I joined the Marine Corps Reserve the day after I turned 17 years of age in 1956. Four months later I quit high school and joined the regular Marine Corps. I never regretted my choice and retired as the Sergeant Major of the 1st battalion, 8th Marines in 1981. I served in a variety of jobs to include Sea Duty, Drill Instructor at both recruit depots and Quantico, Brig Guard, M.P., Security Chief at Marine Barracks and Chief Instructor at formal service schools. But, my most cherished tours were with the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Marine Divisions. Most of all while serving with them in Vietnam. There I fulfilled the mission of the Marine Corps as a grunt.( infantryman and reconnaissance man )
I served three tours in Vietnam with the finest men I have ever known in my life. My first tour was with 2nd battalion, 9th Marines. My second tour was with 1st battalion, 5th Marines and my last tour was with the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion. I was packing my seabag to pull a fourth tour when I was sent to Panama and the war ended while I was there.
My bride of 33 years and I reside on 40 acres and love the quiet life. The Marine Corps was my first love and I am very proud to claim the title of United States Marine.