The remains of a 20-year-old U.S. Marine from Ashtabula, who was killed in Afghanistan on Saturday, arrived Tuesday night at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, and are awaiting a transport schedule to return home, according to his family.
The details of Lance Cpl. Kevin M. Cornelius’ return, and the schedule of calling hours and funeral services, will be released as soon as they are known, his family said Tuesday.
Cornelius, a graduate of Lakeside High School, is the son of Ashtabula Police Capt. Gerald Cornelius and Marlene Cornelius, and Valerie and Bob Silleck, all of Ashtabula.
According to his commanders, Kevin Cornelius was serving as a radio operator and rifleman assigned to 3rd Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines in Helmand Province on Saturday evening. What follows is the commanders’ account of what happened on that evening:
“A heavily armed detained enemy combatant escaped from the Afghan National Police and retreated into a building. Kevin was one of the first Marines to volunteer to respond. Part of a four-man element, Kevin led the way in this initial entry.
“As he fired his weapon through smoke and debris, Kevin was mortally wounded when struck in the head by an enemy round.
“His actions helped gain a foothold in the building and ultimately led to the death of the enemy fighter. Although Kevin was immediately treated on the scene by competent medical authority, he succumbed to his wounds.”
Kevin Cornelius’ family members said they would like to first thank the countless number of individuals who have come forward with thoughts, prayers and support in this difficult time. “The outpouring of love from the community has been overwhelming and has given us much comfort,” the family said in the statement, released Tuesday night to the Star Beacon. “Anyone who knew Kevin can attest to his personality: always smiling, always caring, always willing to help those in need, and always finding a way to make people laugh.”
“Kevin loved his family and friends and was so proud of being a United States Marine,” the statement said. “In every letter and conversation with Kevin, he never forgot to remind us that he was where he wanted to be, doing exactly what he wanted to do.”
Funeral services are being handled by Ducro Funeral Services and Crematory, Ashtabula.
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Associated Press A Marine carry team carries a transfer case containing the remains of Lance Cpl. Kevin M. Cornelius Tuesday, Aug. 10, 2010 at Dover Air Force Base, Del. According to the Department of Defense, Cornelius, 20, of Ashtabula died Aug. 7 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
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Lance Cpl. Kevin Cornelius’ remains arrive in the U.S.
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