Moline Marine leaves on 9/11 for 2nd deployment - CBS4 - WHBF Quad Cities, IL-IA News Weather Sports

Moline Marine leaves on 9/11 for 2nd deployment

By: Christine Souders

csouders@cbs4qc.com

As Americans pulled together to remember those who died in the 9-11 tragedy, one Quad City Marine left on Tuesday to put his life on the line for our country, again.

It was an emotional send off at the QC Airport for the family and friends of Corporal Jacob Johnson of Moline.

Tuesday afternoon, they watched as the young marine got on a plane for his second deployment to Afghanistan.

"I was in Des Moines, Iowa today, 4 years ago signing up for the marine corps," said Corporal Jacob Johnson who joined the Marines right out of high school, and he said 9/11 is the reason he continues to fight for our country.

"Being a Marine is more of an honor to serve my country, and to do my civic duty, so my friends and family don't have to go."

Johnson gave his loved ones hugs and kisses, knowing for the next 9 months he will be in Afghanistan.

Something his mother Terri Johnson is extremely proud of.

She said his willingness to serve overseas, gives us the freedoms we have here at home, "That's what America's all about, and my son helps keep it that way."

Members of The Patriot Guard Riders held American flags as he entered the terminal, but Johnson's Mother said it won't be too long until she's welcoming him back, "He came home alright then. He'll come home alright again."

Once in Afghanistan, Johnson is assigned to driving hum vee's back and forth between camps to deliver food an