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Tony's father, Mark, and I met in California. We were both in the Army and we were both young. We dated two short months before we decided to get married and start a family. We married on July 23, 1983 at Ft. Ord, California. I suffered two unfortunate miscarriages before our beautiful and perfect child, Mark Anthony Wojciechowski, was born - on March the 10th, 1984. That day, thus far, was the happiest day of my life. Because we did not want a Big Markie and a Little Markie, we decided to call our son Tony. I accepted a pregnancy discharge from the Army and we moved to New Jersey - Mark's home state - and started our life there. Our son was boss, yes, the King and such a happy and healthy and truly loved baby he was. He never lacked for attention and he was mine and Pop-Pop's pride and joy. Unfortunately, life didn't work for me in New Jersey. My son and I moved back to Ohio in November, 1987. And in April, 1990, I married Anthony Dillinger…and then I had a Big Tony and yes, a Little Tony. Once my son outgrew my husband, my son became "Tony my Son" and my husband, well, he became Old Tony. I made sure, in fact, I was determined, that Tony my Son would maintain a close and loving relationship with his father, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins in New Jersey. And that he did. When Tony my Son was five, and a very mature and bright five year old he was, I packed his suitcase and loaded him onto an airplane. I got him seated, belted, situated and happy - gave him lots of hugs and kisses and goofy smiley faces - and then I walked away and left him to the care of the attentive flight attendants. Talk about hard? Yeah, that was hard! A real heart breaker, for sure. But Tony my Son flew to New Jersey every summer for a four week visit and every other Christmas. His relationship with his Jersey family never faltered or faded, but I sure cried every single time I put the little guy on the plane. However, the great pain it caused me was worth the great joy it gave to all of them.
My son was brilliant. Not quite genius. Maybe not the next Einstein, but close. Okay, okay, I might be just a wee bit biased. He attended gifted science classes on Saturdays at UC while in the fourth grade. And even at a much younger age, very shortly after we moved back to Cincinnati, Tony pulled me down to his level, looked me in the eye and said "Mom, I think I'll be President of the United States some day." Talk about a heart swelling with pride! Mine was ready to burst. I hugged him tight and I told him I had no doubt that he would be President of the great United States some day and in fact, might just be the very first Pollock President of the United States. As he grew up, and even in his adulthood, I told him at every opportunity how proud I was of him and how very much I loved him. And he knew that to be true. I was his biggest fan. I told him to always reach for the stars and never to settle for less. Aim high, reach and grab. And he did.
He joined the Marines - I signed the paper. He was seventeen. His job, or MOS, was security forces and infantry. But as I knew he would, he became bored with infantry and security forces. It wasn't challenging. But challenging or not, he climbed rank quickly. He was motivated. He excelled. He was noticed. He was respected. He re-enlisted. He chose EOD - Explosive Ordinance Disposal - the bomb squad. That wasn't boring. That was challenging. He loved it. He re-enlisted again. And while in Okinawa, he was selected to attend the G8 Conference and perform the bomb sweep on First Lady Laura Bush's car. He was so excited about that duty. He wore a tailor made silk suit he bought earlier and went to work. I asked him later what exactly that duty entailed. So, in detail, he told me. He told me he pushed every button, honked the horn, popped the hood and trunk, opened the glove box, turned on the wipers, and signals and hazard lights, checked the gas tank, tires and under the seats, all in search of a bomb. And then it dawned on me - what exactly would have happened to him had he found one. And then he told me how exciting it was and how much he loved his job. I was again, so very proud of him. As you might have guessed, the Marines Corps was Tony's career. And it truly offered him many opportunities, and challenges that he gladly sought and accepted. Tony attended the cold weather survival school in northern California - Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape. And again, in detail, he told me of that adventure - and the experience, even, of eating certain parts of a rabbit…and that was not boring. He attended many small schools and other courses over the years, and he listened and he learned. The Marines, in fact, took him to many places. He met many people. He had many friends - all over the country and abroad. I can tell you without doubt that Tony my Son had been to more places, experienced more exciting things, enjoyed more hobbies and interests and had more enthusiasm and zest for life than anyone else I have ever known. Tony's friend Devin, a man slightly younger than me, whom Tony met at the EOD school in Florida, told me that he would not have graduated that school if it weren't for Tony...Tony, young enough to be his own son, motivated him to survive that rigorous and difficult training and to exceed and to graduate. Devin Roller, by the way, is now an instructor at that same EOD school. On the lighter side of that conversation -- he told me that as he and Tony were making plans one Saturday - Tony said "let's hang at the beach, then scuba dive, then go to dinner, and then hit the night club." Devin laughed and told Tony "Tony - we don't have to do it all in one day." But that was Tony - full of life - and wanting to experience all that life had to offer. He scuba'd in Florida, California and Japan. He snow skied in Colorado and at Lake Tahoe. He played golf. He shot pool. He loved music. He took drum lessons. He played in Canada. He vacationed in the Philippines and in Thailand and, I believe, he even visited Hong Kong. Tony was planning his dream vacation to scuba dive the great barrier reef in Australia. Unfortunately, Tony will never make it to Australia.
Tony my Son - I so looked up to you. I respected you. I sought your opinions and your advice. Your phone calls brightened my every day - and I always looked forward to the next one. I was so disappointed to miss your call that I began taking my cell phone with me on my walks at lunch or in the park, and oftentimes even took a phone with me into the bathroom. I saved all of the cards and letters you ever gave to me or sent to me. And I'm so glad that I did. My life without you will never ever be the same. But life, well, it just goes on doesn't it? I will never forget you and I will carry you forever in my heart, wherever I go and whatever I do, you will be with me. I will think of you when I feel a gentle breeze on a warm sunny day, or the winter chill of a blustery wind and in the patterns of flakes of falling snow. I will think of you with each drop of rain, every rumble of thunder and every strike of lightening. I will remember you in the spring as the flowers bloom and the trees begin to bud. And in the autumn when the colors change and the leaves gently fall. With every sunset and every sunrise - I will remember you. I will see your face in the soft glow of candle light illuminating our home, and in the flickering flames of fire light dancing in our fireplace. And I will remember you, too, in the love of the great music that we shared and each enjoyed. I will never hear AC/DC, the Stones, Led Zep or Queen without thinking of you. Simply put, whatever I do, wherever I go - I will take you with me. And you can count on that. God bless you my son and may you forever rest in peace. I love you. I always have. I always will." ~ Mom ~ SSgt Wojciechowski was born March 10, 1984 to Army parents Mark F. Wojciechowski and Teresa A. Wojciechowski (nee Kroner) (nka Dillinger), at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio. SSgt Wojciechowski was killed while conducting combat operations against anti-Iraqi forces in the Al Anbar Province in Iraq on April 30, 2009. He was 25 years old. Tony attended Glen Este High School in Union Township, Clermont County, Ohio for his freshman and sophomore years. Tony then transferred to Live Oaks Vocational School for his junior and senior years where he studied auto mechanics. Tony was an exceptional student and was offered an apprenticeship, but declined the offer due to his determination to join the Marine Corps; something he wanted to do for many years. SSgt Wojciechowski enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2001. He was 17 years old and still a senior in high school. He chose Infantry as his primary Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) and Security Forces as his secondary MOS. Upon completion of boot camp at Paris Island, South Carolina, he received orders to Naval Station Bremerton, WA to serve with the Marine Corps Security Force Command. Upon completion of that tour, he received orders to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina where he re-enlisted after having served only three years. Upon re-enlistment, Sgt. Wojciechowski executed a lateral move to the 2336 MOS (Explosive Ordinance Disposal) - otherwise known as the "Bomb Squad". He was then transferred to Elgin Air Force Base, Florida to the EOD school for seven demanding months. Sgt. Wojciechowski completed and graduated his school near the top of his class on August 2, 2006. His EOD class started out with 48 students, with only 9 graduates to include him.
SSgt Wojciechowski's awards include the Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Valor, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with a Gold Star in lieu of his second award, Combat Action Ribbon, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. Tony's hobbies included the great love of scuba diving, where he hoped to become a Master Diver, snow skiing, working out and staying fit, golfing and billiards. He was planning a trip to Australia to scuba dive in the Barrier Reef after this tour in Iraq. Tony was brilliant, fun, strong, full of life and a great friend to many - at home and across the United States. Tony is survived by his mother, Teresa Dillinger, his stepfather, Tony Dillinger and his sister, Tiffany Dillinger. He is also survived by his grandparents, David and Judy Grose, his aunt, Susan Kroner and nephew, Cameron Forrer, all of Cincinnati, Ohio. Tony also left loving family in New Jersey, his father, Mark F. Wojciechowski, stepmother Dawn Wojciechowski, stepsister Courtney and niece Gabrielle and half brothers Justin and Brandon, his grandmother, Margo Wojciechowski, and grandfather, Frank P. Wojciechowski (deceased), as well as aunts and uncles, Gary and Kathleen Losinski; Diana Rasizer and Scott Rasizer; Angel Watson; and cousins, Tracy, Andrew, Thomas, Rebecca, Joseph and Mark James; great-grandfather, Andrew Haborak. Tony is also survived by his step-family in Cincinnati - grandparents Jim and Kathi Dillinger of Williamsburg, Ohio and Arlene Braunwart of Mayslick, Kentucky and many step aunts, uncles and cousins from this area, as well as many great friends scattered across the United States. Tony, we love you. We miss you. Forever you will be in our hearts and may you forever rest in peace.
"You deserved the world, and it's unfair that your time has come too early. You are the epitome of what a Marine should be. I aspire to be what you showed me everyday, always courageous, caring, and professional. I love you and I hope to see you again someday, thank you for giving so much to all of us." Amy Rother * * *
"I was very fortunate to know Tony…Tony dated my sister-in-law. From the first moment we met him, we loved him. He was a squared away young man, who was very polite and respectful. He quickly became a part of our family…I found myself competing for Tony's attention with Amy. Tony loved to join me at poker parties, endure mutual pranks, and spend lots of time outdoors hiking and playing. As a career firefighter with years under my belt, I looked up to Tony. He was a man's man!...It breaks my heart to lose such a great friend, but it is comforting to know that he has touched so many lives as he did ours. He was a great man! I will never forget Tony "Wojo"!" Jim Whitsett * * * "Tony was a role model to me, he showed a level of maturity that was beyond his years. His life was very balanced and composed and because of the way he lived he was able to live life to its fullest. Nothing kept him from doing what he wanted and what he wanted was always carefully planned and thought out. I was fortunate to be someone he could talk to and confide in. I felt very special that I was someone he could trust. He would always greet me with kind words and a big hug. The loss of Tony breaks my heart and will echo through out the rest of my life. I hope if there is anyway that I can help with anything you won't hesitate letting me know. I know Tony would not have been the man that I regarded without the parents that raised him." Brian T. Meyer * * * "…the reason I write this letter is that one of them went up to Fiddler's Green from Al-Anbar on Thursday. His name was SSgt Tony Wojciechowski, he was 25 and was from Cincinnati. This kid could light up a room with his smile and personality. My kids absolutely adored him. "Tony Baloney!" they would scream when ever they saw him. My wife and I are heartbroken that we won't get to see that All-American smile ever again and watch him fall in love from afar and raise his children. As I told my wife tonight I am crushed that I will never get to see that face and smile again. He was a good man. He was squared away. God Speed Tony Baloney! Aaron Root * * * "Tony Baloney, God we miss you! Lily (five years old) said today "I'm happy for Tony". I couldn't imagine her thinking. She said well, mom, "he's in heaven, he's happy, and he gets to eat pizza and ice cream all the time". I can't stop thinking about your goofy smile. It will always be with me. We love you. You were a blessing in our lives and we will always be grateful for knowing you. May your parents know how much you were loved." and "…He touched our lives by his sense of love, adventure, goofiness, dedication, and love of fun. My favorite memory is of him and my kids, Lily (5) and Laird (3) playing Guitar Hero...Lily on guitar, Laird on drums, and Tony singing his heart out in his living room with goofy wigs on. My kids adored him as did we. We admire him for all his achievements and his dedication to his job, but above all we admire him for the way he lived his life! We love you Tony!" Leslie, Aaron, Lily and Laird Root * * * "Tony, you are the finest example of a man I've ever met. Thank for the gifts of life and love you gave everyone who came into contact with you. Your zest for life and enthusiasm will live on in the memory of all who knew you. I am honored to have had you in my life for the past three years. Tony was a hero to many and an incredible man, he honored his family, his country and the Corps in all that he did." Melissa Forte * * * ".... I looked up to you and learned a lot. Everything from how to make a bridal... to being a leader.... I remember the time I forgot to grab you before I made the chow run and you made me burn crap...hahaha...I am going to miss you man.... I am a better corpsman because of you....." HM2(EXW/FMF) Jonathan Casale * * * “I met Tony in the airport in mainland Japan getting ready to fly to Okinawa. Being a Marine fresh out of boot camp, I was extremely nervous. I sat down next to Tony and we started talking. I didn’t know his rank or his job…we talked about the Marine Corps and how we were both looking forward to going to Okinawa. I didn’t see Tony again for some time until I realized one day we were in the same unit (9th ESB)…that’s when I found out Tony was with EOD. Right then and there it was kind of surprising. Surprising due to the fact of how humble and down to earth Tony was. A lot of EOD techs that I have met are not big headed, but they hold themselves above everyone else. Tony was completely opposite…I would see Tony out in town on the weekends and he would not hesitate to call me out or come over and talk to me. At the time I was only a PFC and he was a SGT so that’s what I mean by one of the ways that Tony was so humble. Tony never held himself above anyone…. He would never hesitate to come by and shake my hand and ask me how I was doing. I had the utmost respect for Tony and wanted to be just like him. I remember talking to Tony and how much he loved EOD. I could tell he loved it just by the way he would talk about it and the passion in his voice….” Cody Schurwon Sgt. USMC * * * "…We met Tony last winter when he came to visit with Rose. Even though our meeting was brief, we all fell in love with Tony from the very beginning. We admired him greatly and will wholly miss him in our lives…" John, Cathy, Rose and Sarah Walter * * * "…Few people in this world can affect it in such a positive and loving manner simply through their presence. Your son was one of these exceptional few…I was a notorious grouch to awaken for shift change…but Tony was always there with a smile, a laugh, and a stick to safely poke me with. He never lied, he never exaggerated, and he was absolutely honest. He was in the purest form, a Man. With him it was always a good day…As one of my Corporals of the Guard, Tony was more than just responsible for the security of items essential to our national security. He was held accountable for the personal conduct, development, professionalism, and character of his Marines…the manner, effort, and genuine interest that he displayed while doing this elevated him beyond his peers. He was and will remain forever a Marine's Marine…He told me he was going to EOD and that he was looking forward to it. I knew he would be a success wherever he went. EOD is a hard job, but an essential one. The Marines who comprise it are a special breed of hero. They do not do it because they seek glory or thrills. They do it because, through them, lives could be saved. American lives. Iraqi lives, children’s lives. They are the truest form of heroes who risk themselves against a device that has no emotions…I sincerely know that heaven has been immeasurably improved with his presence. I long for the day to see his ridiculous and amazing grin…" John Lewis Crown III Staff Sergeant, United States Marines 1998-2008 * * * "…Most people have to choose between right and wrong and when I knew Wojo back in Security Forces, he never seemed to have to choose, he just did. The right thing, the right way, by the book, to the "T"….Wojo pretty much mastered the ability to separate work from play and took training new Marines very seriously…He inspired, befriended and made knowing him a blessing." Jeff Davidson Cpl USMC * * * "…Your great son kept a smile on my face and my spirits high during the rigors of EOD school and in Okinawa and many other places…It is an honor to have been friends with him, and I promise you his memory and spirit will forever carry on STRONG!...We hurt deeply and he will forever be missed." Joey and Brittney Bowden * * * "…Wojo was one of the first team leaders I had, and that being the case, he was one of my first examples of true Marine Corps leadership. Wojo was a true leader as he was a Marine. In my short four years in the Marine Corps I seen both the best and worst examples of leadership. Wojo was by far one of the best. As a "boot", I tended to make mistakes, simple mistakes. If it was a first offense, he would show me what I did wrong and tell me how to fix it. Cpl. Wojo, as he was then, was always fair. He was always ready to teach. Yet he was always firm….Wojo's example, what I learned from him, is what I tried to follow and also pass on to the Marines I had under me…As I look back on the time I spent with Wojo, what I remember most is that he was always having a good time. He loved being a Marine and he loved being around Marines…It did not matter where he was, he touched the lives of those around him. He inspired those around him to be better, to try harder. He inspired me. Wojo will forever be in my thoughts. I will never forget him. Wojo is a hero. He was a true Marine, and as a Marine, he gave the ultimate sacrifice." Adam M. Crouse Cpl. USMC, 0311, 2003-2007 * * * "Your son was my first squad leader in the Marine Corps…it was apparent that your son was the Marine to emulate. He was well respected, lived and breathed the Corps…I followed his examples and leadership to a T. Your son's attitude and leadership traits made me the Marine I am today…Wojo would come and inspect my room for field day. He always would go through my drawers, taking everything out asking, "who taught you to fold clothes?" Most leaders would have told me to refold them and left the room, not Wojo. He wanted to teach Marines how to be a Marine. He would show me how to fold them and put them away properly…I have taken many of Wojo's leadership traits and made them my own. That is the mark of a good Marine. However, your son was not a good Marine, he was the best Marine I have known in the Corps and I still try to emulate him today…" Sgt. Sawielski * * * "…He was a great person and had a zeal for life that is rarely matched. …Mark had what it took to persevere. Mark was the type of person that made an impression on me, and that impression will be with me for the rest of my life. Mark was a good, hard working, honest man that I thank God for the opportunity of knowing." Kenneth J. Elsner Corporal USMC 2002-2006 * * * "…he definitely touched my life and made a difference…He always seemed to be going out of his way to help others, even when they weren't his responsibility…" Nicholas Jankiewicz Sergeant, USMC 2003-2007 * * * "…I know that by the way he carried himself that he lead and inspired all others to be greater than themselves…" Daniel Van Weddingen Corporal USMC 2001-2005 * * * "…I remember him as being a professional, first and foremost. He led his junior troops with firmness and fairness, and he always strived to set the example…." Joe Page Corporal, United States Marines 2002-2006 * * * "…I worked with him day after day…I got to tell you, Wojo put a smile on my face everyday with his positive attitude, hard work ethic, and most of all, wanting to contribute to the team and mission…Mark was doing what he loved, what he believed in…" 1st Sgt Michael Shetler USMC * * * "…I still think of him as one of the most dedicated and professional individuals I have ever met. He was also blessed with the rare trait of knowing that he was doing exactly what he was put on this earth to do, and everyone that met him could pick up on that. I still use a Wojo quote I heard all those years ago, "When I am wearing this uniform, I'm not your friend". Jason R. Wengel Captain, USMC * * * "…Mark was a Marines Marine. A true professional…he set the example for all of the junior Marines to follow...No doubt about it, he always accomplished his mission…" Cpl Eric R. Savary United States Marines * * * "…Mark was a poster Marine. He was the guy who never sacrificed his work ethic, or his values, in search of the easy way out. Among a group of type-A personalities and go getters, Mark was the cream of the crop. If you wanted the job to get done right, you gave it to him. Mark led Marines with pride, and instilled discipline in his men. Mark built leaders…Mark believed in the cause. We all do, but Mark walked the walk, and continued the march when we no longer could…People live on in our hearts, and he will live on in mine. I will never forget the price of freedom. I will never forget Mark." Bryan D. Brown Corporal, United States Marines 2003-2007 * * * "…the disbelief changed to anger, which changed to sadness, and all the memories of a good leader and friend came flooding vividly back into my mind…I was a new Marine stationed at some place called Bangor. There were a lot of good people stationed in this place, more good leaders at one place than I would experience throughout the rest of my time in the Marine Corps. And for some reason you stood out. You just walked different than the rest of the squad leaders in charge of us junior Marines. I believe some people were born leaders, and Tony, you were one of them. It seemed to fit you. You could see it in the way you carried yourself: proud, strong, knowledgeable, respectful, honorable. It seemed you didn't need to try as hard as the rest of the squad leaders to get your Marines to follow your orders and respect you. More of us looked up to you than you will ever know. You touched so many lives in that rainy corner of the country…I tried to model my leadership style after the Marines that had an impact on me (I am one of those people that had to try and struggle to lead, not like you). Time and time again I would find myself asking, what would Wojo do? That's just the kind of impact you had on me…You embody everything it meant to be a Marine…You are one of the best and you will forever be remembered…" Scott Eisen Sergeant, US Marines 2003-2007 * * * "My heart has been humbled this week. They say the good guys go first…you are one of them. As a junior to you, I have vivid memories of how you operated as a Marine. Strong, confident, knowledgeable and caring…I remember hearing how your Marines spoke about you. They were so happy to have you in charge of them. They felt protected because they knew that you would do anything for the betterment of the squad. They looked up to you like a big brother. You showed me what a true Corporal was all about. Stern yet caring, head always held high. There was something about how you walked through the barracks that I'll always remember about you - poised, head up, chest out, quick paced stride and always on a mission. You had a purpose in life and you served that purpose everyday you could…Last thing I heard was that you re-enlisted to go EOD. I expected nothing less, the suit fit the suitor…It's a good feeling when you have good people surrounding you - Tony always made me feel that way… Glen T. Maxson Sergeant, US Marines 2003-2007 * * * "…Cpl Wojo, as I knew Mark, was the first face I put with "leader"…The example and standards he set were higher, I felt, than most…Everyone hated to let him down. Mark never had to push or pull anyone. Mark was a man that a young Marine could confide in and that one could trust with their respect. He was a natural leader…" Jori D. Ford A former Corporal of Marines * * * "…Mark was a Marines Marine. A true professional…No doubt about it, he always accomplished his mission… Sergeant Eric W. Penney USMC * * * "I have not known anyone with the heart and courage of Wojo. Wojo was the most "locked on" Marine I ever had the honor of knowing…He was selfless and committed to helping his fellow Marines…His legacy remains in my heart and I celebrate the hero that he is…" James McDonough Corporal, United States Marines 2002-2006 * * * "…Wojo was one of the brightest and motivated Marines I have ever met, and his hard work never failed to disappoint myself or his peers…Wojo was a great character and I cherish that year I spent with him at Bangor…He was a stand up person and an excellent Marine…" Andrew Scott Sergeant, United States Marines 2001-2005 * * * "…It's hard to wrap into words the kind of guy Tony was…Tony was a guy who had a great work ethic, a positive attitude, and was reliable enough to accomplish tasks without supervision…He was an awesome friend who was a caring, outgoing, responsible, and one helluva funny individual. It feels like I am writing a letter of recommendation because I want to tell you how amazing he was. Of course, I do not need to tell you that. You know his talents, strengths, and abilities were infinite. We cannot begin to make this tragedy less severe, but we wanted to let you know we loved him too. ..Tony will always be remembered as a great Marine, man and friend…" Kyle and Susan Masterson Staff Sergeant, United States Marine Corps * * * "…I was asked to write about my remembrances of Wojo. I'll do my best but know I can't do justice. He was a Marine who was ahead of his peers in almost every way. He cared, and more importantly he got "it". When I say that; you kind of have had to live our lifestyle. There is an unbelievable amount of red tape crap, and selfish leaders in our Corps. He saw through the B.S. and was able to focus on what was important….Wojo left quite an impression on me…" Staff Sergeant Jeremy David Gohl United States Marine Corps * * * "…Tony was a superb Marine who excelled in every aspect of his job. I remember the first day he joined First Platoon (Bangor). By the end of his first week of training we were all fighting to have him in our section. Yes, he was that awesome! He was a level above the rest of the Marines…Tony was a leader who did not go unnoticed. ..I still remember his Ohio pride, country accent, and humongous smile that made anybody grin right back…People do not join the Marines because it's easy. They do it because they want to be a part of the elite, the few and the proud. Our mentality changes for the rest of our lives. Today, Tony sits on top of the clouds as a hero and a Marine who has completed his mission…" Rudy A. Villarreal Corporal USMC 2001-2005 * * * "To the family of the best Marine I ever knew, There is something to be said of those leaders that embody a casual benevolence that speaks respect without words, commands without orders, and requires without demands…in all of the mistakes that I made while in the Marine Corps, even after Wojo left Bangor, it was letting him down that was somehow the most difficult thing I faced within the teamwork dynamic…No medal, merit, or prestige could replace the sense that one felt when working or simply being around such a charismatic and still stoic leader. I cannot explain what a loss it was to me when he left Bangor and I remained, and I cannot express what a loss his physical absence will be to this world. I know that in all of those his life touched he will remain in memory a legacy of one of the best people any of us have ever encountered…I can distinctly remember his guidance on simple things like gear preparation. He acted as though a teacher of a trade he had long since mastered…The deliberation and focus of him as a team-leader, Marine, and a person overall was astounding. The very inspiration of cultural witticisms and clever jokes that fit the mood or circumstance was always well received, and like a parent's intervention into their kid's "learning process" - intuitively timed to fit the given requirement that most did not see…He learned from many, and grew himself, always crediting the source while remaining humble. I cannot describe even the simple moments of running, marching, or standing around, all outside of official capacity, Wojo remained a professional who was still approachable and encouraging. I had seen so few people of this caliber through my entire stint in the Corps. I now attend college…however, I still have not found a stronger influence among those of my age peer group that I could claim to have had a greater impact on my life…I have always held closely the positive impact that Wojo had in a vast and lasting capacity on my life…To his memory and the preservation of all that he brought to the world, I will genuinely remain faithful for the rest of my life, in only an attempt to attain what greatness I saw in this true Marine." Travis Matthew Holt
* * * Lena Fisher-Stevenson * * * "We will always remember Tony "Wojo". He made us laugh and he made us better. Tony was what all EOD Marines aspire to be…" Ramadi EOD GySgt Rodriguez
* * * "I had the opportunity to work with SSgt Wojciechowski on the 31st MEU; while I did not know him personally, I knew and respected him professionally…" GySgt G.W. Taylor * * * "You were a role model to me and all the new Airmen and Soldiers in EOD School. I am blessed to have known you. 06-100S all the way!" Nevin Umble * * * "I met Woj when he was stationed in WA, he was only 19 but even then I could tell how amazing this kid was! We spent a lot of time hanging out and he was honestly one of the best men I've ever had the honor of calling my friend…. I truly feel blessed to have had this time with him…he was a dedicated Marine who loved his job, family and friends. It's going to be hard without him, and I'll be happy the day I get to see his beautiful smile again. We love you Wojo" Nicole Behlow * * * "I met Tony about 6 years ago, he was one of the most unique people I've ever known. Not only did he have a wonderful sense of humor but he also knew how to be a loyal, trustworthy friend. I had lost touch with Tony due to unfortunate circumstances but I never forgot what a great man he was. This is truly a terrible loss. I will miss you Tony!! " Katie Massie * * *
"The
world will be a bit darker without Tony. You were a
great friend, and a great Marine. You made us all want
to be better men. Rest now and I'll see you when it's
time." * * *
"Wojo,
I never told you how much you changed my life. I only
knew you for a few short months, but in that time, you
made me happy, and I could never thank you enough for
that. I will cherish the times we spent together and you
will forever be in my heart. I miss you." Stephanie Hostetler * * * "Wojo was as solid as a man can be. We went through EOD school together and then on to Okinawa. You just couldn't break his spirit. Always kept us smiling. Always asked about my family. Just a great guy. I will miss you brother. Your work ethic and spirit will forever be with me. NEVER FORGET!" Joey and Brittany Bowden * * * "…Your humor and wit is second to none…" Mike Butterfield * * * "…There wasn't much that was great about Okinawa but meeting Woj made it all worth it. He was a fantastic person and could always find a way to make me laugh…" Amy Davis * * * "…I was a marine stationed with him in Bangor, Washington. He was a very good marine and someone that we could look up to. I remember him having a very interesting sense of humor. Same type of humor that a drill instructor would have. When he would joke around it was funny but serious at the same time. I think that's what made me remember him. He was very professional and overall a good man. I can honestly say through my experience that the world and the Marine Corps is less of a place without him. To Wojo, I just want to say thanks for doing what many others don't have the courage to do. Oorah and be at peace." Jason Nagamine * * * "Tony was such an amazing guy. Though I only had the chance to know him for a short while, I feel so blessed to have had him in my life at all. His charismatic smile and infectious laugh will surely be missed by everyone who knew him. He was so full of life and I don't think he ever met a stranger…Tony was the kind of guy who would be there for a friend no matter what. The world is a lesser place without Tony in it…." Heather Aguayo * * * "…I babysat Tony for about three years when he was young…Tony was such a unique and one-of-a-kind kid…He was so incredibly smart and mature for his age that it felt like I was talking to someone on my own age level, and not a kid five years younger than me. He was genuinely funny, but never the kind of kid who got laughs at the expense of others…That Tony became a respected Marine who signed up twice for deployment to Iraq does not surprise me in the slightest. He was a great kid who grew to be an even greater man." Rachel A Letter From Tony's Second Grade Teacher Dear Mrs. Dillinger, I don't know if you remember me or not…I took over for Joy Krause at W.T. Elementary School when Tony was in second grade. I remember several distinct things about Tony. The very first was scanning the class list and coming to his name and looking at Joy. She smiled and said, "It's easy. Just say", "Where's your house key?" Talk about something sticking with you forever! There have been several times over the past many years when I have searched for my house key and that saying (and Tony) went through my mind! Isn't life strange? That second grade year was a very difficult year. Partly I'm sure, since I took over in November and that type of transition is hard on young children but MOSTLY due to the characters that were in that class! Seven were on behavior management programs. I felt like I spent a lot of time putting fires out. All through that…Tony would look at me with a closed, straight-lined mouth, raised eyebrows and eyes that said, "Jeez I feel sorry for you with these nuts." I often compare people to animals and Tony was a little owl. He was wise way beyond his years. I felt like I had another adult in the room with me. He never once joined in with the ridiculous antics that were daily occurrences. The really odd thing was…he was very well liked and many peers looked up to him. Usually, at that age…most of the well-liked kids are the ones who are class clowns and such. It seems like you lived in the Summerside area but for some reason Tony came to WT. I remember your husband working, I believe, for the county? Maybe as a surveyor? At any rate, Tony spoke very highly of him. Much of his sharing revolved around the things they did together…father and son things. I remember being so impressed that a blended family was SO healthy and functional…since that wasn't the norm. I also remember you being VERY pregnant although I can't remember when you had your daughter. I DO remember how Tony was "quietly excited" about it all and how touched I was by that. When I heard about Tony I was in total shock. What didn't shock me at all was how successful and magnificent he had become. Believe it or not…you can usually look at kids as young as kindergarten and tell whether or not they will be successful. Tony was one of those that had A+ stamped on his forehead. What a treasure. "…I very much believe in God and I very much believe people like Tony have an everlasting life…not here but someplace better…much better. He also will live on in many hearts…including mine. May God carry you in his hand as you heal. Very, very sincerely, Leisa Moore |
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SSgt Mark Anthony Wojciechowski
Tony excelled
at everything he did. And everything he did, he did
well. His grades were high. He put forth little effort.
He went to Live Oaks for auto mechanics, but knew even
then that he would eventually join the Marine Corps. In
his junior year of high school he received an invitation
from People to People, a program put together by Dwight
Eisenhower, bringing young people together, across the
nations. Tony didn't even want to go to the
informational session to see what it was all about. I
told him too bad, you are going, and so are we, and so
we did. The invitation was for a three week trip to
England, Italy, France and Greece. After the meeting he
said "yeah, that looks pretty cool". And I was
overjoyed and bursting again, with an intense pride only
a mother could know. How many teens in the summer before
their senior year would experience that trip? It was
definitely a trip of a lifetime. And he loved it. 
But Tony my
Son - he left all of us with memories. Great memories.
And mine are golden. I thought once that when Old Tony
and I retired, we would move to the mountains of
Tennessee. But I can't see that we will ever leave our
house on Edinburgh Drive. I have too many memories
gluing me there. Precious memories. Holidays and parties
and get-togethers and simple every day living. Pictures
of Tony were taken in every room of that house - and on
the front porch, in the cul-de-sac, in the back yard and
in and around the swimming pool. I will forever and ever
cherish my golden memories of my son Tony, but for today
and tomorrow I will cherish my loving husband and my
beautiful daughter, my wonderful family and my many
great friends, and forever, together, we will remember
our beloved Tony - every single day. 
Upon graduation from EOD school,
Sgt Wojciechowski received orders to Okinawa, Japan, for
the period of September, 2006 until September, 2008.
From Okinawa, he was deployed to Iraq and served a
six-month tour from February 2007 to September 2007.
Tony also trained in the northern mountains of
California where he attended a Cold Weather Survival
School and the SERE Course (Survival, Evasion,
Resistance and Escape). SSgt Wojciechowski was promoted
to his current rank on August 1, 2008. SSgt
Wojciechowski loved everything about the Marine Corps
and was eager to learn as much as he could about
anything of interest to him. SSgt Wojciechowski's last
duty station was Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton,
California, where he stayed for a short five months
before his second deployment to Iraq. He departed for
his second deployment in Iraq in February, 2009 and was
killed in Action on April 30, 2009. 
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