(reprinted from the Van
Wert County, Ohio Times Bulletin, April 4, 2003)
Officials confirm death at press conference
April 4, 2003 - Ohio
City awoke to the news one of their own had died in the war against Iraq. Private First
Class Marine Christian Gurtner, 19, had died from an accidental discharge from his own
weapon around 1 a.m. Wednesday. It was the first casualty in Ohio and the first in the 3rd
LAR.
At first, details of his death were sketchy so Staff Sgt. Eryck Little and Chief Warrant
Officer Suzanne Handshoe held a press conference to clear up any rumors and give exact
details of his death. Gurtner's parents, Gary and Eldonna Wagonrod, were not present
during the conference but Little spoke on their behalf.
Handshoe was first to speak and gave details of Gurtner's death. Handshoe said Eldonna
Wagonrod had last heard from her son a few weeks ago in a letter which she read to
Handshoe. His platoon leader, Brett Eubank, had also sent a letter to Eldonna Wagonrod
dated March 15, 2003. Handshoe went on to say how patriotic and proud Gurtner's family
was.
"She had yellow ribbons, a sign supporting the troops and flags up. She even had on
dog tags," said Handshoe.
After Handshoe spoke, Little, who had actually recruited Gurtner, spoke about when he
first met Gurtner. "I knew he wanted to be a Marine from the moment I talked to him.
He told me he wanted to be the infantry Marine. That's the ideal Marine," said
Little.
Then, Little read a statement from the family.
"He was a proud Marine who believed in what he was doing. He wanted the people in
Iraq to have the same privileges as we do. For the troops still overseas, stay strong, and
we support you."
Handshoe then announced Gurtner's body would be coming back home for a military burial but
she was not sure when.
"I believe he was an outstanding Marine. He will be missed," said Little.
Pfc. Christian Gurtner, U.S.M.C (NCD)