I am a widow of a Marine that fought in the WW2. He was proud to be a Marine
as I was proud of him too. Many days we relived those gloomy days spent
fighting so the people back home could be safe. December12,2002 his heart
gave out and he went on to his eternal maker but his last days reflected
that he had been in the United States Marines and was proud of it . Sadly
missed by his friends and especially me because I was happy to be his wife
Berniece Fullenwider.
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OK....listen up. It is time for my semi-annual hype to find your buddies from yester-years. I know....you will start tomorrow. HEY...you may not be getting any older, but your buddies are. So start today, NOW!! I have a page that may help. It has some commonly used resources to help you find people. NOW, TODAY, make a call or two, send a postcard. Take some action. Just a little effort every day will pay off big. Semper fi Sgt Grit
THE MORE THINGS CHANGE
Morning Men, at ease, smoke em if you got em. Am I the only
one who wonders why you can not remember your wife's anniversary
but can spout your service number with no problem or can remember
your Drill Instructors names, and something about each one. Oh
well, on the subject of being covered indoors. There is a sign
above the door at the Staff NCO Club at 8th and Eye Barracks
that states: He who shall enter covered here, will owe the
house one round of cheer. Maybe these guys are on to something.
While in Texas for our reunion, I had the pleasure of meeting
an Army Captain who had just returned from Iraq. He was wounded
when his vehicle was RPG'd and the man that was with him was
whacked. He told us old guys that he felt a kinship with the
group, even though he did not know any of us, that an outsider
would never understand. The more things change it seems
the more they stay the same.
Break it down Comm Shouse out
WE PUT A WHIPPING
Here is another SitRep from LtCol Willy Buhl, the CO
of 3/1, deployed in Fallujah, Iraq.
Gentlemen,
Forward to our 3-1 buddies as you see fit.
We put a whipping on a group yesterday that opened up on one of our
mounted patrols from India Company after detonating an IED. The IED was
a 155mm round that fortunately hit armor and tires on a 7-ton truck. The
Marines in all vehicles immediately returned fire, dismounted and closed
with the enemy. We killed three and wounded four and captured a five
more after a Sgt threw two frags in a room and they came out with their
hands up from another room. All but one of the EPWs appeared to be
workers caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. Sure enough,
however, we found over 300 155mm shells buried on the grounds of this
place. In the midst of the action, Kilo Company's QRF arrived to join in
the fight. Great cooperation by all and we had a Harrier aloft with
500lb bombs and his cannon itching for the go ahead. I strongly
considered it as an example and radioed to the ground commander not to
take any undue risks with his men but it all worked out. Our Marines
were engaged by at least four different weapons systems from this
structure to include two RPKs simultaneously. When we finally cleared it
after some minutes, killing and capturing as described, we could not
find any weapons or brass. The KIAs, however, all tested positive for
gunpowder residue on their hands, as did one of the EPWs. Thorough
search couldn't locate any spider holes, secret doors, etc. There were
quite a few "Jihad" graffiti notes inside the building though, and some
drugs and syringes.
The Kharma Iraqi Police who can never be found when there's a fight
showed up immediately after casualties were taken by the enemy. This
continues to reinforce to me that they are entirely embedded in the
insurgency. The Kharma Ntl Guard troops have a check point just down the
hill in view of IED and ran behind cover when the shooting started. We
have some good ones in another town that we're training but these troops
are dirty and well penetrated by the enemy. We cannot rely on them for
anything. Kharma is an evil suburb of Fallujah.
Later in the evening the enemy tried to attack Kilo Company with RPGs
and small arms without effect. We returned a heavy volume of fire and
cleared the structures where we took fire from to find no one, though we
did find brass this time!
122mm rocket landed outside the fence some distance off as I am typing -
shook my hootch.
We've begun to receive our first combat replacements, with 14 arriving
last night. SgtMajor and I are going to visit our wounded in Baghdad
today, see how our Iraqi Ntl Guard troops and CAP Plt is doing in a
neighboring town, and then attend the memorial service for Sgt Juan
Calderone, Jr., of Lima Company, who was killed in an IED blast a few
days ago. We are hitting back hard when the opportunity presents itself
and yesterday was a celebration for all hands.
Semper Fi,
Willy
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: NONE
LOVE FOR THE USA
Thank you for the news letter each week. There are items each
week I want to reply to so here go's:
- I went through Parris Island in Jan to March 1969. We didn't
have a PFC for an instructor but did have a Corporal. I still
can rattle of the three DI,s names. S.Sgt. Smith, Sgt. Rector
and Corporal Alexander. We were in the 3rd Battalion (Disney Land).
Funny I remember the DI's names but can't recall the Platoon
number. I can look it up. I still have my graduation "year book"
and the red instruction book we all had to carry.
- I'm 55-years old and have had one sip of coffee in my life.
I didn't like it at age 11 and haven't had any since.
- Thank you Col. Goodson for you letter. Thank you all who
had to do that job. God bless the Marines and family you
had to be there for.
- I enjoy baseball and have watched some Sunday game this
past month. Major League Baseball plays "God Bless America"
each Sunday at the ballparks. The last two weeks when I have
herd it something has gotten caught in my eye because tears
begin to flow when it is sang. I guess that thing in my
eye is love for the USA.
- In October 1999 I went to the graduation of my son Joe at
Parris Island. We arrived at the base about 8:00 am on Thursday.
The L/Cpl. at the gate asked if I knew how to get to the
reception center. I replied the I didn't because it was 29-years
ago, 2:00 in the morning and I was scarred to death last time
I was there. He laughed and said " I understand sir".
- My son Joseph, has been in the Marine Corps Reserves since 1999.
He is trying to complete his degree at the University of Pittsburgh
and needs 17 credits to graduate. It is taking him a long time
because his unit was activated in Jan. 2003 and the crossed the
line into Iraq on the first day of the war March 19, 2003 ( Saint
Joseph's day for us Catholics). Well they were activated again.
He and his unit, 1st and 2nd Platoon, Truck Company, 4th Marine
Div. have been training in California since the first week of
June. Joe comes home on a two week leave tomorrow. Then mid
September they are off to Iraq again. I am telling you all of
this because I can not contain the pride in my heart.
I often wish I could go with him.
- My son like to tease me. Even though I spent seven months
in Nam, he has the combat action ribbon and I don't.
---Funny story I like to tell. It was so hot in Vietnam the
most of us didn't ware out boxer shorts. The first time we
heard rockets coming in, they were about 1/2-mile away but felt
like they were next to us, was the middle of the night. I
jumped out of my sack, grabbed my M-16, helmet and pants
ran to the fox hole and put my pants on.
God bless the United States Marine Corps and the United States of America
Buzz Barkovich
- I wonder what percentage of the current Marines had a parent in the
Corps.
ONE DECISION-MANY CONSEQUENCES
Bet you never thought what the consequences would be when you
raised your hand and were sworn in as a Marine, did you?
August 1965 - Made the decision to join the Corps (Platoon 3007, MCRD)
Lived with the consequences involved in 39 years of "Being a
Marine" to everyone who has ever known me including standing
at attention when the National Anthem or colors are played,
addressing others with respect, proudly acknowledging those
who display the EGA with a "Semper Fi", and living and
extolling the traditions of the Corps.
August 2004 - Consequences still include getting sweaty eyeballs
hearing about the corps and it's actions, wearing USMC emblems
(From Grit's wide assortment of ways to tell the world that
you're a Marine), still telling anybody who'll listen that
I'm a Marine, and still proud of the decision to serve with the best.
Semper Fi to all who have earned the right and the title
Mike Rounds - A Sergeant of Marines (Later an officer but what the heck?J)
BUT WHEN THE SH!T HITS THE FAN
This is so true US Marines are not BRAINWASHED....we just build a
bind between one another no matter how much we may dislike working
with one another but when the sh!t hits the fan like they say we
tend to watch each others back and that is a fact.........
Semper Fi....
Former US Marine with HMH-361 Flying Tigers
JD Garza Jr...............
MOVING ON
A country/western song released around 1950 (51) by recording
artist Hank Snow. Marines in Korea at the time changed the
lyrics somewhat. There's as many verses to this thing as the
Marine Corps mind can create. Here's one I can recall
"Hear the pitter patter of a thousand feet/ its the lighting
division in full retreat/they're movin on/ they'll soon
be gone/ ect.
A reference to a U. S. army unit in Korea at the time I believe.
Ya gotta love it.
Semper Fi.
DMB USMC (Ret.)
A few more verses to LCPL Vallejos song Movin On:
A T-34 comin down the road
I'm tellin ya boys you better lock & load
We're movin on, we'll soon be gone
We're headed for the station
Thank God for rotation we're movin on
Don't come too close and trip my flare
Or my M1's gonna part your hair
We're movin on, we'll soon be gone
These hills are too high for such a little ole guy
So we're movin on
Ten thousand gooks comin through the pass playin burb gun
boogie on the doggies @ss,we're movin on
We're headed for the station, thank God for rotation
We're movin on.
George Maling- Sgt Korea '52
SEMPER FI
Sgt. Grit,
I'd like to pass this on to the parents who like to think they
can say "Semper Fi" to Marines and get a response out of us,
as if it came from one who has earned
the title. I am the father of a Ssgt. of Marines. Being a Sgt. of
Marines by my own right, I have seen this boot rise to
this rank before my very eyes. I can literally say he was
@##tting yellow when I was in the corps! Does this matter
to this young SSgt.? Of course not. The other day we were talking
and I made the mistake of saying" I know what you mean."
To this he replied " No you don't, You never were a
SSgt." Trying to regroup, I stammered yea but I know the leadership
problem you are facing. So you see parents , even for a dad
that has been there, if you did not achieve their title,
you don't rate! But don't worry your Marine still loves you!
SEMPER FI (because I rate)
Sgt. J.L. Allen proud parent of ( boot) Ssgt. M. J. All
Once a Marine ALWAYS a Marine, Semper Fi is used by the old corps and new, even the wives and children or close friends. I am a Marine wife, who uses it when communicating with the Marines dear to me, who are serving in Iraq or in the states. Its just used, it has a meaning that many to the very on who have been affect by the corp. in one way or another. So have no real reason to use it, but they do. You might find it not appropriate to use but to me and many others,we find it appropriate to do so. Its all in opinion mostly. The corp. changes lives every waking hour of the day, so why not be proud and say Semper fi?
Sgt. Grit,
In regards to the gentleman who said he'd like to hear comments
about the use of Semper Fi, I have no doubt the Marines will
give him that. But I'd like to give him a civilian perspective
if I might.
As daughter, wife and sister of Marines, I never have used
"Semper Fi" but in two instances because I hold the same
thoughts about it as the Marines who are writing in.
One instance has been to sign letters to Sgt. Grit that way
at times because I write on behalf of my husband and brother.
My husband works such long hours, that he only has time to read
the newsletters in spurts, so I fill him in on each newsletter.
My brother doesn't have computer access, so I print out the
newsletters for him as I can. They'll read something or I'll
pass along things from the newsletters to them and they say,
"be sure to tell Sgt. Grit Semper Fi!" So when I have signed
a letter that way, it is coming from my Marines even though
it has my name attached to it. Sgt. Grit knows this, his
readers don't. Now they do.
The second instance, and only time in my life that I have ever
spoken the words "Semper Fi", was to a young Marine who had
just returned home from Korea after several years of being
there. He was a guest at a party my husband and I gave for
my brother's birthday. My brother was surrounded by other
guests and my husband was knee deep with grilling food, so I
took over with this young Marine to make him feel welcome.
He had been brought to the party by his uncle and didn't know
a soul there with the exception of my brother. This Marine's
uncle had told him that my husband and father were Marines,
and he already knew that my brother was, so he felt at ease
with me. But he was completely uptight about everyone else
there (civilians) and kept telling me, "Please don't leave me.
You're the only person I've been able to really talk to since
being back in the States." To simplify this, the long and
short was that his family and friends couldn't relate to him
and he was having a hard time trying to readjust to civilian
life. He was sounding pretty despondent, so I looked him
straight in the eyes and said, "Semper Fi Marine". The "About
Face" came as soon as I said it to him. Not long after this,
he had to leave, but he made it a point to come back over to
me (walking like a Marine) and tell me, "Thank you so much!"
"It was my honor to have met you." I told him, "You'll be
okay, remember who you are, the honor was mine." I would
never have used the Marine motto if he had not needed to hear
it. And I would not have done it still had my husband or
brother been able to break free of other guests at that point
in time and hear the things he was saying. Before anyone
reading this thinks that this Marine's brothers weren't there
for him, they were. But he could not let it roll to them
with lots of civilians around and I had the liberty to do
the one-on-one with him. I knew they would have given
this Marine what he needed to hear, so I did it for them.
As Marine family members, we all want our Marines to know that
we love and support them, but I feel that "Thank You" covers
it quite adequately. If a Marine tells me "Semper Fi", I say
"Thank You". "Semper Fi" isn't mine to give. I borrowed it
once to help a young Marine. I send it to Sgt. Grit from
two Marines who at this point in time, are unable to write
to him themselves.
Cindy Crook
Hello Sgt Grit,
I wanted to respond to a couple points made by my brother
Marines here (seems the sister Marines seem to sit back and
let us boys rant and rave, we never here the ladies stirring
it up usually! haha; shows who the smarter of the species is).
First of all, coffee. It seems that this topic has gotten a
lot of print time lately. While I served at the FMFLant, I
worked for a small unit, and the admin chief, a SSGT, would
always tell me "Arnold, make coffee." It didn't matter, of
course, that I was the only clerk in a 3 clerk office, and
that usually the sergeants and staff sergeants were just
sitting around doing nothing. No sir, being the lance
corporal, I dropped everything and went and made coffee.
This went on for about 2 weeks, until finally I inadvertently
complained to a sympathetic sergeant who had held my job
before he got the 02 MOS. Anyway, Sgt Spicer told me, "Arnold,
I know a sure fire way to make sure you never make coffee again!"
I did as he instructed, and after 2 days of the lightest,
nastiest and weakest coffee ever, the SSGT came to my desk.
"Arnold, why the h&ll is the coffee so d*mned weak? Are you
ever changing the coffee grounds?" To which I replied,
(this is where being a blonde haired, surfing, CA Marine
comes in handy,) "Gee Staff Sergeant, was I supposed to?"
After that the SSGT made his own coffee, and Sgt Spicer and
I always laughed about that.
Now, about the term SEMPER FI, and non Marine personnel using
it. First of all, any mother, father, sister, brother, wife,
husband, child, grandparent or whatever family relation of a
Marine rates to use our terminology. Try telling my mother she
doesn't and you'll pay dearly (and she doesn't mess around;
she still doesn't talk to General Gray, my Commandant, for
sending me to Desert Storm, although I attribute my coming
of age as a man to that deployment.) Marine Wives and mothers
especially deserve our utmost respect, THEY'VE EARNED IT. And
as for the civilian population we protect; it's a show of
respect they bestow upon us; at some point they had to learn
that phrase, and while they don't understand how to live by
it like we do, they do at the very least have an understanding
their uncaring civilian counterparts do not, and do not wish
to have. SEMPER FI means, as we all know, "Always faithful
to our God, our country, and our Corps." By country we mean
our countrymen and women, those who sleep well knowing that
we are on patrol in Afghanistan, Iraq, Korea, Germany,
anywhere the Eagle Globe and Anchor waves. Give them the
benefit of the doubt, say "Thank you" for their attempt
at understanding us, and leave it at that.
LCPL Arnold, Stephen M.
"Arndawg" FMFLant, Camp Elmore, 1988-1992
In response to J. Bush, parent of Cpl. Bush.
"Semper Fi!" is the time honored acknowledgment, or greeting,
between two Marines - usually NoLOADS (No Longer On Active
Duty - I use this term because there are no Ex-Marines). It
is not something to be thrown around lightly - however. As
the proud parent of a Marine (why wouldn't you be proud?)
you have certain "Squatter's Rights", as far as I'm concerned
- at least on this website. This is a pro Marine website and
reading "Semper Fi" from a family member should be accepted
in the same spirit from which it was offered. We earned the
right to wear the EGA (that's Eagle, Globe and Anchor for
you Sandcrabs!) - just as sure as you have earned the right
to be part of your son's life. The fact that you have found
this website (and participated), indicates to me that you
have your head screwed on straight! Welcome Aboard!!!
Semper Fi and Keep the powder dry!
Cpl. Herald E. (Skip) Tryon
'64-'67
I just want to say in response to this whole SEMPER FI thing,
When used in proper context by civies is o.k., I think that
it's just their way of acknowledging that we're MARINES and
just trying to thank us, let it be known to them that it's
short for SEMPER FIDELIS (ALWAYS FAITHFUL). MARINE is a
title earned NEVER given.
So SEMPER FI and CARRY ON!!!!
cpl. chris schaefer OORAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I SAID THIS IS GREAT
Just a little story that I'm sure a lot of Marines will
remember from their ocean voyage, especially the first
time on a troop ship. We sailed out of San Diego on a
Merchant Marine ship. Thirty-five hundred strong and
headed for Kobe Japan for further assignment to Korea.
My group was send to the lowest level of the ship. I
picked the very top sack which was five high. I awoke
early the next morning eager to go topside and see the
Pacific as I was from Ohio and had never even seen an
ocean before. I sat up as best I could without hitting
the bulkhead, and felt great. I said this is great and
jumped down from my bunk to the deck. When I hit the deck,
I just kept on going all the way till I was flat. I
gathered myself up and stood up only to have to grab on
to the bunks to keep my balance. I didn't have any sea legs
and it took me a while to be able to climb the stairwell
to go topside. I noticed all this slimy stuff running down
from the above stairwell and dropping on me and everybody
else who was going topside. It turned out to be vomit and
It was flowing freely. When we finally got to the deck area
I noticed GI cans all around the deck with Marines hanging
on to them and filling them up. I then went to the side to
get some fresh air and was hit by more vomit coming from a
Marine forward of me who was throwing up over the side and
the wind was carrying it right along to anybody that
was down wind. Needless to say, the old salts were getting
a kick out of our condition. I stayed nauseated the whole
19 days but managed to survive by not eating for eight days.
We had to stand up to eat as the old ship was crowded and
did not have room for chairs. When we hit bad weather the
food trays would slid back and forth and you had to hold
on to your tray. We had three days of very bad weather and
the ship could only make 3 knots a day but the very next
day the ocean was as smooth as a sheet of ice. We were
really glad to see Japan and get our legs back.
Dan Powell
1915
Sgt. Grit:
Enjoy your newsletters very much. My father enlisted in the
Marine Corps in 1915 and was a seagoing marine aboard the USS
Oregon. He then saw service with the 4th marines in the Santa
Domingo, Haiti and then went on to France during WWI. He
finished out his foreign service in China, Guam and the PI's
and ended his career as a recruiter in San Francisco. I have
a few things from his service including his medals, discharges
(Sheep Skin) and a scrapbook he kept during his time in the
Marines. I thought I would share a poem from his scrapbook
from the period before going to France to fight.
Our Corps
We're United States Marines,
And proud of this old Corps
Wish we had a thousand lives-
We'd give then all and more,
We're proud to wear the uniform,
We're full of pep and vim;
We all belong to Uncle Sam-
We're MORE then proud of him.
We've done a lot of drilling,
We've had our share of play,
We've ready to go to France now,
So send us any day.
Just give us a chance at the Boches
And see what we can do,
We'll never give up till we've beat 'em
And riddle their carcasses through.
We're tired of sentry duty,
Around the Navy Yard,
So give us a chance to make 'em dance,
We're going to hit 'em hard;
Then when the big fight's over,
And the battles have been won,
We'll be proud of the flag, Old Glory,
And the things that we have done.
There are many poems, pictures, jokes; cartoons and even what
looks like daily reports from the 29th Company, 4th Regiment,
U.S. Marine Corps Santiago, D.R. dated July 20, 1916. There
are numerous newspaper articles like the example below:
Soap Saves Feet of U. S. Marines
By United Press
Washington, July 17, - That U. S. marines suffer little from
foot troubles on long hikes in the tropics is attributed to
the fact that they invariably sprinkle soap power into their
shoes or their stockings just prior to the march. In the Haitian
campaign the marines were sometimes forced to march 30 or more
miles a day over rough mountainous roads, and the case of
blistering, or painful swelling of the feet were almost negligible.
There is a lot of Marine Corps history of the old corps between these pages.
My father was very proud to have been a Marine and we always
called him the Marines, Marine. He was one of the first members
of the Marines Memorial Club in San Francisco. VFW, WWI Veterans
Organization and the Old White Squadron Post in San Francisco
for those who had served aboard the old white fleet of battle ships.
Sincerely,
Dick Cosbie
MAY IT ALWAYS BE SO
My father always said that I was the perpetual optimist. From WWII
to Viet Nam, didn't even get a scratch, years after retirement, a
gaping chest wound from open heart surgery. (Broke two ribs when
they spread the sternum, now that smarted.)
I have calculated that if I can live to 100, I have it made.
Empirical data shows that very few people above 100 die each year.
Marines come and Marines go, but someone all fills the empty
spots and the job gets done, may it always be so.
Lt.Col.Tom Cook, USMC (Ret.)
1945-1970
RUST ON MY DUST
Went to Parris Island in Feb. 1960. Drill Instructors were
A/Gsgt. Weisenberger. A/SSgt. Burton. A/SSgt. Cassidy. Plt.127.
Don't know the origin of "fart sack"; but had to stand in front
of our racks with sheets, blankets, pillow case and fart
sack every morning and count off.
Other things that you learned were that you were a P!ss Ant.
Your soul may belong to God but your @ss belongs to me. That you
are part of a herd or a bunch of ducks and that you will moo or
quack if you screw up. One guy in our platoon had trouble with
the marching cadence of Sgt Burton; he would be pulled out of
formation, hold his M-1 over his head and run around the marching
platoon yelling I'm a sh!t bird and I can't fly.
I was told at one rifle inspection that I had rust on my dust.
could never quite figure that out, but you don't ask questions.
These and many other things you never forget. Our beloved
Corps has a way of forming and shaping our lives forever. My
son went to Parris Island in 1988. One of the proudest days
of my life was watching him graduate.
Phil Carlson
1960-1964
18,200 days
Sgt. Grit,
Just a few lines to let everybody know how those pages
keep on flying off the calendar. It was on 5aug54 that
I was sworn into the USMC at the Armed Forces Induction
Station in Cleveland, Ohio. We left Cleveland that day
at 5 pm from the Pennsylvania RR Station on E. 55th & Euclid
Ave. We did not arrive in Yemassee until the evening of
the 6th about 2100 and we spent the night at the old wooden
receiving barracks. The next morning we boarded buses to
take us to PI and at the Main Gate the bus driver told the
MP that he had 38 live bodies aboard. Within a few minutes
after that the fun began and life was about to change from
that which I was familiar with. I was in PLT 392 at the
4th Battalion in the old Quonset huts. Our DI's were
Sgt. Sutherland, Sgt Olsen, Cpl. Brown and PFC Lane.
All I can say is that I would love to hear from anyone
out there who was in PLT 392
50 yrs is over 18,200 days. Sure is a long time !!!
Semper Fi,
Ray Mezo
1516200
Sgt USMC, 5aug54- 4aug58
CULT FOLLOWING
Sgt Grit,
I read your newsletters, I find them uplifting and representative
of the Marine Corps this GYSGT served in the capacity of a
KC-130 ARO/Loadmaster - I am surprised by the amount of
postings from the active duty force I see on your newsletters.
Question is, and I assume it is true, do you have a cult
following with the Marine Corps? The letter from Sgt
Jennifer McClintock was very moving.
Long Live the Corps.
Semper Fi,
GYSGT Bernie Ellis
VMGR-152
VMGR-252
VMGR(T)-253
NOTE: I have been called a lot of things, including the classics
by my DI's. But until now, never a cult leader. Hahahahah!! This
letter is more fun to put together than you can imagine.
Semper fi Sgt Grit
I KILLED THE SOB
Gunnery Sgt. Mike Perry was a Marine's Marine. He was at least
6'3" and weighed about 220 pounds and he could pick up a 155mm HE
round in each hand and put them over his head. A veteran of
Tarawa, he had a big scar on the back of his head where a Jap
prisoner had beaned him with a shovel. When asked what he did
after he was beaned, he said nonchalantly, "I killed the SOB."
Mike was the Co. Gunny of the 4th 155 Howitzer Battery USMCR in
Raleigh, NC in the late 1950s and early 1960s. One of the
reservists had asked the CO's permission to allow him to grow
a beard in celebration of his college fraternity's 100th
anniversary. Permission was granted. Well, the appearance
of this little twirp in full hirsute got the Gunny's skivvies
in a real big wad. Since the CO had approved the beard, there
was little he could do about it. But he didn't like it one d*mn bit !
One day the Gunny had the Battery in formation and the appearance
in the front rank of the bearded little Marine looking a lot like
Fidel Castro was the straw that broke the camel's back. The Gunny,
an outstanding orator and pontificator, declared to the formation.
Can any of you Agents (his term for us Marines) name just one SOB
that ever amounted to S**t who had a beard. There was a long
pregnant silence . . . . .and from the second rank a tall gangly
red headed bumpkin named PFC. Francis raised his hand. He was
immediately recognized by the Gunny. " Well tell us PFC?"
Francis replied, " Well, Gunnery Sergeant, there was Robert E. Lee
and Jesus and St. Peter and " . . . . . . .The whole formation
erupted in the most awful guffaw I've ever heard. The Gunny,
knowing he had been bested by the PFC simply shook his head
and walked away. Nary a word was ever mentioned about the
beard until it came off after the anniversary celebration.
MSgt. G. Y. Coates (USMC Retired)
Raleigh, NC
DIFFERENT WORLD
It's a different world, all right - in the Air Force.
After two years in the Marine Corps, I was selected for an
inter-service transfer to the USN as a Hospital Corpsman.
After that, I went back to college, graduated, and worked in
a research lab for a year. Went back to school to be a physician
assistant, was in civilian practice for a year, then wanted
to go back into the military.
The idea was to go back to the Navy and get assigned to the FMF,
but Navy PA's were warrant officers at the time, and the Air
Force offered me a commission.
I'm sorry to say that the story Mr. Eric Olson related concerning
his son is all too typical of Air Force "leadership." I will
guarantee that if 2LT Olson had handed the vacuum cleaner
to the most junior enlisted person and said," You just volunteered,"
2LT Olson would have received a Letter of Reprimand. This tactic
would not have raised an eyebrow in the Marine Corps, but it
simply wouldn't work in the namby-pamby Air Force.
The reason is that the Marine Corps and, to a much lesser extent,
the Army, are leadership-driven organizations. The Air Force
and, to a somewhat lesser extent, the Navy, are technology-driven
organizations. In the latter two, the emphasis is on the toys -
the planes and ships. Real leadership is virtually non-existent
because the "leaders" are too busy maneuvering for the next promotion.
When I'm forced to admit that I was in the Air Force, I always
follow it by saying, " I wasn't always an Air Force feather
merchant. I was in the real military once."
If nothing else, my Air Force experience made me even more
grateful that I was once a small part of a proud organization,
with a fighting reputation, solidly based on leadership,
integrity and honor.
Chip Taylor, LCpl, USMC (1975-77)
LARGE WINDOW
Sgt. Grit
I want to take this opportunity to thank a Navy reservist
that my wife and I met at the Philadelphia airport last March.
I was wearing my Sgt. Grit Marine Corps cover when a young man
who was an employee of the airline we were using approached me
and asked if I was a marine. I answered in the affirmative and
he asked me to join him at a large window overlooking the airfield.
He called my attention to a large helicopter and asked if that
was a Huey. I told him no and identified the craft. We talked
for a bit and he identified himself as a naval reservist and
asked to see my tickets to Phoenix. When I gave them to him he
tore them up and presented me with two-first class tickets. The
next sailor I run across in a bar get a free drink for his
act of kindness. Thanks, mate.
I would also like to tell your readers about meeting Mr. Roy
Hughes in Yemassee, South Carolina last July. This is a place
almost all marines from east of the Mississippi will remember
and remember well. Mr. Hughes is the chairman of the Yemassee
Train Depot Marine Reunion Committee, LLC. and a real gentleman.
This group began sponsoring a reunion of those would-be Marines
who detrained in the town of Yemassee at the Marine recieving
barracks. In my experience, that was a night to remember. The
reunion this year will be held on 15 and 16 October. Mr. Hughes
tells me that free coffee and cake will be served at his store
directly across the street from the train depot and two days of
festivities are planned. I can attest to the hospitality of the
area as we spent the afternoon wandering about and talking to
folks. I believe this would be an excellent opportunity for
Marines to reunite with our recruit plt. mates. If you would
like to be part of this effort even though you cannot make this
years reunion send me the following information and I will see
that it is included in the roster of those who experienced
their first contact with of Parris Island at the Yemassee train depot.
Year entered USMC:------------
Plt. #:------------
senior D.I.-------------------------------------------
Your name:------------------------------------------
address:-----------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------
phone:[optional]--------------------------------
Hope to hear from a lot you old ----birds from Yemassee who
would like a chance at contacting Marines from your recruit platoon.
Semper Fidelis,
Bob Jennings, 1951, plt. 279
SSgt. George Altman
3705 tomlinson st.
bonita springs, florida 34134
239-495-2654
READY FOR ANY REACTION
Sgt Grit:
I read the contribution made by LtCol Goodson, and I felt
his pain. While assigned to Inspector-Instructor Staff
(I&I Staff), I was assigned to do more casualty calls than
I care to remember. Each and every Casualty Call had it's
own set of circumstances, each one hit a different emotional
spot. Every Marines Wife or their Mom or Dad had a different
way of reacting. We had to be ready for any reaction.
One Mother whose son and only child had been lost in a motor
vehicle accident. We had taken her boy away, she wanted no
military honors, no escort and no one in a military uniform
to attend the funeral service. I sat in the back of the
church with another Marine in a business suit. When the
funeral was over she walked past us and did not even look
at us. We were asked by the funeral director, at the request
of the Mother, not to go to the cemetery. She also refused
to see us regarding her son's benefits, we dealt with her attorney.
In another incident, HQMC called late on a Saturday night on
a young Corporal who had been killed in a motor vehicle accident
that day. Early Sunday morning I got into the Government vehicle
and drove to the home of this young Marine's wife of 3 weeks to
notify her of her husband's death. When I got there, in dress
blues, the Marine's father-in-law invited me into his home and
asked me to sit down while he got his daughter. When this 19
year old girl came downstairs, she asked me how I was going
to get all of her personal effects into that small car. Her
household goods were due to be picked up the next morning,
and she was leaving that night to join her new husband in
California. When I asked her to please sit down, it was then
that she remembered what her husband had told her, if a Marine
comes to the door in dress blues, it is never good news. She
broke down before I said a word and sobbed uncontrollably for
almost 2 hours. I spent that entire day with her and her family
making arrangements and talking about this young Corporal who
had meant so much to them. They we proud of their Marine.
Both of these incidents, and the other 10 calls that I made,
let me see the other side of being a Marine. Not so much the
hard corps side, but a more compassionate side. In some cases
it was difficult to maintain my military bearing and remember
that above all else, I was a Marine. After most, I started my
drive home and had to stop some place along the way just to
get my emotions out and get a proper perspective on what had
happened. LtCol Goodson did his duty in a manner that brings,
and brought, credit upon himself and the Marine Corps. I am
reminded of the saying I read on a wall while going through
basic training "In every clime and place". Our duty has lead
us into hazards of all kinds. Even though I am sure the Col
felt the anticipatory pain in the pit of his stomach, as all
of us have had when assigned this type of duty, we all did
what was required of us, no matter the reaction or the
circumstance. Col, thank you for your thoughts and for your
personal insight. This is a side of the Corps that few have
experienced. Personally, I would rather have not had to do
this duty but, as it is said, "it's a tough job, but
somebody has to do it".
Semper Fi,
Gunny Carter
1969 - 1989
HARD TO UNDERSTAND
Sgt Grit and fellow Marines,
I've been a reader of the news letter for quite some time.
It's the best. a great way for all us Marines and those who
care about the Marines to share our thoughts. I've read
A lot of articles lately about Marines that are suffering
sever wounds and asking when they can rejoin the fight.
And I know that to most (ordinary) people that is crazy...
.......BUT, we Marines are not ordinary. and we're not
"brain washed". We just share such a deep and strong pride of
Corps and a Love of our country.......why is that hard to
understand. If it wasn't for our kind there would be no
country, there would be no elections, there would be no
politicians. I was due to deploy to Afghanistan in July
but my wife was hospitalized and I was dropped from the
deployment. Most of the civilians and Army people I know
was telling me how "Lucky" I was...... LUCKY? because my
wife was so ill she was put into a hospital? That's Luck?
You know I love my Country, & Corps. But I love my wife
in a different way. Yes I want to fight those who
will do us harm. and yes I want to do that so my wife
and family can live in a country where we can get the best
medical help in the world. and we can choose who we want
to go to as a doctor. I will join my fellow troops sometime
here in the near future, and I will PROUDLY GO, and I will
Go because that's what it takes to beat those who will do
our great people of this great nation harm.........lets
fight them on their soil, and keep them out of our great
country. To those who still don't understand; Go up to a
Marines wife or family, try to start trouble with them...
.....and then see how many Marines come out of the
wood work just to make sure you get your A$$ beat.
Marines watch out for each other and even when we are
hurt we will still fight the good fight so others can
live the good life. If you still don't understand,
don't try, Just be happy we are doing what Marines do best...........
Semper Fi
Sgt of Marines
DBA
81- DEATH
I WISH I COULD
This is to thank my Drill Instructors. I am sorry I can't
remember their complete names, but they where Sgt Strickland,
Sgt Hill and Cpl Ballou of Plt 355, Q Co. at Parris Island
from June 21, 1964 to Sept 8, 1964. The fear they instilled
has been replaced by respect and admiration for these men who
took on the job of making Marines. It has been nearly 40 years
since I graduated Parris Island but the lessons learned there
are with me now. I will always be grateful for my association
with the Corps as it has carried me through many difficult
times. Sgt Strickland, Sgt Hill, Cpl Ballou--you have my
profound gratitude. I wish I could shake your hand and
tell you in person.
Herb Dickson, Cpl
USMCR--1963-1968
BUT YOU'LL NEVER HEAR
The difference between the Marines, and the other Armed Forces.
Long after their military career is over and they've been a
civilian for years, you might hear a man say "I was in the Service
once. You can take that to mean he was in the Navy, the Army, or
The Airforce. But You'll never hear a Marine say, "I was in the
Service," He will always look you in the eye and say, "I was in
The Marines." It might have been decades ago, but he'll say it
proudly till his deathbed. That's the difference,
Once a Marine, always a Marine.
Sgt James Greuel
ONTOS
Semper fi sarge, I'm cpl e/4 J.R. Nelson 3rd Mar.Div wonder
why they don't use the ontos any longer it seems to a good weapon
for dusting off ragheads, I've got a stepson in Iraq at this
time and he wanted to go back after he finishes his hitch in
the army until I reminded that the civilians are the ones they
are chopping off their heads said he would have another
think on that! JRN
Jon R. Nelson
I DO NOT RECALL
It gives me great pleasure to read all the wonderful letters and
stories that all Marines, families, and friends write to Sgt.
Grit. But one letter in your newsletter of 5Aug 04 stood out
for me. A letter from LCpl Howard Coleman "All Yelling To Make
A Hole". He did bring back some wonderful memories , I was
station there(Jan 1963- April-1964) at Weapons Training BLT
as a LCpl, a Marksmanship coach training Recruits. Of course
Camp Matthews, did not close till late 1964, and as I recall
the Camp was only 10 miles west of San Diego, Ca. of Hwy 101.
I do not recall a Marine International Rifle Match station
there? But all Marksmanship Coaches coaching Recruits wore
Smoky Bears, including yours truly. I re-up and left Camp
Matthews went to Memphis, Tenn. for Aviation School, and
retired 1980. I was in Nam 1965-1966 & 1968-1969.
To all my Marine family Semper Fi.
GySgt Carmel Rodriguez
USMC (Ret.1960-1980)
THE FLACK THEY GOT
Sgt. Grit,
Kind of sort of know how the Gunny feels. One time not long
ago up in Mass. a retired Marine died and they referred to
him as an x-Marine in the obit. Yee doggies, the flack they
got from that. I know because my sis-in-law was one of
the ones giving them h&ll about it.
Which brings to mind another insult, this time by the state of Georgia.
Hubby, a retired Gunny, had a military license plate on his
vehicle. Went down to renew it, they gave me a receipt cause
there were new ones coming out and it would be mailed to us.
Got the new plate. Could not believe what I saw. It was XM-xxxx!!!!!
Can you believe that! I hope they got a lot of flack over that one.
Maybe one of these days I'll remember to add to their misery. :)
Take care everyone,
Patricia
FINGERS WARM
I LAUGHED WHEN I READ ABOUT THE COFFEE STORIES. I DIDN'T DRINK THE COFFEE EITHER. I JUST USED IT TO KEEP MY HANDS AND FINGERS WARM SO I COULD EAT MY CHOW. SOMETIMES THE FOOD WOULD FREEZE ON MY MESS KIT BUT THE COFFEE WOULD KEEP MY HANDS WARM FOR AWHILE. JACK COCHRAN, KOREA 54, 1ST DIV 1ST REG 1STBNT WEAPONS STILL A MARINE SEMPER FI
OUR HEROES HAVE ALWAYS BEEN INDIANS
The Comanche Times coined the phrase "Our Heroes Have Always
Been Indians!" in the early 90's paying tribute to the Comanche
young men and women that go the extra mile to represent their
school and community on the field of competition with honor and
pride. The phrase was a symbol of pride used to describe these
two young men and others in their football days at CHS as it is
today, but the phrase "Our Heroes Have Always Been Indians!" has
never been used with more pride and with more feeling than it
is today in "Welcoming Home!" two of Comanche's favorite sons
and Marines. Lance Corporal Jeremiah Johnson and Lance Corporal
Dixon Harper, having recently returned home from a tour of duty in Iraq.
Dixon and Jeremiah have been best friends for many years, sharing
the good times and the bad times since their early school days,
through their days at CHS, the gut wrenching memories of August
football drills, the big games against the Marlow Outlaws and
others, that helped build memories and a bond between best
friends that could be built no stronger, but then...........
The best friends graduated in the Comanche High School Class
of 2001, remaining best friends, but going their separate ways
to achieve their goals, but as fate would have it, their most
bonding adventure was yet to come.
Jeramiah and Dixon had often discussed while in high school
their desire to make military services an option after graduation
and when dreams of college baseball for Dixon and other challenges
and goals for Jeremiah kept this from becoming a reality, there
was a pact made that if one decided to enlist at a later time,
the other would be notified.
That day came in April of 2003 when Dixon decided that his
country needed him with the heightened tensions in Iraq sky-rocketing
that very day and that it was his time to continue a family
tradition as a marine, the next day Dixon made a visit to
Jeremiah and told him what he had done, and after his initial
surprise, Jeremiah said, "Joining the best of the best. Let's do
it, why not?" and Jeremiah and Dixon visited the recruiter they
had both known in high school the next day. A short time later
the duo were in basic training in San Diego, then were off to
SOI training (School of Infantry) at Camp Pendleton. After their
three months of SOI training they were shipped out to Okinawa,
Japan in December as part of the 1st Battalion 5th Marines, were
shipped to Kuwait in March of 2004 and were sent to one of. if
not the hottest war zone in the world, Fallujah, in early
April of this year.
"We were sent to set up a perimeter around the City of
Fallujah," Dixon and Jeremiah told the Times this week in
an interview since returning stateside.
"The area had become a very tense place with the killing
and hanging of four civilian contractors there," Dixon said.
"We were to let no one in and no one out of the city,"
Jeremiah said. "We figured it would be one big push through
the city, " Jeremiah added, but both believed. "politics
stopped us."
Jeremiah and Dixon stated that there had been warnings for
all the peace-loving residents of the city to leave, stating
that the city had become the primary haven for terrorists from
around the world and many of them well-trained from Africa
that became sharp shooting snipers that they would have to
deal with their entire stay in and around the city of Fallujah.
"We would make a big push and make progress and then there
would be a cease fire declared," Jeremiah and Dixon stated.
"We would cease fire, and they wouldn't, Jeremiah stated.
"During the political cease fires they would attack out
lines, the cease fire would give them time to regroup and
come back at us again," Dixon said.
"We couldn't understand why we would cease fire because
it seemed like it was only their strategy to use this time
to be ready for us and plan an attack," Jeremiah said.
Jeremiah and Dixon both were very disappointed in much of
the reporting that came from the area, saying it was not
accurate and many times came from the enemy to make the U.S.
Forces and especially the marines look bad, something that
was hard to swallow for the two young marines who have
"Semper Fi" blood running through their veins.
Jeremiah's grandfather, Glenn Avey, of Empire, is a retired
Chief Warrant Officer having served 22 years in the marines
and served three tours of duty in Viet Nam, while Dixon's
grandfather, Al Hinshaw, the present Mayor of Duncan, who
is a 6 year veteran, having serves as a marine pilot captain.
Dixon and Jeremiah shared at least one example of reporting
that got their marine blood to the boiling point.
"We were approximately 400 yards from a mosque, and we were
under sniper fire, we knew it was coming from the mosque tower,"
Jeremiah said.
"We were under orders not to fire on ambulances even though
they were being used by the enemy for non-peace purposes, and
right there in front of us we could see an ambulance pull up
to the mosque and using the ambulance as cover to resupply
themselves with RPG's (Rocket Propelled Grenades) and other
artillery," Jeremiah and Dixon stated. While that was bad
enough, they also witnessed members of the ICDC (Iraqi Civil
Defense Corp) assisting with the operation.
Jeremiah and Dixon said that it was during this time that
an enemy RPG hit the Humvee that they were assembled around.
"It hit the back of the Humvee and it blew us back and I
landed on my back,"Dixon said. "It happened so fast," Jeremiah added.
We were dragging people out," Dixon stated, believing about
ten marines were injured at the scene.
Dixon and Jeremiah stated that air support was ordered and
three bombs were dropped on the mosque compound, none hitting
the actual mosque. "When we went in, there was only one person
left in the mosque, and he came out with us," Dixon added, with
Dixon and Jeremiah stating the people fled the mosque after the bombing.
Later Dixon and Jeremiah found out that a national magazine had
reported that the marines led incident had killed forty innocent
civilians praying in the mosque, something they knew personally
to be false and was one example of bad reporting that they knew
the American people were seeing back home and made them very angry.
The duo also remembered their fourth day in Fallujah, a day
they will never forget, and it was announced that one had been
lost in the platoon. "I immediately started looking for Dixon,"
Jeremiah said, making for another very serious turn in the interviews.
It was soon learned that a sniper had claimed the life of
Lance Corporal Blake Wafford, their first dose of reality
related to the loss of a close friend to sniper fire.
"You're angry. you're sad, but you still have a job to do,"
Jeremiah and Dixon said of this experience.
The day to day knowledge that you could be killed in an instant
was something that Jeremiah and Dixon had to learn to live with.
"Driving along in a Humvee and a click and you are blown up."
Jeremiah said.
"Getting an hour of sleep a night if you are lucky, mortars
falling around you, " Dixon Said. Remembering saying to himself,
"Please Lord don't let the mortars fall on us."
Jeremiah shared vivid memories of helping fill hundreds of
sand bags that helped in keeping their positions more secure
from what seemed to be the always coming sniper fire.
:The time before and after a fight was always the scariest,
" Jeremiah said with Dixon in full agreement.
"The aftermath of a fight was the worst when we had time to
think about what we had just gone through, many times you would
see people even shaking talking about the experience with one
another," Jeremiah Said. "We would help talk each other down, "
Jeremiah and Dixon said.
"We were always on each other's butt during a fight, like I
would say,"keep your head down', and stuff like that, and after
it was over we would check on one another to make sure we had
not been hit and the pumping adrenaline it kept us from even
knowing," Dixon said.
Dixon and Jeremiah agreed that being able to share memories
of Comanche and home to one another was a great help while
they were always under the gun. "I would talk to Dixon about
going fishing and other things like that," Jeremiah added.
Mail was also an awesome time for both Jeremiah and Dixon,
saying it provided a brief escape when they got news about
loved ones and friends back home, something that would help
get their minds off the constant stress of the situation and
they could talk about.
"Man, you read it, and for an instant you are back home, "
Jeremiah shared very seriously. Care packages from home were
also a big hit with the two marines and were a blessing.
AS for the people of Iraq, Dixon and Jeremiah had some
great experiences and others that were not.
"Some of them are grateful for what you are doing, and
others hate you and want you dead," Dixon said.
"As we would pass some areas they would show you the bottom
of their feet that means you are lower than dirt," Jeremiah said.
:In other areas people would be cheering, we would throw
candy to the children, give out soccer balls, and sometimes
play with them, and the faces would light up," Jeremiah said.
Dixon compared this with almost being in a parade, but you
had to be ready for something to happen.
Dixon and Jeremiah said that they believe their personal
experiences with the Iraqi people would leave them with a
positive impression of Americans for years to come with many
of the Iraqi people and especially because of their very positive
interaction with the children. "We would also give the people
food, shovels, seed and other items and that was very well
received," Dixon said, saying many of the areas are very poor,
something that would not have any comparison in the United States.
Customs of the area also had to be learned such as never
talking to a woman and always addressing the man that was present.
"We also learned that you don't wave with your left hand, "
Jeremiah shared, saying that there is no toilet paper and the
left hand is used for wiping, the right hand is clean, the
left hand is not.
Jeremiah and Dixon both stated that having grandfathers
that had been in the Marine Corp gave them someone to talk
to. Jeremiah said that prior to joining the Marines, he
sometimes found it hard to talk to his grandfather or to even
understand him, but that now, "We connect, it's so great to
have someone to talk too and that understands," Jeremiah
said with Dixon adding that he too has an even more special
relationship with his grandfather now.
" I am very honored and proud to be a Marine, and to be
with people who are willing to give their lives to keep
freedom alive and for this country," Dixon said.
"My time over there serving with Jeremiah is one of the
proudest moments of my life, second only to marrying Lindsey
and the upcoming birth of my child," Dixon said. "Someday I
will proudly share these experiences and my pride of being
in one of the longest urban battles in the history of the
Marine Corp dating back to Viet Nam with my children and
grandchildren," Dixon said.
"People love freedom, and we were over there trying to
give freedom to them, many of them have never had freedom
and don't even understand it, and sometimes we take it for
granted," something that Jeremiah said will never happen
to him again and will never fail to appreciate the simple
things in life about Comanche that he so longed for while
he was in Iraq.
"It's so great to just be able to walk across that street
and not have to run and duck," Jeremiah said. with Dixon
saying, a loud noise sometimes makes him jump and be ready
for action.
"It's the greatest organization I've ever belonged to,"
Jeremiah said with great pride. Dixon and Jeremiah both
expressing their pride in being Marines, special people
who would take a bullet for you and you for them.
On the plane ride home Jeremiah and Dixon said they sat
together thinking and sharing what they had experienced in
a heart to heart talk.
"I remember thinking, we made it, we made it," Jeremiah
said with the greatest of seriousness.
With each saying, "I knew h had my back. and I had his."
"I don't want anyone to have to go through what we have,
but if needed I would go back tomorrow," Dixon said.
"It will be with us forever...forever," Jeremiah said as
it was obvious by his look that he was still reliving a
thousand moments of Iraq a second as the interview ended.
Teo young men, bonded in a friendship by many years of
memories and experiences, those of life and death, now
mature well beyond their years on this earth.
Yes. "Our Heroes Have Always Been Indians!" because of
our young people of Comanche like Jeremiah and Dixon.
Welcome home Dixon and Jeremiah, God Bless You, and Thank You!
Comanche Times, Thursday, August 12th 2004 edition
Written by Steve Bolton
UNLOADED THE MARINES
Dear Sgt. Grit,
A few weeks ago I sent about a billion e-mails though everyone on
earth about my aunt and uncle's 70th wedding anniversary in
Lancaster, Ohio. I mentioned that Uncle Leonard was a veteran
of the battle of Iwo Jima. Now he is 90 years old. The notebook
he carried thru his tour of duty has a simple entry for D-day.
Feb. 19, 1945
Arrived at Iwo Jima and
unloaded the Marines from
the fifth division.
Family and friends all gathered in Ohio on the 10th of July.
I had encouraged people to write or send letters. While we
were there, they still had not received the greeting from the
President and Mrs. Bush. That arrived after we returned home.
While we were there, our aunt carried around a large group of
cards and letters. Some had displayed some for guest to read.
These she kept close to her and did not share them.
Last week I received a note and a newspaper clipping, from the
Lancaster Eagle-Gazette, from their daughter (cousin Darla).
Darla ask me to contact you. She wrote:
Thanks for everything - By the way They (mom & dad) finally
received a letter from George & Laura. Tom, could you go back
online to the Sgt Grit website and thank everyone for all the
cards & notes they received. Made me cry. Most were from
Marines or their wives, moms, & daughters. Love ya all, Darla.
Thanks a million
Tom and Linda Saltz
Richmond, Virginia
MINDS AS SHARP AS MARBLES
And on the lighter side, Sgt.
The thoughts that come back to me while trying to take a nap.
You need to imagine old Gunny Lee Ermey from MAIL CALL talking
to a squad bay of second day recruits at P.I., and in his loud
and gravelly voice, he starts out saying, "Listen up, Maggots!
You all looks like ya got minds as sharp as marbles and the heads
that prove it, but I'm going to tell ya a story that'll knock
your socks off and make ya wonder why ya whined to your mommie
'til she signed the papers so's ya could get your fat @ss out
of bed at 5:00 a.m.to make the train on the ol ACL headed
for this beautiful summer spa".
Then the Gunny says, "I've seen some horrible sights in my 20
plus years from this here island to around the world many times
and back to Port Royal that would keep ya awake forever. But
the most disgusting sight I ever had to witness 'twas watching
a Corpsman buddy of mine doing his daily duty. I had to see
that poor, dear 250 pound swabbie sitting on a three legged
camp stool sorrowfully waiting for the next group to line
up in front of him. That next group, just like the last
group and just like the following group, would be all NEKKED.
Yes sir! About 35, 40 little twerps just like you vermin,
'twas in their birthday suits. Jaybird bare. In their all together."
The the Gunny says, " Now pay attention to what I'm gonna say
next, ya daddy's little darlings. That righteous CPO had only
two phrases to say. 'Turn your head and cough' and, 'turn around
and spread 'em.' Oh! The ordeals some warriors have to do
for their country. But the pain, disgrace. Oh! The
inhumanity put on one person.
And I sees by your eyes that wasn't a pleasant sight to imagine,
but some of ya are gonna make it to be Marines and ya have
to take the bad with the good.
NOW! ATTENTION! Corporal! Make these yardbirds strip to their
shoes and socks and march them to the next room. Seaman Jones
is awaiten. And give me a tissue. I got a cinder in me eye."
Now! That's how the Gunny would tell it.
Sgt. Jimmie G. '45 to '49
JOHN BASILONE PARADE
The website www.basiloneparade.org is now complete - you can view the completed contents at the link listed above...
ONE MORNING HE AWOKE
Hey Grit,
Just wanted to tell a story about an incident that took place
in Okinawa Hq. 4/12, 3rd MarDiv 1960. We had this old salt
from the Korean time frame. He had one problem for the hut
we called home. He like to sleep naked. Several of us tried
to get across to him we did not like to see his ugly butt,
but he would not change. His routine was to pull out the
foot locker and pull out his teeth put them into a glass
and the sleep away. One morning he awoke and his teeth was
gone, all of his ranting and raving did not help he could
not find them. After several day it was said to him that
he would put some skivvies on, his teeth might show up,
he did, they did. End of story, never had any more
trouble for the rest of the year there.
Msgt. C. Hooker USMC Ret. 1960-1982
SHORT ROUNDS
went to P.I in sept of 1972, D.I.'s were sgt howard, sgt
jefferson, and sgt hernon. hope you guys are doing well,
and thank you.
jerry f
Hi Sarge. I am another of the WW11 Marines. I was on Banika in the
Russell Islands. Went in on April 1 1945 on Okinawa. Joined C-1-7 1st
Div. After Okinawa was secured, went in on the little Island of Kume
Shima, and went into North China on Oct.1,1945. Where we landed at
Ching Wang Tao, later went To Chang Li, then back to Ching Wang Tao Now
in Nipomo, Ca.
Jack Whiteaker
Fellow Chosin Few Brothers;
Due to health problems I will not be able to attend. I wish you
all a very nice time and I shall be with you in my heart.
May God Bless.
Semper Fidelis,
Andy Jackson Hdq/4/11
Jennifer,
My husband and I are retired USMC and our youngest child is one
week away from becoming a Marine. She completes OCS on the 20th
of August and will be a second Lieutenant. Kerry has always
liked a challenge and becoming a Marine has been the hardest
she has had to overcome. God Bless all of our troops and
those who support from the home front for their work is never done.
Nancy
Great timing on your newsletter, On this day, Exactly 40 years ago I
stood on the infamous yellow footprints at MCRD San Diego - Oorah!
S/Sgt, RVN 66-67, 69-70
Mark P. Hite
I am humbled at the comments of these brave, loyal Marines,
Families, and friends. Our Marine Corps has always been special
to those of us who have served. I have been reading and sharing
your newsletter for some time now, and am grateful to you for
such a venue. God Bless You, our Corps and all who have and
will serve. Semper Fi.
Art Caesar
US Navy Seabees 55-59, U S Marines 59-65
A tribute to our armed forces and very well done.
Ed McCafferty, 1568921
American by birth. MARINE by the grace of God.
Gung Ho!!
Sgt Grit
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