John and I were Sergeants together in the early 90s. We were both going to the University of Colorado, earning our degrees. John was an infantryman, a mortarman. He came to CU from the 5th Marines, the most storied of all of our storied regiments.
John in Iraq. |
When John graduated he went back to the infantry. He was eventually assigned back to his beloved 5th Marines. While commanding C Company 1/5 in Ramadi Iraq, he was awarded the Bronze Star for valor, proving our high opinion of him.
John was killed by an IED on June 16th, 2005, leaving behind a wife a son and a daughter. John was honored one more time. He was given one of the Corps' most prestigious awards, the Leftwich Trophy. It is the only time this award has been awarded posthumously.
His full bio can be found here.
Please take a couple of minutes to read a little bit about John.
So enjoy the day off work. Enjoy the barbecues. Take delight in your friends and family. But also take a few moments to remember the reason for the holiday and to give thanks for those who gave their all for us.
Semper Fi Marine. Thank you for your service.
ReplyDeleteWe will remember them.
ReplyDeleteFrom a Corpsman (HMH-465, MAG-16, 3rd MAW) Semper Fi brothers. Never Forgotten
ReplyDeleteSemper Fi Doc.
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