In Boot Camp (1972), the very first thing Platoon Commander SSgt. J.R. Godfrey told us about the varying ethnic groups that made up Platoon 2014 was, "You're all green!" This would prove to be the first of many life lessons that would shape 62 hapless individuals into a cohesive unit and make it possible for us to survive Boot but more importantly, conquer life.
After my four year hitch I tackled several jobs until I settled in as a Texas Peace Officer for a 20 year career. I always knew the special bond us Jarheads had but it became abundently clear to me just how deep the "green" ran one night at the Emergency Room.
I answered a Combative Patient call and found the staff very nervous and with good reason. In the Psych Ward they had a younger, hardy individual who was tossing his exam room. He was extremely agitated. He had admitted himself but changed his mind and was heading for "out of control". He might hurt himself or others.
Back-up arrived as I observed his Marine Corps tattoo. Physically he was in shape, strong, and screaming threats that he looked capable of backing up. If reason failed, we would have to overpower him but I could see a physical confrontation could end badly for everyone concerned.
Non-threateningly, I apporached him alone with my hand extended. He became louder and threatening. Firmly, but not as an order I told him, "Stand down. Your're scaring people". I rolled up my sleeve and showed him my globe, eagle and anchor tattoo. Calmed somewhat, he demanded to leave. I advised him that he would have to remain to be examined and he started to amp it up again.
I told him we could mix it up if he wanted but I would get in trouble with my Sergeant if I ended up in "another" fight. His thinking was clouded but he slowly calmed and he overcame his overt actions. He still had issues, but shook my hand and told me he didn't want to do that.
He appologized to the staff and I checked up on him from time to time until he was examined. He received the treatment he needed without generating a Police report.
I have always given the Marine Corps training full credit for his loyalty and trust. Even though we were from different generations, when it mattered we were both still "green".
Kevin Kjornes, Sgt., USMC