September 11 1515 Vietnam Time -Tribute to a Fallen Versailles, Ohio Marine

I would like to pay tribute to Staff Sergeant USMC Gene F. Morrison, a fellow Versailles, Ohio resident. In 1968 SSGT Morrison was a member of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team at Dong Ha Marine Combat Base, located in Vietnam's I Corp, near the DMZ. Following an enemy rocket attack on the base Ammunition Supply Point, explosive ordnance was scattered throughout the area. On May 26, Morrison's team was assigned the task of organizing the munitions that had been strewn about. When picking up an 81mm mortar round, it exploded in his hands, causing severe burn and shrapnel wounds. SSGT Morrison was airlifted to the U.S. Naval Hospital in DaNang, where he was treated and sent on to the 106th General Hospital in Yokahoma, Japan. Even with burns over 90% of his body and severe shrapnel wounds, Morrison fought hard and kept a positive attitude. However, he could not rally and died on June 3, shortly after receiving the last rites from Chaplain Lt. Col. H. J. McKenna. 

SSGT Morrison gave his life in service to the United States Of America...doing his duty. His cause of death was ruled "accident". Did SSGT Morrison die as a result of direct hostile fire? No. But, it seems to me that indirectly he certainly did. The explosive ordnance had been blasted by enemy rockets, which compromised its stability. That instability is evidenced by the 81mm mortar that suddenly exploded in Morrison's hands, causing his death. He knew the dangers, followed orders, and gave his life. He had guts.

He left behind his wife, Shirley, and three children, Todd, Cindy, and Scott. 

I stand in honor.  

                                                                    (CLICK LINK BELOW)

                     VIDEO TRIBUTE TO SSGT GENE F. MORRISON

 

SSGT Gene F. Morrison

 

 




 

 



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