Bloem, Nicholas William Baart
Male
Verified Nicholas William Baart Bloem, a U.S. Marine, died at 20 in Barwanah, Iraq, on August 3, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Their Story
Lance Corporal Nicholas William Baart Bloem was a young Marine from Belgrade, Montana, who served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve. Born into a close-knit community, Bloem joined the Marines to serve his country, a decision that brought him to the conflict in Iraq.
On August 3, 2005, Bloem was stationed in Barwanah, Iraq, with B Company, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, based out of Billings, Montana. This period of Operation Iraqi Freedom was marked by significant violence and instability.
Bloem was killed in action during a hostile encounter, becoming one of the many service members who lost their lives in Iraq. His death is a reminder of the human cost of war, affecting families and communities far from the battlefield.
Operation Iraqi Freedom was a complex conflict that began in March 2003 and officially concluded in August 2010. The mission faced numerous challenges, including sectarian violence and insurgent attacks, which claimed the lives of many, including Bloem.
The grief felt by Bloem's family and fellow Marines reflects the profound impact of his loss. His service and sacrifice remain honored by those who knew him and the broader community that remembers the fallen.
Explore Further
Operation Iraqi Freedom, which began in March 2003, concluded in August 2010. See the full roster of those killed in this conflict.
Among those documented in the same conflict: Aubin, Jay Thomas, Beaupre, Ryan Anthony, Childers, Therrel Shane, Gutierrez, Jose.
