Retired United States Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant Nicholas Allen Popaditch is yet another example of what it means to be a Marine.
During the First Battle of Fallujah, Popaditch opened the hatch to his M1 Abrams tank and was wounded in an ambush when a rocket propelled grenade hit him in the head. Blinded and deafened, he somehow managed to maintain consciousness until he moved his tank and crew out of danger.
We all know that Marines are the best of the best, but to get hit square in the face with an R.P.G. and still manage to get your team to safety? That's just unfair to our enemies!
The "Cigar Marine" ultimately lost his right eye and the hearing in his right ear due to injuries sustained, for his bravery in the battle he was awarded the Silver Star, and for his injuries he received the Purple Heart before being medically retired from the Corps.
Popaditch's exploits as a Marine are impressive, but followed up with his ability to inspire a crowd with a rousing speech, we've got to say that this guy is just another perfect example of what it means to be an American. This man's speech is passionate, well-delivered, and intense. The story he tells after the plane passes over brought a tear to my eye as an American.
If you want to see what "Liberty" is, you have to watch Popaditch's speech in the video below. He shows us that freedom isn't free, and he proves that no matter what happens: once a Marine, always a Marine. Always Faithful to God, Country, and Corps.
Please SHARE this incredible speech if you love the Marines!
