Community and family take over search for missing Marine Eric Hall

Missing Marine's family takes over search

Last updated on: 2/9/2008 7:46:01 PM by Amie McLain

CHARLOTTE COUNTY: Charlotte County deputies have suspended their search for a missing marine, but his family and friends stepped in where local law enforcement left off. The Hall family is now making a plea to the public to help in their search by asking supporters to meet at Gilcrest Park in Punta Gorda Sunday morning at 8 a.m.

Roger Smoot takes his dog Vega for walks everyday, but Saturday, a clear purpose guided their steps -the search for missing Marine, Eric Hall.

Smoot climbed through brush in Punta Gorda searching for footprints, tire tracks, or any sign of the 24-year-old Corporal who was reported missing last Sunday.

More than 30 years ago, Smoot served in the United States Coast Guard and as a veteran himself, he said he is looking for someone in his military family.

"It's a brotherhood, so here I am," Smoot said adding that he's into saving people and that's what everyone who turned out was hoping to do.

But Smoot doesn't know Hall or the Hall family personally and as a complete stranger, he volunteered his services while remaining hopeful of finding Eric.

"It shows a sign that the community is actually caring about this one. We're really glad to see it. We're really thankful for everybody that's doing this," said Adam Birge, Eric's cousin.
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