FORT WORTH — Briana Menendez, 13, has been battling serious health problems for two-and-a-half years now.
In Fort Worth Monday, she received a special honor given to only a few Americans: Honorary Marine.
Briana wore pink for her special day, but don't let the color fool you — she's as tough as they come. "She's a combat veteran, too, in her own battle," said Col. Mark Toal.
For for a year-and-a-half, Briana has been fighting an aggressive form of lymphoma, which is a blood cancer. Wearing a smile through it all, her cancer went into remission twice — but this third time Briana learned from her doctor that the prognosis wasn't good.
Her father, Master Sgt. Larry Menendez of the 8th Marine Corps, remembered the moment. "He went to talk to her and said, 'Your life is going to come to an end.' She looked and said, 'Thank you.'"
Briana decided to stop all treatment. But her small frame is a pillar of strength, putting her hands over her heart as she longed for this day.
"Today, Briana is going to become the 68th Honorary Marine," Col. Toal announced to applause.
He awarded Briana the title, stealing a kiss from his youngest comrade whose only wish is to live her last moments following in her dad's footsteps.
"Her becoming an Honorary Marine just really kind of makes it that much more special," Sgt. Menendez said.
Briana remained remarkably composed during the ceremony, but no one who has come to know her is surprised.
"She's had 10 surgeries and she steadily fights," her father said.
That's why Larry Menendez' 8th Marine Corps unit made sure to welcome their youngest member, presenting her with dog tags from the Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps to wear in the battle of her life.
Other Marines left Briana with words of hope and inspiration. "I got a brand new baby girl," one Marine said tearfully. "I hope she turns out like you."
Two weeks ago, doctors had given Briana only days to live. Becoming an Honorary Marine was one more prayer answered, so she still has hope.
According to the Marines, the title given to Briana is to recognize civilians who make extraordinary contributions to the Marine Corps. The title can only be given by the Commandant of the Marine Corps and since 1992, only 67 people have received the honor.
E-mail ddenmon@wfaa.com
