Justin D. Norton

SGT Justin Dean Norton, 21, was born in Olympia Washington on October 30, 1984. He grew up in Rainier, Washington and graduated with honors from Rainier High School in 2003. Justin loved his family, hanging out with his friends and making new ones, enjoyed watching movies and quoting his favorite movie lines, laughing a lot, and loved wrestling. The Rainier Mountaineer Classic Wrestling tournament was proudly renamed the Sgt. Justin Norton Memorial.

The events that took place on 9, 11 solidified his childhood dreams of being a soldier and protector and with a war on the horizon he knew then his path in life had been paved to serve his country. With determination in mind, Justin explored all branches of the armed forces to enhance his knowledge and better understand what their missions were and how he could best serve them. He chose to enlist in the Army that spring of his senior year in 2003.

Following basic training and months of preparation, Justin was enthusiastic and eager to put his training to use. He was excited about the opportunities and accomplishments that awaited him as his deployment grew near. Justin's patriotism, his desire to serve and his sense of duty took him to Iraq, where he was killed on June 24th, 2006.

A few months prior to that Justin was home on leave, which would ultimately be his last. During this visit he had a heart-to-heart talk with his mother, Chris. In this discussion Justin specifically asked f anything should happen to him and if he did not return, that a scholarship fund be established in his name so that he could help others work towards their life goals. He also requested to be cremated and placed in the Veterans Honor Wall at the cemetery where he worked.

In honoring Justin’s wishes and in keeping his memory alive, his family is very proud to have awarded 181 scholarships totaling $82,800 since 2006. If it were not for the generosity of others like you this would not be possible.

Something Justin exemplified throughout his life was that wherever you find yourself, whatever your chose to do, give it all you have got with determination and integrity. In this way you will better serve your profession, your community and yourself.

Website: www.justinnorton.net

Facebook: SGT Justin Norton Memorial Fund