Lance Corporal John Anthony Butchko, Jr., United States Marine Corps Military Police, U.S. Government

Lance Corporal John Anthony Butchko, Jr.

United States Marine Corps Military Police, U.S. Government

End of Watch Friday, July 23, 1976

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John Anthony Butchko, Jr.

Lance Corporal John Butchko succumbed to injuries sustained on July 3rd, 1976, when he was struck by lightning while on duty in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

He was providing site security at the landing zone for Marine One while awaiting the arrival of President Gerald Ford who was giving a speech in the area. He was rushed to the Philadelphia Naval Medical Center in serious condition. He succumbed to his injuries three weeks later without ever having regained consciousness.

Lance Corporal Butchko was a U.S Marine Corps veteran and had served in the Military Police as part of the Presidential Guard for two years. He is survived by his parents, brother, and sister.

Bio

Age 21
Tour 2 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Weather/Natural disaster
Location Pennsylvania
Incident Date Saturday, July 3, 1976

executive protection

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My name is Richard Melim. I was Lance Corporal Butchko's NCOIC. On the morning of July 3rd, 1976, the presidential helicopters departed Quantico destined for New York Harbor in preparation for President Gerald Ford's Bi-Centennial celebration of the USA's 200th birthday (July 4, 1976). While enroute, the helicopters stopped in Philadelphia for refuel. LCpl John A. Butchko was one of the Marine Security Guards that I selected to be on that detail (something that I still carry some guilt). During the routine refueling process, a fast moving storm suddenly appeared out of nowhere and a bolt of lightning struck Butchko as he patrolled between the two parked helicopters. Butchko laid unconscious in the hospital for the next 20 days until finally succumbing to his injuries on July 23, 1976. Myself, and a 4 other Marines, traveled to his home town, Hollsopple, PA. We met and paid our respects to his parents and his family members. We were honored and proud to serve as pall bearers at his funeral. Although 49 years have passed since we lost Lance Corporal John A. Butchko. In my mind, it seems like it was only yesterday. Butchko was an outstanding Marine and truly missed by all who served with him. Rest in peace and Semper Fi, John.
Richard Melim, Master Gunnery Sergeant, USMC (retired)

Master Gunnery Sergeant USMC (ret)
former HMX-1 Security Chief and NCOIC for Butchko

June 4, 2025