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.”