4 minute read
“Little Yellow Footprints” Kenneth Riege
"Little Yellow
By Ken Riege USAF 1985 – 1993Footprints"
By Ken Riege USAF 1985 – 1993
This story is dedicated to all those who have had the greatest honor of calling themselves “Marines.”
I must admit that I had never known of the “Fabled Yellow Footprints” until I had visited a friend in Gainesville, TX who fought with the 1/5 (1st Battalion/5th Marines) during Vietnam. He had a floormat (like the one pictured here) in his garage. I had asked him about it and he said that when Marine Recruits arrived at either MCRD (Marine Crops Recruit Depot) at Parris Island, SC or in San Diego, these are the first steps taken to becoming a Marine.
I found that rather interesting but have since come to know how much these “Little Yellow Footprints” mean and how important they are.
In doing some research I found that they date back to the early 1960’s, and while not that old of a tradition (which the military is known for) it has become one of the most endeared and most feared.
I also came across the speech that all Marine Corps Recruits receive upon first stepping upon them. Here is the one from Parris Island Recruit Depot:
Once recruits find a spot on the footprints, a drill instructor barks a well-rehearsed speech:
“You are now aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, and you have just taken the first step toward becoming a member of the world’s finest fighting force -- the United States Marine Corps. ... Tens of thousands of Marines began outstanding service to our country on the very footprints where you are standing. You will carry on their proud tradition.”
I would find it safe to say that the Marine Corps Recruits at MCRD San Diego receive the same speech, just a little different wording.
I have had the honor of meeting quite a few Marines during my life and it still amazes me the fellowship they have with other Marines. Myself, when I see another Air Force Veteran I will acknowledge them, offer a handshake (or in today’s world it’s now a fist or elbow bump or even an air high five), but when a Marine comes across another Marine, well it’s a
completely different story as they greet each other with a very hardy, “Semper Fi” or “Oorah.”
I am also amazed at the extremely high level of respect Marines have for their fellow and past Marines. I have shared this story before, but it bears repeating. This happened a few years ago at the hotel as I was visiting with a young Marine who had fought with the 1/5 in Iraq. I had told him of my grandfather who had also fought with the 1/5 during WW1 and had fought at Belleau Wood. This young Marine proceeded to tell me how they are taught to respect the Marines from WW1 and how my grandfather was one of the original “Devil Dogs.” It’s such a great honor knowing that yesterday, today, and tomorrow the Marines of my grandfather’s era are held in the highest regards as today’s Marines strive to be like and honor them.
Everyone has heard the saying, “Once a Marine, Always a Marine.” Well a few years ago I heard a different version of this from one of our nation’s greatest heroes, Medal of Honor Recipient Woody Williams. Woody’s heroic MOH actions took place on Iwo Jima and he is one of only two remaining (and the only living Marine) MOH Recipient from WW2. Woody said to me, “Ken if you live long enough to hear the Marine Corps Motto changed, you will know I have come back as the Marine Corps Commandant.” Woody’s saying goes like this:
Woody’s belief is, you cannot make someone a Marine, they are born a Marine.
I would like to end this story with a little poem I wrote. I hope it is not too corny and that I can convey the full respect I have for all those who have been “Born Marines.”
Little Yellow Footprints Not there for all to see They are only meant for Those who were born Marines
different walks of life Have stepped upon thee Not knowing their own future but to keep our country free
Little Yellow Footprints Greet them in the night Are there to help the few Full fill their birthrights I offer a salute To the few who have seen These Little Yellow Footprints Who were born Marines!!
Semper Fi!!!
This month’s Medal of Honor quote comes form retired United States Marine Corps Major General James E. Livingston. I have had the extreme honor of meeting General Livingston on several occasions and he is the most polite and humble hero one will ever meet. His quote is as follows:
I could not agree with General Livingston more.
All the MOH Quotes can be found in the MOH Quotes book which can be purchased from the Center for American Values in Pueblo, CO through their website of: www. americanvaluescenter.org
A very important date in Marine Corps History is 10 November 1775 making this year their 245th Birthday. Let us all give a heartfelt Semper Fi and Oorah to all those who have realized their birthright of being born a Marine.
