Strong through end, retired sergeant major passes on

Photo By Andrea Olguin | The photo of retired Sgt. Maj. Ken Runyan is put on display along with his medals and the American flag during his memorial service at the Marine Memorial Chapel here June 10. Runyan was buried at sea as his final request. He is survived by his wife and children. (Marine photo/Cpl. Andrea M. Olguin)  

IWAKUNI, YAMAGUCHI, JAPAN

06.09.2011

Story by Lance Cpl. Cayce Nevers 

Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni

Retired Sgt. Maj. Kenneth M. Runyan, 66, previous Marine Wing Support Squadron sergeant major, recently passed away.

A memorial service was held at the Marine Memorial Chapel here June 10.

During the service, retired Master Gunnery Sgt. Michael S. Mullen, Station Safety explosive safety officer, called roll call which was followed by a 21-gun salute.

Immediately following the service, the station honored Runyan’s request to be buried at sea.

“You are gone but never forgotten,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Manuel R. Redon, Combat Logistics Company 36 maintenance motor transport officer.

Runyan never complained and never wanted someone to feel sorry for him, said Mullen. Life is unexplainable, many times unfair and his life passed too quickly for Runyan, he added.

“Sgt. Maj. Runyan was a biker and a great friend,” said Redon. “If I needed anything, he was the one I could go to for advice or for help.”

Runyan lived a life that seemed very simple, but it was anything but simple, said Mullen.

“Ride on brother and ride free,” said Redon. “Fair winds and fallen seas my friend, Semper Fidelis, Marine.”

Runyan is survived by his wife and children.

• Date Taken: 06.09.2011
• Date Posted: 06.15.2011 20:50
• Story ID: 72149
• Location: IWAKUNI, YAMAGUCHI, JP