By Vickie Creamer
Thousands celebrated everything Williamston at the Greenville Swamp Rabbits game on January 23 as they honored retired Lance Corporal Michael Edward Copeland, USMC. Not only was Mr. Copeland recognized by those in attendance, he also had the opportunity to speak with the players in the locker room before the game and offer words of encouragement.
Lance Corporal Copeland was born in Pelzer on August 12, 1949 to Clayton Edward Copeland and Bobby Sue Davenport. After graduating from Palmetto High School in 1968, he enlisted in the United State Marine Corps, beginning his service just days after receiving his diploma.
He reported to Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island on August 12, 1968. Upon graduating from Recruit training that October, he was sent to Camp Lejeune, NC, where he trained as an 0311 Rifleman.
In February 1969, Copeland deployed to Vietnam and was assigned to Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Maries, 1st Marine Division. Upon arrival, he was placed in the first fire team with responsibility for walking point.
On March 18, 1969, while on patrol near Hill 55, he stepped on a booby trap, resulting in the loss of his left leg below the knee. After initial treatment in Da Nang, he was transported to Guam and subsequently medevaced to Philadelphia Naval Hospital. He was medically retired from the Marine Corps in October 1969 at the rank of Lance Corporal. His personal decorations include the Purple Heart.
Following his retirement, he attended Greenville Technical College, where he earned an Associate Degree. He later worked for the United States Postal Service, from which he was also medically retired.
Throughout his life, Copeland remained actively involved in numerous organizations, including the National Rifle Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, the Marine Corps League, and Freemasonry. He is also a devoted member of Tabernacle Baptist Church in Pelzer.
Copeland is married to Anita Joan Miller of Greenville, SC and they have shared 55 years of marriage. They are the proud parents of two children, Joni Michele and Benjamin Michael, and the grandparents of five grandchildren: Alexis, Kurtis, Colin, Evan, and Eli.
Hometown Hero
Williamston Mayor Rockey Burgess and Lance Corporal Michael Copeland, USMC, at Bon Secours Wellness Arena for Williamston Day at the Greenville Swamp Rabbit Ice Hockey Game. Lance Corporal Copeland was recognized as a Hometown Hero during the game.
Featured Photo – Offers encouragement for team
Lance Corporal Michael Copeland, USMC, of Williamston talks with Greenville Swamp Rabbit Ice Hockey Team players prior to their game.
Related Story – Williamston Featured at Swamp Rabbitt Hockey Game
