16th Jan Jason L. Dunham

Good morning,

I really enjoyed researching this newsletter. Being a veteran, I always try to think how I would react in a situation and I am sure I am not the only one. 

On this day - 1991

Operation Desert Storm began when a coalition of forces launched a massive air campaign against Iraqi military targets. This was followed by a ground invasion of Kuwait, and southern Iraq on February 24. This quickly routed the Iraqi military and liberated Kuwait.

In todays newsletter we honor..... 

Jason L. Dunham

Jason Dunham was a United States Marine Corps corporal who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Battle of Karbala during the Iraq War. He received the award due to a split second decision that cost his life, but saved his brothers. More details ⬇️ 

Jason was born in New York in 1981, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2000 when he was 19 years old post graduation from High School. Jason graduated not long before his 20th birthday. He was in the Security Force Regiment initially before he became a squad leader with 4th Platoon, Company K, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

His unit was on Operations and based in West Iraq, when on April 14th 2004, Dunham and his unit were conducting a reconnaissance mission in the town of Karabilah, Iraq, when they came under attack by enemy fighters.

During the engagement, Dunham's team was ambushed, and several Marines were injured. In an effort to protect his comrades. Dunham deliberately exposed himself to enemy fire, and engaged the attackers in hand-to-hand combat.

During the struggle, an enemy fighter dropped a hand grenade. Then, without hesitation, Dunham covered the grenade with his Kevlar helmet and his body, absorbing the blast and protecting the other Marines from certain injury or death. Despite his injuries, Dunham continued to fight until he lost consciousness.

He was evacuated to a medical facility, but his wounds were too severe, and he later died on April 22, 2004, 8 days after he sustained his injuries. He fought to the very end, and even though his quick reactions and instincts saved his brothers lives, he paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Sometimes a pictures paints a thousand words, and when I saw the picture of his helmet for the first time (above) I was shocked. Having worn one for years and knowing how tough they are, just shows the impact that the grenade caused.  

For his selfless actions, Dunham was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration in the United States, in 2007.

The citation for the award reads in part: "Corporal Dunham's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in an enemy combat zone, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."

Dunham's legacy has been honored in various ways, including the naming of a destroyer in his honor, the USS Jason Dunham. Additionally, several buildings, roads and events has been named in his honor as well. His medals and awards are on display in the National Museum of the Marine Corps.

Dunham's legacy is also remembered by his family, friends and comrades in arms, which many still consider a great hero. His selfless act of courage under fire will always be remembered as an inspiring example of selflessness and devotion to duty.

He died at the young age of 22 but will always be honored and remembered by the Veteran community.

May he RIP.

Did you know?

The United States Department of Defense is the largest employer in the world, with over 3 million employees. These include civilian workers and active servicemen and women.

Let us know your thoughts on this email by hitting reply and I hope you have a great week ahead.