Former Marine Shelley Mayer killed in motorcycle accident

Posted Sunday June 14, 2009

Lenny was deeply saddened to learn that his first company officer at the US Naval Academy died of injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident on April 18.

Lt. Col Mayer, USMC (Ret), was born in Erie PA and lived in San Marcos CA. Shelley spent over 20 years in the United States Marine Corps where she served as both a company and battalion commander. She was one of the first women to serve in Beirut, Lebanon, and was also the first female Marine company officer at the U.S. Naval Academy. Following her retirement from the Marine Corps, she continued to serve her country by joining the Los Angeles Police Department. She patrolled the high profile area of West Hollywood and attained the rank of Corporal. Following her time with the LAPD, she pursued her concern for veterans and service members everywhere by joining the Patriot Guard. She and her fellow motorcyclists escorted and accompanied returning veterans who died in service to their country. She loved golfing, swimming, and people. At age 59, she died too soon, with many "missions" still to carry on. She is survived by her brother, Harry; and her sister, Barbara in North Carolina, and so many friends. She will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery as befits her service as a true American patriot.

Personal note from LP:

Without question, Shelley Mayer was one of the finest military officers and human beings to ever walk this Earth. I met the then Captain Mayer as a plebe (freshman) in 19th Platoon. She provided a model of leadership, professionalism and commitment to excellence that continues to inspire me today. Those of us who had the privilege of knowing her will miss her dearly.