Sgt. Charles J. “CJ” McClain

26, US Army

October 31 marks the anniversary of the passing of Sgt. Charles J. “CJ” McClain, 26, US Army, from Colliers, WV. Let us honor and remember him, his family, and his mother Anita McClain Hone of Weirton, WV. He was born Sept 29th 1980 in New Kensington, PA.

Sgt “CJ” McClain was a demolition expert. He enlisted in the US Army in 2001 and served as Sapper Team Leader, did two tours in Iraq, and was on a tour in Afghanistan at the time of his death. He also received the Purple Heart for bravery during Operation Enduring Freedom. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y. Serving During Operation Enduring Freedom. CJ died Oct. 31, 2006, in Wygal Valley, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle.

It was said that C.J. was just a big kid trapped in a man’s body, always wanting to play. He was always up to something. Even in the worst situation, he always found a way to make people laugh. Close friends, described the CJ as a big, fun-loving, energetic young man with a special place in his heart for children, laughter and mischief.

He attended Burgettstown High School briefly, then attended Brooke High School in Wellsburg, WV.

He was Methodist by faith.

He is survived by two sons, Logan Jack Fair and Kole J. Swihart, as well as two sisters 

Let us remember him, his family and always…

Say His name.

#neverforget #SayTheirNames #RememberTheFallen #GoldStarMothers #goldstar #goldstarfamilies #army #goldstarbridgeride