Akron, Ohio, USA
U.S. Marine Corps
LT, 22nd Marine Amphibious Unit (MAU)
10/25/1983, Grenada
Michael, I have seen a few of the drawings you have done for Iraq and Afghanistan fallen soldiers. The likeness is so real and the families are so appreciative of all that you do for them. Our Son, Lt. Jeffrey R. Scharver, USMC was shot down in Grenada Oct. 25, 1983. At that time there was no one to offer a picture, a bracelet, or anything to remember those men. There were 19 men killed in Grenada, only 3 were Marines. Jeff was a Cobra pilot and received the Purple Heart and the Silver Star. If you Google him, you can read how he came about receiving these metals. I would love to have a drawing of Jeff, but I understand, you can only do so many and since the current wars are all in the news. I just want people to remember the others. Grenada overthrew the communists thanks to the help of the USA. Thanks again for all that you do, and if you are so inclined to do someone from a previous invasion, I would love for you to consider doing Jeffrey.
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as an AH-1T (TOW) Cobra Attack Helicopter Pilot in Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 261, 22nd Marine Amphibious Unit conducting combat operations on the Island of Grenada on 25 October 1983. While conducting an armed reconnaissance mission in support of ground forces, First Lieutenant Scharver’s wingman was hit by multiple anti-aircraft artillery projectiles and forced down behind enemy lines. With full knowledge of their vulnerability as a single aircraft without a wingman’s protective cover and with total disregard for their own safety, First Lieutenant Scharver and his pilot exposed their aircraft to heavy anti-aircraft artillery fire while engaging enemy ground forces and preventing the certain capture of the helpless and gravely wounded crew. Requesting assistance from a rescue aircraft and organizing the rescue attempt, First Lieutenant Scharver and his pilot fearlessly continued to engage the anti-aircraft emplacements that encircled the zone protecting the more vulnerable rescue aircraft and buying enough time to effect a successful rescue. Purposely remaining behind until the rescue aircraft could escape the enemy fire, First Lieutenant Scharver sacrificed his life after a gallant struggle so that others might live. By his extraordinary courage, uncommon valor, and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of danger, First Lieutenant Scharver reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
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