Lance Cpl. John T. Schmidt III was born on September 4, 1983, in Carmel, New York, and spent his early years in Florida before moving to Connecticut with his family. He attended Oviedo High School in Oviedo, Florida, graduating in 2001, and later settled in Brookfield, Connecticut, to live with his mother, stepfather, and stepbrother. Growing up, John was described by loved ones as thoughtful, determined, and loyal — qualities that followed him into adulthood and shaped his character as both a civilian and a Marine.

After enlisting in the United States Marine Corps in late 2003, John completed recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, in January 2004. His commitment and transformation during training were noted by family and mentors alike, who saw in him a young man growing into a disciplined and confident Marine. Following basic training, he served with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

During the early months of 2005, LCpl Schmidt and his unit were deployed to Al Anbar Province, Iraq, a region known for intense insurgent activity. On January 30, 2005, while conducting operations near Fallujah, an explosion occurred inside a structure where his platoon was positioned, resulting in severe injuries. He suffered extensive burns to his lungs and other wounds when a rocket or mortar attack ruptured a tank of ammonia, causing caustic gas to fill the building. He was evacuated by helicopter to an Army hospital in San Antonio, Texas, where he received intensive medical treatment.

For months following the incident, John fought bravely against his injuries. Despite the severity of his condition and the challenges he faced, he endured with the courage that defined his service. On May 11, 2005, John lost his life while serving due to complications from the wounds he sustained in combat. He was 21 years old at the time of his passing.

The news of Lance Cpl. Schmidt’s passing was met with deep sorrow in Brookfield, across Connecticut, and among the Marine Corps community. Local leaders, veterans groups, and citizens honored his life during Memorial Day services, remembering both his service and the profound sacrifice made by his family. In recognition of his injuries and dedication, he had been awarded the Purple Heart prior to his death.

John Schmidt was laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery, where family members, friends, and fellow Marines gathered to pay tribute to his life and service. His legacy endures not only through official memorials and services but also in the personal memories shared by those who knew and loved him.

Dates
Birth: September 4, 1983 — Carmel, New York
Angelversary: May 11, 2005 — Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, Texas (from wounds received while serving in Iraq)

Service & Achievements
United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal
India Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division — Camp Lejeune, North Carolina
Deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in Al Anbar Province, Iraq
Purple Heart recipient (as a result of combat wounds)

United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal John T. Schmidt III’s life exemplifies courage, resilience, and devotion to duty — values that continue to inspire his family, fellow Marines, and the broader community.

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