BUYES, ADAM J.

Adam J. Buyes was born on March 20, 1990, in Salem Oregon to Mike and Carla Buyes and graduated in 2008 from McKay High School, where he was a three-sport athlete and member of the bowling, track and field and football teams. Adam had two brothers, Joshua, who is also a United States Marine, and Tyler. Growing up, Adam’s favorite things had to do with the coast: he fished, he crabbed, and he loved the beach. 

Jay Minyard, Adam’s high school football coach noted that "he was an outstanding young man, great character, great work ethic, great attitude, very personable, well-liked by all his peers and his teachers and coaches."  

Cpl Buyes joined the Marine Corps in January 2009 and served as a Radio Operator with the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, based in Okinawa Japan. 

According to Cpl Buyes company First Sergeant, 1st Sgt Daniel J. Wilson "Cpl. Adam Buyes was a truly dedicated professional who cared for his Marines as if they were brothers from the beginning…he was often emulated and adored by many of the Marines he came in contact with. Cpl. Buyes was just one of those Marines that made being in Okinawa, Japan or deployed to Afghanistan better and more enjoyable for everyone." 

You will find on Highway 22, across from the Highway 51 turnoff to Independence, Oregon the “Adam J. Buyes Fallen Hero Memorial Highway”.  

 Cpl Buyes was killed in action on November 26, 2011 in Sangin Afghanistan just weeks before he was schedule to rotate out and then go on leave for the holidays. His military awards include the Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Korean Defense Service Medal. 

The Washington State Fallen Heroes Project proudly remembers Cpl Adam Buyes for his service, sacrifice, and commitment to our nation. His life continues to inspire all who learn his story.