Dear Jacob,
This year, I thought it important to acknowledge you, your family, and your service to this country. This past year, I have gotten to know your mom and dad. They are so proud of you and they miss you. Not a day goes by that they don’t think of you, remember you, and share with others the difference your life has made.
Jacob, by all accounts, you loved your God, your country, your family. You were unselfishly rescuing others when your life was lost.
Your service to this country will not be forgotten. When you enlisted in the Marines you had dreams and ambitions. At 22 years, you demonstrated courage, leadership, integrity, and a maturity well beyond your life’s experiences. Your parents smile when recalling your fun-loving goofy side and when sharing about your character; it makes us wish there were more young men like you in the world.
The tree that is planted by the City of Scottsdale has grown and it shades the plaque that has your picture and the details of your service. It stands taller than other trees and marks the three years you have been gone.
This year, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation created a scholarship in your name. They will grant scholarships to those wishing to pursue film careers or history. We know these were passions of yours and deserving students will learn about your love of books, history and a desire to make films. Your parents want to make sure you are not forgotten and it seems like a small thing to be able to do this for them and to honor your memory.
Jacob, we have learned of your strong faith in God and how important a role model you were and remain to your younger siblings. It is because of your sacrifice, that we know what a huge heart you had, how you forgave freely, and demonstrated attributes any parent would be proud of in their child. Your parents’ faith and their friends support them. How very much they loved you speaks the loudest.
On this Memorial Day you and your wonderful family will be in my thoughts and prayers. We remain humbled for your service, your commitment and the debt that can never be repaid to you or your family. Your parents grace is inspiring and a reflection of their undying love for you.
Your favorite verse your parents shared with us says much about you:
“Haven’t I commanded you; be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” ~ Joshua 1:9
God Bless you Hug family, Jacob and all serviceman, who have paid with their lives, for our freedom. We are forever grateful for your unwavering honor, courage, and commitment.
SEMPER FI Lance Corporal Hug
A daughter of a US Marine
U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal Jacob Hug lost his life while on a humanitarian mission in Nepal in May of 2015, when his helicopter crashed in the Himalayas. Jacob was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, The Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Sea Service Deployment ribbon. Lance Corporal Hug completed 7 deployments in support of operations.