Parris Island 1943

Parris Island 1943


I, with a small group of WWII Marines visited Parris Island, October 25, 1999. I asked around, where was the 5th Bn. located? No such thing now-never was according to present day Marines. No one even heard of the P/B huts (Post Barracks). The rough wood one story sheds that were our barracks. They had no idea what an old dog tag looked like. I said that I was discharged November 1945 in Second Pay Grade- “Oh PFC?” – No, Tech Sgt. I did notice there is an Engebi Street. I was involved in the landing on Engebi Feb. ’44. I don’t know if any records exist of my Parris Island. It seem that over the years many old records were destroyed. I was in Plt 191, 5th Bn. March/April 1943. We drilled on sand. We were out in east no place. The head was a big wooden place. The “toilets” were long troughs covered with boards which had seats cut out, maybe 20-25 side by side. Running water passed under you carrying away deposits. You watched very carefully at the end where the water came from. A group collected there? WATCH OUT! A large mess of flaming toilet would be passing under your rear end. It is not the Parris Island I remember. read more

Sundays Off

Sundays Off

Here is a picture of me and the guys in the P.I that was in 89 of Sept. we were having a good time. Also, to add to the memories – I’m just remembering our Sundays off at camp swab – our barracks overlooked the softball field and walking distance from the geedunk – those Sundays off were spent playing spades outside, drinking, watching softball games and ‘dropping lil’ mo’s’ on everyone. read more

Flags I Fly

Flags I Fly

MY Grandson, Jake Cross, is in preschool. He brought this picture to me a few days ago. He told me it was a picture of the flags I fly in my front yard. I fly Old Glory and the Marine Corps flag. When he is at my home He helps me show the colors and then we must sing God Bless America. He doesn’t know all the words but he really belts it out. Some Patriots come in small size. read more