Todays Moto

[jinelson]

I was reading through some old Leatherneck magazines tonight and thought this would give you pups some moto.

Jim


Once A Marine

Once an old Marine was walking
Down life's long and winding road
When on the trail before him, A mighty cloud arose.
It was Terror, Wrath and Genocide
Out to make their rounds,
Tearing up the countryside
And pillaging the grounds.

Then they checked up toe to toe
With the lone Marine.
They said "You're looking weary, Boy,
And just a little lean.
You know we're in hurry,
So you'd better step aside,
And if you know what's good for you
You'll find a place to hide."

Well, the old salt never uttered a solitary word,
But slowly drew his K-Bar
As he mustered up the nerve.
Then he said, "You aint passing here -
Not while Im on watch.
But if your feeling lucky,
Lets crank this up another notch."

And when it all was over
The carnage was a sight;
Seems Terror, Wrath and Genocide
Had lost the will to fight.
So dont you be discouraged
And dont give in to fright
"Cause there's "Always a Marine" watching
And ready for the fight.


By Jackie R. Duncan

[Hectic]

Thank you sir, I find that very inspiational. If you or anyone else finds some please post them.

[jinelson]

I can and will do that Hectic and I will post em to this thread.

Jim

[JIPeterson]

Great poem SSGT!!!

[ElDiablo]

Here's one...

You can keep your Army khaki,
You can keep your Navy blue,
I have the World's best fighting man,
To introduce to you
His uniform is different,
The best you've ever seen,
The Germans called him "Devil Dog"
His real name is "Marine."
He was born on Parris Island,
The place where God forgot.
The sand is eighteen inches deep,
The sun is blazing hot.
He gets up every morning,
Before the rising sun.
He'll run a hundred miles and more,
Before the day is done.
He's deadly with a rifle,
A bayonet made of steel.
He took the Warrior's calling card,
He's mastered how to kill.
And when he gets to Heaven,
St. Peter he will tell,
One more Marine reporting, sir,
I've spent my time in Hell.
So listen, all you young girls,
To what I have to say;
Go find yourself a young Marine,
To love you everyday.
He'll hug you and he'll kiss you,
And treat you like a queen,
There is no better Fighting Man,
The United States Marine

Now that to me is moto

[ElDiablo]

Here's a website...pretty much history and facts about the Corps...
http://www.usmcpress.com/heritage/usmc_terms.htm

[IamaMarine]

Jim- I also look forward to seeing more. And I enjoyed what I have seen so far.

[Blaster]

very motivating.

[jinelson]

Today I searched and found a poem that I felt said a lot about who we are and was worthy of sharing with those who will soon attempt to carry the torch as a Marine. Its written by a Marine so I did a quick search to give you some more information on the Marine that wrote such an outstanding poem. I was deeply saddened to learn that he was killed in action last year in the war. This made his words so extremely emotional to me that I hesitated to share them with you for a moment. But he would have wanted me to share them otherwise he wouldnt have left them behind. I am also posting the link to the site that I got when I researched his name.

Jim

http://www.iraqwarheroes.com/plouhar.htm


http://www.iraqwarheroes.com/photos10/raymond_plouhar01.jpg

This Is Who I Am
-SSgt. Raymond Plouhar USMC-

This is me this is who I am
I am a Marine to the very end
I live by the motto that is Semper Fi

I come to countries in far off lands
To fight for freedom for which most are to scared to stand

Do not judge me for what I do
For what I do I do for you

I will kill for those who cannot kill
I will die for those to scared to

I will leave my loved ones, my kids, my wife
I will leave them all behind to give you a better life

I have seen and done things that will haunt my dreams
I have given up many things for you to be free

Do not feel pity for me, for this is my choice
I chose this life so people like you can have a voice

I will die on my feet, I will not live on my knees
I will do this so America can stay free

This is me this is who I am
I am a Marine to the very end


Rest in peace brother and and thank you for leaving your words behind for us.

Semper Fi Staff Sergeant Plouhar

Jim


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/usflaghlfstf-1.gif
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/semperfi05in.gif

[CJA]

Today I searched and found a poem that I felt said a lot about who we are and was worthy of sharing with those who will soon attempt to carry the torch as a Marine. Its written by a Marine so I did a quick search to give you some more information on the Marine that wrote such an outstanding poem. I was deeply saddened to learn that he was killed in action last year in the war. This made his words so extremely emotional to me that I hesitated to share them with you for a moment. But he would have wanted me to share them otherwise he wouldnt have left them behind. I am also posting the link to the site that I got when I researched his name.

Jim

http://www.iraqwarheroes.com/plouhar.htm


http://www.iraqwarheroes.com/photos10/raymond_plouhar01.jpg

This Is Who I Am
-SSgt. Raymond Plouhar USMC-


This is me this is who I am

I am a Marine to the very end
I live by the motto that is Semper Fi

I come to countries in far off lands
To fight for freedom for which most are to scared to stand

Do not judge me for what I do
For what I do I do for you

I will kill for those who cannot kill
I will die for those to scared to

I will leave my loved ones, my kids, my wife
I will leave them all behind to give you a better life

I have seen and done things that will haunt my dreams
I have given up many things for you to be free

Do not feel pity for me, for this is my choice
I chose this life so people like you can have a voice

I will die on my feet, I will not live on my knees
I will do this so America can stay free

This is me this is who I am
I am a Marine to the very end




Rest in peace brother and and thank you for leaving your words behind for us.

Semper Fi Staff Sergeant Plouhar

Jim



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/usflaghlfstf-1.gif
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/semperfi05in.gif



That's just amazing.
Great moto, gives me chills.

[USMC90]

This is great moto. Some of those even sent chills down my spin. Thank you for sharing this with us.

Here's one I found not long ago and saved.


I was just a private with a rifle in my hand
Along with fellow Marines, we go to make our stand
The plane ride took forever as the tension filled the air
To a place called Vietnam, our country sent us there.

I've been on base, we're packing up our ammo and some knifes
Heading out into the foreign fields where we could lose our lives
The jungle all around us, we're crawling on the ground
The enemy is very near, and the sun is going down

That night was just the first of many, the death roll moving on
The men I fought with side by side was also someone's son
Time just kept going by, everyday slower than the other
I yearned to see the smiling face of my dear old mother

The blood shed and the smell of death from villages we would roam
Hoping that we were closer to the day we're going home
Two years in Vietnam had come to pass when it finally caught up with me
I saved a soldiers life by taking out my knee

They flew me back to the U.S.A. I was going home at last
In a wheelchair with half a leg that was wrapped up in a cast
But what was waiting for me when I got home made me sick as I could be
People were protesting against this war. Is this reality?

I watched my fellow Marines die with honor and valor, in a country far away
For the rights of your freedom, their lives they had to pay
Words like liberty and honor you'll never understand
We provided you these privileges with our rifle in our hand

Semper Fi! Dedicated to all the Vietnam Vets.


http://www.grunt.com/scuttlebutt/corps-stories/poems/rifle.asp

[jinelson]

A Marines Poem

There is a story,
that I love to tell,
of thirteen weeks of misery,
thirteen weeks of hell,
I was living in the city,
working everyday,
Until one day a man in blue,
happend to cross my way,
I signed my name,
upon the dotted line,
Packed all my trash,
got on the plane,
Off to serve my time.

They sent me to an Island,
Where they made Marines,
They say a thousand boys may come,
But only men may leave,
They issued all my gear,
Combat boots and skivy shirts,
In a few short hours,
They had me in the dirt,
My Drill Instructor,
Trained me rough and hard,
He taught me how to fight,
He taught me how to march.

In three short months,
As long as it had seemed,
I finally had earned,
The Title of Marine,
How well I remember,
Graduation Day,
As I left I swore,
I wouldn't be back this way,
I went to my Drill Instructors,
And gave them my hand,
They made this boy a Man.

I served my time proudly,
Out in the FMF,
But back at Parris Island,
There was something I felt I left,
So I'm back a second time,
A smokey in my hand,
Training U.S. Marine Recruits,
The vary best I can,
I found out what I lost,
In the very end,
The making of Marines,
Down Where It All Began.

Author unknown

[CHAOS27]

Thanks to all for the moto. I look forward to it everyday.

Self thrashing will commence in five seconds.....:flag:

[SmokeyBandit]

If I ever go to war Mom, Please don't be afraid.
There are some things I must do, To keep the promise that I made.
I'm sure there will be some heartache, And I know that you'll cry tears,
But your son is a Marine now, Mom, There is nothing you should fear.

If I ever go to war Dad, I know that you'll be strong.
But you won't have to worry, Cause you taught me right from wrong.
You kept me firmly on the ground, yet still taught me how to fly.
Your son is a Marine now Dad, I love you OORAAH, Even if I die.

If I ever go to war Bro, There are some things I want to say.
You've always had my back, and I know it's my time to repay.
You'll always be my daybreak, through all of life's dark clouds,
Your brother is a Marine now, Bro, I promise I'll make you proud.

If I ever go to war Sis, don't you worry bout me,
I always looked out for you, but I can't do that anymore,
Cause I'm a big bro to all in America.
I love you so much and you know that, Your brother is a Marine now Sis,
So wipe your eyes, I'll be fine even if I die.

If I ever go to war my Friends, We'll never be apart,
Though we may not meet again, I'll hold you in my heart.
Remember all the times we had, Don't let your memories cease,
Your friend is a Marine now, Dear Friend, And I'll die to bring you peace.

And when I go to heaven, And see that pearly gate,
I'll gladly decline entrance, Then stand my post and wait.
I'm sorry Sir I can't come in, I'm sort of in a bind,
You see I'm still a Marine Sir, So I can't leave them behind

[jinelson]

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j176/murtigo4/marines/Marines1.jpg


UNITED STATES MARINES
By David M. BilyeuGySgt, USMC, Retired


Once upon a time,
a very long time ago.
A group of men together,
formed the Eagle, Anchor and Globe.

Throughout twenty-three decades,
we've been put through every test.
And with each and every encounter;
We've proved we were the best.

Whether it be a youngster,
just brand new in the Corps.
Or one of the survivors,
when we had fought World Wars.

You can tell that we're the best,
with each and every stride.
Cause no matter what we do,
you can always see our pride.

There are no others like us;
and it is plainly seen.
Just why they always call;
Upon the United States Marines.

"Semper Fidelis"

[jinelson]

http://lilripple2001.tripod.com/reflection.jpg



Soldiers of the Wall

by Gary Jacobson © July 1999

Oh we’re soldiers of the wall,
We’ve fought and died for one and all.
We’re just resting here you see
To see if our blood shed kept you free
A patriot’s dream for liberty.

We didn’t wish to die,
When we heard that clarion cry,
A call to arms set us on this course.
And we’d do’er again without remorse.
For we’d rather be men than shirk
When our country needs us to do dirty work
For we know that freedom is not free
And our children must grow tall in liberty

We can see the purple mountain majesty,
From our wall,
See huddling masses yearning to be free,
From our wall.
We see a nation built on honesty,
Fought for with our blood of integrity.
We see great courage maintained in modesty
From our place here on the wall
Standing so proud and so tall.

We are the ones our country called
To trample tyranny beloved freedom galled.
We bore in might
Righteous spirit of right.
We fought evil in Vietnam devastating.
Armed with fire and lightning,
Forces of communism dissipating,
Vietcong bastions wherein wrath lay stored
Fell to America's terrible swift sword.

American soldiers prayed goodness
Of justice would at longlast prevail
Common freedoms to Vietnamese avail.
But it was not to be...
Now as soldiers of the wall
Forever stand we,
Symbols of courageous struggle for liberty,
Of the best of us valiantly fallen
Blest youth forever stolen.

We hope our sacrifice wasn’t in vain
For we gave our lives in suffering pain.
Where heroes proved
More than life, their country loved.
Endowed with great courage and strength,
We went to any length,
Fighting in Nam’s gore and mud
To inspire young men’s red blood
To crown our nation with noble brotherhood.

We fought to make a difference
To stand in might, for right's defense.
We watched our buddies die,
Followed them in death by and by
Standing brave, and standing tall.
Finding gloried honor on this granite wall.

Oh we’re soldiers of the wall,
We’ve fought and died for one and all.
We’re just resting here you see
To see if our blood shed kept you free
A patriot’s dream for liberty.

We heard the distant sound of the gun
To Vietnam did run.
We did not look behind
As valorous courage we seemed to find.
So do not shed for us faint tears
See our dream for country,
See beyond the years

As we bled in the jungles of hell
We knew we were doing our duties well.
For we answered our country’s call,
'Cause someone had to do it.
We soldiers fighting in Nam's misty pall,
Gave a gift to our beloved...our all.

Oh we’re soldiers of the wall,
We’ve fought and died for one and all.
We’re just resting here you see
To see if our blood shed kept you free
A patriot’s dream for liberty.

It’s lonely and so cold here.
I hope people never forget us here,
In this black marbled granite bier.
For the sign of a man,
Is the amount of respect he gives
For fathers and brothers who gave all for them
Who now on that lonely wall lives.

Was our sacrifice worth it, can you see
Do you honor our proud victory
Fought and won for you and me...
Though sad we be for our sainted mothers,
Do not cry for me my brothers
But give to my death meaning
beyond my moldering grave greening.

We pray with all power in our hearts
For men guiding,
Standing safeguard protecting
Our great nation,
Brave men standing between loved ones
And war’s unholy devastation.

Always remember with love and respect
Those who strains of freedom reflect
From that hallowed wall,
Revered now by us all.
Remember those living in darkning shadow
Who with courage and honor jousted
With freedom’s malignant foe.

Oh we’re soldiers of the wall,
We’ve fought and died for one and all.
We’re just resting here you see
To see if our blood shed kept you free
A patriot’s dream for liberty.

[USMC90]

Remember Them
By Jeff Hooker

Lying here beneath this ground
Never again to make a sound
When alive, they were so brave
And carried honor into the grave

They were all the best of men
Courage earned by all of them
Medals pinned upon their chest
At last the peace, of final rest

In the ranks they stood so strong
Voices raised in battle songs
Marching forward defying fear
For the land they loved so dear

On that final Judgement Day
When they all stand up to say
We gave up all we owned you see
At duties call to set men free

So when the flag waves in the wind
If but a moment, Remember Them
For they all paid the final cost
So freedoms truth, would not be lost.

[jinelson]

The first trimester has come and gone...
Written By Marine Mom, Marti

The first trimester has come and gone,
the broken man, the man I've become.
My youthful ways has left my skin,
I bring up my armour, the man within.
A Marine I'm learning to be
so you and I can be free.
Onto the mastering of what I have to give and more,
my strength, my endurance, the best I implore.
For the Marines I have pledged my oath,
to give my heart and soul, I give my both.

[jinelson]

"Through His Eyes I've Seen"


Author: Victor A. Giagrante
Dedicated to the past and present Men and Women
of the United States Marine Corps.

Many years ago, in 1969
I was a lad of 19, doing mighty fine.

Out of school and working, for United States Steel
Pockets full of money, going for every meal.

Driving my 67 Chevy, with a worked 396
Getting pretty popular with all the local chicks.

I was cool and lucky. I thought I had it all
Then I watched a Marine walk past, it made my skin crawl.

He looked to be 40, gray around the side
His eyes were filled with something, also in his stride.

I started a conversation. Said he was looking mighty fine.
He then told me his age, he had just turned 29.

"12 months in 'Nam," he said, with an icy stare
"Death, destruction and sorrow, nothing can compare."

He turned and walked away, without even saying good-bye
It made me really angry, but that Marine began to cry.

"Hey Marine!" I yelled, "I thought you guys were tough and taught how to kill."
"I guess you must be the only one, who just can't fit the bill."

With that he turned and said, almost in a scream
"You can't judge a man, until through his eyes you've seen."

I laughed a nervous laugh and by him I walked around
He just stared and watched me walk away, never made a sound.

As I lay in bed that night, wondering what it was like
Death, destruction and sorrow, the unknowing air strike.

I thought of that Marine, I really don't know why
I couldn't get him out of my mind, then I started to cry.

The next day when I woke up, I talked to my Dad
I told him of the Marine and how he was feeling so sad.

He said, "My son, I've been there, when I was young like you"
"It wasn't Vietnam, it was called World War II."

I was on Iwo Jima for the raising of the flag
As I was placing my buddy in a body bag.

"He was right, my son. Those things must be seen."
"I never want to do it again, but I'm proud to be a Marine."

"It's something I can't explain, no one ever will"
"But that Marine was right, and yes, he fit the bill."

When I left the house that day, I was full of frustration
The next thing I knew, I was at the recruiting station.

I ended up in Vietnam. At the time I was only 19.
I thought of what my Dad had said, and that sad and doleful Marine.

Four years later, as I was walking down the street
This friend of mine said, "Here's someone I'd like you to meet."

My friend said this guy was once a Marine. So I had to set him straight.
"Once a Marine, Always a Marine," I didn't hesitate.

But the person he wanted me to meet, never made a sound
He just kept looking at me, eyeing me up and down.

He then said, "It's been a long time my friend. There are things I know you've seen."
"Tell me, do you feel different now that you're a Marine?"

No words had to be spoken. I had nothing else to say.
Now I remembered him from that long ago day.

It's been thirty years, since I went away
But memories of Vietnam, will always be here to stay.

So if you're on the street and see a Marine go walking by
Don't be afraid to look at them directly in the eye.

And say, "Thank you my friend for all that you have done."
"For if it weren't for people like you, we'd still be on the run."

From Iwo Jima, the Gulf and even in Desert Storm
Make all the Marines that come home, feel welcome and warm.

For I'm sure there's a friend or two, they had to leave behind
But the memories will always be there, in the back of their mind.

If you know of someone who's been "THERE", be kind and not mean
Because you can't judge a man until, through his eyes you've seen

[futuresoldier08]

They are all awesome and inspiring

[poolee2008]

I know what I write will never compare to what the Marines can write, but this is a poem i wrote. Hope it's ok.

Dress right dress
about face,
being confident
without a trace
of frustration
we are
the next generation
Generation X
X-cel, X-treme
X-ceed all limitations and walls
shooting straight
running hard
helping a comrade who falls
down
another dies without a sound
brave they say
but after the funeral
we fight the same day
PFC, he was the same rank as me
so you’ll all remember, FREEDOM ISN’T FREE
Fighting for what’s right in the night
They're scared, I shoot, They dodge
My wits bared
Military is my choice, patriotic not hateful
Semper Fi
Standing tall, and no matter what
Always faithful:flag:

[jinelson]

My Marine - a poem from a Marine Mom

I don't know of any mother more proud than the mother of a Marine! My son, SSGT Dean J. Beardslee is a career Marine, serving with the 3/6 in Iraq. Though my fear is real every day, I pray for God's speed and a safe return. I wrote this poem in honor of my son and every son or daughter who wears the "Dress Blues."


My Marine


My little baby boy,
Blond with eyes of blue.
Held close within my arms,
My son, I love you.

So many memories
Throughout the years,
Years filled with happy times
And sometimes filled with tears.

Dandelions in chubby hands,
Filled a water glass.
Then he’s in a fishing boat
Trying to get that big bass.

How quickly those years passed,
More quickly then we knew.
Soon the little boy was grown,
Now a man with eyes of blue.

Graduation and college bound,
Too big for Mama’s knee.
So many times I’ve wished
That little boy, again he’d be.

He is a man of pride,
A husband and a father.
Standing straight and tall,
A man of strength and honor.

I look with pride upon the man
My son has grown into.
Now he wears a uniform
And the colors of "dress blue."

The colors that he wears
Tell the story well.
He fights for our freedom
As he gives the Marine Corps yell.

The fierceness of a "Devil Dog,"
And the courage of a bear.
Don’t raise a hand against our flag!
Don’t you ever dare!

He puts his life upon the line
For you and I each day.
He is a man of iron,
Not one with feet of clay.

He’ll walk through the fire
And wade through the flood
And make a sacrifice for you
Even with his own blood.

He leaves behind his family,
Wife and children dear,
Mother, sisters and brother
And fights without fear.

He fights for right and freedom
And proudly bears our flag
As he goes into the battle
With feet that never drag.

He proudly wears the colors
Of khaki and desert green,
My son, one of the few and proud,
My son, United States Marine!

March 1, 2007
By Ruth E. Beardslee
In honor of my son, SSGT Dean J. Beardslee, USMC

http://www.leatherneck.com/forums/showthread.php?t=42631

SEMPER FI and OOH-RAH from this Marine Mom

[WanderWannabe]

Some of the most motivating things I've read, period....thank you Sir.

There is one I am trying to track down, it was read to us during graduation week. It had a couple lines about how we stole the Eagle from the sky, the Anchor from the Navy, and the globe from God. I can't seem to find it anywhere.

[Marinewannabe15]

great moto...keep em comin if u can SSgt. cant wait to earn the title and carry the tradition!

[jimusmc55]

This is for all the moms who've lost sons in our Nations' wars.

There's an empty place at the table
Once filled by a laughing boy
Whose favorite game was playing war
A gun, his favorite toy
There's an empty bed in a room
That cherished all his dreams
A picture of the girl he loved
A fish caught in the streams
Everywhere I look, it seems
I should see his tousled head
The vacant emptyness still rings
Of his footsteps as he tread
I watched him grow from year to year
Thru childhood to a lad
Who donned Marine Corp green
And looked exactly like his Dad
How proud I was the day he left
To fight in foreign lands
But now I hold a telegram
Clutched in my trembling hands
This is the price we pay for war
We Mothers who bear the son
Then lend him to our Country
So that a war be won
There's an empty place at the table
A room that will never be filled
An ache within a Mother's heart
A pain that will never be stilled
And yet I know if he could speak
To me I'd hear him say
Put your trust in God, dear Mom
We'll meet again someday
And so till then I musn't weep
Nor laden my grief on another
I'll just thank God I had a son
Who was proud to call me Mother

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/header10.jpg

Eric Returns To Camp Pendleton
J. C. R. Forehand 2002

My first grandson, Eric B. Forehand, returned to Camp Pendleton
for additional training after his 10 day boot camp leave.

It had been nine months since the terrorist attack.
Eric was on his boot camp leave but now he was going back.
He had spent some time with his Mother, he had hardly been here.
But he packed up his sea bag and kept out the uniform that he would wear.
He had his Marine dress greens cleaned and ready to don.
His garrison cap fit exactly right when he put it on.
Two fingers were under the brim but you could still see the gaze
That only smiled rarely since his boot camp days.
The Kelly green uniform had been pressed so spick
That you could shave on the crease with nary a nick.
Even without the uniform you knew this was a Marine
For he marched instead of walking and was serious and keen.
But in his class A dress there wasn't any doubt
Here was a Marine and he was going out.
Now Oceanside and San Diego see Marines every day
They are inured to seeing men march that special way
But Houston seldom sees Marines in green uniform
In South-east Texas this was surely not the norm.
So when Eric marched into Hobby Airport that fine day
The traveling crowd did more than just give way.
It was like Moses crossing the Red Sea as the crowds split asunder
And the waiting room grew quieter like after a clap of thunder.
After a period of time like in a movie scene
A voice spoke up and said: "Look, a Marine!"
The ticket agents rushed to him and put him first in line.
The people waiting nodded like for them that was just fine.
He didn't seem so big and strong to raise up such a scene
But he stood straight and proud, because he was a Marine.
They checked his bags and gave him a boarding card to keep
They turned off the security machine because the Marine emblem would make it beep.
"I'll feel safer if he is on our flight." You could hear some people say
While he marched the aisle in cadence to his loading gateway.
Well Eric has gone now and he has called to say
That he made it to Camp Pendleton and everything is OK.
But here in El Lago we miss him every day
And a voice inside keeps saying, "Our Marine has gone away!"

[echo3oscar1833]

Semper FI !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:marine:

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/206787.jpg

ONLY THE FEW
Murl D. Long

Let me provide you a small glimpse of real life
Of a man preparing for coming strife
It begins with training unsurpassed
Compared to all others, far outclassed

It begins at 4 AM with the 'Devil' pounding a stick on a garbage can
We sit up straight in our bunks, to a man
Without question, for sure you are awake, to the head you run
Shower, shave, dress, police your area, the day has begun

Fall out in the dark of night
Straighten up the line, dress to the right
In cadence, run to the Mess
Chow down. What is this stuff? Take a guess

30 minutes. Fall back in ranks, back to the barracks in quick time you go
Brush your teeth, wash your face and assemble again. What next? You don't know
86 men learn to march in sync
They move as one, in tandem they think

The day wears on, every minute used to learn
No time to rest, not one second to burn
Lights out exactly at 10.
Rest 6 hours, another day will begin

Proper dress, hygiene, history, protocol, chain of command
Weapons, survival, defense-hand to hand
Repeat it over and over again, until
The 86 move as one, body and mind, at will

You trust and respect that comrade by your side
He, too, has taken this most difficult ride
77 days out of the pages of 'Hell'
You, and the other 86 have similar tales to tell

About pain, sweat, doubt and fear
There is a powerful mystery born right here
Nothing you have learned will you ever forget
An inner strength has been formed, you will never regret

A hundred years you may be allowed to live, God willing
Your life has been forever changed, indeed, fulfilling
Like a fine steel from the hot forge of fire
Your goals will always be higher

Only those who have weathered this gut-wrenching test
Will be referred to as "The Best"
What sets this man apart from all others who strive for perfection, as we have seen
The answer is simple, dear friend. He's a MARINE!

Murl D. Long
November 10,1945

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/d1abb47f8c48e1efac1795fbf4bcd1d0.jpg

U.S. Marine Grunt
By S. Haffey

We marched and marched some more
And sung about the Corps
When we got to the town
We all looked around
There was no one to be found
Gunny told us to hush
Explosions and bullets ripped through the air
We were caught in an ambush
I felt the wiz of a bullet go past my ear
Grunts all hit the ground
While rpgs rained down
My friend was hit in the gut
So I moved him into a hut
The fire did not let up
I could hear the cries of the U.S. Marine Grunt
“Corpsman up front”
I was pinned down in a bend
I knew this was the end
But I had been trained to be a Marine Grunt
So I started to fire, I was the best
As I fired I grew calmer
Then a bullet hit me in the chest
But did not go through my body armor
The bad guys were held up in a fort
So we called in close air support
The battle was over
The next week at the funeral
They played taps as they were put in the ground
We lost ten good men in that god damned town
We all knew they were heaven bound
We went on patrol the very next night
But there was no one around
As we sat in a tight 360 the rain did not let up
We were all on the hunt
This is the life a U.S. Marine Grunt

[jinelson]

http://www.arlingtoncemetery.org/images/ANC_surroundings/images/image04_jpg.jpg


“Paid in Full”

To Honor The Service of Fallen and Injured Marines


Marines through and through, they paid the price
Six thousand miles away, we live the life
For which they paid with their blood, spirits and bodies
We will never forget what they paid in full

We hope and we pray that somehow their loved ones find comfort
In God, in the flag, in the memory of their loved ones’ bravery
They’re gone now but we see them still…proud, strong, willing
Covering each other’s backs… courageous, moving forward

What kind of love did they have for us to be willing
To give it all for the Black, White, Jew, Christian, Muslim?
We don’t comprehend but we honor you now and forever
You are Our Marines…some living…some not
Forever in our hearts we will cherish your lives

Lives too short yet immortal they’ll be
Highest brotherhood of the Few, the Proud
They stand at attention, and we gaze with awe
Some know their names not, but our admiration for them
Flows limitless within us, between us

They sacrificed their limbs or their lives
Freedom still rings, a soft sound across the miles
It tolls slowly; all of creation takes note
Of the lives that were lost for people unknown

Out of sight but not lost; forever among us
The starched blues marching straight
Toward the place where we will meet them
Many years from now…how we loved them…
Well done beloved Brothers and Sisters…You’ve paid it in full
Always Faithful Marines, You Have Paid it in Full

[jinelson]

http://www.marines.cc/templates/tts-merkurblackgreen/images/header//header26.jpg

"Cream of the Crop"


The Cream Of The Crop
The United States Marine Corps

We the few, the proud, the Marines. Hated by the other branches, with the exception of Seabees and Hospital Corpsmen and Amphibious Ready Groups, and lately Special Op's of the other branches, we are superb. We did our thing at Bellow Wood, Iwo Jima and Guadalcanal and numerous other battle fields.

Why we are so good, we let Special Op's of the other branches freeze areas for us so that Force Recon and Scout Snipers can be fresh and rested when we reap havoc on opposing forces. We are handsome and witty. We are cool; when the **** hits the fan we become ugly in a handsome Marine way. We kill maim and render enemy fighting forces ineffective with the greatest of ease. We are the tip of the spear. Doggies (Army, Ain't really Marines yet) Squids/Swabbies (Navy, Not able to finesse out of water) and Fly Boys (Air Force, Air in the brain mechanism, also known as Wild Blue Yonder Wonders) envy us. We charge in growling with supporting arms. Our Harriers, Snakes and other choppers growl from the sky, our artillery, tanks, LAV's and AMTRACS growl from the ground. Our grunts breathe fire as they growl, with weapons blasting. Our support troops awaiting orders to ferry supplies to the front so that they may growl too.

No enemy is a match for us. We have prevented the eternal war between Heaven and Hell since we were born of a rifle and a bayonet at TunTavern.

God and the Devil are over joy'ed with us, we keep the gates of Heaven and Hell revolving and we impress the ladies in both places. Lieutenant General Chesty Puller (Eternal Commandant of all Marines who crossed the final line of departure), maintains a Marine Barracks in Heaven and an Air/Ground Proving Ground in Hell, commanded by Pappy Boynton himself. The Black Sheep Squadron is in charge of Marine procurement.

All that is left to say is SEMPER FI! THE CORPS IS FOR EVER!
Author: Gregory A. Phillips, Civilian Marine
Sgt. E-5
Service Number: 232 06 30

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/ad98434ef4deea5e165710e87105277c.jpg

A United States Marine
Written by: Hershey S. Gehris, CCAM

I am
A United States Marine.
My Tenets are Duty, Honor, and Commitment
in services to God, Country, and Corps.
No matter the Cost;
No matter the Sacrifice
Even to the last full measure;
I will do my Duty.
I will Honor the traditions of those Marines who have gone before me;
As they have passed to me so will I pass to those who follow,
The sword of Freedom, the banner of Courage,
the unblemished Honor of the Corps.
For services without Honor is not our tradition.
I will serve with Honor.
I will be, at all times, always faithful
To my Corps, my Division,
To my Regiment, my Company
To my Platoon, my squad,
To my Fire-team, and to these Tenets
I will be Committed.
I am a United States Marine
I am neither an Ex Marine nor a Former Marine
I am or I am not
For a Marine, there is no middle ground.
I am
A United States Marine.
H & S 1/8
USMC
1963

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/header12.jpg

Semper Fidelis
by Breann Arant

Drawing closer and closer
to where our new home would be
Parris Island came in to view
for all recruits to see

A funny felling in my stomach
grew as we drew near
A feeling I've often felt before
a feeling known as fear

The funny feeling grew and grew
as we were swallowed by the isle
My hands were growing clammy
my heart pounding wild

The sky was black as black could be
the air was slightly chilled
fear, excitement, adrenaline
my heart was completly filled

Quickly and quietly we gather our things
as all recruits hurriedly piled out
our eyes bombarded by darkness
our ears invaded with shouts

We were issued standard clothing
allowed one phone call home
to tell out parents we were ok
and make our presence known

The weeks that followed were crammed with work
as we all longed for home
all we did was drill and drill
although none were alone

The time went by so very slow
graduation so far ahead
thats all we ever dreamed about
at night when we lay in bed

Before we knew it ten weeks had gone by
the final test drawing near
I felt a feeling all too familiar
a feeling known as fear

Reville was sounded at three a.m
the crucible comming soon
we gathered our equipment and our strenght
as we marched as one platoon

We overcame our obstacle and solved our problems
we did it as a group
we made it through one of the toughest days
with little time to recoup

With little food and little rest
we pushed on harder and harder
our final goal was in reach
so we went farther and farther

We fought with courage and with pride
as the final march was done
we had achieved our goal with honor and commitment
all out battles won

All platoons lined up in formation
as the ceremony proceeded
tears came to everyone eyes
because we knew that all had succeeded

I recieved my eagle globe and anchor
I shook my drill instructors hand
I realized I was no longer stranded at sea
but that she alone had led me safely to land

I now serve our country proudly
in the air, on land, at sea
I have been more proud to claim the title
of UNITED STATES MARINE

Semper Fidelis

[CJA]

Wow... that just.. makes me smile.. awesome

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/header10.jpg

Eric Returns To Camp Pendleton
J. C. R. Forehand 2002



My first grandson, Eric B. Forehand, returned to Camp Pendleton
for additional training after his 10 day boot camp leave.


It had been nine months since the terrorist attack.

Eric was on his boot camp leave but now he was going back.
He had spent some time with his Mother, he had hardly been here.
But he packed up his sea bag and kept out the uniform that he would wear.
He had his Marine dress greens cleaned and ready to don.
His garrison cap fit exactly right when he put it on.
Two fingers were under the brim but you could still see the gaze
That only smiled rarely since his boot camp days.
The Kelly green uniform had been pressed so spick
That you could shave on the crease with nary a nick.
Even without the uniform you knew this was a Marine
For he marched instead of walking and was serious and keen.
But in his class A dress there wasn't any doubt
Here was a Marine and he was going out.
Now Oceanside and San Diego see Marines every day
They are inured to seeing men march that special way
But Houston seldom sees Marines in green uniform
In South-east Texas this was surely not the norm.
So when Eric marched into Hobby Airport that fine day
The traveling crowd did more than just give way.
It was like Moses crossing the Red Sea as the crowds split asunder
And the waiting room grew quieter like after a clap of thunder.
After a period of time like in a movie scene
A voice spoke up and said: "Look, a Marine!"
The ticket agents rushed to him and put him first in line.
The people waiting nodded like for them that was just fine.
He didn't seem so big and strong to raise up such a scene
But he stood straight and proud, because he was a Marine.
They checked his bags and gave him a boarding card to keep
They turned off the security machine because the Marine emblem would make it beep.
"I'll feel safer if he is on our flight." You could hear some people say
While he marched the aisle in cadence to his loading gateway.
Well Eric has gone now and he has called to say
That he made it to Camp Pendleton and everything is OK.
But here in El Lago we miss him every day
And a voice inside keeps saying, "Our Marine has gone away!"

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/57147.jpg

Semper Fidelis - Yesterday, Today, & Tomorrow
by David Bounds


From battlefields of the past
To those currently in the news
Marines have fought to defend our land
And to protect our Liberties
Uncommon Valor is that common thread
That runs throughout The Corps
Binding each generation of new Marines
With those who have gone before
Where do they come from
And why do they fight
always willing to pay the price
For freedom isn't free my friend
It often requires the ultimate sacrifice

From the Halls of Montezuma
To the Shores of Tripoli
And on to the beaches of World War II
Marines have fought for me
They overcame the frozen hell
Of the Chosin Reservoir
Marines battled and bled in the jungles
Of a distant land called Vietnam
In Lebanon they came in peace
But terrorists would not reason
And the bombing of the Beirut barracks
Placed more Marines on Guard Duty in Heaven

Today's Marines continue the fight
And pay the price for Freedom
Many have bled and many have died
In the current War on Terror
Though some have questioned the job they do
And may even view them with hate
These brave Marines continue to serve
And courageously fight our battles
They are warriors who aren't appreciated
Yet they realize their mission is vital
These Marines are now and always will be
Deserving of America's honor

This says it all thats why I have repeated it!

Jim

[jinelson]

Here is a poem that I wrote when I was in the DEP myself. It means more to me now than it ever did.

By: Lisa Spencer, proud wife of Cpl Jason Spencer Wpns Co 3/25 loving mother of Sydney,9, Dylan,6, and Dakota,2 praying until he comes home safe

It's a crazy world we live in
Surrounded by cruelty and strife
We all need heros to belive in
Role models who live a good life

Where are these heroes you may ask
I've heard nothing about them at all
My favorite hero's hardest task
Is throwing or catching a ball

You can find them anywhere
Scattered all over the world
Marine Corps heros everywhere
Semper Fi, their motto unfurled

HONOR--no matter the circumstance
COURAGE--no matter the test
COMMITMENT--to freedom with confidence
MARINE CORPS--UNITED STATES BEST!!!!!

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/marines_training1.jpg

"Cream of the Crop"

By Gregory A. Phillips 5-23-2004

The United States Marine Corps

We the few, the proud, the Marines. Hated by the other branches, with the exception of Seabees and Hospital Core Men and Amphibious Ready Groups, and lately Special Op's of the other branches, we are superb. We did our thing at Bellow Wood, Iwo Jima and Guadalcanal and numerous other battle fields.

Why we are so good, we let Special Op's of the other branches freeze areas for us so that Force Recon and Scout Snipers can be fresh and rested when we reap havoc on opposing forces. We are handsome and witty. We are cool; when the **** hits the fan we become ugly in a handsome Marine way. We kill maim and render enemy fighting forces ineffective with the greatest of ease. We are the tip of the spear. Doggies (Army, Ain't really Marines yet) Squids/Swabbies (Navy, Not able to finesse out of water) and Fly Boys (Air Force, Air in the brain mechanism, also known as Wild Blue Yonder Wonders) envy us. We charge in growling with supporting arms. Our Harriers, Snakes and other choppers growl from the sky, our artillery, tanks, LAV's and AMTRACS growl from the ground. Our grunts breathe fire as they growl, with weapons blasting. Our support troops awaiting orders to ferry supplies to the front so that they may growl too.

No enemy is a match for us. We have prevented the eternal war between Heaven and Hell since we were born of a rifle and a bayonet at TunTavern.

God and the Devil are over joy'ed with us, we keep the gates of Heaven and Hell revolving and we impress the ladies in both places. Lieutenant General Chesty Puller (Eternal Commandant of all Marines who crossed the final line of departure), maintains a Marine Barracks in Heaven and an Air/Ground Proving Ground in Hell, commanded by Pappy Boynton himself. The Black Sheep Squadron is in charge of Marine procurement.

All that is left to say is SEMPER FI! THE CORPS IS FOR EVER!
Author: Gregory A. Phillips, Civilian Marine
Sgt. E-5
Service Number: 232 06 30

[JAMarine]

The start of a HUGE Thread I believe. Keep it up Brother.

Semper Fi
rich

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/header4.jpg

A Marine's Day in Court

Written By: Cpl. Andy C. Purchase
USMC Retired


From the halls of Montezuma to the deserts of Iraq
We may bleed and die but the Corps has got your back

I read the letters telling of another standing at the Pearly Gate
It makes us sad but I'm quite sure St Peter is irate

Because they say that heaven is a place of peace alas
But just last week an old Jar Head kicked somebody's ass

As you might imagine this caused some great uproar
It's been since the days of Lucifer someone was shown the door

So in the High Courts of the Mighty his fate would be determined
Should we keep the trouble maker or send him to the burnin'

All rise they heard High Court is now in session
Our brother he stood tall heels together at attention

Defense was loud and long then came cross examination
Is it true Marine you proudly served your God your Corps and Nation

The answers they came quickly as the Sgt. spoke with honor
Two Purple hearts and a Silver star and I'd like to thank my Father

For teaching me to stand for what I believe is right
Even if that means I die I'll not give up the fight

And so before you ban me from this beautiful Home Base
You should know the one I fought with once used to roam this place

It was Lucifer himself I don't know who let him in
But I do thank God it happened and I'll explain just why I grin

In the Great Book it is written Satan pays the final sacrifice
Who better to get the job done now please take my advice

If you want this place to stay as peaceful as it's been
Let me stay here and guard it from the Devil and his Den

Case Dismissed was all you could hear then the gavel came down like thunder
The Mighty judge smiled at the prosecutor and his mighty blunder

Then He walked up to the stand where stood the proud Devil Dog
Semper Fi he said returned his salute and I'm proud to be your God

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/header25.jpg

Gone for way to Long

Author: U.S. Marine, Al Sad, Iraq OIFII "the Sunni Triangle" 040714


We've been layin' here tryin' to find ourselves. We look behind ourselves, We need to go back ourselves..Always looking for the big pay back listen for the news distorted play back They say that all men bleed just like us.

Were never number one always the last in line. We watch our friends go by but it doesn't help pass the time. Were fed to many pills that never eases the pain. We took a couple towns but it doesn't help erase the pain. Nobody really knows us but that's the price we pay.

People try to mess with us we, kinda stick out in a crowd. And when these towns come crumbling down, we will all still be around. People don't know bout the things we've been through and the things we've seen.

Its been so long since we've been home...Lookin back we've been gone way to long. Maybe we've forgot all the things we've missed and maybe there's more to life then this.

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/07company01-3.jpg

With a Rifle in my Hand
Written By Melissa Wood
Former Corporal, USMC

I was just a private with a rifle in my hand
Along with fellow Marines, we go to make our stand
The plane ride took forever as the tension filled the air
To a place called Vietnam, our country sent us there.

I've been on base, we're packing up our ammo and some knifes
Heading out into the foreign fields where we could lose our lives
The jungle all around us, we're crawling on the ground
The enemy is very near, and the sun is going down

That night was just the first of many, the death roll moving on
The men I fought with side by side was also someone's son
Time just kept going by, everyday slower than the other
I yearned to see the smiling face of my dear old mother

The blood shed and the smell of death from villages we would roam
Hoping that we were closer to the day we're going home
Two years in Vietnam had come to pass when it finally caught up with me
I saved a soldiers life by taking out my knee

They flew me back to the U.S.A. I was going home at last
In a wheelchair with half a leg that was wrapped up in a cast
But what was waiting for me when I got home made me sick as I could be
People were protesting against this war. Is this reality?

I watched my fellow Marines die with honor and valor, in a country far away
For the rights of your freedom, their lives they had to pay
Words like liberty and honor you'll never understand
We provided you these privileges with our rifle in our hand

Semper Fi! Dedicated to all the Vietnam Vets.

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/300px-MCRD_Lights_Out.jpg

Reflecting

By Tom Bartlett
Leatherneck Association, Inc


We waded ashore in
"65,
with weapons in our hand;
Not a single shot
was fired, as we dashed across the sand.
Since then, six
long years have passed, and we recall with pride
The grins and pains
of many friends who fought and bled and died.
Bleeding isn't glourious; there's no success in dying.
But to keep
men free of slavery is worth the grief of trying.
So, God,
if You'd accept the men who passed the final test,
We'd appreciate
Your kindness if You'd grant them
lasting rest.

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/157052.jpg

Marine Sniper

By: Bradley Karr Holland


I am a Marine Sniper
Alone and fearless I fight
I sit still not making a move
As I wait in the pale moonlight
I wait for some helpless soul
To walk into my sight
I slowly squeeze the trigger
As a shot rings out through the night
A red mist fills the air
I can smell the blood from here
As I put away my gear
I take one last look in my scope
His head was blown completely off
He did not shed a tear
And when it troubles me in my sleep
I try to get my conscience clear
I will see their faces for the rest of my life
But this is the burden I choose to bear

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/160457.jpg

Ten Days Until an Ounce

by Janeen Robichaud

The ten days after Marine boot camp...until he leaves again.

The excitement rose when graduation was over

Finally Marine boot camp was over....he could come home for 10 days.

While he was home, I took in every ounce of what I missed about him...

The silly pranks

Playing the keyboard

Late night talks

The loving name-calling (it's a family thing)

His respect for me.....and vice versa

His amazing good looks

His generous nature

His love of family

Just the all-around love of being in his company

The ten days are over now. It's back to missing him...but this time it's not for 13 weeks. It may be for life! Only the government knows...how long my son will be gone.

God be with Zach! Thank you

Janeen Robichaud on authorsden.com

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/d1abb47f8c48e1efac1795fbf4bcd1d0.jpg

A United States Marine

Written by: Hershey S. Gehris, CCAM

I am
A United States Marine.
My Tenets are Duty, Honor, and Commitment
in services to God, Country, and Corps.
No matter the Cost;
No matter the Sacrifice
Even to the last full measure;
I will do my Duty.
I will Honor the traditions of those Marines who have gone before me;
As they have passed to me so will I pass to those who follow,
The sword of Freedom, the banner of Courage,
the unblemished Honor of the Corps.
For services without Honor is not our tradition.
I will serve with Honor.
I will be, at all times, always faithful
To my Corps, my Division,
To my Regiment, my Company
To my Platoon, my squad,
To my Fire-team, and to these Tenets
I will be Committed.
I am a United States Marine
I am neither an Ex Marine nor a Former Marine
I am or I am not
For a Marine, there is no middle ground.
I am
A United States Marine.

H & S 1/8
USMC
1963

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/105890.jpg

Welcome To Vietnam

By Pfc Ray Keck United States Combat Veteran, Veitnam

Poor boy in Hell, rich boy in Yale
Off the plane, into the rain
Nineteen, still green
Ding Dong, Viet Cong
First day, learn to pray
Mud 'n rain, men in pain
Dawn's early light, firefight
Day patrol, keep your head low
Mortars at night, Charlie's delight
Incoming rockets, arms out of sockets
Trip flare, men who dare
Punji stick, pull out quick
Incoming tracers, lots of sad faces
M-60 whistling Dixie
M-16 hot, damn, another jam
Flak jacket, gotta hack it
Helmet on head, nights I dread
Pointman, Promised Land
Willie Pete, minced meat
Smell of death, hold your breath
Search and destroy, Charlie's ploy
Hand grenades, babies in graves
RPG, who will it be
Fill sand bags, days that drag
Best friend dies, days of cries
Mail call, time to bawl
Morning mist, the smell of ****
China beach, out of reach
Long Bin cell, a place in hell
DMZ, no place to be
Down on the delta, no shelter
Sniper fire, gooks in wire
Claymore mines, works so fine
Fox hole, a place to go
Rock 'n Roll, high death toll
Shooting gooks, a place of spooks
Distant faces, far away places
USS Repose ship from heaven
Purple Heart, broken parts
Jungle hot, feet rot
NVA, bad day
Lock 'n load, saddle up
Out of luck Corpsman up
Booby traps, open yaps
Humping the bush, no rides just push
Concertina wire, open fire
Short round, hearts pound
AK 47, sure way to heaven
Tag 'em and Bag 'em going home early
Get some, Charlie's on the run
C4, even the score
Men in tanks, welcome yanks
Men in jets, sure bets
B-52's, Charlie's got the blues
Medivac, won't be back
Napalm bomb, HELP Mom
Friendly fire, no desire
Monsoon, days of gloom
Skeeters 'n snakes, God's mistakes
Elephant grass, this war will last
Dead dinks, Nam stinks
Kool-Aid, got it made
Malaria, it do scare ya
Hole watch, lives lost
Hot LZ, not for me
Tunnel rat, black cat
Body bag, gun or frag
R & R, far away bar
Boon docks, hard knocks
Rock pile, no smile
Bouncing Betty, soldiers get ready
Twilight's last gleaming, young men screaming
Body counts, death toll mounts
Fire in the hole, last patrol
Ho Chi Minh SUCKS
Shot timer, fence climber
13 Months no more grunts
Freedom bird, back to the world

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/header32.jpg

For My Brother, A United States Marine

By: Tracy Crowe


The announcement was sudden and quite unexpected
My dad stood motionless, my mom looked dejected
My eyes filled with awe; I stared at my brother
He had made this decision without asking another

My dad, troubled but proud, hugged him and asked,
”Have you thought this through? Are you up to this task?”
“You are 26 years old with a college education.”
The words of a father, voice of contemplation.

Dad joined the Marines in 1964.
He knew what lie ahead and what John was in for.
The reprimanding, commanding and constant direction,
the intensity of training and demand for perfection.

John is strong in body and stable in mind
This test would leave his courage defined.
He had made his decision, signed up as a recruit
It seemed this was final and not up for dispute.

Mom had been silent in complete disbelief.
Her eyes filled with sadness and heart filled with grief.
She barely could talk as she choked back her tears,
“When giving birth to a son, this was my greatest fear.”

John held her close and said not to be scared.
He knew what to expect and felt very prepared.
“The world is calm now and no need for war,
I’ve always wanted to join the Marine Corps.”

He left the day after Christmas in 1996.
It was a terrible moment, one I’ll never forget.
Boot camp awaited and it was time for goodbye
We prayed that three months would soon fly by.

John walked to his car and gave me a wave
I wondered aloud how he could be so brave
I wanted to stop him and beg him to stay
We waited for letters and prayed everyday

Graduation soon came and we anxiously waited
To see our Marine this Corps had created
Soon came an announcement and he marched into sight
“There he is, There he is,” we exclaimed with delight.

Who was this thin, strong, strapping young man?
“Didn’t they feed him and look at that tan!”
We smothered him with hugs and words of adoration
Emotions ran high during that graduation.

A 6-year commitment with five years complete
He’s a man of 32 with a new career at his feet.
The word came by letter and asked them to report
They had 48 hours to get ready to deport.

I arrived at my grandmas; she greeted me at the door
I looked in her eyes and braced myself for
The news that awaited and despite my prayers
They needed more in Iraq and John soon would be there.

I fell into her arms and she held me so tight
“He’s tried to reach you and will call back tonight.
Now Tracy, be strong for your Mother’s sake”.
I nodded, breathed deeply, yet felt my heart break.

Her eyes glistened with tears and they fell down her face
“This never gets easier, no matter the case.”
Her husband, her son and now her grandchild,
Yet somehow she managed to keep emotions compiled.

This must come with wisdom, experience and age
For I felt myself reeling and seething with rage
Yet I knew she was right, keep positive perspective
Face down our fears and maintain objective.

My parents arrived and I stared at the door
awaiting their reactions, wondering if they knew more
My mom’s eyes were red, tired and swollen
My dad’s face was blank, yet full of emotion.

We were all still in shock and unsure how to feel
Not sure whether to believe if this news was real
The Marine Corps is famous for changing their plans
Yet deep-down we knew it was all in God’s hands.

The phone rang and I knew it was John on the line
I picked up the receiver and tried hard not to cry
He sounded the same, calm and collected;
If he was afraid, his voice didn’t reflect it.

He was gathering his things, making last minute plans
Moving his belongings, saying goodbye to his friends.
My voice began to crack and tears filled my eyes
“Don’t worry Trace, I’ll be just fine.”

Days and nights passed and plans changed a bit
The departure delayed but not canceled yet.
Soon the inevitable came and he called with goodbye
His voice strong and steady yet different this time.

It was late in the afternoon when I arrived home that day
Dialed my voicemail and I heard him say,
“It may be some time before I call again
We’re boarding the plane, but don’t worry and when
They give us a chance, I’ll be in touch,
Have a good summer and I love you so much.”

I phoned my parents and mom answered the line,
“Tracy, we just have to believe that John will be fine.
He’s being strong for us, so we will do so for him,
I know in my heart, we will see him again.”

Mom bought yellow ribbons and we hung them from trees
They flow ever so gently with each passing breeze
There they will stay until John returns
As a reminder of our love, hope and concerns.

It was almost a month before the first word arrived
He was doing ok and trying his best to survive
The harsh desert heat, lack of showers and shelter
Sleeping in tents, his life all helter-skelter.

My dad grows more anxious with each passing moment
Questioning the motives of each political proponent
Are his son’s well-being & innocent Iraqi’s worth such destruction?
Is this truly about Saddam or just oil production?

Time moves so slowly as we wait for each call or letter
Just praying he’s safe and that conditions get better
We go through the motions, trying hard every day
To stay strong and have faith while he’s so far away.

His friends call and write to ask how he’s doing
To find out the latest and what plans are ensuing.
Many send their prayers, love and concern;
All wanting to know, of course, when he’ll return.

We’ll remain optimistic until that days comes
And continue to pray to The One up above:
God, bless him, keep him and protect him each day
Please help him and guide him to find the right way
May danger avoid him and hardship be gone
Please bring him back to us, where he belongs.

I love you, John. I miss you more everyday.
May God protect you and bring you home soon.
Your loving sister,
Tracy
6/03

This poem was written for John who left for Iraq in April. We are still awaiting his return home. It was a form of therapy for me and a tribute to him and will hopefully allow him to know how much we love him and miss him while he is away.

I hope that John made it back home safe and sound.

Jim

[jinelson]

http://www.thefreedompage.org/view/uploads/EnlistedDressBlue01.jpg

The American Marine!

Written by Sybil Shearin

He stands straight as an arrow
Dressed in Red White and Blue
His dress blues starched and pressed sharp as a tack.
America, He's heart and soul dedicated to You.

His shoes are spit shined to perfection
Like a mirror in which he can see his reflection
His gloves are white like the new fallen snow.
His rifle loaded and ready to meet his foe.

His hands are calloused
But onward he marches never missing a step.
His eyes keen like the eagles
Scouring the fields for a buddy who may need his help.

His heart is sealed from God above.
His letters written to Mom and family with love.
It's his God and his country America's pride and joy.
Standing on the carrier ready to deploy.

No one sees his hands sweat and slightly tremble.
No one sees the tear fall from his American eyes.
No one feels his heart break when a soldier beside him dies.
Only God sees the pain the American soldier with honor defies.

He still remembers when the Twin Towers fell.
He still remembers the American Liberty Bell.
He still remembers "In God We Trust"
He still remembers Saddam's dungeons and mass graves called prison cells.

He remembers Mom's apple pie each Sunday at noon.
He remembers the ball games and rock and roll tunes.
He remembers Ole Glory there will never be another.
He remembers saying goodbye to his baby brother.

He will fight with honor with his blood spilled upon the hot burning sands.
He will dig down and live in the fox holes called the very pits of hell.
He will fight in swamps, jungles or in the dusty desert lands.
He is the American soldier with trigger cocked who will soon bid this war farewell!

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/header13.jpg

ONLY THE FEW

Murl D. Long


Let me provide you a small glimpse of real life
Of a man preparing for coming strife
It begins with training unsurpassed
Compared to all others, far outclassed

It begins at 4 AM with the 'Devil' pounding a stick on a garbage can
We sit up straight in our bunks, to a man
Without question, for sure you are awake, to the head you run
Shower, shave, dress, police your area, the day has begun

Fall out in the dark of night
Straighten up the line, dress to the right
In cadence, run to the Mess
Chow down. What is this stuff? Take a guess

30 minutes. Fall back in ranks, back to the barracks in quick time you go
Brush your teeth, wash your face and assemble again. What next? You don't know
86 men learn to march in sync
They move as one, in tandem they think

The day wears on, every minute used to learn
No time to rest, not one second to burn
Lights out exactly at 10.
Rest 6 hours, another day will begin

Proper dress, hygiene, history, protocol, chain of command
Weapons, survival, defense-hand to hand
Repeat it over and over again, until
The 86 move as one, body and mind, at will

You trust and respect that comrade by your side
He, too, has taken this most difficult ride
77 days out of the pages of 'Hell'
You, and the other 86 have similar tales to tell

About pain, sweat, doubt and fear
There is a powerful mystery born right here
Nothing you have learned will you ever forget
An inner strength has been formed, you will never regret

A hundred years you may be allowed to live, God willing
Your life has been forever changed, indeed, fulfilling
Like a fine steel from the hot forge of fire
Your goals will always be higher

Only those who have weathered this gut-wrenching test
Will be referred to as "The Best"
What sets this man apart from all others who strive for perfection, as we have seen
The answer is simple, dear friend. He's a MARINE!

Murl D. Long
November 10,1945

[fastroper]

All of this moto is getting me fired up, I guess I won't be hitting the rack tonight. Semper Fi Devil Dogs!!

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/header10.jpg

My brother left for San Diego on August 13, 2006 which is my mother's birthday. So I wrote him this poem, and I just wanted to share it.

Boot Camp

Author Unknown

We learn to fight
Down at dusk up at dawn
Building our bodies
Gaining brains, gaining brawn

I learn of my rifle
And all of its strengths
I crawl, and I climb,
And I run great, great lengths

I remember my home
And I miss its smell
If only I had known
This would be such hell

My girl, my girl
How could I leave her side
If only I were there
I would make her my bride

But now I must go
And put thoughts of home behind me
My world is right here
And the rest of the world is blind to me

Graduation is closer
Every single day
I wish it were here
These words I pray

Once it is over
I will have become a man
They say I will be strong
Strong enough to fight for this land

But in my mind
I am learning to fight for my home
That is where my brightest light
Has always shone

My family and friends
Will say where’s your canteen
But my dad will say
Have you met my son “The Marine”

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/entrance2.jpg

Our Brother The Marine

by Omie Johnson


Our Brother The Marine
Our brother the Marine ~
is one of the toughest we’ve seen

He is off to travel far & wide ~
& we pray that God stays by his side

The things he’ll see & the things he’ll do ~
Is all to protect me & you

He’s serving our country in a time of trouble & doubt ~
We gave him some gadgets to make sure he is not without

A second generation Marine- we know he has a tough act to follow ~
So the words courage & honor will never be hollow

Our debt of gratitude for his service to our nation~
Is one that will be never be taken~

lightly or with out thought or prayer
for we know he is the one who is there~

on the front lines so we can stay safe & sound
for a family who loves him more could never be found

So here’s to our brother the Marine ~
Who is one of the toughest we’ve seen

May God bless him & keep him safe from harm~
Until we once again can hold him in our arms!

Our brother LCpl. Leon Deraps was killed in action on May 6th 2006, in Iraq. He was 19 years old. He was a baby of 6. I would like to see if you would put the poem I wrote to him when he was home for Christmas in your Newsletter. Take care!
~Omie Johnson

"In loving memory of LCpl. Leon Deraps ~ beloved brother & hero" Slow hand salute LCpl Deraps Semper Fidelis - may you rest in peace with Chesty.

Jim

[ssgtt32]

:iwo: RIP LCpl Deraps, you will not be forgotten!

Jim, thanks for the poem

Maurice

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/07company01-1.jpg

What I Am

by Donnie Marler

Tempered by the fire of battle,
Tested by fear and doubt,
Held up by my God and my brothers.

I have suffered,
I have hurt,
I have bled,
I have lived,

And I have died.

I have wept for fallen brothers,
I have prayed for my family at home,
I have hoped,
And I have loved.

Though I've died, I yet live,
I am reborn in each new generation of my brothers,
I live in them,
They carry my memory in their hearts,
They honor me,
And they will never forget me.

This land I love,
I have given it all I had to give,
And I would do it again.

I am one of The Few and the Proud.
I am a United States Marine.

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/Done.jpg

TILL THE DAY THEY DIE

Hank Donnerstag


The birth of a Marine is on that day
Having earned the Eagle, Globe and Anchor.
For that’s the day of standing tall
With a pride that couldn’t be greater.

Throughout the rigors of basic training
There’s a metamorphosis taking place;
A past life ends while another begins
With a title that can’t be erased.

With a heritage passed on
And distinctions so easily seen,
It’s more than just the uniform
In the making of Marines.

It’s fortitude and conviction,
Values taken to their graves;
It’s honor after tours have ended
For the remainder of their days.

The fire contained within the ember
Hides its heat without a glow…
It’s the Marine’s fire that burns forever,
The “Spirit” within their soul.

“Once a Marine, Always a Marine!”
It’s the ultimate of all truths,
For there is no other service on Earth
That’s paid such heavy dues.

Whether they served for 30 years
Earning ribbons and medals galore,
Or never having tasted battle…
They are Marines for evermore.

To say a Marine is “X” or “Former”
Will warrant immediate retraction.
Marines are Marines till the day they die…
But even then, the Title is everlasting!

[Kildars]

Cool SSgt, you used my angel picture. Sweet, it looks nice with that poem.

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/157054.jpg

Side By Side

by Pfc Jay Keck United States Marine Corps Combat Veteran, Vietnam



Side by side we fought an died
One by one we came home to hide
Side by side for twelve or thirteen months
They didn't call us soldiers, they called us grunts

Side by side, and day by day
Our squad leaders trying to show us the way
Side by side, black, brown, red and white
Risking our lives in a firefight

Side by side, mostly young men
Fighting a war we thought we could win
Side by side, in jungles and mountains
The rivers and streams became our drinking fountains

Side by side, in rice paddies and plateaus
In a far away country that we didn't know
Side by side we went to war
To stop the communists on a foreign shore

Side by side, trying to keep buddies alive
Everyday and every night it took all our training to survive
Side by side we laughed and cried
So many being wounded, so many that died

Side by side we fought for our flag
So many of our friends in a body bag
Side by side we fought for what was right
Coming home to America was such a fright

Side by side we are forever more
Never to be forgotten by the Vietnam War

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/FourthofJulyParade050.jpg

Untitled...

By Bruno Bonaldi


Yes I am joining the Marine Corps
Yes I am requesting my MOS to be Infantry
Yes I will be trained to fight to kill to protect freedom and democracy
Yes I want to be at the FRONT!
I will make the Corps my house where I will guard it from all evil
My fellow Marines will be my family, and I will risk my life to save theirs
My Strength, My Honor, My Pride, My Courage, My Commitment, My Desire will be my shield against the enemy...
I will fight for the Red, White and Blue and everything it stands for...
The Same Red that represents the BLOOD of all Warriors that fought this country's battles
The Same White which represents PEACE
The Same BLUE which represents our Blue sky where we look up to dream away, to wonder, to imagine, to look for hope...
Yes I am joining the Marine Corps

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/millrat-bday-large.jpg

Veterans Hat

Robert Charles Steinmeyer


I had a man come up to me
He asked me why I wore a hat in such a manner as I did
With patches and pins that clearly read Veteran United States Marine
I turned and proudly answered, well my friend it goes like this
I wear this hat not just for me
Although I certainly earned the right to bear the title of the United States Marines
No, I wear it for the veterans who served long before both you and me
Both on and off the battle fields offering their greatest sacrifice, again for you and me
I wear it for all who serve today both in the air, on the land and on the sea
I wear it as a reminder for all those who stand around and next to me
Of the blanket of freedom and security
These veterans afford us every day and every night we go to sleep
But most of all I wear in my fathers memory
Who valiantly served the 1st Marines fighting in Korea
Who when I volunteered and joined the Marines
Was so very proud me
I wear it in honor of my mother who endured the tears and sleepless nights
Waiting for her loved ones to call alone, homesick and filled with fright
You see my family has quite a military past
My Father and I in the 1st Marines
My brother in the US Navy
My Brother in-law retiring from the US Coast Guard
And now my Niece is in the Marine Corps and married to a Marine
Now with so much corruption and disregard for basic human rights
You might be comforted in knowing we who wear these hats
Still believe and are ready, able and willing to fight
For God, Country and decency
And for this I wear my hat so proudly
As the conscience and the heart of a person who will never forget
God Bless the USA and all its US military Vets
And Semper Fi to all my brother Marines

Robert Charles Steinmeyer
United States Marine Corps Veteran
Semper Fi

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/remember.jpg

Fallen Warrior

by JOE TOLEDO, USMC


A Warrior Fell Today
How He Is Remembered Is Up To You
How Will You Remember Hm?

Will You Remember The Warrior?
Will You Remember The Husband?
Will You Remember The Father?
Will You Remember The Son?
Will You Remember The Brother?
Will You Remember The Friend?

The Warrior Stood Before You
And Deflected Danger Before It Got To You
He Didnt Ask For Your Thanks
He Didnt Ask For Your Praise
It Was Second Nature To Him
That This Day Might Happen Was Before Him
And Still He Stood There

The Husband Was The Man Who Loved His Wife
He Too Stood Before Her And Deflected Danger From Her
It Was Second Nature To Him, He Did It Without Thinking
Her Love For Him Was All The Thanks He Ever Needed
He Loved To Make Her Happy

The Father Watched After His Children
He Watched Them Like A Wolf Protecting Its Litter
Delighting In Thier Smiles And Laughter
He Enjoyed Playing With Them And Making Them Happy
He Made Sure They Had The Best He Could Afford
Going Without Himself To Accomplish That Goal
Teaching Them Right And Wrong, Watching Them Grow

The Son Was The Man Who Made His Parents Proud
He Would Do Anything For Them
They Rejoiced In All He Did, They Helped Him Grow
They Watched Him Transform Into A Man Right Before Thier Eyes
Moving From Baby To Little Boy To Teen And Into Man
He Loved Seeing His Parents Happy And Always Did His Best
What He Was And What He Stood For Made Them Proud

The Brother Was The Man Who Watched After His Siblings
He Played With Them And Bickered With Them As Well
They Didnt Always Agree But They Loved Each Other
He Strived To Help Them, And They Strove To Help Him
He Loved To Be Around Them And Missed Them When He Couldnt Be There
Thier Bond No One Could Break

The Friend Was Always There For You
You Could Count On Him In A Pinch
Call Him In The Middle Of The Night And He Always Answered
He Was There When You Needed A Shoulder To Cry On
He Was There To Celebrate Your Accomplishments
He Backed You Up When You Got In Over Your Head
And Asked For Nothing In Return

Which Part Of Him Will You Remember
I Choose To Remember Them All
Each And Every Part Made Him What He Was
I Never Met Him But A Brother To Me Has Been Lost
He Will Always Be Remembered
My Brother Has Fallen But He Is Not Forgot

Joe Toledo
Sgt Usmc 1987 - 1993
Sgt Us Army 1993 -2000

[thezero]

This moto is like the Energizer Bunny keeps me going and going. Plus it is gong to help me pass english, I have to memeroize a poem or speech. jinelson, sir thanks for all of these great poems, and the ones that will be coming soon.

Matt

[ElDiablo]

Keep them coming, sir. I look forward to new moto everyday.

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/219528.jpg


THE FINAL INSPECTION

~Author Unknown~

The Marine stood and faced God,

Which must always come to pass.

He hoped his shoes were shining,

Just as brightly as his brass.


"Step forward now, Marine,

How shall I deal with you?

Have you always turned the other cheek?

To My Church have you been true?"


The soldier squared his shoulders and said,

"No, Lord, I guess I ain't.

Because those of us who carry guns,

Can't always be a saint.


I've had to work most Sundays,

And at times my talk was tough.

And sometimes I've been violent,

Because the world is awfully rough.


But, I never took a penny,

That wasn't mine to keep...

Though! I worked a lot of overtime,

When the bills got just too steep.


And I never passed a cry for help,

Though at times I shook with fear.

And sometimes, God, forgive me,

I've wept unmanly tears.


I know I don't deserve a place,

Among the people here.

They never wanted me around,

Except to calm their fears.


If you've a place for me here, Lord,

It needn't be so grand.

I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't, I'll understand.


There was a silence all around the throne,

Where the saints had often trod.

As the Marine waited quietly,

For the judgment of his God.

"Step forward now, you Marine,

You've borne your burdens well.

Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,

You've done your time in Hell."

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/0510.jpg

The Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima)

By: Del "Abe" Jones 02-20-2005


Said a Vet from Nineteen forty-five,
"Men were dying by the score."
An eyewitness to a famous Battle
Immortalized forever more.
Quartermaster on a LST
"Eyewitness to a sad, horrible day."
"A slaughter right there on the Beach"
Is what, this Veteran had to say.
Coast Guardsman Robert Resnick
Was more than just a witness there
He furnished the Stars and Stripes
In that picture all generations share.
A symbol for the Marine Corps
Cast in bronze for all to see
The Flag raised on that mountain top
Is part of our Nation’s History.
One of the bloodiest Battles of the War
Fought for thirty-six days and nights
More than twenty two thousand Japanese
In one of the Marines fiercest fights.
The first part of Japan we invaded
And as Resnick’s ship sat on the beach
Marine Gagnon asked him for a Flag
And a long pipe to raise it’s reach.
They lost their sight of the Marine
As he headed to that Mountain top
Amidst the gun’s bullets flying
That never, ever seemed to stop.
As they began to leave the Beach
A tremendous cheer went all around
And, "Every ship tooted it’s horn."
As they raised the Flag that he had found.
For years another was credited
Until the year, Two thousand-one
When at a Fifth Marine Convention
The Marines learned he really was the one.
A big, old Marine bellowed out,
"Do you really mean to tell me,
That you never realized that you
Won that Battle, single-handedly?"
The President of the Fifth Marines
Made him an honorary member
And as they did some tears were shed
As they all began to remember
About that day sixty years ago
Up there on Mount Surabachi
When the Stars and Stripes were raised high
Was still a vivid, cherished, memory.

[jinelson]

Welcome Home

By: Marge Reich

Welcome Home, my Hero, my boy, my Son
You've been through a lot, of this I'm assured.
For both of us it's been a very long time
The good of what you've done yet to be heard.

I watched you as you gathered
the things you would need
Seeing your excitement,
innocence glowing in your eyes
Not wanting you to do this,
not wanting you to grow up
I sat in your room, biting my lip,
saying our goodbyes

You went to build sand castles
across the sea
Your goals were to give Freedom
to the oppressed
With the best of intentions
for people of that land
In your camos,
with weapons and backpacks you dressed.

September went quickly,
even though you were far away
The phone calls and emails
were coming often enough.
October flew by,
but I could tell things were picking up
And I realized, with dread,
the next month would be tough.

November came with news
that our guys were in Fallujah.
I sat glued to the TV,
watching the news day and night.
Watched as our guys went door to door,
house to house
Finding insurgents who on this city were a blight.

During this time, news came
we lost some good men
To name a few, Blecksmith, Kirk, Smith,
your roommate Kielion
These were hard times, not only for you guys,
but also for us.
December finally dawned - another blow -
I heard it was Rund.

These awesome men gave it all,
for their country and kin
We will always remember their sacrifice,
hold their memories dear.
We thank them for the gift
they have bestowed upon us
So we could tuck our children into bed
each night without fear.

January finally dawned and the elections drew near
We counted down the days
'til the people cast their vote
Stood up to be counted, braved the lines,
made a stand
You helped all this happen, you stood guard,
WE took note.

Americans felt vindicated, stood up taller,
filled with pride
Seeing how important this was,
beyond our wildest dreams
The Iraqi people showed the world
that they were truly strong
Knew what they wanted,
or are learning, much as it seems.

Time to brush the dirt from your britches,
shake off your hat
Gather your weapons, dump sand out of your boots,
Come back to those that love you,
thankful for your service
Come back to America, amid loud hollers and hoots.

When you come back to California,
I will be standing there waiting
Longing to hold you close, see your smile,
count your fingers and toes
Knowing you are on US soil again
will put a spring in my step.
How many grey hairs you have given me,
nobody knows.

YOU are MY HERO, my only boy, YOU ARE MY SON
Freedom is secure because of you warriors,
WE have seen
You stand with those men
who have always given their best
You are one of the few, the proud,
a UNITED STATES MARINE.

I had a woman on one of my MOM boards ask for a Welcome Home poem from a Marine Mom to Marine... I became inspired as I never EVER again want another military member to come back and not feel WELCOMED HOME... I always tell every VET I meet, Welcome Home and give them a huge hug... ya know... Marines are required to give Marine Moms hugs, and once a Marine / Marine Mom always a Marine / Marine Mom... my son is with the 3/5 and will be home within the month... and I wanted to share this with you... if you feel its good enough to share with the world, you have my permission to use it on your site.

Marge

[ElDiablo]

This has to be my favorite thread on here. Keep it coming, sir. I'm nothing without my morning moto...:)

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/header12.jpg

Semper Fidelis

by Breann Arant


Drawing closer and closer
to where our new home would be
Parris Island came in to view
for all recruits to see

a funny felling in my stomach
grew as we drew near
a feeling i've often felt before
a feeling know as fear

the funny feeling grew and grew
as we were swallowed by the isle
my hands were growing clammy
my heart pounding wild

the sky was black as black could be
the air was slightly chilled
fear, excitement, adrenaline
my heart was completly filled

quickly and quietly we gather our things
as all recruits hurriedly piled out
our eyes bombarded by darkness
our ears invaded with shouts

we were issued standard clothing
allowed one phone call home
to tell out parents we were ok
and make our presence known

the weeks that followed were crammed with work
as we all longed for home
all we did was drill and drill
although none were alone

the time went by so very slow
graduation so far ahead
thats all we ever dreamed about
at night when we lay in bed

before we knew it ten weeks had gone by
the final test drawing near
i felt a feeling all too familiar
a feeling known as fear

reville was sounded at three a.m
the crucible comming soon
we gathered our equipment and our strenght
as we marched as one platoon

we overcame our obstacle and solved our problems
we did it as a group
we made it through one of the toughest days
with little time to recoup

with little food and little rest
we pushed on harder and harder
our final goal was in reach
so we went farther and farther

we fought with courage and with pride
as the final march was done
we had achieved our goal with honor and commitment
all out battles won

all platoons lined up in formation
as the ceremony proceeded
tears came to everyone eyes
because we knew that all had succeeded

i recieved my eagle globe and anchor
i shook my drill instructors hand
i realized i was no longer stranded at sea
but that she alone had led me safely to land

i now serve our country proudly
in the air, on land, at sea
I have been more proud to claim the title
of UNITED STATES MARINE

Semper Fidelis

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/marine203.jpg

THE MARINE

By: Corporal Aaron M. Gilbert, US Marine Corps

We all came together,
Both young and old
To fight for our freedom,
To stand and be bold.

In the midst of all evil,
We stand our ground,
And we protect our country
From all terror around.

Peace and not war,
Is what some people say.
But I'll give my life,
So you can live the American way.

I give you the right
To talk of your peace.
To stand in your groups,
and protest in our streets.

But still I fight on,
I don't *****, I don't whine.
I'm just one of the people
Who is doing your time.

I'm harder than nails,
Stronger than any machine.
I'm the immortal soldier,
I'm a U.S. MARINE!

So stand in my shoes,
And leave from your home.
Fight for the people who hate you,
With the protests they've shown.
Fight for the stranger,
Fight for the young.
So they all may have,
The greatest freedom you've won.

Fight for the sick,
Fight for the poor
Fight for the cripple,
Who lives next door.

But when your time comes,
Do what I've done.
For if you stand up for freedom,
You'll stand when the fight's done.

By: Corporal Aaron M. Gilbert, US Marine Corps
USS SAIPAN, PERSIAN GULF

[USMC90]

I hope you don't mind me posting this SSgt.

Two of the best Marine Corps videos out there!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=pF4RUMdhOwE


http://youtube.com/watch?v=Bh5SNU2_H3s&mode=user&search

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/ReaganQuote.jpg

PRIDE

By: K. Shearon


Honor, courage and commitment as one is Pride
so pure and strong as a stallion at full stride
Its grace and beauty like an eagle soars through the sky
pride that is seen in every Marines eye

To hear the words of our nations hymn brings tears of delight
our stars and stripes waving in the breeze, a heartwarming sight
Young children with innocent faces, hands on their heart
our veterans saluting, remembering how they fought their part

These are but a few privileges we Americans have every day
we have choices to believe in God and the choice to pray
Our troops are fighting with pride for this gift to you
let us show them the power behind the red, white and blue

Support our sons and daughters, husbands and wives
who are fighting for justice and freedom with their lives
Lets not forget about that awesome feeling of pride
let us unite as a nation and stand strong side by side

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/07Company01.jpg

A Quick Marine Ditty

By Chris Madeira


Semper Fl
Marine am I
Fashioned by my DI
San Dye-ego or PI
Gal or guy, bold or shy
Float or fly, sea or sky
Wet or dry, head held high
Eye to eye -- do or die
Sailor boy or ex-GI
Family or no such tie
Marching private
Quiet corpsman
Even so called
Sea-going doorman
Far or nigh
Curse or sigh
None deny
Sir, aye aye
Marine am I
Semper Fi
!
SAL PARLATO Jr
(aka Chris Madeira

[Black Heart]

THE MARINE- is one of the most inspirational things ive ever read in my life.

"In Battle One Must Risk Their Life..To Take Another"

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/222578.jpg

What We Do

By Corporal Aaron M. Gilbert USMC
via letter to his dad


We all came together
both young and old,
To fight for our freedom
to stand and be bold.

In the midst of all evil
we stand our ground,
And we protect our country
from all terror around.

Peace and not war
is what some people say,
But I'll give my life
so you can live the American way.

I give you the right
to talk of your peace,
To stand in your groups
and protest in our streets.

But still I fight on
I don't *****, I don't whine,
I'm just one of the people
who is doing your time.

I'm harder than nails
stronger than any machine,
I'm the immortal soldier
I'm a U.S. Marine.

So stand in my shoes
and leave from your home,
Fight for the people who hate you
with the protests they've shown.

Fight for the stranger
fight for the young,
So they all may have
the greatest freedom you've won.

Fight for the sick
fight for the poor,
Fight for the cripple
who lives next door.

But when your time comes
do what I've done,
For if you stand up for freedom
you'll stand when the fight's done.

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/47990.jpg

Walk On, Warrior!
(Farewell, Beetle Bailey!)

by Doug Todd, SGT, USMC


The Warriors path ran through that valley
Where the shadows had no end--
Where the password was "My Brother!"--
Where the answer was "My Friend!"
Those who walked that path together,
For all eternity are bound
In a state of trust and friendship
That, nowhere else on earth is found!

For only those who walked there with us
Know the half of what we feel--
Know the ties that run between us,
Stronger than the finest steel!

I recall a savage summer
When young men grew old too fast;
Where every minute seemed eternal
Where every breath might be our last;

Where they sowed us from the choppers
Like a farmer sowing grain--
(Now, in the stillness after midnight,
Demons plant that field again!)

When the Midnight Madness takes us
Back to scenes from long ago,
There's a wide field strewn with bodies--
All with faces that we know!

There--- the mud and smoke and thunder--
-- someone crying out in pain!
There-- the blood and sweat and heartache
--- and we live it all again!

There-- the mountain and the graveyard--
There-- the paddy with it's dikes;
There-- the land mines and the mortars
And the punji traps with spikes--
Where we fought long past exhaustion,
-- young men came and old men went--
Tired and tortured-- touched with madness--
Still we fought where we were sent.

It seems our youth was but a moment
And the years just slid away--
Suddenly we face the twilight,
Warped and wasted-- bent and gray!

Now, some are gathered 'round this bunker
In the shadows of the end,
Where the password is "My Brother!"
Where the answer is "My Friend!"

Where no one of us need ever
Stand another watch alone,
For there's a spirit here that bonds us--
Blood of blood and bone of bone!

Brother David--- someone tells me
That you've saddled up once more--
That you're walking point again
The way you always did before--
If I could I'd walk it for you--
(So would any man that's here!)
But, our orders were to "Hold Position!"
Though the reason's far from clear!

So, walk on, Brother Warrior!
Go with God and with our prayers
That He'll, at long last, ease the burden
Of your pain and of your cares.

Rest assured your name is honored
Here among The Walking Dead
And, we may step a little quicker
Knowing that you're up ahead.

And, in the shadows of the evening,
When we pause to smoke and talk,
There'll be someone to remind us
"Beetle Bailey walked the walk!"

So, walk on, Warrior! Keep a look-out
For long lost Brothers you might find;
Tell them all we'll meet at sunrise--
We're just a click or two behind!

Walk on Warrior! Let us help you
Saddle up and load your gear--
With you up front as point-man
We know there's nothing there to fear.

We must not waste one precious moment
On a tear-soaked, sad, "Good-Bye"--
Just let me take you by the shoulders--
Toe-to-toe and eye-to-eye--
And, we'll just say "So Long" like Brothers--
Walk on Warrior! (Hand Salute!) Semper Fi!

[jinelson]

http://www.navy.mil/management/photodb/thumbnails/thumb_030402-M-3138H-009.jpg

I'm The One Called Doc

BY: HARRY D. PENNY, JR. 1997

I SHALL NOT WALK IN YOUR FOOTSTEPS,
BUT I WILL WALK BY YOUR SIDE.
I SHALL NOT WALK IN YOUR IMAGE,
I'VE EARNED MINE WITH PRIDE.

WE'VE ANSWERED THE CALL TOGETHER,
ON SEA AND FOREIGN LAND.
WHEN THE CRY FOR HELP WAS GIVEN,
I'VE BEEN THERE RIGHT AT HAND.

WHETHER I AM ON THE OCEAN
OR IN THE JUNGLE WEARING GREENS,
GIVING AID TO MY FELLOW MAN,
BE IT SAILORS OR MARINES.

SO THE NEXT TIME YOU SEE ME,
AND YOU THINK OF CALLING ME 'SQUID',
THINK OF THE JOB I'M DOING,
AS THOSE BEFORE ME DID.

AND IF YOU EVER HAVE TO GO OUT THERE
AND YOUR LIFE IS ON THE BLOCK,
LOOK AT THE ONE RIGHT NEXT TO YOU...
I'M THE ONE CALLED 'DOC'.

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/griggs1.gif

Whisper Semper Fi

Author Unknown

He was sitting on a park bench, hunched and looking low
It was hard to imagine how he'd looked, so long ago.
His beard was long and shaggy now; his sparse hair white as snow
But his steel gray eyes were piercing, and I turned away to go.

He looked lonely and forgotten, and maybe homeless too
Like life had dealt him a bad hand, maybe quite a few
He was probably abandoned by those who didn't care
I wondered what had happened, what drove him to despair.

He said, "Son, I'm a Leatherneck, of wars before your time"
His eyes grew still more piercing as he looked deep into mine
"Your uniform says you're a Devil Dog, the man I've waited for
And there's something I want to tell you -- things I've never said before."

The tattoos on his weathered arm read "Mom" and "Semper Fi"
"Let's sing our hymn together, son, once more before I die."
As we sang of Montezuma's halls and the shores of Tripoli,
The old man stood straight and tall, and he looked down at me.

"Bury me at Arlington; put an EGA upon my chest.
Tell all the world I died for them, that I was one of the best.
I was with the Fifth on Iwo, and I fought in Korea too.
During that ugly war in Vietnam, I stood proud, and cheered for you.

"Get me a straight edge razor, lad, and give me a good, clean shave.
I want to look my very best as I go to my grave
Cut my hair; shine my boots; let me borrow your best blues.
You have them back after I'm gone, and all my medals too.

"I don't want no flowers, an American flag will do
My life was lived and given for the Red and White and Blue.
Whisper 'Semper Fi' my boy, so loud that all will hear
Fire them rifles in the air; they're music to my ear."

As he told me his last wishes, I saw him standing tall
I could see the ribbons on his chest, in the dim light of the Mall
And as he closed his steel gray eyes, I thought about the Corps
He'd lived the life of a real Marine, who could ask for anything more?

"Whisper 'Semper Fi,' my lad," his voice lingered in my mind
I thought about all my buddies, those I'd left behind
Today, I'd met a real Marine, a hero through and through
Forgotten by his country, but not by me and you

[jinelson]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/jinelson/100_0316.jpg

No True Glory

by Cpl. DeJohn


No true glory was given to the men,
who fought in Fallujah, a terrorist den.

A cauldron of hatred and evil lived here,
and Marines were again at the tip of the spear.

Zarqawi's base camp was Fallujah's cancer,
and rooting it out was the only answer.

Neither politics nor patience could change this course,
so the order was given to eliminate the source.

Both Marines and Army fought side by side,
to crush a cruel enemy and to turn the tide.

Battalions 1/8, 1/3, 3/1, and 3/5,
the Army's 2-7, and 2-2 went into the hive.

Brave heroes were made as the battle did unfold,
but due to media bias, these tales were not told.

Casualties and Abu Ghraib was instead the news du jour,
with very few exceptions the reporting of valor was poor.

Many were wounded and many did die,
Brothers in arms, they won't be denied.

For warriors of the past there was no true glory,
if there were no songs or poems to tell their brave story.

Unsung, the noblest deeds will surely die.
To the men who fought this historic battle, we salute you - Semper Fi.

Last year I read the book "No True Glory - A Frontline Account of the Battle for Fallujah" by retired Marine Corps General Bing West. What a truly stirring retelling of the latest of many epic battles executed by the Marine Corps. It was a story that needs to be told and retold. The last paragraph of this great piece of work deeply moved me; "In The Illiad a warrior in the front ranks turned to his companion and said, "let us win glory for o