Another one that was used, when "nomenclature" was wrong, was: This is my rifle, This is my gun, This one's for firing, This one's for fun. Keep up the good work -- really enjoy reading the items and remembering. MGySgt Richard A. Swank, USMC, (Ret.)
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ARMED GUARDS AROUND MY GUN
Sgt. Grit,
I have written once before about my good fortune to have traveled
to several Pacific battlefields over the last 2 years....Saipan,
Tinian, Guam, Peleliu, and best of all Iwo Jima. I plan on continuing
my visits, God willing, to Tarawa and Makin next year. The
opportunity to meet and talk to the veterans of these battles has been
one of the highlights of my life right along with the pride I felt as I
graduated with Platoon 1093 in Oct. 1972 at MCRD, San Diego. I have
become very close friends with one Iwo vet in particular here in
Charlotte, NC and every time we get together it's an honor. I never tire
of his stories, his opinions of today's world, and our shared pride in
the Marine Corps. He has asked me to ask of his fellow Marines out there
if anyone in the 4th Division remembers coming in on a Higgins boat in
the 5th wave,
Yellow Beach and debarking at the beachhead, taking position right
below the airfield, and the Higgins boat going up in an explosion
minutes after they got off. He had grabbed 4 other Marines and led them
to the beach and in the chaos had forgot his pack on a jeep that was on
the boat. Just as he stood to go back to retrieve it, the boat was
hit...... throwing the jeep 20-30 ft. in the air and killing the others
aboard. He would love to see if anyone remembers that specific incident
and could contact him. He was with the 14th Marines and manned a 105MM
gun.......I know the odds are against finding those four men but one
never knows. He
also wonders if anyone remembers the heavenly scent of fresh
donuts making it's way across the island as about half way through the
battle, he managed to scrounge up the ingredients to make a bunch of
donuts for the front line boys. They were in such demand that the
officers posted guards around his gun! He was one of the lucky ones to
survive Iwo and in fact, made it through Saipan, Tinian, Roi-Namur, and
Iwo without getting wounded. Quite a feat as so many buddies were lost.
Anyway, if by some miracle either of these stories bring back the memory
for any Iwo vets out there, please contact me at BCarter436 @ aol.com
and I will be happy to pass it on to him. His name is Peter Kakadelis.
Semper Fi,
Bruce Carter, USMCR '72-76
Read more here.
UNFORTUNATE JARHEADS
I was in the locker room of my health club the other day reminiscing
with another Marine. Our memories took us back to Korea. He said he
got out of PI in early summer of '50 and joined the columns of
Marines swarming to Camp Pendleton where the various drafts were being
assembled for reinforcing the troops around Pusan. He said the brigade
had already left. For some reason, lack of housing maybe, he was
billeted at Del Mar. One day a WO with more than 30 years in came
through the area looking for volunteers. He also had several .45s,
holsters and pistol belts. The gunner also had requisitioned several
vehicles. He took his "volunteers"
south of the border to TJ to roundup unfortunate jarheads in the
Mexican brig. He can back with 12. Said, "I'll be damned if I would let
them stay down there when there is a job to be done."
BTW. He was quickly sent to Kobe to be "out of the way" and to
handle things there when the draft arrived there on the way to the
fight.
Semper Fi,
Bob Rader sgt '53-'56, 1405534
PERFECT 250
To answer Bob Orlove who asked if it was possible to find out if a
Marine shot 250 during boot camp. I was a PMI for several years
at Parris Island. During that time I had several Recruits that
qualified by shooting a perfect 250. I even had one that shot 250 three
days in a row. I don’t know if they still keep records or not but at one
time they had everyone’s final score on file at MCRDPI at the Rifle
Range HQ. Sgt Robert J Berube 2136841 (1965 to 1974) VN (1966/67) PMI
(1968 to 1970)
...............
My name is Cpl LeBlanc, I'm currently serving at MWHS-2 (Duece) at
Cherry Point, NC. I really love the Corps. I currently have been
enlisted for 5yrs. The Marines I work with always call me Moto, because
of my Motivation towards the Corps. I work as an administrator (Unit
Diary Chief) and would like to shed some light on a recent statement by
Sgt Bob Orlove, USMC 68-71, Vietnam 69-70. His concern was about someone
that shot a
perfect score in Boot camp. Right now I'm dealing with a new system
that is suppose to be taking over Naturals in 3270. I should be able to
look up current, retired and former Marines. Possibly if I had the
persons name that shot a perfect score I could look this up in the
system. If I am unable to the only thing I can think of is find out
where this person went to boot camp and talk to the range personnel.
They might have some kind of record of everyone that shot perfect scores
on the course. Thank you for your time. Sgt Bob Orlove, you or anyone
else needing some kind of administrative assistance please contact me at
"leblancjr@2mawcp.usmc.mil"
and I will see what I can help you with.
OOH RAH and Semper Fidelis
Cpl Jonathan R. Le Blanc
USMC
BAR CADENCE
As Per SSgt Caesar a Bahimian who came to
the US to be a Marine and was a DI at MCRD in the late
60's, the proper refrain was:
I don't want a B.A.R.
I just want a candy bar
I can't keep my rifle clean
I'm a poggie bait Marine
Don't matter anyway, I remember a loud grunt (about
like the cough of a mad lion) being what the hooraa
has been since the movie "Heartbreak Ridge". Grunted
so loud at an Arkansas vs Auburn @ Auburn f-ball game,
about 7 years ago, when they intro'ed the Commandant
(an Auburn grad) that the lady in front of us wet her
scanties (as in panties). After she jumped I
apologized and said Marine. Everyone laughed and the
husband told me when she left what she had done.
Doesn't matter the cadence, when it was used or where.
Doesn't matter who you are, as long as 9 Marines carry
you the last time. Six for pall bearers, two for Road
Guards and one to count cadence.
I kinda like the sound of:
If I die in a combat zone
Box me up and ship me home
If I die on the Russian front
Bury my body in a Russian ....
or
Ousama, Ousama where are you
Come on out we'll kill you too
Why do you not fight like a man
Or is sending Women your major plan
now you all know why I haven't written the great
American Novel (or novelette)
Thomas Paine
PHONIES AND WANNABEES
Sgt Grit:
Sgt Reynolds: Yeah, checking the transcript would be a good idea!
Makes sense. Nowadays, darn near everyone takes advantage of the
GI bill/VEAP (remember that one?), documentation has to exist
someplace to get that college $$$$, mostly likely in the admissions
office of the college. You might start there.
Cpl Taylor: I think we chewed some of the same dirt, Mac! I was in
Iwakuni on WesPac in 85 and again in 87. You make a good point. Its the
"little" things that usually trip up the fakes/phonies/wannabees.
Sgt Orlove: Yours is a relatively easy task, as there are damn few
who've shot a perfect score on the range, ever. When I was in in
the 80's, no one did that I recall. The closest was a 248, I believe.
Regardless, a perfect score would have made the base newspaper (The
Boot, it was called in 82). And, I'm guessing, that anyone who has ever
shot 250 on the range would have their name someplace around the range,
at the Weapons Training Company (or whatever its called, that one I
can't remember, dang it). He probably would have gotten meritoriously
promoted, a plaque, and other goodies the rest of us Recruits wouldn't
have. So, there you have it, a few real good ways to check this whopper.
A note on this one, though. Its almost going into the "Sea Story"
realm, something I'll again touch on. Its not my intention to eliminate
the telling of our much cherished Sea Stories. Personally, I enjoy the
telling of em, esp. by the masters of the tale. My beef is with those
who would claim honor where there is none, rank and privilege that
wasn't earned, or our TITLE when it ain't rated. In those cases, the
individual gets nothing from me but grief, and should from you, also.
Cpl Campbell: Its a sorry state of affairs when the local PD won't
do anything to help you out. Typical, I'm afraid. Some suggestions:
Start by letters to the Editor. Pics of this bozo with the license
plates on his truck. Post em on a local website. Get the VFW/American
Legion involved. Publicity this guy doesn't care about, but I assure
you, the lack of response by elected officials, DMV administrators, and
the local coppers will cause some red faces. Sometimes, people have to
be dragged kicking and screaming into doing the right thing. Adverse
publicity is something no pencil pusher ever, ever, wants to see. Give
that a shot, and see what happens.
Mr Ross: Violations of Title 18 USC can be reported to the local
FBI office. If you are aboard a military reservation/post, you can also
report them to the Dept of Defense Police, & or Military Police. I will
tell you, though, that most of these agencies are rather lackadaisical
in pursuing these losers. Again, publicity and tenacity will pay off, I
believe, in the long run.
Well, that's it for this time. I hope that helps. Once again, my email
is: zebra305@earthlink.net . I'll happily provide information and
assistance to those who ask for it.
Semper Fi Jason Grabill
Sgt USMC 82-89, 97-01
SIR, YES SIR
To George Helmke USMC 53-57, when I went through boot camp at Parris
Island SC, Platoon 166, in March of 1966 we responded to orders with the
refrain "Sir Yes Sir"
Nat Holmes, USMC 1966-72
..................
To Geo. Helmke, who commented about Brad Robinsons letter, of MCRD
in 1950, as to Sir,No Sir,etc. as a manner of talking to a D.I., I
went through MCRD in 1950, plt.35, and can tell Geo. that any maggot who
did not address his D.I with the first word out of his mouth being Sir,
was in for more than he could imagine this side of hell. And was a
mistake that was not repeated. I have no idea what the D.I.'s did in 53,
but I can tell you in 50 it was Sir first and last of every sound that a
boot uttered. Semper Fidelis
Cpl C.E. Berry. Marine , 1949-53
.................
Hey sarge
I had been out of Boot camp about six months at the time. I was at
camp Pendleton with BLT 3/5 getting ready to go to WesPac. It was a fri
evening and I was running to the bus stop and the Liberty bus. Half way
across the parade deck I heard the voice of one of my Drill Instructors
call my name. Ice formed around my spine and I came to a screeching halt
in the position of attention. I did a smart about face and sounded off,
" Sir Yes Sir" Once drilled into you old habits dye very hard.
SSgt Rock
.............
I went to MCRD San Diego in 1966,If the first three words out of
your mouth weren't Sir, Yes Sir you would be wondering why your mouth
hurt and you were sitting on your ass.
Vogel22
.............
As for the use of the phrase "Sir yes Sir".
In 1976 we would use it while answering as a group, However whenever
we were in a one on one situation with the Drill Instructor we would use
a simple "Yes Sir".
MESS NIGHT
Dear Sgt. Grit,
I'd like to request that you print this in your next newsletter. I am a
LCpl stationed at Monterey, Ca learning Arabic. Our school is almost
2 years long, which is then followed up by 3 more months of schooling
before we hit the fleet. Well, as you can imagine, being stuck at a
school for two years learning one of the hardest languages the school
has to offer, it's hard to stay motivated. Well, I am my platoon guide
and we are trying to put together a Mess Night for the Marines of our
platoon. The problem is we can't seem
to find a list of things needed or itineraries for the organization of
a Mess Night. I hope that some Marines that read this might have the
information I need or may know where I can go to get the information. If
you do, please e-mail me at: bigd51usmc@yahoo.com . I would really
appreciate your help.
Semper Fidelis
LCpl Brobst, USMC
NATIONAL MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOC
A National Marine Corps Engineer Association was formed in
Jacksonville, North Carolina in 1991 and is chartered in North Carolina
. We are accepting applications from all Marine Engineers and anyone
that have ever served in a Engineer unit including Shore Party,
Draftsman and surveying, Bulk fuel , Aviation Engineers and other
services that have been attached to
a Marine Engineer unit. Our current membership is over 750 and we
are growing fast. We have a reunion each year and will be in Branson,
Missouri on 25-29 September 2002 and will travel North to Harrisburg, Pa
in 2003. Any one interest in obtaining information and an application
can contact; MSgt Garland G. Greer USMC Rtd at KYCOL8@AOL.Com or call
828-437-9329.
Thank you and Semper Fi Marines GGG
TO BAM OR NOT
Sgt Grit,
This is in response to "Sgt B's" letter. I was active duty 73-76
and we were taught in Boot Camp just to say thank you to the expression
BAM. We were informed of the derogatory meaning of the phrase, but we
were instructed BAM meant Beautiful American Marine. I happen to think
any Marine is a Beautiful American. I also took and still take offense
to someone referring to me as a BAM. Particularly when they feel the
need to express in detail their personal take on the broad a__ __
explanation. I would suggest, the term not be so freely utilized. As a
female Marine, I also recall when all WM birthday celebrations had
ceased in the Marine
Corps...when the Commandant removed the Director of Women Marines from
his staff...when the WM was dropped from our SSN and we were "fully
integrated" into the Marine Corps. We wear the uniform with the same
pride, the same honor and the same distinction as any of our
counterparts. I beg to differ with Sgt B on the appearance issue of the
Women Marines also. Never saw
one who wasn't squared away. Sgt B may want to contact his local
chapter of the WMA (Women Marines Association) sometime and maybe with
his mindset they may want him to appear as a guest speaker. I enjoy your
newsletter, but quite honestly I did resent that note. Thank you for
your time and your consideration in reading my response.
Semper Fi
GySgt. D.G. Williams
......................
I really didn't want to get into the fray about "BAM", but maybe this
will help; I am a WM from the 50's, Currently serving with over 30 other
non-active duty Marines in Semper Fi #1 Memorial Honor Detail. Once in a
while the term "BAM" is used, but I find that now, and back when I was
on active duty, the men using the term said it in a bantering manner. I
never heard the term used in a malicious tone. And, accordingly, my
response was also in a bantering
tone when I replied, "I'd rather be a BAM than a HAM"..... they almost
always got the meaning clearly!!! and, a good laugh is had by all. Get
with it folks, whether our butts are skinny or ample, the operative word
is MARINE!
Denne Howard, Sgt USMC 1953-1956
................
It still amazes me that are so many ignorant former Marines around
in reference to Women Marines. I was in the Marine Corps from 1968-70
and most of the lady Marines were very attractive. Where the idea ever
came from that women that went into the service were ugly or homely most
of come from a man that no woman Marine would date. How Women Marines
look does not have any
thing to do with the recruiters. And anybody that had any sense would
know that to join the Marine Corps you have to fit a certain height and
weight requirement just like the men. Thanks for letting me get that off
my chest.
Cpl. B.B. W722106
..................
In reply to the old salt (1952-1955)...mind your manners! His quote
"Now the Women Marines that I have seen have improved greatly, I
have not seen one that wasn't very pretty and "Squared Away". The
recruiters are doing an excellent job." Are you trying to start a war?
What do looks have to do with being a Marine? Squared away is one
thing...I totally agree with that, but an effective Woman Marine does
not have to be pretty, or slight of frame in the area you seem focused
on. Can she do her job? Does she have the class it takes to be a Marine?
Is she disciplined? If she is all of these then the recruiter did an
excellent job!
I come from a family of Marines and am proud of it. My dad was
the first one in, around the same time you were sir! His name was Thomas
W. Even. He went to boot in San Diego and was stationed in 29 Palms.
He passed away in 1977. My three brothers are also Marines (Ricci-
named after my dad's best Marine buddy Darrell D. Ricci / Randy, also
known as Chuck / and Thomas W. Even Jr.). Both my sisters are married to
Marines (Bill Davis and Scott De Kock). I was the fourth in my family to
sign up for a tour in the USMC (1978-1981). And last, but certainly not
least, my
nephew Dustin Even (Ricci's son) is now serving his tour. My mother
was given a certificate from the recruiting station in Sioux City, IA
naming her an Honorary Recruiter. OOOH RAH! and Semper Fi!
CPL Rachael A. Even
FORMER FEMALE MARINE
HELLO, MY NAME IS HEATHER WILLIAMS AND I AM A FORMER MARINE. I
FOLLOWED IN MY FATHER AND BROTHER'S FOOT STEPS. I REMEMBER EVERY MOMENT
FROM THE DAY I ENLISTED UNTIL THE DAY I WAS HONORABLY DISCHARGED. THERE
IS NOTHING
I HAVE EVER BEEN MORE PROUD AND HONORED MORE THEN TO HAVE THE TITLE
MARINE. IT TAKES A LOT OF WORK BUT IT IS WELL WORTH IT. I ENLISTED WHEN
I WAS 17
STRAIGHT OUT OF HIGH SCHOOL AND I GOT OUT WHEN I WAS 21. IT REALLY
MADE ME GROW UP AND REALIZE JUST HOW BIG OF A PAIN I WAS TO MY PARENTS.
ONCE
I GRADUATED BOOT CAMP I HAD A LOT OF RESPECT FOR MY PARENTS, THEY
REALLY PUSH THAT. I THINK THAT THE MARINE CORP IS A GREAT CHANCE AND
OPPORTUNITY
FOR ANYONE YOUNG PERSON OUT THERE WHO IS NOT YET SURE WHAT TO DO WITH
THERE LIFE.
THANKS
HEATHER WILLIAMS
GOOD AFTERNOON SIR
Dear Sgt Grit;
I was sitting outside the office when the company gunny ordered
me to take a communiqué over to head quarters bldg. after making sure I
was squared away, I began to double time to my destination to complete
my mission. While at the double time about 30 paces away I noticed a WM.
officer approaching from the opposite direction so I slowed down to
quick time and composed myself to render the proper hand salute with the
appropriate
greeting as required by custom and regulations of the Marine Corps. I
managed to pop off what I thought was a snappy salute and out of my
mouth came "Good afternoon Sir." At that point the WM Captain halted me
and called me back. I complied
and again rendered the proper salute and reported as I was taught
"Sir Private Williams reporting as ordered Sir." The captain with a
smirk upon her face said "Marine cant you see that I am a female and I
sit down to P***." I replied "Sir yes Sir." She just shook her head and
said "Carry on marine." I saluted on more time and she returned it and
walked away, and I continued on my mission and completed it. But I will
always remember this encounter to my dying day with a smile whenever I
think about it.
Larry Williams
USMC 1965 1969, USMCR 1975 1990
VIDEO TAPE PROJECT
Sgt. Grit:
As a member of Westfield River Valley Det., 141, Westfield, Mass.,
a former and soon again to be a member of the Marine Corps
Correspondents Association, and a Marine who served in Public Affairs, I
have undertaken a mission to video tape all Marines who served in
combat, especially WW2 because we are losing them rapidly, in the
Western Massachusetts area. We
are not just limiting the interviews to Marines but they are our
initial target. Many have stories to tell that will be lost if we don't
get them on the record. Other MCL detachments may have qualified members
to undertake a similar project. They might contact their local community
cable channel for help. Those interested in being interview or those
that know those who should be interviewed call our detachment at
413-562-4850 or email me at fgreal@aol.com. Also looking for those who
can help with this project.
Frank Real Sgt. USMC '56-'59
COL. WILLIAM BARBER, MOH
Sergeant Grit, I know that normally you do not publish death notices
in your letters. However I think the following is of more than
general interest to your readers, especially those of the Korean War era
and more especially the survivors of the Chosin Reservoir campaign. The
following was sent to me by members of the Orange County Chapter of the
Chosin Few
On Friday, 19 April 2002 in the early evening Bill passed away
very peacefully and in no pain according to his widow Ione.
Colonel Bill Barber, MOH, Fox 2/7 was a WW II veteran having served
our Corps on Iwo Jima, was awarded the Purple Heart and Silver Star for
heroism. For his heroic action as commanding officer of Fox 2/7 at
Toktong Pass, Chosin Reservoir, North Korea he was awarded the Medal of
Honor. Wounded three times, and as he would humorously state "a couple
of additional
nicks", he continued as CO while being carried on a stretcher from post
to post. Col Barber is a Marine Corps legend. One of the founding
fathers of the "Chosin Few Orange County Chapter". Bill continued to be
active in chapter affairs until his latest illness.
His remains will be sent to Arlington National Cemetery for a
service and committal at a date yet to be determined.
Semper Fidelis,
G. O. Gigg GySgt USMC (Ret)
Past President "Coastal Carolina Chapter Chosin Few"
..................
Korean War hero and career military man Col. William E Barber, a
Medal of Honor recipient, died Friday in Irvine, Calif., after a long
battle with bone marrow cancer. He was 82. Barber is best known for
his heroism in one of the Marines' most brutal struggles, the Battle of
the Chosin Reservoir in 1950. Barber's Fox Company was outnumbered by a
ratio of more than 5-1 at the reservoir south of the Yalu River, which
separates North Korea from China.
In the weeks before Thanksgiving roughly 120,000 Chinese crossed the
Talu River into North Korea. Barber was hit by a bullet that fractured
a bone near his groin. Commanding his men from a stretcher, Barber, then
a captain, refused to obey orders to leave a hill. He believed
retreating would trap about 8000 nearby Marines.
After five days and six nights of battle, more than 1000 enemy
troops were dead. Finally, Ray Davis, who later became a general,
overwhelmed the Chinese with his Marines and came face-to-face with
Barber. The two men were so choked up that neither could speak. Davis
later recalled. Barber earned the Medal of Honor partially for
disobeying the retreat order.
Semper Fi
J. A Gardner
Korea 51-53
MORTAR ROUNDS
Hey Sarge,
There were a couple of inputs that brought a grin. I wanted to
comment to Cpl. Acciavatti about those mortar rounds. He said that they
were getting thumped by 81's. They were probably 82's (the Chi-Com
version of the 81). I had the unfortunate displeasure of treading on one
and when I got my gear back (six months later) there were pieces of
shrapnel stuck in the little photo album that I carried in that little
pocket inside the right pocket of my jungle utilities. The pieces
actually has Chinese writing on them. They could use ours but we
couldn't use theirs. Anyway, just thought I'd throw my two cents in.
Keep up the good work.
Semper Fi Mac
Frank Biddick USMC-RET 64/69, 2121554
PI GRADUATION
Just wanted to say thank you to 3 Marines that made a difference in
my life. March 23, 2002 made it 30 yrs to the day since I went to PI
to become one of the few.( plt 334 3rd batt.." get some"...To SSgt Wildenhaus,SSgt
Hart, and Sgt Smith...thanx for the memories...Last April I traveled
back to PI for my stepsons graduation from 2nd battalion, first time
since 72, and has the island changed since I was there..new receiving
barracks, new yellow footprints, gone are the old wooden H barracks from
years ago . but the third herd barracks are still the same..Stood on the
edge of the parade deck as a Sgt was drilling his platoon, and as he
walked by he asked "Are you alright sir"?...Told him
"Yes Sgt, was just having a flashback, you sound like my old senior
DI from 30 yrs ago...pointing upwards I said " that was my squad
bay"....As I turned to leave he had his platoon march by and he gave
them "eyes right" as they went by..The Sgt and I saluted each other..and
they were gone, cadence fading off across the parade deck. We then drove
over to 2nd battalion to find Fox Companys squad bay., where I thought
my stepson would be killed..As we walked by the barracks my wife started
to call out his name...Two recruits looked out the window and asked who
she was looking for..she told them his name and they said "oh that
skinny guy, we'll get him for you.About this time a big black SSgt comes
out of the barracks and sees us, He asked if he can be of some
assistance, told him no my wife's son is in Fox Company...that's when he
said he was the senior DI from Fox..I'm trying to tell my wife shhhhhhhh
don't do it and she says " you don't understand Patricks at the
window"...looking over I see raised eyebrows,,told her
YOU don't understand this is his senior DI...Well the SSgt then asked
his name and she says Rud..and he says Rud huh good marine good kid
wanna see him..Gimme a minute he says...omg the next thing we hear is
"Get the hell away from my windows ..who the hell gave you permission to
look outside..Rud what in the hell is your family doing on my parade deck..then
taps him on the shoulder and says "come on lets go meet your family"..What
a difference 13 weeks can make in a man..now I know the feeling and the
teary eyed my parents got a long time ago ..pride at seeing your
son/daughter become one of the few. On Thursday morning at
0530 the whole series falls out for one more motivational
run......Looking around the senior Di says ..I don't want anyone
screwing this up...because Ruds stepfather is taping this and since he
is a former Marine if you do screw this up ..I know he will let me
borrow that tape and I will show you where you screwed up!!...Families
getting on base to see this now has changed since 9/11.. .
Mike Redfern Cpl USMC 72.- 76 ,,78--80
Plt 334,3rd batt
MARINE MOM
I am a proud Marine Mom who has two young Marines. My youngest son
enlisted in 1998. He has been stationed at 29 Palms with one deployment
to Okinawa for 6 months and is doing another 6 months at Okinawa. Since
Sept. 11th he has wanted to put his training to use. His 4 years is up
in Sept. and is in
the process of reenlisting. He is waiting to hear if he has been
accepted to embassy school. My eldest son is stationed at Camp Pendleton
and will be getting out in May of 2003. He and his family will be coming
home then and hopes to go into law enforcement. When people know that
both my sons are in the Marines they respond with,"Oh my, you must
worry." I have always responded with,"No. I worried more about them
living here in their home town
and not having knowing what to do or where to go." After they
graduated from basic at MCRD I saw something in them that the Marines
instilled in them. They were proud to wear the uniform and carried
themselves with pride. The decision to join the Marines was something I
supported from day 1. I am honored to be a Marine Mom. Carol Hutchinson
Yakima, Washington
THE DRIVE WITHIN
I was with my son on a visit to a local nursing home. The home
school group of kids were singing Christmas carols to all the residents.
While we were waiting for everyone to arrive, I decided to talk to some
of them. There was one man in particular that caught me eye. I went up
and started to make conversation with him. After a brief conversation I
asked him if he had ever served his country. Now keep in mind that he
could just barley be heard. His voice was weak and you really had to pay
attention to him in order to understand what he was saying. After I
asked him that question, he nodded yes. I then, being to proud Marine
that I am, asked
what branch. He looked up at me from that wheel chair, and with a
determination from deep within, sounded out with all of his might,
"MARINE CORPS!". Needless to say I responded right back in like
fashion. I hope we made his day the same way he made mine. MOTIVATED!
JOHN PAUL
SHE'LL THINK I'M GETTING SOFT
Like I don't give my wife enough things to gripe at me about; when
your newsletter gets here, I have to sit in front of the computer and
start reading it. She tries to talk to me and gets the occasional,
"uh-huh" but more like an unintelligible grunt. Now I cannot complain
about this woman. She started dating me 15 years ago while I was in comm
school in the stumps. She has since endured the ego, attitude and
colorful language. She has also mastered
most of those. i.e. - don't ever pull out in front of her - sheesh.
I was in the passenger seat when someone cut her off, she had me
in tears I was laughin so hard. We were married in '90. Sent to the Gulf
later that same year. She was pregnant with our first child, my son.
When I got home it was time for me to take care of my family and let the
next breed take on the next war. That was one of the hardest decisions
of my life. Miss it dearly to this day. However, my wife/ mother of my
now 3 children, is still by my side. I am now in law enforcement. She
knows that, to me, the color of the uniform does not matter. Whatever
uniform it is, I will wear it with the same professionalism and
attention to detail as my dress blues. Because of this, she takes the
time to make sure every patch is on correctly, every crease is right and
that I don't ever walk out the door looking unsat. You may be wondering
why I am sending you all this. Next month is our anniversary. I never
know just how to tell this woman how much I appreciate everything she
does. So I thought that by telling all of you how much I think of her,
maybe I would be able to loosen up and tell her. Naaaaaaaah, she'll
think I'm getting soft. Marine grunt gettin all mushy and talkin about
feelings. She'll suggest I enlist in the Queen's Beret's...sorry
doggies, couldn't help it.
Anyway, thanks for listening. And, wife, thanks for everything.
J. Hill, Cpl
1st Bn 25th Marines
Wpns Co Dragons
85-91
MEMORIES
Sgt. Grit,
I'm a 66 yr old Marine standing by for orders, no such thing as "ex"
or "former". Like most Marines I have a million stories I could tell
but respect the space. I served from Nov 53 thru Nov 55 and get a
special thrill reading your Newsletters with the Marine jargon of terms
such as the Head, Smoking Lamp, Slop Chute, 782 gear, the Deck, Trousers
(not pants), Covers, and hundreds of other terms that are still part of
my own utterances.
Boot Camp was at MCRD and of special interest has been the talk of
Camp Mathews, tent city, cold showers, and the thin mud running down the
asphalt trail leading to the Rifle Ranges. We had the "pleasure" of duck
walking with our sea bags down that trail when the mud was up to the
tops of your boots, fun, fun, fun.
The training was so intense in Boot Camp that I still remember the
serial no. on my M1 Rifle -3056009. Our DI handed back our Rifles from
the stacks one time by serial no. He called out 3, ought, 5, 6, ought,
ought, 9 (I always gave it as 3, zero, 5, 6, zero, zero, 9) It took me
just a few seconds to convert the oughts to zeros. I was too late. I
paid the price.
I completed my 20 yrs with the Reserve System. While on active 2
wks training at Sub Base Bangor in Washington State I attended the
Marine evening Tattoo Parade. A beautiful performance and when it was
approaching completion the Band struck up the Marine's Hymn as the
formation commenced to march of the
Parade Deck. All of we Marines in the bleachers immediately jumped
to attention and two young teenage Girls in front of me looked around at
us a little puzzled. One of them asked the other what was going on. I
don't know she said "it must be their fight song". She was absolutely
right.
It took me a few years to really fathom the total impact the Marine
Corps has had upon my life but I can truthfully say it is one of the
most important things that has shaped my character. To carry on the
tradition I belong to the Steven Dee Merrell Detachment of the Marine
Corps League here in Pocatello, Idaho. It is true what they say about us
"Once a Marine always a Marine", the Corps lives in your soul forever.
Semper Fi.
By the way, does anyone know where you can get the "Blitz Cloths" we
used to shine our brass?
Cpl Stan Brangham 1416656/5591
MARINE WIFE
Hello Sgt.,
Hope all is well with you and your ballerina. I am a proud Marine Wife.
My Marine is Sgt. Martino of the Fox Co. 2/25 . He has been called to
active duty with the Reserves Based in Albany. I am so proud of them
they have been training in Camp Lejeune since Jan14. They have been
competing for a sword. A few days ago I was sick and rushed to the
hospital on my way out in an ambulance I gave orders not to tell my
husband I was ill. Well, some a hole
told him when he called home to check on the kids. Needless to say he
called the emergency room. But before that the American Red Cross called
and asked if I want my Marine to come home. Of course I said absolutely
not the World War 2 commemorative was the following day how can I ask
him to leave. I know how he was looking forward to that for weeks. He
got to display his weapon
and talk with the veterans about Chesty Puller and other great Marines.
My friends ask why didn't you yes and my reply was because they got the
sword. I find that people do not understand why Marines are so dedicated
to each other. Since my husband has been activated I receive calls from
a Marine named Frank Grille (1st Marine div) who is a Vietnam veteran at
least 1 a
week He always lifts my spirits his Marine Wife always seems to know
what to say to make me feel better when I miss my Marine. I drive him
crazy with question like do you think they will be deployed and his
reply is don't worry Sharon Marines never leave anyone behind and we are
professionals its the other people who need to worry. So I would like to
say to the Fox Co. congratulations all of us at home are so proud of you
and we support you.
Keep up the good work Marines Semper Fi
LEE MARVIN & BOB KEESHAN
In reply to the letter by Brian L. Hipwell, Re: the "scuttlebutt" about
Lee Marvin & Bob Keeshan. I received, more than once, the supposed
story about Lee being shot in the butt at Iwo Jima, and Bob being a
hero. Being somewhat of a skeptic, I usually check one of the hoax
sites. My favorite being www.snopes.com which is a good site to check on
the many rumors that people send out with out checking. According to "snopes"
Marine Lee Marvin was shot in the butt at Saipan, and Bob never saw any
action, having enlisting in the Marine Corps just before the atom bomb
was dropped. For anyone that would like to see the Lee & Bob story that
has been going around, and snopes reply to the story, go to:
http://www.snopes2.com/military/keeshan.htm
Semper Fi, and God bless the Corps and the Corpsman of the Corps.
Peter A. Beauchamp
1950-1955
CLIP vs. MAGAZINE
Dear Sgt Grit,
There still seems to be some confusion over the nomenclature of "CLIP"
vs. "MAGAZINE", and current dictionaries don't seem to help the matter
much. Consulting: Merriam-Webster, 2002 online edition Clip (noun) 2: a
device to hold cartridges for charging the magazines of some
rifles; also : a magazine from which ammunition is fed into the chamber
of a firearm.
I personally feel only the first part of the definition sentence is
correct, and the 2nd part refers to "slang" usage. Correct nomenclature
usage could save your keister. If you were out of ammo during a
firefight while equipped with an M-16, and yelled "Toss me an ammo
clip!" you might get exactly what you asked for; a 10-round clip of
5.56mm ammo from a buddy's bandoleer without the magazine charging
adapter, instead of what you *really* needed; an already loaded
magazine! The extra time required to
load the magazine from the clip just might cost you and your fellow
Marines dearly.
Older service rifles, such as the 03-A3 and M-1 Garand, have magazines
that are a permanent part of the rifle's receiver, and are loaded using
a "clip". The current M-16 service rifles are loaded using a detachable
magazine, which may be loaded either by inserting a single cartridge at
a time, or by using a "clip" and a magazine charging adapter.
Perhaps the following definitions would be more clearly understandable
and useful when applied to service rifles:
"CLIPS" - hold cartridges together in a compact unit, and are used for
rapid loading of magazines. "MAGAZINES" - hold cartridges together in a
compact unit, are nearly fully enclosed, and have a spring-loaded
cartridge follower that positions the cartridges for loading into the
chamber of the rifle.
But I've only been shooting for around 40 years, so some of the real
"Old Corps" readers might have some better definitions.
It's only the rounds that hit the targets which count.
The rounds that hit the targets quickly save lives.
Great newsletters, keep 'em coming!
Semper Fi,
Steve "Wookie" Wilke, SGT, USMCIR (29MAR74-30MAR80) MOS 6657 (Airborne
Weapons System Specialist, F-4J/S)
WITHOUT THINKING
In July of 1954 while attending summer camp with the 7th Special
Infantry Company out of Louisville, Kentucky my company was going
through the infiltration course at Camp LeJeune. We had gone about 20
feet into the course with half pound blocks of tnt
blowing up all around us, light machine guns firing live ammo 36
inches off the ground, raining in buckets and we come up to this log
running horizontal across the course, anyway the Marine ahead of me put
his M1 Garand over the log keeping low and out of the way of the live
machine gun ammo and all of a sudden he started to raise up out of the
prone position, being behind him I knew he would get zapped, so I
grabbed the back of his battle fatigue shirt and slammed his head into
the mud all the while screaming cease fire. After the guns stopped
firing I found out from the Marine ahead of me between spitting out mud
that there was a timber
rattlesnake on the other side of the log. Thank God I helped him
without thinking, it was just a automatic reaction on my part and caused
me to get a meritorious promotion to
Corporal.
James R. (Bob) Detheridge
TSgt USAF (Retired)
Former Cpl USMCR
Vietnam Combat Veteran
CAMP PENDLETON VISIT
As I said, this was an Iwo Jima event for the entire weekend but I
only attended the banquet Saturday evening as a guest on my nephew.
My nephew's dad was a cousin of John Basilone and a year and a half ago
he dug up Basilone memorabilia, including the Navy Cross Basilone won on
Iwo the day he was KIA on Iwo. All items were donated to Camp
Pendleton. Incidentally the entire length of Interstate 5 that borders
the base on the coast for 20 miles has been renamed "Gunnery Sergeant
John Basilone Memorial Highway." To avoid any rush, my wife and I went
down Friday and got a room in Vista near the base. That Friday afternoon
we visited the base unannounced. I can't tell you anything about "How
the base has changed" because in both of my tours there I entered by way
of the main entrance only twice. All of my (2) stays was in the Tent
Camps at the northern end of the base, and I used the secondary
entrances. The 1st Mar Div is located there now, and I
sought out the 5th Marines for obvious reasons. I found the two story
5th Marine Headquarters building out in the boonies and walked in while
my wife waited in the car. In a minute a Major
found me wandering and asked if he could help. I introduced myself
and told him I'd like to bring my wife in, he said "Fine, there's a
hallway upstairs with photos on the wall that may be of interest to
you." When we returned another Marine greeted us, introduced himself as
Lt. Colonel Craig Baker, XO, 5th Marines and "What can I do for you?"
This man stopped what he was doing and was ready to cater to whatever I
wanted. I told him I was a "Korean" 5th Marine and he treated me like a
General. We talked about a lot of Marine things. His dad was a Vietnam
era Marine. The CO's office had pictures of his (The CO's) dad on the
wall, taken in Korea. The CO's dad was a Korean era Marine with last
name Dunford. The
CO's name was Joe Dunford, a Colonel. I was beginning to feel a
little uneasy for taking the XO's time. The XO sensed that, and put me
at ease. In plain English he said "You guys are our Heroes." [They do
know their history.] I damn near broke down. It was a very pleasant
experience, lasting about two hours. The banquet Saturday evening was
held in a 1000 seat capacity dining
room at Mainside. We had two Iwo guys at our table and all we talked
about was Liberty in L.A., no bang bang stuff. One of them knew
Basilone, so he and my nephew hit it off good. After dinner the Base
Commander, Maj. Gen. David Bice, came to our
table and the first thing I wanted to do was give thanks to him for
the great treatment I got at 5th Marines. When I introduced myself and
my outfit the first thing he said was "Did you go out and visit the
5th Marines?" At the time I couldn't remember the names of either the CO
or XO of the 5th and he quickly rattled them of for me. This surprised
me, as he was Base Commander, not 1st Mar Div Commander. He said to be
sure and tell the Division Commander my story. I later crossed paths
with the CO of the Division, Maj. Gen. James Conway. The same thing, he
treated me like a hero, asked a lot of questions, and of course knew the
names of his 5th Marine officers. There were two others I wanted to talk
to but I completely forgot about them in favor of chatting with our two
table companions plus other Marines, young and old, who we got involved
with. All of this was totally unexpected as I thought I wouldn't have
that much in common with the Iwo guys.
The two that I missed making contact with were 2nd Lt. Tara
Burkhart, Consolidated Public Affairs Office, Base Command and Mrs. Faye
Jonason, History & Museum Officer, Base Command. [I think those are both
good addresses; ---Camp Pendleton, California. If any of you guys want
to get in touch.]
A sidelight to my Pendleton, visit which I planned in advance and
thought was going to be a major element of the trip follows.
By way of introduction; during WW II one of the older guys in the
neighborhood who I was close to flew P 38s in the Mediterranean
Theater. At that time he told me the AT-6 was the most fun airplane he
ever flew. So: I made all the arrangements to fly in one the Saturday of
the Pendleton Visit. This was at Palomar Airport in Oceanside.
Appropriately the airplane was the Navy version designated SNJ-4, with
Navy two tone blue colors and 'Marines' painted on the side. To make a
long story short it was exciting, we did all the aerobatics over the
ocean and I even got
to take the controls of and on. (The pilot briefed me on the basics
prior to the flight. I am normally a white knuckle flyer.) I took along
a
mini-disk recorder and captured all the sounds, it was awesome.
On the trip home Sunday the subject of the flight never came up
between my wife and I, our entire conversation was about the Marines
we encountered. Anybody can pay a few bucks for a thrill ride, but all
the money in the world cannot buy the friendships and other we
experienced as UNITED STATES MARINES!!!
John
MCRD SAN DIEGO--MOVING?
Sgt. Grit,
I know that you probably prefer e-mail to discuss your newsletter;
but I’m not too good at sending attachments, so decided to rely on U.S.
mail.
A little bit back you had lots of comment about the possibility of MCRD, San
Diego closing. There were plenty of comments of keep it going. With this
in mind, I thought you might be interested in the attached
recent articles that appeared in the San Diego Union newspaper. I
believe that they speak for themselves. In the April 14 article they
mention ‘ North Island’. In case you do not know, this is Naval Air
Station North Island. It is across the Bay, opposite San Diego Airport.
It is also the only place, in this part of the world where ‘carriers’
can be berthed. (There usually are 3 there.) So chances of that being ‘
converted’ are nil to none.
There is another aspect on the MCRD question. Back in January CMC Jones
and Congressman Randy Cunningham made a public announcement that MCRD
would never be closed. Within 60 day both of these authorities did
a 180. They now both say it would be good for the community, and the
Corps to close MCRD. In fact both have stated that it might be OK to
relocate MCRD back to the El Toro base. (Based on political opposition
in Orange County, That to is nil to none.)
Although I do not want to see any base closed, I must be realistic.
The Corps is the only force with 2 freestanding recruit centers. The old
NTC at San Diego went with the last BRAC, and it was just across the
fence from MCRD. The Joints Chiefs have announced on numerous occasions
that they want to eliminate 25% of their bases. If this stands, then the
year 2005 BRAC will have to let something go. I’m sure that the Corps
will want Pendleton, Miramar, Lejeune, Cherry Point and Quantico. So
what is left
to let go ??? It is a tough question.
Semper Fi.
Ed Townsend
Maj. USMC- Ret
MARINE FAMILY X8
My name is Silvia Fuentes, and I would like for you to know of my
husband's family. The reason I am writing to you is because my
husband has your site on his favorites. I would just like to share this
story with you. My husband's parents Mr. and Mrs. Guadalupe Fuentes had
so much pride for our beloved country that they instilled this pride
for their country in all their children. There were 16 children born
to Mr. and Mrs. Fuentes. They had 9 sons and 7 daughters. What these
9 sons accomplished, is very rare. 8 of the Fuentes brothers served
their country proudly in the United States Marine Corps. The other son
also served his country proudly in the Air Force. Mr. and Mrs.
Guadalupe Fuentes always worried about their sons when they were in the
service, but they never kept any of their sons from doing what they felt
they had to do.
Of the 8 sons who served in the Marines, 2 served in the Reserves. 2
of the sons, Richard ( my husband) and Israel both saw tours of duty
in Vietnam. We are all very proud of what these brothers accomplished,
and for the late Mr. & Mrs. Fuentes. I am very proud of my husband and
his brothers, that I have written to President George Bush to let him
know of their rare accomplishment. I have yet to receive a response. I
also sent him a picture of the 9 brothers in their uniforms. I know
these brothers would not have done this themselves, but I feel they
deserve this recognition. The Fuentes pride does not end with these
brothers, of the 7 sisters 6 married military men. They also have
several nephews serving their country at this time. If you feel a need
to write me back please e-mail me back at smfuentes1@hotmail.com. I am
trying to get President Bush to honor these brothers with a letter from
him, as a
surprise for these brothers at our family reunion on Labor Day
Weekend. I don't want my husband to know that I have written to
President Bush, just in case that I never hear back from him. I just
want to thank you for your time. Before I close this letter, let me
write the names of these brothers. They are: David, Israel, Ezequiel,
Richard, Ismael, Rudolfo, Alfonso, Enrique, and Marcos. Israel was the
one who served in the Air Force. Once again, thank you for your time.
Respectfully, Silvia Fuentes
CHINA MARINE
Ding Hao Ponyo (very good friend) Grit,
I have purchased many items from your catalogs and have been very
happy with your prices, your quality and especially your super fast
service. I can look forward to a gift from my wife purchased from Sgt.
Grit for every birthday, anniversary, Christmas, Father's Day, etc. So
far my very favorite is the Marine's Hymn doorbell. When it starts
playing, my 14 year old Welsh Corgi, Sgt. Duffy rushes excitedly to the
door knowing we have company, usually the two little kids next door that
he adores. It has now reached the point that whenever I am watching a
Marine Corps related movie
or documentary on TV and the Marine's Hymn starts to play he barks
loudly and runs to the door. He's a natural born Marine.
I am very active in a dozen Marine Corps related groups, but as others
have stated "I wish I could do more." At 75 I have to admit "I'm not as
lean, but under the right circumstances I could still be as mean." I
believe these are the right circumstances. There is absolutely nothing
wrong with my eye sight, my nerve or my breath control. I admit I am
unfamiliar with the more modern weapons, having only qualified with the
carbine, BAR and M-1. However, I am willing to bet big money that if
given two weeks of "dry firing and snapping in" like we had at Camp
Mathews in the mid 1940's I
could still fire EXPERT.
Having said that, if you can stand one more story about Camp Mathews
I believe my experience there was different from any I have heard so
far. I had hunted all my life and from the age of 5 had accompanied my
father on hunting trips for everything from rabbits and quail to deer
and other big game. I received my first rifle for my 10th birthday and
my first shotgun for my 12th birthday. I eagerly looked forward to Camp
Mathews "knowing" I would shoot EXPERT and even dreaming of being
"Platoon High Shooter." Near the end of our second week we fired for
qualification on with the .30 caliber Carbine. I shot High Expert.
However, while firing in the sitting position, one of the Range Gunnys
had placed his knee between my shoulder blades and pressed down with all
his weight "to get me in the proper position." When I finished firing I
had a sore back and shoulders but thought nothing of it until two in the
morning when I woke up in excruciating pain with my knees tucked under
my chin. They rushed me by ambulance to the Balboa Naval Hospital in San
Diego for an emergency appendectomy. I have no idea if it was
coincidence or if the Gunny's "help" had anything to do with it or not.
Five days later I was back at Camp Mathews, but placed in a platoon one
week behind my original platoon. When
I reported in and presented my Record Book to my new D.I. he was
impressed that I had fired High Expert on the Carbine and greeted me as
warmly as any D.I. ever greets a boot. The next day we had to fire for
qualification on the M-1. I started out great in the standing position
putting every shot in the black, however when we got to the prone
position and sitting position, my stitches which hadn't yet been removed
hurt so damned much I just couldn't get into proper positions or
concentrate enough. I did qualify, but
gone forever where the dreams of being "Platoon High Shooter" or
even making EXPERT. For nearly 60 years I have had to wonder "what could
have been."
I know I have rambled on for a long time, but hope you have space for
one more item. I am the West Coast Representative for the China
Marine Association and would love to hear from any China Marine who does
not belong to the CMA. I would be happy to send them a letter explaining
the history and goals of the CMA and send the a complimentary copy of
our quarterly magazine The Scuttlebutt. My e-mail is: chinamarine@ap.net
Semper Fidelis,
Ed Fulwider
Pacifica, California
D-DAY PLUS 8
Sgt. Grit,
This past Wednesday (17April02) I went to Burger King with my wife.
As we were walking to the building, I saw an older couple getting out of
their car with a Marine Corps sticker on the back glass. He held the
door for my wife, and myself, and as I walked through, I said "Semper
Fi", but got no response. After waiting in line for a couple minutes
with this older couple behind
me, I turned and asked if he IS a Marine. He replied that he WAS a
Marine, but that was a long time ago. He told me that he was in World
War II, in the Pacific. I love the Marine Corps history, and always
wanted to meet a Marine that served in the Pacific during WWII. I asked
if he was on any of the islands that fell into the Marines History. He
named off a couple that he was on,
although I can't tell you, because the last place he mentioned made my
jaw drop. This Devil Dog told me that he was on Iwo Jima. He landed
D-Day plus 8 hours. His unit was the closest to Mt. Suribachi, but he
never saw the flag go up (what a bummer.) Just then my order came up and
me and my wife went to a table. I ate my chow, but what I really wanted
to do was to go sit at
the table this Marine and his wife were at and pick his brain. I
resisted the urge, because my wife starts to feel left out and lets me
know. I hope I can run into this Devil Dog again.
Semper Fi,
Brian A. Saal
Lcpl USMC 1992-199
FEATHER MERCHANTS ETC
In your Friday 12 April 2002 issue a George Helmke took issue with
the phrase "Sir, No Sir" as having been used back in the fifties. For
what it is worth I went through MCRD San Diego in the summer of 1952 in
Platoon (Honor Platoon) 451 and I have to agree with George regarding
the use of the phrase at that time. It was "Aye Aye Sir" and "No Sir".
I do have a question though about terms and phrases. During the
three years on active duty I often heard the term "feather merchant"
used. Can anyone tell me the true or proper definition of a feather
merchant? It usually seemed to be used to reference us shorter people in
whatever unit we were in -- the guys in the back of the
squad/platoon/etc. "Line up! Tallest up front, feather merchants to the
rear!"
When I was separated out (in July 1955) I was an E4 Sergeant
(sometimes called a Buck Sergeant). There were no Lance Corporals then.
Nor any Gunnery Sergeants. And Sergeant Major was a position, not a
rank. While trying to help research some Korean War KIAs from Dane
County Wisconsin for a memorial it was made clear to me that the
Military or Veterans
Administration files contain this error as it pertains to Marines'
ranks. They seem to assume that all pay grade E4 Marines are now,
and always were, Lance Corporals. I am very proud of my rank of Sgt.
The question is: when I die and the Veterans Administration provides a
grave stone what will it read? No offense, but if it lists me as a
Lance Corporal, I don't want it because I never was a L/Cpl.
Just before I was separated out they started trying to teach us a whole
new way to march. A major problem was that one executed a command
differently depending upon what position he had in the fire team. In
three years in the Corps I was never a member of a Fire Team once I
completed basic combat training at Camp Pendleton (although I had a
supposedly ground MOS, I was
assigned to the Air Wing). This way of marching seemed to many of us to
be the true meaning of "chinese fire drill". I don't know which method
of marching the USMC uses today, but I'm sure the modern Marine handles
it a whole lot better than we did. I guess that not only is the Korean
War the forgotten war but in some ways so is the Marine Corps of that
time. It really makes me feel old (I'm 68) Maybe this is what they
really meant by the term "the old Corps"?
Semper Fi
T. W. Stewart '52-'55
Note: E4 is a Cpl, but I understand what you are saying. Semper fi, Sgt
Grit
CORPSMAN UP
I have run this story before, but this guy needs all the support
he can get. If anyone knows how to get in contact with him
I would like to talk to him.
Sgt Grit
.........
http://abcnews.go.com/sections/2020/DailyNews/2020_homeowners_02419.html
Vietnam era corpsman with 1/9 getting flak for flying his flag.
Saw a short snippet of the preview for this 20/20 show. Beautiful
flagpole with a stone at the bottom with the EGA on it commemorating all
the men he fought with and saw die. The homeowners association says its
to gaudy wants him too
take it down. Even in a time of war people forget.
Semper Fi!
Cpl. Dennis Leetz, 3/6 Weapons Co. 0351
.........
Sgt. Grit. I want to tell you about a TV program I watched last night
4/19/02. It was 20/20. It was an episode about a former Marine
medic, now an attorney living in a community that has a homeowners
association governing it. He erected a flag pole and flys the American
flag from it. He has a bronze plaque with the unit from Viet Nam he was
in honoring his dead friends. The homeowners assoc. is suing him because
the flag pole and
American flag do not fit in with the look of the community. Can you
believe this? The guy was in tears and says he will never take it down.
I don't know where this community is but if you could see the 20/20 show
from last night it might interest you.
Ray Caprari
Binghamton, NY
YOU MUST BE A MARINE
Dear Sgt. Grit:
I have just spent the best 10 days yet in 2002. My son, a United
State Marine, stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina was home on a 10
day leave. It was the first time we saw him since Christmas. He joined
the Corps right after graduation in May of 2001 and I am proud to say
that signing my name on the line for him to join and be on the DEP
program was the right choice.
It is amazing the continued changes in my son, My Marine. From
the first time I saw him at MCRD, San Diego and now, each time he
has developed into a proud and caring individual. He no longer takes
life for granted and he carries himself with that pride that the Corps
has instilled in him. He is indeed a Marine through and through.
Every where we went during his leave, people walked up to him and
asked him if he was in the military, "Yes Mam, I am. I am in the
Marine Corps". Not a single person said anything negative but extended
their hand to say "thank you young man for giving of yourself to protect
us on the home front". Several strangers approached my son and the first
words out of their mouths were, "You must be a Marine". A proud yes mam,
or yes sir was his response. Of course, I had to know how did they know
that he was a marine because he was wearing civilian clothes. The
reply was always the same, "Because he holds himself tall and proud.
His haircut is obvious that he is in the military, but his posture and
his mannerism and the way he dresses so neat tells me that he is a
Marine. Nothing sloppy or lacking in this young man". Most all
conversations ended with a Thank You to my son. He was so proud to have
these people stop him in the malls and in the stores. He told me and his
dad that as the months go by, and as he travels to different bases and
etc., he is always greeted like that and is glad that he made the choice
to join the Marines. No regrets here. Thank you, Judy Chiasson, proud
mom of Lance Corporal Craig Chiasson,
Louisiana.
SHORT ROUNDS
One more item for the newsletter. Fox and Delta Btrys 2/11 RVN
years are having reunions this year. Delta the end of June in Oceanside
and Fox the end of Sept in Nashville. Both Btrys have websites.
www.delta211usmc.org
www.f-2-11-RVN.com
ANyone interested can go there and get info and points of contact.
Jim Monteith, aka SSgt Rock
..............
Sgt Grit,
I would like to know if you would post the following Reunion Notice for
me? USMC Motor Transport Association will be holding their 6th Reunion
at Branson, MO. Sept. 15th - 18th, 2002. POC is Archie Courtney Sr., PO
Box 1372 Jacksonville, NC 28541, (910) 324-2433,
Email: archjet@gibralter.net.
Semper Fi and Keep On Trucking,
Terry Hightower (541) 784-1266 thecandlemaker9@hotmail.com
..............
Yo Sgt Grit,
My wife says there is a third kind of person who understands
Marines...She pointed out that a Marine's wife understands him too....
Wayne Amos, MSGT USMC (ret)
.............
Great newsletter as always. I love the ballet awakening. Just for GP
though... Nike in the Greek means "Victory". I know it has nothing to
do with the logo but it's amazing what us dumb grunts know. Way too much
time on my hands I know!
Semper Fi!
Michael Infanzon, 1984-1991
..............
Operation Starlite took place on August 18th,1965;I believe in
Quang Tin Province. Three platoon members and two others in our
Company were KIA that day.
Joseph S.
..............
I am a former BAR man B15 Korea, April 51-52. When I joined the Corps I
was weak physically and mentally(with respect to seeing things thru) By
the time I left the Corps I had reversed myself. The greatest training
in the world to make one able to do ANYTHING. And it lasts forever Dr SN
Gerber
Note: As I put this msg up I had a visit from a VN Marine, shot 5
times, Force Recon, Silver Star, Bronze Star etc....and now a PHD and
business owner. Yes, you can do anything and we do. Semper fi, Sgt Grit ps:
yes we produce PHD's in Oklahoma
.............
Our family also lost a Marine this week. His name was George
Hadley Spencer. He served in WWII at Midway, Saipan, Tinian, and Tarawa.
He was 79. He left a wife, four daughters and sons-in-law, a brother
(also a WWII Marine). Seven grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Sincerely,
Raymond W. Spencer, USMC WWII
God Bless America!!
Semper fi!!
Sgt Grit
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