Donald Curtis Morse

August 11, 2021
Donald Curtis Morse

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Donald Curtis Morse, 59, of Williamsburg, Virginia passed away on August 11, 2021. Mr. Morse worked for the US Joint Staff Directorate for Joint Force Development (J-7) as Chief of the Allies and Partners Force Development (APFD) Division after retiring from active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps as a Colonel. He served for more than 25 years in a multitude of staff and command positions. One of the highlights of his career was Commander, 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division as well as participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

A native of Shelbyville, Kentucky, he graduated from Western Kentucky University as well as numerous Service schools, and is very proud to have received a diploma from the Norwegian National Defense College (Forsvarets Høgskole) in Oslo, Norway.  He was extremely proud of receiving the Spanish Navy Cross Merit Medal.

In addition to his outstanding contributions to our military, he was also an Associate Member of First Baptist Church in West Point, Virginia, and a member of both the US Marine Tankers Association, American Legion & other various organizations.

Mr. Morse loved God, watching trains, playing board games, and gem collecting, but most importantly he loved his family, friends, and spending time with his loved ones.

He is survived by his son, Curtis Morse, daughters; Lauren Morse, Macy Morse, Eliza Morse; parents Jonathan & Lula Morse, siblings; Linda Pursell, Deborah Morse, David Morse, Alex Morse; & multitude of extended family.

A service will be held on Monday, August 23, 2021 at 2PM at First Baptist Church, 414 Main Street, West Point, VA, 23181. Burial will take place at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.

Bucktrout Funeral Home is assisting with services.


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  • August 21, 2021
    Stefano Camerini - Italian FLO to APFDD says:
    It was so shocking to hear about his sudden loss. Don was a special person, I am so saddened and I can hardly believe an Allies and Partners community without him. I have known him for only two years but for long enough, being part of the Joint Staff APFDD, to understand he truly cared about the people. He was a leader, always capable to lead the people and guide their behaviors; He was a special person, focused on listening to the others and build personal relation always with a good mood and attitude. His dedication to his job was so complete that it probably took him away too long from his loved ones. I hope the good memories you have of him, as well as my thoughts and prayers, will comfort you. Please accept my condolences.

  • August 21, 2021
    Attallah alsarhan lit a candle:
    Lit since August 21, 2021 at 8:54:36 PM

  • August 21, 2021
    Terry Markwick (RLC. Maj. Ret’d.) says:
    I was shocked to hear the news that my friend Don had passed. He and I became friends when he was CO MARDET in the Holy Loch, and I was OC of the local Territorial Army unit. We had several military exercises together, and spent lots of leisure time fishing and golfing. I have many fond memories of a true gentleman, who had a wonderful sense of humour and an infectious laugh. One of my most memorable moments was being invited by him and the MARDET to be the guest speaker at the last USMC Ball held in Dunoon. My presentation gift of a sword still holds pride of place on my wall. I reciprocated by inviting Don to my Sqn. Burns Supper, where he was exposed to the Scots love of and capacity for Scotch whisky. Over the years since we have kept in irregular contact, and every time we spoke it was as if we had just parted company yesterday. My sincerest condolences to all his family and friends. I regard myself truly blessed by being able to count Don Morse as a friend. Semper Fi. RIP.

  • August 21, 2021
    Antonio Fernandez says:
    For me Don was the perfect person for the right position. He was a truly believer in his people's capacities and the mission to fulfil. He made us better persons because we meet him ad show us true charisma and friendship.