Lance Corporal John Anthony Butchko, Jr., United States Marine Corps Military Police, U.S. Government

Lance Corporal John Anthony Butchko, Jr.

United States Marine Corps Military Police, U.S. Government

End of Watch Friday, July 23, 1976

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John Anthony Butchko, Jr.

Lance Corporal John Butchko succumbed to injuries sustained on July 3rd, 1976, when he was struck by lightning while on duty in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

He was providing site security at the landing zone for Marine One while awaiting the arrival of President Gerald Ford who was giving a speech in the area. He was rushed to the Philadelphia Naval Medical Center in serious condition. He succumbed to his injuries three weeks later without ever having regained consciousness.

Lance Corporal Butchko was a U.S Marine Corps veteran and had served in the Military Police as part of the Presidential Guard for two years. He is survived by his parents, brother, and sister.

Bio

Age 21
Tour 2 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Weather/Natural disaster
Location Pennsylvania
Incident Date Saturday, July 3, 1976

executive protection

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John and I were a members of Dal Cable's Pony League in Holsopple PA.
He was the kind of kid that grows up with the Love and Respect of Family and friends. Tragedy struck and took him from us but...not from our hearts.
I was home on leave from Marine duty when I heard of his death. The sadness of his Parents, family, and friends is rembered by me when I participate in Rifle Salutes over Graves on Memorial Day. REST IN PEACE JOHN...

Former Sgt John Paul Weismiller Jr

June 11, 2024