Jon, you were a great person to know and a good friend in the early years. I always remember your smile and wacky kid ways. My God bless you and your family and give them peace.
-Rebecca Vega (August 13, 2007)
Oh, Jonny. Today, Aug. 13th, will now and forever be one of those ‘anniversaries of the heart’ for those of your family members. We will remember it as the fateful day that marks the anniversary of your date of deployment to Iraq. When you left at this time last year, we prayed so fervently for your safe return. But now, we pray that your soul is at peace. And search the distant shores for peace and healing deep within ourselves.
Though your life was cut far too short, an excerpt from General MacArthur’s ‘Farewell Speech at West Point’ brings you to mind: “ . . . My days of old have vanished tone and tint; they have gone glimmering through the dreams of things that were. Their memory is one of wondrous beauty, watered by tears, and coaxed and caressed by the smiles of yesterday. I listen vainly for the witching melody of faint bugles blowing reveille, of far drums beating the long roll . . . Always there echoes and re-echoes Duty – Honor – Country.”
Oh, Jonny, we hardly knew ye, as the old Irish ballad laments. And so now with your loss, we dream of things that might have been. But pledge that your memory will always be kept alive. You, more than anyone we know, truly exemplified Duty-Honor-Country.
God bless!
Debra Valle & Family Dudley, Massachusetts
-Debra Valle (August 13, 2007)
Jonny was certainly the happiest child I ever knew. He was so vibrant and funny, he made everyone laugh all the time. I am happy that I can remember him that way, with sparkling eyes and a joke for every occassion. The world was blessed to have him in it as he dedicated his life to making people happy and proud of him. He was a good man all around and certainly loved by everyone whose life he touched. Although he was taken from us much to early, he will be remembered always for his faith, love, family dedicaton and bravery. He died so others may live freely, a definate hero, by anyone's standards. I know we will meet again in Heaven where I will look forward to calling him "my brother" in Christ.
Richard Schultz
-Richard Schultz (August 2, 2007)
My husband and I would like to say thank you to you and your husband for raising such a special young man who would selfishly defend his country and pay the ultimate sacrifice. Jonathan is a hero. We pray for you and hope that each day brings you a little more peace. The pain and grief of life is over for Jonathan and he is at peace with the lord. God bless the Cadevero Family. Sincerely, Richard and Carolyn Morgenthaler
-Rich and Carolyn Morgenthaler,Pine Bush, NY (August 2, 2007)
I got hurt in Ramadi Iraq oct 1 2005 now on medically retired status, so I understanding little about pain family and friend are going thru. Sitting on my death bed I had the chance to reflect, would do it agian if can turn back time. There a certian honor, respect, and duty that come with the job. I know Jon for year he always seemed to follow right behind me from GSA days, to CUC, to the Army. I can said he was loved everywhere he turned and he wont be forgotten. God Bless you J
-Arthur Bryan (July 29, 2007)
It is young heros like Jon who shine their light so brightly that the rest of us may see the true colors of patriotism. Today I feel proud to be an American, todau I know what honor and sacrifice are, and today, we are free and just, because of strong Sons like Jon. Today my heart is saddened, and my eyes wet with tears at the loss of a great Patriot, and his Light has shone from coast to coast. I did not have the good fortune to ever meet Jon, nor am I an acquaintence of his family, but I am lifted up by his courage, and forever grateful of his service, and I will never forget his sacrifice, nor the sacrifice his family will endure in his absence. Great men make Great Nations, thank you and God bless Sgt Jon Cadavero, we will never forget.
-Doug Sweet, Concord, California (July 27, 2007)
I have so many fond memories of Jonny, especailly being a student in my 5/6 grade class. I'll never forget the plays that he helped to write and stared in. Always had to add the comedy. I'll always cherish those deep conversations that we had while walking around the play ground or gym after school. After I moved away to Illinois, Jonny always found time to write and keep in touch. Thanks Jonny for all the encouraging words that you gave me. It's students like you that make teaching meaningful. I'm very proud of how he touched so many lives and crossed so many cultures. Yes, even unto death, we all were able to see the good in you by the life you lived. Thanks for being a soldier, first for God, and then for your country!! See you on the other side!! Your Loving Teacher, Victoria Robinzine
-Victoria Robinzine (July 26, 2007)
A Gift Sent to You
Johnny was a precious gift given to you He touched everyone’s heart that’s what he would do. Johnny had a great big loving heart. He was accepting and kind right from the start. You could never find a more thoughtful and caring man He wanted to do right, and always took a stand. Johnny had a spirit that was meek and mild He had a great soft spot for every young child. He would always try to uplift someone’s day He tried to make a difference in any possible way. Johnny was one who was brave and strong willed He loved playing basketball he couldn’t keep still. Johnny was thoughtful, nice, and always kind His mother he adored, she stayed on his mind. Johnny loved his family and was the protector, Was willing to help, and never the rejecter. Johnny was grateful and always content Never held a grudge, never filled with resent. Johnny would always give someone a chance He was charming and knew just how to romance. Johnny was inspiring, talented, never mean He loved playing a good game, always thought of his team. Johnny loved the lord, and in his heart was God’s light He was strong and brave and fought a good fight In the middle of his heart was love for his father and mother He was a good friend, faithful husband, and brother.
By: Michelle Martell
I had to write this poem for you so everyone could know who you really were. I also wrote this so your family could understand that you made great impression on me. I remember waldwick days me and you always taking care of the children. I was the strict one you were the fun one lol you taught me alot, to always be patient and dont be quick to lose my temper. I will never forget you!
Luv you always
Michelle Martell
-Michelle Martell (July 25, 2007)
Thank you, Sgt. Jonathan Cadavero, for your service and sacrifice to our great country. For those who knew you, as well as for those not as fortunate but inspired by you, your loss is a lodestar to guide those, in all countries, who love freedom. Bradley Thayer Fairfax, Virginia
-Bradley Thayer (July 24, 2007)
My fondest memories of my cousin, Jonny, go back to the mid-1980's when he was a little boy. Even way back then, he had a wonderful sense of humor and was great fun to be around. His family would visit my family several times a year, and always on Labor Day Weekend. That was our tradition. During one of these particular visits, I remember playing football with Jon and Kristia out in the back yard. They were about five and eight years of age at the time. The two of them got into a dispute over a ruling in our game and before I knew it, they were in an all-out battle with neither one backing down. Watching the two of them fight with such fervor was downright scary! But luckily, they eventually grew up to be the very best of friends.
When my mom passed away ten years ago, Jon was a great comfort to our family and was very supportive. I remember being so impressed with his eloquence, which was well beyond his nearly fifteen years of age at that time. He spoke kindly of his aunt and tried to accentuate the positive. That is what we will all remember about Jon. He was right there for us when we needed him most and was a positive, vibrant, upbeat young man who was always a pleasure to be around. He will forever be sadly missed by his family and friends.
See ya someday, Jonny. I bet you're making everyone laugh up there. Especially your aunt/my mom!
Randy Valle Dudley, Massachusetts
-Randy Valle (July 23, 2007)
Leave your own memories & condolences of Sgt. Jonathan Cadavero.
