Opinion: Selfless sacrifice

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Like any college student, Josh Bleill was imagining how his life as an adult might play out … well, that and no doubt having a bit of fun along the way. All progressed nicely, and college led to a good corporate job. Sometimes, life goes just like it is supposed to go. Still, the attack on the twin towers of New York’s World Trade Center had an unsettling and profound effect on the young executive — so much so that within some two years the then-27-year-old quit his job and enlisted in the United States Marines. Not long after, he found himself out of the conference room and in Fallujah, Iraq.

A vehicle transporting Josh was destroyed by an improvised explosive device. Days later, he awoke to learn of the fate of his two fellow passengers – both friends and comrades, including Indiana native Sgt. Brock Babb. They did not survive the attack. The caring medical staff also had the burden to help young Josh come to understand that he’d lost both of his legs as well. Sometimes, life doesn’t go like it is supposed to go. 

Years later, Josh has distinguished himself as an author and public speaker. Recently, he addressed an audience assembled for the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. The organization helps the kids of Marines “with particular attention given to children whose parent has been killed or wounded in action.” Josh recalled to the audience the deep sacrifice made by so many in service to our nation. Each day, he said, he was reminded that he was blessed – that he had lived – and that with this his duty was fixed. 

On Sept.13 at Pebble Brook Golf Club, the Scholarship Fund holds its annual tournament and fundraiser and online auction. This year’s event honors Brock. To participate, visit mcsf.org/event/indiana-golf-tournament.


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