Colton W Rusk, of Orange Grove, TX, was born September 23, 1990 in Corpus Christi, Texas. He graduated in 2009 from the Orange Grove High School, where he played baseball and football and was an All-District offensive lineman.
“Don’t be afraid to go after your hopes and dreams, but don’t be afraid to be willing to pay the price.” Colton Rusk, 2009, HS Yearbook.
“If I had a son, he is what I hope my son would be." Anna Garza, Spanish Teacher
“It’s not a single thing. It’s not that he was a great athlete or a great student. It’s that he was a great young man. He was everything." Tommy Moses, principal.
“But Colton was the kind of guy who didn’t need much advice. He was real talented in everything he did.” Justin Rokohl, classmate & Marine.
On November 2, 2009, Colton enlisted in the Marine Corps as a K9 Handler and was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.
Colton's best friend, partner, and most ardent defender is Eli, whom Colton's parents are trying to adopt. Eli and Colton were inseparable so when the Chow Hall discriminated against the Lababor Retriever, Colton found a new place to eat. And when it was time to rest, the first one on the cot got first dibbs on the best real estate. "What's mine is also his." Colton Rusk about Eli.
"It's what he's wanted to do his whole life. He knew the ultimate sacrifice was possible and he wouldn't have had it any other way." Darrell Rusk, father.
His Awards and Decorations include the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
Colton is survived by parents Darrell and Kathy Rusk, brothers Cody and Brady, and grandmothers Katy O'Neal and Jan Rusk. Colton was remembered December 18, 2010 at Riverhills Baptist Church and was laid to rest at the Sons of Hermann Cemetary.
If you personally knew Colton and have stories to share of his Honor, his Valor, his Humor; of his life, please contact us so that we can update his page.