Taking Chance Part II
May 9th, 2006 by Marcus
This is part two of a two-part post. Part one is LtCol Mike Strobl’s story about Chance Phelps, part two is news of how this warrior will be remembered by Marines for generations to come.
Chance Phelps made the ultimate sacrifice over two years ago to protect his Marine brothers. Chance was awarded a Bronze Start, a Purple Heart, and was posthumously promoted to Lance Corporal for his bravery. Now, LCpl Phelps will also be remembered aboard 29 Palms for decades.
Marine Killed In Iraq Honored with Mess Hall Dedication
Lance Corporal Chance Phelps died protecting his fellow marines who were under fire at the time. Phelps' mother tells CBS 2 that more than anything, he loved to eat. She says it is fitting that her son's favorite Marine base chow hall now bears his name.
Phelps Hall was dedicated in honor of the 19-year-old, who was killed as he exposed himself to enemy fire in order to save his fellow Marines.
It was also announced a couple of days before the chow hall dedication that HBO will begin production of a film based on “Taking Chance” sometime this summer. The film is scheduled to air sometime next year. I can’t wait for this film to debut. Tears will stream if it is anything like the LtCol’s narrative.
LCpl Phelps, I salute you for your sacrifice. I will gladly stand post with you at the gates of Heaven when my time comes, brother.
Posted in America's Finest
I'm still wiping my eyes so I can't quite decide what to say other than it was a great post. Thank you.
All I can say is "God Bless our troops"! Thanks Cpl M for the moving story of LCpl Chance Phelps!
On 10 May 2006 I visited 29 Palms, and ate at the Chance Phelps chow hall. At the entrance is a table set for one–for Chance Phelps and others who have gone before. There's also a very classy memorial display.
I live in Riverton Wyoming. Way back I sent the orignal copy of the Chance Phelps story with the photos to my son Paul then a USMC Major at Al Asad Air BAse in Iraq. It got passed around and I still have the orignal copy of the magazine. I had the honor of meeting Chance twice when he returned to Dubois prior to his deployment to Iraq. On one occasion I asked him to say hello to my son if they happened to cross paths. Sadly it did not happen. Chance was one of those Maries who was made for the uniform. It fit him perfectly, his stance was Marine and he was so proud of what he was doing. I visited his grave site last summer {07} and it is being maintained reverently. He has a commanding view of the Wind River Valley and of heaven. The town of Dubois is proud of this Marine. We are all proud of him. Thanks to all of you for your heart felt love that you are showing him. All of our military deserve better than what the media is giving them. Phil B. MNC USN RET