Boy Becomes Honorary Marine Day Before Passing Away

By THC Staff | August 2, 2016

 

Wyatt Gillette passed away the day after he became an Honorary Marine. He was only 8 years old.

ABC 13 wrote that Wyatt had “Aicardi-Goutierres Syndrome Type 1-(Trex 1 mutation), a rare condition that caused him multiple medical problems, including seizures and complete kidney failure.” Because of this disease, he was confined to a wheelchair.

Wyatt’s parents wanted desperately to do something special for their boy. His father, Jeremiah Gillette, told of his son’s struggles on social media. Since Jeremiah works as a Marine drill instructor, his friends took notice of his post and provided prayers and a petition to recognize Wyatt as an Honorary Marine.

As ABC 13 reports, the U.S. Marine Corps only awards people with the title of Honorary Marine a few times a year. It’s an extremely special honor.

The morning after the ceremony took place, Wyatt passed away peacefully. His father said, “Thank you all so much for letting Wyatt into your hearts and allowing him to make you smile. It was his favorite thing to do.”

In such hard times, Wyatt’s family will have the memories of the large and meaningful ceremony to comfort them. Wyatt helps us all remember how precious each day can be.