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I thought I would pass on a little story about a plane ride I
took. I was in Ft. Worth Tx. for about a month from Jan to Feb
of this year. My wife and I were helping my daughter at the Ft.
Worth Livestock show. When It was over I flew home from Dallas
to Reno Nv. I was at the Dallas Ft Worth airport waiting for the
flight when I noticed a young lady walk up to the check in
counter with a USMC duffle bag. It was black with a gold Eagle
Globe & Anchor on it. I walked over and said "Semper Fi" and she
smiled and stated that her Husband was a Marine pilot.
We talked
for a few minutes and then she left. The gal behind the counter
had heard the conversation and asked me if I had served and of
course I stated yes, with the 3/11 in Chu Lai and DaNang from 66
to 67. She reached over the counter and grabbed my boarding
pass, punched something into her computer and kicked me up to
1st Class. I didn't know what to say, in fact I almost choked
up. She stated thank "you for your service to this country" It
was all I could do to say your welcome and thank you.
SEMPER FI
Curt Hagedorn
Sgt USMC
2118300
Sgt Grit Newsletter VS AmericanCourage Newsletter:
You receive both (alternating weeks)...so what's the difference?
In short...The AmericanCourage Newsletter has MORE family member
stories, "support the Corps" stories from Marines, and patriotic
quotes. It started after the events of Sept. 11, 2001 to give
supporters of the Marine Corps and American patriots a voice.
The Sgt Grit Newsletter is HARD CORPS Marine! If you are
interested in topics that delve into Marine Corps history, Corps
Stories, Boot Camp and other things that "only a Marine might
understand" - then be sure to read the Sgt Grit Newsletter
(every other week)
Would you like to know more about the newsletter?
"A nation can survive its fools and even the ambitious, but it
cannot survive treason from within. An enemy at the gates is
formidable, for he is known and carries his banners openly
against the city, but the traitor moves among those within the
gates freely, his sly whispers rustling through the alley and
heard in the very halls of government itself. He rots the soul
of a nation; he works secretly and unknown in the night to
undermine the pillars of the city; he infects the body politic
so that it can no longer resist."
Cicero
I just wanted to say thank you. I served from 2000-2004 as an
0351 in 1/2. I'm currently trying to plug my way through college
and a civilian career. Every day I wake up and can't turn on the
TV because of the choices the news stations broadcast. In my
classes I constantly argue with hippy professors who are trying
to sway the beliefs of 18 and 19 year old minds that are every
bit as impressionable as mine was when I joined the Marines.
I've had to leave classes, I've been failed, and I've had to
drop classes I was acing in fear of doing something that would
land me in prison like so many of my brothers have since we've
returned home.
I actually started to not talk about my military background,
grew out my hair, and let everyone say and think what the news
was telling them about the military. One morning I woke up. I
was no longer upset about the loss of my friends. I remember
them, but I'm not upset. I will gladly give my life any day for
anyone in this country that is living it right, so I'm sure they
miss their families, but have no regrets. The irony is that
living life wrong is still properly exercising the freedoms we
have in America.
Thank you to every mother, every family member, every friend,
and every stranger that is within our borders. I fought side by
side with many Marines who were not citizens of this country.
Bullets are not prejudice and the enemy does not discriminate.
I just got a sweatshirt that Sgt. Grit had on special order that
I wear proudly to certain classes and events. It is the Marine
Corps University An Nasiriyah Campus sweatshirt. My brother in
law, who got out the Corps in 1994 looked at it and wanted one.
Then he realized he can never wear that one. Every time I fly
the Eagle Globe and Anchor I hold myself to a higher standard.
When I wear my sweatshirt, I remember the fallen, the wounded,
and their families.
Oh, just so I weigh in on the (should be demoted and discharged)
"hard-*ss" comment about Semper Fi, it is a phrase that few can
say. Girlfriends, wives, and other family members who remain
faithful to their military members can use it with more
conviction with a deeper definition than anyone who is actually
in the service. While we were running around playing world
hero, they were up at three a.m sick from crying and worry while
they watched the news about us. They stayed up writing letters,
they nursed you to health when you were sick, they put up with
the PTSD and depression, they have to learn to live with the
choices we made, and so long as they stay by our side I will
snap to attention and give them a salute sharper than any I've
ever given an officer!
Semper Fi
Cpl Worthington
Since this story seems to be "no big deal" to the American News
Media, I thought I'd share it with all of you; the Band of
Brothers. Semper Fi!
J.J. Haight, USMC, 60-64
YO, Sgt. Grit,
Also; I saw many Marines in DC this past weekend for the
Gathering of Eagles. Told them all; If you need it, its'
available from Sgt. Grit.
I wore my recently purchased (from Sgt. Grit) green utility
cover during and through the entire moonbat demonstration.
I'm telling you, I and 30,000 other Vets and supporters of our
Military had a great weekend in DC.
Thank You for getting me my new cover in time for the event!
What a great country! Now, we have to work on getting these,
college age, young Americans to appreciate the noble actions of
others in defense of our Rights.
Semper Fi,
Roy Kaufmann
S/Sgt. of Marines
1969-78
Fours Wars
The strategic stagnation in Iraq results from the fact that we are
fighting four wars not one. According to Defense Secretary
Robert Gates, "One is Shia on Shia principally in the south; the
second is sectarian conflict principally in Baghdad, but not
solely; third is the insurgency; fourth is al Qaeda and al Qaida
is attacking at times all of those targets."
Military Magazine, April 2007
on march 17th of this year i was in washington d.c. and i can
only say that it made me even prouder then ever to be a
Marine. where the march on the pentagon began there was a
contingent of veterans and hangers on who some how forgot that
those of us who had given s potoin of our lives and others who
gave their lives and some like myself [i draw 100% from my tour
in nam] gave parts of their bodies and minds,so people can let
the government know i they feel in thinks like the march on the
pentagon. as i approached the meeting place i heard hollering
and name calling of all types and this is what again made me
proud to be a Marine. while Marines were lined up with army vets
with signs proclaiming their support of the troops i did not
observe one Marine holler any obscenities or any insults, they
maintained their honor and dignity not show by other vets. part
of defending the constitution of this great country is to allow
others to voice their opinions without being harassed in any
way.
semper fi
a proud Marine
ssgt raymond r gadreault
oct.26th, 1965 nov.3rd, 1971
vietnam
sept, 1967 nov, 1968
Our son just deployed for his second tour in Iraq. When he
deployed the first time, my wife understandably had some stress
and fears over her son being sent to war. In some ways it was
easier for me. I was a Marine tanker for ten years and have
been in law enforcement for almost twenty and being "in harm's
way" or very close to it, has been my norm for a long time. As
a deputy sheriff with about 14 years SWAT/sniper experience, I
spent some quality time with him after infantry school to help
prepare him for close quarter combat, dynamic entries into
structures, and to assess what he had already learned from the
Corps. Most of what he showed me were some of the most up-to-
date and effective tactics being taught today. The bottom line
is that I believe our Marines are the best trained our Corps has
ever produced.
After our son deployed the first time, my wife joined Blue Star
Moms. This organization meets a couple of times a month for a
few hours. They pass on information about their
son's/dad's/husband's deployment, updates, what the current
needs and wants are, what to send overseas and what not to send,
the best and/or cheapest way to send care packages, etc.
Sometimes just being with other moms and wives of deployed
servicemen and women eases a lot of stress. If you have not
already done so, I suggest looking up a local BSM group and
going to a couple of meetings and see if it could fill some of
your needs.
Mike Damigo
US Marine
"There is but one straight course, and that is to seek truth and
pursue it steadily."
George Washington
Claims that the CG of Walter Reed didn't know about all the bad
situations there. After 6 months? And the Chaplain didn't know
either?
The only good chaplains I have met in the field, taking care of
their flock.
As for the CG, ignorance is no excuse. With a Colonel in actual
command of the hospital, the General had plenty of time to make
the rounds of ALL the patients and facilities.
He could have fired the Colonel to encourage the others.
In a better world, the General would be shot. I would be happy
to run the firing squad, if the Army can't take care of business
itself.
MgySgt Gerald Starkeson, USMC (ret)
It was late June and my 17 year old son was on his way to Parris
Island. And as being very loving and extremely supportive
parents we gave him a big party, loved on him and sent him on
his way to become the United States Marine he had been wanting
to be! Even though we were extremely close, there was one thing
he did not know. Three days later me, his loving, supportive
mom went into detox and then rehab. As the summer went on I
continued to screw up time and time again. It was getting very
close to his graduation date to which he had no idea I, his
biggest an, may not be there. I put my problems in God's hands,
worked the program, straighten myself out and then sat down and
wrote the most difficult heart wrenching letter to my son. I
had to tell him what had been going on all summer and that my
court date was 4 days before his graduation and that I may not
be let to go by the courts even though I had finished the rehab
program. God bless him, his response was "mom at least you
are getting well and if you can't make this event at least
you'll be well enough to make others I will have" Pretty
powerful from a 18 yr. old Well by the grace of God, 4 days
before my family left to go to Parris Island the Judge let me
go, and my son didn't even know if I was going to be there or
not until he saw me very early on that first motivation run. He
picked me out of that huge crowd. I can't tell you the pride I
had that day. Especially when I got to hug him. He is only 11
into the Corps. But what a fine young he was when he went to
Parris Island. And now I can't describe the fine young man and
Marine that he has become.
"One extremely proud mom"
The phrase "Once a Marine, always a Marine," is best exemplified
by your website. No matter when or where they served, Senior-
Marines would gladly serve again. What other service has that
degree of dedication? The Corps never ceases to amaze me-but
then, that is what makes a Marine- a human with extrahuman
qualities.
A Marine's wife.
On my last tour of Iraq (Eastern Baghdad) I met a gentleman
named Tony Like. Like is a LT in the United States Navy. I took
a liking to the LT, because he was the Only Navy Guy among Army
Soldiers. I am a SSG in the Army now. I was in the Corps from
'92 - '96 and then again from '03 to '05. I ribbed LT Like
because he is not a Shell-back. I earned my covenant Shell-back
honor in 1994 while on the USS Pelilu sailing back from Somalia.
I would see him several times a day because I worked in the
Targeting and Effects shop and he was our assigned Electronics
Warfare Officer.
One day while browsing the PX I seen the book "Flags of Our
Fathers". I simply loved the book. There are so many things I
can Identify with in it, being a Marine myself and knowing what
a personal loss can do to the soul. I would talk with the LT
about the book everyday. He goes on to tell me about his time on
the USS Iwo Jima. The book was part of the Capt.'s reading list
for all officers. He was there 6 months after the dedication and
got to meet the Bradley family.
To make a long story short, right before we left "The EWO"
presented me with a coin that was pressed from the remainder
steel used to build the ship. I was at a loss for words. All I
could do was flip it over and over and continue to look at it
and study it. It is by far one of the greatest gifts I got over
there that I will cherish forever.
To LT Tony Like USN, where ever you are, I wish you the best of
Luck and Godspeed.
Semper Fi, to all My Brothers and Sisters around the World.
SSG Matthew D. Hembree - USA '05 - Present
SGT Matthew D. Hembree - USMC '92 - '96 , '03 - '05
"Freedom is not a luxury; it is a very powerful instrument
without which no person and no country in the world can have
sustained prosperity, security, development or respect. Free
countries are certainly more prosperous than non-free countries.
The lack of freedom always destroys wealth."
Andrei Illarionov, Former Chief Economic Advisor to the President
of the Russian Federation
Operation Hero Miles allows people to turn in their frequent flyer miles so troops can fly home on leave from Iraq and
Afghanistan or family members can visit their loved ones in
military hospitals.
Sgt. Grit,
I've have proudly been serving in the Marine Corps for
two years now. I have heard many people say that the military
must be a easy way of life, "roof over your head, food in your
stomach, and a steady paycheck." Well for those who have said
that, you should also know about the girlfriends, mother,
fathers, nephews, sons and daughters we leave at home to defend
our country. The Birthdays, anniversaries, funerals, and births
that we miss. The constant loneliness, depression, and
frustration. But one thing you will never hear is a Marine
complain. We go threw all this willingly, and without asking for
anything in return. So for those of you who have ever walked by
a Marine and thought, "I'm in a rush, I'm sure he hears thank
you enough." or "Why should I thank him, I didn't ask him to
fight." I have this to say, We leave our families and fight so
you don't have to. The very least you could do is stop and shake
our hand and tell us thank you, because trust me it NEVER gets
old! Semper FI!
Respectfully,
LCpl Gutzmer
Headquarters Marine Corps Aviation ASCO Pentagon Washington D.C.
The absence of war doesn't mean the presence of peace.
My heartfelt thanks to Mr. Robert Boardman for his stories. In
his book, C-Rations for the Warriors Heart, he wrote about
another great Marine in our Corps History. Colonel Walter
"MUMU" Moore who I had the great privilege of serving with in
Vietnam.
Although I was only a Lance Corporal when I met the Colonel, he
was an officer that was to say the least, very unique for the
Marine Corps.
He was one of the "Old Corps Marines" who did what he thought
was best for his men rather than what policy dictated.
Many times he and I were in situations that were life
threatening and he had the coolness and bravery of a Marine half
his age.
Unfortunately for the Marine Corps and for Colonel Moore he did
not have the "Political Correctness" of many of the officers and
would never attain the rank of General.
I strongly urge those in the Marine Corps today or veterans to
read about our nations hero's of past years. Mr. Boardman has
stories that will make you proud to be in the military and most
of all, proud to be an American.
Semper Fi to all,
Joe Henderson
Sgt. USMC
1963-1967
Sgt Grit..
The Marine in the recruiting poster (last weeks Newsletter) is
Sgt Owens who was working out of Recruiting Station Cleveland
Ohio. He was Public Information NCO and had a fondness for
Strols Firebrewed suds...
Joseph E. Bock
SgtMaj USMC (Ret)
"Socialism is the equal sharing of miseries."
Winston Churchill
Dear Sgt. Grit,
A Semper Fi Thank You to you and your staff on the
excellence of service and products that I've received! I have
and will be placing many more orders I'm sure. The Semper Fi
Cayenne hot sauce is great!
I've also enjoyed the newsletter. I've only read two, #'s
143 & 144. It is encouraging to see intelligence and patriotism
that isn't always seen outside the Corps.
Having been granted some wisdom from God that comes with
age, I appreciate and am more proud now, to have earned the
title United States Marine, then the day of graduation from boot
camp. It is my opinion that none of us, (those who have earned
the title and our families), will fully understand the honor
bestowed upon us by Almighty God to be Marines this side of
heaven. As your one bumper sticker says, "All Men Are Created
Equal, Then Some Become Marines." I do believe that it is a
"call" to become a Marine. And only those who heed the call and
are serious, are then enabled and strengthened by God to make
the transition and earn the title.
In response to some of the people who have written in
regarding "wannabes" and those misguided souls who don't
understand that not only is, "freedom isn't free" but "with
freedom comes responsibility", we should pity those individuals.
For perhaps they too were called but rejected it, or deep down
they envy us and wish they had been called. I know the "stress",
(stress = the repressed desire and urge to beat the _____ out of
someone who DESPERATELY needs it!), that comes with confronting
such people.
Having been out of active duty for almost 18 years, (wow,
has it been that long already?), I value the change that comes
with the title Marine. There are far too many things to mention
that those who aren't Marines don't have. I have struggled, as
I'm sure we all have, in living in society that doesn't know or
understand the excellence that is acquired in becoming a Marine.
(I've been fired twice, however I've not fired back! LOL.)
It was most encouraging and uplifting to read the book, "A
Table in the Presence" by Lt. Carey H. Cash, Chaplain serving
with the U.S, Marines. It was refreshing to see his perspective,
not having earned the title by becoming a Marine, although I'd
called him an honorary Marine for his service and experience in
battle with us, to the uniqueness and honor to which we Marines
have been called. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
I would say that we Marines do not "desire" war, as far
too many good men and women die or are wounded in them. However,
being called into the great Elite Warrior Marine Corps that we
are, God has called us for such times and places as needed to
defend freedom, to liberate captives and oppose evil. I forget
who said it at the moment, but "All that evil needs to triumph
is for good men to nothing."
Thanks again for excellent service and products!
SEMPER FI
Rodney Noll
Cpl 85-89
Sgt. Grit,
I can not explain how moving this book is. I had heard
about it awhile back and have seen it in your catalog, but
hadn't paid too much attention to it. A very good friend of
mine, a Marine, LCpl James Almanza of 3/6 Kilo Co had been
looking for it in a book store on his leave before he left for
his second deployment to Iraq in January. A few weeks later I
found it and was going to send it to him right away until I read
the back. The brave Marine whom this book was written in honor
of, was from 3/7 Kilo Co out of 29 Palms. I knew at that moment
why James wanted to have it. The Marine, Cpl Dunham, was his
'brother', part of his Company...Kilo Company and 3rd Battalion.
I started reading the book and couldn't set it down. I think the
author, Michael M. Phillips, captured the life of Cpl Dunham
during his career with the Corps and honored him the way a true
selfless and brave Marine should be honored. I have always been
very fond of the military and those who serve and have great
appreciation for their courage, but after reading this book I
have an even greater appreciation and a new found love for the
Corps and those who have earned the title, past and present. The
young men who brave the battlefront, not knowing if the patrol
they are on will be their last, deserve so much more respect
than they get. Also, the "heroes" in the background, all the
corpsmen, nurses, and surgeons who treat these men on the
battlefield...wow...you are all truly amazing and play such a
huge role in whether or not our friends, boyfriends, husband's,
sons and daughters arrive home alive or not. Thank you! I am
really at a loss for words here...I am that touched and moved by
this book. And even though I never knew Cpl Dunham or the other
Marines mentioned in the book, I feel a closeness to them. And I
want to thank them all for doing their job. I am told that no
Marine wants to be thought of as a "hero" for saving the lives
of their buddies; they just say they are doing their "job". I
highly recommend reading this book. Just remember to grab the
tissue when you near the last two chapters! April 22, 2007 marks
three years since Cpl Dunham has given his life to save his
"brothers"...I think it would be nice to remember him with a
prayer for him and his family on that day, as I'm sure three
years passing hasn't made it any easier on them.
The people need to hear stories like this instead of the crap
the media is feeding us. Making our Marines and Soldiers look
like the bad guys when they report on beatings and such of Iraqi
detainees or when Iraqi civilians get killed or injured, its the
big bad Americans who are at fault. We need to know what our men
and women are doing over there that is productive and we need to
realize that they are dieing...not in vain...not for you or I,
but for the men fighting beside them.
I also want to say how proud I am of my two friends who are in
Iraq right now, both on their second deployments. LCpl James
Almanza - 3/6 Kilo Co gone since Jan 18th and Cpl Justin Moppin
- 2nd Maintenance BN gone since Feb 18th....you are both thought
about and prayed for every day. I am waiting for you to come
home safe and sound. Love and Support Always!
The Gift of Valor - A War Story by Michael M. Phillips
Very Proud and Patriotic Marine Corps Friend, Krystle
This is in response to a line dropped by Debbie Hope in the last
newsletter. I appreciate the fact that she has seen the
positive improvement in her son's demeanor. I also appreciate
her view on how dangerous it is here in America. Most
importantly I admire her outlook toward the enemy being in harms
way and not the U.S. Marines!
Glenn Russ
Sgt USMC
1994-1998
Dear Sgt Grit
This is a thank-you first off for your news letter. I have order
several times from your catalog and love it. Some of the reading
in your news letter has led me to other areas and was able to
keep up with my son while being deployed to Iraq, March 06 - Oct
06. In one of e-mails to me after getting back to his duty
station in Okinawa, commented on how very, very lucky he was to
be alive. He was one of the few guys on the 7-ton going
everywhere doing all kinds of things from hauling snipers to
patrolling, with very little sleep the majority of the time. He
was apart of the 3/3 while deployed. Your news letters kept me
going!
Also a BIG thanks to JOHN HAROLD Ship Driver '72-79 and his
wife. Some of us folks have a hard time getting are guys home
for leave time before deploying or back on combat leave. You see
my son has no luck what so ever with airlines. Military has a
way of changing leave time at the last minute, leaving us in
financial dismay. Some airlines will not reimburse in
situations like this, I have found. So at present my son and I
both are paying on 1 single airline ticket that had to be
change. He is still paying for 1st ticket and I for changed one
this time. So with all that knowledge THANK-YOU for being there
and giving those rides to those young people who are without
one. God has blessed me so that I was able to pick my son up
from airports, even if it is 4-6 hrs away. If there was only
more like you.
Semper Fi
Proud Praying Mom, Pam of LCPL Grahl
Gathering of Eagles / God Bless America
Sgt. Grit
In 1969 I met a Marine while I was at a convention in Honolulu.
Before I left for the mainland two weeks later I was engaged to
this Marine. He did not have the ability to get me an
engagement ring at the time but pinned his Sgt. Chevrons onto my
dress and asked me to consider that my engagement ring until he
could get me a "real engagement ring". For over six months I
wore those chevrons with great pride. When I did get my "real"
engagement ring I offered to return the chevrons but he refused
and asked that I keep them always as his love for me was second
only to his love for the Marine Corps. We have been married 36
years and I still cherish those chevrons. I have always known
that Marines are bigamists - they marry the Corps first and
never divorce her when they marry a mere human wife.
May God Bless all Marines and members of the other services as
well.
Wife and Mother of Marines,
Sharon
Let the American youth never forget, that they possess a noble
inheritance, bought by the toils, and sufferings, and blood of
their ancestors; and capacity, if wisely improved, and
faithfully guarded, of transmitting to their latest posterity
all the substantial blessings of life, the peaceful enjoyment of
liberty, property, religion, and independence.
Joseph Story, 1833
Marine Mom Sisters
We are Marine Moms who are also sisters. We decided to show our
support to our Marines, SGT. Bradley Etzweiler and LCPL Amber
Waterland by getting Marine Mom tattoos.
We were very fortunate our Marines were able to be home to spend
some time together before Brad had to leave for Embassy Guard
Duty.
Once a Marine Mom, Always a Marine Mom
Semper Fi,
Barb Etzweiler and Sandra Waterland
A bit of Gung Ho patriotism
Sgt. Grit,
Last Saturday, the 17th, I had the immense pleasure of attending
the Gathering of Eagles with my dad. It made me proud to see all
those vets and volunteers there peacefully defending the
monuments and statues. Unfortunately (but not surprisingly),
newspapers and broadcasts misreported the event, or even lied
about it. It's a shame that our troops might hear that we were
outnumbered, when the truth is that we outnumbered them 3 to 1.
Anyway, I
promised you pictures, so here they are. I took way
too many to send them all, but if you decide you want more than
this, let me know and I'll send them.
Thank you to everyone who spent their own money and time in
Washington, D.C. in order to protect our monuments! It was a
great honor to me to join you, and I'm sure my heart grew bigger
with pride that day.
Always,
Kate Coffman
(Daughter of a Marine)
Sgt. Grit;
I received the shirt "Attitude Is Everything" in Friday's
mail order. That was the highlight of my day and have wanted to
wear it since, even though it's not logical.
It makes a person want to show off some, (even at my age)
when something that great is being worn and people stop and ask
where I got it, and I'm proud to say "Sgt. Grit's Marine apparel
and similar products.
From day 1 at MCRD, until the present, my time in the Corps
has been the best years of my life (right along side of my
wife). A woman at my work even came to me and said she was
impressed with the shirt, and where can she buy one, because her
son wants to be a Marine when he's old enough to join.
Keep the fine line of products coming! Just liker the
Marines teach "YOU CANNOT Quit Without PERMISSION......Semper Fi
Marines
Ralph E. McKinney
Attitude is Everything T-Shirt
Attitude is Everything Shooter Shirt
"Governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers
from the consent of the governed."
Declaration of Independence, 4 July 1776
I would like to commend Chaplain John L. Kallerson for the
article he wrote in the March 22nd Newsletter, finally someone
standing up for our troops and the way they are taken care of at
Walter Reed Army Hospital, just because there is one bad apple
on a tree does not mean that the whole tree is bad. Thank you
Chaplain Kallerson for telling it the way it is. God Bless you
and all our troops and may you be home soon with your families.
Lloyd L Lewis, Corporal
USMC
1954 to 1957
Always proud to be one of the few
"Oderint, dum metuant" - Roman Army
(Let them hate, so long as they fear.)
Tattoos
I have received an overwhelming response on tattoo issue. Here
is the first offering, next week will be more.
I apologize if yours does not get in. Just not enough room to
print them all.
Sgt Grit
MARADMIN 198/07 replaced MCO P1020.34G, para C, only tattoos
that are visible or have racist, gang affiliations or other
prohibited symbols are not allowed. Also sleeves are not allowed
but if you already have one you are grandfathered in.
David Rumley
I was a Captain in the Marine Corps during the late 60's and
early 70's. I have the USMC Bulldog tattoo on my leg. I see
nothing wrong with a tattoo as long as it is not visible while
in uniform.
Capt. RACY
Be advised!
EVERYTHING it takes to be a MARINE happens on the INSIDE !
Since 1775, when you and your fellow MARINES are doing the job
that the CORPS has trained you to do, tattoos have NEVER had an
impact your ability to protect YOUR country!
Be more concerned with keeping morale at it's peak in a time
when factions both in and outside this country are doing
anything and everything they can to rip the heart and soul from
our fellow MARINES!
GL Stelzig
SGT. USMC, 66-70
I think this whole idea that the Marine Corps came up with about
tattoos is f^^ked up. I remember the Gunny that signed me up at
the Post Office had quite a few on his arms and that sure as
h&ll didn't detract anything about him. He looked like a Marine
Corps Poster, and a d*mned good one. Semper Fi and carry on
Yes, allow tattoos. It has been one of the traditions of the
Corps forEVER. It's part of the mystique of the Corps. It's
like a coming-of-age symbol. You get to Okie, you go out into
the Ville and get a tattoo. SOP!
L/Cpl F. J. Billington, #1910900 / 2533
20 JUN 60 / 19 Jun 64
Comm Plt, H&S Co 3/5 Pendleton
Comm Plt, H&S Co 3/9 Okinawa (plus a short stint in Thailand)
Comm Plt, Hq Co, 7th Marines, Pendleton
I just finished reading the news earlier this evening concerning
the idea of tattoos in the Corps. The Commandant said there
would be NO excessive / excess ink of any kind showing on
Marines any longer. Guess maybe the Corps is changing because I
am hearing a great deal of b&^%*&%$ and griping about "my"
rights as a man. I was under the impression that when one
completed boot camp (either SD or PI,) they became Marines and
not "cry babies" and their "rights." One Corporal said he was
thinking about getting out of the Corps because he was told that
he could not get more tattoos. If wearing ink means that much
to you, then get out and become a worthless civilian.
Tattoos are alright and I know many Marines that have them.
Having served on Barracks Duty, Instructor Duty, and Recruiter
Duty, as well as being a driver for a few COs, I know that being
squared away is mandatory always. I see nothing wrong with a
decent tattoo, however, when one wishes to show their "art" off
to the world and have it all over their arms, backs, necks,
etc., I strongly believe that they are insulting our uniform.
One does not need "extra art" when they wear the uniform of a
Marine. Wearing the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor to ones grave is
fine and there is nothing wrong with that. Just leave ALL of
the "extra art" for the Navy and Army pukes.
One does not need to prove they are tough by getting their
bodies covered in ink. All they need to do is qualify for and
earn the title "MARINE" by completing boot camp. That is being
tough enough. Any civilian can go a tattoo (and maybe
something they do not want if they go to wrong tattoo parlor.)
Not everyone can earn the title MARINE.
Respectfully,
Gary L. COON, MSgt USMC (Ret), 1970-1994
They have been around as long as the services. They are personal
body art that should be examined on merit.
My first tattoo was a medical caduceus dated 1965. Every other
Marine I came to know had a bulldog or EGA. It seemed to all go
well with our tattoos in a sh!thouse war, in a constitutional
United States. In some strange way, I could scream that the
'LIFERS' are behind this. Somehow I bet hundreds of thousands of
former Marines would agree with me.
Sincerely
Doc Nottoli
I Co.. 3/4 66-67
In my opinion the tattoos are a part of Marine Corps tradition
and should not be held against a Marine unless it makes the
Marine look like a sh!t bird or something. Dennis
I think that only the EGA on the lower arm or shoulder should be
allowed at minimum. That, I feel, is tradition. Displaying
large tattoos on the neck legs or back are questionable, as it
draws attention. It is the Navy that has the tradition of too
many tattoos.
Doc Perry
CAP 1-2-5, 3rd MAF, 69-70.
Marines should read the MARADMIN 198/07 on Tattoos and no one is
going to get kicked out, if you have a Tattoo now you will be
Grandfathered to the policy. Not too many Marines have a full
sleeve EGA or other Marine Tattoo's. I know if I'm on a board
and most of the Marines I know will still promote you and not
hold a Tattoo against you. This is not new it's been talked
about for years but it's now in writing.
MSgt of Marines
Camp Taqaddum, Iraq
I think they should be allowed to an extent. When I was in back
in the 70's policy at the time was if you wanted a tat you had
to get the CO's permission and it couldn't be past the sleeve of
your khaki shirt sleeve...Upper arm, shoulder, back etc was
allowed..No tats on fore arms. Had this one guy think his name
if I remember right was Steve Mc Connell or something like that
that had a tat done on his fore arm. Falling out for inspection
in khaki's one day he had a bandage covering it. A WM Lt. saw it
and asked what was wrong...nothing ma'am ...why the bandage
Marine...I had a tat done ma'm...let me see it...um no
ma'am...That's an order Pvt remove the bandage. Well when he did
he got busted right on the spot as the tat was a bloodied middle
finger walking away on 2 legs...
So the subject of tats I would have to say is that yes they
should be allowed as long as they are in good taste.
Mike Redfern
USMC '72-76
Semper Fi
USMC tattoos should be allowed as long as they aren't s&xually
explicit or highly visible with short sleeved blouses on.
Certainly none on the face, hands, neck or any exposed part of
the body.
Semper Fi
Gil Snodgrass, E-5 1962-1966
I am a Wife to a very Traditional Marine. Yes, up one arm and
down the next is his life's history in tattoos. He has served
for 17 years in his beloved corps and now like yesterdays trash
he is being told he will "no longer be promoted" because he's
followed a honorable tradition of Marine tattoos. 17 years of
dedicated service and his dream of retiring as a Gunny has been
stolen! In this day and age were freedom of speech, self
expression and political correctness is the law of the land, why
has the Marine Corps let some Non-Marine crush a beautiful
tradition to shreds! This new Law is not progress it is a GIANT
LEAP Back into the Dark Ages! What's next?
Rose Cruz Wife of SSGT David C. Cruz VMFAT 101 Miramar San Diego
D*mn Straight that you should be able to have and wear a Marine
Corps Tattoo - as Do I and Did for my entire time in the Corps
and displayed it proudly - then and now every day
Semper Fi Bill
Dalton, 81 - 93
I personally have two tattoos, but unless I am shirtless no one
sees them. The presentation of a professional image is what I
believe General Conway is after with this policy. Marines set
the example and probably should not look like some street gang
thug with jail house tattoos all over their arms, legs, neck and
face. When have you ever seen a recruiting poster showing a
heavily tattooed Marine doing PT, as Marines we are the best
recruiting poster there is. Just my two cents, but if you can
not hide your tattoo and present a professional image, maybe you
should not have it.
Semper Fi,
MSgt "Top" Cosby
I agree with new rule, any tattoo below the sleeve's should not
be allowed. I does make the poor impression of the individual
and of the Corps. I myself have 4 tattoos and none can be seen
when I wear a short sleeve shirt. Just like CMC is now saying,
excessive and eccentric tattoos are no longer allowed. I think
this will improve the public's option of the Corps since that is
what this is really about.
Brian G Owens
Corporal, 1991-1997, 1st BN 11th Mar
The only tattoos I want to see in our Marine Corps are our Drum
and Bugle ensembles playing in one!
A tattoo on one's body too often hides a lack of self image.
Such tattoos do not a Marine make!
HVBucknam, LtCol Ret Vietnam 62-63, 68-69.
I just heard last night on the news that the Corps was banning
"large" Tattoos after I separated from the Corps 9/11 occurred
I took a little trip to the prior service recruiter some months
later and was told that the Corps would no longer welcome me due
to the fact that I have an EGA on the inside of my right
forearm, the recruiter a gruff old SSgt. told me that I should
come back after the new Commandant was in charge, things would be
better. well I guess he was wrong things have actually gotten
worse, but at least I still get a "Thank You" from the majority
of the people who see it.
RB
Everyone Dies, I Just Want To Die Standing Up!
I think the Brass is trying to get the MC to be PC. I have the
carried my EGA tattoo since 1963 and will go to my grave with it.
Spit and polish is important to the Corps but warriors come in
all shapes, sizes and colors. All are marked differently than
those they protect.
M. Thomas, Cpl. USMC
i think tattoos should be appropriate and not offensive. i as a
female Marine have a tattoo that represents how proud i am of
serving. I don't think tattoos should be a factor in getting
promoted or being discharged.
Carmen
Don,
This post by Marine mom Gina was posted on the Marine mom site
and I thought it should be shared with readers of this
newsletter:
Today I went to the gym and on my way home I had to get gas. So,
I pulled up to the first pump. I then jumped out of my car and
walked around to the other side of my car. Within a minute a
Corvette pulls up behind me. I couldn't help but notice the car,
and then the WOMAN!
I watched her get out of her car and she was dressed to the
"nine".
Her suit must have cost at least a few grand, and she had her
ear piece in and was chatting on her phone.
Now, I wasn't trying to listen, but the woman was beginning to
speak rather loud.
"Who does she think she is? I don't care if her son is
graduating from boot camp next Thursday. She will not get the
day off, and she will not say those unkind words about me! After
all... I am the CEO of the company!"
At that moment I walked over to her and tapped her on the
shoulder.
The woman turned her ear phone away so she could hear me. I took
one look at her. I brushed off my (ripped) sweat pants, pulled
my ratty hair away from my face and said, "I too am the CEO of
my company, and if you don't let the woman have the day off to
go and watch her son graduate from boot camp than I'm going to
send my colleagues over to your office and we are going to
negotiate this with you." She immediately said, "Who are your
colleagues?"
I said, "Marine Mom's!"
The woman put the ear piece back to her ear and said, "Tell
Sally she can have the day off, but I will expect a written
apology on my desk in the morning!"
At that moment I walked over to my car and grabbed a piece of
paper and wrote the woman a note. I took the note over to her
and said, "Excuse me." She said, "What do you want now?" I said,
"I have Sally's apology note for you!" The woman opened the note
and it read:
"I'm sorry you have no heart. Maybe if you ask the "Wizard"
nicely he will give you one!"
I got in my car and I drove away. I was saddened to hear that
the Grinch is alive and well, and not at all green as I
suspected. Some even drive Corvettes!
Praying for Sally today. May she enjoy seeing her son graduate
from boot camp next Thursday!
Onward!
Gina
Semper Fi,
Bob Rader aka Sgt. Wolf
God Bless America!
Semper fi
Sgt Grit
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