Posted on 09/07/2007 8:55:51 PM PDT by RedCell
Fellow FReepers,
It is with a heavy heart that I post this to let you know we lost another FReeper. My dad lost his long and courageous battle with lung cancer last night at home surrounded by family.
I was fortunate enough to make it to his side minutes before he passed. As I held his hand and announced my arrival, I could tell he knew I was there as his unfocused eyes lifted toward my face. I told him how much I loved him and how thankful I was to have been "raised right" and for everything he did for me. Moments later, he struggled with his last breath and departed to heaven to be at the side of the Lord.
My father served proudly in the United States Marine Corps (HQBN, 2DMARDIV) and would tell my son and me great stories of his time in the service. He would always tell me how proud he was of the exceptional work "his" Marines were doing in Iraq and Afghanistan.
One day after returning home from a chemo treatment, I was telling him how great it would be to have him join Free Republic to voice his opinions (and believe me he had many). Even though he was weakened by the drugs (and having to deal with dial-up access on a computer from 1993), he joined up and was able to make a single post (screen name "Ed said"). As much as he wanted to participate further, he needed to stay focused on his attempted recovery but we would still discuss hot topics that appeared up on FR.
He was a great man and we will miss him dearly. For as long as I can remember and to his final breath last night, he exemplified the principles instilled in him by the United States Marine Corps: Semper Fidelis.
Your loss is a loss to us all. God bless you and your family. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
I’m grateful for your Dad’s service to our Country.
My prayers are with your family.
Prayers up.
I’m so very sorry for your loss. I lost my father in 1995. I think of him daily.
I’m so sorry, RedCell. Prayers on the way for his eternal rest, and for the comfort and consolation of you and your family.
The Marines Prayer
Almighty Father, whose command is over all and whose love never fails, make me aware of Thy presence and obedient to Thy will. Keep me true to my best self, guarding me against dishonesty in purpose in deed and helping me to live so that I can face my fellow Marines, my loved ones and Thee without shame or fear. Protect my family. Give me the will to do the work of a Marine and to accept my share of responsibilities with vigor and enthusiasm. Grant me the courage to be proficient in my daily performance. Keep me loyal and faithful to my superiors and to the duties my country and the Marine Corps have entrusted to me. Make me considerate of those committed to my leadership. Help me to wear my uniform with dignity, and let it remind me daily of the traditions which I must uphold. If I am inclined to doubt; steady my faith; if I am tempted, make me strong to resist; if I should miss the mark, give me courage to try again. Guide me with the light of truth and grant me wisdom by which I may understand the answer to my prayer. Amen and Semper Fidelis,
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Prayers for your family RedCell. Heaven is well protected by the US Marines.
My deepest condolences. Semper Fi, Ed said, and may no more battles find you in your well-deserved rest.
May he RIP.
May God bless you and your family.
What a blessed gift to have such a man as your father. I’m so grateful for your father and for men like him who have blessed us because of their devotion to God, family and country. May God surround you and your family with love, comfort and faith.
Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for you and your family on the loss of your father.
VERY special prayers going up!!!!
Prayers for all of you.
Your father was an American Hero. No finer words can be expressed.
So sorry for your loss. You and your family will be in my prayers.
My sincere condolences!
Another Marine reporting sir....
My dad passed away August 22 of this year. He was an Army Warrant Officer of 22years and Vietnam Vet.
Semper Fi.
The Pearly Gates perhaps hold a special banner over head not unlike the wonderfull banners families and friends posts when our fine young soldiers and Marines return from combat assignments. Welcome home. A job well done.
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