★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★
2LT J.P. Blecksmith, USMCR, '03 was killed in action in Fallujah, Iraq, on November 11, 2004, while leading the 3d Platoon, Company I, 3d Battalion, 5th Marines. Ed, his father: "J.P. wanted to lead his men effectively in combat, and bring them all home safely. He accomplished both of those goals. He just couldn't save himself."
Four other Naval Academy alumni, beginning with LTCOL David McDougal '33 on Okinawa, have been killed in action with our nation's enemies while serving in the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines.
J.P. was survived by his parents, his brother, and his sister.
To Honor! ⚓
https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/JAMES_P._BLECKSMITH,_2LT,_USMCR
https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/Category:3rd_Battalion,_5th_Marines