Lance Cpl. Peter Clore pronounced dead while serving in Afghanistan
Clore was deployed with the U.S. Marine Corps in the Zad District, Helmand Province, Afghanistan and was mortally wounded at midnight on May 28. Clore was an explosive device defeat dog handler, and was performing his duties when he was injured. His death was the result of small arms enemy fire.
Father Jeff Coning of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in New Philadelphia has known the Clore family for a number of years, as Peter Clore was once very seriously considering entering the priesthood, and Fr. Coning was a recruiter for the Diocese of Columbus. Clore attended Sacred Heart Elementary School, followed by Tuscarawas Central Catholic High School, before he enrolled in the Pontifical College Josephinum. He went into the Marine Corps after just a few years attending college.
"I worked with him to get him into the seminary," explained Fr. Coning. "He felt a strong desire to serve his country as he was continuing to think about the priesthood. It's not uncommon for that to happen."
Fr. Coning described Clore as "what you'd want as a citizen of the United States and as a friend." He said he was a nice guy, diligent in his work, faithful to his family and church, and he knew how to have fun.
Cliff Clore called Fr. Coning Saturday morning, after he was notified of his son's death. Fr. Coning described the family's reaction. "There are moments of devastation, but there are still moments of laughter," as they remember the Lance Corporal.
According to Fr. Coning, Clore had been overseas for approximately six weeks. He was supposed to be deployed in February, but dates for departure had been changed several times.
Funeral arrangements are underway with the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory in New Philadelphia. Fr. Coning confirmed that the visitation and funeral will be at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, but the family is also considering a viewing at the Tuscarawas County Courthouse Rotunda in New Philadelphia. They are also still considering where burial will take place.
"Continue to pray for (our troops) and continue to support and affirm what they're doing," explained Fr. Coning. "They do put their lives in jeopardy. We need to make sure they're supported. And pray for them and the families that are left behind in deployment and in death."