Cpl Jennifer Parcell was killed in Iraq by a suicide bomber on 7 February 2007. I had the honor of meeting the family of Cpl Jennifer Parcell and coming to know her through their stories. The Lt assigned as the CACO and I went to the home of Pam and John, her parents, that afternoon with the sad news.
Cpl Parcell was a Marine I never knew until after her death. She was 20 years old and loved being a Marine, especially helping people. She assisted with humanitarian operations in Pakistan for five months as a member of a TSB (Transportation Support Battalion) before her Iraq deployment. In general, if you need anything moved from one place to another, then the TSB can do it and that is because of Marines like Jennifer. Her Commanding Officer described the young Marine as one who could and would do anything. No matter how cold, hungry, or tired everyone was - you could count on Cpl Parcell.
She was laid to rest today with full honors, surrounded by scores of friends and family. A large group of the Patriot Guard attended, silently holding flags.
So long as there are others with the courage and spirit of Jennifer Parcell, the world will be a better place. Her brother, also a Corporal, is another example to point out when someone says that young people are not up to the standards of times past.
Take note, because we lost a fine American on 7 February 2007. Jennifer, be at peace. Well done.
http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/news/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003544088http://www.attytood.com/2007/02/breaking_news_young_woman_meet.html