Military Salute--Master Sgt. Donald Parrish

WTOC ^ | 09/15/05 | Jaime Dailey

[mdittmar]

One Low Country Marine with Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort has been recognized with one of the nation's highest honors for his role in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Master Sgt. Donald Parrish works as the explosive ordnance disposal officer in charge for Marine Wing Support Squadron 2-73 at the air station. Not too long ago, he was serving in Iraq, leading a group of Marines to destroy insurgent weapons and explosive devices as troops pushed toward Fallujah.

"Our responsibility basically was to make sure main effort for pushing through and clearing out the city wasn't hindered or hampered by explosive devices," Master Sgt. Parrish told us.

For destroying thousands of weapons and explosives in a short amount of time, Master Sgt. Parrish was awarded the Bronze Star medal with combat distinction for valor, one of the nation's highest honors.

"It's a humbling experience, because I don't feel I did anything all that outstanding or great," he said. "I was simply there in that position and there was a lot of demanding things put on everyone."

And he gives his Marines all the credit. "I know all the Marines I worked with over there deserve to be standing out here with me if not before me," he said.

Although he's proud of this honor, he says he's most proud that all his Marines made it back home.

Since 2003, Master Sgt. Parrish has served in Iraq twice and he says troops are making a difference. "We came into it knowing it would be hard and I see progress, so I'm happy. The Marines I saw in Iraq, especially the young ones, are doing an outstanding job. They're doing a great job."

That's why we at WTOC salute Master Sgt. Donald Parrish.

Reported by: Jaime Dailey, jdailey@wtoc.com

[The Westerner]

Thanks for posting this.

[Kimmers]

Semper Fi.....love those Marines

[359Henrie]

Love them JARHEADS.