions and exceptional dedication reflected great credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and United States Naval Service.
The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.
Recommended Citation:
For heroic achievement in connection with combat operations against the enemy as Combat Engineer, 2d Platoon, Company A, 2d Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force on 13 November 2004, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM II. While conducting a dismounted combat patrol, Lance Corporal Ellsworth received an initial reading on his metal detector indicating the potential for a possible improvised explosive device. He realized that the potential explosive device was only 50 meters away from the patrol base and numerous Marines were in the near proximity. He immediately focused his efforts to identify and neutralize the threat to his unit. Demonstrating a complete disregard for his own personal welfare, he selflessly moved forward exposing himself to the potentially lethal effects of the explosive. Once he positively identified the location of the improvised explosive device, determined that it was not wired and that it was in all probability a remote controlled device, he immediately warned his fellow Marines to clear the area. Only seconds later, the improvised explosive device was detonated by the enemy, mortally wounding Lance Corporal Ellsworth. There were a total of 15 Marines within 30 meters of the detonation. His courage and decisive actions placed him in a position in which he absorbed the majority of the blast and prevented further loss of life or injury to the members of his team and platoon. By his zealous initiative, courageous actions, and exceptional dedication to duty, Lance Corporal Ellsworth gallantly gave his life for his country and reflected great credit upon him self and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.
Below Is The official wording of the award:
Lance Corporal Ellsworth's selfless dedication and personal bravery in the face of grave danger were heroic. His sacrifice prevented the serious injury or loss of further life among his fellow Marines. Lance Corporal Ellsworth actions and service are deserving of recognition consistent with that of the Bronze Star Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device. His courageous actions and exceptional dedication reflected great credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and United States Naval Service.
For heroic achievement in connection with combat operations against the enemy while serving as Combat Engineer, 2d Platoon, Company A, 2d Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM II on 13 November 2004. While conducting a dismounted combat patrol, Lance Corporal Ellsworth, received an initial reading on his metal detector indicating the potential for a possible improvised explosive device. He realized that the potential explosive device was only 50 meters away from the patrol base and numerous Marines were in the near proximity, he immediately focused his efforts to identify and neutralize the threat to his unit. Demonstrating a complete disregard for his own personal welfare, he selflessly moved forward exposing himself to the potentially lethal effects of the explosive. Once Lance Corporal Ellsworth positively identified the location of the improvised explosive device, determined that it was not wired and it that it was in all probability a remote controlled device, he immediately sounded the warning for his fellow Marines to clear the area. Only seconds later, the improvised explosive device was detonated by the enemy mortally wounding Lance Corporal Ellsworth. There were a total of 11 Marines within 30 meters of the detonation, and another four Marines within 30 meters. Lance Corporal Ellsworth courage and decisive actions placed him in a position in which he absorbed the majority of the blast and prevented further loss of life or injury to the members of his team and platoon. By his zealous initiative, courageous actions and exceptional dedication to duty, Lance Corporal Ellsworth reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
END OF AWARD
Justin's story is similar to many young Marines. He was an adventurous teenager who enlisted after graduating high school in 2003. A year later he was on the ground in Iraq as a combat engineer, arriving in Fallujah on September 11, 2004. He loved the Marine Corp. and the opportunity to serve his country. I am proud of Justin's selfless actions and I want you to know about his heroic sacrifice, but I also want you to know about the person he was. I want you to know that how Justin lived was just as important as how he died. You need to know that he was a fun-loving cowboy type who could usually be seen wearing a hat, boots and a smile. That he wore number five at Mount Pleasant High School where he played hockey and football. That he was the peacemaker within his circle of friends. That he loved spending time with his family and riding horses. That his friends called him a Tweeder and his little sister Jessica adored him. I want you to know that he believed in what he was doing and was proud to serve his country. It isn't until you know the details about Justin's life that you know just how much he sacrificed, and just how much my family lost. Justin lived each moment to the fullest. He always had a smile on his face and was usually the first to grab someone in a bear hug, and hold them until you were both filled with laughter. Justin was my only son, my baby boy, my camping buddy; we camped with him since he was a baby. Sometimes it seemed we spent the summers in tents. We loved to sit on the beach and watch the sunsets over Grand Traverse Bay and watch the stars slowly appear in the night sky. We would then retreat to a roaring campfire to warm us from the night. We laughed together; we cried together, I miss him so much it hurts. On Nov. 13, 2004 Justin was serving as a demolitions expert on a reconnaissance mission when his metal detector alerted him to a potential improvised explosive device along the road. Determined to neutralize the threat, he selflessly moved forward and uncovered a homemade explosive only to discover that it was remotely controlled by an insurgent waiting nearby. With only seconds to act, he warned his fellow Marines of the danger. Justin was directly over the device when it detonated and his body absorbed most of the blast. Justin died that day, but as a direct result of his actions, 11 of the Marines with him were spared. Just like hundreds of thousands of other men and women who have given their lives in defense of freedom during our country's history, Justin is an American hero. But for me... he was my son.
Dear Justin, I never had the pleasure of meeting you, but I love your family dearly. I have gotten to know you through your parents and I feel truely blessed to have your family in my life. I know you watch over your mom and dad and your precious little sister, and I know you know how proud of you they are. I don't even know how to thank you for your sacrafice - there just aren't words. At times I even find it hard to wrap my head around the fact that you gave your life protecting your fellow Marines, and me, and everyone back home. You are my hero Justin, and you will always be remembered. Keep an eye on your folks :) and Jess too. I know they always have one eye to the sky for you... Love, Caroline
Dear Justin, Though I never met you, I know you. Your loving family has shown me who you are and how you lived by the way they show their love to me. I am eternally greatful, not only for your sacrifice but for the kind of man you are - the kind of man our country needs. You will always be loved, and never forgotten. Love, Your "sister," Sam
Justin- I never had the pleasure to meet you, but feel like I know you a bit anyway. I see the reflection of you in your father's eyes. You would be so proud of your parents. They have taken up the cause for justice and mercy. They are role models for many and have embraced the idea that we are to comfort others as God comforts us. Thank you for your service. I can't wait to meet you in heaven. Wendy Day
In the journey of life there are planned side trips we take and there are detours that we didn't expect. We are rerouted most of the time and the trip continues with out much delay. The events in some one's life who you would never meet set into motion a whole new journey. Justin I wish I could have known you here on earth and you hadn't provided this conduit into which my life was changed. Justin I know you were a fine young man because of you I have gotten to know your mom, dad and sister along with many of your family. I can tell you although you don't need to be told that you have really special parents and sister. I can imagine the quality person you are because I know the kind of parents who raised you. It give a great comfort knowing my own son Tommy is spending eternity with you. The only thing I know about Heaven is what I read in God's holy word, but I like to think that guys like you and Tommy have a special place. Now you see also if Tommy had not lost his life I wouldn't have know about you and your family. If I had the power, I would back down out of this detour of life and set the course back on track; however this can't be....so I have to accept this journey and be thankful for what you Justin and Tommy have left us. Your family miss you so very very much, but in your memory they are providing so much to so many by being involved in helping others in the military and families like ours. Thank you Justin for what you have given to me, but most of all thank you for your service to our country. Some day I will meet you in person and I'll thank you personally; until then...........
Miss you... miss your grin... miss your hugs... miss your little boy giggle when your Dad told you your birthday present was a Barbie... miss you sitting in my driveway listening to the radio with Mikey... miss you darting into the campsite on your bike... miss your I love yous..I will treasure every single memory of you for the rest of my life. You are never far away as you are always in my heart. Just wonder... who you'd be today. Love you, Aunt Judy
Justin I never had the Honor to Meet you. But I have met those that are your Family. I can see where your values came from, where you learned to be the Man You are. I have seen how they continue to spread those values and touch others lives. The impact of each and every one of your family on others lives is endless. I Salute You and all of your Family!
You and your fellow service men have achieved a task that many never thought achievable. Through yours and others dedication to their mission at hand, millions of people can now proudly raise their flag as a Sovereign nation as an ally to our country where it never existed before. You will always be known as the brave of the bravest and the catalyst to the success of the most insurmountable task of my life time. Speaking as a father of two men who now serve I can proudly say that I am ever indebted to your service to this great country. The country you love. I will never forget you, your sacrifice and your family┼≈хs sacrifice for as long as I live. God bless you and hold you and your brother for eternity James M Irwin
It was an honor to not only serve in 7th ESB wIth you but to also serve along side you in Fallujah. I will never forget the kind of Marine you were. You are forever my brother and I will never forget the sacrifice you made that day. Though you are missed you will never be forgotten. May you guard those gates with pride and Esprit de Corps. Till we meet again... Semper Fidelis!
Although we never met, I know you. I know your heart and your soul though the eyes of your family. I am blessed by their love, friendship and support. As you, Justin Ellsworth, and my son, Justin Peterson, enjoy the rewards of your awesome current assignment, I hope you know how proud of you we are. We anticipate the reunion day when we will all be together again. Semper Fi, Marine! Ginna Peterson
On this Memorial Day I learned a little of who you were ..My heart feels the pain and the love that your family has shared with us.. What a Beautiful Tribute Mr.John M. Ellsworth and family .. I will remember and honor your Son tomorrow in my heart and will share his story .. Thank you Mr.John M. Ellsworth for your time and effort today with my memorial for my Papa Sincerely Jerry R Miller Jr Proud Son of Jerry R Miller
10 years have gone by and as I get older I realize how much your sacrifice truly meant. I realize how much living I have done in 10 years and hope that I am honoring you by doing a little extra living (and giving) on your behalf. I hope that everyone you touched does the same and somehow we make a small dent in the void you left. Someday I will post stories that show your sense of humor and love of family, but today is always hard. I am always at a loss for words. I will always shed tears and try to be comforted by the memories of your hugs and smiles. On that note I will end this message the way we always ended our conversations-Love you cuz!
To a great American Marine who gave all and his loving Father who continues to honor not only his Son's memory but the memory of all our fallen hero's.♥️
I can never forget how close we were... I remember hearing the news when we came back to camp from being out on patrol and a part of me was lost that day. He was an outstanding man.friend and Marine.. Rest in Peace Buddy I will always remember you...
January 26, 2008 | Chicago, IL
I have been trying to get in touch with Justin's family...to say how sorry I am for your loss..I did not know Justin personally ...but feel like I did through my daughter....her fiance'(LCPL Stephen DiPietro) was in Justin's unit...Maribeth spent the last week with them at Camp Pendleton before they deployed...that's all I heard about was "Ellsworth" ...they went to a country bar...and Justin taught her to do the two step!...she has some really nice pictures of them at the beach we'd love to send to you...please know how much your son means to us...our prayers and thoughts are with Justin and his entire family...
Respectfully,
November 27, 2005 | Steubenville, OH
God Bless you Justin...rest in peace. Justin was a good kid, and a great friend of my son Jason who is now in the Marines in Afghanistan, I know jason misses him greatly. justin also always had a smile on his face when you saw him. I remember when he got out of bootcamp how proud he was. Rest in Peace Justin. You did a good job in Iraq.
June 20, 2005 | Brownstown, MI
I didn't know Justin personally. However, as a former LCPL Marine reservist, I was pulled out of my classes at CMU in 1990 and sent to active duty service for Desert Storm. I think I can relate to some of the thoughts and feelings Justin must have felt leaving America to defend her. It's hard to think back then, but I remember pride mixed with anxiety, and a belief that I was doing my part to protect those and what I loved. I'm sorry that Justin, and all of our fallen defenders won't know the joy I did, coming home to America. Please know though that those who really love America, realize we sleep safe at night because of heros like Justin. Semper Fidelis dear brother, we will always be grateful to you for paying the ultimate price for us and our home.
July 13, 2005 | Royal Oak, MI
I couldn't have asked for anyone nicer or more friendly to be in high school with. I'll never forget you or any other person who as given of themself for this country. My son is named Justin in your memory.
November 07, 2007 | Mt. Pleasant, MI
Remembering and honoring the service of L/cpl Justin M Ellsworth, and sent with the hope that those who love him have found some peace in their lives.
To Justin's Dad John, thank you so much for your kind words and for suggesting a way in which we can honor another Marine, Sgt Denis Ray Carter, missing in action, Vietnam 1966.
with warmest regards from Kim
February 27, 2013 | Maleny, Queensland, Australia
