Before I started teaching at ECU, I was a Captain in the U. S. Marines, and I was stationed at such exotic places as MCAS Cherry Point, NC; MCAS El Toro, CA (it's closed down now due to budget cuts #}:-[ ); MCAS Iwakuni, Japan; and NAS Cubi Point, RPI (that's the Republic of the Philippines, and I think we left the Philippines after the volcano made it easy to leave).

The U. S. Marines will celebrate their 230th birthday Nov. 10th. We all owe the Corps a debt of gratitude for helping keep America free (it cost the lives of too many of their few good men). Sempre fidelis, y'all! Their history and emblem are distinctive, and their traditions reflect highly upon our Crops, espcially the account of Lt. Presely N. O'Babon and the Marine Corps Officer's Mameluke Sword.

Former Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Charles C. Krulak, retired July 31, 1999. His Farewell Address to the Corps is especially inspiring (please take the time to take a peek at the commandant's address; you'll be glad you did!).

A lot of people wonder why we are in Iraq and Afghanistan--here's as explanation that's so clear that a 9-year old can understand.

On the lighter side:

• Ever wonder what Marines really do?
• Marines are different from the other uniformed services because of their outlook and their sense of humor.
• More humor: Marines Are Never Wrong, Rules for Gunfights, Military Quotes, Misunderstanding Military Terms, USAF Show Offs, Military Etiquette, and The Final Inspection

From time to time, Marine Corps history (and traditions) becomes important for Marines especially, so when USMC history seems important tot you, check out my new USMC History page.

For the vets (and active duty personnel and/or their families) who may visit this page, there are a couple links to military sites on my Military Links page.

Created August 22, 1998 Updated Nov. 9, 2005