Frederick Exum

FREDERICK MARVIN EXUM

United States Army First Sergeant (Retired) Frederick Marvin Exum, 62 of the 82nd Airborne passed away peacefully at his home in San Antonio, Texas on January 23, 2021. His military career was a big source of pride for him as he followed in the footsteps of his hero, his father, Sergeant Major James Frederick Exum (retired).

Frederick was born on September 27, 1958 in Las Cruces, New Mexico on White Sands Missile Range to James and Maggie Exum who have both survived him. He loved action, adventure and the great outdoors.  His hobbies and interests included fishing, hunting, camping, scuba diving, motorcycle riding, biking and jumping out of planes!

Frederick was preceded in death by his younger siblings, Terry (motorcycle racer), Missy (dancer), little Michael (who was a baby), along with his Great Aunt Mary, Cousins Rosa Lee and Carolyn, grandparents and others.

He was survived by his loving parents, his siblings Quintin, Phyllis, Pamela and Stephanie (baby sister) in Texas. Also, his niece Stephanie M (little sweetheart) & her husband Rusty and his dog, Rover in Texas; his girlfriend Valarie in Texas along with his favorite cousin Tootsie in North Carolina; his Aunt Lou and cousins Henrietta & Angela in Indiana; and his church ladies Chris and Ruth in Virginia.

In 1976, he joined the US Army and was especially excited by his assignment to the 82nd Airborne Division in Ft. Bragg, NC where he rose to the rank of First Sergeant. He displayed excellence in every aspect of his military career.  He was proud to be an American and took his oath to this country very seriously.

Frederick’s exceptionally meritorious service during his military career took him from Texas, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, and Alaska to Germany, with tours throughout Europe, Korea and around the world.  His leadership, skills, experience, dedication and technical expertise contributed significantly to his overall success in keeping with the highest traditions of military service.

Frederick’s training and military education included Infantryman, Primary Leadership Development, Instructor Gun, Master Fitness, Advanced NCO Course, German Head-start Language Training, Drill Sergeant, Battle Staff Course, Airborne Course, Exercise Leadership and Jumpmaster course.

His impeccable leadership as an instructor included but was not limited to Senior Drill Sergeant; Survival Training in the harsh artic environment; Rifle Marksmanship; Hand Grenades; Physical Fitness; and Competitive Spirit.  He set an example for all to emulate. He was highly motivated, a proven leader and the epitome of the Airborne.

Frederick’s awards and honors included:

Meritorious Service Medal (Senior Drill Sergeant – Ft. Dix, NJ)
Meritorious Service Medal (Northern Warfare Training - Ft. Greely, AK)
Meritorious Service Medal (98th Infantry Division - Rochester, NY)
Meritorious Service Medal (Parachute Infantry Regiment 82nd Airborne – Ft. Bragg, NC
Army Commendation Medal (Mobilization Army Training – Ft. Dix, NJ)
Army Commendation Medal (EIB Test Site NCOIC)
Army Commendation Medal (Niantic, CT)
Army Commendation Medal (G3 Plans – 2nd Infantry)
Army Commendation Medal (98th Regiment NCOES)
Army Achievement Medal (Rifle Marksmanship, Hand Grenades & Physical Fitness)
Army Achievement Medal (Instructor – 8th Infantry Division Mechanized)
Army Achievement Medal (Platoon Sergeant for Task Force Desert II)

He was baptized on October 2002 at the Zoar Baptist Church in Locus Grove, VA. Frederick ‘the miracle man’ was a soldier, a son, a brother, and an uncle. He fought hard for every second of life.  He will be forever loved and greatly missed by family, friends, acquaintances and his military buddies.

PRAY FOR OUR TROOPS

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”  Isaiah 40:31

Due to inclement weather, the Visitation Service for Frederick Marvin Exum has been cancelled. He will still be laid to rest here in San Antonio at 1:15pm in a private ceremony at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.