| Comments by DG Ficklin on Friday, June 11, 2004 at 11:36 |
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I often remember my days as a 2141(AAVP7-A1 mechanic), in the 3rdAAV BN, H&S co. BN maint Platoon. I was immature, and dissapointed that I didn't get the duty I wanted. My attitude ruined the first two years, of what has become the highlight of my life, in retrospect. After leaving active duty, in Nov/'88, It didn't take me long to realized I had made a mistake in not shipping over. I was frustraited and unsatisfied with civilian life, after just 1 year from my my Honerable discharge. I vowed to return, to the life I had managed to turn around the last half of my enlistment.(dispite my childish selfisness). Alas, It was not meant to be. The cold war ended, and the ground offensive in Kuwait was over in a mater of hours. The looming threat of worldwide terrorism had not become the focus of a post cold war DOD. My pending re enlistment was canked due to a cancelation of prior service quota, and Lat/move restrictions at the time.
My advise to all young Marines is. Become the Marine you wanted to be NOW, unselfishly, with the trust that you are where you are for a Damn good reason. Or you will have to settle for becoming the Marine you never were while serving on active duty. Once a Marine Always a Marine.
One of the greatest benefits to serving my country as a US Marine, Is the frienship of one Christopher A Carmichael. He is a lifelong friend that has called me every year to celebrate The Marines birthday. Semper Fidelis, and God bless the USMC. |
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Served in 2nd Amtrac Bn, H&S Co, Bn Supply, 73-76. Left as L/Cpl, was 17 when I got in so for a while I didn't get it. Thanks to Capt Michael Boak and Lt P.J. McKay for helping me out. Anyone who reads this I am looking for a battalion emblem or where to get stuff with it on.