There comes a day in all our lives, if we are so fortunate to have loved, that we will lay to rest someone we have loved. Apart from the infant whose life was plucked from the sands of time before it could be fully experienced, we all must contend with the bitter tears of grief. There is no escape but to harden one's heart to the beauty and wonder of loving another. This day becomes emblazoned on our hearts and in our minds, as a day that will live in personal infamy.
On April 12, 2012, in the sands of Afghanistan, Lance Corporal Abraham Tarwoe's life came to an end, leaving the mark of loss on all those who loved him. My family and I know of Abraham simply because we were the fortunate recipients of his bomb dog, Sgt. Yeager, and through the recollections of those who loved his stoic sense of humor and his steadfast commitment to what was right.
Last night, after a day of play, my children and I hunted fireflies and laid in the grass pointing out constellations. My head was resting against Yeager who would take a break from relaxing only to lick someone's face. I was profoundly touched by the serenity of the moment, and how fortunate we are. The leisure and peace that we experience everyday, far surpasses that of so many across the globe.
Lance Corporal Abraham Tarwoe, born in Liberia, had an opportunity to take full advantage of the freedoms we have here in America. He could have spent his days living the American Dream. Perhaps he would have been an educator, an entertainer, an engineer, a banker, or a doctor. And he would have lived in relative ease, in the land his parents dreamed for him. He could have done any number of things, and they would have been good, but he chose something harder; a life of sacrifice.
“Being born in Liberia, he knew suffering and the meaning of sacrifice. He also knew about disproportionate service…he held no birth obligation to America, in fact his citizenship was still being processed when he gave his life for his newly adopted country and his brothers-in-arms. He knew the risks involved in service…there was no disillusionment in him. Tarwoe’s work ethic, loyalty, and devotion to something larger than himself, transcended national lines and were what drove him to be here, and to ultimately give his life for his fellow Marines.”
~Captain Charles E. Anklam III
Lcpl. Abraham Tarwo, KIA April 12, 2012
Today, we join many others in remembering the life of Abraham Tarwoe. He was a beloved brother, son, father, husband, friend, and patriot. There is no gratitude too great for the sacrificial love and life of a man like Abraham.
