LCpl. Brian Schramm, U.S.M.C (KIA)

Community honors Marine, Olympia grad killed in Iraq

(October 19, 2004) — GREECE — American flags flew at half-staff at Greece schools and town buildings Monday in honor of a Greece man who was killed Friday in Iraq.

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Brian Schramm, 22, who was serving in his second tour of duty in Iraq, was killed by shrapnel in Babil Province, south of Baghdad.

A 2001 graduate of Greece Olympia High School, Schramm was known by friends and family for his contagious sense of humor and depth of decency.

That's why Olympia English teacher Donna Murano is establishing a scholarship in Schramm's memory. After hearing that her former student had died, Murano said she wanted to do something special to honor him.

"We're not far into the planning stages, but I thought this would be a positive way to remember Brian," Murano said. "This is something that would've pleased him. This is exactly who he was. He placed others' needs before his own."

It will be named the Brian Schramm Service Above Self Memorial Scholarship. Brian's aunt, Sandy Schramm of Greece, said she couldn't imagine a more appropriate tribute.

Olympia students and staff paused for a moment of silence Monday morning. Counselors at the school are available for students who need to talk to someone about Schramm's death, said Keith Imon, Greece's assistant superintendent of communication and technology.

Family members said they are touched by the outpouring of community support.

The Schramm family has had a rough few months. Brian's cousin, Kory Schramm of Rochester, died in July after he was struck by a car in Athens, Greece. Kory, who was 23, had gone to Athens to work in food service for the Olympic Games.

Brian's father, Keith Schramm, said family members have relied on each other for support.

Brian Schramm spent five months in the Mideast and Iraq last year during and after the invasion of the country. He returned in June after having been back in the United States for a year.

Eric Schramm, Brian's uncle, described his nephew as a leader and a motivator.

"I never saw him down," Eric Schramm said. "He loved life. Every day was an adventure."

Brian Schramm enjoyed camping, hiking and playing soccer. He was planning to become a police officer.

Keith Schramm said his son's body is back in the country and will be returned to Greece on Thursday. A memorial service will take place Saturday.

"He laid down his life for all of us," said Pastor Vince DiPaola of Lakeshore Community Church.

The Schramm family has attended Lakeshore Community Church for more than two years. The service will be at Greece Assembly of God, though, because it can accommodate the large crowd that is expected.

"He's my hero," Keith Schramm said. "He knew so clearly what he wanted to do and he did it."