Marines honor fallen combat engineer in Iraq

Photo By Sgt. Stephen Holt | A line of Marines and sailors wait to pay last respects to Lance Cpl. Leon B. Deraps, a combat engineer with Company C, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, who was killed by an improvised explosive device on May 6, 2006 while providing engineering support in the Al Anbar Province. Deraps, a native of Jamestown, Mo., was considered a kind-hearted and caring friend, one who put everyone ahead of himself. His awards include the Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Iraqi Campaign Medal. (Official USMC Photo by: Cpl. Stephen Holt. 060517-M-0293H-005-line Released.)  

FALLUJAH, IRAQ

05.17.2006

Courtesy Story

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Cpl. Stephen Holt

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (May 17, 2006) - The silence at Camp Fallujah's Chapel of Hope was broken by the sound of Marines trying to hold back tears of grief, while the sun beamed through the windows on a lone M-16 rifle, helmet, set of boots and dog tags displayed as a memorial for a fallen warrior.

Marines gathered here to remember Lance Cpl. Leon B. Deraps, a combat engineer with Combat Logistics Battalion 5, who died May 6, 2006, during combat operations against enemy forces while providing engineering support in the Al Anbar Province, according to the official press release.

For those who knew him, Deraps was considered a kind-hearted and caring friend, one who put everyone ahead of himself.

"He was always helping others," said Pfc. Nicholas B. Steward, Deraps' roommate in Iraq. "He took the time and effort to make sure everyone was taken care of. He'd bring snacks on a convoy, eat a little and then offer it up (to everyone else)," said the 19-year-old Mansfield, Ohio, native.

Nicknamed "Missouri" by his friends because of his country roots coming from Jamestown, Mo., Deraps was close to his family and was excited about returning to spend time with them again.

Many of Deraps' friends and fellow Marines opted to extend their tour in Iraq, but he wanted to return home to his loved ones.

"We all rolled over... but he wouldn't because of his family. It goes to show how close (he and his family) were," said Steward, adding that Deraps' lap top screen saver was filled with pictures of his family.

As a way to show support to the Deraps family, an American flag was signed with notes from Marines expressing their gratitude for serving with him and the lasting memories they have of him.

The striped area of the flag is covered with notes ranging from "Your sacrifice has forever changed our lives" to "We are better Marines for having served with you."

The flag will be given to Deraps' family in the near future.

Born November 13, 1986 to Dale and Sandy Deraps, he graduated in May of 2005 from Jamestown High School. After graduation he attended recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego. Upon completion of boot camp and Marine Combat Training, Deraps reported to the Marine Corps Engineer School Court House Bay, Camp Lejeune, N.C., where he earned the professional title of Combat Engineer. He reported to 7th Engineer Support Battalion at Camp Pendleton, Calif., on January 1, 2006 and deployed to Iraq on March 4, 2006 with Combat Logistics Battalion 5.

Deraps left a lasting impression on his superiors.

"I only had to say something once and he picked it up and continued to do it," said 1st Lt. Edward Walsh, Deraps' company commander.

Walsh, a 26-year-old native of Melrose, Mass., was with Deraps' when they were attacked.

"I'll never forget who he was and I will always honor his spirit," said Walsh.

"I am honored to have had him as a comrade," said Lt. Col. Randy T. Lawson, the commanding officer of CLB 5. "Although his rank will be filled again, he can never be replaced. He was distinctly unique."

Deraps' awards include the Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Iraqi Campaign Medal.

• Date Taken: 05.17.2006
• Date Posted: 05.18.2006 16:50
• Story ID: 6432
• Location: FALLUJAH, IQ