22, stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, where he was a Harrier jet mechanic with Marine Logistics Squadron 13 of Standish, Maine was found dead on March 21, 2011.
Here is a family picture of Josh with his sister, Sarah Yeo of Standish.
Joshua grew up in Standish and graduated from Bonny Eagle High School in 2007. He excelled in football and wrestling. He also learned karate. Throughout school, he always had his sights set on joining the Marines.
To honor his son, Mr. Dean Barron unearthed this memorial stone from Watchic Pond in Standish, Maine. He gave it to TSP over Veteran’s Day weekend 2014. Josh loved Watchic Pond. Â He grew up there since childhood and lived in a colonial house along the lake.
Dean Barron described the his son’s character as one of protector and guardian.  He would set traps to catch imaginary dragons, demons and other threats to his friends and family.  he was a martial artist and ready to defend the weak and protect the innocent.  He was also a jokester though.  He liked to play fun pranks on his sister but only out of love and good humor.  He was always full of energy and he always has an upbeat attitude.
Dean said that his son had a very positive experience in Marine Corps bootcamp. Â Josh was grateful to the USMC Captain who helped him improve his pull-up performance so he could succeed in basic training. Â Josh loved the US Marines. Â He made lasting friends, learned discipline and teamwork and esprit de corps. Â He appreciated and treasured the sense of belonging and family. Â He valued the camaraderie above almost anything else.
Josh’s goal was to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science.  He loved working with computers and his ultimate goal was to work for the CIA and help solve problems by knowing how to find answers to tough puzzles.   Josh’s dad said he was a great Marine, caring, helpful and kind to others.  Always willing to help and ready to be the first to volunteer for the tough job.
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To honor Joshua Barron, Lynn Barron, his mom, retrieved his second memorial stone from the brook behind his familyâs home that he helped build in Baldwin, Maine.Â
âI really wasnât sure if I was supposed to get another rock for our small family because Josh already had one. I had a vision of where I was supposed to look for a rock.â  Just recently 8 years after Joshâs death I went to this sacred place and meditated for a while, giving all my emotions up to spirt and waited. I crossed over the brook a few times when I started to believe maybe Iâm not meant to get a stone for Josh. Then Josh guided me over to the other side of the brook and said, âThis one mom.â It reminds me of a Badge of Courage. When I gave Joshâs stone to the Summit Project I was amazed at how I felt I was giving a piece of Josh and our family to them. Powerful and amazing.
Corporal Joshua Barron came to this world on 11/24/1988 to be a provider, protector and a compassionate, loving soul. His goal in his life was to bring comfort, joy and love to his family, friends and strangers. Before Josh was born he was fighting for his life. While pregnant I fell and was put on bedrest in the hospital for 3 months, and when Josh was born he weighed 4 pounds, 8 ounces and you could hold him in one hand. This never held him back.
Josh helped build our home in Baldwin in his junior year of high school. My favorite memory of this was on three high scaffolding putting boards up on the cathedral ceilings in the dead of summer. His sister Sarah, her husband, Tyler, and their daughters, Zoe and Stella, live there now. Josh did something very special for our small family. He provided us, himself, Sarah and me, with the ability to move from daily survival mode to truly living. To this day he still protects all of us and we truly know he is still with us every day.
Josh was always the protector for Sarah and me. I would find kitchen knives under the bed, pillow, and couch and all over the yard. He was always hiding them, so if he needed to protect his family he would be ready! He was a master trap maker; mostly with thread down the stairs and in the door way. Josh would save the world anytime he had a chance. More than once in our life we had his friends staying with us for an extended time. He was always saying, âWe can help them.â He saw the good in all people.
Josh loved to cook; mostly mac and cheese or tacos. Josh and his friend Abby made pizza together when he was in high school, and to this day there is flour in that kitchen. He was loving and compassionate to everyone. He always tried to make your day better. Josh would, and did, give his last dime to help someone. He would even give the coat off his back.
Josh loved sci-fi movies and video games. His favorite books were Harry Potter, CS Lewis and anything that fought dragons or bad guys.
All Josh ever wanted to be was a Marine. After a long discussion about he danger and peril involved with this decision Josh told me, âYes, Mom, this is what Iâm suppose to do!â He knew going into the Marine Corp could be a one-way trip and he chose to go willingly.
There is so much more to know about Josh, and his mother Lynn has encouraged Hikers to reach out before they carry his stone for conversation and details.
63 Comments
Josh was a true friend and mentor to me. He will forever live on the the hearts and minds of me and my family.
Thanks James for the memories and love for Josh
On 31 March 2015, Kimberly Hill wrote —
Before the hike: Iâm ashamed to say that up until a month or so ago, I had never heard of The Summit Project. Two of my kids at Highview Christian Academy saw a flyer at school and heard Chad Januskiewicz talking about it. I went to the informational meeting because I like to snowshoe and the project sounded interesting. I got the information at the meeting, and I was ready to choose a stone. Well, I wasnât prepared for the website. I thought it would be easy to chooseâŚâŚwas I ever wrong about that! I donât know how long I spent watching/listening to videos and reading the stories of these soldiers. I completely lost track of time, and decided I needed to come back to the website another day. The next day I tried again with the same results – I could not choose. I felt torn between choosing someone whose story I had heard or choosing someone who had no story on the website. I finally asked Chad to pick someone for me. Chad chose Josh for me, and when I heard his story I immediately felt that instead of me picking a stone, the stone had picked me. I have a son who has always wanted to be a soldier and recently enlisted in the Marine Corp at age 17, just like Josh. My sonâs middle name is Joshua. The similarities were striking.
During the hike: The hike was harder than I expected. I have climbed Borestone numerous times in the summer and fall, but never in the winter and never with snowshoes. I was going along fine until we got near the summit and the rock face. The rocks were covered with ice and then a few inches of snow on top of the ice. Ted Coffin and Chad hooked up a rope for us to use to get up over the really steep, icy, rock face. It took some encouraging from Ted and from our Bangor Daily News photographer Ashley to help me along. After another spot where we needed to use the rope to get up and over we were very close to the summit. I was very nervous of the ice combined with the height and had thoughts of not continuing. A bit more encouragement from Ted and up I went. Getting to the top was a bit of a mental challenge for me, but I had that stone in my backpack that I kept thinking about and telling myself that I couldnât let that soldier down. Once at the top we took a few minutes to enjoy the view and take some pictures and then we got down to the business of why we were all there at the top of that mountain during a Maine winter. We gathered in a circle holding our stones and shared the stories of these men one at a time. It was humbling, emotional and awesome all at the same time. It was inspiring to hear why each one there chose that particular stone.
After the hike: Itâs only been a few days since the hike, but I canât stop thinking about it. I didnât expect it would have that great of an impact on me, but Iâm glad it has. There are few things that come into our lives that leave lasting impressions or cause changes in us and this is one of them for me. The feeling I have this week is similar to the feeling I had after returning from a missions trip to Haiti. I am grateful for my life here in the U.S. and I have even more respect for the men and women who serve this country. I am thankful for the camaraderie of the team that I hiked with – some of us meeting for the first time that morning. I have great respect for the work of The Summit Project and all those who volunteer their time with this project. What was meant to be a blessing to someone else (the family of Joshua Barron) ended up being more of a blessing to me.
Thank you for the honor to be part of this great project,
Kimberly Hill
Hello my name is Angelo Fascione and i was honored to carry the stone of CPL Joshua Barron. From what i learned about him he was a good guy and loved his family very much. We climbed the to the summit of Mt.Bigelow. The Hike was very good and the group had a great time doing it. The trail was kept very nice,but it was still a challenge to do. We also could not ask for a better day weather wise to do the hike! When i was Hiking i really wanted to stop, but i knew when i was thinking about him and what he sacrificed for our freedom. All 24 cadets of Nokomis J.R.O.T.C were honored to do this and we would gladly be doing it again next year. Thank you for making The Summit Project and all it stands for and letting us be apart of it!
Sincerely-Angelo Fascione
Dean,
Your son meant the world to you, and he was meant to still be in this world.
Time does not heal all, nor should it diminish the love we feel for someone. In fact, sharing his story and carrying on his legacy will reinforce the impact that his short life had. When someone of Joshuaâs character leaves us too soon, itâs the things that he would have done that we need to continue.
Everything that youâve shared with me about Joshua makes me wish I had gotten to know him in life. The best I can do is to stand for the things that matter and give more than I get. To protect those in my life and put care into everything I do.
I had the privilege of carrying Joshuaâs memorial stone to the summit of The Owl with TSP at BSP on May 24th, 2015. I would gladly carry him anywhere. Steps of the hike were alternated with tears and laughter of the stories that youâve told and the thought of his loss. Not only on this hike, but on the training before the hike, thinking of what I was preparing to do, both physically and mentally. Though the hike was tough, the thoughts of our fallen and the memories that we are preserving kept me going. My teammates were exceptional as we supported each other on our journey. The stories at the summit were extremely emotional. Siblings, comrades, parents, both military and civilians were all there to keep the stories alive. I donât remember them all, but the impact they had on me will affect me for the rest of my life.
I will carry Joshua every day for the rest of my life, with or without a stone to remind me.
I hope in some way I can help you heal and help you carry on Joshuaâs mission. Anything you need, anytime, just ask and Iâll do my best to be there for you and your family.
Since hiking with you at the ANP event and getting to know you, I consider you a good friend. I hope this continues into the future and we can share more stories of Joshua. I have much more to learn, whenever you have the time.
Joshua was living a life worth living, giving more than he gave and asking nothing in return. We should all take a page out of his book. Live a life less ordinary, live a life extraordinary…
Mike Peterson
After hiking with Joshua Barron’s memorial stone on Memorial Day weekend with TSP, I had the idea to hike with him to the highest point in Maine. I asked Dean if I could hike with his son to the summit of Katahdin. He said I didn’t need to ask, but he was grateful that I did.
Not having a date in mind, I started training hikes to get ready. When I decided I was ready, I thought about the day I wanted to hike and…
For my birthday, July 12th, I hiked Katahdin to Baxter Peak with Joshua Barron’s TSP memorial stone and a stone that my wife made for a memorial for her father, Bernie Gerry. While both men served in the Marines, Bernie got to life a long life, but Joshua’s was cut short at the young age of 22.
My hike was through Chimney Pond and The Saddle to Baxter Peak. There was a nice cool breeze most of the day, which made for a very enjoyable hike.
At the summit, many people were there waiting for Scott Jurek , a long distance runner about to break the Appalachian Trail record. I took Joshua’s stone out of my pack and it instantly started people asking questions. I told them about Joshua, how he was both a protector and a prankster, and how he had always wanted to be a Marine. How high school sports helped keep him out of trouble, and his love of his family.
After that, I pulled out Bernie’s stone and told them how he had died 5 years ago on that very day. How he was one of the best men that ever lived, and that he spent a lot of time in his youth climbing the mountain. His mother wouldn’t let him go to East Millinocket, because there were girls, but she would let him hike the mountain on this own. He even skied up to Chimney Pond at least once.
And then, I pulled the trifecta out of my hat and told everyone that it was my birthday! I told them I had no issue spending my birthday honoring others and it was a privilege to do it.
Joshua was living a life worth living, giving more than he gave and asking nothing in return. We should all take a page out of his book. Live a life less ordinary, live a life extraordinary…
MHANF!
Thank you Mike for both of your hikes with Joshua’s stone. I know that you learned more about him then most have at TSP. Please keep his memory with you throughout your life. God Bless You!
On Aug 7th 2015 TSP came to my home town Lincoln,Me. I have to be honest, I did not know much about TSP. I had seen a few things on the news about it but that was it until my friends Justin and Jessica Cloukey told me about a hike they were doing with TSP up Cadillac Mt. They told me what the hike was all about and how it went, and I could tell by the way they were talking about it that it was something special. So when I find out TSP was coming to Lincoln I asked to be involved. I was chosen to carry Marine Corporal Joshua Barron’s stone. Justin told me he had hiked Cadillac Mt. with you Dean and made quite a connection with you on that day. Right then I felt honored to be carrying Joshua’s stone. Dean I want you to know you would have been very proud of the town and the people who participated in this march. I know I was as I carried your sons stone through the town I grew up in. People were standing on the side of the road waving there flags, businesses had signs welcoming TSP, workers from those businesses were standing outside with there hands over there hearts as we walked by. I even saw a few tears shed. Your son was honored that day along with many others. Maine Hero’s Are Not Forgotten! Participating in this march really opened my eyes and heart. Seeing everyone that day carrying stones, hugging each other, telling stories, comforting each other was amazing. I’m glad I had the chance to be a part of it all because it woke me up. We tend to get caught up in our own lives we forget there are men and woman risking there lives for our freedom . There are familys loosing there loved ones for our freedom. Your son was an amazing young Marine who left us to soon. I will always keep this march along with Joshua in my heart and mind. I would be honored to keep his memory alive.
I had the privilege of hiking with Joshuaâs stone on 17 October 2015. As a member of Team Tarn, we hiked up Dorr Mountain then across to Cadillac Mountain. The views were incredible and the weather changed often but cooperated. I did interact with several of the hikers on my team but this was a somber hike for me.
Like all of the fallen, I can find similarities between their lives and mine. Not only could I relate to Joshua in regards to aviation but also in his desire to be full of energy, have an upbeat attitude and wanting to help others solve problems. As we go through this journey that we call life, we sometimes go through changes or get so busy that we either suppress these traits or we forget what is truly important.
I am truly sorry for your loss. I hope that you find some reassurance that your son is making a positive impact on others through The Summit Project.
Joshâs father, Dean is very active in organizations that honor the fallen heroes of Maine. In his own words âI am trying to tear a page from my sonâs book.â I hope that we all learn from both of their examples and do the same.
Your son meant everything to you, your bundle of joy, the smile on your face, the reason your day was always bright and happy.
They say we heal in time, but being there for someone for a long time can have such an impact on us without even knowing. We know deep down in our hearts that we won’t heal. However, Josh wouldn’t want his amazing family and sibling to be grieving forever. Josh knew the risks of going into the Marines, he was risking his life to protect millions of lives. Josh wanted to be a hero, he was a hero and he still is an hero.
Before the hike, I thought it was going to be boring, climbing Bradbury mountain didn’t sound appealing to me. I didn’t know what we’d be doing, I thought we only had to climb the mountain with the soldiers rocks. During the hike, I thought about how many people went into the service risking their lives to protect their country. While I was walking, I thought about how many times we loose our loved ones. I realized that the sacrifices that these soldiers and Josh make every living day, is astonishing. I didn’t feel selfish about me living my life, I felt sorrow, hurt, and broken. Knowing a loved one had passed away or k.i.a (Killed in Action).
Josh and many soldiers sacrificed their lives to serve our country. They didn’t want to go into the service because they wanted the title “Soldier”. They wanted to be remembered for why they went in. Josh’s, Dustin’s, Tyler’s, Matthew’s contribution to serve our country is beyond astonishing.
After the hike, I finally realized that all the Marines, Navy, Air Force, and army wanted to be there for our country, and their people. The more I got to think about him, I wished that Josh could’ve had a longer life span. I had the privilege of carrying Joshua’s rock to the summent of Bradbury.
I’m glad that Josh served our country but sad that he had to be taken at a such young age. I’m so sorry for your loss, Josh sounds like a great son.
Sincerely,
Katlynn Hall
Dear Mr. Barron,
I am very honored to have been able to hike Joshua’s stone up Mt. Bradbury on December 4, 2015. It was a very touching expirience for me because I have many relatives that are veterans or are still fighting in the war. Also I have a brother who is much younger than me and the thought of losing him to war is devistating. The hike up the mountain was pretty difficult for me but on my way up I was just thinking about Joshua and what he had gone through in the war which made me rethink the whole hike. I can relate to Joshua because me and him both act as guardians to the people we love.
I will never forget about my expirience hiking with The Summit project. It definitely helped me really understand how I don’t have it as bad off as some people. The war really affects a lot of people and their family’s. I thank you for participating in this project and allowing us to get to connect with your son. I am so sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Kylie N. Orcutt
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Barron,
Thank you for the dedication to the Summit Project and your support to organizations in Maine that honor our fallen heroes. By being so dedicated to these organizations, it has given me the chance to carry Joshua’s stone to the top of Bradbury Mountain.
Hiking up the mountain, I started thinking about what soldiers have to go through every day and I realized hiking a mountain, which seemed tough, wasn’t nearly as tough and tiresome. It was my first time hiking and I knew I couldn’t complain about how muddy it was or how wet it was or how out of breath I was by the time I got to the summit because I knew that Joshua and all the other soldiers went through things that were ten times worse. I was proud to carry up a stone in honor of someone that had so much dedication and bravery.
His story taught me how to be strong and go out of my comfort zone to do big and powerful things. His story has inspired me to accomplish goals I set because I have the chance. It has inspired me to treats others with respect, do things for others, appreciate what I have and every morning I wake up. So, I would like to thank your family for your bravery, respect, courage, dedication, time and the opportunity to honor Joshua’s life. It means a lot to me.
Thank You, Michaela Nalley
ELHS Class of 2017
Dear summit project peers,
I had the honor of carrying Cpl Joshua P. Barron’s up to the summit of Bradbury mountain. Joshua was 22 when he passed away. He was found in an irrigation canal in Yuma, Arizona, with a gunshot wound to the head. Joshua’s parents always described him as the protect or guardian of the family. He was always setting traps to catch imaginary dragons and demons that were a “threat” to his family.
Throughout his life Joshua always wanted to join the Marines. That shows from a young age that Joshua wanted to help people, that he wanted to put the lives of others before his own. That takes bravery and courage to make that sacrifice. Joshua loved the Marines, but what he loved the most was the camaraderie amoungst everyone.
While I was climbing the mountain, all I could think about was how tired I was and how much I just wanted to take a break. But then I realized how tired he must have been. All I had to do was walk to the top of Bradbury mountain. I don’t know what being in the Marines implies, but I know that it would take so much more work the climbing that mountain. The work, effort, and time that he put into the Marines was so much more than what we put into climbing the mountain. It made me appreciate what he did a whole lot more.
I personally know what it’s like to have family in the service. Both my uncle and cousin are in the service and it’s hard having them gone for long periods of time. I could never imagine not having them come back, that would be the worst thing of all. I hope that the family has found the closure that they need, and I hope that they know that carrying their son’s rock up Bradbury mountain was one of the most meaningful things that I’ve done, Joshua Barron will never be forgotten.
Sincerely,
Ashleigh Lyons
Thank you
When I when I was climbing the mountain while being around my friends and the soldiers it reminded me of my family. I’m thankful that they are still alive and that they served our country. I’m also thankful for Josh because he protected his country and it helps me keep an open mind about peers and myself. When I got to the top of Bradbury, the view reminded me of what Josh viewed everyday and how differently we see the world. He has always put himself before others, he wasn’t in the service for the title, he was there for his country and the people he loved.
Some say time is what leads us, losing a family member kills us. Not to mention losing someone who spend months and years with can be devastation. Having someone so close could break us to a thousand of pieces, no one has that special place in our hearts but the ones we love and care for.
Sincerely, Micheala Copeland
I liked taking part in the Summit Project because I believe in honoring fallen soldiers. It was great meeting people along the hike and it was also an honor to carry the Maine state flag. Through the process I learned a lot about Joshua Barron and he sounded like a really good guy. This project taught me a lot, like always be thankful for what veterans do for me and our country. This experience meant a lot to me.
I transported Josh’s stone in the motorcycle convoy this year for The Summit Project’s annual event.
Over the 3 years I have been participating in TSP events, I have met a lot of people. I shake hands, give hugs, laugh, cry, and smile. I would see Dean and his wife at all the events. We would chat for a minute and off we go in our own direction. I didn’t know Dean from the next guy. He asked me at every event if he could hike or carry Josh’s stone. I always told him to ask Dave. It hit me last year at Twin Pines when I saw him and his wife standing in the “families” line. I thought to myself, how foolish of me. He is a family member of our fallen. At Twin Pines, I went over to Dean and his wife and hugged them tightly and thanked them. Ever since then Dean and I talk online a few times a week. We try to go to each others TSP events or show support somehow. Dean is a very giving, caring, and blessed soul. This year I carried Josh’s stone.
Josh Barron, to me, is just like his Dad. As I was standing there at Twin Pines I felt his presence. My experience will never compare to anything Josh experienced but I stood in the hot sun, Tired, hungry, hot, sweaty, and I was holding his stone. It was heavy. What got me through standing in line was thinking the sunshine was the smile on Josh’s face. The smile on Dean and his wife’s face when I hand them Josh’s stone. I will stand in any element to see that smile. Thank you Josh, Dean, Sharon, Sarah, and the whole Barron family for your love, friendship, support, and your service.
Dean,
After carrying your sonâs memorial stone for the third time, this doesnât get any easier. Every time, Iâm reminded of the world we live in and the sacrifice he made to make this a safer world.
On Memorial Day weekend, I carried Joshuaâs stone and stories to the summit of The Owl in Baxter State Park. Our team carried the stones and stories of 18 fallen heroes to the summit, all of which were great soldiers. The stories that were shared and the tears that were shed were our way of memorializing these fine brothers, sisters, husbands, wives, fathers, and mothers. People just like us, but living a life that put them in harms way to make sure we werenât.
Joshuaâs life and stories need to be carried on, and Iâm trying my best to keep his story and memories alive by telling everyone I know about him. Through getting to know you over the past year and a half, Iâve gotten to know Joshua, too.
Joshuaâs life is a model we should all live by: protect the ones you love, give more than you get, have fun, and live every day to its fullest. What could be any better than that?
Once again, I was part of the best team in TSP history. I will say this every time I hike with TSP, and so should every member of every team. What it means to be part of TSP is life changing. The people that Iâve met are all genuine, and the Gold Star Families mean the world to me. A weekend with TSP is an emotional rollercoaster. A really good one, with hands in the air coming down the final stretch. With tears and hugs at the bottom. Back up for another run!
Once againâŚJoshua was living a life worth living, giving more than he gave and asking nothing in return. We should all take a page out of his book. Live a life less ordinary, live a life extraordinary…
Mike âBazookaâ Peterson
Thanks Mike! You have been a great friend. I’m honored that you have carried Joshua’s stone so many times. It helps keep his name and his spirit alive so that others can learn about him. <3
To the family and friends of Josh,
Today Greg Johnson and I hiked up Table Rock Mountain in Maine with 44 children who all have a parent or sibling currently serving in the military. They carried 27 stones up the mountain today. Here is a letter from the campers that had the honor of carrying your hero.
“Josh and I had so much in common. We both loved basketball. We were both good at karate. He sounds like an awesome person and I would have loved to have met him. I know I’ll meet him in the future in heaven. This was a fun experience and I hope to carry another hero’s stone soon.
PS, We even have the same name!
Love,
Josh and Reese”
On October 1st, 2016 I had the honor and privilege to carry the stone and story of CPL Josh Barron in Acadia National Park for an event hosted by The Summit Project.
I did not know Josh but learned that Josh was a kind person who often protected others. I thought about this character trait while I traveled to and from the event. I noticed many veteran plates and military stickers on the other vehicles â more so than usual. I knew I was where I needed to be that day and it was going to be a safe journey.
Hiking with 18 or so other volunteers was a lesson in teamwork and understanding. Our Fallen were too important to allow negative thoughts. As we ascended one mountain we started to learn just how difficult our trail was and we rallied together to establish a cadence that fit the team. We soon learned about each other’s lives and before we knew it we were summiting Cadillac with the American Flag waving strong. It was not a burden to carry these stones, it was a proud moment.
At the summit, Team Bubble soon formed a circle to share our respective Fallen Soldier’s story. I knew Josh’s story but when it was my turn I fumbled over my words and missed the important facts about Josh. At least that’s what I thought, who knows maybe josh wouldn’t want us to drew on those facts and more enjoy life while thinking about his big smile.
I knew josh was known for a good joke or prank but we I returned to camp I also learned that one of his favorite days of the year was April Fool’s day. I suddenly felt more connected to Josh because this is also my Birthday. I wondered if Josh pranked me when I tried to share his story. Maybe my fumble made others feel less pressure for when they needed to share. It was but a moment and the important thing is that I have many more opportunities to share Josh’s story!
God bless America!
To the Family of Joshua Barron,
I was honored to take Joshuaâs stone up to the top of Streaked Mountain. I was lucky to learn about Joshua and what he did and had sacrificed for us and our country. From what I learned about Joshua is that he was a very good man. Hearing that he had his mind set on joining the forces really made me connect with him. I as a 17 year old already have my mind set on going to the reserves and also going to a 4 year college. Hearing about Joshuaâs pride for the Marineâs was inspiring to me because I want to be in the Marines as well.
Joshuaâs positivity about life made me not want to take life for granted. His protective nature shows just how much he cared about others and put otherâs lives before his. The hike was tough at times, but knowing Joshua had pushed through harder obstacles, made me push harder to reach the top. I give all my respect to Joshua and his family for giving me the opportunity to learn about Joshua and also have the opportunity to honor him. I hope I make Joshua and his family proud that I will be joining the forces.
Best Wishes
Ben F
On March 26th, I had the honor of carrying USMC Cpl Joshua P. Barronâs stone to the top of Mt. Megunticook in Camden, ME with the most amazing (and thankfully, medically competent) group of friends I could have ever shared this experience with. It was during this trek that I was also able to meet the MANY different faces of Josh along the way (which I will explain later).
Just days prior, the weather was NOT cooperating, and we were constantly checking to see if the snowy/icy conditions would break just enough for us to maintain course with our plans to travel two hours north on this incredible trek. Three days before this trip, on the anniversary of Cpl Barronâs death, I was fortunate enough to talk via phone with Joshâs dad, Dean. I could only imagine how difficult this must have been to share his life with me on this day, but he did and as he shared story after story of this young warrior, I came to understand him as a loving, strong, family-oriented son, husband, brother, father who grew up in the same town I live in today and attended the same schools as my children do now. Amazing that it took so long for the opportunity to come, but everything happens for a reason.
When we began our ascent up Megunticook, I couldnât believe the bluebird sky that had somehow found its way through the snow and rain that had plagued us for weeks. Felt good to be back on the trails after an EXTREMELY long winter! We decided to take a few detours along the way to include a beautiful scenic overlook where a giant white cross stood at the edge of a cliff looking down onto the town below. A hawk circled above us (which we would later note that it followed us throughout the entire trip from beginning to end) as if to be looking out for our group. This is where I met, as Dean would describe, Josh â the Protector.
During the next leg of our journey, we had the great fortune of running into a woman who was pressing her way to the trailhead below after reportedly getting herself lost a few times earlier in the day. As we passed, we exchanged hellos and she asked if we were hiking with an group or organization of some sort. We began to explain about The Summit Project and its mission to honor fallen service members from Maine. And as she listened, she became more and more intrigued with every aspect of the program. And as we talked, I pulled Josh from my pack and began sharing all the stories passed to me by his father. Tears welled in her eyes and she thanked us for sharing such amazing stories. This was ABSOLUTELY the highlight of our trip â for not only did I have the privilege of carrying forth Joshâs memories on this day, but was able to provide a total stranger/instant friend with the same opportunity to carry forth his memories as well.
Now Dean had told me how much Josh used to love playing pranks on his sister. With the most incredible imagination, he would spend enormous amounts of time setting traps and capturing dragons in his backyard. This being said, there may have been times when he would (accidentally? đ catch his sister instead. As the ascent became steeper and I began paying more and more attention to my footing on the icy slope in front of me, I was COMPLETELY oblivious of the fallen tree which lain across my path â at head level. Greg, meet Josh â the Prankster. Enter picture, competent friends with medical backgrounds, and one head trauma doctor/âphotographerâ who ran up and slammed his head into the same downed tree as I did. Iâm sure we all looked like the stooges running around for a minute, but there was plenty of ice to share with everybody and eventually stop the swelling.
Without going into too much detail about the less eventful (but TOTALLY beautiful!) rest of our trip, we summited, celebrated, and returned to the base of the mountain with the Protector still circling above us. Starving after the 6 hour journey, and with no PB&J sandwiches to fill our bellies, we decided to take a trip to eat at a local brick oven pizza joint. FANTASTIC food and totally worth the trip! When we got there, we learned quickly that on the back of each menu was a drawing that a kid had made and given to the wait staff to be added to the collection. Most pictures were of pizza. One was of âstinky stuffâ and had beautiful pictures of skunks and smelly socks and trash cans. A really artsy piece. But the entire table was taken by complete silence when Susan slid her menu over to me and I looked at the picture on the back.
It was a picture of a family eating around a table â two parents and two children. One of the kids, however, was wearing a dragon costume while eating pizza with his mom, dad, and sister. I was floored. Josh was literally staring me right in the face. Now I am not one who much believes in signs, but it was impossible not to feel Joshâs presence there with us at that table on that day. It was impossible not to feel his presence there throughout this entire journey. With all my heart, this experience was more I could have ever expected and I could not ever begin to express my gratitude to the entire Barron family for allowing me the privilege of carrying forth their memories of Josh on this day. This experience will truly be one that is carried with me forever. My only wish was that it hadnât taken so long to happen.
Semper Fi, my brother. We will always miss you.
Hey Greg, Thank you some much for sharing your journey with Josh. I hope it helps future hikers remember to look for the signs. They are there. Loud & Clear. You just have to look for them. God Bless you for taking the time to learn about Josh and for carrying his stone. Love, Dean
Dean,
I just finished hiking Table Rock Mountain with campers who all have a parent or sibling currently serving in the military. This is what one child had to say about carrying Josh
” Taking this stone up the mountain meant a lot to me because one of my friend’s cousin was Joshua Barron. So taking this stone up the mountain gives me a connection with their family. I am so happy that I got to have a connection with his family and himself, finding out what he liked to do and where he grew up.”
Dear Dean,
I cannot express the honor and gratitude i had carrying Joshâs stone and story at Acadia national park. I may have only carried the stone for a day but I will Carry Joshâs story for the rest of my life. I never had a chance to meet Josh but as I stood there holding his stone I could feel his presence, you can feel his energy the aura that the stone gives off. It makes me want to just spend more time helping more people. I am still a firm believer that we do not pick the stone of the soldier sailor or airman I do believe that they pick us. And for some reason Josh has picked me to carry on his memory and to honor him for as long as I can to as many people as I can, and I will do this with honor.
Thank you for this HONOR,
Shawn Boutaugh
#MHANF
Thank you Shawn. I’m sure that Joshua was with you every step of the way. It was such a pleasure sharing some special things about Josh with you before your hike. It helps me heal a little bit every time I have to tell his story and share these things that make him who he was as a man. He was a Marine for a reason. He was everyone’s protector, especially his family. God Bless you for taking the time to learn about Josh and to keep his name alive. đ <3 #MHOFH
In December, my team (Team USMC) had the honor of carrying Cpl Barron’s stone during a 24 hour Spartan Endurance Race, in Iceland. This race was the first of it’s kind and within it, Spartan created a military heat. Teams from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines were represented by some of the finest military racers in the sport. Each team was captained by a wounded veteran and the winning team’s captain would become the 2018 Spartan Military Honor Series Sponsored Athlete. It was nothing short of a grueling race and the teams faced every weather condition imaginable.
During the first lap, one of my team members fell, ultimately breaking her wrist. Another slipped shortly thereafter, ultimately tearing his ACL. Our team continued thorough the first lap, and had to brainstorm on how to continue the race. The Marine refusal to ever quit took hold and the female team member refused to stop, allowing our brother to rest his knee. After 24 hours, Team USMC came out victorious and I am honored to say, that my service dog Gunner and I are now sponsored athletes with Spartan Race Inc.
One of the secondary missions we had for the race was to honor one of our fallen brothers by carrying a stone from The Summit Project, during the entire race. Our team was beyond honored, to carry your son’s stone. We had planned to take it out during the race to reflect on why we were there and our fallen brother, but due to the harsh weather conditions, we decided to keep if safely secured in one of the rucks. After the race, all four teams came together and each team captain spoke about the stone, the fallen, and what carrying the stone meant to them. Nothing means more to me than honoring our fallen Marines. Unfortunately, while ony my second deployment, we lost three amazing Marines. During the race, I thought about them and how they are with your son now, protecting the gates of Heaven. When we were tired, hurting, and ready to give up, we thought of your son, and that stone. We pushed on.
I hope one day to make it to Maine and meet your family.
Semper Fidelis,
Andrew Einstein
USMC
My journey with this foundation and Joshuaâs stone began long before I knew it had. I recently left the Marines and was approached on a mountain one day and informed of this great organization and what they do to continue the legacy of our nations heroes. My girlfriend and I were talking one day about a goal to hike with every stone and how to choose certain heroes for certain hikes based on the heroes background or similarities to us. I chose Joshua first due to the nature of his service and the similarities between our lives. We chose to do two short hikes as opposed to one long hike with his stone. We traveled to Acadia National Park and hiked both Mt. Gorham and The beehive trail. I personally chose Joshuaâs stone first on account that we are both Marine Corporals, having known the amount of work it takes to become a non-commissioned officer and the pride of being the most heavily relied on rank in the Marine Corps is a certain bond that not having known Joshua personally, still makes me understand weâve walked in the same boots. Having been in the infantry due to the nature of my deployments and tasks we relied heavily on our brothers and sisters in the air wing. During the hike I reflected on what Joshua had accomplished and what his father does for so many of our nations finest. As I felt the weight on my back each thought of the courage honor and discipline Joshua had and all his father continues to do made the weight a little lighter and lighter, and by the time we reached the summit I felt as if I had a conversation in my head with an old friend. I am very grateful for the opportunity to carry Joshuaâs stone and contribute to his legacy.
Semper Fidelis
Dear Dean and family,
I first had the honor of carrying Joshua’s stone in the motorcycle convoy ,just after the ride started it
started raining I think to remind me of the solemn occasion , about half way thru the sun came out to
dry the tears so to speak, I then had the honor of carrying his stone to the owl summit the following
morning, though I did not know Joshua personally I will always remember him, when we reached the
summit there was a hawk doing circles above us I believe it was Joshua looking over us. In my heart
I see his love for his family his fellow man and woman and his country.
Semper Fi
Sincerely Howard Smith USMC
Hearing of the stones before a school outing club trip to Mt. Katahdin, I didn’t know what to expect. Most of us (most because we had a limited number of stones) were given a stone, and i received Joshua’s. I carried that stone as i could manage from being out sick for three days earlier in the week. I had to stop, but the stone was carried on to the summit thanks to a group member. Though my time was short I was proud to even carry the stone. as i later said “If they are bending over backwards for their country, than we can do the same carrying their reference a little bit of everywhere, at the same time trying to cure some back pain because that rock was heavy.” But may he rest in peace, and glory forever be found.
My school had an outing club trip to Baxter State park, where we climbed Mt. Katahdin and most of us got a stone from the Summit Project. Learning about this program was really interesting because most of us had never heard of it prior to the trip. I think this project is a great idea to get more people knowledgable about the sacrifices that these people have made and keep the memories of these people alive.
I carried Joshua’s stone to the summit of Katahdin. At points during the hike, I could feel the weight of the stone in my hiking backpack, which reminded me that it was there, and every time I felt it, I remembered why I was carrying it. I felt honored to have brought Joshua’s stone up to the summit, and I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of this project.
To Joshuaâs family,
On Veterans Day weekend I had the honor and privilege to carry Joshuaâs stone both up Blue Hill Mountain and for 4 miles running honoring not only him but all Veterans. The hike, while short in distance, will be forever lasting in my life. I was able to learn about Joshua and also share a piece of my heart with someone I had never met in person. I also had the honor to hike and run with other fallen soldiers stories and with a group of amazing people who knew the importance of what we were accomplishing. I am so appreciative that through the gift of your contribution of Joshuaâs stone and his story to the Summit Project I have been able to connect with amazing people and confirm the importance of family in all of its forms. Thank you for sharing and allowing me to honor him and please know he will hold a place in my memory and heart. May peace find you knowing he will be forever remembered for the loving, caring and strong person he wasâ¤ď¸
Thank you so much for running with my sons stone and memories. He I was a brave man who would take care of anyone and would give all to anyone who needed his protection or help. I am honored people are taking the time to get to know and honor him. Thank you for your willingness and strength . I am sorry I missed you!
Joshua’s Family –
Josh kept me company during this past Memorial Day Weekend 2019, for our Ruck to Remember, 60 for 60, event, out of WVA and into Arlington National Cemetery. The rock stayed with my on our 60 mile event and we discussed his creativity and other Marines I was in charge of that were similar to him and his drive/passion. It was honor to be connected to him, his memory and all of you, in this way.
Regards,
John E. Fricano
USMC, Combat Disabled Marine / Purple Heart Recipient
PTS Peer Support Mentor
That was a long ruck thank you for keeping Joshs story alive and with you for that long ruck. I greatly appreciate your strength and commitment! Lynn Barron (Mom)
Dear Josh-
Thank you for guiding and protecting me and my team on Rainbow Trail, TSP @ BSP 2019. To learn about you, I exchanged messages with your father ahead of time, and, thankfully, I met your mother in the morning of the hike. How fortunate I was to hear her talk about you.
When I woke up Sunday morning, there was a steady, heavy rain on the roof of the cabin. In all honesty, my first thought from my warm, dry bed was, âNo. Someone else can hike today.â Pretty selfish, huh?
Within the hour, the team was meeting to begin the shuttle ride to the trailhead. The rain was letting up, and my personal clouds were dissipating too. I was ready for this hike!
The accent was easy, and the circle was full of honesty and emotion. At the summit, I talked about your growing up in Standish, your participation in sports, your connection with your church, and your desire to be a marine. I hope I represented you well, Josh!
It was on the decent that I began to think of the mother- child connection. I have a child who is just 22, the age you were when you left this earth. My child and I are close. Iâm not capable of understanding how Iâd feel if she were taken from me.
Rest easy, Josh. You are missed, and you are remembered!
Your amazing and beautiful !Family !Thank you so much for remembering my sons life, spending time with him! He is always with us! I am truly grateful you carried his stone and story! I am blessed by meeting you!! Thank you. I would love to share my life with Josh and our family contact me anytime 2073172367Lynn Barron (Josh Mom)
My name is Luke Otis, I carried the stone of CPL Barron on a hike up Tumbledown mountain Maine with other cadets from Nokomis JROTC. There were 34 stones of fallen soldiers brought to the top of the mountain were we had a ceremony to speak about each of the veterans and their lives. I mentioned how he excelled in athletics and how he had wanted to join the Marines for a long time. We had a father of another fallen soldier with us while we traveled up Tumbledown mountain and he expressed how he misses his son and is proud of him. I canât imagine what it is like having lost CPL Barron but I can imagine how proud you must be of him and his accomplishments.
Sincerely,
Luke Otis
Luke
thank you for carrying my sons story and stone up Tumbledown MT. as You continue your lifeâs journey as a cadet or in all you do Be a loving father and friend, be courageous and stand up for what is right, and be there to lend a hand! Thatâs how Josh lived his life May you take a piece of him with you as your life Journey continues . Thank you Josh
mom
Hello my name is Brandt McCollett President of Patriot Riders Maine Chapter 4. I had the honor of carrying Joshuaâs stone on its first journey to twin pines in Millinocket, Maine for the 2019 TSP ride. As I rode from Portland all the way to twin pines I could hear the heckle of a marine cpl giving an army specialist the typical Army/Marine jokes!!! It was a true experience that I will hold dear to my heart!! The pin that was given to me of Joshua is and will remain stuck on my refrigerator until the next ride he and I will take together!! May you Rest In Peace Josh!! To the family i and this country thank you for your unselfish sacrifice to make this country free!!!
Iâm sure you do hear the banter! When I was bringing him home from Paris island on the way home he informed me I was just a civilian and I didnât know anything! I told him this civilian took care of him and provided for him so he could graduate as a marine! I am in the army reserves and he has always joked about being the best! Marines are the best you know mom! Thank you for bringing Joshs stone home to me !
It was my honor and we will tell him together at the pearly gates ARMY IS BETTER!!!! hooah!!!!
Hello, my name is Jeremy Turcotte and on June 14th I had the great privilege and honor of carrying Joshâs stone to the top of Mt. Agemeticus in York, Maine. I canât tell you how moving this event was for me and my fellow colleagues whom also carried stones of our fallen soldiers. I was so fortunate to have some time talking with Joshâs mom Lynn and I canât tell you how great it was to hear the stories and how great of a man Josh was and the mark he left on his family and friends. LynnâŚ.thank you so much for taking the time to talk with me. I want to share with you below, the words I spoke or at least tried to speak as I was fighting back the tears.
I would first just like to thank all who have served, those whom are here and those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice defending the freedoms of our great country.
The stone I carried today represents Cpl. Joshua P. Barron who Left us in March of 2011 at the young age of 22, while serving his country.
From what Iâve learned about Josh through the TSP site, and conversation with his mother LynnâŚâŚ.Josh was a hardworking, family oriented guy, who had a passion for helping others. From birth he faced adversity, however continued to always drive forward never giving up on the task at hand. Josh was a protector, always wanting to ensure his friends and family was safe. This is where his passion for becoming a Marine was born. He wanted not only to ensure the safety of his friends and family, but rather ensure the safety and be a protector of all.
This stone we carried today came from a small stream in the back of the house he helped his family build in West Baldwin, Maine, where his sister and family still live today. His mother Lynn had spent many precious hours at this special place where she felt comforted. One day earlier this spring, a stone in the stream she has spent so many hours watchingâŚ.. seemed to call to her. As she reached for the stone, it fit her hand most perfectly. It reminded her of a badge of courage, a badge in remembrance of her son. Lynn believes this was Joshâs way of delivering a stone fit for her to carry.
Well Lynn, today we carried this stone in Joshâs honor. For the service of his country, for his family, and most importantly for his mom!
Thank you so much for allowing me to represent your sonâŚâŚ.and his family. I am eternally grateful for the sacrifice you all have endured in support of defending our freedom.
Jeremy
Thank you so much for carrying Joshs story and stone! It was great to sate his story with you before your hike. Your dedication and support will not be forgotten. Thank you Lynn
Dear Lynn and family,
I have attempted this letter several times and each time I walk away unsatisfied with the chosen words. How do I aptly describe my experience with you, Lynn, and Josh this past weekend at Acadia National Park? I am not sure that I can, but here we go.
As you know, I had the honor of carrying Joshâs stone to the summit of Cadillac on September 28th, 2019. I had a lot of laughs learning about Josh and I truly appreciate all the time you, Lynn, spent with me at Smugglerâs Den. I would have been honored to have you and Sarah on my hiking team, but I am grateful I had the opportunity to learn about Josh by carrying his stone. I was in great company on that hike, let me tell you!
Everything you shared with me about your son Josh makes me wish I had the opportunity to get to know him in life. I loved learning about his adventurous side, rolling his car in Yuma and calling to say he had a âlittle accidentâ while on your family vacation; protecting his mom and sister by hoarding and hiding all the knives in the house so he would be at the ready; knowing he only needed to pass English in his Senior year in order to become a United States MarineâŚ.then learning he almost didnât pass because wasnât going to class (even though it was his only class!)!
I connected with these stories, with you, as a Mom. The pride shining on your face, the laughter in your voice â there is no replacing or diminishing a Moms love. Josh and Sarah are lucky to have a mom that exhibits such strength and kindness. I am certain Josh received his loyalty and determination from you. How could he not? I too was a single mom bringing up two small children and I know full well how HARD it is. Not only that but when you wanted to provide more for them; you did just that by putting yourself through nursing school. Determination, loyalty, sacrifice. Love.
For the first time with The Summit Project I was a team lead. I was charged to lead 14 hikers to the summit of Cadillac Mountain via the South West Ridge Trail; Team Blackwood. The day couldnât have been more beautiful! In our circle ceremony I shared Joshâs story from my heart. I did read his title to make sure I honored him properly, but I didnât read the notes I brought, I didnât have to. His story lives in me and I will continue to share him with others.
Thank you for sharing Josh with me. I appreciate the time you spent with me Friday evening (or should I say waiting for me Friday evening while I chased Hannah around?), the stories you shared early Saturday morning before we ventured out to summit Cadillac. It warmed my heart to have you and my daughters in the crowd to send us off on the bus to the trail head. I hope that should you decide to board that bus one year, that I am seated beside you.
Love,
Andrea
Andrea
What beautiful words of love and support! I truly grow and heal every time someone carries his stone! I loved being at camp with you and your family! You gave me an in person conversation about our families! Our families now bound in love! I would be honored next year if we are on your team but it might have to be Blackwood! Your words of love and encouragement blessed my heart! Thank you so much for carrying Josh and our family in your hear then and forever! Love Lynn
I was enormously honored to join a 12 man team to ascend Mt. Katahdin on the final day of a 150 mile ruck that Greg Johnson was completing. I was even more honored to carry with me to stones of three sons, Maine men who lost their life serving our country and ensuring our freedoms and way of life. I initially wrote three very distinct reflection letters. But once completed, I realized that we were all together on this hike and it was really a shared experience. So I went back shared much of the content of the letters across the three.
Andrew Hutchins was the first stone to come to me. I requested his stone for this hike in advance. But as the mission grew closer, another stone came to me, that of Josh Barron. It was a series of events that happened at the Acadia hike that drew me to Joshâs stone. It wasnât just that his stone missed out on the Acadia hike. It wasnât just that Joshâs mom showed enormous support of the Katahdin hike. It wasnât just that the size of his stone seemed âdoableâ to add to my other stone. It was what I saw in the eyes of Joshâs mom. Lynn is the very face of what TSP is all about. We honor our fallen, but we also provide an avenue for healing for the Gold Star Families. Iâve seen a glimpse of Lynnâs journey, and Iâve seen a face lined with sadness and pain turn into a face of love, acceptance, and happiness. I have a special place in my heart for this Gold Star Mom, and there was no question that Josh needed to come with me. Heâd be joined by Andrew in my pack, and these boys would go with this Mom on an adventure. Camaraderie is what itâs all about. Later on the hike, Jay Brainard would join these boys. And then there would be three.
So I felt like that lucky mom that got to take all the boys on an adventure. Having kids of my own I know how much fun these adventures can be, not only for the kids, but for me as well. As I decided that the boys should be together so I put them in the same carrying bag. Every time I thought of them being together, it brought a huge smile to my face. I thought of the fun theyâd have, through their ages. Giggling at silly things as little kids, and laughing at off color humor as young men.
Although it brought a smile to my face knowing they were on this field trip together, the weight of their loss never escaped me, even when I removed my pack. I thought of the Moms especially. Their boys werenât just away on this adventure with me, their boys would never to return home. And I thought about grief, and about healing. I thought about myself carrying this weight, not just for this hike, but for a lifetime. Iâll never forget this particular field trip. Where the boys were in back having a good old time, while Iâm in the front taking us on the journey, not hearing their words, but enjoying their laughter.
That feeling of escorting a group of foolish boys around stuck with me. I felt excluded from their fun. But entertained by it. Now and again the weight of the pack would shift unexpectedly as I scrambled up and around the boulders. Its like when the kids in the back seat get together and all shift their weight going around a corner and the car takes a startling heave to one side. Not dangerous, but shocking, and the kids think itâs hysterical. Brats. There we many small moments like that. I had to remove my pack once and lift it up over rocks before I could climb it myself. That was the moment I actually âpulled the car overâ.
I kept waiting for Josh to give me a tug on my shirt to tell me to look at something or go a different way. That didnât happen, but I was especially observant about so many things on the hike. I donât generally look around, instead focusing on my footfalls. However, this hike, I was noticing so many things – the dew droplets on the red berries, the last few remaining high bush blue berries, all those weird roots that resembled other things. I saw dozens of heart shaped rocks, and the way our headlamps reflected of the backs of the dewy maple leaves turned them into magical glimmering silver fairy lights all down the path. Maybe I was the mom in the front seat, being ignored by the boys, and trying to entertain myself. Or maybe there was an imperceptible tug on my shirt telling me to look around at the beauty surrounding me.
And at some point on the hike they tired me out. I still had that love and gratitude that they were with me, and I wouldnât have traded it for the world, but my energy level was running low. The boys became a different kind of weight. They were that heavy dead weight of a sleeping child. Now it makes sense, like the end of any long trip, the boys were zonked out, asleep in back. Whenever I stopped to rest, I slid the pack smoothly down, like I subconsciously didnât want to disturb them. And when it was time to move on, I asked for help. Instead of heaving the pack up with a big plop on my back, I gently lifted the bag up to the nearest person and asked them to hold it while I slipped it back on. I remember taking note of the gentleness I had with my pack, it being odd, and I attributed it to exhaustion. I realize now, looking back, I was being easy with the sleeping boys.
As Iâve reflected on this hike, many things have come together – as they often do. I spent the day in the moment, so I didnât take many pictures. But when looking back at one picture, it was one of those âah-haâ moments where yet another thing came together. I was at the summit and wanted a picture with myself and the three boys. I tried and tried to get one standing next to the sign. I realized that trying to hold all three stones wasnât going to happen, I didnât want to drop anyone. They were more than an armful – as three boys would be. So I sat down in front of the sign and put them on my lap. They were SO fidgety, it was like they had a mind of their own. As soon as I got two situated and tried for the third, the other two would move. I was having a difficult time and feeling a bit exasperated as to WHY I couldnât complete this seemingly very simple task. All the while I had people waiting on me. I think it was Greg that said: âput that one on top!â And so I did, and just like that, they settled. They were still. And secure. And just like any mom trying to get a picture with three wiggly kids, when they finally held still, I didnât dare move a muscle. The pictures were taken and I gathered up the boys and moved on. When I saw the picture after the hike, goosebumps arose. Just look how the stones fit together.
The stories of Josh remind me of my own son. Quiet, intelligent, sensitive, Mamaâs boy. Iâm so enormously grateful to have been the Mama on this trip.
I started this letter just a few days after the hike, and it took me a full two weeks to complete. Itâs amazing as I look back on that day how more and more things still come to light. It was an amazing adventure with fantastic people that I consider family. We came together and brought these boys to the top as a team. We all carried each other that day.
Red I am speechless and filled with tears of joy! Thank you!
Dear Lynn and family,
As I sit here today thinking about the events of last weekend, the hike up Blue Hill Mountain and the Veteran’s 4 mile walk/run in Ellsworth, I realize for you and your family there is a big piece of life missing and that is Joshua. He gave his life to the military to protect and serve all of us that are here today. How does anyone possibly say thank you for such a sacrifice. It was my humble honor to carry his stone and speak of your son, brother, uncle and friend. It was so nice to meet you and give you hug to let you know that we care for your son and his life mattered a great deal to so many. Thank you Lynn for bringing him in to this world. He made a difference to so many and his legacy lives on thru you, your family and this Project. Wishing you all the best now and every day.
Dawn thank you so much for spending time with Josh, your encouraging words and warm hug will never leave me! Thank you so much!
I had the honor of carrying Joshâs stone on Memorial Day 2020. I participated in Ruck to Remember which is typically a 60 mile Ruck from Harperâs Ferry, WV and ends at Arlington National Cemetery, Section 60, it is a 3 day Mission to honor our nationâs fallen service members. Due to travel restrictions and social
distancing restrictions at this time, the event was modified to shorter distances and smaller outpost teams throughout the country. I had the honor of leading our team here in Maine where we began a 6 mile route from Prentiss Woods trails in Bangor and ended at the Mt. Hope Cemetery Korean War Memorial. I am humbled and grateful to have carried Josh with me. Thank you for your amazing son.
My name is Marlow Kendall,
I had the honor of hiking a stone in memory of Josh during this time of difficulty and unknowns facing our country and the world. It is hugely satisfying knowing that in the time of COVID, our heroâs were not forgotten.
This was my first participation in the Summit Project. When I signed up there was no knowing what was in store. As it slowly became more apparent that the event could not be conducted as usual, I was feeling a little dismayed. Never fear, TSP leaders came through with a plan for us all to not break the chain of honor.
Social distance hiking is not a great idea by itself. I am fortunate enough to be in a relationship with another TSP participant, and I am sure many other have circumstances that let them have company during their hikes. Our goal was to circumnavigate Marsh Island in Bristol. While I am not sure the distance, it took us around three hours at comfortable pace. The weather was superb, a fantastic spring day. I chose a stone that is naturally heart shaped and I estimate to weigh about 15 lbs. We took a break about two thirds of the way through the hike sat down on the shore to talk about our heroâs. and take photographs. I hope this sounds like I had a wonderful day and a leisurely walk with beautiful scenery, because I did. Having such an enjoyable day leaves me feeling a little guilty. How can I have all of this even with the current difficulties in the world? Not by accident, thanks to Josh, many other heroâs lost, and those currently deployed,( Lynn),to help in the fight against the virus.
Dear Lynn and family,
It was a foggy late September Morning on Mt Desert Isle. Waking at five am after a restless night in a tent listening to a nonstop chorus of coyotes and barn owls, I had time to walk alone in the morning woods. In the spring I carried a substitute stone for Josh for the Memorial Day hike. The virus had put severe limitations on the activities of normal TSP event. Spring and summer passed, fall brought the opportunity to meet at last. In a few hours I would have Joshâs actual Stone in my pack with intentions to get to the top of Cadillac Mountain. My pack was empty with the exception of a a bottle of water and a granola bar. I went off to join team Blackwood to procure the final item on my pack list. As I would learn, my team was made up of many long time TSP hikers , two gold star family members and service friend.
I stood waiting to receive the stone thinking that I could walk up there and pick it out based on your description of it. Even if it didnât have his initials inscribed. My name is called, time to go meet Josh! The stone is medium sized, about 9 inches across, three thick, flat on both sides with the exception of a thumb shaped inclusion on the back side, hi Josh! In to the pack you go! Time to get you up this mountain, donât eat my granola bar.
After a bumpy school bus ride to the trailhead, our six foot spaced column headed out. It wasnât a difficult hike but it was beautiful even with the fog still bearing down. At Eagle Crag overlook I gave Josh a chance to take in the view. He didnât see much nor did I, dang fog. I felt that he had seen it before in fairer weather. There was abundant lighthearted humor amongst the team during our hike, with our distance I couldnât hear all of the jokes, Josh and I just kept quiet and enjoyed what we could hear. Nearing the summit there were fleeting views of the distant hills and grand fall colors.
We made it! Now it was time to sit in a circle to talk of those we carried with us. I knew many of the team were familiar with Joshâs story, perhaps carried his stone before. I lamented I was honored to be a link in an unbroken chain, unbroken through this pandemic and forever. Josh will always be remembered, that is certain now.
I had the honor and privilege to carry the stone and story of Cpl Joshua P. Barron.
Dear Brother,
Man, when I got the word that I was carrying a fellow Marines stone, I was like letâs get this party started. It would be a very exciting two weeks. We started out by helping hand out the other stones to the hikers in Portland. We than got to spend a couple of days at my home, while I learned about your story. It was great to learn about your story, and every day I got to share a new chapter of it with my wife. Towards the end of the two weeks, I got to share your story with my daughter and her husband when they came out to visit. As the day of the hike got closer, we had to start getting as couple of things together. The main project was to build several monster traps to keep everyone safe while we were out. My favorite trap was the GySgt R. Lee Ermey from the movie âFull Metal Jacketâ. I think that we both laughed about that one. With the house protected by the monster traps we set off for our hike around Parsonsfield. We found some trails that I didnât even know about. Thank you for reminding me to bring the GPS so we could get back. The next day we got to be apart of âThe Ruck to Rememberâ you were my co-driver. In the safety vehicle for the hikers. We were both happy to be doing because of all of the rain, plus we got to meet the hikers at each of the check points to cheer them on. It was a great day. Thank you for being a part of it.
Please know that your story will always be told as your stone was added to my arm tattoo. There are 10 of my TSP brothers on my left arm, and it is always an honor to tell their stories when people ask about the tattoo.
You will never be forgotten, not just because of the EGA, but because of âMHANFâ
To the family of Marine Cpl Joshua P Barron,
I had the honor and privilege of carrying Joshâs memorial stone and story to the summit of The Owl as part of TSP in BSP on May 29, 2022.
I am struggling to put into words the ways in which Josh and TSP have impacted me, and how much I have learned from Josh. I was able to pick up Joshâs stone the night before the hike. That night, as I set his stone next to my bed, I thought about Josh, and how he was full of energy, upbeat, and made everyoneâs day better just by being him. I remembered how protective he was of his family and friends, how he would do anything to help someone in need, and how much he loved being a marine.
I met my team on the day of the hike, and we seemed to have almost immediate camaraderie, I think having a shared mission helps with that.
We were a well-matched team, falling into an easy pace and conversation together as we climbed. It was a beautiful day, and we reached the Summit and sat for our ceremony. I pulled Joshâs stone out of my pack, and I felt the weight of it in my lap as we all shared the stories of the heroes we carried. Again, I struggle for the words to describe the impact this moment has had on me.
I have felt Josh with me since I first heard about him, and will continue to carry him with me. I find him nudging me to go that extra mile to help someone, reminding me take care of and protect those that I care about most, and try to carry the things that he would do, forward.
To Joshua’s family,
If anyone had asked me about the Summit Project a few months back I would have had to look it up. I am so glad my leadership team from VBA chose this to do during our off-site in Portland on Friday, September 9. I chose Joshua, and after reviewing more about him, I think he chose me somehow. I could see so many characteristics in Joshua that I see in my four sons (love for sports, love of being near water, being a protector of their single mom). The day of the walk couldn’t have been better for weather. Thank you for the honor of allowing me to carry this precious stone through the Eastern Promenade Trail in Portland. This will be an experience I will never forget. Respectfully submitted, Holly Jo Kirkpatrick
To the Parents and Family of Marine Cpl Joshua Barron,
Thank you for the honor and privilege of carrying Joshuaâs stone on the TSP ANP hike on September 24, 2022. I was so proud to do so.
The story that stays with me most about Joshua was that he helped to build the family home as a high school junior. It is such a rare quality for a teenager to be that generous with his time while so young. It sounds like he was very dedicated to your family.
Reading about Joshua on the TSP website it was easy to see that he was a protector. I can just imagine him setting traps around the property to catch imaginary dragons. You must have been so proud to have him as a protector in your lives.
In reading about Joshua I can see the similarities to my son. They both served at the same time. Growing up they both loved sci-fi, video games and Harry Potter. While my son was serving I worried so much for his safety. We were lucky in that he came home to us. I can only imagine how heartbroken you must have been that Joshua was taken from you at such a young age. I only wish that Joshua could have lived to achieve his goal of getting a Computer Science degree and continuing to serve our country as a CIA agent. It seems he was born to serve and protect the U.S. Our nation is so lucky to have had such a fine young man in the Marines to protect us all.
Memorial Day weekend, 2023… My husband Rob and rode in our very first, but not our last, motorcycle convoy for TSP, carrying the stone of Marine Cpl. Joshua Barron. I read and re-read all about him, feeling like I was getting to know him just a little bit. It makes me smile to think that this young man was BORN a warrior.. and had a calling. I think, if my husband and I had known him, we would have liked him very much. I had the honor of presenting his stone to his mom and giving her a hug. There were so many things that I wanted to say. She talked with my husband and I about Joshua and it was so nice to meet her. I hope that Joshua and his mom were happy with the caretakers of his stone… We sure were proud to keep it safe and deliver it without issue. This is a moment in time that we will never forget. To Joshua’s family, and to his mom especially, thank you for letting us be a part of your family for just a little while. All the best – Rob and Laurie Bosquet
I was honored to carry Joshâs stone and story on our hike on the Rainbow Loop with Team White as part of The Summit projectâs 10th Anniversary. While itâs never easy to hear the stories of our fallen heroes, Joshâs story was a particularly hard one for me to share given the unimaginable circumstances and the weight of unanswered questions around his loss.
Having hiked the Rainbow Loop in the past when it was miserably hot, humid, and extraordinarily buggy, I admit that I was dreading doing that trail again this year to carry Joshâs stone. But, I reminded myself that itâs not about the trail and how comfortable I am while hiking; itâs about honoring Josh. So, I sucked it up and went out on the hike expecting another miserable day even though itâs an easy trail.
Instead, it was an amazing day on the trail and I believe thatâs because Josh was with me and looking out for me that day. It a lovely hike to honor our fallen heroes. I could not have asked for a more fitting place to share Joshâs story and listen to those of other fallen heroes told by my team mates.
Joshâs journey as a Marine was not merely a profession; it was a callingâa selfless commitment to a cause greater than himself. Beyond his military service, Josh was a pillar of support for family and friends, always offering a helping hand, warm smile and generous spirit to brighten the lives of those around him. Protector was a role and a calling he answered early, embracing that responsibility and serving as man of the house for his family.
Joshâs family and friends, who are forever changed by the void left in his absence, bear witness to the immeasurable impact he had on their lives. Josh may no longer be physically present among us, but through his family, friends, and TSP his memory will endure, etched forever in the hearts of people who knew him and people like me who wish we could have known him.
To his family and friends, I hope you find strength in the cherished memories of Josh to provide solace during moments of sorrow.
Thank you, Josh, for your commitment and selflessness in serving our country. I will continue to carry your story in my heart and remember you on our shared birthday!
With deep respect and gratitude,
Rota
To Joshuaâs Family,
As my first hike with TSP I was unsure what to expect. Upon receiving my assigned stone I decided to reach out to Joshuaâs mother Lynn and am so thankful I did. Hearing you talk about Joshua and the circumstances surrounding his death made me realize just how intimate this entire experience is. The night before the hike I was able to learn a bit more about the stone Lynn chose for Joshua and how it had to be engraved EXACTLY as Lynn found it. It really touched me how special that moment of discovery was.
The hike itself was beautiful. The forecast called for rain and instead we were greeted by beautiful sunshine and warm weather. At the summit, we shared the stories of our heroes and it was a strange sensation to both honor the memory of someone Iâve never met and also feel like I know so much more about them and their journey than I had any right to. I was both humbled and proud to share Joshuaâs story and will be honored to do so again and again, TSP event or not.
To Josh’s Family –
In my first (but not last) TSP, I had the honor of hiking with Josh’s stone. Prior to the event, I read alot about Josh, and had a brief conversation with his mother Lynn the day before. Josh’s soul is so amazing, pure, selfless. He was a person who wanted to be a good son, good friend, good person. Josh is someone who people would want to be like, and would want to know. After learning a bit about him from the stories online, Lynn, and through others who carried him in TSP events, I can certianly say he is someone who I would have loved to know – and though we never met, I will always carry his memory and story.
The stone has a beautiful story, and it is perfect. It was hard to not look at it and smile, even knowing what it represented.
I hope during the circle ceremony, that I did Josh justice and represented him the way he deserved to be.
With great respect,
Katie
To the Family of Joshua,
This was my first ever hike for The Summit Project and to say I was nervous would be an understatement. But in learning about Joshua, I became inspired. As I hiked up the trail I was just reciting what I had planned to say at the summit. When my team and I had reached the summit and we started our ceremony I froze. I was a new hiker with experienced hikers all around me. Even with my nervousness I chose to go second. I spoke up, I had the courage to do something new and hard.
When I researched Joshua I started to learn more about him, the more I learned the more inspired I became, and I looked up to him. I thought about how he was the first to do the hard job and how courageous he was. When I was speaking I did stop and my nerves got me. But I laughed it off and continued, and I knew that he would have too.
I believe that not only did I learn about him but I also learned from him. I learned that no matter how scared or intimidated I am that I could do it. That I just needed to take a deep breath, laugh, and roll with it!
I hope that I was able to do him justice in our ceremony. Iâm truly inspired and so honored I was able to carry Joshua Barronâs stone and story. This was a good experience to have with my mom, who also carried a stone, before I graduate high school this year. Thank you for letting me learn about Josh.