Issuu

BLEED AREA

A special historical supplement to

Nov. 10 1775 - Nov. 10, 2012

BLEED AREA

2 | usmc 237th birthday edition

Photo Courtesy Department of Defense

InsurIng MArInEs sInCE 1879. Navy Mutual is proud to serve the Marine Corps. Happy Birthday! Get the coverage you deserve. Call 800-628-6011 or visit navymutual.org A non-profit, member-owned, Veterans Service Organization.

usmc 237th birthday edition

in this

issue

The Globe 1122 Henderson Dr., Jacksonville, N.C. 28540 Phone: 347-9624 fax: 347-9628

montford point marines

Breaking through racial barriers

24 beirut

29 years later

5 The EGA 6 The birth of Camp Lejeune 9 bootcamp

Recruits go from couch potato to Marine

12 Female Marines 14 the Medal of honor

18 military order of the purple heart

26 birthday ball traditions

20 Golden Silence

27 mess night tradition

Discipline defined by Silent Drill Platoon

21 21 gun salute

28 military working dogs

22 parade precedence

29 evolution of equipment

25 service medals

30 marine corps history timeline

Rooted in military customs

Publisher James M. Connors editorial staff Ena Sellers Amy Binkley Sarah Anderson Jessie Heath Business Manager Rachel Picard Advertising Designers Hillary Bratton Julia Dillon Sales Staff Bobby Stone Emily Kelley Teresa Moore Pauline Chan-Wasicek Distribution Manager Dennis Fusco COVER PHOTO BY Sgt. Austin Hazard disclaimer The special birthday edition is published by Landmark Military Newspapers of N.C., a private enterprise not connected with the DoD or the U.S. Marine Corps. The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement of these products or services by the DoD, the U.S. Marine Corps, or Landmark Military Newspapers of N.C. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of Landmark Military Newspapers of N.C. For distribution and advertising inquiries, call 347-9624.

4 | usmc 237th birthday edition

s we pause to celebrate the 237th birthday of our corps, we reflect on the rich legacy of service handed down to us, we recommit ourselves to the tasks at hand, and we look forward toward a bright future in service to our country. Marines exist to fight and win our nation's battles. We are most proud of our well-earned reputation for answering the clarion call first. This was never more evident than at the epic battle of Guadalcanal 70 years ago. Picked to lead the first allied counter-offensive of the Pacific War because they were the "most ready," Marines landed on August 7, 1942 in the Solomon Islands. They persevered through months of unremitting deprivation and bitter combat. By the time the veterans of the blue diamond, the cactus air force, our legendary Marine raiders, and initial elements of the follow-me division gathered together to raise a canteen and toast the birthday of their beloved corps some three months later, the battle was no longer an issue. The situation was well in hand ...Victory was assured. We carry that same legacy of resolute commitment and valor today. Over the past year, Marines

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have stood firm in the toughest of circumstances and on numerous occasions. We've taken the fight to the enemy in Helmand and to the Horn of Africa. We've manned the ramparts of beleaguered embassies in the middle east and north Africa, fought alongside our allies throughout the world, while behind the scenes, afloat and ashore, other Marines did the painstaking hard work required to maintain our high levels of readiness and efficiency. As we look toward the future, we know that our sentimental place in the hearts of our fellow Americans and critical role in the defense of our way of life are assured. America has always wanted a Marine Corps...It's always been that way. Now, more than ever, America needs its Marines as we confront a dangerous and unpredictable world. Faced with difficult days ahead, we will continue to draw strength from our rich heritage and the shared values of the Marines to our left and to our right. We know who we are...We know what we stand for. As ever we will strive to be found worthy of the legendary trust of our fellow Americans. I salute the enduring faithfulness of those who have gone before, of those who wear our cloth today, and of the families who stand so resolutely at our sides. Happy birthday, Marines!

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usmc 237th birthday edition

he history of the Marine Corps emblem is a story related to the history of the Corps itself. The emblem of today traces its roots to the designs and ornaments of early Continental Marines as well as British Royal Marines. The emblem took its present form in 1868. Before that time many devices, ornaments and distinguishing marks followed one another as official marks of the Corps. In 1776, the device consisted of a “foul anchor” of silver or pewter. The foul anchor still forms a part of the emblem today. Changes were made in 1798, 1821 and 1824. In 1834, it was prescribed that a brass eagle be worn on the hat, the eagle to measure 3 ½ inches from wingtip to wingtip. The well-know photo of a large

“living” emblem composed of hundreds of Marines was taken aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island in 1919. During the early years, numerous distinguishing marks were prescribed, including black cockades, scarlet plumes, and yellow bands and tassels. In 1859, the origin of the present color scheme for the officers’ dress uniform ornaments appeared on an elaborate device of solid white metal and yellow metal. The design included a U.S. shield, half wreath, a bugle and the letter M. In 1868, Brig. Gen. Jacob Zeilin, the seventh commandant of the Marine Corps, appointed a board “to decide and report upon the various devices of cap ornaments of the Marine Corps.” Nov. 13, 1868, the board turned in its report. It was approved Nov. 19, 1868. The emblem recommended by this board consists of a globe (showing the Western Hemisphere) intersected by a foul anchor, and surmounted by a spread eagle. On

the emblem itself, the device is topped by a ribbon inscribed with the Latin motto “Semper Fidelis” (Always Faithful). The uniform ornaments omit the motto ribbon. The general design of the emblem was probably derived from the British Royal Marines’ Globe and Laurel. The globe on the U.S. Marine emblem signifies service in any part of the world. The eagle also indirectly signifies service worldwide, although this may not have been the intention of the designers in 1868. The eagle they selected for the Marine emblem is a crested eagle, a type found all over the world. The eagle pictured on the great seal and the currency of the United States, on the other hand, is the bald eagle, strictly a North American variety. The anchor, whose origin dates back to the founding of the Marine Corps in 1775, indicates the amphibious nature of Marines’ duties. June 22, 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed an executive order, which approved

the design of an official seal for the United States Marine Corps. The new seal was designed at the request of the Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Lemuel C. Shepherd Jr. The new seal consisted of the traditional Marine Corps emblem in bronze, however, an American bald eagle replaced the crested eagle depicted on the 1868 emblem. It is depicted with wings displayed, standing upon the western hemisphere of the terrestrial globe, holding in his beak a scroll inscribed with the Marine Corps motto “Semper Fidelis” with the hemisphere superimposed on a foul anchor. The seal is displayed on a scarlet background encircled with a Navy blue band edged in a gold rope rim and inscribed “Department of the Navy, United States Marine Corps” in gold letters. Coincident with the approval of this seal by the President, the emblem centered on the seal was adopted in 1955 as the official Marine Corps emblem.

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Story by Cpl. Adam Johnston immediate and irreversible change irthdays, regardto the area with the establishment of less of race, creed several military installations. or nationality, are At the beginning of the war, a huge something every person mobilization effort was underway in around the world has in case the need to enter the fray at a common. But for some, moment’s notice arose. With Marine for the few and proud, the Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, opportunity to celebrate S.C., and MCB Quantico, Va., quickly becoming overcrowded, the need for this special occasion comes one large Marine Corps base on the not once, but twice a year. East Coast that could serve as an Today is a day for Marines across operational staging area and training the globe to take a look back at what center became increasingly vital. millions before them accomplished In the summer of 1940, Maj. over the past 235 years. For the Gen. Thomas HolMarines of Marine comb, then Marine Corps Base Camp Corps commanLejeune, N.C., it dant, ordered Maj. is a day to look John C. McQueen to back at how their find a training cenduty station came into ter. Within a month, existence. McQueen and his Though known by pilot, Capt. Verne the moniker of “First McCaul, set off on to Fight,” Marines an aerial survey that were by no means covered the Atlanthe first to set foot in tic and Gulf coasts what is now Onslow from Norfolk, Va., to County. The earliest Corpus Christi, Texas. known inhabitants of As they circled over the the area were nomadic Onslow County coast, hunters and gatherers they saw below them the who migrated here between only remaining beach on the East 10,000 and 12,000 years ago. Modern Coast, where, it was determined, two European contact with the area most divisions could be landed side by likely came in 1524 when Giovanni side and move inland. It was an ideal da Verrazzano, an Italian navigator, training area for maneuvering large stumbled upon the region during an formations, firing artillery and major exploratory voyage. Most of the early facility construction. settlers operated small plantations, Because of the predominantly which focused on raising corn and underdeveloped and under-populated livestock. nature of the area, the land was both In 1739, the county was officially available and inexpensive. The area named for Sir Arthur Onslow, the also met most of the technical site speaker of the British House of Comselection criteria established by the mons from 1728 to 1761. The city of Corps. It had access to deep-water Jacksonville, Onslow’s only incorports and was an area with minimal porated town before the Civil War, evolved at the site of the county court- human habitation free of interference from aircraft, industry and roads. house on the New River at WantDec. 30, 1940, Secretary of the land’s Ferry. It was officially named in Navy Frank Knox approved the site 1842 for Andrew Jackson, the seventh selection for the East Coast divisional president of the United States and a training center at New River. native of North Carolina. The geography, topography, oceanAs Onslow entered the 20th front, climate and isolation of Onslow Century, it was still very much a rural made the county’s coast a great locacounty. Throughout the years, its tion for a Marine Corps Base. economy remained firmly based on Marine Corps Barracks, New River the bounty of nature, emphasizing was established in May 1941. In Deagriculture, fishing, logging and other cember 1942, Marine Barracks New related enterprises. Suddenly, Sept. River was renamed Marine Barracks 1, 1939, World War II erupted in Camp Lejeune in honor of the 13th Europe. Though the populace didn’t know it at the time, the emergence of this global conflict would bring about continues on 8

usmc 237th birthday edition

Three things stand tall in the face of adversity: • The Faith of the American People • The Power of the American Flag • The Strength of the United States Marine Corps

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8 | usmc 237th birthday edition continued from 6 Gen. John A. Lejeune. In 1946, it was renamed Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. During WWII, Camp Lejeune was the only training facility for the first African-Americans ever to wear the uniform. From 1942, until the desegregation of the armed forces in 1948, all African-American Marines took their recruit and advanced training at Camp Lejeune’s Montford Point. And, with the forming of the Marine Corps Women’s Reserve in November 1942, the majority of the approximately 20,000 women who joined during WWII also trained at Camp Lejeune. Taking up more than 1/5 of the land area, altering the demographic complextion of the county and fueling the local economy, Camp Lejeune has changed life in Onslow. The value of this land to the Marine Corps has grown over the years as men have trained to fight wars in Korea, Vietnam and Saudi Arabia and have deployed for such actions as peacekeeping in Lebanon and a host of noncombatant evacuation operations throughout this decade. The idea of Special Operations Capable Marine Expeditionary Units was born at Camp Lejeune and Marines here continue to make strides toward the future of warfare in such as areas as urban and riverine operations. At the beginning of the century, the population of the city of Jacksonville was 309 people. By the halfway mark, that number had increased by over 1,000 percent to 3,960 residents. The War Department initially purchased an 11.2 square mile tract of land for the base’s construction. Today, Camp Lejeune occupies 246 square miles, 41

of which are underwater and contains 6,946 buildings. The 92-mile perimeter of the base includes 14 miles of beaches, making it a major training area for amphibious assaults. There are 54 live-fire ranges, 89 maneuver areas, 33 gun positions, 25 tactical landing zones and a state-ofthe-art Military Operations on Urban Terrain training complex. With close proximity to ports at Wilmington and Morehead City, Lejeune was a logistical gem. The base, which is home to an active duty, dependent, retiree and civilian employee population of nearly 150,000 people, generates $2 billion in commerce a year. As America’s finest fighting force, it’s only fitting that Marines are stationed on one of the finest bases the Department of Defense has to offer. A six-time (1987, 1992, 1998, 2001, 2005, 2009) recipient of the Commander-in-Chief ’s Award for Installation Excellence, Camp Lejeune has been recognized for the outstanding and innovative efforts of the people who operate and maintain

military installations. In addition to main side, Camp Lejeune also consists of three satellite facilities at Camp Geiger, Camp Johnson and Stone Bay. Include Marine Corps Air Station New River and you’ve got the largest concentration of Marines and sailors in the world.

usmc 237th birthday edition

From couch potato to American hero Courtesy Story | Photo by Staff Sgt. Clinton Firstbrook themselves Marines. But training “We had a room right outside has not always been the same the squad bay. There were no length. special quarters for (instructors),” In times of war, training has he said. been shortened to as few as four Until 1956, recruit training Since the beginning, the recruit weeks, Guillemette said, and the was mainly “drill, discipline and depots offered basic training, “but numbers have fluctuated widely. marksmanship,” said Eugene the methods changed,” said Dr. Roughly 21,000 recruits pass Alvarez, a historian and former Stephen Wise, director of the through Parris Island and San drill instructor. Marine Corps Museum at Parris Diego each year, according to After six recruits drowned Island. their websites. That’s in contrast to in a forced night march through “What remains the same are 1952, when there were approxiRibbon Creek, recruit training the basic principles of boot camp,” mately 23,000 recruits on Parris changed to more physical training, said Ellen Guillemette. Island at one time, Alvarez said. Alvarez said. In the days of the world wars, “Sometimes Parris Island “There’s no more of the ‘head Marine recruits spent a lot of time was so full that they would send in the bucket,’ as it was called, “marching around in circles,” if recruits up to Camp Lejeune to training,” he said. “The strongyou believe the pictures, Guilqualify with a rifle,” he said. handed drill instructor is a thing of lemette said. The formal drill instructor the past,” though the drill instrucFrank McNeive, a retired serschool was established in 1952, tors can still “scream and holler.” geant major who served two tours and that added more uniformity to The emphasis on physical as a drill instructor at Parris Island, the training, Alvarez said. training also came in response to said when he went through recruit In 2000, the Marine Corps changing times. In the past Marine training in 1945, the instructors Martial Arts Program was added recruits came to boot camp fresh would make recruits stand at attento recruit training. Though the from the athletic fields, some of tion for extended periods of time basic mission of recruit training today’s recruits come straight from to teach them discipline. will stay the same, boot camp will the couch. Drill instructors lived with their continue to evolve as the world Recruits face 12 weeks of recruits, said McNeive, who served and the Marine Corps changes, training, topped off with the rigoras an instructor from 1954 to 1956 Alvarez said. ous Crucible, before they can call and 1960 to 1962.

arine Corps Recruit training was established in the early 1900s.

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10 | USMC 237TH BIRTHDAY EDITION

Montford Point

MARINES Breaking racial barriers T

ime and change go hand in hand. Sometimes for the good and sometimes for the worse, both are inevitable, and, with the passing of each, important events, people and places have a tendency to be forgotten.

In 1942 President Franklin D. Roosevelt gave a directive allowing African-Americans to join the Marine Corps. Because of the racial tensions and discriminations of the time, officials assigned and created a camp for them to train separate from their Caucasian counterparts. Montford Point, located near Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, was the training ground for nearly 20,000 African-Americans until 1949 when it closed. The Marines faced

COURTESY PHOTOS | STORY BY AMY BINKLEY prejudice and persecution from their fellow brothers-in-arms, but kept mission-focused. Their contributions to Marine Corps history are significant, but it took more than 70 years before the Marines were recognized for their achievements. In June 2012, 400 Montford Point Marines were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the nation’s highest civilian honor, during a ceremony in Washington, D.C. It rewarded to an individual who performs an outstanding deed or act of service to the security, prosperity, and national interest of the United States. The award is an important step by Congress to preserve the memory and legacy of the aging World War II service members who broke through racial barriers to become

national heroes. Although the introduction of AfricanAmericans to the Corps began as an experiment, it was clear by the end of the war they were Marines – no matter the color of their skin. John Boehner, Speaker of the House, addressed the Montford Point Marines and their families at the awards ceremony. “They not only helped defeat tyranny overseas; they thoroughly discredited a poisonous philosophy deeply held and long defended by elites here at home,” he said. “For a generation, this philosophy justified bigotry, racism, and segregation.” He concluded, “…They had the right stuff, they lived by a code, and they met the high calling of the eagle, globe, and anchor.”

Order Number 4 designated gold and scarlet as the official colors of the U.S. Marine Corps. These colors, however, were not reflected in the official Marine Corps flag until Jan. 18, 1939, when a new design incorporating the new colors was approved. This design was essentially that of today’s Marine Corps standard, and was the result of a two-year study concerning the design of a standard Marine Corps flag, and the units to which such a flag should be issued. The 54 colored streamers which adorn the Battle Colors represent the history and accomplishments of the Marine Corps. The newest streamers added to the Battle Colors are the Afghanistan and Iraq Campaign Streamers.

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arine Barracks, Washington, D.C., holds the official Battle Colors of the Marine Corps. A duplicate is maintained in the office of the commandant of the Marine Corps in the Pentagon. The Battle Colors bear the same 50 streamers authorized for the Marine Corps as a whole. These streamers represent U.S. and foreign unit awards as well as those periods of service, expeditions and campaigns in which the Marine Corps has participated from the American Revolution to today. During the Marine Corps’ first 150 years, Marines in the field carried a variety of flags. It was not until April 18, 1925 that Marine Corps

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Civil War Streamer

World War I Victory Streamer with one silver and one bronze star, one Maltese Cross, and Siberia and West Indies clasps

World War II Victory Streamer

Korean Service Streamer with two silver stars

Vietnam Service Streamer with three silver and two bronze stars

Afghanistan Campaign Streamer with three bronze stars

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12 | usmc 237th birthday edition

Female Marines

Combining combat, compassion and enlisted women joined the Corps during World War II as part of the Women’s Reserve. Women Marines in this war performed more than 200 military assignments. In addition to clerical work, they also filled positions as parachute riggers, mechanics, radio operators, mapmakers and welders. By June 1944, women reservists made up 85 percent of the enlisted personnel on duty at Headquarters Marine Corps and almost two-thirds of the personnel manning all major posts and stations in the United States and Hawaii. At the war’s end, Gen. Alexander A. Vandegrift, 18th Commandant of the Marine Corps, credited these women with “putting the 6th Marine Division in the field.” Following Japan’s surrender, the demobilization of the Women’s Reserve proceeded rapidly, with only 1,000 remaining in the reserve by July 1946. Then, Congress passed the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, which authorized the acceptance of women into the regular component of the Marine Corps and other armed services. For the first time in history, the Women’s Reserve was mobilized in August 1950 for the Korean War, reaching peak strength of 2,787 active-duty women Marines. Again, they stepped into stateside jobs and freed male Marines for combat duty. By the height of the Vietnam War, about 2,700 active-

duty women Marines served stateside and overseas. During this period, the Marine Corps began opening careertype formal training programs to women officers and advanced technical training to enlisted women. It was also during the 1970s that women Marines were assigned to Fleet Marine Force units for the first time. By 1975, women could be assigned to all occupational fields except infantry, artillery, armor, and pilot and air crew. The 1990s saw additional changes and increased responsibilities for women in the Marine Corps, including flying combat aircraft. Approximately 1,000 women Marines were deployed to the Middle East for Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990 and 1991. Women served in every rank from private to lieutenant general.

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volunteered for the armed forces, and for the first time in U.S. history, the labor potential of women became important. Pioneers like Pvt. Opha Mae Johnson, the first woman to enlist in the Marine Corps Reserve Aug. 13, 1918, paved the way for women in the Marine Corps today. During WWI, most of these women Marines, referred to as Marinettes, freed male Marines from clerical billets at Headquarters Marine Corps, enabling them to fight in France. Others filled jobs at recruiting stations across the country. Although women still didn’t have the right to vote, they were willing and able to serve their country. Twenty-five years later, the country was embroiled in another world war and women again answered the call to serve. More than 22,000 officers

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ree a man to fight. This was the call for women to serve in the Marine Corps Reserve during two world wars. Although 305 women served in the Marine Corps Reserve during World War I, all were separated from service by June 30, 1919, after the war ended. It wasn’t until Feb. 13, 1943, Gen. Thomas Holcomb, the 17th Commandant of the Marine Corps, announced the formation of the Marine Corps Women’s Reserve.

usmc 237th birthday edition

| 13

The

Mameluke Sword

a piece of Marine Corps tradition

he famous Mameluke Sword became part of the officer uniform in 1825 and is the oldest ceremonial weapon in use by armed forces today. According to history, Lieutenant Presley O’Bannon, who led the Marines’ first battle on foreign soil in April 1805, was presented the Mameluke Sword as a sign of gratitude. Presley and his Marines relentlessly marched across 600 miles of the Libyan

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Desert to storm the fortified Tripolitan city of Derna and rescue the kidnapped crew of USS Philadelphia. The victory helped Prince Hamet Bey reclaim his rightful throne as ruler of Tripoli. In gratitude, Bey presented his Mameluke Sword to O’Bannon. The Battle of Derna is notably recalled in the opening verse of the Marines’ Hymn: “From the Halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli, we fight our country’s battles in air, on land and sea.”

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Medal of Honor T 14 | usmc 237th birthday edition

he Medal of Honor is the highest award for bravery given to any individual in the United States. In judging men for receipt of the medal, each service established its own regulations. The deed must be proved by uncontestable evidence of at least two eyewitnesses, it must be so outstanding it clearly distinguishes the recipient’s gallantry beyond the call of duty from lesser forms of bravery, it must involve the risk of his life, and it must be the type of deed, which, if he had not done it, would not subject him to any justified criticism. The idea for the Medal of Honor was

born during the Civil War as men fought gallantly and oftentimes displayed great heroism. President George Washington originated the Purple Heart in 1782 to honor brave soldiers, sailors and Marines. From that time until the Civil War, Certificates of Merit and a “brever” system of promotions were used as military awards. The first military decoration formally authorized by the American government as a badge of valor was the Medal of Honor for enlisted men of the Navy and Marine Corps. It was authorized by Congress and approved by President Abraham Lincoln Dec. 21, 1861. The medal for the Army and Voluntary Forces was authorized July 12, 1862. The medal is awarded “in the name of the Congress of the United States” and for this reason, it is often mistakenly called the Congressional Medal of Honor. It is only on rare occasions, however, Congress awards special

Medals of Honor. An executive order, signed by President Theodore Roosevelt Sept. 20, 1905, directed ceremonies of award “will always be made with formal and impressive ceremonial,” and the recipient “will, when practicable, be ordered to Washington, D. C., and the presentation will be made by the president, as commander-in-chief, or by such representatives as the president may designate.” Since 1862, 294 Marines were awarded the Medal of Honor, The first recipient was Col. John F. Mackie, who during the attack on Fort Darling at Drewry’s Bluff, Va., “fearlessly maintained his musket fire against the rifle pits on shore, and when ordered to fill vacancies at guns caused by men wounded and killed in action, manned the weapon with skill and courage.” Sixteen other enlisted Marines were awarded the medal during the Civil War.

Another 63 Marines would receive the Medal of Honor in the 1871 Korean Campaign, the Spanish-American War, the Philippine Insurrection and the Boxer Rebellion. Marine and Naval officers were first declared eligible for the award in 1913, and in the next year nine medals were awarded to officers for the landing at Vera Cruz, Mexico. The “Banana Wars” saw another 13 medals conferred on enlisted Marines and officers. Only two Marines, Maj. Gen Smedley D. Butler and Sgt. Maj. Daniel Daly, were each awarded two Medals of Honor for separate actions: Vera Cruz (1914) and Haiti (1915) for Butler, and Peking (1900) and Haiti (1915) for Daly. Although only seven Marines received the medal for actions during World War I, 82 medals were given to Marines during World War II and another 42 were awarded for the Korean War. A total of 57 were awarded during Vietnam.

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A Special Invitation To All AcTive DuTy AnD veTerAns

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Thank you for your service and Happy Birthday, Marines!

*Valid military ID required

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Military Order of the Purple Heart

Photos by Cpl. Brian Reimer

hartered by Congress in 1958, The Military Order of the Purple Heart is composed of service members who received the Purple Heart Medal for wounds suffered as a result of combat. Composed exclusively of Purple Heart recipients, the Military Order of the Purple Heart is the only veterans service organization comprised strictly of combat veterans. The Military Order of the Purple Heart serve veterans who participate in endeavors both domestic and abroad, and enable the organization to do many things on behalf of hospitalized and needy veterans, as well as the families who care for them. Wives, mothers, daughters, step-daughters and adopted daughters of Purple Heart recipients are eligible to belong to the Ladies’ Auxiliary of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, which also does important work nationally and locally in veterans’ hospitals, and for the betterment of the families of wounded service members. Originally, the Purple Heart was awarded for meritorious service, and being wounded was one portion of consideration for merit. However, with the creation of the Legion of Merit in 1942, the award of the Purple Heart for meritorious service became unnecessary and was therefore discontinued. Thereafter, the Purple Heart began to be awarded in the name of the President of the United States to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving under competent authority in any capacity with one of the U.S. Armed Services after April 5, 1917, was wounded, killed, or died after being wounded. Puple Heart veterans are held in high esteem throughout the Marine Corps for their bravery in times of combat.

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No words necessary

Silent Drill Platoon exudes skill, style

Photo by cpl. damany s. coleman

ayoneted rifles flying from Marine to Marine, the lineup of crisp dress blue uniforms, the rhythmic slap of rifles caught by leathergloved hands:

The Silent Drill Platoon exemplifies Marine Corps discipline and skill. Members of the Silent Drill Platoon are handpicked to represent the Marine Corps. Through intense practice they learn the precise rifle drill performed for audiences across America. The platoon is based at the historic Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., “8th & I.” The Barracks is the oldest active post in the Marine Corps, and is located on the corners of 8th and I streets in southeast Washington, D.C. The Barracks supports both ceremonial and security missions, and is also the home of the commandant of the Marine Corps.

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Traditional honor of the 21-gun salute

he 21-gun salute honoring the president of the United States, like many American military traditions, appears to be another custom inherited from Great Britain.

In early times, it was customary for a ship entering a friendly port to discharge its broadsides to demonstrate they were unloaded; eventually it became a British practice to fire a seven-gun salute. The forts ashore would fire three shots for each shot fired afloat. The three guns fired on shore to one gun fired on ship had a practical explanation. In earlier days, gunpowder was made of sodium

Photo by cpl. damany s. coleman nitrate and was easier to keep on shore than at sea. When gunpowder was improved by the use of potassium nitrate, the sea salute was made equal to the shore salute. The use of numbers “seven” and “three” in early gun salutes probably was connected to the mystical or religious significance surrounding these numbers in many cultures. Today, a 21-gun salute on arrival and departure, with four ruffles and flourishes, is rendered to the president of the United States, a former president and a president elect. The national anthem or “Hail to the Chief,” as appropriate, is played for the president, and the

national anthem for the others. A 21-gun salute on arrival and departure with four ruffles and flourishes also is rendered to the sovereign or chief of state of a foreign country, or a member of a reigning royal family. In these ceremonies, the national anthem of his or her country also is played. Incidentally, U.S. Naval Regulations require a 21-gun salute be fired at noon on President’s Day, Independence Day and Memorial Day. Editor’s note: The source of this story is the Reference Branch of the U.S. Marine Corps History Division.

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22 | usmc 237th birthday edition

Parade precedence ranks high in customs

he rationale behind the present parade precedence structure appears to be based more on custom than on any documented set of criteria.

The majority of texts, manuals and guides on the subject of military customs and traditions appear to cite service seniority as the determining factor in deciding the precedence of the armed forces in parades. There exists among the various branches of the services a divergence of opinion on the issue of dates marking the beginnings of their respective branches. Service seniority can be interpreted in a number of ways. For example, one could trace the origins of the various branches in their respective dates when the Continental Congress passed initiating resolutions. Using this criteria we could find the Army being established in June 1775, the Navy in October 1775, and the Marines Nov. 10, 1775. The Marine Corps was a force

in readiness before the Army or the Navy. Samuel Nicholas was commissioned a Captain of Marines Nov. 28, 1775, a month before the first officer of the Continental Navy was commissioned. The Marine Corps appears, therefore, to be the first truly federal armed services branch. The question of seniority of the armed services is confused by the fact that nearly all of the original colonies placed militia, ships and troops serving as Marines in action at the opening of hostilities, before the establishment of the Continental Congress. It could be argued these forces, having been taken under continental pay and control, constituted the beginning of the American Army, Navy and Marines. No definitive case can be made for establishing the relative seniority of the Army, Navy and Marine Corps. The present order of parade precedence evolved over the years, perhaps initially based on early opinions of the actual dates of origin

of the services. In any case, the present order of parade precedence has become one of our foremost military customs and as the foregoing indicated, there appears to be little evidence to support any change in order.

The present order of parade precedence is indicated in Department of Defense Directive 1005.8 as Army, Marine Corps, Navy and Air Force. Therefore, by analogy, the order of display of colors should be in the same order.

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prouDly sErvED & still sErviNG you! Matt Riles USMC

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Tommy Noe Lorenzo McNeal USMC USMC

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Dave Burford Steve Kelley USMC USMC

Robert Browski Mark Ladison US Army US Army

Brenden Bronson USMC

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Chris Perzyna Bruce Rang, US Army USN

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Beirut bombings still remembered story by amy Binkley Photo by Cpl. Damany S. Coleman

ct. 23, 1983, changed the face of war and identified terrorism for an entire community when a suicide bomber drove and detonated a truck full of explosives into the Marine barracks in Beirut, Lebanon, killing 241 service members.

Most of the lives lost were Marines stationed at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. The unprovoked assault bridged the relationship between the base and its surrounding communties. The memories of the fallen service members and the impact of the deadliest attack the Marine Corps experienced since the World War II are far from forgotten. The Beirut Memorial was established in 1986, located between MCB Camp Lejeune and Jacksonville, N.C. Adorning the wall are the names of 273 of those who died during the attack or from injuries related to the attack, as well as three Marine pilots from the area who died in Grenada. One phrase inscribed along with the names reads, â€œThey came in peace.â€?

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Marine Corps Service Medals shine with honor

he United States military first began awarding service medals for valor during the Civil War. These medals are meant to recognize service and personal accomplishments and to display the highlights of a Marine’s career. Of which, eight are designated for awarding of valor. Medals are awarded for a variety of distinguished and courageous acts performed in conflict with the enemy or to recognize achievements throughout a service member’s time in the military. To be awarded the decoration is an honor bestowed upon a service member by his or her superior officers in an act of recognition for outstanding merit and bravery.

Medal of Honor

Awarded by the President in the name of Congress to members of the Naval service, who distinguish themselves conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his/her life above and beyond the call of duty.

Navy Cross

Awarded to a person who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, is cited for gallantry in action that does not warrant the Medal of Honor.

Silver Star

Awarded to a person who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, is cited for gallantry in action that does not warrant the Medal of Honor or Navy Cross.

Navy & Marine Corps Medal

Awarded to any person who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Navy or U.S. Marine Corps, distinguishes himself by heroism not involving actual conflict with the enemy.

Purple Heart

The Purple Heart is awarded in the name of the President of the United States to any member of an Armed Force who has been wounded or killed, or who has died or may die after being wounded.

LCpl. Chris C. Shaffer

Sgt. Nelson M. Acevedo

2nd Reconnaissance Battalion

2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment

Q: What is your favorite part of the Marine Corps Birthday Celebration?

“I like that we all got together with something in common to celebrate, and no one pulled rank.”

“The cutting of the cake ceremony.”

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Marine Corps Birthday Ball rolls with tradition story by amy Binkley | Photo by Bryce Muhlenberg

hen Gen. John A. Lejeune, 13th Commandant of the Marine Corps, gave the order in 1921 for each command to recognize the founding of the military branch, including a summary of the history, mission and traditions of the Corps, he probably didn’t realize the elaborate celebrations that would come in the following decades.

It may have taken a few years to get the “ball” rolling, but in 1956, Nov. 10 became the biggest birthday of the year for the men (and ladies) in the dress blues. Although the auspicious occasion has taken on a life of its own, the evening continues to be wrought with traditions honoring both Corps and country. Guests of the ball notice upon arrival an empty table set for one. Draped in a black tablecloth with an inverted dinner setting, and a single lit candle. A blank identification tag represents every fallen comrade who can only celebrate with fellow service members in spirit. While some actions are more solemn than others, the Marine Corps also places significance on the fun stuff. No party is complete without a cake, and like everything else in the military, a specific order must be kept. According to tradition, the first piece of cake is given to the oldest Marine present with the second piece going to the youngest. Though this tradition has varied based on the dignitaries present at the event, it has largely remained this way throughout the years. A major highlight of the annual ball is the birthday message from the current commandant. Either read or presented via video, the words of wisdom are embraced by each Marine, and set the tone not only for the evening but the rest of the year.

Cpl. Jeremy Jordan

Cpl. Denzel M. Doston

2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division

2nd Supply Battalion

Q: What is your favorite part of the Marine Corps Birthday Celebration? “I like to see the First Sergeant happy when he inspects our uniforms before the ball. My favorite part about the ball is the Commandant’s message because he always gives great messages.”

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Q: What is your favorite part of the Marine Corps Birthday Celebration? “My favorite is the ceremony, the sword manual and the history.”

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Mess Night draws troops together for long-standing traditions

Lt. Col. Merrill L. Bartlett | Photo by Lance Cpl. Scott L. Tomaszycki

oday’s mess nights bear little resemblance to the Roman and Viking victory celebrations they are based upon. Current mess night traditions can be traced to the 4th Marine Regiment of the 1920’s in Shanghai, China. Former Marine commandant Gen. Lemuel Shepard was invited to attend the mess night of the 2nd Battalion, Scots Guards. Shepherd remembered an impressive evening; the mess silver sparkled in the light of the handsome candelabra arranged on a polished table laden with fine crystal and china. During the dinner, the battalion’s pipe major played several traditional highland ballads to the tune of his own wailing on the bagpipes, and a guardsman danced. Shepard was so impressed with the evening, he immediately began to arrange a similar gathering and invited the officers of the Scots Guards. These exchanges continued as the 4th Marines served in China. The Marines received musical instruments to accompany a successful mess night, a gift from the American Troop and American Company of the Shanghai Volunteer Corps.

Sgt. Benjamin Guillot Unit 2/2 H&S Company Long Island, NY

Sterling Fessenden, the chairman of the Shanghai Municipal Council, apparently orchestrated the donation in 1927, and the grateful Marines dubbed their new musical group “The Fessenden Fifes.” The new martial music added an appropriate and enjoyable accompaniment to any mess nights hosted by the Marines. This tradition was quickly embraced by the rest of the Corps in the spirit of fostering comradeship, respect and admiration for the organization. Only Marines are permitted at a mess night, with the exception of the guest of honor, who may be a civilian. The president and vice president of the mess chair the event and are responsible for its organization as well as enforcement of the night’s rules. Members of the mess enter the hall to the sounds of “Semper Fidelis,” and remain standing until the vice president or chaplain blesses the congregation. After the dinner, toasts are made with port, a tradition dating back to the British mess night. Other traditions throughout the night include the paying of fines, toasts, speeches and sea stories.

Staff Sgt. Daniel M. Dresch 3rd Marine Regiment 3rd Marine Division

Q: What does it mean for you to be in the Marine Corps? A: “To me it is a great feeling of accomplishment to be able to hold the title of Marine. This is a great honor knowing that I can fight to defend our country at any given time. Even though it’s not just about fighting a war, but making a difference in the world. As a leader, I get the privilege to teach young Marines, and watch how they develop themselves into great leaders as well as great men. That’s what it means to be in the Marine Corps. As a Marine I have impacted other people’s lives through the Corps.”

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Q: What is your favorite part of the Marine Corps Birthday Celebration? “The best thing is the commandant’s speech.”

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Service dogs leave legacies in combat zones Staff sgt. Theresa E. Seng | Photo by Lance Cpl. Crystal Druery

ittle did the Germans know when they nicknamed Marines ‘Teufel Hunden’ in the battle of Belleau Wood, how suitable the nickname would be for the next Great War against the

Americans and their newly trained battle buddies, the U.S. combat service dog. For centuries great civilizations would utilize man’s best friend for good, although the enemy may view the dogs as anything but. The Egyptians, Greeks,

Persians, Slavs, Romans, even the Huns utilized hounds specially bred for war as far back as 600 B.C. America’s Marine Corps is no different, but it wasn’t until March 1942 dogs were trained for combat although they were officially employed during the Seminole Wars and the Civil War. Dogs were assigned military duties such as scouts, sentries and messengers among a plethora of other roles. The Marines mainly employed their dogs as scouts, with their handlers walking well ahead of the combat patrol, alone in seemingly impenetrable vegetation and perpetual semi-darkness where the lurking enemy had the advantage to ambush even the most watchful point man and infiltrate American posts. Patrolling in snake, spider and enemy infested jungles aren’t the only foreign locales these war dogs served in. For over a decade, military working dogs have been alerting their handlers to improvised explosive devices and other volatile substances in the deserts of Iraq and Afghanistan. In the swirling dirt of Afghanistan, Xxenos was patrolling with his handler in February 2011 looking for an IED

based on tips from local national intelligence as they headed into a poppy field in a valley off the road. It was strangely quiet. The Marines knew something was wrong when XXenos leapt into the air like he was clearing a hurdle. His handler looked down and noticed a copper wire a mere 15 meters in front of him. His handler halted the patrol and traced the wire to a strange rock formation on the road they were traveling. Upon further investigation, approximately 120 pounds of explosives were found in U.S. military water jugs attached to the command wire Xxenos found. There are multiple stories of valor from working dogs currently and in recent history, and there are just as many stories of unfailing allegiance. Marines have the reputation of being among the fiercest warriors to ever storm a battle field; they also have a reputation for an intense and undying loyalty to their fellow brothers in arms. It’s no wonder these animals worked so well with the Devil Dogs. Their fierce fidelity, instincts and animalistic ferocity in battle is akin to their handlers and every warrior they led on patrol.

Lance Cpl. Jonathan Gonzales

Cpl. David A. Dias

Combat Logistics Regiment 25

2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment

Q: What is your favorite part of the Marine Corps Birthday Celebration?

“The camaraderie is the best part. Waiting for the ball each year is exciting. You get to see the other side of your staff noncommissioned Officers outside of work.”

“The symbolism behind the cutting of the cake and the table for the fallen.”

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Evolution of equipment empowers Marines in combat

Jessie Heath | Photo by Lance Cpl. Daniel Kujanpaa

t has long been recognized that every Marine is a rifleman. However, to be the country’s most elite fighting force requires mastery of more than one weaponry.

From muskets to missiles, the weaponry of the Marine Corps evolved over the last 237 years. With the independence of the United States secure, national arsenals were developed shortly after the American Revolution. This gave the Marine Corps a method with which to produce equipment without importing goods from Europe. Marines used muskets, sometimes fitted with bayonets, until the nineteenth century, when America blossomed during the Industrial Revolution. At this time, a wide variety of weapons were made, most of the

manufacturers focusing on the development of better firearms. Shortly after, the first successful machine gun was produced and made available to service members. The Gatling gun was invented by Richard J. Gatling in 1862. It is believed the Gatling gun was first used to drive Confederate riflemen from the banks of the Mississippi River during the Civil War. However, for all it’s abilities, the ultimate success of the machine gun was not fully appreciated until mass production of cartridges began. The outbreak of World Wars I and II drove manufacturers to develop even better combat weaponry with which to outfit Marines. A lighter machine gun was developed to assist Marines in combat zones, and grenade and rocket launchers came into play. In a significant development

in the Vietnam era, the M-16 was a lightweight 6.3-pound weapon with high firing capabilities. Able to use the M-16 as a semi-automatic or automatic weapon, Marines were able to carry and fire more ammunition. In the 1980s, a more general machine gun was marketed for easier use. In this time, a new grenade launcher was also made available to Marines serving in the Gulf War. While far more advancements were made in recent years with the outbreak of war across various parts of the Globe, the Marine Corps always stood by to test, and if they are satisfied use, new weaponry systems. From the American Revolution to Operation Iraqi Freedom, Marine Corps weaponry systems have undergone changes and improvements too numerous to count.

Sgt. Maurice M. Wiley

Lance Cpl. Mike Morris

3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion

HMLA, Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167

Q: What is your favorite part of the Marine Corps Birthday Celebration? “I love seeing the transition between the old generation and new generation.”

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Q: What is your favorite part of the Marine Corps Birthday Celebration? “The casual interaction with officers and staff noncommissioned officers is what I like about the ball. You also see Marines in different stages of their lives. Fresh boots that haven’t seen anything yet”

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STILLAwards SERVING December 11, 2012

Do you know a Veteran or Retired Military member who is “Still Serving” the Eastern North Carolina area through their volunteering, philanthropy or post military employment? Nominate them for our Still Serving Award. All nominees will be honored at a special evening ceremony aboard Camp Lejeune. For more details, visit camplejeuneglobe.com and click the “Still Serving” link or stop by our office for a nomination form.

Marine Corps is reestablished. Marines conduct operations against pirates on the Shores of Tripoli.

The

Lt. gen. Lewis Burwell “Chesty” Puller is born in West Point, Va.

1000

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Marine Aviation takes flight, and is used as in close-air support role during World War I.

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The landing of Marines at Da Nang marked the beginning of Marine Corps involvement in Vietnam, the longest combat operations in Marine Corps history.

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