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CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C., April 5, 2006 —“My father, a former Marine, served in Vietnam,” said Pfc. Daniel M. Knight, a Marine from Greenville, S.C. “He would tell me stories of combat, but I never understood what it was really like. In a few months, I will begin to realize what he was talking about.”
The 19-year-old nuclear, biological and chemical defense specialist will deploy to Iraq for the first time with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment in a few short months.
“Ever since I was a kid, it’s been a dream of mine to be a Marine,” said the 2005 graduate of Woodmont High School. “Actually becoming a Marine has been the greatest accomplishment in my life.”
When Knight deploys this summer, he will be a member of the battalion commander’s personal security detachment, providing security for the unit’s leaders anytime they leave the safety of their base.
“I’m extremely excited about deploying,” he said. “I joined the Corps because Marines are the first on the front lines. This is what I live for, and I can’t wait to get over there.”
Knight’s father shares his son’s excitement about his upcoming deployment, but said he still is a little worried. Morris L. Knight served almost a year in Vietnam as a Marine lance corporal and understands the dangers of a combat zone.
“I feel proud and honored that my son is serving his country,” said Morris, now living in Simpsonville, S.C. “I’m a little concerned, but I know that he’s well trained and ready to go. Daniel has wanted to be a Marine since he was five or six years old. This is what he wants to do and I support him in his decisions.”
“He told me that if he didn’t worry, he wouldn’t be a father,” Daniel explained. “He said that he is confident in my abilities and told me to just keep my head on my shoulders.” His father is not the only person giving him advice. Knight’s leaders, who deployed to Al Qa’im, Iraq in February 2005 have been preparing him for his first combat tour. |
