When Aubrey Headdon, a student at Rochelle Township High School, selected her prom dress, she had something meaningful in mind. Inspired by the 25 fallen Marines from her Illinois community who passed away from 2010 to 2011, Aubrey created a stunning and patriotic dress to honor their memory. The halter neck dress in blue incorporates red and white ribbons that flow through it, reminiscent of the American flag. This exceptional design was proudly showcased on Aubrey’s special evening, moving everyone to tears.
Aubrey Headon felt immense pride in honoring the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, at her prom. Her dress not only pays tribute to the fallen Marines but also mirrors the design of the American flag. The dress features a blue base with red and white ribbons flowing through it, complementing the blue frock and halter neck.
Despite its unique design, what’s truly stirring conversation is Aubrey’s decision to use her prom night as a tribute to fallen soldiers. Her selfless act serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by many in our country, and we are truly grateful for Aubrey and all she represents.
“I wanted to wear this tribute dress to my senior prom so the memories of the guys who fell in Afghanistan for our right to live how we do and do what we do every day are carried on,” she shared with Yahoo Lifestyle after images of her patriotic dress went viral.
Aubrey drew inspiration from local heroes, particularly after hearing a poignant story about the Battalion based in Camp Pendleton, California, from the mother of one of the fallen Marines, Alec Catherwood. His death moved 19-year-old Aubrey to design the special dress.
“She told me that her son, Alec Catherwood, was one of the Marines in the Battalion, and his best friend was also killed. It made me cry, and I decided then that I wanted to do something to remember them,” Aubrey explained.
The senior from Rochelle Township High School personally sewed red and white ribbons in the shape of the American flag onto a blue dress, complete with a halter neckline to match the Marines’ uniform color.
Looking ahead, Aubrey plans to attend college next year to major in fashion design. She aims to launch her own clothing line and continue creating special occasion dresses like her prom dress tribute.
“I’m determined to pursue a career in fashion,” Aubrey stated. “I’d love to design more special occasion dresses like this one.”
In addition to the dress, she created a poster to further honor the fallen Marines and educate people about their lives.
“Their lives and memories must endure so they don’t fade away.”
The 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, also known as 3/5 or Darkhorse, suffered an exceptional number of casualties. No other Marine unit has experienced higher casualties than Darkhorse in the last ten years.
