Taking Chance Home

http://www.soldiersperspective.us/?p=950

LtCol Mike Strobl wrote the following narrative of duty as a casualty escort. This is part one of a two-part posting. Part one is the LtCol’s story, part two is news of how this warrior will be remembered by Marines for generations to come. It is a fairly long read, but I urge you read all of it. I am not breaking this entry because I feel it all deserves front page light. *Edit: After publishing and seeing the length, there is no way around not throwing the more tag on this.*

This touching story is bound to yank the heartstrings of even the toughest Marine Grunt. I suggest you have a hanky handy if you are prone to tears. –Cpl M

Chance Phelps was wearing his Saint Christopher medal when he was killed on Good Friday. Eight days later, I handed the medallion to his mother. I didn’t know Chance before he died. Today, I miss him.

Over a year ago, I volunteered to escort the remains of Marines killed in Iraq should the need arise. The military provides a uniformed escort for all casualties to ensure they are delivered safely to the next of kin and are treated with dignity and respect along the way.