MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – Camp Lejeune Sea Cadets carried the torch for a fallen Navy SEAL at Hammocks Beach State Park in Swansboro, North Carolina, Aug. 17.
Chief Petty Officer Chris Campbell, a Navy SEAL, lost his life while serving in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Wardak province, Afghanistan, Aug. 6, 2011. He was also a former lifeguard of Hammocks Beach State Park.
The cadets spent the day sweeping the beach for garbage, doing boardwalk and trail maintenance and conducted any other construction needed at the beach.
“We’re here to commemorate his service,” said Lisa Jaramillo, organizer of the event. “He loved the ocean view and was an advocate for its conservation. This is a day to celebrate his passion of the water, park and life in general.”
The cadets were taught how important Campbell’s sacrifice was to their community and country throughout the day.
“I understand what it is to sacrifice,” said Rogelio V. Davila, executive officer of the cadets and native of New Braunfels, Texas. “Not only will volunteering teach them about giving back to the community, but I want them to recognize his service to the country. If they go on to join the military they’ll know.”
Campbell was an advocate to the park’s conservation.
“Today’s the day I’m volunteering my time in honor of Chris Campbell,” said Mike Mchugh, a writer for the Jacksonville Daily News and native of Allentown, Pennsylvania. “He used to be a lifeguard here before he entered the service. We should all honor anyone that wears the uniform but when it hits this close to home it’s vital for us to recognize his sacrifice.”
Cadets talked of Campbell’s family during the cleanup.
“He sacrificed for our country so we’re just here to give back,” said Alyssa Jaramillo, the leading cadet and native of Jacksonville, North Carolina.