One of Us

One of Us

Sgt. Grit,

I love this news letter and came across these two pictures I wanted to share. I was with 3rd Bn 6th Marines from 1988 to 1990. Unfortunately my Marine Corps career was cut short due to medical issues. I was honorably discharged and returned to my hometown in 1990. I became a Police Officer in 1994, and still am today, which takes me to the two pictures I submitted. During our 16th of July festival this year, I was patrolling the area where most of the vendors set up. I saw this awesome SUV circling around the block. I remembered I had my camera with me at that time. About the third time the vehicle crossed my path I pulled out of my parking spot, and activated my warning lights, stopping the vehicle. As I approached the SUV the window rolled down. I asked the young Marine Staff Sergeant that was driving if he was lost. He stated yes, and asked how to get to the festival. I got a big smile and said I’ll tell you if you take my picture with this truck. We pulled into the American Legion parking lot which was close by and the Staff Sergeant snapped my picture. After we exchanged a couple of stories, he stated ” Ya know, when you pulled me over I got nervous, I thought I did something wrong. Thank God it was one of us”. I must say it made me feel good to hear a current Marine refer to me as one of them by saying “US”. Once A Marine Alwats A Marine! It’s good to see there is still the same camaraderie between the old and the new. Thanks for a great news letter and Thank you Staff Sergeant. You made my 16th of July 2008.

Sergeant Sam Mavilla
New Jersey