Today our walk was dedicated in honor of:
Marine LCPL Dalton Wyatt Young, Age 21 of Christianburg, VA.
Died Jan. 15, 2026
Today, I had the privilege of walking 9.54 miles in honor of Marine LCpl. Dalton Wyatt Young, a young United States Marine whose life was filled with courage, laughter, and a spirit for adventure. Dalton was only 21 years old, but in those years he lived more boldly than many do in a lifetime.
Becoming a Marine was one of his proudest accomplishments. He served as an Explosives Engineer and loved working with his hands, always finding a way to build, fix, or improve whatever was in front of him. He believed in taking chances and often said, “I’d rather try and fail than never try at all.” That wasn’t just something he said—it was how he lived.
Our walk began in Obed River Park, then continued through Centennial Park, where we stopped at Bentley’s Butterfly Garden. From there, we made our way into town and paused at the Veterans Memorial Park, where we took a moment to read the names of some of our Fallen Brothers. We then continued south to Lantana Road, stopping at the Fire Station and the Train Depot, before turning back north for one final stop at the 9/11 Memorial. From there, we made our way back home, carrying Dalton’s memory with us every step of the journey.
Today was especially meaningful because I want to thank Marine LCpl. Dalton W. Young for helping us reach 9,000 miles of honoring our Fallen Heroes. Reaching this milestone while walking in his honor is something I will never forget.
Dalton loved fast cars, motorcycles, loud music, campfires, and making people laugh. He had a generous heart and never hesitated to help someone in need. His adventurous spirit, sense of humor, and willingness to put others before himself are the reasons he will never be forgotten.
I also want to sincerely thank PV2 Joshua Dommes for joining me and helping honor Dalton today. Thank you as well to everyone who honked, waved, and saluted along the way. Your support means more than you know. Together, you helped us honor this young Marine with 385 honks, reminding us that Dalton’s sacrifice and memory continue to touch the hearts of so many.
Today, every step I took was in honor of Dalton. While his time here was far too short, the impact he made will live on through the people who loved him and the lives he touched.
Rest easy, Marine. Your watch is over, but your story will continue to be told.
Semper Fidelis, LCpl. Dalton Wyatt Young. You are remembered. You are honored. You will never be forgotten.
