Lance Corporal Justin McLeese of Covington, Louisiana enlisted in the Marine Corps after graduating from Covington High School. He wanted to join the Marines after the events of 9/11 and in his own words "it is an experience I want in my life".

From the Bronze Star V Citation:
“For heroic achievement in connection with combat operations involving conflict with an opposing force while serving against the enemy...from June to November 2004, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II. While conducting complex counterinsurgency operations in Al Karmah, Iraq on 16 September, Lance Corporal McLeese displayed superior dedication to his fellow Marines when he personally led an effort to rescue a Marine trapped under a vehicle. During high intensity urban combat operations in Al Fallujah, Iraq on 11 November, after identifying an insurgent stronghold, his fire team entered the structure, eliminating four enemy combatants. As he searched the bodies for intelligence, an insurgent pretending to be dead jumped up and attempted to shoot Marines in an adjacent room. With great presence of mind, he eliminated the armed insurgent with his shotgun. On 13 November, as he breached a door and entered an enemy fortification, he was hit with a burst of gunfire from insurgents barricaded inside the structure. Despite multiple gunshot wounds, he continued his attack, attempting to throw a grenade in order to eliminate the remaining enemy. Before he could throw the grenade, an improvised explosive device rigged to the house detonated, fatally wounding him. By his zealous initiative, courageous actions, and

exceptional dedication to duty, Lance Corporal McLeese gallantly gave his life for his country and reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.”

Justin was 19 years old. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine India Company based out of Camp Pendleton, CA. His bravery and courage are much appreciated. He is a recipient of the Purple Heart and Bronze Star V for Valor in Combat. His heroism is inspirational.

Justin was the only son of Daniel and Sharon McLeese , younger brother of Tara, Gina and Jessica McLeese. He was a gifted athlete, an all-district defensive end for the Covington Lions. A true and loyal friend to many, his friends called him as JM. He was generous, kind, charming and funny. His friends said of Justin “that he could walk into a room of strangers and leave with a room full of new friends.”

From Captain Brett A. Clark, U.S. Marine Corps:
“Justin was a man of talent and character. He had a great sense of humor and was positive in his outlook on life and in his service to his country. He endured two separate vehicle accidents that happened during operations prior to Fallujah and was known as a tough hombre that always got the job done. His talents as a welder assisted the Company greatly as he personally welded additional armor on our HMMWV’s to better protect them from IED’s. “McLeese’s” outgoing personality, selflessness and ruggedness defined him.”

From the 3/1 India “Raiders” ceremony to honor their fallen:
It was said that McLeese was never seen without a smile on his face and often spoke of his days on the high school football team. He was popular amongst his fellow Marines and the said they will never forget his ability to make the best of any situation.