IRMO, SC, USA U.S. Marines CPL, H&S CO, 3D BN, 2D MAR, (RCT-5, I MEF FWD), 2D MAR DIV, CAMP LEJEUNE, NC HABBANIYAH, IRAQ 08/26/2006
David loved to make people laugh. This 28-year-old, big and bold man wanted to return home and study law. After graduating as a golf standout in high school and then from the University of South Carolina, where he majored in history, David Weimortz, joined the Marine Corps in March 2003. He graduated from boot camp at Parris Island. His mischievous, competitive, wild and irreverent ways followed him into service. Sometimes he even got the drill instructors in trouble because his wittiness caused them to break out into laughter too. But he was still well-known and respected throughout the platoon. Aside from being a giant, he had the strongest mind of most people his peers knew and never showed fear. He was an inspiration to his brothers, very helpful and caring, and always willing to be there for anything they needed. He also lifted his college roommate through the loss of his brother.
In his home of Irmo, South Carolina you could find him on the golf course probably talking about the Gamecock’s baseball team with friends. And he would be making them laugh, with enough stories to fill a novel, or tell other people who don’t even know David. He would say things like, “I have the body of an 18-year-old but the mind of a 4-year-old golden retriever,” and “I am going on a mission tomorrow. It’s called ‘Operation Great Looking.’ Naturally, I will be heading it up. We will have our weapons: hair gel, pocket mirrors and saucy attitudes.”When we think of him, we should laugh out loud at least once because if he were there, that’s what he would try to get us to do. He was one of the most clever men, one of the funniest guys, one of the most strong-minded. He was also so enthusiastic and eager to learn, and a really nice guy that was fun to be around.
He volunteered to go on what was his final trip to Iraq. He was excited about it and was confident in his decision because he said he not only went to help protect our country, but because the troops also tried to connect with the local citizens and show they were liberators, not conquerors. His time while deployed helped him realize how fortunate he was and his Christian faith helped prepare him for death. David said “this entire operation reminds me of a Boy Scout saying, Leave your camp better than you found it. Not only will I leave this base in better shape and more secure, but we will have left this country in a greater shape for their future.” He was a true Marine and will always be missed but never forgotten.
Corporal David Gardner Weimortz’ commendations included the Iraqi Campaign Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Medal. Thank you, David, for making the ultimate sacrifice to serve our country and protect our freedom. We salute you.