Originally published October 26, 2011:
The large, loving family of Lance Cpl. Jason N. Barfield didn't think he would make it home to Ashford, Alabama for Christmas last December, because he was assigned to cold weather training at Twentynine Palms.
But Barfield did get leave, and set up a surprise reunion for his young sister at her elementary school - and his mother at the family home. The homecomings were covered by the Dothan Eagle.
It would be Barfield's last Christmas.
Barfield, just 22-years-old, was killed Monday in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Barfield was assigned to 3rd Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, according to the Department of Defense.
Barfield was one of seven children. Barfield's family and friends have set up a Facebook page for loved ones to leave messages of condolence. It now has more than 3,500 members.
I've posted video, courtesy of the Dothan Eagle, of Lance Cpl. Barfield surprising his sister and mother last Christmas. I've got to warn you, it's awfully tough to watch.
