A life worth celebrating

Image courtesy: Facebook

Sitting in class at Canton High School in Michigan, Cpl. Jacob Turbett knew where his life was headed. He wanted to fight for his country, help others, and follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, uncles, and cousin. The fact that he accomplished all of his goals may explain why Cpl. Turbett's wife insists that his life is celebrated, even amidst the shock of his tragic death on Saturday.

"I want just everyone to know that he was a great person," Crystal Turbett told WXYZ-TV. "I want everyone to celebrate his life, not mourn it so much as celebrate it."

Tributes for the 21-year-old fallen Marine, who the Pentagon said was killed while supporting combat operations in Afghanistan's Helmand Province, are pouring in from all over the nation. A Facebook group, "Show love for Jacob Turbett," has many moving tributes, including one from his cousin.

"You woke this morning to fight for your country, and this afternoon you gave your life for it," Jennifer Jackson wrote. "Jake, your family loves you and you will missed. You will always be in our hearts, always a HERO. God be with you."

Turbett's flag-draped casket was returned to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware over the weekend in the dignified transfer ceremony pictured above. His wife told WXYZ that his cousin, also a Marine, is escorting the coffin back to Michigan for a memorial service. According to the Detroit Free Press, Turbett will rest for eternity alongside thousands of fellow patriots at Arlington National Cemetery. His funeral is scheduled for March 9. The Free Press article quotes Jacob's mother, Sheila, talking about her son's life.

In his spare time, Turbett – Jake to his friends, Jakey to his mom – enjoyed playing video games, learning about airplanes and squirrel hunting.

“He was a quiet boy, kind of, but he was a jokester,” Sheila Turbett recalled. “He would be poking me – ‘Cut it out. Quit it. Leave me alone.’ He’d keep egging you on. He wouldn’t stop. He liked to see you laugh. He was a big family guy.”

Cpl. Jacob Turbett clearly inspired others. According to the article, his sister, Jaime Turbett, started Naval basic training on February 3. After she is done celebrating her brother's life, she will have the opportunity to keep his stellar legacy alive.