With necks of leather, laying it all on the line
Sunday, November 09, 2008
From the Halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli, the world's largest gun club is celebrating its 233rd birthday this year.
Born in a roughneck Philadelphia bar in 1775 on a dare to surpass standard warrior excellence, the United States Marine Corps has distinguished itself over its history as the finest military force the world has ever witnessed.
Do not point the Marines at anything you do not wish to conquer. They are the pointy end of our military's lance.
The Devil Dogs are the first to the fight. Looking at their battle flags fluttering in the breeze reminds of their bravery and warrior ethos.
Belleau Wood, Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, Peleiu, Iwo Jima, Okinawa, Chosin Reservoir — the stirring names mark the famous battles they have won.
I spent time with Devil Dogs in Iraq and Afghanistan while on a USO Tour. These men and women are the most determined, courteous and courageous people with whom I have ever had the privilege of sharing time.
Camaraderie
To the person, all expressed gratitude for being on the frontlines of the war on terror. It truly humbled me to see that level of camaraderie and BloodBrotherhood dedication.
They not only fight for America, but fight for each other — they put the Corps in "espirit de corps."
I have visited wounded Marines in hospitals. Regardless of the severity of their wounds, all expressed their utmost desire to return to the battlefield with their buddies to see the war won.
This is the kind of sacrifice that leaves a lump in a man's throat. Listening to them, I couldn't help but be so very thankful that America produces men and women of such character.
Some people spend a lifetime looking for meaning. This is not the case for the leatherneck men and women of the mighty U.S. Marines.
President Reagan said it best, "Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference. The Marines don't have that problem."
I suspect if the Marines know one thing, it is that freedom is not free. There is a toll to be exacted and it is blood, sweat, sacrifice and lives.
Relentless
As I type these very words, leathernecks are pushing ahead and killing al-Qaida and Taliban voodoo monsters. These Marines come from a long lineage of warriors who don't know the meaning of quit.
My hero, Col. Lewis "Chesty" Puller, summed it up best when he said during the Korean War, "We're surrounded? Good, now we can kill the bastards in any direction."
Clearly, there is no finer friend, no worse enemy than the Marines. This was exemplified by Marine Gen. James Mattis when he told Iraqi leaders, "I come in peace. I didn't bring artillery. But I'm pleading with you, with tears in my eyes: If you 'mess' with me, I'll kill you all." My kind of man.
The U.S. Marines are warriors. They are the few and the proud. Americans are the many and the blessed. So long as the Marines are with us the flame of freedom and liberty will burn brightly.
May God bless the United States Marines Corps. Happy 233 birthday, Devil Dogs. Semper Fi. Godspeed my BloodBrothers. Carryon.
Ted Nugent is a Waco-based musician and television show host. Contact him at tednugent.com.
