Almost two decades have passed since the world lost a remarkable soul, a courageous Marine, and a trailblazer in every sense of the word. Today, we gather not to mourn the passing of Maj. Megan M. McClung but to celebrate a life that continues to inspire and shape the ideals of courage, dedication, and selflessness.

Megan McClung, born on April 14, 1972, in Honolulu, Hawaii, entered the U.S. Naval Academy in June 1991, commissioning as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps on May 31, 1995. From the beginning of her illustrious career, Megan stood out not only for her dedication to duty but for her unwavering commitment to breaking barriers. She became the first female Marine officer to be killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom, leaving an indelible mark on history.

Megan’s journey was one of purpose and service. She served nearly 10 years on active duty at various stateside locations before transferring to the Marine Corps Reserves. Even after transitioning to civilian life, her commitment to service never wavered. In 2004, Megan took a civilian position in public relations for Kellogg, Brown, and Root in Baghdad, Iraq, handling sensitive matters with poise and professionalism.

Deployed to Iraq in 2006, Megan served as the Public Affairs Plans Officer at Camp Fallujah. She volunteered for duty with the Army’s 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division, operating in Ramadi, where she tragically lost her life on December 6, 2006, to an improvised explosive device. Megan was escorting a FOX News crew when the convoy was struck, resulting in her untimely death alongside Capt. Travis Patriquin and Spec. Vincent Pomante, III.

The void left by Megan’s passing is immeasurable, and the impact of her legacy continues to resonate. She was more than a Marine; she was a mentor, a leader, and a friend. As a media relations officer, she brought a unique perspective to the front lines, advocating for the importance of communication and understanding in the midst of conflict.

Her leadership and commitment were evident in the accolades she received, including the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and National Defense Service Medal. Megan’s service extended beyond military duties—her involvement in organizing the first Marine Corps Marathon (Forward) in Iraq showcased her passion for fitness and camaraderie.

Megan McClung was more than a name; she was a force—a force for change, a force for equality, and a force for unwavering dedication. Her impact on those who served alongside her is immeasurable, as expressed by her teammate Staff Sgt. Lynn Kinney: “Her memory is suspended in time.”

As we remember Megan, let us not dwell on the circumstances of her passing but on the enduring spirit she embodied. Megan McClung’s legacy lives on in the Marine Corps Marathon’s Penguin Award, a symbol of perseverance and determination. The McClung family’s commitment to presenting this award annually is a testament to Megan’s philosophy: “Be Bold. Be Brief. Be Gone.”

Megan McClung’s life was a testament to the values of honor, courage, and commitment that define the Marine Corps. Today, we honor her memory by embracing those values in our own lives. As we bid farewell to a true American hero, let us carry forward Maj. Megan M. McClung’s legacy with pride, and may her example continue to inspire generations to come.

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