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Sgt Grit Newsletter VS AmericanCourage Newsletter:
You receive both (alternating weeks)...so what's the difference?
In short...The AmericanCourage Newsletter has MORE family member
stories, "support the Corps" stories from Marines, and patriotic
quotes. It started after the events of Sept. 11, 2001 to give
supporters of the Marine Corps and American patriots a voice.
The Sgt Grit Newsletter is HARD CORPS Marine! If you are
interested in topics that delve into Marine Corps history, Corps
Stories, Boot Camp and other things that "only a Marine might
understand" - then be sure to read the Sgt Grit Newsletter
(every other week) - More about the newsletter |
November, 1975 we were preparing for graduation from recruit
training. We were awoken at 4:30, went to the mess hall for a
duck breakfast (duck in and duck out), then to linen check-in.
Drill Instructor SSgt. Cole had taken us to linen check-in and
as usual, he being the "nice" drill instructor said those magic
words, "Smoke em if you got em."
We were in fat city: last day
of recruit training, having a smoke, talking to each other for
probably the last time, getting ready to hit the parade deck for
graduation. Unfortunately we began to take advantage of the
situation, talking loud and laughing and soon SSgt Cole had
enough. We hoped he would not tell Senior Drill Instructor
SSgt. Head and by the time we were in place on the parade deck
all was forgotten, or so we thought. SSgt Head reminded us we
were still recruits (although that was not the term he used) and
then in front of God and everybody he said those other magic
words, "Drop and give me 20!"
Old Corps, New Corps its all the Marine Corps.
Bob Ehrle, Cpl
1975-1980
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED !
Finish time: 3 hours, 48 minutes, 33 seconds
$6,065.00 raised for the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund
Dear Friends & Family,
I did it...all 26.2 miles, on very little sleep, thanks to the
arrival of our daughter, Reagan Lynn, just days before. What an
incredible experience, between the birth of my second daughter
on Friday and finishing my second marathon on Sunday. The race
course took us all around Philadelphia past many of the best
memorials and sights, all while receiving amazing support from a
passionate Philadelphia crowd. I finished the marathon in a
little over 3 hours and 48 minutes.
I want to thank everyone who supported me in working towards my
goal of finishing this race by donating money to Injured Marine
Semper Fi Fund (www.SemperFiFund.org). Thanks to all of you, I
raised over $6,000.00 that will be used to help provide support
to injured Marines, Sailors and Soldiers, as well as services to
their families during their recovery process.
Semper Fidelis,
Dan Covolesky
Christmas 1968
Corporal Mulcare, Brian 2329098 = MOS=2333/8651 = Home on Leave
Prior to shipping out to Viet NAM = Just Back from a Year in the
MEDITERRANIAN!
Transferred from Alfa Co. 2nd RECON BN to 3rd. FORCE RECON Co.-
Quang Tri.
Rel.A.D. Dec 1969! Summer of '69 I went to SCUBA School in
Subic Bay. I missed out on the Music at Wood Stock, so I bought
the TEE shirt and Plaque.
I'm assembling two Wall Hangers to go
with the WOOD STOCK '69 Plaque. Crossed Rifles, M-1 Garand &
M-14.
With the Window Banner , Eagle / Globe & Anchor.
OOoHHH! RAH!
Semper Fi, and Adeste Fidelis.
Before & After, 2 MED. Cruises and "Headed SOUTH" to WesPac.
Welcome Home-40 years later !
All Woodstock Items
Hey Marines
How about some stories from you cannon cockers.
Semper Fi
Sgt Grit
info@grunt.com
Iwo Suicide Charge
Yesterday I had the honor of meeting a former Marine who is, as
his license plate frame states, an Iwo Jima survivor. I had to
appraise his car for collision damage. Upon arrival, during a
heavy snowstorm, I was met by an elderly man. He was outside
brushing off his car, I have to take a photo of the car's
license plate as procedure and it was then that I noticed the
license plate frame. My next words were "Semper Fi". His eyes
lit up, he proudly replied "Semper Fi".
The damage to his car was minimal so it only took me a few
minutes to appraise. He asked me when I was in and we started to
talk USMC. He told me how young he was when he went in and
things he saw and had to do on Iwo. He told me about hand to
hand fighting with just his Ka-Bar. He told me how they were
told by their officers that in the morning they were expecting a
final suicide charge and to stay low in the foxholes and be
ready. He was just a young kid on Iwo, 20-21. He is now 85. This
Marines mind was as sharp as ever, he could quote names,
battles, friends like it was yesterday. He started to weep as he
told me how he buried a lot of friends. I knew that our talking
took him right back to his time on Iwo. I really felt that I was
talking to a real American hero.
Our conversation took place during a heavy snowstorm but yet
neither one of us seemed to notice the weather. We were deep in
talk about our Corps. When I was about to depart he thrust his
hand forward and in a firm voice stated "Semper Fi brother".
This was a man who lived through the battles I read about as a
young Marine. He lived through the battles they made history. I
said goodbye and left knowing I was really glad I was out
working in the snow and got the chance to meet this man. His car
was the first I saw yesterday and followed by many more. The
heavy snow turned to rain and I was soaked the entire day but I
thought this was nothing compared to what this man experienced.
The rest of the day I was proud to share my tale with others but
most of them didn't get it, a few of the older guys understood .
Since it is now Dec.10 and the holidays are approaching I think
Santa will be making a purchase for that old salt.
Semper Fi
Ed.Manning
U.S.M.C. 63-67
Birthday Ball Photo Contest: Vote Now
Time to vote for your favorite Birthday Ball Photo!
Okinawa Was Not A Cake Walk
I enlisted in the USMCR September 4, 1942. I went to Boot Camp
at San Diego. I left for overseas from Treasure Island, CA
February 1943. I visited Tahiti and Bora Bora before landing for
duty at American Samoa. From Samoa I islanded hopped across the
Pacific Ocean until I landed on Okinawa. I have heard that Iwo
Jima was the bloodiest battle in the Pacific; however, Okinawa
was not a cake walk. In particular during May and June. I
believe the Japs fought harder the closer we got to their
homeland islands. I was in training for the landing on the Jap's
home islands when President Truman ordered dropping the two big
ones. I thought the war was over and that I would be going
home. However, President Truman had other ideas for most of us.
We were ordered into China. I was in Tientsin, China until the
day before Christmas 1945. I finally made it home on February
7, 1946. I had served in the Corps for 3 years, 5 months, 3 days
without a leave home and overseas nearly 36 months. I guess I
did not have enough. I reenlisted and served in the Corps for 3
more years before taking my discharge and using the GI Bill for
my engineering degree.
Sgt Stults, USMC 450010
The Villages Day Spa
We would like to thank LCpl Patty Bonnie and all of her employees and customers from The Villages Day Spa in Florida. They are the latest group to get on board with our Adopt A Marine program. She will be contributing to the program from each sale made at her Salon. Thanks again Patty for your dedicated service to our Marines!
Semper Fi
Sgt Grit
Scheit-on-a-Shingle
Hi Sarge:
I read with much interest that article by Cpl. Jim Hopkins cover
the recipe for S.O.S.
Beings that I Enlisted very early after Dec. 7 I do believe that
we were fed S.O.S. using a somewhat different recipe.
A pre-War recipe.
I do not remember any ground beef in our S.O.S. What was
included in the S.O.S. was Chipped Dried Beef, and I thought
that the taste was "out of this world". I also did note that
everybody in the mess hall wolfed down this scheit-on-a-shingle,
and quite a few came back for seconds.
So much for "Gastric Distress".
Basically, about the only thing that went over like a ton of
bricks was Horse C- -K. No one seemed to take a liking to this
meal.
Bill Kirk -- 372415
3rd Tanks
I am enclosing a photograph taken around July, 1965 in Nam, of
some members of supply plt. H & S Co., 3rd tank bn. It's been 44
years since I've seen these fellow Marines, a few of their names
have escaped my mind. If anyone out there recognizes any of
these Marines could you please send me an email at maryjoe1967 @
yahoo .com. This old man would greatly appreciate it.
Semper Fi
Sgt. Joe Mastrangelo
Harley, Ribbons, Mounted
Hi Sgt. Grit
I just wanted to tell you and show you what I did with your
small ribbon bumper stickers I purchased over 8 years ago. I
made an personalized ribbon display and mounted it to my Harley
win shield. I now see you have a lot more updated stickers. I
may need to do an update myself. Thanks for the catalog.
SSgt. Tom Colson Vietnam 68/69 Tanks DMZ
Note:
8 years, read it, 8 years for these stickers. That's why I use
vinyl and not paper. It lasts.
And yes, that is a blatant capitalist plug. People like me seem
to be a good target now.
You should see some of the not so friendly emails I have gotten
in the last year.
Semper Fi
Sgt Grit
The Christmas Gift
There is a gift that comes
From those out on the lines,
It is not wrapped in bows,
But, oh, how bright it shines.
There is a Christmas gift,
A pearl beyond all price,
From those who ask for naught,
But make the sacrifice.
They risk their blood and bone
On endless weary tours,
For that is all that keeps
The evil from our shores.
You worship as you will,
You freely have your say,
And all that is a gift
From sentries far away.
There is a gift that comes
From troops who guard the line,
That lets us live in peace
And joy at Christmastime.
We say "Support the troops,"
But hardly pause to think
What honor really means,
Or how near looms the brink.
There is a Christmas gift
From those who hold the line,
And you and I, my friend,
Get nothing more sublime.
(c)Robert A. Hall 2007
Former SSgt, USMC
Good
I left the United States Air Force Security Team, Jan. 1970 and
then went back to Syracuse University. On Friday 13th.,
February 1970, I left campus and went to the local Marine Corps
Officer Selection Office to apply for Officer's Candidate
School.
The Officer Selection Officer asked are you in great shape? I
replied, "Yes!" He said, "How many push-ups can you do?" I
said, "50, which arm do you want me to use?"
He replied, "You're a real Smart A$s, aren't you?" I said,
"Yes and he said good"! I reported to training at Quantico,
Va. on April Fool's Day 1970!
Subsequently, when I was graduating from the Basic School, the
School Commanding Officer approached myself and said, "What is
all of that sh!t on your chest Harris?" I replied, "Sir, those are my Air Force ribbons?"
His answer, "I know that....what do they stand for?" I said,
"This one is for handball, this one is for the Mess Hall..."
He interrupted, "You are a real Smart A$s, aren't you?" I said
a resounding "Yes"! He said, "Good!" Thus, continued my
love for my Marine Corps!
Semper Fi, Do or Die!
Roger F. Harris
Short Rounds
Learning To Lead, OCS. (Video)
Jerry was married to my Sister in Law for 41 years. Jerry
received the Silver star and Bronze star with a V device in
Vietnam. He passed away last Friday unexpectedly. He was buried
at Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas yesterday with full
military honors. He will be missed. He was a h&ll of a man and a
great Marine. Semper Fi Jerry.
Larry Jordan Sgt. of the Marines 1955-1960
Come on Grit. Marines always complain - and then we go ahead
and get the job done!
Semper Fi
Kerry R.
God made Corpsmen so Marines could have heroes.
Sgt.L.G.Perkins USMCR 1956-1967
Slide show shown at the Commandant's Luncheon in OKC.
Bill Moore of Canton Ohio served from 1976 to 1980 and was one
of the finest Marines I've ever known. Bill had a heart attack
Thanksgiving morning and is now guarding the streets of Heaven.
May God bless his wife 'Andy', his children and his
grandchildren.
Respectfully,
Donny Grisez
USMC 1974-1978
the only difference between the old and the new, the old Corps
had to spit shine their boots, shoes, and bill on their garrison
cover, and the new Corps has patent leather shoes and cover.
other than that they are the same.
cpl crowl,1964- 1967, nam 1966
Just wanted to thank all Marines for what you have shared with
this Seabee. Spent time at Camp Lejeune in 1969 going to
communications school for NMCB1 {SEABEES}, never got to put any
time on radio overseas just building stuff and fixing roads and
bridges, hauling cargo to the Marines around DaNang from Deep
Water Pier at Camp Tien Shaw
Lynn C. Shindel
Vietnam Veteran 1968-69-70 [ AGENT ORANGE ] Navy Seabee
Sgt. Grit,
For Marine Jim Grimes,
About tattoo's and the Corps?
Unfortunately my brother it's called "Political Correctness" and
has permeated our beloved Corps much to my and many's dismay as
I'm proud of every tat I ever got... in and out of the Corps.
Semper Fi,
Maddog
Today 4 December 2009 another Marine went up to Heaven. He flew
F4U's with Pappy B, F9F in Korea and Helo's in Viet Nam. Major
James Sawyer went up to Heaven to join his wife today, she was
also a Marine! God Bless Him and the United States Marine Corps!
Sgt Grit,
I just finished reading the book: "Sergeant Major, U.S.
Marines", the bio of Sergeant Major Maurice Jacques 30 years in
the Corps- great reading! He was a veteran of Korea, "Nam, and
a former DI at San Diego.
Ken Miller
Staff Sergeant of Marines 1975 - 1981
Sargento Mayor
I attended Boot Camp at Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego,
California, and graduated in March of 1966. That March, I made
the second ITR in Camp Pendleton, and I also followed in the
mountains of Sierra Nevada the course of "Survival, Evasion,
Resistance to Interrogation, and Escape". In July I graduated in
the MCRD as "Drill Instructor".
After his successful training at MCRD, SGT Major Cordova
returned to his home country Peru where he reached the grade of
"Sargento Mayor" (Sergeant Major) of the "Fuerza de Infanteria
de Marina (IMAP)" The Peruvian Marines.
During the past three (03) years I has been serving as staff
member of the Baghdad Embassy Security Force (BESF) project,
contracted by Triple Canopy for providing guard force services
as "General Supervisor - All Posts", and in such position I
assists in protecting the U.S. Embassy Baghdad, in Iraq.
And in this e-mail I'll add you the some pics of the 234th
Marine Corps Birthday Ball at Baghdad Iraq; I attend this party
the as the Oldest Marine.
In the pictures:
GySgt Matthew Bement
US Ambassador to Iraq, Christopher Hill
Mr. David Cordova Cruz - the Oldest Marine (I'm wearing the
light brown uniform) Corporal Denae Zamaripa - the Youngest
Marine I also hope you still send me by e-mail the offers of
your store, and when I receive the free catalog I'll send you an
e-mail.
Sincerely your
David Cordova
Semper Fi!
Ex vs. Former
Sgt. Grit,
I've seen several posts in your newsletter concerning "Once a
Marine, Always a Marine" and "Former Marine" versus "Ex-Marine".
Let me try and set the Official record straight. Having
personally worked for (2) former Commandants of the Marine
Corps, Gen. Barrow and Gen. P.X. Kelley at HQMC, and also in the
Performance Evaluation Branch, HQMC; we officially designated
Marines as either "Former" or "Ex".
An "Ex-Marine" is an individual who completed boot-camp but
could not conform to Military Lifestyle and/or were discharged
under less than honorable or even a BCD (Bad Conduct Discharge).
These are "Ex-Marines". Those that have dishonored themselves,
the Navy, Marine Corps and ultimately their Country. They do
not have the right to be called a Marine or former Marine.
So, always be cautious when referring to former Marines. Our
famous quote, "Once a Marine, Always a Marine" might not always
hold true.
Semper Fi do or die! (to all you Former and Current Marines)
Blake Boyles
Sgt. USMC '80 -'89
Proud
I served one tour in Vietnam, first with the 81 mm mortar
platoon, H&S Co., 2/3/3. When the 3rd Division left, I was
transferred to the 60 mm mortar squad, Lima Co., 3/5/1. I've
always been proud to say that I'm a Marine and a Vietnam
veteran. The attached pictures are of my ski helmet, covered
with small service ribbon decals, earned while in the Corps.
Sgt. David Acton
Chittenango, NY
1968 - 1970
234th
Sgt Grit;
This is an historic picture of 2 Marines and a Corpsman who all
served in 1/9 "The Walking Dead", from WW2 to Viet-Nam, recently
taken at the 234th USMC Birthday Ball in San Luis Obispo,
California, held by Marine Corps League Detachment 680.
Left to right, Karl Appel, 1/9- Alpha company, machine gunner,
WW2, Iwo Jima, Purple Heart. Doc Jon Vandercook, Viet-Nam,
retired as a Navy Commander. Tim Haley, 1/9-Charlie Company,
60mm Mortars , Viet-Nam, Purple Heart.
Tim Haley/Commandant
Marine Corps League Detachment 680
Tunelrat
Sgt. Vincent Dantona's Mini Cooper with Tunelrat license plate.
Served with India Co. 3/5, 1stMarDiv in 1968 Nam. Also former
Drill Instructor at Parris Island in the seventies.
Semper Fidelis
India 3/1
Just this past October 24th members of India Co, 1st Platoon,
3Rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Mar. Div. got together
(again) in Pennsylvania for our annual platoon reunion. This
group is mostly comprised of Marines and many of our Navy
Corpsman who served in India Co. 1st PLT. between 1967 and 1968
in our battalion base near DaNang. Some also served aboard the
USS Valley Forge during our Battalion Landing Team days when we
were performing combat missions in the Province of Quang Tri.
(near the DMZ) Our platoon has been getting since the late 90's
and it we do include our spouses. We have gotten together in
places like Niagara Falls, NY - Columbus, OH - Tennessee and
Virginia. This year's reunion was held at Lt. Richard
Anderson's and his wife Lee's place on the lake near Dubois. PA.
Next year we are planning the reunion for Cape Cod, MA.
When we had our first reunion there were about 8 of us so as you
can see, we have been increasing our numbers over the years and
we continue to try to locate our brothers and invite them to
come. My hope is that maybe a few of our guys will read this and
contact one of us so we can let them know what a great time we
have and wish to join us. You can list my email address
Gpodhola0282 @ charter .net or Lt. Anderson's at hokey81
@ yahoo .com Semper Fi to all.
Glenn Podhola - India Co. radioman 67-68
A HAWK Association for LAAM Marines
http://usmchawkassociation.com/
A HAWK Association for LAAM Marines has been formed and I'm sure
he would be interested.
Thank you for your help but most of all thank you for your
continuing service to the Marine community.
The Few. The Proud.
Jerry D.
Taking Care Of Our Own
Good Morning,
After just reading a few of the letters in your forum, I had to
tell you about an incident that occurred in 1989 while I was
still on active duty, as I am now retired from the Marine Corps,
so maybe you can share it and fellow Marines can take the good
and bad from it.
During the 80's, I was attending Ordnance school in Millington
Tenn. to become a 6561, and as luck would have it, was the
senior Sgt (E-5) at the school at that time, (Which was nice
because I could drive my POV and not march to class). Things
were going according to plan while attending class with nothing
unusual to report until one late Friday night.
I had just finished dinner in Millington and was headed home
when I was flagged down by two frantic young Marines who had
recognized my vehicle. They told me that three Marines were
hurt down the street at one of the local pubs and needed medical
assistance. I parked my vehicle and arrived at the front of the
tavern to find one Marine unconscious with burns on his neck and
two other Marines bleeding from lacerations to their scalps. The
police were already there and after checking on these young
Marines, I attempted to speak with the police Lieutenant in
charge of the scene as to what hospital these men would be taken
and to attempt to find out what had occurred and why no
ambulance had yet been dispatched. At that point, I was told
that it was "None of my business and to leave the area or I
would be arrested". I informed the officer that I was the senior
Sgt at the school and that the treatment of these Marines was my
business and my duty. I asked him which hospital they would be
taken to and was told that they were not being taken to a
hospital, but are going directly to the jail and that if they
needed assistance, they could get it there. I pointed out that
one Marine was barley responsive and the other two bleeding, but
was again told to leave the area or face arrest. I informed the
officer that I was not leaving these Marines until I knew they
were going to receive Medical assistance and I then asked a
young Marine standing in the crowd to call for an Ambulance. At
that time, I was placed under arrest and put into a patrol car.
At the sight of me being placed in handcuffs, about twenty five
Marines started yelling at the officers and it got to the point
that two of them drew weapons. I intervened and ordered these
Marines to go back to the barracks and inform the Duty Officer
of what had occurred. I was then taken to the Shelby County
Jail. Once at the Jail, I asked what the charges were against me
and was told that I was charged with interfering with a police
officer and inciting a riot! I then asked for my phone call and
called the Officer of the Day and told him where I was and about
the injured Marines. I was told that they already knew about it
and were working on getting us out.
I remained in jail throughout the following day and again called
the Officer of the Day and at that time was told that "It was
the policy of the Commanding Officer that if you get put in
jail, you stay in jail" and that "No attempt will be made to get
you out". I explained what had occurred and was told that the
Commanding Officer knew the details, but he makes no exception!
The Duty Officer then added that if he could get me out himself,
he would and that fellow Officers felt the same way, but were
told not to interfere by the SgtMajor and C.O. - I remained in
jail for the following three days and then was released. When I
walked outside the station, I found the Barracks Sgt waiting for
me and on our way back to base was astounded to hear that "All
the Marines in the barracks had approached him and started
giving him money to "Get our Sgt and Marines" out of jail. He
even had two young PFC's offer their entire paychecks -(which he
thanked them, but told them $20.00 would do).
I was speechless. And had tears in my eyes at the thought of
these young Marines doing this for us. When we arrived at the
Barracks, I cleaned up and asked the Barracks Sgt to call a
formation outside. I stood in front of these young Marines and
tried to hold back the tears while I told them Thank you and
that This moment was one of the Proudest in my life as a Marine
and that they should all be Proud of themselves because they
stand for whets best in the Marine Corps - Marines take care of
their own _ Semper Fi
I then went to see the Unit Sgt Major and after a 10 minute
ordeal of being told that "If you get yourself thrown in jail,
it's your fault no matter what the reason", and that is the
Commanding Officers policy, cut and dry - no exceptions. I
informed him that I had every intention of contacting the Sgt
Major of the Marine Corps about this because the Commanding
Officers policy was wrong and that as an NCO, it was my duty to
look after those men. He just laughed and told me good luck!
After our meeting, I contacted Headquarters Marine Corps and to
my surprise, was given right to the Sgt Major of the Marine
Corps. I told him what had occurred and my discussion with the
Unit Sgt Major and was told to get statements from the Marines
present at the incident and fax them to him. I thanked him and
reported back to the school for class. I was pulled aside by the
School NCOIC and was told by the Master Sgt, that he was proud
of what I had done and that regardless of what the Commanding
Officers policy was, I had acted exactly like a senior NCO
should have. Over the next three weeks, I heard this from many
Staff NCO's and Officers, and I was allowed to finish school and
actually was selected for E-6 while still at school. I faxed the
statements to the Sgt Major the following week.
I later found out what had occurred with those young Marines
that night. Evidently one of them was sitting with a young lady
who - unknowingly- was the girlfriend of the clubs bouncer. The
bouncer had gotten two friend and himself to corner the Marine
in the bathroom and had used his Stun Gun on his neck and was
seen walking him the entire length of the club with it stuck to
his neck, shocking him the entire way. That accounted for the
burns on his neck. The other two Marines had tried to help him
and had been hit over the heads repeatedly with Mag-lights and
nightsticks. The one bright spot was that because I had asked
for the ambulance to be called, one arrived and the police were
told that the Marines needed to go to the hospital "before"
going to jail. We eventually went to court and after explaining
to the Judge, that I was bound by my duty as an NCO to ensure
that these Marines were cared for and explaining that I would
have done it exactly the same way if I was told that they would
not receive Medical care, he dropped the charges against the
three young Marines and dropped all but the interference of a
police officer on me. He explained that I had interfered, but he
understood why and I was fines $100.00, which I gladly paid.
I received orders to Yuma AZ, and reported for duty. A month
later, I received a call from the Barracks Sgt in Millington and
was told that the Sgt Major of the Marine Corps had showed up at
the unit and after speaking with the Commanding Officer and Sgt
Major, the school policy changed. Now if you are thrown in jail,
they will help get you out, then investigate why and go from
there. The Sgt Major of the Marine Corps had addressed the
schools Officers and Staff NCOs and had told them "Marines Take
Care Of Their Own..Always! Semper-Fi
M. Schulman
USMC Retired
Marine Barracks at Key West
I pulled a 13 month tour of duty with the Marine Barracks at Key
West 1974-75. Now I can't find a single thing about it on
Google. I don't even know if it is still active (probably not)
or if there are any old Jarheads I served with there on the
internet or not.
We were responsible for the security of the entire Florida Keys,
technically, although there was nothing worth worrying about
north of the Boca Chica Naval Air Station (now NAS Key West). We
had to practice defending the military bases and other things
(such as the electronic monitoring stations), and also the local
radio and television station in case terrorists or should try to
seize either one for propaganda reasons. Back then we were armed
with the M14 and of course the M1911A1 .45 ACP. We also had
military 12 ga shotguns. We Marines were often sent out with the
Coast Guard cutter. I believe its name was the Diligence. We
manned the .30 and .50 machine guns when the cutter was
expecting trouble, which we occasionally got from Cuban gunboats
and drug runners.
Can you find out if there are any guys from the time I served
there on the internet? I've tried USMC.mil and got nowhere fast.
I've read on the internet that they shut down the naval station
where the Barracks was located in 1974 (Truman Annex I think it
was called) but that is NOT true, as I did not leave until late
September of 1975 and they were still going strong then. Most of
the duty we pulled was as gate guards for the various military
annexes and as roving guards on the NAS and also at the ammo
dump off the Trumbo annex. My elder daughter was born at the
Naval hospital in Key West, by the way.
Any help would be appreciated. OBTW, at the Marine Corps Ball in
1974, the Assistant Commandant (General Earl E. Anderson) was
our guest.
Don Herman
Corporal, USMC (at the time)
PS: Somewhere I have a couple of things from the barracks, such
as the Marine Barracks 100 mile run certificate, etc.
Note: Of course it's gone. You can't let a Marine get used to Key West and then send him to Gitmo, 29 Palms, An Hoa, Iraq, etc...
Sgt Grit
He Said For What?
This past October four of us from Platoon 3012 (Aug-Oct 68) met
up at the Marine Corps Museum at Quantico. It was a day full of
memories from Drill Instructors to the ones that gave all! As we
left Tuns Tavern two USMC officer's (Major's) were setting up a
table, we stopped and had a short conversation about having not
seen each other for 41 years and our mini reunion . I stayed
behind as the others left and Cpl Whitley (me) made this
farewell remark " It was nice talking to you boots" there were
smiles all around that kinda of surprised me :-).
As we were B/S-ing in front of the museum gift store Larry said
look at that, it was an older gentleman wearing a Iwo Jima ball
cap and a T-shirt saying Guam Survivor. Larry spoke but was
unheard, I followed him into the shop. I approached and spoke
but he didn't hear me, so I touched his shoulder and as he
turned around I said "Sir I'd like to shake your hand and thank
you" He said for what? A little dumbfounded I said for your
service on Iwo. Then came the most humbling moment of my life as
he said "Well I guess I have to thank you too" Thanks to the new
Marines, their courage and sacrifice that have finally brought
us the respect never shown Vietnam Vet's, I have finally been
thanked for my service several times. But to be thanked by this
Marine was an honor never imagined in my wildest dream!
We went on talking of his service, he said it was great being
part of an operation to regain American soil from the enemy but
it was also an honor in taking theirs. Each generation of
Marines gives something new to the term " US Marine " in reality
there so few of us compared to the others but we are and always
will be the United States Marine Corps !
Semper Fi, Cpl William Whitley, Bravo 1/9 "The Walking Dead"
Slop Shoot
I am old Corps, 1952 - 1962, and over the Thanksgiving weekend I
called a Marine I know with the 3rd Marine Division in Hawaii.
When I got his voice mail I left a message asking him if he was
at the "slop shoot" with his buddies and to get back to me when
he had time. When he finally called me back he was totally
unaware of what a "slop shoot" was and I had to explain old
Corps lingo to him. I had not realized how it has changed over
the years. It just not seem that long ago. I have a cousin who
was Top Sergeant after serving 34 years in the Corps. Thanks
for all you services and hope to be placing another order
tomorrow.
Semper Fi
S/Sgt I. J. Oshana (Ret)
# Of Tubes
I'm hoping you can point me to someplace I can get answers to a
couple questions.
1) Around 1955 (probably during the 1957 reorg) at the
recommendation of the Hogaboom board the number of tubes in the
USMC artillery battalion was reduced. From what to what?
2) The Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR) was more-or-less phased
out with the introduction of the M-14 in 1957, yet I've seen
indications it was still carried along with M-14's during early
Vietnam, till about 1967 when the USMC started to get the M-16
in quantity. This was due to the lack of availability and
general "quality" of the M14E2/M14A1 full-auto version intended
to replace the BAR. True?
3) In about 1986 there was apparently a move to increase the
number of tubes in the USMC artillery battalion by going from a
6-gun to an 8-gun battery. It's unclear if this was ever
implemented, and I know batteries are currently all 6-gun.
Thanks
G.D. Olson
A Tank On Top Of The Hill
Sgt Grit I look in your web-site it was really great. You were
in my Unit but different time and different Company, but we are
still brother to the end. I am Sgt. Agron know as Mad-dog at
that time in 1970 through 1971. I was with the 1St Bn. 7th
Marines Charley Company my squad service the area of Que Son
Valley and Thu Bon River valley and Imperial Lake.
I remember there was a big major operation we did in the QUE Son
Mountains which I never forget. Then I got wounded and I was
lifted to Camp Ronald Bay Hospital and found out my 7th Marines
Regiment Withdrawal from Imperial Lake to DaNang to get on the
Freedom Bird to go home.
I did not go home with my unit for the reason I only had three
months in county. From the hospital I was transferred to 1/5
Battalion Bravo company and landed at LZ Baldy I will never
forget we had a Tank on top of the hill. Then I serviced time
and went home with the 5th Marines we came home by Ship in 1971
the whole Regiment. We went to Hong Kong then to Hawaii for one
day then to Camp Pendleton and there was a big Parade for the
Navy and Marines that came home from Viet-Nam. Then from Camp
Pendleton I had order to go to the East coast leaving my entire
friend behind.
I was from New York most of the squad leader was from California
and I lost contact with them. What hurt is those two Unit I
service with were my true brother and I know Sgt. Grit what I
mean. I wish I had the entire picture to remember and maybe get
in contact with my unit in both Division I service it not easy.
Now I live in the State of Florida.
Looking forward hearing from You Sgt. Grit.
Andrew Agron
The Life Major Of Richard F. Risner
Dear Sgt. Grit:
I am working on a new book/screenplay based on the life Major
Richard F. Risner (1932-2005) and our MAG-12 Civic Action Team
between 1967 and 1968. During the spring of 1968 we had a
generous donor from Encinitas, CA who refurbished the old pedal-
type Singer sewing machines and he also converted some electric
machines to the pedal-type and shipped them to Vietnam. The
work performed was most extraordinary with hand rubbed and
varnished wooden cabinets/bases. This individual would take
them to VMGR-352 at MCAS El Toro where they were crated and
shipped to Chu Lai. We presented over 18 of these beautiful
machines to widows and orphans of ARVN veterans killed or
disabled in action. If anyone remembers this gentleman's name
and/or was a member of VMGR-352 or 152 in country who remembers
doing this, please E-Mail me at rghays47@gmail.com .
Welcome home brothers,
Semper Fidelis,
Ronald E. (Gene) Hays II
MSgt, USMC, Retired
Feedback
In an earlier newsletter I posted a link to a Vietnam
information site. Here is some feedback on it.
Sgt Grit
Don't know who posted this but what I read about Operation Dewey
Canyon is BS! Two Vets against the war, stated their CO was Gung
Ho and wanted to carry KIA's , WIA's instead of medavac. I was
there couldn't even get food and water in, carried friends and
brothers out! I was with Bravo and doubt the weather conditions
were any better than theirs. Here is to Gunny Pineapple good
friend never forgotten!
William Whitley
Elliott's Beach
Sgt Grit,
In response to SGT. Robert S. Malloy's question about "Elliott's
Beach", we went to Elliott's Beach during 3rd phase of our
training in Dec. 1976. Graduated with Plt. 394, H Company, 13
Dec.
If I remember correctly, it was a two day event, one day was
spent at stations where we were tested on certain subjects, the
gas chamber, and the infiltration course if I'm not mistaken. I
know we spent the night in the field.
SGT Robert Halper USMC
1976-1980
2ND MAW MACG 28 MASS-1
1ST MAW MACG 18 MASS-2
SEMPER FI
.
As an added note to the Special Instruction Platoon in boot
camp, Our DI'S preferred the name Motivational Platoon or the
Fat Boys Platoon, and everyone knows, we didn't want to get set
back and start all over again in order to graduate, You learned
to bust a$$ a little bit harder, so you could graduate, also I
remember Elliot's Beach, and the name Gunny Middleton sticks
with it! Can't recall why? Only his list, what to bring with
you!
L/Cpl Stan Shepherd USMC
1682617 1957-1963
In response to Sgt. Robert Malloy's post. Elliott's beach was
most certainly there in 1976 when I was in boot camp. 1st Bat,
Plt 1028 mar-jun 76. This is where you were tested for NBC,
First Aid, This is where the gas chamber was, foxhole
fortifications, etc. Besides being a picnic area with a ragged
beach, it served to test many a Marine before he was allowed to
wear the EGA. Thanks Sgt. Grit for this wonderful forum for all
of us old jarheads to remember.
Tony Folds, Sgt, USMC
Marines fire opening salvo to retake Helmand -
The Long War Journal
U.S. Marines will be first to deploy to Afghanistan
CongressDaily December 7, 2009
The Defense Department on Monday announced the deployment of
16,000 additional forces to Afghanistan, the initial portion of
the surge of 30,000 U.S. troops announced by President Obama
last week to quell rising violence and train Afghan security
forces.
The first unit -- an Infantry Battalion Task Force with about
1,500 Marines from Camp Lejeune, N.C. - will deploy to
Afghanistan this month. Another 6,200 Marines from Camp Lejeune
will deploy in early spring, while approximately 800 Marines
from Camp Pendleton, Calif., will go to Afghanistan in the
spring.
Meanwhile, 3,400 soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division at
Fort Drum, N.Y., will deploy to Afghanistan in early spring to
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