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listlessness for fear of what might happen."
Herodotus
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Per board user requests I have made a few changes to the bulletin board recently. I have added a Marines Only area and a Tribute Forum. They are as described. If your bio does not indicate you are a Marine your out. The Tribute Forum is for tributes to Marines. Subtle changes, but some that enhance the board. Take a look. http://www.grunt.com/BB.HTM
New Items!
My son is with the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, He has
been in Iraq since Jan and is on his way home now. His
plane had to make an unscheduled stop in Maine (plane problems)
When these tired and homesick Marines walked into the lobby
of the airport. There was around 30 to 40 Vietnam Vets there
to met them. They offered them cell phones to call home and
a meal or a bed, It meant so much to my son. They talked for
4 hours in the lobby and he said it was unbelievable. These
men have met 148 planes so far, they aren't letting any of
these men and women came home alone.
Before they left, My son had the flag with him that flew over
every camp he was in from the beginning of the war until now,
he took it out and handed it to the vet who he had been
talking with, Thank God for our Vets I couldn't be there to see my son come
home but I think God sent his own angels to welcome him home,
Thank you to all our vets.
A very PROUD Marine Mom
The Army has done themselves proud!. In spite of the Isabel, the soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery decided to stand their post. They were given approval for the first time ever to leave, but Thursday night during the heaviest of the storm Sergeant of the Guard Geary walked his post alone for 5 1/2 hours in rain and 60-mph wind.
A protest raged on a court lawn
Round a makeshift stage they charged on,
Fifteen hundred or more they say,
Had come to burn a Flag that day.
A boy held up the folded Flag,
Cursed it, and called it a dirty rag.
An old man pushed through the angry crowd,
With a rusty shotgun shouldered proud.
His uniform jacket was old and tight,
He had polished each button, shiny and bright.
He crossed that stage with a soldier's grace,
Until he and the boy stood face to face.
"Freedom of speech", the old man said,
"Is worth dying for, good men are dead,
So you can stand on this courthouse lawn,
And talk us down from dusk to dawn,
But before any Flag gets burned today,
This old man is going to have his say!
My father died on a foreign shore,
In a war they said would end all wars
But Tommy and I wasn't even full grown,
Before we fought in a war of our own.
And Tommy died on Iwo Jima's beach
In the shadow of a hill he couldn't quite reach
Where five good men raised this Flag so high,
That the whole world could see it fly.
I got this bum leg that I still drag,
Fighting for this same old Flag.
Now there's but one shot in this old gun,
So now it's time to decide which one,
Which one of you will follow our lead,
To stand and die for what you believe?
For as sure as there is a rising sun,
You'll burn in hell 'fore this Flag burns, son.
Now this riot never came to pass
The crowd got quiet and that can of gas,
Got set aside as they walked away
To talk about what they had heard this day.
And the boy who had called it a "dirty rag",
Handed the old soldier the folded Flag.
So the battle of the Flag this day was won
By a tired old soldier with a rusty gun,
Who for one last time, had to show to some,
This flag may fade, yet these colors don't run!
Grantland Rice
I just wanted to let you know I appreciate your stories, and I
think it's great how Marines act as brothers or sisters. Just
a few months ago I was at a restaurant and an older gentleman
was waiting for a table as were my fiancée and I and another
middle aged gentleman came out with a Marine Corps shirt on
and the older gentleman, said "Son are you a Marine?" The
middle aged man said "Yes sir," at that the older gentleman
said "Semper Fi!" and that was the exchange of the conversation,
and witnessing that conversation with few words, but knowing
from my fiancée the amount of power those words have, was
really an experience that will probably never leave my mind.
With that, I will say Thank you for your newsletters,
Soon to be Marine Wife
"...[A] Constitution will not be able to keep the government
limited; for given a monopoly Supreme Court selected by the
self-same government and granted the power of ultimate decision
making, the political 'ins' will always favor a 'broad' or
loose interpretation of the wording of the Constitution serving
to expand the powers of government over the citizenry; and,
over time, the 'ins' will inexorably tend to win out over the
minority of 'outs' who will argue vainly for a 'strict'
interpretation limiting state power."
--Murray N. Rothbard
"The values and the valor of those Continental soldiers helped
to release the freedom this blessed nation now enjoys. The
vigilance and training of today's soldiers keep that freedom
secure. Yes, meeting the defense budget calls for sacrificing
other ways we might like to spend those funds. But this is a
small sacrifice compared to that of America's colonial citizens.
They paid with their blood and long years of hardship."
--Ronald Reagan
"Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political
prosperity, Religion and Morality are indispensable supports.
In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism, who
should labor to subvert these great Pillars."
--George Washington in his Farewell Address delivered
this day, September 19, 1796
"Do images of those fighting on the peaks of Afghanistan or
in the desert of Iraq, when juxtaposed to the rallies on our
elite campuses, suggest that a populist military is doing a
better or worse job than our privileged universities in
training our youth to be educated, well-spoken, and rational?"
--Victor Davis Hanson
"...[N]either the wisest constitution nor the wisest laws will
secure the liberty and happiness of a people whose manners
are universally corrupt."
--Samuel Adams
"I had a copy of the Soviet Constitution and I read it with
great interest. And I saw all kinds of terms in there that
sound just exactly like our own: 'Freedom of assembly' and
'freedom of speech' and so forth. Of course, they don't allow
them to have those things, but they're in there in the constitution.
But I began to wonder about the other constitutions -- everyone
has one -- and our own, and why so much emphasis on ours. And
then I found out, and the answer was very simple -- that's why
you don't notice it at first. But it is so great that it tells
the entire difference. All those other constitutions are documents
that say, 'We, the government, allow the people the following
rights,' and our Constitution says 'We the People, allow the
government the following privileges and rights.' We give our
permission to government to do the things that it does. And that's
the whole story of the difference--why we're unique in the world
and why no matter what our troubles may be, we're going to overcome."
--Ronald Reagan
Just one more word about the attitude of the VFW. Commander Christman
pretty much sums it up correctly. It is indeed true that there was
and is animosity between WWII Vets (the so-called greatest generation
of which my uncles, father, and other relatives were members and served)
and the Viet Nam and Korean Veterans. I have seen the animosity of
some of the WWII types towards Viet Nam and Korean Vets first hand.
But WWII veterans are fading from the scene faster with each
passing day.
While as a Commander of my own Post in Oregon elected to that post
three times, I made it clear up front that I would not tolerate that
kind of behavior, I in fact angered many of those older WWII veterans.
But you still have to love those guys and gals, because they are now
what they were back then. Even those few of us who served in Korea
were too young to serve in WWII but that war too was just a continuation
of an Asian conflict using the same weaponry and to some extent same
tactics. Still, because our politicians called it a police action
instead of a full fledged war, Korean Vets were not appreciated either.
But we held our ground and worked our way into their world. And then
one day, we were in charge and could begin positive changes. Clearly,
now, Viet Nam and Desert Storm, Desert Shield, and all the other
actions have produced several new generations of combat veterans who
are even now taking charge. Still there are a few that will not give
up the reigns of leadership of our fine old Veteran's groups.
They simply do not want to let go.
Don't think it can happen in your town? Then consider who will follow
you newer Vets when you get old and gray....If you do not follow through
and welcome and indeed train these new vets on how to protect their
veterans benefits including yours, soon there will be no one left to
defend them. Remember, just as the WWII vets are leaving us at
accelerating rates every year, you too will one day be in that category
and you must do all you can to save the rights of those veterans that
served. Remember too that at the end of WWII 80% of members of Congress
were veterans. Today, that number is in the 40% range and declining
every year. And if our current crop of challengers to the White House
gives you any clues as to their mental prowess or lack thereof, at the
very least you need to let them know that there will always be a VFW,
MCL and MCA and other Veterans organizations to keep watch over our rights.
No, as Commander, I did not tolerate that kind of dissention in our
VFW Ranks and I believe with all my heart that it had an impact on
our members that eventually became much more positive. But then, I
also made sure that we tried to encourage the younger members to
participate. Not always successfully because they too are what they
were back then - products of another era and though their values are
not necessarily our values and they may not see things quite as we
saw them when we were their age, they must one day take the reins
and carry on the fight to see to it that all Veterans receive the
benefits they fought to preserve. In my own view, nothing we as
a nation do for our Veterans who served their country is nearly
enough. Let us all strive to see to it that a grateful nation takes
care of those that go in harm's way to protect us all. And let me
add, that no one loves to go to war, but in the case of IRAQ, I
know that most of us old codgers would love to have been there with
those young people using the incredible firepower, to do what they
did. Realistically however, we also know that we could not do it
half as well as our troops did it and that makes us so proud of
them the words just fail us.....
Semper Fi to all you young Veterans, I would serve with any
of you any time, anywhere.
Richard E. Nygaard, SSGT, USMC 1953-1963
Senior Vice Commander,
MCL, Detachment # 1089
Semper Fi, Sgt. Grit!
Thanks for all the hard work you do on your newsletter.
I love it! In response to the letter from Senior Chief Messer
of Task Force Charlie, I just want to say a big Thank You.
His enthusiasm and upbeat reporting of some of the "Good Things"
evolving in Iraq were a welcome breath of fresh air. What he
stated about the press and all of their negative reporting is
true. All I hear recently is about the various ambushes that
kills our troops and how the death toll in this "peacetime"
is greater (and growing), than during the combat that took place.
It was refreshing to read about the schools and businesses
that are springing up and going forward due to the freedoms
these people now enjoy. It would be great to hear more
news of this sort.
Semper Fidelis,
Larry D.Hamm
Iraq, wrong war, wrong time, wrong place. Afghanistan right war,
write time write place. Too bad we did not finish it before
going to war for oil.
Semper Fi Chuck in Pittsburgh USMCR '53 to '64
WTF Chuck? I know you're due to be flamed aplenty but being a troll I
reckon that's your goal. Your provocation does bring up a potential
topic, though. What is the most disgusted any of you Jarheads have been
with regards to a situation? For myself, it was finding out the
conditions that led to the bombing of the Marines' barracks. This is not
mean to create a bash-fest but rather an opportunity to vent; we'll
always get the mission accomplished regardless of the politics.
Remember, a b!tchin' Marine is a happy Marine!
Michael A. Thornton, former Cpl. USMC
Sgt. Grit.
I have son who is in week 3 at MCRD San Diego. I have been receiving
your newsletter for about 6 months now and am very grateful for that.
We are not a military family, and at first did not understand why
our son would choose the military over college. As I learn more and
more about the Marine Corps, I could not be more proud of his selfless
decision to serve his country in the name of freedom. It's easy to
understand why he chose the Marines: to be the best of the best.
I wanted to share an email that I received this week that touched
my heart. The young men and women who are serving our country
deserve to be treated with the utmost respect and gratitude.
Sue N.
Sgt.
I rode up the escalator at Penn Station, 34th St. and 7th Ave.
My friend Dave and I stepped out onto the sidewalk. I bent over
to shield my lighter and light my cigarette. I heard the roar
of engines over Manhattan. You don't hear planes over Manhattan.
I followed the plane until it hit the building. I cried like a
little girl. We ran south on 7th Avenue. The second plane hit
while we were running. We were stopped at 7th Ave and Canal St.
When the first tower fell, we ran away. We went back to Canal St.
Then the next tower fell. We ran away again. This is the reason
I am in the Marine Corps. FDNY 343 NEVER FORGET
LCpl. Matthew Romaka, USMC
CSSC-121 Publications NCO
By Peter Franceschina
Staff Writer
September 11, 2003
Defiant flag flier George Andres once again is facing the prospect
of losing his Jupiter home after a Palm Beach County judge ruled
Wednesday that his homeowners association could go forward with
a foreclosure sale next month to collect legal fees.
Andres, a Marine veteran, said he was worried about losing his
home, but he vowed to appeal the latest ruling in a legal saga
that has spanned more than two years.
"We are going to fight," Andres said.
It is the second time in recent months that Andres' home has
moved toward the auction block. He was granted a reprieve in
May when Circuit Judge Edward Fine agreed to reconsider his
order authorizing the foreclosure.
The Florida Attorney General's Office stepped in and argued
that Andres' home was constitutionally protected under the
state's homestead law from foreclosure by a homeowners
association attempting to collect a legal debt.
Andres' homeowners association prohibits flagpoles, and Andres
has a 12-foot flagpole in his front yard. Another judge ruled
that Andres didn't have a right to put up the flagpole, and the
association filed a lien on the property to collect roughly
$21,000 in attorneys' fees and legal costs expended in winning
the case.
Fine rejected the argument from the Attorney General's Office
and issued a ruling Wednesday that found the association's right
to file a lien against the property was established in 1982,
when its covenants and bylaws were recorded in land records,
six years before Andres purchased his home.
West Palm Beach attorney Steven Selz, who represents the
homeowners association, said the ruling makes sense.
"There has to be a way to give the association a right to
enforce its claims on the property," he said.
Boca Raton attorney Barry Silver, who represents Andres, said
he would file an appeal. Mediation has failed, while the attorneys'
fees continue to pile up for both sides.
"They find George to be very intransigent because he has the
right to fly the flag, and they think he is stubborn because
he fights for that right," Silver said.
Selz said he hopes Andres decides to reach a settlement rather
than face losing his home, which is scheduled to be auctioned
on Oct. 9.
Andres said previous settlement offers required more of a
compromise than he was willing to make.
"They said remove the flag and the flagpole, and that is not a
compromise," Andres said. " I'm 66, and I don't have much left
anyhow. We have to go ahead and fight."
Peter Franceschina can be reached at
pfranceschina@sun-sentinel.com or 561-832-2894.
Copyright (c) 2003, South Florida Sun-Sentinel
Visit Sun-Sentinel.com
"Contemplate the mangled bodies of your countrymen, and then
say, 'What should be the reward of such sacrifices?' Bid us
and our posterity bow the knee, supplicate the friendship, and
plough, and sow, and reap, to glut the avarice of the men who
have let loose on us the dogs of war to riot in our blood and
hunt us from the face of the earth? If ye love wealth better
than liberty, the tranquility of servitude than the animating
contest of freedom, go from us in peace. We ask not your
counsels or arms. Crouch down and lick the hands which feed you.
May your chains sit lightly upon you, and may posterity
forget that ye were our countrymen!"
--Samuel Adams
It's Tommy this and Tommy that
and chuck 'em out the brute
but 'es Savior of the Country
when the guns begin to shoot
A tommy being of course a British Solider
I never wanted the thanks of 90% of our
Countrymen and felt the other 10% had earned mine.
SFFi, Tiger
Chuck in Pittsburgh go over look in the eye of every child over
there and tell them it was the wrong war. Go tell the women over
there who finally do not have to fear being selectively raped
by a horrid regime it was not a right war like some. Like Mr
John Lee said in Sgt's last letter whether or not there are WOMD
does not matter. As the soul superpower our obligation to our
protection and the Iraqi peoples freedom was just enough cause.
Don't let the likes of your Political party cloud your Marine
Judgement. Marines aren't just Americas 911 force we are the worlds.
Jason Halle
USMC 91-95
USNR 02- present
Sgt Grit, Some of your readers are upset with the Service
Organizations i.e. the American Legion, the V.F.W. and others
concerning the acceptance on membership into their organizations.
The new veteran's and those still on active duty must not despair
with them. Being Federally Chartered organizations, it does take
a congressional resolution to change the dates of eligibility for
membership. The American Legion for one has already done this for
the troops of the Gulf War starting August 2, 1990 thru the
cessation of hostilities declared by the President. Which means
the dates for membership are open to all personnel who served on
active duty including Reserves and National Guard members? For
more information contact their local American Legion Post.
Thank You MM
I think Ron Whitcare is sadly mistaken. He had all the proof
needed to join the VFW. No one the served in combat in a foreign
war will never be turned away. I can't believe that you were.
The Military Order of the Purple Heart ask for more proof of war
time service and certificate of award of the Purple Heart. I am
an officer at Post #8823 and have been for several years. The
VFW is a great organization for all veterans of a foreign war
an does not discriminate. Former S/SGT. Ron Marmon said that.
USMC 65 To 74, Nam 66-67,and I an a member of all of them organizations.
GOD BLESS AMERICA AND THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
I'm glad that I'm not the only one who had problems with the
American Legion, Disabled American Veterans etc. I served four
years active duty from 9/76 - 9/80, which included two overseas
deployments. On my deployment in the Med (during the Iranian
crisis) our ships received orders from the President of the
United States to proceed through the Suez Canal and prepare to
invade the Country of Iran. Our orders were eventually cancelled
in favor of a rescue attempt. I'm sure that you're all aware of
how well that mission went. Anyway, after I was discharged I had
to go into the VA hospital for a minor medical condition that
flared up. I was granted a "Service Connected Disability-<10%"
since the original injury occurred while I was on active duty.
I didn't get any money-didn't want or deserve any money- just
wanted treatment, which I received. I returned to active duty
for a short time during my "inactive duty" period under a program
that was designed to keep inactive reserves up to speed on their
skills (one of my MOS's was Small Missile Maintenance
Technician-TOW,DRAGON &RedEye). After that, I did a short
stint in the Active Reserves.
In 1983 when I was planning my wedding, one of my friends suggested
the DAV hall that he belonged to for my reception. I went to the
hall, filled out all of the paperwork and showed them my "Service
Connected Disability Card." They came back and told me that since
my disability was not at least 10%, I could not join. At this point,
I was O.K. with that. I knew that my "Disability" was really no
disability at all, but a minor condition that had been treated and
cured. Then the rep.asked my wife if her father had been in the
military, to which she replied that he had served in the Army
during the Korean War. She went on to say that he never left the
States, but was admitted to the hospital for a case of VD that he
caught while chasing numerous women. The reps. eyes lit up as he
exclaimed to my wife "You are eligible to join the DAV as an
auxiliary member, and as such, can rent the hall. Then anytime
you two want to come in, you can sign your (United States Marine
with two overseas tours, orders to combat and a service connected
disability) husband in as a guest." Well, Kiss My Ass!!! Are you
kidding me??!!! The only way that I can get into a service
organization is as a guest of my civilian wife? No Thanks!
After this, I received correspondence from the American Legion
asking me to join. I again filled out all the paperwork and sent
it in. After a couple weeks, I received notice that neither my
dates of service nor orders to war were "recognized dates" according
to Legion rules. They were sorry, my application to join was denied.
Whatever. I just hope that they didn't treat the service members
who died, were injured or were held hostage during the Iranian
rescue attempt the same way. Periodically, I received additional
mailings from the American Legion. I finally wrote them a nasty
letter and told them that if they didn't quit sending me applications,
I'd hunt them down and show them how combat qualified I was!
For some reason, the letters stopped.
I still remain a "gung ho" Marine. Everyone at work knows when the
Marine Corps Birthday is and how to properly display the flag. And
absolutely no offense to any of the fine men and women who belong
to these organizations. I just think that your rules are a little goofy.
I've been reading stories about the shortage of buglers for veteran's
funerals. I played bugle in the Boy Scouts and trumpet in high school.
I've been thinking about offering my services to Bugles Across America.
However, I don't know if I could handle another rejection! :)
Semper Fi!
Sgt. Bruce T. Meyer
Unqualified, Worldwide Service
"Victory at all costs, victory in spite of all terror, victory
however long and hard the road may be; for without victory
there is no survival."
--Sir Winston S. Churchill
Sgt. Grit,
usually wear my salty old cover sometimes, but since the first of the
year, I have worn it proudly everyday. I was off work and recuperating from a back
injury from Jan.- June. I watched every moment that I could of the Iraqi
conflict on the Fox channel. I have never been more proud of our Marines, and our
beloved George W. Bush. George does what he says he will do,and means it. For
once, an honest guy in the white house who asks for guidance from God! Can
you see others trying to cope with 9/11? I don't think so!I would like to say
to ALL of the Marines out there that are fighting, or rotating back to the
world, "outstanding work there ladies and gentlemen"!!! I'm a too old jarhead
that would love to join in the fight with our young Marines. We that support
President Bush must make sure that we vote him back into office! You can bet that
every fringe group, peace nick, green peace, whoever, will be out in
force to try and vote him out. Semper Fidelis!
Heslep, J.A., Sgt. USMC 1969-1973 RVN. 1970-1971
A contributor wrote:
"Iraq, wrong war, wrong time, wrong place. Afghanistan right war, write
time write place. Too bad we did not finish it before going to war for oil."
Such narrow mindedness cannot go unnoted.
"Operation Iraqi Freedom" is a "wrong" war," at the "wrong time" and in the
"wrong place?" While Afghanistan was the "right war, at the "right time,"
and in the "right place." (Interesting perspective.)
For anyone to believe that though, it would be because they were living in
a vacuum on Sept. 11, 2001, and dates prior.
Be that as it may, or may not be, the events of 11Sep01 were hardly the
beginning. The beginning was December 1993, and dates prior but lets
begin with the first attack on the World Trade Center. That "attack"
was the prelude to the events of "9/11."
Fortunately, the attack on the World Trade Center, "WTC," in 1993
failed because of "stupidity" on the part of the attackers. Yet, that
failed attack gave the terrorist valuable insights, identified strategical
shortcomings and sent them back to their respective "drawing boards."
Taking down the "WTC" became a "mission," they would be back and
they would not fail the second time around.
It was hardly chance that brought world attention to the Taliban, hardly
random selection that sent our Troops to the mountains of Tora Bora.
There was more than ample "intel," dedicated investigation, and a lot
of hard work that enabled US to justifiably point "the finger of guilt"
exactly where it belonged for the entire world to take note. Does that
success qualify or justify the lives lost in Afghanistan? Does that
make it the "right war, in the right place, at the right time?"
There could be a lot of reasons for being "right," but the only reason
that should mean anything at all would have to be because that's
exactly where the blame belonged. NO other reasons.
Fast forward eight years...September 2001! Attack number two, this
time, the result of careful meticulous planning, supported by educated
input of Architects and Engineers, (who acquired their skills in our
colleges and universities), with their success in achieving their
desired results exceeding even their own expectations.
Yet, as disastrous as the events of "9/11" proved themselves to be,
with the loss of 3,016 lives. The total destruction of a world
landmark, (The WTC). The happenstance attack on The Pentagon, and
the senseless and unforgivable loss of the forty passengers and crew
of Flt. 93 over Shanksville, PA. All realities collectively
propelling our Nation into a total "defensive mode." Resultantly
finding ourselves in a "wrong war, in the wrong place, at the wrong time?"
There has to be something seriously deficient in that thinking and
logic. In 1993 the death toll was six, in 2001 the tally exceeded
3,000. Within all sense of basic reasonableness, the loss of one
life to terrorist activities would be a price TOO high.
The United States didn't ask for any of this. On December 8, 1941,
every recruiting station of every branch of our Armed Services was
literally swamped to prospective enlistee's. The Recruiting Station
at Whitehall Street in downtown Manhattan, (NYC), had a line going
completely around the block. What pain do we as a Nation have to
endure before we can "take the high ground" as to declare a "right
war?" There is no such thing as a "right war," but their will
always be a reason to go to war. NO one likes war. There are no
winners in war, (everyone looses something). Most importantly,
no one dislikes war more than the very people that have to fight them.
For anyone to genuinely believe that our Armed Forces current daily
battle to stay alive in Iraq and Afghanistan is about oil probably
has their head in the sand as deep as the oil is. It won't be any
time soon before Iraq comes anywhere near regaining their prewar oil
production levels. So I doubt anyone is holding there breaths in
anticipation of any windfall "oil" profits.
The very people that would benefit the most, the Iraqi's, couldn't
care less...there too busy blowing everything up to consider the
error of their ways, or the inevitable consequences. It's all
about US "infidels." That's the focus of their concerted efforts,
riding their society and culture of all US "freedom lovers" and
that of our Allies, the staunch brave, courageous "Brits." As to
the rest of the "coalition," as admirable as their contributions
are, and welcomed, their presence is "token" at best.
Let's "throw in the towel," after all we're in the middle of a
"wrong war, at the wrong time, and in the wrong place." Then when
everyone comes home, our military puts all it's "toys" away, our
lives will return to the peace and serenity we all enjoyed prior
to "9/11." Yeah, right! Then all of US better be prepared for
an onslaught no one could even begin to imagine. It will indeed
make the events of "9/11" take on the appearance of a "skirmish."
NO, I respectfully submit, this IS a war, (not of our doing), "for
the right reasons, at the right time, and in the right place."
This is a war with no foreseeable clear-cut victory or end, but
a war that needs to be waged. It is a war, we as a Nation, a
people, a society, a culture cannot afford to loose.
Wars never won any popularity contests. There is no such thing as
a pleasant war. Wars by their very definition are unpleasant at
best, but they will always be necessary evils...especially at
the price of freedom.
The basis of the argument presented lacks merit on its very surface,
let US go back thirty plus years and talk about a war that was truly
unpopular. Lets talk about a war that probably should never have
been fought, lets talk about an Administration that promoted a weak
cause only to admit two decades later that "we should have never
gotten involved." (Robert S. McNamara, SecD, Johnson Administration)
Now, that was a "wrong" war, at the "wrong" time and definitely "in
the wrong place." The late Gen. Douglas MacArthur foretold the
penalties to be paid getting involved in a guerilla war in Southeast
Asia, just as prophetically as Gen. "Billy" Mitchell foresaw an air
attack on the Naval Base at Pearl Harbor, HI and created an
international incident when he accurately speculated that the
attackers would be the Japanese.
To ignore history is to invite its repetition. Does any one want
to see another "9/11?"
Civilization has reached the technological point where we can no
longer sit back and "wring our hands," anguish and fret of what
could be. Allow US to be so caught up in "political correctness"
that we wait for another "9/11" before we act. We just cannot
afford to wait for circumstances to allow moral approval "for
a right war, at the right time and in the right place."
WE, as in "US," need to bring the fight to them, before they bring
it to US, as in on our shores, in our cities, if not in our towns.
Should terrorism, where ever it may surface, be allowed to gain a
foothold on our shores, none of US will be safe. Our adversary
is a very tenacious enemy, dying, in their culture, is a way of
life, a given. Death garners no particular attention, concern
or even fear.
WE didn't finish in Afghanistan? The writer suggest, or implies.
There is no finish! This war knows no beginning or end. The
Taliban, Al Qaeda, (synonymous forces for all intent and purpose),
bleed back and forth across international borders unimpeded, (to
the same extent we may cross a street), unrestricted to wreak
havoc and destruction, death and mayhem at will. Does anyone
want anywhere near that lifestyle to prevail on our shores?
There are no "front lines" to this war either. The "front line"
for the "GI" waging the daily battle is less than an arms length
radius looking out for a 7.62 sniper round from 360 degrees.
Their enemy isn't even a "face in the crowd"...everyone is suspect,
everyone is a threat. Which is all the more reason to be ever
vigilant, less that very treat migrate to our own shores, towns
and cities? A hard concept to "wrap one's mind around," but a
very real possibility, one that is being pursued with great
Determination by those who know nothing but hate for everyone
outside their culture and beliefs.
We didn't "finish" in Afghanistan? Do you think the fight could
have been contained in Afghanistan? Do you believe that the
attacks on our Forces are occurring in a vacuum? None of the
events past are "isolated events." Terrorism on the scale our
Forces are confronting is being supported on a "state" level.
There can be little doubt that the most ardent supporter was none
other than Saddam Hussein himself. It could be argued that no
evidence that has yet to "see the light of day" would support
such thinking, but I would submit our government knows and knew better.
The scope of terrorism that has been allowed to flourish in the
Middle East, (Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, Libya and probably
Syria and Jordan as well), succeeds because the governments of
those countries, (recognized and otherwise), find it politically
expedient to "turn a blind eye" to terrorism, if not support it.
Let US recognize and come to terms with the reality that we have
been enjoined in a war, a "perpetual war" that we will have to
fight for all foreseeable future. To revel in complacency, within
a false sense of security will only invite our own demise and
being "right" will have very little to do with anything.
Semper Fi,
T.P. Sheehan
Syracuse, NY
Sgt. Grit,
There are OTHER Marines voicing different opinions on Iraq.
Gen. Anthony Zinni, USMC (Ret.), the former CENTCOM commander
and Bush administration Mideast negotiator just gave a speech
last week to a joint meeting of the U.S. Naval Institute and
the Marine Corps Association. He told the assembled Marine
and Navy officers that the administration got us into this
war under false pretenses (remember Weapons of Mass Destruction?)
and that we're now in a Vietnam-style quagmire. He was mobbed
by a cheering audience who bought all of the tapes of his speech
that were made that night. Jim Web, decorated USMC veteran of
Vietnam, best-selling novelist and Reagan's first Secretary of
the Navy said the EXACT SAME THING to another group of Navy and
Marine officers at the Naval war college a few days before that.
I happen to agree with them. Our Commander-in-Chief is a LIAR
who has exploited 9/11 for his administration's own purposes.
The CIA and the other intel agencies have said repeatedly that
there is no connection whatsoever between 9/11 and Iraq, but
Bush was determined to create one because that's the neoconservative
game plan, al la Paul Wolfowitz, Richard Perle, Donald Rumsfeld,
et al who think that that's the way to pacify the Middle East.
Now that we're occupying Iraq, it's swarming with terrorists from
the entire Muslim world (especially Saudi Arabia) because they
can take easy pot shots at American troops there and wage a
guerrilla war that will bleed American morale, lives and funds
in the Sunni Moslem areas. Bush and Cheney are also still
coddling the Saudi Arabians who are our sworn enemies and are
bankrolling terrorism around the world. So who are the real
patriots, those who continue to turn a blind eye to all the
lies, arrogance and blunders or those who face the truth
squarely and tell it the way it really is before the military
is severely damaged and the Treasury bankrupted??
- John G. Hogan
former Major USMCR
Love the quotes in each newsletter. Here are a couple more:
"What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us: what we
have done for others and the world remains and is immortal."
--Albert Pike
"The Returning
Our heroes sleep in honor
Unbetrayed
If we in faith and honor keep the peace
For which they paid"
--Rudyard Kipling
A Marine Mom.
I have read a little here and other places, and seen a bit on TV.
But good news out of Iraq is hard to find. Most polls indicate
Iraqis are glad they have been liberated from Saddam. There is
bound to be some anxiety about the future and this is what most
of the doom-sayers focus on. What I have noticed is subtle,
fundamental changes for the better. Such as, over 150 newspapers
and magazines have surfaced since the war. Electricity, still not
what it should be, but is much more reliable than before. Some area
for 20 years only got electricity one hour a day, now it is
supplied regularly. Basic services are coming on line rapidly.
Business's are springing up everywhere to supply what is needed.
Schools are being rebuilt and are holding classes, many within
days of the completion of the war. The subtle, but basic building
blocks of life do not make headlines. To me they are more telling
than anything the talking heads spout-off about.
The death toll is nothing compared to the quagmire and the Vietnam
it is being compared to. One American death per day is too much,
but let's not get too carried away with quagmire and Vietnam
parallels. Vietnam averaged 18 dead per day for approximately 10
years. The first Gulf War was 9 per day. This is not a quagmire,
it is excellent work carried out by our military. The problem is
the American public, and its desire for immediate results, their
attention deficit. The opposition is banking on that. Sure some
want us gone, but most see the need and the stability we are
attempting and succeeding in brings. And it is appreciated by the
average Iraqi, even though they may not understand it due to
their Muslim bias against the west. Time is on our side, not theirs.
The resources al Qaeda and the others pour into Iraq means less they
can direct to other areas, most notably the USA. I would rather
kill terrorist and diminish their effectiveness in
Iraq than on our soil.
I suggest we stay the course and support the effort. The right
thing to do is usually the more difficult of options available.
Semper fi,
WMD
Dear Sergeant Grit,
You asked where we stand two years later. How's this:
Wake up Call: On that infamous day, September 11, 2001, we were
put on notice that we are under attack, have been for some time,
and will continue to be until this war is won. Most of us understand
this and are, mentally prepared for the long run. And most of us
understand that in this war where territory is not involved, we
will have to go root out the enemy where ever he is. Mistakes
will be made and have been made, but we will prevail. Heck, those
of us who lived through WWII can tell you about mistakes-one that
comes to my mind is not blacking out the cities on the East Coast
for more than five months while German submarines picked off dozens
of oil tankers silhouetted against the lights night after night as
they sailed up the coast from Texas oil fields to the refineries
in New Jersey. I understand the Admiral in charge was a relative
of Roosevelt's. I don't remember any calls for his impeachment.
And I do remember some of the laws Roosevelt broke helping the
British before we were at war. We also remember other serious
mistakes-the errors made by the Navy at Guadalcanal, by the Marine
General and the Navy at Tarawa; by the decision to unnecessarily
invade Peleliu, thereby destroying the 1st Marine Division. The
decision by the US Navy to stop shelling with the 16 inchers and
sail away from Iwo Jima prematurely, thereby unnecessarily delaying
securing the island by some weeks and resulting in excessive
casualties. The decision by General Howling Mad Smith not to
permit the 3rd Marine Regiment to land, thereby condemning raw
recruit replacements on the front to unnecessary deaths. And how
about interning the Japanese Americans& #045;taking their homes and land
away and placing them in internment camps? I could go on and on.
For all the mistakes, we united behind our president, kept our
eyes on the goal-to protect our country and to win the war.
And so we did!
But it is the time to pause, to remember the thousands who died
on 9/11, especially the hundreds of rescue workers-the firemen,
police, PA Police and workers, and EMT personnel who ran into
those buildings and gave their lives to save people they never
knew. Then to rededicate ourselves to a war to the death-of either
the thousands of terrorists who hate us and want to destroy us,
or to our way of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness..
Semper Fi, Frank Hall, F-2-21, 3rd Marine Div, 1942-45
"Republics...fall, when the wise are banished from the public
councils, because they dare to be honest, and the profligate
are rewarded, because they flatter the people, in order to
betray them."
--Joseph Story
In response to Chuck in Pittsburgh USMCR 53' to 64'.
Have you really thought about you comments in ACN#53
about Iraq being the wrong war, time and place. We are
Marines and any war that President Bush says we should
fight then that is the right time,place and war
because marines follow orders. That is what we do. And
as for the Iraq war being for oil. I could be wrong
here and if I am someone please correct me, But I have
yet to see one ship load of oil from Iraq sitting at a
American Port to be off loaded. And if there were you
can bet your sweet A@@ that we would be paying for it.
I don't just mean with the blood of all the young men
and women who have given their lives so far in that
god forsaken hell hole of a country. We live in a
place that gives you the freedom to think what you
want,believe what you want, and wright what you will.
I thank GOD everyday that I as a "Marine" not
former,not EX- just a Marine stuck on permanent
civilian duty can voice my opinion and I thank you
SGT. Grits for giving me the place to do that.
Semper Fi....and GOD Speed.
Mike Alpha CO1/3 93 to 97..
Sgt. Grit,
While sitting at a High School football game the other
day I had a senior notice my USS Arizona hat.
She asked me if I served on the Arizona. I was totally blown
away. When asked if she knew what the Arizona was she said just
another Navy ship. Hey Grit, I'm getting old but WOW! I told her
it was a ship from Pearl Harbor in WW2 still on active duty. She
asked me if they keep ships around that long. She had no idea.
My whole family has been in the military. Including my 92 Year
old Grandfather as a POW in Germany and my Uncle As a Marine
killed on Saipan. Myself as a Marine 80-86. What are these kids
learning? My family made sure I knew of our history and of the world.
We can't afford to let this generation slip through the
hands of time. In WW2 and Vietnam my father and myself knew of
the hardships the "Guys" were gong through. It's hard to believe
this generation is so complacent. Yea, Iknow,it's not all of
them. But, let's make sure they know and remember.
Pass the tradition on.
Let them know there are people making the ultimate sacrifice.
Staying up at night, skipping meals, Volunteering a part of their
life to keeping us safe so they can enjot their football game and
have a good nights sleep. If you see someone in the military, fire,
or law enforcement, take the time to thank them. Lord knows
we don't do it for thr money.
These people have taken a religion and belief and butchered
it much the same way the Japenese did in WW2.
WE WILL NOT BE BEATEN DOWN IN OUR TIME OF SORROW. WE ARE
A STRONG NATION. WE WILL HEAL. WE WILL PREVAIL.
Jeff King USMC 80-86
To the four Corporals in Boston,
Something doesn't smell right about the woodpile that you
described in your article "My Two Cents.... Sometimes More".
I'm a Disabled Vet Rep for the State of Oklahoma and cannot
attest to the Vet Benefits in any other state but I can offer you
some pointers.
If you have Questions about your Federal Benefits please
call 1-800-827-1000. This number works in all states and is your
regional office of Veterans Affairs. Ask to speak to a Veterans
Benefits counselor and they should answer all of your federal
benefits questions.
All states have different benefits for vets. Please call
your local workforce office (employment-unemployment) and ask to
speak to a veteran's representative. They should be able to
answer all of your state veterans benefit questions.
To the best of my knowledge, all states have a state
Department of Veteran's Affairs and they should be able to help
you in the area. Every year the Department of Veterans Affairs
publishes a booklet called Federal Benefits for Veterans and
Dependents. I strongly suggest you get a copy of this booklet
so your wife will know what to do if something happens to you,
if for no other reason. Your state should publish a pamphlet
on your state's veteran's benefits, as they are different
from your federal benefits.
DM McDaniel, D.V.O.P.II
Interesting points were made by Greg Andrus and Sgt. Rapa relative
to the lack of military experience for those now entering law
enforcement. The Connecticut State Police emphasize on their
website about their academy being rigorous because most entering
the CSP have no military background and 'need' this type of
training. As a retired police officer who held positions from
the bottom to the top, I saw first hand the evolution of those
coming on the job and the demeanor/attitude of those who did
and those who didn't pay their dues. There is no question that
college makes a good cop better,however, along with that
there must be some worldly experiences.
Herman Bishop
USMC (Sgt., '67-'71)
Adams,MASS PD
1972-1999
Chief, 1996-99
Grit, last week I was surfing my TV and stopped at C-span,they
were showing a ceremony for Vice Pres.
Dan Quail [ I think that's how you spell his name] The
announcer said please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance,
which they did ,they proceeded to say it and left out
"one nation under God" .I could not believe my ears.
When was it changed??
Peter J. Lazzaro
Sgt.USMC 53-57, 1423281
I receive your news letter on the net every Friday and enjoy
all the stories of my fellow brothers who have all served
their country at on time or another. We all have been willing
to lay down our lives for the freedom that most Americans take
for granted and don't even have the respect for. As an example
I was a Motor "T" man myself and we did some time doing training
in the San Francisco area and I drove the SOC Marines to the
different objectives they trained for. Well anyone who has ever
been to Frisco may know that it is still home to the hippy set
and one of the first things I was asked in a bar was why I was
forced to do Military service when I replied that I wasn't
forced but wanted to serve my country and protect mine and their
freedoms they didn't get it. The San Francisco newspaper actually
called us and I quote Americas SS the Marines are here training
to attack a foreign country and used Asia as a way the rile up
the Asian community there against us Marines just doing our job.
I seemed to have gone off on a tangent here from the real reason
that I was writing was that since Sept. 11 talk of us being safe
and secure from terrorist seems to be on everyone's mind but I
also have noticed that we are slowly giving up freedoms to be
safe and I don't think that most people realize it. We can no
longer just get on an aircraft and fly somewhere we have to pass
the many security tests that one has to go through just to get
on a d*mn plane. This seems to me a real shame to all the brave
and noble men and women who gave up their lives to make this
country free and the great place that it is.
John Jones
Cpl 84-94 Marine forever
Dear Sgt Grunt,
I do like your news letter and for the most part have always
found it extremely interesting and a good indicator of my
fellow country men and MARINES reactions to the world at large.
I have watched the comments regarding the War in Iraq with
serious interest for the last year. I personally encountered
major problems last March at work because of armchair quarterbacks
lip sinqig the president about a quick victory.
I was there in 90-91and I believe I have earned my right to an opinion.
I stood by as Clinton was bashed for 3 years about trying to
intervene in Bosnia. I was in while Clinton made numerous speeches
about the terrorism threat from 97`2000 and was ignored by congress
in lieu of an impeachment for an intern under his desk (oh please
if God struck down every dumb*ss who let that happen there wouldn't
be a male arsenal on the planet) I am sure the 3000 people who died
would be more than happy to trade their lives for his little
indiscretion if it meant the powers that be would actually pay
attention to reality verses polls and publicity.
Afghanistan- hot bed of terrorist- all through the 90's and
funded by Regan and Bush in the 80's
I am personally so sick of individuals who have no idea of what
they are talking about. The Congress and Commander and Chief are
the Judge and Jury of so many human beings and the U.S. Military
is their executioners.
I know what it is like to stand in a country and feel a hatred
so strong from the natives it is almost a physical presence and
I also understand that hatred is not directed at me but at the
government I represent that that country always makes it's
presence known in a manner that causes nothing but problems
for the locals.
I can say I know what it is like to be hated and I know what it
is like to hate. Of the two the latter is definately the one
that put me on my knees completely.
I also understand what it means when someone says job well done.
When you're a Marine it means a lot of people have died. You do
your job and you go on period. Everyone seems to think it is this
great big board game with a winner and looser no real impact.
B.S. this is a reality.
I also know what it is like to reciprocate that. I guess I have
to say Smeedly Butler said it best when he said war was a racket.
If you can't believe a 2 time medal of honor winner I guess you
cant really appriciate the world for its simplicities. No one
should be in a hurry to die and even fewer should be in a hurry
to kill.
I also know the registered voter has a knack for self preservation
and b!tching. They don't care as long as they are comfortable.
No matter how bad it gets they will be to busy to pay attention or
they will support in the polls requiring a withdrawl which means
all those deathes will be for nothing because it is the popular
thing to do.
I.M. Dudley
90-94, USMC
The reason I am writing is to get some more activation from our
brother and sister hood of Marines. As I sit in attendance
at many local activities, the national anthem and/or pledge is recited.
However, as we all know, most of our younger generation has little to no
respect for our flag. I am not certain they have ever been
properly "educated" as to etiquette regarding these functions.
To that end, I approached our local elementary and middle schools
to sponsor a class that would address such issues. They were
delighted to have someone offer this up so I am contacting our
local Marine recruiter to ask him if he is willing to help. The
pay isn't so good, but there is pride in knowing he has educated
these folks in proper etiquette, to include folding of the flag,
how to raise and lower a flag, terminology, etc. I would like to
see more Marines nationwide get active with their local schools
to see if we can change how poorly things seem to have gotten.
I guess it is like voting, if WE don't take the time and effort
to change how things are done, we have no right to complain.
Gerard Torres VMA-513 86-90
Sgt Grit,
I wanted to let you know that my son Lance Corporal Daniel L. Cash
returned to Camp Pendleton, September 12, 2003, after serving 8
months in Iraq. Unfortunately, I was not able to make it out to
California for his homecoming, but he told me how he was welcomed
home by his Marine buddies. He was one of the last of his unit
to return. He could have come home in June but he volunteered
to stay back. Thank God the only injury he got was to his ring
finger. The day he left Iraq to head back to Kuwait, he once
again volunteered to stay back, but since they did not need
Combat Engineers to remain, he was sent home. Since my son
enlisted in the Marines (2 years ago), I have heard so many
stories of the strong brotherhood among the Marines, and
everything I have heard is true. Anyone of them would lay
down their life for their country or their buddies in a
heart beat and never hesitate. I am so proud of my son as
well as all of our Marines and Military men and women who
have served in Iraq, Afghanistan, back in the states and
anywhere else they are serving. They are all my heroes,
and I thank God for all of them. I plan to continue to
pray for all of our military where ever they are serving
and I would like to encourage everyone else to pray for
them. Without them, no telling what kind of shape our
country would be in. Welcome home Daniel and all who
have returned from the Iraqi war. We are so proud of
you all and love each and everyone of you. Thank you
Sgt. Grit for this great news letter. It has been such
an encouragement to me and my family and I am sure to
all families who have loved ones who serve or have
served our country, past, present and future.
God Bless America, and God Bless the Marines.
Donna Cash, USMC Proud Mom! Semper fi!
A BILLION IS A DIFFICULT NUMBER TO UNDERSTAND AND COMPREHEND. HOWEVER, ONE ADVERTISING AGENCY (COULD IT HAVE BEEN ANYONE ELSE)
HAS RECENTLY DONE A GOOD JOB OF PUTTING THAT FIGURE INTO
PERSPECTIVE IN ONE OF THEIR RECENT RELEASES.
A BILLION "SECONDS" AGO, IT WAS 1959
A BILLION "MINUTES" AGO, JESUS WAS ALIVE
A BILLION "HOURS" AGO, OUR ANCESTORS WERE LIVING IN THE STONE AGE
A BILLION "DOLLARS" AGO, WAS ONLY 8 HOURS AND 20 MINUTES AT THE RATE
WASHINGTON SPENDS IT!!!!!!!!!!
KINDA MAKES YOU THINK ABOUT HOW OUR ELECTED GOVERNMENT IS REALLY
FUNCTIONING, DOESN'T IT??????????
Jim Skipper
Hello Sgt. Grit,
I am not a Marine but I am the father
of a fine young Marine. My son is Lcpl. Christopher Shipman
serving with 3/5 India Co. Weapon's platoon. He graduated from
high school last year and left for boot camp at MCRD three
days later. On Feb. 7th this year he was deployed to the Middle
East to serve in the Iraq War. He turned 20 years old while
in Iraq. He wrote letters home as often as he could and I
stayed glued to MSNBC news to try and keep up with what was
going on. The local news paper here contacted me to run stories
about my son called "A Marine Writes Home" This was on the
front page of the paper every Sunday for most of the war. You
wouldn't believe the response from the community. It was
overwhelming! People coming up to me that I didn't even know
asking about Chris and his unit. They would tell me what they
had seen on TV and wanted to make sure Chris was ok. I am a
police officer and the Chief of Police would call me while I
was at work and ask about Chris or call me into his office to
watch any news that he felt might be about Christopher's unit.
On more that one occasion we both broke down and cried together
when we would hear the troops were going thought some bad times.
I know a lot of fine Marines were killed in Iraq and still are
being killed, my heart goes out to the families. God bless
everyone of them!
My son will return home to Corinth, Mississippi 27 Sept.
Thanks to the training he received at MCRD. I would like to
say thanks to the Drill Sergeants that were so tuff on him,
he is a Marine and he is coming home!
I served 22 years in the Mississippi National Guard and was
sent to Central America twice during the 80's. I have been a
Police Officer for 19 years and I am a Shift Commander over
night shift. My father served in the Marine Corps during WW II.
God Bless The United States Marine Corps!!!
Captain Mike Shipman
Corinth PD-4
Corinth, Mississippi
"Every victory for human freedom will be a victory for world peace.
So we go forward today, a nation still mighty in its youth and
powerful in its purpose. With our alliances strengthened, with
our economy leading the world to a new age of economic expansion,
we look forward to a world rich in possibilities. And all this
because we have worked and acted together, not as members of
political parties, but as Americans."
--Ronald Reagan
God Bless America!!
Semper fi!!
Sgt Grit
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