Yesterday I received the sad news that Jesse Melton, a Captain in the Marine forces was killed in duty on the 9th of September. I was first asked if I remembered him. Immediately I knew who he was. He was in many of my classes at Messiah. Each time I would enter a class for the first time I would look for certain people. He was one of them. If he was in the room, I knew it would be a good class. He was not a showy person or loud, or arrogant in any way. If anything he tried to come to class, learn his stuff, get the good grades, and go on his way. I say he tried because he was one of the most naturally funny people I have ever met. It didn't even have to be a word. A simple expression on his face said a thousand words and every one of them funny. I remember an acting class in which we had to re-enact a pivotal moment in our lives. He chose to re-enact the day he graduated from training and became a Marine. He walked up in his casual way and when he was ready, immediately went into marine stance and transported us all to the field; music playing, people cheering, moms crying, and officers saluting. I watched in amazement as the look of determination and pride overtook his countenance. A single tear streamed down his face. I remember being so impressed by such pride and accomplishment at such a young age. He did it as a re-enactment, but I felt as if I saw the original. He was committed to serving this country then, and he followed that commitment to his death. He is what it truly means to be an American Hero. My heart breaks for his family. Please take a moment to read the report from his local news station. He is why this is still the land of the free and the home of the brave. I will never forget Jesse. I am humbled by his sacrifice.
http://www.abc2news.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=0E379FEA-5090-4295-BCFF-2F758E7A8860&gsa=true
3 comments:
That's so sad. I think I remember him, but barely. I do not think that I had any classes with him. He sounds like a wonderful person. I'm sorry for his family and friends.
I didn't know Capt Melton, he was one of five servicemen we were unable to revive that came into my ER my last week before coming home, it was heartbreaking for our replacements as well, it was not an encouraging way for them to start their tour as life savers & healers. Most of the time I don't know the names of those who come through our trauma bay, it's tough enough they're our brothers in arms. I remember touching Jesse's arm and closed my eyes for a brief prayer and then assisted with his personal effects and saw his ID card and I knew that I would never forget his name, I've read a number of articles in recent days, another comrade who served in Afghanistan this last year had a hero bracelet and today I ordered one honoring Jesse. I know we would have gotten along well and we both love the Lord, so I'll see him when my time comes. In the mean time I thank you for memoralizing him in this fashion.
Jose P. Jardin, Major USAF, NC, CFS
If possible I'd like to contact his family and thank them for Jesse and his sacrifice, he'll not be forgotten.
jose.jardin@us.af.mil
I don't think my previous comments made it. Capt Melton "Jesse" was one of five that we were unable to resuscitate my last week at Bagram ED. I take it personally when my brothers/sisters-in-arms come through my ER, but it was more personal with Jesse, I touched his shoulder and said a short prayer, later helping with his personal effects I saw his ID card, I knew then I wouldn't ever forget Jesse. One of my co-workers came back from Afghanistan with a memorial bracelet from Hero Bracelet.com and today I ordered one honoring Jesse. I've read a number of articles today about Jesse, it was easy to see he was well respected and liked, I know we would have gotten along just fine. I too am a believer and know I will spend eternity in his company along with many otheres. If possible I would like to thank his family personally and let them know his sacrifice will be remembered my many. God Bless,
Major Jose P. Jardin, USAF, NC
jose.jardin@us.af.mil
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