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Gotta tell ya Sgt. I have been reading your newsletter a long
time. Look forward to it every week! On the subject of how
recruits addressed the DI. As of Sept. 07, it will be 50 years
since my DI got in my face and shouted ....."THE FIRST AND LAST
word out of your mouth WILL BE SIR"!" Do You Understand
ME"?..."Yes SIR"!..."What Did You Say"!...I Mean "SIR Yes
SIR"!..."Are You Hard Of Hearing"?..."No SIR"!..."WHAT!"..."SIR
No SIR"..."That's Better"!..."Now Drop And Give Me a
100!"..."SIR Yes SIR"
Bruce Otis
Platoon 266 (The Squat Jump Platoon)!
Parris Island.......1957......SEMPER FI!
Huge After Christmas Sale
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Sgt Grit's Giant After Christmas Sale starting 12-26-06
and lasting only for a short time! Check out the great
savings on some of our most popular items.
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All Is Well Though
I received this email from an old buddy from my Recruiting Duty
days. Gunny Gibson is a motivator of motivators. He could have
easily taken a full disability, but instead fought tooth and
nail to stay in the Corps. This is what the Marine Corps is all
about.
I was on a foot patrol with the IAs and USA. The NSW team I was
with got into a scrap and a sniper ended up shooting me in the
left knee cap. I ended up having my leg amputated just above the
knee due to the trauma. All is well though. I am walking and
running. Enjoying San Antonio and the therapy. I have stayed
very busy, did the Marine Corps marathon last month on a hand
bike. Competed in a Half Triathlon in San Diego a few weeks ago.
I am also doing a 50 Mile hand bike ride this weekend. Just
staying as busy as possible. I will most likely try to teach FOs
and SNCOs at Sill till retirement. We will see. Dinner is
calling so I will talk to you later.
Spanky
Bridge Of My Nose
Last week someone signed off "still lacing them left over
right". Not only that, but I never wear a cover that is not two
fingers above the bridge of my nose and I still blouse my shirt
when I tuck it in. You can't take the Corps out of the Marine.
Semper Fi. God bless all of our Marines and other service
personnel.
Cpl of Marines
'65-'68, Viet Nam '66-'67
T. W. Hamilton
Camouflage New Testament
This year, the Military Ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ
will continue the distribution of Rapid Deployment Kits (RDKs)
to help reach military men and women for Christ. These gifts for
soldiers include a camouflage New Testament, a 90-day
devotional, and a Would You Like to Know God Personally? booklet
that clearly presents the Gospel-all packaged in a waterproof
plastic bag small enough to fit into a soldier's pocket.
Orphanage In DaNang
Read the article from LtCol Huebner (Ret) about the Sao Mai
Catholic School/Orphanage in DaNang.
Got me to wondering if this is the same orphanage that some of
us from the 1st Radio Bn got involved with in 1968 & 1969. This
school/orphanage was locate just east of DaNang just before the
guarded entrance to China Beach. Spent what time was available
over there with the priest and children. Helped them build new
covered area in which to eat, got them new latrines and what
ever we could do for them. The kids were great and we couldn't
do enough for them. They even invited us to their Christmas
celebration. This involved the kids doing some of their local
dances and other festivities for us and their teachers. We had
some of their food and of course, the priest had a few bottles
of that famous beer with the tiger head on the label.
There are other things in Nam I don't mind forgetting but the
little bit of time I had with these children will never be
forgotten. The pictures I took are old and faded but they still
bring back some of the good memories.
Semper Fi
John J. Cihak
SSgt USMC 1964-1970
Apricots
Sgt Grit
It my understanding that "The Walking Dead" of 1/9 were the
originators if "The Curse of Apricots." As you may of may not
recall Apricots came in the C-ration meal of Ham & Mothers.
Anyone who got Ham & Mothers was unlucky and anyone who at the
fruit of Ham & Mothers usually got dinged or blown away the next
day. And that is a fact...and I am sticking to it.
For some ungodly reason numerous Vietnam Marine Amtracs (...I'm
going to be mean right now and say that they did not do much of
anything "important" in Vietnam...) think that they were the
ones who founded this myth...I even have some Vietnam Marine
tanker buddies who think that they did it. NOT!
Face it, grunts in Vietnam had a lot more chances of getting
hurt for any reason than any tracked vehicle crewman.
S/F
-John
Sarge ; I served with A Co 3RD amtrac 2/28/68-10/21/69. I well
not eat apricots to this day.
Cpl. Frank Massey aka sparkey the welder.
Ache All Over Again
Sgt Grit and all Marine Brothers and Sisters: I recently had
two experiences that I want to Pass on. First, I was down in
Medford, Oregon Signing into a motel for a weekend stay. We
were visiting Grand Children. The Manager of the motel was 5th
Marine Regiment Vietnam Combat Vet. Both of recognized the
Marine Corps Bearing in each other and said our Semper Fi's.
During the ensuing conversation I mention This newsletter and
how many Brother and Sisters were re-united after many decades.
He stated why would I want to do that and re-hash all the misery
and heart ache all over again. At that moment I could not think
of an appropriate answer, so I bid him adieu and went to my
room. I have thought about that conversation long and hard. I
now have and answer. In June 2004 I made a trip to Jackson,
Michigan and had a great reunion with my fellow Marines who
served with me at USNAD, Weikele, Oahu, Hi. It was great
reunion and we are going to meet again next July. Only this time
we are going to be two Brothers Short. On December 1, 2006
L/cpl David Canfield passed away in Florida. Cpl Dick Dyer has
also passed on. Both permanently assigned to MARINE Barracks,
Heavens Gate. Answer is Simple: There are Marine veterans
out there that still remember you and would dearly love to get
in touch with you. All who read this newsletter please make a
concerted effort to get in touch with you Brothers and Sisters
you will not be sorry for having done so. The rewards and
satisfaction of discovering long lost but not forgotten Brothers
and Sisters are priceless. Remember we are not getting younger.
Thank you for this Newsletter it has brought a lot of Marines
back into the fold.
L/cpl G.D. Vallejos USMC 1960-1966
What Had I Done
Sgt. Grit,
I've been reading your newsletter for many years now and really
enjoy the stories from my fellow Marines about their experiences
in Boot Camp. I thought I'd share my most memorable experience
from that time.
It was our first week at the rifle range at Camp Pendleton and
we were practicing our "firing positions" in a circle aiming at
the 50 gallon "target" barrel. Well as we all know, when you
stand up with your weapon you need to make sure the clip is out
and your weapon is secure.
When we finished our period of instruction all the recruits
stood up. The rifle instructor "asked" me to come forward. My
initial thought was of course, "what had I done?" Well sure
enough, my clip was still in my weapon. "Oh sh$#!" He told me
to leave my weapon as is and take it over to my Drill Instructor
and explain what I'd done. Unfortunately for me the DI on duty
was the meanest one of the three assigned to our platoon. He
proceeded to grill me on why did I want to kill someone. Did I
want to be a hero and shoot someone and go home with a medal.
This discussion went on for what seemed like an eternity. In
the end he told me to go back to the group and he'd bring over
some "rounds" and I could shoot someone and go home and tell
everyone that I was a hero.
I went back to the circle and stood waiting for him to bring the
rounds. He came over and asked for my weapon and proceeded to
put 4 rounds into the magazine and then seated the magazine back
into the weapon. He instructed me to "lock and load" and aim at
the recruit directly across the circle from my position. I did
as I was instructed. He asked me if I could tell who the
recruit was that I was aiming at, to which I responded "No
Sir!" He said it didn't matter because I was going to blow his
f*&^$in head off anyway. He instructed me to take the weapon
off safe, which I did, and then to pull the trigger and kill the
recruit.
I must say that deep down I knew that the rounds he put in my
weapon were the "dummy" rounds they used for instructional
purposes at the range, but there was just a small part of me
that kept saying "maybe they are real". After quite of bit of
screaming on the DI's part, I pulled the weapon off my shoulder
and did not squeeze the trigger. He promptly grabbed the weapon
from me and took the rounds out. He asked me why didn't I pull
the trigger. I responded, "The private didn't know if the
rounds were real or not." His response was, "They were real you
son of a b*&%#!" and he walked off and never said another word
about it.
Needless to say when we were doing live fire the next week, I
made sure my weapon was clear before I did anything else. Gotta
love Boot Camp stories.
Dennis Chandler
Cpl. USMC 1977-1981
San Diego Plt 3107
Softly Spoken
Sgt Grit,
Got to say I really enjoy the weekly letter and all your
products that I receive in timely fashion. I went through P.I.
in 1949 in July or early August, regardless, it was hot and the
sand fleas were out. On the way to the range we stopped at the
sand camp, I think they called it Elliot back then. Anyway we
got set up pup tents and all when Cpl Rhoady called for a Rifle
ins. no sweat mine was spotless, I thought. My turn, ins arms
and lo and behold a spot of lint in the barrel, no way I say (to
myself) thusly the good Cpl field striped my rifle and scattered
it in the sand. FIND Em CLEAN Em And REPORT To ME, softly spoken
into my shell like ear. Ever try to find all your M1 parts in
the sand? and it had gotten dark on top of that. There I sat in
the tent cleaning and oiling, we had oil and thong cases back
then, had to borrow a chamber brush. Job done I hope and off I
go to report to the good Cpl.
Well he really inspected it and let me go with a word of warning
about keeping my rifle clean, as I left I could hear Sgt
Garrison, Cpl Rhoady and PFC Ryan having a good laugh at my
expense, I just considered it a good bit of training. Keep the
good work.
David M, Erickson
GySgt 49-69. Gung ho
Million Dollar Education
Sgt. Grit: Still love reading the letters. Every Marine I talk
to I ask if they have your site and most reply yes those who
don't have it now. After reading the Oct. 5th news letter ( I'm
a little behind) on the story from Sgt. Crutchfield about Boot
Camp again brought memories of my Senior Drill Instructor GySgt.
Grooms Plt. 180 Nov. 62 The Gunny told us it was a million
dollar education but no one would take a million to do it again.
Everyday in our Corps many of us including your truly didn't bet
the million yet we did got through Boot again at D.I. school
harder. When you go to school you wonder or say not again but
the pride of the hat and title keeps you going. How about more
stories Camp Mathews, little agony big agony the march-run to
the ranges. My plt. spent Christmas and New Years at Camp
Mathews. Sleeping in tent with stoves you couldn't use and very
cold nights. God Bless our Marines Past and Present and God
bless Our Corps.
Semper Fi.
SSgt. Scott Boot in 62 MCRD Plt. 180
D.I. Parris Island 68-70
My Worry
Well I was at the mall the other day and given the climate of
today's world I was just slightly afraid. I saw an Army gent and
asked him what the army had to prevent. He smiled and stood and
told me of the tanks and Bradleys and artillery. I acknowledged
and thanked him for his willingness to serve.
My worry was still not appeased when I spied and Air Force
group. I repeated the question and they told me of things such
as stealth and bombs that could land on a pin. There was just no
way the terrorists could win. Again I smiled and thanked them
for their tour, but still my fear needed something more. I soon
saw a Navy Officer and again I asked my question and she replied
about the pride of the fleet, aircraft carriers with planes and
bombs. She talked of silent submarines and cruise missiles ready
to defend.
I thanked her for her candor and told her I was proud of what
she was willing to do, but yet the fear was still with me. You
would think I would feel secure. I spotted a single Marine who
was standing tall and steel straight. I asked the others so I
did not hesitate; I asked him what the Marine Corp had. Without
a smile or pretense he told me they had him and other Marines.
My fear went away for I knew it was true. AS long as there are
Marines this country is safe.
Thanks to all whom serve and God bless but a special thank you
to my Brothers. Semper Fi Marines
Jerone A. Bowers
Sgt. USMC
Wonderful Feeling
Many years ago, my platoon was standing on the grinder in San
Diego getting ready for final inspection just prior to
graduation. It was prior to 0800 and our DIs were making final
adjustments when the MP Color Guard made ready the Morning
Colors. It just so happened that the base band was out marching
when Colors sounded. They immediately started playing the
National Anthem and then went right into the Marine Corps Hymn.
The chills hit and the feelings were OUTSTANDING. ALL of us
stood so much taller and so much more straighter. I still get
that wonderful feeling just thinking about it.
I just wanted to ask God to bless and keep our Beloved Corps and
their families safe and secure throughout this special time of
the year. May each of us never forget the real reason for this
season. I thank God for allowing me to earn my Eagle, Globe,
and Anchor.
Merry Christmas to all and Happy New Year to all and may next
year allow all Marines to be home with their loved ones.
Gary L. COON
MSgt USMC (Ret)
1970-1994
In A Hostile Land
Sgt. Grit,
Although Christmas is just a couple days away and your December
newsletter has already arrived and has been read, it caused me
to reflect back to a different place and time. Vietnam, 1970.
That was by far the loneliest Christmas of my life. And having
read the very first part of this last newsletter whereby someone
was remembering all the things they have to be thankful for, I
found myself counting off all the wonderful things in my own
life, all of them people.
There is a level of love most people will never understand
unless they have spent Christmas Eve in a hostile land, manning
a position which might be attacked with other Marines who are
just as home sick as you are. In my case it was radio watch at
the company CP outside DaNang in an Arvin compound named Yen Ne.
Mostly it was quiet that night as ambushes were kept to a
minimum because no one wanted to have to report we lost Marines
on Christmas Eve. In the still of that night across our AO (area
of operation) at least one could hear the quiet sound of Marines
wishing other Marines a Merry Christmas and peace on earth. It
was one of the most solemn things I have ever experienced and I
am blessed to have had it. New Years, on the other hand was one
of the most foolish things I've experienced and glad we survived
it. At the stroke of midnight all across our AO, each of our
companies fired off ammo and flares to celebrate the coming new
year. The Year of the Dog in Vietnam. We sure were thrilled to
realize no one had any ammo left until the resupply bird came in
the next morning. You could have overrun us with spit balls.
Semper Fi Marines and Happy New Year,
Cpl. Tom Gillespie RVN Hotel Co. 2/1 70-71
Don't Like It
Dear Sgt. Grit,
How is it that the Marine Corps is prosecuting Eight Marines for
doing the job they were/are trained to do?
Why do they believe the Iraqi civilians when they say the
Marines killed innocent Iraqi civilians. Did the "authorities"
forget that the insurgents dress up like innocent Iraqi
civilians so they can cry foul.
I don't like it one bit. It almost makes me disclaim being a
Marine. Not good for recruitment.
Why are the innocent civilians allowing the IED's to be placed
where our Marines may get hurt or killed? They should be
telling US where the IED's are and where the insurgents that
planted them are.
Keep the reporters out of the war zone and let the Marines do
their job.
Thank you.
Sincerely
Garry Olson
Sgt. USMC
1964-1970
I Was Late
This is a true story, of a personal experience while going
through Hospital Corp School at Great Lakes Naval Base in '74,
before I was assigned to FMF-FMSS. It's a story about my first
experience with the death of a young Marine. I still wonder
about him to this day. I wonder about his family, if he had a
girl friend, I wonder about how this world or maybe even just
his world would have been changed had he lived. I recently wrote
this and sent it to a young Doc stationed at Area 31 Pendleton.
His name is Dusty, and he and his boys (as he calls them), will
soon be rotating out to Iraq. I know that he, and all his
"boys", will be faced with life threatening challenges, just as
we all had been faced with at one time or another. And these
challenges, will be with them, the rest of their days. These
kids are tough S O B's, h&ll, I wish I could go with them.
A true story.
I remember sometime during my training at Hospital Corps School
in Great Lakes, we were given orders to report to the hospital
wards for some on-hands ojt. I can't recall the reason, but I
was late reporting to the ward that I was assigned to. A young
Lt nurse told my I was late and all assignments had been handed
out and that I would have to wait for the head nurse for an
assignment. I was told to wait in her office, so I did for what
seemed an eternity. After a while a LC nurse came in and asked
me my name and understood that I had reported late. She as well
stated that all assignments had been handed out and she really
didn't have anything for me. She just sat there kind of glaring
at me. I was very intimidated as I could not read her cold
stare, one moment she looked p!ssed and one moment she looked at
me like I was a worthless piece of sh!t. From out of no where
she stood up and said "come with me". I followed her down a
hallway to a nurses station. She took me into a room behind the
station, it was a small dimly lit private room with a young man
laying in the bed. He appeared to be sleeping heavily, even
though it was around 0800. A tray of untouched breakfast food
was on a tray stand next to his bed. The LC said this young man
was my assignment for the week. I was to take care of all his
needs, including changing a large bandage on the frontal portion
of his lower leg. She said she would send a nurse in to help me
the first time as the wound was packed with ioform gauze and I
had no previous experience in replacing it. "What a piece of
cake" I thought to myself. I'll just kind of kick back, snooze
and wait for this guy to wake up, help him take a leak, wipe his
*ss, feed him or whatever. An hour or so had gone by and time
was pretty well dragging on when a the young Lt nurse came in
and said it was time to change his bandage. She had me cut the
old one away, when I did a horrendous odor emitted. I was
gagging, it smelled so bad. She asked me how would I like it if
I were him? He had received a shrapnel wound a few weeks before
and they were trying to save his leg, But complications had set
in such as gangrene and some type of bone cancer had formed.
What a bummer. For three more days, I would show up, not only on
time, but usually at least a half hour early, not even taking
time to have breakfast before reporting. The whole time this
young man was under my care, he never once woke up. He never had
any visitors. The nurse told me his father had past away many
years ago and his mother had a stroke. So I guess I was his only
part of the outside world, even though I was in his world as
well. I would read to him and play poker with him, (playing his
hand). I even wrote a letter to his mother for him. On the
fourth day I reported, I went into his room....he wasn't there.
The young Lt nurse came from a ward and told me to go into the
LC's head nurse's office and wait for her. A couple of minutes
later she entered and acted as though she was busy with some
paper work, I could tell she was stalling for some reason. I
can't recall this young man's name, but I asked her if he had
been moved, did he wake up, where was he?! She slowly looked up
at me and told me he had passed during the night, she coldly
told me I was dismissed. I asked her what should I do? She said
she didn't really care, it was just a part of the game and I had
better get used to it. She was such a cold hearted b!tch! I
went back to my dorm and I just laid there on my bunk the rest
of the day and all through the night. The next morning was
Sunday and I decided to go to church, I thought I needed it.
When the services where over, I was about to walk out the door,
when the preacher stopped me. He said he needed to talk to me. I
thought it was strange, as I had never talked to him before,
h&ll, he didn't even know who I was. I followed him back to his
little office in the back of the chapel. When I walked in behind
him, I just about passed out, the anger and rage came back over
me again. The LC nurse was there! She said we needed to talk.
That is when I learned the lesson of my life. She told me that
the young man I was assigned to take care of had no chance of
survival, and there was really no need to have someone in the
room with him since he was comatose. She did it for me! For Me?
What the h&ll did she mean, she did it for me. In my mind, he
needed someone there, he had no one. She said no, it was for me.
I will always remember she said, the ones that I take care of
will depend on me. This wasn't a game, it was for real. We have
to deal with real people, with real lives. If I thought it was
all a game and it was okay to be late, then this (losing men due
to my negligence) was the consequences that they and I would
suffer. I was never late again for anything after that day, up
to even this time of my life. What a hard lesson that one was to
learn! I don't remember the LC's name, nor the name of the young
man I took care of. Funny about that, you think I would
remember. Even though the names are far from my mind, their
memory, will always be with me.
Doc Cottrell
1/3 - 2/9 '75
Oh, and by the way, thanks to all you grungy
jarheads for watching your Doc's a$S
Unforgettable
My most memorable New Year's Eve was in 1951 at the Punchbowl in
East Central Korea. As a Forward Observer with C-1-11 I was
providing artillery fire support for the 1st Korean Marine
Regiment there. After lighting up the sky with a midnight
barrage my five-man FO team, our Corpsman and I huddled in our
bunker to celebrate the New Year with the Forward Air Controller
and his radio man. Someone produced a few bottles of Canadian
Club medicinal alcohol and after passing them around we got into
the holiday spirit and began singing "Auld Lang Syne". After a
few choruses we heard voices outside the bunker singing along
with us. When I looked outside I saw a platoon-size group of
Korean Marines standing at attention in the sub-zero night
singing with us. We joined them outside, singing and passing the
bottles around until the CC was gone. It was a great moment of
camaraderie and only later did we learn that the Korean National
Anthem was sung to the lyrics of "Auld Lang Syne" until 1948 and
that most Koreans still used the old tune. It didn't matter that
we didn't understand each other; for a few minutes we sang their
anthem with them and they celebrated the turn of the year with
us. Unforgettable!
Hugh Hunt
C-1-11
1951-1952
Sometimes Santa Comes
Marines are Warriors but also ambassadors of good will too......
Christmas day 1989, my unit (D Co., 2D LAI Bn) was conducting
raids in search of Manuel Noriega just north of Rodman Naval
Base, Republic of Panama. We hit hard and fast, stirring up the
locals but that day we came up empty. After going into the town
of Nuevo Arajjan, I felt pretty bad supposedly ruining these
simple people's Christmas morning. After our scouts had cleared
every hooch, an old man came out to my LAV. After all that we
had done to break the calm of his town's Christmas morning, he
said "Merry Christmas Marine and thank you for the best present
ever!" I was kinda taken back by his comment and asked "What
present may that be Sir?" He replied "Freedom!" At this point
tears formed and fell from my cheek and my crew gave these
simple people MRE's, cigs, and whatever gifts we still had on
board from our families back home. At this point the whole town
gathered around the rest of the vehicles in my platoon and I saw
that every Marine was doing the same without a word spoken
between any of us. We received orders to proceed on and carry
out our mission that day but I will never forget the spirit of
sharing and love of Man that exemplified what Christmas is all
about.
Who says Santa has a big red sleigh?.....I say that sometimes
Santa comes to town in a 14 ton fully combat loaded camouflaged
LAV with 7 Santa's aboard!
Semper Fi & Merry Christmas to all!
Mark Davis (U.S.M.C. 1983 -1993)
Flip Of A Coin
Reading Harry Navins letter on 12/14/06 reminded of the scuttle
butte that was kicking around in those days on the ''Canal''. I
was with the 3rd on the Canal. We heard that the flip of a coin
decided which div. would land on Bougainville or Tarawa. Never
found out the truth about the scuttle butte. Is there any one
still out there who really knows if that scuttle butte was true
or not.
Jim Smith # 443758 ''Never forgot'' Ended up as Sgt. of the
guard at the ''Brooklyn Navy yard brig''. just before the war
ended.
Rose Garden
Sgt. Grit. I know it's better late than not at all. It was
Christmas time ( December 23, 1972 ) I had just worked out a
barter with several of my fellow grunts at the bomb dump which
did cost me several hours of guard/patrol duties. It was all
worth it at the end of the day though. The guys that gave in
were pretty upset with themselves when they found out that it
was the most awesome event to hit the area, ever!
Bob Hope and his troupe finally made it to the Rose Garden (Nam
Phong, Thailand). I may not have been up front but that 210mm
zoom lens brought things right up close and personal. It was a
fantastic show and morale builder. It was the talk of the
Security Element at the Dump for some time after.
The lasting memories that he gave out were far better than any
present to this date. Thank you Bob Hope and thank you God for
keeping him at your side.
Semper Fi to all you Marines, both home and abroad. Keep up the
great job and soon you will rotate home and be with your loved
ones.
Sgt. Ken Dove Sr. 0311
71-78
Fortunate Enough
Sgt. Grit,
I was fortunate enough to spend Christmas in 1967 and 1968, my
birthday (December 29th) 1967 and 1968, and New Years 1968 and
1969 in Vietnam during one tour. It was the heart breaking not
to be with my new wife and daughter during these holidays but I
spent them with my brothers of Charlie Company, 1st Tank
Battalion. I've forgotten most of them over the years but now
that I've had a son serve as a Sergeant of Marines in Iraq, the
memories I had blocked out are starting to return. Those that I
remember, have a great Christmas, New Year and Birthdays if you
are still around. Sgt. Moody of Chicago, Tony Schilacie, Tator,
Big Oscar (looked like Oscar Robinson) I heard you lost a leg on
float, sorry. Pineapple in Hawaii, John "The Beaner" Juarez with
Flame Tanks. Smitty the cook for 2nd platoon" Death Dealers"
your food could choke a maggot. Red and all you other Tankers.
See you in Las Vegas in August. God, please watch over those
serving overseas this year. Semper Fi.
Sgt. P. A. Morris "Chief" 2318350
Eat Real Fast
I am thankful for heat this Christmas 54 years ago I was the
night cook with the 7th Motor transport Batt with the First
Marine Division in Korea during the Korean War. I worked from
18:00 to 06:00 7 days per week, it was 33 below zero that night
we had zero heat, it is hard to cook with so may clothes on. The
7th were a great bunch of Marines never once did they ever b!tch
about their food. They had to eat real fast or the food would
freeze in their mess kits.
Former Sgt. Phil Street
Sir, Nothing, Sir
This is a week too late to get it in the Christmas newsletter,
but I thought you would enjoy it anyway.
While at boot camp, Plt. 3103, in November 1981 at MCRD San
Diego, we were treated to a nice Thanksgiving meal for evening
chow. We were given a gracious 15 minutes to enjoy this meal.
We were told by our Drill Instructors (Sgt. Gonzoles, Sgt.'s
Harvey, SDI Sgt. Biez) that there would be a bowl of hard candy
on the chow line and that this candy is for the D.I.'s only.
Sure enough, it was there.
Fast forward one month. It is now Christmas Day and what a
wonderful day it turned out to be. After being called up in
relays to be thrashed all morning long, we were finally going to
get a break and enjoy a Christmas meal.
Once again we were told by Drill Instructor Sgt. Gonzoles
that there would be a bowl of hard candy on the chow line. And
we were told again that the candy is for the D.I.'s only. That
point was stressed. Then he threw this in, "I believe that some
of you got a piece last time. IF you think you are good enough
to get a piece of candy and not get caught, go ahead. Just
don't GET CAUGHT!"
Well it had been raining and after noon chow we were being
marched around. Sgt. Gonzoles gave the command, "Platoon halt!
Private (don't remember name), get the #44& here!" The Private
locked it up in front of the D.I. "What is in your mouth boy?"
"Sir, nothing, Sir."
"What the $44@ is in your mouth boy?"
"Sir, candy, Sir."
"Oh, no s#4t huh? Spit it out."
With that the private spit it out on the wet dirt. Sgt.
Gonzoles then took his shoe and rolled the candy around in the
dirt.
"Pick it up boy and put it back in your mouth." The guy did
and then Gonzoles said, "Swish it around." Then, "Spit it
out." Then "Put it back in your mouth." Then "Swish it
around....."
After 3 or 4 times of this, the Drill Instructor had the
private doing pushups over his piece of hard candy. I don't
think anyone else wanted anything to do with candy that day.
Russell, John P.
Cpl. U.S.M.C.
Just Another Day
Sgt Grit
I signed up in October of 1955 and was off to Parris Island to
be indoctrinated as thousands of others had been before me. My
experiences were not unique, with but one exception. It wasn't
funny then, but I can manage a smile now. My platoon 156 was at
the mid-point of our training, and we had just returned to our
Quonset Huts after sloshing through the swamp until late in the
evening. We were not allotted time to shower and I felt a bit
grungy. I waited until everyone was sleeping soundly and
decided to sneak out of the hut and take a nice refreshing
shower. I had the place to myself, and was in heaven rinsing
off when I heard this loud booming voice yell " Who the %$#@& is
in there? Don't move until I can identify you". I only had time
to put on my unlaced boots. I grabbed the rest of my clothes,
tucked them under an arm, and took off running for all I was
worth. I got a brief glimpse of my antagonist and I saw what
looked like Captain Bars. I felt he was not yet able to
identify me since most nude Marines look the same at a distance.
I ran in between huts, through other platoon areas, and even
around the mess hall. I was determined not to be caught. Just
when I thought I had enough distance in my favor, I ran into a
close-line wire. It caught me in the neck and I was parallel to
the ground when I fell. I thought my neck was broken and could
not breath. Now it was raining and I was crawling on my knees
trying to get up. I made it to my hut and dove into my bunk and
pulled the blanket over me. I then heard somebody approach the
door and enter. The footsteps got closer and closer. This
person then stopped at my bunk and I could feel his breath. He
stood still for at least five minutes hovering over me. I had
the feeling my life was about to end before my nineteenth
birthday. Then the footsteps started again and they got quieter
as they headed for the door, and he was gone. Nothing ever came
of this, and to this day I don't know who that person was. This
is one of life's mysteries and just another day in the life of a
USMC Recruit.
Harvey Saffron
USMC, 1955-59
Battan Death March
Sgt Grit,
Yesterday I attended the funeral of a Marine hero, Theodore
(Ted) Williams. Ted was a survivor of the Battan Death March,
and ended WWII in slave labor in Japan. He wrote two books
describing the ordeal, which left him with a lifetime of serious
health problems. I had the distinct pleasure to attend a Nov. 10
Association dinner in Orange County, Cal. with Ted, where he
received the honor of being the oldest Marine present.
It was the Marines like Ted that inspired me, and many others,
to become a Marine. Semper Fi and Godspeed.
Bill Cook
Sgt USMC '64-'68 Vietnam '67-"68
The Gift of Valor
Based on a front page Wall Street Journal article that readers
called "extraordinary, profound, and gripping" A powerfully
affecting chronicle of a young Marine who sacrificed his life
for his comrades and earned that rarest of accolades The
Congressional Medal of Honor.
The Gift of Valor
By Michael M. Phillips, Hardcover, 241 pages.
Do They Still
Sgt Grit.
I am home on leave in Flint, Michigan from Schools Battalion.
I was given a link to your site & newsletter.
I was going Christmas shopping with my parents and an older guy
& his wife spoke with me.
It was "Semper Fi & Good Afternoon"
There were questions about my current duty status, handshakes &
smiles.
Later in the store the man (by himself) approached & spoke to my
parents & I.
God Bless You Marine Mom & she got teary eyed.
He pushed an envelope into my hand.
As he spoke with my parents, I opened it and found a letter &
$10.
I tried to turn it down, I have leave money.
Young Marine, All you need to know it this; THIS old Marine
loves you.
He choked up as he said that but turned & walked away.
Later I read that letter of explanation.
It spoke of Chesty Puller & how this Marine had been attacked.
The top of the letter had this hyperlink
http://www.grunt.com/scuttlebutt/newsarchives/2005/apr_28.asp
I have copied the most important part of the letter.
Like I was told at MCRD San Diego:
"Wherever you go in this world & life you will find other Marines who will help you on your way.
They are your brothers, comrades in arms, life & death.
They will care for & keep you as you will also do for them & others.
This is our sacred bond & duty to our brothers."
Do they still give this speech?
Pass the word to THIS old Marine: Yes they still give that speech.
My parents were amazed & so was I but I have heard of this kind of thing.
Someday I will be that old Marine, & I will say those same words.
Young Marine, All you need to know it this; THIS old Marine loves you.
Pfc J. Shaw
"Young Marine"
1944-45
Hi Marines...
This being the Christmas, reminds me of the two Christmases
I spent overseas in 1944 and 1945...In '44 I spend Xmas in the
South Pacific standing guard duty on the noon to 4
tour...hotter than h&ll...in 1945 I spent Xmas in Peking, China
on the midnight to 4am tour...colder than the North Pole...( At
least I qualify as a "China Marine")
I stayed in the Marines Reserves for about 18 and 1/2
years...had to leave the Corps because I was working 40 hours a
week, remodeling an old duplex, and working hard in college to
enable me to finish 4 years of college in 4 and 1/2 years...( In
college I took about 8 to 12 credits a semester...but I went to
the spring and fall semester and the six week and the 4 week
summer semester I like to think only Marines could do such a
thing. ( The college was good enough to allow veterans credit
for gym and health classes because they felt we had these things
while in the service...saved us quite a bit of college work).
Semper Fi Mac....
S/Sgt. Oscar A Pearson
548775 USMCR
Sea Story
Here is my sea story that I will condense for the readers.
Returned from Nam June 1971
Received orders to engage in war games late summer 1971 (Sept.
I think)
Sent to San Diego to board Navy LPH (got tired of hearing Navy
Chiefs saying " Stupid Jarheads, quit saluting me .")
Deployed on LPH to California coast near San Clemente
Inclement weather socked us in, LPH anchors for two days off
coast
Looking from lower deck out , one roll of ship I see all sky.
Next roll, all ocean
Squids laugh at Marines trying to catch plates of food sliding
around in mess
I didn't eat for those two days.
Word passed to saddle up. I steal....appropriate grey Navy
blanket and stuff into pack
I set PRC-25 to proper freq. Listen to pilots on CH-46's
ferrying 105's into Camp Pendleton
Hear one pilot say "UH-oh. I lost my toy." 105 dropped into
Pacific
Troops and toys deposited on hill at Camp Pendleton
Spend the night on hill. Bored, I tune on PRC-25. Find out I
can get Kenny Rogers and The First Edition's premiere
Episode of their TV show on radio
Next morning....wait and wait and wait
Get the word of a practice medevac in afternoon
Get new word of a real heat casualty, no drill
46 pilot cannot find LZ for medevac
HST member pops smoke for pilot
Smoke grenade ignites grass in LZ. Wind spreads fire quickly
Marines stomp fire, beat fire with packs, etc
Marines prevail after some time. All Marines covered with ash
and soot
One Marine says "I wish I could find that Shore Party a$Shole
that popped smoke
I reply, "Me too!" Ash and soot cover red patches on my
trousers and cover.
I popped smoke
I never admitted this before.
L/Cpl Dan Buchanan
1969-1971
Semper Fi
A Mustang story
After returning from a tour of Japan and Viet Nam several of the
former members of the 1st and 3rd Ontos battalions were being
gathered to form the 5th Anti-Tank battalion at Camp Pendleton I
joined them there after my 30 days leave. After a few months we
ended up at a new place called Camp Los Flores. This was
September 66.
It was here we NCOs found ourselves teaching various classes.
The classes were attended by a lot of "new guys" most of who
would be in Nam in a month or so, and a few of the "old guys"
who couldn't get out of them.
Occasionally a member of Division would come to check on us to
make sure we were actually teaching the classes and following
the manuals. Most of the time it would be a clipboard toting
shaved tail ROTC Lieutenant who knew nothing about the topic and
because of our combat experience, would usually introduce
themselves, set silently, take notes, make check marks in the
right places on the form and leave.
As my luck ran one day, during a class on mapping a young Lt
mustang let me know that he was my monitor for the class. Of
course with in 5 minutes of meeting him he had explained how
after boot camp he had gone to OCS and how much a Marine that
made him. I knew this would be a fun afternoon.
I conducted the class in the normal manner, but just before the
(Take 10 expect 5 and get 3 minute) break I told the class how
important mapping was and how learning was a part of their job
as Marines. I ended it with "remember the Marine Core Motto
Semper Fidelis which means Be Prepared" and dismissed the class
for the break.
As I expected when I turned around, I was met with a gasping red
faced Lt who could hardly speak. Threw clenched teeth he
explained how the motto was not be prepared, but always
faithful. I promised that I would correct the miss quote before
class ended. As I taught the next 55 minutes the Lt was fit to
be tied. Then I wrapped up the lecture and was ready to
dismiss, the class was waiting to leave.
I held up my hand to stop the tide and explained that I needed
to correct an error I had made earlier. I stand corrected, I
said the Marine Corps Motto is not be prepared, I explained that
be prepared was the Boy Scouts Motto adding that they had adult
leadership, and that Semper Fidelis really meant Time Flies.
Amid laughter the class left, and I left the Lt scribbling on
his clipboard.
Scott Hines
Sgt. USMC 1964-68
Anti-Tank Btn. (Ontos)
We Had An Edge
Sgt. Grit, et al:
As a San Diego, CA. Marine recruit was so very fortunate to
enlist at a time that our Corps was filled with WW2 and Korean
veterans. I enlisted in late 1960 and was transported to boot
camp in January 1961. We few Oregon recruits had to wait for
thirty days in receiving barracks for the whole company to be
made up. Enlistments were slower in those days of "peace" and
harmony. We spent our days in receiving learning the "ropes"
from more experienced Marines. We spent our days fielddaying
the barracks and area. Brass fixtures, of which there were many
on the three floors, and porcelain fixtures never looked better
when we finished each day.
This time spent in Receiving barracks was a blessing in disguise
for we recruits became "salty" by the time the Company was
finally formed. We knew the basic routine and response; "Sir,
Yes Sir" was the only acceptable answer to a interrogatory from
a Marine of any rank. We knew how to make up our racks, how to
do our utilities correctly, the basic marching movements. (We
were marched to and from chow by non- training personnel).
My point here is to acknowledge after so many years the Non-
com's, Corporals, and PFC's that were not part of the essential
recruit training regimen and yet they unselfishly gave of
themselves to make us better Marines. Most often these were the
veterans that had many awards for their service in the Pacific
or Korea and yet their attitude was one of teaching the next
generation. It truly was an unconditional "Welcome" to the
Corps. This brief period and those associations helped during
the weeks to come. We had an edge, given to us by those that
had went before us. I have often thought of those Marines and
of those I can recall I wish to thank them for their generosity,
their sacrifices and their loyalty to our Country and our Corps.
They shared without reservation their experience and their
knowledge with a few young men they did not know beyond the fact
that we wanted to be Marines. Little did we know or understand
then what values those who went before us truly gave us.
To Capt. Elliott, GySgt's Bates, Turnage, Smith, McGehee, Sgt's
Jenkins, Callahan, Cpl. Capps; Thank You and God Bless You for
all you have given me and our Country.
Dwaine Goodwin, 1955382
1961-1964
Silly String
Grit: An article in one of the local newspapers (Hendersonville
Star News), on 15 Dec mentions another use for Silly String,
rather than the obvious.
The mother of a soldier from New Jersey says her son stationed
in Iraq uses Silly String to spray the area in front of him
while on patrol. Seems the neon colored string will hang up on
trip wires attached to booby traps, without being heavy enough
to detonate them.
The local UPS stores, throughout middle Tennessee, will be
collecting cans of Silly String until the end of January, then
they will be forwarded to Mrs. Marcelle Shriver, in New Jersey
for shipment to Iraq. The pressurized cans are considered a
hazardous material and will require special handling
arrangements.
The owner of the local UPS store, Ms. Janna Von Kessel also
urges anyone who know of a particular soldier, or Marine now
serving in Iraq to e-mail her the name and address of that
individual at store.3016 @ theupsstore .com and Mrs. Shriver
will see that he or she receives the Silly String.
Ms. Von Kessel also says, "You pray for the troops and you send
them cards and cookies, but this seemed just a little more
significant to me."
If you want to get involved, a little more than normal, this
seems to be the way to do it. I don't know any Marines now in
Iraq, but I intend to send, at least, ten cans....
Semper Fi
James R. McMahon
GySgt of Marines (1949-1970)
Hendersonville, TN
Seeing Those Grunts
Sgt. Grit,
This in response to your Nov 30, 2006 Newsletter and Mr.
Wasielewski who wrote "NOT A SINGLE SHOT". I was a grunt (0311)
and served in country from Dec 7, 1966 to Dec 28, 1967. I ran
patrols, ambushes, search and destroy operations in most of I
Corps area, and I would like to say, "Shots Were Fired." I'll
refer to the Hill Fights, which started in April 1967 and ended
in late May 1967, and the ambush on July 21, 1967 of the 175mm
artillery convoy at Calu. Lots of my buddies died or were
wounded in those battles. Maybe what the writer didn't hear were
the shots that didn't fire from the jammed M16s we were issued,
the week before we got to Khe Sanh.
I was a grunt (0311) with Mike Co 3/3, 1st Platoon, 1st Squad
and on April 30, 1967, we started the attack on 881s. Dug in NVA
troops opened up on us with machine guns and small arms, we
pushed on and made it to what we thought to be the top of the
hill, but instead, were in the Saddle of the 881s and 881n. We
were pinned down for several hours, caught in a heavy crossfire
of every gun imaginable. Our Radioman was shot right next to me,
so the Lieutenant told me to take the radio. Things got worst
when they opened up on us with rockets fired from Laos. We
called in for a bombing mission to take them out, but were
refused because they were in Laos. They were out of range of our
artillery, so they tore us up. I was hit in my right hand and
left leg so they took the Radio from me. My M16 rifle didn't
jam, so I was still able to fire with my left hand, someone had
to reload for me since I couldn't use my right hand. One round
landed in Command group of 2nd Platoon, killing the Lieutenant
and wounding the Radioman and several others. The Lieutenant got
us in a defensive perimeter in the tree line, where we were
trying to regroup and recover the wounded and dead. We were
almost out of ammo, I had about half a clip and one grenade
left, so I pretty much thought I were going to die there, when
the Marines of Kilo Co 3/9 broke through and got to us. Their
Corpsmen came up and started helping our Corpsmen -who were over
whelmed with casualties - with the more seriously wounded. I
can't describe the elated feeling of seeing those grunts and the
debt I owe to them. I spent 17 days on the Hospital ship and
returned to Mike Co.
On July 21, 1967 a large convoy carrying a 175mm Artillery
Battery to Khe Sanh passed through our Company position at Calu
(between Khe Sanh and the Rockpile). The Lieutenant and I were
standing on top of my bunker watching the show when he said,
"they will never make it." He was right, within minutes they
were ambushed at the first bridge bypass. Our 2nd Platoon were
the point of the convoy so they were caught with machine gun and
small arms fire, suffering many casualties. I was told to take
my undersized squad out to reinforce them and to help get the
wounded out. The Lieutenant went with us. It was pretty bad when
we there and we did get several of the wounded out, but one
wounded Marine was shot as we were getting him out of the Ambush
site, he died instantly. I often wonder if they were shooting at
me, and missed. I heard that Shot, "loud and clear." We got
every one out but became trapped ourselves. The NVAs started an
assault on us - four from my squad, including the Lieutenant and
a gun team on the other side of the road - in large numbers. A
grenade wounded the Lieutenant and my Rifleman, with the
Lieutenant being the more serious. I heard a small plane, looked
up and saw this guy (bird dog or FO) firing an M16 out the
window of the plane, just about then I heard a Jet pulling out
and saw the bombs as they whistled by, on target. Saved by a
crazy FO and the Air Force. We got the Lieutenant out but he
later died of the grenade wounds. I guess grenades don't count
as shots fired. We did pick up some sniper fire as we pulled
back, killing more good Marines.
Con Thien was the worst hellhole in I Corps Area. The Marines
(grunts) suffered casualties from the incoming mortar and sniper
fire on a daily basis. I saw a glimpse of it when I rode shotgun
for a re-supply convoy. The incoming started soon after the
trucks were circling to unload. (Throwing every thing off the
trucks as they turned to head back out). The Mail bag landed on
a bunker and was quickly retrieved. Mail was like fuel to
grunts. I felt bad leaving when they were under attack, but
happy to get far away from Con Thien. I didn't volunteer for any
more convoy duty.
Mr. Wasielewski was right about the lulls in the fighting, but
it depended on who (MOS) and where your unit was located. Before
we were moved to Khe Sanh we enjoyed about two Months of duty at
the Rockpile, while the Marines at Con Thien were being hammered
by the enemy, but that changed when we arrived at Khe Sanh.
Grunts were always on duty and had to respond to help other
units that were under attack. It was a feeling of assurance that
when things really got bad, you could depend on Marines and
Corpsmen (Corpsmen are actually grunts in disguise) to come to
your aid. Also the Air and Artillery support, without them I
wouldn't be here.
Sgt. Caesar D DaSilva
USMC 1966 - 1969
Didn't Understand My Position
SGT Grit
After reading the many newsletter stories of MCRD
experiences I just had to add mine to the list. As a real
hotshot, I quit high school in the middle of my senior year in
1957. After finding myself in a bit of difficulty with the local
police juvenile officer I had to make a decision as to what I
wanted to do about my future. I decided that I would be a tough
guy and join the paratroopers. Well after finding that the local
Pasadena, CA recruiting office did not have an Army
representative, I wandered into the USMC recruiting office. The
Marine recruiter was at least 7-foot tall and about 280lbs HA
and, in dress blues, appeared to be everything that I wanted to
be. It did not take him long to get my agreement to a two year
enlistment. It was agreed that, in a few days, I would travel to
LA to take my physical and a written test. I would then be
informed when to report to MCRD San Diego some days in the
future.
My father dropped me off at the assigned address and
agreed to pick me up later in the day. I took and passed the
physical and was told that I received the highest score, of
those taking the test that day. After taking the test we, about
fifteen of us, were taken by a Marine Staff Sgt into a storage
area, two at a time. He sat us each on a stool and asked us what
we wanted out of our USMC experience. He made it clear that with
a two- year enlistment we would spend all out time climbing the
hills of Pendleton. Only with a three-year enlistment could we
expect to gain any worthwhile knowledge and experiences. My East
LA brother said that climbing hills and learning how to fight
was why he joined the Marines, and he was excused. I, anxious to
better myself, quickly agreed to the three year hitch. The Staff
SGT then had my full attention while making it clear that only
with a four-year enlistment could I expect to travel and see the
world. I couldn't agree fast enough!
Now, this veteran Marine must have thought he had a real
gullible young man, and commenced to make the final sale. He
told me that with my high score on the written test he could
promote me to NCO in charge of the rest of the recruits. I would
be in- charge of the entire group traveling on a bus from LA to
San Diego. The only catch was that I had to leave for MCRD) that
day. Well, with the thought of such a high promotion, and
possibly a medal or two, if I played my cards right, I again
agreed to his proposition.
The bus ride was uneventful with me signing for dinner at
a café, along the way, and we arrived at the San Diego bus/train
station that evening. It was about five seconds after exiting
the bus that I was sure that the red headed Corporal waiting
next to the Six-By didn't understand what my position was. As I
was handing the Corporal our collective orders, and was about to
do some explaining, it took him less than five seconds to make
me understand that I had no idea of what was in store for me and
my subordinates.
The next eleven weeks were the beginning of the greatest
four-year learning experience of my life. I will always credit
the Marine Corps, my Drill Instructors, and future NCOs and
Officers with turning my life around. Only my immediate family
means as much to me as do those I knew in the Corps. I have long
ago moved to WA state but travel to SO CA each year. While in CA
I spend days visiting on board Camp Pendleton and MCRD San
Diego. I am convinced that we continue to produce and train the
greatest fighting force on earth. May God bless each and every
one of them as they, as did those that went before them,
continue to fight for our freedom. We are members of a unique
Brotherhood that only U S Marines can truly appreciate.
Larry E Hughes —LCPL 1958-1962
Could Not Remember
Dear Sgt. Grit,
I believe I have read every issue of you superb news letter. A
buddy sent me copies of your first few issues and I immediately
subscribed. I have written you on several occasions in the past.
I would like to comment on several items in your 14 December
issue.
I did go see "Flags of our Fathers: and thought Clint did a good
job, It stuck to the book more than most movies do, but noticed
several mistakes that I would have thought the Marine Corps
Advisors which I am sure they had, would have caught. As one of
your other readers mentioned, in one of the final scenes the
flag raiser were swimming in the surf in white skivvies. I for
one was wearing green skivvies. Also one glaring mistake was
when the second flag was going up, they showed the first flag
pole (pipe) laying on the ground. Marine movie photographer,
Bill Genoust, was standing beside and a little behind Joe
Rosenthal. His movie clearly shows the flags crossing, the
first flag coming down at the same time the second flag was
going up.
Marine Steve Parker wrote about receding a check for 53 cents. I
can beat that one. You realize the Marine Corps pays your way
back to the place you enlisted when you are discharged. When we
came home from Chine in August of 1947 there were about 1800 of
us in a Casual Company on Treasure Island. After two months of
picking up cigarette butts and painting navy barracks, they came
to us one day and said "You, you and you, have MOSs we need, the
rest of you are Honorably Discharged for the Convenience of the
Government." I was not a reserve or a draftee, but a regular
enlisted Marine who didn't get to finish his enlistment. I did
join the reserves the next day and always wondered if some day
they would call me back to finish my time and then keep me "for
the Convenience of the Government To get to the point of the
story, most of the men were from Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma
got travel pay or vouchers amounting to several hundred dollars.
I got a nickel, During WW II the San Francisco Marine Corps
Recruiting Station was located in the lobby of the Palace Hotel
on Market Street. Treasure Island is in the middle of San
Francisco Bay just about two miles from the Palace Hotel. At
that time the Key System rail Road ran on the lower deck of the
Bay Bridge and fare was five cents. To be completely honest I
can't recall for sure now if I even got the five cents, I
believe they gave me a Rail Road Fare Token which nearly every
one used. I sure m sorry I did not keep that token or nickel and
had it framed.
Marine Jeff Wolfe wrote about having to learn how to spell his
DIs name. My Senior Drill Instructor, Platoon Sgt, John Raiche,
could never remember how to pronounce my name, FULWIDER.
About the end of the first week of boot camp we learning the
nomenclature of the Browning Automatic Rifle. The BAR had a
device at the end of the muzzle called the Flash hider. Platoon
Sgt. Plaiche started calling me Flash hider and the name stuck.
With in a few days the entire platoon was calling me "Flash",
After boot camp when we split up and went to various schools or
assignments that name stuck with me. However, only the original
platoon knew the reason for it. I know some Marine must have
wondered if I was really fast or perhaps a pervert.
Semper Fi
Ed Fulwider 580545 USMC 1944/47 plus USMCR 1947-50
3/8 Beirut Vets and the BVA Announce
2007 MEMORIAL DAY Reunion of Parades!
May 25 through 28, 2007
Washington D.C.-Quantico, VA
Friday 25th-Limited Reserved Seating for Evening Parade, 8th & I
Saturday 26th-National Marine Corps Museum, Quantico, VA Sunday-
Int'l Spy Museum, Smithsonian's, Memorials and Monuments Monday-
Beirut Veterans Participate in Memorial Day Parade
Site (http://www.beirutstamp.com/memorialday07/) has complete details and hotel reservation link.
You may also contact;
C. Eric Tischler
2038 Mary Ellen Lane
State College, PA 16803
OohRah0351 @ yahoo .com
I Would Catch Myself Thinking
I think it is, again, time to give a special thanks to the vets
of WW-II who gave so much to enable us to enjoy our present
lifestyle and celebrate Christmas as we do. While in Viet Nam I
thought often of those troops who were island hoping in the
Pacific, and also those in Europe, who were "in it for the
duration". I would catch myself thinking of the comparison of
the Pacific engagements and the ones we had in Viet Nam. The
WW-II guys really had it tough and did not get to look forward
to a turnaround back to the states after a year, many of them
were there three or four years--if they survived. It is hard
for those of us who have followed to imagine the stark horror,
the loneliness and depravity those brave souls endured.
Naturally by main concern was for those in the Corps but all
deserve credit. For those WW-II vets who have endured
throughout the years we owe a special Merry Christmas and God
speed.
Richard M. Brown
Captain U.S.M.C. Retired
Kids Got Their Toys
Just a little late Christmas Story. I had the good fortune to be
assigned to the 3rd Marine Division Band during a tour in
Okinawa during the early 60's.
Every year the band performed a concert for the dependents and
children of American Forces on Okinawa. There was a Sergeant
that did an George M. Cohen soft shoe song and dance salute to
the troops, i.e. "It's a Grand Old Flag", "Yankee Doodle Dandy"
and so forth.
During the Christmas concert he was dressed the part in a Santa
Suit, beard, boots and all the trimming with a sack full of
toys, to hand out to the kids. The band started playing Jingle
Bells, and the MC started his spiel, "Hey kids I think I hear
Santa, Listen, I think I hear Santa......, I think I hear
Santa."
Sergeant J**** was supposed to drop down thru a chimney on stage
to one side of the band. The MC had his back to the stage so He
couldn't see that Santa's boots were struggling and kicking and
the audience was beginning to giggle a little bit . The MC said
again "let's everybody give Santa a big hand to help him
along." Santa had on a portable mike and all of a sudden his
voice boomed out over the PA........ "SON of a B***H, I'm
STUCK!."
Needless to say, we got Santa out of the chimney and the kids
got their toys and we all had a good laugh and Merry Christmas.
I hope you enjoyed the story and you all had a Happy Christmas
and a better New Year. God bless our troops at home and abroad,
keep them safe and bless their families and loved ones too.
Jerry R. Hattox
GySgt USMC Ret (1954-1978)
Short Rounds
Official Site of Multi-National Force in Iraq
http://www.mnf-iraq.com/
I agree with Sgt-USMC, why are we punishing our troops for doing
their job.
This is the worst kind of war, when you can't identify the
enemy, just like Nam friend during the day enemy at night.
Our country and especially our politicians need to realize this
is WW III, so let's quite screwing around and win it.
Dick Varvel
Sgt 51-54
Korea
The man who will go where his colors go, without asking, who
will fight a phantom foe in the jungle and mountain range,
without counting, and who will suffer and die in the midst of
incredible hardship, without complaint, is still what he has
always been, from Imperial Rome to scepter Britain to democratic
America. He is the stuff of which legions are made... His pride
is in his colors and his regiment, his training hard and
thorough and coldly realistic, to fit him for what he must
face... and his obedience is to his orders. He has been called
United States Marine.
T. R. Fehrenbach
This Kind of War
Officer, a Marine, and a gentleman
Has anyone information about the Marine Corps replacement drafts
for the 4th Marine Division 1943-1945 and also the 3rd Amphib.
co. about that same time.
Semper Fi
Bob Parker
Sgtmaj USMC ret.
Alpha Company, 1st Bn, 7th Marine Regiment, Vietnam 2007 reunion
will be held in Palm Springs California June 7-10. If you are
not on the mailing list or feel you may not be, contact Nat
Holmes at nat3h @ earthlink .net
Today, the 25th of December 2006, D.D. Lowery USMC passed away
in De Leon, Texas.
Among other accomplishments he was one of the two Marines that
made it ashore at Tarawa out of the first two waves. He came
thru the 96 hours of day and night fighting on his feet. From
there he survived Saipan.
T J Mayfield AL1 USN who followed him in.
Once a Marine, Always A Marine
I Fight What You Fear
Welcome Home, Job Well Done!
Semper fi
Sgt Grit
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Thank you Sgt. Grit! You got all the right stuff! Trust me when I tell ya, I research like a son-of-gun before I buy and you have them all beat. In quality, variety, and good old customer service (something that you just don''t get anymore). Keep it up and keep it coming! Semper Fi
Sgt. Jackson USMC
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