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<p><em>Mark Christopher Paine</em> was born shortly after the 30th anniversary of D-Day, on June 26, 1974, near San Francisco, CA. Early on, Mark showed a liking for the outdoors and a superb work ethic, as evidenced by the well-earned Eagle Scout distinction. At Compolindo High School, Mark competed in varsity track and football and became an avid skier and snowboarder alongside his older brother, Brandon. Classmates recall Mark’s patriotism, including the informal rally he led during Desert Storm to show American pride. Teachers recall Mark’s wit and exceptional personality, which seemed mature for his young age. His close friend growing up, Mark Benson, recognized Mark as the most compassionate person he had even known, as well as a friend with no half-speed and an ability to capture the fun out of each moment. At times, Mark’s well-intended exuberance drew the attention of his small town’s police, who seemed to develop a trusting relationship with Mark. </p>
<p>Mark’s intent to follow in his father’s footsteps as a wartime Infantry officer progressed at West Point. Mark led West Point’s Paintball Team and joined the Infantry Tactics Club for its annual parachute trip to Germany. He concentrated his studies in military history and revered Napoleon and MacArthur. Mark complemented West Point’s academic requirements with extended sit-downs with the Company H-4 TAC NCO, Sergeant First Class Beatty, a seasoned infantryman, who offered Mark many military and life lessons that he readily absorbed. </p>
<p>Classmates recall that Mark authentically enjoyed life as a plebe and became their leader, spokesperson, and close friend during the difficult times. Roommate Leo Coddington described Mark as “an inspiring friend, leader, and an incredible soul.” His hugs became well known, along with his unmatchable shoeshine. Mark also displayed a strong allegiance to plebe-issued fashion wear, the yellow banana running suit. Mark’s interest in others and his propensity to joke during seemingly dire moments led to many classmates’ nicknames, all coined by Mark himself. Years after graduation and upon an unexpected encounter with his old roommate at the Camp Taji DFAC, Mike Coerper reported, “Of course Mark gave me a hug.” Mark’s desire to better one’s life was consistent and unconditional. </p>
<p>Following graduation, Mark served as a rifle platoon leader in the 2nd Infantry Division, Korea, and later in the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, GA. As a newly minted captain, Mark deployed to Kosovo in 2001, serving as a battalion civil military operation officer. Mark enthusiastically described his early assignments to his brother, Brandon, stating, “The Army is the best…It is like Boy Scouts without adult supervision.” Brandon recounts Mark’s serious reflection on his experiences in the Balkans, helping a war-torn region rebuild and enabling rapprochement by those with deep-seated animosity.</p>
<p>Following the Infantry Captain’s Career Course, Mark joined the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Hood, TX. In 2003, Mark deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom as part of the division and 1st Brigade staffs. Upon return, Mark joined 1-66th Armor in 1st Brigade, and in 2005 assumed command of “Bayonet” Company. Within six months of taking command, Mark began his second tour in Iraq, leading his company in operations north of Baghdad, near Taji. </p>
<p>Mark knew his men extremely well and they regarded him with utmost respect and confidence. He led by example and readily assumed his share of the risk. Even during a well-deserved R&R to his home in California, Mark remained focused on his unit. He spent most of his time, and his own money, visiting the families of his fallen and injured soldiers near Fort Hood, including those undergoing treatment for severe burns at Fort Sam Houston, TX. “Best damn commander that you could ever ask for” and “comfortable going to combat with him” was the consensus among his men in Iraq. </p>
<p>Close friend Trevor Hill recalled that Mark was finally at home in command of a rifle company, and Mark could not see himself anywhere other than an important American battlefield. Mark described 2006 as “such a hard year” due to the losses of seven soldiers under his command as well as the loss of a very dear friend and classmate, Captain Ian Weikel. Mark remained steadfast in Iraq and always placed his men above personal concerns. On October 15, 2006, despite serious injuries from a blast two days prior, Mark led yet another patrol. While convoying towards the village of Tarmiya, Mark died from an IED blast that struck his vehicle. Iraqi elders in this region reported their devastation from losing their highly regarded American partner. </p>
<p>Mark rests at Arlington National Cemetery right next to Captain Ian Weikel and close to his loving parents, Roger and Kairyn Paine, who were interred 11 years after Mark. Mark’s name and picture are proudly displayed within the halls of the Maneuver Center of Excellence and on the Global War on Terrorism Memorial at Fort Benning, GA. Columbia University and West Point founded the Mark C. Paine Servant Leadership Award to honor Mark’s exemplary life. This award is presented annually to the best example of “servant leadership” among those attending the Eisenhower Leader Development Program, a specialized master’s degree program for aspiring Army majors. West Point had selected Mark for this program, which he was to begin in 2007 following his command.</p>
<p>Mark’s life, though unfairly shortened, left deep footprints wherever he walked. Mark embraced his God-given talents for which soldiers, family and friends are forever grateful. Military academies strive to instill the type of leadership Mark naturally displayed. The people of South Korea, Kosovo, and Iraq are beneficiaries of this great servant. May he rest in peace alongside his fellow soldiers, countrymen, and family.</p>
<p><em>— Matt DeLoia and Greg Kies</em></p>
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