By Lance Cpl. Landon Heredia, Marine Barracks Washington
WASHINGTON — Lance Cpl. Daniel Capes, a Marine assigned to Bravo Company, Marine Barracks Washington, received a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for his actions following a motor vehicle collision and his leadership in preparing 14 newly assigned Marines for duty at the “Oldest Post of the Corps.”
On Sept. 6, Capes witnessed a vehicle strike a deer near Leesburg Pike and Lewisville Road in Virginia. Recognizing the danger posed by the damaged vehicle and surrounding traffic, Capes stopped to assist the elderly driver. When she was unable to exit through the driver’s side or move across the vehicle without assistance, Capes entered through the passenger side, helped her out and moved her away from the active roadway. He remained with her and monitored her condition until law enforcement arrived.
Capes, a company clerk with Bravo Company, demonstrated the same initiative throughout September when he assumed responsibility for receiving and integrating 14 Marines newly assigned to the company. He coordinated their billeting, uniforms and tactical equipment, verified their medical readiness and served as a mentor and primary point of contact until they joined their respective platoons. His personal investment ensured the Marines arrived prepared, supported and ready to contribute to the Barracks’ mission.
Capt. Hayden Brown, commanding officer of Bravo Company, presented Capes with the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal during an awards ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington, Sept. 23. The award recognized his initiative, sound judgment and commitment to the welfare of others both on and off duty.
Capes’ actions reflected the ironclad discipline, steady character and resilient mind expected of Barracks Marines. Whether responding to someone in need or investing in the development of fellow Marines, he demonstrated how individual initiative and a commitment to others strengthen the force and prepare Marines to accomplish the mission.
