Remembering Marine 1st Sgt. Luke J. Mercardante

The date was April 15, 2008.  In the lawless southern provinces of Afghanistan, about 100 Marines left their military base at Kandahar Airfield as part of a supply convoy comprised of dozens of vehicles.  Marine 1st Sgt. Luke J. Mercardante, the battalion sergeant major for Combat Logistics Battalion 24, was assigned to sit in the lead Humvee of the convoy, but at the last minute, he was moved to a vehicle farther back.  During the trip, his vehicle detonated an improvised explosive device just as it started to go over a culvert beneath the road, causing a massive explosion that took the lives of 1st Sgt. Luke J. Mercardante and Cpl. Kyle W. Wilks, and injured two others.  The tremendous explosion caused a crater in the road 12 feet wide and 6 feet deep, making it impossible for the convoy to move.  This was an excruciating reminder that, years after the U.S. and allied forces brought down the Taliban leadership, there was (and is) still a very real presence of an enemy who will not give up.

Major Keith Owens later described Luke as “…the glue that held us together.  He helped our small problems from becoming big problems.”

At a memorial service held for Luke, more than 100 Marines stood at attention as a Navy Petty Officer read an excerpt from a letter Luke wrote to his sister: “I want no person to ever feel sad or pity for me or my Marines as we endure hardship and sacrifice, as this is our calling with the unknown outcome being that of God’s master plan.”    These are the words of a true American Hero!

We will always do our best to honor Luke’s memory.  One of the ways we will do this is by sharing the story of Warrior Canine Connection’s Honor Litter puppy who carries his name.  Through WCC’s Luke, thousands will learn about 1st Sgt. Luke J. Mercardante.

Today, on a Facebook page dedicated to keeping 1st Sgt. Mercardante’s memory of alive – In Loving Memory of 1st Sgt Luke Mercardante – was this quote:

“Six years today and it gets harder every year miss you so so much but I know [you’re] happy up there with all the Angels Love and miss you son.” – Gertrude Mercardante

We will never forget his sacrifice.

Until next time, have joy in your heart, a smile on your face, and a dog by your side!

Bonnie

• 1st Sgt Luke J. Mercardante