Marine Sniper Sgt. Donald J. Lamar II

Died May 12, 2010 Serving During Operation Enduring Freedom 

Our son Donald lived and fought every day of his life with unmatched vigor, strength and courage on and off the battlefield. A proud Marine who has given the ultimate sacrifice for our Nation. 

Donald was one of many young Americans whom could have done anything with his life. Of all of the choices he could have made and futures he was presented, he chose to defend his nation during this time of war. Donald fully understood what he was doing and what lay ahead of him and continued to press the fight regardless of what lie ahead. 

I am going to take you to the night

of May 11^th 2010 Donald’s team were getting there game face on before going on a mission when Navy Corpsman Brenton Lane better known as Doc sat down with a few members of C co 4^th platoon and members of the Sniper Team including Donald. Doc read the following from Shakespeare’s Henry the 5^th. And I quote…… 

“Whoever does not have the stomach for this fight, let him depart. Give him money to speed his departure, since we wish not to die in that mans company. Whoever lives past today and comes home safely will rouse himself every year on this day, show his neighbor his scars, and tell embellished stories of all their great feats of battle. The stories will teach are children and from this day until the end of the world we shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers; for whoever has shed his blood with me shall be my brother. And those men afraid to go will think themselves lesser men as they hear of how we fought and died together.” 

In Donald’s memory I am going to share his embellish stories of battle  

On April 1st 2010 Sgt Lamar led his team during company operations, providing reconnaissance which allowed multiple platoons to orient and close with enemy positions and ultimately resulting in a successful company attack.  

On April 5^th 2010, while under heavy and effective enemy machinegun fire, he provided direction to two platoons and served as the single link between units in contact and higher headquarters. Thus, resulting in three destroyed enemy positions.  

On April 20^th 2010, he took selfless initiative and led his men to successfully destroying one enemy vehicle, killing eight insurgents, and wounding six others. Due to his personal bravery under fire, unparalleled leadership capability, and initiative to personally influence the battlefield many Marines and Sailors lives were saved and at least one squad of enemy fighters was destroyed. 

On May 12^th 2010, he led a successful clearing operation over 1 mile of enemy territory consisting of 40 buildings. He dauntlessly and relentlessly continued his pursuit of the enemy and it ultimately cost him his life. He was mortally wounded by a directional radio controlled IED while VOLUNTEERING to stand security so other Marines could rest  

Donald was awarded the Bronze star for his heroic actions in combat 

Although his body has been laid to rest, when we speak of Donald, we must remember that he is still with us in many ways.

In every action we take there is a reflection of the model he has set for us. In our minds, each decision is made with knowledge and wisdom he imparted upon us. In our memory, he will never die as we tell his story and refuse to let him be forgotten. In spirit, his soul will always live on in heavens gates, eternally watching over us. Donald is still with us in many ways.