Local Marine honored posthumously

The family of the late Bruce Jackson recently received a signed certificate from the President of the United States, Barack Obama. It stated, “The United States of America honors the memory of Bruce P. Jackson. This certificate is awarded by a grateful nation in recognition of devoted and selfless consecration to the service of our country in the Armed Forces of the United States.”

Bruce passed away on November 23, 2011 at the age of 62. He enlisted in the US Marine Corps after graduating from Salmon River Central and served in Vietnam where he was wounded five times. He was the recipient of two Purple Hearts for his bravery and often commented to family he was “living on borrowed time.”

Bruce was the son of the late John L. and Anna LaFrance Jackson and husband of Linda Thompson. They were married for 38 years and have three children: Kimberly, Elwin “Joey,” and Kelsey along with two chosen sons: Robert Sawatis and John King. They have 8 grandchildren: Treyton, Tyrell, Taya, Taylor, Keyah, Jaylin, Tehanietahrowanions, and Iowissonawen. Bruce is the brother of Mike Jackson, Sarah Mitchell, Marilyn Tarbell, Liz Sunday, and was predeceased by brothers William (in infancy), Elwyn, Emil, John, and a sister Mae Bigtree.

The family was very proud and honored by receiving this certificate signed by President Obama.