Category: In Memory

TAPS

On June 1, 2014 the USMC lost a buddy, Brigadier General Jim Hall, USAF [Ret.]. He crewed on Twentieth Air Force B-29’s during WWII, on missions over Japan. In March 1945 he crash-landed on Central Field, the Iwo Jima Emergency Airfield, aboard one of the first aircraft to use it. He never missed a chance to speak of his debt to the Marines, living and dead, who secured Iwo Jima. He took every opportunity to personally thank the Iwo Jima veterans for saving his life (and the lives of his fellow airmen). He served 3 wars, in combat: WWII, Korea and Vietnam. Among his many decorations and awards, he wore silver Parachutist Wings. He originated the television series “Ripcord.” He tested man-rated parachute systems for the USAF. He created the “Buddy System” and the “4-line cut.” He designed and filmed the survival instruction film: “Passport to Safety.” Jim always repaid his debts; he saved countless lives. Semper Fidelis, General Hall! read more

Tribute Jerseys

I wanted to share these photos. Our baseball team wore digi desert jerseys with a name of a fallen Marine across the back of each jersey to commemorate these heroes. The top photo is of former Marines CPLs Klent Luschen (02-10) and Josh Wells (03-11) with their sons. The second photo is during a moment of silence that the team dedicated to these Marines for their sacrifice. read more

A Great Marine

I came across a picture of me taken 1 Sept 1967 at S-2, 2/5, An Hoa SVN. The S-2 tent is in the background and I believe it is MGYSGT Bill Wolf in the doorway. He was the 1st Marines S-2 Chief and we and the 5th Marines were involved in Operation Union. I was assigned to S-2 Hq Co, 1st Marines and worked for Top Wolf. I rotated about 29 Sept 1967 and Top Wolf stayed on for the move to Hue. read more

Montford Point Marine

I had the distinct honor of attending the 'commitment' services for MGySgt Hosea on 11 October 2013 at the National Cemetery, Beaufort, SC. Although he passed away in Garden Grove, CA, back in June and had a full honors ceremony there he requested that he be moved to Beaufort where an infant daughter was interred in 1961. Nate, as a MSgt E-7, was my NCOIC in Base Electronics at Quantico in the late 50's when I was a Corporal (E-3). He was my 'boss', a mentor, an excellent example, and my friend. He died at age 85 and was a proud Montford Point Marine. He will surely be missed. read more

Guarding the Gates

With a very heavy heart I'm sad to say we lost another fine Marine and a lifelong friend.

Sgt. Larry G. Nabb 2373839, of Fort Morgan, CO passed away on June 3, 2013. Larry served three tours of duty in Vietnam. I had the pleasure to serve with Larry from 1968 – 1969. 3rd Marine Div. Hq. Bn. Serv. Co. MT. Quang Tri. Larry is the Marine depicted in the attached Christmas picture that appeared in your Newsletter some time back. read more

My Bestfriend, My Hero, My Dad

On September 24th, it will be 1-year since I lost my father. His name was Corporal Jerome  Lysek. He always told me that everyone called him "Polock". He served in Vietnam from 1968-1970 with Hotel Company, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines, 1st Marine Division. I miss him everyday, but I am proud that he is a Vet, proud that he was my dad, and proudest that he was a United States Marine. read more