116 months into your precious life … 116 months gone today.
Nine years old. Blue belt in Kenpo Karate, working toward his next belt. These photos were taken during one of his belt tests. One photo captures the gauntlet kick, where the students stood in a line taking turns receiving a kick from the Sensei while another line of students behind them held each person steady so they wouldn’t lose their balance or be pushed backward. A tradition that every student anticipated with a mix of excitement and hesitation. No one was ever quite eager to be the next one up—but once it was over, there were always grins, laughter, and a sense of accomplishment.
These photos remind me that before he was a Marine, before he became a coach, before he encouraged others to become stronger versions of themselves… he was just a little boy with big dreams, a huge heart, and a determination that seemed far beyond his years.
It was here, at karate, that his dream of becoming a Marine truly began to take shape. The Marine Corps poolees would often come to the dojo to work out alongside the students, and Morgan looked up to them with admiration. Watching their discipline, strength, and commitment planted a seed that continued to grow until the day he earned the title of United States Marine.
As he grew older, Morgan developed not only as a martial artist, but as a leader. By his final years of training, he was assisting with classes and helping teach other students. Even the adults referred to him as “Mr. Morgan.” He was only 13 or 14 years old, but he had already earned their respect—and their trust. In fact, he even had a key to the dojo. Looking back, it was another glimpse of the man he would become—someone who found purpose in encouraging others, helping them grow stronger, and leading by example.
It’s easy for time to blur the memories, but photos like these bring me right back. I can still picture the excitement on karate nights, the concentration on his face as he practiced, and the pride he felt every time he reached another milestone.
Looking at these photos, I don’t first see the Marine.
I simply see my little boy.
And I smile, because even then, so much of the man he would become was already there.
Morgan’s story didn’t begin with tragedy. It began with life—full of dreams, determination, kindness, and love.
That’s the Morgan I hope you’ll remember.
I love you.
I miss you.
You should be here.
MoM
Before the uniform… there was this little boy.
— The Daly Chronicles ❤️
Daly Chronicles 