Falwell Eulogizes Marine Killed in Iraq

Falwell Says Marine Killed in Iraq Was Raised by God 'To Do Big Things in a Short Time'

By WILSON RING Associated Press Writer

BARTON, Vt. Feb 4, 2005 — A 24-year-old Marine who graduated in 2003 from Liberty University 
and then died in Iraq was destined to do great things, the Rev. Jerry Falwell said Friday at 
his funeral.

Falwell, chancellor of the university in Lynchburg, Va., said as news of Jesse Strong's death 
in Iraq spread around the world, stories about his life always mentioned his faith in God.

"The fact is God raised him up to do big things in a short time," said Falwell, who flew to 
Vermont with a group of Liberty University officials to lead the funeral service. "It was 
appropriate for him to flame out so quickly."

Strong was one of four Marines killed Jan. 26 when their vehicle was attacked in Iraq's Anbar Province.

"He added to the wealth of America. He added to the character of America," Falwell said.

Strong grew up in the nearby town of Albany, where he was home-schooled. His father is a Methodist minister.

Strong joined the Marine reserves in 2001, while a student at Liberty and before the attacks on 
the United States. "After 9/11 he told his mother, 'Mom, I'm ready to go if they need me,'" said 
Ray DeCelles, a family friend who gave a eulogy at the high school gymnasium where Strong's funeral 
was held.

Those who knew his work at Liberty said Strong helped younger students with their faith.

"We are a better campus because of him," said Liberty Chaplain Pastor Dwayne Carson. "I wish I could 
have a thousand men like Jesse at Liberty University day in and day out."