Three Marines discovered deceased at nearby gas station near base.
Tragic Discovery: Three Marines Found Dead at Gas Station Near Base
In a heartbreaking incident, three Marines were discovered lifeless inside a vehicle not far from their base at Camp Lejeune. The news broke on Sunday, July 23, 2023, when deputies responded to a report of a missing person. However, during the course of the investigation, the authorities stumbled upon the deceased individuals, as revealed by the Pender County Sheriff’s office on their Facebook page.
“This is an ongoing investigation. There does not appear to have ever been any threat to members of the community,” the post stated.
The tragic discovery took place at a Speedway gas station in Hampstead, North Carolina, approximately 40 minutes away from Camp Lejeune. The three lance corporals, who were assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 2, were found lifeless at the scene, according to The Messenger.
Sgt. Chester Ward, providing some insight into the situation, stated, “There’s nothing to believe it to be foul play or anything.” He further mentioned that an autopsy report was awaited, but they had an idea of what might have transpired, as reported by the Port City Daily.
According to WTVD-TV, no drugs were discovered in the Marines’ vehicle. However, Sgt. Ward declined to comment on the presence of any weapons.
The Marines were later identified by the Marine Corps as natives of Wisconsin, Oklahoma, and Florida, as reported by WNCT-TV.
The Fallen Heroes
The first victim was Lance Corporal Tanner J. Kaltenberg, a 19-year-old from Madison, Wisconsin. Kaltenberg, who joined the Marines in 2021, served as a Motor Vehicle Operator.
Lance Corporal Merax C. Dockery, 23, from Pottawatomie, Oklahoma, was also found dead at the scene. Dockery, like Kaltenberg, was a Motor Vehicle Operator and had joined the service in June 2020.
The third Marine discovered was Lance Corporal Ivan R. Garcia, 23, from Naples, Florida. Garcia, who joined the Marines in July 2019, also served as a Motor Vehicle Operator.
Brig. Gen. Michael E. McWilliams, commanding general of the 2nd Marine Logistics Group, expressed his condolences, saying, “My deepest sympathy and condolences are extended to the family, friends, and colleagues of Lance Cpl. Kaltenberg, Lance Cpl. Dockery, and Lance Cpl. Garcia.” He emphasized the focus on providing necessary resources and support to those affected by this tragic loss.
Remembering Their Service
Each Marine had received recognition for their service. Lance Corporal Kaltenberg’s gas station near base.”>military awards included
the National Defense Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Medal, Navy Arctic Service Ribbon, and Global War on Terror Service Medal.Lance Corporal Dockery was honored with the National Defense Service Medal, Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, and Global War on Terror Service Medal.
Lance Corporal Garcia’s service awards comprised the National Defense Service Medal, Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, and Global War on Terror Service Medal.
This tragic incident has left a void in the hearts of their loved ones and the Marine Corps community. The investigation continues as authorities seek to uncover the circumstances surrounding this devastating loss.
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