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Marines Recount Moments Inside Recruitment Center%

743 views · Published 23 July 2015 · 2:22 · Indexed 20 September 2026

Channel: WTVC NewsChannel 9 · 2015 · News & Politics

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Nearly one week after the horrific shootings that left five servicemen dead, U.S. Marines return to the site of the first attack Wednesday afternoon.

They watched as the memorial outside their bullet-riddled office grew before their eyes. 

The men were welcomed by mourning community members. Bystanders lined up to shake their hands, thank them for their service, and apologize for the loss of their brothers. 

"I knew three of them. And it's sad. But this is what we do," says Gunnery Sergeant Camden Meyer. 

"It's what the military is all about," says Staff Sergeant Robert Driver. "It's what we do. We all enlisted in the Marine Corps. It's never about yourself. It' s about the Marine to the left and right of you."

As the Marines shook hands, the memorial continued to grow with flags, flowers, and handmade cards for the fallen. 

"We're very grateful. We're very thankful. But we are not shocked or surprised. That's what Chattanooga does," says Driver.

GySgt Meyer was inside the U.S. Marine Corps Recruitment Center on Lee Highway when the shooter, 24-year-old Mohammad Abdulazeez, opened fire. 

"The shooter pulled up and we took cover," he says. 

After, Abdulazeez continued to the military office on Amnicola Highway, where he gunned down four servicemen and injured three more.  One of them died two days later. 

Though the doors to their office are boarded,  many questions about the investigation remain unanswered, and five fellow servicemen have lost their lives...  

Their dedication to protecting their country is unwavering. 

"We know when we sign up for it. It's shocking when it comes to our home front, but this is what we do. We're Marines. We will press on and keep on pushing," says Meyer. 

Now, it's our duty to help families of the fallen.

"We would like people to direct their effort to support them. Because right now is the biggest tragedy and loss for them."

By: Kelsey Bagwell

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