Lance Thornton, US Army 2005-2008
Listen to Lance’s story or read it below.
My name is Lance Thornton. I was in the United States Army from February 2005 to May of 2008. I’m from just outside of Mt Vernon, Missouri.
I guess what drew me to join the service was just wanting to be part of something bigger than myself. As an American we have all these freedoms and liberties but they’re not free, they’re earned. So, I wanted to be a part of the group that earns and keeps those freedoms.
You know one thing that it taught me or showed me is you can’t quit. No matter how tough things are, how bad it is, you can’t quit. I lost my arm when I was over there, over in Iraq and I probably do more things now and do things better with one hand than I did with two. I think its that attitude, that perseverance that never quit that the military instills into you that’s gotten me through to where I am. That and the support system of my family, my wife especially.
I am absolutely glad I did it, couldn’t imagine not, I’d do it all over again. Even if I knew I was going to lose my arm again, I’d do it all over again. I wouldn’t change a thing…wouldn’t change a thing.
All images ©Steve Snyder, Images of the Ozarks.
The Freedom Endeavor 
What a wonderful story. Thank you so much for your service. Steve what a neat idea.
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Thanks Pam, with everybody’s support we can keep the project rolling and continue to grow The Freedom Endeavor.
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Love this youngman, such an example of a true patriot.
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Thanks Darlene, I would definitely have to agree with you!
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Thank you for your service Lance… So proud of your achievements… You’re such a Great role model for All young boys & men… Especially those around you,.. Keep on doing what you’re doing!!! 😊😊🎉🎉❤️🤓🇺🇸🇺🇸
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Thank you Patty, I have many other great Veterans in the works coming to tell their story soon.
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Lance is the first born of my first born. He has always had great spirit and has been a witness to all who know, or know of, him. He is truely our hero!
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Thank you Nora for your kind words of a true hero!
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So, so proud to call you my big brother. Love you, bud. You’ve always been one of my heroes.
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You one of mine hero
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I knew lance on a brother basis him and I were in the same unit and I thank him for his courage and selfless service
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Thank you Harland and thank you to everyone else for their comments.
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It was truly an HONOR to have known and Served with you. In the Unit, in the Gun Section we were in and over seas in Iraq. Your presence has SURELY been missed in Charlie Battery by all that knew you. You continue to Honor yourself and all you meet with your commitment to excellence, perseverance, integrity and selfless acts of kindness you give to all. You Are Missed Brother !!! Thank you for being the MOST OUTSTANDING and INFLUENTIAL individual that you are. For you have blessed so many with your continued acts of kindness. Thank You.
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