Author: SgtGrit

Native New Yorker

Although I retired from the Army, I started my career in the Marines (more on that in future postings).  As a native New Yorker, retired soldier, and cousin of an NYPD officer and FDNY firefighter (both retired at this time), I was deeply moved by the last picture of the Camp Lejeune memorials in the June 9 newsletter.  I would like to take my own photograph of this, if the newspaper is still there.  If it is not, I will bring my copy of our local paper for the same day.  I won't leave it there, since I am keeping it as a reminder for myself.  read more

Marine Mom Tattoo

Hello my name is Tammy and my oldest is a marine. I don’t know if u can help or maybe give me an Idea on where I can find some dress blues buttons. Not new ones. Ones that can’t be used anymore on uniform. I have a projected I am workin on. I am makin a marine corp quilt for my son and want to incorp the buttons on the quilt. Hope you can help. Thanks so so much. Tammy Proud Marine mom read more

Army Backs Off Talk of Using Marine Camouflage Pattern

The Army claimed Tuesday that it's not looking to swipe the Marines' combat uniform, after a top official said in an interview that the branch might just use the same design over the Corps' objections. 

The Army is weighing different camouflage patterns as it moves to select a new set of uniforms. The older Universal Camouflage Pattern has been criticized as ineffective, and some soldiers see the Marine Corps' MARPAT (Marine Pattern) as vastly superior.  read more

NC Visit

Sgt Grit   A few weeks ago my wife and I vacationed at Emerald Isle, NC. While there I was given the opportunity to visit both Camp Lejeune and the Beirut/Vietnam Memorial in Jacksonville. I was stationed at Camp Lejeune back in the 70’s and this was the first time since I left to visit the base. I couldn’t believe how much it changed.   I’m attaching pictures of the Memorials so everyone can see what a beautiful job that was done for our Vet’s.    The Vietnam Memorial is made of Glass and the names are embossed on the glass.    As the sun shines through the glass it puts the names on the ground. It’s really something to see.    The Beirut Memorial is well made and also something to see. I was in the Marines in 1983 and was very interested as I knew some of the Marines on that wall.    There is also a steel beam from the World trade center located there. What made that really stand out was the news paper I saw posted on that steel beam. It’s also a must see. So here’s my pictures, enjoy…   Thanks to all who made those and all the Memorials possible.    Semper fi to all my Marine Brother’s and Sister’s out their past and present.    Michael P. England SSGT USMC 0369/8412/5811 1974-1985 G 2/3, I 3/3, B 1/2, G 2/2, C 1/1,  MP Co MCB Camp Lejeune,  RSS Gastonia, NC.  HQ 9th Mar. &  H&HS Station MCAS Cherry Point, NC.