U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Michael Eckert, left, poses

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Michael Eckert, left, poses with his friend Jermain St. Hilaire, right, during a county track meet on at Maitland Middle School in Maitland, Fla., May 14, 2005. Eckert participated in a plethora of sports, to include water polo, tennis, basketball, soccer, baseball, football, cross country, rock climbing and the varsity track team. Growing up as an athlete set Eckert up for success once he joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 2013, as physical fitness became his passion and helped him dominate the athletic aspects of being an active duty service member. (Courtesy Photo)