I served in the Marines as an infantry officer for 21 years with 3 years in combat a long time ago (hint: I was a Marine platoon commander in Vietnam in 1968). The greatest honor in my life was to lead US Marines, especially in combat. I'm 73 now, but I'd do it all again if I could. Every service is great and we always work as a team. But there is something about Marines that make them special--at least to me. In Vietnam, there was never any doubt in my mind that my Marines would prevail in offense or defense. My Marines knew that I led from the front and by example. I never asked them to do something that I hadn't done myself or that they knew I would do. I couldn't be on every squad patrol but I did accompany them to evaluate how proficient they were. New Marines were not able to call in artillery or air strikes so I taught the squad leaders how to do it and then trained the fire team leaders. I gave them laminated templates for calling in both so all they had to do was fill in the blanks about their position, the target, etc. I cross trained my Marines on every weapon that might be available in our platoon in case the mortar or machine gun crew were casualties. A small group of retired Marines still get together on the Marine Corps' Birthday (Nov 10) at a local restaurant. We remember old times, tell old war stories, we have dinner, we then read the Commandant's Message and cut the Marine Corps decorated cake. The first piece is given to the youngest Marine present and the second to the oldest. Then we make a toast to the Corps and enjoy a port wine with the cake. Wives and girlfriends wear Marine Corps broaches that are sterling silver and 24 K gold (not required but a tradition). Still a proud Marine and envious of the Marines today with all the great equipment and training they now have. In Vietnam, we were little better equipped than those in WW II. Semper Fi to all current and former Marines.
BMF Thank you very much for your service!!!! My son is currently a Marine in 25... I had the wonderful experience of seeing him finish MCRD, ITB and go off to his first deployment last year..... im beyond proud of the accomplishments and service the Marines have instilled in my son.... AMAZING!!!
The reason I can sit comfortably in my home eating bison and rice with my dogs at my feet while watching this on my IPad is because of those Men right there.
I earned the title on that same parade deck on November 1994. As a 50 year old I will say this. You may forget your birthday; but you will never forget this day. Semper Fi Leathernecks and Godspeed!
@@roidnerd2501 Sorry dude but the Army don't put all there effort into looking pretty. They do the actual fighting and let the Marines get the glory. Airborne Rangers lead the way. Don't get your panties in a bunch though, all the different services bad mouth each other but when the shit hits the fan we've got each others back.
@@jroregon3839 Looking pretty if you cant even do basic things marching is not hard, Its why american army training is so short yeah you got each others back oright when you are shooting your own guys haha, I mean come on dude american army dog shit. Im sorry my guy but facts are facts even British army has most intense training and thats just the fitness side of things so come again. Just by length of basic training the Brits are better trained, If you train for say 3 months which is pretty much the american way you are not very well equip to take anything on which is why you can even keep track of where your forces are and shoot each other. Ive seen plenty of US marines who have had to see the para training and they cant believe how insane it is, Im sorry but you cant argue with facts.
At the beginning of this video these recruits looked sloppy. Are they 3rd phase? Small platoons too. Maybe only the recruits with family are shown? I don’t remember this in 1988 when I graduated.
This was awesome! Ran in to this by accident. Glad I did. Best of luck Marine!! I got out in 2005. You will never forget all the moments and you will probably experience all the emotions in one way or another. You will create bonds you never imagined and will not forget. Make the most. Have you fun. Laugh and smile BUT think of your future. Get all the schooling you can. This is the greatest country on earth where you can make your dreams come true. The Marine Corps is one of thee greatest foundation.
@@adrianvalencia6500 Yes He graduated😊. That ceremony at graduation was awesome. We got lucky,, because of Covid, all of the graduations after his, were canceled. We literally just made it before the rest were canceled....He's been at camp Pendleton for over 2 months now, waiting for them to lift the military travel ban, so he can go to school. He actually just received his papers and he's leaving Pendleton Wednesday🙏
My Dad Fernando Lopez Set the example ,I and my brother's Raymond and Johnny are former Marines, The Marine corps Is in us forever Semper Fi From retired GYSGT Fernando Lopez Jr yself, and my brothers Raymond
I served 20 years. I was a DI/SDI in Fox Co, 2RTBn from 98-99. Fox was the "Speed and Intensity" Company. Glad to see the Corps still turns out the very best Marines possible!
@@CBrown9758 SDI is the Senior Drill Instructor who is overall responsible for every recruit they are training and for every Drill Instructor (DI) working for them.
Thank you for this awesome compilation. So honored to be connected to the Marines family and can’t wait to attend our son’s graduation from Delta Company in August 2022. Respect. 🇺🇸💕🙏
Thanks for posting this! I was assigned to Fox Company as a Drill Instructor in 1977 and spent 3 & 1/2 years at MCRD (with a 15-month extension) Your video brought back so many memories! Somethings have changed over the years (an example is when I first arrived in '77 the graduation ceremony was held inside of the theater after which the platoons would form in front of the theater to be dismissed. While I was there the ceremony was moved outside and held during a parade as in your video). We had a Chief Drill Instructor instead of a company 1st Sergeant. Thanks and Semper Fi to your Marine and his family. The buildings, the parade deck, the ever-present sounds of jets, all remain. Oorah!
This brought back some old memories, welcome to the brotherhood marine keep the honor and traditions going, Semper Fi, and may god keep you and your fellow marines safe.
To bad american army is crap, I mean just look at them marching if they put such little effort into that then it shows how little effort they put into everything else.
Wasnt expecting to see my graduation ceremony pop up as a recommended video on here paltoon 2122 changed my life while i was there Ssgt Fox changed all our lives back then. And Reed had the biggest heart in mct. Sorry watching this sorta makes miss bootcamp and mct.
I don't know any of these fine young people but I feel proud of each and every one of them and I know our great country is well protected. Congratulations Marines and thank you!
That was one of the nicest videos I've seen on RUclips of the graduation ceremony and family day. My marine was also 2nd battalion fox company in 2018. We don't have a proper video of our sons graduation. So I watch this and just imagine being there that day. Congratulations for your son . And ooo rah!
Lexi, you not only created a family heirloom but a video for all Marines past, present, and future to enjoy and reminisce. I hope your Marine is happy, safe from harm, and enjoying life to the fullest. ¡Qué Dios lo bendiga a used y a su familia!
I graduated from MCRD on November 9, 1988. No one from my family came to see me. Fortunately, I had a new Marine Corps family that I have had for over 30 years since then. Semper Fi.
When I graduated from Officer Candidate School (OCS) in 1967 (which is very similar to boot camp) my mother and father were in the stands during the ceremony. My father was a B-17 pilot in WW II and was shot down. He spent two years as a POW. During the Cold War, he flew B-47 and B-52 bombers on airborne alert carrying nuclear weapons. He was my role model and hero. My parents were the best parents a kid could ever hope for. During that graduation, it was the only time that ever saw my father become emotional (and my mother too). They were horrified that I joined the Marine Corps because they knew I would eventually end up in Vietnam, which I did as an infantry platoon commander. They were especially horrified because my brother was and had been in Vietnam for three consecutive years. Never the less, my father's tears were not for what the future might bring but that had completed one of the toughest training courses in the Marine Corps and graduated. There is more. While I was a platoon commander in Vietnam, my brother was a company commander of Marines only five miles from my position. His company was attacked and he was severely wounded and spent a year in a hospital. I didn't find out about it for 4 weeks later. But toward the end of my tour, the Marine Corps gave me a few days off and so I caught a medivac flight from Vietnam to the Philippines to visit my parents. You see, before I was sent to Vietnam, my father was assigned as the commander of Clark Air Force Base on the Philippines. I landed in Manila and took a bus to Clark AFB. I checked with the gate guard with my military ID and walked to the headquarters for Clark. There, I encountered my father's secretary and she asked who I was and what I wanted. I told her that I was 2nd Lt XXX and that I had just arrived from 11 months in Vietnam as a Marine platoon commander and I was here to see my father. I still remember the complete look of disbelief in her face. She buzzed my father and said, "There is someone here to see you." My father asked who. She said, "I think he is someone you will want to see." When I walked into his office, the expression on his face was priceless. We had two days with my mother and father before I had to return to Vietnam. That was the last time I ever saw him. He died a few months later in his sleep of a heart attack while on active duty. We (my brother and I) were there at Arlington Cemetery for his ceremony with a 21 gun salute and taps. As a B-17 pilot in WW II, he was shot down on his third mission. On that mission, flak killed some of the crew. I remember my father saying that a flak hit near the aircraft decapitated the navigator and communications with the crew in the back was lost. He was able to release his bombs on target but during the flight back to England, a German fighter pilot shot him down. Five of the crew were killed and five survived. During my year in Vietnam, my platoon was engaged in a number of firefights, ambushes, snipers, etc. But the mines were the worst. But here is my point. Regardless of everything I experienced in Vietnam, I cannot imagine what it was like flying over Germany with flak and fighters when losses were up to 40 to 50 percent. More crews in the 8th Air Force were killed over Germany than all of the Marines killed in the Pacific. Let that sink in. And my father was teared up over my graduation from Marine OCS? I only hope that I made my parents proud of me. Nothing else matters.
My Dad was at Pearl Harbor when it was bombed I can't imagine what he went through, so I join the Marine's and severed for 8 years 84/ 92 , 3rd Battalion 11th Marines artillery
Outstanding. I marched across that grinder many a miles. and graduated on 17 Aug 1990 with India Company 3042. Brings back some crazy memories! Semper Fi!
I remember many hours of marching on that parade deck back in 1972. I returned to MCRD for communication electronics School after boot camp. I was really glad to get out of San Diego after being stuck there....This took me back it was actually fun for me. Thank you. Semper Fi.
Hi I am Canadian thank you for sharing your experience with me in your Proud Moment with your Son. Congrats on becoming A United States Marine. Thank you for your Service.
When I graduated in 1995 that was the only part that really brought me goosebumps. Not sure what the actualt tune is, but it was something that signaled "this is the end of training, time to go be a Marine". It was sad because I knew that time in my life was over, even though it was a time of suffering. Though it was also happy because I knew THEN, I was a US MARINE and my time in bootcamp was over. Mixed emotions to say the least. lol
I was there January 28-April 25,1975, Platoon 2014, Best in the West. Smartest move I made, but didn't think so the first couple weeks. It's the best fraternity to be a part of, lasts a lifetime. Semper Fi!
Time flies. 29SEP2000, I left for U.S. Navy Recruit Training. Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, or Space Force; we are all on the same team. Once, a Soldier, Marine, Sailor, Airman, or Coast Guardsman, always one. It is always part of you. Hard to describe it. It's something I am proud of. We must also pay homage to those who gave their lives wearing the uniform.
mslexi2308 thank u, thank u, thank u. There could never be enough thank u's from my family to u and yours for capturing my son and his platoon 2125. I was there for family day and graduation and recording wasn't going well but now because of u i will forever have this footage for my grandbabies to see of there father and my great grandbabies, again forever thanking u.
I was 69 and don't ever remember shorts and tennis shoes, we wore utility trousers and boots. Was a catkiller AO only flew with Army pilot, the friend I came in on the buddy plan was KIA on Ambush patrol. Semper Fi Squeaky.
I graduated in Platoon 1004 in 1972. I have to say it Changed my life. Funny story: On the morning of the first wake up. about 4:30 am " Get Up, Get Up. Get Dressed. On the road, NOW! " One recruit came out of the quanset hut without his Cover on. The DI got in his face and yelled something about him getting sunstroke. Told him to go get his cover. He came out with his BLANKET on his head :) They made him wear that blanket all day :)
I was in platoon 234 at MCRD SanDiego in 1962 and received a letter from my parents addressed to me at Marine Corps “Reserve” Depot! That was an expensive misprint on my mother’s part....ouch! Changed some since the quanset huts of my era...
Kevin Depew My big brother was a Marine, and I agree there is something special about a Marine. He fought in Viet Nam, and carried the radio for dis platoon. I was so proud of him and miss him. I lost him in 2003, he was never the same when he came back, but he would never have wanted to change his service. He truly loved the Marines. Thank you for your service.
Graduate class of 1970, Marine 32:01 Recruit Depot Parris Island...don't remember us getting leave prior to reporting to Camp Lejeune for IRT...congratulations, Semper Fidelis forever.
Who else felt chills down their spine when they were finally dismissed? I still remember this day from 2001, platoon 3106 L company, 3rd Batallion, MCRD Paris Island.
Hell yeah!!! You DID IT LITTLE DUDE!! YOU'RE A REAL E.G.A CERTIFIED UNITED STATES MARINE. I'M PROUD OF YOU. YOU GO DUDE GO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. SEMPER FIDELIS. OOH RAH. 🇺🇸🦅
holy crap, those are small platoons. i swear my platoon was at least double that size. we also graduated on the parade deck in the parking lot and not by the theater
Randomly came across this video and as it turns out that was my graduation haha! Almost 1 year ago, best damn 3 months of my life June 28th, 2019 - Plt 2126 FOX CO 2nd RTBN
Spent the remainder of my military career in the Army and worked with Marines in Middle East and gave aide to the Marines and evacuated them out after the Marine Barracks was blown up and flew the wound to the Glory or to Israel to get them to Germany. I was shot done in Lebanon.
I want to add one more comment, That young Recruit standing at Parade Rest fiddling with his cover and putting his hands in his pockets, We would have been Ran to the Pit and PT'd till we almost died. It has changed.
@@kevindepew5705 Because I watched the DI walk by and look straight at the recruit and do nothing. That is what makes me think that. 3 or 4 decades do make a difference.
Just graduated on the 2nd my buddy was in fox but u never got to see him around. If you somehow see this Bacon you still own me $10 boy. Evil Echo Empire
I served in the Marines as an infantry officer for 21 years with 3 years in combat a long time ago (hint: I was a Marine platoon commander in Vietnam in 1968). The greatest honor in my life was to lead US Marines, especially in combat. I'm 73 now, but I'd do it all again if I could.
Every service is great and we always work as a team. But there is something about Marines that make them special--at least to me. In Vietnam, there was never any doubt in my mind that my Marines would prevail in offense or defense. My Marines knew that I led from the front and by example. I never asked them to do something that I hadn't done myself or that they knew I would do. I couldn't be on every squad patrol but I did accompany them to evaluate how proficient they were. New Marines were not able to call in artillery or air strikes so I taught the squad leaders how to do it and then trained the fire team leaders. I gave them laminated templates for calling in both so all they had to do was fill in the blanks about their position, the target, etc. I cross trained my Marines on every weapon that might be available in our platoon in case the mortar or machine gun crew were casualties.
A small group of retired Marines still get together on the Marine Corps' Birthday (Nov 10) at a local restaurant. We remember old times, tell old war stories, we have dinner, we then read the Commandant's Message and cut the Marine Corps decorated cake. The first piece is given to the youngest Marine present and the second to the oldest. Then we make a toast to the Corps and enjoy a port wine with the cake. Wives and girlfriends wear Marine Corps broaches that are sterling silver and 24 K gold (not required but a tradition).
Still a proud Marine and envious of the Marines today with all the great equipment and training they now have. In Vietnam, we were little better equipped than those in WW II.
Semper Fi to all current and former Marines.
Deepest thanks for your service, to our nation!
BMF Thank you very much for your service!!!! My son is currently a Marine in 25... I had the wonderful experience of seeing him finish MCRD, ITB and go off to his first deployment last year..... im beyond proud of the accomplishments and service the Marines have instilled in my son.... AMAZING!!!
BMF6889 100 percent agree. I was a 0802. However I do know the life span of an infantry LT in Vietnam . Kudos to you sir
BMF6889 btw don’t say long time ago. It’s still relevant
Respect. Greetings from Germany.
The reason I can sit comfortably in my home eating bison and rice with my dogs at my feet while watching this on my IPad is because of those Men right there.
GallowsPole805 also the reason many innocent people have been killed
Eeeehhhhhh
Yeah..good for you...what a shame...!
I earned the title on that same parade deck on November 1994. As a 50 year old I will say this. You may forget your birthday; but you will never forget this day. Semper Fi Leathernecks and Godspeed!
Semper Fi
MCRD San Diego - August 22nd 1997
3rd RTBN, Lima Co, Plt 3101.
The absolute GREATEST moment of my life was earning that EGA.
@@roidnerd2501 Sorry dude but the Army don't put all there effort into looking pretty. They do the actual fighting and let the Marines get the glory. Airborne Rangers lead the way. Don't get your panties in a bunch though, all the different services bad mouth each other but when the shit hits the fan we've got each others back.
@@jroregon3839 Looking pretty if you cant even do basic things marching is not hard, Its why american army training is so short yeah you got each others back oright when you are shooting your own guys haha, I mean come on dude american army dog shit. Im sorry my guy but facts are facts even British army has most intense training and thats just the fitness side of things so come again. Just by length of basic training the Brits are better trained, If you train for say 3 months which is pretty much the american way you are not very well equip to take anything on which is why you can even keep track of where your forces are and shoot each other. Ive seen plenty of US marines who have had to see the para training and they cant believe how insane it is, Im sorry but you cant argue with facts.
At the beginning of this video these recruits looked sloppy. Are they 3rd phase? Small platoons too. Maybe only the recruits with family are shown? I don’t remember this in 1988 when I graduated.
Wow! That was me in Jan. 1965, 55 years ago!
Gy.Sgt. Tom Boyte USMC retired.
Vietnam 65-66-70-71
U and the other Marines that served with u protected the country while was an infant, thank u.
Also, i am now the of a Marine in platoon 2125 in this video ooorah
Welcome home my brother.
This was awesome! Ran in to this by accident. Glad I did. Best of luck Marine!! I got out in 2005. You will never forget all the moments and you will probably experience all the emotions in one way or another. You will create bonds you never imagined and will not forget. Make the most. Have you fun. Laugh and smile BUT think of your future. Get all the schooling you can. This is the greatest country on earth where you can make your dreams come true. The Marine Corps is one of thee greatest foundation.
I know things change with time, but I really can't get used to seeing Marines without spit shined, black leather combat boots. Man, I feel old.
Dude, the current boots are nearly 20 years old. Yeah, you're old.
Welcome to the USMC family. I graduated , India 3Bn, Plt 3115 Dec 1971
My nephew is at MCRD right now , going on his fourth week of Bootcamp. Can't wait to see him at Graduation❤🙏
Congrats my son is in this video and now a Marine.
I did not see any video posting of your nephew, i'm sure he has graduated by now. Best of luck to him. Semper Fi!!
@@adrianvalencia6500 Yes He graduated😊. That ceremony at graduation was awesome. We got lucky,, because of Covid, all of the graduations after his, were canceled. We literally just made it before the rest were canceled....He's been at camp Pendleton for over 2 months now, waiting for them to lift the military travel ban, so he can go to school. He actually just received his papers and he's leaving Pendleton Wednesday🙏
Mr Foxx sounds like someone failed the 15k
My Dad Fernando Lopez Set the example ,I and my brother's Raymond and
Johnny are former Marines,
The Marine corps
Is in us forever
Semper Fi
From retired
GYSGT Fernando
Lopez Jr
yself,
and my brothers
Raymond
I served 20 years. I was a DI/SDI in Fox Co, 2RTBn from 98-99. Fox was the "Speed and Intensity" Company. Glad to see the Corps still turns out the very best Marines possible!
Sorry im a mom of a marine in this video and would like to know what is DI/SDI ?
@@CBrown9758 SDI is the Senior Drill Instructor who is overall responsible for every recruit they are training and for every Drill Instructor (DI) working for them.
Dan Ferguson thank u👍.
Speed and Intensity got passed down to Golf, surprisingly
That was absolutely sweet and thoughtful to ask military dependants to spend time with the new marines had no family there.
What year was that to have no family day ?
Thank you for this awesome compilation. So honored to be connected to the Marines family and can’t wait to attend our son’s graduation from Delta Company in August 2022. Respect. 🇺🇸💕🙏
Congrats, and please give him our congrats.🤝
Thanks for posting this! I was assigned to Fox Company as a Drill Instructor in 1977 and spent 3 & 1/2 years at MCRD (with a 15-month extension) Your video brought back so many memories! Somethings have changed over the years (an example is when I first arrived in '77 the graduation ceremony was held inside of the theater after which the platoons would form in front of the theater to be dismissed. While I was there the ceremony was moved outside and held during a parade as in your video). We had a Chief Drill Instructor instead of a company 1st Sergeant. Thanks and Semper Fi to your Marine and his family. The buildings, the parade deck, the ever-present sounds of jets, all remain. Oorah!
From one Marine to another congratulations DEVIL DOG.
Ooooh Rah! MCRD San Diego Feb 1986, M Co. Plt 3022 Semper Fidelis. Thanks for posting. Great memories and chills watching this!!
Memories, memories🥰. N Company. Platoon 4002, 1993. 4th battalion. The female battallion. MCRD, Parris Island South Carolina.
This brought back some old memories, welcome to the brotherhood marine keep the honor and traditions going, Semper Fi, and may god keep you and your fellow marines safe.
To bad american army is crap, I mean just look at them marching if they put such little effort into that then it shows how little effort they put into everything else.
Roid Nerd thanks for the 😂
Wasnt expecting to see my graduation ceremony pop up as a recommended video on here paltoon 2122 changed my life while i was there Ssgt Fox changed all our lives back then. And Reed had the biggest heart in mct. Sorry watching this sorta makes miss bootcamp and mct.
Which one are u in the 2122 platoon? My son is platoon 2125 in this video.
Also, congrats and where u at this time? My son is in North Carolina 20 mins off base with his wife then fiance.
I was in 2122, 3rd rank back on the far right and at the times i was there as well when i sent that comment
And if im not mistaken brown was a good guy wasnt able to talk much except the few times during the company pt session
Very well done. I wish I could start all over again. Graduated 1 October 1993. I'd do it again in a heartbeat.
I ship out starting Monday 😤 my family is a little bummed knowing I’ll be away but proud I’m starting my journey to become an us marine . Semper fi !
Oh brother, you’re in a major shit hole right about now. Stay hard. Good luck!! Semper Fi.
I go to MEPS Monday, ughhhh I have a long way
good luck. plt 346 9/22/65
I don't know any of these fine young people but I feel proud of each and every one of them and I know our great country is well protected. Congratulations Marines and thank you!
Very well done video. Thanks so much. Our son graduates from MCRDSD exactly one month from tomorrow!!
Congrats my son is in platoon 2125 in this video.
I don't remember that on the day when I graduated in 1956. it may have taken place, I was just happy that my boot camp days were over with
John Moore man that must have been 3x harder than current boot camp
1956 wow, oorah.
This a moment I will never forget! When my son became a man and a Marine❤ Semperfi
That was one of the nicest videos I've seen on RUclips of the graduation ceremony and family day. My marine was also 2nd battalion fox company in 2018. We don't have a proper video of our sons graduation. So I watch this and just imagine being there that day. Congratulations for your son . And ooo rah!
Lexi, you not only created a family heirloom but a video for all Marines past, present, and future to enjoy and reminisce. I hope your Marine is happy, safe from harm, and enjoying life to the fullest.
¡Qué Dios lo bendiga a used y a su familia!
I graduated from MCRD on November 9, 1988. No one from my family came to see me.
Fortunately, I had a new Marine Corps family that I have had for over 30 years since then.
Semper Fi.
When I graduated from Officer Candidate School (OCS) in 1967 (which is very similar to boot camp) my mother and father were in the stands during the ceremony.
My father was a B-17 pilot in WW II and was shot down. He spent two years as a POW. During the Cold War, he flew B-47 and B-52 bombers on airborne alert carrying nuclear weapons.
He was my role model and hero. My parents were the best parents a kid could ever hope for. During that graduation, it was the only time that ever saw my father become emotional (and my mother too). They were horrified that I joined the Marine Corps because they knew I would eventually end up in Vietnam, which I did as an infantry platoon commander. They were especially horrified because my brother was and had been in Vietnam for three consecutive years.
Never the less, my father's tears were not for what the future might bring but that had completed one of the toughest training courses in the Marine Corps and graduated.
There is more. While I was a platoon commander in Vietnam, my brother was a company commander of Marines only five miles from my position. His company was attacked and he was severely wounded and spent a year in a hospital.
I didn't find out about it for 4 weeks later.
But toward the end of my tour, the Marine Corps gave me a few days off and so I caught a medivac flight from Vietnam to the Philippines to visit my parents. You see, before I was sent to Vietnam, my father was assigned as the commander of Clark Air Force Base on the Philippines.
I landed in Manila and took a bus to Clark AFB. I checked with the gate guard with my military ID and walked to the headquarters for Clark. There, I encountered my father's secretary and she asked who I was and what I wanted. I told her that I was 2nd Lt XXX and that I had just arrived from 11 months in Vietnam as a Marine platoon commander and I was here to see my father.
I still remember the complete look of disbelief in her face. She buzzed my father and said, "There is someone here to see you." My father asked who. She said, "I think he is someone you will want to see."
When I walked into his office, the expression on his face was priceless. We had two days with my mother and father before I had to return to Vietnam.
That was the last time I ever saw him. He died a few months later in his sleep of a heart attack while on active duty.
We (my brother and I) were there at Arlington Cemetery for his ceremony with a 21 gun salute and taps.
As a B-17 pilot in WW II, he was shot down on his third mission. On that mission, flak killed some of the crew. I remember my father saying that a flak hit near the aircraft decapitated the navigator and communications with the crew in the back was lost. He was able to release his bombs on target but during the flight back to England, a German fighter pilot shot him down. Five of the crew were killed and five survived.
During my year in Vietnam, my platoon was engaged in a number of firefights, ambushes, snipers, etc. But the mines were the worst.
But here is my point. Regardless of everything I experienced in Vietnam, I cannot imagine what it was like flying over Germany with flak and fighters when losses were up to 40 to 50 percent. More crews in the 8th Air Force were killed over Germany than all of the Marines killed in the Pacific. Let that sink in.
And my father was teared up over my graduation from Marine OCS?
I only hope that I made my parents proud of me. Nothing else matters.
52 years ago what was it like?
My Dad was at Pearl Harbor when it was bombed I can't imagine what he went through, so I join the Marine's and severed for 8 years 84/ 92 , 3rd Battalion 11th Marines artillery
Outstanding. I marched across that grinder many a miles. and graduated on 17 Aug 1990 with India Company 3042. Brings back some crazy memories! Semper Fi!
My son is in Fox right now quarantine🥰
Lima 3063
This never gets old. Proud to have graduated on that same parade deck back in 3/1968.
Blessings. Glad to share Family Day. A proud Army past E-6 and current O-5. Serve proudly, Marine; serve well past your enlistment! Keith
I remember many hours of marching on that parade deck back in 1972. I returned to MCRD for communication electronics School after boot camp. I was really glad to get out of San Diego after being stuck there....This took me back it was actually fun for me. Thank you. Semper Fi.
Were you in 3rd division
Awesome video! Congratulations to your new Marine! Semper Fidelis! GySgt Rick Morales USMC Ret. 1983-2003
Absolutely beautiful video!!! Semper Fi to all the hard chargers of Fox Company!!!! Thank you so much for sharing.
Ill never forget my sons graduation day i couldnt stop crying
Thank you for sharing. Watery eyes from the nostalgia. Semper Fi
Took me almost 4 years to watch this😂 thanks for posting!
Well done, Marines!
To all service personnel, past present and future, be so very very proud of your service. As an ex serviceman myself, I salute you.
"EYE's RIGHT"..... Semper Fidelis!!!
Hi I am Canadian thank you for sharing your experience with me in your Proud Moment with your Son. Congrats on becoming A United States Marine.
Thank you for your Service.
Once a Marine the memories will always be with you.
Looking back it's was the better part of my existence.
Plt 1015 / 1985
Very inspiring. The music at 39:51 brought me right back to my own graduation from Parris Island in 96. I remember it like it was yesterday.
When I graduated in 1995 that was the only part that really brought me goosebumps. Not sure what the actualt tune is, but it was something that signaled "this is the end of training, time to go be a Marine". It was sad because I knew that time in my life was over, even though it was a time of suffering. Though it was also happy because I knew THEN, I was a US MARINE and my time in bootcamp was over. Mixed emotions to say the least. lol
Yeah buddy... Mine was 8/16/91 MCRD PI.
@@wandarebiejo6409 I just sound-clouded the song and it's called "National Emblem."
I remember spending countless hours on that 'grinder' back in '89.
I left some knuckle skin on that grinder back in '72... OOOOrrrraaaaah... Semper Fi brother.
Do you still spend countless hours on Grindr?
Extremely sorry, bad joke! all the best.
I was there January 28-April 25,1975, Platoon 2014, Best in the West. Smartest move I made, but didn't think so the first couple weeks. It's the best fraternity to be a part of, lasts a lifetime. Semper Fi!
They look good!! Congratulations FOX CO
Thank u fr the service
God damn I love MCRD. I can still smell that scent. It is a unique scent. There's is nothing to compare it too. Semper fi
Time flies. 29SEP2000, I left for U.S. Navy Recruit Training. Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, or Space Force; we are all on the same team. Once, a Soldier, Marine, Sailor, Airman, or Coast Guardsman, always one. It is always part of you. Hard to describe it. It's something I am proud of. We must also pay homage to those who gave their lives wearing the uniform.
This brings back many memories. Those drill instructors are very dedicated I recognize a few of them from when I graduated in 09
MCRD San Diego California I’ll arrive there 22 January 1956 it still looks the same to me bring back old memories.
Semper Fi brother,,,,Congrats! USMC 1981-1989
mslexi2308 thank u, thank u, thank u. There could never be enough thank u's from my family to u and yours for capturing my son and his platoon 2125. I was there for family day and graduation and recording wasn't going well but now because of u i will forever have this footage for my grandbabies to see of there father and my great grandbabies, again forever thanking u.
Aww! You're very welcome. I'm happy that we were happy to capture this very important moment of our Marines. We are proud MoM 😁🇺🇸
@@mslexi2308 oorah!
Semper Fi
Me ROKMC 1990 , My Son ROKMC 2017
We are the Marines........
@Pata Physics Thank you. We are the Marines....
It was so long ago in 1980 marching on those grounds brings back some memories
Thank you very much for you serviced in VietNam war. Much respect.
It is truly incredible what they do there. You can learn how to be your best even when you are walking on broken feet
I leave for marine bootcamp in 3 weeks I’m so damn nervous
Stay motivated at all times
Well if you haven't screwed the pooch you should have the ega now, and welcome brother!
How’d you do, bro?
@@Inaros404 good lol I been in Japan about 6 months now
Wow! 48 years ago, different uniforms, different DI’s, different Marines. But same attitude, desire, and esprit de corps. Semper Fidelis Marines.
I was 69 and don't ever remember shorts and tennis shoes, we wore utility trousers and boots. Was a catkiller AO only flew with Army pilot, the friend I came in on the buddy plan was KIA on Ambush patrol. Semper Fi Squeaky.
I was Fox Company, Platoon 2057, graduated September 29, 1989... Senior Drill Instructor, Staff Sergeant Sousa! Oooh Rah!
That whole base was beautiful but the Eagle, Globe and Anchor was so impressive marching by that.
Mis mayores respecto grasias Pedro x desde Miami
i will never forget semper fi....never...
USA, 87 to 95, went to eod school with 2 Marines. Those guys were incredible. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
1987-95 as well Grad Nov 20 2nd bat F co plt 2095
The few the proud the Marines!!!! God bless the core !!!
Really, all these people stand up for you, what you have is because of their support, I love the people that fight for my country
I graduated in Platoon 1004 in 1972. I have to say it Changed my life. Funny story: On the morning of the first wake up. about 4:30 am " Get Up, Get Up. Get Dressed. On the road, NOW! " One recruit came out of the quanset hut without his Cover on. The DI got in his face and yelled something about him getting sunstroke. Told him to go get his cover. He came out with his BLANKET on his head :) They made him wear that blanket all day :)
I’m a Parris Island Marine, 3Bn India Co..... although things have changed since 1998..... the memories last forever.
Great ceremony.// my brother was a captain in the MARINE CORP. In vietnam.//
Spartans 2/6 salutes you. See you in theater. We need you.
Semper Fi!
A beautiful video! 👌
I was in platoon 234 at MCRD SanDiego in 1962 and received a letter from my parents addressed to me at Marine Corps “Reserve” Depot! That was an expensive misprint on my mother’s part....ouch! Changed some since the quanset huts of my era...
It's been 20 years since I've stepped on those famous yellow foot prints and this video has done the Marine Corps so well 👏
U r never an x marine, once a marine always a marine, no man left behind
Kevin Depew My big brother was a Marine, and I agree there is something special about a Marine. He fought in Viet Nam, and carried the radio for dis platoon. I was so proud of him and miss him. I lost him in 2003, he was never the same when he came back, but he would never have wanted to change his service. He truly loved the Marines. Thank you for your service.
Congratulations to all, you deserve it
Congrats from a Soldier to you Marines.
Well graduating marines. May God Bless you.
Siemper Fi, Sir, Siempre Fi!
this stuff still gets me so motivated lol
"Not yet~ mom~" that is so funny and cute🤣😁😆😗
Truly respectful for all of American soldiers😊👍
Graduate class of 1970, Marine 32:01 Recruit Depot Parris Island...don't remember us getting leave prior to reporting to Camp Lejeune for IRT...congratulations, Semper Fidelis forever.
A world all for you.
Who else felt chills down their spine when they were finally dismissed? I still remember this day from 2001, platoon 3106 L company, 3rd Batallion, MCRD Paris Island.
The Few, The Proud, The Marines
A force if resolute, and resolve
Michael Chargualaf who also can’t figure out how to stand at parade rest properly
I love that deck
Hell yeah!!! You DID IT LITTLE DUDE!! YOU'RE A REAL E.G.A CERTIFIED UNITED STATES MARINE. I'M PROUD OF YOU. YOU GO DUDE GO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. SEMPER FIDELIS. OOH RAH. 🇺🇸🦅
holy crap, those are small platoons. i swear my platoon was at least double that size. we also graduated on the parade deck in the parking lot and not by the theater
Yeah I was in this company, When companies pick up in april and march, platoons are small because that's the least popular time of the year
No one is joining the military like they use to
Fox Co., Sept 1971. We graduated by the theater. My mom and grandparents were there. Last time I saw my Grandma.
You still do graduate on the parade deck, you are released on liberty for family day at the theater
I leave on the 19th and can’t wait
Holy shit I graduated a few weeks ahead of them but I remember seeing fox company around. Alpha company plt 1014 June 2019
Randomly came across this video and as it turns out that was my graduation haha! Almost 1 year ago, best damn 3 months of my life
June 28th, 2019 - Plt 2126 FOX CO 2nd RTBN
Congratulations. You have a sharp looking Marine. Hope he's doing well.
He is doing well. Thank you!
I was born at Paris Island 1972, spent 6 years in the Marines Vietnam 73-74 then some great duty in Australia and Hawaii
Spent the remainder of my military career in the Army and worked with Marines in Middle East and gave aide to the Marines and evacuated them out after the Marine Barracks was blown up and flew the wound to the Glory or to Israel to get them to Germany. I was shot done in Lebanon.
greeeeat video and congratulations!!!!
My brother graduated there. October 18th 2019. Platoon 2129.
Semper-Fidelis Marine !!
I want to add one more comment, That young Recruit standing at Parade Rest fiddling with his cover and putting his hands in his pockets, We would have been Ran to the Pit and PT'd till we almost died. It has changed.
What makes you think that
IT’d *
@@kevindepew5705 Because I watched the DI walk by and look straight at the recruit and do nothing. That is what makes me think that. 3 or 4 decades do make a difference.
Not if the D.I.s said "Fix yourself" which was always a moment before a important formation.
@@Gods-bad-boy I will concede your argument, That is true. OORAH, DEVIL DOG!!!
Very different today. Back in 1998, family day started at the parade deck in front of the bleachers, just like graduation
3:19 Anchors Aweigh... because you gotta get there somehow... you're welcome.
My Ass Rides In Navy Equipment! Respect to the Navy from an old Marine Grunt. Spent a lotta time on Navy ships- Thanks, brother.
I graduated the same Day. Same Cycle. Platoon 2121♥️
Just graduated on the 2nd my buddy was in fox but u never got to see him around. If you somehow see this Bacon you still own me $10 boy. Evil Echo Empire
Lefty Gs I know bacon 2126 we were in the same platoon
Haha bacon owes u money? That douche haha
I was fox Co plt 2035 graduated August 14th 1992