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This is a special piece. What we are about to tell you about the Marine Captain John W. Maloney, was relayed to us by a Marine who served with him, during his time as an enlisted Marine. These two men had gone their separate ways after their initial time in the Corps, with one returning as an officer (John W. Maloney) and another moving in a different direction in life. The beautiful thing about this story is that after all these years, through death and life, Captain Maloney is remembered by his brother in arms as one of the greatest Marines he ever knew.When serving with 2nd Battalion 5th Marines, then as an enlisted leader John (as told to us by a Marine who served with him), had a way of leading with little effort. Not that he was lazy, but his leadership was so natural it was effortless. Despite any loyalties held, Maloney was fair and just. Everyone was held to the same standard, squared away Marines and shitbags alike. Nobody got a pass. When you did well, you were commended, when you failed you were disciplined. It was the same for everyone.After his time as an enlisted warrior, John W. Maloney attended Colorado University, where he graduated (in 1996), then went on to receive his commission in the United States Marine Corps. Eventually, he landed with 1st Battalion 5th Marines where he would take command of Charlie Co. in 2004. Captain Maloney would be deployed to the city of Ramadi, Iraq in the Al-Anbar province in 2005.
It was there as a Company Commander that he again distinguished himself as a leader. Leading from the front like always, the Charlie Company commander was killed by a massive roadside bomb while attempting to maneuver on the enemy. For his 18 years of service, dedication to duty and example of leadership, Captain John W. Maloney was awarded the Leftwich Trophy and awarded the Bronze Star with a V for his actions on that fateful day.
According to the Marines who knew him, there were none better than Captain Maloney. Semper Fidelis sir.Read more stories of American Grit:
