THE OLD SALT - When asked Just how long he'd been in. Replied
The First time I pulled Mess Duty was at The Last Supper.
Joe Hackett, USMC 52/55, 1280932
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The new fall catalog is mailed. Some of you already have it, all others should arrive within 10 days. As usual a lot of new items. Remember: order early for the Marine Corps Birthday and Christmas.
New Special Order T-Shirts - Limited Time Only!
Khe Sanh Vets - Visit the Page just for you.
Major Gen. Natonski
Letter from the Commanding General of 1st MarDiv.
As for the enemy: hurt them, find them and kill them.
Because Of It Sir
Under the radar was never a reality to me. I was born with basketball
orange hair(no joke). There I was standing in a squad bay in SD a
day early for my series and Sgt ME Gonzales walks up to me and starts
questioning me about growing up with this hair color. "did they tease
you?", "did they pick on you?"...17 years and a day old, I was scared
almost speechless. Then came the question "what did you do about it?"
"Sir the private kicked their as*es sir" and he went into the duty
hut and left me parked there for about an hour. When he returned he
handed me the arm band and guidon and told me to take the single bunk
by the door. I didn't have a clue and was scared s&itless. The others
arrived the next day and I was told to dress them out and pick 4 squad
leaders who were to pick team leaders over the next. Should of seen
the look on the DI's faces the first time we fell out and I left the
guidon in the squad bay. It had to be explained to me what I was
supposed to do and where I was supposed to fall in at !!!!(They don't
teach this in high school you know!!) I was the only guy with this
bright color hair out of about 320 guys in 4 recruit platoons-under
the radar???????? I've had IG's ask me if I had any physical problems
that caused this!!! "Sir no Sir only problems because of it Sir"
Always use the guide for any thing you can think of-garbage can races
between 4 guides in the series-how long can hang upside down and drink
water games-showing the rest of the platoon how to use a pugil stick-I
bet my guide can do more squat thrusts than yours.....be the dummy at
the field dressing for wounded class then send us to chow with out
removing said dressings because I might bleed to death... I hear you
brother!!! But we had more fun than those recruits that didn't stand
out. We got the best bunk. The day we bloused our utilities we got to
go first while the others waited. We were last to chow and seems like
we ate the least because the cooks put more or bigger on our hubcaps
because they knew what we gave up to be platoon guide. They knew we
were the first one up because fire watch would get you up an hour
before revile, the last one to got to sleep, get up in the middle of
the night to watch over fire watch and memorize the hand book to help
your Brothers who were having a hard time plus you had to pull 100% on
the Knowledge day. My DI's didn't have Bic's-Zippo's were then. So
they would pull those and send you to the head to finish the job before
IG's!!!--Do not let the eye tear up when one was pulled!!!! God help
you if that military ID card made a scraping sound when dragged up
your face!!!! and that was single blade - unscrew it and put it
indays!!! Miss the ole days do ya??? I feel like I grew up more in
boot than in the 17 years before it. Guess I owe it to The
Corp and My DI's. NO guess to it.
Semper Fi Brothers and Sisters. Krusty
G-2
A photograph of a sign was published in the base newspaper
(Sentry, I believe) in the early 1960s at Quantico, va. A very
large, gold on scarlet sign, naturally. It read.
G 2
Intelligence Branch
United States Marine Core
MCS Quantico Va
Perhaps someone got up close and personal with steel wool, brasso
and a Marine Corps G. I. can as a result. You gotta love it. Every
day is a holiday and every meal is a banquet. A small price to
pay to serve with the worlds finest.
DMB USMC (Ret.)
Back From The Sandbox
Hey Grit,
I recently came back from the sandbox on 28, july,
and got my walking papers 10, august. The re-adjustment to civie
life is a lot harder than I thought it would be. I'm bored now,
and I really miss the action. I was trying to tell my 'ol lady that
I was thinking about going active duty again, but she didn't take
it so well.
I told her that it's a MARINE thing (Corps, Unit, God, Country) and
she said that she guesses it's something she'll never understand.
In the CORPS, I was somebody, a man with a purpose. Now out here
in the civie world i'm just a former MARINE with a lot of good
stories to tell, and a lot of nightmares to contend with.
SEMPER FI -DO OR DIE.........
CPL. Chris Schaefer U.S.M.C. (1/3) 0311
I'd Be In A World Of Hurt
After reading your newsletter for a while now, just thought I would
share this one with you. My parents were traveling out west recently
and my father was driving rather fast as he just had bought a new
truck with a Hemi in it. Sure enough when he wasn't looking, a state
trooper nailed him. So the trooper pulled him over and went through
the usual routine by taking his license and registration and heading
back to the squad car. My dad figured that it was gonna hurt as he
was doing well over the posted speed limit. When the trooper came
back he handed my dad a warning ticket and said have a nice day. My
dad asked the trooper why the warning and not a ticket. The trooper
had him dead to rights. The trooper replied: "Sir, if I went back to
my station and told them I gave a retired Marine a ticket, I'd be in
a world of hurt." He then saluted my father and sounded off with a
SEMPER FI SIR!! and then proceeded to head back to his squad car.
It was a couple of minutes before the dust and sand cleared
out of my father's eyes.
Doug--proud son of a 20yr retired Marine.
I Felt Compelled
Greetings Sgt. Grit,
I felt compelled to write and comment about the Sept. 30 news letter.
First, my sympathy to Nancy Blair for her loss and my gratitude for
her son's service. I have no words of comfort for her that might help.
only a big hug and a thank you.
Thanks to John Varian for acknowledging we Marines that were not grunts
by MOS. It seems lots of folks think that if you weren't a grunt that
you were not a real Marine. My older brother was an 0141 office pogue
who was wounded in a rocket and mortar attack at Marble Mountain when
he was with MAG 16 in 1967. I served as a 2531 field radio operator at
LZ Baldy, Fire Support Base Ryder and at Hill 34 during my 1970-71 tour.
We both may not have been 0311's or 0331's but we were kn harm's way
as well. I loved our grunts for the job they did and I do feel guilt
sometimes that I wasn't in the " bush " during my time in Nam. I
joined the Corps and volunteered for WestPac orders and went where
I was ordered. I think I did a good job and I hurt for the guys
that didn't return. Thanks again Mr. Varian for recognizing us.
Semper Fi, L/Cpl Dan Buchanan
USMC 1969-71
You Guys Coming Home
Just want to say to ALL you guys coming home that this time the military
is trying to do it right this time around.PLEASE don't think your the only
one not able to understand you feelings.Don't think you can keep your
emotions bottled up.There are so many of us from the Nam era that will
gladly lend a ear to what you might want to get out of your system.And
PLEASE PLEASE make use of any VA bennies you might be entitled to.I've
worked for the VA off and on since '75'.It really has improved over the
years,and although still BS,it's NOT like it was in the movies Coming
home and born on the forth of July. And though you will remember your
experiences for the rest of your life,life DOES go on.Remember you are
NOT alone in this,You've brothers that will listen,but it will come down
to you how this experience shapes you life. God speed,and best to you
all my fellow Marines.
USMC '67-71'RVN DaNang '69'
U,S. Army '86-93 Somalia '93'
Scratchie
Double Time
After boot camp, at Parris Island, we were sent to Camp Geiger for
ITR Training. Having made Honor Man and promoted to PFC., I was
selected as one of the Platoon Sgt?s. One day we were first with
chow and on our way back to the barracks. First back gets first
head call and no waiting in line. We were almost there when a
rival platoon came us behind us and we heard the order, ?Double Time?.
We ended up second and waiting in line. The gauntlet had been thrown
down and I picked it up with a smile on my face. It was going to be sweet.
That evening we were first out again. Again were almost there
when we heard the other platoon coming up from the rear. Again the
sound of, ?Double time!?. I got several side mouth request for, ?Give
the command for Double Time?. I yelled, ?Listen up. Hold on?. One
Marine said, ?Look out guys this is got to be a good one?. I had
been know for a few pranks in the past, so he knew something was coming.
I waited and I heard the steps getting closer. I again yelled,
?Hold on?. Then the command, ?OPEN RANKS?, when the other platoon
was within 10 yards of us. It was the most beautiful executed maneuver
I had ever seen. There are no words to fully describe the sharpness,
the snap and the smile on everyone's face as they executed the move.
The move covered the entire roadway. I only wish the guys could have
see the look on the face of the other platoon Sgt. He was so shook
up about the move he did not give any command and the ?Keystone Cop
Effect? took place. It was great. The front of his platoon started
slowing down but the rear kept going. Soon his entire platoon was
all bunched up behind mine, as we held the formation the rest of
the way back.
John Halpin
USMC
2/9 66-67
Joke
An army GI and a Marine are in the head at the urinal and the
Marine finishes then zips up and is about to leave when the GI
says, "Hey, aren't you gonna wash your hands?", to which the
Marine quickly replies, "In the Marine Corps. we don't p!ss
on our hands." and left.
thanks,
E.B.
Liar
I am a Police Officer at the University of Texas Medical Center
and St. Paul University in Dallas. One evening, while posted in
the St. Paul ER, I heard someone using profanity in a very loud
voice in the waiting room. Just as I entered the area I heard
the patient tell the Charge Nurse, ?I can't help using d@mn cuss
words. I'm an ex-Marine and a f***ing Vietnam Vet. It is the way
I f***ing talk?. I stepped in and informed him he needed to curb
his language. The guy just looked at me and, having not noticed
when I entered the room, made the same statement to me.
I asked, ?You were in the Marine Corp? Where did you go to boot??
?I went to San Diego, CA?, came his reply.
I asked, ? Where were you in Vietnam??
?I was a gunner in the 3rd Division, 2nd Air Calvary, in 1976?,
came the wrong reply.
I had all I could do not to laugh in his face.
The Charge Nurse knew I was a Marine and I took him aside and
told him the guy was a d@mn liar. The patient wanted to know what
I was telling the nurse. Since it was about him, he had a right
to know. I told him he was not on the need-to-know-list.
I asked the Charge Nurse who the patient's nurse was going to be
and went to find her. I told her the guy would tell her he was a
Marine, however, he was a liar, so be careful of what else he may
tell her about his ?aliment?. She asked how I knew. I informed
her I was a Marine and I had served in Vietnam. I broke it down
for her. The patient stated he went to boot in San Diego, CA not
?Diego? or ?Hollywood?. All Marines give Company, Battalion,
Regiment and Division as in Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines.
Or just Fox 2/9. There was no such unit, that he stated, in the
Marines Corp. I told her if he gave her any trouble, let me know
and I would be more than happy to arrest him for Disorderly Conduct,
if he processed with the mouth.
Needless to say he was put in a back room for treatment. He later
walked, since he did not get the drugs he requested for his
?ailment? and he was not, ?... treated as a Vietnam Vet should?.
I was outside in the ER driveway when he departed, and he told me
it was not the way to treat a Vietnam Vet. I told him I had
informing the Nurse that he was a d@mn liar.
He just looked at me for a moment and said, ?You can't talk to
me that way?.
I looked him in the eyes and very slowly stated, so he would get
the full meaning, ? Sir, I am a Marine and a Vietnam Vet. And you sir, are
a d@mn liar? The Marines have no use for liars nor do I.
He never said a word as he slowly walked away, limping on the other leg.
John Halpin
USMC
2/9
Tribute
My Uncle, John Esposito, celebrated his 80th birthday a few
weeks ago with a surprise party arraigned by his children. As
the only other living Marine in the family I was chosen to
arrange The Marine Corps tribute. My uncle, served with the
4th Marine Division, along with my father, from its inception
at Camp Pendleton, on 14 August 1943, all the way through Roi-Namur,
Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima. He still carries a fragment a Japanese
bullet in his elbow as a result of being wounded in action on Iwo
Jima. A color guard from his own regiment 25th Marines, came down
to surprise him from the reserve center in Plainville, CT. to
Danbury, where the surprise party took place. A SSGT, in full
dress blues also read a certificate of appreciation from the
present day commander of 25th Marines. I was also able to obtain
a birthday greeting letter for him from CMC, on their website.
Thanks to your catalog, I was able to obtain all the necessary
patches for his Marine Jacket, that we gave him as a birthday
gift. The men from Charlie Company, 1st. BN. 25th Marines, gave
up several hours of their time on a Sunday afternoon to honor
one of The Regiments "Charter Members." Over 150 guests, including
state and local politicians sat in complete silence during the
color guards ceremony, and my oral presentation of the 4th Marine
Divisions proud and distinguished W.W.II history. My wife told me
that you could of heard a pin drop, it was so quiet. Needless to
say, my uncle will always remember this particular birthday, and
the present day Marines who came to honor his W.W.II service.
Once a Marine, always a Marine
Terry Rickert Sgt. USMC 1963 - 1970
People Not Very Proud
My Dad served in Vet Nam. He told me once that there were people
not very proud of him for going over there. I told him that his
family was. I was, he is my hero. Very few people that live in our
small town served during that time. Now all they talk about is the
current war and all the young men that are serving from here. All
I can say is I'm VERY PROUD to say my dad served in Nam. Good
Luck to all..
Proud daughter of a United State Marine.....
Melissa Givens.
Joke
Tun Tavern: 1775 First recruit signs up "on the drum" outside
and goes into the tavern where they give him a free tankard of
ale and a shot of rum...
Next recruit comes in a few minutes later. Has a tankard of ale.
First recruit says... "Say, where is your shot of rum?"
"They didn't give me one, " the second recruit replies...
"That's odd... Back in the 'Old Corps' we got a shot of rum... ..."
Jim
Crabs Sir
MCRD San Diego August 1967, 4-5 weeks into Boot Camp and we are
2 days away from moving to Camp Pendleton's Edson Range. When one
recruit approached the DI and requests permission to report to Sick Bay.
When asked the reason the boot replies.."Sir the Private has CRABS SIR!!!!
The DI (backing away) asks "how do you know a**hole"? "SIR the Private
caught one SIR" comes the reply!
Permission was immediately granted for Sick Bay where a whole bunch
of Corpsman with tweezers conducted a "Search and Destroy". I never
did find out where he got them but his squad conducted a thorough
field day of their Quonset Hut, bedding, and clothing.
Eric Olson
Platoon 3017
MCRD San Diego 1967
Spooked Me
Yo, Grit...reading about the DI who was estimated to be part
Indian...reminded me of a real 100% full-blooded Cherokee I worked
for as a Junior DI back about '63....one SSGT Penniston (would
have to dig out the book to recall the plt #, not important now,
but L Company, 3rd RTBn at San Diego...)....anyhoo, we Juniors
had taken the Plt out to Echo range at Camp Matthews (now buried
under part of the San Diego campus of UC)... Penniston had driven
out to the range (rank hath its privileges, as well as its
responsibilities, thou knowest....)...anyhoo, he needed something
fetched from the duty tent, so gave me the keys to his big black
four-door Ford barge (AKA Galaxie) (they were huge...this was
probably a '62 or so).....was absolutely amazed when I got in,
turned the key, and proceeded to get some very authentic Indian
music out of the radio....now this was in the day before cassette
tapes, much less CD's, I-PODs, etc.....in fact, probably had only
AM radio....figured the boss really had got his stuff together
and also remembered where it was....ran the errand, and asked him
how he "did that" when I got back ....he had no idea what the
H&ll I was talking about....seems it was just the time for the
local predecessor of NPR to be playing some Native American
music...spooked me for sure...so, SSGT Penniston, if you're still
around out there, no doubt retired at a higher rank....there was
a day when you sure made an impression on me...
Dick Dickerson..retired Mustang of Marines...
Now's Your Time
Sgt Grit,
It was september of 1982, mcrd San Diego. i was on the obstacle
course overlooking the fence line of an airport that was nearby(ha)
i had just completed my journey from ground to the top of a (A)
frame they called it?? when i froze! i remembered i had a very
noticeable fear of heights...... i couldn't move..... paralyzed!!!
i kept looking down(bad idea) then, i noticed a instructor
making his way up towards my location(humm) what could he be
doing?? as this person was making his way towards my position .. i
noticed that this was not my drill instructor (but) that this was
the series commander hummmmmmm. upon arrival, i knew that this
was not good! i expected a *ss chewing beyond comprehension to
say the least ... but i was froze and couldn't move.
much to my dismay, a calm and well demeanored lieutenant said:
what's the problem private? i replied "sir" this private is
afraid of heights...... at which time the lieutenant replied:
well, nows your time to overcome that! for the life of me i'll never
understand what overtook me then. i simply stepped onto the
frame base and jumped out to the rope and made my way down without
hesitation......no problem..
to this day i have no fear of heights and i contribute that to the
sunny day in september, the moment in time stood still. i guess i
took that statement the lieutenant gave me and applied it to many
situations in life since then. and how that simple statement has
made a difference..... any problems i have faced throughout the years
since i still remember.............".now's your time to overcome it"
who say's the di's didnt make a difference
Rob House
usmc 1982/1986
1stmardiv/1st fssg/ mp co
Found An American Flag
In October right after 9-11 I made a trip to Charleston, SC where
the USS Yorktown is at final anchor. I served aboard her with
the Marine Detachment 1964-1966 with three trips to Viet Nam.
We were a very proud and tight Marine Unit aboard a Navy ship
with one h&ll of a history going back to WW2. 30+ years since
I walked on her decks and I still knew where everything was on
that ship. One h&ll of a day spending time on the old
"Fighting Lady"
When I returned to my car in the parking lot I found an American
Flag in the upper right hand corner of my windshield. Under the
driver's windshield wiper was a flyer. It stated that the flag
had been placed there by the local Boy Scout troop to support our
Armed Forces. They did not ask for any donations but there was
a statement at the bottom that if we did not want the flag on our
vehicle it would be taken off as we left the parking lot.
As I left the parking lot there was a Boy Scout standing there.
As I drove by he gave me the biggest smile then held up a sign
"# of flags removed-O" I donated $20.00 to the Boy Scout troop.
I wonder how much they pulled in for those flags. Mine is still
on the car and won't come off until it wears off. Semper Fi to
those kids who most will probably wear the Eagle, Globe and Anchor
after they leave the Scouts. What a thing to happen after 9-11.
A day later I was allowed to go on Camp LeJuene, NC. They were
on Bravo Alert but a simple explanation that I was a Marine who
had served there in 1966-67 in the Division Military Police my
pass was signed and welcomed aboard. Once a Marine-Always a Marine.
As I left the base I had my sun visor pulled down against the sun.
It has my ribbons, Sgt Chevrons, 2nd Mar Div Arrowhead, and
Country Sheriff's of Colorado Star pinned to it. The Marine at
the gate saw it and gave me the sharpest salute I have ever
seen as I left the base.
Semper Fi Once a Marine-Always a Marine
Raymond J. Buss
Sergeant of Marines 1963-1967
@ss Chewed Out
I just read the newsletter and the subject was who was a real Marine,
PI trained or San Diego trained. I want to add my two cents . I have
had my @ss chewed out by Gunnys, tops, and sergeant majors in: San Diego
Camp Pendelton Camp Lejuene Viet Nam Iwakuni El Toro LTA Santa Ana
and various other stop overs, It appears to me that they are all the same.
SSgt Huntsinger
World Of Sh!t
I arrived at Parris Island in March 1966. One evening after
chow the DI said he knew we all hated his A**. However, if
anyone wanted to take him on he would oblige them. He said
he would take off his stripes and we could go at it, without
any problems later. He asked if any "ladies " were interested
in taking him on.
As luck would have it my bunk mate leaned over to me and
whispered, "Go on and take him." The DI, with his ability to
hear all sounds, tuned in on the sound source and made a
beeline for us. He asked my bunk mate what he has just said.
"I told Halpin to take you on," came the reply.
The DI looked at me, then back at the other and asked why he
thought I could take him on.
"Halpin is a karate instructor, Sgt."
The DI focused his attention me and ask me if that was true
and what style of karate.
"Yes, Sgt., Tai Kwon Do, Sgt."
"So you think you can take me, do you?"
I knew I was in a world of s*** and soon to be in a bigger
world of hurt. I answered, "I don't know, Sgt, but I can
sure as h&ll try."
The DI told me, "Fine, come with me."
We walked to the center of the squad bay and as the DI put
his arm around my shoulder he asked, "Who in the squad bay
thinks he can whip me and my friend here?"
Not a word, however, I did see some grins. I was never so
relieved to hear those words. Especially the,
"Get your a** back to your rack."
John Halpin
2/9
Can I Dip Out Of Your
At Pendelton w/ 1/5 Around 1991 or 92. We were at the repel
tower one day and everyone had was kind of just milling around.
Everyone had completed the minimum repels and the instructors
were letting anyone that wanted, to go again. The Gunner was
standing around talking to everyone and observing the training.
A young Lcpl. pulled out a brand new can of Copenhagen and started
thumping it. Then broke the seal and lipped a pinch. The gunner
was attracted by the thumping, like nearly everyone that I ever
knew that dipped. He asked the Marine if he could have a dip. The
Marine was only to happy to share with the Gunner. He handed the
Gunner the can and then Gunner thumped a little then looked at the
young Marine and asked, "Can I dip out of your can like I do mine?"
The young Marine looked a little confused but said that he could.
The Gunner takes off the lid and holds the can up to his mouth and
sticks his tongue into the can taking out a big ole honkin' dip. I
had never seen anyone do that. I thought that was one of the coolest
things that I had ever scene and at the same time the funniest because
of the look of disbelief on the Lcpls. face. The Gunner handed the can
back to the young Marine and said "Thank you son." The young Marine
was shocked and surprised. But he managed to hold up his hand and said,
"no Gunner, you just go ahead and keep the can." To this day I don't
know if the Gunner did that on purpose just to see what the young Marine
would do or to see if he could get the can or what. Later we all got a
good laugh out of that, and when someone would bum a dip, someone would
always have some wise crack about not putting "your tongue in my can"
or "can I dip out of your can like I do mine".
The last one is really gross. We were aboard the U.S.S. Okinawa in the
Persian Gulf on 1987-88 doing escort duty for Kuwait oil tankers. Another
Lcpl. from out plt. was put on mess duty. He naturally caught flack
being one of the only Marines on mess duty. Apparently the sailors
started talking trash and they decided to make a bet. The bet was
that the Marine could not drink a cup of tobacco juice and keep it down
for 30 minutes. They even managed to come up with some money to sweeten
the deal for the Marine. He decided to take the bet. After all, he told
us, he was defending the honor of the Corps. He did it and won the bet.
Good thing for him was that it was near the end of his shift. He had quite
the green complexion when he came below. When our Corpsman found out what
he did he rushed him to sick bay for shots. I think he gave him some extra
just for being stupid. Anyway, the honor of the Corps was up held.
God bless the Marine Corps and God bless America,
James Bolin "Bo", Cpl.
1986-1992 Wpns 1/5, 81's,
Oohraa, Semper Fi. Boot Camp Plt. 2074
Joke
A Marine was going to the dentist to get some teeth pulled.
The dentist was about to give the Marine some local anesthesia
to numb the pain.
"Don't give me any drugs doc, I can take the pain." the Marine said.
The doctor pulled the first tooth out and the Marine just grunted.
Then the doctor attempted to pull the second tooth, only this one
snapped in half. But again the Marine just grunted. "Wow, that sure
is a lot of pain just to grunt at, have you ever felt pain like
that before?" asked the amazed dentist.
"Well, twice actually." said the Marine, "The first time was when
I was out in the woods and had to take a crap really bad. I pulled
down my pants and jumped over this log. Just then a bear trap
closed on my balls and I started running...."
"D*mn that must have hurt." the dentist interrupted.
"What was the second time?"
"Oh, that would have been when the bear trap came to the
end of it's chain."
Dick Mullins
Korean War Recon
GRIT--
The Korean War Recon Marines held their 19 th reunion from Sept. 29 to
Oct.2 at Portland , Maine. We had 106 at the banquet. We had a wonderful
time. Vince Iacopino was the reunion chairman. Him and his wife, Lorraine,
did a wonderful job. We had a bus tour of the area and stopped at L.L.Bean
to spend our disability checks. T he high light of the week was the
LOBSTER BAKE on House Island. While we were there, our Chaplain, Howard
Davenport, conductor Memorial Services for our fallen Recon Marines. The
speaker for Saturday's banquet was, Col. Gerald J. Boyle, USMC Ret.
If any of you readers served in Div. Recon or know some one who did--
Contact Glen Kastdorf--kasdorf@ticon.net
Semper fi
William Gobert
One Last Time
PI Marines vs. "Hollywood" Marines? This has been good natured
ribbing between Marines since Boot Camps opened. Anybody that
really knows about real Marines, knows one thing; we can argue
and compete over just about any point. Any truth to it never seemed
to enter into the picture, platoon vs platoon, company vs company,
batallion vs battalion, the competition never ends. Does it mean
that one is better than the other? No way! We are all Marines,
combat vets, pogues, wingers, and all other MOS's had to earn
the Eagle, Globe and Anchor the hard way. What is that the
recruiting posters say, 'Earned,never given', keep that in
mind. To paraphrase an old saying, ' injure the least of my
Marines, you injure me', or something like that.
Never lose sight of the fact that we are all Marines and we had
no choice about our MOS's or where we trained. The only choice
we did have was to earn the right to be called "Marine" and
to serve honorably.
Semper Fidelis,
John Lee
One More Last Time
Sgt. Grit,
It makes no difference whether you began your life in Parris
Island or San Diego, we all earn the title "Marine" equally.
My only regret from going to Parris Island vs. San Diego is
that I went in the summer and the sun was very bright, I sure
could have used the sunglasses that the Hollywood Marines got.
Jim Doud, Sgt. Marine since 1973
Better Place
Sgt Grit,
I'd like to take just a moment to inform you and your readers
(Marines, Sailors, and those associated with Marines), that
Southern Illinois has lost three (3) more in the past ten (10)
days. Those Marines Reporting for Duty to guard Heavens Gates;
LCpl Drew Uhles, DuQuoin, Illinois - Iraqi Freedom
Sgt Benjamin Smith, Carterville, Illinois - Iraqi Freedom
Dwight "Jed" Clampet, Murphysboro, Illinois - Iwo Jima Marine (and Naval Reserve veteran
of Korea)
They are all in a better place now.
Semper Fidelis
Robby J. Hookham
USMC (Ret.)
MCL #812 Chaplain
I Don't Think Soooo
Sgt. Grit,
All this talk about PI or Diego..... Hey, it doesn't matter...
We are all Marines.
I was scheduled to go to PI from Cincinnati, in Sept 66; but a
week before I left for boot camp, I was informed that PI was
full up, and we were going to Diego.
When I got there LIFE as I knew it ceased to exist.. 1st Battalion,
Plt 1124 ( Any of you guys out there???) Our Gunny was mean, but
our SSgt. G E Myrick was even Meaner; Force Recon, 2 tours in
Nam already, and our Sgt, J B Huey , not to tall but like a pit bull.
They were going to make us better, than all the other platoons.
Everyone else ran the Obstacle course once, we did it twice.
If you F*@ked too often, off to motivation platoon.
Dirty rifle?? One guy lost some teeth over it...
Didn't Qualify at the range?? Some met a blanket party
One guy screw up?? everyone did 1500 up and on shoulders with the M-14
Kill a Scorpion (w/o permission)? march 5 miles to bury it
Got so bad, one "draftee", tried to get out by cutting his
wrists... didn't work.... Next time he came back from range,
and he put a round through his foot... I guess he thought that
would get him out... well maybe, Lost his foot, court martial,
2 years hard labor...
If you think PI was tougher, I DON'T THINK SOOOO...
Semper Fi Jarheads........
Bill George Cpl USMC 1966-1970
RVN Class of 67-68 9th Marines
Five Will Get You Ten
Sure was glad to hear that someone else remembers Opa-Locka Fl.
I Was there in 53 and little of 54. There was a bar near there
called the "Pepper Pot" that we would go to and there was a
gang of "Rough Necks" they called the Pepper Pot Gang, they
were pretty tough especially when all 10 of them were in there
and just 3 or 4 Marines, we did have a few civies that would
help us Marines, most of the time Johnny Cash and his brother
were in there and if the Marines were short handed and needed
help, the Cash brothers would always jump right in there and
help us, I don't know why we kept going back to that place except
that no one would ever call the M.P.s or the law.
There was also a pizza place just outside the gate that we gave
a lot of business to especially the night before payday. Back
in the old Corps the night before payday, guys would go though
the squad bay saying "Five Will Get You Ten" and if you would
loan them five dollars then when we got paid the next day you
could collect the ten dollars, sure wish I could have had a lot
of those fives to change into tens. I can still remember the Hotels
calling for "Escorts" when there were lots of females staying there,
I don't think I ever bought any drinks or food, I would go there
with five dollars and always make it back to base in a couple of
days with at least that much, sometimes with more. One weekend I
met this lady from Pa. Her husband was in the Army (A major) she
was about forty years old and looked nice and hadn't seen her
husband for 11 months, sometime that night I remember her saying
"I think I married into the wrong branch of service" I told some
of the guys back at the base and they hung a bad nick name on me.
Semper-Fi Sgt. of Marines W. Hahn
Make Me Proud
These letters and postings continue to make me PROUD AS H&LL to be
a former MARINE! The letters and postings in this edition are some
of the best and most inspirational to date.
God bless America, God bless the Marine Corps and all Marines past
and present!! OOOO-RAH!
J.H. Allen
Vietnam Veteran 66/67 (E-5) 0811/105's/"G" 3/12
Take Heart
In newsletter #81 Cpl Turner discussed the problems he is having
after getting out of the Corps. Cpl. you have now joined
another fraternity that of the combat veteran. You are not
alone with these thoughts. Many of us suffer from the same
guilt today we did when we left the Corps, so many years ago.
I understand your need to be with your unit. I wish to be with
my Marines everyday. Civilians will never understand that it
is not alright, yes we were doing our job, but it does not
make it any easier.
I and several of friends still suffer. Take heart, there are
other Marines out there you can talk to. I am one. If you
need to talk. Brother Marine the road for a warrior,
is long and hard. It is even harder when you can no longer by
an active Warrior, but can be made easier with friends that
are willing to listen and not pass judgment.
Good Luck and Semper Fi
Lawrence "Larry" Trujillo
MSgt. USMC (Ret.)
August 6, 1946
Sgt. Grit - A couple of newsletters back you ask for some
"Old Corps" stories. I'm not sure where the line is drawn
between "Old" and "New" but since my enlistment date was August
6, 1946 and my MCRD San Diego graduation date was
October 12, 1946 perhaps I qualify as "Old Corps". Here are a
few interesting tid bits from that era:
1. DI's carried tapered swagger sticks with a 50 cal. shell
casing on one end and a 30. cal. shell casing on the opposite end.
Many a boot who had gotten out of step while marching in formation
felt the sting of that stick across the rear of his calf.
2. The Marine Corps' recruitment slogan at that time was "Only One
Hundred Thousand May Serve". It made you proud to think that
you were one of them (the Corps strength at the time was approximately
70,000).
3. When we entered boot camp we were being issued WWII style
left over(but new) fatigues. Some had grenade pockets while others
were a standard trouser style. All had the eagle, globe, and anchor
on the pocket as well as on the cover. The DI's, however, constantly
made it clear that we had not yet earned the right to call ourselves
"Marines".
4. When we graduated boot camp we were issued a full compliment of
uniforms,including dress blues, but no dress shoes. They didn't become
available until months later. In the meantime, you either wore boon
Dockers or bought "dress" shoes in Santa Ana (I was stationed at MCAS
El Toro) and wore those off base only.
5. We were also issued the "Ike" jacket (still have mine).
6. The DI's all wore dress shoes with taps and cleats on the soles.
They resonated over the entire grinder (or so it seemed) and you cringed
every time you heard those shoes coming in your direction.
7. Our senior DI was a corporal although I suspected that he had had a
higher rank previously. Our junior DI was a sergeant. They were as
different as night and day. The corporal was stocky and of medium
height and loved to scream obscenities in your face and frequently
resorted to physical discipline. The sergeant reminded you of Alan Ladd
and was tough but I don't recall that he ever struck or screamed at
any one. We also had a "babysitter" that was a 6'-6" behemoth, former
China Marine, with the rank of gunnery sergeant. He only showed up a
couple of evenings each week and entertained us with stories of his
experiences while in China during WWII.
Maybe this is a little long but they are subjects, for the most part,
that I haven't seen mentioned previously in your newsletters. Those were
great days.
Ray Cox
Corporal, USMC
PLT 154, VMP 254
1946-1948
You Are Not Forgotten
Sgt Grit,
I remember my days at MCRD San Diego, the obstacle course, tin Quonset
huts and all of the running, shouting, marching and rifle work, but mostly
I remember Sgt Mercer and Staff Sgt Marr. Both were Marines right off the
poster. Sgt Mercer always neat as a pin and Staff Sgt Marr tough as nails
and both Marines putting the fear of God into each of us boots. Both men
were dedicated to the development and growth of future Marines, Marines
who would wear the uniform and emblems with pride. After boot camp and a
number of months later I ran into Staff Sgt. Marr in the Philippines. He
was no longer a Staff Sgt. and oddly enough I out ranked him having earned
my Sgt Stripes. We talked for a while before parting but no matter what his
rank was on his sleeve, nothing could diminish the respect I hold for him.
The things he taught me and the expectations he held for each of us was
greatly responsible for my promotions and the pride I hold for the USMC.
If he or Sgt Mercer should read this, I want them to know I am grateful
for the professional effort and concern they held for each of us in the
1st Battalion, Platoon 186. All that training came in very handy in the
years to come. Again, Thank you Marines Marr and Mercer, you are not
forgotten.
Former Sgt Stanley W. Kearney A Co, 1st Bn, 1st Mar, 3rd Mar Div.
FMF July 57 to July 63
I Was Stunned
Recently having several terrible long weeks. Wearing my leathers with
Marine Corps insignia including USMC, 3rd Marine Division and a large Eagle,
Globe, and Anchor on the back of the jacket I rode my motorcycle to a local
tavern and ordered a beer and something to eat. I was lost in thought and
did not notice anyone near by. When finished I attempted to pay the bill but
the waiter took it away and said it had already been taken care of. I was
stunned as I couldn't imagine who would have paid my bill. I asked and the
waiter reluctantly pointed out a couple probably in their 50's and sitting
right behind me. The woman knew I couldn't understand why my bill was paid.
She simply said, "I'm a Navy Captain and I take care of my Marines"
Immediately my formal responses came back just as they would have years ago. That
incident made more that my day, more that weeks even. I memory I'll not forget.
Thanks Navy.
John A. Lejeune Major General Commandant
The following is the Marine Corps Birthday message authored by General
Lejeune. It is Marine Corps Order No. 47 (Series 1921), dated 1 November
1921.
759. The following will be read to the command on the 10th of November,
1921, and hereafter on the 10th of November every year. Should the order not be
received by the 10th of November, 1921, it will be read upon receipt.
(1) On November 10, 1775, a Corps of Marines was created by a resolution of
the Continental Congress. Since that date many thousand men have borne the
name "Marine." In memory of them, it is fitting that we who are Marines
should commemorate the birthday of our Corps by calling to mind the glories
of its long and illustrious history.
(2) The record of our Corps is one which will bear comparison with that of
the most famous military organizations in the world's history. During 90
of the 146 years of its existence the Marine Corps has been in action
against
the Nation's foes. From the Battle of Trenton to the Argonne, Marines have
won foremost honors in war, and in the long eras of tranquility at home,
generation after generation of Marines have grown gray in war in both
hemispheres and in every corner of the seven seas, that our country and
its citizens might enjoy peace and security.
(3) In every battle and skirmish since the birth of our Corps, Marines
have acquitted themselves with the greatest distinction, winning new
honors on each occasion until the term "Marine" has come to signify all
that is highest in military efficiency and soldierly virtue.
(4) This high name of distinction and soldierly repute we who are Marines
today have received from those who have preceded us in the Corps. With it
we have also received from them the eternal spirit which has animated our
Corps from generation to generation and has been the distinguishing mark of
the Marines in every age. So long as that spirit continues to flourish
Marines
will be found equal to every emergency in the future as they have been in
the past, and the men of our Nation will regard us as worthy successors to
the long line of illustrious men who have served as "Soldiers of the Sea"
since the founding of the Corps.
John A. Lejeune
Major General Commandant
God, Country, and Corps!
I am constantly in touch with all of my "brothers" from my days in
the Corps, as well as ones I have met in my 30 years since. An interesting
controversy has recently arisen between us and the "headquarters brass"
about our motto. They disregard and dismiss our claims that "Semper Fi"
was drilled into us as always faithful to God, Country, and Corps! I would
enjoy the input of some other Marines out there. This is pretty important
to us, as it appears to have disappeared in a cloud of "political
correctness" somewhere over time and I, for one, would like to see it once again proudly
honored.
I have been reading this newsletter for a short time, but was
immediately hooked when the first one began to make my eyes "sweat". I love this
country, and everything that comes with it. I warms my heart to see all the letters
spilling out the feelings I shout to the "miscreants" I work around here in
Southern California. I recently joined the adopt a Marine platoon,
Operation Santa, and am getting so much enthusiastic assistance and donations that I
am beginning to realize that a lot of people are proud of the job being done
but just don't know how to show it. So, get involved and let everyone around
you know about it and just sit back and enjoy the responses you will undoubtedly
receive.
The subject of non-marines seems to come up a lot so I want to throw in
my 2 cents as well. I take it as the highest form of flattery for anyone to
"sport our colors" as long as it in respect. I constantly encounter people
who will say, "so you were a Marine?" in response to the numerous stickers
etc.. or the t-shirts purchased from the 'sarge. A surprising percentage,
maybe 25%, are from people who were never in the Corps, but just wanted to
meet me and thank me for my service without even knowing what that service
was. So when some one like that will throw a "semper fi" my way I simply
thank
them and ask them to pray for our servicemen in harms way. If people
support
our troops and pray for them, then they have my vote to wear what ever they
choose, and advertise the greatest brotherhood in the world!
Well I gotta get busy now, but I will send another letter around the
first of November to let everyone know which companies did, and did not
support my efforts to send our thanks to the Marines currently in the sand
box.
Ronald Shaw
Corporal of Marines
Semper Fi - God, Country, Corps.
You Now Know Why
To Cpl. S.W. Turner Jr.: Brother, you now know why so many of us cannot
talk about our combat experiences. Sometimes not even to our fellow Marines.
Mine still resonate sometimes in the dead of night after almost 40 years.
I know of others from WW II that still cannot articulate their feelings. The
one thing that helped me tremendously was my local Veteran Outreach group.
Talking to others about how I felt took some time but I finally opened up
and spilled my guts to other vets with pretty much the same feelings. It
still hurts sometimes and I seldom mention it to others, but that group kept
my sanity, I think, although there are some who would beg to differ.
SSgt. Moore, J.C. 2389599 RVN 68-69
Semper Fidelis Marine and may God bless
Great Marine
I just finished reading Jayne Wood's post about her son, LCpl Will Stevens,
being injured in Kufa. My son served alongside Stevens, and has nothing but
good things to say about him. He is a great Marine. And Jayne, you're an
awesome Marine mom. I'm proud to know you and pray with you and cry with
you.
1/4 is lucky to have Marines like Will.
Beverly Rosen
Visket's mom
My Aging Badge
Grit,
A few months ago I was enroute back home to North Click from Mesa,
Arizona following a two week visit with a fellow serviceman with
whom I served in the P.I. back in '59 - '63 and was passing through
New Mexico on I-40. As part of the tour, my buddy and I met with a
construction roadblock and I slowed my ride down for the conditions
but, apparently, not slow enough according to the radar in the PD
on the side of the road. It looked like I was doing about 38 in a
30 zone. As soon as I saw him pull out behind my Bronco, which,
thanks to the goodies from Sgt. Grit catalog, looks like a rolling
USMC recruiting billboard, I safely pulled over to accommodate my
new found friend. Out back I was pulling a flatbed utility trailer
that carried my motorcycle which was also plastered with decals and
regalia advertising the Corps. Being a retired Police Officer from
Suffolk County (NY), I opened my aging badge case to present with
my license and registration as he approached the passenger door. I
opened the window and when he got to the appointed position, he
leaned on the door, kicked his hat back on his head, took my documents,
looked them over and smiled. "You have two things going for you, sir"
he stated. I looked at him and had a big question mark on my face.
"Not only are you a police officer, you are also a Marine. Semper Fi,
brother." He then went on to tell me that my tires were probably
oversize and gave me an incorrect speedometer reading and sent me
off for a completion of a safe trip. To that Marine, I can only say,
thank you and Semper Fi.
Mike Mooney
PO 944, Ret. ('64 - '86)
SCPD (NY)
USMC 1841530/2571 '59 - '63 SE Asia
Joke
Old Corps
An elderly retired Marine moved into a retirement community where
good looking eligible men are at a premium. After he had been there
for a week he went to confession and said, "Bless me Father, for I
have sinned. Last week I was with seven different women."
The priest said, "Take seven lemons, squeeze them into a glass and
drink the juice without pausing."
"Will that cleanse me of my sins, Father?"
"No," replied the priest. "But it'll wipe that grin off your face."
Richard Mullins
Requests Permission
This recruit requests permission to make a head call sir.
WHY!?
This recruit needs to wash his hands sir?
WHAT THE F^&K?
This recruit has CLP all over his hands sir!
CLP is good for you.
Once Upon A Time
Sgt Grit you have requested Marine stories so that you can post them
for our reading pleasure. Bear in mind there is a difference between
Sea Story and a fairy tale. A fairy tale always begins with "ONCE
UPON A TIME" a Marine Corps sea story always begins with, " NOW THIS
AIN'T NO SH*T". with that in mind I will proceed with the following
Boot Camp story from a fellow Hollywood Marine. My Jarhead buddy
Hank is 6' 3" and 250 lb Boot. He has never backed down from anybody,
never walked away from a fight and was pretty much used to bullying
people. We all know the drill in boot camp and the "physical discipline"
we endured during basic training. circa. 1957.
Hank, pretty much had his fill of abuse from Drill Instructor Sgt Pat.
Information after a thorough A$s chewing Hank blurts out." Sir, would the
drill instrustor like to step OUTSIDE and settle this like MEN? You have
a very girlie sounding name Sgt Pat. let's see if you can fight
like a man. At which point Drill Instructor with the girlie sounding name
kicked Boot Maggot Hank in the shin and scraped his boot all the way down
to his instep. Hank howled in pain, bent over and started to rub his ankle
to relieve the pain. Drill Instructor with girlie sounding name proceeded
to kick Hank in the other shin and scrape his boot down to his other instep.
End of story no more challenges to the Drill Instructor. This is the best
boot camp story I have ever heard. My eyes are still wet from laughing so
hard.
submitted by the ol' jarhead,
Lcpl G.D. Vallejos USMC, 1960-1966 SEMPER FI.
He Sent An Aide
Just to let you know.I sent your t-shirts--Saving yours--Busting Ours,
to some Marines in Iraq.I had them signed by local veterans.They loved
them.One Marine wrote me back and said it brought tears to his eyes.He
hung over his bed and every time he got down he looked at it and the
names of those men from WW2-Korea-Vietnam-Desert Storm,and it gave him
renewed strength for the battles ahead.I even got the chance to read
it to President Bush at a rally here.He sent an aide over and asked
for the letter and my name.
Your shirts are serving a valuable cause to our fighting men.
Kevin Hussey Sr
Fallen Peacekeepers
Sarge,
I read these words each Friday without fail and today I found one
that I can really relate too. Although I don't personally know Mr.
Cunningham I can remember the dates which he is speaking of very
clearly. I was with HHC 2nd Bn 6th Marines, 22nd MAU deployed to
Beirut in 1983. I was with the Air Alert Force which flew back to
Beirut when the headquarters building was attacked. I will never
forget the sights, sounds and smells that met us when we arrived
at the embassy or at the H.Q. Building. To this day I raise a salute
to the people we lost and to their families every Oct. 23. I will do
so every year till I make my final duty station wherever that may be.
My son is 16 years old and I have finally allowed him to see the
photographs that were taken of the embassy and HQ bldg. By me or
others in my Plt. I agree there should be a stamp and have asked,
yelled, screamed, cussed and begged for it. It has done no good so
far. To any who read this, please help to remember the fallen
peacekeepers. To Rick Cunningham I say give'em h&ll Marine!
Semper Fi
Paul Lowe USMC
Prior Military Experience
Sgt. Grit,
I'm writing with deepest regrets to report the loss of a great
young man and Marine. LCpl. Andrew Halverson was killed in
action on Sat. Oct. 9th while on patrol in the city of Ramadi.
LCpl. Halverson was assigned with 2Bn/5rReg Weapons Co. CAAT 2.
He was the driver of the command vehicle. The insurgent that
took his life with an RPG as well as wounding the other occupants
is no longer. None of the national press reported this or many
other daily incidents in Ramadi. I had the pleasure and honor
of getting to know Andrew through my son Pfc. Michael Abeloe
CAAT3. They were very close friends and spent a lot of time on
liberty together prior to deployment. Those of you out there with
prior military experience know how close you can become when your
going through something with someone who has the same trials,
tribulations and triumphs as you. My son is a 0352, tow missile
gunner, LCpl Halverson was a machine gunner converted to a CAAT
team for Ramadi. These brave young men are in a shooting war that
sees combat action almost daily. They are fighting street to
street in the toughest kind of situation. Lcpl. Halverson was the
1st Weapons Co. Kia and the 4th Bn Kia in 6 weeks. This seems
like a lot and it is. Battles are taking place daily and the
insurgents are paying a 100 to one price. The Marines own Ramadi
and soon will be cleaning it out as they did in Samara.. I'm very
proud of LCpl. Halverson, my son and all the Marines in country.
They are as tough as any Marines ever and are getting a tough job
done with honor and discipline like only the Marine Corp can claim.
My son is to speak at LCpl. Halverson's memorial tomorrow and isn't
sure what to say. He's going to call me back tonight and we'll talk.
Everyone please pray for Andrew's family and all the Marines around
the world fighting a nasty enemy in an even more nasty war.
Very proud and sad Marine dad,
Bob Abeloe, AC2-USN 73-77, USS Kitty Hawk.
The next story will be in the Sgt Grit Newsletter Magazine.
Subscribe today. Quarterly 32 pages.
A Firefight High
Another average day in North Korea. A 20 knot wind was blowing dry
snow across the narrow dirt road with the real temperature reading
something below 0 deg. No Marine cared what the wind chill factor
was, just too cold to care. B-1-7 was climbing toward Toktong Pass.
At first light we had moved out. The usual 10 mm. break every hour
just hadn't done the job. The hills were too steep. The ice was too
slick. Our packs were too heavy. We were just too tired. Gaps were
forming throughout the Co. column. Lt. Joe Owen and I were front
troops of our 60 MM Mortar Section. We were both packing ammo and packs
from our tired troops so they wouldn't fall out. He and I were joking
who should fall out first. In my mind, then orally, I declared this 5 ft.
9 in., 25 year old Marine Cpl. wasn't going to let any 6 ft. 5 in. Lt.
walk faster nor longer than I. This friendly banter continued until we
were both ready to drop.
Then it happened!! Heavy fire from the right front!! Who was tired?
Nobody!! Man, this is living. Somebody up there to receive our anger,
our frustrations, our just plain meanness. We love it!!
Guns up!! Perkins and Bifulk bring up their gun and set it up in the
middle of the road. The first round is fired and the base plate slides
back about a foot. That round probably landed in Manchuria. Perkins
grabs the tube, resets the gun, and Bifulk drops in another Willie Peter.
I get the rest of my squad up to feed Bifulk ammo. The range was about
150 yd. Incoming fire started centering around these crazy Marines.
Bifulk dropped rounds into the tube with his left hand while firing
his M2 Carbine with his right. What a field day. Lt. Owen positioned
himself to help Perkins with his fire control.
The strong wind kept the Willie Peter smoke clear of the impact area.
That burning W.P. got to the Chinese and they fled the hill. Our riflemen
didn't have much work to do. The Perkins-Bifulk team did the Job.
What Marines.
When we got dug in and squared away we found a number of dead Chinese
with WP still burning on their bodies. We also found several
indications of small arms impacts on the mortar tube. That doesn't
sound like much of anything, does it? Just a minute! This is the real
picture. Perkins is sitting at the left of the tube close enough to
sight the tube onto the target - his head directly behind the tube.
Bifulk is seated to the right of the tube dropping in rounds, with his
left hand, firing his weapon with his right--yelling and cussing at
the Chinese. A number of incoming rounds bounce off the tube between
these two Marines. They could tell the tube was being hit - incoming
small arms rounds are NOT silent. They do what they are trained to do!
THEY ARE MARINES!
Semper Fi
MSGT A "Pat" Burns USMC RET
Short Rounds
Mrs. Blair, From the bottom of this old Marine's heart, Thank You
and may God Bless you and your family for the ultimate sacrifice
for our Corps and Country.
Dwaine Goodwin, Sgt. USMC, 1960-1964
A good friend of mine who's Dad is a Viet Nam Veteran Marine once
told me that, "If anyone gives you any crap about going to San Diego
for boot, you tell 'em that it wasn't easy qualifying at the rifle
range while 'Hanging Ten' on a surf board!"
Cpl. Long, Mark A.
USMC 85-91, Mt. Pinatubo Ash Bash 91 Philippines
In your letter #80 someone hit the nail on the head when they
wrote "Marine Corpsman"! That makes them a Marine!
Cpl R E Olson 57-59
I guess I should take a drive over to Quantico and have a drink
at the "Hawk" for all our young lieutenants who are heading into
harms way. God bless them all.
Sf,
Steve
Regarding Bill Benson's comment:
I too swore was sworn to "preserve and protect the Constitution
of the United States against all enemies both foreign and domestic..."
And, I ,like you and many, many others' HAVEN'T been relieved of the
duty/responsibility either...And I like you am proud that I haven't
been relieved of that ORDER. Ed Jones ...........
Man stand behind the Flag,
I stand in Front!
Semper fi!!
Sgt Grit
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