|
Dear Sgt. Grit - On December 16, 2008, Lt. Kenneth H. Rose, USMC
Navigator in World War II went to guard Heaven's gates after a
lengthy illness. Kenny, as he was known to all of us in our
church, was a large man both in life and spirit. He served in
both the U.S. Army and the Marines and was a POW both in Germany
and Japan. He was most proud of being a Marine.
When our son
joined the Corps six years ago, Kenny always referred to him as
"my Marine". Every time our son has been home he has made time
to visit with Kenny even when we were not sure Kenny would know
him. On those occasions he put on his Dress Blues knowing that
Kenny would recognize the uniform if not the Marine.
At his Memorial Service this past Saturday, our son was given
the distinct honor of presenting the American flag to Kenny's
widow, Patti. There was so much Marine tradition in the
Memorial that I cannot tell it all here. There is a local Ex-
POW club here and they also had a small ceremony for Patti.
Rolling Thunder was also present for their presentation. The
family held up well throughout the service but when Taps was
played and Rob presented the flag, they began to shed their
tears. The other two presentations were done when Kenny's urn
was placed in his niche in the Columbarium after the service and
that is when the tears really flowed.
Our son flew home from Norfolk, VA, just for the Memorial
service at the request of Kenny's widow because, as she said,
"Rob was always Kenny's Marine. You just had the privilege of
raising him." Actually, my husband is a no longer active Marine
Sgt. himself.
I thank God every day for all of the Marines and other
servicemen and women serving our Country, past, present and
future. Thank you, one and all, for your service to our
Country.
Mom and Wife of Marines
Sharon
Sgt. Grit,
I'm not old enough to have met the general personally (being
only 40 years old) but, did have an experience I want to pass
along. Several years ago I joined the National Guard after a 15
year break in service. I attended AIT at Ft. Eustis, Va, and it
was while I was there, that I was traveling with a friend that
lived in that area. While in the car I noticed a menu from a
restaurant that had an address of Puller Parkway.
I asked my
friend about it and he said that the Pullers had lived in that
area and Chesty was buried not too far away. I, very excitedly
asked if he could show me and of we went. We arrived at a church
out in the middle of nowhere and I walked up to the cemetery.
There was nothing special about the marker except the small
American and Marine Corps flags at the head. I stood there for a
moment and heard the echoes of "Good Night Chesty, wherever you
might be" from that squadbay at Parris Island. I felt the tears
well up inside as I stood there in the presence of why I had
joined the Corps so many years ago. I took the time to take a
few pictures for posterity, saluted and about faced. This is a
memory I will cherish for the rest of my life.
Semper Fi!
Ross Jones
"The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front
of him, but because he loves what is behind him."
G. K. Chesterton
Dear RAdm. Stark,
I liked the comment you had about Marines comparing us to
Rotties, or Dobermans, but I'd like to tell you of one that I
think is even better.
On a program about the fight for Fallujah, Iraq on the military
channel. I heard a young LCpl. give an analysis of humanity so
profound that it has stuck in my memory. I only wish his name
had stuck with me as well.
I'm paraphrasing here but I hope I do him justice;
"90% of the people of the world are sheep" he said, "the other
10% are divided equally between wolves and sheepdogs."
"The wolves of the world spend their time attacking the flock,
killing, raping, stealing and committing acts of terror."
"We Marines are sheepdogs, while we will willingly fight, and
kill. It is only in defense of the flock that we do so."
Semper Fi
Tyler Therrien Cpl. USMC EAS 7/87
"Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it."
George Santayana, The Life of Reason, Volume 1, 1905
Dear Sgt. Grit,
A lot people say the medics who served with us Marines were
Marines.
My Dad was a 22 year old naval gunnery officer on a LSM on Feb.
19, 1945 and went into the h&ll of red beach 1 at Iwo Jima that
day. Standing at his post directing fire, his ship shot to h&ll
and his gunners wounded he took two rounds of enemy fire, one
that is still in his arm to this day.
He tells me he has never understood how those Marines could get
and move out getting cut down by the dozens then hundreds. I
served in the Corps from 69-73 and tell him any boot navy
officer who exposes himself to provide covering fire for Marines
in combat and gets shot twice for doing it makes him a Marine
also. He beams with pride at 86 when I tell him that because
its true.
Mike Rhodes/Sgt. USMC
Sgt Grit.
In regards to Jim Leonard's letter about the drumming out of the
two Marines. I was there that day also. I was stationed with
Mike and Hdq Btry from Dec 1959 till Feb 1961. Red Ebert was Hdq
Btty's 1st Sgt and then the Bn Sgt Maj. I met Red at Mike Btty's
first reunion in 2000. I never thought I would ever see him
after I left in 1961. He was at the reunion but died the next
year. He join the Marines in 1941 and retired 30 years later in
1971. Spent the rest of his time in Pa. He cared for his Mother
for a long time. He was a great supporter of the orphanage near
Fuji Japan. He was always collecting money for supplies for the
orphanage. Sgt Maj Ebert was one great Marine.
Cpl Tom Loch 58-61
"I think we have more machinery of government than is necessary,
too many parasites living on the labor of the industrious."
Thomas Jefferson
Dear Sgt.Grit,
I served in the MARINE'S from 1975-1979 at EL-TORO with Marine
Air Control Group 38 then with the 3rd MARINE DIVISION. This is
about how proud I'm of my son Justin who is a CPL. in the
MARINE'S who is serving overseas in the GULF REGION on the
U.S.S. Iwo Jima. We both went in at 17 right out of High School
and I wanted to attach both our pictures from boot camp. You
must remember that there is and age difference of 31 years but
when I saw his picture I had to find mine and do a double take.
What I saw was myself and I just could not believe the likeness.
I know this will not be important to others but I wanted to
share it with you at Sgt. Grit.
Sincerely,
Mark Henry
Sgt. U.S.M.C
Don't know if you all have seen this trailer yet but this looks
like a great trailer for an HBO movie coming next month. Movie
is based on a recent true story of a Marine escorting the
remains of a fellow Marine home.
http://www.hbo.com/events/takingchance/
Capt Morrow
"I am free of all prejudice. I hate everyone equally."
W. C. Fields (1880 - 1946)
Hello Sgt Grit: Surfing the net and came across your very find
web site....came upon a letter or short story from an airline
hostess by the name of Helen Tenant Hegelheimer of her job
attending to the troops on the way over to Vietnam of the 5 hour
flight.
First of all sir I enlisted in the Navy and volunteered for
Vietnam. To make a long story short 1966 my tour took me from
Norfolk to Travis then to Alaska to Tokyo to catch an LST
homeported in Sasebo, Japan working coastal Vietnam for 16
months.
When my tour of duty was up left Vietnam to Tokyo Sunday
morning....waited out until late in the dark of nite loaded up
with both Marines and Sailors and flew out of Tachikawa Air
Force Base, Tokyo flew 12hrs non-stop in a Air Force C-130 Jet
with cargo seats for comfort.... no lady hostess on this flight
but we didn't care where going home gave us box lunches our only
meal in 20 hours we didn't care where going home and the head
didn't work. We talked about going home and landing and treating
us well when we got to Travis Air Base in San Francisco maybe a
nice welcome home a great meal, etc.
When landed it was late at nite 0200 no fanfare, no nice meal
and shuttle off to a Navy bus to Treasure Island didn't see any
protestors like we heard about must of got tired and went home.
Next stop was at a barracks to where we stowed our gear and hit
the rack for revelry 0630. I guess I'm home figured that's how
we all got treated when we came back to the world. Got Honorable
discharged headed back to a small town in Ohio....didn't say
much about the war to my parents...took me sometime to get
settled down. Two years later my brother enlisted in the Army
did a tour of 12 months in Plieku came home walking with a
Bronze Star but has the same stories about going over and coming
home as I read about Hegelheimer Bio.
Harry Morris
Dear Sgt. Grunt,
Several years ago I interviewed a large number of Marines in the
2nd and 4th Divisions about the Battle of Saipan.
My book on that subject is called: D-Day in the Pacific: The
Battle of Saipan (Indiana University Press). The book is widely
available (Amazon, History Book Club or Military Book Club,
Barnes & Noble, etc).
I believe that many of your Marines would be interested in this
book.
Thank you for your help.
Harold J. Goldberg
David E. Underdown Professor of History
Chair, Asian Studies Program
University of the South
Sewanee, TN 37383
"A Constitution of Government once changed from Freedom, can
never be restored. Liberty, once lost, is lost forever."
John Adams
December 6,2008 would have been my wife's father's birthday.
Mort Spero USN WWII passed away last year. In honor of his
passing my wife decided to celebrate his birthday. His favorite
meal would be served. The catch was, that to attend you had to
bring a TOY for TOTs. 14 of our friends attended. My wife Carol
brought in 3 large bags of toys to the pick up station at her
work. What a great time, and what a great cause.
Cpl Tom Flynn
USMC 69-71 and beyond
RVN 70-71.
hey Sgt. Grit
Just wanted to send you a couple of pictures of our dog Nick
wearing his new collar that i got from you for Christmas. the
close-up shows he's no bulldog, but he's still our little devil
dog
Sincerely
(former) Cpl. Walt Short
3rd. Marine Division
Vietnam
66-67
"All men having power ought to be distrusted to a certain
degree."
James Madison
"Not as lean, not as mean, still a Marine", and proud of it.
Two issues.
I stepped on the MCRDSD yellow footprints in September 1974 2
A.M. Several months later after completing Teletype Comm School,
a Chicago buddy of mine at 2nd MarDiv Headquarters
Communications Platoon told me a story of his brother who went
to PI the same time he did. He was on the ship that embarked the
Mayaquez in May '75, the last official battle of the U.S.
involvement in the Vietnam War. I'll never forget when he told
me his brother confessed to peeing in his pants when they
started passing out ammo and were told to lock and load before
boarding the Mayaquez. To me his brother "fought in Viet Nam".
I never did a tour in Viet Nam, and 4 years after successfully
completing boot camp was Honorably Discharged in September 78 as
a Corporal.
Now at the age of 53 years, I wear a Sgt Grit t-shirt "Not as
lean, not as mean, still a Marine", and proud of it.
I have two sons, my oldest son is in the Corps, a Sergeant,
Iraqi Freedom 3 tours, with a Purple heart, and just stationed
to Quantico to teach officers how to use a radio. He married a
WM (Lance Corporal) and now have a baby WM, with another on the
way. This time a boy.
1. While attending a Christmas ceremony at our Baptist Church,
they asked for veterans that were in the Korean War, Viet Nam
War, Desert Storm, and currently serving in Iraqi Freedom to
Stand Up. I didn't stand up. Both my Wife and my sister urged me
to stand up. I whispered to them I was a "veteran from the Viet
Nam Era", I was not in the Viet Nam War. They said it was the
same thing. I believe it is not. I did not endure the same
physical/ mental conflicts and challenges that other Marines did
in actual combat.
2. My youngest son will be graduating from High School with
honors 11th in his class top 3%. While completing applications
for College Scholarships, they ask if any parent is either of
the following:
-Active Duty
-Retired
-Disabled Veteran
To me I don't fit any of these categories. Does Honorably
Discharged not mean anything to them? At the age of 53 I'm not
Active Duty. I only did 4 years Active Duty, so I'm not retired.
I'm not disabled either.
I've been searching the Internet for Military Scholarships, but
to no avail because of that missing Honorably Discharged
category. I'm hoping that when my youngest son completes College
(Forensics Major) that he too will want to become a Marine like
his dad and older brother. Then we'll both have to salute him.
Cpl David Gaytan USMC '74-'78
Dallas Texas
"Life is not holding a good hand; Life is playing a poor hand
well."
Danish proverb
"Never try to reason the prejudice out of a man. It was not
reasoned into him, and cannot be reasoned out."
Sydney Smith
Just finished reading the newsletter this morning about Customs
and Traditions. I was honored as the youngest Marine present at
the Marine Corps Ball, Marine Barracks Guam, 1990. It wasn't
until the ceremony progressed, how much of an honor it is.
After the ceremony, The oldest Marine, a Sgt Maj, shared his
stories with me as I sat next to him at the Ball. I've often
used the term "crusty" and still do as a term of respect for
experience and knowledge. He was crusty, and most likely has
moved on to his assignment with St. Peter, guarding the Gates to
Heaven. Semper Fi Sgt Maj wherever you are!
Cpl James Alford
'90-'96
Mar Bks Guam
1/6 2nd Mar Div
4th Mar Div, MarCor Res.
Sgt Grit,
After 29 years I had the opportunity to go back to MCRD San
Diego to witness a recruit graduation. One of our members
(retired gunny) of the Marine Riders of Las Vegas, has a son who
was graduating in December of 2008. I contacted the President of
our club and we set up a ride down to Diego. We had about 27
members attend the graduation. We were escorted on to MCRD and
seated in the reviewing section with the Commanding General of
MCRD. What an awesome feeling it was to see those young Marines
and remembering back 29 years ago when I was in their shoes.
This was the third trip our riding club has made to MCRD, and I
was honored to have had the opportunity to attend. If any of you
Marines out there get the opportunity to attend a graduation,
take it! As the old saying goes Once A Marine Always A Marine. I
would also like to extend an invite to any of you Marines out
there passing through the Las Vegas area to stop by and see us
at the Leatherneck Club. For any riders out there look us up at
Marineriders.us
Semper Fi,
Scot A. Motl
SSgt Jan 80- Dec 92
"For myself the delay [in assuming the office of the President]
may be compared with a reprieve; for in confidence I assure you,
with the world it would obtain little credit that my movements
to the chair of Government will be accompanied by feelings not
unlike those of a culprit who is going to the place of his
execution: so unwilling am I, in the evening of a life nearly
consumed in public cares, to quit a peaceful abode for an Ocean
of difficulties, without that competency of political skill,
abilities and inclination which is necessary to manage the
helm."
George Washington
Rules For Dating a Marine's Daughter
Rule One:
If you pull into my driveway and honk you'd better be delivering
a package, because you're sure not picking anything up.
Rule Two:
You do not touch my daughter in front of me. You may glance at
her, so long as you do not peer at anything below her neck. If
you cannot keep your eyes or hands off of my daughter's body, I
will remove them.
Rule Three:
I am aware that it is considered fashionable for boys of your
age to wear their trousers so loosely that they appear to be
falling off their hips. Please don't take this as an insult, but
you and all of your friends are complete idiots. Still, I want
to be fair and open- minded about this issue, so I propose this
compromise: You may come to the door with your underwear showing
and your pants ten sizes too big, and I will not object.
However, In order to ensure that your clothes do not, in fact,
come off during the course of your date with my daughter, I will
take my electric nail gun and fasten your trousers securely in
place to your waist.
Rule Four:
I'm sure you've been told that in today's world, sx without
utilizing a "barrier method" of some kind can kill you. Let me
elaborate, when it comes to sx, I am the barrier, and I will
kill you.
Rule Five:
In order for us to get to know each other, we should talk about
sports, politics, and other issues of the day. Please do not do
this. The only information I require from you is an indication
of when you expect to have my daughter safely back at my house,
and the only word I need from you on this subject is "early."
Rule Six:
I have no doubt you are a popular fellow, with many
opportunities to date other girls. This is fine with me as long
as it is okay with my daughter. Otherwise, once you have gone
out with my little girl, you will continue to date no one but
her until she is finished with you. If you make her cry, I will
make you cry.
Rule Seven:
As you stand in my front hallway, waiting for my daughter to
appear, and more than an hour goes by, do not sigh and fidget.
If you want to be on time for the movie, you should not be
dating. My daughter is putting on her makeup, a process that can
take longer than painting the Golden Gate Bridge. Instead of
just standing there, why don't you do something useful, like
changing the oil in my car?
Rule Eight:
The following places are not appropriate for a date with my
daughter: Places where there are beds, sofas, or anything softer
than a wooden stool. Places where there are no parents,
policemen, or nuns within eyesight. Places where there is
darkness. Places where there is dancing, holding hands, or
happiness. Places where the ambient temperature is warm enough
to induce my daughter to wear shorts, tank tops, midriff T-
shirts, or anything other than overalls, a sweater, and a goose
down parka zipped up to her throat. Movies with a strong
romantic or sxual theme are to be avoided; movies which
features chain saws are okay. Hockey games are okay. Old folks
homes are better.
Rule Nine:
Do not lie to me. I may appear to be a potbellied, balding,
middle-aged, dimwitted has-been. But on issues relating to my
daughter, I am the all-knowing, merciless god of your universe.
If I ask you where you are going and with whom, you have one
chance to tell me the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the
truth. I have a shotgun, a shovel, and five acres behind the
house. Do not trifle with me.
Rule Ten:
Be afraid. Be very afraid. It takes very little for me to
mistake the sound of your car in the driveway for a chopper
coming in over a rice paddy outside of Chu Lai. When my Agent
Orange or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) starts acting
up, the voices in my head frequently tell me to clean the guns
as I wait for you to bring my daughter home. As soon as you pull
into the driveway you should exit your car with both hands in
plain sight. Speak the perimeter password, announce in a clear
voice that you have brought my daughter home safely and early,
then return to your car. There is no need for you to come
inside. The camouflaged face at the window is mine.
"Courage is endurance for one moment more..."
Unknown Marine Second Lieutenant in Vietnam
Sgt. Grit,
I was wondering if you could help me get some information. I was
in the Corps from 88-98. I always heard and used the term
"dropping the dime" or dime dropper when I was in. We used it
when someone would turn us in for something or got us in
trouble. What is the history on this term?
Semper Fidelis!
-Cpl. Chris Harrington
5811, 88-98
The Columbus Ohio Marine Corps League Detachment has made Gilles
Lagin, a citizen of France, an Honorary Member of their unit. He
has been mailed a framed copy of the League Certificate so
recognizing him.
Marine Lagin was recognized earlier in 2008 by
becoming only the second non-US citizen to be named an Honorary
United States Marine. This took place through action of the
Commandant of the Marine Corps, as part of a commemorative
ceremony held at Belleau Wood. The Commandant took that action
in recognition of Lagin's lifelong devotion to preservation of
the memory of the bravery and sacrifices of the Marines at
Belleau Wood during WWI, and for his creation of a museum in
France honoring the WWI Marine Corps. The Belleau Wood
Detachment members thought it only proper to induct Lagin as a
member, and wish all Marines to be aware of Gilles Lagin's
contributions to the Corps.
John Maurer, Commandant
Belleau Wood Detachment #508
www.mcleague508.com
"Prejudice is opinion without judgment."
Voltaire
Gentlemen of the Corps:
I have just read "Chesty" authored by Col.Jon T. Hoffman. What
a great read of a great MAN. The sad part of the book was when
it ended at page 538. However, when I need some inspiration, I
pick up the book and read random excerpts. What a boost.
Frank Wall
Capt. USMCR
Dear Sgt Grit,
In the story "He Interrupted Me" the former corpsmen mentioned
the Commanding Officer of HMH 364 (Col. Gene Brady) well I knew
Col. Brady when he was a Major with VMF 541 ( as the Executive
Officer of the squadron) back in 1961.
Yes he was a great gentleman and it was a pleasure to have
served with him.
He may not remember me as he had a whole squadron of men to
command but I sure remember him and a glad he is still among us
old salts.
Keep up the good work with stories like this from former Marines
and those great Corpsmen.
Give Chief Thompkins my thanks for the story and the best of
luck. I also served in the RVN 68-69 with HMH 463.
Semper Fi,
Karl R. Leech, SSgt. USMC(Ret)
"It does not require a majority to prevail, but rather an irate,
tireless minority keen to set brush fires in people's minds.."
Samuel Adams
I was hoping that in your next e-mail, that you would give a
congratulations to the Recruits that are becoming Marine's on
Jan. 30th please.
Thank you,
Cassie
"We should never despair, our Situation before has been
unpromising and has changed for the better, so I trust, it will
again. If new difficulties arise, we must only put forth new
Exertions and proportion our Efforts to the exigency of the
times."
George Washington
I office with retired Marine Gunny Sergeant Gary Marr he
recently corrected one day. I was telling him about my deceased
son Brandon R. Taylor who was a proud Marine in 1997 - 98,
unfortunate for Brandon he fell from a rope exercise during
Basic and shattered his right ankle. The Marines performed two
surgeries and seven months of rehab before they had to inform
Brandon that they couldn't keep him due to the extra metal in
his lower leg. He was very disappointed but accepted his 10%
disability with pride. In May of 2008 I loss my son to suicide.
I guess he couldn't handle all his disappointments in his brief
29 years of life. Mr. Marr informed me that once a Marine my son
would always be a Marine, so when speaking of him always say "My
son is a Marine not was a Marine". Thanks for your time. I love
all the stories. Thanks again.
John B. Taylor
LCPL Chadwick Gilliam
Chad was from a very small coal mining town at the foot of the
Appalachian Mountains. Everyone in the town knew everyone
because they were either friend or related. The funeral service
was performed by Preacher Bob and two others. They were
Baptist and I had never attended Baptist services before. The
room was filled with flowers. They were everywhere. They
surrounded the open casket that Chad laid in. During the
viewing it was standing room only. The funeral home was packed
as people came in and paid their respects. Family and friends
arrived with gifts of food in hand to share with others. There
was plenty of food to be had by all. The funeral home stayed
open until 10:00 p.m. with the Marines Corps gently reminding
folks that they were closing soon. The family had already
retired for the evening.
The following day service was again held at the funeral home and
once again it over-flowed. As I had been to funerals before, I
knew the hardest part for the family had not yet happened. It
would be when the coffin was shut. The Honor Guard was summoned
and shortly thereafter his mother appeared. My heart went out
to her. As a mother, I could not imagine her pain at that
moment nor did I want to intrude on it. I took my place with
the Marines in the procession.
The streets of downtown Mayking were lined with the townspeople
who weren't at the funeral home. They stood alongside the road
and waved their American Flags. Those with no flag had their
hand over their heart. I experienced mid-town America and I
realized something as I rode along. Although they appeared to
be backwards to an outsider and their town was obviously poor,
they were so wealthy in the only ways that mattered and their
backwards ideals is what America is missing today.
Chad received a 7 gun salute (with three volleys). The Marine
Corps League was there. The Honor Guard from the I&I was there
with the ceremony being performed by the Marines. Two Marines
from Kuwait had been sent back to attend the funeral. His best
friend and his Platoon Sgt. There was also a group of Army
soldiers (seasoned type) in uniform that attended.
His father was the tower of the strength both days. His mother
cried enough tears for both. His young widow brought tears to
my eyes as I watched her mourn the loss of her husband of a mere
4 months.
The Patriot Guard stood their post both days at the funeral home
and at the grave site. I looked at them in awe. You never knew
they were there, yet you knew. You never knew when they left,
but when they did, all was well. They stand their post, holding
onto the flag and never waver.
The funeral director did tell us that they did not expect any
trouble from the protestors. He said they might be "a bit crazy
to come to these parts, probably get capped and it would be
justifiable". I think the word got out.
In closing, I remember one young man who came rushing into the
funeral home right before the service began. I'm sure he
thought he was going to be late. He had come straight from work
and wanted to pay his respects to Chad. He was covered in coal
dust, from head to toe. He was black. I just wanted to shake
his hand.
Sharon
Don't you forget that you're First Marines! Not all the
communists in H&ll can overrun you!
Col. Lewis B. "Chesty" Puller, USMC
rallying his First Marine Regiment near Chosin Reservoir, Korea,
December 1950
Hello. My name is Tiffany Plonka. I am currently enrolled in a
vocational school in San Jose California, in a video production
class. I am working on a final project which is a movie the
lasts 5-8 minutes long. I am not sure if you are going to be
able to help me, however it never hurts to ask. I've decided to
make my project on the life of an American soldier. The
hardships of adjustment joining the military as well as the
adjustments of coming home to become a civilian. This isn't due
for some time yet, however I am trying to form some contacts
within that I may get some opinions and advice as to what to
film over. I am making this into a documentary hoping that it
may open some eyes to people that are otherwise shut tight. My
own father served in Vietnam in the Army. He doesn't speak of
it much, and when he does it seems to tear him up inside. I
recall him speaking of his treatment when he came back home.
How he was still in uniform and went into a restaurant where
they refused to serve him.
It's small things like this that people seem to overlook in the
every day world that should be noticed. These days seem to be
better. I've seen a group of soldiers in the airport walk
through a standing ovation. People these days seem to
understand that just because they don't support the war,
soldiers deserve our respect, our love, and our support.
It would be extremely helpful if there was any one that you may
know that would be willing to speak to me of their experiences
sometime in the future. I understand that it may be hard to do
so; the few people I know that have served do not speak of it
openly or lightly, rightly so. I would be grateful if there was
anything anyone could do for me.
Thank you very much for your time.
tifferzaplonka [at] yahoo.com
"The flag doesn't wave because the wind blows it. It waves with
the last breath of every service member that has given his life
for this grand and great nation."
Marshall Tall Eagle Serna
Reading the stories about drumming out brought back a dim
memory. I was in Electronics School at MCRD San Diego in 1965.
If memory serves, the classes were drawn up in formation behind
the chow hall. I can't recall if it was a regular formation or
special for the occasion. An ex-Marine was paraded, and the
charges read. I seem to remember his uniform being stripped, but
that may be my selective memory. I don't recall drums. It was
chilling, but didn't make the impression on me that similar
events made on others. I guess I couldn't imagine that happening
to me.
I'm sure I speak for all of us when I say we would have far
preferred to die in combat at 19, than to live our lives with
that shame. Only thing lower would have been to be photographed
at a North Vietnamese Anti-aircraft gun, assisting them in
bringing tyranny and genocide to Southeast Asia.
The guys who were drummed out must have long beards-how could
they shave, looking at themselves in a mirror?
Last month, going to the movies, a young fellow with a date,
shoulder-length curly hair, and a Marine PFC's green blouse worn
as a coat over his jeans passed us on the other side of the
street. My wife restrained me from speaking to the boy.
I'm one of those who don't recall the Yellow Footprints. I
arrived at Parris Island about 2 am in the summer of 64, having
spent the bus ride making out with a WM recruit. (Top that,
guys!) We didn't have the pleasure of meeting our DIs, Sgts.
William Harris, Michael Martin and Ezekiel Owens, until mid-
morning. Would love to hear from Sgt. Harris and Sgt. Martin
(have been in touch with Sgt. Owens who has a locksmith business
in Jacksonville, NC). I owe them for my success in life.
My only hiking story doesn't match the 100-milers. I was in Comm
Support Company on Okinawa, a nice interlude before departing
for RVN, where I was able to learn my trade in Radio Relay.
The platoon had problems. We had a great officer, Second
Lieutenant Hogley (the same guy who headed up our school at
BES). But in my view, the Gunnery Sergeant, one of the Staff
Sergeants, the two Sergeants and about half the corporals were
worthless. The Lieutenant was getting all his information from
the senior NCOs. The troops had low morale and disdain for the
leadership. I tried to be a good NCO, though I was new at it,
which got me in endless trouble. They sent me to NCO School,
where I came out first in a class of 57. Unfortunately, the
school taught that persuasive leadership was better than
authoritarian leadership-the kind being practiced in my outfit.
So I got in even more trouble trying to practice what I'd been
taught, but, thankfully, nothing official.
One of the NCO, Sergeant R, sticks in my mind. He liked to chew
troops out in front of their peers. He liked to wipe a finger
under a wall locker to see if he could find dust and so delay
liberty. He favored the corporals who followed his example of
abusing the troops. He taught me a lot about leadership, by
serving as an example of what not to do. Praise in public,
criticize in private. Concentrate on the big things. You will
get more out of people who respect you. Treat everyone with
dignity. I've often been grateful to Sergeant R in my career.
I was on light duty one time, due to being hit by a jeep trailer
that left a lump on my leg larger than a goose egg. That meant I
missed the Physical Readiness Test (PRT) for the outfit,
avoiding lots of unpleasant exercise.
Of course, the senior NCOs accused me of malingering. The week
after I got off light duty, our new officer, Lieutenant Smith,
another mustang officer up from the ranks, decided we were going
to do a 21-mile hike, over the center of the island and up the
coast, and back. With rifle, helmets, cartridge belt, and so on.
This wouldn't have been a big deal for an infantry outfit, but
our guys weren't in shape for it.
We did it in seven and a half hours walking, plus an hour break
for lunch. Not bad for a comm outfit used to riding. Lieutenant
Smith walked the whole way. Staff Sergeant Russell, a black
staff sergeant sometimes the target of racist comments by other
NCOs, but the best NCO in the outfit, walked the whole way. I
was the next senior man to walk the whole way. The Gunny, the
other Staff Sergeant, and Sergeants R & M all took turns riding
in the radio jeep or the ambulance. So did some of the
corporals-not surprisingly the ones favored by Sergeant R and
other NCOs.
One of the principles of leadership is the leader sets the
example. So you know what kind of leaders they were.
When we had six miles left to go, over the center of the island,
the Navy Corpsman ordered me into the ambulance to ride the rest
of the way, to protect my just-recovered leg. I refused. He told
me if I injured my leg, I'd be court marshaled. I told him I was
walking in with the guys.
SSgt Russell came over and whispered, "Good man, Corporal
Hall." Coming from him, it remains one of the memorable
compliments of my life.
Luckily, I had no damage other than the blisters we all had. A
division grew up in the outfit between those who had walked, and
those who rode. We began calling one of the suck-up corporals,
who rode part way, "Kathy."
When we reached Camp Hanson, all the NCOs who were riding
debarked to march in with us. "Hi, Sergeant R, nice to see you.
Did the jeep break down?" one of the other corporals called.
"Shut up," was the response.
I would be happy to hear from any of the guys from electronic
school, 1965, or Comm Support Company, Camp Hanson, 1966, or any
of the guys in Radio Relay, HQ, 26th Marines at Khe Sanh in
1967, or from Plt 273, Parris Island, 1964. My e-address is
tartanmarine(at)comcast.net.
Robert A. Hall
Cpl, USMC 1964-68
SSgt, USMCR, 1977-83
"Marines die, that's what we're here for. But the Marine Corps
lives forever. And that means YOU live forever."
The mythical GySgt. Hartman, USMC; portrayed by GySgt. R. Lee
Ermey, a Marine Corps Drill Instructor using his own choice of
words in Full Metal Jacket, 1987
My son knew well before he was of age to enlist that he wanted
to be a Marine. His Mom was concerned and worried about what
would happen if a war rolled around. I was proud that somehow I
had managed to raise a son with clear vision. I was 4F in '79
due to an ankle injury that some Doc said would prohibit me from
being able to carry out my duties (regardless that I was a three
sport letter winner...the Army would take me but I would not
settle for anything less than being a Marine). Boot camp came
and went in '99 for my son (San Diego), graduation in October.
Now I was the proud 'Marine Dad'. Seeing him with no neck, arrow
straight, and a Marine I still get a bit overfilled with that
thought. Duty station - Camp Lejeune, 2nd AABN, HQ. Lots of
pride in telling all who would suffer through my story"...my son
is a MARINE...".
All is well, then 9-11, Lejeune goes full security. Lots of
rumors and stories....then the call that we are going to Kuwait.
I go to Lejeune a couple of days prior to his unit shipping out
via 27 hours on a leased DC-10. His Mom (my ex for some years
now) is along as well. I tell him to roust up some of his
buddies and let's go get steak and beer. We do, the steak house
is packed with dozens of Marines strutting like banty roosters,
ccky, acting as if there is nothing in the future to be of
concern. I pick up a pretty good size tab (after being referred
to as "Dad", Grandpa" for most of the evening. Let me tell you
Marines do wobble after X amount of alcohol. I picked up the tab
for several other tables of Marines who I am certain were
shipping out in the next couple of days as well. The very least
I could do.
Next day - 0630 - enter the barrack...a bunch of hungover,
sleeping / sick Marines....they had decided not to call me
Grandpa anymore....spent the day packing gear, getting squared
away, and then the send off. Lots of tears around that day...I
had none, the good Lord took my fear and carried it for me as I
am certain he did for many.
Months go by...no word...(this is way prior to emails and phone
calls)...trying to follow the progress of my son and his
brothers...the Lejeune website offered very limited info (which
is a good thing...didn't need some sympathetic a$s popping off a
Marine from info gotten from the Marines). Summer day, hot,
working in the garden, cell rings....unidentified
caller...usually do not answer those calls at all, grabbed this
one on the second ring....my son...just outside of Baghdad
calling from a sat-phone for $ 20 @ 5 minutes. Alive and
well...never thought so much could be said in such a short time.
Couple of days later letters start showing up that had been
written 2-3 months prior.....the point to all of this...while so
many are sniveling and whining about this politician or that
should send their own off to war (thank you Lt CMDR McCain and
Mrs. Palin), they have no idea what in the h&ll they are talking
about or what it means to send one of your own off to some
distant land to protect those who cannot even dream of the
freedom to condemn the local dog catcher. SEMPER FI till I
die....every Marine has a place in my heart.
S. C. Trier
"You'll never get a Purple Heart hiding in a foxhole! Follow
me!"
Capt. Henry P. Crowe, USMC; Guadalcanal, 13 January 1943
Hello Sgt. Grit. My family has a very real tradition of service
to the United States Marine Corps. My father, Raymond, joined
the Marines in 1943 and was on the first assault on Saipan, June
15, 1944. He was in battle for 17 days and was wounded July 2,
1944 and was never returned to combat. His sons, Al, Dave, Ben,
Mike were all Marines with Ben serving 10 years active duty and
2 years reserve. Ben spent multiple tours in Vietnam receiving a
Silver Star and Purple Heart. Ben's son, Sgt. Trever Runnion
served 13 years in the Marines and is still on active duty.
Ben's first cousin Philip spent 2 years on active duty, with
most of that in Vietnam. Phil's son, Philip Jr. was in the
Marines 4 years and left a Sgt. Additionally, another first
cousin, Brian, spent a two year tour. That is 9 Marines in 3
generations.
Lastly, my grandson Vicktor. It has been his dream to be a
Marine Officer. In Sept. 2008 he started Marine JROTC and is now
a Cadet Lance Corporal. He is as proud of himself as I am of
him.
Several more members of our family served during W.W.II. and
Korea. I am very proud of my Uncle Royal who survived the Bataan
Death March and earned the Bronze star and Purple Heart for a
different battle. He served 12 years in the Army before the Japs
killed him while he was a POW.
Dr. Ben Drake
Sgt Grit:
Thank you for your newsletter. My current billet is OIC, Det 3,
Surg Co A, 4th Med BN, 4th MLG, MARFORRES. At my "liberty" job,
I am a Nurse Practitioner with a large cardiology group in South
Louisiana. While on rounds one day last week at the hospital, I
entered a patients room that was new to me. I immediately
noticed a tattoo on his left forearm in the shape of an anchor.
I asked him if he had ever been in the Navy, and he looked up at
me and said "no, I am a Marine". I knew from his chart that is
age was near Korean veteran, age, and when I asked him, he
softly said "yes". Further questioning revealed he was a member
of the 1st Marine Division in 1950. Suddenly, my interest and
level of respect went way up. Our conversation wound up
pinpointing his unit: 1st platoon, Able company, 1st battalion,
1st Marines.
I was stunned. His answer to the next question could've
knocked me over with a feather. I asked if he knew a Sgt George
Terrell, and he turned his head towards me, smiled, and asked me
"from Texas?"
My uncle, the late Sgt. George C. Terrell, USMC, served in the
exact same platoon at the Chosin Reservoir, Korea, 1950. A BAR
man, Purple Heart, Silver Star. After home from Korea on duty
at Quantico, he met my mother's sister at a dance in DC. When I
related the story to my cousins, all of them were elated that I
had made contact with someone Uncle George had served with.
Fortunately, this Marine is convalescing well, and should be
home soon. This FMF Navy LT, OIF veteran, will be looking after
him closely, as I always take care of my Marines.
Tiger sends
Semper Fidelis
Michael A. Couvillon
LT, NC, USN(FMF)
OIC, Det 3 SCoA, 4th Med BN
4th MLG, Marine Forces Reserve
"It does not require a majority to prevail, but rather an irate,
tireless minority keen to set brush fires in people's minds.."
Samuel Adams
Sgt Grit,
To: 0331 Grunt. Nam Christmas Day of '66 till shot Feb 28 '67. -
Golf 2/3 Society has changed a little since the days you
mentioned. It was deplorable the way they treated you Heroes. I
wanted to pass along a story to you that made it in the local
Omaha news. The local chapter of the Patriot Guard
( www.patriotguard.org ) was escorting a Hero to his final
resting place. During the ceremony a group of freedom hating
hippies decided they were going to disrupt this solemn occasion.
In response one of the Patriot Guard riders cold-c0cks one of
the protestors that got too close. In the end the protestor was
the one that got arrested. Semper Fi Brother and keep the
faith!
Semper Fi!
Cpl Lenderman
0151 by trade, Grunt by choice.
I was watching the military channel and watching a recent
"Making of Marines" and was very interested, watching the new
training but seeing the same attitude or feeling of being made
a Marine. My boot camp at MCRD San Diego, was 56 days long in
May, 1966. 8 weeks of very intense training. Seeing that boot
camp is longer now but with the same goal, of being a Marine.
One of the DI's said more than once that after the training
they were being admitted to a brotherhood and would be the same
until the "Day you Die" you will always be a Marine. I was
very proud seeing the young men and women who were training to
be part of our beloved Corps. They have the same pride and
enthusiasm that we had, knowing at the end of the training they
would be part of a very unique group of Marines.
I remember the little things that meant so much and you had to
have done it to appreciate them. Of being able to blouse our
boots, unbutton the top button on the shirt, spend a little
more time in the head without our DI screaming. I know they are
doing and feeling the same things and the pride of graduation
and knowing that you are finally a U. S Marine.
Eddie Leach
CPL of Marines
1966-1969.
"I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent
the government from wasting the labors of the people under the
pretense of taking care of them."
Thomas Jefferson
Joke:
There were two Marines, a grandmother, and a beautiful girl...
A young Marine and his commanding officer board a train headed
through the mountains of Switzerland. They can find no place to
sit except for two seats right across the aisle from a young
woman and her grandmother.
After a while, it is obvious that the young woman and young
soldier are interested in each because they are giving each
other "looks". Soon, the train passes into a tunnel, and it is
pitch-black. There is a sound of the smack of a kiss followed
by the sound of the smack of a slap. When the train emerges
from the tunnel, the four sit there without saying a word.
The grandmother is thinking to herself: "It was very brash for
that young soldier to kiss my granddaughter, but I'm glad she
slapped him." The commanding officer is sitting there thinking:
"I didn't think the young Marine was brave enough to kiss the
girl, but I sure wish she hadn't missed him when she slapped and
hit me!"
The young woman was sitting and thinking: "I'm glad the soldier
kissed me, but I wish my grandmother has not slapped him!"
The young Marine sat there with a satisfied smile on his face.
He thought to himself: "Life is good. When does a fellow have
the chance to kiss a beautiful girl and slap his commanding
officer all at the same time?!"
First, I have to say that Peter Wojciechowski must be on tough
Son if he made it through boot with a name like that.
I too made the short hike (by 150 mile standards) from MCRD San
Diego to Mathews - to live in tents for three weeks - and we
did the distance (what? only about 15 or 20 miles) with full
gear and M-1's at half-step double time. We arrived in time for
noon chow - our introduction to c-rations, and yes we used our
P-38's that I too still have.
While I'm here, is there anyone out there from that platoon - I
cannot recall the number, 215 or maybe 219? The time was Jan
1956 till Apr 1956 and the DI was GySgt Costello - don't recall
the ADI, Cpl. (?).
I feel kinda like a stepchild with the Corps because I entered
at the end of Korea and got out before Vietnam. They sort of
skipped my war. Although I was once on alert with 3/1 to go to
Beirut, if that counts. But, like Minnie Pearle and the
horseshoe, I don't think about it too long when I realize the
sacrifices many Americans, not only Marines, have made so that I
can be with my family today - thanks guys.
Cold War Marine
j.w. wilson 1956-1959
"My reading of history convinces me that most bad government
results from too much government."
Thomas Jefferson
My husband is so proud Daddy's Little OOHRAH girl (Triniti
Rain-3)! This is his favorite website ever & his dream would be
to see his little 'rine Corps girl in the magazine or online
(even just once!) LOL. He insisted on me sending you this
picture!
Thanks again and God Bless,
His ARMY wife,
Mr. & Mrs. Clifton Hughes
Grit:
First, let me thank you for your efforts with your News Letter.
Also, I appreciate the fine quality of your customer service and
of your product(s).
Each Thursday evening I sit and read the notes, thoughts, Sea
Stories of Marines, both old and not-so-old. Each Thursday, I
realize we all sing the same tune regardless of age or time
served. The open, honest, straight from the heart comments
always speak of the pride we all feel in being Marines. Each
Thursday the comments in your letter bring all the emotions to
the surface. Great and intense feeling of Pride, Camaraderie,
Sadness, Happiness, and a never fading feeling of being a life
member of the most deep and sincere Fraternity ever seen on this
earth. Some of the words of General C.B. Cates says it all for
me. "What more can be said about a group of men that have chosen
a life of hardship and the most hazardous assignments in
battle?" I don't have that exact, but still says it all.
Semper Fi, PJ Hardy, Major, USMC, Ret. (A Proud Mustang!)
"Nothing is more essential to the establishment of manners in a
State than that all persons employed in places of power and
trust must be men of unexceptionable characters."
Samuel Adams
"[M]y religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as
in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern
myself about that, but to be always ready, no matter when it may
overtake me. That is the way all men should live, and then all
would be equally brave."
Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson
Courage is Being Scared To Death, But Saddling Up Anyway
My Son, CUSTOM NAME, is a United States Marine
God Bless America!
Welcome Home Marine, Job Well Done.
Semper Fi
Sgt Grit
|
|
Featured Items |
|
Wives, Brothers, Mothers, Fathers, Grandparents and more...
Just for family members of Marines!
|
|
