I served in the U.S.Marine Corps from August 1978 to August 1982. I went to boot camp at MCRD San Diego on Aug 25. I was in the first batallion, Platoon 1072. It was the toughest thing I have ever done, but I graduated with a meritorious promotion to PFC (E-2). My MOS was 6125, T-400 engine mechanic, the powerplant for the Huey and Cobra helicopters. I was stationed for training at Camp Pendleton after schooling in Millington TN. I had a blast in So. Cal. during the summer of '79. I recieved the orders most people only dream about, a transfer to my backyard! NAS Whidbey Island. 60 miles from home, a small Marine reserve unit with 12 UH1H Huey's. I worked phase crew doing maintenance on the birds, then worked in the engine shop. The summer of '81, I worked on recruiting duty in Bellingham for a month out of the same office that I was recruited from. It was during that time that our squadron was called opon to be extras in the movie "An Officer and a Gentleman", I was in one scene. I could have been in more, but could not get away from my recruiting commitments. In August of '81, I was transfered to Okinawa. I spent my last year in the tropical blast furnace, stationed on Futenma MCAS. It turned out to be one of the greatest experiences of my life. I met some wonderful people, purchased some neat stuff (I still have most of them). I was promoted to SGT. in January of '82, just 3 years 4 months into my Marine Corps life. I was able to participate in Team Spirit '82 in Pohang South Korea for 6 weeks. I went to Tokyo Japan for a couple days, and a privatly owned island near Tiawan for a couple days. I returned to Camp Pendleton in August of '82 for discharge. It was the most incredible 4 years of my life, and one to this day I think about often. I owe my job that I have now to the experiences and knowledge that I received in the Marine Corps. Semper Fi Marines!
Marine Corps related Links...
Gunny G's web site
Gunny G's Mail Call
TheFew.com Home of a great message board for finding old buddies
Friends I am looking for: