Families of Services Members Lost at Abbey Gate Receive Congressional Gold Medals

A week prior to her tragic death, she expressed her love for her job in a social media post.

Gee was described as a giant and a legend by a comrade, according to McConnell.

Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza, a rifleman from Rio Bravo, Texas, always aspired to be a Marine and is honored with a bust in a library named after him in Laredo, Texas.

Espinoza, who grew up playing with toy soldiers, was a devoted and caring son, as noted by McConnell.

Staff Sgt. Darin Taylor Hoover, a native of Salt Lake City, Utah, lost his life during his third deployment in Afghanistan. Known for his leadership qualities, Hoover was a proud uncle with a contagious laugh.

Lance Cpl. Kareem Nikoui from Norco, California, fulfilled his dream of becoming a Marine at 18 after excelling in his high school JROTC program. He was described as a martial arts champion and a cheerful individual.

Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo, an amphibious support specialist from Lawrence, Massachusetts, sacrificed her life to save two women in need. Pichardo was remembered for her selfless act with her last words being, “They need me, sir.”

Lance Cpl. Jared Schmitz, a rifleman from St. Charles, Missouri, joined the Marine Corps at 18 after declaring his intentions at a young age. A bridge in Wentzville, Missouri, is dedicated to his memory.

Lance Cpl. Dylan Merola, a rifleman from Rancho Cucamonga, California, tragically lost his life in Afghanistan after just three days. An overpass in Rancho Cucamonga is named in his honor, with his brother also enlisting in the Marines.

According to Doolittle, honoring the courage and sacrifice of our sons and daughters is paramount.

She emphasized the importance of remembering the 13 individuals who lost their lives and sharing their stories to ensure their legacy lives on.

Let us always remember the 13, say their names, speak their names, and share their stories.