Sgt Grit's Birthday Ball BS Page Volume 1

Sgt MIchael Gulley

I just wanted everyone to me MY Hero, MY Son, MY Marine. These was the only MC Ball we got to attend together. MCBall 2006, MOBCOM, KCMO. He picked up Sgt shortly after this ball.

Semper FI,
Gunnery Sergeant Debra A. Fortune. USMC (Retired)

Birthday Ball in Kabul?

My second Birthday Ball took place at the Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul, Afghanistan, 1969.

Embassy Duty in Kabul was considered a hardship post but at least I wasn't getting shot at back then.

In the attached photo you can see myself and MGySgt Len Maffioli welcoming Ambassador and Mrs Robert Newman to the Ball. Many of your readers may remember a book published approximately 10 years ago titled "Grown Gray in War, The Len Maffioli Story."

While on Embassy Duty, Len was our NCOIC. and at the time, I had no clue as to his Marine Corps background. He served during 3 wars. He is an Iwo Jima veteran. During the Korean War, Len had the distinct honor of being the first American POW to orchestrate a successful escape from a Chinese communist POW camp. MGySgt Maffioli also served with the 1st Tank Battalion in Vietnam.

Its been awhile since I talked to Len and Donna. I need to stay true to my New Year's resolution and keep in touch with my old friends. I'll call them tonight.

GySgt John D. Foster
USMC 1966-1979

Birthday Ball in 1968

I really love your newsleter. Your newsletter would have been a great compliment along with Stars and Stripes and the Sea Tiger while I was in Vietnam.

My first Birthday Ball took place at the California Club in San Francisco in 1968 when I was stationed at Marine Barracks, Hunters Point. The guest of honor was non other than Pappy Boyington. Unfortunately, I was plagued with the Hong Kong Flu but nevertheless, I proudly participated with the color guard during the celebration. During the "present arms!" command, I was swaying as I lowered the American Flag. Mr Boyington assisted me by bringing the staff up to its proper position. He could see that I was ill and after the ceremony he suggested that I find a comfortable place to rest and to not partake in the celebration (drinking). I regret never getting his autograph and I definately regret never taking pictures.

GySgt John D. Foster
USMC 1966-1979

Can We Use My “Knife” To Cut The Cake?

By: Mike Mooney, Cpl. of The Marine Corps, 1959 - 65 - 2571

Judge Advocate, Det. 1163, Marine Corps League, Hickory, N.C.

As we Marines prepare to celebrate the birth of our Corps each year we are sometimes amazed at the wide range of stories that begin to emerge. Here in Hickory, North Carolina our detachment has a genuine icon living in our midst and listed in our roster. John Link, a verified member of the “Class of ‘34” who reached the Warrant Officer rank of Gunner during his service, brought one of the stories of the Battle of Iwo Jima to life at the detachment’s Marine Corps Ball.

The committee was just about finished with putting all of the “ducks in a row” including lining up the NCO sword which would be used to cut the birthday cake. That’s when the Gunner threw a curve ball. As he would be celebrated as the oldest Marine present he asked if he could bring his own “knife” to cut the cake. Commandant Greg Bridges couldn't turn down the request and agreed. John Link, who enlisted in 1934, was "only" 94 years old and it would be difficult to say "no."

For many years this spry and slender Marine had managed the daily operation of his boiler installation and repair company, a chore that he has since handed over to his daughter and son-in-law. He still drops in to the shop each day for a cup of coffee and some friendly chat with the employees. But I digress.

When John arrived the evening of the Ball he carried his “knife” in its sheath with him. We were surprised when he handed it over to the committee. This was a genuine Japanese Samurai sword that he had captured during the battle of Iwo Jima between 19 February through 26 March, 1945. History tells us that the United States sent more Marines to Iwo than to any other battle; 110,000 Marines in 880 ships that sailed from Hawaii to Iwo in 40 days.

He handed this “knife” to us adding a warning to treat it carefully as it was still as sharp as a razor, a statement which we had no reason to doubt. Later on that evening during the ceremonies when the Gunner prepared to cut the cake he gave a short comment of his experiences during the Battle of Iwo and when he ended his poignant delivery he said, "...under an old adage, To The Victor Go The Spoils." Gunner, you have earned the spoils.

At this Birthday Ball we had the opportunity to hear Lt. Col. (ret.) Joseph Shusko, Director of the Quantico-based Marine Corps Martial Arts Center of Excellence (MCMACE) as our guest speaker and at the cake cutting ceremony Lt. Col. Shusko joined in with our oldest Marine present, Gunner John Link, a 94 year-old member of the Class of '34, and the youngest Marine present, Cpl. Jon Watts.

After the first three cuts were made, the chore of cutting the cake was handed over to an NCO sword for the remainder of the session. John Link, who jokingly said that at his age he doesn't make any long-term commitments, enjoyed the rest of the evening chatting with the Marines, their families and guests. Lt. Col.Shusko was especially intrigued at the clarity of the stories of that most important battle of WWII as he listened to the Gunner.

This celebration of the founding of the United States Marine Corps, memorializing those who have gone before us and those Marines who wear the uniform around the world today is one that will not soon be erased from our memories.

Semper Fidelis

A Picture For You

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

234th Birthday Ball in Baghdad, Iraq

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” (Seargent 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 Irak; 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


Sincerelly your
David Cordova
Semper Fi!

Cake Cutting Ceremony

Attached is a picture of the cake cutting ceremony on the Marine Corps Birthday that the Cedar Valley Marine Corps League and The US Marine's now serving their country on duty. Held in Cedar Rapids Iowa . Plus many families and guests attended for the Birthday ball, around 150 attended honoring those that have served, those serving and our fellow brother's and sister's who have lost their lives over the 234 years the Marine Corps have protected our country.

Lloyd Lewis, Chaplain, Cedar Valley Detachment of the Marine Corps League in Cedar Rapids Iowa. Camp Pendleton and Korea 1954 through 1956

Proud Marine Mom

The picture enclosed is of my oldest son,Corporel Justin A.Clemens, who is currently stationed in 29 Palms, CA. his mos is NBC!! He did serve 2yrs in Okinawa,Japan and 6mths in Iraq and I am very proud of him and his fellow marines for their services!! He recently came home,which is San Antonio,Texas,in July and got married to the female in the picture,who I dearly admire,also!! The picture was taken at a Marine Ball last month,in November.There was a ceremony preceeding the ball,and my son happened to be in the Color Guard for it that night,I am so very proud of him and just wanted to let you see what a fine Marine is has become!!

A Very Proud Marine Mom

Peacemakers

Sgt Grit

Our Ministry with Motorcycles is called Peacemakers. Our title comes from Matthew 5:9
Blessed are the Peacemakers, for they will be called Sons of God.
Our church is New Wine Church in Fullerton.
Enclosed is a pic of our patch.
When I saw the sticker on your on line catalog, I had to have a few.
We would be honored if you could "Bless" us with a few more.
My email address is sargenlinda [at] sbcglobal . net. All my shipping
info is there, as the wife and I are frequent shoppers at your on line store.

Also enclosed are a couple of cake pics one from the 233rd birthday and the 234th birthday.
I have the honor and privelege of putting the display together, and ordering the cake.
We have 4 Marines, a couple Sailors, one or two Soldiers, and one or two Wing Nuts at work among the 50 or so employees.
We are still waiting for them to step up to the plate for their respective birthdays.
Many have never seen a place set for those that wont return because of their POW/MIA status.
I was honored to do that for them, and to explain what that was all about.

Semper FI
Carson J.Gibson
Former Active Sgt
USMC

Books and the Ball

Sgt,

Hey Devil I noticed you did not have the Book "The Gift of Valor". I served with Jason at Marine Security Forces Kings Bay and I believe, with the new Marines today in combat, this should be on your list of reads. There are many lessons that can be understood by the younger Marines in it. Also I have included a photo of my girl and I because well I am just plain proud of her. I am sure you get tons of Ball photos. As I am a veteran and not Active we were guests of LtCol. Harrison and 2/14. Had one hell of a time.

Sgt Kurtz
USMC 0311

Marines and Devil Docs and the holidays

Sgt Grit,

My name is Sgt. Carl Kurtz. I served from 1999 - 2005 as a 0311. I was with Marine Security Forces Kings bay 2nd Plt 2000 - 2002, 2/3 G Co 2nd Plt. and 1/23 B Co 2nd plt. I was on post when September 11th attacks happened, I did a UDP and Force Light 02, OIF II battle of Fallujah - Ramadi. I write to you because I was reading about the Devil dog who ran across an Older Marine and spoke of better days.

It made me think, as I am now a Freemason and have many ties to the community I find many truths in the bond we share. Not only between US Marines and the Freemasons of course but, in our Masonic Lodge we have a Marine who was on Iwo Jima, another who was in the Chosen Reservoir, a retired Major from Vietnam, one who served during the peace time of the post Gulf War, and myself with the War on Terrorism. At my church there is an old Catholic Priest who during WWII was a Corpsman before becoming ordained; I do not call him father, I do not call him holly one, I do not call him padre I call him DOC!

I currently work at Miller Brewing Company in Fort Worth...(no free beer sorry I tried!).... I have found another 0311 Sgt. who chewed some of the same dirt as I, and another Marine who was in Beirut. I was recently honored to be invited by the I & I Co. of 2 /14 to their Ball. I will say that no matter the generation, service time, severity of combat or peaceful winds of garrison, whether it is as a Marine of a Devil Doc all of us seem to be transported to happier if not simply more challenging times in our lives. We light up brighter then a soul on Christmas, with the holidays upon us it really does make you feel like your with family.

Marines and Devil Doc's everywhere Merry Christmas! We always remember the ones in the field, lets not forget the ones who pooped in our fighting hole before we got their... yes you know the ones! Same ones who now live in nursing homes, down the street, maybe need a ride to the VA, or just the one you never knew before it was too late.

Carl Kurtz
Sgt. 0311 USMC

Marine Corps Birthday Luncheon

Hosted by the US Marine Corps Coordinating Council of Oklahoma
Kristi Fomin, Sgt Grit Marketing Director, attended with her husband Sgt Scott Fomin.

Semper Fi
Sgt Grit

Marine Ball in San Diego

This is my fiance and long time friend Cpl. Miles. We're at the Marine ball in San Diego on November 9,2009. Just wanted to show him off =] OORAH MARINES

Birthday Celebration

Hey Grit,

On 10 Nov 2009 the Bethlehem (#284) and Lehigh Valley (#296) detachments of the Marine Corps League teamed up to celebrate the 234th Birthday of our Corps. We had a cake cutting ceremony at VFW Post 13. Pictured here are myself Howard Cooper Commandant Lehigh Valley Det, LCpl Eric Shampine born in 1987 (the youngest), Marine Russell Gross, veteran of Guadalcanal and born in 1915 (the oldest), and Vince Poandl IV, Commandant of Bethlehem Det. A good time was had by all and the cake was delicious. Hope you and yours had a good time as well in OK.

Semper Fi,
Howie Cooper

Happy Birthday, USMC!!!

"Gunnery Sergeants" Grete and Liesl Hummer, currently "stationed" at the National Naval Medical Center, are proud to join GySgt Wade Cobar, MSgt Joseph Liptok (Ret) and Sgt Joseph Bradley in wishing the United States Marine Corps and all Marines a very Happy 234th Birthday (established at Tun Tavern on November 10, 1775)!!!

OOHRAH, DEVIL DOGS!!!!

Happy Marine Corps Birthday and Veterans Day

To all my Marine Corps, fellows in arms, I wish you all a Happy 234th Marine Corps Birthday. Semper Fidelis. To all Veterans I wish you an enjoyable and hearty Armistice Day.

The Old Gunny, Gordy

1966 BirthDay Picture

In Oct. 1966 I arrived on Hill 327 DaNang Viet Nam. When November 10 came around, it turned out I was the youngest Marine in our outfit. First Marine Air Wing, Hawk Missile Battery. Included is a picture of me receiving the second piece if cake. Now I go to Cookies Bar in South Philly every Nov 10 to salute the US Marine Corp. I especialy salute the 68 Marines I took home for their final journey while stationed at the Philly Navy Yard.

Marines Go Where they are Needed. No questioned asked...........

Matthew P. Wojciechowski

233RD BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

Sgt. Grit:

Just sharing: At our annual 233rd Celebration of the Birthday of the Corps (over 200 in attendance) one of our guests from the Phoenix Valley, an active duty recruiter, Sgt. Allen Casanova, stepped forward on the dance floor, got down on bended knee, proposed to his date, she accepted and we all stood and applauded to the playing of the Marine Corps Hymn.

Young Sgt. Casanova is now married and deployed. When Sgt. Major Casanova and his wife attend the 288th celebration of the Corps Birthday, they can look back and say, "WOW, that's where it all began!?

A highlight of our celebration here in Payson, AZ and another memory of the Corps.

Semper Fi!
vr,ws
Col., USMC (Ret)
Commandant
Rim Country Detachment, Marine Corps League
Payson, AZ

Major General Livingston

Major General Livingston Congressional Medal of Honor Winner, 1968..Vietnam War, then a Captain, and me at the 2008 Marine Corps Commandant's Birthday Ball

Dean Smith

11 Engineer Bn Marine Corps Birthday 1967

On Marine Corps Birthday November 10th 1967 the 11th Engineer Bn had its newly built Bn Chapel dedicated to all members of the Battalion. In attendance were (24) Marine Engineers who were awarded Purple Hearts. One Bronze Star was also issued along with the Battaltion's unit award - the Meritorious Commendation. Also they had a cake cutting ceremony and all Marines in attendance were allowed 2 beers or sodas.

Source: 11th Engineer Bn command chronologies

Semper Fi Marines
Gene Spanos
Sd Ldr -11th Engineers - Charlie Co 2/28 -2/69
08' Reunion Committee

San Diego Marine Corps Ball 2007

Sgt. Grit, I am enclosing a photo of the Marine Corps Ball November 2007. I attended this year in San Diego CA, with my son in law and my youngest son. This is the one and only time we will all attend as Sgt's. L to R, Sgt. Alexander Jones ( 11th Marines, MCB Camp Pendleton, CA ), Sgt. Joshua Carlson ( MWCS 48, Bravo Co., Miramar, CA ), and Sgt. Ralph Jones (HMM-362, Vietnam 66'-68'). I have another son who couldn't make it former, Marine Andrew Jones ( MCES, MCB Camp Lejune, NC). What a wonderful legacy a father has to have his family join him in the brotherhood, and speak the same language, my daughter made the right choice marrying her Marine.

Sgt. E-5 Ralph Jones
USMC 1965-1969
HMM-362 Ugly Angels

10 Nov 2007

Sgt Grit,

Here's a couple of snapshots from a small Birthday gathering at my house on 10 Nov. Those pictured served from the WWII through theVietnam eras.
We read the Commandant's Message, had a cake Cutting Ceremony and sang the Marines' Hymn.
I'm the guy kneeling with my wonderful wife of thirty six years in front of me.

Semper Fidelis,
Mike LaBozzetta
Cpl 1964-1967

Oldest Marine in an Army Uniform

SGT Grit:

I just celebrated my 40th Marine Corps Birthday at Camp Victory, Iraq.
To make a long story short, I served as an enlisted Marine 1967-1973 and after an eight year break joined the National Guard to get a commission and have been in every since. I've had several active tours since 9/11 and most recently with the Army Operations Center at the Pentagon and I came to Iraq as HQDA LNO to MNC-I.

Marine Corps 232nd Birthday in Iraq - 10 Nov 2007

In the afternoon, the Marines put on a great cake cutting ceremony that was attended by all branches of service. They had a Marine color guard, band, and of course a great motivational speech by the senior Marine, MajGen Paxton The youngest Marine was a female lance corporal and the oldest was a older looking Major who was serving as a Marine retiree recall and he was dressed in an older era uniform.

That night the general hosted a dinner at his house for all Marines, past and present, and when desert time came, he gave another great speech and said now we want to find the "real" youngest and oldest Marines to cut the cake. The female lance corporal was replaced by a younger male lance corporal. The older Marine announced his birthday and the General asked for any Marine present that was older. I raised my hand and told him my birth date and that I graduated from Parris Island as a Marine in 1967. See attached, the oldest Marine waiting to get the first piece of cake is wearing an Army uniform (Me).

OOH-RAH and Semper Fidelis,

"BULLDOG"
THOMAS W. SIMPSON
COL, FA
MNC-I C3 PLANS / HQDA G-3 LNO

Celebrating the Marine Corps Birthday

Sgt Grit,
Just wanted to send a photo of our impromptu USMC Birthday Celebration.
We were sailing on the Norwegian Spirit on its 15 day repositioning cruise from New York to New Orleans. I had asked the Hotel Director for a 20 person cake and the Cruise Director if he could schedule a Veterans get together. We had the get together on Nov 9th, 2007 and had over 70 veterans show up to include 8 Marines. After we all had a BS session, the Cruise Director says he has my cake over in the corner.

I call the Marines over and we are shocked at the size and beauty of the cake they made for us. After a stirring rendition of the Marines Hymn and the reading of the Commandant's messages, we then cut into the cake. Most of us are saddened because as we are enjoying our time onboard the ship, there are many of our brethren in harm's way.

I only got a few of the guys names in the photo but they are Chuck Whaley, Pat Eanniello, Greg Durocher, Gene Poole, Guz Perez and David Thomas (I am the young one in the photo).

David Thomas-Sgt
USMC '80-86

USMC Birthday Honolulu

Sgt. Grit, In your last letter, Gysgt John D. Foster wrote:

"In late 1967, our platoon (Echo 2/9) was returning to Camp Carroll after a long op in the bush."

I don't know if the Gunny, knows where Camp J.J. Carroll got it's name, but the timing of his letter could not be better. (Happy Birthday Marines) The hill was know to us who operated out of there earlier as The Artillery Plateau. It was renamed and dedicated to Captain Carroll on the Marine Corps Birthday in 1966 following Operation Prairie. The attached photo may be hard to read, so I'll type it so all can know the history.

Camp J. J. Carroll

Dedicated 10 November 1966 In Honor Of

Captain James Joseph Carroll. USMC

Company K 3D Battalion, 4th Marines

Who Heroically Led His Company In Combat Against The Enemy

During Operation Prairie From 17 September Until 5 October

1966 When He Was Killed In Action In The Attack On Hill 484

5 Miles West Of This Site

He Died As He Lived - A Gallant Leatherneck

I took this picture shortly after the sign was erected, and have many other photos of the mud, tanks on the perimeter, the Army's 175MM cannons and the Marines 105's and 155's. I don't know how long the sign "Survived", but I thought all who served there, like the Gunny, would like to see it for the first time, or one more time. We all have memories November 10th from over the years, but this one stands out for me.

S/Sgt T.B. Dudley 1993818 RVN 1963-66-67

USMC Birthday Honolulu

Aloha kakou;

On Monday, November 5, 2007, veteran Marines of V.V.A. Oahu Chapter 858 were greeted by a detail of Camp Smith, HI. Marines, organized by SSgt Obi Rogers, PAO. SSgt Rogers and her detail first visited Marines at Tripler AMC that morning and then to the Oahu Veterans Center to visit with us. They even brought us cake. After talking story with these young Marines and telling our own war stories, we all gathering in a circle and sang Happy Birthday to ourselves. It was one of those full-circle moments. We were so impressed by these sharp young Marines and for their enthusiasm for the Corps and for life that I had to share this story. To all active duty and veteran Marines, we salute you.

Aloha Pumehana, and Semper Fi! Lu Parker, Hotel 2/1, Kilo 3/9, 3rd CAG. RVN 67-69.

p.s. attached is a photo of us taken that day and also an image of the 191st USMC Birthday Menu I sent home to my folks from P.I. I was shocked this morning when I saw another one posted on your site. A big mahalo for da kine newsletters. A hui hou, malama pono.

Iwo Jima Veterans in attendance

Each year we celebrate the birth of our Corps by attending a Marine Corps Birthday Ball. Since we live in a metropolitan area, and are not near a Marine Corps facility, we have the Ball on a Saturday as close to the 10th of November as possible. As you know the 10th doesn’t fall on a Saturday every year, but since it did this year we wanted to do something even more special. What better way than to honor those Marines that have become our legacy. It is those Marines that have come before us that have made our Corps what it is today. They are part of our history and their actions and deeds have set the standard by which all Marines are judged.

This year’s “Guests of Honor” at our Ball was fourteen Veterans of Iwo Jima. They represented all the major command elements that took part in the campaign, the 3rd, 4th and 5th Marine Divisions. We had a Corpsman and an Army Air Corp P51 Mustang Mechanic. For many it was their first Marine Corps Ball and they thoroughly enjoyed it.

What a privilege it was to have these men and their families attend. Each one expressed their gratitude and thanked me for the invitation. But it was my honor to be in their presence. They went willing into harm’s way to fight and protect our liberties and freedom. They represent all the core values we hold dear, honor, courage and commitment.

I have attached a photo of the Iwo Veterans who attended our Ball.

Lt Col Charles Haislip
Indianapolis, IN

A Story For You

Sgt Grit

Friday November 09, 2007 a group of Marines, men and women, got together out in the Hawker-Beechcraft hangar in Wichita Kansas..

I read the Commandant’s message. And yes……time marches ON. This is the first time that I was the oldest Marine present.

The comradery and the food was great. Happy Birthday Marines .

Semper Fi

Gerald R Miller
GySgt 1864806
USMC 1959-79 Retired

A Story For You

Marine Family, and a Happy Birthday!

Sgt. Grit, I have two stories to share with you today:
This past weekend I was headed to the Marine Corps Ball, alone. My three young boys and I had a 4 hour trip to make to get there. Part way through, we stopped to get some supper. We were standing in line, and I was trying to keep my boys IN LINE, when a young man ahead of me commented that I really had my hands full. Feeling a little agravated, I replied that I certainly did, especially since their dad is in Iraq. He immediately focused his attention on me, and started asking all about my husband. I was a little bemused, until he pulled off his jacket to show me the Marine Corps shirt he was wearing. I chatted with him and his girlfriend for a few minutes, then they went to pay for their food. When I finally made it to the head of the line, that former Marine was still standing there. Sgt. Grit, I'm not much of a crier, but I certainly choked up when he insisted on paying for all of our meals that night. I thanked him from the bottom of my heart...his reply? "It's the least I can do. I never went over, and here there are guys leaving their wives and kids. You just tell your husband thank you." I duly passed on those thanks, and the story that proves your brotherhood.

The next day, I attended the ball with another wife whose husband is deployed. That evening was hard in a way, to be surrounded by so many Marines when our own are so far away. But it was also a comfort, to know that we aren't alone, that even though we don't wear the Eagle, Globe and Anchor, we are welcomed into the family. I watched the Commandant's message and was greatful that my husband was not fighting in France nearly a hundred years ago, that he was not fighting in the Pacific alongside his grandfather, that he was not surrounded and shivering in North Korea, that he was not being stalked by death in the jungles of Vietnam, or fighting house to house in Fallujah. I am greatful to ALL of you that have gone before, and have given so much. I know that your sacrifices have made this life I live possible. On this years Birthday, I will be thinking of my husband, but I will also remember all Marines. Thank you so much, and Happy Birthday!

Angie Bare
Proud Wife of LCpl Steve Bare, currently deployed to Iraq

P.S. The picture shows from left to right Mrs. Gates, LCpl Tinnen and myself

Paying Respects

During times when more are concerned with whether or not it is politically correct to be in war. Let’s not forget those who gave of themselves so we have the right to self doubt our own decisions. Most are unaware that one of the most famous Marines in history is buried here in Utah. He lays rest in the Pleasant Grove city cemetery. Sgt. Major Joseph W. Dailey. But fear not my fellow Marines not all have forgotten this day on the 232 Birthday of our Beloved Corps I had the honor of visiting our fallen hero’s grave in the thoughts of paying respects to a fellow Marine. I was happy to see I was not alone in my endeavors and in fact someone had arrived before me and placed a wreath and 2 small flags at his grave site. I added my small token of a sauté labeled the few the proud and a USMC flag and knelt down beside the grave and said a small prayer. As I stood up to leave I simply said happy birthday Sgt Major and yes of Course Semper Fi. I was greeted as I walked back to my truck by another Marine whom was looking for the Sgt. Majors grave to pay his respects. So I say to my fellow Marines world wide fear not for our heroes are not forgotten here in Utah. They will be watched over and protected by those whom have fallowed in their footsteps and will stand guard over those who can no longer stand guard for us. Happy birthday Marines and a final Semper Fi to all whom serve and have served in our beloved Corps.

Troy Grant

USMC Birthday

Sgt. Grit,

Thought you might be interested in the attached photos. November 1967 - Birthday-in-the-Field. We were somewhere south of Con Thien. The cake was brought in on a 6X. The Col. cut the first piece and the Top cut the rest. There was enough for everyone in 2/9 to get a piece. As the cake was being brought in a Birddog flew overhead and popped red and blue smoke from its wing tips. What a sight.

The other two shots are of the Moon scape in the area. Farther down the line the Lt. and I got into a heated argument. Like in WWII, the GI Joe cartoons, where they come upon a wall with a window in it. All the glass was broken except on section. The question was, "Are you going to brake it or am I?". The Lt. and I spotted a beautiful bird on a dead tree. It did not belong there, not with death around us. The bird flew away as we tried to decide who was going to shoot it. Strange times, strange memories.

Happy birthday to all and Semper Fi.

John Halpin, Sgt.
Viet-Nam - 2/9

Dormant Marines

Last Marine Corps Birthday (At which we always have a Marine Corps Birthday cake) it fell on the Friday before Veteran's Day. Our Boss allowed us to fly the Marine Corps Flag the entire day. We have many Dormant Marines and other service veterans who work here and we honor our veterans every Veteran's Day. We celebrated Veteran's Day on the morning of our beloved Marine Corps Birthday that year. It was so nice to see our flag fly so proudly for all to see. It flew in front of Cox Communications, Omaha, NE on November 10th 2006 in place of our company's flag. Long may it wave... right next to Old Glory and long may she wave in God's Glory

Semper Fi Sgt. Grit and thank you.

Ken "Ziggy" Yagodinski
Cpl. of Marines 75 to 81.
OORAH!

A Birthday Tale

Sgt. Grit.,

I share this story in the hope that it inspires other Marines to see what they can organize. They will be amazed how it can grow!.

Six years ago through word of mouth about a dozen Marines got together for lunch here in Sarasota, Florida for The Birthday. It was quite a simple affair, just a toast, some cake, and sing The Hymn I started a roster and mailing list, and the next year with the list and continued word of mouth we had about 38. The following year we had grown to 60, to include a General, a Corpsman, and a Woman Marine. The following year we had grown to 78 and had to get a private room in the restaurant. That year we also had the distinct privilege of having as our Guest of Honor a Congressional Medal of Honor awardee. A local resident, Hector Cafferata who was awarded the MOH for his actions at the Choisin Reservoir on "Fox Hill" with Fox 2/7 attended. This past year we arranged a notice in the local paper and had grown to over 100. The youngest Marine was 26 years old (an active duty Marine with two tours in "the sandbox" on recruiting duty here in the area) and the oldest was 88 years old. Our Guest(s) of Honor were WWII Marines, and we had 28 Marine Veterans of almost all the Pacific Island battles, including 10 Iwo Jima survivors!! Check the photos attached. What an experience! What an honor to be in the presence of those Marines!

Try it for this year's Birthday. Call the Marines you know in your community. Have them call the Marines they know. You have a lot of Marines in your community, and you have WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Gulf War, and Iraq Marine Veterans too. Our format is no speeches. It's just chow , swapping lies, some toasts, a cake ceremony, and sing The Hymn.

Semper Fidelis,

Tom Smith
2nd Lt., 1st Lt., Capt.
0302 RVN 68-69

The Ball

Dear Sgt. Grit,

This past November, I was an honored guest at the Marine Corps Birthday Ball in 29 Palms. My boyfriend is a Cpl in CLB-7, long side of my little brother. This September, I was lucky enough to have my Marine come back safely from his deployment in Iraq but my brother is still over there. The Ball was like nothing I have ever experienced. During the ceremony, there were several parts where I felt tears welling up in my eyes. I saw a part of the Marine Corp that night that very few Americans will ever see. I looked beyond my own tears and saw grown men weeping as they honored their fallen Marines and Marines that served before them. With my love standing proudly next to me in his dress blues and my brother in Iraq in my heart, I made a mental note not to ever forget that night. I felt like I was there not only as a guest, but in place of my brother who was not able to be with the rest of his unit. I was respectfully greeted by everyone and proudly introduced as "Adams' Sister". Thank you again to all of our Troops for doing what they do for us. My heart goes out to you all.

Loving regards,
Lori Adams

Marine Cake

Dear Sgt. Grit:

My name is Courtney Miller, i am 26 and from St. Clair Shores, Michigan. I have a big heart for the military-especially the Marines! I have some friends serving in the Corps. My sister and i subscribe to your catalog and frequent your website.

I am a dancer from Casali School of Dance located in St. Clair Shores, Michigan. We have a group of 20 girls who perform for the community-nursing homes and other events during the holiday season.

For the past 3 years we have performed for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots fundraiser hosted by Angie D'Aleo Morelli. It is said to be the single largest, one night fundraiser in the country with nearly 1,000 people in attendeance. Each year i make a cake to dedicate to the Marines for their work with the TFT organization and all they do to serve our nation. I took a firefighter cake pan and with some planning and icing turned it into a Marine!

I noticed the cake for the Marine Corps Birthday on the cover of your fall/winter catalog and thought you might appreciate what i created. Perhaps you could find a spot in your catalog and/or on your website to show it? My cake is made with much love and gratitude for the entire United States Marine Corps! OOHRAH!

Thank you very much for your time.

Sincerely,
Courtney M. Miller

USMC Birthday Ball Procedures

USMC birthday

This is the menu from my very first celebration of a very important birthday. I still celebrate it every year. Semper Fi!

Peter A Swanson, Sgt., Platoon 103 (Private then)

228th Marine Corps Birthday 2003

Philadelphia Gritogether
One of Philadelphia's USMC Sgt Grit Gift Parties

Attached Pictures of Our Annual Marine Group's Corps Anniversary Cake and free catalogs, night of November 10, 2003, at Moriarity's on Walnut Street in Philadelphia, PA with Judge Seamus McCafferty and friends. Oldest "O" grade with oldest and youngest "E" grade Marines cut the cake.

Some pictures give away raffled gifts, of course most of the gifts were purchased from Sgt. Grit, by my son Bill J. Also attached pictures of some of the group.

After our brake up most go to Cookie USMC Bar in South Philly for a Block Party with Marines and Corpsman's from all over. Of course the next day we attended Veterans Day ceremonies at Philadelphia's Washington Square, Beirut Bombing USMC Memorial, Korean and Vietnam War Memorials.

I hope all the pictures get processed without corruption Best of health to all that served.

John J. Kline

228th MC Ball @ Fort Leonard Wood MOl

GySgt Porter, Wife Cindy, CO: Col O'Neil

Another proud survivor of Okinawa on the evening of the 228th anniversary of the founding of the United States Marine Corps.

Gunny Davis Cake Run

OK last year I got to wake up with my beautiful wife at Parris Island and go get a sweet Eagle Globe and Anchor Tat on the MC Birthday and I thought to myself this is the best one yet. I was wrong. Tonight I ran the gauntlet through Karmah a crappy little town next to Fallujah that keeps us busy taking care of Ali baba and all the Misters on a regular basis, not a good place. But it is a place that hold 4 small AO's with small detactments of Marines, who live the basic life and get 2 hot meals a week. BUT it the dang Corps Birthday, 230 years of taking the garbage out, so those boys deserve their cake just like all Marines around the world, ssooo tonight I hooked up with a buddy of mine from 2/2 and we went on a cake run. It was awesome, only had to stop once for possible IED's which was great because its usually 2-4 times a trip. made it to all for AO's and got to get Marines their frikken Birthday cake. THIS is the best birthday I have ever had. Happy frikken birthday Marines, go get your piece of cake( and drink one for us) From me and my Marines in Camp Fallujah Iraq.

We had to wrap them in trashbags, because of the nasty dust.

Birthday in Benicia and Pittsburg Ca.

Dear Sgt. Grit…since you asked:

We have been doing this for over 15 years now…

A group of Marines decided it would be fun to gather at the Benicia Yacht Club in Benicia, Ca for morning Chow complete with the ubiquitous SOS. That grew into a few guys talking a few other unsuspecting yacht owners into a neat cruise on the bay and that led to a turnout of up to 80 who meet there on the 10th and chow down then board 8 or 10 yachts over 35’ so we can get them all on and cruise to Pittsburg Yacht Club for a great Mexican luncheon and muster colors and cake cutting ceremony. We then cruise back to Benicia via the mothball fleet in Suisun for a look at a few of our old ships…Point Defiance LSD 31 is there as is the BB 3 USS Ohio. Last year we had a Marine who cruised her. I was on the Point D back in ‘67 …Y’know when yer an Old Marine (never ex)?...When you take your grand kid fishing down by the “fleet” and look up and see your ship Aww Maaan! Anyway here’s a few shots and I have more if your interested. Anyway we sure have fun.
We’re doing it again this year.

S/F
Dave Selvy, Cpl. 1976889 1831MOS
2nd, 3rd, & 4th Armored Amphib Co’s.,(Bn). FMFPAC
1962-1968

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