Ronald Payne Jr. (1980

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Cpl. Ron Payne was born in Lakeland, Florida Dec. 31, 1980. At a young age Ron knew that he wanted to be a Marine like his father Ron Payne Sr. He excelled in football and was offered many scholarships, however Ron followed his calling and joined the Marines after graduation.

Ron was a part of the first initial push into Baghdad during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He came home a different person but a determined one. He treasured his friends and men in the Marines and would do anything for them. They later would see the evidence of this when he gave his life for them. Ron re-enlisted with the Marine Corps and was sent to Afghanistan in the Spring of 2004. On May 7th deep in the desert of Afghanistan Ron's team was sent to follow a lead on a major head of Al Qaeda and on that mission Ron gave his life for his friends and for all those around him. He was the first Marine killed in combat while serving in Afghanistan.

A part of Ron that was well known to those who loved and knew him was that he was a Christian. He was saved at a young age and attended Calvary Baptist Church in Lakeland, FL. Ron kept his Lord close to his heart whether that be here in the states, on a ship at sea, or far away in the desert of Afghanistan. Ron was known on ship for recruiting other Marines to a Bible study another friend was organizing. He shared his faith with all who knew him and relied on this faith to get him through his darkest moments. One of Ron's later entries in his journal marked March 15, 2004 was as follows:

The fear is starting to turn into excitement. Besides what do I have to be afraid of really. I have God on my side, and He said He will never leave us nor forsake us. Having Him is better than any type of support or weapon that man can give.

Ron was known to his friends as Pappa P. This is the best description of Ron because he always made a point to look out for those around him, right until his last breath. In Ron's own words, "The real heroes are those who do not come home. Remember that freedom is not free. It is paid in blood."

His last words were that of a heavenly God's love. Ron strived to be a “Simple Man,” but to all who knew him he needed not strive to far because he truly was a Simple Man of Faith

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His legacy

Cpl. Ron Payne Ministries

Through the loss of Ron his parents, Aileen and Ronnie Payne have reached out to other parents and families who have suffered the same loss that they have. Each year they have a special Memorial Day service at their church, Calvary Baptist Church in Lakeland, Florida. They honor those who have passed in the line of duty and minister with their faith and love. Ronnie and Aileen have spoken at several events regarding veterans and what it means to have a love one not come home from war.

Ronnie and Aileen have also traveled to many Veterans hospital to minister to those service men and women who have been wounded in the line of duty.

They have taken up Ron's torch and love of people to spend their lives making others feel loved and supported in such a hard time.

For more information or to book the Payne’s as your speaking guests please email them at: Ronpaynefamily@yahoo.com

SOFT-Siblings of Fallen Troops

An orginization started for siblings of those fallen heroes in Rons name as a way to reach out to those who loose their brohter/sister at war. SOFT (Siblins Of Fallen Troops) is currently int he beginning process, and intends on offering a circle of support to those siblings who have lost a brother or sister at war. This loss is unique and calls for a specific support group, the goal of SOFT is to offer that through networking with other siblings.

For futher information on how you can help with SOFT please email: Soft.org@gmail.com.

Ronald's Photo Album

Ricky Thompson and Ron on his last Birthday 03'

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This memorial website was created by Rachel Ascione on 01/13/2007.
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Sponsorship

The hosting of this website is sponsored by Cpl. Ron Payne's Sister Rachel Ascione

Memorial Candles

	Kristina Garcia lit a candle on 11/13/2009: "Ron meant a lot to my husband Roland. I wish I would have had the chance to meet him. God bless him and his family."

	Carolyn (Sweeney) Wiseman lit a candle on 10/02/2009: "We thank our God for men like you."

	JOHN PAYNE lit a candle on 09/08/2009: "as a former grunt i would have been proud to have served with a true hero.thank you sir.we will not foget you"

	Momma Payne lit a candle on 09/06/2009: "Had a tribute for you on my birthday. Everyday is a tribute to you. I love you Bubba, and will always share your story"

	CPL Hutchinson lit a candle on 08/29/2009: "I went to boot camp with Ron, PLT 3087 M Co. MCRD Parris Island. He was a good Marine and I will never forget him."

	Andrew Watson lit a candle on 08/19/2009: "To Ron, Your actions on that fateful night let your fellow Marines return to their families, That is a true Hero"

	Marty Howard lit a candle on 07/16/2009: "just a watched program on Cpl Payne on the history channel. RIP Marine. MHS class of 73"

	Pastor Tim Camp lit a candle on 07/03/2009: "I praise God for you brother! Thanking God for you on this Independence weekend. See you again, maybe soon."

	Cara Mcclanahan lit a candle on 05/16/2009: "you will never be forgotten"

	Melissa Dagostino lit a candle on 05/15/2009: "you are still very missed"

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