This Memorial Day we honor and remember all the US Service Men and Women who have given their lives so we can be safe and live free.
We will have special thoughts of gratitude for Lance Corporal Joshua “Darsh” “Boomer” Eli Witsman, 23, of Oakwood, formerly of Covington, Indiana who passed away at 11:29 a.m. Wednesday, May 30th, 2012 in the Kajaki District of Afghanistan, while serving with Weapons Company 2nd Battalion 5th Marines.
Josh was born on September 8th, 1988, in Danville, the son of Tom and Kayla P. (Hannan) Witsman. He married Stacey Lynn Blackman on November 25th, 2011, in Covington. Josh graduated from Covington High School in 2007 and attended college at Ivy Tech University, working in the plumber and pipe-fitters program.
Josh enlisted with the United States Marine Corps on February 17th, 2009, serving two tours of duty in Afghanistan. During his time in Afghanistan, he served with Lima Company 3rd Battalion 5th Marines and later Weapons Company 2nd Battalion 5th Marines. He was awarded the Combat Action Ribbon, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two Bronze Stars, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with one Bronze Star, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal ISAF and Rifle Expert Badge (Third Award).
Josh enjoyed hunting, camping and being outdoors sitting around a fire. He also enjoyed spending time with his family, friends and just giving them a hard time. Josh was always a self-proclaimed momma’s boy and he was proud of that.
