Memorial Service for Lance Cpl. Brian P. Montgomery

PhotoID: 20055233414
Submitted by: 2nd Marine Division
Operation/Exercise/Event:
Operation Iraqi Freedom


Caption:
Haditha Dam, Al Anbar, Iraq -Cpl. Brian P. Montgomery, a 26-year-old Willoughby, Ohio native and a scout sniper with Team America, 3/25 Weapons Co., keeps eyes on potentially dangerous threats.
Photo by: Cpl. Ken Melton


Last night I went to the 2nd night of a memorial service for Brian Montgomery. The funeral home was strewn with photos of Brian with his family and friends. Stretching from the time he was just a baby until very recently. For me, all but one made you smile..one of him in Iraq, fairly recently, staring right at the camera. You could see the exhaustion in his eyes. Appearing like they were trying to tell you something. So many people showed up to pay respects to this great hero it was inspiring. The line was out the door for hours. Long after the time when the service was to end the line still reached the streets outside the doors leading them to where Brian was placed and family greeted each and every person. The Marines watched over their fallen comrade on either side of the flag draped coffin with change-outs taking place every half an hour, on the dot. The place went still and quiet as the Marines switched guards. With slow, respectful and deliberate salutes, they marched in and marched out.

Next to the coffin was his helmet, placed atop his gun with his boots below and dog tags hanging from the gun. Looking at that was the hardest part for me. You could see the wear on his helmet and boots. His goggles were on his helmet just as he probably wore them when not in use not so long ago.

The family was holding strong. He was certainly a very loved man. I missed it but I understand his old school football team showed up in team jerseys, all together to pay their respects. Apparently a site to see. Marines and vets from days before came in droves.

I am a friend of the family. It pains me to see his family feeling such sadness and loss. I can only imagine how they must feel. It's probably a mere fraction of the sadness they are actually feeling. My heart goes out to them as well as to the families of the other Marines and servicemen who have unselfishly given their lives for protecting us, and protecting others.

This family's story is much like many others...they watch the news and feel for the families of those that lost their son, their husband or their brother but are relieved to know that it didn't happen to their family. Then suddenly, it is. They become one of the many grieving for an untold period of time for the loss of a loved one. Always too soon and always too young. No one is ever prepared for the moment when 2 Marines come walking up the walk to your door.

A fund has been set up in the name of Alexander Montgomery at Sun Trust Bank in Willowick. Alexander is Brian's one year old son. At this time I do not have any more information but as soon as I do I will post it.

Semper Fi. Stay strong.

For funeral information click here.