HELLERTOWN, PA, US
U.S. Marine Corps
CPL, MSSG-24, 24TH MEU, 1ST MAR DIV, CAMP PENDLETON, CA
08/26/2004, BABIL PROVINCE, IRAQ
One month after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, Barton Russell Humlhanz of Hellertown, PA and his best friend signed up in the Marine Corps.
“Guess what I just did, Mom?” his mother, Michele Carey recalled. “I joined the Corps. I’m a Marine.” Though Barton’s action shocked his parents, they supported what he had done.”We understood why he did it and we’re proud of him.” Their pride is now tempered with inconceivable grief.
CPL Humlhanz was a 2001 Saucon Valley High School graduate. He was stationed at Camp Lejeune, NC and engaged to LCPL Lauren Barrell of Louisiana also serving in Iraq at the time Barton was KIA.
In the summer of 2001, CPL Humlhanz was working at a gas station a few blocks from his home. His ambition was to become a state trooper like his Uncle Steven. However, after the September 11th terrorist attacks, Barton revised his plans and joined the Marine Corps.
“He knew what he was doing and he knew the risks,” Michele Carey explained.
Many people in the area were aware of CPL Humlhanz’s intention to serve in law enforcement or the military. “He was one of a kind and he was really focused on what he wanted,” stated Arthur Farkas, owner of Elizabeth’s Diner in Hellertown, where CPL Humlhanz worked during his senior year at Saucon Valley High School.
CPL Humlhanz came from a family dedicated to public service. His determination to serve was in keeping with this noble tradition clearly recognizing the importance of protecting and serving his community and his country.