Sammis, brother of local coach, dies in Iraq

By Judith Haynes
Daily Press

April 7, 2003

Marine Capt. Benjamin W. Sammis – brother of locally known sailing coach Adam Sammis – was killed in action Friday in Iraq.

Capt. Sammis, 29, of Rehoboth, Mass., died when his AH-1W Super Cobra helicopter crashed during combat operations near Ali Aziziyal, the U.S. Department of Defense said.

He was a sailor, an Eagle Scout, a military school graduate and a career Marine who had yearned to fly helicopters and jets since he was 10, said family spokesman Bruce Morris.

His parents – Steven and Beth Sammis of Rehoboth – said in a prepared statement that Capt. Sammis “loved the Corps as much as life itself.”

“We are devastated by our loss,” his parents said, “as we are for all who have lost loved ones. Ben was a true patriot and made the ultimate sacrifice for his country. We will be forever proud of him and the character he held so true.”

They concluded, “To his fellow Marines: Semper Fi.”

Capt. Sammis’ wife of 18 months, Stacey Sammis, said, “He loved flying, and he loved his country. Please continue to support our troops.”