Friday, August 28, 2026
The Donahue WOD – In Honor of Cpl Max Donahue
Born in Highlands Ranch, CO, Max Donahue enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 2006 at the age of 19. After training as a Military Working Dog (MWD) Handler, he was stationed at MCB Hawaii and deployed to Iraq (2008) with the 3rd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment. Following a meritorious promotion to Corporal in 2009, he transferred to Camp Pendleton’s 1st Marine Expeditionary Force.
Service in Afghanistan
In 2010, Cpl Donahue deployed to Helmand Province with his MWD, Fenji. On August 4, 2010, while on patrol, Donahue located an IED. During a subsequent small-arms engagement, a secondary IED detonated, leaving him a triple amputee. He was evacuated to Germany, where he succumbed to his injuries on August 7, 2010, at age 23. MWD Fenji was injured but survived the blast, returned to duty, and was retired in 2014 and adopted by her recent handlers.
Legacy and Honors
Known for his protective nature by loved ones, Cpl Donahue always took care of others and his sacrifice is marked by numerous decorations, including:
- Posthumous Awards: Purple Heart and Combat Action Ribbon.
- Service Medals: Marine Corps Good Conduct, National Defense Service, Afghanistan Campaign, and two Iraq Campaign medals, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, and a Certificate of Commendation
He is buried at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Castle Rock, CO, and is survived by his parents, Julie and Greg, and his brothers, Ryan, Taylor, and Jordan.
WORKOUT:
with Kit or weighted vest on.
1 Lap – 400m
10 Pull ups
15 kettlebell goblet squats
20 Push ups
Military Working Dog Demo to follow workout.
No registration required. Earn Na Koa points for your unit.