USS Jason Dunham (DDG-109)

Navy Names New Guided-Missile Destroyer USS Jason Dunham

The Department of Navy announced March 23 that the Navy's newest Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer will be USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109), honoring the late Cpl. Jason L. Dunham, the first Marine awarded the Medal of Honor for Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Donald C. Winter, made the announcement in Dunham’s hometown of Scio, N.Y.

"Jason Dunham, the friendly, kind-hearted, gifted athlete who followed his star in the United States Marine Corps went on to become one of the most courageous, heroic, and admired Marines this great country has ever known," said Winter. "His name will be forever associated with DDG 109. May those who serve in her always be inspired by the heroic deeds of Jason Dunham, and may all of us strive to be worthy of his sacrifice."

In May of 2004 Cassandra posted a touching article from the Wall Street Journal about the self sacrafice of Marine Cpl. Jason L. Dunham here.
The WSJ article was written by Michael M. Phillips from the book, The Gift of Valor which gives a unique perspective on who Cpl. Dunham was.

I can't add anything to what has been written about Cpl. Dunham that would be any better than what has already been written by others. I'm not expressive enough, or eloquont enough. But I can say that I'm grateful for his sacrifice and the sacrifices of all members of our Military.
I'm grateful that they are willing to give up much, and in some cases, like Cpl. Dunham, to give up all, to do a nasty job that must be done.

That the U.S. Navy would name a new warship after a Marine speaks volumes of the regard they hold him in.
It's the highest Honor the Navy can bestow.

Jan. 16, 2007 - Inducted into the Pentagon's Hall of Heroes

USS Jason Dunham (DDG-109)

Jasom Dunham Memorial and Homepage

SALUTE!

- Joatmoaf -