For high school students, prom night is a significant occasion, but one young woman used hers to honor dead soldiers and teach the country the true meaning of sacrifice.

Aubrey Headon, a student at Rochelle Township High School, searched for the ideal prom dress for two years. And when she did find it, she thought it was still lacking something special.

It took three weeks, according to Aubrey’s mother Cass, to turn the clothing into a memorial piece. The names of the deceased soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, also referred to as “Darkhorse,” are displayed on red and white ribbons that cascade from the waist into the folds of the royal blue skirt.

During their 2010–2011 deployment in Sangin, Afghanistan, this Marine Corps unit experienced the greatest casualty rate of any unit during the previous ten years.

Because of her grandfather’s military career as a Marine, Aubrey had a strong interest in the military and came across the Darkhorse narrative. She made contact with Gretchen Catherwood, the mother of Marine killed Alec Catherwood, and she complimented Aubrey on her unceasing efforts to remember her son and his fellow soldiers.

Touched by Alec’s and his friends’ sacrifice, Aubrey actively supports Darkhorse Lodge, a nonprofit that assists veterans.

Aubrey said, “I chose to wear this tribute dress [at] my senior prom to ensure the memories of the people who sacrificed in Afghanistan for our way of life, enabling us to live as we do every day, endure and resonate.” Aubrey chose her prom night as the setting for this memorial. I’m determined to keep them from becoming forgotten.”

Aubrey’s tribute dress has gained praise from hundreds of people since she shared pictures from her prom night, even her seasoned grandfather.

Aubrey believes that prom dress is just the start of her journey to remember those who gave their all. She sees a number of ways to honor our service members going forward.

Looking ahead, Aubrey plans to intensify her dedication when she enrolls at Wisconsin’s Carroll University in the fall. Her dream is to train as a physical therapist so she may help wounded warriors at Walter Reed Hospital with their rehabilitation.

Aubrey Headon’s moving homage sticks out as a potent reminder of the everlasting attitude of gratitude and respect for those who have sacrificed everything for the liberties we hold dear during a season when youth and achievement are celebrated. This is a tale that goes beyond the usual prom night glitz and shines light on the real heroes who merit our admiration and credit.