Author: SgtGrit

RPG Magnets

Ernie Cheatham was the CO of Task Force X-ray… the entire organization of Marines that were tasked to clear the City of Hue during the 1968 Tet "celebration". I do not know where he was during the first few days of the fighting… but suffice it to say that our four tanks spent the vast majority of our time serving as a shield for the hapless Marine grunts who were thrown into the meat grinder and with carrying the wounded to be medivaced or their lifeless bodies to Grave Registration. See the attached photos… read more

Edson’s Raiders

While reading the last newsletter, I noted several book recommendations by readers. One about Carlson's Raiders and another about Iwo.

I would like to add one more, which I consider one of the best narratives of the exploits (Guadalcanal, Tulai, Savo, etc.) of Edson's 1st Raider Battalion. The book is: Edson's Raiders: The 1st Marine Raider Battalion in World War II. read more

VMA(AW)533 Reunion

VMA(AW)533 celebrated a 45 year reunion, celebrating the last combat mission flown by VMA(AW)533, September 27,1969, out of Chu Lai. It was a tremendous reunion held at Cherry Point, that included a base tour sponsored by the base, a wonderful steak fry sponsored by VFW Post 7315 and banquet held at the Havelock Tourist and Event Center. read more

Showing Off Sgt Grit Swag

I bought the "get off my asz" sticker so I wouldn't have to worry about other drivers tailgating us. It makes me nervous when I have my girls in the truck. Sometimes it works. But I bought the pole holder off amazon. When I went to Home Depot. I met a young man with autism. It was his idea to not cut the 10 foot pipe. I agreed. He said two flags are more to see. When he saw the flags I put up. He gave me a hug. I will fly the flags I bought from you proudly. Thank you. I will send photos in November they go up with a new Autism awareness flag. Thank you again. read more

Reunited With Three Of My Vietnam Marine Brothers

Last month on August 14th I had the honor and privilege to reunite with three of my Vietnam Marine brothers in Tomball, Texas. We had not seen each other in 46 years! We traveled from Connecticut, Michigan, California, and Texas. After a few tears and mighty bear hugs we started jowl jacking like it had only been a week since we last met. We laughed and told stories about the funny stuff and practical jokes we did to each other in Chu Lai in 1967 and 1968. read more