Joseph Charles Whitehead

Birth date: Jan 12, 1989 Death date: Jan 12, 1989

To Joseph Charles Whitehead, the entire world was a stage. An expressive, optimistic, and uninhibited individual, he was a performer in the theater of life. To everyone around him, he seemed to be eternally happy, and he willingly Read Obituary

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Message By 1Stlt Mike Breslin - May 3, 2013

464w ago

February 17, 2011Dear Ms. Miller, My name is Mike Breslin. I am 30 years old, married with two children. My dad was a Marine and we moved all over the U.S. when I was growing up. But we settled in Annapolis MD, and that is where I claim my hometown. I'm the Platoon commander for 3ed Platoon, kico company, 3d bn 9th Marines. Your son was attached to and supporting my Platoon the day he died. I was with him on that day, and I wanted you to know what happened so that you wouldn't spend years wanting to know. I'm unsure of how much you know or if this is the right thing to do, but I will tell the story as completely as I understand it. Starting on 15 January 2011 your son's squad attached to my Platoon to assist in a massive clearing operation in Southeastern Marjeh. As a combat engineer, your son and his squad-mates had specialized trainging for finding improvised explosive devices (IEDs) before the could hurt Marines. Over the first few days of the operation, your son and his squad found about 15 IEDs and IED-making materials before the Marines or local Nationals were injured. The Combat Engineers fearlessly took point on patrol. After patrol, risking themselves with every step to protect their brother marines and the local Afghans.On 17 January we were on our third day of the operation. Half of my Platoon was searching houses and haystacks while the other half was prouding security for the scarchers. Your son Joseph was about zoom East of the search team, clearing out a safe position for the security team to work from. While he was searching with another combat engineer, CPL Edwards, they found an IED and it went off, instantly killing Joseph and injuring CPL Edwards.Over the next 30 minutes CPL Edwards was treated and a Marine from my Platoon took up a position next to Joseph to make sure that his body was treated with dignity. We called in a helicopter and CPL Edwards was taken away to receive further medical care and Joseph was loaded to make his Journey Home.As a parent I cannot fathom the pain that you are carrying right now. This letter won't take any of that away, but I want you to know somethings that might help you find some peace one day. The first is that Joseph never felt any pain. The explosion that took his life prevented him from experiencing and suffering.The second thing that I want you to know is that you son saved countless lives before he gave up his own. He protected both marines and the local Afghans, who are targeted by the enemy and stuck in a warzone through no fault of their own. Almost everyday I hear reports of innocent children and farmers in this area losing life and limb to IEDs. Joseph and his squads actions prevented that.On the day he died, Joseph's actions directly contributed to saving 8 of my marines. He is a hero to every marine in my Platoon and we will always carry his sacrifice for us in our hearts. I thank you for raising such a brave and selfless young man and I pray that in the future you will find some peace.I will be here for 5 more months. If you want to speak to me in the future, feel free to write me. I will also include my email address at the bottom if you wish future contact. I will keep your family in my prayers. Respectfully Submitted, 1stLT Mike Breslin 3rd PLT CO, Kilo Co, 3/9

Message By Mama - May 3, 2013

464w ago

When Joseph was 17, he wanted me to sign so he could join the Marines his last year in school. I would not. After graduation, I had gotten him a job on a tug boat. Joseph and I would talk almost everyday on the phone. After not hearing from Joseph for 3 days, he had showed up in the driveway on the 3rd day. I asked what happened son, I haven't heard from you in 3 days. Joseph told me, he had quit his job to join the Marines. I gave him a hug. He said, I needed that from you. Joseph had showed up everyday at the Marines requiters office and done as he was told for several weeks. It had came time for Joseph to go to Montgomery to sign, to join the Marines. I was worried, thinking Joseph had not thought this through, forgetting that once Joseph has made up his mind, there is no changing it like his Paw Paw. He had told his mother this wasn't definite. He was just going to watch some films and listen to a speech. I was at work when Joseph had called me that he had signed and it was definite.When Joseph had came home, I was sitting on the side of the bed crying, telling Joseph how I thought it was a bad time for him to join, because of the war. I told Joseph I would be the only one that it would matter to if anything did happen to him, not thinking of anyone else in the family. Joseph said he would be doint what he wants to do. He wanted people to look up to him. He wanted to be somebody. He did not want to turn out like his biological father.Joseph is a very loving person. Once you meet him, you don't forget him. He made an emprission on everyone he met. That is what my son has taught me. I am so proud of him, and the man he has became to be. People are still thanking me for Joseph's sacrafice.Approximately 2 months after Ken Craddock coming to Joseph's funera, he had called and told me how the Marine Core League wanted to be named after my son, Joseph. Ken had set up a time for he and I and a few more Marines to meet. He wanted to know how I felt about the Marines and their service. I told him I was honored. This was something I had never heard of. I was so appreciative that they had choosen my son, Joseph. He then thanked me for my son's service and his sacrifice.A few weeks after Joseph's passing, I had gotten a letter from 1st LT Mike Breslin, telling me how Joseph's actions directly contributed to saving 8 of his Marines. He is a hero to every Marine in his Platoon.My daughter and I were cleaning and decorating Joseph's graveside, when a gentleman had walked up and said, he was at his wife's funeral just in the garden across from Joseph. He had served in the Army. He was there at the airport when Joseph had arrived from Dover. He wanted to take time out to come over and pay his respects to my son, and thank me for his sacrafice.I was at the doctor, when I had went to get into my car, I seen a notebook piece of paper on my windshield. It read.....Thanks to you and your son's sacrafice, from a magnet that was on my car of Joseph. I will frame that. That is priceless! My son is still affecting lives. There are lives still being changed because of my son's service of the Marines, and the sacrafice he has made.I am still learning from my son. I want to pay tribute to my son, CPL Joe Whitehead!

Message By Shannon White Gibson - May 3, 2013

464w ago

My name is Shannon Gibson, although I was Shannon White when Joe knew me. We went to school together, both in the class of 2007. I apologize that this letter is so late, but it's taken this long to gather my thoughts and the nerve to write you. This letter is to simply remind you what an amazing son you raised. Joe was more than a classmate to me, he was a dear friend. We had driver's education together, 2 history classes, a typing class, and worker's comp. class. When w met in 9th grade, we were instantly drawn to one another's' similarities. Joe and I were class clowns! We'd do anything for a laugh and were known to be the "funny ones". We never were interested in each other romantically for two reasons: we were carbon copies and he was the brother I never had. We wore each other's jersey number on game day: his football one and my soccer one! We had this ridiculous handshake we'd do when we passed in the hallway, there are so many memories that words on paper can't do justice. Joe was always there for me when I needed someone other than my girlfriends, he was always "that guy" that every young woman needs in her life. In worker's comp., our senior year class together, he mentioned wanting to be a Marine. I told him he was crazy and would go to war! He then replied, "I know. But it's just something that's been nagging at me for awhile. I fell it's what God wanted me to do." One of my happiest memories of Joe was when he helped me with mascot try-outs! I was so overwhelmed but Joe helped me come up with songs, ideas, props, etc. for my skit. He helped me become the 2007 Satsuma Gator : ) On game days, I had nowhere to change in and out of my suit before and after the game. My only choice (bathrooms were off-limits because of the gator's "secret" identity) was the lockeroom by the field. Joe would "stand ground," as we called it, while I changed and got ready. My mom adored Joe for this, she brought him Gatorade's after each game as a "thank you." One bittersweet memory of Joe was one that still brings me to tears when I'm reminded of it. Our senior year, I had a boyfriend of 7 mths. I was "in love" and obviously blinded by that fact. Joe could tell that something wasn't right with us, he always said, "I just don't like the guy." I guess I didn't hide the fact that he was abusive very well. It wasn't anything major, more emotional than physical. He was controlling and manipulative and I suppose my being young and dumb, I overlooked what Joe saw. Joe continuously told me I deserved better and there were other guys out there. I was just so oblivious. To make a long story short, I came to school with ONE tiny mark on my wrist. It was a bruise even my family didn't catch, I tried to hide it. Joe took one look at it and said, "Shannon, either YOU tell him it's over or I will." If it weren't for Joe, I wouldn't have known what a real man was and wouldn't have found a husband who treats me like I deserve. By the way, I married a military man. We live in Guan where his submarine (Navy) is stationed. I would've given anything to be present at Joe's funeral and to have had the honor of meeting you in person. I was in class here at the University of Guan when my mom called to inform me of Joe's passing. I had to leave school immediately and just cry in my car. Little things remind me of Joe and I still cry over them: the memories and for you and Joe's other family members. But then I'll remember one of our "silly" moments or jokes and smile. Joe would've wanted it that way. I do regret losing touch with him, though. I met my husband shortly after our graduation and fell in love. We married a year later and started jumping from base to Navy base. I know Joe would be proud, as I am of him. You paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country: Your Son Joe. I want you to know that he will never be forgotten, by anyone who ever met him or had the pleasure of being his friend. Joe never met a stranger! I truly hope this letter didn't interrupt your healing, I don't want to upset you.

Message By Cpl Matt Williams - May 6, 2013

464w ago

June 3, 2011Dear Melanie,Thank you for the package. Me and Eric split it pretty evenly. We go through socks pretty quick sometimes so they definitely helped and the baby wipes are a must when we go out. Mostly we build patrol bases for the grunt but a few of us are out living with them and going on patrol everyday. The PB builds aren't too bad, the time flies and when we start it there isn't anything around us. After the walls are up the grunts usually show up. It's not bad though. Only takes a few days to complete. Me and the other heavy equipment operators usually run 24/7 to fill the HESCO with dirt. The rest of the platoon usually goes to sleep for the night which makes it easier for us to move faster, no worries about running someone over with a front end loader or the bull dozer. We've been flying Joe's flag every time we go out and I have a few pictures of it on my dozer, and some of the trucks. I painted "Roll Tide" on the back of one of my dozers, got me in some trouble but when marines that weren't on the boat with Joe see it they always ask me about it. Asking if it's for him. I had to do it twice, the black didn't show up too well so I did it in tan. My LT and SSgt were pretty mad about it. A lot of the marines in weapons company remember him. Most have seen it on the dozer. I also ran into C SGT that was a journeyman's school with him. He was out here with 1st CEB. We are taking good care of the flag so that we can give it back to you when we get home. Thanks again for the package. It was very much appreciated. Matt Williams

Message By Lt Col D.W. Hudspeth - May 3, 2013

464w ago

Dearest Ms. Miller:Ma'am, my name is Lieutenant Colonel David Hudspeth. I am the Commanding Officer for Third Battilion, Ninth Marine Regiment. I was Joseph's commanding officer at the time of his death.I am broken hearted and saddened immensely to not have returned your son to you. I haven't the intellect nor the capacity to comprehend the emptiness and anguish that you experience. I simply wish that I could take it from you, and shoulder it myself...really I simply wish you had your son back like he was.Corporal Joseph Whitehead was are of the most respected Marines in his Platoon. He enjoyed "muddin" with his buddies. He enjoyed fishing and of course, he loved "Tide" football. You could hear him sh out "Roll Tide" during the season. He was mild mannered and could always be counted on to inspire his buddies. When his buddies had a rough day, Joseph picked them up and made them laugh. He made it a point to greet everyone he met. He loved country music and could often be heard singing. He cared deeply for his fellow Marines and Sailors. Your son was a great man and a brave Marine. His death shook his buddies significantly.Your son died instantly ma'am. There was no pain. He did not struggle. He had discovered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and had called explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) up to detinate the IED in place or disarmed it. Before EOD could get up to your son's position, the IED exploded, killing Joseph instantly. His death accurred around 3:00 pm in the afternoon. The sky was hazy with dust and the temperature was about 52 degrees. He died at the edge of a wheat field near a canal.Your son's buddies want me to have a patrol base in his honor; however, there have been other Marines to die in the same area. All of them deserve honors, and all of them deserved so much more than a painted piece of the plywood from patrol base that won't stand the test of time.Ma'am, there is nothing more that I can say and nothing that I can ever say to take this pain away. Your son made a difference in so many lives. We will never forget him and we will never foresake you. May God bless you and keep you and may your burden be lessened over time. Very Sincerely & Respectfully, D.W. Hudspeth LT COL USMC

Message By Charlie Z - May 3, 2013

464w ago

February 11, 2011Corporal Joseph C. WhiteheadHe gave his life, clearing the wayRecently I was walking with Marines on patrol. We were going into an area that had been a Taliban stronghold. I was going to check on a Marine who was having a difficult time. Initially my thoughts were on the mission-I was thinking about the Marine's situation and how I might encourage him. As we left the road and walked through the field, I came to be more mindful of those walking in front of me. I wasn't anxious or fearful. But I was aware--a aware of where the ANA soldier 20 yards ahead of me was walking.Although I was not able to do it every step, whenever I saw a boot print in the soil--that was where I stepped. I knew that if I stepped in a boot print-it was safe- because someone had gone before me. Do you know that before me -- before that ANA soldier and before the 3/9 Marines-clearing the fields and abandoned buildings-were the CEB Marines! With their detection equipment in hand-along with their rifles, they cleared the way, CPL Whitehead was one such Marine. He gave his life, clearing the way.The Greeks spoke of a good life being capped by a "good" death. To them, a good death was one that came with dignity, and peacefully, at the end of a long and useful life. If that is true, then comparatively speaking, the death of a Marine in combat must be characterized as a great death, a noble death. One might even say, a Christ-like death.There is a painting by Sir Edward John Poynter in the Walker Art Gallery in England titled, "Faithful Unto Death." It shows a Roman guard on duty while the palace is falling into ruins during the destruction of Herculaneum. The dead are lying in the background. Others are falling to the pavement amid the red hot eruptions of Mt. Vesuvius. Everyone who can is fleeing for his life. The Roman guard might have made his escape, too, but there he stands like a marble statue, preferring to remain at his post, faithful unto death.There is a story of a missionary who many years ago sailed from Liverpool to serve along the African coast. When he changed vessels and boarded a coastal tugboat to make his way into a fever-infested region where he would invest the rest of his life, he came upon a cynical old slave trader who looked critically on the man's decision by saying, "If you go to that place, you will die." The missionary replied softly, "I died before I ever left Liverpool."I believe the image of the Roman soldier and this story of the missionary, really capture the point St. Paul is making when he writes, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith." I have fought the good fight. I have finished the course, I have kept the faith. Persevering to the end, knowing that there is more to this life than the stuff we waste so much of our time pursuing.CPL Whitehead got that! He was faithful to the end. And he helped others along the way. He did not just look out for himself. He was an encourager. LCPL Clancy, a friend of his from high school in Mobile, told me that if CPL Whitehead knew you were down-having a bad day--he could sense it. And he wouldn't stop until he had you smiling. That's the kind of man he was.........He gave his life, clearing the way.And so we say goodbye and thank you to our friend. Until we meet again.Chaplain Hayes Perdue, Marjeh Afghanistan, 11 Feb 2011

Message By 1Stlt Fitzpatrick - May 6, 2013

464w ago

Cpl Whitehead was always in a positive mood no matter what situation that was presented to him. He was the guy that always elevated everyone's morale in dire circumstances. As we all know, he was true Alabama fan and since I went to Auburn the fun never stopped when college football was on. He used to sing and laugh in a weird way sometimes that I'm sure he did just to mess with me but it was always in good fun. He was an all around good person and he will be deeply missed by the platoon. 1stLT Fitzpatrick

Message By A.M. Neibel - May 6, 2013

464w ago

January 20, 2011Dear Mrs. Miller:On behalf of the United States Marine Corps, I offer our most sincere condolences for the loss of your son. The death of your son Joseph is a source of deep sorrow for the Marines of his platoon and for me. Please accept our deepest sympathy. Joseph was on a foot patrol in the southern area of Marjeh, Helmand Province, Afghanistan when he was mortally wounded by an improvised explosive device (IED). At the time of the incident, he was not alone - his fellow Marines and a Navy Corpsman were by his side. One of his very good friends, Corporal Brad Edwards, injured in the incident, was closest to him at the time of the event. Joseph died heroically; he selflessly served. Know that he died while doing what he loved.Joseph was a fine young man and a strong combat engineer who was highly respected by his fellow Marines. He believed and lived our core values of honor, courage, and commitment. Although he was here in Afghanistan only a short time, he was one of my combat engineers who truly made a difference every day; he performed his duties with precision. He was the type of person that his fellow infantry Marines looked to for security and strength. He was always respectful and courteous, and was a hard worker. He was generous not only with his time, but with all he had. His fellow Marines looked up to him and admired his courage. He set an excellent example. He had a tremendous wit and could relate to those around him. Joseph was an integral member of his Platoon and someone we can never replace. You did a fine job raising him, he was a wonderful person dedicated to his job and the Marines around him.I realized that words can do little to console you at this time. I want you and your family to know that we share your sorrow. My hope is that your family, friends, and faith will be a source of support for you. Our Marine family is with you, in body and in spirit. The loss of one Marine is felt by all Marines. May God bless and assist you and your family through this difficult time. Sincerely, A. M. Niebel

Message By W.L. Baines - May 6, 2013

464w ago

January 17, 2012Dear Ms. Miller:Please accept my deepest sympathy regarding the loss of you son, Corporal Joseph Charles Whitehead. You continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.I know that you Casualty Assistance Calls Officer (CACO) met with you and provided assistance during this difficult time. In addition to your CACO, I am available should you require assistance with any residual issues as the long Term Assistance Program Manager.I want you to know that it is very important for you to keep us abreast of your current contact information. Doing so enables us to notify you of any offers of assistance from benevolent organizations or changes in the laws that affect your benefits and entitlements.Ultimately, the goal of our casualty assistance program is the ensure our families receive the most sensitive, compassionate, and timely assistance possible. I welcome any comments you may have regarding the assistance you received. Please feel free to contact me or Mrs. Tammy McFadden by calling our toll free number, writing to the above address, or by email.Again, you have my most sincere condolences. The sacrifices of our Fallen Marines and their families will not be forgotten. Pleas know that we are always here for you. Sincerely, Walt L. Baines

Message By Shannon White Gibson - May 3, 2013

464w ago

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