Ralph Edward Garrison

Ralph Edward Garrison, 77, of Green Cove Springs, FL, passed away April 8, 2017.  He was born on February 16, 1940 in Jersey City, NJ to the late Myron and Anna (Johnson) Garrison.  Mr. Garrison moved to the local area 18 years ago and enjoyed playing poker at the VFW.  He proudly served his country for 10 years in the United States Marine Corps.  Mr. Garrison was a well decorated Marine with 3 tours in Vietnam during the war.  He received the Navy Commendation Medal “For meritorious achievement while serving as Wire Chief with Headquarters Company, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division from 12 April 1965 to 21 June 1965.  Corporal Garrison was largely responsible for maintaining essential wire communications in a difficult combat situation.  He consistently volunteered for all trouble shooting and wire laying assignments, both day and night. By ingenuity, resourcefulness, and professional knowledge, he maintained the wire communications in a high state of repair.  On one occasion, when fired upon by enemy small arms, Corporal Garrison immediately directed his team to take cover.  He immediately called for reinforcements whose counterfire protected his team and allowed the mission to be completed.  In addition to his regularly assigned duties, Corporal Garrison undertook a people-to-people project by carrying medical supplies and performing first aid to needy Vietnamese civilians.  By his leadership, professional ability, and dedication to duty, Corporal Garrison upheld the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”  Corporal Garrison is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.   After the service, he went on to work as an electrician and retired in 2009. He is survived by his loving wife of 11 years, Marcia Louise Garrison; daughters, Brenda Stoll (Russell) and Rachel Spalding; step-daughter, Michelle Louise Daniels; step-son, Ronald Snipes (Renee); brothers, Arnold Garrison and Raymond Garrison; sisters, Berna Garrison, Lois Garrison. The family will receive friends from 10:00am until 11:00am on Monday, April 17, 2017 in the Broadus-Raines Chapel and funeral services will start at 11:00am with Dr. Tim McDaniel officiating.  Interment with military honors will follow at 1:30pm at Jacksonville National Cemetery.