Tribute to Our Fallen

PLEASE TAKE A MOMENT TO PAY TRIBUTE TO OUR FALLEN BY LEARNING ABOUT THOSE WHO LOST THEIR LIVES TO PRESERVE OURS

Aaron Kenefick USMC Gunnery Sgt

Aaron was a “Noble Warrior,” yet first and foremost, Aaron was a child of God, and a light to the world. He knew at a young age that he wanted to serve his country, so he enlisted into the Marine delayed entry program at the beginning of his senior year of high school in 1996. In 1997, after graduation, he attended boot camp in Paris Island, S.C. where he would prepare for his adult career serving for over twelve years. It was to be his entire adult life’s career path, training and mentoring our American Legacy, making a difference professionally as well as spiritually in the hearts and minds of men and woman who crossed his path, hoping for the best, yet preparing for the worst during the security and protection of our country.

Sgt, Aaron Michael Kenefick will forever be tied to the two living Medal of Honor recipients, Marine Sgt Dakota Meyer and Army Captain William Swenson for their roles played out during the “Ganjgal Ambush” one of the tragic losses during the Afghanistan war.

His name Aaron Michael, meaning “Rod of Truth,”  and “Warrior Angel,” carried the vibrations of a more symbolic measure as he grew into himself as a protector for America, tragically, ending as an American Hero at the age of thirty and a half years old. Aaron in his own words:  “I’m a laid back guy who try’s not to take himself too seriously. I’ve experienced many things in life, both good and bad and I have to say, it’s made me the strong man that I am today. I cherish my friends and my family more than anything in this world as they have always been there for me through the good times and the bad times. I’ve been all over the world, pick a place and I’ve probably been there but my days of traveling are far from over. I have a competitive spirit and I am driven my ambitions which includes first and foremost, happiness and whatever that encompasses. I’m not afraid to take chances or risks. No risk, no reward but I do understand that for every action there is a consequence.”

BRONZE STAR – Aaron M. Kenefick

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V”(Posthumously) to Gunnery Sergeant Aaron M. Kenefick, United States Marine Corps, for heroic achievement in connection with combat operations against the enemy while serving as an Staff Noncommissioned Officer Advisor-Mentor, 1st Kandak, 2d Brigade, 201st Corps, Afghan National Army, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, on 8 September 2009.

 

Gunnery Sergeant Kenefick was a member of a combined Marine and Afghan patrol that led the way into Ganjgal village to visit with village elders. As the patrol entered the village it was ambushed. Gunnery Sergeant Kenefick took cover near a retaining wall and returned fire. When the team leader directed his Marines and the Afghan soldiers to attack and seize the house from which they were receiving fire, Gunnery Sergeant Kenefick boldly led the Afghan soldiers forward under fire and cleared the house. The enemy then attempted to encircle the team’s position while subjecting the team to a hail of machine gun and rocket fire.

Despite being pinned down, Gunnery Sergeant Kenefick returned fire and called in supporting artillery and mortar fire before falling mortally wounded. Gunnery Sergeant Kenefick fought with bravery and determination while demonstrating unwavering courage in the face of the enemy. By his zealous initiative, courageous actions and exceptional dedication to duty, Gunnery Sergeant Kenefick reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Gunnery Sergeant Kenefick is authorized the Combat “V”.)