On Oct. 23, 1983, a suicide bomber drove an explosives-laden truck into a three-story barracks full of sleeping Marines in Beruit, Lebanon. The resulting explosion killed 241 and wounded hundreds more. Prior to Sept. 11, this was the worst terrorist attack against United States interests in its history.

I was there that day, a young sailor caught up in the horrors of war, and I helped carry the dead and the dying.

Now, as an adult student at Iowa State, I often hear my younger classmates eagerly anticipating their 21st birthday. However, while you celebrate your youth and freedom, perhaps take a moment to remember those who paid and are continuing to pay the price for that freedom.

I turned 21 a month after the attack as I was leaving that war torn land following a lengthy deployment. It was the best birthday present I have ever received and will ever receive.

Rich Balough

Junior

History