Born: June 22, 1985, St. Petersburg, Florida
Died: August 25, 2006, Fallujah, Al Anbar Province, Iraq

Corporal Jordan C. Pierson, aged 21, from Milford, Connecticut, was a courageous Marine who made the ultimate sacrifice on August 25, 2006, while conducting combat operations in Fallujah, Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Assigned to Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, based in Plainville, Connecticut, he was attached to Regimental Combat Team 5, I MEF (Forward).

Early Life and Education

Jordan was born on June 22, 1985, in St. Petersburg, Florida, to Eric and Beverley True Pierson. He grew up in Milford, Connecticut, where he graduated from Foran High School in 2003. Jordan was an ambitious young man, pursuing a degree in business at the University of Connecticut before his commitment to serve his country led him to delay his studies to deploy with his Marine Corps Reserve unit.

Military Service and Decorations

Corporal Pierson’s military career was marked by his dedication and valor. He joined the Marine Corps Reserves and was deployed with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division. His leadership qualities and bravery were recognized through numerous military decorations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Combat Action Ribbon, and the Purple Heart with Gold Star in lieu of a second award. In July 2006, while serving in Iraq, he was promoted to the rank of Corporal.

A Life of Service and Sacrifice

Jordan’s sense of duty and his ability to uplift and inspire his fellow Marines were profound. His 1st Sergeant, Ben Grainger, reflected on Jordan’s impact, saying, “Corporal Pierson had been a bright spot in his platoon, in a place that can take the softest of hearts into a void of darkness. Even when the gloom of combat reached deep in a man’s soul, Corporal Pierson could bring the Marine back to a sense of purpose.”

His leadership and positive spirit were vital in maintaining the morale of his unit during challenging times. Jordan’s dedication to protecting his fellow Marines and his country was unwavering, embodying the true spirit of a Marine.

Family and Legacy

Corporal Pierson is survived by his loving parents, Eric and Beverley True Pierson, and his brother, Ethan Pierson of Milford. He also leaves behind his paternal grandparents, Jane Pierson of Hamden and Walter Pierson and his wife, Sheila McPharlin of Old Saybrook, and his maternal grandmother, Norma True of West Haven. Additionally, he is remembered by his uncles, aunts, cousins, and an extended family who cherished him deeply.

Jordan’s life and legacy were celebrated in numerous memorial services. Friends and family gathered on Sunday, August 27, 2006, at Cody-White Funeral Home in Milford to pay their respects. A memorial service was held on Monday, September 4, 2006, at the Calvary Evangelical Free Church in Trumbull, followed by his interment with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday, September 6, 2006.

A Lasting Tribute

Corporal Jordan C. Pierson’s legacy of bravery, leadership, and sacrifice will forever be remembered by his family, friends, and fellow Marines. Governor M. Jodi Rell of Connecticut acknowledged his heroism, stating, “His sacrifice on behalf of all of us will never be forgotten.”

Jordan’s life and service exemplify the highest ideals of the Marine Corps and the values of courage and selflessness. His memory continues to inspire those who knew him and serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of freedom. Semper Fi, Corporal Pierson. Your sacrifice and legacy will never be forgotten.