Corey Nawrocki, 41, of Lansdale. (Credit: Corey Nawrocki/Facebook)
Former USMC 1st Sgt. Corey John Nawrocki was killed during a recon and sabotage mission near Bryansk, Russia.
A decorated Marine veteran, Lansdale resident and two-time Purple Heart recipient was killed in action in the Bryansk region of Russia during a reported reconnaissance and sabotage incursion as a volunteer fighter with the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Former USMC 1st Sgt. Corey John Nawrocki, 41, was killed Sunday, according to multiple online reports and Northern Provisions on Instagram. He was found with an alleged American volunteer fighter who had a U.S. Army 2nd Ranger Battalion, 75th Regiment tattoo on his arm, per reports.
Corey John Nawrocki, 41, was killed in action in Ukraine as a volunteer fighter. (Credit: @northernprovisions/Instagram/https://www.instagram.com/p/DBuZsbtRkA8/)According to The Moscow Times, Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) claimed responsibility Monday for killing four “saboteurs” of a Diversion Reconnaissance Group who attempted to cross into Bryansk with the A3449 military unit of Ukraine. Per reports, he was issued a military ID on Sept. 4, 2024.
Nawrocki, a North Penn High School graduate, spent 20 years with the U.S. Marine Corps, serving multiple tours of duty, finally retiring in 2021. He was a gunnery sergeant at the Marine Barracks Washington and served with the 1st Battalion, 4th Marines B-Co. and the 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Blackfoot Co.
“Fat Stacks,” as he was known by his Marine brothers and sisters, grew up on the 600 block of Spruce Street. He is survived by his mother, Sandy Rosenski Nawrocki. His father, John, a Moosic, PA native, died in August 1983 at the age of 21 in Lackawanna County after his Jeep crashed into a utility pole.
In February, Nawrocki, who received a Bronze Star for valor, was the distinguished keynote speaker at the Veterans Appreciation Brunch at Generations of Indian Valley in Souderton.
“His powerful words resonated with the audience, underscoring the importance of recognizing and appreciating the sacrifices made by veterans,” State Rep. Steve Malagari, D-53, said of Nawrocki’s appearance.
Nawrocki’s fellow Marines wished Nawrocki “Fair Winds & Following Seas: Semper Fi.”
“(He) had every single medal the Marine Corps could offer and more. 1st Sgt. Nawrocki was more than just a Marine 1st Sgt. He was a mentor, a friend, a leader, a well of knowledge, a gunslinging motivator, but above all a hero,” wrote Jared Romero on Facebook. “This is a loss that hits home. Nawrocki cared about all his Marines he served with. He was a pure joy to have as a 1st Sgt. and a friend.”
Fellow Marine Terry McElwain, on the eve of Nawrocki’s retirement, wrote on Facebook that “Corey has always swayed with confidence, passion for his craft and understanding … Your service to the nation cannot be repaid and we shall be forever in your debt. You have led a life of valor and courage and bled for our great nation.”
On Tuesday, McElwain’s tribute to his fallen friend wished him a forever peaceful rest.
“You knew you did not want to come home unless it was on your shield,” wrote McElwain. “His memory will live on with us - along with his bravery, nobility, and sacrifice. He will be remembered.”
