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Posted at: 08/01/2009 6:49 PM | WHEC.com Navy ship named for local Marine
In a solemn ceremony Corporal Jason Dunham's mother, Deb, christened the warship honoring her son. "As a mom, I'm having a hard time because my son's not here," said Deb Dunham. Cpl. Dunham died in Iraq in 2004 after he threw his body on a live grenade saving two of his fellow Marines. "The man saved my life and he's the reason I'm standing here. He's the reason I go home to my pregnant beautiful wife and 2 year old daughter," said Sgt. William Hampton. Dunham's father says his son took his role as squad leader seriously. His men never doubted his ability, but never imagined the sacrifice he would make. "He was a great leader, i would have followed him anywhere, without even asking a questions," said Cpl. Kelly Miller. The USS Jason Dunham will go to sea with several mementoes donated by his family including his dress blue uniform and a baseball bat. A piece of Dunham's shattered helmet was sealed within the mast of the destroyer. Dunham's mother says Jason would think it's cool to have his name on a ship. After all, he was just a kid from a small town in Western New York. She hopes others will see his name and be grateful for what he did for his country. "My son did the right thing and it's not always easy but it is the right thing and were very proud of him," said Deb Dunham. Sgt. William Hampton and Cpl. Kelly Miller say they will never forget the man or the name Jason Dunham. "That was his gift to me and Corporal Miller." said Sgt. Hampton. "It's a beautiful name."
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A Navy destroyer was named after a fallen Marine from Western New York. 