August 26, 2007 ~ Al Anbar Province, Iraq ~ USMC Lance Corporal Matthew Luke was returning from a mission on the Quick Response Force Team, when the humvee that he was operating was struck by a 300 pound roadside bomb.
Severely injured on this mission were LCpl Luke, and LCpl Payne who suffered severe burns. Topping this heartbreak was the loss of LCpl Rogelio Ramirez. All of these young Marines are HEROES and will never be forgotten for their strength, courage, and commitment to our country.
LCpl Luke is currently undergoing treatment for Traumatic Brain Injury, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, double vision in both eyes, as well as a whole host of other medical issues. He will undergo surgery on both of his eyes on March 25, 2008.
The Luke coin was minted to honor this young Marine ~ as well as Devin Luke, the brother with whom he deployed ... And the family that waited for both of these young heroes to return. We salute them all.
