Marine from Conroe, TX killed in Iraq
Even though I wasn’t born there, nor have I lived there since leaving for the Army in 1991, I still consider Conroe, TX my hometown.
I read today that Cpl. John R. Stalvey, a 22-year-old Marine from Conroe, died on Monday of injuries he received from an improvised explosive device while conducting operations against enemy forces during Operation Iron Fist in Karabilah, Iraq
Cpl. Stalvey joined the Marines shortly after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. According to his uncle, Stalvey “believed it was his duty to protect his country against terrorism.”
Cpl. Stalvey, a scout sniper, was based at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, where he was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment.
I didn’t know Cpl. Stalvey, nor did I know his family in Conroe (the Merillats). But I am extremely grateful for his service to our country, and for his ultimate sacrifice. Godspeed, young Marine.
***
UPDATE: Cross-posted over at the ever-so-gracious Mudville Gazette via an Open Post.
That Marine was more than just a statistic to me. He was more than just black ink on a white page. John was my student. He was an all-American guy. From boxing to art, he gave his heart to everthing that he did. John loved and honored his family. John loved and honored his country; but most of all, John loved and honored his Saviour. John was a born-again Christian who was not ashamed of Jesus Christ.
There are times in life where you sense that you have been brushed with greatness. Often times, though, we realize it after it is too late. We are double blessed if we recognize the greatness while it is still before us. I knew long before the Marine ever put on a uniform that there was greatness within John Stalvey. I was and am so proud of John, my friend, my student. My hero.
That marine was more than just a marine to me as well. He was my cousin and friend.
The sun’s heat beats down as a marching song is echoed.
Back home the TV is on and the grass is being mowed,
and a Marine marches on.
His boots come down on familiar soil.
Somewhere a mother brings some water to boil,
and a Marine marches on.
Evil men are putting their plan into play.
Millions of people are just greeting the day,
but a Marine marches on.
A father kisses his daughter before he boards the flight.
A couple is on the way into work, discussing plans for the night,
and a Marine marches on.
Now, “The towers are burning.†Comes the news from the wire.
Everyone tunes in to see the horrible fire,
but a Marine marches on.
People are dead and heroes are made,
but the flag still flies over the home of the brave,
and a Marine marches on.
Fighting begins and is over in time.
Terror is beaten on yet another side,
Sill, a Marine marches on.
Many of his fellows have given all,
but this was not his turn to fall,
and a Marine marches on.
Now he is sent to another destination.
“Your job, Marine is to free the nation.â€
and a Marine marches on.
Politicians attack and politicians defend.
Before long the war will begin,
and a Marine marches on.
Some send him letters and wish him the best.
Some send him hate mail and wish for him death,
but a Marine marches on.
Now his boots come down on unfamiliar soil.
Protesters are shouting, “No blood for oil!â€,
but a Marine marches on.
A woman falls down and kisses his feet.
People cheering for him fill the street,
and a Marine marches on.
Now the war is over and the protesters are gone.
People’s attention returns to their lawn,
but a Marine marches on.
Though he is no longer popular or the subject of the day,
I will rest easier when evil next comes our way,
because a Marine marches on.
The Marine knows freedom, and knows the price
The day has come to lay down his life.
So a Marine marches on.
Friends and family come to do their part
A mother clutches a purple heart.
But a Marine marches on.
Now his boots come down on soil of gold.
He now marches down the eternal road.
And a Marine marches on.
…..In memory of my cousin and best friend, Corporal John Stalvey, who is now marching home…
He gave his life in sacrifice so that we don’t have to.
He paid the price for those of us who were not willing.
He died doing what he wanted to do.
The “Bod-Squad†will never be the same. Give Christian and Papaw a big hug for me
Love you brother…….
He was more than just a statistic to me too. I never met him. I never even saw his picture or heard his name until I saw this post. But, he is a man who has made the ultimate sacrifice to protect my freedom. For that, I owe a debt I can probably never repay.
Eternal rest grant unto them oh Lord. And may perpetual light shine on them. May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.
God bless you John I miss you.
He was more than a statistic to me as well. John is my cousin and hero. We all love you and miss you John.
I served with John in Cuba and Africa and when Mike Co. was deactivated John served under me in 2nd squad, 2nd PLT India 3/6. I gotta say that John was the most motivated Marine That I have ever seen! WHatever we went through he was positive, whatever challenge rose, he was ready. I was very proud to hear he picked up Cpl so fast and made it into scout snipers. When John was taken away from us I was devistated. Not only did I lose a great Marine, someone who I felt was still my responsibility, but a close friend. My only regret is that I wasn’t there with him. I’m gonna miss you Stalvey, rest in peace brother and Semper Fi!