Frank Freeman Marvin

West Point, 1945

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by LT Victor Allende, USN on January 8, 2003:

"One hundred years from now, it will not matter what kind of car I drove, what kind of house I lived in, how much money I had, nor what my clothes looked like. But the world may be a little better, the universe a little brighter, because I was important in someone's life, to a midshipman, to a cadet, to a child, to a family, and to friends." I believe Frank Marvin?s life had that purpose and much more... Back in the fall of 1996, a freshman at Virginia Tech and a midshipman under the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corp Program (NROTC), this young man was embarking in the most difficult task since his participation in the Gulf War: Persevere through the demands of the Naval Unit, the university?s curriculum, and the extra curriculum activities that the Navy was involved within the Corp of Cadets. But in the midst of all, he was destined by the Lord Jesus to crossed paths with a family that he holds very dearly today still: the Marvins. Today?s young men need older man to look up to. They need men who are not ashamed of age, not pathetic of themselves, but Frank was much more than that, he was a vibrant, full of wisdom, knowledge, and a patient man. Frank was my mentor, my friend, and my brother in Christ. The Marvins poured their lives into his life! They did not had to do it, but they did! This young man is me, Lieutenant Victor Allende. I still remember clearly the countless conversations from topics that ranged from Christianity to politics over dinner and coffee. I was introduced as well to very delicious dishes cooked by Shirliegh, but one cannot forget Frank?s superb salad. Frank?s stories from West Point and his tours in the Air Force will be well remembered. Furthermore, Shirliegh introduced me to the proper military etiquette and etiquette in general. They showed me how to care, to conduct myself in worthy manner because of my belief in Christ and because the future responsibility bestowed upon an officer in the U. S. Navy. They showed me their love, and how to take care for each other. I owe them so much. During their travels, house sitting was a task that I didn?t take lightly. There were many things that I had to accomplish daily, but I did them gladly because Frank was very meticulous, we understood each other, I respected him for that. Being under his guidance, it gave me a sense of belonging; He trusted me with much. As my thoughts drifted back to 18 December 1998, commissioning ceremony, I still remember Frank; he was in his dress uniform, he looked sharp. He was the epitome of a senior officer in the U. S. Air Force. As he administrated the oath of office, the sound of his words articulating the oath still clearly in my mind today. He made me understand what it meant to defend our nation. What better gift that to be introduced into the Officer Corp by a mentor, friend, and a senior officer such is Frank Marvin, which I admire and respect highly. Frank was a patriot. My first salute was rendered to him because he was Frank Marvin my mentor and friend, Frank Marvin an officer and gentleman who served our country with pride and honor, Frank Marvin the husband and father to his own and to many. His legacy will be pass on through generations. Of course, I could continue to write extensively about Frank and the experiences, there is so much to share? My thoughts and prayers are with you Shirliegh and the Marvin family during this difficult time. Let us remember Frank for he was and is, a man that gave the greatest honor to the Almighty God gladly, because of the knowledge of His love. As an unknown author once wrote: ? To preserve a friend three things are necessary: to honor him present, praise him absent, and assist him in his necessities.? Frank Marvin stood by these words. You will be miss my dear friend ?

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