I bought a fixer upper 7 years ago and was in the market to buy a front door. I ran into the proprietor Arthur who I noticed was wearing a USMC ring proudly. We shared sea stories. He not only gave me a great deal on a door, he gave me a copy this photo… to boot! He was proud and I made him mark where he was in the photo and sign the back of it. Stated that soon afterwards his unit was sent to Korea… I currently have it on top of my mantel at home.
Author: SgtGrit
Semper Fidelis Forearm Tattoo
Semper Fidelis forearm tattoo with Eagle, Globe and Anchor.
The Black Rifle
Sgt Grit,
Several stories have been posted recently about the Stoner rifles. Here's a little more info:
Eugene Stoner developed this rifle, and it had several variations. Most notably, the M16. He was the father of the M16. To fully understand the development and Vietnam problems with the M16, read the book "The Black Rifle", it's very informative. I met him once while working for Colt Firearms in the early 90's. He was also a WWII USMC Veteran.
My Version Of The Eagle, Globe, and Anchor
This is from the second session, got one more session to go.
Presley O’Bannon
We all learned about Presley O'Bannon in boot camp and if we've read any history about the war against the Barbary pirates we've learned more about him. His name is always spelled "O'Bannon". Does anyone know why his name on his tombstone in the Kentucky State Cemetery is spelled "O'Banion"?
2/4 in 1965-66 at Chu Lai
The attached photo is the original sign that was placed at the entrance to 2/4 in 1965-66 at Chu Lai. I recently received it from a 1st Division friend who also served during the same period and brought it home with him when he returned to CONUS. During the period this sign greeted all who entered 2/4's TAOR, the commanding officer was Lt. Col P. X. Kelly who later became the Commandant. Just want to share it with all who might remember, and remember the legacy of 2/4, second to none, the Magnificent Bast-rds.
Devil dogs
Hot devil dog tattoo.
Cartoon-like Drawings of Wars and Marines
I found this drawing that was like all the other cartoon like drawings of Wars and Marines. I thought maybe your readers might like to see what Marines thought like back then. Note the M60 Machine Gun on his shoulder and the Fierce Eyes and the way he carried Grenades.
Crossed Rifles
In reply to Brown Side Out, Green Side Out.
When I went into the Marines (Sept. 1959) the new rank structure was just getting started.
We had the M1 and BAR, hence the crossed rifles on the new chevrons. Since then we have gone through the M14 (I was on the Troop Test Program for this), the M16 (that got a lot of Marines killed in Vietnam), and a lot of new shooting irons since then that I can't keep up with. And there will be more to come.
Twelve and Twenty
January 1967 to February 1968, I was with 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Lima Co., 3rd Platoon, 3rd Squadron. This is my recollection of time in country. I would like to share it with my fellow Marines who served with me if any of you are still alive.