A MARINE'S FAREWELL TO AN HONORARY COMRADE

"The few, the proud the Marines!" We honor the brave men and women of the Marine Corps for their magnificent service to our country and the sacrifices they make defending our freedom. Yet even with the tremendous respect and gratitude for the Corps, there comes a story that shines even in light of the brightness of the service of each proud Marine.

Cody Green was twelve years old when he passed away from a brain fungus that developed because of his weakened immune system as a result of treatment for Leukemia. Cody was diagnosed with the disease at 22 months old and had beaten it three times but his weakened little body could no longer fight the battle.

Cody loved the Marine Corps. He admired the strength and courage of the men and women who serve in the Corps. When they learned of the bravery and strength of young Cody he was made an honorary member of the Corps complete with navigator wings.

Yet for one marine, Sergeant Mark Dolfini that was not enough. As Cody was losing his battle on his final night Sergeant Dolfini, wearing his dress blues stood a guard of honor without relief for eight hours at Cody's hospital door until Cody's final moments when he bid him farewell pinned his own navigator wings on Cody and left his parents with a salute and their goodbyes to their brave young son.

We as Americans and as a Nation are blessed above all other Nations because of men and women who wear the uniform of our military. Nowhere on the face of the Earth can anyone be found whose dedication and honor is greater than the magnificent heroes who serve this Nation. God bless our soldiers. God bless Sergeant Dolfini and God bless the memory of honorary Marine Cody Green.

Ken Taylor