45 Years in the making

Well 45 years in the making. On the right arm, so fouled anchor pointing forward/inboard. Doing some bucket list check-offs. Served as an Aviation Ordnanceman, with VMFA-542, VMFA-323 (both F-4 Phantom Squadrons), H&MS 11 (Mark 4 20MM Gun Shop Rebuild/Reload), MABS-32 (Bomb Dump) at DaNang and Chu Lia 1966-1967, 1969-1970. Did a lot of two man hand loading of Mark 81 (250#) Snakeyes and four man hand loading of Mark 82 (500#) Snakeyes. That was our Air Wing form of “Grunt”. Had to give the Snakeye a place in my design. Also, included my “old” Corps Serial Number and MOS at the bottom. Hope you enjoy it. Staff Sergeant on exit (1964–1974) Gene Hoover read more

The Marine Legacy of Montford Point

WASHINGTON — Every Marine remembers their arrival at recruit training. Marines shared feelings of fear, anxiety and doubt when faced with the challenges of boot camp. The Marines of Montford Point faced even greater obstacles than the rigorous training of the average recruit. These brave men broke through racial discrimination to become one of the few and the proud: the first African American Marines. read more