I’m simply crushed by this. Elijah was a hard worker and always strived to do better. I’m not religious but when Elijah barracks room was next to mine, he would talk about his bible study group, we talked videogames, I’m much older than Elijah and he was like a little brother to me, we bonded over silly things like being one of the few Californians on Dam Neck. I remember him talking about Moreno Valley and my mom lives out there. I’m distraught I was not in corps when this tragedy struck, I got out in November ‘23 and Valdes wished me merry Christmas and a happy new year and birthday wishes. I’m heartbroken that I didn’t get a chance to tell him happy birthday or be there for him. My kids are part Filipino and Valdes said we should take a trip to the Philippines , he said it would be an amazing experience. I’m absolutely sorry that the marine corps let him down. I’ll never forget him and with tears in my eyes, I wish I could be there for his family, give them a hug at the very least. I want them to know what they probably already knew but Valdes was a bright light in a very dark room.

My deepest condolences to all his family and loved ones. I had the privilege to be his battle  buddy during bootcamp. We used to call him a ninja because when  we needed supplies for our alphas or food before a ruck, he some how got it the next morning. He also had the strongest mental fortitude at of everyone, I would have gon crazy from all the fire watch he had to indure. The drill instructors had to force the scribe not to give him fire watch. He even got me into playing yugio! I am very honored to be able to train for those long three months by his side. Semper fi marine, till valhalla.

My deepest condolences to the Valdes Family. I had the privilege of being one of his Drill Instructors and it pains me to know he is no longer amongst us. For the three months that I knew him, I can tell you he was one of the smartest and hardworking recruit. I knew he was destined for greatness. He will truly be missed by all those whose life he impacted without him even knowing. Semper Fidelis Marine. Till Valhalla.

Valdes was in my class at Dam Neck, he was great kid. Highly motivated,  strong-willed and dedicated Marine. Semper Fidelis.

I had the privilege of Leading Valdes when I was in the school house at Dam Neck Annex, He was the first marine I was in charge of. I have never met a more motivated individual since I met him, he was a brother to me and I hope to emulate every last quality as a leader like he did. Til Valhalla brother, May you rest in peace

Valdes always had heart and a strong mentally. He pushed himself to try & become better and always make his parents proud. His fighting spirit & memories will live on through those that knew him. Rest easy brother, your fight is over.
-Alexander Aburto

My deepest condolence to you and your family there's no words that no one can ever say to you about losing a son I too share and this loss of losing one of my sons recently I pray that God will give you and your family the strength that you need I will be praying for you and your family I didn't know your son but I know too well the pain My son Elijah also served in the Marines My deepest condolence if you need anything please reach out for most of all I will be praying and standing in the gap for you and your family My deepest condolence again to you May he rest in peace ❤️🤍💙🙌🙌🙌Marlene.

Our deepest condolences to Elijah-James Valdes' family, friends, and Marine Corps family. Thank you for supporting him in his career path. Please know he will not be forgotten for he will walk by your side when you need someone to talk to, when you need support, he will be behind you to catch you before you fall, and there will be small signs letting everyone know he is still with you. 

With heartfelt sympathy going your way, 
The Fernandez Family and 
in Loving Memory Capt. Ron Fleming, USMC and Bonnie Fleming, Commander of the household.

I'm sorry for your loss.  I went to school with him, and though I did not know him well, I thought of him as kind and well accomplished.  He was very driven, and known as a hard working cadet whose dreams were big and bright.  He showed me kindness when I first joined the JROTC program by showing me how to properly wear my uniform, and I won't forget that wonderful act of kindness I received in a stressful time of my life.  He is and will be missed.

19th birthday eating a rice crispy since he hadn't planned on celebrating.

Showing me around town on his day of leave.

Visiting me at my first year in college, enjoying the view and talking for hours (and attending my classes). I miss how he raised his hand and asked my professor a question randomly.

Senior year ice cream and lunch, celebrating both of us graduating.

Elijah, Eli, was like my younger brother (though he would never admit it) he was my rock for the past eight years of friendship. We saw each other through the darkest of times, and like we promised each other in eight grade to be like sleeping sea otters holding hands so we never drift away from each other. I will always see him in the curiosities of every day, him showing me the base over series of photos, and in the calla lilies he so loved. 

Elijah, I can now call you by your full name instead of just Elijah James Valdes. I finally know your middle name, though I'm sorry I cheated and didn't guess naturally like you wanted me too.

We will remember the world's you created out of nothing forever

I’ll miss you so much little brother, I’ve always considered you like a brother to me and I’ll miss your smile, your laugh and how much you loved your siblings. I am at a loss for words but I always remember you as a caring, loving and inspiration to everyone around you. I pray that you’re at peace now, rest in paradise.

Holding baby Thea at George Smith's service, she fell asleep in his arms <3

We are so saddened to hear of this news.  Mr. Green was his teacher for Government and Economics at Vista del Lago, and Elijah was my Teaching Assistant during his senior year.  Elijah had a thirst for knowledge and was never satisfied just knowing a little about a topic.  In Mr. Green’s class, he would challenge the status quo, was always open for debate and truly wanted to know and understand the truth.  He was always ahead on his work, so he and I had time to talk about historical subjects and life in general.  He was as proper and polite of a student as we have ever had.  He would take on any task with precision and enthusiasm.  Everything that he was involved in, he gave his full commitment and attention.   He was looking so forward to his future as a Marine and wanted nothing more than to proudly serve his country.  He will be truly missed.  We are praying for his family and community, and hope that their pain turns to memories and comfort.

I’m so sorry for your loss and the pain you’re going through right now. My deepest condolences to you both and your family.

OBITUARY

Elijah-James Alfredo Valdes

May 3, 2004 – May 15, 2024

Acheson & Graham Garden of Prayer Mortuary

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