Remembering a Hero: Marine's Sacrifice in Kabul Airport Attack

In the midst of the chaos surrounding the 2021 U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, Lance Cpl. Jared Schmitz found himself on the front lines at Kabul airport. He faced the daunting task of restoring order to the chaotic scene. Amid the exhaustion and sleep deprivation, Jared's father, Mark Schmitz, recalls his son's words: "'I'm exhausted. I've got to go.'" Little did they know, this would be one of their final conversations.

Jared Schmitz, a 20-year-old Marine, tragically lost his life in the suicide bombing at Hamid Karzai International Airport on August 26, 2021. His selflessness shone through as he dedicated himself to the safety of others. His father, Mark, shared, "He would’ve stayed right where he was... he would never allow that to happen to another brother or sister."

Jared's unwavering commitment to duty reflected his deep love for the Marines. Mark recalls, "If he was ever going to go out, he'd want to die a Marine. He would do it all over again."

Two years after the devastating attack, Mark Schmitz remains haunted by unanswered questions. He criticizes the Biden administration for evading accountability and failing to provide closure on the events leading up to his son's death. Mark emphasizes, "We want the history to be written correctly, and we want to make sure that this never, ever happens again."

As the nation marks the second anniversary of the attack, President Biden acknowledges the sacrifices of the fallen service members. He stated, "We can never repay the incredible sacrifice of any of the 2,461 U.S. service members who lost their lives over two decades of war in Afghanistan..."

Jared's journey to becoming a Marine was fueled by his protective nature and a sense of duty instilled at a young age. His father and stepmother, Jaclyn, recount how Jared always looked out for others. He embodied these qualities even as he trained with local Marines on Saturday mornings during his teenage years.

Jared's infectious laugh and proud uniform defined his character. His father, Mark, shares, "Being in his uniform, I think, was his safe place." The overwhelming support from the community following his passing reflects the unity reminiscent of post-9/11 America.

Mark and Jaclyn Schmitz continue to honor Jared's memory through their nonprofit, The Freedom 13. This organization is dedicated to providing recreational housing and mental well-being support for veterans. Despite the pain of loss, Mark finds solace in the connection he feels with his son, "I just feel like he’s communicating back... Everything you signed up for in the end was worth it."

Jared Schmitz's legacy lives on through the love of his family, the respect of his fellow Marines, and the gratitude of a nation he served with unwavering dedication.