Doug Zembiec passed seventeen years ago. May 11th, 2007.
Much has been written on his accomplishments, including how he earned the nickname "The Lion of Fallujah."
All-American wrestler.
Recon Marine.
Completed numerous combat deployments.
And received a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart.
He's best known for the way he conducted himself in battle.
Becoming a legend in the Marine Corps for his aggression and for placing the safety of his Marines in front of his own.
In my opinion. The most remarkable thing about Doug is what happened in the days after Doug died.
When Doug was laid to rest in Arlington, it was a designed as a closed ceremony, not open to the general public.
Invitations were extended to Doug's family, his close friends, and any service member who served alongside him.
When the day came, more than a thousand Marines showed up. Enlisted Marines who'd served under Doug's command.
When asked by a local reporter, what had drawn such a crowd, a fellow officer said "Your men have to follow your orders, but they don't have to go to your funeral."
Punch Line: The things we do, the metrics we achieve, they're all merely artifacts of the people we are. The way we show up in the world, for our teams, for our families, for each other - is and will always be what people care most about.
This week prioritize being over doing.
#Veterans #veteranmentalhealth #marinecorps #writing
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