CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. --
Marines
with Transportation and Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 2, 2nd
Marine Logistics Group gathered here at a park to commemorate Cpl. Christopher
M. Monahan Jr. and Lance Cpl. Dale W. Means during a memorial 5k and cookout
Nov. 22.
Means and Monahan were both killed in action
while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan, in support
of Operation Enduring Freedom.
“They are always with me in my heart,” said Capt.
Lee Stuckey, the commanding officer of the company. “This is the type of
brotherhood we have and you should continue (with) whatever unit you’re at.
“The Marines are not the only ones that
suffer when we lose somebody, the families do too, and the families are just a
part of this unit as we are. We are one big family.”
The company presented the Monahan family, who
was in attendance, with a hand drawn picture in memory of their son before
beginning the 5k. Marines who served with Means and Monahan shared their experiences,
reminding everyone what kind of people they were.
“I had a chance to love a brother like that,”
said Sgt. Zachary Jones, a landing support specialist with the unit. “I look down
and think how great he was; he left a lasting impression of laughs, smiles and
great conversations. There is no replacing him or forgetting him, but we can do
is come together on a day like today and celebrate the ultimate sacrifice they
gave.”
The Marines came together and bowed their
heads for a prayer after the memorial run was completed. They then grilled
hamburgers and hotdogs and enjoyed a meal with their families.
“These are brothers and sisters I will never
forget, whether you’re in for four years or 24 years, you will never forget
your brothers and sisters,” said Cpl. Frank Jones, a motor transportation
operator with the company. “I will remember these Marines until the day I die.”