Teachy, NC, USA
U.S. Marine Corps
CPL, Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron 22, (VMX-22)
09/29/2013, Jacksonville, NC, USA
Corporal Drew enlisted in the Marine Corps and attended recruit training at MCRD Parris Island, SC on 14 December 2009. Upon completion of recruit training, he attended the School of Infantry at Camp Geiger, NC. After that, he proceeded to his “A” School at NAS Pensacola, FL and “C” School at MCB Camp Pendleton, CA. In August 2010, following graduation from his MOS follow-on schools, Corporal Drew reported for duty at Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron 22, (VMX-22) Marine Corps Air Station, New River, NC.
From the onset of his arrival, it was evident that Corporal Drew possessed a high level of maturity and was a high caliber Marine. He was immediately assigned as a member of the unit Color Guard and served on the Color Guard for 14 months. In January 2011, he was nominated and selected as the Squadron Marine of the Quarter and received a Certificate of Commendation and two Certificates of Achievement for his selection. In November 2011, he was promoted to the rank of Corporal and by spring 2012, he was nominated and selected as the Squadron Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter. During his tour, Corporal Drew participated in a number of large scale unit exercises which include Operational Test 3H (OT-IIIH), Weapons and Tactics Instructor’s (WTI) Course and several other detachment operations.
He was an invaluable member of the command who always took the initiative to get things accomplished. As a result, he was the recipient of special recognition on a number of occasions.
In February 2013, he was awarded a Good Conduct for serving honorably on active duty; and, in June, 2013, he was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for superior performance of his duties.
Corporal Drew was a devoted Marine, adored by all and proudly served his country and Marine Corps for almost 4 years. Pride and Dignity marked every step of the way. He was someone who touched everyone around him, and opened his heart and gave of his free time to anyone who was in need.
He is survived by his mother, Jo Lynn and father, Stephen of Magnolia, NC, along with several other family members and friends.