Liberty Cards

Sgt Grit,

As a young Pvt. at Camp Lejeune in 1965, I was required to carry a Liberty Card signed out to me by the Duty NCO when liberty was authorized. When I returned from liberty, I gave it back to the Duty NCO.  However, at some point, I believe after my return from "Nam" Liberty Cards were ended.  The one card that I do have is a Chow Pass from the USS Iwo Jima (LPH 2) from 1965 and the Carib. Cruise, Santa Domingo crisis. The other is also from the same ship, but a few years later – circa – 1972 I believe. read more

The family “Black Sheep” now a “Black Widow”

Sgt Grit,

On June 24th, my brother, Lt. Col. Patrick Waugh, assumed command of MALS 13 "Black Widows" in Yuma, AZ.  I was honored to attend his change of command ceremony where he assumed command from Lt. Col. Gregory Clarke. My brother is six years younger than me and I recall how displeased he was when I entered the Marine Corps in 1978. He was just 13 at the time. I still look back and laugh at how he wouldn’t even say good bye to me the morning I left for Parris Island, because HE wanted to be the next Marine in the family. read more

Charlie Co 1/5, 1966, Chu Lai, 1sr MarDiv

1966  Operations "Jackstay" and "Osage"  in Mar and April.  Charlie Company  1/5 based in Chu Lai, I can assist  These  Marines with  verifacation of claims.  I worked as a line company Doc and in Charlie Med.     These brave men brought this Corpsman home and I would like to pay back those who need assistance……… Marriors  are those who put their lives on the line for their brothers and I  consider all Marines , who shed blood my Brother……..forever.  Hm3, Doc Harzke, C Co, 1/5 , 1965-66   oooh Rahhhh read more

More DI Sayings

I am sure that everyone has heard it from time to time in The Corps but the most profound thing that I remember my SDI, GySgt Bruce E. Boltze saying to us was “The more you sweat in peace, the less you bleed in war”. Gunny Boltze was promoted to CWO# and was shot down in an OV-10 Bronco over the South China Sea in 1971…his 3rd tour. Researching his accomplishments and medals, he was a Marine's Marine. Proud to have known him, even for only 8 weeks in 1969. read more