Severn Resident and US Marine Reacts to Bin Laden's Death

In 2001, Severn resident  stood in Camp Lejeune, NC, as he watched the twin towers fall. Sunday night, on the same military base, the U.S. Marine witnessed President Barack Obama announce the death of the man responsible for the attack he witnessed 10 years ago.

Quite a way to celebrate his birthday.

Citizens throughout the country sat in front of their televisions awaiting the official announcement regarding Osama Bin Laden’s death, but for Smith, the news carried an additional weight since his military service during those 10 years has revolved around the hunt for al-Qaida's leader. 

The 31-year-old spent a total of two years serving in Afghanistan, Iraq and Pakistan, and even fought in the area where the body of Osama Bin Laden was found.

While manning his 24-hour post at Camp Lejeune, Smith offered a unique perspective to the latest event in the United States’ continual effort against terrorism.

“When we heard the news, I realized that’s why our force protection was increased,” said Smith. He and his fellow servicemen had been alerted of the security level change from Alpha to Bravo, an increase in enforcement security that only occurred once before, on Sept. 11, 2001.

Despite serving in the Middle East, Smith’s only injury occurred on American soil, but his memories of war resonated as he recalled his emotions when he heard the news of Bin Laden’s death.

“I can definitely tell you I was elated. I had deployed to specifically that theater where he was captured [during his previous tour],” said Smith. “It was a relief.”

While citizens were cheering and singing outside the White House, Smith said things were business as usual at Camp Lejeune.

“No one is shouting or jumping up and down. It’s pretty professional.”

Smith said Obama’s speech specifically struck a chord with him because of the President’s congratulations to the special operations forces responsible for Bin Laden’s death.

The 2nd Lieutenant said he sees Bin Laden’s death as a significant morale booster.

“It will probably give much more focus towards the mission now that he’s been captured. It’s like chess. You capture the king, so definitely [servicemen and women] are going to be excited about that,” he said.

As Facebook and Twitter feeds exploded with digital shouts of praise and excitement, Smith offered a sobering perspective of his view of the news.

“I understand why people are celebrating, like people who are distant from military action. If I wasn’t in the military, I would be excited too. But when I think of my peers or servicemen who have gotten injured or lost a limb, it’s a much more somber moment,” he said.

“At least we got the guy.”