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I'm a retired Marine 1st Sgt. I had the privilege and honor of
training recruits at MCRD, San Diego in the early 70s at 3rd
Battalion as a Drill Instructor. It always made me so proud
and grateful to know that there were parents that brought up
young men so that they were willing to put themselves in our
hands to be molded into Marines. I know that it wasn't easy for
all concerned, especially the recruits. I just wanted to say
Thank You to all parents of Marines, past and present, and all
who are so willing to voice support for our warriors. Please
keep raising good young men and women. In that way you are
directly contributing to preserving our freedom and our way of
life.
Alex Rodriguez
1stSgt, USMC, Retired
Dear Sgt Grit;
After my son went to boot camp in May, I spent the next 2 months
researching Marines and other related websites on the internet.
This is how I found your newsletter. I still have a hard time
reading your stories without shedding a tear. There is a special
bond between those who have or are currently serving and
families of those members.
I attended my son's graduation last week; the event was
something I will remember for a long time. My pride in my son is
enormous, as he is now part of this elite group of men and women
who have chosen to place the freedom of future generations above
their own selfish agendas. While the morals of our country seem
to be on a decline, it is refreshing to find there are some who
still place value on integrity and professionalism.
After graduation, we drove to FL for some R & R and had a
‘celebratory dinner' at our clubhouse in Ft. Myers. While
dressing for dinner, I asked my son to wear his dress blues.
When we arrived, the reception he received was nothing short of
amazing!
People came to shake his hand and thank him. We were sent a
bottle of champagne from a fellow "Marine brother", drinks, and
an endless stream of well wishers came by to say thank you or
other kind words. It was difficult for my son to eat with all
the interruptions, but each time he stood up, shook their hands,
and spoke with them. These people were strangers, but the common
bond they all share in support of those who protect us was
heartwarming and touching.
To all of you out there - fighting for those who sit home taking
what you do for us for granted - we appreciate your courage and
dedication more than you will ever know.
THANK YOU and GOD BLESS YOU!
Josh's Mom 2nd Battalion, Golf Co. Platoon 2054
I am the proud wife of a Motor T Operator in the Marine Corps
and well we have a few company t-shirts over the years, and a
few have a couple of phrases on them. I told my husband this
morning as I was reading your newsletter you guys needed
help..this was at 5:00 over coffee...yes I still get up at 4:00
am and make the morning coffee, get his cammies together and
make his coffee to go for the day. We thought about some but as
being married to a Marine, most of them had "explicit" wording
in all of them that he could think of, but that's my husband.
Sgt. Rennhack just had his 9 year anniversary with joining the
Marine Corps on July 27, 1999. I am very proud of him and all
that he does.
During his second tour in Iraq we had our first daughter Bailey
and he came home from Iraq to a beautiful 6 week old daughter
and she has been the light of his life since the day he saw her
on his computer thousands of miles away. Just like any other
proud dad he should her off to everyone while over seas and came
home and hasn't stopped. Bailey is even in with the local Barber
shop on Sunday mornings hearing the local gossip at only 11
months now and gets to have her "daddy time" with all the boys.
We are currently expecting our second daughter September 26, 2008 just two weeks after our daughter Baileys 1st birthday of
September 11. What a day to have a baby!
We have left the fleet for a few years with now being stationed
at Fort Leonard Wood where he is currently a Motor T Instructor
for the next 3 years. We both can not wait to see him back in
the fleet doing what he does best...
Here is a phrase the Motor T guys who drove wreckers (hemit?!?)
'Your stick it, we pick it" "Can't truck it, F*ck it"
As I said in the start of this letter we are doing this at 5 am
over coffee...can't make him think to hard to early! And he is
sitting here playing with our daughter who is just as motivated
as he is this early in the morning. Cadence is a everyday
morning routine around here, she does her war cry and daddy
loves every minute of it!
Here are a few pictures of my motivated Marine family. Thanks
for you time and Semper Fi.
Megan Rennhack & Sgt. Adam Rennhack USMC 99-current
Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri
P.S. Remember the Marines lead the way, the Army just follows
"The God who gave us life, gave us liberty at the same time; the
hand of force may destroy, but cannot disjoin them."
Thomas Jefferson
Dear Sgt. Grit, In your 28 Aug newsletter you ran two photos of
an AV8b Harrier that were submitted by GySgt Eddie Puente with
VMA-311 Ordnance Division, currently deployed to Al Asad, Anbar
province, Iraq. My son, PFC Bryant Combs, is also with VMA-311
Ord. Div., and he had previously sent me a picture of the same
bird with an honored guest. At least part of the reason the jet
was painted in its current scheme was to commemorate the
February '08 visit to MCAS Yuma by (former) Marine/NASA
Astronaut/Ohio Senator John Glenn and his wife Annie (notice the
name painted beneath the canopy in this photo). Senator Glenn
flew with VMA-311 in Korea. It's comforting to know that the
Marines are putting the Harrier to good use rather than saving
it as a display piece.
Brent Combs
Canal Fulton, Ohio
P.S. I may not look so tough, but I raised a US Marine.
One of the great things about living in America is being able to
call yourself an "American". America has long been a name that
signifies strength, liberty, justice and an opportunity not just
for us but also for others. From Americas very beginning the
men, women and children that landed on these shores were
pioneers not bound by convention or illusion of greatness but
bound in the unity to form a great nation. The greatness that
comes to this country comes from these people. They found a safe
haven and the willingness to chart and implement even through
great hardship and misgivings a land that provided opportunity,
liberty and justice. These people set aside their differences
and worked together long and with great difficulty to accomplish
these goals. These brave men and women not only have endured but
gave their lives to see that this America would survive. The
greatness of America is in these people. They have fought wars
both world wide and civil and showed intrepidness and allegiance
to defend these values that we hold so dear. To establish a
heritage of bravery and honor so we could pass it on from
generation to generation. For many of these people it was a
dream that they would not see fulfilled but they knew that this
dream would endure and flourish and engender the next generation
to bear its burden. Like any family the American people would
often disagree among themselves but when confronted by a common
adversary they would band together in this adversity and fight
side by side to defend and protect their values and freedom to
show to other nations their ideas of integrity and
responsibility and the concerns for other people. This was the
foundation that America was built on. For generations America
was seen as dedicated, proud, generous, willing and able to
enter into any conflict where the rights and liberties of others
were infringed upon. This America has long given its bravest its
brightest and youngest to place it in the position of the
citadel of freedom and the symbol of hope for all. I salute
all. past, present and future men and women who take up the banner
of LIFE...LIBERTY and FREEDOM. I also salute my father Sgt.
Victor Dolemba (USMC 1941-1945)
Semper Fi
Sgt Adrian Dolemba (USMC 1964-1968) and forever a MARINE.
"The operations of the federal government will be most extensive
and important in times of war and danger; those of the State
governments, in times of peace and security."
James Madison
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Dearest Sgt. Grit,
Thank you first of all for your service. I have two sons in
Iraq. Our oldest is in the United States Army Motor T unit. And
our youngest United State Marine also Motor T. Both sons in Iraq
fighting for the freedom of so many. Their jobs are one of the
most dangerous in the service, the not knowing is what is hard
to know that they both are out late at night, it was not like
that when they lived at home, Ha Ha. But they are proud our
Marine received his first LOA letter and the pride we have in
our sons this day and time not all parents can say they are
proud of what there kids are doing. I want to thank all the
service men and woman. I enjoy your newsletter, the stories are
so great. I love to hear the old stories my Granddad was in the
Navy. I miss him so. Thanks for a place to remember and learn
what they do out there for us all.
Sincerely,
Proud parents of Pvt. Ronald E. Robinson
and LCpl Colt R Robinson
Sgt Grit,
I met my boyfriend about two years ago, and he's in MCRD right
now, about four weeks left. He enlisted with two of his good
friends, and they're all doing very well. Before my boyfriend
enlisted, I never really thought of all the people out there who
put their own lives on the line for people they don't even know.
When he joined, it gave me new light to those people. Now, at
work, on the streets; wherever I am, I always make a point of
telling every man and woman I know 'Thank you for your service.'
One of the boys' moms teases me all the time 'leave those poor
people alone! You're probably scaring them!' But I just look at
her and tell her, 'Nah.. They shake my hand back and look me in
the eyes and *normally* say 'you're welcome' but I've gotten a
few odd looks like 'you've got to be kidding... wait...
what!?!
I recently had to use duct-tape to fix the front bumper on my
car, and thought 'well, while I've got the duct-tape, I'll do a
little personalized decal work on the hood.... I get some kind-
of funny looks, but also some one-fingered waves. Like "cool but
I'm too lazy to really actually pay attention" :] Well, about
two days after the duct-tape fix, it came loose again while I
was driving to the mall to get something for him, and there was
an older gentleman who pulled over to help me tie it up with a
shoestring. :] He saw the USMC on the hood and asked, "Oh, who's
in the Marines?" I replied *very* proudly, "My boyfriend and two
of his good friends." He said, "Well good for them, pass on that
we're all proud of them and tell them good luck." "I will." He
finished tying the shoestring to the bumper, and we went our
separate ways.
It makes me so happy when people are thanked for putting their
lives on the line for others, and I'm glad I'm one who thanks
them. They aren't thanked nearly enough sometimes, and sometimes
they are even bashed for it... One of the boys' moms was at a
gas station a couple of days ago, and the man behind the counter
had a hat or something on, I can't remember what she told me.
But she knew that he had served, and it turned out it was in
Vietnam (I think - I wasn't there). Well there was another woman
at the next cashier who was bashing the troops a bit and just
carried her mouth and ended up saying to my friend's mom, "Well
if you support the troops that much, why don't YOU go over
there?" my friend's mom just looked at the man behind the
counter and said "Thank you, sir, for your service" and left.
I guess the point to this was just to say that it's really not
that hard to go a few inches outside your shell to say thank you
to a serviceman or woman.
Semper Fi!
Lindsay
"Here comes the orator! With his flood of words, and his drop of
reason."
Benjamin Franklin
To Proud Marine Wife from Texas You are not alone, you just
haven't found the others. 38 years after leaving the Corps, I
am always surprised to find out who I live among. If you don't
ask, and some times even if you do ask, you never find out that
that guy at Walmart was in Korea, or that lady at the pharmacy
was a Navy nurse. Everywhere in this country there are patriots
that have server in one way or another. Go find them. In
addition to that, there is Sgt. Grit and this web site! To
Poolee Hucks Follow your heart. You will always be prouder of
Your accomplishments than other's advice.
Sgt. Ward, USMC 1971-1975.
I want to report the passing of my half-brother, Doyle Dean
O'Bannon. He died from a heart attack in Paris, TX at the age of
63. My brother was a Marine who served during the Cuban Missile
crisis. Next to my father, he was the toughest man I ever knew
and was sharp in mind and body. When I lost my father in a car
accident when I was 13, my brother moved back home to help me
and our mother. He taught me the value of an education and love
of family. He did not look for trouble and didn't back down
when confronted by it. He truly inspired me by his example to
join the Marines in 1974 and we shared the title of Marine
together making our bond that much closer. I miss my brother
but know he watches over all of us while walking his post on the
streets of heaven.
Semper Fi and God bless the Marine Corps!
Julian P. Etheridge SSgt USMC 1974-1985
"Nothing is more essential to the establishment of manners in a
State than that all persons employed in places of power and
trust must be men of unexceptionable characters."
Samuel Adams
I'm not sure who actually said this; but, they are words that
every TRUE American should remember when they think about
spewing garbage about the brave men, and women, in the United
States Armed Forces. --"For those who have fought for it; Freedom has a flavor that the protected will never know."--
Unless you are willing to stand where the Service member is, and
do the same job knowing that someday they might not come home to
their families - KEEP Your MOUTH'S SHUT ! Freedom is not; nor
will it ever be, FREE. Brave men and women have been dying for
it for centuries. What they continually fail to comprehend is
that it's the shedding of that blood that allows them the right
to say whatever they want to. My brother, and I, are both former
Marines. My mother (God rest her soul) sat at home through the
80's, and watched and waited as one of us would be deployed, and
one of us would come home. We were never there at home at the
same time. We are the few. We are the proud. And that is why we
ARE The Marines.
This in loving memory to all my fallen brothers and sisters.
Douglas Gersch
Every time, I hear that a Marine was injured, or killed in the
war I am angry no one has the right to injury, or kill my
Marines. I feel they are all mine. I grew up spending summers on
Pendleton in Del use homes. My Father was a Montford Point
Marine in WW ll and he had a friend from his service days who is
now deceased and I stayed with him and his family during the
war games in the summers and he was a career Navy Corpsman
named Berry Woods. I remember the fliers that were sent out
telling us kids not to pick-up ammo, and baby rattle snakes were
very poisonous. To show the readers how long ago it has been I
am now in my fifties, and my father is also deceased as of 2000.
Derrick W. Streets
"Battle is the most magnificent competition in which a human
being can indulge. It brings out all that is best; it removes
all that is base. All men are afraid in battle. The coward is
the one who lets his fear overcome his sense of duty. Duty is
the essence of manhood."
General George Patton
To Judy Quinn,
They were the first ones to shut you up and tell you they didn't
do anything special, but your Father is a man to be commended
and revered as a Hero, as were the many Marines who waded into
the fray on that island (my Dad included)...if you do a bit of
searching I believe you will find that your Father and/or his
Unit, Battalion, Regiment, or Division were awarded certain
honors after the war years when the true tally of actions was
finally totaled.
My Dad came home wearing the five ribbons he earned, (some
earned two, three and five times over on different campaigns),
I buried him with the nine he actually earned (with the proper
number of subsequent issues for each). It does take some
detective work and having his DD-214 with will help.
If I can be of any service, please feel free to contact me.
Semper Fi, Ken Heath
Request a Free DD-214
"Nothing is more exhilarating than to be shot at without
result."
Winston Churchill
I have one son at Camp Lejeune with the 2nd Mar Div 3/9 Kilo Co.
He has been a Marine since 2005 and is now a Sergeant and squad
leader. My youngest son is going to MCRD on Sept 15th to serve
his country, we are so proud of these young men and all of our
servicemen who have stepped up in defense of our freedom.
Scott and Cheri Legaard, Coeur d' Alene, Idaho
To Sgt. Redfield's girlfriend, Malia--
OOH-frickin-RAH, honey! Thank you for being a strong woman in a
world full of people afraid to stand up for what they believe
in, and most importantly, what they LOVE. It takes a strong man
to be a Marine, and a strong woman to love one. I'm not sure my
reaction would have been as contained as yours had a prissy girl
in a "USMC- United States Massacre Cover-Up" shirt accosted me
with my blood already pumped up in the gym, so I applaud you for
not knocking some sense into her, when she clearly needs some.
"Sometimes it is entirely appropriate to kill a fly with a
sledge hammer." Your man is protecting her right to be
ignorant, so take pride in having one of the few good men! And
if you're gonna be safe by sleeping with a Marine, go the full
mile and conserve water by showering with one! : ) You make us
all proud.
Lauren McCluskey
I would like to start out by saying I am a PROUD MARINE MOM! I
gave my only son to the Corps. He has been the apple of my eye
from the moment I laid eyes on him. When he was thinking about
enlisting in the service when he was only 16 we sat down and
discussed all his options and his future after the Corps. As a
single mom I always think about his future and pray that it is
not as difficult as mine. His enlistment started over 4 years
ago. The separation from my son during boot camp and the
knowledge that I could not speak to him the entire time was a
difficult one. I surprised him during family day (arriving a day
before graduation) it was one of the most amazing days of my
life. Graduation day filled me with such pride, my heart was so
big and beaming, a tear comes to my eyes each time I think of my
little man and how proud he was to be a Marine. How proud he was
to wear the uniform. And how proud I was of him!
The next difficult thing was letting him go to Iraq, like I
actually had a choice. I worried and became a "cloud person" for
those 18 months, I went through the motions but was not there, I
left the Christmas tree up until the following April and still
had all his gifts under it. It was what I thought at the time
one of the hardest most worrisome times of my life. This man,
left behind two adoring sisters, a mother and grandmother, and
two very special uncles, we all worried the entire time. It was
then that I realized that not only do our servicemen and women
sacrifice themselves, but the families left behind sacrifice
too. I may have lost a little boy in the process, but I gained
much more, I gained hundreds of thousands of family members,
gained the understanding that there is no greater call than to
want to stand up and protect our country. I have more Marine
Corps stickers, blankets, shirts than most single moms, I go out
of my way to thank every servicemen and women for there service
to this country, and each time I tear up, no matter what branch
they serve in.
My older brother recently passed away and he too was in the
service. When taps was played at his funeral and they announced
that the President of The United States wanted to thank my
family for my brothers service to his country, all I could think
about was one day hopefully not in my lifetime, the President
would be thanking my family for my sons service in the Corps. My
brother was so very proud of my son and called him son. My son
did not wear his dress blues to the service, did not announce to
anyone that he had to take leave to come home for a funeral,
instead he stood among us as a family (and some of my son's
fellow Marines attended the service) and watched as my mother,
brother and I mourned the passing of his uncle. My son noticed
the little things, the way the flag was folded, the song of taps
and the handing over of the flag, they all did. He said at that
moment he was never so proud of his uncle, and his service to
his country.
It angers me when people don't understand why we are in a war,
why we care about such horrors in other countries, when they
should be more concerned with the fact that each one of us that
has a member in the service feels the pain when there is a
death, no matter what branch they serve in. A little boy whom I
raised was told that one day many people would be listening to
him that some day not only would he make a difference but that
America would take notice of this little boy that a single mom
raised while working 3 jobs. He has now become a man, and my
words have come back two fold. Not only is my son a Sgt in the
United States Marine Corps. but, now the whole world listens to
him. And every person that serves in the military, we hear and
feel their pain, their sorrow and their sacrifice every day.
I am proud to me an AMERICAN and Proud to be A MARINE MOM. I
thank each and every servicemen for there honor, courage and
commitment and most of all for there sacrifice. GOD BLESS
AMERICA and our MARINES!
Dawn Argue
Marine Mom of Sgt Edward J Smith Jr, USMC
"A revealing light is thrown on this subject through the studies
by Medical corps psychiatrists of the combat fatigue cases in
the European Theater. They found that fear of killing, rather
than fear of being killed, was the most common cause of battle
failure, and the fear of failure ran a strong second."
S.L.A. Marshall
Sgt. Grit,
I found your website a few weeks ago while searching for bumper
sticker that I saw around town. Come to find out it was one of
yours, and I immediately purchased it. Mostly because I live in
a state, full of people who love to preach pacifism and shout
against our troops, and I enjoy giving them a reason to honk
their horns and flip me off while I'm driving down the road.
I'm currently working on my last year at a community college and
have had to wade through countless protests and demonstrations,
against the war, against our boys, and ultimately against our
nation. More than once I've gotten into a standoff with a
classmate on the issues of the war, and terrorism, etc. These
people really have no idea what they're talking about and their
arguments fall apart so quickly it's almost laughable.
While I'm still angered when people say things against the
military, and against our president, I'm more tempted to laugh
at them then actually get upset by their words. I can rest
assured in the fact that I know the truth, and while they're
entitled to their own opinions, their own opinions are quite
decidedly wrong.
I myself am not a Marine, but my fiancé is and I'm extremely
proud of him. He's served in Iraq once and was due for a second
deployment but they decided to leave him behind, for which I am
glad. I can honestly say that I hold those women who've been
through multiple deployments in extremely high regard. They're
made of the same metal as their Marines, and both have my utmost
respect.
-Angie
"If we have an arms control agreement, the Russians will cheat.
If we have an arms race, we will win."
General Earle Wheeler
"It is far more important to be able to hit the target than it
is to haggle over who makes a weapon or who pulls the trigger."
Dwight D. Eisenhower
I'm sorry to hear about your Dad, times like this, is where are
best times of memory kick in, mine died back in 1993 a WW11
veteran, a Sgt at that, I have a letter from him dated back from
1945 from the 345th fighter squadron-350th fighter group, I read
the letter over and over when I get spare time, and try to
realize what he went threw for god and country. Again I express
my deepest sympathy for your lost.
Jeffrey Bataille
Oorah
I have a story to tell, My name is Juan Vasquez, I enlisted in
the Marine Corps before I finished high school in 1975 right
after Vietnam because I wasn't old enough, I was just 17. and my
parents had to sign for me. I had only planned to serve 4 years
but ended up doing two enlistments. My brother who is two years
younger than me enlisted and served six years, but three of my
younger brothers enlisted and all three saw action in Desert
Storm. My mother was nervous enough when I was in but to have 3
sons in the war at the same time, was tearing her apart. My only
other brother who couldn't serve because of medical problems and
wanted to join couldn't was killed also during that time, I
remember my brother being in Saudi Arabia and having to be
bought back thru hostile countries to attend his and my fathers
funeral who passed 6 months after my brother. I remember my mom
way passed her breaking point, but even with all the tragedy,
she was so proud to see my three brothers in their dress blues
and to know that they were all safe was a great relief . I just
want to say that I can say that my family is a Marine family and
will always be. My nephew, my sister's boy also joined the
Corps. This is the best organization I have ever been in and
when my brothers and I get together is like actually being back
in the Corps.
Juan Vasquez SSGT USMC
Kilo Co 3/5 1975-1978
Charlie Co 1/9
1979-1982
Semper Fi
"If civilians are going to be killed, I would rather have them
be their civilians than our civilians."
Stuart Symington
Dear Sgt Grit:
I'm an immigrant from La Havana, Cuba, and my wife is from Santa
Fe de Bogota, Colombia, we came to this wonderful, amazing and
awesome country nearly 32 years ago, I've worked most of my life
for Xerox Corp. in Mexico City, Santa Ana, Ca. and Rochester,
N.Y., I have two sons, my oldest one is Luis A. Rodriguez and
the youngest one is E. A. Rodriguez, for some reason my oldest
one went back to Mexico city with a brother of mine, with the
time he became a prominent Lawyer and nowadays he is a
successful Businessman; the youngest one stayed with us here in
California, finally he graduated from North Hollywood H S, in
1987, he always admired people in uniform, specially Marines;
for some reason my son started "hanging out" with the wrong
people, he dropped off H.S. on his sophomore year, I'm less
than proud to let you know, that he spent 2 years in the streets
of downtown Los Angeles, "dealing" and "doing" with not so good
"stuff"; on day, my brother in law, his uncle Pedro, saw him on
the street of downtown L.A. , approached my son and took him to
his place, where he offered a shower, warm food, clean bed,
clean clothes and help.
After a couple of weeks, my son E. was admitted in to this Rehab
clinic in California, it took him 8 months to get rid off his
addiction, then, one week before he's got discharged from Detox,
my brother in law, Pedro, went to visit him with a "friend" of
his, after this "friend" spoke to my son for nearly 3 hours, my
son told him he will have an answer to his "proposition" one
day before my son's Clinic dismissal, so it was the time for my
son to make the right choice for once in his life!
He had only 2 choices, going back to high school, graduate and
join the Corps, or simply he was going back to the streets
either Mexico City or La Havana, Cuba. But my son was determined
to be a better person and human being than he was before, so he
made the right choice! He joined the USMC at 29 palms in Camp
Pendleton, San Diego, Ca. graduated from boot camp in 1988,
then, he was deployed to the Saudi Arabian Desert, where he Met
former U.S. President Bush Sr. for Thanksgiving Day in 1988!
After his first tour ended in Afghanistan, he went to Quantico
for officer candidate school, he graduated as an officer, then,
he became 1LT USMC, after this, he was sent to Afghanistan
again, then Desert Storm, then he was stationed in Ramstein, AB
in Germany, then he was stationed at the US embassy in Mexico
City, after being there for 2 years, he received his orders to
be deployed to Mogadishu, Somalia, where he got injured on duty
and his lovely and amazing military career finished...
all I have to say to you now is;
God bless the Corps! thanks for believe in my son and given
the opportunity to fight and defend "my country" , "our country"
Semper fi
Cuban-Colombian Marine Dad Luis J Rodriguez
Ms. Peckham; I have been a Marine for 40 years tomorrow. I can
relate to you about the response we receive for showing our
pride in the Corps. My response to civilians who haven't got
the sense God gave a turnip is to face them and say,
"I am willing to fight to the death for your right to express
your opinion, are you?"
Most of the time the only response is a shocked expression and a
hasty retreat. That's why we are "The Few, The Proud, The
Marines".
Semper Fi
Cpl. Mark Lanz, USMC Ret. University RSVN, '69 graduate
"The mere absence of war is not peace."
John F. Kennedy
Sgt Grit,
I saw on "greatest Marine" comments a vote for Sgt Kenneth D.
Midkiff who gave his life on Iwo Jima. It was posted by his
sister-in-law, Jean M. Midkiff on 8-14-08; 7:30:43 a.m. I
recognized this name. Sgt Kenneth D. "Katie" Midkiff was an
outstanding member and a squad leader in Lt Keith Wells 3rd
Platoon, Easy Company, 2 BN, 28th Marines, 5th Division on Iwo.
Lt Wells, of Abilene, TX still speaks highly of Sgt Midkiff as
do other members of this famous platoon. Lt Wells is spoken
highly of on numerous occasions in Bradley's book, Flag of Our
Fathers. However, more interesting books written about this
famous platoon are in which Sgt Midkiff is talked about are:
1)--The Bloody Battle for Suribachi, by Richard Wheeler, who was
also a member of this platoon. Wheeler currently resides in
Pennsylvania. 2)--Lt Keith Wells also wrote an outstanding
book, Iwo Jima: Give Me Fifty Marines Not afraid to Die. Both
Wheeler's and Wells' book are written in the first person which
makes them even more remarkable.
Wheeler was standing next to Sgt Ken Midkiff when Lt Wells
uttered his famous challenge [the sub title of his book] . Sgt
Midkiff turned to his squad and commented, "and do you know
what? You're one of the fifty". Little did they know the fate
that would soon be theirs and they would become part of the
outstanding history of the USMC, e.g. "that flag Guarantees a
Marine Corps for the next 500 years". This one platoon was
awarded , 1 MOH, 3 Navy Crosses, 1 Silver Star, 1 Bronze Star
and over 110% Purple Hearts. Until Viet Nam this was the most
highly decorated single unit in a combat action in the history
of the USMC.
The 3rd Platoon's story, in spite of its significance and it
drama, would remain relatively untold. The survivors of the
second flag raising would become national figures, while those
of the first flag raising would be forgotten. Marines and
admirers of Marines should read these two books.
To see pictures of the remaining members of Lt Wells platoon
please go to www.valorstudios.com and click on the Iwo Jima
picture [2nd row], then scroll down and click on "photo essay"
for even more pictures. These pictures are from a reunion that
we organized for these wonderful Marines in 2006 where they were
guests of honor of Gen Pace, as well as President Bush with
breakfast at the White House and Veterans Day ceremonies at
Arlington. We had another DC reunion in 2007 where they were
greeted by Commandant Conway.
I applaud Mrs. Midkiff for voting for her brother in law and
allowing this improbable connection.
submitted by:
Richard D. Sallee Oklahoma City, OK Father of
1Lt Erik Sallee, Infantry, USMC
Marines never really die, I mean their bodies do, but their souls
will always live on. He's probably doing some stuff, for that
man up stairs. God only chose the best there is, and who is
better that your dad. My dad pass away in 2001, and mom, 2006.
They are greatly miss, but their memories will always live on.
Thru us, and our children. Marines, do make a difference in
one's life. Gods speed R Alexandre.
LCPL Marines, 1st Lieut USAF Aux
"The world needs anger. The world often continues to allow evil
because it isn't angry enough."
Bede Jarrett
From the Department of Veterans Affairs in Washington, DC, from
a friend who works there: There were 2.65 million who served in
Vietnam. 1.25 million are left as of last year...dying at a rate
of 390 per day. This is a faster rate than WW II vets at the
same age group. There are 9 million within the VA system
claiming to have been in Vietnam.
I can probably guess that at least 3 million were TDY / TAD over
a 15 year period. That leaves 4-5 million f*cking liars.
Troops' encounter at DFW with Nastia Liukin, Gold Medal Olympian
Hi All...
Just wanted to share a wonderful experience with you.
My wife, Susan, and I work every Thursday as volunteers with the
USO's "Operation Sendoff" at DFW airport, working with troops on
their way back from R&R to Iraq/Afghanistan.
This past Thursday (8/21), the outbound flight was delayed.
While the troops were waiting to board, Nastia arrived at the
next gate, with all her retinue, photographers, security, etc.
They left the "secure area"; but when Nastia learned of the
outbound troops, she turned around, came back through TSA
Security, and came to the gate to see the troops.
She was incredibly gracious, took time to hug several, posed for
photo's with the troops and families who had come to see them
off, and seemed delighted to have had the opportunity to be with
them.
There just aren't words to explain how thrilled the troops were
that she came back, just for them, and showed such genuine
affection and concern for them and their families. It was a
thrilling experience for us to see.
Her concern for the troops and generosity of spirit shown by her
actions reflected beautifully on the quality of her upbringing,
her character, and the conviction of her appreciation.
She will always be a true Gold Medalist to those soldiers,
Marines, airmen, and sailors, and to us.
May God bless the United States of America.
Jay Graham USMC, 1953 - 56 Arlington
"I am not so senseless as to want war. We want peace and
understanding, nothing else. We want to give our hand to our
former enemies...When has the German people ever broken its
word?"
Adolf Hitler
To Malia Lape Girlfriend of Sgt. Redfiekd
Dear Malia, Good for you! The girl that you spoke of is clearly
disrespectful of our Marine Corps. Duly noted and respectfully
so was your recognition of her right as a free person to
disrespect our beloved Corps. That having been said ,it is
probably not her fault that she is a free idiot as well. She is
one of many that have the luxury of having been so protected all
of her life that she can not only take her freedom for granted ,
but also not be educated historically enough to know why it is
that she has the freedom to disrespect our Corps. and not be
beheaded for what would clearly be a severe crime in other
countries . Look at the bright side .She may move to Baghdad
some day and say bad things about the military their as well.
Semper Fi girl,
Dellarocco, Dennis, B. U.S.M.C. 3rd Maine Division,
Vietnam, I Corps. 1968-1969
Dear Sgt. Grit:
I was a Navy Corpsman in "B" 1/26 at Khe Sanh, and spent most of
my enlistment with the USMC. I have been watching this new HBO
series Generation Kill that is based on a book that was supposed
to have been written by a Marine. To me the show seem very
disrespectful to the Marine Corps, with officer arguing in front
of the enlisted men, and the Gunny talking disrespectful to the
Platoon Commander. I can't even imagine a corpsman telling the
Company Commander he is incompetent. This doesn't sound like
the Marine Corps I was with in Viet Nam. I would like to here
what others think of this show. Is it all Hollywood crap or is
this the way things are today.
Thanks. Gary "Doc" Antoine
"Long, continuous periods of peace and prosperity have always
brought about the physical, mental and moral deterioration of
the individual."
Bradley A. Fiske
Sgt Grit, I know this is not exactly down your alley, but I
thought you could help spread the word. I live just outside of
Chicago, and just started a new job at a place called A Piece A
Cake Bakery, owned by a former Marine senior DI and his wife a
former Marine MP. I found them on the internet because of
"Operation Sweet Tooth" a program they started. Anyone with
family or friends overseas can send cookies to their loved ones,
only paying shipping, the bakery donated the cookies and all
shipping materials. Unlike many other companies no profit is
made for the bakery, and that means a lot to me, even though
they both already served their country, they feel they can do
more, even if it costs them a little, it is worth it to them.
here is their website with all the info, please do with it what
you think best.
piece-a-cake-bakery.com
Thanks for the help.
Semper Fi,
Michael A. Weiss Cpl USMC 2000-2004
This year, I was among the 149 WWII veterans from my area who
were provided a free trip to Washington DC to view the WWII
Memorial there as well as many other memorials, Iwo Flag
Raising, Korean Memorial, Vietnam Wall, the Air Force takeoff
and a greet visit with many dignitaries.
We flew from St. Louis to Baltimore, then by bus to DC with a
food stop in Laurel Maryland on the way back to catch the flight
home. A real Memorial trip. I got to know dozens of other trip
takers at a Honor Flight get together at the Washington, MO Fair
on Sunday when over 100 of us were guests of honor at the fair.
What a great reaction we received during the flight and at the
fait.
George Boots Weber, US Marine Corps, 1944-46,
"God and the politicians willing, the United States can declare
peace upon the world, and win it."
Ely Culbertson
Poolee Hucks,
I read your submission to the American Courage # 181 newsletter
and wanted to offer this in reply.
If your parents will not support your decision to join the
finest organization of patriotic Americans, become a member of
the strongest brotherhood in existence, and to serve the finest
country in the history of the world then I know that many
Marines, including me, will gladly accept you as a son.
As Marines we all know what we want and how to get it...stand on
those Yellow Footprints. Do it, no matter what those in your
life may say to dissuade you. You have made a decision that
will change your life dramatically for the better and you have
the support of everyone that has ever earned the Eagle, Globe,
and Anchor. You will share a pride, sense of duty, and devotion
to the Corps for the rest of your life upon graduation for boot
camp.
You owe it to yourself to complete this mission. Stand tall and
proud. No matter what others may say for you will know that you
have accomplished what the naysayer wouldn't dream of trying.
You will become a United States Marine and NO ONE can ever take
that away from you.
R. Kiser USMC/USMCR '65-'71
.....
This for Poolee Hucks; That you are facing this trial alone
save your girlfriend only reflects two things. The lack of
knowledge of your family and friends, the pay is the same in all
branches of services, what you are rewarded with is the
challenge of becoming a Marine. Our Hymn clearly states "We are
proud to claim the title of United States Marine", for those who
don't know never will, for those who do carry it with them for
the rest of their lives. Your willingness to accept the
challenge says a lot about you and your character, I'd be proud
to have you as my son and brother in arms. Carry on young man.
CEC Patrick S. Corrie USN RET
74-94 Sgt
USMC 67-71
.....
Poolee Hucks, Stand Proud. You're taking the first steps on a
life changing and life long journey.
When my son announced he was joining the Marines, my wife and I
were immediately supportive. His grandmothers and aunts were
decidedly not supportive. They harangued, cajoled, attempted
bribery, etc. Until I forcibly told them to either support him
1000% in his decision or they had to remain silent. Actually I
used shorter and less polite words.
Feelings were strained while my son was in Boot. But when they
saw the outstanding young man who came home from MCRD they were
stunned. Now his biggest supporters are those who first tried
to talk him out of joining the Marines.
Stand Proud, poolee Hucks. Your family will come around. If
they don't you're joining the largest family in the world and we
all support you in your decision to be a Marine.
Ryan Pridgeon
Father of Cpl Jacob Pridgeon
.....
Sgt. Grit:
This is in response to Poolee Hucks (Newsletter #181) and I am
sure that you will receive many like it, so I will be brief.
Poolee Hucks: there is no amount of money that could ever, ever
replace the life-long pride and self-respect that you will feel
as a Marine. It is almost 40 years since I left the USMCR and it
is a rare day that I don't think of how lucky I am that I was
privileged to wear that uniform and walk tall among the
greatest. If you ultimately choose to make the Marines your
career, that will be wonderful, but, if not, the lessons you
will have learned, the pride and motivation you will have gained
will all contribute to success in whatever other avenues you
select to pursue.
Don't listen to anyone who has not served in the Marine Corps.
They have no idea!
Oohrah - Semper Fi!
(fmr) Sgt. Rick Feinstein 2070029 10 Dec 63 - 10 Dec 69
.....
"There is no amount of money that could replace the pride you
will carry through your life from being a Marine."
Joe USMC,
63-66
.....
Poolee Hucks
Only you can make the decision to become a U.S. Marine, and when
all is said and done you can be assured that should you chose to
follow through with your desire that you will have made the
correct decision, true if you are in it for the money you will
not become a millionaire but the comrades in arms that you will
earn and the esprit de corps that is earned will be far more
than money can buy. Listen to others and let them run your life,
listen to your heart and make your decision, only you can do
that. When you graduate from MCRD you will know if you made the
correct decision or not, until that time will you understand
that of which I speak.
Sgt John A. Alvarado USMC 1967-1971
Once a Marine always a Marine
"I never expect to see a perfect work from imperfect man."
Alexander Hamilton
Sgt. Grit:
This is just a short note to thank you for the good work you are
doing with the newsletter. Being an old timer and having served
on the USS Randolph CVA-15 as captains orderly and supply NCO
with the Marine Detachment I never had the chance to see combat.
Reading your newsletters about the young and old Marines has
really brought out the best of this old Marine. I love the
Corps. and what it taught me about life. I still wear my Marine
Corps. ring and my retired USMC cap, and my truck proudly
displays the USMC plate and Semper FI on the back window.
Everywhere I go people say Hi and Semper Fi. Tears come to my
eyes when a young Marine comes up to me and congratulates me and
then a Semper Fi. This is what the Corps is all about and the
words there is never an ex. Marine is so true. Keep up the good
work and I look forward to all the info. you can pass on to me.
SEMPER FI
Ron Iman Sgt of the Marines (RET) 1955-1959
My husband is a former Marine. He was in from 1969-1973
including Parris Island. I don't know all the details and
company names he was in-- as to many years have come and gone.
but my husband (SGT.John Williams) served as a PMI (Permanent
marksman Instructor at Parris Island) from 1971-1973. John also
went through boot camp there on the island..from Nov. until Jan.
1970. We were married in June 1970 and soon afterward he was
sent on the med cruise for 6 months. What a way to start married
life as a young couple. John actually was scheduled to go to
Viet Nam. He even had orders to go. But thanks to a friend of
John's, he saw John's name on a paper and sent John to Okinawa
instead for a year. This man knew John and I had just been
married a short time and had already been apart for 6 months..He
thought it would be better for us if Johnny didn't go to
Nam..So off to Okinawa for another year. When John returned from
Okinawa he got a 30 day leave then we traveled to Parris Island
once again to start our new life together.. We spent a year and
half apart..Now that was a tough way to start out any life!
I will never forget coming to Parris Island as a young wife--of
19 years old. I remember getting to ride to base one afternoon-(
Not knowing what my husband actually did for his job). What a
eye opener! Scared me to death! And I wasn't even a Marine!
There were new recruits learning to shoot a gun! I got a rare
look at the shooting range- the pits-and lots and lots of
recruits! I couldn't believe the noise and oh so many young men
with rifles in their hands! My husband wore a DI Hat also! I
don't know how many men went through this part of basic training
- but I know it was a bunch! They would try to qualify to shoot
every two weeks. These recruits would be sent to my husband -
who seemed- could not shoot at all. They would send them to Sgt.
Williams. He would get them to some how shoot those rifles!
While some guys cried- never having held a gun--- let alone
shoot one! And there were quite a few who had never been away
from the farms and suburbs. So a lot of the PMI's would just
want to let them go. Not John - they were a challenge to him, to
get them qualified!
John was very good at teaching. He must have had the patient of
JOB! Because each couple of weeks--he would come home and tell
of one man after the other who had finally learned to shoot.
Even when other PMI's couldn't get them qualified - John could!
That was awesome! John also earned a marksman ribbon himself.
As a young Marine wife-- I had seen so much on the Island. And
heard so much! Lord the cussing -- wow! Where did people learn
that language? It amazed me how much they would be cussing-yet
when I walked up near the men-- they'd say "there's a lady among
us"! "Watch your language"! I really thought that was great
considering they were all being cussed at constantly! I also got
and up close and personal tour of the DI's yelling! Lord my mom
could yell, but not like DI's! That was something to
experience!
John has been out of the Marines since 1973. We did make a trip
back to Parris Island about 5 years ago, Things had changed
there, some of the old buildings were still there..and recruits
were still learning how to shoot. I think John would loved to
show the ones who they thought couldn't qualify ---to give him
his old job back! Let him show them how it is done! That these
men could be taught! I am proud to say I was a Marine's wife and
still after all these years, to say my husband was a Marine!
John still loves it when people recognize his being a former
Marine..
- Semper Fi!
OOH RAH! God Bless all the Marines and the wives who wait for
them!
"The timid, civilized world has found nothing with which to
oppose the onslaught of a sudden revival of barefaced barbarity,
other than concessions and smiles."
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn
Sgt. Grit,
I recently received the special edition shirt commemorating the
2001 attack on the United States at the Ground Zero in New York
City. In the picture are the USMC Eagle Globe and Anchor and
the core components of Honor, Courage and Commitment along with
the Twin Towers. I connected to the shirt immediately.
My son James is a United States Marine and a soon to be Corporal
who is at Camp LeJuene in Motor Transport and I am a Chief of
Police in Minnesota and am retiring at the end of September 2008
after 34 years of service.
For sixteen years I have also been involved as a Critical
Incident Stress Debriefer, helping those officers who have been
involved in critical incidents. My job is to keep these
officers in service after an incident by listening to them and
providing the information that what they are feeling and
experiencing is "a normal reaction to an abnormal event". The
whole debriefing lasts only a couple of hours but the pay off is
for a lifetime. The officers control the content and we lead
them in and lead them back out again.
I volunteered to work with a unit of the New York City Police
Department and was assigned to Ground Zero and the City Morgue
in the above capacity. The officers we had contact with were
either present at the time of the attack or responded within two
hours to the scene and the majority witnessed the planes hit the
buildings. The work was intense and we ourselves were debriefed
twice during our stay because of the impact of the sessions.
Just for an example of how the attack affected more than the
United States, we worked with a Canadian Police team who also
traveled at their own expense to help.
The last debriefing of this team took several hours because of
the impact of their turn at the City Morgue. The procedure at
the morgue was that when remains that were identified as police
or fire would enter the morgue, all in attendance would stop and
form up and salute. The Canadian Team was having a hard time
coping with this and the matter was handled on their final
debriefing as they headed home. Thanks to our allies in this
fight, we appreciate your support.
The shirt does a good job of combining the experience I had and
the USMC has in the fight against terrorism.
On another matter, I had no idea of the family bond that would
happen as a result of James earning the title of United States
Marine. We attended his graduation at San Diego on November
2007 and marveled at his transformation. We owe so much to the
Drill Instructors that words cannot describe it. Even former
teachers cry when we show his USMC graduation pictures to them.
He has always been a great person but he now has a purpose that
he believes in strongly thanks to the outstanding training he
has had.
James will not be able to attend my retirement but he has asked
our local recruiter to stand in for him as a member of our
family. I hope they can make it.
God Bless,
Mike Pulis
Chief of Police
North Mankato, MN
Dear Sgt. Grit, I enlisted in the Marine Corps in April of 2001,
before I even graduated high school. At that point in my life,
becoming a Marine was the only thing that I wanted to do with my
life. I had always wanted to be a warrior, and felt that
joining would be the best thing I could do. Well, I landed on
Parris Island that following November, and although I broke my
foot about halfway through, I graduated a U.S. Marine 22 Feb.
2002 from Papa company, platoon 4004. Unfortunately, my stress
fracture was not diagnosed until the first week of MCT at
Lejeune, and up until that point I had been told it was
tendonitis. To make a long story short, I decided to end my
career in the Marines, and was discharged June of 2002. Due to
my fracture, I have now developed arthritis, and don't foresee
myself reconciling my decision. I have been back and forth ever
since then on my decision to leave the Corps. I felt that I was
useless to the Corps since my fracture did not heal correctly,
but at the same time I told myself that I took the weak way out
and could have sucked it up and served my initial 6 year
enlistment and came back for more. Nothing I have done since
then has given me any closure on my decision, and I'm not even
sure I can really call myself a Marine. I feel like I did not
earn it. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Amanda E. Jones
"If liberty means anything at all, it means the right to tell
people what they do not want to hear."
George Orwell
Poolee Hucks I hope you read this:
Follow your heart no matter the obstacles. If you feel it's
necessary to join the Marines then do it. At the end of the day
you have to be able to look at yourself and be proud of the
decision you made. If those that say they love you really do,
they will get over their understandable fears for you and be
proud of you as well. I have twin cousins who are Marines; one
just came back from his 2nd and final tour in Iraq. I can't
tell you how proud I am of both of them. I wear an American
flag and a yellow ribbon pin everyday for my cousins and the
rest of our military past, present, and future. Trust me, no
matter the decision you make your family will come around.
Thank you for enlisting and doing what I don't have the guts to
do. You are one of many who make me proud to call myself an
American. God bless our country, and God bless our troops.
Proud American & Proud Marine Cousin,
Shannon N. Williams
This is for Poolee Hucks
First off tell your family members that the services all pay the
same. It's been that way for a LONG time. At least since there
was a Department of Defense (50+ years). Where they got the idea
the Marine Corps paid less would be interesting to hear. In
fact, depending on your MOS in the Marines you're more likely to
get paid extra for TAD, hazard pay, flight pay, etc etc
etc...but you might not want to mention that to mom and the
other nannies. With all due respect for your mom tell her to put
up or shut up. If I had followed my mom's advice 11 years ago I
wouldn't have joined the Marine Corps. I'd have probably gone
off to college, partied my butt off, and then flunked out as
there was nothing in my mind about going to school at that
point. Didn't even interest me. However it was part of her
"plan" for my future. You've got to do what you feel you have to
do and your plan is a h&ll of a lot better than some others such
as "join the peace corps", "backpack across Europe", "party my
butt off", and other futile efforts. Be proud of your decision
and don't doubt it. Also give that girl of yours a big hug for
staying at your side through this. Semper Fi sir and keep it up.
At worst you have to endure these insipid comments until you're
18 and graduated so just keep your head down and keep moving. I
knew more than a few guys who slept on their recruiter's couches
for a few nights before they left for bootcamp so don't think
you're the only one who's been in this situation.
Cpl Andrew Mathias 97-01
(And d*mn proud to have frustrated more than a few teachers and
family members.)
"I would like to take you seriously, but to do so would affront
your intelligence."
William F. Buckley Jr.
Today is the day that my boyfriend, my Marine, boarded a plane
and left the safety of the United States to go fight for our
amazing country in Iraq.
Iraq.
Iraq is a very frightening place for someone who is only a
teenager to go to armed with a SAW with the possibility of
having to use it on another human being. Crappy food, terrible
hot weather, no showers, heavy packs, risking his life, no
phones, no computer, no girlfriend, no family; and nothing he
could ever do would make me any more proud of him than I am
right now.
Now.
Now most girls would be crushed if their significant other left
them for boot camp, then SOI, then 2000 miles away to 29 stumps,
then to Iraq. But not this girl. I am so thankful for his
sacrifice and how selfless he is despite the rough conditions
and hazing. He never complains. The skills the Marine Corps has
instilled in my Marine were a wonder. His manners and the "yes
ma'ams" are highly appreciated and recognized.
Recognition.
Recognition is not something you get a whole lot of while
holding the title of "Marine Girlfriend" comparative with that
of a wife. I would be titled wife but his job commitment has
put planning the wedding on hold. Personally, I have the exact
same commitment in my heart as a wife but I hold no legal
status. I wait for his safe return everyday just the same and
pray just as hard every night. But yet if he makes the ultimate
sacrifice I will not be notified and I will not receive his
folded flag. I know all the acronyms, don't bat an eye at
military time and conversions from time zone to time zone, I
count down the days till he will be back in my arms, I sleep
with my phone set on high just in case I get a call at 3a, I
wear his dog tags close to my heart, swell with pride at the
sound of the star spangled banner or national anthem, hold down
two jobs while being a full time student with my head held high,
cry every time I see "the few the proud" billboard on I-69, my
favorite "man" is the mailman, I try to explain to civilians
what my man does and get blank stares because they don't
understand half of what I just said, I can pack a flat rate box
like it's no one's business, Semper Fi is my motto, I wake up in
the morning lay there for a few moments trying to swallow the
sick feeling in the pit of my stomach as I wonder where my
Marine is, or how he's doing, or if he is lonely like me.
But then I remember..... I'm not alone because while my Marine
my be far away in distance while we are apart, he will never be
far from my heart. I will gladly wait, no complaints here. I
don't need the recognition or legal status because I have my
Marine. I have love. And that's what its all about. God picked
the strongest women out there and made their match a Marine, and
I wouldn't have it any other way. Thank you to all of those who
have served and made the sacrifice, and their families, and even
the boy/girlfriends out there who root for our troops. We need
to stick together and be supportive.
Amelia
America, Love it or Leave it Bumper Sticker
There Are NO EX-MARINES Bumper Sticker
God Bless America!
Welcome Home Marine, Job Well Done
Semper Fi
Sgt Grit
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Be sure to add info@sgtgritnews.com to your address book or trusted senders list.
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) - More about the newsletter
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