Remembering CTRCS David “Blake” McLendon, KIA, Afghanistan

From his earliest days, Senior Chief David “Blake” McLendon was aware of brave individuals who had devoted their lives to the service of their country. His hometown of Thomasville, Georgia, as well as the surrounding county, is named after Jett Thomas, an accomplished U.S. Army officer in the War of 1812. In addition, his mother, father and grandfather had all served in the United States Navy. Growing up, Blake developed a love for such typical American pastimes as fishing and baseball. He also excelled at soccer, playing the difficult position of goalie for a local travel team. However, as he came to adulthood, Blake made the decision to join the military, and after his graduation from Thomas County Central High School in 1998, he became a part of his family’s tradition of service and joined the United States Navy.