Jordan Christopher Pierson was born June 22, 1985, in St. Petersburg, Florida, and grew up in Milford, Connecticut, where he was raised by his parents, Eric and Beverley True Pierson, alongside his younger brother, Ethan. In Milford, Jordan was known for his warmth, intelligence, and infectious energy. He excelled academically and athletically, graduating from Joseph A. Foran High School in 2003. His early life reflected a deep sense of community and an eagerness to help others — qualities that would shape his approach to service.

After high school, Jordan enrolled at the University of Connecticut, pursuing studies in business and psychology. But driven by a profound sense of duty and patriotism, he joined the United States Marine Corps Reserves in December 2003, just a few months after graduation. He reported to Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, for basic training and advanced infantry training before being assigned to Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, based in Plainville, Connecticut.

Corporal Pierson’s military journey was marked by courage, leadership, and an extraordinary ability to uplift his fellow Marines — even in the gravest circumstances. In March 2006, he deployed with his unit to Fallujah, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 05‑07. In this highly contested environment, he served as a rifle fire team leader, guiding and protecting his Marines across more than 100 successful combat patrols.

Jordan’s leadership style combined tactical competence with genuine care for his teammates. His fellow Marines recalled how he placed their safety above his own, sharing water on scorching patrols and often leading from the front. On multiple occasions, he demonstrated extraordinary resolve in the face of danger — once engaging the enemy after being wounded by a grenade and again charging through hostile fire to suppress enemy forces for the sake of his squad. His team followed him willingly, inspired by his courage and example.

In July 2006, while serving in Iraq, Pierson was promoted to Corporal — a recognition of his leadership and commitment to duty. During his deployment, he was wounded by shrapnel from an insurgent grenade and was awarded the Purple Heart. Despite his injuries and the rigors of combat, he returned to duty with unshakable resolve, determined to continue serving alongside his fellow Marines.

On August 25, 2006, while conducting a foot patrol in Fallujah, Jordan was struck by hostile fire and lost his life while serving at the age of 21. His sacrifice deeply affected his unit, his family, and his community. His devotion to his Marines, his country, and the mission embodied the highest ideals of the Marine Corps.

Corporal Pierson’s military decorations reflect his valor and service. His honors include the Purple Heart with gold star in lieu of a second award, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. These awards recognize both his bravery in combat and his dedication to duty beyond measure.

Jordan’s memory lives on in Milford through numerous tributes and memorials. A flagpole and plaque at Foran High School honor his life and service, and a park dedication in Milford reflects the community’s deep respect for its fallen Marine. Annual tributes, motorcycle rides, and community events continue to celebrate his life and raise support for veterans and military families.

He was interred with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery on September 6, 2006, where family, friends, and comrades gathered to honor his service and sacrifice. Flags in Milford and at the Connecticut State Capitol were flown at half-staff in his honor, confirming the profound impact of his life and service on the state he represented.

Dates

Birth: June 22, 1985 — St. Petersburg, Florida
Angelversary: August 25, 2006 — Fallujah, Al Anbar Province, Iraq

Service & Achievements

United States Marine Corps Corporal, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division — Marine Forces Reserve, Plainville, Connecticut
Deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom
Purple Heart with gold star, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon

United States Marine Corps Corporal Jordan C. Pierson’s life stands as a testimony to leadership, courage, and selfless devotion to his fellow Marines and his nation — a legacy permanently honored by his family, his community, and the Marine Corps.

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