Nor can it ever be purchased.
You and no one alive can buy it for any price.
It is impossible to rent and it cannot be lent.
You alone and our own have earned it with your
Sweat, blood and lives.
You own it forever,
“United States Marine”
Retired GYSGT, Keith Leroy Smalldridge, died peacefully Friday, May 10th at CarolinaEast Medical Center, encircled by his children. The medical center honored Mr. Smalldridge with a Final Salute as he exited the building.
Keith was born in Iowa Falls, Iowa on April 14, 1937.
On July 7th, 1955 he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. and proudly served his country in the Vietnam War where he received many medals of recognition. Loyal to his country and the Corp. , he would continue active duty for 20 years, and see countries and places that many will never see in a lifetime. Upon honorable discharge, he was employed by the Avionics Division located at MCAS, as an electronics engineer.
Keith and his bride, Toshiko, found that they loved coastal North Carolina and would make their home in New Bern. There, they raised their sons and enjoyed many days of fishing off of the Sportsman’s pier and banks of the rivers all while having years of joyous days with their growing family.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Toshiko and is survived by his sons, John & wife Victoria Smalldridge, Joe & wife Arnie Smalldridge, and grandchildren, Hollyann, Rachel, Lucas, Patrick and Johnny.
There will be a memorial service at Greenleaf Memorial Park Tuesday May 14th, 2019 at 2 PM, in their pavilion by the pond and a private graveside service to follow. The family asks you to wear, red for his heart, white for his spirit or blue for the color of his eyes.
Cotten Funeral Home assisting the Smalldridge family with arrangement's.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the following:
•Wounded Warrior Project https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org
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