Marshal's Story

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Marshal Dakota Roberts was born on January 29, 1992, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Marshal’s parents, Sally Borrell and Randy Roberts, raised Marshal and his sisters, Karla and Cortney Roberts, in the community of Owasso, Oklahoma where Marshal graduated from Owasso High School in 2010. Marshal attended Oklahoma State University following high school, despite him being a fan of the University of Oklahoma when football season came around each year. It was there that Marshal obtained an Associates degree with Oklahoma State University. Marshal was working on his Bachelors degree to continue his pursuit in higher education prior to his tragic passing in Iraq on March 11th, 2020.Marshal’s love of family, God, and country made military service a perfect fit as he joined the Oklahoma Air National Guard in May of 2014. Marshal’s military career began as a Civil Engineer Operations Manager where he later was presented, and accepted, an opportunity to become a Command Support Staff member for the 219th Engineering Installation Squadron. Marshal demonstrated the true meaning of service before self from the very start of his military career through his enthusiastic and ambitious character in all areas of his work. He truly was a master of his craft and an integral part of the squadron’s mission success that exemplified excellence. Marshal’s devotion to his career and squadron captivated all those around him as he diligently and efficiently undertook his duties. Marshal set the example for all of exactly what it means to be an NCO – technically exceptional, goal oriented, and be attentive to your Airmen. Marshal was all of that and more. He cared so deeply for those around him; his greatest concern was always making sure others were taken care of first, thinking of himself aways last. 

On February 8 th , 2012, Marshal’s life was forever changed by the birth of his beautiful daughter, Paityn Avery Roberts. Marshal made Paityn his priority in life, striving to be the best father he could by placing tremendous value on loving and caring for her. Paityn gave Marshal a

purpose that fueled an already bright fire to always strive to be the best version of himself and take care of others. Marshal was dedicated to obtaining opportunities for higher knowledge and personal growth that would enable him to best provide and care for his daughter. If you have ever had the pleasure of meeting and knowing Paityn, then you have surely noticed Marshal’s kindness for others and his infectious smile in Paityn. Marshal and Paityn have shared many laughing, loving moments and you can see his sense of humor and joy that radiates through her.

Marshal was united in marriage to the love of his life, Kristie Kay Harris, on November 15 th , 2018. All who knew Marshal and Kristie, knew their love for each other was a most desired marital union founded in Christ, built on friendship, and flourished through love. Kristie is also a member of the 138 th Fighter Wing and had initially seen Marshal on base, feeling an immediate draw towards him. After their first date, Marshal demonstrated his determined character to Kristie by kindly inviting himself to join Kristie and her family for a Christmas service to get to know Kristie even more. Kristie humbly agreed due to her dedication of faith and being moved by his eagerness to celebrate the gift of Jesus Christ with her. Little did they know that this was the beginning of their faith filled journey, devoting themselves to each other and guided by God’s word.

The United States Air Force has set out definitions of courage and spirit that all Airmen should aspire to achieve in their daily lives. Courage is defined as the mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or adversity. Spirit is defined as an intense energy that empowers one to act when called to action. Marshal Roberts embodied these definitions by placing God and others before himself in every aspect of his life, right up to his final moments that ultimately led to his last breaths on this earth. Marshal will always be remembered for the love and sacrifice that he made on behalf of his country and fellow Airmen. Most importantly, Marshal was our brother. Anyone who has ever had the honor of working with Marshal would tell you how dependable he was, on and off the job. He was a valuable support system for those around him that would never falter. He was proud to serve in the United States Air Force; and the members of the 138th Fighter Wing and 219th EI Squadron are all better for having the privilege of serving with him.