**Bold introduction paragraph:** In a shocking display of violence against our dedicated servicemen, nine teenagers, all under 18-years-old, have been arrested after brutally attacking three US Marines in San Clemente on Memorial Day weekend. The unprovoked assault was carried out by a group of approximately 30 teens, with some now facing charges of assault with a deadly weapon.
The disturbing incident took place last Monday night when Hunter Antonino and two fellow Marines, who were enjoying a day off, encountered a large group of teenagers setting off fireworks near the San Clemente Pier. When debris from the fireworks struck Antonino in the face, he politely asked the teenagers to stop, describing their behavior as “belligerent,” “obnoxious,” and “annoying.”
Unwilling to respect the request, the aggressive teens followed the Marines to the pier and unleashed a vicious assault, leaving the servicemen with severe injuries. The Marines even revealed their military status in an attempt to deter the attackers, but tragically, it only seemed to provoke further violence. One of the Marines suspects that he sustained a concussion due to the ruthless beatings and stomping he endured, while the other two are also in recovery from the ordeal.
In response to this appalling crime, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) has rapidly mobilized its efforts to apprehend the remaining perpetrators, with five teens already arrested. The charges they face, including assault with a deadly weapon, are indicative of the extreme brutality of the attack. Sheriff’s Department Sgt. Frank Gonzalez confirmed, “The weapons that were used were their feet while these victims were on the ground.”
Despite any potential reluctance from the victims to press charges or seek medical attention, the OCSD is committed to conducting a thorough investigation into the incident and identifying those responsible. As Sgt. Gonzalez stated, “Regardless if the victims choose prosecution or choose medical attention, the Sheriff’s Department is going to investigate this to the fullest and try to determine who the suspects are.”
**Bold conclusion:** This harrowing event serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers facing even the most dedicated and courageous members of our society, including these US Marines who proudly serve our nation. Regardless of the outcome of this case, we must take this opportunity to support our heroic servicemen and work together to ensure that such atrocious acts of violence are prevented in the future.
