Fellow Marine wrote on Dec 11, 2006 12:48 PM:For Megan's family: It was a pleasure to serve with Megan. Her contagious enery was an absolute joy to be around. I am sorry for your lost. May Megan REST IN PEACE. Semper Fi.

Robert wrote on Dec 11, 2006 1:38 PM:What a senseless tragedy. Prayers and best hopes for her family and comrades in arms.

Mark Walker wrote on Dec 11, 2006 1:48 PM:To Fellow Marine: Could you please call Mark Walker at the North County Times at(760) 740-3529 to discuss Maj. McClung for the story the newspaper is continuing to work on. The same request is made to any service member or individual who knew Megan. Thanks, Mark.

Michael F. wrote on Dec 11, 2006 3:09 PM:I worked with Maj. McClung twice as an embedded reporter, both in Fallujah and Ramadi. She knew what embeds needed to get good articles and was also as helpful as you could possible want a PAO to be after I got home and needed material I was unable to gather in the combat zone. Unless you knew you, you cannot imagine what a loss this is. I blogged an obit on her at my website: ...

MajorSteve wrote on Dec 11, 2006 3:29 PM:Sixty-five women killed in Iraq. A pity. Very sad. They shouldn't have been there.

Raj wrote on Dec 11, 2006 3:40 PM: God bless this heroic soul. So many noble individuals sacrificing their lives that an alien people may enjoy freedom. (The mixed motives /geopolitical ambitions of the older men who sent her there, notwithstanding)

Concerned wrote on Dec 11, 2006 3:49 PM:Here's a thought, drop a bomb on downtown Ramadi. Bomb for a bomb. Everytime a roadside bomb goes off, pull an airstrike on the immediate area. It's the only way to fight these cowards. Eye for an eye, as they say.

Ken in LA wrote on Dec 11, 2006 3:53 PM:What a "Waste". Send Single Men ONLY...into harms way

JJMC wrote on Dec 11, 2006 3:56 PM:I'm very sorry for her death and the 3,000 other marine/soldiers that have died in Iraq. Why again are females over there?

PA GUY wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:05 PM:Very sad to see another PA comrade go. PA's are rarely put into harms way, this shows her dedication to helping the media and telling the Marine story. Being a PAO takes much skill and dedication to the job, Maj. McClung's parents should rest assure they brought up an outstanding member of the U.S. Armed Forces.

James wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:07 PM:Ken in LA wrote on December 11, 2006 3:53 PM:"What a "Waste". Send Single Men ONLY...into harms way" Could you be more insulting? ...

Suresh wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:09 PM:May god bless her soul. Tragic. My condolences to the Major's family.

Mike wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:10 PM:Thank God we still have people like this, in spite of the peace at any price crowd. My prayers are with her people. God has her in his care.

Navy Wife wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:16 PM:Our prayers are with the family and loved ones of this Hero! May she rest in peace. I thank her and all in uniform for their sacrifice. God Bless you all. I stand behind you all 110%!

Big Red One wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:18 PM:Countries without people like this don't survive. Thanks Megan.

US Navy Seabee wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:29 PM:I served in Fallujah from Sept. 2004 - Jan. 2005 with the Marines, as a US Navy Seabee working to assist with reconstruction - The dedication of the female Marines that we worked with was awesome. They are needed to handle duties such as searching Iraqi females and other support roles. The female Marines at Camp Fallujah and those in other support roles demonstrate by their actions that they are true Patriots and deserve our respect. All our prayers for Meghan, her fellow Marines and most importantly, her family. SEMPER FI from a US Navy Seabee

Mike wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:31 PM:American women have, for whatever reason, virtually lost the capacity to be mothers, wives and homemakers. In point of fact the majority of "mothers" in most major cities are "single moms" who have not the slightest idea who might have fathered their children. Technically, their children should have a zip code for a surname. Thus, those no longer able to sustain the role traditionally established for them in Judeo-Christian civilizations might as well serve some role. If they want to die in dirty, foreign lands - so be it. But it's going to take a lot more of them. The present population of military age males is certainly not going to be able to sustain the politician's agenda. The Army is now accepting ex-convicts, so long as they only have 1 felony conviction. Mike 63 years old, retired U.S. Navy, 24 years.

Dave wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:32 PM:Another hero!!!!She is in Gods care may her family look to God for peace and understanding God Bless all the soldiers that are over there

PAO wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:33 PM:She volunteered for the Corps and likely for this deployment. Don't dishonor her death by saying she should not have been there. Semper fi - from one public affairs officer to another!

Sorry for her: wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:35 PM:She died for a failed religious war. Not even Impeachment will bring her back. Sad.

Bob wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:37 PM:Just to point out an obvious error, I quote this sentence taken from the story "Sixty-four U.S. service women have been killed since the Marine 2003 invasion." Not to descrate Maj. McClung's ultimate sacrifice, but I thought other services were involved in the invasion -- such as the Army.

Stephen wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:40 PM:May God Bless your family and Thankyou for Megans service to freedom and the U.S.A.

Jim usmc retired wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:49 PM: The Major must have been doing what she wanted. She gave it all. She was a Marine till the very end. Wish I had served w/her. RIP Semper Fi.

Army Man wrote on Dec 11, 2006 4:53 PM:Hoo-Ah! To one of our nations finest who gave her life in service to a nation that should be greatful for her personnal sacrifice to keep terrorist over there rather than here. Her sacrifice was NOT in vein, inspite of what cowards say...WE WILL WIN..SEMPER FI my sister.

hey Concerned wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:00 PM:Here's a better plan. Everytime one of our soldiers dies - we line up 10 civilians at random and shoot them to death. Much more impressive than bombs. And it is a tried and true method. Hitler used it in occupied Europe a lot.

Tim - Oregon wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:00 PM:I served in iraq for a year, what a waste of another life. This country will never be free becuase they don't want freedom.

No Name wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:03 PM:Why all the special attention over a dead female GI? Male GI's die everyday and they don't get a entire article written about them.

Proud American wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:03 PM:Major McClung now stands a post in heaven. She was a proud Marine, and a hero for all us to never forget. May God bless her family, because we have already been blessed with her time here on Earth. Thoughts and prayers to her family...Semper Fi Major and God Speed.

JoAnn wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:04 PM:From her picture I can see the light in her eyes. What great service she gave to our country. She is a hero. I don't know this woman and I mourn her. She is already missed. She IS the best. I did not say she "WAS" the best. She IS the best of what our country is ABOUT. If it was her time in God's plan, then know she IS a hero.

USMC Major wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:09 PM:Ken and Major Steve: I served with female Marines in both OIF and OEF, and I have to say that you are both dead wrong in your assessments. Single or married, male or female, anyone who wants to be a patriot and fight for this country should be allowed. I offer Maj McClung's family my heartfelt condolences during this mourning period.

Raj wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:11 PM:hey Concerned; our fellow citizen just confirmed that we have stooped to the level of Bush's (Hitler's) facist Nazi Germany. No wonder America can't think straight.

Progressive wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:13 PM:Another wasted life thanks to Bush, Cheney, and Haliburton. Impeach the former two and try them for War Crimes, investigate and imprison the management of the latter, and BRING ALL TROOPS HOME NOW!

Vic wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:14 PM:My family: father, son and grandsons, have served in WWII, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan and each of us salutes this noble soldier. May God be very near to her family as they mourn her loss. May the country's leaders find a way out of this abysmal situation.

USMC ... wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:15 PM:THIS FORUM SHOULD NOT BE USED AS A SOUND-OFF BOARD FOR POLITICAL RHETORIC. IT'S SHOULD BE TO COMMENT ABOUT THE STORY; THE SERVICE AND SACRIFICE, OF MAJ. McCLUNG. SEMPER FI MA'AM!!!

LT, USN(RET) wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:15 PM:Our thoughts and prayers go out to this Marines family and friends. Our nation can never repay the loss of this fine American. Let not her service to this country go in vain. We must prevail in this struggle to deliver this region from oppression and guarentee the blessings of liberty to all. God Bless you Megan and all of our service members in harms way.

Phil wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:19 PM:"How do you ask a man to be the last man to die for a mistake?� or woman? What a ... waste.

RobbyS wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:27 PM:May the soul of Megan, and all the souls of those killed in this war, by the mercy of God rest in Peace. May her family take solace in that she died doing her duty, in a profession she cherished.

seif wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:32 PM:Another waisted life. As an iraqi, I was of course against against any foreign intervention in my country. So I was asking for the US to leave my country....Now I want the US to stay....and learn a lesson!

Troy wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:32 PM:Thank you for your service.

R. Hoover, Foreign Service,retired wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:33 PM:Major McClung was among our country's very finest. We must take heart, find inspiration in her great sacrifice and prevail in this war. God bless her loved ones!

John wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:36 PM:James-You are exactly correct I just bet Ken thinks Freedom is free and has never worn a military uniform other than in his dreams. God Bless America and God Bless those who place themselves in harm's way, so folks like Ken can have and voice an opinion. My appreciation to Meghan's family as well as Meghan.

John wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:41 PM:I agree with Ken in LA. We shouldn't be sending women into harms way. I can't believe our government sends mothers to war now. How silly.

Col Dave wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:42 PM:I served with her - ran marathons with her. Simply an outstanding officer.

Marine LtCol wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:46 PM:For those of you who feel the need to cite Maj McClung's as a "waste", I hope you find something in your life that is larger than yourselves, that you feel is worth risking and giving your life for. Megan knew the facts about what is really going on there. Ask the people of Fallujah if they want us to leave. You'll get a resounding no.

John wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:48 PM:Major, I know you can't hear me, but thank you for your service and sacrifice. I thank God that persons like you exist. I'm trully saddened that your life has been cut short. We are all diminished by your absence, but we were more so enhanced by what you did in life. Rest in peace. I thank your family also, and pray they will somehow find comfort in the middle of grief. God Bless them. God also bless every soldier, sailor, airman, and marine. You all are special and this citizen appreciates you all. Regardless of how humble your service may be.

Norma wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:50 PM:I respect Major McClung's passion for service, and bravery. She and all others who have given their lives or their health in service for our country are heros, and deserve our prayers and thanks. Thank you Major, and prayers and comfort to your family.

Vlad wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:51 PM:@Raj ... this is not a forum for your bizarre fantasies...it's a memorial for a fallen service woman. Major McClung, may she rest in peace.

Pat wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:52 PM:To No Name, It should be obvious to you by now, that those who knew Major McClung held her in high regard. Your comments demean the sacrifice of all of those who serve.

John wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:53 PM:Heartbreaking and no more tragic than all the others. God bless her family and keep safe all those brave young Americans engaged in this tragic endeavor. As one who lives nearby to Camp Pendleton and passes it frequently, our minds are always with those Marines serving our nation. Thank you for your service.

john wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:55 PM:One hell of a Brave Marine! I pray for her family. Thank God for Major McClung and all the Brave and Honorable Service Men and Women who've stood up and fought for our freedom. Major McClung has made the ulitmate sacrifice for my family and I to live in a free and safe USA. My daughter is serving in Iraq and I pray each day for her safety! I say to alll those that say she and others died in vain or a waste... Get some ... and do something for your country besides being a Chicken ...!

Bill wrote on Dec 11, 2006 5:58 PM:No political comments, please. As a former overseas vet, I salute and honor the Major's memory. As long as we produce Americans like Megan McClung, we'll weather any storm.

Bill wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:02 PM:Goodness. All these prayers. Maybe they should have come before she died. Would they have done any good them?

Old Marine Cliff wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:03 PM:Another wasted life for a lost cause. Bush/Cheney need to stand trial for war crimes!

CPT USAR wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:04 PM:Let's keep the politics out of this please. My sincere condolences to Maj McClung's family. May she rest in peace, and thank you for her sacrifice.

Marine wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:13 PM:Moderator - Why not honor this Marine by not allowing this to turn into a political discussion. I'd rather see no comments than some of the ones you've allowed to be posted.

Bob wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:26 PM:SIt seem sad that a wonderful Marine has died and those filled with hate use her good name and her death as an excuse to vent their political views.

Kathi wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:27 PM:She is an inspiration to all females who know they can do just about any job a male can!! There is always hope because of people like Major McClung and there will always be freedom in this country because BRAVE individuals like her act on their beliefs in a positive manner -- not doing the usual blame game...........she is truly a BRAVE Marine. RIP.

Venizelos wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:32 PM:Angry man, bill, Steven, Bob, Mike, Rag et. al. all posting from 1969 (SomeONE having a Viet Nam Flashback?) LOL

If not now, when? wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:33 PM:If the citizenry of the nation that sent this soldier into harms way can't question the senselessness of her death, then when?

Lynai wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:36 PM:Megan may you rest in peace in your one true home. May your family be granted peace and perseverance in your absence and thank you sister for giving it your all, to the very end. God Bless all of our soldiers

Ed wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:42 PM:God bless her. God bless the US Military and may they succeed in their mission. Damn those who seek to undermine them. RIP Megan. Say hello to Chesty!!!

seiffer wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:43 PM:hey seif, if iraq is your country, go there. we dont need you i ours. you're pretty brave now that saddam is gone, huh?

SSGArmy wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:48 PM:Enlisted Men die there daily. They are counted like so many soda bottles. I know, I was there. I do not dishonor a fellow soldiers sacrifice, but perhaps making her famous in death dishonors her. Perhaps a more fitting tribute would simply be "another hero gone, sacrificed to save a sleeping world that has no desire to wake to find itself in flames"

Nick wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:55 PM:I have served in Somalia, Afghanistan and Iraq. To those who have stated that these people don’t want freedom you need to tell me where you were serving. In all of my contact with the everyday person living in each of these countries I can tell you that they do indeed dream of freedom. It is quite different living in tyranny trying to attain freedom than to live with freedom’s blessings passing judgment on those who don’t know how to fight for it fearing for their lives. It is America’s soldiers who help those striving to attain freedom to learn how to fight for and achieve their goal of attaining that freedom. God Bless the U.S. Armed Forces and God Bless America.

Dave wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:56 PM:They kill one of ours, we should kill 1,000 of them. Lets fight the War not each other. The press needs to get behind our troops. thank God for great people like Maj. Megan McClung!

SPC REDEYE wrote on Dec 11, 2006 6:56 PM: War is a futile study in diplomacy. All agree to this! But when there is such as these, they dont fall in the line of duty for glory. But for love of country, loyalty, and faith in something more than some people could ever attain in thier 8 to 5 lives. Thats faith in one another. What a great American that fell for me and mine! Thank you Maj McClung! I didnt know you but I morn at your loss, but rejoice at your spirit. Hoorah!!!

Robbieturo wrote on Dec 11, 2006 7:07 PM:A beautiful woman turned into a human sacrifice for the Bush/Cheney You're A Great American Now Die for Nothing war. If only this impeachment effort would get off the ground.

Paul wrote on Dec 11, 2006 7:18 PM:Even the Roman empire had the good sense not to invent security threats on which to squander their soldiers and resources -- and they still fell. Rest in peace, Madame Centurion.

Ashley wrote on Dec 11, 2006 7:19 PM:As an aspiring female Marine Officer, Major McClung is a hero in my eyes. Oohrah and Semper Fi!

Soe wrote on Dec 11, 2006 7:19 PM:May God keep her family with His peace and love. And thank you so much major...

Army SSG wrote on Dec 11, 2006 7:42 PM:God Bless, Major, glad to know you had the watch. Rest now, proud Marine, as we take up the guidon for you. This country and the allies against Islamic Fascism need more soldiers like you. Let us not be mistaken, this is not a war against Islam, this IS a war against those who hate us and all that we stand for to their very core. They WILL STOP at nothing less than total chaos and havoc on the most prosperous nations on the Earth. Shame on those that twist peaceful religion into a sad and hateful world view that convinces people that murder and destruction is the way to eternal peace and utopia on Earth. Semper Fi and my heart goes out to her peers and her family in this difficult time.

Phoenix12345 wrote on Dec 11, 2006 7:53 PM:Why only 64 women? Why must men be the ones to die? Where is the diversity? Why are not women subject to selective service? Why are not women forced to be available to the draft? How can women say they are equal if they can not equally die for their country?

Sean wrote on Dec 11, 2006 8:04 PM:What I’m about to say in no way reflects on Megan’s service. She is a truly great and courageous American. But, i'm so disappointed in American men who allow their daughters, sisters and wives to go off to war. Be a man and take care of your own. The military has been forced to take women into their ranks by a bunch of feminist. A strong America has their women protected at home not doing god knows what in Iraq. Stop buying into feminist propaganda. Or forefathers would be disgusted. Megan you are a hero. RIP.

jb 0321 forever wrote on Dec 11, 2006 8:10 PM:Bless you Major - for your sacrafice Thank you Major - for your service I'll pray for your family to ask GOD to stand with them during this difficult time. Just think of the pride they will have when they join you in Heaven and find that you are guarding the gates. Semper Fi 0321 1982 - 1991

Non wrote on Dec 11, 2006 8:26 PM:DrudgeReport linked to this article as "34-year old female officer killed in iraq". Boy, that's terrible! I mean, a 34 year old female?! It's not like she was some useless 38 year old male. What a loss! I wonder how many barrels of oil she died for?

Are You All On Crack? wrote on Dec 11, 2006 8:31 PM:Are you guys all on crack? God is caring for her now? Jesus loves her? She's in a better place now? What are you guys smoking? If there was any god worth knowing, why would he have had her sent to fight a war over WMDs that don't exist to retaliate for terrorist attacks against America from a country that didn't attack us? People think it's mean to be honest, but the honest truth is that nobody knows if she died for a good cause or not. And nobody knows if her death was in vein or not. You're all just spewing the same sort of rhetoric that everyone spews when there is no rhyme or reason that satisfies them. Come on people, get your heads on straight.

OldFrenchy wrote on Dec 11, 2006 8:43 PM:Condolences to the family of Major McClung, and a heartfelt THANKYOU from our family for Major McClung's service and sacrifice, and to all the service personnel who are in Iraq fullfilling a noble mission.

Vet wrote on Dec 11, 2006 8:46 PM:She is in heaven now for she has already spent her time in hell!

Rick, USMC Viet Nam wrote on Dec 11, 2006 8:49 PM:Rest in Gods Hands, Marine! Semper Fi!

ron wrote on Dec 11, 2006 8:50 PM:War Sucks.

Kaitlyn wrote on Dec 11, 2006 8:56 PM:I'm extremely sorry for your loss. I will be praying for you and everyone else in service, and their families. God bless all those who serve, including my cousin and those who died. We love you and wish you the best. Thanks for our freedom!

The Pancake wrote on Dec 11, 2006 8:58 PM:That entire country is a dung heap and in it's entirety is not worth the sacrifice of a single US military life, be it female US Marine officer or US Army grunt. I weep for the loss of Major McCLung and offer my sincerest condolences to her family, friends and colleagues. I pray that her sacrifice is not in vain.

Jason A wrote on Dec 11, 2006 8:59 PM:God Bless the Major. I'm glad we are fighting these killers and Islamo-fascist in Iraq and not on the streets of LA or NY. However, the people of Iraq won't be able to live in true democracy until they shed the disease of militant Islam. That is the true killer here.

Rick Again! wrote on Dec 11, 2006 9:02 PM:Are You All On Crack? wrote: BLAH BLAH BLAH. This is from a liberal that has never served nor loved this country. It shows!

a lady wrote on Dec 11, 2006 9:02 PM:She did not die for barrels of oil. If we wanted to steal oil, we could do it without so much trouble. Why don't we get it for free? Because we, the USA, pay for it like everyone else does. We do not own that oil, Iraq does. We are fighting for something else. It is obvious. America's values are not about thievery.

pablo011 wrote on Dec 11, 2006 9:14 PM:those of us who have put it on the line know the tragedy of a life lost more than anyone, especially that of a courageous Marine - how do I know she was courageous? She was in a place I'm sure didn't want to be, but knew she had to be. Noone who's biggest sacrifice is skipping a Starbucks stop should believe they've earned the right to judge the right or wrong of her death while her comrades are still in harm's way. Keep your comments among your latte drinking buddies or step up! Semper Fi Marines and vaya con Dios.

Ben wrote on Dec 11, 2006 9:19 PM:So sad...may Our Lord Jesus have mercy on Major McClung and the other soldiers that had fallen in battle... As we approach the time of year that we celebrate the birth of the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ, may we all remember that GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS one and only Son...Let's act like it to one another...

Thanks wrote on Dec 11, 2006 9:58 PM:To all who have paid the price, the last full measure of devotion. So that we can sit here safe and sound and question the cause they suffered and died for. We don't deserve your sacrafice.

Fallujah Marine wrote on Dec 11, 2006 10:15 PM:Having served with Meghan here in Fallujah this year we all know how she touched us with her spirit, dedication to the mission at hand, and her overall zeal for all she did. We are having a memorial service for her today (12 Dec) and a 10K Memorial run this weekend... It is with such heavy hearts as we say goodbye this week to a warrior in every sense of the word. God bless you Meghan as you stand guard at heaven's gate.

Rose wrote on Dec 11, 2006 10:44 PM:Major Mc Clung is an American Hero. Thank God our military in Iraq fighting for our safety. I want to thank every one of them for their service.

WD wrote on Dec 11, 2006 10:45 PM:Dec 31 all at 1559 hours is the listing for first several comments. I sincerely doubt this date and time. Perhaps a correction is in order. Or did two major's die one on each date for the same type incident?

Mike wrote on Dec 11, 2006 11:11 PM:No surviving children? Sad, this is the reason civilizations have only used women in combat as a last resort. Women are the ones who can bring forth the next generation.

Duke wrote on Dec 11, 2006 11:37 PM:The article includes the blatant lie that women are prohibited from serving in combat. This courageous lady's death is another in the growing number who prove the cowardice and hypocrisy of the U.S. Congress, charged by the Constitution to regulate the miltary. Could we ever hope for a commander-in-chief with the testis to end this kind of shame, despite the perfidy of Congress? Any nation whose men send their women to fight their wars is destined for the dumpster of history. No wonder we're losing. God wont tolerate our negligence indefinitely.

Friend of a Friend wrote on Dec 12, 2006 12:15 AM:For Meghan's family I can only imagine the mixture of grief at your loss, and pride that your daughter fought the good fight to the end. May God sustain you through this.

Male Navy LT wrote on Dec 12, 2006 12:38 AM:Those of you that use her tragic death as a vehicle to further your anti-war or anti-female agendas are hypocrites. You fabricate condolences for someone you don't know as another chance to harp your distorted opinions. Allow this to be an honor to Maj McClung's memory and service. Take your garbage to a forum that caters to your skewed perception of reality.

john wrote on Dec 12, 2006 1:00 AM:Too many DemLib, latte sipping nalgas kissing, pampered glue sniffers posting on this site. I am damn proud of my daughter in Fallujah serving in the US Army! Major McClung is and will always be a Great Marine. Her memory will be part of the Legacy of this great nation and thank you to the men and women who serve. I try to read as many of the postings throughout the nation for our fallen heroes and post a kind thought to the family and loved ones.

Ace wrote on Dec 12, 2006 1:14 AM:Kill the enemies of America and may God rest her soul.

Adm Halsey wrote on Dec 12, 2006 1:16 AM:Dying for a war engineered by the globalists in the Council on Foreign Relations? That's not heroic but it is tragic. Why do some of you continue to blind yourselves with misplaced patriotism re: this Iraq folly? You've been deceived. This was NEVER about bringing 'democracy' to Iraq.

Dan in Seattle wrote on Dec 12, 2006 1:43 AM:How many more?

FMF Navy Corpsman wrote on Dec 12, 2006 2:07 AM:Having recently served in Afghanistan....all of us over there are volunteers. We know the risks, and yet we all still go and serve with pride. The gates of heaven are guarded by US Marines. Semper Fi Sister

Larry wrote on Dec 12, 2006 2:12 AM:We grieve those who sacrifice and honor all who serve. Why does their gender matter to us?

Mike wrote on Dec 12, 2006 4:24 AM:I do feel for her family---such a tragic loss for nothing but a political cause. The outrageous lack of logic displayed by the so-called officers comments are appaling to true Warrior leaders. Women officer/non-coms ordering fighting men around is nothing short of stupid. Todays modern officers would not make a pimple on the butt of Private from the days when this country had real men, not only enlisted, but commissioned. I am so thankful that when I served. I served under Officers and non-coms who had the highest sense of honor and understood that their duty was to their men. Not to a Hilliary Clinton or a Jane Fonda. GOD help America! Only HE can! Our nice modern officers would rather humiliate and embarrass warriors then fight to win!!!! Thats why we are losing and will lose this and all wars that follow. Girly boys for officers!!!!!!

Lawrence wrote on Dec 12, 2006 4:34 AM:I knew Megan during her earlier period of service in Baghdad, Iraq as the civilian PAO for one of the reconstruction companies. She was engaging and vivacious. Her smile and wit touch all who saw her and made them feel special to be near her. I have run with her around the Zone, and laughed with her at the usual life's absuridities. One day she left me a present on my desk: it was a "Go Navy, Beat Army' bumper sticker. Through it all I was honored to know her for the +/- year that I did. She was strong, smart and dedicated. She encouraged the best of those around her by her example. She is missed. Fair winds and following seas, Megan. May you Rest in Peace. GNGBU.

From a non-Marine wrote on Dec 12, 2006 4:55 AM:The greatest gift - that one should sacrifice their live for others is demonstrated by the Major. Sadly those with axes to grind (the left) feel a need to cheapen this great sacrifice. Being a New Yorker I was there when the planes struck the towers. When will the left "GET IT". The IAD makers WILL STOP AT NOTHING. But as long as there are people like the Major, we as a people can still stand tall. And No - it's not Haliburton, of the Prez or VP. It is pure hatred, less I say the word EVIL? the motivates the enemy. A peaceful sleep for OUR Major.

James wrote on Dec 12, 2006 5:02 AM:God Bless Major Megan McClung and many thanks to all who are serving our country. Be There.

Vink wrote on Dec 12, 2006 5:08 AM:God speed, Marine.

SSG Terry wrote on Dec 12, 2006 5:37 AM:My son is in Ramadi, I understand the risks. All serving there are serving a noble and brave mission. Thank you and may God be with you........For all of you un-informed Bush haters sound off somewhere else, save this fo a tribute to the Major.

Ty Martin E-4 USNR wrote on Dec 12, 2006 5:40 AM:A true patriot...I just want to say thank you for your service and to let your family and friends know that we are praying for you all..... The loss and the war are not in vain.... We Will Win the War on Terror...

Capt Rick wrote on Dec 12, 2006 5:59 AM:Semper Fidelis I am a small and precious child, my Mom's been sent to fight... The only place I'll see her face, is in my dreams late at night. She will be gone far too many days For my young mind to keep track. I may be sad, but I am proud. Because My Mommy's got your back....... I am a caring mother. My son has gone to war... My mind is filled with worries That I have never known before Everyday I try to keep my thoughts from turning black. I may be scared, but I am proud. Because My son has got your back...... I am a strong and loving wife, with a husband soon to go. There are times I'm terrified in a way most will never know. I bite my lip, and force a smile as I watch my husband pack... My heart may break to pieces, but I am proud. Because My husbands got your back...... I am a Marine, Soldier, Sailor & Airman......Serving Proudly, Standing Tall. I fight for Freedom, Yours and Mine by answering this call. I do my job while knowing, the thanks it sometimes lacks. Please Say a prayer that I'll come home soon. Because it's me who's got your back.....

ptea9 wrote on Dec 12, 2006 6:21 AM:"Concerned wrote on December 31, 1969 3:59 PM:"Here's a thought, drop a bomb on downtown Ramadi. Bomb for a bomb. Everytime a roadside bomb goes off, pull an airstrike on the immediate area." That's a great idea, you should be appointed a 4 star armchair general! That way, combatants could draw a U.S. attack on a town they are against simply by triggering a bomb in their city of choice! Brilliant!

Mitchell wrote on Dec 12, 2006 6:23 AM:I am so sorry for this brave woman and for all who have died in keeping us safe. Please, Visit one of the wonderful organizations that send packages of items to those in uniform. It means so much to these heros to get a small gift.

Sam wrote on Dec 12, 2006 6:31 AM:God Bless You Major.

Kerry wrote on Dec 12, 2006 6:33 AM:To respond to "Mike 63 years old, retired U.S. Navy, 24 years." You probably were not breast fed as an infant, and may have been abandoned by your Mother at an early age, but please don't stereotype and imply that all working mothers are urban, single, and poor. Your ignorance as a person (I didn't say "man")coming up on retirement, shows.

Michelle wrote on Dec 12, 2006 6:35 AM:Why is that you have to be a commissioned officer in the military in order to secure a page-long article? How many enlisted men and women get the same publicity in death? Disgusting.

RJ wrote on Dec 12, 2006 6:37 AM:Thank you for your service. May God bless you and give your family strength.

M. Robertson wrote on Dec 12, 2006 6:58 AM:Megan was my roommate and gymnastics team member at the Naval Academy. She was a bright, energetic and friendly person, and I will miss her everyday. We all suffer from her loss, as we do with each service member who dies in Iraq. It is left to us to ensure their sacrifices are not in vain.

Proud American wrote on Dec 12, 2006 7:20 AM:I thank her and her family for protecting us. My son is over there also and we worry everyday. Don't let some of these mean comments dampen what she has done. God Bless the Major and God Bless America.

MSG USA RET wrote on Dec 12, 2006 7:21 AM:One can be verbous about this or that concerning the war and women in combat. However, to those who know, this Officer died in the line of duty and is to be respected for her abilities and heroism to stand, and die, when others only express opinions. Go with God, Marine.

Jimmy the III wrote on Dec 12, 2006 7:24 AM:To Major McClungs family my smpathies go to you as the profond grief you are experencing must be overhelming and the loss a vaccuum unending. Your daughter served well. Yet in our White House sits a man who has two well insulated and protected daughters who are purposely not serving like yours did. And their father didn't personally know the fear a father fears every day a parent feels when a child is in combat zone. And that Father doesn't and will not know the pain you are feeling now when he loses a daughter. Why it is great and wonderful for everyone elses sons and daughters to go to war and risk their lives yet for those who put the lives at risk they protect ther own children? something is askew and amiss. If the war in Iraq was that worthwhile and correct this man in the White House would have his kids there or even his wife teaching there part of the year to show others how just the cause it. Major McClung and your family you are much more deseverving of respect than that man in the White House.

Tom USNA '95 wrote on Dec 12, 2006 7:28 AM:Fair Winds and Following Seas, Your US Naval Academy Class of '95 classmates.

Pam wrote on Dec 12, 2006 7:29 AM:Good Grief, why can't we just pray for this hero's family and thank God for young men and women who volunteer to serve this nation? Why must people high-jack this forum for hate? You people demanding to post your truth here are as bad as those self appointed "christians" that go to military funerals and spew hate in the name of their religion. Back off hate mongers.

phil wrote on Dec 12, 2006 7:30 AM:From a DOD civilian employee and prior service. While every day we assure the weapons manufactured are the product required to defend our country, we pray for those who defend our country. Let our battle be won for those whom have given the ultimate sacrifice for the future of our children and our country.

wuba95 wrote on Dec 12, 2006 7:39 AM:The news of our friend Meghan's death has shocked and saddened us all. I graduated USNA with Meghan, I raced with her, she was in my USMC basic school class, and we were PAO's together. Meghan was such a go-getter, and such a great American. She was a patriot. She knew exactly what she was getting herself into when she asked to be sent to Iraq, and she went with zeal because, more than anything, Meghan was a MARINE. If you can't understand that, then just keep your political comments to yourself and move on to a new story. In life, Meghan would have kicked your yellow hineys for bringing anti-Bush and anti-war politics to a memorial. Meghan died doing what she loved, surrounded by people she loved and who loved her. Semper fi, Marine, athlete, Wuba, friend. I can't believe I won't see you again. You and your family will be forever in my thoughts.

Mike wrote on Dec 12, 2006 7:48 AM:"And When She Goes to Heaven, To Saint Peter She Will Tell... Another Marine Reporting Sir, I've Served My Time In Hell." To the "Right of the Line" Major ! RIP

82DTROOPER wrote on Dec 12, 2006 7:49 AM:Let us honor the memory of our absent sister and comrade and not listen to the whimpering of dogs. With apologies to John Stuart Mill - "A man (or woman) who has nothing for which he (or she) is willing to fight, nothing which is more important than his (or her) own personal safety, is a miserable creature and has no chance of being free unless made and kept so by the exertions of better men (or women)than (themselves). War is an ugly thing, but not the ugliest of things. The decayed and degraded state of moral and patriotic feeling which thinks that nothing is worth war is much worse." All the way Major and God's speed.

John wrote on Dec 12, 2006 7:49 AM:My prayers to Megan's family. My son, Capt. John McKenna IV, was stationed with Megan in Cherry Point and met her on a number of occasions in Camp Fallujah. John was killed by a sniper on August 16th. Two red-headed Marine are now in Heaven.

Michael wrote on Dec 12, 2006 7:50 AM:Duty. Honor. Country. Major McClung shows what being a citizen is all about. Did her job, regardless of the situation, went in harm's way and still was upbeat. Gave her life for what she believed in. Wouldn't it be nice if all us lived life to the fullest measure everyday? What a wonderful world this would be....

Rich wrote on Dec 12, 2006 7:53 AM:"Bob", if you are going to quote the article, quote it correctly - "Sixty-four U.S. service women have been killed since the 2003 invasion, and McClung is the fourth female Marine to die."

Biff wrote on Dec 12, 2006 7:59 AM:What if they daclared a war and nobody came?

Lighthouse wrote on Dec 12, 2006 8:15 AM:I thank all the service men AND women who VOLUNTARILY serve in the armed forces. The last I checked no one is in the military against their wishes. When one joins does not one think of the possiblity of ACTUALLY going to fight? Join peace corp otherwise. I think someone nailed it on the head when they state that these service men and women are serving something bigger than themselves. Their act of unselfishness is a trait that is slowly becoming a lost character that unfortunately needs prompting by acts like 911. To those who decry the war, I ask you what are you willing to die for? If anything... I pose a situation where in a "hypothetical" country where one is forced to serve in the military for a cause you do not believe or be executed. Would your opinions against the war be so strong you would rather be executed? If so I applaud you. If not then ask yourself what do you believe in? Ahhh I see it is always about number 1 right....

Richard wrote on Dec 12, 2006 8:21 AM:Man....some of you could benefit greatly from a spell checker and a grammar checker! Way to go government schools!

Lee wrote on Dec 12, 2006 8:30 AM:Megan is a true American hero. All you naysayers that were past over for promotion or just along for a free ride or never served, can go back to hiding under your beds. God Bless you Megan and your family.

Beth wrote on Dec 12, 2006 8:33 AM:Thank you Major for your service and for begin a great example of just how strong a women can be! May your soul rest in peace and your heart be with God. Thank you for your love of country which is a great movitation for all young female officers out there in the Armed Forces. You are certainly a great role model! Thank you RIP

Marge wrote on Dec 12, 2006 8:38 AM:And Mike your ramblings have to do with what. Get a life. This honorable Marine died serving her country. Bless her family! Our thoughts are with you. "An Air Force Spouse"

bell wrote on Dec 12, 2006 8:42 AM:It's a shame to see any soldier killed. What is also a concern is how the army (not too sure about the marines) continue to put women into combat jobs. I saw women in combat roles while working on the mitt team in the sunni triangle. It's a shame when our leaders violate congressional orders-What Next?

mph66 wrote on Dec 12, 2006 8:47 AM:IF we believe that our soldiers are dying in Iraq for our freedom, then are we not then, as a society, morally compelled to mourn that person's death for her sacrafice? Shouldn't we see her casket? Shouldn't we be forced to see the faces of families grieving for the loss, this ultimate sacrafice? But we don't, because our government is hiding truth from us. That concerns me. And I have misgivings about EVERY soldier's demise in Iraq. Now, if you're talking about Afghanistan? Yes, we should be turning that place into a smoking hole in the ground. And a good part of Pakistan along the Afghan border. But instead, we're seeing good people blown to bits just because they were riding in a car in an area where we've drawn fire so that we can have oil to drive outsized vehicles in the name of "safety" when we could create more safety by initiating a national dialogue about slowing down, conserving, and breaking our dependence on oil. There was an EV, you know. Who killed it? Why? So many questions that all lead back to the death of each and every American soldier killed in Iraq? Was it worth it? I can't say. But I'm sorry for the loss. Draw your own conclusions from facts and data, not kneejerk emotional response.

Well, you can't: wrote on Dec 12, 2006 8:47 AM:say she died for a just cause. I'm sorry for her family.

Cortez wrote on Dec 12, 2006 8:53 AM:It is so tragic that she had to die, But she died doing what she loved most. I am so proud of her for having the courage to fight, and knowing she was putting herself in harms way!!!! GOD BLESS HER

Patric V wrote on Dec 12, 2006 9:00 AM:To the Family of Major McClung my heart felt thanks and condolences. May the God of all peace give you peace during this time of grieving. I believe in you Daughter, United States Marine Maj. Megan McClung.

scott wrote on Dec 12, 2006 9:01 AM:I am a Corps contractor and I was proud to have met Maj McClung on several occasions aboard Camp Fallujah. She was often seen running around the base on her own, training for her marathons I imagine. She was always friendly and professional and her Marines seemed to respect her alot. I am sad that we have to lose such a great troop, whether male or female. She will be missed. So will the other 3000 plus US troops that have died in Afghanistan and Iraq.

This IS a: wrote on Dec 12, 2006 9:10 AM:Vehicle to express sadness for her and to ask for Impeachment of the leaders who sent her there.

David wrote on Dec 12, 2006 9:15 AM:Enough of the politics. Keep your ideas to yourself. We are writing here to pay tribute to a fallen hero. She gave her life to protect the freedoms that we have and others around the world should have. May God bless Megan and her family. Thank you to her and all other service men and women for constantly putting your life on the line for this country. If you can't appreciate this kind of sacrifice, then get out, or stop comlaining.

USAF wrote on Dec 12, 2006 9:17 AM: War is an ugly thing, but not the ugliest of things. The decayed and degraded state of moral and patriotic feeling which thinks that nothing is worth war is much worse. The person who has nothing for which he is willing to fight, nothing which is more important than his own personal safety, is a miserable creature and has no chance of being free unless made and kept so by the exertions of better men than himself. -Unknown- It seems that everyone has an opinion on the war and the decisions made. I've learned something from being in the sevice and it's that if your going to complain about something or cite a problem you should bring a solution with you, it isn't easy to lead but very easy to be critical. You are entitled to your opinion but don't be a fool before you speak out, if you have never talked to a service member about how they feel or even left the country to see how other cultures live then you need to experience these things or learn about them fully before you speak. I have been many places almost every continent and in the desert 3 times and I think that most people's opinions would drastically change after this, but maybe that's what some people are afraid of. If you feel the need to comment on women in the military or military life in general, become informed. Talk to these people about thier veiws on what they are doing and how it feels to be a part of the military. As of late there is no draft in place and every fine woman serving our country right now elected of her own volition to go do these things, and if you think that becoming a female Major in the MARINES is easy or takes no love or dedication then you are refusing to see that to favor your opinion. It is the very same as with the men, I serve the United States Air Force and even I know and severly respect the commaraderi, courage, and service of the U.S. Marines. These Men and Women are over there doing what they love and want to everyday because it is thier job, they cannot call in sick or quit because it is hard nor would they want to. It is hard to hear people back here who elect not to do something because it "inconvinience's" them, who's biggest worry is failing thier next exam, say such thing's about men and women who are pinned down by gunfire or watching that rock to see if it's a plaster of paris IED set to remote detonate. This woman has more courage and intelligence than a great deal of men I meet everyday and I would feel FAR more comfortable having her on patrol with me than a man who has no character. For those of you who do not know, war judges not by race, creed, color, or gender. War judges under the most extreme conditions a persons character and resolve. She deserve's the title of Hero, what kind of character and dedication does it take to earn a degree, earn a commission, not just provide the bare minimum but excell and go to war under heavy fire? Ask yourself who you know in your life who has done this. Choosing to let a person of this calibre into your armed forces makes you weak? Then please let me serve the weakest nation in the world for I shall be in good company. SEMBER FI Ma'am, wish I had the privelage of serving with you out there.

Robert24 wrote on Dec 12, 2006 9:24 AM:My utmost thanks and continued prayers to all of the brave men and women fighting the war against terror, and defending this great Country. God Bless Major McClung and her family. Her death was not in vain, and will never be forgotten.

mdb wrote on Dec 12, 2006 9:37 AM:for Michelle, upset that an article was published about Maj McClung, I offer the following: (a) she has the unfortunate distinction of being the highest ranking woman KIA in this war (liberals are so excited about the 1st female house speaker in Congress) - that's the nature of 'firsts' - good or bad (b) Maj McClung was a Public Affairs Officer - she had substantial contacts with media worldwide, so there is some personal connection for many journalists and Michelle, if you weren't being so blindly hateful, you'd admit that the vast majority of men and women who are killed in OEF and OIF DO GET full articles written about them in their local/regional papers ... if they don't that is the shame of those regional media outlets. Take your anger and hate elsewhere.

manuel wrote on Dec 12, 2006 9:40 AM:To all those marines, soldiers, pilots, and sailors thanks for fighting to keep this country free.

Pharr wrote on Dec 12, 2006 9:42 AM:NEWS BRIEFS First Black West Point Commander Dies In Iraq Sept. 27, 2006 – The nation is mou rning the death of Lt Emily Perez, 23, the first Black woman to serve as corps commander sergeant major at West Point. Perez, who graduated in the top 10 percent of her class, out-r an many men, directed a gospel choir, read the Bible every day. She also headed a weekly convoy as it rolled down treacherous roads, pocked with bombs and bullets near Najaf, Iraq. As platoon leader, she insisted on leading her troops from the front. She died Sept. 12 when a bomb detonated near her Humvee in Kifl, south of Baghdad. Shortly before shipping out to Iraq with the 204th Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, she flew cross-country to be a bone marrow donor for a stranger who was a match . She was the 64th woman from the U.S. military to be killed in Iraq or Afghanistan. Nothing of this story was covered by the media. Is it because she African American?

Hate mongers: wrote on Dec 12, 2006 9:48 AM:Are citizens too. I think, on the whole, the NCT does a fairly good job with the comments. I'm sure we don't see the really bad ones. So, free speach is a bit painful sometimes. N'est-ce pas?

Navin wrote on Dec 12, 2006 9:57 AM:Maj. Megan McClung's death once again brings this war to the front pages, where it belongs. I say to my fellow Americans, please do not forget this war. There is a war going on that is longer than WWII, please help anyway you can the soldiers and their families.

Anseeuw Family wrote on Dec 12, 2006 9:57 AM:Our hearts are sadden for the McClung Family and they our in our prayers. We owe so much to Megan who has sacrificed so much for me and my family

Michael wrote on Dec 12, 2006 10:02 AM:I never knew this young lady and am living in the Montana, safe and sound.I do know she had hopes and dreams like the rest of us who are safe in this country. I hope al