Cpl. James L Ellis III has just deployed to Iraq for a seven-month tour of duty with the Marine Corps.

Ellis also participated in the relief effort for Katrina victims, and he was awarded a certificate of appreciation by the Joint Task Force Katrina as well as a meritorious mast for his leadership abilities.

Ellis was assigned to the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit on board the USS Iwo Jima in 2006 where he completed extensive training in Djibouti, Africa. They were then requested to aid in the effort to help evacuate Americans in Lebanon.

In December of 2006 Ellis was awarded a certificate of commendation for his superior performance while acting as a team leader.

Ellis grew up in Turner and graduated from Leavitt Area High School in 1999. He enlisted in the Marine Corps in February 2005. His parents are Jim L. Ellis of Mechanic Falls and Sue and Joe Conroy of Hartford, and grandparents, Norm and Terry Marquis of Turner. His wife, Trisha, and daughter, Jamison, 1, are awaiting his return next year at their home in Camp Lejeune, N.C.