Lance Cpl. Russell White left the familiar places on Sussex County to forge a new path in Afghanistan. One that would allow him to help a nation unlike his own and give those people an opportunity at freedom.

Part of his goal in this new land was also to seek out Osama bin Laden and bring him to justice.

It was a parting comment he made to a former Indian River High School football coach shortly before he left for Afghanistan.

As he was reaching for that goal, he met and trained with other Marines. He made an indelible impression upon them, so much that they took time to send their condolences from Afghanistan to Russell's family and friends.

Marine Sgt. Anthony E. Manson, squad leader of the Lima Company, said, "My sympathies go out to Russell's friends and family. I truly wish that there was some way I could take away the pain and sorrow they are experiencing.

"Lance Corp. White transferred to weapons platoon from first platoon and volunteered to be a machine gunner. I would see him almost weekly and he would always ask to come back to first platoon to be a rifleman. He would say that he missed being with the platoon he started with and that the machine gun thing just wasn't fun for him, although he always gave 110 percent and performed admirably in all his duties."

Lance Corp. Brian J. Reilly said, "I loved him like a brother and along with many other Marines, I would have gladly given my life to save his.

"I am truly honored to have known him and to have served with him.

"I met Lance Corp. White at the School of Infantry and from there we were both assigned to Lima Company, Third Battal-ion, Sixth Marines. For a time we worked together in the same platoon. We were roommates for eight months and became very close to each other. We developed a strong friendship and one that I will remember forever."

Marine Capt. Andrew B. Warren, company commander, added, "I remember seeing Lance Corp. White on the flight line before a recent operation and looking him in the eyes, asking him if he was ready to go, and he said that this type of thing is what he joined the Marine Corps to do.