LCpl. Charles A. Hanson, Jr.

(reprinted from the Charlotte Observer, December 24, 2004)

Charles Hanson did not agree with America's involvement in Iraq, but he was a loyal Marine and he hoped to become an instructor with the service after attending college."He was incredible, absolutely incredible," said his sister, Shyia Sumner. He was "a great guy with a lot of friends."

Hanson, 22, of Panacea, Fla., was killed by a roadside bomb Nov. 28. He was stationed at Camp Lejeune.

Hanson was awarded a Purple Heart when he was injured in a similar roadside bombing about four months ago. His sister said Hanson was a "guardian angel" who helped secure an area before other troops moved in