This memorial website was created in the memory of our loved one, Cpl. Todd Godwin, 21, born on March 4, 1983 and was killed in Iraq by a roadside bomb on July 20, 2004. He will always be a hero in our eyes for his courageous and selfless service. He leaves behind his parents, a brother, two sisters, brother and sister-in-laws, relatives, many friends, as well as 4 nephews and a niece whom he never got to meet. He also leaves behind a fiancée whom he was planning to marry shortly after returning home from Iraq. We will love and remember him forever.

It has been said that as time passes, memories of our departed loved ones begins to fade - but the way they made us feel never leaves us. Some memories of Todd, like brief moments in time, are still quite vivid. Sadly, as the years go by, some precious memories are beginning to fade. However, I am thankful that how Todd made me feel will always be with me.

Todd had a unique way of making his friends and family smile or laugh. His presence often seemed to convey happiness and fun. The marine  who read Todd’s Eulogy stated that his life was filled with happiness. Rarely was he seen down or depressed. Another Marine friend said they never saw him when he wasn't smiling. As one Marine exclaimed, "He was awesome!" 

Although he had a great sense of humor, he also took the time to show he cared. His good natured and light-hearted ways could make it seem like whatever the problem was, things would eventually be ok. Even if he frustrated someone, he usually had a way of diffusing their frustration. As one friend said, “ He had a way of endearing himself to others.”

However, there was a serious and determined side to him which helped him accomplish much in his short life. He worked hard to earn two black belts in Martial Arts before graduating from high school. He stated that after he got out of the Marines, he was strongly considering college. One of the first things he wanted to do though, was marry his long time sweetheart and fiancee, Andrea. He also earned a spot on the 1/8 Marines Scout Sniper Platoon. His Captain shared how proud Todd looked going out on a mission that last day. However, he never boasted. He once said that he didn't want any of the Marines to know he was a black belt because everyone would then want to fight him. Even though he had the ability to be lethal, he was gentle and kind with others. However, he was definitely not a pushover and would stand up for what he believed was right, as well as the rights of others. But if someone did wrong, he knew there would be consequences to pay and accepted that.

We are thankful for those who took time to share their memories of him. Although many said he was great fun to be around, he also took time to show compassion for the underdog. We were told by many that he had a very caring heart. He would carry the umbrella for the girls going into the prom so their hair wouldn't get wet. One friend recalled that Todd was the kind of friend who would stay up all night in pouring rain to listen to your problems. Another friend shared that while he was struggling in boot camp, Todd took the time to write and encourage him to hang in there and pay his dues like all Marines must. It was said when times were really tough, Todd would lighten the mood by smiling, saying that at least they were miserable together. Others shared stories that always seemed to make them laugh. Some said he took time to show them little ways to make life more comfortable while in Iraq. Another recalled while on Float in the Mediterranean, having long talks with him on the deck. He said because of Todd’s encouragement, it helped him quit smoking. Todd’s scout sniper partner told us that he he is more understanding and has a kinder heart because of knowing Todd. 

One thing I will always remember about Todd is the last time I saw him. He had come home one last time before deployment. He spent the whole week with us and didn't go see everyone else like he often did when he was home. He spent the final morning going through his things, as if looking back on his life. He seemed to be regretful about some things. Feeling very uneasy about his upcoming time in Iraq, I did not think I could bare to watch him leave. I stayed in the house and let his dad walk him to his car alone. Suddenly, I had a panicked feeling that I might never see him again and ran to the window for one last glimpse. After he said goodbye to loved ones and the safety of home, I watched him drive away. He had a firm, resolved look of determination on his face as he backed out of the driveway. That was the last time I saw him. I later learned that he had told one of the "Marine Moms" who visited Camp LeJeune frequently, that he did not have a good feeling about this deployment. He then asked her to look out for his family if something were to happen to him. She kept the promise sh made to him that day.

Todd also made me feel cared about, as though he would always be there for me. He was filled with life, love, and happiness that was shared with those he loved. I look forward to the day when I will see his smile and hear his laugh again. There will be no more separation. He will no longer be missed because 1st Thessalonians chapter 4, assures us that for those who believe that Jesus, God's only begotten Son, died and rose again will be together forever with the Lord. We that remain here can comfort one another with these words. The pain and separation we experience here is but for a short time. As II Corinthians 4:11 reminds us, "the things which are seen now are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal." We have a promise from God in His Word, that it is possible to not only be with the Lord forever in a place which is wonderful beyond our imagination, but also to be with other loved ones forever. I believe I will see Todd again. Although he was a happy person while he was here, his happiness is now complete because it is not marred by the sadness or pain that is in this world.
  
Whether we live to be 1, 21, or 101, it is all but a fleeting moment in time, compared to eternity. Although fun loving, Todd had a serious impact on many that knew him. According to his military chaplain, Todd's faith in God was apparent to the Marines who served with him. He went to war armed with faith in God and trust in God's promises. He believed I Corinthians 2:9 "Eye has not seen nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for them that love him." He left some wondering about their eternal destiny. Please know that Romans 6:23 says "For the wages of sin is death (spiritual death and eternal separation from God); BUT the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord."  IJohn 5:13 says  "These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may believe on the name of the Son of God." We can have a truly wonderful future and a blessed and sure hope.

Todd loved his family and his country. His service to his country was honorable and noble. His sacrifice was tremendous. However, I believe his desire would be for this to be his legacy - that he wanted others to know about the one true and living God who is found in His book, the Bible.

If you care to share a memory or thoughts about him, please do so below. His family would love to hear from you.  I hope that if you did not know him here on this earth, you will have the opportunity to meet him in Heaven. I can’t help but believe nothing would please him more. 

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