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Unless you recently left your long-time hole under a rock (and by long time - I mean since 1775), the United States Marine Corps needs no introduction....But since every Marine is justifiably proud of their service and accomplishments, perhaps just a small amount of refresher is in order.
Fondly recalled as starting out in Tun Tavern (Philadelphia) on November 10th, 1775, the Marines are the third oldest US military branch, being founded five months after the US Army and one month after the US Navy. After the formation of the Army Air Corps, and the eventual creation / split of the US Air Force, the Marines are the fourth largest principal US military component. And yes - the USMC is a component of the US Navy - how else can we get all of our gear moved from point A to point B?
What the Marine Corps may lack in size, is made up via the capabilities, the numerous and significant accomplishment and sheer determination (Guts in layman speak). The Marine Corps is essentially a self-sufficient first-to-fight combat force, with its own mini-aircraft carrier ships, aircraft and assault ground troops who are specially trained for amphibious and urban combat.
My part included a four-year tour of duty, with the first two years heavily involved with school, including basic recruit training, electricity, electronics, avionics, aircraft communications, navigation, auto pilot and weapons system courses. I graduated Top Marine from my "A" school (Aviation Electrician's Mate A1) at Naval Air Station Memphis, or NAS Memphis.
Deployed to the Fleet, I spent two years in the Helicopter Marine Training 303, or HMT-303 squadron at MCAS Pendleton. Here we taught newly created Naval Aviators (pilots) to fly the UH-1N "Huey" and AH-1J "Cobra" attack helicopters. I was assigned to the Avionics shop, and did two short deployments to MCAS Yuma for winter live-fire weapons training. I was Honorably Discharged in 1988 with my few medals (Good Conduct, Marksman Rifle & Marksman Pistol), and a certificate of recognition for my service during the Cold War.
To this day - I still enjoy a unique and deep friendship with dozens of other Marines - some who until recently were still active duty! I can honestly say it is a life-changing experience and a completely worthwhile undertaking.....though it is not for the faint of heart, body or especially the mind!
To learn more about potentially becoming a US Marines - visit www.Marines.com(for you civilians) or www.Marines.mil for active, reserve, veterans or retired Marines.
Once a Marine - Always a Marine!
Semper Fidelis my brothers and sisters!
