Joshua Bowden - U.S. Military

Staff Sgt. Joshua J. Bowden, age 28, of Villa Rica, Georgia, died on August 31, 2013, in Ghazni, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with small arms fire while on dismounted patrol.

He was assigned to the 242nd Ordnance Battalion (EOD), 71st Ordnance Group (EOD), Fort Carson, Colorado.  He was an explosive ordinance disposal specialist. 

His awards include the Purple Heart, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal with Valor device, NATO Medal, Combat Action Badge, Parachute Badge, Air Assault Badge and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge.

He joined the Army in 2005.  He was on his second deployment.  He had previously deployed to Afghanistan in 2008-2009. 

Friends describe Joshua as a talented athlete and a doting big brother. 

Light a candle for Joshua.
Light his way to Heaven. 

Others describe him as loving, approachable, laid back and dependable.

Joshua is survived by many loving friends and relatives including his sister.

Thank you for serving, Joshua.

Pray without ceasing unto God for an end to this war in Afghanistan. It is enough. We are sick with grief for men like Joshua.

Pray that Joshua is in heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.