Nicholas James Dieruf

Fallen Hero’s Hometown and State: Lexington, KY

Branch of Service: United States Marine Corps

Rank: Cpl.

Nich enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in the Fall of 2000 after high school. He was a west coast Marine serving out of Camp Pendleton, CA, as the gunner in a Light Armored Vehicle (LAV). Tragically, he was killed in action just six months shy of getting out of the Marines, and just three months after getting married.

His smile could light up the room. The youngest of four boys, Nich was often thought of as the peacekeeper among his family. If Nich was anything, he was determined, often winning over whatever situation he faced.

Nich was so much more than the local hero who died tragically while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was a hardworking, loving, dedicated, knowledgeable man with a level of maturity way beyond his years. He had plans to build a beautiful life with his new wife, Emily, once he got out of the Marine Corps.

Age: 21

Date of Death: April 08, 2004