Forrest Blake Christenot, 63, of Pensacola, FL passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, June 13, 2024.

Forrest was a 1979 graduate of Pensacola High School where he was a drummer in the marching band. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserve, graduating from Recruit training at Parris Island, SC, and Infantry Training School, Camp Lejeune, NC 1979. He was then assigned to the (Detachment) 4th Force Reconnaissance Unit (later 3rd Force Reconnaissance Unit) in Mobile, AL. In 1981, he attended the US Army Airborne School, Ft. Benning, GA, eventually earning the coveted Navy/Marine Corps jump wings. Forrest was a much-respected member of 3rd Force, attaining the rank of sergeant.

After earning a Bachelor of Finance Degree from the University of West Florida, Forrest attended Marine Corps Officer Candidate School, The Basic School, and the Marine Corps Infantry Office Course in Quantico, VA, in 1986. As a 2nd Lieutenant, he reported to Camp Pendelton, CA, where he served as an Infantry Platoon Leader. While there, he deployed to the Far East as part of a Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Forrest ultimately achieved the rank of Major in the Marine Corps Reserve. During his military career, he served on the counter-drug task force at SOUTHCOM, cataloging Marine Corps combat art for the Smithsonian Institute. He hosted the Friday Evening Parade featuring the Silent Drill Team and Marine Corps Band at Marine Corps Barracks Washington. Following 9-11, Forrest served at Marine Forces Europe and Africa and was an integral member of the military liaison team to Ukraine, Macedonia, South Africa, and Germany. Forrest was very proud to have accomplished climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Following his military career, Forrest founded Drum Corps Miniatures Inc., creating, manufacturing, and selling licensed Drum Corps International figure collectibles.

Forrest was a devoted and compassionate son to his parents, Johnny and Janice.

He is preceded in death by his father, Johnny Christenot and his brother, Gary Christenot.

Survivors include his mother, Janice Christenot and a brother, Kenneth Christenot.

A graveside service will be held at 1:30pm Monday, July 29, 2024, at Barrancas National Cemetery with full Marine Honors. For those wanting to attend a funeral cortege will depart Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel at 1:00pm sharp.