Memoriam
A Lasting Tribute - The Patriot Name
Patriot was founded in honor of Cpl. Kirk J. Bosselmann, named as a tribute to his life, his sacrifice, and the values he lived by—courage, loyalty, and unwavering dedication to others. Everything we do is inspired by his memory, and every step forward is a way to carry his legacy with us. Kirk’s story is woven into the fabric of who we are, reminding us always to stand for something greater than ourselves.
In Memoriam – Cpl. Kirk J. Bosselmann
Scout Sniper, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division
March 25, 1983 – November 27, 2004
Cpl. Kirk J. Bosselmann was the kind of man you couldn’t help but admire. Brave, loyal, and full of life, Kirk carried a spirit of adventure that few could match. To those who knew him, he wasn’t just a Marine—he was a son, a brother, a teammate, and a true friend. Kirk lived with an energy and purpose that inspired everyone around him. He was the kind of person who could conquer any challenge placed before him and always seemed to be seeking out the next adventure.
Raised in Dickerson, Maryland, Kirk spent his youth exploring the outdoors, hunting and fishing in the woods and fields he loved so much. He was a talented athlete, playing soccer and lacrosse for Poolesville High School, where he built lasting friendships and developed the sense of discipline and teamwork that would guide him for the rest of his life. Kirk also loved riding horses, a passion that connected him deeply to nature and freedom.
After high school, Kirk’s adventurous spirit led him west to California, where he set his sights on joining the ranks of the elite wildland firefighters known as Smokejumpers. These highly trained firefighters parachute into remote wilderness areas to battle wildfires, a mission that requires exceptional courage and physical stamina. It was there, in the rugged wilds of the West, that Kirk found his true calling—not as a firefighter, but as a Marine.
Drawn to the challenge and the brotherhood of the Marine Corps, Kirk enlisted on the West Coast, beginning his journey through boot camp with a fierce determination to succeed. His talent and drive quickly set him apart. After completing his training, he was stationed at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina with the 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment. There, Kirk earned his place among the best of the best as a scout sniper—a role that demanded precision, patience, and the kind of mental toughness that few possess.
When Cpl. Bosselmann deployed to Iraq with 1/8, the country was at a critical point in the conflict. In November 2004, during the Second Battle of Fallujah—Operation Phantom Fury—Kirk and his brothers in arms found themselves in the heart of one of the fiercest urban battles in Marine Corps history. Every street and building became a battleground. Every step forward had to be fought for. It was a battle of endurance, courage, and sacrifice.
Kirk’s role as a scout sniper placed him on the front lines of that fight. From hidden vantage points, he watched over his fellow Marines, scanning for danger and protecting them from unseen threats. His rifle wasn’t just a tool—it was a lifeline for the men fighting below him. Every shot Kirk fired was an act of protection, ensuring that his brothers could keep pushing forward. He was their guardian, their protector in the shadows.
On November 27, 2004, during the intensity of battle in Al Anbar Province, Kirk gave his life in service to his fellow Marines. His final moments were defined by the same courage and selflessness that had guided him throughout his life. He stood his ground, unflinching in the face of danger, fulfilling his promise to protect his brothers until the very end.
Legacy of Valor
Cpl. Kirk J. Bosselmann’s life was a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unwavering power of loyalty and sacrifice. Though his time was tragically short, the impact he left behind is enduring. He was a man who lived every day with purpose, whether climbing into the saddle of a horse, parachuting into remote wilderness, or walking the streets of Fallujah with his brothers by his side.
His story will forever be a part of those who knew him, and his sacrifice will never be forgotten. His brothers in arms will always remember the sharp-eyed sniper who protected them from above, the friend with a wry smile and an adventurous heart, and the man who gave everything so others could live.
Citation of Service
Name: Cpl. Kirk J. Bosselmann
Unit: 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division
Role: Scout Sniper
Operation: Operation Phantom Fury, Second Battle of Fallujah
Date of Sacrifice: November 27, 2004
Location: Al Anbar Province, Iraq
"For his brothers, for the mission, for something greater than himself."
Semper Fidelis, Cpl. Bosselmann. Your sacrifice will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew you and in the history of those who honor your legacy.