Marine Corps News Room

Office of the Secretary of Defense Public Affairs
Story by Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Carden
Date08.26.2010

CHICAGO - At last night's Major League Baseball game between the Chicago White Sox and the Baltimore Orioles here, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of staff couldn't help but notice the difference between the nation's support for today's service members and veterans and the reception returning servicemembers received when they came home from Vietnam early in his military career.

Continue reading "American Support Boosts Troop Morale, Mullen Says" »

Posted by sr at 8:45 AM | Permalink

Volunteers build addition to parents' house to aid recovery from wounds suffered in war

By Barbara O'Brien
NEWS STAFF REPORTER
Published:August 21 2010

A year ago, Marine Staff Sgt. John Stanz was fighting for his life in a military hospital in Germany after a bomb hit his Humvee in Afghanistan.

Continue reading "A heartfelt home for a hero" »

Posted by sr at 5:15 PM | Permalink

By Kristin M. Hall - The Associated Press
Tuesday Aug 10, 2010

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Family and friends have suddenly found themselves blocked from shipping cigarettes and other tobacco products to American troops in Afghanistan and Iraq because of a new law meant to hamper smuggling and underage sales through the mail.

Continue reading "Law snuffs out mailing smokes to troops" »

Posted by sr at 7:37 AM | Permalink

LOUDON - The striped fishing wasn't great in the waters just below Ft. Loudoun Dam.

Continue reading "Marines get an extra 'thank you' with fishing trip" »

Posted by sr at 1:27 PM | Permalink

CBS News' Terry McCarthy on How Military Wives Cope With the Fear of Bad News

(CBS) As part of our continuing coverage of "Afghanistan: the Road Ahead," CBS News correspondent Terry McCarthy follows the Third Battalion, First Marines at home, and abroad in Afghanistan.

SAN CLEMENTE, Calif

In war, there are two fronts - one where troops face the enemy in battle. And one where their loved ones wait, and worry that they'll receive the worst kind of news.

Continue reading "Military Wives Fear The Dreaded Knock" »

Posted by sr at 10:37 PM | Permalink

As Marine Cpl. John Peck fights in his recovery from near-fatal injuries suffered in Afghanistan, the Antioch community is continuing its support by planning a fundraising concert.

Continue reading "Fundraising concert to help injured Antioch Marine" »

Posted by sr at 11:57 PM | Permalink

50-mile run raised money for fallen Army sergeant's son

Under a red tent on the lawn of Community Bank on North Highland Avenue late Saturday morning, P.J. Kellogg was finishing a banana with an IV in his arm and his legs from his knees down planted in a cooler filled with water.

Continue reading "Marine tests limits to honor friend" »

Posted by sr at 3:42 PM | Permalink

U.S. soldiers all over the world will again enjoy a break from their joylessly efficient military rations on the Fourth of July with deep-dish Chicago and New York-style pizzas.

Continue reading "Elk Grove man sends soldiers pizzas for the Fourth of July" »

Posted by sr at 8:22 PM | Permalink

MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE ALBANY, Ga. — After decades of imagining what life would have been like if he had followed his first instinct to join the military, one local educator was finally given the experience of a lifetime that he longed for.

Continue reading "Superintendent experiences military first-hand" »

Posted by sr at 7:39 PM | Permalink

By Abbey Brown Doyle - The (Alexandria, La.) Town Talk
Posted : Saturday Jun 26, 2010 11:12:52 EDT

BOYCE, La. — Lance Cpl. Brad Riddick pulled into his parents’ driveway at 4 a.m., home for the first time after months in Marine Corps training.

Continue reading "Truck makeover stuns Marine home on leave" »

Posted by sr at 5:44 PM | Permalink

The story of war is not just about combat on the battlefield. It's also about the families that remain behind to fight their own private battles.

Continue reading "Military families face private battles as loved ones are sent to war" »

Posted by sr at 8:43 AM | Permalink

The American Spirit: Donating Golf Balls to U.S. Troops in Afghanistan

(CBS) Americans love golf. More than 27 million of us play nearly half a billion rounds every year. Thanks to Adrian Levsky, some are now playing on a course that features very unusual hazards.

Continue reading "Golf on the Most Dangerous Course in the World" »

Posted by sr at 10:32 PM | Permalink

ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY, Va. -- This is the place that receives the most attention on Memorial Day, though it is but one of 141 national cemeteries in the United States and 24 others located on foreign soil. Many of our countrymen will observe this "last Monday in May" holiday with travel, shopping and picnics. But those who take the time to visit one of these hallowed grounds will have an unforgettable experience.

Continue reading "Memorial Day 2010" »

Posted by sr at 5:28 PM | Permalink

The Marines of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force New York displayed Marine Corps vehicles, weapons and tactics for passersby during Marine Day at Times Square May 28.

Continue reading "Marine Day Comes to Times Square" »

Posted by sr at 12:16 PM | Permalink

NORTH COUNTY — Living in a war zone gets tougher when the little comforts of home — an iPod, running shoes, a laptop computer — go up in smoke.

Continue reading "Giving Marines a ‘little piece of home’" »

Posted by sr at 8:43 AM | Permalink

Amid the R&R festivities of New York’s Fleet Week, there’s a shipload of work for visiting service members.

Continue reading "As Fleet Week Begins, A Shipload of Work for Navy, Marines and Coast Guard" »

Posted by sr at 5:07 PM | Permalink

By Casey Cora - (Tinley Park) Southtown Star via Associated Press
Posted : Tuesday May 25, 2010 8:13:15 EDT

OAK LAWN, Ill. — For any potential homebuyer, searching for the right house is a struggle, one fraught with choices over aesthetics, location and practicality.

Continue reading "Volunteers refit home for injured Marine" »

Posted by sr at 8:30 AM | Permalink

By Brett Zongker - The Associated Press
Posted : Sunday May 23, 2010 17:09:16 EDT

WASHINGTON — More than 600 museums nationwide are offering free admission to military families all summer in a new partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts.

Continue reading "600 museums offer free admission to military" »

Posted by sr at 10:26 PM | Permalink

By Todd Richmond - The Associated Press
Posted : Monday May 17, 2010 10:08:25 EDT

MADISON, Wis. — Thousands of Vietnam-era veterans are set to converge on Lambeau Field next weekend hoping for the words they’ve waited 40 years to hear: Thank you.

Continue reading "Thousands of Vietnam vets to gather for thanks" »

Posted by sr at 9:12 PM | Permalink

A stretch of U.S. 70 between Havelock and New Bern has been designated the U.S. Marine Corps Highway.

Continue reading "U.S. 70 gets Marine designation" »

Posted by sr at 6:55 PM | Permalink

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., - Army Chief of Staff Gen. George W. Casey Jr. made a surprise visit to the inaugural Warrior Games here, May 13, capping a pivotal night in medal game play.

Continue reading "Army Chief Presents Medals at Warrior Games" »

Posted by sr at 2:18 PM | Permalink

A chance connection and a curious child paved the way for a stack of packages to travel to Afghanistan

A chance connection and a curious child paved the way for a stack of packages to travel to Afghanistan, laden with gifts for a Marine platoon.

Continue reading "Afghanistan bound" »

Posted by sr at 1:32 PM | Permalink

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The inaugural Warrior Games at the Olympic Training Center here will draw to a close this evening, leaving in their wake a few hundred happy, but very tired troops, family members and volunteers.

Continue reading "Inaugural Warrior Games Set to Wrap Up" »

Posted by sr at 10:22 AM | Permalink

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., May 13, 2010 – When retired Marine Corps 1st Sgt. John Fuller was asked how he thought the inaugural Warrior Games archery competition would turn out, his answer was complicated, yet simple. And it was right.

Continue reading "Marines Earn Gold, Silver in Warrior Games Archery" »

Posted by sr at 5:04 PM | Permalink

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., May 13, 2010 – The Marine Corps teams competing at the inaugural Warrior Games here have a wealth of coaching knowledge available to their athletes.

Continue reading "Husband, Wife Coach Marine Shooting Team" »

Posted by sr at 4:55 PM | Permalink

An Afghan insurgent's homemade bomb shattered Marc Esposito's lower legs, broke his back and knocked him cold for four days. But the Air Force staff sergeant says the worst part was being torn from his Special Operations teammates who stayed in the field after he was evacuated.

Continue reading "Warrior Games give injured vets kinship, strength" »

Posted by sr at 4:42 PM | Permalink

Guidance Helicopters will offer helicopter rides to the public to raise money to help U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal Michael Martinez, a 2008 graduate of Prescott High School, who lost his legs in Afghanistan.

Continue reading "Company offers helicopter rides to raise money for injured Marine" »

Posted by sr at 2:26 PM | Permalink

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., May 12, 2010 – The Marine Corps team is on top after yesterday’s first day of competition at the inaugural Warrior Games here, sweeping their opponents and finishing 4-0 in team play.

Continue reading "Marines Dominate in Early Competition at Warrior Games" »

Posted by sr at 4:47 PM | Permalink

ARLINGTON, Va. — Garage sales and quilt raffles helped a determined group of female World War II veterans raise money to transform a rundown wall at Arlington National Cemetery into a grand stone memorial to women who served their country. But those women are dying off, even as the memorial runs short of funds.

Continue reading "Women’s memorial at Arlington struggling" »

Posted by sr at 8:50 AM | Permalink

AVON -- A proud father of a recently-deployed Marine Reservist will stand in for his son in a unique way -- graduating from law school.

Continue reading "Avon: Father finishes journey for Marine Reservist son" »

Posted by sr at 5:18 PM | Permalink

Former Marine protests funeral picketers

The Westboro Baptist Church, whose members have picketed the funerals of fallen troops, is now facing protesters at its own front door.

Continue reading "Tables turned" »

Posted by sr at 3:31 PM | Permalink

Fellow townies have never forgotten Marine Lt. Michael Quinn of Charlestown - and neither has the Marine Corps.

Continue reading "Boston pauses to recall fallen Marine" »

Posted by sr at 5:29 PM | Permalink

BOSTON —

The Marines are planning a full on assault at Carson Beach May 8.
They will be combining their combat elements from the air and on the ground when storming the South Boston waterfront, just to show the city how strong their force is when flexing their muscle.

Continue reading " Boston beach to be stormed by Marines" »

Posted by sr at 6:07 PM | Permalink

BOSTON —

The phrase, “A picture is worth a thousand words,” may mean more to some than it does to others. To combat artists, art is history in the making. A combat artist has the ability to create art from the moment it takes place.

Continue reading "Combat artist tells Corps’ story through artwork" »

Posted by sr at 3:34 PM | Permalink

BOSTON —

The New England Center for Homeless Veterans received a helping hand as part of Marine Week Boston’s community outreach program this week.

Continue reading "Volunteers bridge a generational gap" »

Posted by sr at 5:49 PM | Permalink

Bostonians driving past Marines painting a mural showcasing the Corps’ proud values displayed their support by waving, honking and shouting motivation toward the Marines at an intersection in Hyde Park, May 5.

Continue reading "Marines paint mural, display Corps to Boston" »

Posted by sr at 5:25 PM | Permalink

BOSTON —

If there’s one thing Marines are no stranger of, it’s a “working party.”

Continue reading "Marines assist Habitat for Humanity’s mission in Boston" »

Posted by sr at 3:27 PM | Permalink

Thousands of spectators cheered as a few dozen Marines marched down Broadway in Louisville, Ky., April 29.

Continue reading "2nd MAW Band visits Louisville Ky. for Derby Week" »

Posted by sr at 3:01 PM | Permalink

BOSTON —

The Marines took to the land, skies to storm the city of Boston.

Continue reading "The Marines have landed … in Boston" »

Posted by sr at 2:54 PM | Permalink

BOSTON —

Mayor Thomas M. Menino issued an official proclamation during a ceremony at historic Faneuil Hall establishing May 3-9 as Marine Week in Boston, kicking off a showcase of aircraft, ground elements and various community events.

Continue reading "History, tradition continue at Faneuil Hall" »

Posted by sr at 2:51 PM | Permalink

BOSTON —

“[We] look forward to the exciting series of demonstrations that are planned for the next seven days to show off the Marine Corps’ many capabilities,” said Edward C. Freni, director of aviation for Massachusetts Port Authority. “I’d like to thank American Airlines for getting us off to a great start with this special dedication of Gate 33 to honor our U.S. Marines.”

Continue reading "American Airlines dedication in honor of Marine Corps" »

Posted by sr at 2:48 PM | Permalink

BOSTON —

A ruptured water main in the city Saturday evening shutdown all drinking water in the Boston Metropolitan area, causing city officials to reactivate Chestnut Hill Reservoir as an emergency backup supply of water.

Continue reading "Marines support reservoir cleanup during water emergency" »

Posted by sr at 2:44 PM | Permalink

Over the past six years, 21-year-old Shauna Fleming and her organization A Million Thanks have collected and sent more than 5 million thank you cards and letters to U.S. troops in Iraq, Afghanistan, and many other parts of the world.

Continue reading "Join Shauna Fleming in Giving Our Troops A Million Thanks" »

Posted by sr at 10:34 PM | Permalink

TOPEKA, Kan. — A Topeka church that has gained notoriety in recent years for picketing the funerals of fallen U.S. service members was itself picketed after turning a group of veterans and their families away from its noon worship service.

Continue reading "Funeral picketers now face their own protest" »

Posted by sr at 11:41 PM | Permalink

The day Jeremy Kane's friends and family laid him to rest in January was cold and snowy. On Sunday, when the weather was chilly and misty, they gathered once more to run two miles in his memory.

Continue reading "Rain doesn’t hamper memorial run for Cherry Hill Marine" »

Posted by sr at 10:12 AM | Permalink

At Lake Mission Viejo, grateful civilians who've 'adopted' a Camp Pendleton battalion give the Marines a day of fun to remember before they deploy.

When she deploys to the violence of Afghanistan, Marine Lance Cpl. Sarah Hogg, 20, of Fort Worth, Texas, will remember a sunny day of food and friendship on the shore of Lake Mission Viejo.

Continue reading "Marines get support from the homeland" »

Posted by sr at 10:06 AM | Permalink

A 2-million-square-foot airfield in southern Afghanistan has been named in honor of a Marine from the Iron Range who was killed in action in October while fighting the war on global terrorism in that country.

A 2-million-square-foot airfield in southern Afghanistan has been named in honor of a Marine from the Iron Range who was killed in action in October while fighting the war on global terrorism in that country.

Continue reading "Afghan airfield named for Iron Range Marine" »

Posted by sr at 9:55 AM | Permalink

For one middle school student and her teacher, a simple school assignment has become a poignant lesson about life and death.

Continue reading "Letter to Marine touches his mom" »

Posted by sr at 5:12 PM | Permalink

Appellate ruling sets aside murder conviction of Camp Pendleton Marine Sgt. Larry Hutchins III

A military appeals court on Thursday overturned the murder conviction of a Camp Pendleton Marine who had been found guilty of leading his squad in the 2006 kidnapping and slaying of an Iraqi man in the village of Hamdania.

Continue reading "Court throws out Hamdania conviction" »

Posted by sr at 9:31 AM | Permalink

MIDDLETOWN – Nearly 1,500 pounds of supplies and snacks donated by locals are on their way to Afghanistan to USMC 1st Lt Nicholas Abbate.

Continue reading " Nearly 1,500 Pounds of Donated Supplies Shipped to Middletown Marine in Afghanistan" »

Posted by sr at 10:01 AM | Permalink

Johanna Thomas Johnson will never forget the succession of telephone calls from home she received on a cold morning earlier this year.

Continue reading "Family of fallen Scranton marine helps design addition to Nay Aug Park's Heroes Memorial" »

Posted by sr at 5:49 PM | Permalink

SALT LAKE CITY — The skies over the Utah desert are becoming the test site for a new fleet of hulking high-tech dirigibles the military is hoping will provide battlefield commanders a bird’s-eye view of cruise missiles and other threats.

Continue reading "Military testing high-tech dirigibles in Utah" »

Posted by sr at 5:16 PM | Permalink

Two local Marines are the inspiration for a collection campaign to send donations to Marines serving in Afghanistan.

Continue reading "Local Marines inspire collection for troops in Afghanistan" »

Posted by sr at 5:20 PM | Permalink

A congressman whose district includes Camp Lejeune, N.C., wants fellow lawmakers to review the rules of engagement used by NATO forces in Afghanistan, saying “they have proved too often to be fatal” to U.S. troops.

Continue reading "Rep.: Hold rules of engagement hearing now" »

Posted by sr at 5:21 PM | Permalink

A Destin Marine deployed to Afghanistan is about to get a sweet surprise from Girl Scout Troop 304.

Continue reading "FROM ONE TROOP TO ANOTHER: Girl Scouts sending giant care package to Destin Marine in Afghanistan" »

Posted by sr at 1:05 PM | Permalink

WOLF PACK: Hemet’s adopted battalion going to Middle East for sixth time, accepts key to city.

It was a sunny, pleasant day when the battalion commander and sergeant major of the Wolf Pack, the Marine Corps unit adopted by Hemet, came to town to accept the key to the city and present Mayor Eric McBride and City Manager Brian Nakamura with the unit’s challenge coin.

Continue reading "Marine unit headed to Afghanistan" »

Posted by sr at 11:07 PM | Permalink

Senator Carl L. Marcellino announced on April 1, that working with the NYS Parks Department he has received a donation of over 200 golf clubs for Marines deployed in Afghanistan.

Continue reading " Golf Clubs Donated to Marines Deployed in Afghanistan" »

Posted by sr at 9:00 AM | Permalink

Opening to a fever pitch at noon Eastern on April 7, the 35th Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) has registered 23,793 runners in the first 24 hours. Nearly 1,000 runners have registered per hour, resulting in almost 80 percent of the 30,000 slots sold.

Continue reading "Marine Corps Marathon Nearly 80 Percent Sold After First 24 Hours of Opening" »

Posted by sr at 11:31 PM | Permalink

Husbands' repeated deployments mean years of worry, plus the stress of handling everything at home on their own. Then there's how to handle their changed spouses when they come home.

Continue reading "Mideast wars' unsung heroes: the wives left behind" »

Posted by sr at 5:13 PM | Permalink

LADSON, S.C., April 6 (UPI) -- The U.S. Marine Corps has modified a contract with Force Protection to provide Cougar armored vehicles with next-generation suspension technologies.

Continue reading "Marines contract for Cougar suspensions" »

Posted by sr at 5:16 PM | Permalink

YORK, Pa. — Albert Snyder’s eyes well up with tears when recalling his son’s funeral.

Continue reading "Snyder-Phelps fight has many twists, turns" »

Posted by sr at 5:18 PM | Permalink

The U.S. Marine Corps is on the lookout for off-the-shelf technologies to support its warfighters’ operational needs as they deploy around the world. Because the service is called on to perform both combat and humanitarian missions—often simultaneously in the same region—readily available equipment capable of being applied to a variety of situations is on many commanders’ checklists. Some commercial gear that currently is being used by the Marines and the other U.S. military services includes portable geolocation systems, handheld translators and tents equipped with photovoltaic cells.

Continue reading "Off-The-Shelf Gear Strengthens Marine Operations" »

Posted by sr at 5:08 PM | Permalink

Outraged that the father of a dead U.S. Marine was ordered to pay the court costs incurred by a group that he had sued for picketing his son's funeral, people from across the country have launched a grass roots fundraising effort to help the grieving family.

Continue reading "Public Rallies to Marine Dad’s Support" »

Posted by sr at 9:22 AM | Permalink

No. 1 cable news host Bill O'Reilly said Tuesday that he will personally write a check to cover $16,500 in legal costs for the father of a fallen U.S. Marine who sued the members of a church who picketed his son's funeral.

Continue reading "O'Reilly Pays Legal Bill for Fallen Marine's Father" »

Posted by sr at 10:18 PM | Permalink

Lawyers for the father of a Marine who died in Iraq and whose funeral was picketed by anti-gay protesters say a court has ordered him to pay the protesters' appeal costs.

Continue reading "Man ordered to pay appeal costs of protesters at his son's funeral" »

Posted by sr at 1:06 PM | Permalink

To call life difficult at Forward Operating Base Geronimo in Southern Afghanistan means little as we sit in Orange County wondering if we'll make dinner tonight or get takeout.

Continue reading "Helping Marines, one box at a time" »

Posted by sr at 8:56 PM | Permalink

Panama City, Fla:
The Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) celebrated rolling out its 500th Panama City Mine Roller Sept. 16, 2009 at L-3 Communications in Panama City, Florida. It was the third-generation upgrade designed to pre-detonate Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in the rugged terrain of Afghanistan to protect Marine Corps personnel and their vehicles.

Continue reading "Panama City Mine Rollers: Paving Safe Roads for Marines" »

Posted by sr at 9:15 AM | Permalink

With springlike weather and many American flags flying, it looked more like Memorial Day in Lititz than a Sunday in early March.

Continue reading "Marines' mothers turn Lititz red, white, blue" »

Posted by mn at 7:57 AM | Permalink

Military eligible to register at discount before public

If you want a leg up on fellow runners, active-duty and reserve service members can register now for the 35th Marine Corps Marathon at a 15 percent discount.

Continue reading "Early Marine Marathon registration begins" »

Posted by sr at 8:34 AM | Permalink

NEW YORK — HBO is paying to send 250 veterans to Washington next week to visit the World War II memorial, coinciding with the networks’ premiere of a miniseries about the war.

Continue reading "HBO paying for honor flight for Marine vets" »

Posted by sr at 8:37 AM | Permalink

THE VILLAGES — Organizations all over the nation send packages to U.S. troops overseas, but it’s their Marines connection that makes Operation Caregiver stand out.

Continue reading "‘Caregiver Kits’ campaign under way" »

Posted by sr at 11:36 PM | Permalink

HUNTINGTON BEACH -- The Huntington Beach 3/1 Marines Foundation will host their second annual 3/1 Run March 13.

Continue reading "3/1 Marines Foundation to host 2nd annual run" »

Posted by sr at 12:46 PM | Permalink

Retired Gunnery Sgt. R. Lee Ermey, widely known for his performance as the sadistic drill instructor in the 1987 film “Full Metal Jacket,” headlined a Thursday news conference in Washington, D.C., calling to rename the Department of the Navy the Department of the Navy and Marine Corps.

Continue reading "Ermey throws weight behind name change" »

Posted by sr at 11:45 PM | Permalink

Sue Castaneda will be instructing a four-session course on how to prepare yourself for a marathon.

Sue Castaneda accomplished her goal of running a marathon when she participated in the U.S. Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C. last October.

Continue reading "If I can run a marathon, so can you!" »

Posted by sr at 8:08 AM | Permalink

Alexandra Nelissen of Des Moines wanted to do something special today for her son stationed in southern Afghanistan.

Continue reading "Sweet Valentine's surprise turns sour" »

Posted by sr at 8:41 PM | Permalink

It once was called "The Forgotten War," but for many North Texas residents, the conflict in Afghanistan has never been far from their minds.

Continue reading "Parents of the deployed are at war, too" »

Posted by sr at 2:47 PM | Permalink

WASHINGTON — Military members serving overseas will have to resubmit their voter registration this year if they hope to cast a ballot in the November midterm elections.

Continue reading "Overseas military will have to register again to get ballots this year" »

Posted by sr at 10:51 PM | Permalink

Group picks those on leave up from airport
Palm Springs International Airport terminal Sunday was lined with government-issue duffel bags and teeming with young Marines.

Continue reading "Marines back on base thanks to USO" »

Posted by BR at 9:40 PM | Permalink

ABILENE, Texas — Larry and Sue Farr are on a mission to make sure all military men and women know they are appreciated for their sacrifices made in the service to their country.

Continue reading "Texas couple designs tribute coin for veterans" »

Posted by sr at 8:37 AM | Permalink

WASHINGTON —
In October, members of the Marine Aviation Officer’s Spouses Club thought about what they could do from home to assist Marines and their mission in Afghanistan this holiday season. After corresponding with deployed Marines, they determined that sending gifts for Afghan children in the form of small, stuffed animals could portray warm greetings from America.

Continue reading "Special Delivery: Marine spouses collect thousands of Beanie Babies to send to children in Afghanistan" »

Posted by sr at 11:13 PM | Permalink

GAUTIER, Miss. — A retired Marine is walking across the country in honor of veterans.

Continue reading "Marine walks across country for disabled vets" »

Posted by sr at 11:14 PM | Permalink

In Oceanside, Near Camp Pendleton, Nearly Everyone Is Linked to the Military - and Feeling the Strain of Repeated Deployments

(CBS) The president announced this week an additional 30,000 U.S. troops will head to Afghanistan. Of course, in this country that means more changes on the home front, and not just at home, as CBS News correspondent Terry McCarthy reports from Camp Pendleton, Calif.

Continue reading "A Calif. Town Feels Afghan War's Impact" »

Posted by sr at 11:01 PM | Permalink

HIGHLANDS RANCH - Mother's worry. That's what they do. Yet, when you're a mother like Brooke Pilkington, you find yourself worrying more than most.

Continue reading "Mothers send worries, supplies to troops overseas" »

Posted by BR at 7:11 PM | Permalink

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. — North Carolina Marines from several units recently joined to form Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force 26. SPMAGTF-26 is scheduled to board the ship that will become USS New York, Oct. 29. The ship and embarked Marines will sail to New York City for the ship’s commissioning, Nov. 7, where it will be designated USS New York.
USS New York holds particular significance to the people of New York with 7 1/2 tons of steel recovered from the World Trade Center forged into her bow. The ship also honors the memory of those who lost their lives during the unprovoked attacks of 9/11.

Continue reading "N.C. Marines will take part in the commissioning of USS New York" »

Posted by BR at 8:17 PM | Permalink

NEW YORK — Maryland and South Carolina will wear uniforms with camouflage designs during their games Nov. 14 to honor military veterans and promote the Wounded Warrior Project.

Continue reading "Teams to raise cash for Wounded Warrior Project" »

Posted by BR at 8:22 PM | Permalink

The neighbors joked that the prices at Mai Griffith's lemonade stand were too steep. They teased her that 75 cents a pop was three times the going rate.

Continue reading "8-year-old's lemonade stand helps out Marines" »

Posted by sr at 4:25 PM | Permalink

Last week, Loveland veteran Tom Buchanan was given a Marine’s challenge coin that had been accidentally left behind at a local restaurant

Continue reading "Marine memento returned to owner in Loveland" »

Posted by BR at 2:02 PM | Permalink

NEW PORTLAND, Maine — It was the last way John Bernard would have wanted his voice to gain prominence in the national debate over the war in Afghanistan.

Continue reading "Fallen Marine's father wants change in Afghanistan" »

Posted by BR at 6:22 PM | Permalink

Loveland’s Tom Buchanan — commandant of the Loveland Marine Corps League and a retired Marine himself — knows how important a challenge coin can be to a Marine.

Continue reading "Marine on mission to find special coin’s owner" »

Posted by BR at 2:14 PM | Permalink

MARYVILLE, Tenn. – Hotaru Ferschke just wants to raise her 8-month-old son in his grandparents' Tennessee home, surrounded by photos and memories of the father he'll never meet: a Marine who died in combat a month after marrying her from thousands of miles away.

Continue reading "Proxy wedding means Marine's widow, baby unwelcome" »

Posted by BR at 12:51 PM | Permalink

The town of Newtok, Alaska — population 350 — is sinking. Rising Arctic temperatures mean the nearby Ninglick River is growing, the permafrost on which the town stands is melting, and the tiny village doesn’t have much time left.

Continue reading "Joint team to relocate entire Alaskan town" »

Posted by BR at 8:54 PM | Permalink

Service members and their families who have experienced deployments within the last 15 months are eligible to attend a free four-day camp at one of four national park locations, sponsored by the National Military Family Association.

Continue reading "Camps offered to families of deployed troops" »

Posted by BR at 7:49 PM | Permalink

A scam artist who tried to prey on a Maine grandmother is none the richer despite his effort to scare her into paying a $3,000 ransom for her grandson, a Marine on the war front in Afghanistan.

Continue reading "Marine's Grandmother Foils Ransom Hoax" »

Posted by BR at 8:14 PM | Permalink

Teal Moran stood at a window of her family's brand-new two-story home on Monday afternoon, staring at a growing throng of Boy Scouts waving American flags and Marines standing at attention in dress uniforms.

Continue reading "Gates hands Marine keys to new house" »

Posted by BR at 2:35 PM | Permalink

Belinda Bloodworth missed a phone call from a friend currently deployed to Afghanistan on a recent Sunday while she was in church, and she’s determined that it’s not going to happen again.

Continue reading "Staying strong on the homefront" »

Posted by sr at 10:24 PM | Permalink

Veterans groups, facing the loss of their oldest members, are reinventing themselves as family-friendly, forward-looking clubs for the recently deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. And the generation gap, which put World War II vets on one side of the old hall and Vietnam vets on the other, appears closed

Continue reading "Tualatin opens vital, new VFW" »

Posted by BR at 9:14 PM | Permalink

BETHESDA, MD,— Crestron hosted the third Eagles Program dedication ceremony yesterday for the Wounded Warriors Battalion – East at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, unveiling the new home theater donated to provide comfort and entertainment for America’s heroes recovering from injuries sustained during combat overseas. The Crestron Eagles Program was conceived by Crestron
President George Feldstein to honor the service and sacrifice of our wounded warriors returning home from battle.

Continue reading "Crestron Eagles Program Donates Theater to Marines" »

Posted by BR at 7:29 PM | Permalink

One of the most oft-cited benefits to military service is that it gives members training and skills that they can use in private life. But few companies seem eager to help veterans convert these disciplines to civilian employment. In fact, a stint in the military is often not a career salvation but a job killer.

Continue reading "Maid Brigade's new program helps veterans clean up" »

Posted by BR at 2:54 PM | Permalink

AVONDALE, La., Aug. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- The USS NEW YORK Commissioning Committee today announced that Robert Wood "Woody" Johnson IV, the owner of the New York Jets and renowned businessman, has been named chairman of the Committee. The announcement took place aboard USS NEW YORK during a ship visit here at the Northrop Grumman shipyard. The committee is a non-profit, non-governmental organization that is responsible for organizing welcoming activities leading up to the formal commissioning ceremonies of USS NEW YORK in New York City in November 2009.

Continue reading "New York Jets Owner Robert Wood Johnson IV Named Chairman of USS NEW YORK Commissioning Committee" »

Posted by sr at 12:12 AM | Permalink

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. —
On April 22, 2008, Christian Haerter was in Sag Harbor, N.Y., listening to the news at work when a broadcast announced two Marines were killed in Iraq. Christian took a step outside for a breath of fresh air and shortly afterward, saw a sight every parent fears.

Continue reading "1/9 Marines ride in memory of fallen brother" »

Posted by sr at 9:58 AM | Permalink

Densfords seek assistance with meals program that supports military families as they visit injured or ill servicemen at National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda

Military service is a family tradition for Peggy and Joe Densford's family. Two of their three children are Marines — Capt. Nathan Densford, 30, is currently serving his third tour in Iraq as an air operations officer. Sgt. Seth Densford, 25, a veteran of Afghanistan, is currently serving at Camp Lejeune, N.C. Nathan is a 1997 graduate of Great Mills High School. Seth is a 2002 graduate of St. Mary's Ryken

Continue reading "Feeding a need" »

Posted by sr at 11:34 PM | Permalink

July 21, 2009 · For Marines serving in Afghanistan, mail call can be a little bit like Christmas in July. A package from home can supply everything from basic needs to small luxuries.

Continue reading "Families Send Basics To Marines In Afghanistan" »

Posted by sr at 1:09 PM | Permalink

ST. LOUIS MO ( KTVI-FOX2Now.com ) - There is an effort underway by moms of St. Louis area Marines to make sure no injured Marine is left without a letter showing them America cares.

Continue reading "Effort To Give Every Injured Marine A Letter Showing America Cares." »

Posted by sr at 10:31 PM | Permalink

DENVER - In a place where crowds are a given and homecomings happen every day, a couple of hundred people, most perfect strangers, gathered to surprise one man in a way that doesn't happen every day.

Continue reading "Big homecoming for recovering Marine" »

Posted by sr at 11:27 PM | Permalink

DENVER - Lance Corporal John T. Doody is finally back home in Colorado. But it wasn't an easy trip.

Continue reading "Wounded Iraq War veteran receives hero's welcome at DIA" »

Posted by sr at 11:03 PM | Permalink

DENVER (CBS4) ― A wounded war veteran received a hero's welcome at Denver International Airport on Wednesday.

Continue reading "CO Soldier Receives Hero's Welcome" »

Posted by sr at 7:03 AM | Permalink

MADISON, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Madison, which saw some of the fiercest Vietnam War protests in the nation, is shedding its long-standing antimilitary image by hiring a military historian and teaching a new course for military officers.

Continue reading "Former anti-war hotbed reaches out to military" »

Posted by BR at 4:07 PM | Permalink

The Quilts of Valor organization is driving across the country to deliver 1,200 quilts to troops and some of them were on display at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's International Quilt Study Center Monday.

Continue reading "1,200 Quilts To Be Given To Troops" »

Posted by sr at 10:23 AM | Permalink

COLUMBUS, Ohio — A military museum near Columbus got more than it bargained for when the widow of a World War II vet tried to donate an artillery shell.

Continue reading "Widow donates WWII shell, museum shuts down" »

Posted by sr at 8:47 AM | Permalink

OCEANSIDE, Calif. — It seems like a simple request: Plant 1,000 U.S. flags along a stretch of Interstate 5 aboard Camp Pendleton during Labor Day weekend in September.

Continue reading "Marine vets want to put flags along busy road" »

Posted by sr at 9:17 AM | Permalink

NEW YORK CITY —
Above the blare of passing taxi horns and the shouting street food vendors rang out a steady cadence call of a New York Marine sounding off as a sweating civilian attempted one more push up as part of Marine Day Times Square May 23.

Continue reading "Marines draw attention in Times Square" »

Posted by sr at 10:02 PM | Permalink

CHICAGO —
On the final day of Marine Week Chicago infantry Marines from Company F, 2nd Battalion, 24th Marines put on a raid demonstration in front of around 2,000 people at the Arlington Park Racetrack.

Continue reading "Marine Week Chicago closes with the MV-22 Osprey" »

Posted by sr at 11:35 PM | Permalink

CHICAGO —
Roy Arnold has been the president of Arlington Park race track since April 2006, but before he took the job, Arnold was the assistant commander of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif.

Continue reading "Retired aviator opens park for Marine Week" »

Posted by sr at 11:03 PM | Permalink

CHICAGO —
The Marine Corps gave Chicagoans the chance to look at, hold and even play with some of its newest equipment today at Navy Pier.

Continue reading "Marines set up shop at Navy Pier" »

Posted by sr at 10:51 PM | Permalink

CHICAGO —
Despite Friday’s constant rain showers and cold winds, numerous citizens braved the weather and came out to Daley Plaza here for an exercise demonstration dubbed “Chicago Moves,” which called upon Marines from the Quantico, Va.-based Martial Arts Center of Excellence, also known as MACE, to showcase their own version of fitness and self defense techniques.

Continue reading "Chicago Moves Despite Afternoon Showers" »

Posted by sr at 10:43 PM | Permalink

Soldiers and Marines serving in Iraq and Afganistan face extreme weather conditions with temperatures reaching up to 140 degrees.

Continue reading "Local Ladies Help Marines Keep Their "Cool"" »

Posted by sr at 10:12 PM | Permalink

WASHINGTON, May 8, 2009 – Surfs up! Military children of wounded or fallen servicemembers will be able to catch their first wave this summer, thanks to Freedom Is Not Free, a California-based troop-support group.

Continue reading "'Little Warriors' Surf Camp to Host 100 Military Children" »

Posted by sr at 9:14 AM | Permalink

WASHINGTON, April 14, 2009 – A former Marine sergeant turned country-music artist is using his newfound fame to urge Americans to do more to support the men and women returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Continue reading "Singer Uses Stage to Bring Attention to Servicemembers’ Sacrifices" »

Posted by at 10:32 AM | Permalink

The Marine Corps outlined details Monday for its inaugural Marine Week, saying that nearly 2,000 Marines will participate in a week-long series of demonstrations, concerts and outreach efforts in Chicago beginning May 11.

Continue reading "Corps outlines inaugural Marine Week event" »

Posted by sr at 5:45 PM | Permalink

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER, TWENTYNINE PALMS, CASLIF. — Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band made a fifth appearance to the Combat Center and rocked a packed crowd at the Sunset Cinema March 28.

Continue reading "Why, that’s Lt. Dan" »

Posted by sr at 8:02 PM | Permalink

JOSHUA TREE — Korean War veteran and Navy Cross recipient Richard Blasongame raised his American flag on a sturdy new pole Wednesday thanks to help from the United States Marines and some clandestine calls by a fellow veteran.

Continue reading "Marines help Korean War vet raise flag" »

Posted by sr at 1:05 PM | Permalink

Senior allowed to don Marine dress blues for ceremony

A local high school senior who graduated early and joined the Marines will be "walking" at graduation in his uniform, not the school cap and gown, following a change of heart by Saugus High School Principal Bill Bolde.

Continue reading "Grad will wear uniform" »

Posted by sr at 9:33 AM | Permalink

Forget Al-Queda. If there’s a group you DON’T want to mess with, it’s military moms.

Continue reading "Don't Mess With A Military Mom" »

Posted by sr at 9:28 AM | Permalink

A bill that would allow military spouses to maintain residency in their home state regardless of where the military moves them has been introduced again in the House, and its twin has been introduced in the Senate.

Continue reading "Bill would let spouses keep state residency" »

Posted by at 2:34 PM | Permalink

The Corps will launch an effort this spring similar to the Navy’s popular Fleet Week, with hundreds of Marines descending on Chicago in May for a week of community outreach efforts, concerts and demonstrations by a Marine Air-Ground Task Force.

Continue reading "Corps to launch Marine Week event in Chicago" »

Posted by sr at 10:05 PM | Permalink

WASHINGTON, Feb. 6, 2009 – Sixteen million new toys were distributed to 7.6 million children over the Christmas holiday through the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program.

Continue reading "Toys for Tots Successful Despite Slow Economy" »

Posted by sr at 11:00 AM | Permalink

WASHINGTON — The results of the 61st annual U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Campaign, conducted during October, November and December 2008, have been tabulated. The results are: U.S. Marines distributed 16 million new toys to 7.6 million less fortunate youngsters throughout the nation. This was one of the most successful campaigns in the 61 year history of Toys for Tots.

Continue reading "Marine Toys for Tots Foundation" »

Posted by sr at 11:40 AM | Permalink

About 175 Marines watched the game on eight flat screen televisions at Coto de Caza home.

COTO DE CAZA About 175 Marines – some about to be deployed to Afghanistan — got the VIP treatment during the Super Bowl at an Orange County home Sunday.

Continue reading "O.C. Super Bowl party honors Marines" »

Posted by at 1:52 PM | Permalink

MIDDLEVILLE, Mich. — Former Marine Cpl. Joshua Hoffman was paralyzed from the chest down two years ago by a sniper’s bullet in Iraq. He uses a wheelchair and has been in and out of hospitals with infections.

Continue reading "New home built for paralyzed Marine" »

Posted by sr at 10:11 AM | Permalink

MIDDLEVILLE -- Heather Lovell suspected it all along, but now she is certain: People do care.

Continue reading "Iraq veteran Joshua Hoffman ready for move to home built by volunteers aided by Homes For Our Troops" »

Posted by at 2:53 PM | Permalink

Lorraine Melgosa of Manzanola, Colo., volunteers her 19th century horse-drawn carriage for funerals of troops killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. She says it's the least she can do.

Reporting from Scottsbluff, Neb. -- Lorraine Melgosa hasn't developed the thick skin of someone who works with the bereaved. She almost always cries at funerals.

Continue reading "A horse, a hearse and a sense of duty" »

Posted by sr at 11:05 AM | Permalink

Gabriel Hurles' sixth birthday party wasn't a surprise but his present sure was.

Continue reading "Boy’s wrapped b-day present is dad back from Iraq" »

Posted by sr at 9:19 AM | Permalink

WASHINGTON, Jan. 28, 2009 – A civilian journalist received a top Navy honor in Iraq on Jan. 24 for his heroism in saving a Marine’s life while in Afghanistan.

Continue reading "Navy Honors Civilian Journalist for Saving Marine’s Life" »

Posted by sr at 10:59 AM | Permalink

TRIANGLE, Va., Jan. 27, 2009 – The National Museum of the Marine Corps here has maintained its position as a top Virginia attraction, with more than 500,000 visitors recorded in 2008, museum officials said.

Continue reading "Marine Corps Museum Attracts Half-million Visitors in 2008" »

Posted by sr at 11:11 AM | Permalink

It took an explosion on the streets of Iraq to put in a kink in Sergeant Andrew Simmons stride back in 2006 as he made his way home to East Tennessee.

Continue reading "Local group carves honors for wounded vets" »

Posted by sr at 10:53 AM | Permalink

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — When Russ Meade was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps in 1994, the former infantryman thought his separation would be only temporary. After obtaining his college degree, he planned on returning to the Marine Corps as an officer and making it a career.

Continue reading "Devil dog providing the Corps with some new threads" »

Posted by sr at 8:47 PM | Permalink

Anita Nieves Brinkman was emerging from a hot soak in her backyard whirlpool last September when she slipped and broke an ankle, a bout of bum luck the 44-year-old Marine mom eventually exploited to advertise her adoration for the Corps.

Continue reading "Marine mom turns ankle cast into Corps tribute" »

Posted by sr at 9:53 AM | Permalink

WASHINGTON —
Shades of Green is a resort hotel, located on Walt Disney World Resort, exclusive to service members, retirees, Department of Defense civilians, and their family members. It is a safe haven for military families, whether they’re reintegrating after an overseas deployment, having one last “Family fling” before mom or dad deploys, or simply getting away for a weekend.

Continue reading "Shades of Green, Disney partner to make vacations affordable for military" »

Posted by sr at 8:45 AM | Permalink

TAMPA - Lance Corporal J.T. Doody has a newfound freedom. He's in a wheelchair, but now he can go where he wants.

Continue reading "Van gives disabled vet freedom" »

Posted by sr at 6:02 PM | Permalink

When John and Susan McColley stood at the grave of their son U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. John Eric McColley, Susan did something that made a difference.

Continue reading "Second sight" »

Posted by sr at 5:51 PM | Permalink

Wallace | Until a few days ago, Andrew Nordberg's prospects for Thanksgiving weren't that exciting.

Continue reading "Duplin County families host Marines for Thanksgiving" »

Posted by sr at 10:32 AM | Permalink

KINGSTON -- Pfc. Dawid Pietrek was a 24-year-old Polish immigrant and Bensenville resident who once worked as a home caregiver for an elderly Elmhurst man until the man died at age 88.

Continue reading "Faces of Freedom" »

Posted by at 11:39 AM | Permalink

COLUMBIA - One local volunteer group is mailing care packages and support to those serving overseas.

Continue reading "Marines Will Receive Local Care Packages" »

Posted by sr at 8:36 AM | Permalink

SPRINGFIELD -- An obscure state law and an ambiguous federal ballot form are combining to invalidate some of the thousands of absentee votes being cast this fall by Virginians overseas, most of them in the military.

Continue reading "Law Threatens Thousands of Military Votes" »

Posted by at 11:41 AM | Permalink

In a few short weeks, U.S. Marine Dawid Pietrek was supposed to be coming home after his tour overseas ended.

Continue reading "Virginia Marine running in honor of fallen Bensenville comrade" »

Posted by sr at 1:08 PM | Permalink

TRIANGLE, Va. — The National Museum of the Marine Corps unveiled an exhibit Oct. 15, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the attack on the Marine barracks in Beirut, Lebanon.

Continue reading "Museum Exhibit Honors 25th Anniversary" »

Posted by sr at 11:08 AM | Permalink

Joan Gutierrez has a replaced hip and her husband, Jesse, has a rebuilt knee, but the two will participate Sunday in the Marine Corps Marathon 10K in Washington, D.C., to raise money for Purple Heart Family Support, one of the outreach programs of MarineParents.com Inc.

Continue reading "Life less ordinary: Becoming Marine parents" »

Posted by sr at 9:07 AM | Permalink

Local ‘Devil Pups’ in a class of their own

On top of Old Smokey, 16-year-old Christian Emery found his character.

Continue reading "Marine camp teaches youth discipline, character" »

Posted by at 11:15 AM | Permalink

Toys"R"Us, Inc. today announced the launch of its "Make A Difference" campaign to support the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation's annual toy drive.

Continue reading "Annual Toys for Tots Campaign Kicks Off" »

Posted by sr at 11:17 AM | Permalink

Last June, the South Central Nebraska Marine Parents support group was contacted by Peggy and Bennett Chamness (owners of Texas T-Bone in Grand Island) needing names of deployed Marines in order to fulfill their care package project.

Continue reading "Care Packages Reach 3/10 Marines!" »

Posted by sr at 10:26 PM | Permalink

Jamestown, Mo. -

Friends and family of Leon B. Deraps have announced that a formal dedication ceremony for the Lance Corporal Leon B. Deraps Memorial Highway has been set for Saturday, Oct. 18, at 10 a.m.

Continue reading "Dedication ceremony planned for Lance Corporal Leon B. Deraps Memorial Hwy." »

Posted by sr at 10:29 AM | Permalink

The Department of Defense has announced free family memberships for many servicemembers and their families at participating YMCAs. The new program is effective immediately.

Continue reading "DOD, YMCA team up to offer free memberships" »

Posted by sr at 1:04 PM | Permalink

The door to employment with the federal government is being pushed open a little wider for military spouses whose service members have been incapacitated or killed or who are moving with their service members on permanent change-of-station orders.

Continue reading "Military spouses get boost for federal jobs" »

Posted by sr at 5:33 PM | Permalink

Hundreds of motorcycles will roar through Channahon and Joliet to get toys to poor children.

Continue reading "Harley club's parade to aid toy collection" »

Posted by sr at 5:22 PM | Permalink

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — —
The Combat Center’s American Red Cross Chapter helps keep service members informed when they are stationed away from home in the event of a birth, death or a serious or critical illness in their immediate family.

Continue reading "American Red Cross messages keep Marines in touch during hard times" »

Posted by sr at 10:12 AM | Permalink

Former Chicago Bears Super Bowl-winning quarterback Jim McMahon will host a star-studded, two-day celebrity extravaganza before the game at Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club. It begins Jan. 29 with an evening under the stars at The Lake Club clubhouse, followed Jan. 30 by a 36-team celebrity golf tournament.

Continue reading "Super Bowl QB McMahon announces local benefit for wounded vets, others" »

Posted by at 11:39 AM | Permalink

Word was received this evening that a fund raiser for a Central Nebraska Marine will be held Saturday, August 16 at the Adams County Fairgrounds in Hastings. Friends and family of PFC. Paden Daly of Thedford, NE, will be holding a horse show and will have donation buckets at the food stands. The event will be held from 9:00 a.m. to Noon.

Continue reading "Friends pulling together to help injured Marine" »

Posted by sr at 4:51 PM | Permalink

American Airlines has agreed to waive its fees for a third checked bag for service members — whether they are on official travel or off duty.

Continue reading "American Airlines waives fee on 3rd bag" »

Posted by at 11:42 AM | Permalink

(CNN) -- Some airlines are charging U.S. soldiers extra baggage fees to take their military kits with them as they set off for war.

Continue reading "Troops pay baggage fees on way to war zones" »

Posted by sr at 12:08 PM | Permalink

Continue reading "Jerabek Memorial Challenge Continues to Grow" »

Posted by sr at 2:15 PM | Permalink

Private First Class Ryan Jerabek of Hobart was only 18-years-old when he died fighting the war in Iraq.

Continue reading "Record Runners for Annual Ryan Jerabek Challenge" »

Posted by sr at 2:11 PM | Permalink

Sitting cross-legged on the red turf of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island's Inchon Firing Range, a Marine rifle instructor by his side, 13-year-old Kyle Drott lowered his M-16 service rifle, wiped the sweat from his eyes and fired. His first shot -- right on target.

Continue reading "Marines make teen's wish come true by putting him through the paces" »

Posted by at 11:16 AM | Permalink

ENNIS, Mont. — Alroy Billiman, 28, stood at the front of a drift boat floating in the upper Madison River.

Continue reading "Group brings veterans to Montana to fish" »

Posted by sr at 9:54 AM | Permalink

If a homecoming celebration is in the works for your returning service member, you’d better get in on the rush to order a free banner from Buildasign.com.

Continue reading "Free welcome-home signs available" »

Posted by at 12:49 PM | Permalink

Up near Saint Cloud, Minn., Ed Meyer is busy helping our troops find their way around Iraq. Hmm. He must be using gigantic semaphore flags, right?

Continue reading "Minnesota Legionnaire leads GPS donation effort for troops" »

Posted by sr at 9:31 PM | Permalink

It wasn't exactly Christmas in July, but for five members of the Minnesota National Guard who ripped open their presents -- it was even better.

Continue reading "Donated GPS units give directions to Minnesota troops" »

Posted by sr at 5:39 PM | Permalink

Special Ringtones, Video, and Graphics Tailored to

All Branches of U.S. Military Personnel

DALLAS, JULY 2, 2008 — We honor freedom in our yards and in our homes, on our cars and even in our wardrobe, and now AT&T is providing customers with a unique way to give tribute to those who have fought for our independence, just in time for the 4th of July holiday. AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) today announced a program with 2ThumbZ Entertainment, Inc. to launch the wireless industry’s first comprehensive portfolio of mobile content tailored to the United States Military. The impressive selection of content consists of ringtones, Answer Tones™, 3D graphics and animations, and videos tailored to members of the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard.

Continue reading "AT&T LAUNCHES FIRST MOBILE CONTENT PORTFOLIO FOR UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES" »

Posted by sr at 2:02 PM | Permalink

WASHINGTON (AFP) - US President George W. Bush on Monday signed into law a 162-billion-dollar spending bill funding the Afghanistan and Iraq wars well into 2009 -- roughly six months into his successor's term.

Continue reading "Bush signs Iraq and Afghanistan war-funding by Olivier Knox" »

Posted by sr at 8:57 PM | Permalink

ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Ill. - Retired Air Force Sgt. Mark Evans wanted to send a taste of Chicago to troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Continue reading "Chicago-style Pizzas Heading to Iraq" »

Posted by sr at 9:45 AM | Permalink

MARSEILLES, Ill. (CBS) ― Hundreds of motorcyclists hit the highway for the annual "Illinois Freedom Run." The 65-mile trek is a small way for the cyclists to honor U.S. soldiers who have died in the Mid-East conflicts. CBS 2's Mike Puccinelli reports.

Continue reading "Freedom Run Honors Soldiers of Mid-East Conflicts" »

Posted by sr at 12:51 PM | Permalink

Volunteers At Dallas, Atlanta Airports Greet Troops Returning From Overseas For R&R

(AP) A few times each month, Karen Marks stands among the volunteers greeting the troops who land daily at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, all on two weeks' leave from Iraq or Afghanistan.

Continue reading "Airport Volunteers Welcome Troops Back Stateside" »

Posted by sr at 12:58 PM | Permalink

COLUMBIA — When Tracy Della Vecchia’s son, Derrick Jensen, joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 2001, she wanted to learn as much as she could about the Marines and what to expect as the parent of one. Unsure of where to turn, she searched the Internet for help and support.

Continue reading "Columbia organization MarineParents.com keeps growing and making a difference" »

Posted by sr at 5:06 PM | Permalink

The producers of a new game show for ABC are looking for military families to be contestants on the pilot episode of the show, which will offer “a huge cash prize.”

Continue reading "Game show seeks military family contestants" »

Posted by at 1:03 PM | Permalink

40 of America's most recently wounded service members were given a hero's welcome at The Venetian Thursday night.

Continue reading "The Venetian Honors Wounded Service Members" »

Posted by sr at 10:55 AM | Permalink

This afternoon, the House of Representatives made history. By an overwhelming margin, lawmakers passed the landmark new GI Bill which will make college affordable to the more than 1.6 million Iraq and Afghanistan veterans.

Continue reading "First Victory on GI Bill Today" »

Posted by sr at 6:22 PM | Permalink

ROCK FALLS -- At the Rock Falls American Legion headquarters, Boy Scouts of various ages scurried around cardboard boxes, packing up items that ranged from travel-sized soaps and shampoos to Crayola crayons and yellow suckers.

Continue reading "Scouts send care packages to soldiers" »

Posted by at 11:40 AM | Permalink

More than 500 people moved to register for the Marine Corps Marathon on Tuesday during a rally near the Pentagon, one day before general registration opens on the Internet.

Continue reading "Marathon registration opens to public today" »

Posted by sr at 9:06 PM | Permalink

All Robert Lewis ever wanted to do was join the military. It was a decision no one could understand. Everyone argued against it. Would his dream come true?

Robert Lewis talks like a Marine.

Continue reading "The heart of a Marine" »

Posted by sr at 11:18 PM | Permalink

The UPS Store in Sehome Village has teamed up with the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation to announce its first yearround initiative, the Toys for Tots Literacy Program.

Continue reading "UPS, Marines begin year-round Toys for Tots Literacy Program" »

Posted by sr at 8:10 PM | Permalink

One Mother Of A Fallen Soldier Showed His Platoon Her True Support

(CBS) Maureen O'Haire of Rockland, Mass., supports the troops, and not in the patronizing, bumper-sticker sort of way. She really supports the troops.

Continue reading "A Sacrifice, And A Gift To The Troops" »

Posted by sr at 10:35 AM | Permalink

Little-Known Event Is Emotional Salute;
Cpl. Lyon Pays a Visit

WASHINGTON -- Cpl. Kenny Lyon's mother pushed his wheelchair down a narrow Pentagon hallway, crying as she listened to the applause.

Continue reading "Wounded Soldiers See the Pentagon In Private Parade" »

Posted by sr at 4:14 PM | Permalink

Artist memorializes Lima Company's dead

It came in a vision to Westerville artist Anita Miller: a series of paintings in the Statehouse honoring the fallen servicemen of Lima Company.

Continue reading "Colors of honor" »

Posted by sr at 9:12 PM | Permalink

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. —
The Wounded Warrior Regiment sponsored a job fair Monday at The Clubs at Quantico for four hours, where representatives from dozens of companies were waiting to receive resumes from and maybe even hire wounded and retired Marines.

Continue reading "Wounded Warrior Regiment sponsors job fair" »

Posted by at 10:36 AM | Permalink

Patricia Fry thought she and her husband, John, were prepared.

Continue reading "Marine parents find own comrades online" »

Posted by sr at 7:40 PM | Permalink

While the protest that you staged in front of my office on Wednesday, Sept. 26th, was an exercise of your constitutional rights, the messages that you left behind were insulting, untrue, and ultimately misdirected. Additionally, from the comments quoted in the Berkeley Daily Planet article, it is clear that you have no idea what it is that I do here. Given that I was unaware of your planned protest, I was unable to contest your claims in person, so I will therefore address them here.

Continue reading "An Open Letter to Code Pink" »

Posted by sr at 10:56 AM | Permalink

BERKELEY, Calif. — Local officials in this liberal city say it’s time for the Marines to move out. The City Council voted 8-1 Tuesday to tell the Marines their downtown recruiting station is not welcome and “if recruiters choose to stay, they do so as uninvited and unwelcome guests.”

Continue reading "Berkeley facilitates protests outside recruiting center" »

Posted by sr at 10:35 AM | Permalink

WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Jim DeMint, R-S.C., says the City of Berkeley, Calif., no longer deserves federal money.

DeMint was angered after learning that the Berkeley City Council voted this week to tell the U.S. Marine Corps to remove its recruiting station from the city's downtown.

Continue reading "U.S. Senator Wants to Revoke Funding From City of Berkeley, Calif., for Vote to Boot Marines" »

Posted by sr at 10:30 AM | Permalink

IRVINGTON, Ala. — Two Black Hawk helicopters hovered and tipped rotors Friday in honor of Marine Sgt. Greg Edwards at a ceremony to start building a specially adapted home for the Edwards family.

Continue reading "Homes for Our Troops begins house in Alabama" »

Posted by sr at 5:39 PM | Permalink

Jay Grodner, the Chicago lawyer who keyed a Marine's car in anger because the car had military plates and a Marine insignia, finally got his day in court last week.

Continue reading "Man who keyed car gets day in court; so do Marines" »

Posted by sr at 2:31 PM | Permalink

WASHINGTON - The Postal Service is adding a larger flat-rate Priority Mail box and a charge for Sunday and holiday delivery, the first changes it has made under a law approved last year governing mail operations.

Continue reading "Post office to add larger flat-rate box" »

Posted by sr at 7:15 PM | Permalink

TULSA, Okla. — “Somebody took care of my Marine, so I wanted to make sure I was going to take care of someone else’s Marine,” said George Gibbs, describing why he and his wife Rachel spent about $4,500 on food and shipping costs to give more than 70 Marines at Camp Pendleton, Calif., a barbecue spread for their Christmas dinner.

Continue reading "Couple buys Christmas dinner for Pendleton" »

Posted by sr at 10:55 PM | Permalink

Rhonda Gallagher was upstairs in her west Wichita home Thursday when she heard a knock on the door and some unexpected commotion.

Continue reading "Contest win unites Marine family for holiday" »

Posted by sr at 9:23 PM | Permalink

ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 16, 2007 – They came from around the country, some with tears in their eyes, putting holiday demands on hold to honor veterans most never knew.

Continue reading "America Supports You: Volunteers Decorate Veterans’ Graves" »

Posted by sr at 11:20 PM | Permalink

The Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) and AT&T announced Dec. 4 that they have teamed up again to provide free phone calls to military members underway during the holiday season.

Continue reading "Military Members Underway During the Holidays To Receive Free Phone Cards" »

Posted by sr at 8:51 PM | Permalink

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (Nov. 20, 2007) -- Families have spent thousands of dollars attending homecomings of returning Marines, but with costs of airfare sky rocketing, many families can’t afford to make the trip.

Continue reading "Discounts for Marine families attending homecomings" »

Posted by sr at 2:57 PM | Permalink

STRATFORD — Beanie Babies may seem like unlikely gifts to send to U.S. soldiers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Continue reading "Young sisters raise funds to aid troops" »

Posted by sr at 11:17 PM | Permalink

This morning

A whirlwind week started for the Daniel Gilyeat family in Kansas City, Kan., this morning when they became the next beneficiary of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition’s magic.

Continue reading "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition surprises KCK family" »

Posted by sr at 10:27 PM | Permalink

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Tracy Della Vecchia
MarineParents.com, Inc.
2810 Lemone Industrial Boulevard, Suite B
Columbia, MO 65201
Phone: (573) 449-2003

Columbia, MO – November 2, 2007- MarineParents.com will be holding its final packing day of 2007 on Saturday, November 3rd, from 8:00 AM until 3:00 PM in its offices at 2810 Lemone Industrial Boulevard, Suite B. Over 1100 care packages will be packed and mailed to Marines on active duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. Turkey dinners for Thanksgiving and cigars for the United States Marine Corps 232nd birthday on November 10th will be among the items packed in this shipment.

Continue reading "MarineParents.com to hold final care package packing day of 2007 for active duty Marines in Iraq and Afghanistan" »

Posted by sr at 5:24 PM | Permalink

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Some marathons begin with a fireworks display. Others begin with a balloon release. Some marathons have bands along the course, and others have contests for best water stations.

Continue reading "A Great Day to Be a Runner" »

Posted by sr at 3:09 PM | Permalink

When he celebrates the 232nd birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps this year, Bill Pastino will do something a little different --he's going to treat any Howard County veteran who shows up at his Ellicott City brew pub to lunch.

Continue reading "Marine veteran will thank fellows via holiday lunch" »

Posted by sr at 10:20 PM | Permalink

ARLINGTON, Va.(Nov. 1, 2007) -- For the first time in a decade, the coveted Challenge Cup will stay on American soil.

Continue reading "U.S. Marines capture Challenge Cup from Royal Marine runners" »

Posted by sr at 9:29 PM | Permalink

Dressed in full camouflage fatigues on a crisp Sunday afternoon, Tim Keithley witnessed Americana. On duty since 1 a.m., the aspiring Marine lieutenant watched 20,000-plus marathoners dash past the finish line after conquering the 32nd annual Marine Corps Marathon, the fourth largest marathon in the United States and seventh largest in the world.

Continue reading "Marathoners run through Arlington; Marine Corps Marathon has 20,000-plus participants" »

Posted by sr at 9:01 PM | Permalink

DENVER – During a television commercial break, those at Coors Field for Game 3 saw two men come to the mound to throw out the first pitch.

Continue reading "Soldiers who threw out first pitch bound together before game" »

Posted by sr at 10:52 PM | Permalink

Door County was a nice change of scenery for Craig Nelson.

Continue reading "Home from war, troops get much-needed vacation; Operation Welcome Homes gives free getaways in Door County" »

Posted by sr at 9:27 AM | Permalink

Door County was a nice change of scenery for Craig Nelson.

Continue reading "Home from war, troops get much-needed vacation; Operation Welcome Homes gives free getaways in Door County" »

Posted by sr at 9:27 AM | Permalink

An area Marine who was injured in Iraq is up for a big award, but it's not for his service. Cosmopolitan magazine is taking his story nationwide. Each year Cosmo has a contest to find the hottest bachelors in the country and it just so happens that Richland Center is home to one of the lucky 50 finalists.

Continue reading "Richland Center Marine Bachelor of the Year?" »

Posted by sr at 9:19 AM | Permalink

HONOLULU -- Hawaii resident and longtime entertainer Jim Nabors enjoyed a special honor on Tuesday night from the U.S. Marine Corps for his character Gomer Pyle.

Continue reading "Marines Promote Jim Nabors' Gomer Pyle; Hawaii Resident Honored For His Performance, Giving Spirit" »

Posted by sr at 11:06 PM | Permalink

The Marine Corps’ legendary recruiting pitch, “The Few, The Proud, The Marines,” defeated such famous ad slogans such as “Just Do It,” “Have It Your Way,” “Take a Bite Out of Crime” and “Think Outside the Bun” for a spot on the advertising industry’s Walk of Fame in New York City.

Continue reading "Corps slogan takes out the competition" »

Posted by sr at 11:05 PM | Permalink

An Oklahoma lawmaker has changed the way veterans and out-of-uniform servicemen can honor the American flag at public gatherings.

Continue reading "Flag protocol clarified" »

Posted by sr at 3:12 PM | Permalink

A painted likeness turns into an expression of tribute to Americans killed in Iraq.

It's been two years since Marine Sgt. James Randolph Graham III was killed in Iraq, yet on Wednesday a small bit of him -- his spirit, his mother believes -- returned home.

Continue reading "Cycle art captures Marine's 'spirit'" »

Posted by sr at 9:55 AM | Permalink

Mario Sagastume was an infantry Marine who served in Vietnam 40 years ago. He and his wife, Nanette Sagastume, have a son who served as an infantry Marine in Iraq in 2004.

Continue reading "It's not about the war, or politics: Chico couple off to bootcamp" »

Posted by sr at 10:34 AM | Permalink

HOBART — Nothing against Jeff Pentek or Matt Mroczynski, the top two finishers at Saturday morning's Pfc. Ryan Jerabek, USMC Memorial Challenge in Hobart.

Continue reading "Run memorializes Marine, honors other U.S. veterans; 1,000 register for second annual event" »

Posted by sr at 10:43 PM | Permalink

As her husband, an orthopedic surgeon, swore an oath to defend the U.S. Constitution, Nancy Baier sat near the back of the room, arms crossed, looking a little nervous.

Continue reading "Certain 'old' soldiers are just fine with the U.S. Army; Libertyville surgeon has skills that allow him to follow his son into the service" »

Posted by sr at 10:40 PM | Permalink

DWIGHT, Ill. -- Lt. Governor Pat Quinn and the Chicago teamsters are combining forces to help a woman who lost her son last March to the war.

Continue reading "Mom Gets Helping Hand After Losing Son To War; Pat Quinn, Teamsters Help Mother To Fix Up Her House" »

Posted by sr at 9:29 PM | Permalink

Whenever Stockton resident Chris Fisher sees a man or woman on the street in military uniform, she hands them a card.

Continue reading "Group sends care packages to military personnel" »

Posted by sr at 8:38 PM | Permalink

SAN DIEGO, July 6, 2007 – In a tribute to the military and Independence Day, Major League Baseball’s San Diego Padres donned “military uniforms” and featured members of the armed services during their game at Petco Park here, July 4, 2007.

Continue reading "America Supports You: San Diego Padres Salute Military" »

Posted by LD for MarineParents.com at 7:13 PM | Permalink

After surviving a suicide bomb attack in Iraq, ANTHONY THOMPSON and his family find victories in the small stuff
Pregnant wife waits by bedside, prays for recovery

Continue reading "Hometown Hero: Huffman petty officer now in battle for life" »

Posted by LD for MarineParents.com at 9:28 PM | Permalink

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif.(June 7, 2007) -- The Good Guys of Morgan Run are showing Marines and Sailors how they earned their name.

Continue reading "Wounded Warriors receive donations from 'Good Guys'" »

Posted by LD for MarineParents.com at 4:18 AM | Permalink

Two gruff bikers were a little late to the Memorial Day service at Culpeper National Cemetery Monday.

Continue reading "Ohio biker visits Culpeper National Cemetery" »

Posted by sr at 9:49 AM | Permalink