"Chosin Few" Honored During 1st Marine Division 70th Anniversary
A memorial stands in honor of those Marines and sailors who fought at the Chosin Resevoir during the commencement of the Chosin Memorial service outside Camp Pendleton’s South Mesa Club, Feb. 1, 2011. The memorial service was held before the opening ceremony of the 1st Marine Division’s 70th Anniversary. Events in recognition of the anniversary are being held Feb. 1-3.
Photo by Cpl Zachary Nola
MajGen Michael Regner, 1st Marine Division commanding general, speaks to members of the 1st Marine Division Association about the efforts being made in Afghanistan by current members of The Blue Diamond during the opening ceremony of the 1st Marine Division’s 70th anniversary at Camp Pendleton’s South Mesa Club, Feb. 1, 2011.
Photo by Cpl Zachary J. Nola
Marine veterans of the Korean War bow their heads in prayer during the Chosin Memorial service outside Camp Pendleton’s South Mesa Club, Feb. 1, 2011.
Photo by Cpl Zachary Nola
MajGen Michael Regner, 1st Marine Division commanding general, shares a smile with members of the 1st Marine Division Association during the opening ceremony of the 1st Marine Division’s 70th anniversary at Camp Pendleton’s South Mesa Club, Feb. 1, 2011.
Photo by Cpl Zachary Nola
MajGen Michael Regner, 1st Marine Division commanding general, speaks to members of the 1st Marine Division Association during the opening ceremony of the 1st Marine Division’s 70th anniversary at Camp Pendleton’s South Mesa Club, Feb. 1.
Photo by Cpl Zachary Nola
Denny Weisgerber, the vice president of the 1st Marine Division Association, addresses fellow association members during the commencement of the Chosin Memorial service outside Camp Pendleton’s South Mesa Club, Feb. 1, 2011.
Photo by Cpl Zachary Nola
Veterans of the Korean War sit during the Chosin Memorial Service outside Camp Pendleton’s South Mesa Club, Feb. 1, 2011.
Photo by Cpl Zachary Nola
By Cpl Paul Torres
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – Veterans came together to honor the courage, valor and sacrifices made by Marines and sailors of the 1st Marine Division at the Chosin reservoir as part of the division’s 70th anniversary celebrations, at Camp Pendleton’s South Mesa Club, Feb 1, 2011.
“The dedication of this memorial means the world to the Marines who fought in the Korean War, and especially for those who were at the Chosin Reservoir,” said Denny Weisgerber, retired staff sergeant and vice president of the 1st Marine Division Association. “The battle of the Chosin Reservoir was the Iwo Jima of the Korean War, and it means a lot to have something to remember all those men who sacrificed their lives.”
In November 1950, during the coldest winter North Korea had experienced in 100 years, U.N. forces were in pursuit of North Korean troops, when they were surprised by China’s entry into the Korean War.
The U.N. forces, most of them U.S. Marines from the 1st Marine Division, fought for survival. Surrounded and outnumbered 8-to-1 by Chinese forces, the Marines embarked upon a 78-mile journey to the Sea of Japan to reconnect with American forces. The journey would take 13 days. Cut off from support, the Marines were still able to fight their way through 10 Chinese infantry divisions.
The courage shown by the Marines and sailors at the Chosin Reservoir was an example of their resolve to fight against what seemed like impossible odds. The attitude of those who served at the “frozen Chosin” set an example that is still remembered by Marines and sailors both young and old.
“When I look at the memorial and see a list of names, I remember my brothers as they fought and died out at the Chosin reservoir,” said George ‘Peepsight’ Pendas, retired captain and former president for the 1st Marine Division Association. “They left behind a legacy, and it is great to see that legacy of excellence being carried on by the Marines today.”
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Today in USMC History
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1899 - Marines arrived to secure Cavite Naval Base, Philippines.
Related Article: The Boxer Rebellion By Maj Glen G. Butler Marine Corps Gazette (Oct 2003)
Historic Leatherneck Magazine Covers
Leatherneck Staff Artist, Technical Sergeant Robert Fleischauer, felt that our July cover should be commemorative of the Fourth of July. Since the members of the missile units are probably the Corps' best rocketeers, he picked them to perform a standard Fourth of July action. Whether or not the "Honest Johnny" is useful as a combat piece is a matter for debate, but you can't beat it for morale." [July 1957.]
“The Join Up on the Nick” by Major Alex Durr, USMCR, a member of the History Division, Marine Corps University, Quantico, Va.
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The oldest post of the Marine Corps, Washington, DC, is celebrating 200 years of excellence. Posed near the Barracks main gate were members of the official Color Guard of the United States Marine Corps (left to right): LCpl Joseph N. Keough, rifleman; Sgt Blake L. Richardson, Color Sergeant of the Marine Corps; Cpl Gerardo A. Guajardo, organizational color bearer; and LCpl Gregory A. Serwo, rifleman.
GySgt Verlando Frazier, East Coast Food Service Management Team, looked ready to dig into some of the new items included in MREs.
This photo by Sgt Earnie Grafton of Marines from Fox Co., 2/4 shows varied emotions as they greeted the coalition forces outside Kuwait city.
A fleet of trucks was needed to transport Dr. Felix de Weldon’s original model of the Iwo Jima flag-raising statue from the sculptor’s home in Newport, R.I., to the grounds of the Marine Military Academy at Harlingen, Texas. After the statue’s arrival, a nearly around-the-clock effort by skilled workmen was required in order to have the memorial reassembled and ready for dedication ceremonies on April 16, 1982.
In April this year (1981), two squadrons of AV-8A “Harriers” sailed for the Mediterranean aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau. Purpose of the cruise was to demonstrate the Navy/Marine Corps team’s capability to augment naval forces in any area of the World on short notice and to provide at-sea training for Marine Harrier pilots.
The cover of Leatherneck’s Bicentennial issue is an oil painting by the late Colonel Donald L. Dickson, USMCR. The painting depicts General George Washington’s Colonial troops at Gadsby’s Tavern in Alexandria, Va., during the French and Indian War.
Sightseeing tours for the men of the Marine Barracks, San Juan, Puerto Rico, include a trip to the El Morro Fortress. San Juan is now retired as a Post of the Corps.
The Marines in Vietnam have found that the programs which work best are those which operate close to the people. Our July cover is a mixed media (acrylic and charcoal) by Art Editor James L. Hopewell. It catches the spirit of Marines who enjoy their relationship with the Vietnamese around them.
In Naples, Italy, Marines are responsible for the internal security of the Headquarters of NATO’s Southern European Command, while the elite Carabinieri Corpa provides external security. PFC Robert M. Mallard’s NATO shield was admired by a Carabiniere as the two men prepared to take up their side-by-side posts at the entrance of the imposing NATO Headquarters, which appears in the background of this cover.
"We've Fought In Every Clime And Place": Stamping out the Caco Insurrection in the Republic d' Haiti.
Marine patrol fired on while fording the Coco River.
FROM OUR ARCHIVES: U.S. Marines And Miskito Indians: The Rio Coco Patrol Of 1928, published in the Marine Corps Gazette, November 1996.
Marine patrol fired on while fording the Coco River.
FROM OUR ARCHIVES: U.S. Marines And Miskito Indians: The Rio Coco Patrol Of 1928, published in the Marine Corps Gazette, November 1996.
January 2002: The Marines engraved another mark in the rich history of the Corps when they came from more than 400 miles offshore to establish a forward operating base south of Kandahar in the war on terrorism. The Marine CH-46 helicopter on the cover, photographed by PH1(AW/SW) Greg Messier, USN, fought in the desert sand to land and resupply Marines such as the ones (inset) photographed by Sgt Joseph R. Chenelly.
January 2001: This firefight during the Frozen Chosin Reservoir Campaign of 1950 was painted by “Chosin Few” veteran Jack Cannon, who served with Company B, 1st Battalion, Seventh Marine Regiment and resides in the warmer climes of New Mexico. The cover was part of Leatherneck’s 50th anniversary salute to the Korean War veterans.
January 1992: This cover photograph of runners during Marine Corps Marathon XVI in Washington, D.C., was photographed by Sgt Deirdre Hallett.
January 1991: This month’s cover by Ross Simpson captures the Marines’ waiting-but-ready posture in the Middle East.
January 1982: Participants in the Sixth Annual Marine Corps Marathon presented a colorful spectacle as they began the 26-mile, 385-yard run in Washington, D.C., November 1, 1981. The cover photo, by Tom Bartlett, was taken from a bridge overlooking Highway 50 about a half-mile from the starting line.
January 1981: Nearly 7,800 runners participated in the Fifth Annual Marine Corps Marathon held in northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. The oldest finisher was 78; the youngest was 10. Leatherneck staffer Ron Lunn pre-positioned himself near the Nation’s Capitol to photograph runners during their 14th mile of the 26-mile, 385-yard course.
January 1972: This month’s cover, by Marine Combat Artist Peter Gish, shows members of the New Corps sightseeing in the Old World. While on liberty in Athens, Greece, the 3d Bn, Eighth Marines, were able to tour the Erektheon Porch and Cariatides. The water color is from the U.S. Marine Corps Combat Art collection.
Originally Published December 1983 -- Something tells us that we could date the cover without knowing when it was published.
Originally Published December 1972 -- We're not sure what's more interesting, Santa or the old style gas pump.
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This November 1992 article in the Marine Corps Gazette looked at the uniform regulations of 1859 and the attempt to standardize uniforms within the Corps. Read the story and see more pics.
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Comments
Korean War Tribute Day in San Pedro
The upcoming Korean War Tribute Day to be held aboard the SS Lane Victory on March 12, 2011. This event will serve to mark the 60th anniversary of the evacuation of 100,000 Korean refugees and 125,000 United Nations forces in December of 1950 just ahead of advancing North Korean forces. The SS Lane Victory played a significant role in the evacuation by safely moving 7,009 refugee south to Pusan in one voyage. We have the electronic version of the brochure that I can send you if you let me know the email address. We respectfully request your attendance at this event. This is a free event to the public and invite you and other veterans.
We look forward to your interest in this very unique event.
Best regards,
Ken Cha
562-802-1085 ken.mgr@gmail.com
Tribte on this 70th Anniversary
I also want to slaute all the corps of the mission. There are several quotes in the article but like the quote by George Penda most. If we all have the same attitude towards the corps who fought for us can make this anniversary a grand event. On this occassion I want to dedicate one of the 70th anniversary quotes - One cannot fight for country which he does not love and love comes from respect and respect comes from knowledgeof the countries honor and history. This was one of those special events of honor and proud. So respect those corps and your country.
Chosin
My father, Thomas F Keane, was WIA on 1-Dec-50 at the Chosin. He was with G/3/7. If anyone who reads this knows anyone from G/3/7 who served at the Frozen Chosin please contact me.
Lawrence G. Keane lkeane@nssf.org or 203-526-6773.
Chosin Few
My father was Cpl. Jimmie L. Rogers asst. MG He was with I Co. 3rd Batt. 1st Marines at Hagaru-ri. He was WIA on 29 Nov 50. He stayed in the Corp for many years after but never saw the appreciation that people are showing for the vets of Korea.If you knew of him or served in that area please contact
S/Fi
Lonnie Rogers
LRogklx@aol.com
Chosin Few
My name is Craig Bass. My father was Wayne A. Bass, GySgt USMC Ret. As a Pfc, he was with a detachment of Recon Company headed by Captain Kenneth Houghton entering the Valley of Changallon when he was wounded by mortar shelling on 12 August, 1950.
He passed away early on the morning of 4 June, 2012 in Independence, Oregon.
Member passed away
Charles Hammond passed away 6/4/12. He was a survivor of the Chosin Reservoir battle. He enlisted in Sept. 1946. Lived in Rock Hill SC.
Remember him and all the others...
Marine Passed Away
Joseph C. Hommel passed away 6/13/12. He was also a survivor of the Chosin Reservoir battle. He lived in Marysville, Mi. Besides his remarkable courage during that battle, he was a wonderful husband, caring father and grandfather and a special uncle. He will be missed....
chosin few 1st marines
My name is Brian Beveridge my grandfather was Clayton Frank King he was involved in the battles on Inchon sept. 15, 1950- sept 16, 1950 capture of seoul sept. 17, 1950- oct. 7, 1950 and action in wonsan, hungnam, and chosin oct. 26, 1950- dec.14, 1950 he was wounded in seoul he was part of the 1st marines as a private first class im trying to get as much information and even pictures of hisunit and him as i can.If any one has heard stories or knows of him or the events of these battles please email me at beveridge32@gmail.com .
Chosin
My father was Sergeant Kenneth Stetson, 1st/1st Engineers. He was wounded at Chosin, 11/29/50. He told a story years later about a night in the cold during the retreat. He and some of his men stumbled into a hut and spent a cold, dark night under a roof. In the morning when the sun rose, he heard voices outside an went to the window to see what was happening. Upon seeing fellow Marines and a Captain that he served with in the Pacific, he opened the door and went outside. Upon opening the door, he realized that he had spent the night with a North Korean soldier hiding in the corner of the hut. Amazing stuff. He was a Bronze Star recipient from Saipan, two purple hearts in WWII and a purple heart at Chosin. He passed away June 22, 1964. I will always remember him even though I was too young to know him. God bless you Dad!
Arnold Murray--Know Him?
Does anybody who was in the Chosin Revisior remenember a marine by the name of Arnold Murray?
If so please e-mail me or call me 270-366-4268--or write
Colonel William L Holloway Jr. Ret.
310 Ashbrook St.
Paducah,KY 42003-1414
E-MAIL--hhwhity124@aim.com
Writing a rembrance ofr Pfc William Burke
PFC William Roderick Burke.
Weapons/3/5 Commo wire. I chose someone I felt was a forgotten serviceman. I have some, but very little information on him.
He died 11/28/50 at Yudam-ni. He might have been attached to Company G. He was 19, from California and Illinois.
If you have any info on him, please contact me.
Sam Louie 510.910.5069
gattobethere@aol.com
Thank you.
My Grandad
...He was with the C1/1 and helped to put into place the treadway bridge near the Funchilin Pass on 9 Dec 1950. He also assisted in the taking of 1081. We spent a good deal of time speaking today...He is in good health and spirits. I feel honored that I am connected to such a hero who is connected to such a heroic and valiant group of warriors.
Chosen Few medallion
My cousin, a Choisin Reservoir survivor, passed away. His widow received a Chosen Few medallion to attach to his headstone. Any suggrstions as to have this medallion adhere to his headstone. Thanks.
Using Lifeline Services
Have any military member or veteran used a Lifeline Services???
To the Chosin Few:
Survivors of the Chosin Reservoir Retreat are Sergeant Rodney Hurich of Prescott Valley, AZ and Gene Crisp of Surprise, AZ. They are still fighting the good fight and attending their Marine Corps Birthday Balls. Both men were wounded, won Purple Hearts and several medals for valor. We should rocognize and praise these brave men.
Jerry Matney, Sgt. USMC
Surprise, AZ <jalvusmatney@aol.com>
The true "old breed".
I had the honor to met many of them when I was with 1st Marines and again at 5th Marines. Thank you "Iron Mike", Marty Vasquez, Olan and so many more that drove me to be a better learder and most of all a better "Marine". Thank you my brothers.
Juan A. Garza
Retired MGySgt
Dicky Ray
Did anyone serve with my father Richard "Dicky" Ray in Korea? I believe he was in the 1st Marine Division, B Company. Please email me as I would love to have any info I could about my father during the war. He died 2 years ago with untold history that would make his grandchildren proud!
David Ray
dray@verizon.net
410-858-0255
Thank you so much!
Recently Passed
My Grandfather SSgt Frank E. Lindstrom, a member of The Chosin Few, passed away May 29 2012.
He was a great man & Marine, and was also President of the 1st Marine Divison Association. I miss you Grandpa!
Recently Passed
My Grandfather SSgt Frank E. Lindstrom, a member of The Chosin Few, passed away May 29 2012.
He was a great man & Marine, and was also President of the 1st Marine Divison Association. I miss you Grandpa!
Tom Perone - Columbus, Ohio
My father, Thomas Perone served at the Frozen Chosin. He was in the 1st Division, E Co., 2nd Batt. and received the purple heart.The stories he tells (if you dig them out of him) are amazing. He is alive & well other than the knees are not keeping up with the body & mind. Any one wanting to contact him can e-mail me & I will pass it on. Thanks!
rxx01@insight.rr.com
looking for old friends
my father was1st marin divison 1st amphibious force in 1965 1966 station in da nangh 1st mp battalion would love to see if anybody knows him and would like tosurprise him by reaching out and talking to him.
Would like to get to know him better
MY uncle Mead Zane Ewing (Skip ) was at the chosen he was in the 1st USMC
If any one knew him connect me at ericecarney@gmail.com
Information
Does anyone have any information on my father in-law who passed away several years ago. My mother in-law is getting up there in age and can't remember anything. He was a Gunnery Sergeant, maybe not at that time, but was a cook. His name was Lawrence F. Totaro. Any help would be appreciated. My husband (his son) would be eternally grateful. Thank you.
Looking for anyone who knew him
My deceased husband survived the Chosen Res. was in the 1st Marine division. I can't remember his rank at the time. He told me many stories over the years. His name was Arnold Aaron Lentz. Retired from USMC as Sgt.Major I believe in 1974 after 30 years.
JJ Ivers
Jack was my good friend and served with Bill Barber and Gunny Bunch in that epic battle that we younger Marines hold as legendary.
I also knew Don Ivers who had also spent time at the Res.
Jack was a hero to all of us in the Bennett family, and he is missed.
Some call Korea the forgotten war, not in my house!
Posted by Doug Bennett Ballston Spa NY Retired Mil.
Meeting in Oregon
Could you please e-mail me the date and location of the Chosen Few next mtg in Oregon?
Thank you,
Julie
julie@scappooseseniorcenter.com
Looking for history on the war of 1943
My Uncle was Frank Nemetz Jr Pfc. Co. F. 2nd Batt. 1st M. Div. Served and died in 1943. Anyone that was in the war during that time that may have known him. Interested in learning about that time in history. Please email me alittlelonger@aol.com
Chosin battle
I have read and studied amarican battles for a long time and i'm cinvinced that chosin was the tougest our history much thanks Semper Fi I at least will never forget your sacrafices.
Another great battle was the battle of the bulge when the Army was outnumbered 259,000 to2500 for a couple weeks in the worst winter in modern history.they had to hold Bastonge against all odds till the weather permitted supply drops ammo etc.
and until the could be reinforced by Pattons tanks.
The 101st airborne,82nd airborne and survivors of various units.
I'm a vietnam veteran but i could stand the heat but i don't think i could have stood the bitter cold so well.
Don Skirvin 5/28 fa retired
Chosin Reservoir
My brother Peter Carrozzo, was killed at the reservior.I am looking for a contact in the State of WA that may have been in the unit, H Co,3rd BN, 7th marines,1stMar Div. I would also settle for a neighboring state.Thanks and God Bless America.
paulcarrozzo@comcast.net
Chosin Reservoir
My brother Peter Carrozzo, was killed at the reservior.I am looking for a contact in the State of WA that may have been in the unit, H Co,3rd BN, 7th marines,1stMar Div. I would also settle for a neighboring state.Thanks and God Bless America.
paulcarrozzo@comcast.net
PFC William Mangin H-3-5
My father was one of the frozen few! Thank God he is still with us!! We hear of many stories and would love to have him contacted, if anyone knows anyone from the frozen H/3/5, few please send an email to: nmanness@yahoo.com!
First division H/3/5**
First division H/3/5**
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