Author: SgtGrit

Marines with 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group conducted field testing of a new Free Space Optics system at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 21.

FSO is an optical communication system that transfers data on a highly secured and nearly undetectable infrared laser, separate from the radio frequency spectrum. The FSO allows for higher data rates compared to the current systems in the Marine Corps. This allows more users on a single network, and larger files, imagery and information to be transmitted. read more

As the Marines Corps Hymn boasts, Marines must be prepared to operate in any clime and place whether it be a desert, mountains or anything in between. Each environment poses its own unique set of challenges but training in those environments helps to prepare Marines to overcome those challenges. The Marines of 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, took on a unique set of challenges in their latest field operation in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. read more

Sam Folsom, born July 24, 1920 in Quincy, Massachusetts, was one of the first echelon of 17 Marine fighter pilots with Marine Fighter Squadron 121 tasked with defending Guadalcanal. He is also one of the last living Marine Corps WWII combat pilot.

“I was lying in my bunk in Florida,” Folsom recalled. “I turned on the radio and it blared out ‘Pearl Harbor has been attacked’, so I did what any patriotic American would’ve done. I jumped to my feet, got dressed and ran to the door as fast as I could.” read more

I’ve been asked what this WW2 sleeve patch represents. It would seem to designate a Parachute Rigger. There were other such patches worn on the lower sleeve until about 12/31/47 (same time we lost Division Patches). For example, crossed Signal Flags for telephone wireman and ‘Lightning’ sparks for radioman. Can anyone confirm? read more

“The Gunny”

When I first went into the Marine Corps my DI was a Platoon Sergeant, he was something akin to a God, Officers were beyond that because we only saw them once or twice. Then when we went to the Rifle Range at Camp Matthews and were snapping in with our M1 rifles. I’m afraid I still had some of that softness remaining from civilian life (from just a few weeks before) and fell asleep while snapping-in in the Prone position. I was awakened by being picked up by collar and seat to a great height and dropped. I landed atop my M1, my chin hurt, my chest hurt and I believe my knees hurt somewhat also. I looked up into the flaming eyes of a Gunnery Sergeant who had to be something between a God and the Devil, if I read those eyes right and the flow of language, I felt I was near Death. He then picked me up off the ground and set me to doing Off Hand with him watching my every move. When the rifle muzzle dipped I got a whack and I got madder, another whack and I got so d-mn mad I was going to lower my rifle and slug him. read more

I appreciated GySgt Rousseau’s discussion about the merits of several rifles used by Marines, and that all weapons are just an extension of the proud Marine using them. I have fired most of the small arms used by Marines in the early 70’s, including the M16. I have also used the M1 and M14. My opinion as to their relative merits: it depends on the situation. All three are fine rifles. For long work, greater than 300 yards, the M1 or M14 would be my preference. I really did not see much difference in accuracy between the two. One thousand yard shots could be made with confidence. For shorter distances and humping through the boonies, the M16 would be my preference. The lighter weight of the rifle, magazines, and ammo; and shear fire power are obvious advantages. read more

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Cpl. Stephen E. Austin, 1st Battalion, 27th Marine Regiment was posthumously awarded with the Navy Cross July 21 for his bravery during the Vietnam War in 1968.

Commandant of the Marine Corps General Robert B. Neller presented the award to Austin’s daughter Neily Esposito and brother Allen Austin during the 50th anniversary reunion for 1st Battalion 27th Marine Regiment. The Navy Cross is the second highest valor award after the Medal of Honor. read more

Surrounded by a sea of recruits and the smell of hot brass, it’s easy to spot Staff Sgt. Estefania Patino’s campaign cover and trademark green marksmanship instructor jacket as she patrols Chosin rifle range’s firing line, inspecting weapons and encouraging shooters as they sight in on their targets. read more

Cpl. Kira R. Lavine, an air-support operations operator with Marine Air Support Squadron 3, Marine Air Control Group 38, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, sets two swimming records during the 2018 Department of Defense Warrior Games, a multi-day competition at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado, June 1 – 10. read more